Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 12/6/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 12/6/2008

Man, 50, Accused of Deplorable
Sex Acts on Step-Granddaughter,
7 Years Old; Arrested on 9 Charges

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Investigator April Dugan has arrested Michael Wayne Kelly, 50, of the 4200 block of 38th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Michael Wayne Kelly

According to the arrest report, an unnamed 7-year-old girl's diary was found by her grandmother that disclosed several items of a sexual nature between the girl and her step-grandfather, Kelly.

Among the entries in the diary were: Kelly, whom she calls Pop-pop, has licked her vagina, touched his penis to her vagina, put his penis in her mouth, touched her bare vagina with his fingers, showed her a movie where men and women were naked and having sex, and showed her another movie on another day where men and women were naked and having sex.

The girl said Kelly kissed her with his tongue in her mouth, masturbated and ejaculated on her twice.

The girl explained that Kelly told her he "wanted her and that he wanted to lick her (other name for vagina)."

The acts took place on unknown days in 2008, the report said.

There were two Manatee County residential locations listed in the report where the sex acts occurred.

Kelly was interviewed post-Miranda and admitted to most of the acts, but said the little girl initiated the sex acts.

Kelly also said as soon as the two were alone, she would be all over him.

He told Detective Dugan, "She is a very aggressive little girl and persistent little girl."

Kelly was arrested on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, and charged with 3 counts of Sexual Battery on a 7-year-old Child, one count of Lewd and Lascivious Conduct, two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition, two counts of Showing Minor An Obscene Motion Picture, and one count of Soliciting a Minor To Engage in Acts of Sexual Battery.

Kelly remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Mother, Wife Stops Husband, 76,
from Sex Act with His Step-Son,
a 43-Year-Old Man who Is
Totally Incapacitated

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 76-year-old man was arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office after he was caught performing oral sex on his step-son, 43, who is totally incapacitated.

George Willis

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at about 3 p.m., Jean Willis, the mother of the unnamed boy, told deputies that she saw George with his mouth on her son's penis.

Jean said she had to physically strike George with a broom to get him to stop.

The boy has been a quadriplegic since 1986 and is incapable of making any statements, is unable to communicate, wears a diaper and has to be fed through a feeding tube, the report said.

After his arrest, George Willis told deputies he knew he did something wrong and said, "I put my mouth on him," the report said.

Willis was arrested that same day and charged with Sexual Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $50,000.

Undercover Deputy Busts Man
for Trafficking in Illegal Drugs

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Timothy J. Mason, Jr., 25, of 1416 20th Avenue East, Bradenton, was arrested on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at about 8:20 p.m.

Timothy James Mason, Jr.

The arrest report said a purchase of Hydrocodone, Xanax and cocaine was arranged by the undercover deputy from Mason.

They agreed to meet at the Peek-A-Boo Lounge, 5412 14th Street West, in Bradenton. The U/C deputy was to buy the drugs for $445.

At about 8:20 p.m., Mason arrived at the lounge.

The U/C deputy approached Mason and handed Mason $380, which Mason began counting.

A prearranged signal was given and other deputies swooped in and arrested Mason.

He was charged with Trafficking in Illegal Drugs (Hydrocodone), Sale of a Controlled Substance (Xanax), and Sale of Cocaine.

Mason remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $35,000.

Drunk Driver Arrested by FHP
for Critical Injury to Motorcyclist

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol has arrested Adam J. Betancourt, 43, of Sarasota.

Adam J. Betancourt

The Highway Patrol said Betancourt was northbound on U.S. 41 in the left turn lane in a 1999 Toyota on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at about 2:45 p.m., approaching Braden Avenue.

A 2004 Suzuki motorcycle, driven by Nikolas A. Reek, 19, of Bradenton, was southbound on U.S. 41 in the center lane.

Betancourt attempted to turn left into the McDonalds restaurant parking lot at that location. Betancourt turned into the path of Reek's motorcycle.

The front of the motorcycle collided with the right rear of the Suzuki, ejecting Reek.

The motorcycle rotated clockwise, coming to final rest in the outside lane of U.S. 41, facing east.

Reek was flown to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflite medical chopper.

Reek remains in "very critical condition," according to Lt. Chris Miller, of the Florida Highway Patrol's Bradenton barracks.

Betancourt has been arrested and charged with DUI Serious Bodily Injury, DUI Property Damage, No Driver License (Serious Bodily Injury), Improper Left Turn and No Proof of Insurance.

Betancourt remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $16,500.

Man, Dog Shot, Wounded During
Armed Home Invasion in
Bayshore Gardens

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted armed home invasion in the Bayshore Gardens subdivision of Manatee County on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, at about 9:15 p.m., during which a dog was shot and wounded by the invaders.

The victims, 3 men who are 20 years old, were watching TV when two masked men came into the residence in the 2400 block of Wellseley Drive through the unlocked front door.

The resident Rottweiler charged at the invaders who both fired 2 rounds apiece at the canine, striking him once.

During the volley of fire, one of the residents, Sheppard Bidwell, was grazed on the side of his left foot.

The invaders did not say anything or demand any items from the victims.

The invaders then fled in an unknown direction by unknown means.

The Rottweiler was taken to an emergency vet for his wound; his condition is unknown.

There was no statement in the sheriff's report as to whether the man was taken to hospital, or treated at the scene by EMS.

The invaders remain at large.

They were described as an unknown male, 5'08"-5'10" tall, wearing a green hoodie and a black ski mask, armed with a handgun; and an unknown male also 5'08"-5'10" tall, wearing dark clothing and a black ski mask and armed with a handgun.

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.

Stabbing Incident Suspect
Arrested by Sarasota County
Sheriff's Detectives

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives have arrested man involved in a stabbing incident that occurred on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2008, at approximately 12:15 a.m. near the Galleria Plaza, 2117 South Tamiami Trail, Venice.

Shawn Allen Davis

The arrestee is Shawn Allen Davis, 34. He is a transient with no fixed address.

There was an active warrant for his arrest for Aggravated Battery in reference to this case.

Davis was arrested at approximately 2:20 a.m., Thursday, December 4th, 2008, at 1700 Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota.

He remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

Sarasota County Detectives
Arrest Man for Interference
with Child Custody

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives have arrested Steven Lawrence Panitch, 48, of 6284 Aventura Drive, in Sarasota, on one count of Interference with Child Custody in reference with an incident that occurred on March 23rd, 2007.

Steven Lawrence Panitch

On that date, Panitch, a teacher at Sarasota Military Academy took a then 16 year-old female student from the school to Ellenton Shopping Mall and subsequently to his residence without her parent’s permission.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.

71-Year-Old Woman Raped,
Brutally Beaten

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a 71-year-old Orange County woman was raped and brutally beaten by a person who broke into her house, deputies said.

The woman was attacked at about 3:15 a.m. Thursday at her home, which is located near the intersection of Michigan Street and Bumby Avenue.

