Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 6/27/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 6/27/2009

Son of Former Day Care Operator
Charged with Forced Fondling
Of Child At 5-9 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Detectives have arrested Andrew Rae IV, 20, and charged him with 16 counts of Forced Fondling of a Child Under 18 by an Adult when she was 5-9 years old. The victim is now 14 years old, according to a report from the sheriff's office.

Andrew Rae

The report said the unnamed victim disclosed to detectives that Andrew Rae committed sexual battery upon her when she was approximately five to nine years of age, while she attended a daycare operated by Rae's mother. This occurred between the years of 1999-2004.

The day care was then known as Rae Family Day Care and was located in the 3600 block of 75th Avenue Terrace East. It has since closed, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, who spoke to NewsManatee late Wednesday.

Subsequent investigation revealed that there may be two other victims, but they have not been located at this time.

Rae was arrested and transported to juvenile detention because of his age at the time of the incidents. He would have been between 10 and 15 years of age then.

Rae will spend the next 21 days at the Juvenile Detention Center, by order of a judge.

Prosecutors are investigating the case further and will decide within that time whether to file adult charges.

"They're going to file on Rae," Bristow told NewsManatee.

Bristow added that Rae was being cooperative with investigators.

Further information was not yet forthcoming as the Probable Cause for Arrest affidavit was not available to us from juvenile authorities.

NewsManatee will likely follow up on this case if and when Rae is charged as an adult.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call 941-747-3011, ext. 1925, 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 Arrested for Child Neglect
After Driving Drunk With Son, 4

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Dannis Barrows, 35, of the 3200 block of Nature Circle, in Sarasota, has been arrested on a charge of Child Neglect.

Dannis Barrows

The arrest report said on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at about 8:20 p.m., a citizen called the Bradenton Police Department to report he was following a vehicle eastbound on Cortez Road West and the driver was driving in a reckless manner. He told police he believed she was intoxicated.

A BPD Officer was dispatched and pulled the vehicle over in the 900 block of Cortez Road West. He summoned Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies to the scene, since the location was in the sheriff's jurisdiction.

Deputy Kevin Vreeland and other deputies arrived to assist. Deputies Bowen and Cline performed DUI tests on Barrows. She had a Blood Alcohol Level of .216, well above the legal limit of .08.

Barrow's 4-year-old son was in the vehicle with her.

She was given an opportunity to call a friend or family member to retrieve the boy.

Barrows said she called someone, but after 45 minutes when nobody showed up, deputies had no choice but to place the child with the Department of Children and Families.

Barrows claimed she was not intoxicated.

She was arrested and charged with Child Neglect.

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

Great Grandmother Arrested
for Striking Girl, 13, with Cable

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Theresa Wilkinson, 57, of 1507 72nd Street East, Palmetto.

Theresa Wilkinson

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at about 2:45 p.m., the victim, a 13-year-old girl, was having an argument with a boy about the girl breaking an I-Pod.

Wilkinson came to the living room, bringing with her a black cable. She and the 13-year-old girl began arguing and the girl started yelling at her great grandmother and "disrespecting her," the report said.

Wilkinson then struck the girl twice with the cable, leaving a 3-inch long red mark on the left side of the girl's forehead and another 3-inch laceration on the girl's right forearm.

The argument continued until the girl left the residence and called police.

When deputies arrived, Wilkinson described the incident and brought the black cable out of her bedroom.

"This is what I hit her with," Wilkinson said. "I just wanted her to stop yelling at me because I am her elder. You can't tell her anything without her yelling or doing something."

Wilkinson was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

She was released from the Manatee County Jail on her own recognizance.

Man Charged with Trashing
Community Pool Area

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Ernie Johnathon Moore, 23, of 1015 Racine Avenue, in Columbus, Ohio. No local address was given for Moore.

Ernie Johnathon Moore

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, June 24, 2009, police were called to Braden River Lakes apartment complex, located at 4800 14th Avenue East, in Bradenton.

Upon arrival, Officer Liotti reviewed a surveillance video from the night before. Ofc. Liotti said he saw Moore, at about 11:30 p.m., throwing patio furniture in the pool, as well as smashing several lounge chairs.

Both of the bathrooms on the property had been flooded by clogging the sinks and turning the water on full blast.

Inside the pool were several chairs and trash such as beer bottles, rolls of toilet paper and yard waste. There were also several chairs thrown into the yard of the pool's care taker.

The pool's care taker told the officer that he now has to drain the pool and have it professionally cleaned and serviced, costing several hundred dollars. Also, both bathrooms will require a plumbing service to be fully operational again.

Moore admitted to being at the pool and committing the acts that caused the damage, the report said.

The total amount of damages was estimated to be over $1,000.

Moore was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief and Trespass After Warning.

He was taken to the Manatee County Jail and has since posted a cash bond of $1,250.

Homeless Man Arrested
for Panhandling

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Sam Estep, 52, a homeless man.

Sam Estep

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at about 9 p.m., the sheriff's office received a call from a motorist in reference to a panhandler at the corner of Cortez Road and 25th Street West, in Bradenton.

When a deputy arrived, she parked her vehicle about 100 feet from the intersection and observed Estep approach several vehicles. He repeatedly walked into the southbound lanes of traffic, approaching vehicles that were stopped at the light.

She then approached Estep. She was about 10 feet from him when he approached vehicles and heard Estep ask the occupants for money.

Estep was then arrested and charged with Panhandling in violation of a county ordinance against it.

He appeared to be intoxicated, the deputy wrote in her report. He was also belligerent and repeatedly called her obscene names.

Once she got Estep to the district station, he said, "You can't take my money from me; I begged for that money."

