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Young Man Arrested for
Striking Moped Twice,
Hospitalizing Victim

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Jeffrey Gabbard, Jr. 19, of 5104 1st Avenue West, Bradenton.

Jeffrey Gabbard, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, November 12, 2008, at about 7:20 p.m., two witnesses and the unnamed victim said, Gabbard was driving a white pickup that struck a Moped with the victim on it at the intersection of Manatee Avenue West and 59th Street West.

Gabbard and the victim exchanged words, then the two drove on.

They proceeded northbound on 59th Street West.

Then Gabbard passed up the two witnesses, the report said, and pulled in behind the victim.

When the victim turned right onto 4th Avenue NW from 59th Street West, Gabbard struck the victim on the Moped from behind and drove away.

The victim was transported to Blake Medical Center.

A deputy arrived at Blake and could see no injuries on the victim at that time.

At 8:45 p.m., Gabbard was contacted at his residence by deputies and confronted about the incident.

Gabbard told the deputies, "That's bullshit." He said he had been hanging at his house with his girlfriend all night and never left the house. He said he only left later to drive his girlfriend home and that nobody else drove the white pickup that night.

Gabbard was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon (Motor Vehicle).

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $10,000 dollar bail bond.

Cops: Woman Tries to Stab
Man with Ice Pick, Stabs
Tire, Throws Grill Cover
at Victim's Van

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies reported Bunny Jo Waters, 25, of 5120 14th Street West, #19, was arrested on Wednesday, November 12, 2008, at about 7:15 a.m.

Bunny Jo Waters

The arrest report said Waters got into a verbal argument with an unnamed man.

The man told deputies Waters grabbed an ice pick at the residence and came at him to stab him.

He said he was scared and thought he was going to be stabbed with the ice pick.

The man said Waters continued coming at him when he went outside.

Then she stabbed one of his van's tires with the ice pick.

He was trying to get away, he said, when Waters threw a grill cover at the van, causing approximately $250 dollars in damage.

Waters was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault and Criminal Mischief.

She remains in jail on an $11,000 dollar bail bond.

The report said the incident was "domestic related."

Woman Goes Looking for
Husband at Other Woman's
House, Gets in Fight with
Other Woman, Gets Busted

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, November 11, 2008, at about 11:00 p.m., Lynnette White, 28, of 3430 70th Court East, in Palmetto, went looking for her husband.

Lynette White

Lynette drove to 6031 11th Street East, looking for Herman, her husband. She was at the house a few days earlier and was told not to come back by the resident, Daisy.

On Tuesday, when she got out of her car she approached the gate, removed the chain and walked up the driveway. The front door was open, so she went into the house, demanding that her husband, Herman, come outside.

Daisy told Lynette to get out, but Lynette said no. Daisy went to Lynette and pushed her outside.

Lynette started punching and scratching Daisy, then the two started fighting and ended up in the driveway.

Lynette picked up a 4" by 6" rock and threw it at Daisy, but missed. She then pushed Daisy into the truck parked there, causing a large lump on Daisy's forehead.

Herman got between them to get them apart and the women separated.

Lynette turned to Herman, told him he was stupid, then punched him in the neck/shoulder area.

Lynette was arrested and charged with Burglary, Domestic Battery and Battery.

Bradenton Cops Capture
Bank Robber at School
Moments After Heist

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, November 13, 2008, at 2:15 p.m. Bradenton Police Officers responded to a robbery in progress at Bank of America, 4311 Manatee Avenue West.

Edwin Love, Jr.

Investigation revealed that a man, later identified as Edwin Love, Jr., age 45, entered the bank and handed a teller a note demanding money.

After receiving an undetermined amount of money, Mr. Love fled south on foot as Bradenton police officers and detectives converged on the area.

Jessie P. Miller Elementary school, which is located just south of the bank, was immediately contacted and placed on a “lockdown” status.

Officers arriving on the scene spotted Mr. Love as he ran onto the school property and they gave chase on foot.

The School Resource Officer assigned to the school and responding officers then apprehended Mr. Love.

"This incident highlights the importance of the newly created School Familiarization Program. This program was developed and implemented to increase police officers working knowledge of the interior layout of the schools in the City of Bradenton. The knowledge provided by this program to the officer prevents unnecessary delay when responding to a critical incident at a school campus," Deputy Police Chief J.J. Lewis later said.

The investigation is continuing.

Anyone having information with regards to this incident is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300 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.

Scooter Driver Slams Into
Rear of Vehicle, Ejected

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported an accident between a scooter and an SUV on Wednesday, at about 3 p.m., at the intersection of the 7900 block of U.S. 41 and Swannee Avenue, in South Manatee County.

A lookalike Extreme Destin scooter

The report said an Extreme Destin scooter, being driven by George Mills III, 25, of 704 69th Avenue West, Bradenton, slammed into the rear of a Ford Explorer, being driven by Mary Bedwell, of Sarasota, when Mills failed to observe Bedwell stopped for a DOT vehicle putting out traffic cones.

The collision caused Mills to be ejected from the scooter.

Mills was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries that were not life-threatening.

Bedwell and her passenger suffered no injuries.

Mills was wearing a helmet, FHP reported.

Manatee County Clerk Speaks
at Center for Legal and
Court Technology

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, R.B. “Chips” Shore was invited to deliver a paper at the national Center for Legal and Court Technology (CLCT) conference in Williamsburg, VA on Friday, November 7th.

