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Manatee Cops Searching for
Man Who Rented, Then Pawned
Item of Construction Equipment

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is actively searching for Adam T. Arena, 35, with a last known address in St. Petersburg, who detectives say rented a backhoe, then pawned it. Other agencies in the state are also investigating Arena for the same crime.

Adam T. Arena

A press release from the sheriff's office said on June 4, 2009, Adam T. Arena entered Bradenton Rent-All, located at 2706 14th Street West, in Bradenton. Arena rented a 2006 Terramite T5C construction backhoe for one day.

The Terramite backhoe was due back to the rental location on June 5, 2009. The value of the item was listed as $15,000.

Arena provided a Florida Drivers License at the time of the rental.

When the backhoe was not returned, it was reported stolen to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office by the owner of the company, Thomas Tavernier.

When the backhoe was entered as stolen, it triggered the Lojack unit (auto theft tracking device) that had been previously installed.

The Terramite backhoe was tracked to Pawn Pros II pawn shop located at 2 Dickman Drive, in Ruskin.

It was learned through the investigation that on June 4, 2009, Adam T. Arena pawned the Terramite backhoe at the location, depriving the owner of his property. Arena received $4,000 for the unit.

Upon further investigation, it was learned that Arena has pawned many pieces of construction equipment throughout the State of Florida.

Some of those pieces have been identified as thefts from other agencies in the State. Those agencies are currently in the process of recovering those items and working on charges for Arena.

On June 17, 2009, an arrest warrant was obtained for Arena for the theft of the above listed piece of construction equipment. His bond is $50,000.

The warrant charges Arena with Grand Theft and Dealing in Stolen Property.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Arena is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011, ext. 2506 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Man, 30, Caught Having Sex
with Girl, 17, in Cemetery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Albert Thomas Clarke, 30, of 406A 11th Street Drive West, Palmetto, has been arrested for having sex with an unnamed 17-year-old girl in a local cemetery.

Albert Thomas Clarke

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 11 p.m., Deputy Bowen, Lt. Estabrook and Deputy Escher arrived at Adams-Rogers Cemetery, 4300 3rd Avenue NW, Bradenton, regarding a suspicious vehicle.

They parked their cars at the front of the cemetery and stealthily walked to the northwest corner of the cemetery.

Once there, they found a 17-year-old girl leaning back on the front of the car with Clarke in front of her, pelvises touching.

A deputy activated his flashlight and saw the girl pulling up her shorts and bathing suit, the Clarke pulling up his boxers.

Deputies also saw a gold condom wrapper that had been torn into two pieces about 3 feet from where they saw the girl and Clarke.

When deputies interviewed the girl, at first she said that they had not done anything, but were about to "do it" until they were interrupted. Later on the girl said that they were actually in the act of regular sexual intercourse.

Post Miranda, Clarke invoked his right to remain silent. However, in the car ride to the sheriff's district office, Clarke said that he knew he only had 1 month to wait until she was 18, but he "just screwed up," the report said.

Clarke was arrested and charged with Unlawful Sexual Act with a Minor.

Clarke posted a $1,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail the same day.

Two Men Arrested for Burglary,
Beating of Man In His Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Aaron Bradford, 31, and Joaquin Ruiz, 20, both of 2512 51st Avenue Terrace West, Bradenton.

Above, Aaron Bradford and Joaquin Ruiz

According to the arrest reports, on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 9 p.m., Aaron Bradford burst into a residence in the 2500 block of 52nd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, grabbed Christopher Murray around the neck with his arm in the living room.

Aaron proceeded to hold Christopher around the neck while Joaquin ran into the residence to assault Christopher's friend, Destin Burkholder.

Destin later told deputies Joaquin struck him 3 times. The deputy observed blood on Destin's shirt, as well as a bloody lower lip and redness and minor swelling to the left side of Destin's face.

After Joaquin stopped hitting Destin, he walked toward the front door. As he was exiting the front door, he struck Shaye Johner twice before leaving the scene.

At that point, Aaron Bradford released his hold on Christopher and both men fled the scene on bicycles.

Aaron was arrested at 9:45 p.m. in front of his residence one street over after being identified.

Joaquin was arrested the next day, June 17, 2009, at about 3:45 p.m.

Aaron was charged with Burglary to a Dwelling and one count of Battery.

Joaquin was charged with Burglary to a Dwelling and two counts of Battery.

Both men remain in the Manatee County Jail; Aaron Bradford has a bail bond of $51,500 and Joaquin Ruiz has a bail bond of $11,500.

Man Beaten, Robbed By
Unknown Hispanic Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was beaten and robbed on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at about 4:30 p.m. at his residence in the 8300 block of 38th Street Circle East, Bradenton.

The victim, Bret L. Camp, was accosted by a Hispanic male who was brought to his home by Camp's ex-girlfriend.

The suspect struck Camp multiple times and stole Camp's cell phone.

Camp left the residence and contacted authorities.

He sustained minor injuries as a result of the altercation.

The assailant was only described as a Hispanic male.

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.

Bomb Squad Called Out to
Holmes Beach for Grenade
Found at Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at about 1 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office was called out to a residence in the 300 block of 57th Street, in Holmes Beach, reference a possible live grenade that had been found.

A sheriff's office report said Officer Frappier of The Holmes Beach Police Department called for the assistance of Manatee County Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad through Deputy B. Cherry at the above location in reference to a grenade which was found in the closet of the listed address.

Deputy K. Townsley was notified, who responded to the scene and determined that it was a hollowed out grenade (not live).

Deputy K. Townsley took the grenade to dispose of it.

Sarasota Detective Arrests Man
on Video Voyeurism Charge

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 17, 2009, a Sarasota Police Department Detective arrested Michael K. Gilmore, 38, of 2715 North Orange Avenue, Sarasota.

Michael K. Gilmore

According to the arrest report, in May of 2008, Gilmore and a woman engaged in consensual sexual intercourse at Gilmore's residence.

Unbeknownst to the victim, Gilmore was recording the incident on his Apple computer.

The victim became aware of the recording when Gilmore allegedly bragged to the victim that he had done so, and showed her the computer with a small camera installed in it.

In the course of the investigation, the unnamed victim positively identified Gilmore through a photo lineup.

Gilmore was arrested on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, and charged with Video Voyeurism, a misdemeanor.

Near Drowning Reported
By Sarasota Police Dept.

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police responded to the 2800 block of Bayshore Road regarding a drowning.

Officers found a man there who had been fishing and fell into the water.

The Sarasota Fire Department transported the man to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, where he was treated.

