Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 12/13/2008

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Local/State News for week ending 12/13/2008

Atrocious Behavior: Caregiver
Abandons Post, Patient Suffers
Heat Stroke; 106 Degree Body
Temperature, Seizures

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit Officers have arrested Linda Janice Shaw, 52, of 1224 12th Avenue West, in Bradenton. Shaw is charged with Neglect of an Elderly Person with Great Bodily Harm.

Linda Janice Shaw

According to the arrest report, on July 21st, 2008, Shaw was the lone caregiver on duty for 16 patients at Personal Care II, 120 8th Avenue East, Bradenton, an assisted living facility. Her shift was supposed to be from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m.

However, at 7:30 p.m., Shaw left the facility to "go to the beach" a maid said. Shaw never returned. A resident of the facility told investigators Shaw frequently left the facility while on duty.

Shaw later told investigators she left to go home and get her medication and didn't return. Shaw said she knew it was wrong.

The facility's air conditioning had been off for several days, the report said.

At about 5:00 a.m., another resident found a 47-year-old female patient on the floor. The patient was unresponsive and her arms were flailing above her head.

EMS was called. EMS personnel found the facility "extremely hot."

The woman was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital in critical condition where it was determined her body temperature was 106 degrees. Doctors said she had suffered heat stroke and seizures because of it.

Shaw was fired that day.

She was arrested on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008.

Linda Shaw remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $5,000 bail bond, jail records show.

Flight to the North Pole:
Santa Claus Visits Our
Terminally Sick Kids

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The 24th annual "Flight to the North Pole" program was held Thursday, Dec. 11, 2008, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Sarasota/Bradenton Airport Fire Department.

Above, Santa visits with Benjamin & Adam Shirback,
twins, age 7, of Bradenton.
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

It was a very special day for terminally ill children in our community and NewsManatee's Heather Chadwick was on hand for the festivities.

Inside the fire station was Santa's workshop, where the children sat with Santa Claus and told them their wish list. They received free gift bags and a photo of themselves with Santa, and a video or DVD of the whole day's events with the help of Santa's elves.

Members of the Colony Cove community association provided each child with a stuffed bear and the Shrine Clowns entertained them with balloons and typical clown antics. A local private school chorus provided seasonal songs to cheer the children and their families while awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus, who came by way of a Manatee County Sheriff's Office helicopter.

Above, Santa arrives by sheriff's helicopter and
is greeted by two deputies who show him the way.
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Our reporter Heather Chadwick observed, "Santa must have laid off the reindeer, because twice in one week he arrived here by chopper. I know gas is down to $1.50 a gallon, so it must be cheaper than reindeer food."

McDonald's graciously provided Happy Meals for the children and families.

The foundation for this program was 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.

If you would like to contribute your donations of any kind to ensure the continuation of the program, it would be greatly appreciated.

For more information, please call Sidney Ettedgui, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, at (941) 747-3011, ext. 2581.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Aggravated Child Abuse

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Jonathan Freeman, 20, of Bradenton.

Jonathan Freeman

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008, at about 3:30 p.m., Freeman was baby-sitting an unnamed 4-year-old boy and two other children. Freeman is the father of the other two children, the report said.

He was playing video games when he noticed the children had left the room. He located the children in the kitchen playing with a steak knife and a butter knife. Freeman said he used his hand and spanked the children. Then he said he was so upset he picked up a belt and began to strike the 4-year-old.

Freeman said he stopped when he realized what he had done.

The child was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by his mother.

The child had numerous whipping marks and bruises on both legs, back, hands, chest and neck.

Freeman was arrested and charged with Aggravated Child Abuse.

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

Manatee Deputy's Cruiser, One
Other Towed After Near
Head-On Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Deputy's cruiser and one other vehicle had to be towed from the scene of a near head-on collision on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2008, at about 12:15 a.m.

A sheriff's office report said Dep. Ryan Shepherd, 26, was proceeding southbound in the inside lane of 14th Street at approximately 45 mph.

Shepherd observed Charlene Calloway's vehicle northbound towards him, in the inside northbound lane. Calloway is from Palmetto.

Calloway changed lanes, moving into the turn lane.

As the vehicles closed, Calloway's vehicle either drifted into Shepherd's lane or she attempted to turn into a driveway into the Southwood Mall parking lot in the 5700 block of 14th Street West.

The two vehicles then impacted left front corner to left front corner. The point of impact, as indicated by skid marks and the debris field, was in the southbound inside lane.

Both vehicles were towed from the scene.

No injuries were reported.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office:
Don't Open Your Door Until
You Know Who's Knocking

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Knock, knock. Who’s there? The BAD GUY! If only it was that easy to see them coming.

When someone knocks on your door, are they there soliciting for good reasons or for bad? If you don’t know, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself:

~ If you don’t know who it is, don’t open the door. Talk to them through the door. If they won’t leave, call 911.

~ Don’t ever show them any money, your wallet or your purse.

~ Don’t allow them to enter your home.

~ Don’t give out any personal information. Don’t assume they know you if they use your name.

~ If they use your neighbor’s name, call your neighbor to confirm they sent them. Some neighbors put their name on the exterior of their home. They can also get a neighbor’s or your name from your mail.

~ Use common sense and good judgment before you unlock and open your door to someone you don’t know.

Remember, if you open the door, you have just jeopardized your and your family’s safety. Beware of suspicious people who solicit by knocking on your door. If they act suspicious or get demanding, call 911 immediately!

Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Steve Ogline of the Crime Prevention Unit says, "Don’t ever hesitate to report any suspicious people or activity; it could make the difference between stopping a crime and/or becoming a victim."

Palmetto Police Announce
Scholarship for High School
Students to Attend Manatee
Criminal Justice Academy

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Chief Garry Lowe and Officer Adam Spatafora are pleased to announce the formation of the Tanya Clavey Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is available to Palmetto High School seniors, starting with the graduating Class of 2009, who wish to pursue a career in criminal justice and want to attend the Manatee County Technical Institute’s Criminal Justice Academy.