The woman was taken to a hospital to be treated for her injuries. The victim's daughter said her mother is in stable condition.

Orange County sheriff's investigators are searching for the rapist.

A description of the assailant was not released, WKMG said.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Blood in Missing Woman's
Vehicle Was Hers, Cops Say;
Nobody Else's Blood Found in Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the blood found in Sabine Musil-Buehler's car was all hers and no blood was found that belonged to another person.

Above, Sabine Musil-Buehler

Musil-Buehler, 49, was last seen on November 4, 2008, by her ex-husband and her boyfriend, according to the sheriff's office. Neither she nor her body have been found.

Her car was later recovered on November 6, 2008, at about 2:30 a.m., by sheriff's deputies. It was being driven by Robert Corona, 38, who had taken the car from the rear of the Gator Lounge in the 1800 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton. Corona said he found the car with the doors unlocked and the keys in the ignition. Corona was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Driving on a Suspended Driver License and Resisting Arrest. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $51,250 dollar bail, according to jail records.

Since then, Musil-Buehler's vehicle has been processed for physical evidence. Human blood, now known to belong to Musil Buehler, 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, the sheriff's office said.

In an earlier report of the incident, Det. Bill Waldron said, "While Corona is not a suspect in Musil-Buehler's disappearance, he remains a person of interest at this time."

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 at the time.

Investigators have not said whether or not Musil-Buehler's boyfriend is being considered a person of interest, although he has been questioned by detectives numerous times. 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.

Detectives have interviewed friends and family in the case, as well as motel employees, the Anna Maria Islander, a news partner of NewsManatee's, reported.

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

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 Living in Local Motel
Busted for Child Neglect

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Cain Oshay Williams, 26, who is living with his girlfriend and her two children in the Palm Motel, 1715 14th Street West.

Cain Oshay Williams

According to the arrest report, on December 1, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., EMS was called to the location regarding a child who had stopped breathing.

That child was transported to All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg.

However, while at the location, EMS personnel noticed a child whose eye was swollen shut and reported it to the police, who notified Child Protective Services.

On December 2, 2008, a detective met with a CPS worker at the location. They asked to see the child with the swollen eye, a 3-year-old, and were told by Williams he wasn't there. They asked if they could come inside to check on living conditions. Williams told them they couldn't come in without a warrant and went back inside the room.

Shortly afterward, however, Williams produced the child, saying he had just been dropped off at the back door.

Williams told the CPS worker and the detective that the child's eye was swollen because he "had run into [Williams'] lit cigarette with his eye last night." That meant that the child had not had medical attention for at least 12 hours, the detective noted in his report.

Williams was arrested and charged with Child Neglect.

The 3-year-old was put in protective custody by CPS.

There was no word in the report as to what the condition of the child who had stopped breathing is.

Bradenton Police Arrest Two
for Credit Card Fraud, Forgery,
Counterfeiting Credit Cards

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested two men they say purchased gift cards with counterfeit/stolen credit cards.

Above, L to R, Ricardo Banos Martinez and Raul Nunez Sam

The arrest report from BPD said on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, at about 8:15 p.m., BPD was contacted by the CVS Pharmacy, located at 520 1st Street West, and informed about two Hispanic males inside their business who were suspected of purchasing gift cards with counterfeit/stolen credit cards.

Upon arrival of police, officers made contact with the two men and asked to see their identification. When the two men opened their wallets, an officer noticed several credit cards inside.

The men were identified as Ricardo Banos Martinez, 20, and Raul Nunez Sam, 28, both from Miami.

Martinez had 10 credit cards from several banking institutions and Nunez Sam had 12 from several banking institutions. The cards were in other names.

In addition, more credit cards were found in their vehicle.

All of the credit cards were either stolen or counterfeit, using valid credit card numbers from other individuals. A counterfeit driver license from North Carolina was also found on Martinez.

Officers also found numerous gift cards that had been purchased with the bogus credit cards.

The scheme apparently netted the men about $20,000.

Both men were arrested and charged with Forgery of Credit Card, Fraudulent Use of Credit Card, Defraud Institution with Forged/Stoen Credit Card, Trafficking in Counterfeit Credit Card and Fraud/Swindle Property Under $20,000.

Both men have posted their bail bond and were released from jail.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
for Slugging His Pregnant
Girlfriend, Pulled Gun on Her

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Jerry Green, 22, of 317 61st Avenue West, Bradenton.

Jerry Green

Police say on Monday, December 1, 2008, Green and his unnamed pregnant girlfriend were yelling and arguing. The girl told him to leave and she called 911.

While on the phone with dispatch, Green struck the girl with a closed fist.

The girl then ran into a vehicle and Green ran up to the vehicle with a black handgun and told her she was going to die.

Green then ran to a waiting Cadillac, got into the back and the vehicle fled prior to arrival of police.

However, the Cadillac was located about 1/2 hour later. The driver fled on foot and was not apprehended.

Crack cocaine and marijuana was found in the back seat. The amount was not stated in the arrest report of Green.

Green was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery on a Pregnant Woman, and Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Armed Burglary, Assault
with a Loaded Shotgun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Shebob Muhammad, 33, of 423 Drake Blvd., Bradenton.

Shebob Muhammad

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, at about 2 a.m., Muhammad was at 3810 5th Street East and got into a physical confrontation with two other people there.

Muhammad left the apartment, went next door to another apartment and returned wielding a shotgun. A woman who lives there locked the door.

Muhammad then began banging on the front door until he was able to force the door open.

Once inside, he threatened the occupants of the apartment with the loaded shotgun. The occupants called 911.

Arriving deputies located Muhammad in front of the apartment next door. They also located the loaded shotgun inside that apartment.

Deputies noted Muhammad had several previous arrests, including Possession of Cocaine and kidnapping. He also had two separate final injunctions issued against him prohibiting him from Possession of a Firearm of Ammunition.

Muhammad was arrested and charged with Armed Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling, Aggravated Assault and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Bank Robbery in Ellenton
Reported Wednesday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A bank robbery by a man suspected in four other robberies took place Wednesday morning in Ellenton, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, suspect in prior bank robbery at Fifth Third Bank on
11/29/8 matches description of Wednesday's bank robber.

At approximately 11:40 this morning, deputies responded to a bank robbery at Bank of America located at 3600 U.S. 301 N., Ellenton.

The suspect walked up to a teller with a green bag and demanded money. The suspect received an undisclosed amount of cash and fled the bank.

Once outside the bank, the suspect dropped the bag and money in the parking lot and left the area by an unknown means.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 50-60 year old, 5’6”-5’10”, with glasses and gray hair on the sides and balding on the top.

The suspect fits the description of a man who robbed the 5/3 Bank at 5305 26th St. W., Bradenton, on 11/29/08.

The same person is also suspected in three bank robberies in Sarasota County.

