Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 6/6/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 6/6/2009

Infant Drowns in Bathtub When
Young Mother Leaves Him
Alone in Tub

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An 11-month-old boy, Ryan Walter Gerken, drowned in a foot of water in a bathtub when his mother left him alone in the tub, according to information in a report released by Detective Todd Sellitto, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred on Sunday, May 31st and the boy died on Wednesday, June 3rd.

The report said on Sunday, May 31, 2009, Jessica Barnes, 19, of 3606 19th Street West, Bradenton, called 911 with concerns that her son had drowned in the bathtub.

Jessica had placed her now deceased 11-month-old baby in the bathtub located in the bathroom of the above address. Once the child was in the tub, Jessica used a plastic saucer type drain plug to create a suction to enable the bathtub to fill with water.

Jessica later explained that she did check the temperature prior to leaving the room to locate the child's clothing and a towel.

At this point, Jessica left her child unattended for an extended period of time estimated to be between 5-10 minutes based on statements, medical opinion, and testing of the tub water levels.

Jessica admits that she may have lost track of time and became concerned when she didn`t hear her son playing and splashing.

When Jessica entered the bathroom she found her son face down submerged in the tub with what she originally stated was about a foot of water.

Jessica removed the child, unplugged the tub and tried to give her child CPR. She called 911 and EMS responded.

Based on the totality of information it is clear that Jessica was negligent and failed to provide adequate supervision resulting in the death of the 11-month old-child, Det. Sellitto wrote in his report of the incident.

The investigation was forwarded to the State Attorney's Office for review.

Charges are pending.

[Ed. Note: NEVER, NEVER, NEVER leave a baby or infant child alone in a bathtub, not even for 5 seconds, which is all it takes for a child to drown, or at least inhale water and choke desperately for air, which may not be available if the child is submerged in the water.]

Two Women Arrested for Child
Neglect After Kids Found
Playing Near Roadway

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, June 4, 2009, at about 10 a.m., two Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives spotted 3 children playing near the road in the 4000 block of 9th Avenue West, Bradenton, with no adults in sight.

Above, L to R, Mayra Medina and Luz Aguilar-Contreras

A report from MSO said Det. Getman and Det. Smith were en route to a call in East Bradenton.

While driving past 4001 9th Ave West, they observed 3 small children, ages 2, 2 and 1 years old, in the front yard, approximately 7 feet from the roadway with no supervision.

Upon investigation, one of the parents, Mayra Medina, 19, was observed lying in bed and stated her sister should have been watching the children.

The other parent, Luz Aguilar-Contreras, 21, was in another bedroom and appeared to have just awakened.

During the investigation, the children were observed to be dirty with urine-soaked diapers.

It was also learned they had not been fed yet that morning.

Both Mayra and Luz were arrested and charged with Child Neglect.

The children were placed with their fathers, who were not involved with this incident.

Man Stabbed During East Side
Altercation Wednesday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Ray Hall, 42, a White male, was stabbed by Curtis Hunt, 52, a Black male, during an altercation in the 5600 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton, on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 5:15 p.m., according to a Manatee County Sheriff's Office report.

Curtis Hunt

The report briefly said Curtis Hunt stabbed Ray Hall once in the left shoulder during the altercation.

Both subjects were inebriated and gave different versions of events, the report said.

Hall was teated and released at Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Hunt was arrested at the scene without incident.

He claimed he was acting in self defense, but there was no evidence to support this claim, the report said.

Hunt was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $7,500 bail bond for that charge.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Threatening To Shoot,
Kill, Other Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ennis Lane, Jr., 36, of 112 59th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Ennis Lane, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 10 p.m., Ennis Lane, Jr., wen to the residence of Calvin Riggs and Misty Bennett, in the 600 block of 60th Avenue East, Bradenton, and got into an argument over money.

Ennis allegedly brandished a handgun that was tucked in his pants and threatened to kill Calvin by shooting him, the report said.

Calvin jumped out the back window to escape Ennis.

Misty called the sheriff's office.

Ennis fled the scene and was located a short time later at his residence.

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

He remains in custody at the Manatee County Jail on a $7,500 bail bond.

Louisiana Man Charged with
Arson for Wal-Mart Fire
Thursday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 4:10 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2009, Manatee County Sheriff's Dputies and firefighters from the Southern Manatee Fire District responded to a fire at the Wal-Mart store located at 2911 53rd Ave E., Bradenton.

Phillip R. Wright

Deputies learned that a man tried to return items at the store and when he failed to do so, he proceeded to the men’s department and set three clothes racks on fire. He then left the store in what was later determined to be a tan pickup truck.

Other Wal-Mart stores in the area were notified to be on the lookout for this subject.

At around 6:15 p.m., deputies responded to the Wal-Mart store at 8320 Lockwood Ridge Rd. in south Manatee County, where a man fitting the description of the suspect entered the store.

Deputies arrested Phillip R. Wright, 41, of Monroe, Louisiana, and charged him with Arson, with other charges possible.

"A person who was in the truck with Wright is being questioned but has not been charged at this time," said Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office..

No one was injured as a result of the fire, however there was substantial damage done at the store.

Man Wounded in Pride Park
Drive-By Shooting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was shot and wounded on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 8:40 p.m. in the 400 block of 61st Avenue East, Bradenton, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Daniel Odom, 18, and his girlfriend were walking to her house from 1st street.

While in the 400 block of 61st Ave. E., a yellow P.T. Cruiser with dark tinted windows approached them.

The front passenger side and right rear passenger door opened and several shots were heard.

Two black males were seen in the vehicle who shot at Daniel. Two other Black males were also in the vehicle.

Daniel suffered gunshot wounds to his leg. One local media report said he was shot in both thighs.

Daniel was transported by EMS to Bayfront Medical Center where he is listed in good condition.

The investigation continues, with no arrests at this time.

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.

Hispanic Man Beaten, Robbed
By Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 8:45 p.m., Herminio Vazquiz-Hernandez, 50, was beaten and robbed outside his residence in the 1100 block of 62nd Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said.

The report said Herminio went outside to talk on the phone.

He was approached by two Black males who began beating on him.

During the beating, the thugs ripped Herminio's right pocket sand took property and cash valued at $490.

The thugs fled in a light-colored Ford Crown Victoria or a Mercury Marquis.

The victim was not injured.

The culprits were described as:

1) A Black male, 5'10" tall, 140 pounds, wearing a white tank top and jean shorts.