The Tanya Clavey Memorial Scholarship was created by Palmetto Police Officer Adam Spatafora as a memorial to his late sister, Tonya Clavey. Tanya was tragically killed in an alcohol-related automobile accident in October of 1989. She was only 16 when she died.

The legacy of that tragedy is one of the factors that led Adam to pursue a career as a police officer. Because his sister died as a result of an impaired driver, he and his family feel that helping Palmetto High School graduates become peace officers in our community is a fitting memorial to Tanya’s memory.

Donations can be made to the Tanya Clavey Memorial Scholarship at the Manatee River Community Bank, 430 8th Avenue West, in Palmetto.

Sarasota Police Arrest Man, 36,
for Rape of Girl, 15

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police Detectives have arrested Marcoust Dula, 36, a transient, and charged him in connection with the rape of a 15-year-old girl on December 1, 2008, at about 6:30 p.m.

Marcoust Dula

According to the arrest report, the young girl, who is not from the area, left her aunt's house to meet with an 18-year-old boy.

She changed her mind, turned around and started walking back. She was walking northbound on Washington Court at about 10 p.m. when a Black male jumped out of the bushes with a gun in his hand and told her to walk to a waiting car. The girl was forced into the car and raped.

Once she was released, she reported the rape to police.

A detective was given the name of Marcoust Dula. He put together a photo lineup and the girl positively identified Dula as her attacker.

Dula was arrested on December 10, 2008, at a residence in the 1700 block of 18th Street, in Sarasota.

He was charged with Sexual Battery on a Child (15) By Use of a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Kidnapping.

Child's Remains, Believed to Be
Caylee Anthony, Found Near
Anthony Home

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a utility worker on Thursday found the remains of a child in Orange County in a wooded area located less than half a mile from the home of the George and Cindy Anthony, whose granddaughter, Caylee, has been missing since mid-June, authorities said.

Above, Caylee Anthony

The remains, located inside a garbage bag, were discovered around 9:30 a.m. near South Chickasaw Trail and Suburban Drive, less than four-tenths of a mile from the Anthonys' home on Hopespring Drive.

The age and gender of the remains are not known.

The area of the discovery has been blocked off, and FBI agents, along with sheriff's detectives, are investigating the wooded area.

Tim Miller, the leader of EquuSearch, a Texas-based group that has performed numerous searches for Caylee's body, said he talked with FBI agents, who told him that they believe the remains belong to Caylee, WKMG said.

Nieves said that George and Cindy Anthony have been notified about the discovery.

Caylee's mother, Casey Anthony, 22, remains jailed in her daughter's disappearance, charged with Caylee's murder.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Southeast High Juvenile
Victim of Hazing, Beating
By Three Other Juveniles

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said a Southeast High School juvenile was the victim of a kidnapping and beating by three other juveniles on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2008, at about 11 a.m.

Above, the scene of the crime, 3116 11th Street Court East
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The report said on Tuesday, at 10:50 a.m., a call was received by the sheriff's office from a residence in the 1000 block of 32nd Avenue East in reference to a juvenile male knocking on the door and asking for help. The victim had injuries, including a bloody lip and swelling to his eyes and face. He asked for the resident to call the police.

An interview with the victim revealed that three juveniles had accosted him as he had gotten to Southeast High School.

Above, Zachary Rorie, Tyler Marshall and Deliana Nieves

The victim is Jeffery Shueller, 17. The apparent motive for the attack, according to the victim, is the three attackers were upset because Shueller wouldn’t join them in some illegal activities on Monday, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office.

Shueller said he is a friend of the three suspects.

They started pushing and hitting him and forced him to walk off campus to a vacant house at 3116 11th Street Court East.

Once they got inside, they began to hit him with broom sticks, a metal pipe, and a door which had been off the hinges. They also forced him to strip naked and made him stand under a shower while they beat him about the legs and genital area.

The victim then got dressed and managed to flee out a window across a field where he ran to the above listed residence to ask for help.

The three juveniles who beat the lad were arrested.

They were Zachary Rorie, 15; Tyler Marshall, 17; and Deliana Nieves, 14. They were charged with Kidnapping, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault and Burglary.

[Ed. Note: Hazing is defined as "subjecting someone to abusive and/or humiliating mental or physical harm."]

Stolen Vehicle Recovered,
One of Three Juveniles
Bitten By K-9

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested three juveniles who apparently stole a car and were later captured, following a foot pursuit of two and a K-9 search for one.

Above, Sheriff's Dep. K-9 "Leo"

On Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2008, at about 9 p.m., Deputy Ambrus observed a stolen vehicle in the 1800 block of 57th Avenue West drive past him. He pulled behind it and began to call it in as it pulled into the shopping plaza at 5800 14th Street West.

Deputy Ambrus activated his emergency lights and the vehicle proceeded through the parking lot to the south end of the shopping plaza where the three occupants exited the vehicle and ran south.

Deputy Ambrus pursued on foot and a perimeter was set up.

The watch unit (sheriff's helicopter) arrived and located two of the subjects.

K-9 started to track and the third subject was located at 1527 Pleasant Road under a van and was bitten by Deputy Thame's K-9 "Leo."

The juvenile sustained injuries to his right forearm and was taken to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center for treatment.

Suspect number one was the driver of the vehicle and was interviewed by Deputy Ambrus at the sheriff's office district two substation.

The vehicle was processed and released to the victim.

None of the juveniles were named in the report, nor was the victim.

Gone Fishing...? Man Who
Stole Two Fishing Poles
Arrested for Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Adam Michael Yunker, 25, of 5713 25th Street West, Bradenton.

Adam Michael Yunker

According to information from the sheriff's office, sometime between 10 a.m. on November 23, 2008, and 6 p.m. on November 24, 2008, an unknown subject entered a utility room at a residence in the 5600 block of 21st Street West, Bradenton, through an unlocked door.

The culprit then stole two fishing poles and fled in an unknown direction.

The incident was reported by the residents on November 26, 2008.

Detectives were later able to identify the culprit through investigative techniques as Adam Yunker.

