Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 3/7/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 3/7/2009

NewsManatee's "Olde Tyme"
Train Ride Drawing Winners
Chosen and Announced

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- NewsManatee proudly announces the winners of a drawing for tickets to an "Olde Tyme" train ride at the Florida Railroad Museum.

At first, we thought we only had two tickets to give away, compliments of Dan Thorpe III, a volunteer for the museum's train rides.

But then we were surprised when Steve Wonderly, President of the railroad museum, donated three family 4-packs to us for the drawing. A family pack is valid for two adults and two children and is good for a year.

Wonderly said, "The museum will donate three family four-packs of tickets, because we want entire families to come and enjoy the thrill of a Flagg Coal #75, a living, fire-breathing metal dragon like no other type of train locomotive."

Here are the winners:

Two tickets:

Helen Harrington

Family 4-Packs:

Robin Willard
Erika Thereau
Shannon DeGaetano

The winners were notified by phone on Thursday, March 5, 2009.

We were actually inundated and nearly overwhelmed with entries during the contest.

Thanks to all of you for your participation. And congratulations to the winners...!!

[Ed. Note: We want to thank Dan Thorpe III, Steve Wonderly and the Florida Railroad Museum for making the drawing possible.]

Bradenton Police Arrest Man,
Woman, for Having Sex in Park

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., Bradenton Police arrested John Joseph Silvia, 59, a homeless man, and Betty Leonardson, 39.

Above, L to R, John Joseph Silvia and Betty Leonardson

According to the arrest report, Silvia and Leonardson were having consensual sex with a woman at 101 9th Street West, which is a public park.

A person walking by observed the pair having sex, allegedly when children were playing at a playground about 150 feet away, and complained to police.

An officer walked up on Silvia, who was having sex "missionary style," the report said.

Upon seeing the officer, Silvia was startled and stopped the sex act.

Silvia told the officer he is homeless and just wanted to have sex. He said he didn't see any children because "his ass was up in the air and he was not looking for any kids."

Silvia was charged with Lewd and Lascivious Behavior, as was Leonardson.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of $120. She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bond of $250.

Man, Woman Arrested for
Burglary in West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Matthew Kinney, 29, of 3308 32nd Street West, Bradenton, and Christina Hart, 29, of the same address.

Above, L to R, Matthew Kinney and Christina Hart

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at about 1 a.m., George Frabotta was sitting inside his residence with his friend, Aaron Dulka, just hanging out when they heard a noise in the garage of their residence in the 3100 block of 35th Avenue West, Bradenton.

They went to investigate the sound and as they opened the garage door, they observed a White female, later identified as Hart, and a White male, later identified as Kinney, standing in the garage.

Deputies later surmised that Hart forced her way through the side garage door, via a "pet door" and then unlocked the door for Kinney.

George and Matthew began to physically fight. George was punched several times in the face by Matthew. The fight continued to the outside of the residence.

Both Matthew and Christina fled on foot.

Deputies located both of them at their residence. They were positively identified by George and Aaron as the person who broke into George's residence.

Matthew was arrested and charged with Burglary with Battery. Christina was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling.

Deputies Arrest Man After
Domestic Battery Incident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robin Jackson, 49, of 925 51st Avenue East, Bradenton, following a domestic battery incident involving Jackson, three women and two babies.

Robin Bernard Jackson

The arrest report said while deputies were investigating a domestic battery on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at about 12:30 p.m., Jackson ran into his residence and barricaded himself stating that he had a shotgun and would shoot any law enforcement officer that entered his residence.

After several minutes of Jackson running in and out of his residence, he was finally confronted by several deputies when he was standing in his driveway.

After Jackson refused to comply with lawful orders and began to resist, he was Tazed and arrested.

He was then transported to the jail with no further incident.

The victims suffered very minor injuries such as small scratches and possible bruising.

Jackson was charged with Felony Battery by Strangulation, two counts of Battery and two counts of Aggravated Battery on a Child.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $117,500 bail bond.

Construction Worker Beaten,
Robbed at Mel's Diner

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A construction worker was beaten and robbed by two White males on Thursday, March 5, 2009, at about 6 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred at Mel's Diner, 1313 Cortez Road West.

The report said the victim, Craig Combs, who is a construction worker, arrives to work at the same time every day.

When he exited the portable bathroom at the construction site, he was attacked by two unknown White males.

They struck him on his back with a board and then jabbed him in the stomach with the board.

They then snatched his wallet out of his back pocket that contained $270 and fled eastbound on foot.

The area was searched by deputies with negative results.

Combs stated he was sore, but refused EMS.

A board was collected and submitted to property as evidence.

There was no further description of the attackers.

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.

Palmetto Circle K Store
Robbed at Gunpoint
Thursday Morning

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Circle K convenience store located at 9608 U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto, was the victim of an armed robbery on Thursday, March 5, 2009, at about 11:20 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said a Black male entered the store with his shirt pulled up above his nose, pointed a gun at the three store clerks and demanded money.

The robber was given the money out of both registers, totaling approximately $110.

The robber ran out the door and was seen getting into a small white vehicle, according to a customer outside the store. The vehicle fled eastbound on Moccasin Wallow Rd.

The customer followed in his vehicle, but never called 911 or returned back to the store with additional updated vehicle information.

It appears that there was a getaway driver, but that is not substantiated.

The incident was captured on surveillance camera inside the store, but there are no cameras outside the store.

The robber appears to be the same person that committed three prior armed robberies in the City of Palmetto's jurisdiction, the report said.

There were no injuries, though the clerks were quite shook up. No shots were fired.

Due to the robber wearing gloves the entire time, no prints could be lifted.

There were no customers inside the store during the incident.

The robber was described as a Black male, 18-19 years old, 5'8" tall, with a thin build, wearing a black "Du-rag," a black long sleeve shirt, long baggy jeans shorts, black gloves, and white sneakers. He was armed with a black semi-automatic handgun.

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.

Volunteer Activity Leads Needed
at Local Chapter of Red Cross

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Hurricane season is just three months away. The American Red Cross provides sheltering, feeding, damage assessment and other services to Manatee County residents before, during and after a disaster. The Manatee county chapter has one paid staff dedicated to disaster services. Everything else is done by volunteers.

"It takes hundreds of volunteers who will stay in-town during a disaster and are available to volunteer," says Paul Morrison – Disaster Chairman for the Manatee Red Cross. It is like running a company which is set up and doing business in a matter of hours. All types of volunteers are needed to make that happen.

