Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 10/18/2008

This website contains archived material from NewsManatee.com which is supported through private funding, supporter donations and advertising. If you are looking for the latest news in Manatee County Florida visit Newsmanatee.com or perform an archive search at Newsmanateearchive.com. NOTE: Archiving did not begin until March 14, 2008. If you are seeking articles published prior to this date, you will need to contact us directly.

Review archived pages by date OR Text search of archived pages

Local/State News for week ending 10/18/2008

Citizens and Business Leaders:
Bradenton Police Department's
SWAT Team Asks Your Support

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team is looking towards the community to partner with them to raise funds for this year's Swat Round-Up International Competition.

Above, a SWAT Team, geared up and ready for action

This year’s competition takes place in Orlando during the month of November.

Due to the budget cuts and the recent tax reform, the City of Bradenton cannot afford to pay for this year’s event. However, the Bradenton Police Departments’ Swat Team has competed in this event every year since 2001.

Bradenton's Chief of Police has authorized the time for the team to compete as long as they are able to secure donations to cover the cost.

The competition combines the most recent education & training seminars for SWAT Teams and a head-to-head competition.

They expect 80 Swat Teams and Special Operations Units from all over the world to be competing against each other.

Their goal is to send an eight man team to compete in this year's event. In order to send an eight man team, they will need to raise approximately $5,800 dollars.

This is a breakdown of their funding requirements for the competition:

Lodging and Transportation: $3,000
Team Registration fee: $800
Food (Team for the week): $2,000
Total: $5,800 dollars

The SWAT Team thanks you in advance for any help you provide.

Please send any donations to Sgt. James Racky, SWAT Team Leader, Bradenton Police Department, 100 10th Street West, Bradenton, Florida, 34205, or you may contact Sgt. Racky at (941) 932-9350, or you may e-mail him at James.Racky@CityofBradenton.com.

[Ed. Note: Whether you are an individual or a business, we urge you to get behind BPD's SWAT Team and send them to Orlando for the competition; the team works hard for you when they are needed...now you are needed for this support effort.]

Young Man, Juvenile Arrested
for Theft of Two 3-Wheel Bikes

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a young man and a juvenile who were "tired of walking."

Above, L to R, Leif M. Albritton and Mark Bedwell

According to the arrest report, Leif M. Albritton, 18, and Mark Bedwell, 16, both of Bradenton, were walking home on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, at about 4 a.m. and decided to cut through Heather Hills, in the 100 block of 48th Avenue West.

While walking through Heather Hills, they decided they were tired of walking and approached a residence. They saw two 3-wheeled bicycles in the carport and took them to ride them home.

A few minutes later, Dep. Ed Lawson saw the boys riding the bikes that the owner had just reported stolen.

They were detained until the owner arrived on scene. He identified the bikes as his.

Both boys were taken into custody and charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling and Theft.

Albritton was transported to the Manatee County Jail, where he remains on a $2,000 bond.

Bedwell was taken to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Two Women Battle Over Man;
One Winds Up in Jail

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two women got into it on Wednesday evening, October 15, 2008. One woman claimed the other was sleeping with her boyfriend.

Erika Vanleeuwen

The report said Erika Vanleeuwen, 30, of the 5000 block of 2nd Avenue West, Bradenton, is a neighbor of Rebecca O'Reilly, who lives one street south of Erika on 1st Avenue Drive West.

On Wednesday, Erika went over to Rebecca's home around 9:30 p.m. Erika started harassing Rebecca, claiming she was sleeping with her boyfriend.

Erika then went to grab Rebecca, but Rebecca avoided being grabbed and Erika punched Rebecca.

They both went to the ground, with both punching and kicking each other.

When deputies arrived, they found both had numerous cuts and scrapes.

EMS responded to treat their minor injuries.

Erica was arrested and charged with Battery.

Juvenile Steals Bike, Flees,
Captured with Large
Butcher Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Jorge Reyes, 15, and charged him with Strong Arm Robbery and Possession of a Concealed Weapon.

Jorge Reyes

Deputies reported on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, at about 6:50 p.m., the victim Roger Villasana, 16, was riding his bike in the 5900 block of 9th Street East with his brother when they were approached by Jorge Reyes.

Jorge was following behind Roger, demanding his bike.

Roger refused and the two began to fight, with Jorge overpowering Roger and taking his bike.

Jorge began to flee south on 9th Street East towards 61st Avenue East.

COPS-West units Deputy Davis gave the description and direction of travel to Deputy Ambrus and Deputy Parkinson.

Deputy Parkinson made contact with Jorge at 9th Street East and 61st Avenue.

As Jorge dumped the bike and attempted to run, he fell down.

Deputy Parkinson detained the suspect at Taser point. K-9 Deputy Brady was also in the area and assisted.

Jorge was in possession of a large kitchen knife which he threw down as he tried to run.

Man Shot During Armed
Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An armed home invasion robbery in the 2500 block of 52nd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, a few minutes before midnight on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, left one man shot in the leg, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported.

The report said two unknown Black males forced their way into the residence by kicking open the front door.

They found Juan Ramos, 18, in the front room and forced him into the back bedroom at gunpoint.

They also kicked in the door of the bedroom, which had been locked with a deadbolt. Located in the bedroom were Salvadore Zamarripa, 33, Virginia Zamarripa, 30, and two of their three children.

The invaders demanded money from the victims and told Juan to lie on the floor.

Salvadore turned over the money that he had on him.

One of the robbers then shot Juan in the upper thigh and they fled the residence.

A perimeter was quickly established by deputies. The sheriff's helicopter and a K-9 unit responded to track, but the robbers were not located.

EMS transported Juan to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his gunshot wound.

There were no other injuries.

The culprits were described as two Black males, 19-24 years of age, thin builds, and dressed in all black clothing with masks. They were both armed with handguns.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Juvenile Victim Knocked Off His
Bike, Beaten During Attempted
Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted robbery of a juvenile on Tuesday, October 14, 2008, at about 7:30 p.m., in the 5900 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton.

The victim, Abelardo Gaona, reported a group of juveniles knocked him off his bike, beat him up and searched through his pockets.

The victim had no possessions for the assailants to take.

The assailants then fled the area on foot.

The victim told his uncle about the crime on Wednesday.

His uncle persuaded him to go to the sheriff's office and report the incident.

There was no further description of the lad's attackers.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Accidental Shooting: Man
Shoots Himself in Hand

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday afternoon, October 16, 2008, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an accidental shooting.

Thomas Finney, 23, of the 4300 block of 76th Street West, Bradenton, was attempting to break down a .40 cal semi-auto handgun when it discharged.

Finney received a single gunshot wound to his left hand.

He was transported to Blake ER by EMS for treatment of his gunshot wound.

FHP Reports Fatal Hit-and-Run
Crash in East Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a motorcyclist died in a hit-and-run crash at 1:35 a.m. on Thursday on State Road 70, 1200 feet west of Yancy Road, in Myakka City.

According to the FHP report, Scott A. Stevens, 47, of Arcadia, was riding a 1999 motorcycle eastbound on State Road 70.