Yunker was arrested on Tuesday, November 9, 2008.

He was charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling.

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

Motorcyclist Dies Following
Crash with Hummer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a motorcyclist has succumbed to his injuries resulting from a crash with a Hummer on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2008, at about 12:15 p.m.

FHP said a 2006 Hummer, driven by Thomas M. Bower, 80, of Bradenton, was stopped in a driveway on 33rd Street East near 59th Avenue East.

A motorcycle, driven by Salvador Jiminez, 45, of Palmetto, was southbound on 33rd Street East.

Bower attempted to turn left onto 33rd Street East and turned into the path of Jiminez.

The front and right side of the motorcycle collided with the left side of the Hummer.

Jiminez was flown to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflite medical chopper, where he expired on Tuesday at 5:32 p.m., FHP said.

Charges against Bower are pending.

Holiday Season "Tow to Go"
Program Announced for
Potentially Drunk Drivers

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has announced a free "Tow to Go" program for anyone who has imbibed too much and wants to get home without being arrested, or hurt or killed in a traffic crash.

People who drink and drive do not intend to get caught, do not intend to have an accident, and do not intend to hurt or kill anyone. However, they do intend to drink and drive which can result in getting arrested or in a tragedy.

Drunk driving is 100% avoidable. If you plan on drinking this holiday season and need a vehicle to get back and forth, make sure you have a designated driver. Also, make sure you stay with friends you can trust.

If you find yourself without a designated driver or sober friend and think you’ve had a couple too many, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Anheuser-Busch, and AAA are offering free cab rides and car towing to adults who have had too much to drink this holiday season.

Simply call 1-800-AAA-HELP for a ride home and potentially save yourself the nightmare of a DUI arrest, or worse.

A DUI arrest alone can cost you in excess of $8,000.

An accident can result in jail or prison time but more importantly, can result in emotional trauma for those hurt or killed, including you and your family.

If you plan on drinking this holiday season away from your home, take this phone number with you: 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357).

The program is in place until the holiday season ends on January 1st, 2009.

This is a deal you can’t afford to pass up so make the right decision and enjoy the holidays responsibly.

Bradenton Police Dept. Honored for
Continued Support of Reservists

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department was honored Dec. 10 by the Employer Support of the National Guard and Reserve Organization for the City’s continued support of military reservists who are deployed overseas.

Above, L to R, Rep. Ron Reagan (R-FL); Bradenton Mayor Wayne Poston;
BPD Officer Matthew Johnston, also an Air force reservist;
and Sgt. Maj. Steve Valley, Army public affairs.

Rep. Ron Reagan (R-FL) presented the award. In attendance was Bradenton Police Officer Matthew Johnston, who just returned from deployment by the Air force. Two other City cops are currently deployed overseas.

U. S. Army Sgt. Maj. Steve Valley, Director of Army Public Affairs-Southeast, thanked the City for helping its overseas troops have one less thing to worry about because they know their families are being taken care of at home.

SPD Arrests Man, 34, for
Performing Sex Acts on
Step-Daughter, Age 11-13

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department has arrested Kenneth Crisler, 34, of Sarasota.

Kenneth EugeneCrisler

According to the arrest report from SPD, in November of 2007, Crisler's then 12-year-old step-daughter reported he had been sexually abusing her.

Her mother said the girl was a liar.

At that time, Crisler was given a lie detector test, which he passed and the family was reunited.

But on Dec. 4, 2008, Crisler turned himself in to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, confessing to sexually abusing his unnamed step-daughter. The abuse had been bothering him and he knew he was hurting the child.

Crisler told SPD detectives that after he married his wife, Jenny, the marriage turned cold.

At one point, he began giving and getting attention to and from his step-daughter, which led to fondling the girl, masturbation after the fondling and eventually mutual oral sex.

The incidents began when the girl was 11 and continued until she was 13, the report indicated.

Crisler was arrested and charged with six counts of Sexual Activity with a Child by a Person with Familial Custodial Authority.

Crisler remains in the Sarasota County Jail, where he is being held without bond.

Port Charlotte High School
Student Re-Arrested on
Morphine, Other Drug Charges

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives re-arrested Port Charlotte High School student Michael Alan Aud, 18, of 18050 Lakeworth Blvd., Port Charlotte, on 10 more drug charges.

Michael Alan Aud

On Nov. 20, 2008, narcotics detectives raided Aud’s home and confiscated marijuana, morphine, and narcotics equipment; Aud bonded out the next day.

On Tuesday, December 9, 2008, detectives arrested Aud again at his home, this time for three previous drug buys on Oct. 10, 28 and 30, 2008, which lead to the raid on his home last month.

This time Aud is charged with Trafficking in Morphine, Trafficking in Hydromorphone, Sale & Delivery of Marijuana, Sale & Deliver of Xanax, Possession of Hydromorphone, Morphine, Xanax, Seroquel, Naproxen and marijuana.

Aud was transported to the Charlotte County Jail where he remains.

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).

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Who Robbed Circle K,
Three Others Arrested in
Robbery of Site Station

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Charles Campbell, 30, and three other people following a robbery of the Site gas station at 2011 Cortez Road West, Bradenton on Monday, December 8, 2008, at about 7 p.m. Campbell was also identified as the man who robbed the Circle K convenience store the previous day.

Above, L to R, Charles Campbell, Daniel Hawkins, Patty Demyanovich and Marchella Brant

The report said four people, including Campbell, Daniel Hawkins, 37, Patty Demyanovich, 19, and Marchella Brant, 23, were at Site station getting gas, which was paid for by Demyanovich.

Campbell stayed behind while the other three people drove across the street to wait for him.

Campbell entered the store and handed the cashier a note threatening to shoot if she did not give him the money, the report said. The cashier complied, giving him an undetermined amount of cash. Campbell then fled north across Cortez Road where the other three were waiting.

A sheriff's sergeant, Rick McClain, was driving west on Cortez and was approaching the red light at 20th Street West. Sgt. McClain observed Campbell running north from the Site station. There was no traffic on Cortez Road and no reason for Campbell to run, so Sgt. McClain investigated further.