Currently, the Manatee Red Cross is seeking volunteers willing to take on a leadership role. A leadership volunteer is someone who is willing to work throughout the year to ensure the preparedness of a specific activity. This includes working with the Disaster Committee and its activity teams to ensure enough volunteers are trained and ready to respond before, during, and after a disaster. A leader works with their team members by training, motivating, and supporting them. Paul continues, "It takes only a few hours each week. Don’t worry about being an expert... we will work with you, provide training, and support your efforts."

Below are the top 4 activity leads currently needed:

~ Shelter Lead – Oversees shelter operations and staff

~ Logistics Coordinator – Oversee warehousing, transportation, procurement, and facility team leads

~ Damage Assessment (DA) Co-Lead – Work with county DA staff and lead Red Cross DA team

~ Feeding Lead – Oversee feeding operations and teams during and after a disaster

In addition to hurricanes, the Red Cross is prepared to respond to spontaneous disasters that can happen at any time, such as house fires and tornadoes. If you have interest in learning more about leadership roles, or other volunteer positions, please contact Brandi Jones at 941-792-8686.

REMINDER: Turn Clocks
Forward Saturday Night

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- This weekend, Daylight Saving Time begins for most of the country.

Before you go to bed Saturday night, turn your clocks forward one hour.

The actual time DST begins is 2 a.m. on Sunday.

Store Clerk Arrested at Mall
Selling Pro-Football Jerseys
and Pocketing the Cash

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Undercover Narcotics detectives from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested James Thomas Smith, 24, 27155 Washington St., Harbour Heights, for selling pro-football jerseys at Team Choice in Town Center Mall and pocketing the cash.

James Thomas Smith

After learning Smith was selling the jerseys illegally, a detective approached him in the store Tuesday and purchased Channing Crowder Miami Dolphins and Tony Romo Dallas Cowboys jerseys with a total value of $180, for only $60. Smith pocketed the cash, put the jerseys in a bag, and did not ring up the sale.

Thursday morning, undercover detectives returned to see Smith and this time bought a Marion Barber Dallas Cowboys jersey valued at $80 for only $20. The sale bypassed the cash register again.

With the purchase of three football jerseys, detectives said it was obvious he was benefitting himself and not his employer.

The detective identified himself and arrested Smith in the mall store.

Upon searching Smith, detectives located Roxicodone pills in a container in his pockets.

Smith was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with two counts of Dealing in Stolen Property, and one count of Possession of Controlled Substance Roxicodone.

Bond was set at $12,500.

Man Sentenced To Death
For Killing Woman

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man convicted of kidnapping and murdering a Daytona Beach woman will be put to death, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

A judge on Wednesday agreed with a jury's recommendation that Cornelius Baker, 21, should die for killing 56-year-old Elizabeth Uptagrafft.

The judge said Baker put Uptagrafft "through hours of absolute hell" when he forced his way into her Daytona Beach home in January 2007 and beat her, along with her elderly mother and son.

After stealing jewelry from the home, Baker took Uptagrafft to Palm Coast, where he made her withdraw money from an ATM. He then fatally shot her on a dirt road.

Police said Baker's girlfriend, Patricia Roosa, was involved in the incident. She was charged with first-degree murder, but a trial date has not been set, WKMG said.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Detectives Discover
Huge Amount of Marijuana
in Van After Near Collision
with Detective's Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Detective and three other detectives with the sheriff's office uncovered 50 pounds of marijuana in a van after the van nearly collided with the detective's sheriff's office vehicle.

Ricardo Davila-Alvarez

According to an arrest report from the sheriff's office, on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at about 9:30 a.m., Detective Aaron Bradley was traveling northbound on 1st Street, in Bradenton, and was in about the 1300 block when a white van attempted to pull into the same lane Det. Bradley was in and nearly collided with Det. Bradley's sheriff's office vehicle.

Det. Bradley immediately initiated a traffic stop by activating his emergency lights.

The vehicle pulled into the far right lane and continued north on 1st Street, finally stopping at 909 1st Street.

While speaking with the driver, later identified as Ricardo Davila-Alvarez, 44, Det. Bradley detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Det. Bradley asked Det. Patterson and Detective Dickerman to verify that the odor was marijuana, which they did.

In searching Ricardo, Det. Dickerman found a marijuana joint in Ricardo's pocket and a small black plastic bag under the floor mat on the driver's side. That bag turned out to be 4.8 grams of marijuana.

Then Det. Griffin and Det. Bradley opened the back hatch of the van. They observed a black garbage bag with a large item inside of it. The item was a large square wrapped in black plastic which contained a green leafy substance that appeared to be marijuana.

Indeed it was marijuana...it was 50 pounds of pot, according to the report.

Ricardo was arrested and charged with Trafficking in Marijuana.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $20,000 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Performing
Unnatural Sexual Acts on
'Step-Daughter,' Age 11

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Lonnie Junior Edwards, 31, of the 2800 block of 52nd Avenue Drive West, in Bradenton. Edwards is charged with Custodial Sexual Battery on a Victim Under 12.

Lonnie Junior Edwards

According to the arrest report, on or about July 1, 2005, the unnamed girl's mother, Jill Schwartz, and Edwards moved in together as boyfriend and girlfriend and began living together as a family. Jill brought her 11-year-old daugher into that new family arrangement as well.

The little girl said around August of 2005, Lonnie began having anal sex with her, as well as making her perform oral sex on him.

The girl said that she immediately told her mother what Lonnie was doing to her and told her mother again a second time a month later, around September of 2005.

But the mother didn't believe the girl and never reported it to law enforcement for investigation. The mother did not take her to a doctor either, the report said.

Allegedly, this abuse continued numerous times over the years until last Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009, when he again had anal sex with her, according to the report.

Edwards was interviewed by detectives and arrested on March 3, 2009.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Stoner Arrested for Striking His
Landlord in Head, Possession
of Marijuana Bong

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kirk L. Koblect, 21, of 1219 51st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Kirk L. Koblect

According to the arrest report, on Monday, March 2, 2009, at about 9:30 a.m., Koblect was asked by the unnamed victim for rent money as the victim has allowed Koblect to live with him for an exchange of money.

Koblect snuck up behind the victim, striking the victim on the right side of his head, causing a small laceration., according to the report.

The report said the victim is very afraid of Koblect.

When deputies arrived, they located Koblect at the residence. They also saw in plain view a bong on the computer table in a common area, next to the computer.

When asked who it belonged to, Koblect said it was his.

Koblect was arrested and charged with Battery and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Following Koblect's arrest, the report noted, Koblect's brother and mother began calling the victim, making vague threats.

Koblect bonded out of jail the next day, according to the sheriff's website.