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

Man Stabbed in Jaw, Neck;
Suspect in Custody

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, June 25, 2009, at about 5:40 p.m., Sarasota County Sheriff's Deputies responded to 3155 Clark Road to investigate a stabbing.

The Victim, Ryan King, 39, of the 6600 block of Keystone Drive, Sarasota, was found with a screwdriver-like tool protruding from his lower jaw and neck.

Witnesses’ state King and Suspect Michael Mercogliano, 22, of the 5700 block of Murdock Avenue, Sarasota, were involved in a dispute that turned physical and resulted in the stabbing.

Mercogliano fled the scene. But responding units took Mercogliano into custody without incident a short while after the incident as a result of a search of the area.

King was taken to Bay Front Medical Center in stable condition.

The investigation is being handled by detectives.

Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau at 941-861-4900 or Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477) or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Citizen Advisory: Suspicious
Man Soliciting Money

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be cautious of a suspicious male who has approached several people in the Mira Lago neighborhood to ask for money.

In an incident that occurred on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at approximately 8:00 p.m., on Rue de Palisades in Sarasota, a man claimed to be the grandson of a neighbor and pretended to be familiar with the people he approached.

He was seen checking mailboxes so he could call residents by name.

He asked for money to pay a tow bill so he could visit his wife in the hospital. He later asked for a ride to a nearby location.

If approached by a stranger at their home, citizens are advised the following:

~ Never let a stranger into your home.

~ If a stranger asks to use your telephone, offer to place the call yourself. Do not open the door to hand the phone to the stranger.

~ Don’t hesitate to report suspicious activities.

Anyone with information about this incident 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).

Police: Mom Left Kids Home Alone;
'Liked To Go Clubbing'

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a mother was arrested early Thursday morning, June 26, 2009, after she left her two children -- ages 3 and 6 -- home alone for more than 12 hours, Orlando police said.

Mary Ann Ayala, 28, was arrested on two counts of child neglect and two counts of child abuse.

The children were not injured and have been placed in the custody of relatives, Orlando police said.

Ayala, who was being investigated by the Department of Children and Families on suspicion of leaving her children alone in May, has two other older children, but they were staying with relatives, police said.

According to police, at about 3 a.m. an anonymous caller told authorities that the children, a 3-year-old girl and a 6-year-old boy, were alone in a unit at the Grove Apartments in Orlando, located in the 5300 block of Curry Ford Road.

Police said the girl answered the door and told officers that she had been alone with her brother since 3 p.m., and she said she was hungry.

Ayala arrived home while officers were at the apartment complex, according to Orlando police. She attempted to drive off but was stopped by officers, police said.

Witnesses told officers that Ayala has left the children home alone in the past, police said.

An Orlando police report said Ayala "liked to go out clubbing," WKMG reported.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee County Detectives
Arrest Man, 26, for Capital
Sexual Battery of Girl, 4

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Keith Allen Kotecki, 26, of the 800 block of 63rd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Keith Allen Kotecki

According to a report, the incident occurred in April 15, 2009, at the address above.

However, It is not known whether Kotecki and the 4-year-old girl are related.

The report said the molestation occurred inside Kotecki's room, with the door locked.

Kotecki allegedly put his finger inside the girl's vagina and buttocks, to get "bogies" out of her private area.

Kotecki first denied the allegation, but finally admitted to the molestation, according to the arrest report.

Detectives say their investigation revealed that Kotecki warned the little girl not to tell anyone.

Kotecki had agreed to take a polygraph to clear his name, but retained an attorney and refused to cooperate further.

Kotecki was arrested on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, according to the sheriff's website.

He was charged with Capital Sexual Battery (Forced Fondling) by an Adult on a Child Under 18, a crime that could bring the death penalty.

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

His court date is set for July 31st.

Father Chases Daughter
Around House, Down
Street; Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Roger D. Thayer, Jr., 54, of the 4900 block of 18th Street West, Bradenton.

Roger D. Thayer

The arrest report said on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at about 8 p.m., Thayer and his daughter, Renee, were having a verbal argument.

When Renee tried to leave the house, Roger chased her around the house, trying to grab her before she was able to get out the door.

He grabbed her by the arm and restrained her, but she was able to get free and run down the street.

Somebody called the cops; the report did not say who.

Deputy Jacobus observed Roger chasing her down the street trying to catch her, but he fell before he could grab her, the report said.

Roger was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery.

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

Man Arrested for Stealing
Porterhouse Steaks

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Byron Allen McIlwaine, 51, of 1615 38th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Byron Allen McIlwaine

The arrest report said on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at about 6 p.m., Byron entered Samoset Grocery, 3011 15th Street East, walked to the meat counter and asked the meat manager to package $40 worth of porterhouse steaks.

The meat manager did so, and Byron then placed the meat in his shopping cart, walked over to a display of potatoes and placed a bag of potatoes in his cart.

But then he walked to the rear of the store, left the cart there, put the package of steaks under his shirt and walked to the front of the store.

The meat manager tried to stop Byron, but he ran, dropping his ID card near the front door.

The report said the meat manager knew Byron by name and said he is a regular customer of the store.

A deputy located Byron at his residence.

At first, Byron denied being at the store that day, but finally said he had been there and admitted to stealing the steaks, saying, "I just didn't have any money."

The steaks could not be recovered, because they had already been consumed.

Byron was charged with Retail Theft.

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

Teenager Ambushed, Beaten,
Depantsed, Robbed By
4-5 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a young man was ambushed by 4-5 Black males on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at about 11:50 p.m. in the 2000 block of 64th Street Court East, in Bradenton.

The sheriff's report said Jason Westermeyer, 18, of the 6700 block of 24th Street East, Bradenton, was walking home when four to five Black males jumped out from the ditch line and attacked him.