A 1998 Dodge truck, being driven by an unknown person, was westbound on State Road 70.

The Dodge truck crossed the center line and entered the direct path of the motorcycle and crashed head-on into the motorcycle.

Stevens was ejected from the motorcycle and died at the scene.

The driver of the Dodge truck then fled the scene on foot.

Stevens was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, FHP reported.

If you were a witness or have any information regarding this case, please call Corporal Ronnie Highsmith at 941-751-7647, ext. 130, or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

RBC Centura Bank Robbed
in Sarasota Wednesday

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a bank robbery that occurred at approximately 2:56 p.m. Wednesday, October 15th, 2008, at RBC Centura Bank at 5520 Fruitville Road, in Sarasota.

No weapon was seen or implied.

The suspect fled the bank with an undetermined amount of money.

He was last seen fleeing westbound from the bank through the “Target” parking lot in a dark 4 door vehicle, possibly a Toyota with a partial license tag of “M37”, or “N37”.

The suspect is a White male, approximately 6’ tall, thin to medium build, approximately 30-40 years of age. He was last seen wearing a yellow “Tommy Bahama” type shirt, blue jeans, sunglasses, and a khaki fishing hat. He was also sporting a “goatee” type beard.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District I Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-4900. They may also leave anonymous information on the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (941) 366-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or text “TIP109” and a message to CRIMES (274637).

Sarasota County Sheriff
Plans DUI Checkpoint

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a DUI/Safety Checkpoint on Friday, October 17th, 2008. The location of the DUI Checkpoint will not be released.

Nationally, it is known that fatal alcohol related accidents are three times more likely to occur at night than during daylight hours.

Motorists will recognize a Checkpoint operation by the staging of appropriate signs, warning devices, and the presence of uniformed law enforcement personnel. The operator of each vehicle will be asked to display a driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.

A visual safety check will be made from outside the vehicle for proper seatbelt usage, and for identifying persons who are operating a motor vehicle with defective equipment. Law enforcement personnel will also be checking for individuals who are operating a motor vehicle without proper insurance, tag, or driver’s license.

During this time, the operator will also be observed for any signs of impairment and/or open containers of alcohol in plain view.

If the driver can show all appropriate documentation, that occupants are using seatbelts, that there are no open containers of alcohol or other contraband in plain view, and no signs of impairment by alcohol or drugs, the vehicle will be allowed to leave. In cases where it appears the driver is under the influence or has committed some violation, they will be directed to a safe location off the immediate roadway for further investigation.

Three Men Charged with Armed
Trafficking in Cocaine; Large
Amount of Cocaine Involved

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Captain Stan Duncan, of the Sarasota Police Department reported Sarasota Police Department detectives and DEA agents arrested three men after they produced $160,000 in cash and attempted to buy six kilos of cocaine on Friday, October 10, 2008, following a sting operation.

Above, L to R, Ernest Hart, Brandon Houston and Avon Poag

One of the men was armed with a Smith & Wesson .357 magnum handgun during the attempted transaction. All three knew of the weapon at the time of the drug deal, SPD said.

Under arrest are Ernest Hart, 23, Brandon Houston, 28, and Avon Poag, 49.

All three men are still in jail on $10,000,000 bond each.

New U.S. Attorney for Florida's
Middle District Sworn In

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, October 15, 2008, A. Brian Albritton was sworn in as the new U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida.

U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday swore in U.S. Attorney Albritton in an informal ceremony at the U.S. Courthouse in Tampa.

Albritton, 51, was formerly a partner in the Tampa office of the Holland & Knight law firm.

Albritton was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 2, 2008.

He replaces Robert E. O’Neill, who served as interim U.S. Attorney for a year.

"I am excited and at the same time humbled by the privilege of leading the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida. My goal is to continue the great tradition that has made this one of the finest U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the nation," Albritton said.

Teacher Resigns Amid
Student Sex Claims

SOUTH DAYTONA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a teacher has resigned from a Volusia County Christian school amid allegations that she had a sexual relationship with a student, police said.

The Warner Christian Academy teacher is being investigated by Port Orange and South Daytona police after she was confronted by a school administrator earlier this week about having an inappropriate relationship with a 17-year-old male, police said.

According to a preliminary investigation by South Daytona police, the teacher and the student met off-campus over a four-month period and had a sexual relationship.

The teacher has not been charged, WKMG said.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Woman Arrested for Aggravated
Child Abuse, Child Neglect for
Striking Her Boy, 12, Several
Times, Making Him Leave

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Detective Todd Sellitto has arrested Tiffany Duncan, 30, of the 5800 block of 9th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Tiffany Duncan

According to the arrest report, on Monday, October 13, 2008, at about 8:00 p.m., while at home, Duncan and her 12-year-old son engaged in a verbal argument about the boy not listening to his mother.

The boy was sitting on the couch in the living room and his mother was yelling at him. He was acting like he was not listening to her, which caused her to become more upset, Det. Sellitto wrote in his report.

The boy said his mom kept telling him to sit up, because he was slouching. She told him that at least 3 times and he failed to do so, so she "popped" him with a pen in his face, which caused him to bleed. He held his mouth and kicked the rug. At this point, Duncan told him to fix the rug and he tried to stand up, so she "punched" him in the head and sat him down.

The boy started playing with a radio antenna and she grabbed it from him and started hitting him on the arm and twice in the face.

His mother grabbed a cell phone charger cord and said, "This will hurt more; fix my rug, fix my rug." She wrapped the cord around her hand and hit him three times with the cord, the boy said. At that point, the boy grabbed the cord and wrapped it around his hand and held it.

The mother then picked up a plastic bear and hit him on the top of his hand to make him let go of the cord, then threw the bear and hit him in the head. After that, the boy tried to leave, so Duncan picked up a broomstick and hit the boy on his legs with the broomstick.

Then she grabbed a bicycle and threw it at the boy's stomach. He ran into the kitchen. She then pushed everything off the kitchen table, tipped over the couch and ripped pictures off the wall and threw them down. The boy ran and hid behind the refrigerator and when he peeked out, she threw a butter knife at him, hitting him in the head. He ran to the back door and Duncan told him to go ahead and leave.

The boy ran to a neighbor, who called 911.

The boy was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital. He had multiple injuries, including two knots on his forehead with one of them having a laceration, two little cuts on both tops of his hands and two cuts on his face. On the back of the boy's neck there were two swollen scratches, approximately 3 to 4 inches long.

All the boy's brothers were interviewed. They corroborated the boy's story, Det. Sellitto said.

There was no attempt by Duncan to report her son as missing, nor did she notify law enforcement of the situation. She also did not have her son checked out medically, the report said, nor did she provide him shelter, Det. Sellitto wrote in his report.

Duncan was arrested and charged with Aggravated Child Abuse and Child Neglect.

Manatee Detective Arrests
Young Man for Burglary,
Defrauding Pawn Broker

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Aaron Bradley has arrested Christopher Crespo, 22, of 1110 63rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Christopher Crespo

According to deputies who investigated the incident, on October 3, 2008, at about 3:50, a man was observed by a witness leaving a residence in the 1300 block of 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton, and reported it to law enforcement.