The man is identified as Mark Hebb, 51, of 1035 52nd Street, Sarasota.

Hebb is expected to survive.

Alcohol is suspected to have been involved in this incident, the SPD report said.

Sarasota County Names
New Fire Chief

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County has hired Kenneth Ellerbe, a fire veteran from Washington D.C., to succeed outgoing Fire Chief Brian Gorski, who retires June 30.

Above, Kenneth Ellerbe

Ellerbe has more than 27 years of experience with the District of Columbia Fire Department and has filled various ranks and leadership roles including assistant fire chief, battalion chief and division commander. He is a certified public manager, and holds a bachelor’s degree in fire science administration, a master's degree in public administration, and is currently working on his doctorate in public policy and political science.

"We conducted an extensive, nationwide search for a fire chief and we are pleased that Ken has accepted the position," said Emergency Services Director Mike Suarez. "Our residents should take comfort in knowing that we have selected an experienced and highly-regarded leader in the fire and rescue field."

Ellerbe will begin his duties with Sarasota County on July 20.

Child Porn Pic Found
On Hospital Printer;
Man Arrested

CLERMONT, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man was arrested Wednesday after a photocopy of a picture showing a naked child was left on a printer at a Clermont hospital, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

James Robert Chapman faces 100 counts of child pornography possession.

According to investigators, the copy of the picture was found at South Lake Hospital in Clermont last month but wasn't linked to Chapman until this week.

Chapman's bail has been set at $1 million, WKMG said.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Sheriff's Detective
Arrests Woman for Trafficking
in Powder Cocaine, More

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An undercover sting by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has brought about the arrest of Sandra Lee Galloway, 48, of the 1600 block of 3rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Sandra Lee Galloway

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 11:10 a.m., an undercover officer made contact with Galloway by phone and made arrangements to purchase an ounce of cocaine. Arrangements were made to meet with the undercover officer in the 1800 block of State Road 64 East.

Galloway arrived in a green 4-door Buick.

She got out of her vehicle and entered the undercover officer's vehicle, removed a plastic baggie from her purse that contained what appeared to be powder cocaine and handed it to the undercover officer.

The officer signaled "good deal" to other waiting deputies and began to count out the money to be used in the exchange.

Deputies arrived and arrested Galloway without incident.

Inside her purse were drugs, including cocaine, soma, marijuana and, in an unlabeled bottle, there was Oxycodone, Xanax, Ranitidine and several other unidentified pills.

Evidence seized included two baggies of cocaine, one weighing 28.3 grams; the other weighing 8.5 grams, and marijuana which weighed out to 11.3 grams.

Galloway was charged with Trafficking in Cocaine, Possession of Controlled Substances and Possession of Marijuana. She was also charged with 3 arrest warrants for Trafficking in Drugs.

Galloway remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $92,000.

Two Young Men Arrested
for Theft of Dirt Bike

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Kevin Davis, 18, of 3110 King Blvd., Sarasota, and Leroy Hope, 18, of 3537 59th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, were arrested following the theft of a dirt bike.

Above, L to R, Kevin Davis and Leroy Hope

The report said on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at about 2 a.m., deputies were dispatched to Pet First Animal Hospital located at 2212 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton, reference a possible burglary in progress.

Deputies caught Davis and Hope on the property attempting to conceal a dirt bike.

Upon further investigation and interviews, deputies learned that Davis and Hope had stolen the dirt bike from a garage located in the 5400 block of 24th Street East, Bradenton.

The exterior door leading into the garage had been pried open, leaving pry marks.

An inventory of the vehicle Davis and Hope were driving revealed a pry bar.

Davis and Hope were arrested and the property was released back to the victim.

Davis and Hope were charged with Burglary, Possession of Burglary Tools, Motor Vehicle Theft and Loitering and Prowling.

They remain in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $11,870 each.

Man Arrested for Holding
Knife To Wife's Back

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Daniel C. Locke, 51, of 7103 39th Lane East, Sarasota.

Daniel C. Locke

According to the arrest report, on April 26, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., Locke's wife, Jan, was on the lanai speaking with her mother on the phone.

Locke became upset and walked out to the lanai, yelling at her.

He hit her on the right wrist with a television remote control, at which point, Jan got up and entered the home.

Locke followed her into the kitchen where he grabbed a knife out of its base on the counter. He held the knife to her back and said, "This is just a taste," then dropped the knife and fled the home to a neighbor's house which he was house-sitting.

Locke was arrested on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, and charged with Aggravated Domestic Assault, and Domestic Battery. He was also charged with Violation of Probation.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Cops Ask Help Identifying
Wal-Mart Thief

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is asking the public's help in identifying a man who stole from Wal-Mart.

On June 14, 2009, at about 10:30 p.m., the individual in the surveillance photo above used a pair of cutters from the hardware department of Wal-Mart on Cortez Road West, Bradenton, and cut a hole in the garden center fence.

He took out approximately $3000 worth of merchandise, including 8 GPS's and a 42" TV.

Detective Nuttel with the Bradenton Police Department is working the case.

Anyone with information is asked to please contact him at 941-932-9300 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Woman Claims Gunshot
Just Missed Her

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman heard a gunshot that "whizzed by her head" on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m. in the 5300 block of 15th Street Court East, Bradenton.

The report said Christina Whitman had just arrived home and was talking to her son in their driveway when she heard a single gunshot.

She then heard an object whiz by her head and strike a shed to the south.

A deputy checked the surrounding buildings and found a single bullet hole to the shed located in the 5400 block of 15th Street Court East.

The residents were not at home due to them being seasonal residents.

There were no injuries to any of the parties.

Christina did not see anybody fire the gun, the report said.

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.

Armed Home Invasion Reported
on Manatee County's West Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, two Hispanic males broke into a home in the 3600 block of 47th Avenue West, Bradenton, at about 1 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2009.

The report said two Hispanic Males smashed the glass on the back door of the listed residence, unlocked the dead bolt and entered the home.

The suspects were wearing gloves and shirts were covering their faces.

They confronted the victims in one of the two bedrooms forcing Emiliano Heredia, 23, to give them his bracelet. The suspects then rummaged through the belongings in the room before taking the victim's X-Box and fleeing.

The victim's child and sister were undisturbed in the second bedroom of the home.

A perimeter was set, a K-9 unit tracked and the watch unit checked the area with negative results.

Photographs were taken of the crime scene.

The victims received no injuries from the incident.