The attackers took his pants and a backpack. The pants and backpack contained his wallet, cell phone, bank card and a walkie-talkie that belonged to his employer, Wal-Mart.

Westermeyer said the attackers then got into a light-colored sedan with a loud muffler and drove away to an unknown location.

Westermeyer went home and notified the sheriff's office.

Westermeyer had several abrasions from the incident, but declined EMS.

A search of the area for the attackers and their vehicle yielded negative results.

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.

Shotgun Blasts Fired
At Occupied Dwelling

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported someone fired at least 4 shotgun blasts at a residence in the 5000 block of 18th Street Court East on Wednesday, June 24, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m.

The report said the shots struck the front door and one round, believed to be a slug, hit the rear of the victim's vehicle parked in the driveway.

The home was occupied by 3 people, ranging in age from 18 to 47.

There were no injuries.

Four spent shotgun casings were located in the roadway and collected for evidence, 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.

Manatee Detective Backs Marked
Cruiser Into Unmarked Cruiser

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a detective crashed a marked cruiser into an unmarked cruiser on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m. at an undisclosed location in North Palmetto.

The report said Detective Finley was issued a marked patrol car to briefly assist road patrol deputies.

Detective Finley backed his marked patrol car out of his driveway, striking the rear of his unmarked, unoccupied car, which was parked in the street.

There were no injuries.

The accident caused approximately $100 damage to the marked unit's rear passenger side, and $1,000 damage to the rear unmarked bumper.

Humane Society Offers Low-cost
Spay/Neuter for Dogs, Cats

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Humane Society of Manatee County is offering low cost spay/neuter for your dogs and cats at their clinic.

Prices start at $35 for cats, $55 for dogs.

There is no income qualification and you do not need to be a Manatee County resident to use this service.

The clinic is open Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm.

Call 941-747-8808 x 302 for more information or to book an appointment.

The Humane Society is located at 2515 14th St W. in Bradenton. Visit their website at www.humanesocietymanatee.org or email info@humanesocietymanatee.org for additional details.

Inmate Pulls Gun
In Escape Attempt

KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Sheriff's officials are investigating how an inmate at a Central Florida jail obtained a corrections officer's loaded handgun in an attempted escape, Orlando television WKMG reported.

A sheriff's spokeswoman said Osceola County Jail inmate Angel Santiago pulled the gun and threatened to kill an officer who was escorting him back to his cell Monday evening.

Officials said the 28-year-old inmate forced the officer into a medical bay and ordered him to swap uniforms. Other officers confronted Santiago and were able to disarm him.

Records show Santiago is serving two life sentences for shooting a robbery victim in the stomach and is awaiting trial and a possible third life sentence for armed robbery, WKMG said.

Authorities said he is facing several charges for the escape attempt.

One Millionth Sex Offender
E-mail Alert Notification
Sent Out By FDLE

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s Florida Offender Alert System sent out its one millionth e-mail alert this week, marking a milestone in providing timely and valuable information to citizens across the state. The Florida Offender Alert System, which was launched last year, sends e-mail alert notifications when registered sexual offenders or predators move into a neighborhood or any other location designated by the user. In addition, subscribers can choose to track an offender or predator and receive notifications each time he or she moves.

“The Alert System is a proactive way for us to notify citizens about who is residing in their community,” FDLE Commissioner Gerald Bailey said. “It’s just like having a deputy knock on your door. If there is one safety service Florida families should sign up for, this is it.”

The Florida Offender Alert System is offered at no charge and is available through FDLE’s Web site at www.flsexoffender.net and on the sites of many local law enforcement agencies. Since the system launched, more than 55,000 subscribers have signed up, with 600-700 new subscribers being added each week.

The Florida Offender Alert System sends an e-mail alert to users when a registered sexual offender or predator moves into a neighborhood or within a radius of any other location designated, such as a school, workplace, friend or relative’s house. The System also enables citizens to receive alerts when a specific predator or offender reports a change of address. Citizens may select an unlimited number of addresses and/or offenders and predators to track, and can update their selections at any time. The alert system will send e-mail notifications within 24 to 48 hours of an address change to the state’s registry.

FDLE encourages citizens to use the Neighborhood Search feature on the site prior to signing up for alerts to obtain a listing of registered sexual offenders and predators currently living in their neighborhoods.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Teen Arrested for Possession
of Crack Cocaine After K-9
"Pino" Hits On Teen's Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Deputies watching an unoccupied stolen vehicle spotted two young men who appeared to be possibly connected to the vehicle, when another young man arrived to pick one of them up. That young man, Elias Guadarrama, 18, of 4913 22nd Street West, was arrested; he was holding crack cocaine.

Above, L to R, K-9 Dep. "Pino" and Elias Guadarrama

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at about 11:15 p.m., Deputy Hurd was watching the unoccupied stolen vehicle from a vantage point of the dead end at the western-most point of 57th Avenue East.

Deputy Blue had located the stolen vehicle in the 4600 block of 57th Avenue East. The vehicle's sliding door was open and the vehicle's engine was still hot.

Dep. Blue conducted a field interview on two men found nearby in the 5400 block of Lockwood Ridge Road. They were carrying a gas can and said that their car had broken down and they were going to the 7-11 store nearby to get gas.

Other deputies were dispatched to the 7-11 store to verify the story of the men Dep. Blue had interviewed and were advised that the two men were at the 7-11, but never got gas. The responding deputies then could not locate the two men Dep. Blue had interviewed.

However, Dep. Blue had returned to the stolen vehicle and observed one of the men walking west on 57th Avenue East, toward the stolen vehicle. Dep. Blue made contact with him. He said that his other friend had called somebody for a ride and hadn't seen him since.