Above, R.B. "Chips" Shore

The CLCT, which is a joint initiative between the William & Mary Law School and the National Center for State Courts (NCSC), seeks to improve the administration of justice through the use of appropriate technology. As a recognized nationwide leader in implementing technology to improve the efficiency and accessibility, Shore was asked to speak during the conference’s session on Technological Advance and Access.

Shore, the only Clerk of the Circuit Court in the country to present, spoke about Manatee County’s Clerk’s Office and the automated redaction of court documents. Redaction is the process of blocking from public viewing information that has been defined as non-public by the Florida Statutes. Examples of non-public information include Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card numbers and more that frequently are part of court documents.

“For the Courts or Clerks to redact non-public information manually before it can be accessed via public websites is an impossible feat, which in Florida cripples the public’s right to information. In Manatee County, I am using sophisticated software and algorithms that allow for automated redaction at a substantial savings in time and money over utilizing people to do this important work. While still in the pilot phase of this project, the results have been amazing. I was honored and delighted to share all that we know and have learned about this technology with the various State Supreme Court Justices, Professors, Judges and Administrators of foreign governments. Technology is here and we can use it in immeasurable ways to improve service and reduce the cost of government ,” Shore said.

Woman Arrested for Scheme
to Defraud, Embezzlement
from Sarasota Company

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested Jean M. Bridges, 54, of the 3500 block of Coronado Drive, in Sarasota.

Jean M. Bridges

Police say over the course of four months of employment with Southeast Capital, 1800 2nd Street, Sarasota, Bridges allegedly wrote several checks to her daughter and deposited them in her (Bridges') own checking account.

The total amount of checks and money stolen at this time is roughly $19,000 dollars.

Bridges was charged with Grand Theft (Over $10,000).

Detectives Arrest Man for Seven
East Englewood Home Burglaries

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives solved seven home burglary cases and arrested Alan Keith Fitch, Jr., 22, of 10217 Barker Ave., East Englewood.

Alan Keith Fitch, Jr.

The burglaries occurred from Oct. 5 to Nov. 10 on Rachael, Peach, Gretchen, Jacqueline Avenues; Quarry and Teaberry Streets and Snow Drive.

Nearly $9,000 in stolen electronics equipment, fishing gear, computers, and lawn equipment were stolen during the home burglary crime spree.

Fitch was taken to the Charlotte County Jail with total bond set at $52,500. He is charged with 14 felony counts; seven for Burglary and seven for Grand Theft.

Charlotte Deputy Arrested in
Securities Fraud Case

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s deputy turned himself in at the Charlotte County Jail Wednesday afternoon, November 12, 2008, at 4:30 p.m. after a State Attorney’s Office warrant was issued on a felony charge of Securities Fraud Transactions.

Sergeant Lance Scott Rawson, 39, who has been with the CCSO since Dec. 27, 1994, was placed on Administrative Leave with pay Oct. 10, while a criminal investigation was being conducted by the Sheriff’s Economic Crimes Unit. A complaint was filed with the CCSO dealing with Rawson’s actions while off duty and not related to his duties as a deputy. A case package was submitted to the SAO and they issued a warrant for his arrest.

Sheriff John Davenport stated, “It is always unpleasant having to investigate and arrest one of your own officers. No one is above the law, including members of the law enforcement profession. We are entrusted to enforce the law, not break it. Our citizens have a right to expect their law enforcement officers to set the example for the rest of society; I certainly expect such from my officers. We will continue to police our own and do what is right to ensure the public trust.”

Upon his arrest, Rawson was placed on administrative leave without pay, pending the outcome of the administrative investigation that is now underway.

Woman Claims She Was Held
As Sex Slave for Two Days

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orange County sheriff's detectives are investigating a woman's claims that she was held as a sex slave for two days, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

The woman told investigators that she was picked up by two men in a car near John Young Parkway and Conroy Road on Monday and taken to the Beach Club apartments near Texas and Americana.

"(This was) supposedly going on for a few days. Last night, she was able to escape and tell a security guard and we got the call," Carlos Padilla of the Orange County Sheriff's Office said.

The SWAT team surrounded the apartment and two men surrendered after six hours. The men were taken into custody for questioning, WKMG said.

The woman was taken to a hospital for treatment.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Detectives
Arrest Bank Robber from
October's Orion Bank
Armed Robbery

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detectives have arrested Phillip Adam Wilson, 29, and have charged him with the robbery of the Orion Bank on State Road 64 East, in Bradenton, that occurred on October 24, 2008.

Phillip Adam Wilson

NewsManatee originally reported on October 27th, that according to the Bradenton Police Department, the Orion Bank, located at 5310 State Road 64 East, Bradenton, was robbed on Friday, October 24, 2008, at about 5:50 p.m. by a lone armed robber.

Police said a man wearing a mask and gloves and carrying a black handgun entered the bank about 10 minutes before closing time.

He walked up to a teller and demanded money. He obtained nearly $8,000 dollars in cash and fled the bank, then ran south toward Woodbury Apartments nearby.

Witnesses say the man possibly entered a white pickup truck and got away.

Nobody was injured during the robbery -- the 25th this year in Manatee County overall.

Bradenton Police Detectives received a tip from a man that the bank robber may have been an employee of his who was staying at the Days Inn at I-75 and State Road 64. That man was Phillip Wilson.

Meanwhile, the handgun used in the robbery was recovered from a pond near the bank. It was a BB gun.

The detective in charge of the case went to the nearby Wal-Mart and discovered the man suspected of robbing the bank had purchased the handgun lookalike from the store shortly before the robbery. Surveillance video confirmed it.

Detectives went to Wilson's workplace in the 3500 block of U.S. 41, in Palmetto, and took him into custody.

