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Sheriff, West Manatee Fire:
Wood Frame House Blaze
Kills One, Injures Another

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A house fire at 604 36th Street West, in Bradenton, has taken the life of a woman and injured the homeowner, according to reports from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and West Manatee Fire Rescue.

Above, 604 36th Street West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The blaze occurred at about 12:20 a.m., a sheriff's report said.

Deputies responded to the location to assist West Manatee Fire with the house fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters discovered the residence was fully involved.

The blaze was extinguished by about 1:15 a.m.

A fire crew had made entry to fight the blaze but was forced back by a flashover and had to exit the residence.

However, before exiting they observed a body in the rear bedroom. It was that of a 54-year-old woman who was the girlfriend of the homeowner, Thomas Dykstra, 53. The victim has been identified as Virginia Butera.

A canvas of the area discovered Dykstra and his 17-year-old daughter had gotten out of the home as it was on fire.

Dykstra was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for minor burn injuries and smoke inhalation; his daughter was not injured. As of Thursday afternoon, Dykstra was in fair condition, a hospital spokesperson said.

Local and State Fire authorities were contacted and were continuing the investigation on Thursday.

It is believed one of two electrical heaters is to blame for the fire, but certainty about that has not yet been confirmed.

West Manatee Fire Rescue Chief Andy Price said the investigation will be continuing. He didn't know if the home had working smoke detectors.

The house was a total loss, Chief Price told NewsManatee.

Burglary Suspect Caught
By Sheriff's K-9 Unit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, Feb. 5, 2009, at about 11:30 a.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested Phillip J. Edward, 23, following a burglary in the Whitfield area of Manatee County.

Above, L to R, Deputy K-9 Ranger and Phillip J. Edward
(Mug shot of Edward courtesy Dept. of Corrections)

According to the arrest report, Dep. Kiernan was responding to a burglary alarm at 6912 Alderwood Drive, near Whitfield Avenue. While en route, Dep. Kiernan saw the described suspect walking north on Waverly Street, just a few blocks from the alarm call.

The man was wearing a back pack and carrying a black garbage bag with what appeared to be a rifle sticking out of the top.

Dep. Kiernan exited his vehicle and ordered the man to stop, but the man fled.

Dep. Kiernan called for backup, a perimeter was set up and Dep. Franklin responded with his Dep. K-9, "Ranger."

Dep. Franklin and "Ranger" tracked the man to a shed in the back yard of 8113 Wee Burn, where he was hiding. He was then apprehended.

When the man took flight, he dumped the bag he was carrying and stuffed the back pack into a garbage can. Both were recovered and found to be containing firearms, which were taken in the burglary.

Phillip J. Edward was charged with two counts of Armed Burglary to a Dwelling, Resisting Arrest without Violence and Possession of Burglary Tools.

Edward has spent time in a Florida prison for Robbery and was released in 2007. He was on probation until 2011.

Woman Arrested for Arson
to a PT Cruiser; Accused
of Defrauding Insurer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An arson investigator with the State Fire Marshal's Office has arrested Terri Tamera Temille Wilson-Nein, 43, of 7218 Gulf Highland Drive, in Port Richey, Florida, for arson to a 2004 PT Cruiser in Manatee County.

Terri Tamera Temille Wilson-Nein

According to the arrest report, on Sept. 17, 2009, at about 11:35 p.m., a 2004 PT Cruiser was found fully involved by firefighters at 1902 59th Street West, in Bradenton.

After the fire was extinguished, West Manatee Fire Rescue Dep. Fire Marshal Kurt Lathrop brought his arson K-9 to the scene. The dog alerted on an accelerant.

Samples of the area around where the dog alerted were sent to the State Fire Marshal's crime laboratory. They came back positive for gasoline.

On Feb. 4, 2009, the investigator and another detective from the State Fire Marshal's Office interviewed Terri Wilson-Nein.

The woman admitted to pouring gasoline all over the interior of the vehicle and igniting it.

Wilson-Nein was charged with Arson, Making a False Affidavit to Defraud an Insurer, and Burning to Defraud the Insurer.

The total damage to the burned-out vehicle was placed at $14,000.

Burglary Crime Trend Noted
in Harborage Subdivision

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A total of five houses have been burglarized in the Harborage subdivision on the Braden River in East Manatee County, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The burglaries occurred over the past three days.

Between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009, three houses on Whitehead Street were burglarized, or were attempted to be burglarized.

The suspect(s) entered or attempted to enter through the rear of all three residences.

Two other residences were burglarized in the same subdivision Monday, Feb. 2, 2009, the report said.

University Parkway Road Closure
Announced by FDOT, County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Public Works has announced an FDOT project will close a portion of University Parkway for an overhead truss sign installation.

The closure will be in effect from Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, at 8 p.m., until Monday, Feb. 9, 2009, at 5 a.m.

The closure will be on the portion of University Parkway that runs from I-75 to Cooper Creek Blvd.

If you have any questions, call Manatee County Public Works at (941) 359-7333.

Sarasota Attorney Pleads Guilty
in $82.8M Mortgage Loan Fraud

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009, United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton announced that defendant John A. Yanchek, 49, a resident of Sarasota, Florida, and a practicing attorney licensed by the State of Florida, pleaded guilty before Magistrate Judge Thomas B. McCoun III to three counts of a 47-count Indictment charging four individuals with conspiracy, making false statements in connection with bank loans, scheming to defraud several FDIC - insured banks, and money laundering.