Meanwhile, Dep. Hurd was maintaining his location at the dead end, when a silver Chevy traveled towards him. The vehicle was driving very slowly and made a U-turn upon seeing Dep. Hurd at the dead end. The driver, later identified as Elias Guadarrama, did not use a turn signal when he made the U-turn.

Dep. Hurd followed the silver Chevy and ran the tag. It came back to 4913 22nd Street West, the residence of Elias Guadarrama. Dep. Hurd then conducted a traffic stop for not using a turn signal when it made a U-turn and to investigate what he was doing in the area, based on the surrounding circumstances.

Elias told Dep. Hurd he had received a phone call from his friend to pick him up at the location where Dep. Hurd had spotted Elias making the U-turn. Elias was very uncooperative and refused to provide further information.

At that point, Dep. Hurd called for a K-9 unit to do a "walk around" of the Chevy. Deputy Bertolino and his K-9 "Pino" responded.

Dep. Hurd ordered Elias out of the car, but Elias refused three times, saying, "I know my rights." Dep. Bertolino then removed Elias from the vehicle and "Pino" did walk around the vehicle and alerted, meaning he had smelled drugs. Dep. Bertolino advised Dep. Hurd of the alert.

Inside the vehicle, Dep. Hurd found a plastic bag containing many small cut squares of crack cocaine, which weighed out to 6.8 grams.

Elias Guararrama was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He was taken to the Manatee County Jail. He has since posted a $3,000 bail bond and was released from jail on Monday.

Two Kids Found At Home Alone;
Mom Accused of Child Neglect

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A mother of two children has been arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office after the children were found home alone.

Bertha R. Figaro

According to an arrest report, Bertha R. Figaro, 29, of 5406 25th Street West, Bradenton, failed to provide her children with supervision and services necessary to maintain their physical and mental well-being when she left her two children, ages 5 and 6, home alone for at least 20 minutes while she went to the store.

The children were found alone by Figaro's landlord, who went to the residence to speak with Figaro about excessive noise coming from the children.

The landlord found one of the children running out of the front door to their residence and no adult supervision around.

After a deputy arrived, Figaro said the children were at her neighbor's residence.

The neighbor child's father stated that was not true. The neighbor's 10-year-old son said that the two children left his residence at 4 p.m. He had walked them back home, he said.

The 10-year-old said Figaro left for the store a short time after that and told the two children to stay inside and not open the door.

The children were interviewed separately by Child Protective Services and told the same story.

The children were released into the custody of Child Protective Services.

Figaro was arrested and charged with two counts of Child Neglect.

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

Palmetto Man Accused of
Assault with a Firearm

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Spaulding Hunter, Jr., 48, of 143 12th Street West, in Palmetto.

Spaulding Hunter, Jr.

The arrest report said Hunter and the victim, Leonard Green, have a verbal rental agreement for Green to live at Hunter's home, as a sublease.

Hunter no longer wants Leonard to live at the home, so he changed the locks and boarded up a broken window.

On Tuesday, June 22, 2009, at about 9:35 p.m., Leonard entered the home and was in his room on his bed when Hunter kicked the door and stood at the doorway. He told Leonard to leave the house.

At that time, Hunter allegedly threatened to shoot Green, but no gun was seen.

A female that was on the bed with Green left the home.

Green then peeked outside his door and saw Hunter with a dark blue handgun in his right hand and down at his side, behind his leg. Hunter then allegedly lifted the gun up and pointed it at Green and said, "You can't move fast."

Green later told a deputy he was afraid and was going to [soil] himself.

Green quickly went outside.

Hunter told the deputy he never had a weapon of any sort in his possession. The deputy wrote that a weapon has not been recovered at this time.

Hunter was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $50,000.

Man Charged with Burglary,
Possession of Marijuana

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Travis L. Crawford, 21, of 508 12th Street Drive West, Palmetto.

Travis L. Crawford

According to the arrest report, on Friday, June 19, 2009, at about 6 p.m., Travis broke into an occupied home by breaking a front window.

The resident, Robin Jones, Jr., yelled at Travis and Travis ran away.

Jones called the sheriff's office and reported the incident. He said that Travis was wearing a red shirt and blue jeans.

Deputy Cappiello spotted Travis in the 2000 block of 2nd Avenue East and detained Travis. The deputy noticed that Travis was sweaty and appeared to be nervous.

Deputy Cappiello patted Travis down and felt a bulge in the right front pocket of Travis's pants.

The bulge turned out to be a bag of marijuana with other smaller bags of marijuana. All of the bags, including the 12 smaller ones, weighed out to 17.3 grams.

The victim positively identified Travis at the scene.

Travis denied breaking a window or attempting to enter the residence.

Travis was arrested and charged with Burglary, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, and Criminal Mischief (for breaking the window valued at $500).

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $13,000.

Man Waits Until Monday
To Report Robbery Saturday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Vincent Parker, 45, of the 1100 block of 14th Avenue West, Bradenton, waited until Monday to report he had been robbed on Saturday, June 20, 2009.

The sheriff's office report said Parker walked into the sheriff's office on Monday afternoon to report an alleged robbery which occurred early Saturday morning at about 1:30 a.m.

Parker claimed he was walking in the 5500 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, with an unknown White male when they were both approached by a young man who had a 3-foot stick in his hand.

The robber told Parker to empty his pockets.

Parker began to run but was chased down by the robber and hit on the head with the stick.

Parker fell down and the robber went through Parker's pockets, removing items (not listed in the report).

Parker then ran away and while running called 911 on his cell phone, but did not await law enforcement.

Parker did not seek medical treatment.

The robber was described as a White male in his 20s, wearing a red hoodie 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.

