Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 5/30/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 5/30/2009

Hit-and-Run Driver Spotted,
Bitten By K-9 Deputy "Ranger"
Following Short Foot Pursuit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An alert Manatee County Detective spotted a vehicle with extensive damage that turned out to have been involved in a hit-and-run accident. The man fled from deputies attempting to stop him and K-9 Deputy "Ranger" wound up biting the man; he is still hospitalized.

Above, L to R, K-9 Deputy "Ranger" and Garry Randall Lawson
(Lawson's mug shot above is from 2008)

According to a sheriff's office report, on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at about 1:10 p.m., a Special Investigation Division (SID) Detective called dispatch advising that he was following a white over burgundy Cadillac with extensive front end and roof damage. The detective asked if there were any reports of a hit-and-run accident in the area of 57th Ave. West and 14th St. West. A zone car advised, "Yes there was."

The detective then requested a marked unit for assistance for a traffic stop on the vehicle. He was at 57th Ave. East approaching 15th St. East.

Detectives followed the suspect to the area of 5800 33rd St. E. where Dep. M. Hall was behind the suspect vehicle in an MSO unmarked Crown Victoria and initiated a traffic stop. The suspect vehicle then accelerated eastbound on SR 70 E.

At this time, Dep. Hall was the primary unit and Sgt. Mike Kenyan was the secondary unit. It appeared from the rear of Dep. Hall's cruiser, his emergency lights were not working properly.

Sgt. Kenyan instructed Dep. Hall to fall in behind him and that he would take the lead; Sgt. Kenyan was operating a marked MSO patrol car.

Traffic was moderate and at times light, weather was clear.

The suspect reached Lakewood Ranch Blvd. and turned southbound. The suspect again began to accelerate, at which time his car appeared to begin smoking and losing power.

Sgt. Kenyan advised the K-9 unit behind him, Dep. Franklin and K-9 Dep. "Ranger" to move up closer as Sgt. Kenyan felt the suspect was possibly preparing to bail out.

The suspect turned westbound on Club House Drive and went about 100 yards, at which time he slowed to about 20 mph; the driver's door opened and as the K-9 unit came up alongside Sgt. Kenyan, the suspect bailed as the car was still moving and ran towards the woods along the road way.

Dep. Franklin released his dog "Ranger" and the suspect was taken down. The suspect received injuries from "Ranger" and was transported to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center where he is being treated.

No Deputies were injured during this incident, and there was no damage to other property.

The suspect was identified as Garry Randall Lawson, 27, of 323 Rye Road East, in Bradenton.

Lawson was charged with Aggravated Fleeing to Elude and two counts of Aggravated Assault. More charges relating to the hit-and-run accident may follow.

He remains in the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center for the time being.

Two Men Arrested Shortly After
Armed Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Joshua Sanders, 22, and Chad Wickersham, 21, both of Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Joshua Sanders and Chad Wickersham

The arrest reports said on Thursday, May 28, 2009, at about 1:45 a.m., the two men entered a residence in the 2500 block of 48th Avenue West, Bradenton, through an unlocked front door and held one of the victims, Maxwell Schau, 23, at gunpoint.

They yelled at him to "Give me your [expletive deleted]!" The victim's roommate, Jessie Jones, 23, who was in his bedroom, heard the commotion and came out into the living room. He recognized one of the men as Chad Wickersham and chased them out of the house.

The two would-be robbers fled in a gold Saturn, which was located, occupied two times, at 20th St. West and 53rd Ave. West. The firearm was located in the vehicle.

A show up was conducted and both men were positively identified by victims.

The victims were not injured.

Sanders and Wickersham were arrested and charged with Armed Home Invasion Robbery.

They are being held in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Deputies Arrest Man After
Burglary in Progress Call

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Christopher Michael Lee Carpenter, 26, of 5304 47th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Christopher Michael Lee Carpenter

The arrest report said on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at approximately 11:30 a.m., deputies responded to a residence in the 4400 block of Sanibel Way, in Sabal Harbour, for a burglary in progress.

Upon arrival, a perimeter was established.

Major Dummer, sitting on the perimeter, observed a subject emerge from a small pond and attempt to cross the roadway.

Major Dummer stopped the subject, who was later identified by a witness as the person who committed the burglary.

The subject was later identified as Christopher Carpenter.

Carpenter originally gave a false name due to outstanding warrants.

Carpenter had evidence from the burglary and prescription medications in his possessions at the time of arrest.

Carpenter was charged with the Burglary, Loitering and Prowling, Giving a False Name to Law Enforcement, and Tampering with Evidence.

He was also charged with the outstanding warrants for Dealing in Stolen Property and Defrauding a Pawn Broker.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $21,240.

Deputy Spots Stolen Vehicle,
Arrests Two Men Following
Short Foot Pursuit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two men have been arrested after they were seen in a stolen vehicle, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Above, L to R, Obenson Cerulist and Haywood Edouard

The report said on May 27, 2009, at about 6 p.m., Dep. Deluca observed and began following a stolen Toyota Tundra. Back-up was called and Dep. Bocchino responded.

Bocchino activated his emergency equipment at the entrance to La Mirada apartments in the 1600 block of 55th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

The driver of the Tundra, Obenson Cerulist, 19, accelerated into the parking lot of La Mirada Apartments.

Both Cerulist and his passenger, Haywood Edouard, 19, exited the vehicle and fled while the vehicle was still moving. The vehicle struck a van and a parked car before coming to rest.

A short foot pursuit ensued, ending in the capture of both men.

Dep. Cline responded and completed the traffic accident portion of the investigation.

No injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

Cerulist was charged with Grand Theft Auto, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Driving While License Suspended, Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage and Reckless Driving.

Edouard was only charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Cerulist remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $6,000.

Edouard's particulars were not on the sheriff's website as of the writing of this report.

Undercover Detectives Bust Four
in Prescription Narcotics Sales
and Possession

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at about 9 p.m., undercover Manatee County Sheriff’s Detectives arrested four people on charges ranging from Sale of a Controlled Substance to Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (Hydrocodone) at 1100 30th Ave. West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Alicia Wombold, Katie Muller, Jamie Wombold and Heather Vreeland

A sheriff's office report said 330 additional illegal prescription pills, 50.1 grams of marijuana and $4,329.00 were also seized during the investigation.