Yanchek pleaded guilty to Count One, which charged him with conspiracy. The maximum penalty on that count is five years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Yanchek also pleaded guilty to Count Four, which charged him with making false statements to a federally-insured bank in connection with a commercial loan. The maximum penalty on that count is 30 years’ imprisonment and a $1 million fine. Finally, Yanchek pleaded guilty to Count 36, which charged him with money laundering. The maximum penalty on that count is 10 years’ imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

According to the plea agreement, Yanchek entered into a conspiracy to make false statements to federally-insured banks in connection with applications for commercial loans to fund the purchase of vacant land in the Sarasota/Manatee area for development.

The object of the conspiracy was to obtain a loan from a bank in an amount that was sufficient to allow the conspirators to purchase the property without contributing any equity of their own and to receive excess loan proceeds for their personal use and benefit. To influence the lending decision of the various banks, Yanchek, acting in his legal capacity as the closing attorney, made false statements regarding the financial resources of the borrower, the amount and source of equity contributed by the borrower, compliance with the seller's obligation to provide marketable title to the property, and distribution of the loan proceeds.

The total face amount of the commercial loans fraudulently obtained from seven banks was $82.7 million.

Co-defendant Michael A. Tringali pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge on November 3, 2008. Tringali is awaiting sentencing.

This investigation was conducted jointly by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Terry A. Zitek.

Tampa Bay Area Blood Banks
Face Critical Shortage

ST. PETERSBURG, Florida [NMT/WFTS] -- Tampa Bay is facing a critical blood shortage, Florida Blood Services reported yesterday, according to Tampa television station WFTS (ABC Action News).

According to a statement from the blood supplier, "Last week, we delivered 4,744 units of blood to our area hospitals, with only 4,174 units being donated during the same period."

JB Gaskins, FBS Vice President said, "The flu and cold season coupled with layoffs at blood drive sponsors has made less donors available to give blood, while at the same time, the increase in our seasonal population as well as the crowds here for the Super Bowl have multiplied demand."

The critical need is for type O or A negative blood, WFTS said.

Deputies: Mom Caught Man
Molesting Girls, 9 and 12

LEESBURG, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 50-year-old Leesburg man was arrested Wednesday after a woman said she caught him molesting her two daughters, ages 9 and 12, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Michael Stevens was charged with battery and child abuse.

The girls told Lake County sheriff's deputies that Stevens molested them several times.

Stevens, an acquaintance of the girls' mother, was denied bond, WKMG reported.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man, Juvie Arrested for Sales
of Drugs to Undercover
Sheriff's Deputy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two people, a man and a juvenile, were taken into custody Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, at about 8 p.m. after they sold 34 Roxicodone pills and two pounds of marijuana to an undercover deputy. The arrested men were Nicholas Dean Gill and Alexander Noah Marcum.

Above, L to R, Alexander Noah Marcum and Nicholas Dean Gill

A narrative of the transaction said on the above date, Nicholas Gill set up the drug sale with the undercover detective.

The price for the pills was originally $10 each, but Gill later changed that to $15 each. The price for the marijuana was originally $1,250 per pound, but Gill also changed that price to $1,275 per pound.

The detective agreed to the prices and they agreed to meet at 5305 Cortez Road West at about 8 p.m.

Gill showed up with the Roxicodone tablets and Alexander Marcum drove up a few minutes later with the marijuana.

Upon seeing the drugs, the undercover deputy gave the takedown signal and a team of deputies moved in and arrested Gill and Marcum.

Marcum 21, of 2805 60th Street East, Palmetto, was transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Gill, 16, of the 3600 block of 61st Street West, Bradenton, was initially transported to Manatee Glens mental health facility because "he advised he wanted to kill himself." Gill has since been released from Manatee Glens.

Marcum was charged with Sale of Marijuana. Gill was charged with Sale of Roxicodone and transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility.

Marcum has since bonded out of jail on a $5,000 bail bond.

Gill remains at the Juvenile Detention Center.

Woman Attempts Bank Robbery;
Tellers Thwart Effort; Woman
Goes to Another Bank, Robs It

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A woman tried to rob the M&I Bank, 5503 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009, at about 12:30 p.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office report.

Above, L to R, the woman who robbed the Fifth Third Bank on January 30th
and the woman who robbed the Fifth Third Bank on February 4th

The report said a White female walked up to a teller counter and presented a note to the clerk.

At about the same time the other clerks walked up because they thought the White female was suspicious and told her to remove the hat and sunglasses.

The would-be female robber grabbed the note and walked out the door without any money.

She was spotted walking westbound on Manatee Avenue West at 59th Street West.

About 20 minutes later, Bradenton Police responded to a confirmed bank robbery in the 6500 block of Cortez Road West.

Bradenton police officers responded to a reported bank robbery at Fifth Third Bank, 6650 Cortez Road.

Investigation revealed that a female suspect entered the bank, approached a teller and demanded money. She implied that she had a gun; however, none was shown. She fled the bank after receiving an undisclosed amount of money.

She then ran to the Leroy Selman’s restaurant parking lot where the getaway car was waiting. She was seen entering the car which is described as a four-door sedan, painted metallic light brown or gold. The sedan is possibly an older model Buick LeSabre. A large (heavy set) white male with dark hair was driving the vehicle. Another male and a child passenger were also seen inside the car as it fled east from the area.

Officers and detectives arrived within minutes and conducted an extensive search for the suspect with negative results.

The woman is thought to be the same one who robbed a Fifth Third Bank branch last week.

NewsManatee earlier reported the Bradenton Police Department said on January 30, 2009,at 12:02 p.m., Bradenton police officers responded to a reported bank robbery at Fifth Third Bank, 6601 Manatee Avenue West. The surveillance photo of that person is seen above.