Convenience Store Customer
Robbed in Parking Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man told Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies he was robbed by a man wielding a small knife on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m.

The victim, Dalibor Dimitijevski, 28, of the 5600 block of 15th Street East said he made a purchase at the Circle K at 6228 15th Street East and was returning to his car when a Black male, who had been in line behind him in the store, approached him.

The Black male grabbed his arm, displayed a small pocket knife and demanded the $100 he had seen in the victim's wallet while in the store.

The victim gave the money up and the robber walked away, getting into a blue Dodge mini-van occupied by two other people.

The victim obtained the tag number of the vehicle and the Violent Crimes Task Force located the vehicle and interviewed the occupants.

As it turned out, the robber had just gotten into their van and demanded a ride to 6300 12th St. East, then left on foot.

The victim was not injured during the incident and could not provide any further description of the robber or any additional information.

The robber was described only as a Black male wearing a black hoodie and blue jeans and was armed with the small pocket knife.

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.

Sarasota Sheriff's Office
Reports Purse Snatch

SARASOTA, COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 9:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, December 3, 2008, Sarasota County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a Robbery by Sudden Snatching. This occurred in the 3900 Block of MacEachen Blvd. in Sarasota.

The victim is a 94-year-old White female. The victim reported that she had been shopping in the Publix Shopping Center located on the corner of MacEachen Blvd. and Bee Ridge Rd.

The victim stated that as she was walking to her residence at approximately 9:20 a.m. the suspect approached her from behind and pulled the purse from her left arm. This suspect was last seen running southbound on MacEachen Blvd.

The suspect is described as a White male, possibly a teenager, 5’2” tall, and slim build. The suspect is also described as wearing a gray jacket with a hood that was partially covering the suspect's head, and grayish colored pants.

The victim was not injured during this event and no weapon was seen or implied.

The victim’s purse is described as 8-10” in length, brown leather with heart shaped patterns, and short arm straps.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact Detective Deborah Kaspar at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District II Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-4933. 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).

Bank Robber Crashes in
Brief Pursuit by Cops

DeLAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a bank robbery suspect was caught after he crashed in DeLand during a brief police pursuit, police said.

According to DeLand police, a person robbed the Riverside bank, located at South Spring and New York avenues, at about 10:45 a.m. Wednesday and fled in a vehicle.

DeLand police officers pursued the getaway vehicle, which crashed at county Road 472 and U.S. Highway 17.

The suspected bank robber was taken into custody.

Police said a bank bag was thrown near Blue Lake and Orange Camp roads.

No injuries were reported, WKMG said.

Governor Crist Honors Two Island
Law Enforcement Officers for
Life-saving Acts of Bravery

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] – On Wedneday, December 3, 2008, Governor Charlie Crist presented awards to 14 Florida law enforcement officers and one firefighter who have demonstrated exceptional courage by risking their own lives to save the lives of others.

Among those were Charles Sloan, a sergeant with the Bradenton Beach Police Department, and Mike Pilato, an officer with the Holmes Beach Police Department, for rescuing occupants of a car in Sarasota Bay, April 8, 2006.

Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald Bailey and representatives from the public safety community joined the Governor for the award ceremony, held in the Senate Chamber of the Historic Capitol, to recognize the heroic acts of the officers.

“Florida’s law enforcement officers are among the finest in the nation, and each day they willingly serve their communities and fellow Floridians through selfless and courageous acts,” Governor Crist said. “On behalf of all Floridians, we thank them for their service and their sacrifices.”

Both men were presented with the Governor’s Medal of Heroism. Recipients of the award have distinguished themselves through hazardous or perilous activities to preserve lives, even at the risk of great personal harm. The award was created by the 2003 Legislature, and recipients are selected by the Governor’s Medal of Heroism Committee, appointed by the Governor, from nominations made on the Web site of the Fraternal Order of Police Florida State Lodge.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Sex Predator Arrested for Stalking
McDonalds Worker; Sent Lewd
Messages to Her Cell Phone

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man convicted twice of sex crimes has been arrested for stalking a 21-year-old unnamed woman.

Paul E. Hodges

Detective Kim Zink, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Paul E. Hodges, 46, of 1823 23rd Street East, Palmetto, and charged him with one count of Stalking.

Hodges has been twice convicted of Lewd and Lascivious Assault on a Child Under 16. The first conviction was in 1991; the second was in 1995. He was sentenced to 5 years in prison for the 1995 conviction, of which he served 3 years in prison, followed by a year of Community Control. He was released in 2000.

In this latest incident, over a period of two days, November 22nd and November 23rd, Hodges scared the living daylights out of a 21-year-old female McDonalds employee, who met Hodges quite innocently at the McDonalds located at 699 10th Street East, in Palmetto.

According to the arrest report, about one week prior to the texting incidents, Hodges went into the restaurant to eat. When another employee attempted to take his order, Hodges said, "No, I want her to take my order." He was referring to the unnamed 21-year-old girl.

A few minutes later, the girl was told to take a break by management and she then ordered food and took a seat in the restaurant.

Hodges, who was also sitting in the lobby eating, started talking to the girl. He asked her if she had a ride after she got off of work. He then gave the girl his phone number and told her to call him if she ever needed a ride home from work.

Later that same night, the girl attempted to obtain a ride home, to no avail. Therefore, the girl called Hodges and took him up on his offer to give her a ride home. On the way home, Hodges told the girl of his Sexual Predator status and played it off as a boyfriend/girlfriend situation only.

Hodges dropped the girl off at her friend's home in the 6000 block of 2nd Street West, in Bradenton. Two nights later, Hodges gave the girl a ride home to her house, located in the 6500 block of 12th Street West, Bradenton. Hodges also gave the girl a third ride home.

A day or two later, on Saturday, November 22, 2008, Hodges began looking for her which the girl didn't understand, because she saw Hodges only as someone who was willing to give her a ride.

Hodges then began calling the girl on her cell phone and began text messaging her multiple times. The messages were so lewd and scary that NewsManatee has opted not to disclose them.

Finally, after multiple calls, the girl answered her phone and told Hodges to stop calling her, or she would call the police. No further calls or text messages occurred.

However, the girl apparently went to the sheriff's office to report the incidents.

Hodges was subsequently arrested on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, and charged with Simple Stalking, a misdemeanor. Hodges posted bail and is back on the streets.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Stabbing Another Man

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Alvin Gene Sparkman, 57, of 323 11th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Alvin Gene Sparkman

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, November 30, 2008, Sparkman returned home from a baseball game and had been drinking.

Sparkman began yelling at the unnamed victim and his mother about the vehicles outside the home.

Sparkman said the victim hit him in the mouth and told Sparkman to leave and not come back until he sobered up, at which time Sparkman armed himself with a knife and stabbed the male victim in the right arm, hitting an artery.

The victim was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his stab wound.