Man Seeking Marijuana Alleges
He Was Ambushed, Robbed

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Cory J. Collins, 21, of the 25000 block of 67th Avenue East, in East Manatee County, told deputies he was ambushed and robbed by a gang of 4 thugs, one of whom is known to him.

The report said Collins alleged he telephoned his friend, Brian Becker, to meet him on his way home from work. He advised Becker he had just got paid and wanted to smoke some marijuana.

They met at the corner of 222 street and SR 64. Becker got into Collins car, and they smoked marijuana.

Then, out of nowhere, three masked men pulled Collins out of his car, threw him on the ground and began going through his pockets. The victim’s $600 cell phone was taken.

As Collins was being robbed, he told deputies he could hear Becker in the background saying, "You know you had this coming."

Collins said the sight of a passing motorist broke up the robbery. He said Becker and the three masked men got into Becker’s silver Chevy Cavalier 2 door and fled west on SR 64.

Collins flagged down a passing BPD detective about 2 minutes after the robbery, and reported the incident. BPD called for the sheriff's office, as the incident occurred in the sheriff's jurisdiction.

Upon arrival of deputies, Collins gave conflicting stories, the report said.

He had no injuries, but his shirt was torn.

Except for Becker, the three other thugs were described as being masked and gloved and wore hooded sweat shirts.

The investigation is ongoing.

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 Shot in Arm By Rival
Gang Member, Allegedly

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot in the left arm, allegedly by a rival gang member, on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at about 5 p.m.

According to the report, Ricky Ruiz, 18, is a member of the SUR 13 gang and was driving a maroon Dodge Neon southbound on 5th Street East.

He was in the 5900 block of 5th Street East when he noticed that a rival gang was following his vehicle in a white Chevy truck.

Ruiz stopped and exited the vehicle. He challenged the other driver as to why he was being followed.

The other driver, possible from the Norte gang, rolled down the window and shot Ruiz in the upper left arm.

The Chevy truck then went around Ruiz and his car and fled south on 5th Street East.

Ruiz was driven by family members to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of the gunshot wound.

The investigation is ongoing.

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.

11 Vehicles Burglarized
in Trailer Estates

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sherif's Office reported 11 vehicles were burglarized in Trailer Estates in South Manatee County between Tuesday, March 3, 2009, at 8 p.m. and Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 2 p.m.

The report said the vehicles that were burglarized were unlocked.

The burglar(s) removed small electronic items, i.e, GPS, etc., and loose change.

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 Urgent Care Plans
Get-Together for Fun and
Help to Community

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Visit Bradenton Urgent Care on Saturday, March 7th, 2009, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and help those less fortunate in our community.

The West Manatee Fire Fighters Association will be here serving up hot dogs and hamburgers to help fund their many community projects.

Help the Homeless Coalition by bringing your donated item of jeans, sweatshirts, T-shirts, sweaters, shirts, socks, underwear (unused), and/or blankets.

Bradenton Urgent Care will give you a gift for your generosity.

You can also visit with some of the Southeastern Guide Dogs and learn how these dogs are the eyes to many people.

There will be other organizations and businesses here as well.

And let your kids burn off some energy in the bounce house.

Stop by Bradenton Urgent Care on March 7th and have some fun while helping our community.

Bradenton Urgent Care is located at 4647 Manatee Avenue West, in Bradenton.

Skimming Device Found at
Bank of America in Venice

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Bank of America at 1270 Jacaranda Blvd., in Venice, has notified the Sheriff’s Office that an ATM skimming device had been used at their branch on Monday, February 16th, 2009.

Above, the culprit attaching the skimming device

Numerous accounts were compromised. Bank of America has notified all victims as well as other customers who accessed the ATM during the period in question.

Skimming devices are electronic devices that capture account information, such as the name on the account, the account number, and the personal identification number embedded in the magnetic strip on the back of debit/credit cards. Once a card is swiped through a skimmer, the information contained in the magnetic strip is stored in the electronic device and eventually downloaded to a computer.

Criminals may:

. Sell the account information
. Use it to order items online
. Create new counterfeit debit/credit cards
. Withdraw cash

A criminal may attach this type of skimmer directly to an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). Typically the criminal will insert the device into the ATM slot or place a false face plate over the key pad and card slot. The device will either trap the card itself or the card information for retrieval at a later time. The criminals have also been known to place a hidden camera in the area by the ATM to capture the customers entering their PIN number. Customers should be aware of protruding ATM pads, loose fitting face plates or any other suspicious activity or person/vehicles loitering around the ATM after hours. Most skimming operations occur after hours and over weekends so criminals can retrieve the information prior to normal business hours.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Sarasota County Sheriff’s District III Criminal Investigations Bureau at 861-1719, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477), or on line at www.sarasotasheriff.org or text “TIP 109” and a message to CRIMES (274637).

Police: Man Strangled
Girlfriend With Bra

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 38-year-old man has been arrested in the death of his girlfriend, who was strangled with a bra, according to an Orlando police arrest affidavit.

Abdullah A. Khalig faces charges of first-degree murder, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

According to the affidavit, Orlando police officers were contacted by a person who said that an acquaintance told him he had killed his girlfriend in her apartment off Kirkman Road on Feb. 22.

Khalig was interviewed about the allegations, and he denied saying that he had killed his girlfriend, according to the affidavit.

A search warrant was obtained for the woman's residence, where Orlando police officers found her dead, the affidavit said.

Khalig was then arrested and taken to jail.

Police said the couple had a history of domestic violence, WKMG said.

Sons of the American Revolution,
Others, Honor Last Naval Battle
of the Revolutionary War

CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida [NMT] -- A large gathering of folks traveled to Cape Canaveral, Florida, recently to honor and remember the last naval battle of the Revolutionary War.

Above, the Saramana Chapter Color Guard
of the Sons of the American Revolution
(Photo courtesy Reynolds and Muriel Cushing)

The purpose of the gathering was to celebrate the 226th Anniversary of the Last Naval Battle of the American Revolution that took place just off the coast of Cape Canaveral on March 9th, 1783.

Participants at the celebration represented both the National and Florida Sons of the American Revolution (SAR); both the National and Florida Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution(DAR); Florida Society Children of the American Revolution; the Ancient Order of Hiberians; the 1st Florida Camp of the Sons of the Spanish American War; the Korean War Veterans and the Navy League.

In addition, there were both SAR and DAR representatives from the states of Ohio, Georgia and South Carolina.

Overall, there were more than 200 participants and members of the audience in attendance.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Undercover Manatee Deputies
Arrest Five Men in Adult Movie
Theater Performing Sex Acts

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009, at about 9:45 p.m., undercover Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies posed as theater-goers at C.J.'s Adult Movie Theater, located at 4949 14th Street West, in Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Allen Shipman, Richard Bint, Bruce Bell, Daniel Brown and Arthur Shepard

According to arrest reports, three undercover deputies entered the theater and took a seat while a pornographic movie played on the screen.