2) A Black male, 5"10" tall, 180 pounds, wearing a white tank top and jean 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.

Group of Four Rob Lone Man
In Apartment Parking Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A group of 2 White males and 2 Black males robbed a lone Hispanic male while he was standing in the parking lot of his apartment complex on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 11 p.m.

The victim, Eliseo Sanchez, 19, was standing in the parking lot of the Groves Apartments, 723 44th Avenue East, Bradenton, talking on his cell phone.

He was grabbed from behind by one subject while another stole his cell phone and $100 cash from his right rear pocket.

The four culprits then fled in a westerly direction on foot.

The victim sustained no injuries.

The perpetrators were only described as 2 unidentified White males and 2 unidentified Black males.

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

Sarasota County Sheriff's Office
Arrests Serial Burglar

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives have arrested Michael J. Hare, 38, of 2226 Pine Terrace, Sarasota, on five counts of Burglary, two counts of Grand Theft, and two counts of Petit Theft in relation to a series of burglaries that occurred between May 21st and June 1st, 2009.

Michael J. Hare

These included Millies Restaurant and The Serving Spoon Restaurant on Clark Road, the Alibi Café on Swift Road, and Peaches Restaurant on S. Tamiami Trail. Hare would gain entry to the restaurants by throwing a rock through the establishment’s front glass window.

Anyone with additional information relating to these incidents is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations at (941) 861-4900.

K-9 Tracked Hit-and-Run Driver
Who Crashed Into Home

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Charlotte County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit tracked down a man who crashed into a Port Charlotte home a 556 Kellstadt St. early Thursday morning, June 4, 2009, and fled on foot.

Jason Bryan Christo

Jason Bryan Christo, 24, 4100 Tamiami Tr., Port Charlotte, was arrested about an hour later.

A road patrol deputy attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle with no tag light, and the driver sped away at a high rate of speed. The deputy stopped following and cruised the area looking for the suspect vehicle. At 1:14 a.m., the deputy located the vehicle which had crashed into the home. Two passengers were standing outside the vehicle and told the deputy the driver, Christo, fled the scene. The passengers were then transported by EMS to an area hospital.

A K-9 Unit was called and began tracking, which ended at 2:12 a.m. when Christo was located at U.S. 41 and West Tarpon Blvd.

He was arrested and charged with Fleeing to Elude, Hit & Run with Property Damage, Driving While License Suspended, and Probation Violation of Curfew.

Christo was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held without bond.

A Charlotte County Building inspector was called out to assess the structural damages to the home.

No one in the home was injured.

UPDATE: Baby Found In Box
Gets New Home

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a newborn baby who was found over the weekend in a cardboard box on the side of an Ocala road has been placed in a foster home and is doing well as police continue to search for the child's parents.

Wesley Pringle found the newborn in a QVC box, along with a blanket, an article of clothing and a diaper, Saturday evening, May 30, 2009, at the intersection of Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 24th Avenue in Ocala.

Police on Monday released an image of the girl, who was about 3 to 7 days old when she was found.

The girl appeared to be in good health but did suffer some ant bites, although she's now "thriving," according to the Department of Children and Families.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

MSO, SPD, FDLE Announce
Local Pawn Broker Arrested
for Dealing in Stolen Property

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, June 2, 2009, Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Commissioner Gerald Bailey, Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube, and Sarasota Police Department Chief Peter Abbott, announced the arrest of Jozsef Zombori, 34, of Bradenton, a pawn broker manager of Abba Pawn, 5681 15th Street East, Bradenton, Florida.

Jozsef Zombori

After an approximate five month investigation, Zombori was arrested on five counts of Dealing in Stolen Property.

The undercover investigation was initiated after FDLE and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office were contacted by a Publix Loss Prevention Investigator who reported that there were thousands of dollars worth of Health, Beauty and Care Products being stolen from numerous Publix stores throughout the Central Florida area.

The subsequent investigation identified a group of “boosters” who were traveling throughout the Central Florida area shoplifting Health, Beauty and Care Products. The “boosters” targeted local merchants including Publix Supermarkets, Walgreens, Wal-Mart, and CVS stores.

Several of the “boosters” have already been arrested and the case is ongoing, with additional arrests anticipated.

The investigation revealed that Zombori was purchasing the stolen products from the “boosters” at Abba Pawn, paying $4.00 for a package of razors that have a wholesale value of approximately $24.00 each.

Prior to the arrest of Zombori, the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services conducted inspections at both Abba Pawn locations, 5681 15th Street East, Bradenton, Florida, and at 1051 North Washington Boulevard, Sarasota, Florida. Both Abba Pawn owner Adam Banka and Abba Pawn Manager Joszef Zombori were administratively cited for several violations.

The Florida Department of Agriculture & Division of Consumer Services is continuing their investigation.

Zombori was booked into the Manatee County Jail. He was initially charged with five counts of Dealing in Stolen Property, a second-degree felony.

Zombori posted a $5,000 cash bond and was released from jail on Wednesday, June 3, pending a court appearance.

Zombori will be prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office, 12th Judicial Circuit, and additional charges could be added at a later date.

Manatee Deputy Arrests Man
for Pulling 14-Year-Old
Daughter's Hair Out

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Clifford G. Grayson, 45, of the 1200 block of 78th Street NW, Bradenton.

Clifford G. Grayson

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at about 2:15 a.m., Grayson's 14-year-old daughter was asleep in her bedroom when her father woke her to clean the dog mess on the floor of her room. Clifford could smell it from his room, the report said.

The girl cleaned up the mess, then went back to bed.

Clifford came back into the room minutes later and started yelling at the girl because there was still dog mess on the floor.

He then went out to have a cigarette.

The girl closed the door and locked it while she tried cleaning the mess.

Clifford came back to the room and noticed the door was locked, so he picked the lock open and entered the bedroom.

Then he grabbed the girl by the hair and pulled her up off the ground, the report said, after which he began to shake her back and fourth, yelling at her because she locked the door.

Clifford then smacked her in the head. She retaliated by punching her father in the face, trying to get him off of her. Clifford then let go and called 911.

Clifford only sustained a cut on the inside of his lip.

But the girl had a handful of hair from Clifford pulling on it and her hair was still falling out of her scalp after deputies were on scene. She also sustained a scratch on her hand, two small abrasions on her left arm on the inside of her bicep area.

She was taken to her grandparents' home for the night.

Grayson was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

He posted a $5,000 bail bond on Wednesday, June 3, and was released from jail, pending a court appearance.