The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is $3,000.

This was the culmination of a month-long investigation, the report said.

Below is a list of the individuals and their respective charges:

Alicia Wombold, 43, Sale of a Controlled Substance (Oxycodone), Trafficking In Illegal Drugs (Warrant)

Katie Muller, 26, Principal to the Sale of a Controlled Substance (Oxycodone)

Jamie Wombold, 19, two counts of Trafficking In Illegal Drugs (Warrants)

Heather Vreeland, 19, Possession for Sale of Illegal Drugs.

Jamie Wombold remains in jail on a $100,000 bail bond. Alicia Wombold remains in jail on a $50,000 bail bond. Heather Vreeland remains in jail on a $10,000 bail bond. Katie Muller remains in jail on a $5,000 bail bond.

Traffic Stop on Motorcycle
Yields 3.6 Pounds of Coke

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Tom Franklin stopped a motorcycle in the 3900 block of State Road 70 East on Wednesday, May 27, 2009. That traffic stop led to the discovery of 3.6 pounds of cocaine, according to a sheriff's office arrest report.

Raymundo Aguirre-Robles

According to an arrest report, the motorcycle's driver, Raymundo Aguirre-Robles, 28, of the 5400 block of 3rd Street Court West, Bradenton, was initially arrested for Driving While License Suspended.

Dep. Franklin then used his K-9 Deputy "Ranger" to conduct a "walk-around" of the motorcycle. "Ranger" alerted to the seat area of the motorcycle.

Dep. Franklin and a detective searched the compartment underneath the seat area of the motorcycle and located a black bag containing suspected cocaine, wrapped in a clear plastic bag commonly used to distribute cocaine.

The suspected cocaine was weighed and tested. It tested positive and weighed approximately 517.3 grams in the bag (18 ounces).

After the traffic stop, a search warrant was obtained and executed at Raymundo's residence, where an additional 1103.2 grams of cocaine (39 ounces) and paraphernalia was found in various locations inside the house.

Raymundo was advised of his Miranda rights and he "lawyered up."

He was charged with two counts of Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While License Suspended Habitual, and No Motorcycle Endorsement.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $102,240.

Sex Offender Arrested for
Violation of Probation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Kim Zink has arrested Kristopher Foster, 25, of the 2300 block of 9th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Kristopher Foster

Kristopher Foster has been a Registered Sexual Offender since his conviction for Lewd & Lascivious Conduct in Manatee County in 2008. He was placed on Probation (with electronic monitoring) at that time.

He was found guilty of violating his probation conditions in February 2009 and was arrested. His Probation was revoked and he was then placed on Community Control (with electronic monitoring).

He then violated his Community Control and he was arrested again for Violation of Probation (VOP) on Wednesday, May 27, 2009.

He is currently incarcerated, with no bond, at the Manatee County Correctional Facility.

$88,000 in Christmas Decorations,
Vehicle, Stolen from Warehouse

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the theft of $88,000 worth of items from a storage warehouse in the 3200 block of 59th Drive East, Bradenton, sometime between the dates of May 5th and May 27th.

The report said unknown suspect(s) stole approximately $50,000 worth of Christmas decorations during the above listed dates from within Yazen Dides' storage warehouse for a business known as By Design, LLC.

There were no visible signs of forced entry and it is unknown how the suspect(s) entered into the storage warehouse.

Also during those dates, unknown suspect(s) stole a white Dodge Sprinter van that was parked in front of the warehouse.

The vehicle is registered to the business and is valued at $38,000.

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

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

Sarasota Police Arrest Man
for Lewd & Lascivious Battery,
Incest with 15-Year-Old Cousin

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested Christopher Kilduff, 28, of 2698 15th Street, Sarasota.

Christopher Kilduff

According to the arrest report, on or about Thursday, May 21, 2009, Kilduff had oral and vaginal sex with his 15-year-old unnamed cousin.

Following that, he gave her a bag of marijuana, "so she wouldn't tell" her mother.

The girl went to Sarasota Police on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, and reported the incidents.

Kilduff was arrested the next day and charged with two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Battery and one count of Incest.

He was transported to the Sarasota County Jail.

Charlotte County Sheriff: Man
Wanted for Rape of Girl, 9,
Committed Suicide in Iowa

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives report that Kevin Carroll Bordwell, 43, was found deceased in Hamilton County, Iowa, last night with an apparent self inflicted gunshot wound.

Kevin Carroll Bordwell

MCU detectives said the location of Bordwell was a massive joint effort with the assistance of U.S. Marshalls from the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, and Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office U.S. Marshalls, who were working with U.S. Marshalls in Iowa.

Bordwell and his automobile were located in Iowa after a nationwide BOLO was issued for him and his Mercury Marquis in connection with the Tuesday sexual assault of a 9 year old girl at gunpoint in Englewood.

No other details are being released at this time.

Two Arrested After Large Amount
of Marijuana Found in Vehicle
Following Traffic Stop

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A member of the Charlotte County Street Crimes Unit made a routine traffic stop, Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at 7:16 p.m., on a car that ran a stop sign in Port Charlotte.

Above, L to R, James Montrevil and Ramel Mark Henry

As Deputy Andres Rodriguez approached the car a strong odor of marijuana was detected. The driver, James Montrevil, 45, 21441 Seaton Ave., and passenger Ramel Mark Henry, 32, 18094 Northern Ave., both of Port Charlotte, were ordered out of the car and a search began.

Inside the car several plastic baggies were found, including a cooler, all containing a total weight of 606 grams of marijuana (21+ ounces).

Both were charged with Possession of Marijuana With Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana Over 20-grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Montrevil and Henry were transported to the Charlotte County Jail where they both remain on $6,000 bond each. Montrevil has been booked into the County Jail four times with 10 records, and Henry has 10 bookings and 25 records.

If you have information about illegal drugs, please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157 or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Man Found Shot Dead
In Vehicle; Orlando's
12th Homicide in 2009

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 32-year-old man was shot dead inside a vehicle in Orlando early Thursday morning during an apparent robbery, police said.