After approximately 15 minutes, one of the detectives walked over to where the other two detectives were sitting. The detective advised the others he was "ready to go," meaning he was ready to arrest some individuals. He pointed to five White males that he observed masturbating and exposing their penises.

The three detectives proceeded to take all five men into custody, which was done without incident.

The five men arrested and their charges, ages and addresses were:

Allen Shipman, 69, of 1527 45th Avenue East, Bradenton, charged with Exposure of Sexual Organs

Richard S. Bint, 59, of 215 52nd Avenue Blvd. West, Palmetto, charged with Exposure of Sexual Organs

Bruce Bell, 79, of 5623 Tivoli Avenue, Sarasota, charged with Exposure of Sexual Organs

Daniel Brown, 67, of 5415 4th Street Court East, Bradenton, charged with Unnatural and Lascivious Acts

Arthur Shepard, 59, of 5700 Bayshore Road, Palmetto, charged with Unnatural and Lascivious Acts

All five men have posted bail and have been released from the Manatee County Jail.

Man, Juvie, Both SUR 13
Gang Members, Arrested
for Burglary to Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man and a juvenile for a burglary, according to arrest reports.

Above, L to R, Jorge R. Calderon and Earl Bragg

The arrest reports said on Monday, March 2, 2009, at about 2:30 p.m., Marco Hernandez, of the 1000 block of 35th Avenue West, came home and found items had been rummaged through in his house. He found two Hispanic males in the home and yelled at them, at which point, the two Hispanic males left on foot.

Upon arrival of sheriff's deputies, Marco said "Earl" and "Jorge" were involved and that Earl lived across the street.

While en route to the call, a deputy had seen Earl and another Hispanic male walking southbound in the 3600-3700 block of 14th Street West.

The deputy went back to the area after he was told of the involvement of the two Hispanic males.

As he drove through Mermaid Manor at 3720 14th Street West, he saw the two, later identified as Jorge Calderon and Earl Bragg, attempting to hid in a tin shed. He called to them and they came out.

The victim, Hernandez, came to the scene and positively identified them as being in the home.

Jorge Calderon, 18, and Earl Bragg, 15, were both arrested and charged with Burglary. Calderon was taken to the Manatee County Jail. Bragg was taken to the Juvenile Booking Facility.

The deputy said in his report they are both members of the SUR 13 gang.

Bradenton Police Bust Woman
for Shoplifting at Bealls Store

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Leslie Lewis, 19, of 4902 91st Avenue West, Bradenton.

Leslie Lewis

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Monday, March 2, 2009, at about 7:30 p.m., Bradenton Police were dispatched to the Bealls Dept. Store located at 6355 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, reference a shoplifting incident.

Upon arrival, the officer discovered that loss prevention employees had already detained Lewis.

It was learned that Lewis picked up jewelry, took the backing off of the package and concealed it in a Skittles bag. She then picked up another box of jewelry, took the backing off and concealed it in her sweater pocket.

She then left the store, passing all points of sale without paying for the merchandise.

Loss prevention employees stopped her after leaving the store.

In a search incident to her arrest, the BPD Officer found a pipe inside a pink zipped pocket book inside her purse. It tested positive for marijuana.

The value of the items Lewis stole was $455.82, the report said.

Lewis was charged with Grand Theft (Shoplifting) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Car Crash Fatal for Woman;
Brush Fire Ensued

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County firefighters and the Florida Highway Patrol were dispatched to a single vehicle car accident at University Pkwy and I-75, at about 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2009.

According to FHP, a 1992 BMW was southbound on I-75 in the inside lane. The BMW, driven by Bruce L. Quarino, 56, of St. Petersburg, exited the roadway and entered the median. The front and right front of the BMW struck a tree, ejecting the passenger, Pamela S. Hassett, 44, of Largo, Florida.

The car was thought to have rolled over several times and suddenly burst into flames in the median of I-75, NewsManatee Sarasota bureau reporter Doug Reynolds said.

The BMW was subsequently destroyed by the post crash fire.

The front seat passenger in the car, Ms. Hassett, was called a trauma alert and a helicopter was dispatched to take her to Bayfront Medical Center, but she went into cardiac arrest before the chopper could arrive. Responders canceled the helicopter and transported her to Doctors Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The subsequent brush fire that occurred grew very large, very quickly due to the very dry and windy conditions.

Traffic was shut down at Fruitville Road and I-75, as the fire jumped the east side of the highway.

Sarasota County firefighters worked quickly, requested more fire personnel and mutual aid from Manatee County and got this fire under control quickly.

Also, a Sarasota County Sheriff's Helicopter dropped water on the fire several times to assist the ground units fighting the fire.

Man Shot in Leg By
Mystery Assailant(s)

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was found by deputies wounded from a gunshot with drugs near him inside a residence had to be secured by deputies before EMS could treat him, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

A sheriff's office report said at approximately 11:20 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2009, the victim, Everett Hodapp, 39, of the 2900 block of 50th Avenue West, Bradenton, and a friend were inside his apartment when they heard a bang on the door.

They went outside to investigate and found nothing.

About 1 minute later, gunshots were fired into the house through the sliding glass doors. Approximately 6 shots were fired and Hodapp was struck in the right leg.

No suspects were seen.

911 was called; deputies and EMS were dispatched to the location.

Deputies arrived and had to kick in the door at Hodapp's request.

The house was cleared and Marijuana and unidentified pills were in plain view on a coffee table.

The victim began resisting EMS attempts to treat him and had to be secured by deputies.

Animal control was notified and responded to the scene to take Hodapp's dog, due to no one being available to care for it.

Detectives were contacted and responded to the scene, along with crime scene technicians.

Hodapp was taken to Bay Front via Bayflite medical chopper.

There was no suspect description in the report.

Hispanic Man Claims He Was
Robbed at Gunpoint By
Four Hispanic Men

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Calixto Deleon, 31, of the 5800 block of 4th Avenue Terrace East told Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies he was robbed at gunpoint by four Hispanic men on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m.

A sheriff's office report said at approximately 2330 hours Deleon was at the 5th Street market, just off 57th Avenue, in Bradenton, when he claimed a green 4-door car pulled up with 4 Hispanic males inside. The two in the back seat were armed with pistols and forced him into the car.

Once in the car, they told him they would shoot him if he tried anything.

They took his wallet with $380 cash, a watch and a cell phone.