Fire Caused By Man
Smoking in Bed

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue reported a man smoking in his bed caused a small fire on Monday, June 22, 2009, at 508 59th Avenue Drive West.

Battalion Chief Mike DeChelbor said the first unit arrived on scene at about 8:30 p.m. and found light smoke showing.

The fire had been extinguished prior to arrival of fire apparatus, however the structure needed to be ventilated by fire crews.

A 54-year-old man received burns to his face and respiratory tract and was transported to Tampa General Hospital Burn Center by Bayflite.

There was minor damage to the bed in the bedroom, with no structural damage, Battalion Chief DeChelbor said.

The State Fire Marshal and Cedar Hammock investigators investigated the fire.

Bradenton Police Lieutenant Wins
Gold at Police & Fire Games

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Lt. Nancy Castellow of the Bradenton Police Department won the gold medal on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, in the shotgun competition during the Florida Police & Fire Games, which is taking place this week in the state’s Treasure Coast.

Members of Bradenton’s police and fire departments are participating in the annual games this year, along with 5,000 other competitors from more than 200 different agencies.

The games, which feature Olympic-style sporting events, take place during the third full week in June. The games were established in 1985.

The counties of Martin, Indian River and St. Lucie, along with the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office, are hosting this year’s games.

UCF Confirms First Case
Of Swine Flu; 562 Cases
Confirmed in Florida

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- The Florida Department of Health on Tuesday confirmed the first case of swine flu at the University of Central Florida, Orlando television station WKMG has reported.

The student, a 20-year-old undergraduate, has fully recovered, health officials said.

According to UCF, the student exhibited mild flu-like symptoms when he visited the UCF Health Center on Wednesday. A specimen from the student was sent to the state laboratory in Jacksonville, and confirmation of swine flu virus was confirmed on Tuesday.

Another possible case of swine flue at UCF could be confirmed later this week, the school said in a release. The second possible case involves a 20-year-old undergraduate who exhibited mild symptoms when she visited the Health Center last week. She is recovering, school officials said.

The students don't share any classes and live in different off-campus housing. No known connection between the students exists, WKMG said.

As of last week, 562 cases of swine flu have been confirmed in Florida.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Adult, Juvenile Arrested for
Holding, Beating Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brandon C. Grabow, 31, and a juvenile listed only as "C.D." in the report of the arrests.

Brandon C. Grabow

The report said Antonio Shinn, of the 5400 block of 26th Street West, Bradenton, and the assailants were engaged in a verbal argument.

The argument became violent when the juvenile struck the victim in the face. Grabow allegedly held the victim while he was being punched.

Shinn was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for further treatment. He required several stitches to the upper lip.

Both Grabow and the juvenile were arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail and the Juvenile Booking Facility.

Grabow was charged with Battery. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $5,000 bail bond.

The incident occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at about 10:30 a.m.

Woman Arrested at Wal-Mart
for Felony Retail Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Julie A. Garafolo, 29, of 4735 Elfrida Avenue, Sarasota.

Julie A. Garafolo

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, June 20, 2009, at about 1 p.m., Garafolo entered the Wal-Mart store located at 2911 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

She proceeded to select several items and placed them in the cart she was pushing.

She then proceeded to the front registers where she purchased a pack of gum and then pushed the cart, with the purloined items in it, past all points of purchase and out of the store.

Loss prevention personnel stopped her once she was outside the store.

They discovered Garafolo had 2 receipts for the exact same items.

It turns out that her male companion, seen on surveillance video with her in the same vehicle, had purchased the same items 15 minutes earlier in the store and Garafolo saw the purchase and the theft as a way to make some money.

The total value of all items was $391.83.

Garafolo was arrested and charged with Felony Retail Theft. She was also issued a trespass warning by Wal-Mart.

She posted a $1,000 bail bond on Saturday and was released from jail.

Man Beaten with Pipes by
Three White Males for
Man's Drugs

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a violent home invasion on Monday, June 22, 2009, at about 2:15 a.m. in the 3700 block of Manatee Avenue West.

The report said the victim, Bobby Cottrill, 52, was sitting inside his residence when three White males burst in and began beating him on the head and arms with metal pipes.

The invaders did not say anything to him, but he heard one suspect tell the other, "Get the bottles."

Cottrill had a bottle of methadone and a bottle of oxycontin on a table next to him, which were both taken by the invaders, who fled the area in an unknown direction.

Cottrill stumbled into the street and a neighbor called 911.

The victim stated that the prescriptions were recently filled and that he had no idea who would have robbed him.

He suffered lacerations to his head and forearms. Some of the injuries to his arms appeared to be defensive wounds. He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The invaders were only described as three White males, faces covered, wearing blue jeans, and armed with galvanized metal pipes.

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.

Deputies: House Burglarized,
Gun Stolen While Victim Slept

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A burglary occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2009, between the hours of 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. in the 5900 block of 95th Street Circle East, in East Manatee County, according a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said unknown suspect(s) entered the victim's residence through an unlocked rear sliding glass door while the victim was at home sleeping.

The suspect(s) stole the victim's pistol and other property not listed in the report.

Then the suspect(s) stole additional property from the victim's vehicle.

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.

Carjacking Reported
Sunday Morning

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a carjacking that occurred in the 1400 block of 59th Avenue East on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at about 7 a.m.

The report said the victim, Pedro Gallo, Jr., was driving his 2002 Cadillac westbound when he saw a Black female crouched down in the roadway and a Black male who appeared to be trying to pick her up.

Gallo stopped, exited the Cadillac and asked if they needed help. He was told, "Yes, call 911 if you have a cell phone."

As Gallo attempted to get back into his Cadillac, a second Black male attacked him.