According to Orlando police, officers went to the Lake Mann Apartments in the 700 block of South Ivey Lane because of a shooting.

Officers found the man's body inside a car at about midnight. Orlando police said the shooting appears to be related to an attempted robbery.

The victim's name has not been released.

No information about the shooter was available, Orlando police said.

WKMG reported the death marks the 12th homicide in Orlando in 2009.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Police Dept. Dep. Chief:
Bradenton Doctor Arrested Again;
Four Sex-Related Charges Leveled

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, May 27, 2009, Bradenton Police Detectives once again arrested Dr. C. G. Rao age 61, of Bradenton Florida. Dr. Rao is also known as Dr. Gangadhara Rao Chapalamadugu. As NewsManatee reported on Tuesday of this week, Dr. Rao had been arrested last Friday, May 22, 2009, on a similar charge.

Dr. Rao

Dep. Police Chief William Tokajer said, "Dr. Rao has been charged with four new counts of Simple Battery, a first degree misdemeanor."

When the warrants were issued for the arrest of the doctor, the judge who signed the warrants set no bond.

Investigators determined that Dr. Rao inappropriately touched an additional four adult female patients over the recent months.

Detectives arrested Dr. Rao at his office, which is located at 300 Riverside Drive East, Suite 4500, Bradenton, Florida.

The Bradenton Police Department has received approximately 13 calls from additional victims.

Interviews will be continuing over the next few weeks with additional charges expected.

Victims are advising detective of conduct which goes from Simple Battery to Lewd and Lascivious Behavior.

In 2002, the Bradenton Police Department investigated a similar incident involving Dr. Rao.

The investigation is continuing.

Detectives are concerned that there may be more victims who have not reported incidents.

They ask that anyone who has been a victim and has not reported the incident contact Detective Alex Ribachuk at (941) 932-9309 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.

UPDATE: On Thursday, May 28, 2009, a Manatee County Judge set Dr. Rao's bond at $20,000; Dr. Rao posted the bond and was released from jail.

Possible Burglary Thwarted
After Two Juvies Arrested
Following Short Pursuit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A possible burglary was thwarted on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, when two juveniles were arrested by Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies; burglary tools and gloves were found in a vehicle the juveniles had been in and which was pursued for a short time.

Above, Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 Deputy Chico

A sheriff's report said at approximately 3:45 a.m., Deputy Gerholt noticed a Silver 4-door vehicle he believed was a Toyota Camry driving erratically. He knew that there was a Silver Toyota Camry on the stolen vehicle list. The tag was run and it came back to a Honda Accord.

The vehicle began to flee and Deputy Gerholt initiated a vehicle pursuit. During the pursuit, dispatch advised that the stolen Camry had been recovered. Sgt. Orval Walker terminated the pursuit and Deputy Gerholt discontinued his pursuit.

He was unable to turn around immediately so he stopped and was looking for a place to turn around. The fleeing vehicle stopped at the Bayshore Recreation Center and the driver fled. Deputy Gerholt was in a position to see the driver flee.

He got his dog and was going to begin to track. As he was getting his K-9, Chico, out of the vehicle, one of the passengers moved to the driver seat and fled the area in the Honda.

Moments later, Sgt. Kevin Pease, with the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), located the two juveniles walking East on Florida Blvd. He stopped them and they were unable to give him a location of where they were coming from or why they were in the area.

The unnamed juveniles, ages 16 and 17, were arrested for Loitering and Prowling, a misdemeanor.

The area of Trailer Estates was searched and the suspect vehicle was located at 1607 Indiana Ave.

Inside was a one-hour-old receipt from Wal-Mart for an orange Hi-C drink. The drink was found in the back seat. Det. Carter (VCTF) went to Wal-Mart and viewed the surveillance tape. She was able to identify 2 of the 3 persons as the same two that Sgt. Pease had stopped.

Also found in the vehicle were gloves, a paintball gun and several screw drivers.

The two juveniles were taken to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Drive-By Shooter Arrested
By Bradenton Cops

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Christian Ivan Pecina, 19, of 703 19th Street West, Palmetto.

Christian Ivan Pecina

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, at about 12:30 a.m., Pecina and another person drove to a residence in the 1500 block of 19th Court East, Bradenton. Pecina opened his vehicle's door and fired several rounds from a .22 caliber rifle at the victim's house and vehicle.

Later, the vehicle was stopped and Pecina was initially taken into custody for Possession of Alcohol by a Minor.

In an interview with detectives at the BPD station, Pecina said the shooting was in retaliation for earlier drive-by shootings.

The .22 caliber rifle and a 9 mm handgun were found in Pecina's vehicle and seized.

Pecina has additionally been charged with Shooting Into a Dwelling/Vehicle, Use of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony, and Reckless Display of a Firearm.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $55,000.

Banker, O'Keefe Charged
With Another Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The two young burglars who were charged last week with several burglaries on Anna Maria Island and elsewhere in Manatee County have now been charged with an additional burglary.

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

According to the new arrest reports, there was another burglary of the Waterfront Restaurant, 110 South Bay Blvd., on Anna Maria Island on May 1, 2009, at about 2 a.m.

The boys removed a large glass panel from an entry door on the Northwest side of the building. Once inside the building, the boys removed $4,000 in cash from the business's unlocked safe.

During a jailhouse interview with Banker, he admitted that he and O'Keefe committed the burglary on May 1st.

The boys are now collectively charged with 33 counts of Burglary and Theft for their crime spree.

They remain in the Manatee County Jail. Banker has a bail bond of $108,120 and O'Keefe has a bail bond of $81,120.

As NewsManatee previously reported, 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, had leveled several charges against Patrick Banker, 18, and John (Jack) O'Keefe, 18, who were initially arrested early Tuesday, May 19, 2009, for a burglary at the Waterfront Restaurant, 110 S. Bay Blvd., on Anna Maria Island.

Semi-Trailer Spills Fuel
After Colliding with
Barrier Wall on I-75

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A semi-trailer cab hung precariously over the Jeff Young Bridge on I-75 at U.S. 301, in Ellenton, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

An FHP report said on Tuesday, May 26, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., a semi truck hauling a trailer was northbound on I-75 in the center lane. The truck failed to slow for other traffic ahead.