As Sgt. McClain entered the parking lot, he observed a Red Ford F-150 driving quickly in reverse with no lights on. The F-150 jumped a curb and then stopped when the driver observed Sgt. McClain.

As Sgt. McClain was exiting his vehicle, the driver got out and started towards the rear of the truck. The rear passenger then fled from the vehicle. Sgt. McClain was able to observe that this was the same person that was running north across Cortez Road, namely Charles Campbell.

A witness from Site then ran to Sgt. McClain stating that the gas station had just been robbed. The remaining people were ordered from the vehicle and a perimeter was established.

Violent Crimes Task Force units responded to the area and located Campbell, who was taken into custody.

It was determined that the three people in the F-150 were aware that Campbell was going into the store to commit a crime. Given this information, they were also charged with the offense.

Following Campbell's arrest, one of the other three told deputies Campbell had bragged about committing the Circle K robbery the previous night. A photo lineup was then presented to the Circle K clerk, who positively identified Campbell as the robber of his store.

Campbell was charged with two counts of Robbery, one of them Armed. He was also arrested for two outstanding warrants. The other three were charged with one count of Robbery. Brant had additional outstanding warrants, which were unrelated.

Sheriff's Office Releases Photo
of Florida Central Credit Union
Suspected Bank Robber

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has released a photo of the man suspected of robbing the Florida Central Credit Union on Monday, December 8, 2008.

Above, the suspected bank robber

The photo is from right after the robbery at the Ross department store, which is located across the street from the bank.

NewsManatee originally reported the bank robbery at the Florida Central Credit Union, 4505 5th Street West, Bradenton. The incident occurred at about 9:45 a.m.

The report said a White male entered the Florida Central Credit Union and approached a teller. He said he had a gun. The man demanded money.

The teller gave the man an undisclosed amount of money and the man fled southbound on a bicycle in the parking lot and then northbound on 5th St. W.

A perimeter was activated, but the robber could not be located.

He was described as a White male in his 50s, 6' tall, 180 pounds, last seen wearing tan pants, a tan shirt and a white baseball cap with a red bill. The bicycle he was riding was not further described.

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 Arrested on Multiple
Charges After Trying to Pass
Stolen Checks at Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Jennifer R. Overstreet, 29, of 6735 26th Street West, Bradenton, has been arrested on multiple charges of scheming to defraud, ID theft and forgery. An accomplice has also been arrested.

Above, Jennifer R. Overstreet and Matthew Evans

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a Wal-Mart loss prevention person called the sheriff's office on Saturday, December 6, 2008, to report a woman she recognized from a past shoplifting case, later identified as Overstreet, was in the store attempting to pass a bad check. The Wal-Mart store is located at 2911 53rd Avenue West, in Bradenton.

When a deputy arrived, he observed Overstreet and a man later identified as Matthew Evans, 33, in the clothing department shopping.

They finished their shopping and went to a register to check out. The check they presented was declined twice by the scanner.

Overstreet and Evans exited the store.

At that point, they were both stopped by deputies. Evans proceeded to a vehicle outside and was followed by a loss prevention person.

Upon investigation, deputies found checks belonging to three people in the vehicle who had all been victims of vehicle burglaries. They also found drug paraphernalia in the vehicle.

Overstreet at first gave a false name to deputies, but then admitted to heroin use.

Overstreet was charged with Scheming to Defraud, two counts of Uttering a Forged Instrument, two counts of Criminal Use of Personal Information, Giving a False Name and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of $11,740.

Evans was charged with Passing a Forged Instrument. He posted a $1,000 bond and was released from jail.

Man Steals Car, Found Asleep
in Empty House Not His

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jeremy J. Ignatowski, 24, a homeless man.

Jeremy J. Ignatowski

The arrest report said a deputy was dispatched to a house in the 5000 block of 45th Street West to a "burglary in progress."

Upon arrival, the deputy observed a white Honda parked on the side of the residence. Upon further investigation, the deputy found Ignatowski sleeping in the master bedroom of the residence.

Sheriff's dispatch informed the deputy that the Honda had been reported stolen.

Ignatowski admitted taking the Honda. He said he found the keys inside it, so he took it. A gun and checkbook were missing from the car, but Ignatowski told the deputy he had no knowledge of them; he said he didn't search the car when he took it.

Ignatowski said he used to stay at the home in which he was found sleeping and knew it was empty.

Ignatowski was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Criminal Mischief and Trespass.

Intoxicated Man Busted; Child, 3,
Found in Back Seat Crying;
Man was Passed Out

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Charles W. Anderson, 33, of Bradenton.

Charles W. Anderson

According to a police report, BPD Officers found Anderson passed out behind the wheel of his car in the 2600 block of Manatee Avenue West on Friday, December 5, 2008, at about 4 a.m.

The car was still running and his 3-year-old child was in the back seat of the vehicle crying.

Anderson admitted to taking Xanax (pronounced Zanax) and said he had also smoked marijuana that night. Cops found a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle.

Anderson was arrested and charged with Child Neglect, Child Endangerment, Possession of Marijuana and Driving on a Suspended License, Second Offense.

As of Tuesday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $13,120 bail bond.

It is unknown whether the child was turned over to relatives or placed in DPS custody.

Bruce's Taxi Shot At, Struck;
No Injuries Reported;
Shooter At Large

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a taxi cab belonging to Bruce's Taxi was shot at and struck multiple times on Tuesday, December 9, 2008, at about 1:10 a.m.

The report said at approximately 1:10 a.m., the driver of a Bruce’s cab, Kevin Cronwell, 41, was picking up a fare in the 5800 block of 4th Street East, Bradenton.

Once the fare got into the vehicle and he began to pull away, Cronwell heard several gunshots.

He accelerated out of the area and went to the sheriff's substation, District 2.

The cab was struck several times but there were no injuries.

Deputies and Detectives with the Violent Crimes Task Force began the investigation.