Then the female jumped into the driver's seat and left the scene, driving westbound. The Black male attacker ran northbound, the report said. The direction of travel of the second Black male is unknown.

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.

Project Lifesaver Technology
Rescues 90-Year-Old Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Thanks to the Sarasota Police Department's Project Life Saver technology, a 90-year-old South Manatee County man was rescued on Sunday, June 21, 2009, according to a report from Sgt. Rick Gerken, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Sgt. Gerken wrote on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at approximately 12:45 p.m., deputies responded to 4800 Palm Aire Drive, Sarasota, in reference to a missing 90-year-old male, Samuel Soll. Deputies determined that Soll had been missing for approximately 55 minutes prior to their arrival.

Soll was wearing a tracking device from Project Life Saver, due to his dementia.

Deputies began canvassing the area.

Officer Ford Snodgrass from the Sarasota Police Department and two volunteers with Project Life Saver, Martha Bohn and Carol Solomon, responded to the scene with transponders.

At approximately 1:40 p.m., Solomon and Lt. Mealy located Soll in the 4600 block of Tournament Blvd., with the transponder unit operated by Solomon. Soll had lain down at the front door of a vacant residence and was concealed from plain view by shrubbery.

EMS responded and transported Soll, who was in good condition, as a precautionary measure at the family’s request.

Sgt. Gerken said, "The response from Sarasota Police Department, Officer Snodgrass, and the Project Life Saver volunteers, Carol Solomon and Martha Bohn, is greatly appreciated. The tracking device and transponder proved to be a viable tool and prevented what could have been a tragic incident."

Bradenton Police Announce
‘Officer of the Month’ for July

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A press release from the City of Bradenton said Bradenton Police Officer Eleazar Garcia has been selected to receive the “Officer of the Month” award for July 2009.

Above, L to R, Officer Garcia and Shane Swan

On May 9, Officer Garcia worked a report of a bicycle stolen from a garage. This incident was witnessed by a neighbor, who gave Officer Garcia a description of the suspect and the vehicle he was driving.

The press release said on May 18, Officer Garcia was reading Newsmanatee.com [emphasis added] and noticed that the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office had arrested Mr. Shane Swan for burglary to an open garage. Mr. Swans’ physical description matched the description of the suspect in Officer Garcia’s case.

Officer Garcia called the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and learned that the truck Mr. Swan was driving also matched the description of the vehicle used in his case.

Officer Garcia obtained a photo lineup to show the witness, who identified Mr. Swan as the subject who stole the bicycle. Officer Garcia then completed the necessary arrest paperwork on Mr. Swan and took it to the county jail, where Mr. Swan was charged with Burglary.

“Officer Garcia worked his zone, used a valuable resource, the Internet, to identify a burglary suspect and closed a burglary case,” Lt. William Fowler wrote in his recommendation of Officer Garcia for the honor. “Officer Garcia did an excellent job.”

Officer Garcia will receive a certificate, letter of commendation and a day off.

Sarasota Detectives Arrest Man
for Robbing Man, Woman,
Stabbing Woman

SARAOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Detectives have arrested Douglas L. Keevis, 44, of a last known address of 2312 Phillippi St., Sarasota, on two counts of Armed Robbery and one count of Aggravated Battery for an incident that occurred at 4150 Bee Ridge Rd., at approximately 1:45 a.m. Monday, June 22, 2009.

Douglas L. Keevis

Detectives say Douglas Keevis confronted Robert Fleck, 28, a White male Elisabeth Smith, 26, a White female and demanded they give him their money.

Fleck and Smith attempted to run away from Keevis, but Keevis caught Fleck and began to batter him with one hand while holding a knife in the other.

Smith attempted to assist Fleck when Keevis pushed her to the ground. Keevis demanded money from her and when he didn’t get it, he stabbed her in the chest with a knife.

Smith was flown via helicopter to Bayfront Medical Center where she was treated for minor injuries and subsequently released.

Anyone with information relating to the incident 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 via text message by texting TIP109 plus a or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com message to CRIMES (274637).

Teen Sexually Attacked At
Wet 'N Wild in Orlando

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 14-year-old girl was sexually battered Saturday at Wet 'n Wild, according to Orlando police.

Police said the girl was attacked "inside the pool area" of the park, which is located on International Drive.

Police said the gang intervention unit was on special detail at the park when they saw a man carrying the girl out of the pool.

The victim told police a group of men tossed her around and tried to remove her bathing suit and one of them sexually battered her. She said she was able to punch one of the men in face and at that point someone picked her up and carried her out of the pool.

One of the men was described by police as a Hispanic dark-skinned male with a medium build and long, dark hair. The victim told police she could identify this man.

Another man was described as light-skinned and wearing a baseball hat with the letter "P" on it, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Manatee Detectives Arrest Man, 26,
for Capital Sexual Battery, Lewd
& Lascivious Molestation
of Girl, 9 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Marty Oswald, 26, of Plant City, Florida. Detectives say he raped and otherwise molested an unnamed 9-year-old girl.

Marty Oswald

According to the arrest report, on Monday, June 15, 2009, at an address in the 4100 block of Banbury Circle, in Parrish, Florida, Oswald licked his fingers and insert them in the girl's vagina. He also used his bare hands against her bare vagina to teach her how to masturbate.

During a forensic interview the following day, the little girl said Oswald pulled her shirt up and kissed her breast in front of her brother, age not listed.

He took her into the bathroom, picked her up and was trying to have sex with her. She had clothes on and he was naked with an erection, the report said.

He simulated having sex with one of her dolls and ejaculated, the girl told detectives.

On June 16th, the girl told the forensic interviewer that Oswald "put his private in her butt."