To avoid collision, the truck tuned to the left and rove into the left lane and then into the emergency lane.

The truck's left front struck the barrier wall. The cab came to rest on top of the barrier wall.

A small amount of fuel leaked upon the roadway and some also spilled into the Manatee River.

The driver of the big rig, Luis E. Bargas-Bonilla, 43, of Tampa, was uninjured.

He was cited for Careless Driving.

The big rig sustained about $20,000 in damages, FHP reported. There was no estimate of any damages to the barrier wall.

FREE Walk-In Vision Screenings
by Michael Manning, MD
in Ellenton

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Eye Associates is offering FREE walk-in vision screenings during the month of June at their Ellenton facility, 7915 U.S. Hwy 301 North, Suite 101.

Not seeing as well as you used to? Think you might have a cataract? Do you have a family history of glaucoma? Come in for a FREE vision screening between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. on the dates below 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.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009 from 10:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, June 10, 2009 from 10:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, June 17, 2009 from 10:00am to 11:00am
Wednesday, June 24, 2009 from 10:00am to 11:00am

Call 941-729-2020 for more information.

You can also visit their website, www.TheEyeAssociates.com, by clicking on their support ad at the top of our Cover page. The Eye Associates is one of NewsManatee's premier supporters.

For your information, The Eye Associates operated on our publisher's cataract successfully, with no side effects.

Charlotte County Actively Seeking
Man Wanted for Rape of Girl, 9,
At Gunpoint

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit issued a BOLO for a man wanted in connection with a sexual assault at gunpoint on a 9-year-old girl Tuesday afternoon, May 26, 2009, in Englewood. According to MCU detectives, the suspect is white male Kevin Carroll Bordwell, 43, with last known address on Anita Ave., in Englewood.

Kevin Carroll Bordwell

An arrest warrant has been obtained on charges of Capital Sexual Battery, Burglary with Battery, and Armed Burglary. Detectives said Bordwell is known to the victim. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

Bordwell is described to be 6 foot 3 inches tall, 180 pounds, and has thin dark brown hair with some gray. He is possibly driving a 2002 red Mercury Marquis 4 door with Florida license EN85Z. Bordwell was last seen wearing a blue checkered button-down shirt with jean shorts, brown belt, and brown slip-on shoes.

Any information on the current location of Bordwell should be provided the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at 941-639-2101, or 941-637-TIPS (8477).

Man Arrested on Attempted
Murder Charge After Shooting

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, May 26, 2009, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives arrested Aaron Matthew Nahas, 29, of 13991 Daniels Ave., Port Charlotte, and charged him with Attempted Second Degree Murder, Armed Burglary, Shooting into an Occupied Dwelling, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Aaron Matthew Nahas

Shortly before noon Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a home in the 11000 block of Kimberly Ave., East Englewood, on a report that Nahas entered the home and fired two shots at a man inside, then fled.

Witnesses in the home said Nahas came in the unlocked front door and was uninvited. He pulled out his handgun and demanded several hundred dollars from one of the men in the home from a reported botched drug deal. As the man ran down a hallway, one shot was fired and missed. A witness said Nahas’ gun jammed and he tried to clear it. He then fired a second shot down the hallway at the man but missed again. Nahas then exited the home and drove off in his pickup truck.

A BOLO was issued for Nahas and about 10 minutes later a road deputy saw his pickup truck traveling at a high rate of speed on S.R. 776 in Murdock and made a traffic stop.

Deputies searched Nahas and found a semi-automatic pistol in his front waistband. He was taken into custody and arrested by MCU detectives. Nahas refused to talk and wanted to speak to his lawyer. He was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held on no bond because of a conviction in 2003 in Panama City, Florida. Nahas has been booked 13 times in Charlotte County and has 21 records.

Man Escapes Seminole County
Detectives After Carjacking
Elderly Woman; Captured

SANFORD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a manhunt was under way in Seminole County for a man accused of putting an elderly woman in a chokehold and carjacking her at a store before escaping from the sheriff's office while being questioned when a deputy turned his back, officials said. He was later captured.

David Wayne Carver, 37, walked out of the Seminole County Sheriff's Office, located at 100 Bush Blvd., Tuesday after he was taken into custody following an incident at the Sam's Club in Fern Park.

The Seminole County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday released surveillance video from the facility, showing Carver walking out of an interrogation room, down some steps and out the front door, deputies said. The video shows detectives, who did not initially realize that he was gone, frantically looking for Carver.

A witness called deputies on Wednesday and reported seeing a person who looked like Carver. A deputy went to the area and saw a man run into the woods. A manhunt was under way at state Road 419 near U.S. Highway 17-92.

Three Winter Springs elementary schools, Highlands, Layer and Winter Springs, were placed in lockdown during the search.

According to deputies, Carver attacked the woman at about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday and drove off in her white minivan. Witnesses helped deputies locate Carver, who was stopped by Sanford police at about 8:30 p.m. near Shirley Avenue and 2nd Street.

Carver resisted arrest and was shocked with a Taser gun before being taken to the sheriff's office for questioning, deputies said.

Carver faces charges of Carjacking, Resisting Arrest, Fleeing and Eluding, as well as Battery on a Person Over 65, WKMG said.

Deputies said they have had more than 100 encounters with Carver, who was out on bond after being charged with child abuse in January in the theft of a car with a baby in the back seat. He placed the child, who was in a car seat, on the lawn of a Longwood house on a cold morning before being arrested, deputies said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Illegal Alien Arrested By BPD:
Grand Theft of $12,500 from
Delivery Company, Locking
Co-Worker in Delivery Truck

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Diomeres Alcantara Hernandez, 34, of Tampa, Florida.

Diomeres Alcantara Hernandez

According to the arrest report, on Monday, May 25, 2009, at about 2:30 p.m., Hernandez and his co-worker, Mr. Zhi Wu, were working for a food delivery company by the name of Marco Dixie Food Services. They stopped at China City Express, 810 1st Street West, Bradenton, for their final delivery.

Hernandez asked Wu if he could use Wu's phone to make plans regarding his vehicle breaking down. Wu gave Hernandez his phone and Wu climbed into the rear of the box truck to get the items for the delivery to China City Express. Hernandez then closed the doors to the box truck, locking it from the outside, with Wu still inside. There was no way out for Wu, Hernandez believed.