They drove around for what Deleon claimed was an hour and a half. The victim was then dropped off at unknown location.

He claims he walked home and called 911. The sheriff's office dispatch received the call at 4:36 a.m.; he claimed he was dropped off at 1:30 a.m.

Even though he was in the car for an extended period of time he was unable to give any kind of description.

He claimed they prodded him with a knife but he had no marks on his back, the report said.

There was no further description of the alleged robbers.

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.

Neighborhood Awareness &
Crime Prevention Meeting

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Councilwoman Marianne Barnebey will be hosting a Neighborhood Awareness and Crime Prevention Meeting for Riverview neighborhood residents on Thursday, March 5th, at 7 p.m.

The location of the meeting will be the Manatee River Garden Club, at the corner of 32nd St. W. & First Ave. W., Bradenton.

Please take advantage of this opportunity to come together as neighbors for this meeting.

Sgt. L.J. Millard of the Bradenton Police Department will discuss neighborhood crime prevention.

For additional information, please contact Marianne Barnebey at 932-9449.

Volunteer Manatee
Hosts Florida KidCare
Outreach Program

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Volunteer Manatee is hosting an AmeriCorps*VISTA member to provide outreach into the community regarding the Florida KidCare children’s health insurance program.

Florida KidCare is the state’s children’s health insurance program for uninsured children under age 19. It includes four different parts, or programs: MediKids, Healthy Kids, Children's Medical Services and Medicaid. When you apply for the insurance, Florida KidCare will check which program your child may be eligible for based on age and family income.

Some of the services Florida KidCare covers are: doctor visits, check-ups and shots, hospital, surgery, prescriptions, emergencies, vision and hearing, dental and mental health visits.

The local outreach office is open on Monday, Thursday and Friday, from 9am until noon and also by appointment, to meet with working families with children under the age of 19 that are in need of low-cost or free health insurance.

Computer and online access is available for those wishing to apply for insurance online.

Groups wishing information and materials to dispense to the working families they serve may also contact Volunteer Manatee.

To make an appointment, call 941-761-3207. The Volunteer Manatee office is located at 5131 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

For more information, visit www.floridakidcare.org or call 1-800-540-KIDS.

Charlotte Detectives Arrest
McDonalds Employee; Was
Inside Man in Armed Robbery;
Possible Bradenton Man Sought

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested Windlet Allen Charles, 20, of 262 Bamboo Dr., Port Charlotte, as an inside accomplice in the Feb. 25, 2009, armed robbery of McDonalds at 24133 Peachland Blvd., Port Charlotte.

Windlet Allen Charles

Detectives said Charles admitted that he and a man named Freddy planned the armed robbery for all employees to be in one general area after the restaurant closed at 10 p.m. Charles said he did not know Freddy’s last name or where he lived. They planned that no one would get hurt and they would split the cash the next day. After Freddy was supposed to drop off his share of the cash, Freddy said he would return to Bradenton to lay low until things quieted down. Freddy has not returned to give Charles his half of the stolen cash.

CCSO detectives said Charles went into the bathroom after the store closed and met Freddy who was hiding in a bathroom stall. They both spoke Creole to identify each other, and then Freddy cocked his handgun and exited the bathroom with Freddy behind Charles. Freddy then ordered everyone into the manager’s office. Freddy ordered a female employee to give him the cash, stuck her in the right shoulder with the gun, grabbed the cash, and fled the store. Charles told detectives Freddy did not drop off his share of the stolen cash and has not seen or heard from him since. Freddy was wearing a hooded jacket and a red bandana over his face to conceal his identify.

Charles was arrested and charged with Principal in the First Degree of an Armed Robbery, and Aggravated Battery. He was transported to the Charlotte County Jail where he remains on no bond.

Detectives are asking if anyone has information about the man named Freddy, to please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

FBI IDs 'Key Suspect'
In Man's Abduction

BREVARD COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A kidnapping investigation featuring a paid ransom and a $250,000 reward led FBI agents to four states, nine Florida cities and Thailand.

Robert Wiles

Now, the search for the former Melbourne Beach man may end in Brevard County as agents zero in on a key suspect, Orlando television station WKMG repoted.

Robert Wiles, 28, a graduate of Florida Air Academy and Florida Tech, vanished April 1, 2008, after showing up for work at the National Flight Service in Lakeland. A few days later, his family, who owns the flight business, found a ransom note demanding money. The family complied with the note's demands and then heard nothing.

Nearly a year after Wiles was abducted, FBI Agent Dave Couvertier said several persons of interest and a "key suspect" who has ties to the Melbourne, Orlando and Lakeland areas have been identified.

"The investigators in this case are very, very close to sealing the case against those responsible in this kidnapping," Couvertier said. "We have -- through the investigation for 10 months -- identified a key suspect and individuals of interest."

The family also is offering a $250,000 reward for any information leading to Wiles' abductors, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

9 Area Men Busted
in Statewide Sting of
Unlicensed Contractors

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- State and local officials sent a firm message to scofflaw contractors last week when nine area men were caught attempting contract work without proper licensure.

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies apprehended the imposters with the help of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Tuesday and Wednesday as part of a statewide sting on unlicensed contractors. Each man had submitted a proposal to undercover investigators for construction work that required a contractor’s license they didn’t have.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office Detective Dawn Atkinson, along with two investigators from the Department of Business & Professional Regulations, posed as undercover project managers of 4416 37th Street East, Bradenton, in dire need of repairs.

Several contacts were made to persons advertising online or in the newspapers. The Agents of the Department had already determined the alleged contractors were not appropriately licensed to complete the construction work of replacing windows, plumbing, electrical and/or roofing.

On 02/19/09, Detective Atkinson, along with the two agents, met with the contractors and advised them of the repairs needed and requested a written proposal. About 15 out of the 25 targeted contractors showed up the location for measurements.

On 02/23 & 24/09, the contractors who had previously submitted a bid via e-mail or fax were contacted and requested to show up at the residence since they were selected for the job.

Once the contractor arrived, he was charged with a misdemeanor and issued a notice to appear in court. The DBPR issued cease and desist orders to each man.

Those men are:

1) Dale Belden, Bradenton, Dale's Mobile home repairs
2) Harlan Hillenbrand, Sarasota, Home Services & Repairs
3) Peter Hillenbrand, Sarasota, Home Services & Repairs
4) Scott Rosa, Northport, Rosa's General Maintenance
5) Herbert Prince, Bradenton, The Leak Stopper
6) Michael J. Ford, Northport, Ford's Contracting Services
7) Dan Richards, Venice, Handyman Dan
8) Ahmet Ajkic, Sarasota, Ahmet Ajkic General Repair
9) Ronald L. Sommers, Sarasota, Ron's Handyman solutions

Unlicensed contract work has become a serious problem during the economic downturn as many homeowners turn to the least expensive option available, according to John Barnott, interim director of Manatee County Building Department.