They determined the suspect was Zabian Williams, of 5830 5th Street East, Bradenton. He has an ongoing issued with the other victim, the passenger in the taxi, Lashay Cooper, 20, of the 200 block of 10th Avenue East, Bradenton.

According to Cooper he saw Williams shooting at him.

VCTF, K-9 and patrol deputies went to a possible location of the suspect but were unable to locate him.

BPD Cruiser, Other Vehicle Totaled,
Cop, Citizen Hospitalized in Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Bradenton Police Department cruiser and a civilian vehicle were totaled in a crash that occurred on Monday, December 8, 2008, at about 3:45 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said BPD Officer Michael Kriebel was stopped at the stop sign, facing northbound on 45th Street East at 26th Avenue East behind a Manatee County School Board van in his marked patrol vehicle.

Richard Schaefer, 70, of Bradenton, was traveling north on 45th Street East at a high rate of speed.

Mr. Schaefer struck the rear of Kriebel's patrol vehicle at an estimated 80+ m.p.h.

This caused Kriebel to strike the county van and force it into the ditch.

Both Officer Kriebel and Mr. Schaefer were transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital via E.M.S. with injuries that were not life-threatening.

Both vehicles were totaled, the sheriff's office report said.

Santa Claus Visitation Runs
to North Pole by Florida
Railroad Museum

PARRISH, Florida [NMT] -- By special arrangement, children were recently transported to the North Pole by the Florida Railroad Museum for a visit with Santa Claus.

Above, Kaiden Harden, 5, visits with Santa Claus,
with Mrs. Claus standing by to assist Santa.

Last week, Santa and Mrs. Claus entertained Kaiden Harden, 5, of Bradenton, and others, as guests in their sleigh.

Travelers riding a Florida Railroad Museum train this past week traveled on a magical journey from Parrish.

The trip on a train pulled by the 1835 locomotive was able to pass through a time/space continuum due to special equipment installed by the Sleigh Division of North Pole Enterprises, LLC.

The device ignores the laws of physics and is able to transport passengers to the North Pole to visit, have hot chocolate, play games and make magic reindeer food.

Teen with Gun Arrested
at Orlando High School

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 17-year-old Orlando high school student was arrested after a substitute teacher tipped off deputies that he was possibly carrying a gun in his pants, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The student was arrested Monday afternoon at Evans High School on possession of firearm charges.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the teacher, who is also an officer with the Tavares Police Department, observed a bulge in the student's front pocket and contacted a deputy. The teacher led authorities to the student, who was in the bus loop area, deputies said.

Deputies recovered a .25-caliber Raven semiautomatic firearm with six live rounds in the magazine that was inserted in the gun from the student's jacket pocket, the sheriff's office said. There was not a round loaded in the chamber, according to deputies.

The student was arrested and transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
Arrests Man, 62, on 1307 Counts
of Sexual Performance by a
Child in Computer Porn

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ralph Rife, 62, of 2639 Nassau Street, in Sarasota.

Ralph Rife

According to the arrest report, on September 26, 2007, a search warrant was executed at Rife's address in reference to a Sexual Battery case on a minor.

Rife was arrested on September 27, 2007, and charged with Molesting a Child Under 12. He has yet to go to trial on that charge. A court date is set for January 19, 2008.

In addition, During the execution of the search warrant, several of Rife's computer hard drives were collected as evidence on the sexual battery charge.

A forensic examination of the hard drives was conducted.

Out of five separate hard drives, 40,000 images were found. Of those images, detectives located 1307 photos of children engaged in sexual conduct, sexual battery and sadomachistic abuse.

Of the 1307 pornography photos, 37 of the images depiced female children involved in a sexual performance with another person or images depicting sadomasochistic abuse.

The remaining 937 images showed exploited children in various positions showing lewd exhibition of the genitals.

Rife was charged on December 5, 2008, with 37 counts of Sexual Performance by a Child, for which there is no bond. He was also charged with 937 counts of Sexual Performance of a Child, with a bond set at $937,000.

He remains in the Sarsota County Jail.

Man Arrested for Theft, Pawning
of Wheelchair, Remote Control
Car; Parents' Mercury Missing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Thomas Yost, 30, of 561 Montego Lane, in Ellenton.

Thomas Yost

The arrest report said Yost is the son of Eugena and Terrance Wilson, who live at the above address. Yost stays with them on and off.

On December 1st, Eugena and Terrance left to go out of town for 5 days. Eugena specifically told Thomas that he could not stay at the residence while they were gone and he could not use her 1995 Mercury.

When Eugena and Terrance returned home on December 5th, they discovered that the Mercury was missing, along with Eugena's electric wheelchair. In addition, Terrance was missing some remote controls cars from their shed.

Thomas was interviewed by the sheriff's office. He admitted that he took the '95 Mercury without permission on Dec. 3rd. On the same date he took one of his step-father's removed control cars and pawned the remote control car in Bradenton.

He also admitted to taking the wheelchair on Dec. 1st. Thomas said he pawned that at Value Pawn in Palmetto. He got $50 for that.

Thomas admitted he did not have permission to take the items and pawn them, the report said.

The combined value of the wheelchair and remote control car was $4,250.

There was no indication in the report if the Mercury was recovered.

Thomas Yost was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto and Grand Theft.

Young Woman Arrested for
Possession of Controlled
Substance, More

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Melissa Micochero, 20, of 104 65th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Melissa Micochero

According to the arrest report, a deputy observed Melissa blow off a stop sign at 44th Avenue East and 9th Street East and stopped her.

When asked for her driver license, Melissa said she never had one issued to her.

Melissa was then handcuffed and told she was under arrest.

Then, while another deputy began to search the vehicle, the first deputy asked the passenger if she had anything in her purse that he needed to know about.

At first, the young lady said there wasn't, but then asked to speak to the deputy one-on-one. She told the deputy she had some pills in her purse that Melissa had asked her to hold. Melissa said it was because she was going to jail.

The deputy retrieved the pills, which turned out to be 7 Xanax pills. There was also a baggie that contained 3.2 grams of marijuana. A marijuana sifter was found in the car.