Hernandez then climbed into the cab of the truck and drove it about a block west of the business and parked it in an empty field, behind the businesses. The report from BPD noted that the area where the truck was parked was not used by the public and was overgrown with weeds.

Hernandez used the keys to unlock the safe in the truck and steal the day's deposits, the report said.

Then Hernandez left the truck running, with Wu still locked in the back of the truck, and fled on foot south on 1st Street West. He walked to a laundromat in the 2100 block of 1st Street West.

Meanwhile, Wu was able to open a side door to the back of the truck by using an emergency latch. Wu went to the front of the truck, where he discovered that Hernandez had stolen the money. Wu then drove the truck to China City Express and 911 was called.

Several BPD and MSO K-9 units set up in the area. After about 45 minutes, the perimeter was broken down and officers started checking the area in their cruisers.

Hernandez was located at the laundromat by BPD Officer Gause. Ofc. Gause confirmed that the man in the laundromat was Hernandez. The victim was driven to the scene and confirmed that it was, in fact, Hernandez, who was then taken into custody.

The owner of the business responded to the scene and said they wanted to press charges. Wu said he wanted to press charges also. The owner said there would have been about $14,000 in cash in the truck's safe. Officers found just over $12,500 in cash in Hernandez' possession.

Hernandez said later that he stole the money because the business owed him the money for overtime, health, and the way they treat their employees. He didn't believe Wu would have been injured by staying in the truck, because when he "came over" [to the United States] he rode in the back of a box truck for hours and he was fine, the report said.

Hernandez was arrested and charged with Grand Theft and False Imprisonment of an Adult.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $6,000 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Child Abuse
Following Argument with
Fiance, Striking Two Kids

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Bernard McKenzie, Sr., 38, of the 1000 block of 63rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Bernard McKenzie, Sr.

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, May 24, 2009, at about 10 p.m., Bernard and his fiance, Janelle Simon, got into an argument over Bernard coming home from work late.

Janelle started to hit Bernard on the arm. Bernard then entered the residence and took his infant daughter from Janelle's 12-year-old daughter, who was holding the baby.

Bernard then went to the rear bedroom with the baby. Janelle entered the bedroom and started arguing with Bernard.

The argument turned physical when Bernard pushed Janelle and left the bedroom.

The 12-year-old daughter was standing in the hallway and attempted to retrieve the baby from Bernard. At that time, Bernard grabbed the girl by the neck and pushed her into the wall, causing her glasses to fall and injuring her right eye.

Their 17-year-old son intervened and attempted to retrieve his baby sister. Bernard grabbed him by the neck and pushed him into the wall, causing an injury to the lad's neck; he bled from a small cut.

The sheriff's office was called and Bernard was arrested.

He was charged with two counts of Child Abuse and one count of Domestic Battery.

He was released from jail on his own recognizance.

Young Woman, Boyfriend Busted
For Beating Other Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Morgan Amber Willis, 18, and her boyfriend, Zachary Robert Lechner, 20, both of 5310 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Morgan Amber Willis and Zachary Robert Lechner

According to the arrest report, on Monday, May 25, 2009, shortly before 4 p.m., an unnamed woman came home from work to the same apartment complex and was jumped by her neighbors at the front door to her apartment.

One of the attackers was Morgan Willis. Willis was assisted in the attack by her boyfriend, Zachary Lechner, who held the victim down while Morgan struck the woman in the face.

The woman sustained a swollen shut right eye, that turned out to be a fracture, once seen by a doctor at Blake Medical Center.

Both Morgan and Zachary were arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery. Lechner was also charged with Violation of Community Control for an earlier conviction.

Morgan remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $7,000 bail bond. Lechner remains in jail without bond.

Manatee Deputy Arrests Man
for Striking Man, Woman
Over Missing Wallet, Cash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Patrick N. McLean, 32, of 215 31st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Patrick N. McLean

An arrest report said on Sunday, May 24, 2009, at about 7 p.m., McLean went to a residence in the 1000 block of 59th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, and knocked on the door.

When the female resident opened the door, McLean pushed her against her will and entered the home.

An argument started over McLean's missing wallet and money.

When the woman told McLean that she did not have his wallet or money, he pushed her out of the way and confronted the male resident, who told McLean to leave.

McLean started to punch the male residence in the head with a closed fist. The male resident slipped on some water and went to the floor, where McLean continued to punch him, the report said.

The female resident tried to help the male resident, but McLean punched her in the chest and mouth. Then the female resident grabbed a pan from the kitchen and swung it at McLean to get him to stop hitting the male resident.

All parties left the home and the physical part of the incident ended outside.

McLean was arrested and charged with one count of Burglary with Battery and another count of Battery.

McLean posted a $7,000 bail bond and was released from jail the next day.

Manatee County Sheriff's Office
Deputy of the Month Named

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube has announced the Deputy of the Month for May 2009 is Deputy Todd Sellitto.

On March 28, 2009, Detective Todd Sellitto issued a Media Alert for a 12-year-old juvenile who ran away after a verbal argument with her grandmother. The next day, he upgraded the incident to an Amber Alert, based on information that the girl was seen getting into a red Jeep vehicle driven by a white male wearing glasses. During an aggressive search, the girl returned home, but was not forthcoming with information about the suspect and what had occurred while she was away. After persistent interview, some details were obtained to identify a suspect, his residence, and several criminal acts that he had committed.

Within hours, Detective Sellitto located the suspect’s vehicle and condominium and began surveillance to monitor his actions. Detectives confronted the suspect when it appeared that he was leaving the residence. After a lengthy interview, the suspect confessed to the criminal acts and was taken into custody.

Detective Sellitto worked with his co-workers and demonstrated dedication, professionalism and, above all, teamwork to safely recover the juvenile and apprehend the suspect, for which he is awarded Deputy of the Month for May 2009.

Sheriff Steube congratulated Deputy Sellitto.

Home Invasion Robbery,
Sexual Battery On
Siesta Key

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a home invasion robbery and sexual battery that occurred at a residence on Siesta Key on Tuesday, May 26, 2009.