Hiring an unlicensed contractor often leads to serious headaches for a homeowner, namely unsafe or shoddy work. What’s more, when it’s time to sell a home, the seller may not be able to close the title with home improvements that were never permitted.

“It’s important to investigate this type of crime,” said Sheriff’s Office spokesman Dave Bristow. “Unlicensed contractors can create a lot of problems for homeowners including everything from inferior work to not having proper insurance.”

“We will continue to crack down, not only with the contractors but with the property owners who knowingly hire them,” Barnott said. “I want to send a clear message to all the unlicensed activity going on out there: We’re coming after you.”

Homeowners may find a comprehensive list of licensed contractors with the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce, the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange, the Home Builders Association of Manatee County or Manatee County Building Department.

To report unlicensed building activity, call Manatee County Building Department (941) 749-3047. To learn more about Florida’s building codes or to apply for a permit, click on the Building Department tab at www.mymanatee.org.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
Requesting Last Pay Check

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Robert E. Gilson, III, 23, of 7126 48th Avenue East, in Palmetto.

Robert E. Gilson III

According to the arrest report, on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, Gilson was driven to a business located at 808 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Upon arrival at the rear of the business, Gilson found the rear door open and Derek Sherman sitting inside.

Gilson asked for his last pay check, but was refused by Sherman. Sherman attempted to close the door and pushed Gilson out of the way.

But before Sherman could close the door, Gilson took a swipe at Sherman's chest area with a "sharp metal item."

Gilson told Sherman to look at his shirt and Sherman saw that his shirt had been cut.

Gilson fled the scene, but was later apprehended in the 5300 block of 16th Street East.

Gilson was charged with Aggravated Battery with Intent to Commit Great Bodily Harm.

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

'It's Not Coke,' Man Tells Cops;
Arrested Anyway

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A man was arrested by the Bradenton Police Department after blowing off a stop sign in the 900 block of 27th Street East, Bradenton.

David Allen McCary

According to the arrest report, the incident occurred on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m.

An officer was conducting traffic enforcement at the location and saw a vehicle being driven by McCary approach the stop sign and continue through it without coming to a complete stop.

The officer stopped the vehicle discovered that McCary had his license suspended on November 10, 2008, for failure to pay traffic fines.

The officer asked McCary for consent to search his vehicle and McCary gave him permission.

The officer located a clear plastic baggie containing what appeared to be cocaine.

McCary told the officer the substance was Inositol, not cocaine.

However, the substance tested positive for cocaine. The amount was 1.4 grams.

McCary was arrested and charged with Possession of Cocaine and Driving While License Suspended with Knowledge.

He has since bonded out of jail.

6 Vehicles Burglarized Overnight
Between Sunday and Monday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported six vehicles were burglarized between 9 p.m. Sunday, March 1st, 2009, and 9 a.m. on March 2nd, 2009.

The vehicles were all in the three blocks between 600 and 800 64th Avenue East.

The report said unknown person(s) entered a total of 6 unlocked vehicles.

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.

FREE Walk-In Eye Screenings
Offered in Ellenton

ELLENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Not seeing as well as you used to? Think you might have a cataract? Do you have a family history of glaucoma?

The Eye Associates invites you to come in for a FREE vision screening between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. any Wednesday in March and find out about the options available.

Dr. Michael Manning, a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon, will meet with you one-on-one to discuss your results and answer any questions you may have.

The days and times offered are:

Wednesday, March 4, 2009 from 9:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, March 11, 2009 from 9:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, March 18, 2009 from 9:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 from 9:00am to 11:00am

The screenings will take place at The Eye Associates office in Ellenton, located at 7915 U.S. Hwy 301 North, Suite 101.

You may call 941-729-2020 for more information.

You may also logon to www.TheEyeAssciates.com to learn more about The Eye Associates.

[Ed. Note: The Eye Associates is a premier supporter of NewsManatee.com.]

Sarasota Man Arrested for
Lewd Sex Crimes with
Girl, 14; Was Trying To
Flee the Country

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department announced the arrest of David Benson, 66, of 1244 41st Street, in Sarasota. A U.S. Air Marshal arrested Benson in Orlando, before he could board a flight to England.

David Benson
(Mug shot courtesy of Orange County S.O.)

According to a report from SPD, On Feb. 24, 2009, a detective was informed that Benson had been having inappropriate contact with a girl from Homosassa, Florida.

On Feb. 26, the detective was able to locate the victim and with the help of Citrus County Sheriff's Office, set up an appointment to speak to her.

On Feb. 27, the detective spoke with a Citrus County Sheriff's Detective and it was disclosed that Benson had performed oral sex on the victim, as well as digital penetration on two different days, the report said.

The girl said the first incident occurred sometime after she turned 14 and prior to school starting, and placed the date on or around June 10, 2008.

The girl said she was visiting Benson's daughter in Sarasota and was using Benson's computer. Benson allegedly went into the bedroom and molested her, performing oral sex on the girl.

The second incident occurred sometime between Thanksgiving and Christmas break when she was again visiting her friend, Benson's daughter, at their Sarasota home. At that time, Benson tried to have sex with the girl, but the girl was scared, so Benson allegedly only performed oral sex and digital penetration.

On Feb. 27, the detective learned that Benson was fleeing the country to England. The detective made contact with Jason Benson, David Benson's son, who was with Benson and his daughter. At the time, they were somewhere between Sarasota and Orlando. The detective advised Jason to return to Sarasota with his father.

However, they didn't do that and Benson was arrested at Orlando International Airport by a U.S. Air Marshal.

Benson has been charged with Lewd & Lascivious Molestation, Lewd Battery and Sexual Battery.

He remains in the Orange County Jail, awaiting extradition to Sarasota County.

North Port Male Drowning Victim
Identified by Charlotte Sheriff

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] --- On Monday, March 2, 2009, Detectives from the Charlotte County Major Crimes Unit released the identity of a man who apparently drowned Friday afternoon on Gasparilla Island.

The victim is Brandon Allen May, 22, of 4169 Hamwood St., North Port.

The CCSO received a call at 3:40 p.m. Friday about a man was found floating face down in the water.

May was reportedly fishing on the rocks by the Boca Grande Fishing Pier, 5820 Gasparilla Rd. He may have fallen, struck his head on the rocks, and then fell into the water.

Fishermen pulled May out of the water but he failed to respond to CPR.