Woman Arrested for Throwing
Items at 3 Women, Trashing
Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Patricia Ann Johnson, 19, of 910 51st Avenue West, Bradenton.

Patricia Ann Johnson

The arrest report said on Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at about 10:15 p.m., Johnson was at the above residence with 3 other women, namely, Satin Partilla, Rebecca Hartley and Ceaira Singletary, when they became involved in an argument for unknown reasons.

Patricia became irate and began throwing rocks and various pieces of furniture around the home.

During this, Patricia threw a wooden chair at Satin, striking her with the chair. She also threw ceramic plates and glasses at Rebecca, causing the back of Rebecca's ankle to be lacerated.

After Patricia was done with Satin and Rebecca, she turned her attention to Ceaira. Patricia picked up a glass table and threw it at Ceaira, almost striking her with it.

The table was broken when it hit a door instead of the intended target.

During the melee, Patricia broke numerous dishes, a chair, a glass table, a toaster and two windows to the dwelling by throwing rocks through them.

Damage was estimated at approximately $400.

All parties on scene declined EMS treatment.

Patricia was arrested without incident and charged with 3 counts of Aggravated Battery and two counts of Criminal Mischief.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $3,620.

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
for Threatening Woman
with Large Knife

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Palmetto Police have arrested Rudy Munoz, 23, of 3428 36th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Rudy Munoz

The arrest report from PPD said on Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at about 6:40 p.m., Munoz approached a woman and two witnesses in the park at 900 Riverside Park Drive, Palmetto.

The victim, an unnamed woman, said Munoz pulled a large knife on her and threatened to stab her several times.

The victim refused to fill out a sworn affidavit, but two victims did fill out affidavits.

The knife was found by police in Munoz's plastic bag.

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

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $7,500.

Shots Fired At Residence;
No Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported multiple shots were fired at a residence in the 3700 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton, on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at about 4 a.m.

According to the report, unknown suspect(s) drove past the above address and fired approximately 3 to 6 bullets at the residence.

Two of the bullets struck the exterior of the residence and a third bullet struck the kitchen window, entered the house and lodged in the hallway wall.

Six people inside, including a woman and two juveniles, were in the residence sleeping and did not see the suspect(s) or suspect vehicle.

No one was injured.

No bullet casings were found on scene.

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.

Random Shooting Reported
in Pride Park Area

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies reported a random shooting early Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at a residence in the 400 block of 61st Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said shortly after midnight, MSO units responded to a random shooting call with multiple gunshots being heard in the area.

On Wednesday morning, it was discovered that two unoccupied vehicles which were parked at the above residence had received damage from the bullets.

There were no injuries and no suspects have been identified.

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 Sheriff's Office Offers
Some Tips for a Safe Vacation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office Deputy Steve Ogline, of the Crime Prevention Unit, offers you the following tips for a safe vacation.

As summer approaches and kids get out of school, a lot of vacations take place. If you already planned a vacation, did you remember to think about your family’s safety and security? If not, add a few plans to your trip, like:

~ Take a cell phone for emergencies.

~ Make sure the car is serviced properly.

~ Remove valuables from your car (don’t leave anything in plain sight).

~ Use the auxiliary locks at hotels/motels (call the front desk to make sure it is an employee knocking on the door if you aren’t expecting someone).

~ Make a plan with your family in case you get separated (where to go, who to call, who your kids can trust, etc.).

These are just a few tips you can add to your vacation plans to help keep you HAPPY during your vacation. The last thing you want is the Vacation Blues!

Add some Crime Prevention to your plans and maybe you can avoid getting the Blues.

Remember, criminals are usually lazy by nature and look for easy targets!

Father Charged with Child Abuse
of Son, 2 Months Old

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, June 2, 2009, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Warrant Squad arrested Bryan Timothy Finnegan, 23, of 3655 Vessels Rd, Port Charlotte, on a charge of Aggravated Child Abuse following a Dec. 23, 2008, incident involving his 2-month old son.

Bryan Timothy Finnegan

Major Crimes Unit detectives said Finnegan was watching his son at their residence, then at 3461 Edgehill Terr., in Port Charlotte.

According to detectives, the child was "fussing" and Finnegan took the child into the bedroom to change his diaper. He had the boy by the legs and pushed them towards the boys head with enough force to hear a "pop." The child began screaming and crying.

The next morning, the boy’s mother was going to give their son a bath and the boy didn’t want to be touched on the left leg which had swollen.

The couple then took the baby to Peace River Regional Medical Center and it was determined the boy had a fracture to his leg.

Doctors told MCU detectives the injury was "non-accidental trauma."

The child was transferred to Health Park in Lee County to be examined further. During the examination two previous injuries were located and in healing stages. A doctor said one of the fractures was a "corner fracture." He stated he has seen those types of fractures before and has never seen it where it was not child abuse.

Based on the investigation, the States Attorney’s Office issued the warrant for the arrest of Finnegan who was located Tuesday and taken to the Charlotte County Jail.

Bond was set at $25,000 and he remains in custody.

Teen Pulls DUI Woman From
Car On Train Tracks

FORT PIERCE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a 17-year-old boy pulled a woman out of her car before it was hit by a train, according to authorities.

Edward Music told deputies he heard tires squealing and a big bang early Saturday monring and walked outside his St. Lucie County home and saw a car stopped on nearby railroad tracks. Music approached the car and found 21-year-old Alexandria L. Inman inside.

Music got her out of the car and then he and his uncle tried to move the car.

Before Music and his uncle could get the car off the tracks, a train came along and smashed the vehicle.

Inman was arrested and charged with DUI, WKMG reported.

She told investigators she wasn't sure how she wound up on the railroad tracks.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Two Bradenton Police Officers
Shoot, Capture Attempted
Bank Robbery Suspect

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Bradenton Police Department, on Tuesday, June 2, 2009, at about 1:30 p.m., BPD officers shot a man who attempted to rob the Gateway Bank, 2100 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Above, the Gateway Bank branch located at 2100 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

A press release from Dep. Police Chief J.J. Lewis said bank tellers observed the suspect, later identified as Charles T. Kincaid, Jr., 66, of Sebring, Florida, putting on a mask and gloves as he stood outside the bank’s front doors.

A bank employee then locked the doors, preventing Kincaid from entering the bank.

Kincaid then drove a Blue dodge pickup truck away from the bank.

Bank employees then called police to report the suspected attempted bank robbery.

Bradenton Police officers observed the truck traveling on the 1500 block of 26th Street West.