The report said at 12:56 a.m. on Tuesday, deputies responded to a report of a home invasion and sexual battery which occurred on Siesta Key.

The unnamed female victim, 84, told deputies that while alone in her home she was attacked by an unknown masked intruder.

The victim was beaten and sexually battered.

She was transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for treatment.

The victim described the assailant as possibly a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, with a muscular build.

It is unknown if this incident is connected to other multiple incidents recently in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

The investigation is continuing.

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 at our website at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com, or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

12 Memorial Weekend DUI
Arrests in Charlotte Co.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A dozen DUI arrests were made over Memorial weekend in Charlotte County; three involving crashes, and three were second time DUI arrest offenders.

CCSO deputies arrested eight of the 12 for DUI while Punta Gorda Police had three, and FWC had one BUI/Boating Under Influence arrest.

Three of those arrested were from Punta Gorda, three from North Port, two from Englewood, one each from Deep Creek and Arcadia, and two out of state arrests from New Jersey and Michigan.

Eight were male and four were female drivers.

Plane Crashes On Takeoff,
1 Killed, 1 Injured

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- One person was killed and another was injured in a plane crash at Daytona International Airport, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

One person has been declared dead, and another, a 45-year-old man, was trapped in the twin-engine plane before being removed and taken to the hospital, Volusia County officials said.

The accident happened as the plane was taking off.

"They were heading east on runway 7R, which is a 3,000-foot runway. They reported engine trouble pretty immediately after that so they looped around to head west on 25R, which is one of the commercial runways, and then landed about 200 feet short of the runway," Vickie Pleus of Volusia County said.

The crash occurred before 9 a.m. Monday.

Federal Aviation Administration investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Sheriff Says
Woman Was Murdered;
Is 15th Homicide of 2009

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 12:30 Friday afternoon, May 22, 2009, deputies responded to an apparent homicide at 2518 55th Ave. W., Bradenton.

Above, 2518 55th Avenue West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The victim has been identified as Malenne Meranvil, 21, of the above address.

The victim did suffer trauma to her body, however, the cause of death is not being released at this time, Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, said.

An autopsy was to be performed by the Medical Examiner to determine the cause and manner of death.

According to the victim’s boyfriend, Johnathon Holte, 26, the two had an argument Thursday night and he left the residence.

Holte says he returned to the residence shortly after 12:00 p.m. Friday and discovered the victim.

Johnathon Holte

Holte was interviewed by detectives but has not been charged in connection with the death of Malenne Meranvil. He was arrested on a warrant for Failure To Appear on a traffic charge.

Holte was also charged with Domestic Battery for an incident that occurred on March 5, 2009. On that date, Holte went to Malenne Meranvil’s residence at 708 60th Avenue Terrace W, Bradenton, and assaulted her by pulling her hair and pushing her down.

By the time deputies arrived, Holte had fled the area.

Miss Meranvil didn’t want to press charges but the case was assigned to a domestic violence detective for follow-up. The detective has been actively looking for Holte and had probable cause for his arrest.

Holte remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $52,000.

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.

This is the 15th murder in Manatee County in 2009. There have now been 11 murders in unincorporated Manatee County and 4 in the City of Bradenton.

Bradenton Doctor Arrested for
Touching Patient Inappropriately;
Police Ask Public for Other Cases

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 22, 2009, Bradenton Police detectives arrested Dr. C. G. Rao, 61, of Bradenton Florida. Dr. Rao is also known as Dr. Gangadhara Rao Chapalamadugu.

Dr. Rao

Dr. Rao has been charged with one count of simple battery, a first degree misdemeanor.

Investigators determined that Dr. Rao inappropriately touched an adult female patient, A BPD press release said.

According to the arrest report, Dr. Rao touched the unnamed female victim's breasts, then kissed one of them.

In an undercover operation, during which Dr. Rao was recorded, Dr. Rao apologized to the victim for the earlier incident.

Detectives arrested Dr. Rao at his office which is located at 300 Riverside Drive East, Suite 4500, Bradenton, Florida, Dep. Chief J.J. Lewis said.

Dr. Rao has since posted a $750 bail bond and has been released from the Manatee County Jail.

In 2002, the Bradenton Police Department investigated a similar incident involving Dr. Rao, the press release said.

Detectives are concerned that there may be more victims that have not reported incidents.

https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=348

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.

Clerk Shot in Stomach During
Convenience Store Armed
Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Saturday, May 23, 2009, at a few minutes before 10 p.m., at the K&S convenience store, 3403 15th Street East, Bradenton, during which the clerk was shot in the stomach.

K&S convenience store, 3403 15th Street East, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

According to the report, a Black male entered the store and confronted Shankerbhai Patel, 63, who was working behind the counter.

The would-be robber fired one round from a handgun, striking Patel in the abdomen and then fled eastbound along 34th Avenue East.

It is unknown if anything was taken from the store.

A perimeter was established and K9 started tracking, but lost the scent.

Patel, who was conscious and coherent, was transported to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflight.

The shooter was described as a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a mask, black 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.

Manatee Deputy Arrests Woman
for Scheme to Defraud Best Buy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Deborah Mercado, 47, of 16301 Muirfield Drive, Odessa, Florida, for attempted to defraud a Best Buy store, located at 4210 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Deborah Mercado

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at about 8 p.m., Mercado entered Best Buy and proceeded to the computer section.

She loaded up a shopping cart with computers and accessories valued at $8,175.89, then proceeded to the customer service counter to apply for store credit.

She filled out an application, using the name of and producing identification for a Barbra Wright.

A loss prevention officer discovered the transaction was fraudulent and called the sheriff's office.

When the deputy arrived, Mercado told him, "Barbra told me to do it. I filled it out for her because she did not have her glasses."

The deputy made contact via cell phone and asked Barbra to come back to the store. After waiting for 30 minutes, Barbra never showed up.

Mercado was then arrested for Scheme to Defraud and Criminal Use of Personal Identification.

Mercado posted an $8,500 bail bond the next day and was released from jail.

Young Man Burglarizes Mom's
Home, Later Located, Bitten
By Manatee Sheriff's K-9

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Dennis Larrison, 19, burglarized his mother's residence on Saturday, May 23, 2009, at about 5:30 p.m.