In today's incident on Manatee Avenue West, the woman was described by the sheriff's office as a White female, 5'6" tall, blond hair, freckles or blemishes on face, last seen wearing large black sunglasses, a large red hat, and a purple scarf.

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

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

Same Day Second Bank Robbery;
This One By Man in East Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A second bank was robbed on Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2009, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; this one was robbed by a man.

The report said on this date at 2:56 p.m., the sheriff's office was dispatched to the RBC Centura Bank, 7366 52nd Place East, Bradenton, in reference to robbery.

The witnesses state that a White male entered the bank and approached a teller. He held up a note demanding money.

The suspect took an undisclosed amount of cash and fled the bank.

The robber is described as a White male, 6'0" tall, slim build, last seen wearing a cap, thick glasses, a gray sweat shirt and jeans.

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

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

Woman Arrested on Warrant
for Severe Animal Cruelty

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Flora Killings, 59, of 616 30th Street East, Palmetto.

Flora Killings

According to an affidavit attached to the warrant for Killings' arrest, Killings deprived 3 dogs of water, food and shelter and caused one dog to be so severely wounded that he had to be put down.

The dog that was put down had a cable tied around its neck. The cable had cut into the dog's skin around its neck and continued to cut into the neck until the cable had cut into the raw flesh of the dog's neck.

When the Animal Services Officer removed the dogs from Killings' house, he took them to the veterinarian, Dr. Fleck.

The dog that had the cut neck from the cable had "a condition so severe that the dog had to be put to sleep."

Killings was arrested on Tuesday, Feb. 3rd, 2009, and charged with Animal Cruelty.

She has since bonded out of jail.

Holmes Beach PD Arrests
Man for Robbery

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- Holmes Beach Police Officer Michael Leonard has arrested Roger Dale Ross, Jr., 29, of 4435 125th Street West, Cortez, Florida.

Roger Dale Ross, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, at about 5:20 p.m., Ross pushed a woman in the 7500 block of Palm Drive, Holmes Beach, and stole $65 from the woman.

Ross then fled the scene.

The HBPD Officer caught up to Ross about 40 minutes later and arrested Ross on a charge of Robbery.

Ross remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,500.

Woman Busted for No DL After
Rear-Ending Deputy's Cruiser

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Dolores Ramirez-Presa, 34, of the 6200 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton.

Dolores Ramirez-Presa

Dep. Krystal Carpenter was preparing to turn into the parking lot at 815 8th Avenue West, Palmetto, when she felt her patrol car getting slightly hit from behind and observed the driver not stopping.

Dep. Carpenter initiated a traffic stop a block from the incident scene, where it was learned that Dolorez Ramirez-Presa did not have a valid drivers license.

Neither vehicle received any damage nor were there any injuries to either party.

Dep. Carpenter arrested Ramirez-Presa for No Valid Driver License and cited her for following too closely.

The incident occurred on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, at about 1:45 p.m.

White Male Steals $5,000
from Couple at Gunpoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m. at a residence in the 1100 block of 36th Avenue West.

The report said the victims, Gordon Roberts, Jr., 25, and Teaya Perez, 25, of the 900 block of 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, arrived at their friend’s house after cashing a tax check for $6000. They had approximately $5000 left when they arrived.

The resident of the home went into the bathroom and began playing his stereo loud.

While he was in the bathroom, a White male into the residence through the unlocked front door; he was armed with a small handgun.

He forced the victims to the floor and demanded the money. He got $5000 and fled out the front door.

The victims claimed he knew they had just cashed their check.

The victim’s car was out front with the keys in it; the robber also tried to take the car, but it wouldn’t start.

Neither of the victims were injured.

The resident of the home stated he did not see or hear anything.

K-9, VCTF and patrol units responded to the scene. The K-9 team attempted a track, but they were unsuccessful.

The invader was described as a White male, 6'1" tall, 160 pounds, unshaven, last seen wearing a red sweat shirt with a black mask.

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

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

Sarasota County Sheriff Restarts
Graffiti Eradication Program

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, in a continuing effort to enhance the quality of the community, established a Graffiti Eradication Program in 2000. The program was eliminated in 2008 due to budget constraints. Sheriff Knight is pleased to announce the reintroduction of the program, effective February 5, 2009.

Sheriff Knight has decided to have jail inmates that are sentenced to community service do the work. The materials used in cleaning and painting over the graffiti are given to the Sheriff’s Office by the County’s recycling department.

Sheriff Knight noted: “Graffiti is not only a crime, it is a detriment to our quality of life here in Sarasota County. Using jail inmates to remove it is an innovative yet cost effective way to fight this problem that does not add to the burden of our taxpayers.”

Graffiti can be reported online at www.sarasotasheriff.org. A brochure detailing the program is also available at the same web address.

Murdered Girl's Grandfather
Released from Hospital
After Suicide Scare

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- George Anthony, the father of Casey Anthony, was released from a hospital Tuesday night, more than a week after threatening to commit suicide, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

George Anthony returned home after spending 11 days at Halifax Medical Center in Daytona Beach. He was found by authorities in a Daytona Beach motel after sending text messages to family members in which he threatened to commit suicide.

He had consumed sleeping pills, and a 12-pack carton of beer was found in the room, WKMG News reported.

Casey Anthony, 22, remains jailed on first-degree murder charges in the death of her daughter, Caylee, whose remains were found in December in a wooded area near George Anthony's home. Casey Anthony and Caylee lived at the home with George Anthony and his wife, Cindy Anthony.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff:
Man Exposed Himself At
Braden River School

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man they say exposed himself to a teacher at Braden River Elementary School.