The truck was stopped and, after officers approached Kincaid, he threatened the officers with a handgun which was clearly visible.

Two officers then fired at Kincaid to stop his assault.

Kincaid was shot one time, stopping his assault against the officers and resulting in an injury which was not life-threatening.

He was transported by Bayflite medical chopper to Bayfront Medical Center.

Kincaid is charged with one count of Attempted Bank Robbery and two counts of Aggravated Assault (with a firearm) on a Law Enforcement Officer.

Nobody else was injured in the incident.

Surveillance photo from First Bank, 3005 53rd Avenue East

Kincaid is believed to be the same man who robbed the First Bank, 3005 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton, on Monday, May 18, 2009.

If so, more charges will follow from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Bradenton Police Department:
Man Arrested for Growing Pot;
Step-Daughter, 10, Helped Him

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Connell Laron Mans, 34, of the 2100 block of 9th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Connell Laron Mans

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Sunday, May 31, 2009, at about noon, an officer was on another call at the location when he was told that a man was growing marijuana in another apartment.

The officer walked around to the apartment in question, he observed Mans carrying four marijuana plants into his residence. There were also six other plants still sitting outside of his door, sitting on the sidewalk.

The officer had Mans stop carrying the plants inside and bring the other plants outside.

Initially, Mans denied there were marijuana plants and said he and his 10-year-old step-daughter planted the items from seeds he found inside his residence.

The officer ran Mans' name and found he had a warrant out of Sarasota for Possession of Marijuana. Mans was taken into custody at that point.

Mans finally admitted to the marijuana plants and said they were his.

The step-daughter confirmed that she had helped Mans plant the pot.

The officer noted that there was a five-month-old boy inside the residence also and called Child Protective Services.

Mans was taken to the BPD station where he said the plants were only seven days old.

The plants weighed out to 1.7 grams, without the pots and dirt they were planted in.

Mans was charged with Cultivating Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana, Maintaining a Structure for Use/Sale of Marijuana and Child Neglect.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $7,000.

Observant Citizen, Crime Watch
Flyer Help Cops Nab Auto Thief,
Possible Burglar

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Crime Watch flyer sent by e-mail on Monday, June 1, 2009, aided a citizen in alerting the sheriff's office to a possible burglar who turned out to be driving a stolen vehicle, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Larry Glick

The report said a complainant contacted the sheriff's office because the suspect, later identified as Larry Glick, 30, a homeless man, matched the description of a possible burglar listed in a Crime Watch flyer that the complainant received via email.

It turned out the vehicle Glick was driving was listed stolen out of Sarasota County and a traffic stop was conducted at about 7:45 p.m.

In the process of being arrested, Glick dropped a used glass rock cocaine stem onto the ground.

Glick does not have a driver license only a Pennsylvania Identification Card.

Glick was charged with Grand Theft Auto, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Valid Driver License.

Man Arrested for Child Abuse
After Spanking Left Bruises

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James D. Bryant, 43, of the 1300 block of 67th Street NW, Bradenton.

James D. Bryant

The arrest report said on Monday, June 1, 2009, the victim, an unnamed 8-year-old son of Bryant's, went to school, but was in so much pain that it hurt for him to sit down.

Some school personnel caught on to the boy's injury, so they called the abuse hotline.

Subsequent investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office revealed the boy's buttocks were 85 to 90% bruised.

When a deputy interviewed Bryant, he said he was "just being a father, but didn't get carried away when he spanked his son."

He said the boy was being disrespectful and spanked him 3 or 4 times the first time. Then, when the boy continued to be disrespectful, Bryant said he spanked him 3 or 4 times more using an open hand, allegedly.

Bryant was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

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

Ellenton Man Arrested for
Child Abuse, Domestic
Battery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robert W. Ball, 44, of the 3100 block of 73rd Avenue East, Ellenton.

Robert W. Ball

According to the arrest report, on Monday, June 1, 2009, at about 8:15 p.m., Ball got into an argument with his wife, Deborah. The argument was over another man inviting Deborah to a fish fry and Deborah didn't like another man inviting her to the event.

When Ball called his wife an obscene name and allegedly pushed her, their 16-year-old son tried to intervene.

Ball then told the boy to go to his room. But the boy instead called his father a name. Ball pushed the boy and grabbed him by his neck and pushed him into a wall, the report said.

The boy left the house to cool off and returned later.

When the boy returned, Ball started to argue with Deborah again. Again the boy tried to intervene, but Ball grabbed him by his face and they started to wrestle.

A deputy noted the boy had abrasions on the right side of his face, under his right eye and on the upper left side of his back. The boy's right eye had some swelling also.

Ball was arrested and charged with Child Abuse and Domestic Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,000.

Deputy Arrests Man for
Ellenton Burglary
Moments Later

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An Ellenton man caught a burglar leaving his storage room and called the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The man, identified as Anthony Eggleston, 20, of 1626 39th Avenue Drive East, Ellenton, was located and arrested shortly afterward.

Anthony Eggleston

The arrest report said on Monday, June 1, 2009, at about 10:15 a.m., Paul Habib, of the 6700 block of Ellenton-Gillette Road, in Ellenton, heard a noise outside of his home.

Habib went onto his lanai to see a man exit his storage room onto the lanai and then exit the door.

Habib saw belongings of his on the floor of the storage room and observed the man fleeing to the south. Habib called 911 and gave a description and direction of travel.

Deputy Gore was checking the area south of Habib's home while en route to the call and discovered Eggleston walking on the street.

Deputy Gore detained him until another deputy brought Habib to the scene. Habib identified Anthony Eggleston positively.

Eggleston was arrested and charged with Burglary.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $1,000 bail bond, according to the sheriff's website.

Shoplifter Threatened Bealls
Employees with Knife

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 1, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m., loss prevention officers at the Bealls Department Store located at 4251 S. Tamiami Trail, in Venice, observed a man steal a pair of blue jeans and two shirts. When he was approached by the loss prevention officers, the man fled on foot.

The shoplifter was captured in the parking lot of the business, but he brandished a knife and threatened the loss prevention officers. He then fled on foot again through the parking lot.

The shoplifter was located by Sarasota County Sheriff’s Deputies in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 4150 S. Tamiami Trail, in Venice, and taken into custody without further incident.

He was identified as Derick L. Grasso, 28, a homeless man.

Grasso was positively identified by the Loss Prevention Officers and Grasso also admitted to the offense.

Grasso was arrested for Retail Theft, Resisting a Retail Merchant and Aggravated Assault.

He remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

Man Arrested for Raping
Woman At Gunpoint

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office deputies, K-9 and helicopter were called out Monday night, June 1, 2009, to hunt a suspect in the Tropical Gulf Acres area south of Punta Gorda who held a pregnant woman at gunpoint, forced her to have sex, and then said he would then kill himself.

Jeffrey Allen Herlein

After he released her, she ran to a nearby home and called the CCSO at 11:04 p.m. Monday. She explained what happened and knew her attacker who is a friend of her father's. CCSO units responded to the area to locate Jeffrey Allen Herlein, 45, of 12153 Poindexter Ave., Tropical Gulf Acres.

At 1:19 a.m. Tuesday morning, Herlein was located after a K-9 Unit tracked him, and the dog bit him. He was medically cleared and then arrested on charges of Sexual Battery with a Weapon, Aggravated Assault and False Imprisonment.

Major Crimes Unit detectives said Herlein went to her home where she and her father live. Herlein asked her to drive his truck so he could get more beer at an area store. While in the truck, Herlein got a gun from the glove box and told her to pull off Tribune Drive and they got out. He fired one shot into the air and told her to get back in the truck and he would drive. He took her to a wooded area near Notre Dame Blvd. and Alligator St.; they got out of the truck and the woman said he wanted to have sex before he was going to kill himself; he threatened to shoot her and kill her baby.

Detectives said a truck drove by the area so they got back into his truck and he drove deeper into the wooded area where the truck got stuck. Herlein fired the gun again and ordered her to perform sex acts. He then told her to leave, stating he would wait 10 minutes before killing himself. She walked to a nearby house on Notre Dame Blvd. and as a woman opened the door, they heard a gunshot. The victim called her father and CCSO.

Detectives said the victim, who is five months pregnant, was transported to Charlotte Regional Medical Center, in Punta Gorda.

Herlein was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held on no bond.

Orange County Man Seen With
Missing Woman Arrested

OCOEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A person of interest in the case of a missing Ocoee woman is being held without bond on unrelated charges, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

James Hataway

James Hataway was arrested Monday night on drug charges. No charges have been filed against him regarding the disappearance of Tracy Ocasio, but police said he is considered a person of interest.

Ocasio was reported missing on Wednesday and Hataway, 28, was the last person to see her alive, police said.

A judge issued a $500 bond for Hataway on the drug charges, but he is being held without bond for violating the conditions of his release from a previous charge.

Hataway is out on bond from a April criminal mischief charge.

He is being held at the Orange County Jail, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Arrested for Shaking Baby,
3 Months Old, Resulting in
Severe Injury to the Child

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was frustrated with his crying baby has been arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Zenaido Baltazar

According to an arrest report from the sheriff's office, on April 29, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., Zenaido Baltazar, 28, of the 5800 block of 3rd Street East, came home from work and was in the home with his 4-year-old son and his 4-month-old infant daughter.

According to Baltazar, the baby was crying, so he went to her crib, picked her up and shook her for about 30 seconds, at which time her arms stretched out straight and the baby went limp.

He called his wife at work to tell her there was a problem with the infant and that he suspected their 4-year-old son had done something to the baby.

The next day, the mother took the baby to a doctor's office because she was not acting normally, but the child was not seen by the doctor.

On May 1st, the mother returned to the doctor's office, where an appointment was made for a brain scan.

The mother took the baby in for her brain scan and the baby was sent to All Children's Hospital, in Tampa.

Dr. Sally Smith, of the Child Protection Team, saw the baby and reported the baby had a subdural bilateral hemorrhaging in the baby's head, which was indicative of Shaken Baby Syndrome, the report said.

Baltazar told Det. Dugan, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, that he knows what 911 is and what an ambulance is, but he did not call for an ambulance because he didn't want to go to jail.

On Friday, May 29, 2009, Baltazar was arrested and charged with Aggravated Child Abuse and Child Neglect.

He has since posted a $4,000 bail bond and has been released from jail, pending a court appearance.

Two Men Arrested for
Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Daniel James Morris, 19, and Markell Breon Thomas, 19, both of Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Daniel James Morris and Markell Breon Thomas

According to the arrest reports for both men, on Friday, May 29, 2009, at about 4:30 p.m., Devon Evans was robbed at gunpoint of his gold necklace at a residence in the 3800 block of 5th Street East.

The robbers also made Evans take off his "slides" so he couldn't run.

Deputies were called and upon arrival Evans positively identified the pair as the robbers.

The necklace was found on the floor in the front bedroom of the apartment at the same address.

No gun was found, but ammunition was found in the apartment.

Both men were charged with Armed Robbery.

They remain in the Manatee County Jail on bail bonds of $250,000 each.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
For Theft of Mini-Refrigerator

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Brandon Yarborough, 37, of 203 18th Street NW, Bradenton.

Brandon Yarborough

The arrest report said on Friday, May 29, 2009, at about 1:30 p.m., David Buncik was unloading an open trailer in the 500 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton, for Christopher Poole, the owner of the items in the trailer.

Yarborough, driving a Ford Excursion, approached the trailer.

While Buncik was watching Yarborough, Yarborough grabbed a mini-refrigerator off the trailer and placed it in his Ford Excursion, then fled the area.

However, Buncik was able to copy down the license number of Yarborough's Ford Excursion.

Police were then called.

While waiting for BPD to arrive on scene, Yarborough drove slowly by the victim, Poole, and the witness, Buncik.

He parked down the street and exited his vehicle.

The victim and the witness positively identified Yarborough as the man who took the mini-refrigerator, valued at around $100, the report said.

Yarborough denied knowing anything about the theft.

Yarborough was then arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Conveyance.

He was taken to the Manatee County Jail, where he later posted a $10,000 bail bond and was released from jail, pending a court appearance.

Deputy Arrests Man for
Panhandling; 3rd Time

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Bruce Walter Roeder, 45, a homeless man.

Bruce Walter Roeder

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, May 30, 2009, at about 7 p.m., the deputy spotted Roeder panhandling at 14th Street West and 53rd Avenue West.

Roeder was holding a cardboard sign that read "Need Work." The deputy estimated Roeder was standing 2 feet from the edge of the roadway. A county ordinance makes it illegal to panhandle within 5 feet of a roadway.

Roeder told the deputy he normally makes between $5 and $20 at that location, sometimes in as little as 5 minutes.