Dennis Larrison

The report said Deputy Darbonne was flagged down by the victim, Bobbi Larrison, 43, to report that Dennis Larrison broke into her home in the 1600 block of Suponic Avenue, Bradenton, by crawling through the back window. She also said he ate her food and possibly stole a handgun.

Probable cause to arrest Dennis Larrison was obtained and a search was conducted throughout the day.

At 5:39 p.m., Deputy O’Neal spotted Dennis Larrison in the 1200 block of Idlewild Court and initiated a foot pursuit.

A perimeter was quickly established and Deputy Thames with K-9 Leo started a track.

Dennis Larrison was located on the track, but resisted after being challenged by Deputy Thames.

Larrison ran eastbound across 15th Street East with K-9 Leo in pursuit. Larrison was apprehended by K-9 Leo with a dog bite to the upper right leg. Larrison also received a bite to his right hand when he attempted to get the dog off of him.

He was arrested without further incident.

He was found in possession of a crack pipe and a marijuana pipe.

Dennis Larrison was charged with Burglary, Resisting Arrest without Violence and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail.

Woman Kidnapped, Raped
By White Male; Police Seek
Rapist, About 50 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman was kidnapped and raped by a White male in a blue truck on Friday, May 22, 2009, shortly before midnight.

The sheriff's report said the unnamed victim was walking home on 57th Ave. W. when a blue truck stopped and the driver asked her if she wanted a ride.

She stated that she didn't and the male drove off, but then turned around.

She was by the west entrance of Swan Lake Village when he ran up behind her, grabbed her by the hair, and forced her into the passenger seat of the truck.

He drove to a parking lot at 1399 44th Ave. E., stopped the truck, and pulled her out. He forced her to the ground and sexually battered her.

After he was done, she asked him if he was going to give her a ride home but he just drove off.

The victim flagged down a car on 44th Ave. East and the sheriff's office was called.

The victim was cooperative at first, but refused to go to the hospital, the report said.

Suspect is unknown to victim, but he did tell her his first name. He said it was "Robbie."

After speaking with her boyfriend on the phone, the victim became even more upset and she walked away from deputies, saying that she was walking home.

The victim did not have any visible injuries.

"Robbie" was described as a White male, about 50 years old, 6'2" tall, 220 pounds, with gray hair.

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

Woman Robbed at Gunpoint
Outside Amscot Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Friday, May 22, 2009, at about 4 p.m. in the parking lot of an Amscot check cashing store, 3611 1st Street East, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Kristin Dunn, 20, of the 1100 block of 12th Street East, Bradenton, arrived at Amscot to cash a check and was standing in front of her vehicle.

A Black male approached her and pulled up his shirt, exposing the butt of a handgun.

The robber said "give me your purse" and when the victim stepped backwards, the man pulled the gun from his waistband and pointed it at her.

Kristin gave the man her wallet, then he asked for her car keys.

The victim did not give the man the keys, so he grabbed them from her belt loop.

The robber fled the area on foot towards Manatee Woods Apartment complex.

A perimeter was established and K-9 conducted a track to no avail.

Kristin was not injured during the encounter.

The robber was described as a Black male, 6' tall, 180 pounds, about 23 years old, with short dreadlock-style hair pulled up into a pony tail, and was last seen wearing a white tank top and black basketball shorts. The man also had an unknown tattoo on his left shoulder that was partially visible.

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 Attacked By Female
'Acquaintance,' Other Man
In 1st Man's Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A 45-year-old man was attacked by a female 'acquaintance' and her male friend on Sunday, May 24, 2009, at about 8 p.m., at his residence in the 9000 block of Kingston Road, Bradenton, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said.

The report said according to Timothy Thompson, Liz, who is an acquaintance of his, stopped by his residence unexpectedly.

Thompson welcomed Liz into his home and ended up socializing with her on his couch. Thompson told Liz that he did not feel well and went to use the bathroom.

When Thompson exited the bathroom he saw a White male walking away from him down the hallway.

Thompson confronted Liz, who was still sitting on the couch about the White male's identity and told both of them that they had to leave and Thompson opened up his front door waiting for them to leave.

As they started to walk towards Thompson, he noticed that Liz nodded her head at the White male. Thompson then said that the White male pulled a tire iron from behind his back and began striking him with it.

Liz grabbed Thompson's wooden cane and also began striking him with it. Both attackers were yelling at each other to reach into Thompson's pockets and take his belongings.

Thompson was attempting to fight off the suspects when they took flight on foot without any of his belongings.

Thompson was taken to Blake Medical Center and treated for his injuries, which were not life-threatening.

The attackers were described as 1) Liz, White female, 5'6" tall, 135 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes; and 2) a White male, 5'9" tall, 185 pounds.

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.

One Man in Critical Condition
Following Attack By Dogs;
2nd Man Seriously Wounded
By Same Dogs in Two Days

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Jose G. Moreno, of the 2900 block of 7th Avenue West, Bradenton, was in critical condition Saturday, May 23, 2009, after he was found by a deputy lying in the road and bloodied.

The report said while a deputy was patrolling in the area of the 3200 block of 3rd Street East, Bradenton, Moreno was found lying in the road covered in blood. Moreno had several puncture wounds and scratches on both of his arms, his chest and on both legs. There was a 2 to 3 inch laceration approximately an inch deep to the left side of Moreno's neck.

Moreno said that a couple of dogs bit him. Moreno believes that the dogs came from a residence, but it is unknown at this point in the investigation what provoked the dogs to bite Moreno.

Moreno was transported to Bayfront Medical Center by Bayflite where he was listed as critical.

Animal Control responded to the scene and was investigating.

Then, on Sunday, May 24, 2009, at about 4:30 p.m., deputies responded to a possible prowler call in the 200 block of 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

When deputies arrived on scene, Armel Robinson was found bleeding under a carport with several wounds on his arms and legs.

Robinson said that he was walking down 3rd Street East when 2 dogs attacked him.

Robinson sustained a 2 to 3 inch wide and an inch and a half deep laceration to his left forearm and left ankle. Robinson also had multiple deep scratches along his legs, arms and chest.

