Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 5/23/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 5/23/2009

Area Law Enforcement Agencies
Charge Teen Burglars with
Several More Additional
Burglaries, Thefts

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Longboat Key Police Department and the Bradenton Police Department, along with the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Holmes Beach Police Department and Bradenton Beach Police Department, have leveled several more charges against Patrick Banker, 18, and John (Jack) O'Keefe, 18, who were arrested early Tuesday, May 19, 2009, for a burglary at the Waterfront Restaurant, 111 S. Bay Blvd., on Anna Maria Island.

Above, L to R, Patrick Banker and John (Jack) O'Keefe

According to more arrest reports just in to NewsManatee, the two young men are now charged with a total of 31 counts of Burglary and Theft, stemming from their crime spree in the Anna Maria Island communities, the City of Bradenton and in unincorporated Manatee County.

In addition to our report on Thursday that according to numerous arrest reports for Banker and O'Keefe, Banker had been charged in 8 additional burglaries and O'Keefe has been charged in connection with 3 additional burglaries, Banker has now been charged with 10 more counts of Burglary and Theft and O'Keefe has now been charged with 10 more Burglary and Theft charges also.

Banker now remains in jail on 18 counts of Burglary and Theft, with a bail bond of $98,120.

O'Keefe remains in jail on 13 counts of Burglary and Theft, with a bail bond of $71,120.

Detectives say Banker has been very cooperative but O'Keefe has not been as cooperative with investigators.

More charges may yet follow against these two prolific burglars, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office.

Anyone with any information about these and/or other similar crimes 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.

[Ed. Note: Considerable credit must be given to Deputy Alan Judy of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office for his initial capture of the two boys who burglarized the Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria Island on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, and his subsequent follow-up investigations and multiple charges that have ensued. These numerous cases might never have been closed, were it not for Deputy Judy's alertness.]

Deputies Arrest Man for
Lewd & Lascivious Act

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Lee Anthony Wilson, 35, of unknown address.

Lee Anthony Wilson

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at about 3:45 p.m., Wilson walked to the west side of Bug Busters, 3790 14th Street West, Bradenton, and urinated on the side of the building.

A female employee of Bug Busters had observed Wilson walk towards the building. She walked down the hallway of the business to the front door, where she had observed him. She opened the door and told Wilson the business was not a bathroom.

At that point, Wilson turned towards the woman, "exposing his penis to her in a vulgar and indecent manner," the report said.

Wilson then yelled and asked if he could come in.

The woman closed the door and Wilson started pulling on it, attempting to get inside.

When he couldn't get in, Wilson fled the scene.

He was located nearby at 3700 14th Street West in an abandoned home.

Wilson was charged with Lewd and Lascivious Exposure of Sexual Organs.

Wilson remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $200.

Woman Arrested for Bashing
Other Woman at Club RJ's
with Beer Bottle, Causing
Severe Bodily Damage

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Jenisha Shiante Roux, 21, of 4105 30th Lane East, Bradenton, for an incident that occurred on February 2nd, 2009, at Club RJ's, 720 Martin Luther King Avenue West, Bradenton.

Jenisha Shiante Roux

According to the arrest report from BPD, on the above date/time at the listed location, Roux believed the victim's friend had thrown alcohol on Roux and confronted the unnamed victim in the restroom of Club RJ's.

Roux then broke a bottle and followed the victim out of the restroom.

She swung the broken bottle at the victim, striking the victim in the upper left arm and the head.

The victim had a severe laceration on the right side of her head above the eye and a laceration on the upper left arm, the report said.

The victim signed a complaint and Roux was subsequently arrested on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $15,000 bail bond.

Man Tries to Steal Lawnmower,
Gets Surprised by Owner, Goes
Next Door and Steals Fishing
Poles, Gets Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy K-9 Deputy Petta stopped Larry Brown, 56, of 1005 10th Street East, Bradenton, in the 6000 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton because Brown resembled the identity of a man who had just tried to steal a lawnmower.

Larry Brown

Brown was in possession of two fishing poles when Deputy Petta stopped him.

Back at the sheriff's District Two substation, deputies pieced the story together.

Brown had gone to a house in the 5800 block of 11th Street East and had attempted to steal a lawn mower. When the owner leaned out a window of the residence and asked Brown, "What are you doing?" Brown responded, "Does Larry White live here?"

Brown then left on his bicycle and proceeded to another house in the 1100 block of 58th Avenue Drive East and stole two fishing poles, which he was in possession of when Deputy Petta caught up to him.

Brown was also found to be in possession of a pipe used to smoke crack cocaine, which tested positive for cocaine residue.

Brown was arrested and charged with two counts of Burglary, two counts of Theft and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Brown remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $21,120 bail bond.

Fingerprint Identification Leads
To Man's Arrest for Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ronald Stevens, 19, of 3403 68th Street West, Palmetto.

Ronald Stevens

According to Stevens' arrest report, on January 20, 2009, sometime between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., a residence in the 3400 block of 70th Court East, Palmetto, was burglarized and several items were taken from inside the residence.

On April 13, 2009, a Manatee County Detective received the results of a fingerprint comparison report, which positively identified the latent prints of Ronald Stevens.

The victim told detectives she does not know Ronald Stevens, nor did he have permission to be inside the residence at any time.

On Wednesday, May 20, 2009, Stevens was arrested and charged with Burglary. He was found at that time to be in possession of a firearm. He was additionally charged with Possession of a Concealed Weapon.

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

Man Chased, Robbed in Own Yard
By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was chased and robbed in his own yard by two Black males on Thursday, May 21, 2009, at a few minutes past midnight, in the 900 block of 61st Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton.

The report said at approximately 12:18 a.m., the victim, Rodolfo Lupez, 48, was dropped off at his home by a friend. He went to his front door and realized he didn’t have a key so he stood out front waiting for his brother.

Rodolfo noticed a Gray Ford or Mercury 4-door vehicle drive by. The vehicle turned around at the dead end and came back and stopped in front of the victim’s house.

When two Black males then got out of the vehicle, the victim became scared and fled to his back yard.

Both Black males chased the victim and caught him in the back yard. The Black males pushed Rodolfo down and ripped his pants pocket. They then got his wallet which contained approximately $350 to $400 dollars.

The robbers returned to the car and fled east.

Rodolfo was not injured during the attack.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded to the scene and assisted with the investigation.

The robbers are described as:

1. 5'6" tall, 170 pounds
2. 6' tall, 160 pounds

Both robbers were in light shirts and unknown color pants.

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.

Bike Stolen from Boy, 16,
By Unknown White Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 16-year-old boy had his bike stolen while he was riding it on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at about 6:15 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

While the boy, named only as "Dennis" in the report, was riding his bike down the street at 20th Street West and Cortez Road West, Bradenton, a man yelled at him to come over to see him.

Dennis refused and continued to ride away.

The man ran up to Dennis stating that the bike Dennis was riding was his.

Dennis said, "No way, I paid $50 for the bike."

The man pulled the bike out from under Dennis and fled eastbound on Cortez Road and then northbound on 14th Street West.

The area was searched with negative results and a BOLO was issued.

The thief was described only as an unknown White male, about 20 years of age.

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.

South Florida City Arms Officers
With Assault Rifles

SWEETWATER, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- The city of Sweetwater is fighting back against heavily armed criminals, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

All officers in the Sweetwater Police Department are being issued assault rifles. The guns were bought using money confiscated in drug busts and from the sale of extra equipment.