Sparkman was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Burglary, Domestic Battery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Israel Hampton, 36, of 5316 15th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Israel Hampton

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, November 27, 2008, at about 10:45 p.m., Hampton and his children's mother, Crysta Lee, were arguing in the road.

Crysta ran to her friend's home nearby. Hampton followed her and entered the home through an open door, despite being told not to.

Once inside, he pushed Crysta to the floor and kicked her in the head, the report said.

Crysta yelled at Hampton to leave her alone. he refused and continued to hit and kick her.

He then ran out of he house and back to his residence two house away, where he was located and arrested.

Hampton was charged with Burglary and Domestic Battery.

Man Arrested for Throwing
Christmas Tree at Dad

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Thomas Edward Lackie, 37, of Parrish.

Thomas Edward Lackie

The arrest report said on Wednesday, November 26, 2008, Lackie threw a 3-foot Christmas tree at his father during an altercation. The tree missed, but Lackie then tried to throw the tree's steel base at his father.

Both his father and mother grabbed Lackie's arms before he could throw the steel base, which weighed five pounds.

When deputies arrived, Lackie denied the incident.

Lackie was charged with Aggravated Assault.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $5,000.

This Week's 2nd Stupid Criminal:
Leaves Own Bike, Case of Beer
in Victim's Garage, Steals Bike
with Two Flat Tires

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Paul Phillip Jakson, 54, a homeless man.

Paul Phillip Jakson

According to the arrest report, while on routine patrol, Deputy Mark Pearson saw a man, later identified as Jakson, riding a yellow and white bike eastbound on Upper Manatee River Road, at about the 14000 block. The man was having problems keeping the bike on the road.

As Dep. Pearson started to pull over, Jakson fell to the ground. Dep. Pearson pulled over and asked Jakson if he was okay. Jakson said he was drunk and "stole the damn bike that has two flat tires." Jakson pleaded with Dep. Pearson to take him to jail.

While Dep. Pearson was asking for Jakson's ID, a burglary call went out in the area. Another Deputy, Dep. Wilder. went to the call.

According to the victim of the burglary call, he had just chased a drunk White male out of his garage in the 11000 block of 4th Avenue East about 15 minutes prior and noticed that his yellow and white bike that had two flat tires was missing. The victim also noticed an extra bike in his garage with a case of beer on the handle bars.

Dep. Wilder brought the victim to where Dep. Pearson and Jakson were located and the victim positively ID'd Jakson as the man he had chased out of the garage and ID'd the bike as belonging to him.

Jakson was taken to a local hospital because he was extremely intoxicated, the report said. After Jakson was medically cleared, both Dep. Pearson and Dep. Wilder met at Haile Middle School to collect affidavits.

Dep. Wilder was having trouble getting the bike that was found in the victim's garage in his cruiser, so Dep. Pearson asked if he needed assistance.

At that time, Jakson started rocking Dep. Pearson's cruiser. Dep. Pearson asked Jakson what the problem was and Jakson said, "That's my bike and I want it back." Then he noticed the case of beer in Dep. Wilder's cruiser and he said, "To hell with my bike. You can keep it; I only want my beer back."

All the way to jail, Jakson kept telling Dep. Pearson to "F _ _ _ off" and that he wanted his beer back.

Jakson was charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling.

The stolen bike and the beer were left in the victim's garage. Jakson's bike was taken to the bike barn.

Another Bank Robbery By
50-Year-Old White Male;
Sarasota Wachovia Bank

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating a Bank Robbery that occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m., Monday, December 1st, 2008 at the Wachovia Bank at 4795, South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota.

No weapon was seen or implied.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 50 years of age, and 5’8” tall, weighing approximately 180 lbs. He was last seen wearing a green sweatshirt, dark pants, and a white baseball style cap with a dark brim. He was last seen heading west in the Landings Plaza toward the Publix supermarket.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District II 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).

Stabbing Incident Reported by
Sarasota County Sheriff

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating a stabbing incident that occurred early Tuesday morning, December 2, 2008.

At approximately 12:15 am Deputies responded to the Galleria Plaza located at 2117 South Tamiami Trail, where a male subject had walked out of a wooded area suffering from what appeared to be stab wounds.

The victim, identified as Anthony L. Parker Jr., 23, a White male, was transported by BayFlight to Bayfront Medical Center for treatment. The injuries do not appear to be life-threatening.

Detectives are currently interviewing possible witnesses in an attempt to identify a suspect.

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District III Criminal Investigations Bureau at (941) 861-1707. 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).

College Group Proposes Easing
Rules on Pot Smoking to Curb
Binge Drinking

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A student-run advisory committee at the University of Central Florida is considering lessening the punishment for smoking marijuana so it would be equal to the less-severe punishment for underage drinking, a move that would have to be approved by administrators, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Some UCF students say that easing the rules on marijuana could keep classmates from drinking and possibly curb the dangerous trend of binge drinking.

The advisory committee -- the Golden Rule Review Committee -- was supposed to vote on the proposed change on Tuesday, but the vote has been postponed, although the topic will be discussed, Local 6 News reported. The committee can only recommend changes to the university administration, which has the final say on the matter.

A final vote could take place at the next meeting.

The administration said it takes every recommendation seriously, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Dairy Farm Employee Arrested for
Attempted Premeditated Murder
of Fellow Worker By Gunshot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detective Jeffrey Bliss, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, has arrested Sotero Peralto-Melgaejo, 27, of Myakka City, Florida, and charged him with Attempted Premeditated Murder. Sotero tried to kill a fellow worker on Sunday, November 30, 2008, at about 2:20 p.m.

Sotero Peralto-Melgaejo

According to a report from the sheriff's office, Pedro Hernandez, 45, and Peralto-Melgaejo are co-workers at Dakin Dairy located at 30771 Betts Rd, in Myakka City. They have an ongoing feud over some remarks that Hernandez made to fellow workers.

Sotero followed Hernandez to a bathroom and confronted him about the remarks.

At that time, Sotero pulled out a handgun and Hernandez fought with Sotero.

Sotero fired the gun, but it didn’t fire. Sotero then fired the gun a second time and the gun fired, striking Hernandez in the neck area of his body, the report said.

Hernandez was able to continue fighting and got the handgun away from Sotero and locked Sotero in the bathroom while calling for help.

911 was contacted and upon arrival of sheriff's deputies, Sotero was taken into custody without incident.

Det. Bliss subsequently interviewed Sotero at the Criminal Investigations offices.

Sotero confessed to Det. Bliss, post-Miranda, that he followed Hernandez to the bathroom and pulled out the handgun over the comments Hernandez has been making about Sotero.

Sotero told Det. Bliss that he intended to kill Hernandez.

Sotero said that he had been drinking on Sunday, but Hernandez has not.

Hernandez was flown to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflite medical chopper for treatment of his gunshot wound, which was considered not to be life-threatening.

Sotero is being held in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $150,000.