May was taken to the Charlotte County Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy and a ruling on the cause of death.

Haleigh Cummings Featured
On 'America's Most Wanted'

SATSUMA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Nearly three weeks after 5-year-old Haleigh Cummings disappeared from her bed in the middle of the night, the missing girl was featured on a national TV show while her family said dealing with the pain is becoming increasingly difficult, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Above, Haleigh Marie Cummings

Putnam County investigators have followed thousands of leads, but the family said that authorities claim they are no closer to finding Haleigh than they were the morning of Feb. 10 -- the day an Amber Alert was issued.

Volunteers from across the state continue to arrive in Satsuma offering to help the family. Some searched the area around Haleigh's house Saturday on horseback. Others came simply to talk and pray with the family.

While media attention has not always been the family's liking, it realizes that keeping Haleigh's story in the public eye is its best hope to find her.

Saturday night Haleigh was featured on the Fox TV show "America's Most Wanted." Her relatives are hopeful that the broadcast will reach people who don't normally watch the news.

Relatives continue to believe that the girl is alive, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Teenage Boy, 18, Shot, Killed
in His Palmetto Bedroom;
7th Murder of 2009

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a teenager was shot and killed in Palmetto during the early morning hours of Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009.

The report said at approximately 3:45 Saturday morning, deputies responded to a shooting with injuries at 2324 5th Ave. Dr. E., Palmetto.

When deputies arrived, they discovered the victim, Tevin Yawn, 18, in the back yard of the residence.

EMS arrived and pronounced Yawn dead.

Detectives believe two suspects entered the residence through the back door and went to Yawn’s room and proceeded to shoot him.

Detectives are working several leads but no arrests have been made.

The motive in the shooting is unclear at this time.

The Yawn family is well-known to Manatee County law enforcement. However, it's hard to tell in court records which Yawns are related and which are not; there are 14 pages of criminal, domestic, traffic and civil entries under the name of "Yawn."

This is the 7th murder overall in Manatee County in 2009. There have now been 5 murders in the county and 2 in the City of Bradenton.

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.

Manatee County K-9 Unit Locates
Man Who Stabbed 3 Other Men

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at about 11:00 p.m., Amilcar Herrarte-Guerra, 50, stabbed three other men at the Six L's Farm, 12599 County Road 39, in East Manatee County, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, L to R, Amilcar Herrarte-Guerra and Manatee County Dep. K-9 "Kaos"

The report said deputies responded to the listed location in reference to the three victims, ages 22, 24, and 38, being stabbed.

Upon arrival, it was determined that victim #1 was stabbed in the right chest, lower back and had defense wounds to both hands. Victim #2 was stabbed in his right arm and victim #3 had a superficial cut across his chest and a cut to his left palm. EMS advised that all three had non life threatening injuries.

A witness, Damien Santi, stated that all of the aforementioned parties involved were in the trailer drinking beer. He (Santi) went to the bathroom and when he came out he saw the suspect stabbing the victims. Santi provided a suspect description, the name of "Almilcar" and a direction of travel the suspect was last seen heading on foot.

Dep. Sutton and his Dep. K-9, Kaos, arrived on scene and began to track in the last known direction. Approximately 500 yards from the location of the crime scene, in the direction the suspect was last seen taking, Amilcar was located passed out from being intoxicated.

Amilcar was detained and taken back to the scene where Santi positively identified him. Amilcar had blood on his shirt and an identification card bearing his name which further proved his presence at the crime scene.

Interviews with V2 and V3 indicated that V1 and V2 went to the store to buy some beer. When they came back with the beer, Amilcar became upset with the brand of beer that the two had purchased and started hitting them.

During the altercation, Amilcar pulled out a knife which he is known to carry and began stabbing the listed victims. V1 was flown by Bayflight to Tampa General Hospital and the other two victims were transported by EMS to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Amilcar was arrested and taken to jail. He was charged with 3 counts of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
for Marijuana, Cocaine, Gun
Possession; Convicted Felon

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Clayton Nathaniel Dowling, 24, of 619 14th Street East, Bradenton.

Clayton Nathaniel Dowling

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle traveling north at 2100 9th Street West, Bradenton. The vehicle's window tint on the front windows appeared to be illegal. The vehicle made a quick turn into an alley way and parked. The officer initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle.

The front passenger, later identified as Dowling, started to exit the vehicle. The officer exited his vehicle and ordered Dowling to get back into the vehicle, but Dowling would not obey the officer's commands, the report said, and Dowling started to walk away. The officer repeated his commands several times, to no avail.

Dowling then walked behind a white SUV, so the officer unholstered his Taser and ordered Dowling to come out from behind the SUV or the officer would Tase him. At that time, Dowling complied and came out.

Dowling was placed under arrest for Obstruction at that point.

The officer could smell a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle as backup officers started arriving. He could see in plain view rock cocaine in the door handle.

The officer could not open the doors of the vehicle, as they were locked. Another officer located the keys to the vehicle and the arresting officer opened the car.

Incident to the arrest, the officer searched the vehicle and found 43.4 grams of rock cocaine, 11 grams of marijuana and a fully loaded 9mm Smith and Wesson handgun.

Dowling was charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony, Armed Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While License Suspended and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Dowling remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $167,240 bail bond.

Hispanic Male Arrested for
Daytime Burglary; Three
Other Burglars Escaped

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jose Canales, 18, of 5513 13th St. E., Bradenton, for a burglary that occurred on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at about 11:30 a.m. in the 2700 block of 29th Street East, in Palmetto.

Jose Canales

An arrest report from the sheriff's office said Jay Pearson, 20, went by his relative's house and observed three Hispanic males had kicked in the front door while another male was sitting in the getaway car. The three subjects fled on foot while the car drove off.

Jay followed the vehicle in his truck and was able to get a tag and car description.

Dep. Krystal Carpenter was responding to the call when she observed the suspect vehicle in the turn lane towards US 41 from US 301 North and got behind it. She initiated a traffic stop and took the lone driver, Canales, into custody.

Dep. Capiello brought the witness to her location and he positively identified the driver as the one he had seen in the vehicle.

Dep. Carpenter observed in plain view on the passenger side floorboard an HP laptop computer with a full size keyboard attached to it and a clear vase with a large amount of coins.

Those items were later identified having been stolen from a residence at 9375 Old Tampa Rd. which Dep. Warner was working.

Canales identified his friend, Jonathan Guava, 18, as one of the other suspects but stated he did not know the other two suspects, as they were Guava's friends.