Sweetwater Mayor Manuel Marono said the guns are necessary because of the recent rise in criminals' use of assault weapons.

"I want to send a clear message that Sweetwater (officers) will defend themselves, that our residents have nothing to worry about. Our police officers are armed to protect them and protect themselves, and the criminals should go somewhere else," Marono told WPLG-TV. "They need to stop committing crimes, but they need to go somewhere else and not to come here to the city."

The Sweetwater Police Department has more than 60 officers, WKMG said.

FDLE Recognizes National
Missing Children’s Day,
2009 Poster Winner

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) joins the Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, broadcasters, transportation officials, emergency management officials and law enforcement throughout the nation to commemorate National Missing Children’s Day on Monday, May 25.

Above, Florida's 2009 poster representative for National Missing Children's Day poster contest

Each year, the U. S. Department of Justice sponsors the National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest to promote awareness of missing and exploited children issues. Each of the state missing person clearinghouses select one winner to represent their state. Florida’s representative was Adam Carr, a 5th-grader who is homeschooled in Tampa. Out of 43 state entries, Adam placed third for his poster, “Bring Our Missing Children Home.”

Since 1983, the nation has observed May 25 as National Missing Children’s Day. On this day in 1979, Etan Patz disappeared from a New York City street on his way to school. His father, a professional photographer, disseminated black-and-white photographs of Etan in an effort to find him. The massive search and media attention that followed focused the nation’s attention on the problem of child abduction and lack of plans to address it. Patz has never been found.

In 2008, 46,965 children were reported missing in Florida. Florida’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC), housed at FDLE, serves as a liaison between citizens, private organizations and law enforcement officials regarding missing persons information. Last year, MEPIC provided direct assistance in the recovery of 131 children.

In 2000, Florida was the second state in the nation to create a statewide AMBER Plan. Of the four AMBER Alerts issued to date this year, two were resolved as a result of the AMBER Alert. FDLE encourages the public to sign up to receive free Amber Alerts and Missing Child Alerts via e-mail or cell phone text message at www.missingchildrenalert.com.

Florida will hold its official statewide commemoration of missing children on Sept. 14 at an annual event held at the state Capitol. Officials will recognize the extraordinary efforts of Florida’s police officers, private citizens, and individuals in the search and recovery of missing children.

To learn more about the Amber Plan and Florida’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse, visit www.fdle.state.fl.us

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Intoxicated Mom Climbs Into
Bed with Son, 14 Years Old;
Arrested for Child Abuse

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Andrea K. Walker, 38, of the 6000 block of 12th Avenue Northwest, Bradenton.

Andrea K. Walker

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at about 2:20 a.m., Andrea's 14-year-old unnamed son was lying on the sofa in the living room, waiting for his mother to get home. Andrea was out drinking alcohol with her friends, the report said.

Andrea came home intoxicated. She asked her son to get her a drink of water after vomiting on the living room carpet.

The boy went to the kitchen to get her a glass of water and asked her if she still wanted it. Andrea did not answer. He asked again and when Andrea still would not answer him, he put the glass down on the counter.

The boy then went to his room and crawled into bed.

A few moments later, Andrea went into his room, got on top of him and started wrestling with him, the report stated. She grabbed his wrist against his will, the report said. That's when the boy told her to get off of him.

She did not get off, so the boy then rolled to one side of the bed and Andrea fell off of him, hitting her nose on the floor, causing it to bleed.

She then told him to call the police. But when the boy was on the phone with 911, Andrea told him to hang up the phone.

The boy did not sustain any physical injuries.

Andrea refused medical treatment from EMS.

A deputy noted that when she was asked what had happened, she refused to answer and did not want law enforcement in her home. When she stood up, the deputy noted, she was swaying back and forth. and had an odor of alcohol coming from her breath when she talked.

There was blood on the boy's mattress and the bedroom floor, the deputy wrote. He also wrote the mattress was on the floor and there was no box spring or bed frame.

While on the way to jail, Andrea said going to jail was going to be like a vacation, the deputy wrote in the arrest report.

Andrea was charged with Child Abuse.

As of the writing of this report on Wednesday, Andrea Walker remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $1,000 bail bond.

There was no indication of the disposition of her 14-year-old son in the report.

Teen Burglars Charged with
Additional Burglaries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Holmes Beach Police Department and Bradenton Beach Police Department have leveled additional charges against Patrick Banker, 18, and John (Jack) O'Keefe, 18, who were arrested early Tuesday, May 19, 2009, for a burglary at the Waterfront Restaurant, 111 S. Bay Blvd., on Anna Maria Island.

Above, L to R, Patrick Banker and John (Jack) O'Keefe

According to numerous arrest reports, each for a separate incident of burglary, for Banker and O'Keefe, Banker has been charged in 8 additional burglaries and O'Keefe has been charged in connection with 3 additional burglaries.

Detectives say Banker has been very cooperative and O'Keefe has not been as cooperative with investigators.

Banker remains in jail on 9 counts of Burglary, with a bail bond of $45,000.

O'Keefe remains in jail on 4 counts of Burglary, with a bail bond of $40,000.

More charges may follow against these two prolific burglars, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office.

Manatee Sheriff Releases
Surveillance Photo of
Bank Robber's Truck

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has released a surveillance photo of an alleged bank robber's pickup truck from an armed robbery on Monday morning, May 18, 2009.

Above, L to R, the bank robber and his truck

The sheriff's report of the robbery said at approximately 10:55 a.m., deputies responded to a bank robbery at First Bank located at 3005 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton.

According to witnesses, a White male entered the bank and demanded money. The man left the bank with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The man was armed with a small silver semi-automatic handgun; however, there were no injuries.

The man was described as a White male, possibly in his 50’s, 5’10” tall, 225-250 pounds, gray hair with a day-old beard, wearing blue overalls, a light colored baseball cap and a light blue bandana partially covering his face.

His getaway vehicle, parked in a corner of the bank's lot (as seen above), appears to be a white Ford F-150 extended cap pickup with dark colored stripes on both sides.

The man fled westbound on State Road 70 in the pickup truck following the robbery.

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 Finds Safe in River,
Owner Not Discovered Yet

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man found a safe in a river on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, and reported it at about 6:30 p.m.

The report said Paul Jones, of the 2600 block of 51st Street East, Bradenton, called the sheriff's office to report that he found a safe in the river.

There were some personal documents inside the safe that were used to try to identify the owner, but that was unsuccessful.

The safe was placed into property and evidence for processing.

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.

Water Life-Saving Demos To Be
Performed by U.S. Coast Guard
on Saturday; Public Invited

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The USCG Station Clearwater and Station Cortez will be performing in the water life saving demonstrations on Saturday, May 23rd. This will be in the Manatee River between Regatta Point and Twin Dolphin Marinas approximately 10:30 a.m.

There will be a Public Affairs booth at Regatta Point Marina manned by USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 8-5 Palmetto.

The public is invited to watch the demonstrations and receive safe boating information.

Unless there is a Search and Rescue case, an HH 60 helicopter from Station Clearwater will simulate an "in the water" rescue. Station Cortez will also simulate a surface rescue using flares.

Members of the Coast Guard family will be available to answer any questions the public may have.