Antonio Berrios

At approximately 2:00 p.m. Monday afternoon, Jan. 2, 2009, deputies responded to a report of a man exposing himself at Braden River Elementary School at 10902 River Club Blvd., Bradenton.

When deputies arrived, they arrested Antonio Berrios, 81, of 6222 Rosefinch Ct., Bradenton, and charged him with Attempted Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition and Trespassing on School Property.

According to witnesses, a teacher saw Berrios outside of her classroom and when she approached him, he was exposing himself. Berrios then took off on his bicycle but was located on the other side of the school and detained until deputies arrived.

The students apparently didn’t witness the incident.

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

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

Deputies Arrest Man Who Threw
Urine, Eggs, Water at Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested James Edward Farrell, 49, of 5340 22nd Street East, Bradenton.

James Edward Farrell

According to an arrest report, on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at about 2:30 a.m., James threw a cup of urine on his "domestic partner," Ms. Dees, along with hitting her with about 1/2 dozen eggs and several gallons of water.

He then squirted her with charcoal lighter fluid and held up a burning wad of paper near her, verbally threatening to light her on fire.

Farrell was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Assault and Domestic Battery.

He has since bonded out of jail.

Man Arrested for Punching
His Pregnant Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Jose L. Zerrano, 20, of the 2800 block of Tulane Avenue, Bradenton, has been arrested by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies.

Jose L. Zerrano

Zerrano's arrest report said on Monday, Jan. 2, 2009, at about 3:45 p.m., Zerrano was having a verbal argument with his girlfriend, Shimara Gary.

At one point, Jose punched Shimara in the stomach.

The sheriff's office was called.

Arriving deputies said they couldn't observe any injuries to Shimara because she was being transported at the time to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

However, they did determine that Jose knew Shimara was 3 months pregnant with his child.

Jose was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery. Deputies say because Jose knew Shimara was pregnant, it increased the severity of the charge.

Bradenton Police Arrest
Three Youths for Burglary
Following a Traffic Stop

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested three youths. They are: Kenton Purvis, 18, Jeff Elias, 16, and Kwame Henri, 17.

Above, L to R, Kenton Purvis, Jeff Elias and Kwame Henri

According to the arrest reports, on Friday, Jan. 31, 2009, at about 3 a.m., a vehicle driven by Purvis was pulled over by police for no tag light.

Officers smelled the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. Upon searching the vehicle, they discovered a small amount of marijuana and arrested Purvis for Possession of Marijuana.

Also during the search of the vehicle, officers found various electronic items in the car, such as cameras, a computer, a printer, etc.

While Purvis's arrest was underway, officers heard dispatch send an officer to a residential burglary in the area.

The property stolen in the burglary matched property that was inside Purvis's vehicle.

Upon further investigation, Purvis and his two passengers, Elias and Henri, were placed at the scene of the burglary and in possession of stolen property.

All three were arrested and charged with Burglary.

Woman, Man Serious, Critical
Following Traffic Accident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Sarasota woman is in critical condition and the driver of the car she was a passenger in is in serious condition following a traffic crash Monday, Jan. 2, 2009, at about 10:20 a.m. at U.S. 41 and 60th Avenue East, according to a report from the Florida Highway Patrol.

FHP said a vehicle driven by Sandi Burnett, 38, of 911 67th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, was traveling southbound on U.S. 41, approaching the intersection of 60th Avenue East.

A vehicle driven by Michele Saulle, 64, of 3703 72nd Avenue East, Bradenton, was stopped facing north within the intersection.

According to witnesses, Ms. Burnett ran the red traffic light as Ms. Saulle was attempting to make a left turn onto 60th Avenue East.

The front of Burnett's vehicle struck the right side of Saulle's vehicle.

Both vehicles rotated and came to rest.

Ms. Burnett suffered minor injuries, FHP said.

Ms. Saulle, 64, suffered serious injuries and her son, Vincenzo Saulle, 24, suffered critical injuries. They were both flown to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg by Bayflite medical chopper.

Ms. Burnett was cited for Disregarding a Traffic Signal.

Local Realtor Says "Chin Up"
to First Time Home Buyers

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A longtime NewsManatee supporter, Kathy Kloth, of WorldOne Realty, LLC, is offering up some information that could bring hope to first time homebuyers.

Above, Kathy Kloth

"Over the past year or so, I found it heartbreaking to hear from former clients who felt they needed to sell their home because of job loss or illness. My husband still teases me about my being bad for business since I would suggest they speak to their lender and work out a payment plan so they may keep their home. Fortunately, none of these clients have had to sell or lose their home to foreclosure.

Given the current economy and down real estate market, there is also a positive side of real estate...first time homebuyers...and their time to buy is now.

I have often had the privilege of working with first-time homebuyers. There is no bigger sense of personal satisfaction than to see their eyes well up with tears when the keys are handed to them at closing.

A large number of my buyer prospects in the past have been heartbroken when they discovered they could not find a home within their approved price range. Affordable housing has been a challenge for years. We all know real estate has been priced so incredibly high in the recent past. All these buyers wanted was their piece of the American dream.

Realizing many are disappointed in the falling prices of properties, I have no choice but to find something positive in the economic times we are are currently facing. I am now able to provide opportunities to buyers who could not find a house in their price range in the past. I have been fortunate enough to help young families purchase a home that is less than their current rent.

There are grant programs available for first time homebuyers which open the door even further. I am working with several first time homebuyers right now. It is heartwarming to see their enthusiasm. This is what keeps me going in real estate.

For those of you who have a hard time being positive about the housing market, it will take time. The first time homebuyers now will be making a great investment for their future."