Roeder also told the deputy he has been arrested twice before for the same offense. The deputy checked and found the dates to be 12/26/08 and 2/17/09.

Roeder was arrested and charged with Panhandling (3rd offense).

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

Homeowner, Perpetrator Shot
During Armed Home Invasion

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, May 30, 2009, at about 11 p.m., a homeowner was shot and so was the perpetrator of an armed home invasion during a struggle for the invader's gun, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said it appears Tron Calloway, 26, a Black male, came to the residence of Christopher Mullins, 23, a White male. The residence is located in the 2000 block of 30th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Calloway knocked on the front door wearing a bandana over his face and holding a handgun.

Mullins opened the front door and observed Calloway.

According to Mullins, Calloway said something to Mullins and Mullins then grabbed the handgun that Calloway was holding and a struggle over the handgun began.

During the struggle for the handgun, Calloway fired the handgun several times. Mullins was able to get the handgun away from Calloway and returned fire at Calloway, striking him in the back area.

Detectives believe there may have been a second subject who went to the residence with Calloway.

Calloway ran from the residence and was driven to Manatee Memorial Hospital and later transported to Tampa General where is in critical but stable condition.

During the incident, Mullins was also shot and was transported to Bayfront Medical Center where he was treated and released.

At this time, no one has been charged and the investigation continues, the sheriff's report said.

Pinnacle Urgent Care Centers
Install Automated Prescription
Drug Dispensers

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, June 1, 2009, Pinnacle Urgent Care Centers, providing quality care for unexpected injuries and illnesses, announced it has begun offering InstyMeds, a fully automated ATM-style machine that dispenses prescription medications directly to patients immediately before leaving the office. The system, the first of its kind in Florida, offers a safe, convenient way for patients to receive their prescription medications.

“This new system allows patients to have their prescriptions filled and take their first dose of antibiotics before they leave,” says Shelley Anglin, LPN, Urgent Care Clinical Coordinator. “InstyMeds helps them get back on the road to recovery as soon as possible.”

The InstyMeds system automates the entire process from the prescriber issuing the prescription, to the patient obtaining their medications, and payment collection. The patient can obtain their medications and be on their way in about the same time it takes them to use their bank ATM.

“The added convenience will help ensure patients fill and take their prescribed medications leading to faster recovery,” says Dr. Joseph Soler, Medical Director at Pinnacle Urgent Care. “Patients in a hurry or unable to get to a pharmacy will no longer face difficult obstacles in getting prescriptions filled.”

How it works. The medical provider enters a prescription electronically and gives patients a voucher with a unique security code. Using the touch-screen of the InstyMeds dispenser, the patient enters the unique security code and their date of birth. The patient then swipes a debit or credit card or inserts cash to pay for the prescription or insurance co-payment. After the machine performs a triple bar code safety check, the pre-packaged, labeled product is dispensed from the machine to the patient. The entire process typically takes a couple of minutes.

Patient Compliance: Studies show that between 20 and 30 percent of prescriptions that doctors write go unfilled. The added convenience of the InstyMeds system increases the likelihood that the patient will fill their prescription and undergo the medication treatment plan.

Pinnacle Urgent Care Centers, staffed by respected and longtime community physicians, provide quality care for unexpected injuries and illnesses. The Urgent Care Centers are unique in that they allow immediate access to not only urgent care services but state of the art diagnostic testing and laboratory services. For more information, visit www.pmgpa.com.

Pinnacle Urgent Care Centers are located in Bradenton at 315 75th Street West, and 1040 River Heritage Blvd.

Up to $2,500 Reward Offered
For Information Relating
To Cattle Shootings

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- In response to several incidents that have occurred over the last three months involving the shooting of cattle, the Sheriff’s Office announces that rewards are now available for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the perpetrators of these crimes.

In some of these incidents the shot cattle were subsequently butchered. In other cases the cattle were shot and left for dead. All of the cases occurred in the eastern Sarasota County area.

The Florida Cattlemen’s Association and the Sarasota County Cattlemen’s Association have posted up to $1,500 in reward. In addition, Sarasota County Crime Stoppers has posted up to $1,000 in reward for information relating to these incidents.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations at 861- 4900. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at (941) 861-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting “TIP 109” plus a message at CRIMES (27463).

Man Charged with Sexual
Assault on Girl, 6

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Major Crimes Unit detectives arrested a deaf/mute man for having sex with a 6-year-old girl Sunday morning in an Englewood East home.

Gary L. Shafer

Detectives charged Gary L. Shafer, 31, of Westfield, Pennsylvania, with Sexual Battery, and Lewd & Lascivious Molestation.

Detectives report the mother said she observed her boyfriend in a sex act with her daughter in the girl’s bedroom shortly after 7 a.m.

A CCSO deputy was called to communicate with Shafer in the use of American Sign Language.

MCU detectives found probable cause and arrested Shafer on two felony charges.

He was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held without bond.

Abandoned Newborn Found
Inside Cardboard Box

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A search is under way for the parents of a newborn who was found when a driver in Ocala spotted the infant's hand sticking out of a box that was left on the side of an isolated dirt road, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The driver made the discovery Saturday evening at the intersection of Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 24th Avenue in Ocala. The newborn was found in a QVC cardboard box, along with a blanket, an article of clothing and a diaper.

Paramedics said the girl, who is about 3 to 7 days old, appeared to be in good health. Ocala police said the child may have been abandoned the night before being found.

The child has been placed in the custody of the Department of Children and Families.

Ocala police were searching for a woman driving a gray pickup with a white topper who was seen in the area on Friday at about 7:30 p.m., WKMG said.

State law allows for an unwanted newborn to be left at a hospital, fire station or other emergency medical service station without it being considered child neglect.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Bradenton Doc Arrested Again;
Charged with 4 new counts of
Sex-Related Battery

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 29, 2009, Bradenton Police Detectives have again arrested Dr. C. G. Rao, 61, of Bradenton. Dr. Rao is also known as Dr. Gangadhara Rao Chapalamadugu. Detectives arrested Dr. Rao at his home, located at 2202 Palma Sola Blvd., in Bradenton.

Dr. Rao

Dr. Rao has been charged with four new counts of Simple Battery, a first degree misdemeanor.

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

The Bradenton Police Department has received approximately 15-20 calls from additional victims.

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

To date, the doctor has been charged with (9) nine counts of Battery.

Victims are advising detectives of conduct which goes from Simple Battery to Lewd and Lascivious behavior.