Survey Says: Gasoline Prices Are
on the Rise Locally; Diesel Fuel
Not So Much

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to AAA's fuel report, gasoline prices are up 25 cents from a month ago.

The price of a gallon of regular gasoline on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, was $2.36. A week ago, it was $2.29. And a month ago, it was $2.11.

That, however, is substantially lower than what the same gallon of gasoline would have cost a year ago, which was $3.83 per gallon.

Diesel fuel prices Wednesday were about the same as they were a week ago: $2.35 per gallon.

A year ago, though, the cost of a gallon of diesel fuel was $4.53 per gallon, according to the AAA survey.

Punta Gorda Police Arrest
Woman for Elder Abuse

CITY OF PUNTA GORDA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at about 12:30 p.m., Punta Gorda Police detectives arrested 58-year-old Letitia A. Calderwood of 22346 Hernando Avenue, Port Charlotte for the abuse and battery of a 76-year-old resident at an elder care facility where she was formerly employed as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

On May 19, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) notified the police department that they had received a report of the abuse from an administrator at the Punta Gorda Elderly Care Center. He stated that an employee of the center reported Ms. Calderwood had requested the assistance of her and an additional employee in helping a 76-year-old facility resident who had fallen in a bathroom. Ms. Calderwood and the two other facility employees had difficulty helping the resident to her feet and Ms. Calderwood subsequently kicked in her lower back while using a profanity. Once the resident was helped to her feet, Ms. Calderwood struck her in the face with an open hand.

Both employees were interviewed by detectives and provided statements describing the incident and the alleged battery and abuse.

Calderwood was interviewed by detectives and admitted to kicking and striking the resident as originally reported. She stated that her actions were done out of frustration although she knew the patient was disabled and had limited ability to stand on her own.

Ms. Calderwood was arrested and transported to the Charlotte County Jail where she was booked on the following charges and held with no bond: Battery on the Elderly, and Abuse of the Elderly.

Air Force JROTC Cadet Earns
SAR Bronze Medal

HARDEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cadet 2nd/Lt. Heather St. John was awarded a Bronze Medal from the Saramana Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) during ceremonies conducted at Hardee High School on May 15, 2009.

Above, L to R, Harold Crapo, Jr., and Cadet 2nd Lt. Heather St. John
(Photo by Elaine Crapo, SAR Auxiliary)

The award was presented by Harold Crapo, Jr. President of the Saramana Chapter who said Heather was being awarded the Bronze Medal, "In recognition of outstanding leadership qualities, military bearing and excellence, thus exemplifying the high ideals and principles which motivated and sustained our patriot ancestors."

Cadet St. John is currently a Junior and is only the second recipient of this medal at Hardee H.S. She stated that her favorite subject is English while her favorite activities involve JROTC, coaching Little League, hunting, fishing and softball.

Heather is looking forward to attending a Florida College and follow in her Mom's footsteps in Criminology and advancing to be a detective.

Following the award presentation, Mr. Crapo announced to the JROTC class about the scholarships and additional awards that the SAR makes available to JROTC students. He also addressed and lauded the JROTC instructors and all of the JROTC students as "Very Special Distinguished Guests" in attendance at the Award ceremonies.

Air Force Lt/Colonel Anthony Hingle, Senior Aerospace Science Instructor, noted that four years ago, there were only 10 students in the JROTC program and this year there are 70 students enrolled with more expected for next year.

The Saramana Chapter of the SAR expresses their sincere "Congratulations" to L/Col Anthony Hingle, Master Sergeant Veronica Scott of the Air National Guard (Retired), Mr. Mike Wilkinson, Principal of Hardee High School and Superintendent David Durastanti for their dedicated support of the Air Force JROTC Program.

Attempted Rapist of Girl, 16,
Found Hiding in Mom's Closet

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man found hiding in a closet was arrested late Tuesday night on suspicion of trying to rape a 16-year-old girl in Orlando, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

David Padilla-Rivera, 29, was arrested on charges of Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault, Attempted Sexual Battery and Battery.

Padilla-Rivera was arrested at about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday after he was found hiding in a closet at his mother's home on Commander Drive in Orlando.

The teen said a man followed her from a Dunkin' Donuts in Orlando Sunday morning and tried to rape her.

Padilla-Rivera was taken into custody and taken to the Orange County Jail, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Deputies Arrest One of Two Men
Who Ambushed Disabled Woman,
Punched, Kicked, Stole From Her;
Other Thug Is Still At Large

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Bill Waldron, of the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), obtained an arrest warrant for Jayson Perez-Veguilla, 31, who is one of two men who allegedly ambushed a disabled woman on May 13, 2009, shortly before 9 p.m. on a sidewalk adjacent to 4419 20th Street West, Bradenton. Sheriff's deputies subsequently arrested Perez-Veguilla. The other thug is still at large.

Jayson Perez-Veguilla

According to Det. Waldron, on the above date/time, Jeaneen Williams, 27, who is physically disabled and suffers from seizures, was riding her bicycle south on 20th Street West from a friend’s apartment in Belmont Park Apartments, and was going to her residence located in the 4800 block of 20th Street West, Bradenton, when she was confronted by two men who rode up behind her on bicycles.

The two men were wearing ski masks and dark clothing and pushed Williams to the ground. Once on the ground, the pair of thugs punched and kicked her, then took her cell phone and approximately $30-$40 in cash from the pockets of her shorts.

The thugs then fled the area south on 20th Street West on their bicycles.

A witness to this incident saw the suspects fleeing the area and called 911 when he learned that Williams had been robbed.

VCTF Detectives Hemmer and Waldron heard West Side Dispatch advise there was a robbery at the above location and inquired if any units could clear to take the call. The two detectives attached to the call and Det. Waldron was the first unit to arrive on the scene.

Det. Waldron interviewed the victim and learned that she knew one of the suspects as Jayson Perez-Veguilla. She said he lived next door to her until a few months ago. Williams said while Perez-Veguilla was attacking her, he pulled his ski mask up and began yelling at her when she didn’t give up her money.

Patrol Deputies who responded to this incident located Williams’ cell phone a short distance away with the battery pack missing from the phone. Williams’ clothing was torn and she had minor injuries to her legs. Williams refused EMS and stated several times she just wished to go home.

K-9 Deputy Keith Sutton responded to the scene with K-9 Rosco but was unable to locate a track due to the suspects leaving the area on bicycles, and also due to rainy conditions.

Based on Williams’ identification of one of the thugs, probable cause existed for the arrest of Perez-Veguilla for Robbery. Det. Waldron obtained an arrest warrant on May 14th for Perez-Veguilla for this robbery.

Perez-Veguilla was arrested on Saturday, May 16, 2009, and charged with Robbery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $150,000.

The other thug is still at large. He was described as an unknown White male, 25-30 years of age, 5'11" to 6'4" tall, with a medium to large build.

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 Arrested for Child Abuse;
Punched Boy, 2 Years Old,
When Intended Target, His
Sister, Moved Suddenly

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Michael A. Couran, of the 1000 block of 60th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Michael A. Couran

According to the arrest report, on Monday, May 18, 2009, at about 2:30 a.m., Michael got into an argument with his girlfriend, Denise, in the living room of his home.

Diane, Michael's sister who lives with Michael, came out of her bedroom and asked MIchael and Denise to quiet down and stop fighting.

Denise left the home and Michael went into Diane's bedroom and started a verbal argument with her.