When deputies arrived, they observed the front door of the residence had been pried open with an unknown tool.

The house had been gone through and the doors to the closet and some of the dresser drawers had been opened.

The deputies were able to get a description of the burglar and set up a perimeter and called in K-9 to track, yielding negative results.

The homeowner was contacted and she returned to the location of the burglary.

The property stolen, she told deputies, were items of jewelry, valued at $940 dollars.

Subsequent investigation by Det. Bradley turned up the jewelry at a local pawn shop.

Crespo was the one who sold the jewelry to the pawn shop.

Crespo was arrested on Tuesday, October 14, 2008, and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling, Dealing in Stolen Property and Defrauding a Pawn Broker.

Bradenton Police Department
Special Weapons and Tactics
Team Asks Community Support

This year’s competition takes place in Orlando during the month of November.

Bradenton's Chief of Police has authorized the time for the team to compete as long as they are able to secure donations to cover the cost.

The competition combines the most recent education & training seminars for SWAT Teams and a head-to-head competition.

They expect 80 Swat Teams and Special Operations Units from all over the world to be competing against each other.

Their goal is to send an eight man team to compete in this year's event. In order to send an eight man team, they will need to raise approximately $5,800 dollars.

This is a breakdown of their funding requirements for the competition:

Lodging and Transportation: $3,000
Team Registration fee: $800
Food (Team for the week): $2,000
Total: $5,800 dollars.

The SWAT Team thanks you in advance for any help you provide.

Bradenton Firefighters Join
Manatee Food Bank Drive

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Firefighters from the City of Bradenton and throughout Manatee County are currently collecting non-perishable food items to benefit The Food Bank of Manatee, a service of Meals on Wheels Plus.

Anyone wishing to contribute to this effort may drop of their donations at any one of the City’s three fire stations. Those stations are:

Gene Gallo Central Fire Station, 1010 9th Ave. W.

Station No. 2, 1401 7th Ave. E.

Station No. 3, 2901 59th St. W.

All the fire stations throughout the county are accepting donations through Oct. 24. Anyone wishing to drop off donations after normal business hours should ring the doorbells located outside the stations.

The Food Bank prepares meals for families caught in emergency situations until a permanent arrangement can be made. Each package contains a balanced diet of items sufficient to meet the needs of a family for up to seven days, according to The Food Bank’s Website: www.mealsonwheelsplus.org.

Palmetto Police Department:
Armed Home Invasion Robbery
Tuesday Night

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is investigating a home invasion robbery that occurred Tuesday evening, October 14, 2008, at about 10:50 p.m.

Six adult victims were in an apartment in the 500 blk of 13th Street West, Palmetto.

Two men forced the door of the apartment open and confronted the victims, demanding money.

One of the suspects had a small, black revolver.

No one was injured during the robbery and the two robbers were last seen running northbound along the railroad tracks that are just east of the apartment.

The suspects are both described as tall, thin Black males. Both had either shaved heads or were balding. One of the suspects was wearing blue shorts and a black T-shirt. The other suspect was wearing white pants and a black T-shirt. Both wore bandanas.

Persons with information about this crime are urged to contact the Palmetto Police Department at 721-2000, ext. 103, or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Palmetto Police Dept. Reports
Vehicle Burglary, Weapon Theft

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is investigating a vehicle burglary that occurred on Tuesday (October 14th).

The vehicle’s owner, Eugene Matthews, 75, of Parrish, parked the vehicle in front of a residence in the 500 blk of 12th Street West at 7:00 a.m.

When he returned to the vehicle at 6:00 p.m., he found the passenger side window broken.

His AK47 rifle, two magazines, and about 200 rounds of ammunition were taken from the vehicle during the burglary.

Persons with information about this crime are urged to contact the Palmetto Police Department at 721-2000, ext.103, or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Home Burglarized; Jewelry,
Multiple Weapons Stolen

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- A home in the 1600 blk of 19th Avenue West, Palmetto, was burglarized sometime between 7:45 pm on Monday, October 13, 2008 and 3:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2008.

During the burglary, a safe was taken.

The safe contained jewelry, personal papers, and multiple pistols and rifles.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Ex-Sarasota High School ROTC
Instructor Sentenced to Prison
for Lewd Acts with Three Boys

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- In a plea deal, Demetrius Busby, 45, a former Sarasota High School ROTC instructor, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for molesting at least 3 boys who were his students.

Demetrius Busby

The former ROTC instructor was charged with his third crime after a third victim was located by Sarasota Police Department detectives.

The arrest report said while conducting a follow-up investigation of Busby, a 16-year-old unnamed student was interviewed.

The boy stated he had been enrolling in the ROTC program at Sarasota High School since his freshman year. He identified Busby as his instructor and said they developed a close relationship. He and Busby would talk on the telephone as well as text message one another after school hours. He said Busby spoke with him regarding pornography and said Busby volunteered to make him a pornography tape and asked if he would like guy on guy or girl on girl sexual acts. The boy said Busby told him that he could come to Busby's residence and masturbate. Busby told the boy that if he did not know how to masturbate, then Busby would show him how. The boy also said Busby asked him if his pubic area was shaved and spoke about the size of his penis, the report said. The incident allegedly occurred during March of 2008 when the boy was fifteen years old.

Busby was charged with Soliciting a Person Under Sixteen Years of Age to Commit a Lewd or Lascivious Act. This is the third juvenile boy involved in Busby's sexual crimes.

SPD Detectives also charged Busby with Lewd and Lascivious Acts and two counts of Distribution of Obscene Material to a Minor in a second case involving Busby after another victim came forward. Detectives say Busby had a 15-year-old boy over to his house in March of 2008 and at that time showed the boy a pornographic movie involving a man and a woman. Busby allegedly masturbated during the movie. When the boy left, Busby gave the boy a pornographic movie and three tubes of lubricant to take home with him, the report from SPD said.

Originally, NewsManatee reported on June 3, 2008, that Sarasota Police Department detectives arrested Busby on May 29, 2008, on two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Acts on a Child and one count of Showing Obscene Material to a Minor. At that time, Busby was located by detectives at the Sleep Inn on University Parkway. The victim was a 15-year-old male student. One crime occurred at Busby's house, 2330 Tamisola St., and two of the crimes occurred at the school.

At the time, SPD detectives obtained a search warrant for Busby's residence. Busby's computer was also seized and a search warrant was obtained for it.

Possible Murder Weapon
Recovered By SPD

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Mr. Johnnie Williams III was murdered on September 8, 2008 at 1912 N. Orange Avenue. On September 15, 2008 SPD, City officials and family members held a press conference at the scene of the murder asking for help from the public.

As a result of the press conference a citizen came forward and assisted the SPD in recovering what may be the murder weapon used in the case.

A .38 caliber Taurus revolver has been submitted for DNA and ballistic testing.

Trent Washington was arrested on 9-10-08 for the murder and he is still in the Sarasota County Jail.

Female Body Found
in Sarasota County

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, October 14th, 2008, at approximately 7:00 p.m., Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives discovered the body of a deceased White female in the area of Mauna Loa Blvd. and Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota.