[Ed. Note: For more information, logon to www.worldonefl.com/ ]

Police: Man Exposed Self To
Undercover Officer At Park

PALM BAY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man was arrested on suspicion of exposing himself to and propositioning an undercover officer at a Palm Bay park, the second similar incident at the park in a week, police said.

Edwin Ashbeck, 68, was arrested on charges of lewd and indecent exposure.

According to Palm Bay police, an officer on Friday was undercover at Castaways Pointe Park, located at 2990 Bay Blvd. just off of U.S. Highway 1, when he was approached by a man who exposed himself and propositioned the officer for sexual favors.

"These individuals need to realize we will be maintaining constant surveillance in this area," Palm Bay police Sgt. Mario Augello said. "This type of activity will not be tolerated in our local parks or any other public place."

On Jan. 23, two people were arrested on suspicion of the same type of activity at the park and at a location nearby, WKMG reported police said.

Sarasota Man, One Other
Get Prison for Unlawful
Sale of a Machine Gun

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, United States District Judge Susan C. Bucklew sentenced Harold Gunn, 30, of Camden, Michigan, to 24 months’ imprisonment and Christopher Goebel, 26, of Sarasota, Florida, to 21 months’ imprisonment for the unlawful transfer of a machine gun. Both defendants had pleaded guilty on November 5, 2008.

According to court documents, an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) met with Gunn and Goebel on January 28, 2008, in Sarasota, Florida, and negotiated the sale of a converted, fully automatic Norinco SKS assault rifle to the agent for a sum of $1,500, along with 30 rounds of ammunition for the gun. The defendants admitted to the agent that Goebel had converted the firearm into a fully automatic machine gun. They also discussed future sales of firearms.

Neither Gunn nor Goebel had the required federal license to possess or transfer a machine gun lawfully under the federal firearms law, and they were arrested at the conclusion of the transaction.

This is another case prosecuted as a part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” program - a nationwide gun violence reduction initiative supported by ATF.

United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton, along with Virginia O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Tampa Field Division, is coordinating the Project Safe Neighborhoods effort here in the Middle District of Florida, in cooperation with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

The program aims to reduce violent crime by locating and seizing unlawfully possessed guns and then swiftly prosecuting the offenders.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Two Charged with Murder
in Weekend Armed Home
Invasion Shooting That
Left a Woman Dead

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has issued a supplementary press release regarding the armed home invasion that took place on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, at about 5:45 a.m. during which a woman was killed.

Above, 919 25th Street East, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The press release said Bradenton Police Officers responded to a call of neighbors hearing gunshots at the residence of 919 25th Street East, Bradenton, Florida. Arriving officers found three people with gunshot wounds. It was determined that an armed home invasion had taken place.

Investigation revealed that the suspects, later identified as Taheem L. Blake, 17, and Marquis D. Sanders, 18, both of Palmetto, Florida, had forced their way into the residence; each was armed with a firearm.

Further investigation revealed that once inside the residence, Taheem Blake shot and killed Ms. Maria Lerma, 55 years old. He then shot Mr. Carlos Rodriguez, 27, who suffered a non life-threatening gunshot wound and was later treated and released from a local hospital.

Ms. Lerma was a resident of the home as is Mr. Rodriguez.

As the crime was taking place, another resident shot the suspect identified as Taheem Blake. Taheem Blake remains hospitalized, and under arrest.

Marquis Sanders was arrested by detectives on Monday, Feb. 2, 2009.

Robbery was the motive for the crime.

Taheem L. Blake and Marquis Sanders are charged with Murder. Other charges are pending against the two as detectives complete their investigation.

The two boys were star football players on the Palmetto High School team, according to one NewsManatee source.

This is the 4th murder so far this year in Manatee County overall; this one was in the City of Bradenton. Counting 3 murders in the County and 1 in the City of Bradenton, the total would be 4. There were 3 murders in January and one so far in Februrary.

Anyone having information with regards to this incident is asked to call Bradenton Police Detective Kevin Bunch or Detective James Curulla at 941-932-9380, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000, call Crime Stoppers (toll free) at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Abandoned Bar Engulfed in Flames;
Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue Says
"Possibly Caused by Transients"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue responded to a reported commercial structure fire at 3700 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, the rear of the building at 3700 14th Street West
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

The first company of firefighters arrived within 2 minutes and found a vacant building that once was a bar approximately 25% involved.

The total response involved 3 fire engines and Battalion Chief Mike DeChelbor, for a total of 12 fire department personnel.

Crews were able to extinguish the fire in short order and remained on scene for several hours to assist with complete control and overhaul of the fire.

The fire was investigated by Cedar Hammock Fire Investigators. Deputy Fire Marshal Kurt Lathrop from West Manatee Fire Rescue assisted in the investigation with the use of his arson K-9. The State Fire Marshal's Office was also called in, due to the suspicious nature of the fire.

According to Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue, a bystander provided information that transients had been using the building for shelter and might have caused the fire, either accidentally or intentionally.

The cause of the blaze was labeled as "undetermined," but suspicious.

Damages were estimated at $20,000.

There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians, Cedar Hammock Battalion Chief DeChelbor said.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue at (941) 751-7090, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Two Hispanic Men Arrested
After Attacking Two Other
Men, Multiple Vehicles

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, two men, Albert Poynter and his friend Shawn Murphy, were in a carport in the 700 block of 59th Avenue Terrace West, Bradenton, watching TV when they noticed a van parked in front of their driveway. What followed was a melee between Poynter and Murphy and two Hispanic men, Jose Elias-Garcia, 26, and Nelson G. Cruz, 30, according to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, L to R, Jose Elias-Garcia and Nelson G. Cruz

The report said Poynter and Murphy approached the van and asked the occupants, later identified as Jose and Nelson, to move the van. That was shortly after midnight.