Michael then closed his fist and tried to punch Diane while she was laying down on her bed. Diane moved and Michael punched Diane's 2-year-old grandson in the mouth, who was laying in bed with Diane.

The sheriff's office was called and when a deputy arrived, he saw what appeared to be blood around the boy's lips.

While inside the house, the deputy saw Michael walk up to the boy and say, "I'm sorry; it was an accident.

Michael was arrested and charged with Child Abuse and Domestic Assault.

Post Miranda, Michael told the deputy, "I did hit him, but I was swinging at my sister."

The abuse hotline was notified.

Couran remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000.

Manatee Detective Arrests
2nd Man in Drug, Cash
Theft Incident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Det. Larry Hemmer has arrested Joshua Murray, 27, who is currently in the Manatee County Jail on unrelated charges. Murray was apparently involved in the drug and cash robbery of a woman on May 13, 2009, along with another man, Joseph McClough, already arrested.

Joshua Murray

According to the arrest report, on May 13, 2009, a woman was robbed at gunpoint of prescription drugs and a large sum of cash, which NewsManatee previously reported.

Joseph McClough was subsequently arrested for that crime, which NewsManatee also previously reported.

The following morning, May 14, 2009, detectives obtained and executed a search warrant on the residence of Joshua Murray in an unrelated case.

Detectives recovered numerous pills of the same type as those stolen in the earlier robbery and a firearm that matched the description of the one given by the victim. Detectives were also able to get some possible names of suspects in the robbery. McClough was one of those names and he was arrested.

When detectives questioned McClough at the jail, he made a full confession. Part of that confession was that he got the firearm he used in the robbery from Murray and Murray set the victim up to be at the residence for McClough to rob. They also agreed to split the proceeds from the robbery.

Murray was arrested and charged with Armed Robbery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Two K-9 Teams Successfully Track
Two Would-Be Thieves Trying
To Steal an ATV

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- It was a good night for K-9 teams in Manatee County. On Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at about 3:30 a.m., two teams tracked two teenagers who had been trying to steal an ATV from a residence in the 500 block of 66th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Kent Koblect and Trevor Craig

According to a Manatee County Sheriff's Office report, deputies were dispatched to the above address to a possible burglary in progress.

The victim, Brian Kisluk, 43, relayed information to dispatch stating that there were two subjects attempting to cut the lock off of their ATV that was parked under their carport.

Deputy Cardoso was first to arrive on scene and approached the house on foot.

The suspects fled on foot and a perimeter was immediately established.

Deputy Sutton with K-9 Rosco responded and conducted a track. The first suspect, identified as Kent Koblect, 18, was located hiding along a fence behind 520 65th Avenue West. He received a dog bite to his lower right ankle area and was transported to Lakewood Ranch ER for treatment .

Deputy Sutton continued to check yards westbound while Deputy Bertolino with K-9 Pino checked the yards eastbound.

K-9 Pino started tracking then jumped two fences where he became frantic along a fence line with heavy brush.

Deputy Bertolino gave several K-9 challenges and the suspect, later identified as Trevor Craig, 18, surrendered without incident.

Both were charged with Burglary, Attempted Grand Theft, Resisting Arrest without Violence and Possession of Burglary Tools.

Kent Koblect and Trevor Craig both remain in the Manatee County Jail on $12,500 bail bonds each.

Two Young Men Arrested
in Anna Maria Burglary;
Other Burglaries Solved

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An alert Manatee County Deputy spotted a suspicious vehicle at an Anna Maria restaurant just before 2 a.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, that led him to a burglary in progress.

Above, L to R, John (Jack) O'Keefe and Patrick Banker

Dep. Judy was at the Waterfront Restaurant, 111 S. Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, conducting a building check when he noticed a suspicious vehicle which contained burglary tools.

As the deputy was investigating, he heard a window break.

The two would-be burglars fled the area on foot.

One of the suspected burglars was located by a Holmes Beach Police Officer and, a short time later, the other was located by a sheriff's office K-9.

Both young men were brought back to the scene.

They were identified as John (Jack) O'Keefe and Patrick Banker, both 18 years of age.

Banker was read Miranda by Dep. Judy and confessed to the burglary. He denied participating in any other burglaries.

O'Keefe admitted he was with Banker earlier, but denied taking part in the burglary.

However, O'Keefe did have glass fragments in his arm.

Both were arrested and charged with Burglary.

According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, these two may be responsible for a host of burglaries on the island, and possibly elsewhere in Manatee County.

Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office said, "These two will be charged with five additional burglaries in the county (including city of Anna Maria) with other charges possible. Also, the cities have pending cases.

Stepdad Threatens Stepson
with Knife; Stepson Punches
Stepdad, Stepdad Arrested

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- If it wasn't for a witness to an altercation between a man and his stepson, it would be a he-said, he-said story.

Denis Kelvin English

However, there was a witness and Bradenton Police arrested Denis Kelvin English, 60, of the 300 block of 21st Street West, Bradenton.

According to the report, on Monday, May 18, 2009, at about 4 p.m., English and his unnamed minor stepson had a verbal altercation about the mail. The unnamed stepson left the room and English followed the boy into the office of the residence.

English then placed his hand on the boy's neck and pushed him with his other hand. The boy defended himself by striking English with a closed first on English's left cheek.

The boy then left the room and went to leave the house but had to turn around for his shoes. English then pushed the boy out the open front door, the report said.

The boy noticed English was holding a small knife that was attached to his key chain. English allegedly made a threatening statement and gestured with the knife, then left the residence.

When police arrived, English was not there, but returned shortly afterward.

English admitted the verbal altercation, but denied the rest of the incident. He said the boy spontaneously became violent and struck him.

However, a witness verified the boy's story.

English was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000.

2 Arrested for Grand Theft Auto,
Possession of Cocaine, More;
K-9 Team Snared One

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies, with assistance from a K-9 team, have arrested two of three men caught in a stolen car on Monday, May 18, 2009, at about 9:45 p.m., in the 1500 block of 47th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Shawn Williams and Jamaal Brooks

A sheriff's office report said Dep. J. Denmark conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding.

As he exited his vehicle and approached the suspect vehicle he observed the driver, later determined to be Shawn Williams, 18, jump into the back seat in between Jamaal Brooks, 20, and another unidentified Black male only known as "CJ." The front passenger was a juvenile. Dep. Denmark ordered Williams back into the driver's seat; he complied.

As Dep. Denmark was standing at the driver's side door, both Brooks and "CJ" exited the vehicle through the rear passenger side and fled on foot.

Dep. Denmark called for additional units. When additional units arrived on scene, it was determined that the vehicle was entered stolen out of St. Petersburg Police Department.

Dep. Keith Sutton and his K-9 Rosco responded and began to track the two suspects.

K-9 Rosco located a loaded .380 caliber handgun dumped behind one of the trailers in Tidevue Estates. It is unknown which of the two suspects threw the gun.

After tracking for quite some time, Dep. Sutton and his K-9 Rosco located Brooks in the 4700 block of 17th Street East. Brooks was subsequently bitten by the K-9. He received very minor abrasions to his upper left leg.

Located on the rear driver's side floorboard was a small clear sandwich bag containing rock cocaine.

It was later determined that Williams did not have a Driver License.

Williams was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Possession of Cocaine, and Driving without a Driver License. He posted a $2,500 bond and was released from jail.