Man Arrested for Child Abuse
After Manhandling Son, 17

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robert J. Vanslyke, 40, of 3808 39th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Robert J. Vanslyke

The arrest report said on Tuesday, November 25, 2008, at about 10:30 p.m., Vanslyke and his 17-year-old son, who was not named in the report, got into an argument over unknown reasons.

The argument turned physical when Robert started pushing his son around the house.

The son ran outside the residence and the fight continued as Robert put the boy into a headlock. While he was in the headlock, Robert used his right hand to grab the boy by the throat and squeeze it until the boy's breathing was restricted, the report said.

Robert released the boy from his grip and the boy grabbed a shovel and threatened to strike Robert with the shovel, but allowed Robert to take it away from him.

Robert then tackled the boy and began using his fingers to press in both of the boy's eyes and nose.

The boy suffered some minor scratches around his neck and facial area, plus his eyes were bloodshot and red, Dep. Edward Lawson wrote.

Robert suffered some minor abrasions on his shoulder and minor injury to the top of his right foot.

Robert was arrested and charged with Child Abuse. He was jailed on a $1,000 bail bond, which he posted the next day and was released.

Man Arrested for Punching,
Choking, Head-Butting
Other Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Kenneth Michael Burdick, 30, of 1309 66th Street NW, Bradenton, was arrested for burglarizing a home in the 4100 block of 15th Avenue West on Sunday, November 30, 2008, at about 8:45 p.m.

Kenneth Michael Burdick

According to the arrest report, Burdick entered the residence through the front door, uninvited.

He then began to batter the victim, Chris Fairbrother, by punching and head-butting him several times, along with choking Fairbrother.

Burdick then fled the residence.

Burdick was arrested without incident at a residence in the 1200 block of 44th Street West, shortly after fleeing the incident location.

Burdick exited the 44th St. W. residence with both hands high in the air, saying, "I'm sorry; I'm not a bad guy."

He refused to talk to deputies.

A motive for the incident is unknown.

Burdick was charged with Burglary with Battery.

Victim Slashed with Beer Bottle;
Assailant Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For some unknown reason, Luis Omar Hernandez, 23, of 3313 4th Street East, attacked another man with a beer bottle and was later arrested.

Luis Omar Hernandez

An arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said on Friday, November 28, 2008, at about 2:30 a.m., Hernandez entered the unnamed victim's residence next door with three other men and went to the victim's room.

Once in the bedroom, Luis shook the bed, trying to wake the victim. When the victim woke up, he saw Luis and became upset.

Luis then struck the victim in the face with a glass beer bottle, causing a laceration to the victim's cheek that required stitches.

Deputies went to Luis' residence next door, found him lying in his bed and arrested him.

He refused to talk to deputies about the incident.

Luis was charged with Aggravated Battery.

This Week's First Stupid Criminal:
Deputies Arrest Man for Burglary
of Two Homes, Possession of Drugs;
Both Victims Were Home At the Time

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested John A. Davis, Jr., 19, of 2884 48th Way East, Bradenton. Deputies say Davis tried to burglarize two residences in the 3300 block of 49th Avenue East and 50th Avenue East, Bradenton. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, 2008, at about 11:30 p.m.

Above, L to R, Sheriff's K-9 Deputy "Rosco" and John A. Davis, Jr.

According to a report from the sheriff's office, Davis entered the unlocked back porch of victim #1's home wearing gloves. He tried to open the back door.

The victim, Eric Zimmerman, who was inside the home, confronted Davis and called the sheriff's office.

Davis walked away, subsequently entering into Susan Payne's unlocked home. He was found by victim #2 rummaging through her cabinets. She chased Davis out of her home.

Through the use of a K-9 and perimeter units, Davis was apprehended.

K-9 Deputy David Brady and his K-9 Deputy "Rosco" chased Davis into perimeter deputies, Dep. Brady told NewsManatee on Monday.

He was found in possession of Xanax (pronounced "Zanax"), marijuana, and a drug pipe.

Davis was charged with two counts of Burglary, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail.

Teen Beaten, Kicked During
Attempted Robbery by 3

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, 18-year-old Clinton J. Ahier, of the 1600 block of 38th Avenue East, Bradenton, was beaten and kicked by three unknown men in an attempt to rob him. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, 2008, at about 3:45 a.m., in the 3500 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Ahier, was walking home and was in the 3500 block of 15th Street East when he was approached by suspect #1 on foot.

Suspect #1 punched the victim in the head, knocking him down.

Suspect #1 then asked the victim for money or drugs, and began looking through his pockets.

Suspects #2 and 3 approached on foot, and joined in hitting and kicking the victim. One of the two additional suspects tried to hit the victim with a metal pipe type object, but missed.

The victim had no wallet or property on his person, so nothing was stolen.

The victim waited for over an hour to report the crime.

His injury appeared superficial.

The suspects were not located.

The thugs were described as: an unknown Black male 6'00" tall, unknown age, weight, wearing all black clothing; an unknown male, unknown race, weight, hair and eye color, 6'00: tall, wearing all black; and the third male had the same description as the second male.

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 Sheriff's Office
Conducting Death Investigation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was found dead in his bed on Monday, December 1st, 2008, after a relative was unable to contact him and called the sheriff's office to conduct a Welfare Check, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Albert Rushing, 82, of 421 60th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, was found dead at about 3 p.m. on December 1st by deputies.

Cammila Smith, a niece, called the sheriff's office after she could not make contact with her Great Uncle, Albert Rushing, at his apartment.

Upon the arrival of deputies, the house was found to be secure and the Uncle's car was still in the driveway.

Albert was located lying on his back on his bed. He appeared to be in an obvious state of decomposition.

The death did not appear to be suspicious; however, the Medical Examiner's office was contacted after Albert's doctor was contacted and told deputies he would not sign the death certificate.

Cammila said Albert had diabetes and several other medical problems.

An autopsy was scheduled by the Medical Examiner's Office.

The sheriff's office is continuing the investigation.

24th Annual Flight to North Pole
Announced by Sheriff Steube;
Donations Requested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The 24th annual “FLIGHT to the NORTH POLE” program is a very special day for terminally ill children in our community. This year’s Flight to the North Pole will take place on Thursday, December 11, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at the Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department.

The Foundation for this program started in 1985 by a number of Eastern Airline Flight Attendants. Today, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department, local businesses and volunteers from several agencies assist in this event.

Members of the Colony Cove community association provide each child with a stuffed bear and the Shrine Clowns entertain them with balloons and typical clown antics. A local private school chorus provides seasonal songs to cheer the children and their families while awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus and McDonalds graciously provide the Happy Meals for the children and families.

Inside the Fire Station is a Santa’s workshop where the children can sit with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and tell them of their wish list and receive their gift bags. Also, the children will get a photo of themselves with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, including a video or a DVD of the whole days event with the help of Santa’s elves.