The occupants refused and instead came at Murphy with a carpenter's level. One of the occupants attempted to strike Murphy with the level, but missed.

Poynter and Murphy then obtained weapons and the two Hispanic men got into the van as Poynter struck the rear window, breaking it. The van took off.

Then, at about 3:30 a.m., Jose and Nelson returned to the residence in a green Dodge Durango. They began taunting Poynter and Murphy in an attempt to fight them.

Poynter feared for his safety and broke out the rear drive's side window of the Durango. The Durango then stopped and Jose and Nelson exited the vehicle. Jose was armed with a sword and Nelson was armed with a baseball bat.

Jose and Nelson began breaking the windows out of Poynter's vehicle, as well as three vehicles belonging to a woman.

During this, Poynter attempted to stop the two and Jose struck Poynter in the left side of the neck with the sword, but Poynter sustained no injuries.

Deputies were called by someone and when they arrived, Poynter was chasing Jose and Nelson.

The parties were separated and Jose and Nelson were placed under arrest. The weapons were recovered.

Total damages to the vehicles were estimated at $2,200.

Both Jose Elias-Garcia and Nelson G. Cruz were charged with Aggravated Battery and Criminal Mischief.

Bradenton Police Arrest
Young Man for Charging
Another with a Knife

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Michael C. Hai, 23, of 1032 7th Street West, Bradenton.

Michael C. Hai

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at about 11:45 a.m., Hai allegedly charged onto an unnamed victim's property in the 1500 block of 8th Avenue West, Bradenton, and chased the victim with a knife.

The victim told police Hai was walking down the street on the other side of the road from the victim's residence, and started an argument with the victim over an incident which tool place between the victim and a mutual friend.

Then Hai allegedly pulled a knife from his pocket, crossed the street and charged the victim with the knife open, which he admitted to police.

Hai told police the victim threatened to get a shotgun; the victim denied that.

A witness told police that Hai started the altercation and charged the victim with the knife.

Hai was arrested at the scene and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Teenager Arrested for Theft
of Tricycle from Samoset
Elementary School

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Gordon W. Merritt, 18, of 1915 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Gordon W. Merritt

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m., Merritt drove a red SUV onto property belonging to Samoset Elementary School, 3300 19th Street East, Bradenton, got out of the SUV and jumped a fence containing tricycles that belong to the school; the fenced area is not accessible to the public.

Merritt then selected a tricycle and threw it over the fence, took the tricycle to his red SUV and left the scene.

However, a witness saw him do the theft, drove past Merritt's home, saw him with the tricycle that a child was now on and called 911.

Deputies arrived and confronted Merritt with the allegations. Merritt admitted taking the tricycle from the school and "sometimes does it."

The witness was transported to Merritt's house for a drive-by identification of Merritt. She positively identified Merritt as the one who stole the tricycle.

Merritt was arrested and charged with Burglary to a School and Trespassing on School Grounds.

Merritt posted a $10,500 bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

County To Hold 4th Annual Winter
Health, Sports Fair on Feb. 7th;
National Black HIV/AIDS
Awareness Day

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Health Department will be hosting this inclusive health fair intended to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in the African-American and Black communities. Participants will be able to take part in various health screenings and activities, all offered free-of-charge.

The event will take place at Palmetto Boys and Girls Club, 1600 10th Street West, Palmetto, Saturday, February 7, 2009, from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Health screenings and education to take place range from blood pressure and diabetes to HIV/AIDS and STDs.

Food will be provided for those who participate in a variety of services, and prizes will be given out as raffles at the end of the event.

Family-friendly activities will include face-painting and children’s games.

For more information on the screenings, contact Stephanie Simmons at 941.708.0747 ext. 1460 or Stephanie_Simmons@doh.state.fl.us.

Man on Inmate Release for
Falsely Impersonating Cop
Does it Again

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested Rhett P. Hopkins, 25, a transient, after Hopkins tried to bail on a drink tab at a bar by impersonating a police officer.

Rhett P. Hopkins

Police reported on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, at about 2 a.m., they were called to O'Malley's bar at 1359 Main Street, in Sarasota, in reference to Hopkins refusing to pay a bar tab and stating he was an undercover "Tampa Bay Police Officer."

The bar tab was only 4 dollars, but Hopkins was insisting he worked for Homeland Security and refused to pay, because he was a cop.

He even called 911 and spoke to a 911 dispatcher and asked the dispatcher to connect him to his "boss, Rick Diaz, at Tampa Bay P.D."

Then he handed the phone to the manager of the bar, who spoke to the dispatcher.

When police arrived, they asked Hopkins for his identification. Hopkins said he didn't have any on him at that time. Initially, he refused to give his name.

However, subsequent to his arrest, Hopkins provided his name and date of birth to police.

The cops learned that Hopkins was on inmate release for Falsely Impersonating an Officer.

Hopkins was charged with Falsely Impersonating an Officer and Obstruction.

He remains in the Sarasota County Jail on a $1,750 bail bond.

Boy, 16, Arrested for 4 Vehicle
Burglaries

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s road patrol deputy was at the right place at the right time that resulted in the arrest of 16-year-old Justin A. Stempien, 1820 Bluebird Lane, Grove City, for breaking into at least four vehicles.

Justin A. Stempien

The deputy was in the parking lot of Willow Plaza, 3031 Placida Rd., when he heard two loud banging noises like glass breaking. When he exited his patrol car, he saw Stempien fleeing the area, gave chase, and apprehended him in a wooded area nearby at 12:13 a.m. Friday morning, Jan. 30, 2009.