One of the invaders was described as a Hispanic male, 6'0" tall, with a skinny build, and a mole on his face which was covered with a blue shirt. The other invader was only described as a Hispanic male.

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.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery
Reported on East Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 11:15 p.m., in the 1100 block of 37th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said the suspects, two Hispanic males, entered the residence, hitting Ryan Decker in the shoulder with a firearm and knocking him to the ground.

The suspects restrained Decker and stole money, firearms and narcotics from within the residence.

The suspects then fled the scene in a red compact vehicle.

No one was injured.

The invaders were described as: a Hispanic male, wearing a black mask, black gloves, white T-shirt, jeans and white shoes, and another Hispanic male, wearing a black mask, black gloves, blue jeans with white along the side.

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.

Manatee County Commissioner
To Host Community Forum
On Crime

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Commission Chair Dr. Gwendolyn Brown will host a community forum next week to address neighborhood crime and other problems plaguing Manatee County.

Above, Dr. Gwendolyn Brown

County judges, the State Attorney’s office, local law enforcement officials and public safety officers are expected to attend the roundtable discussion, scheduled for June 23 at 6 p.m. at the Palmetto Youth Center, 501 17th St. W.

"I want a better working relationship among the community, those enforcing the law and those prosecuting criminals," Brown said. "There’s no problem that belongs to just one group of people; it belongs to everybody. When you have them all at the table it’s a totally different ballgame. They work on a solution rather than pointing fingers."

Brown encourages anyone with pressing community concerns to attend the meeting.

Other topics up for discussion include illegal drug sales, excessive noise, foreclosures, credit issues and other community concerns.

Man, 56, Arrested for Sexual
Battery of Boy, 15

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives have arrested George De Pero, 56, of 719 Avenida Del Norte, Sarasota, on one count of Sexual Battery for an incident that occurred in 2005.

George De Pero

The male victim was 15 years old at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Criminal Investigations at 941-861-4900 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Sarasota Deputies Arrest Man
in Church Burglary

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, June 17, 2009, Sarasota County Sheriff's Deputies responded to Our Lady of Lourdes Parrish Rectory, 1301 Center Road, in Venice, for a burglary in progress call.

Ryan T. Schell

Upon arrival, they found several damaged lights and windows, and other acts of criminal mischief. One window leading into the rectory quarter’s area was smashed as well in an apparent attempt at entry.

Ryan T. Schell, 25, of Wading Bird Drive, Venice, was found on scene, arrested and charged with Attempted Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling and Criminal Mischief.

He is being held in the Sarasota County Jail on a $10,500 bail bond.

Woman Set Puppy On Fire;
Puppy Euthanized By Vet

KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a Central Florida woman has been arrested and charged with setting afire a 4-month-old puppy that later had to be put down, deputies said.

Osceola County sheriff's deputies arrived at a home Tuesday afternoon after the homeowner said his son called and told him the homeowner's girlfriend might have set their puppy on fire.

Deputies said the puppy had burns on his paws, stomach, ears and face. The puppy was taken to an animal hospital for treatment, where it had to be euthanized because of its injuries, Osceola County officials said.

The homeowner said his girlfriend, Rachelee Soto, told him she was going to burn the puppy and the house because she was angry with him.

Soto, 31, told deputies the incident was an accident. She said she was smoking in the garage and there might have been motor oil on the ground, which could have sparked a fire.

Deputies said they did not locate any cigarettes.

Soto was charged with Animal Cruelty and Resisting Arrest and booked into the Osceola County Jail, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Monday's Shooting Victim Dies;
No Suspects Yet Known;
17th Homicide of 2009

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the victim of Monday morning’s shooting, Rolando Martinez-Rosalos, 51, of south Manatee County, has died at Bayfront Medical Center. He was shot in the head by unknown subject or subjects in the 4000 block of 8th St. Ct. E., Bradenton. The sheriff's office is asking the public's help in identifying the shooter(s).

According to the original report published by NewsManatee, on Monday, June 15, 2009, around 3 a.m. on Monday, June 15, 2009, three victims met two Hispanic females at the Cuernavaca Bar and Grill located at 830 301 Blvd. They agreed to go to another location for some pizza and got into the victim’s vehicle.

One of the Hispanic females told the driver she needed to stop at her place to pick up a car phone charger for her cell phone.

When they got to 4004 8th Street Court East, the two Hispanic females exited the vehicle and walked behind the residence.

Moments later, five to six Hispanic males ran up to the three victims with handguns demanding they get out of their vehicle. The two victims on the passenger side were ordered to the ground with guns pointed at their heads.

The driver of the vehicle, Rolando Martinez-Rosalos, ran from the vehicle and the suspects fired multiple gunshots at him.

The other two victims got back into the vehicle, drove away and contacted law enforcement.

Upon arrival at the crime scene, deputies found Martinez-Rosalos approximately 100 yards away with a gunshot wound to the head.

Witnesses say they saw a small black pickup truck with four to five Hispanic males speed out of the area. The suspects are said to be in their late teens to mid-20s.

The investigation continues.

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.

Rolando Martinez-Rosalos is the 17th Homicide victim in Manatee County overall in 2009. There have now been 13 murders in unincorporated Manatee County and 4 in the City of Bradenton.

Man in Vacant House with Crack
Cocaine Runs From Deputies;
Two K-9s Track, Arrest Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, a man found in a vacant house with crack cocaine ran from deputies, but was later captured after two deputies with K-9s located him. Arrested was Deshane Bronzalletyor Crumity, 30, of 703 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Deshane Bronzalletyor Crumity

The report said on Monday, June 15, 2009, at about 6:20 p.m., Dep. Escher responded to a suspicious circumstance call at 602 28th Avenue East. There were supposed to be several subjects inside a vacant residence.

Dep. Escher made contact with Deshane Crumity; Angie Overstreet, 36; and Frederick Douglas, 36, inside the vacant residence.

Frederick was acting extremely nervous, which prompted Dep. Escher to ask them to search for weapons, to which they agreed.

While Dep. Escher was searching Deshane, he found a small baggie of crack cocaine in Deshane's pocket. As Dep. Escher was holding the baggie, Deshane grabbed the baggie out of Dep. Escher's hand, and ran. As Deshane grabbed the bag, he struck Dep. Escher's right hand.

After a brief foot pursuit, Dep. Escher lost Deshane around the 2700 block of 6th St. Ct. East.

Dep. Bertolino responded and began a track of the subject, with K-9 Pino.