Melissa said the pills were hers, but the marijuana and the sifter belonged to her boyfriend.

Melissa was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Driving with No Valid Driver License.

Bank Robbery in Manatee
By Man Riding Bicycle
Reported Monday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a bank robbery at Florida Central Credit Union, 4505 5th Street West, Bradenton. The incident occurred at about 9:45 a.m. on Monday, December 8, 2008.

The report said a White male entered the Florida Central Credit Union and approached a teller. He said he had a gun.

The man demanded money.

The teller gave the man an undisclosed amount of money and the man fled southbound on a bicycle in the parking lot and then northbound on 5th St. W.

A perimeter was activated, but the robber could not be located.

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.

Circle K Store Victim
of "Armed" Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the Circle K convenience store located at 30th Avenue and 14th Street West, Bradenton, was the victim of an "armed" robbery on Sunday, November 7, 2008, at about 8 p.m.

The clerk, Eric Nguyen, 43, who was alone in the store, told deputies a White male came into the store and brought a quart of beer to the checkout.

The clerk offered to give him a dollar to cover the cost of the beer when he advised he didn't have enough money.

Instead, he told the clerk to give him the money in the register.

When Nguyen asked if he was serious, the suspect patted his pocket and stated he had a gun.

Nguyen gave him $25-30 from the register and the suspect fled southbound on 14th St.

Nguyen was not injured and said that the gun was only implied, not seen.

A surveillance video camera captured the man's image, as well as the entire incident.

The robber was described as a White male, possibly Hispanic, 5'9" tall, 150 pounds, wearing a black jacket and shorts.

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 Food Bank Needs Food
for Meals on Wheels Plus

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Food Bank of Manatee is in need of the following items it collects for Meals on Wheels Plus:

Baby cereal, food and formula
Diapers
Pasta
Healthy cereals
Tuna and other canned meat and fish
Peanut butter
Rice
Canned soups and stews
Macaroni & Cheese
Dry and canned beans
Canned vegetables and fruits
100% fruit juice (cans, bottles, boxes)
Flour and sugar
Nutritious children snacks
Cash donations

Donations can also be brought to Meals and Wheels Plus, 811 23rd Ave. E., Bradenton.

For more information, call (941) 747-4655 or visit www.FoodBankOfManatee.org.

Serial Bank Robber Busted
by Sarasota Police Dept.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The man who police say is responsible for numerous recent bank robberies in Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough and Polk Counties has been arrested.

Edgar Eugene Stephenson

At approximately 2 p.m. on Monday, December 8, 2008, Sarasota Police Detective Riffe observed Edgar Eugene Stephenson, 53, of 2320 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, at a gas station located at Fruitville and Beneva Rd.

Det. Riffe exited his unmarked police car and was successful in making the arrest.

Stephenson was charged with 3 counts of bank robbery from incidents in Sarasota County.

Currently Mr. Stephenson is being interviewed by detectives from area law enforcement agencies. Charges from these agencies are expected to follow.

On Monday, December 8th, Sarasota Police were led to Stephenson through a probation officer who notified SPD that the man in a surveillance video from the Wachovia bank robbery on November 18, 2008, was Stephenson, who was actually on parole at the time in Sarasota County for Robbery.

Stephenson remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

Punta Gorda Police Search
for Home Burglar

PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- The Punta Gorda Police Department is currently searching for a suspect in a residential burglary that occurred Monday morning, December 8, 2008.

The suspect, described as a White male in his mid-20s to early 30s, approximately six feet tall and 180 pounds, with a shaved head, and wearing a “dingy” red sweater and blue jeans, broke into a home at 257 Chasteen Street through the front window at about 7:00 a.m.

The homeowner, who was asleep in the residence at the time, awoke to find the suspect in his bedroom.

The homeowner then confronted the suspect who then fled the home by exiting through the window from which he entered.

The suspect was last seen fleeing south on Chasteen Street.

Punta Gorda Police Officers, in conjunction with a canine unit from the Charlotte County’s Sheriff’s Office searched for the home invader, to no avail.

Anyone with information pertaining to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Punta Gorda Police Department at 639-4111.

Two Men Arrested in Death
of Leesburg Woman, Who
Was Their Neighbor

LEESBURG, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Two neighbors were arrested after Leesburg police discovered an 82-year-old woman dead in her home, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Carvin Robinson, 19, and Dennis Scott, 24, were arrested on charges of first-degree murder, armed robbery and burglary to an occupied dwelling in the death of Maxine Myers, who was found dead in her Crest Avenue home by Leesburg police at about 12:15 p.m. Sunday.

Police performed a welfare check after receiving a call from Myers' daughter -- who lives elsewhere -- after she was unable to contact her mother.

Robinson and Scott live on either side of Myers, who was a recent widow and had lived in the home for 49 years, WKMG News reported.

Robinson and Scott were booked into Lake County Jail.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff's Detective:
Woman, 39, Arrested for Sex Act
with Teenage Boy, 16 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On December 4, 2008, a woman with a family who is an OB-GYN nurse was arrested for having sexual intercourse with a 16-year-old boy, according to a report from Detective Jeffrey Bliss, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Jennifer Marie Thieringer

The arrest report said on Dec. 4th Jennifer Marie Thieringer, 39, of the 6000 block of 61st Street Court East, in Palmetto, contacted the sheriff's office and claimed she was raped by her 19-year-old neighbor.

While interviewing Thieringer, about the alleged crime, she made inconsistent statements, Det. Bliss said.

Det. Bliss then interviewed the alleged 19-year-old rapist on the same day and found a different story. The unnamed 19-year-old said he and Thieringer had sex multiple times since Thanksgiving Day.

The unnamed 16-year-old was interviewed that same day. He said on Friday, November 28th, between 8 and 10 p.m., he, his 19-year-old friend (Theiringer's neighbor) and Thieringer left her house in her van and went to a nearby cul-de-sac wihtin her neighborhood, at which time Thieringer had consensual sexual intercourse with the 19-year-old.

When they were done, the 16-year-old said Thieringer asked him if he wanted to have sex with her.