Upon search of Stempien, the deputy found two knives, three cell phones, cash, a GPS, Florida Lottery tickets, pens, four lighters and a pack of cigarettes. Stempien confessed to burglarizing at least five vehicles on Bourbon Street and Willow Ave. and was driven around the area to point out the ones he burglarized. The vehicle on Willow Ave. was the one that had two points of impact on the windshield consistent with the two loud banging noises the deputy heard earlier.

Stempien was charged with three felony counts of Burglary, one felony count of Grand Theft, plus one count each of Criminal Mischief and Petit Theft. He was transported to the Charlotte County Jail where he was processed, then released to his parents.

Teenage Girl Attacked, Fondled
While Walking Dog

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported that authorities on Monday continue to search for a man who attacked and fondled a 16-year-old girl in the parking lot of an Orange County apartment complex.

The girl was attacked at about 8 p.m. Saturday at the Windmill Point Apartments located in the 2500 block of Alafaya Trail.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the girl was walking her dog when she passed a man who tried to get her attention. The girl continued walking and was near a dumpster when the man rushed her from behind, knocked her to the ground and fondled her, deputies said.

The girl fought off her attacker, who ran away along a fence line in the complex, deputies said.

"She was able to fight off her offender. (It) apparently got to a point where her dog started barking. We believe that may have spooked him off, and he started to run," Orange County sheriff's spokesman Jim Solomons said.

The girl ran home and told her parents, who immediately called authorities. The girl is OK.

A search failed to locate the culprit, who was described as a black or Hispanic male, about 5 feet 7 inches tall and 150 to 170 pounds. He was wearing a dark blue or black hooded sweatshirt with the word "polo" written in red and white on it vertically down the right side, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

UPDATE: Man Holding Infant
Stabbed to Death Thursday;
Murder Suspect in Custody
(from Breaking News page)

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a fatal stabbing Thursday evening, Jan. 29, 2009, at about 6 p.m. in South Manatee County.

Above, Royale Relaxation, 1248 Whitfield Avenue, Bradenton
(Photo by Craig Herbert, NewsManatee)

According to a press release from Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, at approximately 6:00 p.m. Thursday evening, deputies responded to a fatal stabbing at 1248 Whitfield Avenue, Bradenton. When deputies arrived, they discovered that William Thomas Howery, 37, (DOB 2-10-71), of Pinellas County, Florida, had been stabbed in the parking lot of the business named Royale Relaxation, a lingerie showplace where men watch girls model lingerie, allegedly for the sexual pleasure of the men.

Howery was transported to Bayfront Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead shortly afterward.

Witnesses told deputies that prior to the stabbing Howery called Royale Relaxation to talk to his girlfriend, who apparently works at the establishment. The wife of the man who allegedly killed Howery, who also apparently works there, answered the phone and got into an argument with Howery. Howery then showed up at the business. When Howery showed up at the incident scene, he had an infant boy, just over one-year-old, with him.

Howery then got into a verbal altercation with the killer's wife in the parking lot.

The alleged killer, later identified as Carlos Viera, 31, of nearby 1280 Whitfield Avenue, Bradenton, got wind of the verbal altercation between Howery and the woman and showed up in the parking lot, where he stabbed Howery in the chest.

Howery was holding his infant son at the time. Howery stumbled away a few feet and then collapsed, dropping the baby. EMS checked out the baby, who appeared to be okay.

Above, L to R, Carlos Viera and William Howery, deceased
(2006 mug shot of Howery courtesy PCSO)

Subsequent investigation at the scene provided detectives with the possible suspect, Viera, who was located at around 8:45 p.m. at a convenience store in the 5300 block of 34th St. W., Bradenton. Detectives interviewed Viera, who was then charged with Murder in connection with the stabbing. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $50,000 bail bond.

At this time, there is no indication that the victim and suspect knew one another prior to the incident.

The mother, Howery's girlfriend, who works at Royale Relaxation, is allegedly the mother of the infant boy.

The infant was turned over to a family member, presumably the mother, by investigators.

This is the third murder this year in Manatee County.

Man, Woman, Suspect
Shot in Sunday Armed
Home Invasion Robbery;
One Dead, Two Wounded

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police were called to the scene of a triple shooting at 919 25th Street East on Sunday morning, at about 5:45 a.m. Upon arrival, officers found one person dead, and two people wounded. Apparently, a neighbor heard gunshots and called 911.

Above, the scene of the shooting, 911 25th Street East, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Authorities say the incident was an armed home invasion robbery gone bad.

Shot were two adults in the residence; one of them is dead. According to a NewsManatee confidential source, the dead person is the female resident of the house that was invaded.

Also shot was one of the invaders. Police say Ta Heem Lafayette Blake, 17, received "incapacitating" gunshot wounds.

Blake was transported to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg. Blake has been arrested and a police source says Blake may be charged with Murder.

Police have not released the names of the victims; relatives have to be notified.

Detectives believe there is more than one suspect.

The investigation is ongoing.

This is the 4th Murder in Manatee County this year. There has now been 1 in the City of Bradenton and 3 in unincorporated areas of Manatee County.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9300 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Bradenton Police Search
for Female Bank Robber
(from Breaking News page)

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department reported a bank robbery by a woman in the City of Bradenton shortly after noon on Friday.

Above, surveillance photo from Fifth Third Bank
shows female bank robbery suspect

A press release from BPD said on January 30, 2009,at 12:02 p.m., Bradenton police officers responded to a reported bank robbery at Fifth Third Bank, 6601 Manatee Avenue West.