Deshane was seen by Dep. Thames emerging from the woods north of 2700 block of 6th St. Ct. Dep. Thames and K-9 Leo challenged him and Deshane surrendered without further incident. The crack cocaine was no longer in his possession and could not be found.

The home owner, Clifton Martin, at 271 6th St. Ct. East, told deputies that during the foot chase Deshane had entered his house and hid there briefly until he was told to leave by Martin.

Angie Overstreet and Frederick Douglas fled on foot as soon as Dep. Escher began his foot chase and have not been located. A Capias was completed for Angie and Frederick for the charges of Burglary.

Deshane was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Structure, Burglary to an Unoccupied Structure, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Resisting Arrest without Violence and Tampering with Evidence.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $24,250.

Woman Arrested for Assault
with Motor Vehicle; Sister
Charged with Battery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Maria De Jesus Cienfuegos, 25, of 2416 11th Street East, Bradenton. Also arrested was Maria's sister, Lizet Ramirez, 22.

Above, L to R, Maria Cienfuegos and LIzet Ramirez

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, June 14, 2009, at about 11:45 p.m., Maria, Lizet and Brittany Finney, Megan Finney and Jamie Finney, were all at Antojitos Night Club, 320 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

Lizet committed Assault when she attempted to batter Megan multiple times by swinging a closed fist at Megan's upper body, but did not make contact with Megan.

Megan then ran to the Finney car in fear and locked the vehicle door.

Lizet then committed Battery by grabbing the hair of Jamie Lea Finney, punching her in the face with a closed fist multiple times.

A security guard for the night club broke apart the two girls,

Lizet then got into a white Cadillac DeVille and left the parking lot of Antojitos Night Club.

Lizet's sister, Maria, was the driver and tailgated the Finney vehicle on the roads of Manatee County, causing the Finney vehicle to drive evasively to avoid getting hit by the Cadillac. The Finney vehicle, driven by Jamie, had to make multiple U-turns with her vehicle to avoid being sideswiped by the Cadillac, the report said.

A deputy wrote that Maria attempted to run the Finney vehicle off the roadway and tailgated the Finney vehicle, driving at high speeds.

When the incident was over, a deputy discovered that Maria's driver license had been suspended and was her tenth suspension.

Maria was arrested and charged with 3 counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (the Cadillac), and Driving on a Suspended License. She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $16,500.

Lizet was charged with Assault and Battery. Lizet posted an $870 bail bond and was released from jail.

Lesbian Battle Over Sex Leads
To Arrest for Domestic Battery
By Strangulation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jessica Nicole Jones, 26, of the 2200 block of 51st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Jessica Nicole Jones

According to the arrest report, on Monday, June 15, 2009, at about 1:15 a.m., Jessica had just gotten out of the shower and wanted to have sex with her live-in girlfriend, Denise.

Denise refused and that's when Jessica became very angry and started to yell and throw things around.

When Denise told Jessica to leave, Jessica refused and started to throw the computer and meat from the refrigerator.

Denise again told Jessica to leave the house and that's when Jessica grabbed Denise and started to choke Denise, holding her by the neck.

Denise told a deputy she could not breathe and that's when Denise tried to push Jessica off her and towards the door.

Jessica then let go of Denise and went out the front door towards the car, acting as if she was going to break the windows.

When the deputy arrived, Denise and Jessica were both outside yelling and Jessica was very combative toward the deputy as he tried to get her to step away from Denise.

Jessica had to be told several times to calm down. At that point, Jessica stated she didn't care and that she was "sick of that bitch."

The deputy observed minor scratches on Denise's right arm and neck. Denise refused to have EMS come check her out, the report said.

Jessica was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation. She told the deputy that she would give deputies something to really arrest her for when she gets out.

Jessica remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $500.

UPDATE: Woman Charged in
Fatal Crash By BPD

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Department Deputy Chief J.J. Lewis announced, Tuesday, June 16, 2009, that BPD has arrested Geri A. Konecy, 53, of Manatee County, and charged her with Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Death.

Geri Konecy

On January 20th, 2009, at approximately 12:00 p.m., a hit and run crash occurred in the rear parking lot of Albertson’s, 7415 Manatee Avenue West.

Mr. Walter S. Dzik age 89, of Omaha, Nebraska parked his silver mini-van at the rear parking lot of Albertson’s and was run over as he began walking to a business in the plaza. He was transported to a bay area hospital for treatment and later died as a result of the injuries he received.

The case was turned over to Bradenton Police Department Traffic Homicide Investigators who began an extensive investigation.

On May 13, 2009, Traffic Homicide Investigators identified and located the driver of the vehicle that struck Mr. Dzik. The driver was identified as Geri A. Konecy. Mrs. Konecy did admit to hitting Mr. Dzik and leaving the scene.

On June 16th, 2009, at 12:53 p.m. Bradenton Police Department Traffic Homicide Investigator Sean O’Leary arrested Mrs. Geri A. Konecy. She is charged with Leaving the Scene of Crash Involving Death, a 1st Degree Felony.

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

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

White male, 85, Found Dead
In Water By Citizen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A White male, 85, was found dead in the waters off Emerson Point by a citizen on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 10:15 a.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said at 10:15 a.m. a call was received from Ishmael Baal-Shem after he had waded out to retrieve a floating cooler approximately 50 feet west of Emerson Point and found a body attached to it.

He pulled the body to shore and called 911.

According to him, some other people at the park had seen that cooler floating around 9:30 a.m. East of Emerson Point in the river, but the body was not visible.

The deceased was carrying his driver license in his shirt pocket, secured by a safety pin, and his vehicle was found just on the other side of Indian Mount.

The water access area near the car showed nothing suspicious nor was there any injury to the body. Foul play is not suspected.

The deceased was wearing wading boots and still had his sunglasses on.

The dead man has been identified as Milton Dale Fruchey, of Bradenton.

The investigation continues.

5-7 Shots Fired in Drive-By;
4 Holes Found In Vehicle,
No Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a drive-by shooting on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, at about 12:30 a.m.

The report said at 12:30 a.m., Stephanie Cochran-Gaither, 38, heard 5-7 shots outside her home in the 5800 block of 10th Street Court East.

In the morning, she discovered that unknown person(s) shot 4 holes into her 1994 Buick 4-door.

The vehicle was parked at her home unoccupied.

There were no injuries

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.

Bradenton Eyes Police Equipment
with Justice Assistance Grant

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton is issuing a public notice of its intentions to use grant funds to buy equipment for its police department, including laptops for detectives and additional computers for record keeping.