Brooks was charged with Trespassing in a Conveyance, Possession of Cocaine and Resisting Arrest without Violence. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,250.

The juvenile was not charged.

Man's $900 Necklace Snatched
At DeSoto Square Mall in
Broad Daylight, Cops Say

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the pursuit of a vehicle following the daytime snatching of a man's necklace, valued at $900, on Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at about 11:30 a.m.

The report said the victim, Robert Dexheimer, 27, contacted 911 and advised that his necklace was snatched from his neck while he was in the parking lot of DeSoto Square Mall and that he was following the suspects. Robert provided the suspect vehicle description and a tag number.

Deputies observed the vehicle in the 4900 block of US 41 and attempted a traffic stop.

The suspect vehicle fled and the deputies initiated a vehicle pursuit which eventually entered Sarasota and terminated in the 4500 block of Cocoanut Ave.

The two suspects fled from the vehicle and were not apprehended.

The vehicle was impounded for processing. The suspect vehicle received minor damage from striking a tree.

The victim told deputies he purchased the chain on Tuesday at the DeSoto Square Mall. The value is approximately 900 dollars.

Detective Kirkland is continuing the investigation.

The necklace thieves were only described as two Black males in their early 20s.

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.

FHP To Conduct Seat Belt Checks
in "Click It or Ticket" Campaign
Over Memorial Day Period

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- During the period of May 18th through May 31st, the Florida Highway Patrol will be participating in the "Click It or Ticket" campaign.

Troopers will concentrate their efforts in education and enforcement of Florida's restraint laws.

Troop F is assembling three A.C.E. Teams -- Aggressive Concentrated Enforcement & Education. Each team will consist of five Troopers and will conduct enforcement details throughout the southwest region of the state. The A.C.E. teams will concentrate their efforts in areas with a high frequency of speeding complaints, crashes and fatalities.

In 2007 alone, seat belts saved an estimated 15,147 lives. An additional 5,024 lives could have been saved if seat belts were worn at the time of the crashes.

Memorial Day kicks off the summer holiday travel period.

FHP hopes to set the tone for summer travel, encouraging motorists to slow down and buckle up.

Sons of the American Revolution
Present Two Top 2009 Students
with Awards

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday afternoon, May 8, 2009, at the Lido Key Holiday Inn 7th Floor restaurant overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, the Saramana Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, presented two local high school students each with two awards. They are Cadet First Sgt. Thomas Kopec, a Junior at Braden River High School, Manatee County, and Miss Morgan Finkelstein, a Senior at Riverview High School, in Sarasota.

Above, Cadet First Sgt. Thomas Kopec
with his parents, Josie and Peter
(Photo by Billie Lowe, SAR)

Cadet Kopec received the same SAR Bronze Certificate and Medal given to one cadet from each of the thirteen High Schools in Manatee and Sarasota County area. In addition, Kopec was selected for the "Best of the Best" award from those thirteen high school winners for overall academics, leadership, community activities, etc. As a Senior next year, Cadet Kopec 1) will be the first person from Braden River High School to Attend Boys State in Tallahassee; 2) will be the President of the Braden River High School National Honor Society; 3) will be the Battalion Executive Officer for the Pirate Battalion, JROTC.

Above, Miss Morgan Finkelstein with her mother, Sharna
and Saramana President, Harold Crapo
(Photo by Billie Lowe, SAR)

Miss Morgan Finkelstein won the Stella Knight Essay Contest held at the Florida State, Sons of the American Revolution quarterly meeting in Kissimmee earlier this spring. She will be the Florida entrant for the contest at the National Society Convention to be held in Atlanta this summer. Miss Finkelstein was the featured speaker on Friday, reciting her winning essay. She received a second award from the Florida State SAR Ladies Auxiliary for the same effort. Both awards carried a monetary value as a scholarship toward her future attendance at the University of Pennsylvania.

If you are a male, 18 years or older, who can trace your ancestral lineage back to an American Revolutionary War Patriot, the Saramana Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution would like to talk with you. Contact New Member Committee Chair Billie Lowe at 941-792-5712 or President Harold Crapo at 941-756-7272 for information.

Woman Robbed At Home By
Two Men Who Sprayed Her,
Said They Were County
Employees

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a robbery that occurred on Tuesday, May 19th, 2009 at approximately 12:00 p.m. in the 100 block of Maltisse Circle, Osprey.

The female victim was returning home from shopping when she was approached by two male suspects who identified themselves as county employees who were there to survey her property for future drainage work.

One of the suspects was subsequently invited into the home by the victim while the other suspect talked to the victim’s husband outside the residence. Once inside, the home, the victim was sprayed with a yellow liquid. She was then instructed to remove her jewelry and was her hands and face to avoid being burned by the liquid.

While she was washing her hands and face, the suspect took the jewelry and fled the home.

Both suspects were last seen fleeing on foot in an unknown direction. No suspect vehicle was seen by either the victim or her husband.

The suspects are described as aged early to mid twenties, possibly Hispanic, wearing light colored dress shirts and dark pants.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Criminal Investigations at 941-861-1719 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Sarasota Sheriff Reports
Vehicle Versus Train Accident

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an accident involving a vehicle and a train on Tuesday, May 19th, 2009 at approximately 11:20 a.m. at the railroad tracks on Desoto Road, east of US301, Sarasota.

Pamela Younkman, 49, was driving her vehicle northbound on US301 when she made a turn eastbound onto Desoto Road. A Seminole Gulf Railway train engine was pushing four train cars very slowly north on the railroad tracks located approximately 50 feet east of US301.

Younkman collided with the first car being pushed across Desoto Road. Younkman said that she did not see the train.

The tracks are marked with red flashing lights and a ringing bell signals an approaching train. Both lights and bell were working properly. The train was not transporting any
hazardous materials.

There were no injuries, and Younkman was able to drive her vehicle from the scene.

FBI: Couple At Orlando Airport
Sought Sex With Boy

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A couple was arrested at Orlando International Airport on suspicion of traveling to have sex with a child, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The FBI on Friday arrested Tanner Stickney, of Washington, and Rhonday Bayes, of Eustis, after monitoring online chats, agents said.

FBI agents said Stickney was flying into Orlando to have sex with a boy that Bayes, his ex-girlfriend, was supplying for him. Bayes babysat the boy, agents said.

Stickney and Bayes were being held at the Seminole County Jail, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Deputy Arrests Man for Child Abuse
After He Threw Fit Over Girl, 16,
Taking Dog To Her Room

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Kevin F. Mulholland, 52, of the 300 block of Cape Harbour Loop, Bradenton.

Kevin F. Mulholland

The arrest report said on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at about 8 p.m., Mulholland got upset with his 16-year-old daughter because she took the family dog upstairs to her room, disobeying his rules about the dog.

During dinner, they all sat down at the table. Mulholland started screaming at the girl about obeying his rules.

After she gave him an attitude, the report said, Mulholland grabbed her wrist and pushed her.

She fell backwards on the chair, hitting the back of her head against the wall.

The girl got up, walked towards the front door, yelled a profanity at Mulholland and said she was going to leave.

Mulholland grabbed both of her arms and pushed her against the corner between the front door and the wall, the report said.

He then lifted her up and threw her over a couch. She landed on the floor.

Then He picked up a coffee table and threw it against the wall.

Three juveniles in the home confirmed the actions of Mulholland, the report said.

The girl apparently wasn't injured in the fracas, as there was no indication in the report.