After interviewing Wilson, who told various stories to the detectives, they arrested him and charged him with Armed Robbery. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of $110,000 dollars.

Teen Arrested for Sending Lewd
Photos of Himself to Teen Girl

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 16-year-old boy has been arrested for sending a lewd photo of himself by telephone to a 15-year-old teenage girl's phone.

Kyle J. Benson

According to the arrest report from the sheriff's office, on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at approximately 12:45 a.m., Kyle Benson, 16, of the 1000 block of 60th Avenue Terrace West, Bradenton, sent a picture of his penis to an unnamed 15-year-old girl.

The victim’s parents learned of the photo and reported it to the sheriff's office.

The victim’s phone had the image of Benson's erect penis. The image was saved by the victim.

Based on the information provided by the victim, a deputy was able to locate Benson.

Benson was interviewed and admitted to taking the picture and sending the image to the victim.

Benson positively identified the penis in the photo as his own.

Benson was arrested and transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility without incident.

He was charged with Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition.

Deputies Arrest Woman on
Aggravated Assault Warrant
from December 2006

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Warrants Deputies have arrested Cynthia L. Dillman, 52, of 3611 47th Avenue West, Bradenton, on an outstanding warrant from December of 2006.

Cynthia Dillman

According to the arrest report, on December 29, 2006, Dillman was living in Sunset Village Mobile Home Park, 3715 14th Street West, Bradenton.

At about 6:20 p.m., two women who lived in an adjacent mobile home came home and parked their car "halfway on Dillman's grass," the report said.

Dillman came out of her trailer and started yelling at them to move their car while they were in it, but they did not right away.

Dillman then went inside her mobile home and came out with a BB gun and said she was going to shoot the car and "work her way up."

Both victims said Dillman only said she was going to shoot out the headlights.

A report was taken and an arrest request was issued to the State Attorney's Office.

On Monday, November 10, 2008, Dillman was located and arrested.

She was charged with Aggravated Assault.

Homeless Woman Spends the
Night with Man; When Told to
Leave, Gets Angry, Cuts Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Johnelle T. White, 21, a homeless woman.

Johnelle T. White

According to the arrest report, Johnelle spent the night with Bernardo Mora, of 1510 56th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton. Allegedly, he told her she could stay overnight "to take a shower." That was on November 10, 2008.

When Mora got up to go to work on the 11th, at about 8:30 a.m., he told Johnelle that she had to leave.

At this time, Johnelle got angry and grabbed a folding box knife out of a kitchen drawer, then went outside and cut the front tire on the passenger side of Mora's vehicle.

Johnelle then started waving the knife around Mora's face, saying that she would cut him.

She swung the knife at Mora and cut him on his right hand. Mora was left with a cut on his right pinky finger. The cut required stitches, the report said, but Mora refused treatment.

Johnelle had fled the scene by the time deputies arrived.

Johnelle was located about an hour later and taken to detectives' officers.

She said she did cut the tire because she was mad at Mora, but didn't cut him; he grabbed the knife and this is when he got cut, she said.

Johnelle was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Criminal Mischief.

Bradenton Fire Department
Volunteer Recognized

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Fire Department has recognized Larry Covins, a volunteer with the department for over five years.

Above, L to R, Larry Covins and BFD Fire Chief Mark Souders

Covins began as a volunteer with the Bradenton Fire Department in mid-2003 and has since contributed more than 2,000 hours.

He was recognized before the Bradenton City Council on Nov. 12 for five years as a fire department volunteer.

Covins was given a plaque and a firefighter's helmet.

Body Found in Canal in
Port Charlotte May Be
Missing Home Invader

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crime’s detectives, deputies and dive team are on the scene in Port Charlotte after a body was discovered in a canal off Ravenswood Blvd. The call was received at 7:33 a.m. Wednesday morning, November 12, 2008.

This is the same area where four men jumped into the canal to escape from an FHP officer who attempted a traffic stop on a speeding car Nov. 4. The trooper discovered the body of Arien J. Mayo, 19, of North Port in the back seat of the car. Mayo died of a self inflicted shotgun wound during a botched home invasion and four men put him in the car and fled the area.

CCSO deputies, K-9 and helicopter located two of the men near Ravenswood Blvd. They were Robert Joseph Garcia, 22, 2311 Mineral Ave. and Anthony Lucius Johnson, 21, 548 Wabash Terr., both of Port Charlotte. Warrants were issued for the two other suspects, Christopher Shanks, Jr., 26, 2154 Bardon St., Ft. Myers, and Phillip Shaarief Perkins, 21, of 21040 Gertrude Ave., Port Charlotte.

MCU detectives said it is still too early to tell if this might be one of the men involved in a botched home invasion robbery case at 18555 Fort Smith Circle in Port Charlotte at 10:00 p.m. Nov. 3.

The body will be taken to the Charlotte County Medical Examiner’s Office for identification and cause of death.

No other details are available at this time.

Deputies: Man Who Stalked
Woman at Park Had Rope,
Gun in Vehicle

LAKELAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a Lakeland man who stalked and touched a woman against her will while at a park was arrested Tuesday after he arranged to meet the woman and was found with rope and a gun in his vehicle, Polk County sheriff's deputies said.

Jeffrey Chris Powell
(Mug shot courtesy WKMG)

Jeffrey Chris Powell, 57, was charged with one count of Stalking and one count of Battery. He was booked into the Polk County Jail.

According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, Powell approached the woman on Nov. 3 as she was jogging at a park, located off U.S. Highway 98 in Lakeland, and asked her for directions.