A rape kit was performed on the victim on that day.

Oswald was arrested on a warrant on Thursday, June 18, 2009.

He was charged with Capital Sexual Battery and three counts of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail.

Violent Crimes Task Force
Arrests Manatee Fugitive
on Outstanding Drug and
Domestic Violence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, June 20, 2009, shortly before 5 p.m., detectives with the Manatee County Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) arrested David Larry King, 23, after receiving information earlier that day as to King's whereabouts, according to a report by VCTF Detective Bill Waldron.

Above, K-9 "Pino" and David Larry King

Detectives utilized the information they received to track and locate King.

King was wanted by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office on felony arrest warrants for Trafficking in Cocaine and Aggravated Domestic Assault.

King was spotted in a vehicle near Popeye’s restaurant on 1st Street in Bradenton, Fl. around 4:45 p.m.

VCTF Detectives, with the Assistance of K-9 Dep. Jeremy Bertolino and his K-9 "Pino," began following the vehicle in hopes of stopping the vehicle safely and taking King into custody.

The vehicle was stopped inside Gardenwood Apartments located at 3223 3rd Street West by Deputy Bertolino, along with VCTF Detectives.

King, who was in the front passenger seat, was quickly taken into custody without incident.

During a search incident to arrest, VCTF Det. Michael Lesselroth found three baggies containing a small amount of Marijuana in the common area between the driver and passenger seats. A further search revealed numerous “Apple” baggies for packaging of narcotics and a large baggie containing Cocaine and a smaller baggie containing Cocaine with a total weight of 20.4 grams.

King was arrested on the outstanding warrants for Bond Revocation-Trafficking in Cocaine and FTA-Domestic Aggravated Assault. He was charged additionally with Possession with intent to Sell/Deliver Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana less than 20 grams and Possession of Narcotics Paraphernalia.

Pursuit of Felony Warrant Suspect
By Deputies, Chopper, K-9 Units
Fails to Apprehend Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, June 19, 2009, at about 10:15 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office pursued a man in a car who was wanted on a felony warrant.

Above, deputies and K-9 units search Sunset Village
Adult Mobile Home Park, 3715 14th Street West
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

A report of the incident said Deputy Ambrus observed a white Buick in the 5100 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, driving Northbound. Deputy Ambrus had personal knowledge that the driver and registered owner of the vehicle, Anthony Rashad Edwards, 21, had a felony warrant.

Deputy Ambrus followed the vehicle waiting for backup to get in the area. Deputy Ambrus initiated a traffic stop in the 1800 block of Cortez Rd. West because the vehicle started to slow as if it was going to stop. The vehicle refused to stop and a pursuit ensued. Deputy Ambrus advised traffic conditions and speeds which were acceptable.

The pursuit came to a stop at 1040 40th Avenue West when the suspect vehicle pulled into the yard, striking a planter and a wrought iron support beam to the residence. Damage was minimal.

Anthony Edwards fled from the scene and was not apprehended. A perimeter was set and K-9s tracked within the perimeter; however, Anthony was not located.

A traffic unit handled the crash portion of the stop.

Marijuana and rock cocaine were located in the car on the floor and on the door where Anthony jumped out of the car.

The pursuit was less than two minutes in duration.

The report gave no description of Edwards, except to say he is a Black male.

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

Man Arrested for Cultivation
of Marijuana

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Anthony Michael Davi, 25, of the 3200 block of 48th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Anthony Michael Davi

The arrest report said on Thursday, June 18, 2009, at about noon, a deputy went to an address in the 3100 block of 48th Avenue Drive West, in an attempt to arrest Davi's brother on an unrelated charge.

He noticed a blue Chevy pickup parked next door in the driveway. As he approached the door he could hear men talking inside. He knocked and knocked and finally Davi opened the door holding his 8-month-old daughter in his arms.

The deputy and Davi had a conversation about the whereabouts of Davi's brother and said he needed to check the residence for the brother.

Davi said "You're not going to like what you see inside" and admitted the deputy.

Inside were 3 homemade boxes made for cultivating marijuana. Davi said it was for his use and had just started cultivating it.

Davi was very cooperative during the investigation, the report said.

Child Protective Services responded and found the baby to be well cared for. The baby was released to Davi's mother and father.

The brother was located next door and arrested on his warrant.

The marijuana found in Davi's home weighed out to 21+ ounces. Detectives found two weapons inside the home; a .45 caliber Glock handgun and a .22 caliber rifle. Neither was loaded.

Davi was arrested and charged with Cultivation of Marijuana.

Bradenton Police Arrest Woman
for Assault with a Knife

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Rachelle Christina Valle, 27, of 1021 5th Street West, Bradenton.

Rachelle Christina Valle

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Thursday, June 18, 2009, an officer was dispatched to the address above reference an armed and dangerous person with a knife.

Upon arrival the officer met with Valle, who was sitting on the ground near the front door.

A witness told the officer she had observed Valle come within close proximity of her boyfriend while waiving a knife in his face, saying, "Get out and don't come back."

The officer talked with the boyfriend, who told the officer he had gone to the address to talk with Valle. He entered the house while Valle was eating and tried to speak with her, but she ignored him.

Tthe boyfriend asked the witness to speak with Valle to calm her down. Then the boyfriend went outside.

At that time, Valle allegedly went outside with a steak knife and said, You cannot go anywhere with a flat tire," and she stabbed the passenger side front tire of the boyfriend's vehicle.

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

Family Holds Strong Arm
Robber for Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Quincy N. Price, 21, of 1428 22nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Quincy N. Price

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at about 5:40 a.m., Price attacked Enedino Sanchez Luna as Sanchez exited his mobile home residence at 1419 26th Avenue West.