This is a memorable event not only for the children but also for their families and everyone involved. If you would like to contribute your donations of any kind, it would be greatly appreciated.

For more information, please call Sidney Ettedgui, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, at 747-3011, ext. 2581.

Sarasota County Sheriff's Detectives
Investigate Jewelry Store Burglary

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Sheriff’s Office Detectives are investigating a burglary that occurred at the Diamond Vault Jewelry Store, located at 4910, S. Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota on Friday, November 21st, 2008, at approximately 6:30 a.m.

The suspect’s identity is unknown at this time. A second suspect, driving a silver colored SUV seen at the crime location is also sought.

Video of the crime can be found at:

Anyone with information regarding the incident should contact Detective Mark LeFebvre at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office District II Criminal Investigations Bureau on (941) 861-4932. 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).

Man Arrested in Attempted
Cat Beheading

DeLAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man was arrested Sunday after he stabbed a cat and attempted to cut its head off before throwing it across a Central Florida roadway, police said.

Levi Collier
(Mug shot courtesy WKMG)

Levi Collier was arrested on a felony charge of animal cruelty after witnesses saw him try to behead the cat on West Lisbon Parkway in DeLand, police said.

Officers discovered the cat, which was bleeding profusely, from several apparent stab wounds and a slit throat, DeLand police said.

The cat died minutes after being found by officers, police said.

Collier told DeLand police that he did not know why he stabbed the cat.

Collier was transported to the Volusia County Branch Jail, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Murdered in Palmetto
Thanksgiving Eve; Victim
Identified by Police

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is investigating a criminal homicide which occurred Wednesday evening, November 26, 2008, at about 8:30 p.m. The man has been identified as 36 year-old Miguel Gomes, a transient who would occasionally stay with friends in the Palmetto area, according to acquaintances. Gomes was identified through fingerprints; he had been arrested on traffic charges in Manatee County in the past, Palmetto Police Lt. Scott Tyler told NewsManatee.

The crime occurred in the 700 block of 9th Street West. According to witnesses, a man with a bicycle was confronted by two Black males dressed in black or dark-colored clothes. The Black males were possibly in their 20’s. They were standing next to a white, 4-door car with a boxy body style.

One gunshot was heard from the group and the victim fell.

The two Black males got into the white car and were last seen traveling east on 8th Street West, from the 700 block.

A witness went to the victim’s aid and tried to provide medical attention, but Gomes died a short time later.

Investigators are working with local businesses to obtain all available video of the crime scene to assist in identifying the attackers.

According to Palmetto Police Lieutenant Scott Tyler, at this time investigators are unsure what the motive for the attack was, but they believe it may have been a robbery.

Those acquainted with Gomes do not believe that he had any family here or in Mexico.

Detectives are continuing to follow up on leads in the case.

The murder is the 13th in Manatee County this year. There have now been 2 murders in the City of Palmetto, 2 in the City of Bradenton and 9 in unincorporated Manatee County.

Persons with any information 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.

Woman Arrested for Causing Death
in Crash That Killed Woman, 77

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol has arrested Julissa S. Martinez, 20, of Bradenton. Troopers say Martinez caused a crash on that killed Mary A. DeLazzer, 77, of Windmill Manor, 5320 53rd Avenue East, in Bradenton.

Julissa S. Martinez

FHP Trooper Frank Giles said the crash occurred on Friday, November 28, 2008, at about 6:11 a.m. The location of the crash was on 53rd Avenue East at 30th Street East.

According to a report from FHP, Martinez was westbound on 53rd Avenue East (S.R. 70) in the outside lane approaching 30th Street East.

DeLazzer was stopped facing westbound on 53rd Avenue East in the middle lane, waiting for a traffic light to change at 30th Street East.

Martinez failed to sop of slow down her 2003 Oldsmobile SUV behind DeLazzer's 2001 Mercury sedan.

Martinez's vehicle struck the rear of DeLazzer's vehicle. Delazzer's vehicle was pushed westbound into the intersection and rotated counter-clockwise, coming to final rest in the intersection facing eastbound.

FHP Sgt. William Pascoe said DeLazzer’s Mercury 4-door station wagon caught fire after impact. Workers from a nearby garbage truck put the flames out with fire extinguishers, but DeLazzer died at the scene, Pascoe said.

An arriving trooper smelled alcohol on Martinez's breath and took her into custody.

Martinez was charged with DUI Manslaughter, Careless Driving, No Valid Driver License Causing a Death, DUI Property Damage and No Insurance.

Martinez remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail amount of $112,500.

DeLazzer was the manager of Our Daily Bread soup kitchen in Bradenton for more than 20 years, according to a local media report.

Saturday Bank Robbery
in West Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives are asking the public's help in identifying a man who held up the Fifth Third Bank, 5305 26th Street West, Bradenton, on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 11:30 a.m.

Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies Aviles and Evers were sent to a holdup alarm at 11:27 a.m.

While en-route, deputies were advised that the holdup alarm was activated due to a robbery.

According to tellers, the robber entered the bank with a cloth bag, went up to the teller and told her to fill the bag with money.

The man did not have a note and did not display a weapon.

The man obtained an undisclosed amount of money and fled the bank, walking eastbound across the parking lot out of view of tellers towards a nearby residential area.

Deputies searched the area and could not locate the suspect.

He was described as a White male, 45-55 years old, 5'9" tall, and weighing about 190 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black baseball hat, a great T-shirt, long blue jeans and was carrying a green cloth bag. He was wearing reading glasses.

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 Sheriff's Office Arrests Man
for Convenience Store Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Timothy Tallmadge, 19, of Bradenton, for the November 24, 2008, robbery of Capitol Discount Beverage store, 5235 26th Street West.

Timothy Tallmadge

NewsManatee originally reported a man, now known to be Tallmadge, was in the convenience store trying to make conversation with the clerk. He remained in the store asking questions and just loitering. The clerk called her boss and told him what was occurring and her employer spoke with the man, telling him to leave the store. However, the man remained in the store and when he observed that the clerk had her register open, he jumped the counter grabbed the clerk and shoved her to the ground. Tallmadge then took approximately $800-$900 in cash from the register before fleeing east on 53rd Avenue West. The clerk was able to hit the distress button and the sheriff's office responded. The victim received no injuries during the incident.

The next day, Tuesday, November 25, 2008, Deputy J. Bass received information that Timothy Tallmadge may have been involved with this Robbery. Detective Whorley presented the victim with a photographic lineup containing the picture of Tallmadge and he was immediately identified.

A short time later, Deputy Ambrus received information that Tallmadge was at 315 29th Street NW, in Bradenton.

VCTF, Patrol, and K-9 responded to this address and arrested Tallmadge as he walked out the front door still wearing the clothes he wore during the Robbery, a press release said.

During a search of Tallmadge, incident to arrest, $373 was located in his back pocket. This is believed to be what is left of the stolen money.