Four days later, the woman was riding her bike at the park when Powell approached her, told her that he loved her and asked her to perform sex acts with him, deputies said. The woman tried to leave, but Powell grabbed her and touched her several times against her will, deputies said.

Powell asked to meet the woman again, and she agreed, hoping he would let her go, deputies said. Powell asked her to meet him at the park at a later date, and the woman informed authorities of the incidents, Polk County sheriff's deputies said.

The woman and detectives arrived at the park at 9 a.m. Tuesday and Powell, who was carrying 10 inches of rope, was arrested, WKMG said.

More rope and a .22-caliber gun were found in his pickup, deputies said.

Motor Vehicle Dept. Launches
"Share the Road" Campaign

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is kicking off a public awareness campaign, called Share the Road, to remind motorists to use courtesy when driving and to watch out for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists. After all, the road belongs to everyone.

“Florida’s roadways are busy with more than 18 million residents and approximately 88 million visitors eash year,” said Electra Theodorides-Bustle, executive director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. “As more of us explore cost-saving and environmental-conscious commute options, it is important that we are aware and considerate to everyone on the road. Share the Road is a basic reminder of driver courtesy and safety.”

At any given time, Florida hosts millions of passenger cars and trucks, thousands of buses hauling children and groups of adult workers and visitors, thousands of large commercial trucks and trailers hauling heavy loads of products; thousands of motorcycles that are difficult to see at times, and hundreds of bicyclists who use our state's roadways for transportation or recreation and pedestrians who walk on and across streets and roadways.

“No single motorist or group of motorists has an inherent right to use the road more than any other individual or group,” said Director of the Florida Highway Patrol, Colonel John Czernis. “The laws apply to everyone on the road, regardless of whether you are driving, walking or peddling. Share the Road promotes safe driving habits, showing courtesy to others and taking proactive steps toward personal safety and that of others on the road.”

The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles developed the campaign using federal grant funds provided through the Florida Department of Transportation. Share the Road uses radio public service announcements, posters, flyers and bumper stickers to drive the message to motorists to Give others a brake. Share the Road. This is a great example of state agencies partnering to serve Floridians.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Detectives Want to Know: Is Missing
Holmes Beach Motel Owner Sabine
Musil-Buehler Dead or Alive?

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- It has been more than a week since Sabine Musil-Buehler, 49, was last seen by friends and relatives. Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives now fear the worst has likely happened to the Holmes Beach woman. Blood found in her recovered stolen car does not bode well for the outcome of the missing person case.

Above, L to R, Robert Corona, Sabine Musil-Buehler and William J. Cumber

Musil-Buehler was last seen by her husband, Thomas Buehler, who co-owns Haley's Motel in Holmes Beach with Musil-Buehler, and her boyfriend, William Cumber, of Anna Maria, on November 4, 2008. Thomas Buehler isn't saying much, but Cumber has said he argued with Musil-Buehler on that day over him smoking. That was the last time anyone saw her. A missing person report was issued for the woman after her car was recovered. It was being driven by a man who had no connection to the woman.

On November 6, 2008, at about 2:30 a.m., Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Bryan Stevens attempted to stop a vehicle because the tail lights were out. The vehicle was being driven by a Hispanic male, later identified as Robert Corona, 38, of 703 12th Avenue West. Corona stopped the vehicle in the 1200 block of 26th Avenue West, Bradenton, then fled the vehicle on foot. Corona was located a short time later by K-9 Deputy David Brady and his K-9 "Rosco" hiding underneath a truck parked in the 2400 block of 11th Street West. Corona was initially charged with Driving on a Suspended Driver License and Resisting Arrest without Violence. He has since additionally been charged with Grand Theft Auto. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $51,250 dollar bail, according to jail records.

The vehicle Corona was driving was a 2000 white 2-door Pontiac Sunfire Convertible, Florida Tag HZU 125. The vehicle was registered to Sabine Musil-Buehler. At first Corona said he was given the car by an acquaintance to go buy drugs. He later changed his story and said that he had found the vehicle parked behind the Gator Lounge in the 1800 block of 14th Street West, with the doors unlocked and the keys in the ignition, according to a report from Sheriff's Violent Crimes Task Force Detective Bill Waldron. Corona was stopped later that morning by Deputy Stevens. Corona said he ran because he assumed the vehicle had been reported stolen and did not want to be arrested.

Since then, Musil-Buehler's vehicle has been processed for physical evidence. Human blood was found in several locations inside the driver and passenger compartments of the vehicle. There are several areas inside the vehicle where pieces of the seats and carpeting have been removed. The surface around these locations, including the driver's seat belt, were found to be stained with human blood also. A cell phone charger was found plugged in inside the car, but no cell phone, purse or other forms of identification belonging to Musil-Buehler were found. The trunk of her car was packed with clothing and other personal items belonging to Musil-Buehler, Det. Waldron wrote in his report.

Due to the presence of blood and no known whereabouts of Musil-Buehler, the investigation is being treated as a possible homicide, Det. Waldron said.

Det. Waldron said, "While Corona is not a suspect in Musil-Buehler's disappearance, he remains a person of interest at this time."

Investigators have not said whether or not Musil-Buehler's boyfriend is being considered a person of interest. William J. Cumber, 38, was released from prison in September after serving two years for a felony arson conviction. He is currently under community supervision for two years. Court records indicate several other arrests of Cumber, including Child Abuse, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Domestic Battery.

Musil-Buehler has been separated from her husband Tom for some time, but the two still co-own the Holmes Beach motel. It was Buehler, who is separated from his wife, who filed the missing person report on Nov. 6th -- after detectives contacted him concerning the recovered stolen vehicle.