When the warrants were issued for the arrest of the doctor, the judge who signed the warrants set his bail bond at $5000 per charge. Rao bonded out of jail on Saturday.

In 2002, the Bradenton Police Department investigated a similar incident involving Dr. Rao. Pretrial intervention saved Rao from having to go through a trial at that time.

The investigation is continuing.

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

Detectives 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.

DUI Driver, Whose License Was
Suspended, Tasered by Deputy
After Man Pushed Deputy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A citizen reported a possible DUI driver to a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy on Thursday, May 28, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m. When the deputy tried to arrest the man, later identified as Joshua M. Porinchak, 30, he had to be Tasered in order for the deputy to gain compliance.

Joshua M. Porinchak

According to the arrest report, an unidentified motorist was following a vehicle being driven by Joshua M. Porinchak. The witness observed Porinchak turn left into the entrance to Whitney Meadows, then drive over the curb to the center median, striking a portion of one of the trees.

The vehicle got to the back of the neighborhood by 8279 47th Street Circle East, in Palmetto, where the witness flagged down Dep. Kruse. The person described what was observed at the entrance and further described the driving pattern of the individual.

Dep. Kruse observed the vehicle attempting to turn around as it went past the driveway where Porinchak lives. Dep. Kruse watched the vehicle park in the driveway. Porinchak then exited the car and run around to the passenger side and get into the front passenger seat.

Dep. Kruse walked over to investigate.

Dep. Kruse told Porinchak to exit the vehicle. He refused and told his mother to drive off.

Dep. Kruse told Porinchak several more times to exit the vehicle and each time he refused, then began to tell Dep. Kruse that he would kick his ass.

At this time, Dep. Kruse escorted Porinchak out of the vehicle and Porinchak pushed Dep. Kruse.

Porinchak continued to try and push Dep. Kruse away from him, so Dep. Kruse then tried to detain him.

Porinchak started to resist Dep. Kruse’s efforts, so he escorted Porinchak to the ground. Porinchak would not place his hands behind his back after being told several times. Dep. Kruse also gave Porinchak several warnings that if he did not comply he would get Tasered. Dep. Kruse removed his Taser and drive-stunned Porinchak one time on the back.

Porinchak immediately complied and Dep. Kruse was able to handcuff him.

A sheriff's office traffic unit responded to investigate the DUI. There was evidence along the driver’s side of the vehicle to indicate Porinchak had struck some sort of vegetation.

Porinchak had a small abrasion on his right elbow that did not require EMS.

Dep. Kruse was not injured.

Porinchak was charged with DUI, Driving While License Suspended with Knowledge, Resisting Arrest without Violence and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $6,250.

Man Tries to Stave Off Arrest
with Blow Torch; Tasered

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy's attempts to arrest a man for Domestic Battery were met with the man threatening the deputy with a blow torch.

Larry Kelly

According to an arrest report, on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, Deputy Boldin responded to 8405 Louisiana Street to investigate a domestic battery case.

Deputy Boldin learned that Larry Kelly, 40, had battered his wife and then fled the scene. Deputy Boldin completed a Capias request on Kelly for Domestic Battery.

Then, on Thursday, May 28, 2009, an abandoned 911 call was dispatched to 8455 Carolina Street, the location of A&K Enterprises. Deputy Boldin thought that the call was probably related to domestic case from the night before and responded.

Deputy Boldin arrived on scene, saw Kelly standing outside the business, then watched as Kelly ran into the business.

Deputy Boldin met with the key holder to the business and explained that they were there to investigate an abandoned 911 call. Deputy Boldin received permission to enter the business and encountered Kelly.

Kelly walked over to an industrial size welder and turned it on.

Dep. Boldin told Kelly that was going to be arrested for the domestic battery and ordered Kelly numerous times to put the torch down, but he refused.

Deputy Boldin deployed his Taser and the probes struck Kelly in the upper left side of his chest.

Kelly was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He posted his bail bond of $4,250 on Friday, May 29, 2009, and was released from jail.

Woman Arrested on Warrants
for Grand Theft Auto, Credit
Card Fraud, Grand Theft
from MCC Employees

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has taken Elnora Jones, 19, into custody on several warrants for her arrest.

Elnora Jones

According to a report from the sheriff's office, a victim advised that on May 13, 2009, between the hours of 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., her private office at Manatee Community College was burglarized and property valued at approximately $1,000.00 was stolen. The victim said that she left her office, placing her purse under her desk before closing the unlocked office door. When she returned to her office at 1:30 p.m. and began working, when she received a call from Visa card advising that her Visa credit card had incurred unusual activity at Wal-Mart totaling $385.87. The victim said that she looked under her desk and discovered that her purse had been stolen. The victim said that the receptionist and other personnel were out of the office during the burglary and the suspect apparently entered unnoticed.

The victim said that on May 21, 2009, she was notified by MCC security that a co-worker had her purse and vehicle stolen from an office in another building on campus. The victim said that she was informed that Elnora Jones was arrested driving the co-workers stolen car, in that case, and that the victim's driver license and her son's social security card were in Jones' possession.

Victim advised that she does not know Elnora Jones and that according to school records, she is not a present or past student at MCC.

Wal-Mart Loss Prevention advised that they had located the fraudulent credit card transactions on 04-13-09 and observed a Black female and a Black male conducting the transactions, with the victim's credit card.

The victim said that at no time did she authorize Jones to enter her private office or remove her valuables, and said that she did not authorize or consent to Jones using her Visa credit card or signing her personal Identification during the transactions and wishes to press charges for these violations.

Warrants were issued and entered into Court Input, total bond $25,000.

Elnora Jones was arrested on Thursday, May 28, 2009. She was charged with Grand Theft Auto, Credit Card Fraud, Grand Theft and Petit Theft.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $58,500.

Man Robbed of $23,000 When
He Drove Up from Sarasota
To Inspect Audi for Purchase

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man claimed to have driven to Bradenton from Sarasota to inspect an Audi for purchase when he was robbed at gunpoint of $23,000 behind the Kentucky Fried Chicken store at 1400 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said on Friday, May 29, 2009, at about 8:45 p.m., Marcin Wasag, of Sarasota, told deputies he went to the parking lot behind KFC and was going to purchase an Audi A6 with $23,000 cash he had on him.

He got into the car, which he described as a dark blue vehicle. The victim was in the front passenger seat and the driver produced a pistol and demanded the cash.

The victim was pushed out of the vehicle and the robbers fled in an unknown direction from the scene.

Upon the arrival of deputies, the victim was not on scene.