The body has not yet been identified.

The Sarasota Sheriff’s Office is working with the Medical Examiner’s Office to identify the body and determine the cause of death.

The investigation is ongoing.

Homeowner Thwarts Burglary,
Detains Burglar with Bat

CHARLOTTE, COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s road deputy arrested a man Tuesday morning, October 14, 2008, who tried to break into a Port Charlotte home at 20050 Quesada Ave. just before 2:30 a.m. after the owner detained the burglar with a baseball bat.

Michael James Dawes

The 54-year-old owner saw the man trying to remove the screen from his bedroom window where he was watching television. He called 911, and then went outside to confront and detain Michael James Dawes, 48, with the wooden bat. Dawes lives nearby at 20160 Tappan Zee Dr.

The owner asked Dawes what he was doing and he replied he owned the house. Dawes then began cursing and screaming for an unknown woman named Louise to come outside.

When the deputy arrived, Dawes stated he was looking for Louise but could not say where she lived; he also denied taking the screen off the window.

Dawes was arrested for Attempted Burglary and the deputy said, “Dawes failure to complete the crime was a direct result of the home owner’s intervention.”

Police: Man Lured,
Molested Teens

KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 53-year-old man was arrested Tuesday after he lured a 15-year-old boy to his Kissimmee home, where he gave him alcohol and let him watch a pornographic movie before molesting him, police said.

Luis Luna was arrested on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation of a minor and prohibited acts on a minor in connection with obscenities.

According to Kissimmee police, Luna asked the teen to help him move some furniture last week and gave him alcohol, played the movie and molested him.

The teen later contacted authorities, and during an investigation, additional victims came forward describing similar encounters with Luna, Kissimmee police said.

Police are urging any other alleged victims to contact the Kissimmee Police Department.

Luna was jailed on $15,000 bond, WKMG reported.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

A Stunning Event: Bradenton Cops
Use Taser Twice on Man Who Ran
from Paying Restaurant Bill

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Officers were called to Leroy Selmon's restaurant in the 6500 block of Cortez Road West on Monday, October 13, 2008, at about 7:30 p.m.

Richard E. Johnson

According to the restaurant's statements to police, Richard E. Johnson, 25, of 9211 Kingston Road, Bradenton, racked up a tab of $78 dollars in food and drinks.

Then Johnson and another man who was with him just walked out of an exit door at the restaurant without paying.

When police arrived, they tried to handcuff Johnson, but he resisted and fell, cutting his face and head, the report from BPD said.

After he was finally taken into custody, he refused to get into the police cruiser, so cops used a Taser on him twice.

Johnson was finally subdued.

A breathalyzer test showed Johnson had a blood alcohol level of 0.293, more than three times the legal limit of 0.08.

Police took Johnson to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his wounds.

Johnson was charged with Petit Theft and three counts of Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail.

According to Manatee County court records, Johnson has been arrested in the past for, among other things, Sale of Cocaine, Domestic Battery and Retail Theft.

Man Attacks Other Man with Bat,
Slugs Another, Flees; Deputies
Catch Up to Him and Arrest Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Bryan Arnold, 23, of 511 63rd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Bryan Arnold

The arrest report said on Monday, October 13, 2008, Arnold kept calling Travis Bond and making threats toward Travis.

At that time, Travis and his brother Cody, and two girls were hanging out at the residence of one of the girls, 2407 34th Avenue East, Bradenton.

At about 2:45 a.m., Arnold drove to the address, armed with a bat.

He exited his vehicle with the bat and walked over to where the four were standing.

Cody told Bryan to leave, but Bryan allegedly went at Travis and hit him in the head with the bat.

Cody tried to brad Bryan but was hit in the face with one of Bryan's hands.

Travis grabbed the bat from Bryan, but dropped it during the struggle.

Bryan then ran to his vehicle, got in and drove away just as law enforcement was arriving.

Deputies radioed other deputies who caught up to Bryan in the 4900 block of 30th Street East and detained him.

The first deputy went to that location after obtaining affidavits and arrested Bryan for Aggravated Battery.

Cody and Travis declined EMS treatment of their wounds.

Girl, 17, Argues with Brother,
Stabs Him; She Flees, Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 17-year-old woman, Chaquayla Cheaves, was arrested after stabbing her brother near midnight on Tuesday, October 14, 2008.

Shaquayla Cheaves

According to the arrest report, Shaquayla and Breon, the victim, are brother and sister.

While she was doing dishes, her other brother, Clyde, came up to her and started an argument with her.

Shaquayla grabbed a knife and started to swing it around.

Breon attempted to calm her down and get her to put down the knife, when she stabbed him in the leg.

Shaquayla then fled the residence about 200 yards away.

Breon's leg injury was bleeding a fair amount, the report said, but when EMS was arrived, they said the wound was not life-threatening. He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of the wound.

Shaquayla was located and arrested. She was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery. She was transported to the Juvenile Booking Center.

The knife was recovered in the front yard.

Manatee County Detective:
Serial Bank Robber Charged
with Additional Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Sam Levita has charged James Franklin Fogarty, 36, currently in the Manatee County Jail on bank robbery charges, with an additional bank robbery.

James Franklin Fogarty

Det. Levita reported on September 12, 2008, shortly after 5:00 p.m., Fogarty entered the Bank of America branch located at 5315 39th Street East.

After bypassing the customers waiting in line, he approached a teller and demanded money.

The teller hesitated and Fogarty placed his hand on his pocket and said, "Give me your money, large bills, no joke."

The teller, thinking Fogarty was getting a weapon, gave him the money in her drawer.

Fogarty then fled the bank in an unknown direction.

During the investigation of the robbery, Fogarty was identified by a separate teller as the man who robbed the bank on Sept. 12th.

On Monday, October 13, 2008, Fogarty was charged with Robbery at the jail.

Fogarty is suspected of robbing banks in Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties. He has been charged for at least 3 of those robberies.

BPD Arrests Man for Burglary,
Trespass After He Tries To
Steal Cable Services

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to an arrest report from the Bradenton Police Department, a man attempted to steal cable services from an adjoining apartment on Monday, October 13, 2008.

David Yardley

The report said David Yardley, 63, of 1439 15th Street West, Bradenton, was caught inside an adjoining apartment by the residents of that apartment.

Police say Yardley had been trespassed before from that apartment in the past.

When the residents caught him inside their place, Yardley was attempting to hook up his cable to their line.

Yardley was arrested and charged with Burglary and Trespass After Warning.

Four Black Males Commit
Armed Home Invasion Robbery,
Steal Suitcase Full of Money

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Monday, October 13, 2008, at about 9:00 p.m. in the 3800 block of 11th Street East.

According to the report, Victoria Matais, 68, two juvenile daughters, ages 5 and 12, and her son, Fernando, age unknown, who was visiting from Clearwater, went shopping for food.

Fernando assisted in bringing in the food and then left to return to Clearwater.

About 30 minutes later, four Black males entered the residence through the front door. They were armed with handguns and a rifle, were wearing gloves and had their faces covered. They demanded the whereabouts of Fernando and his money and questioned Victoria about his home address and where he works.