A detailed plan identifying how the City intends to use the $43,081 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice will be available for public review for the mandatory 30 days from June 18-July 18 at the following locations:

~ City of Bradenton Website at www.cityofbradenton.com.
~ Bradenton City Hall, front desk, 101 Old Main St.
~ Bradenton Police Department, 100 10th St. W.

Citizen comments will be accepted during this period until the close of business on July 18. All comments received during the citizen input period will be forwarded with the grant application submittal to the Department of Justice.

The City Council will conduct a public hearing and consider adoption of the recommended application during the 6 p.m. June 24 City Council meeting at City Hall.

For more information, please contact Jeana Winterbottom, City of Bradenton Grants Administrator, at (941) 932-9499 or jeana.winterbottom@cityofbradenton.com.

"Reels at Rossi Park" This Friday
Evening On New 3-Story Screen;
Summer Film Schedule Listed

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Downtown Bradenton’s Rossi Waterfront Park is the place to be this Friday evening to watch a free, family-friendly movie as the sun dips below the Manatee River.

"Reels at Rossi Park," an outdoor movie event managed by the Bradenton Downtown Development Authority, continues this Friday with the showing of Star Wars: the Clone Wars, Rated PG. The action-packed, animated movie features voices by Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Daniels and Matthew Wood.

The movie starts at sunset, but swing by early for pre-movie activities, including the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Speed Pitch booth, luau leis for the first 70 people, music, and food and drink vendors.

A new movie screen, roughly three stories in height, will be located next to the park’s signature clocktower. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and find a comfortable place to sit, or anchor your boat nearby and watch the movie from the river.

Free Parking is available at Rossi Park and on the first two floors of the Promenade Parking Garage, and there is additional parking throughout downtown. Rossi Park is located in downtown Bradenton on Third Avenue West between Ninth Avenue West and U.S. 301.

For more information, please contact Anna Pohl, Events Coordinator for the Downtown Development Authority, at (941) 704-4366 or apohl@ddabradenton.com or visit www.reelsatrossipark.com.

"Reels for Rossi Park" occurs on the third Friday of every month. Movies start at sunset. The rest of the summer movie schedule includes:

~ July 17 -- Journey to the Center of the Earth (in 3D) – PG (3-D glasses included)

~ August 21 -- National Treasure - PG

~ September 18 -- Pirates of the Caribbean - PG

Deputies: 2 Teens Stole Skull
From Casket; Both Arrested

BROOKSVILLE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two teens stole a human skull from a tomb at a Hernando County cemetery, according to deputies.

A deputy patrolling the Spring Hill Cemetery in Brooksville Saturday noticed an unoccupied car in an area often used for drugs and illegal dumping, the sheriff's office said.

When the investigators searched the area, they found a disturbed tomb, which contained a broken casket and a body with its head missing.

While investigators were still in the area, 19-year-old Joel Rivera and 18-year-old Seth McCarty came out of the woods.

Deputies said the two initially denied knowing anything about the skull but later admitted taking it.

The were both arrested and charged with Desecration of a Grave and Removing the Remains, WKMG said.

It was not reported whether or not the missing skull was found and returned to its final resting place.

9-Year-Old Florida Boy Dies
from Swine Flu; 417 Cases
Confirmed in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, June 16, 2009, the Florida Department of Health confirmed the death of an unidentified 9-year-old boy in Miami Dade County from H1N1 Swine Flu. This is Florida’s first laboratory confirmed H1N1 Swine Flu death.

According to a report on WFOR, Miami, the boy had a respiratory illness known as asthma and had been admitted to a hospital in cardiac arrest.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of this child," said Surgeon General Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros. "While most cases of H1N1 swine flu are mild, there are exceptions like this tragic case. Nationally, the CDC is reporting 45 deaths associated with Swine Flu, and as the flu progresses that number will unfortunately rise. All of us should continue to be alert and stay home if sick, cover your cough and sneeze, and wash hands frequently."

Florida currently has 417 confirmed cases of H1N1 Swine Flu.

The World Health Organization (WHO) alert level is at Phase 6 "Pandemic." The pandemic status is based on geographic distribution and not the severity of swine flu. In effect, the WHO is saying that swine flu H1N1 is now circulating world-wide.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Deputies Arrest Man for
Strangling Fiance, Throwing
Her Over Chair; She May Be
Charged for Slapping Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man and a woman who are engaged to each other got into an argument that turned physical on Sunday, June 14, 2009, at about 9:45 p.m. in the 10500 block of Cheval Place, Bradenton.

Gregg W. Marshalla

According to the arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Gregg and his unnamed fiance have lived together at the above address for the past five years.

On Sunday, they got into an argument and Gregg started making fun of her.

He continued to tease her and she got mad and slapped him with an open hand in the middle of his back, near his spine, the report said.

Gregg retaliated by allegedly throwing her over a chair.

Gregg then grabbed her, bent her shoulder and choked her with his hands around her throat while threatening her, according to the report.

Gregg released her and she started screaming. She did not black out or lose consciousness.

A neighbor heard the screaming and called 911.

When deputies arrived, Gregg said they had gotten into an argument and he was trying to calm her down by teasing her.

She got more upset and punched him in the middle of his back near his spine, he told deputies.

She was crying when deputies arrived and they observed red marks on her neck.

Gregg was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

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

Deputies submitted a request to the State Attorney's Office charging his fiance with Domestic Battery for slapping Gregg.

Man in Divorce Case Arrested
for Burglary, Domestic Assault

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Joseph G. Salas, 27, of 2509 28th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Joseph G. Salas

The arrest report said Salas and his wife, Melissa, are going through a divorce. Melissa was staying with a man named only as Christopher at a residence in the 7000 block of Montauk Point Crossing.

On Sunday, June 14, 2009, at about 3:40 a.m., Salas went to the Montauk Point Crossing residence to speak with his wife.

When she refused to speak to him, he kicked in the front door, the report said.

Once inside, Salas kicked a closet door, causing damage. Salas then went outside and punched the windshield of Melissa's car, causing it to break.

Melissa and Christopher told deputies they felt threatened and were concerned about being harmed further.

Salas was located at Grand Harbor Parkway and State Road 64 at about 4:15 a.m. and taken into custody.

He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with injuries sustained to one of his hands during the incident. The hospital determined he had several broken fingers.

Salas was transported to the Manatee County Jail without incident.

He is charged with Burglary to an Occupied Dwelling, Domestic Assault and Simple Assault.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond o $4,000.