On Monday, Manatee County Sheriff's Office spokesman Dave Bristow told NewsManatee's news partner, the Anna Maria Islander, "We’re working on this pretty hard. We’re concerned, and each day we’re more and more concerned."

Detectives have interviewed friends and family in the case, as well as motel employees, the Islander reported Monday.

Sabine Musil-Buehler is described as petite, about 120 pounds, 5 feet, five inches tall, with shoulder-length silver hair and a German accent.

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.

Two Charged with Smuggling
Drugs Into County Jail

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested two people in connection with the introduction of contraband (drugs) into a county facility.

Above, L to R, Nathan Shatzer and Leanne Marie Sava

The arrest reports say on November 5, 2008, Nathan Shatzer, 25, of 6050 34th Street West, Bradenton, currently incarcerated in the Manatee County Jail on theft charges, arranged with Leanne Marie Sava, 25, of 4902 8th Avenue East, Bradenton, to smuggle drugs into the jail.

On November 6, 2008, investigators intercepted two envelopes, one of which was disguised as attorney mail.

Inside the first envelope was Oxycontin powder. The other contained Oxycontin and Xanax powders.

Both Shatzer and Sava were arrested and charged with Introduction of Contraband into a County Facility.

Woman Arrested for Theft
from Employer, Home Depot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Wendy Dunham, 53, of 2431 McIntosh Road, Sarasota.

Wendy Dunham

According to the arrest report, Dunham was working as a clerk for Home Depot, located at 5475 University Parkway, in South Manatee County.

A loss prevention employee of Home Depot told Dep. John Smith Wendy was observed on several occasions from October 1st to October 30th, 2008, on video cameras making customer refunds and then taking the money for herself on duplicate refunds.

When confronted, Dunham admitted to the thefts verbally and in writing, the report said.

Dunham was charged with Grand Theft (Retail).

Roommate Hits Pal with
Baseball Bat

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man hit his roommate with a baseball bat over an unknown issue on Monday, November 10, 2008, at about 3:15 p.m. The incident occurred in the 5700 block of 7th Street East, Bradenton.

Fanel Nasaire

Dieudonne, Polynice, 34, and Fanel Nasaire, 38, are roommates and had an argument.

During this argument, Fanel armed himself with a baseball bat and struck Dieudonne on the top of his head.

Dieudonne sustained a very large lump and a 3-inch laceration to his head.

Due to the injury, Dieudonne was Bayflited to Bayfront Hospital St. Pete and, at the time of this writing, he was listed in fair condition.

Fanel was arrested on scene and the baseball bat was recovered as evidence.

Fanel was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Battery.

Man Caught with Counterfeit
$20s, Cocaine

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- While investigating a robbery, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies came across a man matching the description of the robbery suspect. The man had cocaine and counterfeit $20 dollar bills in his possession.

Suave Frazier

Deputies Franklin and Buird saw Suave Frazier, 19, of 1118 5th Street West, Bradenton, about 75 yards away from them, in the 3100 block of 54th Drive East.

Frazier was a passenger in a green Nissan Altima.

While talking to Frazier, the deputies observed Frazier trying to ball up a bunch of $20 dollar bills.

Frazier was taken into custody after deputies identified him and discovered he had two outstanding warrants.

The deputies not only determined the money was counterfeit, but also found cocaine in the passenger side door. The amount wasn't noted in the arrest report.

Frazier was charged with Possessing Counterfeit Bills and Possession of Cocaine, in addition to the outstanding warrants.

Man Knocked Out Outside
Girly Bar, Robbed

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, November 11, 2008, at about 1:30 a.m., a man was knocked unconscious by three thugs and robbed outside the Paper Moon, 105 Cortez West, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said the victim John Hopper, Jr., of Port Charlotte, and his friend were leaving the Paper Moon when the victim got into an argument with three men.

They began beating Hopper about the head and face, causing him to lose consciousness.

When Hopper woke, his money, $200 dollars, was missing from his wallet but he was still in possession of his wallet.

The three attackers fled in an unknown direction.

The victim’s injuries required he be transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The sheriff's report said Hopper's story was not very informative and changed during the interview. He stated at the first interview that they took his money, but at the hospital he stated he was knocked out and doesn't know what happened.

The attackers were described only as two White males and one Black male in his 30s, who was tall, Hopper told deputies.

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.

Hispanic Male Attacked, Robbed
by Three Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man was attacked and robbed by three Black males while walking down a railroad track in Palmetto, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

On Sunday, November 9, 2008, at approximately 3:15 p.m., Ligual Lisalto, 27, was walking through the railroad underpass near the 500 block 10th Street East, in Palmetto. He was followed by several of his friends who were a short distance behind.

The witnesses advised deputies they observed Lisalto enter the overpass area when 3 Black males came out from hiding and started striking Lisalto.

Two of the culprits hit Lisalto with black-colored pistols and the other with his hands.

The witnesses then ran away and called 911.

The robbers took a cell phone and approximately $100 dollars from the victim.

The attackers were gone upon law enforcement's arrival.

Lisalto received a minor laceration to the top of his head and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for observation.

The three Black males were described as being in their late teens to early 20s. One was 5'6" tall, with a thin build and bald; he was last see wearing a black T-shirt. The second one was described as being 5'6" tall, with a thin build; he had a black handgun and was wearing unknown clothing. The third man was 5'8" tall with a thin build and a small black handgun; he was wearing a black hat.

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.

Community Group Plans Rally
for Unsolved Murders

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Active Concerned Citizens of Bradenton is planning a rally for Saturday, November 15, 2008, for unsolved murders around Manatee and Sarasota Counties.