Investigation revealed that a female suspect entered the bank, approached a teller and demanded money.

She implied that she had a gun however none was shown.

After receiving an undisclosed amount of money, the suspect fled on foot.

Officers and detectives arrived within minutes and conducted an extensive search for the suspect with negative results.

The female suspect is described as seen in the photos above.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at (941) 932-9300 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Palmetto Man, 35, Arrested
for Raping Stepdaughter, 14

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Eric Zepplin Fleming, 35, of 740 Terra Ceia Road, in Palmetto.

Eric Zepplin Fleming

An arrest report said on Friday, Jan. 30, 2009, at about 6:45 a.m., Fleming was home alone with his unnamed 14-year-old step daughter.

During a confrontation with her about her grades, he pulled her into his bedroom for what he said would be discipline.

While in his bedroom, he forced her to take her clothes off.

He then forced her down onto his bed and sexually battered her, according to the report.

During a subsequent interview with the suspect, he confessed to the sexual battery, and also confessed to sexually battering her in the past.

He was arrested without incident and charged with Sexual Battery.

He was then transported to the Manatee County Jail, where he is being held on a $25,000 bail bond.

Man arrested for Striking Boy,
Several Times with a Broom
Handle, Breaking Boy's Arm

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Charles Frantzi, 26, of 4524-C 68th Street West, in Bradenton.

Charles Frantzi

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009, about 3:00 p.m., Frantzi punished a six-year-old boy, who lives in the home with Frantzi, by hitting him several times with a broom handle.

The child was hit at least once on his left lower forearm, which caused a fracture. He was also hit several times about the head and face with the same broom handle, which caused bruises, swelling and abrasions to both sides of the child's face.

The child was treated and released from a local hospital.

Frantzi was subsequently arrested without incident, and was transported to the county jail.

He was charged with Aggravated Child Abuse.

Frantzi posted a $25,000 bail bond on Friday and was released from jail.

Racial Incident at Wal-Mart;
Threats with Scissors
Prompt Arrest

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Ronald T. Ford, 34, of unknown address.

Ronald T. Ford

According to Ford's arrest report from BPD, on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., a Bradenton Police Officer was dispatched to a fight at Wal-Mart, 5315 Cortez Road West.

Upon arrival, the officer was told that a man had a pair of scissors in his possession and that he had threatened somebody with them.

The officer found a pair of red-handled scissors in a pouch around Ford's waist.

The unnamed victim told the officer that Ford had bumped into his and his girlfriend in an aisle at Wal-Mart. Ford allegedly called the victim's girlfriend a "f _ _ _ ing (N-word)" and that was when they saw the scissors in Ford's hand.

Ford then asked the victim "if he wanted to get stuck" and made a forward gesture with the scissors, the report said.

Employees broke up the altercation and called police.

Ford refused to make any statement other than some vulgar remarks directed at the officer.

Ford was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $25,000 bail bond.

3 Black Males Steal Man's
Cell Phone

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Hispanic man is without his cell phone after 3 Black males took it from him on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, shortly after noon.

A Manatee County Sheriff's Office report said while riding his bike in the 5700 block of 5th Street East, 3 Black males pushed Marvin Alvarado-Vasquez, 35, off his bike and took his cell phone.

The robbers fled eastbound on foot through yards.

The area was checked by deputies but none of the suspects were located.

Marvin was not injured.

The robbers were only further described as wearing all black clothing.

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

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

Man Claims He Was Shot;
No Bullet on X-Ray, No
Bullets at Scene

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies were told by a man that he had been shot. However, no evidence of that was found.

On Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, at approximately 3:45 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the area of Betts Road and Singletary Road, in East Manatee County.

The complainant, Steve Sorrells, 59, said he was contacted by one of his employees who advised him Sildino Lopez-Ramirez, 39, had been shot in the chest by a stray bullet while working in the orange grove.

Lopez's co-workers had already taken him to DeSoto Memorial Hospital, so Sorrells then called the sheriff's office.

Medical personnel advised sheriff's dispatch that the wound did not appear to be a gunshot and was very superficial.

All of the witnesses had left the area before the arrival of deputies.

DeSoto County Deputies responded to the hospital and later advised the injury had been X-rayed and no projectile was found.

Lopez told DeSoto County Deputies he heard gunshots just before he felt the injury and then saw the blood. He thought he had been shot, but did not know if it was the actual cause of the injury.

Lopez was treated and released.

The grove and the surrounding area was searched and there were no signs that person(s) had been shooting firearms.

ManaTEENs to Receive Grants
Totaling $145,800

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The ManaTEEN Club, a program of the Volunteer Center of Manatee County, is the recipient of grants, totaling $145,800, from the State Farm Youth Advisory Board, to engage youth volunteers in disaster preparedness/response and environmental efforts throughout the community.

The State Farm Youth Advisory Board is comprised of 30 students, ages 17-20, from across the United States and Canada. They are charged with helping State Farm design and implement a $5 million-a-year signature service-learning initiative to address issues important to State Farm and communities across the United States and Canada.

ManaTEENs is recognized as one of the nations largest and most innovative youth volunteer programs, civically engaging thousands of young people, ages 8 – 19, who live in Manatee County, Florida.

Local programs and ManaTEEN signature projects such as Home Safety for Seniors and PAWS (Pet Awareness With Seniors) will be expanded.

Best practices in disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response will be shared with HandsOn Network affiliates in Florida, Alabama, and Georgia.

Environmental initiatives managed by ManaTEENs along the gulf will be enhanced thanks to State Farm Youth Advisory Board’s support.

(Click on the logos to go to their website)

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