Deputies called the victim on his cell phone and he claimed he was at the 7200 block of US 41. He was instructed to return to the scene.

Statements were taken from the victim and a friend who drove them to the location.

The friend stated the incident took place somewhere around the Marina and that they had never been this far North until they were summoned back.

The victim insisted it happened at the listed location.

Sgt. Pease and his VCTF team were on scene and assisted with the investigation.

The robbers were described as a Black male, 5' 7" tall, 140 pounds with a blue shirt and blue jeans, armed with a pistol; and a second Black male described only as heavy set.

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

Man Shot While Driving
in East Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the shooting of a man as he drove along an east Manatee County street on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at about 11:50 p.m.

The victim, Dominique L. Truvell, 22, of the 2300 block of 18th Street East, was traveling westbound along 26th Avenue East and was in the 1700 block when he heard several gunshots.

Truvell realized he had been shot in his left shin and drove himself to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The bullet did not exit Truvell's leg and there was a bump where the bullet was protruding against the skin.

The bullet was cut out and turned over to law enforcement.

Truvell was given antibiotics and pain medication and then released from the hospital.

Truvell has no idea who or why anyone would want to shoot at him or his vehicle, the report said.

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 Robbed at Gunpoint
Outside His Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Saturday, May 30, 2009, at about 2 a.m. in the 600 block of 58th Avenue Drive East.

The report said at approximately 1:53 a.m., the victim, Porfirio Santiago, 39, stepped outside to smoke.

He was approached by 2 Black males; one was armed with a black pistol.

The robbers beat the victim, causing a cut over his left eye.

The robbers took the victim’s wallet which contained $200.00 and his papers, then they fled north on 7th Street East in a dark blue Chevy Lumina 4-door.

Sgt. Pease and his VCTF unit were on scene. Due to the limited information, detectives were not notified.

The victim was treated at the scene by E.M.S.

His injury is minor but may require stitches, the report said.

The robbers were described as:

1) Black male, 6' tall, 240 pounds, with dreadlock style hair, and was last seen wearing a white shirt and red shorts. He was armed with a pistol

2) Black male, 6'3" tall, thin, wearing a black shirt and blue jeans.

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.

East Side House Peppered
with Bullets, Allegedly by
South Side Gang Members

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported several shots were fired at a residence in the 5800 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton, on Friday, May 29, 2009, at about 9:20 p.m.

While inside their residence, two juveniles heard several gunshots.

One of the juveniles opened the front door and observed two unknown Hispanic males driving northbound in an older model baby blue in color Lincoln town car yelling "South Side."

Then, when the other juvenile went to the window, a small white late 90s model Chevrolet pickup truck with two unknown Hispanic males in it drove up into the driveway and fired two or three shots at the residence. The truck then fled southbound; the occupants were yelling "South Side."

Monaca Rodriguez-Valdez, the juveniles' mother, who rents the residence, arrived home right after the incident and advised that she observed the same type vehicle to be leaving the area.

No one was injured and the area was searched with negative results.

However, a 9mm bullet casing was found outside of the residence.

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.

Storage Company Burglarized;
4 RVs Broken Into, Multiple
Items Taken, Including Gun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported 4 Star Storage, located at 3106 81st Court East, Bradenton, was burglarized. The burglary was reported at about 2:45 on Thursday, May 28, 2009.

According to the report, sometime between May 14, 2009, and May 26, 2009, unknown person(s) entered the 4 Star Storage area and broke into several RVs.

Entry methods made to the RV's were both forced and unforced, the report said.

Items stolen were GPS units, flat screen TVs, a satellite receiver, in-dash stereos, currency, household items, and a .25 cal semi-automatic pistol.

According to the property owner, Bruce Schackelford, the security camera system was knocked out recently during one of the thunderstorms that occurred over the past week. He advised he will contact the camera company and see if they can retrieve the video of the lot to determine if the crimes occurred before the camera went out.

It was later discovered that the fence on the west side of the storage lot had been cut and there was an opening that could have been the initial entry point.

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 Cut, Robbed by Five
Black Males in Palmetto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sgt. Tucker, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, reported an armed robbery on Saturday, May 30, 2009, at about 2 a.m. in the 900 block of 21st Street East, in Palmetto.

The report said the victim, Roman Garcia-Amaraz, was confronted by 2 Black males who got out of a white Chevy Caprice Classic, possibly an early 90s model, that was occupied by a total of 5 Black males.

During the confrontation, the victim was cut on his right arm. He was treated and released from Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The robbers got Roman's wallet that contained $200, the report said.

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.

$25,000+ in Jewelry Stolen
During Palmetto Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two burglaries in a Palmetto neighborhood on Friday, May 29, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m. A possible suspect has been identified, but not yet arrested.

The sheriff's office report said they received two residential alarms in a short time span, in the same neighborhood.

One alarm was in the 600 block of 42nd Street Court West, Palmetto; the other was in the 500 block of 43rd Street Blvd. West, Palmetto.

Both were verified alarms.

In excess of $25,000 of jewelry was found stolen from the first address.

With the help of North Side Cops units, a perimeter was quickly set up, and K-9 Deputy Kruse tracked with K-9 Dep. "Nitro."

"Nitro" tracked to the area of 635 Palmetto Point Drive, where a resident by the name of Fowler lives. Fowler was interviewed, and identified Joseph Branch, 28, as a suspect.

Detectives were notified, and a detective responded for the follow up investigation.

As of Saturday, May 30, 2009, Mr. Branch had not been arrested for the burglaries, according to the sheriff's website.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle
Leads to Reports of Three
Vehicle Burglaries, Grand
Theft Auto in Parrish

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- When a Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy responded to a location in Parrish on Friday, May 29, 2009, on a report of a recovered stolen vehicle, three vehicle burglaries were reported to him.

Deputy D. Whidden responded to Creek Side Oaks, in Parrish, in reference to a recovered stolen vehicle.

While there, he received reports of three vehicle burglaries.

One was at 4316 85th Ave. Circle E., where the doors were left unlocked and a Sirius radio and a flashlight were taken.

Another burglary had occurred at 4324 85th Ave. Cir. E., where the door lock was punched and a power inverter was taken.

A third burglary happened at 4312 85th Ave. Cir. E., where two vehicles were rummaged through but nothing was taken.

In addition, a vehicle was taken from 4454 85th Ave. Cir. East.

All these incidents occurred between 8 p.m. Thursday, May 28, 2009, and 7:45 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2009.

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.

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