Mulholland was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

He posted a $2,500 bail bond and was released from jail.

Man Arrested for DUI Following
High Speed Pursuit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robert Adam Mulqueen, 29, of 4630 5th Street West, Bradenton.

Robert Adam Mulqueen

According to a report from the sheriff's office, on Sunday, May 17, 2009, at about 2:45 a.m., Deputy Hartman observed a vehicle leave a convenient store parking lot and pull onto the highway without turning on the headlights.

Deputy Hartman followed the vehicle and observed a driving pattern consistant with someone impaired.

Deputy Hartman activated his emergency equipment in his marked patrol vehicle to initiate a traffic stop.

The driver failed to stop and sped up to speeds of approximately 50 mph. The driver drove an additional 1.5 miles before complying and pulling over in the 1900 block of State Road 70 (53rd Avenue East).

The driver, identified as Mulqueen, was extremely combative and uncooperative and used profane language toward law enforcement, the report said.

A DUI Deputy responded and conducted the DUI probable cause investigation. Mulqueen refused to submit to a field sobriety test. Mulqueen also refused to submit to a urine or breath test.

Mulqueen was arrested and charged with DUI, Driving While License Suspended with Knowledge and Driving with No Headlights After Dark.

No damages and no injuries occurred, the report said.

Mulqueen posted a $500 bail bond and was released from jail.

Bank Robbery Reported
Monday in County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a bank robbery Monday morning, May 18, 2009.

(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The report said at approximately 10:55 a.m., deputies responded to a bank robbery at First Bank located at 3005 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton.

According to witnesses, a White male entered the bank and demanded money. The man left the bank with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The man was armed with a handgun, however, there were no injuries.

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 Arrested for Attempted
Copper Theft from Shopping
Center in West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy on routine patrol spotted a man who was attempting to steal copper wiring and arrested him, a sheriff's report said.

Robert James Heaton III

The arrest report said on Saturday, May 16, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., a deputy saw an unknown man fleeing from his while the deputy was checking the area around 1608 Cortez Road West.

The unknown man was later identified as Robert James Heaton III, 27, of 4509 5th Street West, Bradenton.

Heaton had attempted to steal copper wires from the utility boxes that provide power from FPL to Center Point Commons Shopping Center, the deputy wrote. The theft would have damaged several utility boxes that provide power to several stores in the shopping plaza.

The deputy called for backup and, as units arrived, a Sheriff's Sergeant observed Heaton Jump off the roof of Panera Bread and conceal himself behind a pillar.

A screwdriver was found on the ground next to the ladder leading to the roof top that Heaton had used to conceal himself.

Heaton was arrested and charged with Theft of Copper or Other Nonferrous Metals, Possession of Burglary Tools and Loitering and Prowling.

Heaton remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $20,120.

Man Shot Twice Critical After
Armed Home Invasion in
Bayshore Gardens

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man and a woman were hospitalized early Monday morning, May 18, 2009, following an armed home invasion, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said at approximately 1 a.m., three men dressed in all black clothing and wearing masks entered the victim's home in the 6400 block of Georgia Avenue, Bradenton, through the back sliding glass door.

The resident, David Holding, 31, confronted one of the men as they entered the residence; Holding and the man began to struggle.

One of the other men then struck Holding on the head with a hard object. Holding was then shot at least twice, in the hip and abdomen.

Another of the robbers went to the bedroom where Amanda MacKinlay, 22, was sleeping and hit her in the head with a hard object. She fell to the floor.

The robbers then fled without taking anything.

David Holding was transported via Bayflite to Bayfront Hospital and was in critical condition and in surgery at the time of the report.

MacKinlay was transported to Blake Medical Center with an injury to her forehead that was not life-threatening.

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.

Crack Cocaine Deal Gone Bad

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a crack cocaine deal went bad when the alleged dealer suddenly snatched the buyer's money and fled.

According to the report, on Sunday, May 17, 2009, at about 1:45 p.m., Freddy Vasquez went to 1600 1st Avenue, in Palmetto, to buy crack cocaine from the Black male dealer, who was not named in the report.

When Vasquez pulled out a $100 bill, the Black male grabbed the bill out of Vasquez' hand and pushed him to the ground causing an existing laceration on his left hand to open up again and begin to bleed.

The suspect fled into 1606 1st Ave, Palmetto, according to Vasquez.

Vasquez said that he did not get the rock cocaine from the Black male.

The Black male was described as being in his 20s, 5'10" tall, 125 pounds, with black hair, black eyes, a black shirt and red and black shorts.

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.

Holmes Beach Police Chief
Re-elected as Chairman of
Criminal Justice Commission

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department has announced Chief Jay Romine has been re-elected as Chairman of Florida's Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.

This will be Chief Romine's third term as Chairman of the Commission.

The role of the CJSTC is to set training guidelines and handle disciplinary matters of Florida's 80,000 law enforcement, correctional and correctional probation officers.

Sarasota Sheriff Clarifies
"Click It or Ticket" Rules
for Seat Belts

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Starting Monday, May 18, 2009, and running through May 31st, 2009, law enforcement agencies throughout the state will be stepping up their enforcement of seatbelt violations under the “Click It or Ticket” campaign.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to remind its citizens that according to State Statute, it is unlawful for any person:

~ To operate a motor vehicle unless the person is restrained by a safety belt.

~ To operate a motor vehicle unless each passenger and the operator of the vehicle under the age of 18 years is restrained by a safety belt or by a child restraint device.

~ 18 years or older to be a passenger in the front seat of a motor vehicle unless such person is restrained by a safety belt when the vehicle is in motion.

The Sheriff’s Office encourages all drivers and passengers to buckle up whenever they are riding in a vehicle.

Man Arrested In Attempted
Abduction of Girl, 4

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Investigators late Sunday night arrested a man on suspicion of trying to snatch a 4-year-old from her east Orange County home, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Mauricio Reyes, 44, of Orlando, was arrested on charges of Kidnapping and Burglary to an Occupied Residence. Reyes was being held on no bond and will make an appearance before a judge on Monday.

According to the sheriff's office, Reyes broke into a home in the Andover Cay subdivision on Heming Way near Curry Ford Road at about 4 a.m Thursday. He took the girl from her bed into another room of the house but fled when the girl's parents were awakened by their daughter's screams, according to deputies.

The incident was sexually motivated, investigators said.

Reyes has been charged three times with loitering and prowling since 1990, according to arrest records, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Annual Peace Officers Memorial
Service Held in Bradenton for
National Police Week

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The United States observed National Police Week last week, May 10th through May 16th.

Above, Peace Officers Memorial Service in Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee

Here in Manatee County, the annual Peace Officers Memorial service was on Thursday, May 14, 2009, at the Courthouse square in downtown Bradenton.

Officers from throughout Manatee County were there to represent their departments in this touching display.

A giant U.S. flag hung from a fire truck behind the invited speakers.

Bagpipes sounded out at the start and an honor guard laid flowers at each name plaque within the Manatee County memorial for fallen officers which sits in front of the courthouse.

The American flag was raised and then lowered to half-staff.

This was followed by a 21-gun salute and "Taps"played by a bugler on the green.

NewsManatee staff handed out royal blue ribbons to the people in the crowd. All recipients were asked to display the ribbons on their vehicles.

The blue ribbons are a reminder of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and in honor of the men and women who serve our community every day.