Tallmadge made several spontaneous utterances admitting to the robbery, but invoked his right to a lawyer when questioned at detectives' offices.

Tallmadge was charged with Strong Arm Robbery.

A subsequent complete report by Sgt. Kevin Pease of the arrest of Tallmadge said on November 13, 2008, Tallmadge was placed on Administrative Probation for Grand Theft Auto which occurred on September 11, 2008. Also, on November 13, 2008, Tallmadge was placed on Probation for Petit Theft. Tallmadge was also released on his own recognizance for a Burglary that he was arrested for on September 11, 2008. Sgt. Pease said Tallmadge has shown he is a danger to the community and requested that his previous release on his own recognizance be revoked and he be placed in the Manatee County Jail until his criminal charges are resolved.

Tallmadge remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail of $250,000.

Man Arrested on Warrant for
Attempted Murder; 3 Others
Busted on Unrelated Charges

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kenneth "Kenny" Jenkins, 20, of Bradenton, on a warrant for Attempted Murder. Three other men were arrested along with Jenkins, on unrelated charges. The arrests occurred on Tuesday, November 25, 2008.

Above, Kenneth Jenkins, Otis Johnson, Rusty Simmons and Jonathan Solomon

On that date, Kenneth Jenkins was located at 5724 20th Street West, Bradenton. Jenkins had a warrant out of Manatee County for Attempted Murder. A sheriff's office report of the arrest did not say who he had attempted to murder.

VCTF, West C.O.P.S, K-9, and Aviation responded to the above location and surrounded the house. As they approached the front door, a subject believed to be Jenkins stepped out and immediately ran back inside and closed the door. Detective Parham pounded on the door until a woman answered, at which time Jenkins was seen exiting a side bedroom and was arrested without incident.

Otis Johnson, 21, and Rusty Simmons, 21, were found hiding in a white Chrysler 300 that was parked in the driveway. As they exited the vehicle, a very strong odor of marijuana was detected. During a search of the vehicle, a loaded .45 caliber handgun was found under the passenger seat where Simmons was sitting. This firearm was later found to be stolen out of Manatee County. A 9mm Firearm was found in the pocket behind the front seat only accessible to Johnson. A small amount of marijuana was located in the rear seat center console.

Both subjects were arrested for Possession of a Concealed Firearm. Simmons was additional charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Jonathan Solomon, 20, was also located at the residence and had a warrant out of the sheriff's office for Sale of Heroin.

All four subjects were transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Jenkins remains in jail on a bail bond of $1,000,000. Johnson posted a $2,000 bond and was released. Simmons remains in jail on a bond of more than $7,500. Solomon posted a $25,000 bond and was released.

Man Arrested for Attempting
to Rob Ice Cream Vendor

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who tried to rob an ice cream vendor is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Eric Grimaldo

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the victim, Antonio Padila-Moa, 58, of Bradenton, who is the neighborhood ice cream vendor, was approached by a man now known to be Eric Grimaldo, 20, of 510 20th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Grimaldo demanded money and when the victim refused, Grimaldo grabbed at Antonio's shirt pocket where he keeps his money.

Antonio was able to retain his money. That’s when Grimaldo began punching him in his face and head area.

Antonio's injuries were minor cuts and redness to his face.

The incident occurred in the 5800 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton, on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 8 p.m.

Grimaldo fled to an area home, where he was located and arrested.

He was charged with Robbery.

Strong Arm Robbery at C.V.S.
in South Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sgt. Andy Ramdath, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was roughed up and robbed at the C.V.S. Pharmacy located at 5310 Lockwood Ridge Road, in South Manatee County. The incident happened on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 4:30 p.m.

As the victim, John Reynolds, of Bradenton, was exiting the C.V.S., he was approached by a man who pushed him down and removed his wallet from his back pocket which contained $225 in cash, a credit card, and his Florida Driver license.

The robber then absconded in a maroon 1992-93 Ford pickup truck without a tailgate.

No injuries were sustained by Reynolds.

The robber was described as a White male in his 30s, 5'11" tall and weighing about 190 pounds, last seen wearing a striped or checkered shirt.

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 Pistol-Whipped During
Armed Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was pistol-whipped and several items were stolen during an armed home invasion robbery at a residence in the 4600 block of 20th Avenue West, Bradenton, on Sunday, November 30, 2008, at about 2:45 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Four victims were inside the residence when 3 unknown and masked Black males armed with handguns forced their way into the house.

Once inside, they pistol-whipped one victim and then put all four victims in the bathroom and told them to count to 99.

The victim who was pistol-whipped had a lump on his head but was not seriously injured.

The invaders were armed with pistols; two were black and the other pistol had a camo cover on it.

The invaders took a flat screen T.V., $2000 in cash and 2 laptop computers.

Detectives were notified and a detective and a crime scene technician responded to assist with the investigation.

A victims advocate also responded to assist the victims.

There was no further description of the culprits in the sheriff's 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.

Two Men Attacked, Robbed
By 10-15 Black Male Juvies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two bicyclists were attacked and robbed by 10-15 Black male juveniles on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 6:15 p.m.

The victims, Natividad De Jesus, 39, and Jesus Lopez, 50, both of the 1000 block of 61st Avenue East, Bradenton, were riding their bikes and were in the 6000 block of 9th Street East when they passed a large group of Black male juveniles.

After the victims passed the crowd, they were attacked from behind.

One of the victims, Natividad De Jesus, was knocked off his bike and he ran from the area. The other victim, Jesus Lopez, was hit from behind with an unknown type blunt object, possibly a baseball bat. As he lay on the ground, they also struck him in the knee.

The thugs took the victims' bikes, their cell phones and a pair of prescription glasses.

Lopez was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for his head wound. His injuries were not considered serious.

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 "Baited" Into Armed Robbery
By Woman; Two Men Robbed Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was "baited" into a location by a woman where he was robbed by two Black males on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 2 a.m.

The victim, Valentin Garcia, of Palmetto, picked up a White female at a Bradenton bar he thinks is called "Mesa." He doesn’t know the woman's name, he told deputies.

He thought he was giving her a ride home, when in fact she was the 'bait' to get him to a robbery location.

She drove Garcia's vehicle to Palmetto, to the end of 12th Street Court West, in the 100 block, then stopped.

The car was immediately approached from both sides by two Black males approximately 6 feet tall, both wearing white bandanas over their head and face. They were armed with what appeared to be black semi-automatic pistols.

Garcia was on the passenger side, so the one on his side made the demands, but he claims both were aiming their weapons at him.

The robbers demanded and got his wallet, $350 cash, and his car keys.

After he surrendered the items, the Black males walked away to the north and the White female got out and walked away with them.

There were no injuries and no shots were fired, the report said.

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 Punched, Robbed of Bike
by 7-8 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Tuesday, November 25, 2008.