During this time, the invaders tied up Victoria and the two girls with power cords and shoelaces.

The invaders ransacked the home and located a black suitcase with money inside that belonged to Fernando and took it with them. Victoria told deputies she did not know how much money was inside the suitcase.

Fernando could not be reached.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTV) and K-9 responded to the scene, but could not locate a track. Crime scene responded to collect evidence.

There were no shots fired and nobody was injured in the incident.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Man Assaulted By Occupants
of Passing Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Christian Meudt, 37, of the 1400 block of 14th Street West, was assaulted by three White males who were occupants of a passing car.

The report said at approximately 1:55 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, 2008, Christian was walking north by the boat marina in the 6900 block of US 41.

He saw a white Ford Explorer pass by and the occupants told him to watch out.

Christian responded, "Why don’t you make me?"

Three men got out of the vehicle and began beating Christian. One of the assailants had an unknown type knife and attempted to cut Christian. He used his hands to defend himself and received several minor cuts to his right hand.

Christian was treated and the scene by EMS for superficial cuts.

The assailants fled north on US 41.

They were described as three unknown White males in a White Ford Explorer. There was no further description in the report.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Teen Charged with Two More
Residential Burglaries

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested Brandon Paul Key, 18, of 2158 Gerard Ct., Port Charlotte, at the Charlotte County Jail and charged him with burglarizing two more Port Charlotte homes.

Brandon Paul Key

On Sunday, October 12, 2008, Key was arrested for burglarizing a home at 1053 Inverness St., Port Charlotte. Following his arrest he told detectives he was involved in multiple armed burglaries and thefts. On Oct. 8, Key said he broke into a home at 22142 Gandy Ave. near his home. Key said he took a pool stick, two Zippo lighters and two pocket knives valued at $300. He also told deputies he broke into another home at 442 Ferris Dr., and stole a Coach purse, digital camera, uncirculated state quarters, gold coins, jewelry, pocket knife and a $2 bill from a birthday card he found. Key said he left the card but took a total of $3,000 in items.

Detectives went to Key’s home and his mother gave permission to search her son’s bedroom to recover stolen items. They recovered the stolen pool stick and found a small safe containing 36 gold coins, miscellaneous jewelry, loose colored and clear stones, watches, knives, earrings, brooches, lighters and necklaces. The stolen Coach purse was found at the foot of his bed along with the camera.

For the additional two home burglaries, Key was charged with two counts of Burglary While Armed and two counts of Grand Theft. He remains in the Charlotte County Jail; bond for these two burglaries was set at $25,000. Bond on the first home burglary was set at $6,500.

Customer Offered Marijuana
for McDonald's Meal, Cops Say

VERO BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a McDonald's cashier called 911 after a Vero Beach drive-through customer offered to pay for his meal with marijuana, deputies said.

The Indian River County Sheriff's Office said the cashier called Monday with a description of the vehicle in which the culprit had been riding.

A deputy spotted the vehicle, found marijuana in the car and arrested Shawn Alexander Pannullo.

Pannullo, 27, was charged with possession of cannabis and posted $500 bail. It was unclear if he had an attorney.

A sheriff's report did not say what Pannullo ordered at McDonald's or if he ultimately purchased the meal using something other than marijuana, WKMG said.

FDLE Announces Violent Crime
Down for First Half of Year

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement today announced that violent crime is down by 2.4 percent for the first half of 2008. The figure is part of the 2008 Semi-Annual Uniform Crime Report which was released on Tuesday, October 14, 2008, providing a preliminary indication of this year’s crime figures. The report includes data submitted by 406 law enforcement agencies for crimes reported from January through June of this year. Murder, robbery, aggravated assault and forcible sex offenses, all showed a decrease over the same period last year. The overall crime volume reported in Florida increased by 1.6% compared to the same time period in 2007.

"The first half of the year is typically a good indicator as to what is ahead in the remaining months," said FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey. "Arrests are up and we applaud the hard work of Florida law enforcement in aggressively combating crime."

In addition, the number of reported domestic violence offenses decreased by 3.0 percent from last year. Total arrests increased by 3.9 percent from last year’s figure. Juvenile arrests increased 0.9 percent, while adult arrests increased 4.3 percent. Motor vehicle theft is down 10.1 percent over the same period last year.

During this reporting period, one officer was killed in the line of duty. Detective James Walker of the Miami Police Department was killed In Jan. 2008 by a suspect who mistook the officer’s car for the vehicle of his accomplice.

The complete 2008 Semi-Annual Crime in Florida, Uniform Crime Report, including county-by-county breakdowns, can be found on FDLE’s Web site: www.fdle.state.fl.us/fsac/ucr/.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Deputy Arrests Man
for Ramming Good Samaritan's
Vehicle Following Traffic Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Deputy has arrested William D. Mackay, 22, of 11940 73rd Street East, in Parrish, Florida.

William D. Mackay

The sheriff's office arrest report said on Sunday, October 12, 2008, at about 9:00 p.m., Mackay was involved in a small vehicle crash involving his vehicle and a traffic sign.

When Mark Horne stopped to render aid to Mackay, Mackay became very aggressive and wanted to fight Mark.

Mark stayed in his vehicle and left the scene because of Mackay's statements toward him.

Mackay then followed Mark in his vehicle and attempted to run Mark down while Mark was on the phone with 911, the report said.

Deputy Russell Jacobus found the two vehicles traveling westbound in the 1600 block of 49th Street East, in North Manatee County.

While catching up to the vehicles, Dep. Jacobus observed Mackay speed up and hit Mark's vehicle in the rear end in the 1000 block of 49th Street East.

Mark then turned northbound on U.S. 41 North, where Mackay again attempted to hit Mark.

Dep. Jacobus activated his lights and siren in an attempt to stop Mackay from hitting Mark again.

Mark drove his vehicle through the median of U.S. 41 North in an attempt to get away from Mark.

Dep. Jacobus put his vehicle in between the two vehicles so Mackay would not strike Mark again.

Mackay then went around Dep. Jacobus' cruiser and stopped in the median in the 5000 block of U.S. 41 North, where he got out and shouted obscenities at the Deputy, the report said.

Mackay was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery and Reckless Driving.

Two Women, Man Arrested for
Robbery of Man's Necklace

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested two women and a man on Sunday, October 12, 2008, after they allegedly robbed a man of his necklace.

Above, L to R, Kaitlyn Blake, Jadaria Henley and Lakeisha Waiters

According to the arrest report, the robbers, Kaitlyn Blake, 18, Jadaria Henley, 28, and Lakeisha Waiters, 18, approached the victim, Ruby Chavez, 31, in the 5800 block of 15th Street East.

They began to push Chavez and tried to hit him.

Kaitlyn was able to rip the victim's necklace off and they fled in a white Ford Crown Victoria.

The robbers were located later and the victim identified all three of them as his attackers.

All three were arrested and charged with Robbery.

Chavez sustained no injuries.

The necklace was valued at $2500 dollars.