The event will be held at Sylvan Oaks Park, in Palmetto, on 17th Street East, just east of the Race Track gas station, from noon until 5 p.m.

This event is open to the public, organizers said.

They will have live entertainment, entertainment for the children and food and drinks.

Also, they will be doing "a gift exchange of toy guns for the children," a press release said.

Sarasota Sheriff Releases
DUI Checkpoint Results

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office hosted a DUI Safety Checkpoint on Friday, November 7th, 2008, at the 7900 block of US 41 in Sarasota.

During the night’s operation, there were 8 DUI arrests, 6 arrests for Driving While License Suspended and 3 arrests for No Valid License.

In addition, there were 67 traffic citations issued for various violations.

Also participating were officers from North Port Police Department and Sarasota Police Department.

Charlotte K-9 Unit Tracks, Locates
4 Juvenile Burglars; All Arrested;
Two Were Missing Michigan Kids
Wanted on Felony Warrants

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff's K-9 Unit tracked down four juvenile boys to a Deep Creek home this morning and arrested them for burglarizing a nearby home at 2219 Bonn Ct.The homeowner and his wife awoke to noises outside their bedroom window, looked out and observed two male figures and attempted to call the CCSO 9-1-1 but the phone line had been cut. They used a cell phone and stayed on the phone with the operator. They said more noises were heard as the burglars tried to enter a side door; then deputies arrived.

Above, L to R, Antonio Perez, Jose Sanchez, Adrian Purovic and Elvir Purovic

CCSO Corporal Emmett Merritt and K-9 Charlotte started tracking and along the way located a loaded .357 magnum handgun, a black pellet gun, a flashlight, tee-shirts, jackets, gloves, a hat and a steak knife. K-9 Charlotte tracked the juveniles in front of 2309 Rio De Janerio Blvd. and found the boys sitting in the dark garage at 12:50 a.m. When detectives arrived they contacted the mother of Antonio Perez, 17, and advised of the situation. She said the steak knife was missing from her kitchen.

The others were identified as Jose Daniel Martinez Sanchez, 17, of Dahlonega, Georgia; brothers Adrian Purovic, 16, and Elvir Purovic, 14, both of Sterling Heights, Michigan. Sanchez is staying at the Perez home while his parents are out of country. Perez said he went to Orlando over the weekend to pick up the Purovic brothers and brought them to his Deep Creek home. Detectives said the boys admitted they planned to break into a residence and get money, and then picked out the home on Bonn Ct. to hit Sunday night.

Detectives said the Purovic brothers are reported missing and have outstanding Michigan felony warrants for Forced Entry Burglary to a Residence; they were taken to the Department of Juvenile Justice center in Ft. Myers. Perez and Sanchez both were released to Perez's mother and given 21 days home detention; they were both charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling. The Purovic brothers were both charged with Armed Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling, and Providing a False Name to Law Enforcement.

19-Year-Old Shot in Front
of Ocala Church

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 19-year-old underwent surgery Sunday after he was shot in front of an Ocala church, police said.

According to Ocala police, officers went to the 1500 block of Third Street around 8:40 p.m. and found the teen in a yard suffering from a gunshot wound.

Witnesses told police that they heard shots fired and saw a light-colored four-door vehicle leaving the area.

The shooting took place in front of the Deliverance Church of the Living God, witnesses told police.

The Ocala teen was transported to a hospital. His condition is not known, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

NewsManatee is Observing Veterans Day
We Will Return on Wednesday

Statement by
Governor Charlie Crist
Regarding Veterans Day

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- "I join all Floridians in saluting the courageous men and women of our Armed Forces who have answered the call to protect, defend and preserve the freedoms and liberties that we as Americans enjoy today. We must always remember the nearly 1.8 million veterans throughout the Sunshine State who have risked their lives to serve their country."

"We are indebted to all the servicemen and women for their steadfast resolve to protect the ideals and freedoms that make our country strong. As we recognize Veterans Day, it is important to honor the sacrifice of veterans and their families for their willingness to advance the cause of freedom, liberty, and justice. The many contributions of our nation’s veterans and their families have not gone unnoticed, and we thank them for their service."

"May God continue to bless Florida, our nation, our veterans and their families."

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Victim of Burglary, Attempted
Robbery, Shoots Car's Tire
with 12-Gauge Shotgun;
Suspect Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at about 2:45 a.m., Christopher Puccio, 25, of the 2300 block of 52nd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, was the victim of a burglary and attempted robbery.

Chad Wickersham

The report said Chad Wickersham, 22, with two friends, Tyler Cruickshank and Brianne Whiteley, went to Puccio's house. Wickersham and Puccio are known to each other.

Puccio told deputies that Wickersham came to his house, knocked on the door and was told to leave.

Puccio was closing the door, but Wickersham and prevented him from doing so.

Then Wickersham and Tyler Cruickshank dragged Puccio out of the house and attacked him. Puccio said they were trying to go for his wallet, but did not get it. Puccio also claimed that Tyler had a gun.

After the fight was over, Puccio went inside, grabbed his gun, a 12-gauge shotgun, went outside, and fired once into the tire of Wickersham's car at close range.

Wickersham later told deputies that he and his friends just went over to visit and Puccio "freaked out" and attacked Wickersham. Tyler, who was in the car with Brianne, went to help Puccio off of Wickersham, and they ran to the car.

As they were leaving, Wickersham said, Puccio emerged from the house with a gun and shot a round into the tire of Tyler's car.