They then had sexual intercourse on the middle passenger seat of her van.

Det. Bliss returned to Thieringer's residence and asked her to step outside with patrol deputies so he could talk to her husband. The patrol deputies were instructed to arrest Thieringer while Det. Bliss had the family inside the house. Det. Bliss was trying to avoid Thieringer's children from witnessing the arrest.

When deputies arrested her, she became uncooperative and refused to place her hands behind her back.

Thieringer then began to struggle with the deputies and was given lawful commands to stop resisting arrest.

She grabbed a deputy's leg and scratched another deputy.

Thieringer refused to be placed in a patrol car and yelled for her children to come outside and help her.

The children then witnessed the incident and became very upset and were crying, Det. Bliss wrote in his report.

Thieringer smelled of alcohol and said she takes an anti-anxiety prescription.

She was arrested and charged with Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor and Resisting Arrest with Violence, according to the report. She has since posted a bail bond of $16,000.

Local Motorcyclist, 19 Years Old,
Dies from Injuries Sustained
in Crash Last Week

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 19-year-old motorcyclist involved in a crash on Wednesday, December 3, 2008, died the following day, Thursday, at 2:45 p.m. at Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg. The driver of the vehicle he collided with has now been charged in the death.

Adam J. Betancourt

NewsManatee reported last week that Adam J. Betancourt, 43, of Sarasota was northbound on U.S. 41 in the left turn lane in a 1999 Toyota on Wednesday, 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 McDonald's 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, where he later died.

Betancourt has been charged with DUI Manslaughter, DUI Serious Bodily Injury, two counts of DUI Property Damage, Driving on a Suspended License Causing Death, No Proof of Insurance and Illegal Left Turn.

He is being held in the Manatee County jail.

Man Robbed at Gunpoint;
Arrested After Reporting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was wanted on an arrest warrant reported he had been robbed at gunpoint Saturday morning, Dec. 6, 2008, shortly before 8 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Aaron Williams

Aaron Williams, 29, of 1680 55th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, was walking northbound on 15th Street East, counting his money, when an older model white 4-door Chrysler with 2 Black males inside pulled up next to him.

The driver told Aaron to give him the money. When Aaron refused to hand over the money, the driver produced a firearm and again said to give him the money.

Aaron handed over the cash along with a bracelet.

The vehicle with the robbers fled southbound on 15th Street East.

After making the report of the robbery, Aaron was arrested for a Violation of Probation arrest warrant out of Manatee County.

The robbers were only further described as having thin builds.

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 Helps Friend, Punches
Friend's Dad; Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Adam Wall, 24, of 4504 30th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Adam Wall

According to the arrest report, John Vail, 48, and his son got into a verbal altercation at the above location when Adam stepped in and began to yell at John.

Adam then punched John in the face with his fist one time, then fled the scene northbound on 30th Street East.

John was taken to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center by his wife to receive treatment for his injuries. He sustained facial fractures and internal bleeding. He was taken to Tampa General Hospital via Bayflite to in order to control the internal bleeding.

Adam was located and arrested without incident. He was charged with Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Elderly Woman Injured During
Purse Snatch Incident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An 82-year-old woman was injured when a White female grabbed the woman's purse after she went shopping for her church, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008, at about 11 a.m.

Belle Mathis, 82, had just left the Factory Card Outlet store, located at 845 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, after buying items for her church.

As she approached her vehicle, a White female grabbed Belle's purse and jumped into a white SUV.

As the purse snatcher started to drive away, Belle was still holding onto her purse. Belle fell to the ground and was dragged a short distance before she lost her grip on the purse.

Sheriff's deputies arrived within a minute of receiving the call.

The area was checked, however the purse snatcher was not located.

EMS responded and treated Belle for large cuts to her hands; however, she refused transport to the hospital.

The purse snatcher was described as a White female with blonde hair, wearing a pink sweater. She was driving a white SUV with a spare tire on the rear. The spare tire cover had "XLT" on it.

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

Juvenile Punched, Robbed;
Two Juvies Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two juveniles wound up being arrested after they punched and robbed a juvenile drinking buddy on Friday, Dec. 5, 2008, at about 10 p.m.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the victim, Dakota Bratcher, 12, was at the McDonald's at 4601 14th Street West when he met up with two juveniles.

They all left together and went into the alley behind the McDonald's.

The two other juveniles, later identified as Nicholas Roberts, 12, and Jason Pfolsgrof, 14, had two bottles of rum and they were all drinking when one of them punched Dakota in the stomach and the head while the other took twenty dollars out of Dakota's pocket.

They fled the area and Dakota called 911.

Deputies swarmed the area and the two assailants were located walking behind the Circuit City store at Cortez Plaza. They tried to run but were quickly detained and one of them had twenty dollars in his pocket. They also had the two bottles of rum in a backpack when they were apprehended.

A show-up was conducted and Dakota positively identified the assailants.

Parents of all juveniles were contacted.

The two juvenile robbers were taken to the operations center and interviewed by Violent Crimes Task Force detectives. Both admitted to robbing Dakota of the twenty dollars.

Dakota had some minor redness to his face, but did not suffer any other visible injuries.

During the interview, they confessed to burglarizing a trailer in the 1400 block 57th Avenue West, which is where they acquired the rum.

The owner of the trailer was notified and estimated that $1,000 worth of damage was done to the inside of the trailer.

The two juvies were arrested and transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility, charged with Robbery.

Two Hispanic Males Victims
of Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, Dec. 5, 2008, at about 7:30 p.m., two Hispanic men were victims of armed robbers, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victims, Juan Benegas, 31, and Jesus Villa, 32, both of Myakka City, had been drinking in Antojito's Restaurant and afterwards were out in the parking lot eating at a Taco truck.

As they tell it through an interpreter, one of Antojito's security persons approached and told them that since they didn't have driver licenses, they couldn't leave the parking lot.

A "volunteer" showed up to drive them home in their vehicle and they accepted.

After going across Cortez Rd., the "volunteer" driver pulled over behind the Blue Dolphin car wash in the 500 block of Cortez Road, and a truck with two more Hispanic males pulled up and pulled Jesus and Juan out of their truck.