2-Year-Old Boy Struck, Killed
Sunday Afternoon By Truck

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a 2-year-old boy was struck and killed when he wandered into the street Sunday afternoon, October 12, 2008, at about 1:10 p.m.

The FHP report said a truck, driven by Robert Pinkston, 55, of 2312 15th Street East, Bradenton, was eastbound on 61st Avenue East approaching 12th Street East.

Eduardo Betanzo-Reyes, 2, of 1120 51st Avenue East, Bradenton, was eastbound on the sidewalk on the south side of 61st Avenue East, approaching 12th Street East. The boy then entered onto 12th Street East, proceeding eastbound.

As Pinkston reached 12th Street East, Pinkston failed to observe the boy and attempted to make a right turn onto 12th Street East.

Pinkston ran over the top of the boy.

The boy was flown to Bayfront Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries at 2:30 p.m.

At this time the case is still under investigation and charges are pending further investigation.

Pickup with Two Dirt Bikes
Stolen in Burglary Overnight
in East Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, between Sunday night, October 12, 2008, at 10:30 p.m., and Monday morning, October 13, 2008, at 6:45 a.m., a pickup truck loaded with two dirt bikes was stolen from a garage in the 14700 block of 7th Avenue East, in the East Manatee County subdivision of Country Creek.

The report said unknown person(s) broke the front passenger door window out of a van parked in the driveway of the residence.

The suspect(s) then entered the van to use the garage door opener to open the garage.

Once in the garage, the suspect(s) obtained the keys to a Nissan pickup truck parked in the garage.

The suspect(s) then stole the truck, which had two Honda racing dirt bike type motorcyles in the bed.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Manatee County Receives
Financial Reporting Award

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For the 10th consecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has given the Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award to Manatee County for its Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2007.

Above, R.B. "Chips" Shore

The Popular Annual Financial Reporting Award is a prestigious national award recognizing conformance with the highest standards for preparation of state and local government popular reports. The Popular Annual Financial Report tells the financial story of a local government and it is written for the non-financial reader who has strong interest in the government’s financial stability.

"Each year, I am so pleased to receive this award. Countless hours go in to preparing these reports and it shows. The reports are tremendously useful and so easy to read," says R.B. "Chips" Shore.

"The Clerk’s office is committed to providing as many public records and as much information as possible to the public, free. Much of this is provided at no cost, in real time, over the Internet. This enables citizens and organizations in Manatee County to work faster, smarter and with fewer expenses. The PAFR is one of the many pieces of information available to the public on-line," Shore said.

This report is available by calling the Clerk’s office at 941-749-1800 ext. 6102 or online at www.ManateeClerk.com.

SILVER ALERT CONTINUES:
Sarasota Woman Still Missing
Sarasota County Sheriff Says

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation of a missing endangered adult.

Mary S. Walls

The missing adult is Mary S. Walls, 63, a White female, (DOB 6/15/45), of Sarasota, who was last seen at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 7th, 2008 on Bee Ridge Road between Cattlemen Road and Beneva Road.

She was last seen wearing an orange shirt, blue pants and was without shoes.

Walls left without needed medication and may be in need of medical assistance.

She is believed to still be in the Sarasota area, possibly in the vicinity of Lake Sarasota.

Anyone with information regarding this individual should contact Sheriff’s Office Detective Jarek Szalbirak on (941) 861-4938 or Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office communications on (941) 316 1201.

Four Juvies Arrested for Trashing
Port Charlotte Home in Party

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested four juvenile boys in connection with breaking into and vandalizing a Port Charlotte home over the weekend.

Above, L to R, Brenden Cotroneo, Ryan Albert, Anthony Jackson and Christopher Dunn

Around 11:30 a.m. Sunday a woman who is leasing the home at 21301 Peachland Blvd. for her mother, went to the home with her son. Her son went inside then ran out saying there were kids in the home and called 911. The woman’s son said there was significant damage in the home and he recognized three of the boys who attend his school at Port Charlotte High.

A BOLO was issued and deputies spotted three of four juvenile suspects involved at Peachland Blvd. and Fletcher St. who were in the home. Handcuffed and taken into custody for questioning were Brenden Anthony Cotroneo, 14, 21276 Knollwood Ave., Ryan Daniel Albert, 14, 1524 Yorkshire St., and Anthony Joseph Jackson, 12, 1149 Fletcher St., all of Port Charlotte. During the arrest, deputies found a pair of brass knuckles in Albert’s pocket. The father of the fourth suspect, Christopher R. Dunn, 14, 1214 Waterside St., brought his son to the Sheriff’s Office and turned him over to detectives.

Dunn told detectives he and the other three boys entered the home around 10:00 a.m. Sunday through an unlocked side door. Jackson said he was in the house last Thursday with Dunn; he said the house was in good shape and, "It looked like a good spot to party for the weekend." Jackson said he, Albert, Cotroneo and Dunn all went back on Saturday and Sunday and they all took part in damaging the home, drinking wine and food items.

All rooms in the home were damaged according to detectives. They found cigarettes and ashes, drinking glasses, burn marks on a bathroom door and the door kicked in. There was a broken figurine, beds were slept in, food was in the bed, a large burn mark was in the drywall under a window, someone urinated on the bathroom and laundry floor, a bi-fold door was broken, there was broken glass on the kitchen floor and pantry, sofas were burned by cigarettes, and someone used a cigarette to burn “Pimpin” onto a sofa armrest. Detectives said they also found a wallet in the home belonging to Jackson with his school ID card. They also found an eyeglass case with marijuana inside.

All four juvenile boys were charged with felony Burglary, felony Criminal Mischief, and misdemeanor Petit Theft; however, Albert was additionally charged with Carrying a Concealed Weapon (Brass Knuckles). All of the juvenile teens were released to their parents and placed on 21 days of home detention. A damage figure is not available at this time.

Young Man All Wet Following
Residential Burglary, Escape

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Brandon Paul Key, 18, of 2158 Gerard Ct., Port Charlotte.

Brandon Paul Key

A CCSO report said the owner at 1053 Inverness St., Port Charlotte, came home Sunday at 7:10 p.m., saw someone in the house and called 911. Deputies responded and when the officer yelled at the suspect not to move, the man ran out a rear door.

When backup deputies arrived, they saw the suspect cross Beacon Drive ordering him to stop several times.

The man jumped into a canal, got out on the other side and hid in a wooded area.

Deputies went around the canal and arrested Key.

Upon searching Key, they found a ring and currency in his pocket.

When deputies went back to the home, they found the residence inside in total disarray. There was a suitcase on the kitchen floor where Key had put numerous coins inside before he fled the home.

Detectives questioned Key and he admitted that the ring and currency found in his pocket were taken from the home.

Detectives also said Key admitted to other home burglaries and are continuing their investigation.

Key has so far been charged with Burglary, Resisting an Officer and Petit Theft. He was taken to the Charlotte County Jail where he remains on $6,500 bond.

More charges may follow.

This Week's Stupid Person:
Man Shoots Self in Leg
Practicing Quick Draw

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Communications Center was notified on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at 9:13 p.m. by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office about a man whose wife drove her husband to Lee Memorial Hospital after he accidently shot himself at their home in Charlotte County.