The car, a gray Chrysler 300, was found at the corner of 26th Street West and 52nd Avenue Drive West, just down the road from the incident location, with a flat front tire on the driver's side. The three people named, Wickersham, Cruickshank and Whiteley, were found with the car. They all denied having a gun and gave consent to search the car. The surrounding area was also searched, but a gun was not found.

Wickersham did not have any visible injuries.

Puccio has an elaborate monitoring system around the house, but it does not record, the report noted.

Puccio suffered abrasions to his mouth and face, and lacerations to his fingers. He refused EMS.

Nothing was taken from Puccio.

Wickersham was arrested by patrol deputies and charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling and Battery.

Young Woman Arrested for
Throwing Knife at Man,
Pulling Clump of Hair
from Woman's Head

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For some unknown reason, two men got into an argument and the girlfriend of one of the men wound up getting arrested. The incident occurred at a residence in the 600 block of 84th Street NW, Bradenton.

Crystal Jade Phillips

An arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said on Wednesday, November 5, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., the boyfriend of Crystal Jade Phillips, 18, of 4524 60th Street Court West, Bradenton, got into an argument with another unnamed man and tried to punch Crystal's boyfriend. The man then grabbed Crystal's boyfriend.

Crystal then jumped on the other man's back and the man moved his elbow back, hitting Crystal in the face.

The other man's unnamed girlfriend tried to separate Crystal from the other girl's boyfriend.

At this time, Crystal grabbed the other girl's hair and pulled out approximately a handful of hair.

Crystal then told the girl and the man she would stab them both.

Crystal went into the kitchen, grabbed a knife and ran off the back porch toward the other man with the knife in her hand. The man ran backwards to escape and Crystal threw the knife at him, but it missed its target.

Deputies observed no injuries on the man but confirmed a handful of hair was missing from the girl.

The weapon was not found.

Crystal was later located at her residence and denied committing any crime.

Crystal was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault and Battery.

Manatee County Sheriff Steube's
"Supper with the Sheriff" Very
Informative, NMT Reporter Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The regular monthly "Supper with the Sheriff" was held on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at the Police Athletic League (PAL) cafeteria in Bradenton.  NewsManatee's Carole Law Atkins and photographer Heather Chadwick were there to cover the event.

Above, the attendees enjoying "Supper with the Sheriff"
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube and members of his staff were joined by approximately 100 citizens.  They were served a dinner of turkey, mashed potatoes and string beans prepared by the detention center food services section.

The audience was given a rare look into the creation and design of the Sheriff's web site.

A question and answer session followed concerning current law enforcement issues.  

"One innovative program to keep children safe from abductions is being conducted in the school system.  It requires that an adult wanting to remove a child from a school must present a valid ID, which is then scanned to see if the person has authorization to be at the school and take custody of the child," Carole Atkins reported. 

The audience was advised that this program has been very successful.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Trafficking in Cocaine

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Larry Ingram, 40, of 1219 7th Street East.

Larry Ingram

According to an arrest report, Bradenton Police Officers executed a search warrant on Ingram's residence on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at about 5 p.m.

Upon checking the bedroom, officers noticed the window was open and the screen had been knocked out.

A BPD sergeant called the officer inside to the back yard by the window. There, officers found a Crown Royal bag with 3 bags of cocaine, which tested positive.

In the kitchen, officers found two more Crown Royal bags, a digital scale and money bands in a kitchen drawer.

Ingram later told detectives that when they knocked on his door, he grabbed the bag found outside from the kitchen drawer, ran back to his bedroom and tossed it out the window.

Ingram said he was scared and that he was just holding [the cocaine] for somebody.

Ingram was arrested and charged with Trafficking in Cocaine (more than 28 grams but less then 150 kilos).

Man Shot in Leg, Attempted
Murder Charged

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police arrested Gustavo DeLeon, 31, of Brunswick, Georgia, after DeLeon shot a local man in the leg in an argument over parking a car. The incident occurred at about 10:45 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2008.

Gustavo DeLeon

Police say DeLeon was visiting family in Bradenton in the 1100 block of 17th Avenue West, the address of the Highlands Apartments.

When an unnamed local man attempted to park his car in front of the address, he was told to move it.

An altercation between DeLeon and the man with the car ensued and DeLeon fired five shots at the man, hitting him once in the leg, police said.

The wounded man drove his car to a friend's home and then was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his gunshot wound.

DeLeon was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder. He is also charged with 3 counts of Violation of Probation.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail.

Bicyclist Tasered After Trying
to Flee from Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies were forced to use a Taser on a bicyclist on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., when the bicyclist attempted to flee from them. The incident occurred in the 6800 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton.

Jason Thompson

A report from the sheriff's office said deputies conducted a bicycle violation stop with Jason Thompson, 24, and conducted a consensual search of Thompson.

The search revealed two syringes and a spoon that Thompson openly admitted that he was using to inject illegal narcotics.

As deputies were attempting to handcuff Thompson, he pulled away and ran towards 15th Street East. Deputies deployed a Taser and struck Thompson.

Thompson immediately complied and was taken into custody.

Deputies must have subsequently found drugs on Thompson because he was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Resisting Arrest without Violence, according to jail records.

This Week's Stupid Criminal:
Inebriated Ex-Employee
Steals Marina Golf Cart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Eric M. Morck, 28, of 7150 N. Tamiami Trail, the address of the Sarasota Hotel and Marina.

Eric M. Morck

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at about 1:30 a.m., Eric entered the locked maintenance area of the hotel and removed a Club Car golf cart, valued at $3,000 dollars. He entered the secured area by breaking the wooden slat holding the gate latch, causing about $100 dollars in damage.