Jail Inmate Tazed After
Knocking Deputy Down,
Breaking Chair

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office jail deputies had to Taser a man on Friday, June 12, 2009, at about 9 p.m. after he became extremely unruly, according to the sheriff's office.

Brad Curtis Combs

An arrest report said Brad Curtis Combs, 25, knocked a deputy to the ground who had sprayed Combs with pepper spray.

Deputies then put Combs in a restraint chair, but Combs freed himself and broke the chair.

Combs then barricaded himself in a cell.

Deputies rushed in and shot him with a Taser and Combs became compliant.

Deputies then put him in another restraint chair.

Combs, who is in custody for Defrauding an Innkeeper, was additionally charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Criminal Mischief.

He remains in jail on all three charges on a bail bond of $11,500.

Shooting with Serious Injury
Early Monday on East Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting early Monday that left a man in critical condition with a gunshot wound to his head.

According to the report by Randy Warren, a spokesman for the sheriff's office, around 3 a.m. on Monday, June 15, 2009, three victims met two Hispanic females at the Cuernavaca Bar and Grill located at 830 301 Blvd. They agreed to go to another location for some pizza and got into the victim’s vehicle.

One of the Hispanic females told the driver she needed to stop at her place to pick up a car phone charger for her cell phone.

When they got to 4004 8th Street Court East, the two Hispanic females exited the vehicle and walked behind the residence.

Moments later, five to six Hispanic males ran up to the three victims with handguns demanding they get out of their vehicle. The two victims on the passenger side were ordered to the ground with guns pointed at their heads.

The driver of the vehicle, Rolando Martinez-Rosales, ran from the vehicle and the suspects fired multiple gunshots at him.

The other two victims got back into the vehicle, drove away and contacted law enforcement.

Upon arrival at the crime scene, deputies found Martinez-Rosales approximately 100 yards away with a gunshot wound to the head.

Witnesses say they saw a small black pickup truck with four to five Hispanic males speed out of the area. The suspects are said to be in their late teens to mid-20s.

Rolando Martinez-Rosales, believed to about 50 years-old, is listed in critical condition at Bayfront Medical Center.

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.

Safe, $35,000 Taken During Night
Burglary of Marathon Gas Station
in West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a safe containing $35,000 in cash and checks was stolen during an overnight burglary early Monday of the Marathon Gas Station, 6620 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

The sheriff's report said at approximately 4:30 a.m. a newspaper delivery person notified the sheriff's office that the front door of the Marathon Gas Station was broken out.

The sheriff's office had not received an alarm for the location.

Deputies responded and found that the business had been burglarized. The deputies cleared the business and set the alarm off in the process.

They made contact with the owner who responded to the scene.

Once on scene, he informed deputies that a safe was taken which had $30,000.00 in cash and $5000.00 in checks inside it.

Detectives were notified and the scene was processed.

Video was on site, but the owner did not have access to it until his partner arrived later in the morning.

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.

14-Year-Old Arrested for
Fleeing, Brass Knuckles

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An unnamed 14-year-old boy was arrested on Sunday, June 14, 2009, at about 11 p.m. for Fleeing to Elude Deputies and Carrying a Concealed Weapon, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said on Sunday Sgt. Pease observed a silver Nissan bearing Florida tag K465PF driving in circles in the yard of 806 56th Avenue East, Bradenton.

A female was seen jumping back from the car as if she was about to be hit.

The Nissan then sped off westbound on 56th Avenue East then north on 7th Street Court East.

Believing that an Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle had just occurred, a pursuit was initiated.

The driver of the Nissan attempted to turn west on 58th Avenue Drive East but was unable to negotiate the turn. The Nissan ran over the stop sign at the intersection and crashed into a pine tree without the use of brakes.

The 14-year-old driver attempted to flee but immediately fell to the ground when ordered to stop. Three other subjects in the vehicle were detained and later released.

When the 14-year-old was arrested, he was found to have brass knuckles in his back pocket.

The occupants of the vehicle stated they exchanged the car for narcotics with the son of the owner of the car.

During the investigation, deputies learned that the driver is the ex-boyfriend of the female who jumped back from the car.

The 14-year-old was charged with Fleeing to Elude and Carrying a Concealed Weapon.

He was transported to the Juvenile Booking Center, where he was being held.

Manatee County Emergency
Services Chief Removed
from Position

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a NewsManatee confidential source, Mark Edenfield, Chief of Manatee County Emergency Services was removed from that position on Friday, June 12, 2009.

The reason given was "We're going in a different direction with EMS," the source said. "Management style" was loosely given as the reason for Edenfield's release by another source.

NewsManatee has learned that Ron Koper, the second in command at EMS, is allegedly replacing Edenfield, at least temporarily.

The move was allegedly initiated by Bill Hutchinson, Director of Public Safety for Manatee County.

One employee of Manatee County who did not wish to be identified verified our report, saying, "Mr. Edenfield no longer works for the county."

Police: Sex Offender Groped
Girl At Wal-Mart Store

OCOEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a girl looking at posters was groped by a registered sex offender at an Ocoee Wal-Mart, according to police.

Carlos Marino, who was convicted of molestation in 1995, was arrested on molestation charges after the incident, which occurred on Saturday.

According to Ocoee police, the girl was looking at posters inside the West Colonial Drive store when Marino approached her from behind and rubbed his hand along her back and buttocks.

The girl told her mother about the incident, and her mother confronted Marino, police said. Marino told the mother that he accidentally bumped into her daughter, grabbed her hip and said, "Excuse me, darling. I'm sorry," police said.

Marino was arrested and remained jailed on Monday, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Ex-Boyfriend Burglarizes, Robs
Ex-Girlfriend At Her Residence;
Still At Large, Cops Say

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man with a Dating Violence Injunction who burglarized his ex-girlfriend's residence, then robbed his ex-girlfriend is still at large, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Latroy J. Waiters
(Mug shot from March 14th arrest)

The report said Dep. Wilder responded to a 911 hang up call on Saturday, June 13, 2009, at about 1 p.m.

After his arrival, the victim, Crystal Hicks, 29, of the 1000 block of 42nd Avenue East, Bradenton, stated that she had found her ex-boyfriend, Latroy Waiters, 23, inside her residence. She had been staying at her sister's residence for the past few days and Waiters had somehow gained entry inside the house.

There was no sign of forced entry and Hicks thinks that he had made a copy of her house key when he had taken her purse during another incident some time ago.

When Hicks arrived at her residence, she found her door locked, but then Waiters opened it up for her from inside. She told him to leave the residence and then went next door where she waited about 5-10 minutes.