Blue ribbons are still available to the public, just email vpnewsmanatee@yahoo.com with your request.

Detectives Arrest Armed Robber
Who Pistol-Whipped Woman for
Her Prescription Drugs, Cash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 15, 2009, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives arrested a man they say is responsible for an armed robbery that occurred on Wednesday, May 13, 2009.

Joseph McClough

The victim, Heather Southwick, 20, of the 700 block of 51st Street East, Bradenton, and her boyfriend, Douglas, had just left her doctor's office in St. Petersburg. She said they went to their home and dropped off her pills before driving to visit an acquaintance of her boyfriend in the 1000 block of 57th Avenue Place East, Bradenton.

Heather said they parked near the residence and observed a man, later identified as Joseph McClough, 22, walking around the residence appearing as if he was going to burglarize the residence. They noted that the homeowner was not home, so they called him by telephone.

At this point, her boyfriend exited their vehicle and approached the residence. Heather said after her boyfriend walked towards the house, McClough came from the other side of the residence and pointed a medium-sized black and silver semi-automatic pistol at her. He then reached in through the passenger side window and into Heather's purse where he removed several pill bottles containing 10 Xanax pills, and 30 30mg Oxycodone pills. He also removed $600-$700 in cash.

During this incident, she tried to get into the driver's seat from the passenger's seat and start the car. When she attempted this, McClough grabbed her by the hair, pulled her from the vehicle and stuck the barrel of the pistol in her mouth. He then struck her numerous times about the head with the pistol as she was laying on the ground.

The victim was yelling during the altercation and attracted the attention of neighbors. As the neighbors approached the suspect, he fled on foot southbound. The neighbors called 911.

During the investigation of the incident, Detective Hemmer was able to develop Joseph McClough as a suspect and obtained an arrest warrant for Joseph McClough for Armed Robbery.

On Friday, May 15, 2009, information was received that Joseph McClough was driving a Ford truck. Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) deputies and West COPS deputies went to the location of the registered owner of the truck. They found and arrested McClough without incident.

During an interview McClough confessed to his involvement in the Robbery.

He was charged with Armed Robbery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Las Vegas Resident, 20,
Already in Jail, Busted
Again for 2nd Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Shane Swan, 20, already in jail on Burglary charges, has been arrested in a second burglary.

Shane Swan

The arrest report said Swan, who is from Las Vegas but has been staying with his brother, Garry, at a residence in the 500 block of 77th Street East, was allegedly riding with Garry and Garry's wife, Cindy, in Garry's truck on May 5, 2009, when they passed a residence in the 6000 block of 45th Street West, Bradenton.

The garage door of the residence was open and they spotted an air compressor inside, Shane told detectives. Shane also told detectives Cindy stopped the truck and Garry went inside and took the compressor, according to the arrest report.

Shane then pawned the compressor at a pawn shop, the report said. Detectives went to the pawn shop and found the compressor, which the owner later identified.

There is no report on the sheriff's website of Garry or Cindy being arrested.

However, Shane has been additionally charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling, Dealing in Stolen Property and Defrauding a Pawnbroker.

According to an earlier arrest report that NewsManatee published on Tuesday of this week, on Sunday, May 10, 2009, at about 2:30 a.m., Shane Swan, 20, and Lillian Lopez, 21, both of 4533 Diamondhead Drive, Las Vegas, Nevada, burglarized a vehicle in the 400 block of 77th Street East, Bradenton.

Witnesses called the sheriff's office.

Deputies apprehended the pair in the 500 block of 77th Street East, Bradenton.

According to witness statements, the pair had entered an unoccupied, unlocked vehicle and took phone equipment and a cardboard box containing marine/boat electronics.

The value of all items taken was $7,150, the report said.

Both Swan and Lopez admitted their involvement in the burglary, the report indicated.

They were both arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Conveyance.

Shane Swan remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond now of $22,000.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Threatening Another with
Knife, Throwing Rocks

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Kevin Lawrence Widner, 22, of 1712 12th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Kevin Lawrence Widner

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, May 14, 2009, at about 12:30 p.m., Widner and another man got into a verbal argument at the above address and the other man, identified only as Mr. Clenney in the report, told Widner to leave.

Mr. Clenney went outside, got on a bicycle and rose out to the road in front of the residence. Widner followed and asked Clenney if he could use the bike.

Clenney told him no, because the bike was not his.

Widner then pulled out a large kitchen knife and began waving it around and allegedly told Clenney he (Widner) was going to cut Clenney and walked toward Clenney.

Clenney got off the bike, but Widner allegedly went back into the yard, picked up several marble-sized rocks and began throwing them at Clenney.

As a Bradenton Police Officer arrived at that point, Widner ran back into the house. The officer called for backup and several other officers arrived.

They eventually coaxed Widner out of the house two hours later.

Widner was arrested and charged him with Aggravated Assault.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $15,000.

BPD Arrests Man for Threatening
Pregnant Newly Married Wife
with Knife, Cutting Clothing

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Stephen Dustin Aaron, 28, of the 200 block of Crescent Drive East, Bradenton, has been arrested by the Bradenton Police Department.

Stephen Dustin Aaron

The arrest report said Aaron and his unnamed wife, who is seven months pregnant with his child, got married two months ago.

On Thursday, May 13, 2009, at about 1:30 p.m., they got into an argument and Aaron allegedly started chasing the woman with a knife inside their residence. He also cut up her clothing, causing about $20 in damage and he bit her on the hand.

The woman locked herself in the bathroom and called 911.

Police arrived and, following a brief investigation, arrested Aaron for Domestic Aggravated Assault, Domestic Battery and Domestic Criminal Mischief.

As of Saturday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $16,120 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Snatching
Woman's Purse at Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 15, 2009, at about 9 p.m., a bystander held a purse snatcher for Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies after he snatched a woman's purse at Wal-Mart, 2911 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Antoine Deeb

The victim, Amanda Bauer, was walking to her car after shopping at Wal-Mart.

As she approached her vehicle, a man ran by her, snatching her purse off her arm as he did.

A witness heard Amanda scream and saw the man running south with a purse.

The bystander pursued the man through the parking lot and onto 53rd Avenue East, where the man fell. He jumped on top of the man and held him there until deputies arrived.

Amanda received minor injuries.

All her items were recovered with the exception of her cell phone.

The purse snatcher was arrested and charged with Robbery by Sudden Snatching.

He was identified as Antoine Deeb, 31, of Miami.

Deeb is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Attempted Robbery of Prescription
Drugs by Tall, Heavy-Set Man
Who Pepper-Sprayed Victim

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who had just picked up his prescription drugs at a shopping center in South Manatee County on Friday, May 15, 2009, at about 6 a.m., was the victim of an attempted robbery, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

While Michael Christ, 21, of Bradenton, was parked in the parking lot of 6253 14th Street West, a man reached into his vehicle and attempted to take Christ's prescription drugs.

Christ got his drugs back from the man, but the would-be robber then pepper-sprayed Christ and ran away.

The man was described as a White male, 6'3" tall, 225 pounds, in his late 20s, and was last seen wearing a white shirt and camouflage pants.

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.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery
in South Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman was the victim of an armed home invasion robbery on Thursday, May 14, 2009, at about 11:50 p.m., at her residence in the 3800 block of 78th Avenue East.

Sherita Newell, 25, was lying on her bed in her bedroom, and got up to go into the den to work on the computer.