EMS was called and transported Robinson to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The owner of the dogs, Carranza-Diaz, advised that she heard screaming, ran outside and saw her 2 dogs across the street. She ran across the street and pulled her Pit Bull/Boxer mix, off of Robinson.

Carranza-Diaz brought both dogs (the other is a Pit Bull), back to her yard and secured the fence.

Animal Control responded and removed both dogs.

This was the second animal bite complaint Carranza-Diaz’s dogs have been involved in, the sheriff's report said.

Transient Drowns in Sister's Pool;
Death Under Investigation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the drowning death of a transient. The dead man was discovered on Saturday, May 23, 2009, at about 11:45 a.m., in the pool of the residence of the man's sister, 7507 3rd Avenue NW, Bradenton.

The report said on the above date and time, Pam Capalbo walked out to her pool and discovered her brother, William Halliwell, 49, floating face down in the pool.

Halliwell is a transient and sleeps in his truck, the report said.

He was an alcoholic and would routinely pull into Capalbo's driveway and sleep inside his truck.

Ms. Capalbo indicated that she had no idea he was at her home or what time he arrived.

Detectives responded and continued with the investigation.

There is no further information at this time.

Man Stabbed During Argument
Over Van Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 22, 2009, at about 5 p.m., two men got into an argument over the theft of a van and one man was stabbed, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The stabber was arrested.

The report said the victim, Alex Leonel Aquilar-Amaya, 22, was sitting in a white Kia which was parked in the eastside parking lot of The Grove Apartments, 723 44th Avenue East, Bradenton, when he was approached by the suspect, Augustin Nunez, 48.

Nunez started accusing Amaya of stealing his van and a verbal altercation took place.

Nunez then threatened several times to kill Amaya and at some point produced a knife. Nunez attempted to stab Amaya in the chest with the knife, which was described as having a brown handle.

Amaya was trying to defend himself and laid back in the vehicle, trying to fend Nunez off by kicking at him. Amaya received a deep stab wound to the back of his upper left thigh.

Amaya pointed out Nunez to deputies and when they attempted to arrest Nunez, he resisted. Deputy Bowen drive-stunned Nunez on his upper middle back where he gained compliance.

Nunez was arrested without further incident.

He was charged with Attempted Murder.

Manatee Deputy Injured in 2-Car
Traffic Crash; Other Driver Cited

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy, Josetta Coleman, was injured when another driver failed to stop for a red light on Thursday, May 21, 2009, at about 10 p.m. at the intersection of Lakewood Ranch Blvd. and State Road 70 East, Bradenton.

Deputy Coleman was traveling southbound on Lakewood Ranch Blvd. when she entered the intersection on a green light traveling at approximately 15 mph.

The other driver, Chad W. Lowe, 42, was traveling eastbound on S.R. 70 E. at approximately 60 mph and entered the intersection on a red light.

Deputy Coleman saw Lowe coming and tried to stop, but was unsuccessful.

Lowe struck the push bumper on Deputy Coleman's vehicle, damaging the front end of her patrol car.

The force of the impact pushed Deputy Coleman's vehicle back from the intersection. Lowe's vehicle was spun around approximately 180 degrees and came to rest facing westbound in the westbound lane of travel at the eastern edge of the intersection.

Lowe was uninjured and had approximately $500 damage to his vehicle and he drove his vehicle from the scene.

Deputy Coleman sustained multiple injuries and was transported to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. Her vehicle sustained approximately $3,000 damage and was towed from the scene.

Lowe was found at-fault and issued multiple citations.

Sarasota Police Seek Shooter,
Ex-Con in Early Friday Incident

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department is actively looking for a man who shot another man on Friday, May 22, 2009, at about 1:15 a.m.

A report from SPD said officers responded to the area of 17th and Central Avenue, in reference to shots being fired and a person heard screaming.

Once on scene, officers located a Black male, later identified as Elijah Smith, who had suffered a gunshot wound to the left leg upper thigh area; the bullet had exited the rear of the thigh.

The suspect in this case was identified as Ulysses Corner (AKA "Jap"), 42, a Black male.

A probable cause affidavit has been written for Corner for Aggravated Battery and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

If you know the whereabouts of Corner, please call the Sarasota Police Department.

Charlotte County Narcotics Cops
Arrest 4 in Drug Raid

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit, assisted by the Street Crimes Unit and State of Florida Probation, raided a Tropical Gulf Acres home at 10 a.m. Friday, May 22, 2009, and arrested four people.

Detectives arrested Ricky Neris, 23; Enrique Neris Jr., 55; Christina Marie Nicotra, 27; and Tony Ann Herzon, 22, all living in the home at 12070 Borax Ave.

After the search warrant was executed, detectives found Cocaine, Loracet, Percocet, Lorazapam, a scale, two containers of Inositol powder used as a cocaine agent, a metal measuring cup, 22 caliber ammunition, and seized $995 in cash.

All four were transported to the Charlotte County Jail. Ricky Neris and Tonya Herzog were both charged with Possession of Loracet and Possession of Percocet. Ricky Neris was also charged with Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. Enrique Neris Jr. and Christina Nicotra were both charged with Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Lorazapam. Enrique Neris was additionally charged with Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon.

Ricky Neris and Enrique Neris Jr. are being held on no bond due to the Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon charges. Herzog and Nicotra’s bonds were both set at $5,000.

If you have illegal drug information please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157 or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

FHP Trooper Charged With Sexual
Battery, Resigns From FHP

PALM SPRINGS, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a former Florida Highway Patrol trooper followed a woman to her home, made her strip naked and then coerced her to have sex with him to avoid a traffic ticket, according to charges filed by the Palm Springs Police.

Police said Ariel D. Valentin, 31, was arrested Friday and charged with Sexual Battery and Bribery.

Police said Valentin questioned the woman on May 13 after she was involved in a minor car accident. There were no injuries, and neither vehicle was damaged. Police say Valentin searched her at the scene and then suggested going to her home nearby to search her further.

Once they arrived at her home, the woman told police that Valentin told her to remove her clothes and then coerced her into having sex with him.

Valentin has resigned from FHP.

He was being held without bail, WKMG said.

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NewsManatee Archive Created 5/30/2009 2:00:06 PM

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