She returned to her house and Waiters still had not vacated the residence. She told him again to leave and he requested that she give him a ride.

She refused and at that time Waiters snatched her car key and her cell phone from her hands and left the house via the rear sliding glass door.

Hicks stated that Waiters had never resided at the house and she filed for a Temporary Dating Violence injunction in 2008. She has been in contact with him since that but denied that they were dating. He had been allowed to come over for a meal or take a shower because he has no permanent residence and stays with different friends, the report said.

She was unable to provide any other addresses for Dep. Wilder to check.

Waiters is well-known to law enforcement. He has a page of felony and misdemeanor arrests dating back to 2003.

According to NewsManatee archives, on March 14, 2009, Waiters was arrested for Child Abuse after he allegedly threw one of Hicks' children on a bed. Manatee County court records indicate charges were never filed in that case by the State Attorney's Office.

This time he faces charges of Violation of Dating Injunction, Burglary and Strong Arm Robbery.

As of Sunday afternoon, Waiters had not been arrested, according to the sheriff's Web site.

Crash Takes Out Power Pole;
Driver Flees, Tries to Enter
Nearby Residence Window

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to unofficial information NewsManatee has been able to gather, a White male driver, whose name has not yet been released, crashed into a power pole at 13th Street West and 17th Avenue West, Bradenton, at about 7 p.m. Sunday evening.

Above, the downed power pole at 13th Street West and 17th Avenue West
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Following the crash, the man fled the scene and tried to enter through a window of a residence in the 1800 block of 11th Street West.

Witnesses said they could see bone sticking through the man's leg.

The man was Bayflited to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg in serious condition.

Above, Bayflite landed at the Police Athletic League
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Traffic lights were out at the intersection of 14th Street West and 17th Avenue West for a time, as well as power to the nearby neighborhood. FPL crews arrived on scene to repair the downed power pole and restore electricity.

The driver faces at least a charge of Fleeing the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage. Other charges may follow.

Palmetto Police Arrest Woman
After Juvenile Son, 9, Found
at Wal-Mart Shoplifting

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested Christine A. Colon, 30, of 902 10th Street West, in Palmetto.

Christine A. Colon

According to the arrest report from PPD, on Thursday, June 11, 2009, at about 1:15 p.m., the unnamed 9-year-old son of Colon was found at Wal-Mart, 500 10th Street East, Palmetto, shoplifting.

Wal-Mart loss prevention personnel had no interest in pursuing any charges against the juvenile, the report said.

In reconstructing events leading up to the Wal-Mart incident, Palmetto Police determined Colon allowed her son to go to Palmetto Trace Apartments to play with a friend. Colon did not go with the boy, but said she would be back for him at around 4 p.m.

The child played at his friend's house for about an hour. At that time, the friend got into trouble and the boy had to leave. He decided to go to Wal-Mart by crossing a busy street by himself.

Police transported the boy from Wal-Mart to the Palmetto Police Department and Child Protective Services was contacted.

At about 4 p.m., a PPD Officer was able to contact the boy's grandmother, who said her daughter, Christine Colon, does not supervise the boy.

The boy said that his mother might be at Palm Bay Mobile Home Park, but authorities were unable to locate the mother. That was at about 5:30 p.m.

The arrest report said Christine Colon left no contact information for the boy and no one in charge in case of emergency and believed without law enforcement intervention, the boy would still be wandering around.

Child Protective Services therefore removed the boy from the custody of Christine Colon.

She was finally located and arrested at about 9 p.m.

Christine Colon was charged with Child Neglect.

She was released on her own recognizance from the Manatee County Jail on Saturday, June 13, 2009.

"Rosco" Does It Again: Man
with Warrants Chased, Bitten

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office K-9 Deputy "Rosco," set loose by his handler, Deputy Keith Sutton, managed to chase, catch and bite Lamar Duane Fields, 28, of Tampa, on Thursday, June 11, 2009, at about 8 p.m.

Above, L to R, K-9 Dep. "Rosco" and Lamar Duane Fields

Lamar Fields, who had a warrant for two counts of Battery, was located by COPS North deputies. Fields fled upon sight of law enforcement.

K-9 handler Dep. Sutton was on scene and released K-9 "Rosco" who chased Fields for less than 100 yards where "Rosco" engaged Fields, taking him to the ground at 2500 3rd Ave E., in Palmetto.

Fields was bitten in the buttocks.

Fields was handcuffed and EMS responded for treatment.

Fields refused, so he was taken to Lakewood Ranch Hospital where he was treated, then transported to the Manatee County Jail.

In addition to the original warrant, Fields was also charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence for attempting to run from the deputies.

Because the Battery warrant was a Parole Violation, Fields is being held without bond.

Deputies Arrest Woman Who
Stabbed Boyfriend with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Kathleen Siebert Rezac, 51, of 2516 15th Street East, Bradenton.

Kathleen Siebert Rezac

The arrest report said on Thursday, June 11, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., Rezac and her live-in boyfriend got into a verbal argument over cleaning up a mess in their house. The unnamed boyfriend told her to clean up the mess and Rezac refused. He then told her to leave the house.

At that point, Rezac allegedly grabbed a 4-inch paring knife from the kitchen and stabbed her boyfriend, leaving a 1/2-inch cut on his upper abdomen.

Arriving deputies located the knife in the kitchen and attempted to arrest Rezac. She resisted and had to be redirected to the hood of a nearby vehicle.

Rezac was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

She posted a $3,000 bail bond the next day and was released from jail.

Bradenton Police Nab Two
Bank Robbery Suspects

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested two men on warrants charging them in connection with two bank robberies in the city.

Above, L to R, Christopher Boston and Garrett Lunsford

On Friday, June 12, 2009, police arrested Christopher Boston, 38. Boston is charged with the April 14, 2009, robbery of First Bank America, 2811 Manatee Avenue West. He is also charged with the May 5, 2009, robbery at Superior Bank, 2207 Manatee Avenue West.

Another man, Garrett Lunsford, 22, was also arrested. Detectives say he helped Boston rob one of the banks.

Lunsford is charged with Principal to Robbery.

Boston is charged with two counts of Robbery.

Both men are being held in the Manatee County Jail.

Boston remains in jail on a $250,000 bail bond.

Lunsford remains in jail on a $100,000 bail bond.

Two Wouldn't Stop Fighting;
Tasered By Deputy, Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- When two men wouldn't stop fighting Sunday, June 14, 2009, at about 2 a.m., a deputy was forced to Taser both of them.