According to Charlotte County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Robert Carpenter, during the CCSO deputy’s investigation, it was learned that Kenneth Nichols, 53, of 41571 Little Farm Rd. (southern Charlotte Co. near the Lee Co. line) was in his front yard practicing quick drawing with his 22-caliber pistol.

Nichols said he put the gun back into his holster and it went off, shooting him in the right leg just below the knee.

The bullet exited about six inches below on the side of the shin.

The shooting was determined to be accidental and the incident closed.

Nichols was treated and released from the Ft. Myers hospital.

3rd Student Diagnosed with
Resistant MRSA Infection

MARION COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Another Central Florida student has been diagnosed With methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The child attends Stanton Weirsdale Elementary School.

He was undergoing treatment over the weekend, the Ocala Star Banner reported.

The case comes just days after two football players from Liberty High School in Osceola County were diagnosed with the infection.

On Monday, Liberty High School will hold an informational meeting for parents in the school's library, WKMG has learned.

MRSA is a type of staph that is resistant to antibiotics called beta-lactams. Beta-lactam antibiotics include methicillin and other more common antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin and oxicillin.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Safe Stolen from Steak 'n Shake
Restaurant On Cortez Road
Early Friday Morning

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a safe was stolen from the Steak 'n Shake restaurant located at 106 Cortez Road East, in Bradenton.

Above, Steak 'n Shake, 106 Cortez Road East, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of Friday, October 10, 2008.

The report said surveillance video captured three male suspects entering Steak 'n Shake via a rear entry door after the business was closed and the employees had left for the night.

The thieves removed the large floor safe and a cash drawer and fled out the rear door.

The manager later indicated that an undisclosed amount of cash was taken, as well as the safe and a cash drawer.

The suspects were captured on video and were are seen entering at 3:49 a.m. and exiting at 3:51 a.m. However the report said the times are a little off on the video; the actual time of the burglary is approximately 4:35 a.m.

The only description of the thieves in the report said they are all approximately 19-22 years of age.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
Who Broke Half-Brother's
Arms with Baseball Bat

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- In an incident reminiscent of Mafia days, a man was arrested by Bradenton Police after he broke both of his half-brother's arms with a baseball bat.

Evan Shawn Jones

According to the arrest report from BPD, Evan Shawn Jones, 42, shares the same mother as his half-brother, who was not named, and they all live in the same residence at 1110 8th Street East, Bradenton.

On Friday, October 10, 2008, Evan and his half-brother were involved in a verbal altercation about cell phone charges. They were standing outside the residence.

Evan went inside the residence after the argument finished.

That's when the argument turned physical.

Evan went inside his close and retrieved a wooden baseball bat.

Evan then went back outside and struck his half-brother four times with the bat, breaking both of his half-brother's arms.

When officers arrived at the scene, the half-brother told them he didn't wish to fill out an affidavit (he couldn't -- his arms were broken), nor did he wish to press charges.

Nonetheless, police arrested Evan and charged him with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Evan Jones remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $5,000 dollar bond.

His arraignment is set for November 14, 2008.

According to Manatee County court records, this is Jones' only arrest.

Man Asking Friend for Handout
Rips Wallet From Her Hands,
Flees; Later Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Peter W. Straub, 24, was arrested for Strong Arm Robbery on Thursday, October 9, 2008, by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Peter W. Straub

A report from the sheriff's office said the victim, Abigail Valladares, 26, was at her residence in the 3500 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, when Straub knocked on her door. Straub is known to Abigail as an acquaintance over the previous 3-4 month time span.

Straub asked if he could get something to drink, so she brought him a soda.

Straub then asked if he could borrow five dollars so she retrieved her wallet to give him $5 dollars.

Abigail was standing in the threshold of the front door and as she opened her wallet, Straub grabbed it and shoved her back inside and to the ground.

Straub then removed $35 dollars in cash, threw the victim's wallet at her and fled down the stairs and to the South.

Abigail ran after Straub, chasing him to 14th Street West, but gave up because he was too far ahead of her.

Abigail then walked back towards her apartment where she came upon the vehicle and driver who brought Straub to her residence.

The White male driver said he was going to bring Straub back and began to drive away.

Abigail obtained a tag number before he could leave.

At approximately 9 p.m., Straub was located in a mobile home at 5120 14th Street West, Bradenton, by Detective Parham, who arrested Straub.

Straub was brought to the Criminal Investigations Division where he was interviewed by Detectives Sevier and Oyler.

Straub told the detectives Abigail gave him the money to buy marijuana and he decided to keep it instead.

Straub denied grabbing the money and pushing the victim.

He was arrested and charged with Strong Arm Robbery.

20-Year-Old Arrested By Deputies
for Shooting at Passing Vehicle
In West Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For some unknown reason, Domenic J. Merino, 20, of 920 61st Avenue Circle East, Bradenton, shot at a Jeep going by him in the 3600 block of 19th Street West, Bradenton. The incident occurred at about 5 minutes past midnight on Saturday, October 11, 2008, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Domenic J. Merino

The sheriff's office report said at approximately 0005 hours on Saturday a nearby resident called the sheriff's office and advised that he had just observed a person shooting at a passing vehicle.

When Deputies got into the area, they located the alleged shooter, who was identified as Merino, and another person on the street nearby. Both parties were secured.

The complainant responded and completed an affidavit after positively identifying Merino as the one who shot at a passing vehicle.

A loaded 9mm handgun was located where Merino was detained and a spent shell casing was found at the point where the witness saw him shoot.

According to the complainant, the suspect had been shooting at a passing red Jeep.

The Jeep could not be located.

Merino was arrested and charged with Carrying a Concealed Weapon.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of $2,000 dollars.

Two Men Rob Three,
Pistol Whip One

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said on Friday, October 10, 2008, at about 9 p.m., two men asked for a ride from three others and wound up robbing the three.

The report said, Casey Gadberry, Nichol Allman and Jaren Allman told deputies two Black male youths asked them for a ride from Wendy’s off 14th Street West, in Bradenton.

Once the Black male youths were in the victims' car, they pulled handguns and demanded the victims give up their belongings.

Casey Gadberry was pistol-whipped in the head by one of the robbers, causing an injury/laceration that was not serious.

The robbers took approximately $2,247 dollars worth of the victims' belongings, and exited the victims' vehicle in the 5500 block of 26th Street West.

Two other unknown Black males picked the two robbers up and drove them away.

The victims drove away and reported the incident to a deputy in the area.

The suspects were not located.

The investigation is ongoing.

The robbers were described as a Black male, 17-21, by the name of "Rico" or "Kamine" and an unknown Black male, 17-21.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Attempted Armed Robbery
of a Pregnant Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday, October 11, 2008, at about 9 p.m., 5-7 Black males attempted to rob a pregnant woman.

A sheriff's office report said the visibly pregnant victim, Sana Tomason, 21, of the 5700 block of 7th Street East, Bradenton, was riding home on her bicycle and was in the 5800 block of 9th Street East, in Bradenton.

The 5-7 Black males worked together as a team, stopping her.

One of them battered the victim, demanded money and displayed a gun, but they obtained no property or money.