Jesus was robbed at knifepoint of $300, and Juan was threatened with a baseball bat and had $160 taken.

The two suspects and the "volunteer" then fled in their own vehicle.

Neither victim was injured.

Even though the incident occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m., the victims were afraid to call the sheriff's office until 3:30 a.m., due to their intoxication level.

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.

World One Realty Steps Up
to Donate Pet Food During
These Troubled Times

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- In these troubled economic times, Kathy Kloth, owner of World One Realty, of Bradenton, is helping families with pets by donating pet food.

Above, World One Realty's dog food donation
(Photo courtesy Kathy Kloth)

"We are donating dog food to Honor Sanctuary so that families may keep their animals in this time of great economic stress," Kathy Kloth told NewsManatee.

Kloth's recent donation ought to feed 5 good-sized dogs for a month.

"I am so excited!" Kloth said "Even though things are tough for everyone, I could not imagine having to give up my dogs because I had to choose between food for myself or food for them."

The Honor Sanctuary is grateful for Kloth's donation. "We are thrilled to get the food and will ensure it gets to needy pet owners and the foster families who need it," they told Kathy.

Donors can drop pet food off at Honor Sanctuary Adoption Center, 8459 Cooper Creek Blvd., in the Cooper Creek Shopping Center, just west of I-75 on University Parkway. They can also call 302-0933 for any help or directions.

Pet food donations for Honor Sanctuary can also be brought to Meals and Wheels Plus, 811 23rd Avenue East, Bradenton. For hours, you may call 747-4655.

For more information, you can e-mail Honor Sanctuary at info@HonorSanctuary.org, or log on to their website, www.HonorSanctuary.org/.

As if the dog food donation wasn't enough, World One Realty is also sponsoring a family of four for Christmas.

World One Realty is a long-time supporter of NewsManatee's. You can see their ad on this page.

[Ed. Note: Our hat's off to Kathy Kloth...!!]

SPD: Dump Truck, Car Collided;
One Passenger in Serious Condition

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Lt. William Spitler, of the Sarasota Police Department reported on Friday, Dec. 5, 2008, at approximately 10:45 a.m., there was a serious injury crash at the intersection of State Road 780 (Fruitville Road) and Tuttle Avenue.

Preliminary investigations indicated that a 4-door Lincoln was northbound on Tuttle Avenue and made an abrupt left turn in front of a southbound Chevy dump truck.

The dump truck impacted the passenger side of the Lincoln.

There were four occupants in the Lincoln. Two were transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital and are reported to be in stable condition. One occupant was flown to Bayfront Medical Center for serious injury.

The victims were not named in the SPD report.

Both drivers were not injured.

The driver of the truck was identified as James T. Snyder, 2500 Hyde Park Street, of Sarasota.

The driver of the Lincoln was Rochelle Fregnan, 5800 Ferrara Drive, also of Sarasota.

UPDATE: Man Arrested in Rape
of Woman, 70, Faces Attempted
Murder Charge, More

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man was arrested Thursday on several charges, including attempted murder, in the rape and brutal beating of a 70-year-old woman, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Robert Acosta
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Robert Acosta, 28, was arrested on charges of burglary of a dwelling with assault or battery, battery on a person 65 years of age or older, sexual battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.

According to Orange County sheriff's detectives, Acosta broke into the woman's home, located near the intersection of Michigan Street and Bumby Avenue, at about 3:15 a.m. Thursday and beat and raped her.

Acosta was seen at the crime scene throughout the morning but refused to answer questions from WKMG News reporter J.R. Stone. Acosta, who is friends with victim's daughter, was located later in the victim's daughter's house, which is located a few houses away, and he was questioned, WKMG News reported. Acosta also worked for the victim's daughter as a handyman, according WKMG News.

Investigators said they found Acosta's fingerprints in the victim's bedroom, and he was captured on surveillance cameras at a nearby business shortly after the attack.

The victim remains in stable condition at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

Christmas in Bradenton:
Santa, Snow Come To
G.T. Bray Park

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Several hundred children and their parents were treated to a visit by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus and even a snowfall at the 7th annual "A Night Before Christmas" on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008. The event was held between 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Above, Children and parents at G.T. Bray Park for
Dec. 6th "A Night Before Christmas" celebration
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Santa & his Mrs. arrived courtesy of a Manatee County Sheriff's Office helicopter, hopped onto a golf cart and went off to meet the children of Bradenton to find out who has been naughty and who has been nice. Santa posed for photos and the line was huge. Nate Palmer, 7, of Bradenton, was excited to meet Santa again this year and to thank him for the Nintendo Wii he got for Christmas last year...exactly what he wanted, he told Santa. This year he wouldn't tell NewsManatee reporter Heather Chadwick what he wanted, just in case he doesn't get it; he confessed to Heather that he has been a bit naughty this year.

Above, Ava and Joshua Small, Jr., meet Santa;
they are the children of BPD Officer Joshua Small.
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Saturday's event was the second visit for Eric & Linda Roberts and their 4 children who told NewsManatee, "You couldn't beat it; last year was good but this year is even better and we'll will certainly be back next year."

An unusual event occurred in Manatee County -- an unexpected heavy snowfall had park employees shoveling the show. Could this possibly be related to Santa visiting the park?

Above, a light snow falls in Manatee County
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

There was all kinds of food from Papa Johns, Cold Stone Creamery, and a church group; there were also the usual hot dogs and other goodies.

There was free cookie decorating, the usual bouncing devices for kids, kids could play in a mound of snow, and there was face painting and hay rides.

Manatee County Sheriff's Chopper Co-pilot Deputy McCabe lets
Tanner Stephens of Bradenton try on his helmet with night vision.

Needless to say, the children were thrilled with the event.

[Ed. Note: We believe our reporter and photographer, Heather Chadwick, got a kick out of seeing Santa, too....]

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

(Click on the logos to go to their website)

NewsManatee Archive Created 12/13/2008 2:00:06 PM

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