Above, L to R, Clemente Almazan and Jose Figueroa

A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Deputy Lawson responded to a disturbance at 5934 6th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Upon his arrival, there were several people arguing.

Clemente Almazan, 30, of 809 8th Avenue West, in Palmetto, and Jose Figueroa, 23, of 5932 6th Street Court East, Bradenton, were warned to back away from one another.

They began fighting and Deputy Lawson warned them to stop.

They continued fighting at which point Deputy Lawson deployed his Taser striking one of the suspects. Deputy Lawson had to drive stun the other and was able to gain control and arrest both suspects.

E.M.S. responded and treated the suspect who was struck with the probes. Photos were taken of the signature marks.

The suspects were charged with Battery and transported to the Manatee County Jail without incident.

Bail for both was $750. Clemente posted his bail and was released. Figueroa remained in jail as of Sunday afternoon, apparently unable to post bond.

Three workers Involved
in Lift Station Accident

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Three Woodruff & Sons workers were taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital after they were overcome by hydrogen sulfide fumes at about 11:25 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2009, while working on a Manatee County lift station.

The workers were doing routine repair work on a Manatee County lift station located on Manatee County Board of Education property at 2802 27th St. E. in Bradenton.

A Manatee County Public Works official said one of the crewmen dropped a tool into the lift station hole and tried to retrieve it about 25 feet below the surface. The man was overcome with hydrogen sulfide fumes and became unconscious. Two other workers made consecutive attempts to rescue him and were also rendered unconscious by the fumes.

Another group of Woodruff workers then used a crane to hoist the three men out of the hole. Each of the three rescued men was unconscious, but regained consciousness once they all were taken to a ventilated area.

Hydrogen sulfide, commonly known as sewer gas, can be toxic in high concentrations.

Bradenton Fire Department and Manatee County Emergency Medical Services crews soon responded to care for the victims and transport them to the hospital. A Manatee County Hazmat coordinator was also on the scene.

Attempted Strong Arm Robbery
of Bike at Acapulco Tropical
By 10-15 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- There was an attempted strong-arm robbery of a bicycle on Friday, June 12, 2009, at about 11:20 p.m. in the parking lot of Acapulco Tropical, 3517 1st Street, Bradenton, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The victim, Matthew Akey, 23, of Manatee Woods apartments, was riding his bike in the parking lot of Acapulco Tropical when he was accosted by 10-15 Black males.

The subjects told Akey to give them his bike. Akey refused and the suspects gave chase.

When Akey made it to his apartment, the culprits cornered him. They again told him to give them his bike and he refused.

One of the men then punched Akey; however, he was able to retreat into his residence with his bicycle.

Akey had no injuries.

The assailants were not further described.

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

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

Woman Robbed of Bike,
Cash By Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong-arm robbery on Saturday, June 13, 2009, at about 4:30 a.m. in the 5600 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Barbara Brunath, 45, was on her bike when she was approached by a Black male.

He said "I know you"as he walked up to her. Then he pushed her off her bike and took her bike.

She had $10.00 in her pocket and it fell out as she fell to the ground. The thief picked it up and fled on the bike.

The victim had some scrapes and bruises, but no serious injuries.

Detectives were not notified due to all investigative leads being exhausted.

The thief was described only as a bald Black male.

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.

Cedar-Hammock Fire Rescue
Extinguishes Apartment Fire

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, June 12, 2009, Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue was called out at about 10:15 p.m. to what turned out to be a kitchen fire in the 2200 block of Flamingo Blvd. West, Bradenton.

According to Cedar Hammock Battalion Chief Al Lobeto, emergency units arrived three minutes after dispatch.

A small fire was discovered in the kitchen area of the west side of a single story duplex involving a stove and kitchen cabinets.

Fire attack, search and rescue, and ventilation operations were conducted and the fire was brought under control within minutes.

Damage to the structure and contents was estimated at $750.

The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental.

No firefighters or civilians were injured.

The lone occupant, an adult female, was assisted from the duplex by a neighbor who smelled smoke and heard the smoke detector sounding.

3 Burglaries Reported to Cars
on Manatee's Near East Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported burglaries to three vehicles in the 4500-4700 blocks of Sabal Key Drive, Bradenton, overnight between Thursday, June 11 and Friday, June 12, 2009.

Sometime during the time frame of 8:30 p.m. through 6:30 a.m., unknown person(s) entered into no less than three vehicles.

There was no forced entry to these vehicles, as all were left unlocked.

Items were removed from all three vehicles, but most items were recovered in the area.

No witnesses were located by deputies.

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 Sheriff's Office Arrests
Man for Alleged Sexual Abuse
of Boy, 5 years old, at Day Care

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Bureau, Child Protective Services Unit, investigated a complaint of a five-year-old victim stating he was sexually abused while at Sandy’s Family Childcare, a private residential child care facility located in the 4000 block of Vana Drive, Sarasota. As a result of the investigation, Mark Dungan-Carpenter, 21, was arrested by warrant on Friday, June 12, 2009, for Sexual Battery on a Child Under the Age of 12.

Mark Dungan-Carpenter

Dungan-Carpenter is alleged to have committed the offense in October of 2008.

The Sheriff’s Office is working in conjunction with the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

DCF is conducting the administrative investigation regarding the operation of the child care business.

Dungan-Carpenter is the biological grandson and adopted son of the business owner, Sandra Dungan-Carpenter. Mark Dungan-Carpenter lives at the day care residence and although he is not officially listed as an employee of the business, Sandra Dungan-Carpenter did periodically pay him to watch the children.

The Sheriff’s Office will continue the investigation in cooperation with DCF to identify any other victims.

Dungan-Carpenter remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

Anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact Det. Kimberly Northfield, (941) 861-4916, or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Sarasota Deputies Arrest Man
for Growing 142 Pot Plants
At Residence

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Culminating an investigation based on information received from the Florida Highway Patrol, Sarasota Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives conducted a search warrant on Friday, June 12, 2009, on a residence at 3023 San Mateo Drive in North Port. Arrested as a result of the operation was Frederick Schaller, 50, of that address.

Frederick Schaller

Detectives seized 142 hydroponic marijuana plants and equipment from the sophisticated “grow house” operation.

Schaller, the owner of the house, was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Paraphernalia, Cultivation of Cannabis (marijuana), and Possession of a Residence for the Sole Purpose of Manufacturing a Controlled Substance.

Schaller remains in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

The narcotics unit includes two detectives from the North Port Police Department.

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

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NewsManatee Archive Created 6/20/2009 2:00:05 PM

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