The assailants fled on foot while threatening to shoot the victim.

Sana rode her bicycle home and called 911.

She said she was uninjured, and declined EMS.

The would-be robbers have not been located at this time.

They were only described as 5-7 Black males in their teens or twenties.

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Man Shot in Leg During
Attempted Armed Robbery

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from Lt. Scott Tyler, of the Palmetto Police Department, PPD is investigating an attempted armed robbery and shooting that occurred at about 3:00 p.m. Thursday afternoon, October 9, 2008.

The victim, Juan Zuniga, 21, of Palmetto, told police officers he was walking on the bike path that runs from 14th Avenue West to Twin Lakes Park, when a Black male approached him.

The Black male pulled out a small pistol and demanded Juan’s gold chain.

Juan started to run and the would-be robber shot Juan in the leg.

After the crime, friends drove Juan to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The staff in the emergency room notified police.

Juan was treated and released from the hospital.

Juan described the culprit as an unknown Black male, 6' 00" to 6' 02", approximately 150 pounds, with a short afro-style haircut. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt.

Persons with any information about this crime are asked to call the Palmetto Police Department at 721-2000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-tip by computer, .

Callers to the Crime Stoppers tip line and Tipsters who submit e-Tips by computer will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Manatee County Firefighters
Collecting Food, Cash for
Needy Family Holidays

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Fire Departments will be conducting their second annual food drive from Monday, October 13th through Friday, October 24th, to replenish the empty shelves at The Food Bank of Manatee. The firefighters will be collecting non-perishable food items at all 33 fire stations in Manatee County. This should make it easy for motorists to drive by their neighborhood fire station and drop off non-perishable food items into the collection bins.

Traditionally, the food supply dwindles in the Food Bank during the summer months but this year, food donations have not been able to keep up with the increasing demand. With high gas prices and an ailing economy, more and more families are truly struggling to keep food on the table. Demand is up 200% this year for the Food Banks “Emergency Food Baskets."

"When we heard that the Food Bank was literally out of food, we had to do something," said Randy Stulce, Chief of Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue. "Of course, we can't do it alone. We need the communities help to make this food drive more successful than last year."

The 2007 firefighter food drive resulted in the collection of 2422 pounds of non-perishable items from area residents.

The food items most needed at the Food Bank include canned vegetables, canned meats, instant mashed potatoes, stuffing, cereal, rice, and infant items like baby food, formula, and diapers. The Food Bank also accepts monetary donations, to purchase fresh foods, such as a turkey or ham for a needy family’s holiday dinner.

Any monetary donation can be mailed or dropped off at 811 23rd Avenue East, Bradenton FL. 34208.

For more information, call the Cedar Hammock station at 751-7090 with questions on fire station drop-off locations, or call The Food Bank at 747-FOOD ext 236 with food donation questions.

Sarasota Shooting Incident
Under Investigation

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating a shooting incident that occurred on Friday, October 10, 2008, at approximately 2:24 a.m. at 730 Harvey Street, in Englewood.

The shooting occurred as a result of a criminal mischief incident at the above location, the sheriff's office said.

The shooting victim, John Millen, 34, a White male, was transported to Englewood Hospital and then to the Tampa General Hospital Trauma Center, in Tampa.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District III Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-1719. They may also leave anonymous information on the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at (941) 366-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or text “TIP109” and a message to CRIMES (274637).

One Person Died, One Injured
in Residential Fire

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported one person was killed and one was injured during a residential fire in the 2900 block of Woodpine Circle, in Sarasota.

A Flash Report said the fire occurred on Friday, October 10, 2008, at about 9 p.m.

The Sarasota County Fire Department and the sheriff's office responded to a 911 call.

After arriving, it was determined that the fire had fully engulfed the residence.

One person, a woman who has not yet been identified, was found dead inside, along with the family dog. Another person, a man, was taken to Sarasota Memorial Hospital with minor injuries related to the fire.

Currently, this is an ongoing investigation with the Sarasota County Sheriff's office Criminal Investigations Bureau and the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Two Men Busted; Counterfeited
$20, $50 and $100 Bills

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives of the Economic Crimes, Major Crimes and Narcotics units arrested two men in connection with printing $20, $50 and $100 bills from a home in Punta Gorda.

Above, L to R, Chase Robison and Charles Simes

Charged with Forging Bank Bills were Chase R. Robison, 20, 515 Via Tripoli, Apt. A, Punta Gorda, and Charles Wilburn Simes, 25, 7077 Fugate St., Ft. Ogden.

CCSO detectives received a tip about the illegal counterfeiting and set up a sting operation with Simes Tuesday to buy $4,000 in counterfeit bills for $800 and the purchase was made at a location in Charlotte County. Then, on Wednesday, another controlled buy was set up to meet in the Wal-Mart parking lot in Deep Creek for another $4,000 in bogus bills. The deal did not take place and was rescheduled for Thursday.

On Thursday, detectives met with Simes on U.S. 17 at the DeSoto County line at 11:33 a.m.; Simes got into the undercover vehicle and he took them to 515 Via Tripoli, in Punta Gorda.

On the way to the apartment, Simes discussed making the counterfeit money also at his home at 7077 Fugate in Ft. Ogden, and at his friend’s apartment at 515 Via Tripoli with a printer-copier. When they arrived, Simes got out, went into the apartment, came back out and got into the undercover vehicle. Once the deal was complete, other detectives moved in and did the takedown in the CVS parking lot at U.S. 41 and Airport Rd., Punta Gorda. Cash and counterfeit money was recovered. Before being taken to the Charlotte County Jail, Simes said he used the counterfeit money to buy drugs and items all over the county.

After Simes arrest, detectives went back to the Punta Gorda apartment around 4:00 p.m. and met with the building owner who gave permission to search apartment A.

Robison was located in the apartment and said he made numerous $20, $50 and $100 bills using his ink jet printer in his bedroom. Robison also said he would give the counterfeit bills to Simes who would purchase drugs and bring them back to Simes. He was then taken to the jail and bond was set on both men for $2,500. Simes remains in the jail and Robison bonded out this morning. The U.S. Secret Service was made aware of the counterfeiting but did not take part in the arrest.

The investigation continues.

"The Islander" has news, too...click on their logo to go to their website.

(Click on the logos to go to their website)

News Manatee Archive Services provided by StaffMarket Services . Page Capture and Processing by StaffMarket on 10/18/2008 2:30:06 PM

NewsManatee, Inc.
P.O. Box 10453
Bradenton, Florida 34282-0453
NOTICE
NewsManatee, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Bradenton, Florida.
Your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
E-mail: NewsManatee@aol.com
Michael C. Quinn, Publisher and President
Carole Law Atkins, Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary

© 2008 -- Unless otherwise indicated or assumed, all material herein, written, audio or visual, is Copyrighted by NewsManatee, Inc., Bradenton, Florida.All worldwide rights reserved. ~ No material may be printed, transmitted, or broadcast in whole or in part, without the express consent of owner.

This archive website is hosted and maintained by StaffMarket Services , LLC
as a public service to the citizens of Manatee County Florida.