In the meantime, a perimeter had been set up around the wooded area west of the railroad tracks where the three suspects had been seen by another neighbor as they jumped over a fence and ran southbound along the tracks and then crossed into the woods. Dep. Franklin and Dep. Bertolino responded with their K-9s and searched the area which contained thick brush and a variety of barb wire fences. They found a discarded T-shirt in the woods, which was placed into property, but they were unable to locate the suspects.

Dep. Carpenter found the trunk of the suspect's vehicle filled with items that appeared to have been stolen.

The vehicle with all its contents was towed pending a search warrant and Jose Canales was taken to Manatee County jail.

Canales was charged with two counts of Burglary.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $20,000.

Woman Arrested by Detective
for Stun Gun Incident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, Detective Jeffrey Bliss of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested Sherry Ealum, 19, of 5120 14th Street West, lot 28, Wayside Glen Mobile Home Park in Bradenton.

Sherry Ealum

The sheriff's office arrest report said on February 20, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., the victim, Stephanie Natale, of the same address, lot 21, was walking home when she was confronted and attacked with a stun gun by Ealum.

Natale was able to break free from Ealum and ran off.

Emergency 911 was contacted and patrol deputies responded, but were unable to locate Ealum.

On Friday, Det. Bliss arrested Ealum on two arrest warrants charging her with Aggravated Assault and Battery.

Det. Bliss also conducted a search warrant for Ealum's residence; he located and seized the stun gun.

Ealum remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $12,000 bail bond.

Homeless Bicyclist Tasered,
Arrested After Refusing to Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy was forced to use his Taser on a homeless man, Jon R. Brew, 46, after Brew refused to stop for the deputy.

Jon R. Brew

According to a sheriff's office report, on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., Dep. Cary Chapman observed Brew riding his bike without a light at 60th Avenue and Lilly Way, in Bradenton.

Dep. Chapman attempted to stop Brew, but Brew just looked at him and fled on his bike.

Dep. Chapman caught up with Brew and again directed him to stop, but Brew then dropped the bike and began to run.

Dep. Chapman chased Brew and watched as he climbed over a fence. Dep. Chapman climbed to the top of the fence and deployed his Taser, but missed. Dep. Chapman caught up with Brew again, and pointed the Taser, this time getting immediate compliance.

Brew then spontaneously stated that he ran because he had warrants.

Brew was also in possession of marijuana and crack cocaine.

Neither Brew nor the deputy were injured.

Brew was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Violation of Probation, Contempt of Court and Refusal to Sign Citation.

Brew remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $17,240 bail bond.

Five Vehicle Burglaries Reported
in West Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported four vehicle burglaries in West Manatee County.

The burglaries occurred in the 5800 block of 21st and 22nd Streets West, Bradenton.

The report said unknown suspect(s) entered into unsecured vehicles between Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at 9 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009, at 7:50 a.m.

The suspect(s) removed small electronic items, i.e., radar detector, Ipod, etc.

There was no further information in the report.

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.

Multiple Shots Fired At Palmetto
Residence, Vehicle; No Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported multiple shots were fired at a Palmetto residence in the 1000 block of 16th Street East, in Palmetto, on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2009, at about 3:15 a.m.

Deputies responded to the location in reference to random shots fired.

Upon arrival, it was determined that the occupied residence at the location had been shot as well as a 1999 Ford Expedition that was parked in the driveway.

The vehicle was struck with a total of five rounds and the residence with a total of eight rounds.

Based on the evidence collected, a total of at least 13-15 rounds were fired at the location.

Eight 9mm shell casings were recovered and 3 bullet fragments were recovered.

None of the Hispanic occupants, ages 26, 27, 30 and 45, were injured, nor was there any suspect description.

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.

16-Year-Old Arrested for
Attempted Murder

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police Detectives have arrested Jamile D. Monroe, 16, of 1389 19th Street, Sarasota.

Jamile D. Monroe

An arrest report from SPD said on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2009, at about 8:50 p.m., officers responded to 1835 4th Street in reference to a shooting.

Upon arrival, officers located the victim, identified as Robert Leonard, 54, in the report, lying on the ground in the alley way between 4th Street and 5th Street in the 1800 block. Leonard was shot in his upper left leg, through the femoral artery and was bleeding profusely.

Leonard gave responding officers a brief description of the suspects and their last known direction of travel.

A group of Black males matching the descriptions were located leaving the Hollywood 20 parking lot, across the street from the Pentecostal Church on Links Avenue and Fruitville Road.

A perimeter was set up and 4 persons were detained.

Officers located a chrome Smith and Wesson .357 Magnum revolver at the Pentecostal Church, on Links Avenue, directly across from where the suspects had been.

During interviews with detectives witnesses positively identified Monroe as the person who shot Leonard. They said Monroe had fired two rounds at Leonard.

Detectives were told Monroe had taken the gun earlier in the day from a family member without the family member's knowledge.

Monroe was arrested and charged with Attempted Murder.

Stolen Car Set on Fire
At High School

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives are investigating a stolen 1997 Toyota Corolla from 1300 Yates St., Port Charlotte late Thursday night, Feb. 26, 2009, that was found on fire in the courtyard of Port Charlotte High School early Friday morning and was totally destroyed; it damaged the school.

The CCSO received a call at 11:04 p.m. Thursday from Shane H. Russell, 19, who reported his car was stolen; the keys were left inside the vehicle.

At 12:06 a.m. Friday morning, CCSO received a call from a person who lives across the street from the high school and said someone knocked on the door and shouted, “Call 911, there’s a fire at the school.” The person or persons fled and are yet to be identified.

The Charlotte County Fire Department was dispatched and extinguished the fire.

The Fire Marshall was called in for the arson investigation.

CCSO Detectives are asking if anyone has information about the stolen car and subsequent arson, is asked to please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Charlotte County Sheriff's Office
Investigating Apparent Drowning

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 3:40 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, about a man who fell in the water and hit his head on the rocks while fishing at the Boca Grande Pier.

The incident occurred south of the toll bridge on the Charlotte County side in the 6000 block of the Boca Grande Causeway.

The man believed to be 30-40 years of age was pulled from the water and given CPR, but was it was unsuccessful and the man died.

The CCSO Major Crimes detectives were on the scene conducting their investigation.

The body was expected to be removed to the Charlotte County Medical Examiner’s office for an autopsy.

No other details are available at this time.

Homicide Detectives Called
In To Investigate Death

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an awful odor coming from an Orange County home led to the discovery of a body, deputies said.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, deputies received a call at about 2:20 p.m. Thursday about a bad smell coming from a home on Old Cheney Highway.

The body of a young man was found, and homicide detectives were called to investigate, deputies said.

No other details were immediately released, WKMG said

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NewsManatee Archive Created 3/7/2009 2:00:06 PM

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