Eric had been employed by the hotel and marina but was terminated about 1.5 months prior to the incident. However, he was allowed to stay in a room he had as an employee as a favor to the dock manager because Eric did odd jobs as a diesel mechanic for the dock manager.

In the morning, when hotel staff discovered the missing golf cart, they reviewed surveillance tapes and immediately recognized Eric as the would-be thief.

The golf cart was recovered in a parking lot adjacent to the maintenance area about 7.5 hours after the incident.

Eric was arrested and charged with Burglary, Grand Theft and Criminal Mischief.

He told deputies he had too much to drink and wanted to drive it around.

Woman Arrested for Hitting
Ex-boyfriend with Vehicle

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Christy D. Burchett, 33, of 1215 22nd Street West, Bradenton.

Christy D. Burchett

The arrest report from PPD said on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at about 8:20 p.m., Burchett drove into a parking lot and struck an unnamed man who was walking there with her vehicle's right front, driving over his foot, causing the man to fall down, according to witnesses.

The man was taken to a local hospital, where it was confirmed his arm was broken and his foot was possibly fractured, the report said.

Burchett and her mother, who was in Burchett's car, denied Burchett intentionally struck the man.

Burchett was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

The report noted that Burchett and the unnamed man had a dating relationship for several years.

Man Found Unconscious
Was Robbed, Deputy Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A deputy found an unconscious man lying on the road on Sunday, November 9, 2008, at about 2:30 a.m., who later said he had been robbed by a man with a shotgun.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the deputy came across George Truewell, 35, lying on the road at 26th Avenue Drive East, just north of 49th Street East.

The deputy said Truewell was unresponsive and called for EMS response.

As Truewell was being checked out by EMS, he told them he was robbed.

Truewell said four unknown Black males punched him and displayed a shotgun. Then they took his cell phone, gold necklace and some cash.

EMS transported Truewell to Manatee Memorial Hospital as a precautionary measure.

The robbers could not be located.

They were only described as four Black males; one had dreadlock style hair and the others had short hair. One man was armed with a shotgun. They were in a newer blue Chevy.

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.

Woman Struck, Robbed in
Strong Arm Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman was struck and robbed on Friday, November 7, 2008, at about 8:45 p.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Tracy Pretto, 21, of the 2900 block of 51st Street East, Bradenton, was walking southbound in the 5700 block of 11th Street East when she was approached by an unknown Black male.

The man struck Tracy on the back of the head with his fist and she fell to the ground.

The culprit then grabbed Tracy's purse, emptied out the contents, and took her cell phone.

The robber then fled north on 11th Street East.

Tracy then met with a friend, who encouraged her to report the incident and drove her to the Circle K at 63rd Avenue and 15th Street East.

The victim did not have any visible injuries.

The thug was described as an unknown Black male, heavy set, and was dressed in all black clothing and was wearing a ski mask.

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.

Man's $20,000 Rolex, Wallet
Stolen While Golfing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man reported to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office that his $20,000 dollar gold Rolex watch and a wallet containing $600 dollars was stolen on Sunday, November 9, 2008, while he was playing golf at the Concessions Golf Club, 7710 Lindrick Lane, Bradenton.

Jeff Mattice, 54, was playing golf at the Concessions Golf Course. He removed his watch, along with his wallet, and placed them in the golf cart.

Once Jeff was finished playing golf, he realized his watch and wallet were missing.

Jeff believes that unknown person(s) stole his property. He does not believe that they could have fallen out of the golf cart. Jeff told deputies that on several occasions while playing golf, they were away from the golf cart.

The watch is a Presidential Rolex valued at $19,900. The watch is gold with an oyster dial. The wallet contained personal items, credit cards and $558 dollars in cash.

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.

Skateboarding Juvenile Struck
with Gun, Robbed by Black male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a Black male wearing a clown mask struck a juvenile who was skateboarding with a gun and then robbed him on Saturday, November 8, 2008, at about 9:30 p.m., in a parking lot at 19th Street Court West and Cortez Road West.

The report said two unnamed juvenile victims were skateboarding in the parking lot of the above address when they were approached by three Black males in an older model blue vehicle.

Two Black males exited the vehicle, one of whom was wearing a clown mask.

The Black male with the clown mask pointed a handgun to one of the victim's face and pushed him to the ground; he then hit the victim in the side of the face with the handgun and took his cell phone and watch.

All three black males then fled in the suspect vehicle.

Neither of the victims sustained injuries.

The thugs were described as three Black males dressed in all black, one wearing a clown mask. They were in an older model blue vehicle with dark rims.

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.

$5,000 in Agricultural Chemicals
Stolen from Duette Company

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary overnight Thursday, November 6, 2008, during which $5,000 in agricultural chemicals were stolen.

Between Thursday, 11/06/08, at 5:00 p.m., and Friday, 11/07/08, at 6:30 a.m., unknown person(s) gained access to the Tribritton company's grove by driving over a low-slung cable located at the northwest corner of the entrance to the grove.

Upon gaining access to the grove, the unknown person(s) drove between the trees to a service road that allowed them to drive to a locked chemical storage trailer. The chemical trailer is located approximately 400 yards South of State Road 62 and in plain view from the highway. The address was 34320 State Road 62, in Duette.

The person(s), using an unknown type of tool or device, gained entry to the storage trailer by removing the lock.

Once inside, the person(s) removed ten boxes of Brexil Nutre fertilizer valued at $280.00 per box and eight boxes of Rodeo herbicide valued at $275.00 per box.

The total value of items removed was $5,000 dollars, the report said.

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.

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