When Newell exited her bedroom, she found a man standing in her living room, near the rear sliding glass door.

The man pointed a silver handgun at Newell and demanded all of her money.

The man took $700 dollars from Newell and fled.

Patrol Units responded and set up a perimeter for a K-9 track, to no avail.

Newell was not injured. Her three children were asleep during the incident.

The robber was only described as a male, wearing a black mask, a black long-sleeved shirt and black pants.

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.

Clerks at 24 Stores in Manatee
Charged with Selling Alcohol
To a Minor

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 15, 2009, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Divison Tactical Unit conducted an underage drinking operation at various convenience stores, gas stations and stores that sold liquor throughout the county.

Juvenile informants were utilized for the operation.

Detectives visited a total of 83 different stores throughout the county.

Clerks at 24 of those stores sold alcohol to the juveniles and were charged with selling/serving alcohol to a person under 21.

Alcohol was sold to juveniles at the following stores:

1. 3006 1st St. East Circle K
2. 2801 26th St. West BP Station
3. 5310 34th St. West Mobile Station
4. 5640 14th St. West 7-11
5. 5942 14th St. West T&T Food Mart
6. 4630 Manatee Ave. West Citgo Station
7. 5104 Manatee Ave. West Circle K
8. 7604 Cortez Rd. West Farmers Market and Deli
9. 8705 US301 N. 7-11
10. 12334 US301 N. Pure Station
11. 12324 US301 N. Parrish General Store
12. 6285 US301 N. Raceway
13. 6402 US301 N. Chevron Station
14. 3410 US301 N. SweetBay Supermarket
15. 1150 US301 N. Circle K
16. 945 8th Ave. W. CVS Palmetto
17. 1318 10th St. W. Dizzy Peacock
18. 1240 8th Ave. W. Palmetto Exxon Station
19. 11002 SR64 E. Hess Station
20. 8406 SR70 E. Hess Station
21. 7305 SR70 E. BP Station
22. 7205 SR70 E. Shell Station
23. 5913 SR70 E. Circle K
24. 6886 15th St. E. Circle K

Two of Four Suspicious Men
Arrested for Loitering near
Grove in East Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT} -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office, with assistance from a K-9 unit, has arrested two of four men loitering suspiciously near an orange grove gate at 10500 Buckeye Road in East Manatee County on Saturday, May 16, 2009, in the early morning hours.

Deputies caught four men loitering near an orange grove off of Buckeye Road while doing patrols in the area.

The men parked one vehicle near a locked gate at the entrance of the grove. A second vehicle pulled up to meet them there and the deputies approached.

Four men ran, but two of them were located by a K-9 unit.

One man surrendered immediately; one ran again and fought the dog, and was apprehended by bite.

The two men were identified as Eutiquio Soto and Rodrigo Gervarcio. No ages or residence addresses were given in the report.

They were charged with Loitering and Prowling and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Bradenton Police Sergeant
Honored: Officer of the Year

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee One Hundred Club held it’s annual Officer of the Year banquet dinner last night. Nominations from local, State and Federal agencies were accepted and reviewed by the members of the organization. The nominated representatives from those agencies received awards for various outstanding achievements. Sergeant William Knight received the highest award, Officer of the Year, for actions as described below.

On October 20, 2008 at 11:58 p.m., The Bradenton Police Department received an emergency call regarding a structure fire in the 2000 block of 7th Avenue East. Sergeant Knight immediately responded to the call.

Arriving within minutes, Sergeant Knight could clearly see that the residence, a mobile home, was fully engulfed in flames.

As Sergeant Knight exited his vehicle he observed an adult male, later identified as the lone resident, standing just outside the mobile home. Upon seeing Sergeant Knight, the male quickly turned and began to head into the flames.

Realizing the magnitude of imminent danger the man was about to encounter, Sergeant Knight disregarded his own safety and without hesitation entered the mobile home to save the man. He located the resident and began to pull him to safety, out of the residence.

To the dismay of Sergeant Knight the resident refused and became combative, broke free and attempted to run further into the raging inferno that was once his home.

Sergeant Knight realized that any failure on his part to physically remove this resident from the fire would result in the resident willfully burning to death in the structure. Sergeant Knight again entered the flames and had to forcefully remove the resident from the structure fire. Once outside, Sergeant Knight was assisted by other officers arriving at the scene.

The resident suffered minor injuries and smoke inhalation. He was transported immediately to the hospital by Manatee County Emergency Services personnel.

The resident was subsequently interviewed. He stated that he was suicidal due to recent events in his life. Sergeant Knight’s actions and determination had in fact saved his life.

Dep. Police Chief J.J. Lewis said, "Sergeant Knight sets the standard for his peers as well as the subordinate officers to follow. His actions are within the highest tradition and professional standards of the Bradenton Police Department. He is a true example of the Bradenton Police Department motto, which is, 'Professionalism Through Continuous Improvement.' ”

Charlotte County Sheriff Arrests
Man Who Threatened to Kill
His Family By Gunshot

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Officers, in a team effort, located and arrested Brian James Pike, 43, of 4331 Gardner Ave., Port Charlotte, shortly before midnight Thursday night, May 14, 2009, following a gun threat on his estranged wife and their four children on Thursday morning around 4 a.m. at her rented home on Westchester Blvd., Port Charlotte.

Brian James Pike

Several locations were being monitored by deputies and detectives; Pike was located at a home on Seashore Ave., Port Charlotte, and arrested on eight warrant charges. He was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with First Degree Burglary while Armed, three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, three counts of Child Abuse, and Violation of an Injunction for Domestic Protection. His bond was set at $125,000.

Pike’s estranged wife, who had an active restraining order on her husband, told Major Crimes Unit detectives that as he was kicking in a door to gain entry, she was calling the CCSO; he grabbed her phone and smashed it. He then pointed the gun at her, pulled the trigger, but the gun did not fire. Some of their four children attempted to disarm him unsuccessfully. His wife said he threatened to kill all of them if they didn’t get into his car; he forced one of the children into his car but his wife was able to get her out. At that time, Pike heard CCSO deputy’s sirens and fled the area in his silver Lincoln Zephyr. A BOLO was issued and a massive search for Pike was set up by detectives and deputies at various locations around the county where he might be located and finally found him.

Update from Florida DOH on
Swine Flu (H1N1) Cases:
69 Confirmed Cases

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Florida has 69 confirmed cases in the following counties: one each in Osceola, Alachua, Indian River, Marion, Clay, Collier, Lake, Manatee, Flagler, Seminole, Okeechobee, and Duval; two each in Brevard, St. Johns, and Palm Beach; 3 each in Pinellas, Sarasota, and Orange; 7 in Lee, 8 in Hillsborough, 12 in Dade , and 15 in Broward .

New confirmed cases:

St. Johns: a 58-year-old male and a 65-year-old female
Broward: a 1-year-old male, an 11-year-old male, and a 41-year-old female
Dade: a 42-year-old male

There are currently no probable cases of H1N1 Swine Flu.

CDC no longer recommends that communities with a laboratory confirmed case of influenza A H1N1 consider adopting school dismissal or childcare closure measures.

A public health emergency was declared by the State Surgeon General.

A toll free information line has been established for Swine Flu information. The number is 1-800- 775-8039.

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NewsManatee Archive Created 5/23/2009 2:00:06 PM

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