The report said the victim, Charles Easterly, 45, of the 500 block of 61st Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton, was riding his bike south on 5th Street East and was near 60th Avenue East when he was approached by 7 to 8 Black males.

One of the attackers punched Easterly, knocking him off his bicycle.

The robbers then fled in an unknown direction with Easterly's bike.

Easterly was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital and treated for a cut to his eye.

He was unable to provide any detailed information about the suspects.

An additional report from the sheriff's office said 10 minutes after the incident above occurred, there was a similar incident, a battery, in the same general area. The description of the perpetrator(s) was the same. It is unknown if the two incidents are related, the report said.

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.

Drive-By Shooting Reported;
House, 2 Cars Struck By Bullets

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an unknown person or persons fired a number of shots at a house and two cars Saturday night, November 29, 2008, at about 11:40 p.m.

The report said an unknown person or persons fired numerous shots in the 3800 block of 8th Street Court East.

Several residents in the area called 911.

Deputies discovered bullets had struck a house and two cars, at three different addresses on 8th Street Court East; 3821, 3823 and 3815.

There were no injuries or witnesses.

There was no description of the shooter(s).

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.

Five Men Arrested Following
Melee At "Gentlemen's Club"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, five men were arrested after a melee in the parking lot of Pandora's Box Gentlemen's Club, 4824 U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto.

The report said on Wednesday night, November 26, 2008, the five men were at Pandora’s Box drinking. They became belligerent and were asked to leave. They were escorted out and once in the parking lot they became even more belligerent and started trying to fight security personnel.

As the security personnel were attempting to chase off a couple of the men, at least one of the men went to the car they arrived in and began to arm himself with a weapon.

Several, if not all of the men, ended up with some sort of weapon such as hammers, a sledgehammer, a metal trowel and jumper cables. They began to chase after the security while swinging the weapons that they had.

The men broke out car windows to two cars in the parking lot.

The men then made their way back in to the front lobby entrance where some of the other employees were now located.

One of the dancers, Jacy Quinn, 40, was struck on the left arm with the sledgehammer, which caused her arm to break; she was subsequently taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS.

During the incident, Reginald Burch, 41, had one of his fingers cut by the metal trowel and one of his fingers got broken; he was also subsequently taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS.

Several other employees were either hit with fists, kicked or struck with a weapon by the men.

Bexley Forrester, 29, said she got kicked and had a sore back. John Keiper, 28, was punched and hit with the jumper cables. Darrick Houser, 40, had a minor cut on his arm. Jessica Pena, 19, was one of the vehicle owners who had windows broken out.

Upon deputies’ arrival, the four men were just about to exit the parking lot in their vehicle but were stopped.

All five men were arrested.

Charged with Aggravated Battery, Armed Trespassing and Criminal Mischief were: Raul Figueroa, 21; Franklin Mendoza, 26; Luis Mendoza-Lemus, 24; Javier Jimenez, 18; and Marco Jiminez-Figueroa, 30.

Two Men Robbed Behind
Palmetto Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two men were robbed by an armed Black male on Saturday, November 29, 2008, at about 1 p.m.

The report from the sheriff's office said Antonio and Miguel Moreno, ages 21 and 20, were walking on the railroad tracks behind Wal-Mart in the 500 block of 10th Street East, in Palmetto, when they were confronted by a Black male who was armed with a gun.

He took an undisclosed amount of cash from the two victims and ran to the northeast, Lt. John Baroncelli reported.

There were no injuries and no shots were fired.

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.

Detectives Seize Safe Deposit Box
of Busted Drug Dealer, Find More
Than $15,000 and 1,000 Pills

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives confiscated $15,300 in cash and 1,003 30 mg Roxicodone pills on Tuesday, November 25, 2008, after obtaining a search warrant for a safe deposit box at Wachovia Bank, 1831 S. McCall Rd., in Englewood. The safe deposit box was registered to a drug dealer busted three days earlier.

Luke Richard Fisher

In continuing their investigation, detectives learned that Luke Richard Fisher, 28, rented a box at the bank. He was arrested on Saturday, November 22, 2008, in a drug raid on his home at 1360 Rocky Creek Lane, in Englewood. Detectives say further charges are pending Tuesday’s find in the safety deposit box.

The CCSO Narcotics Unit, assisted by SWAT, K-9, CID and Traffic units raided the home Saturday at 3:45 p.m. and Fisher was charged with nine felony counts. Detectives made two prior undercover purchases at his home Nov. 6 and Nov. 21. In the raid, detectives found 620 Oxycodone pills, 17 grams of Methamphetamines and one gram of Crack Cocaine. Fisher was charged with Trafficking in Oxycodone, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, two counts of Sale and Delivery of Oxycodone, three counts of Possession of Oxycodone, and one count each of Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Crack Cocaine.

Fisher remains in the Charlotte County Jail; bond was set at $90,000 on the nine charges filed Saturday, and 11 court-ordered holds on previous drug charges, as his bonds have been revoked.

Anyone with illegal drug information is asked to please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157 or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Woman, 84, Covered Herself with
50 Cats To Keep Warm; Daughter
Charged with Elderly Neglect

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported about 50 cats, 20 ducks and 15 turkeys were taken from a New Smyrna Beach home, and a woman was arrested after her 84-year-old mother told authorities that she kept warm by covering herself with the animals, according to Volusia County sheriff's deputies.

Mary Bosket, 54, was arrested on a charge of Neglect to the Elderly after her mother was found on Thanksgiving Day at the Glencoe Road home, which was in deplorable conditions and did not have a working heater, deputies said.

The elderly woman was apparently placed in the home against her will by Bosket, Voluisa County sheriff's deputies said.

A deputy responding to the residence reported that there was an overwhelming smell of cat urine, and that animal feces covered the floors in nearly every room. The deputy accompanied a Department of Children and Families representative to the home to assist with a well-being check because DCF could not locate the 84-year-old.

Two dead cats were also found in a freezer, where they were being stored until they could be cremated, Bosket told sheriff's deputies.

Bosket's mother was using a faulty oxygen machine and suffers from congestive heart failure, deputies said. She told authorities that she had lived at a nursing home, but now lived in the Glencoe Road home alone. She said that Bosket stopped by occasionally to help care for all the animals.

In one of the bedrooms, the deputy said he found caged turkeys, although one was wandering freely around the room. In another bedroom, ducks were found, along with an empty kid's swimming pool. A dog was in a third bedroom, where its feces had piled up, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.

Several geese, ducks and chickens were found in the back yard, deputies said.

The only toilet in the home did not work and the sinks would not drain water, deputies said.

Bosket was called and arrived at the home, and she admitted to knowing about the home's conditions, but had no explanation as to why it was that way, deputies said.

Bosket was arrested and transported to the Volusia County Correctional Facility in Daytona Beach. Her mother was placed in the care of DCF.

Animal control officers took custody of the animals, WKMG said.

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