Price attacked Sanchez from behind, pushing and punching him and taking Sanchez' wallet.

Sanchez yelled for help and his brother came to help him.

Price ran and fell between trailers, which helped Sanchez and his brother catch up to Price.

More family members helped restrain Price until deputies arrived.

As Price was picked up off the ground, Sanchez' wallet was found under Price. But the money, said to be $60 and 200 pesos ($20 U.S.), was not recovered.

Price told deputies he was selling rock cocaine to Sanchez and Sanchez hit the rock out of Price's hand.

That story apparently didn't fly with deputies.

Price was arrested and charged with Strong Arm Robbery and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Subject of Manhunt for Grand Theft
Backhoe Arrested in Tampa

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who was wanted by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office for theft and sale of a backhoe from a rental company has been arrested.

Adam Arena
(Mug shot courtesy HCSO)

Adam T. Arena, 35, was arrested in Tampa on Friday afternoon, June 19, 2009, and charged with Grand Theft and Dealing in Stolen Property in connection with the Manatee County incident.

Other charges are pending as the investigation continues.

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 was 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 by 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.

Arena is being held in the Hillsborough County Jail on a $50,000 bail bond.

Violent Crimes Task Force
Detective Arrests Man for
Carrying Concealed Weapon

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Ruben Mercado, Jr, 25, of 509 58th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, was arrested by Violent Crimes Task Force Detective Sgt. Kevin Pease.

Ruben Mercado, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, June 18, 2009, at about 11:45 p.m., Sgt. Pease and other detectives were conducting a follow-up investigation of a homicide at La Escondida Bar, 5602 14th Street West, Bradenton.

During the investigation, Sgt. Pease observed Mercado leave his seat and walk to the D.J. booth. As Mercado sat down, Sgt. Pease saw Mercado reach under his shirt and place an unknown object on the shelf under the table.

Sgt. Pease walked up to the area and found a Phoenix Arms .22 caliber handgun inside a leather holster.

When Sgt. Pease handcuffed Mercado, Mercado spontaneously said, "I had that for protection because my friend was shot outside the bar here."

Mercado did have a Florida Concealed Weapons Permit, Sgt. Pease learned, but that had been suspended.

Since Mercado had a weapon inside a bar in violation of state law, Mercado was charged with Carrying a Concealed Weapon (without a valid permit) and Carrying a Concealed Firearm in a Bar.

He was transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Young Man Chased By
Two White Males,
One Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted robbery on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at about 4:30 a.m. in the 4700 block of 20th Street West, Bradenton.

The victim, Kyle Seymour, 20, was walking home to Bayshore on the Lake when a rock was thrown at him from a white van. The occupants of the van yelled obscenities at him and victim yelled back.

The van turned around and the occupants exited. They approached the victim and began hitting him.

At one point, the Black male began choking him and he heard one of the suspects say, "Rob him."

Kyle was able to get away and ran between the houses towards his residence. The three culprits chased him into the complex, but fled the area when Kyle began screaming for help.

Kyle told deputies that he was hit on the head and on the arm. He had red marks on his neck but did not have any other injuries.

Nothing was taken from Kyle, who only had a lighter and his ID.

The area was searched, but the attackers were not located. A BOLO was issued.

The assailants were not further described in the sheriff's report.

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

Man Shoots Own Hand
with 75-year-old Gun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Saturday, June 20, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., deputies were called to 3323 50th Avenue East, Bradenton, when a man shot himself in the hand with a 75-year-old handgun.

Daniel Kimpton told deputies that he was holding his 1934 Beretta .32 cal in his right hand, and was attempting to bring the slide back with his left hand.

As he was doing this, the gun accidentally discharged one round that entered the palm of his left hand, just below his pinky finger. The round exited the side of the palm.

Daniel's wife took him to the hospital and they notified the sheriff's office.

There were powder burns surrounding the entry wound area, which was consistent with Daniel's story.

The investigation determined the incident to be an accidental discharge.

Daniel was treated and released from the hospital.

Bomb Squad Called Out During
Arson Investigation on LBK

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, June 19, 2009, at about 3 p.m., a deputy was dispatched to the scene of an arson investigation at 5054 Gulf of Mexico Drive, on Longboat Key, where investigators had discovered what they thought was possibly an explosive device.

The deputy was notified by Manatee County Sheriff's Office dispatch that Long Boat Key Police and the Fire Department were requesting the sheriff's bomb squad to respond to an arson scene that they were working.

It was believed that a metal object that was seen protruding from a gas tank was possibly an explosive device.

Two Bomb Squad deputies responded to the scene and rendered the scene safe using the robot.

The metal object was not an explosive device.

Authorities continued with the arson investigation.

Man Smoking with Oxygen
Equipment Was Burned

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton Fire Department responded to an alarm Wednesday, June 17, 2009, at DeSoto Towers, 1523 6th Ave. W.

Responding units discovered one of the apartments had a fire, which had been extinguished prior to the fire department's arrival.

The occupant of the apartment had sustained burn injuries and was transported to Tampa General Hospital Burn Center by Bayflight.

There were no other injuries.

The preliminary investigation into the cause and origin of the fire revealed that the victim was using his personal oxygen equipment while smoking.

The incident is under investigation.

Sarasota County Detectives Arrest
Man, 44, for Sexual Battery of
Little Girl, 11

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Detectives have arrested Jerry L. Rose, 44, of 3412 Roxanne Blvd., Sarasota, on one count of Sexual Battery on a Child and one count of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation for an incident that occurred on June 10th, 2009.

Jerry L. Rose

Rose allegedly committed acts of a sexual nature on an 11-year-old girl. The girl was known to Rose.

Anyone with additional 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).

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