Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 8/1/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 8/1/2009

Detectives Arrest Other Man
For Two Bank Robberies
At Fifth Third Bank

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Roger Woodrow Jones, 55, of 2920 50th Ave. W., Bradenton, in connection with two bank robberies on April 28, 2009, and July 17, 2009 at the Fifth Third Bank located at 5305 26th St. W., Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Roger Jones and Jones at Fifth Third Bank

Detectives arrested Jones on Thursday afternoon, July 30, 2009, at his residence on an arrest warrant for two counts of Armed Robbery.

Jones became a suspect in the robbery after detectives received information from Crime Stoppers earlier this week.

Detectives executed a search warrant Thursday at the residence listed above.

Physical evidence was discovered at the residence that links Jones to the robberies and two tellers from the bank have positively identified Jones as the person who robbed the bank.

Search Warrant Yields Gun,
Pot Plants, Paraphernalia;
Woman Arrested

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Shanelle Denise Corbett, 23, of 1536 9th Avenue West, Bradenton. Corbett may have taken the hit for a man, whose many pieces of clothing were found at the residence; he wasn't there.

Shanelle Denise Corbett

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m., Bradenton Police served a search warrant on the residence, which was occupied by Corbett and another female.

Upon entry, there was an "extremely strong smell of burnt marijuana" inside.

After searching the residence, officers located two small marijuana plants growing in pots, just next to the rear shed of the residence. The plants were more than 18 inches tall.

The search produce a loaded .40 caliber handgun, a magazine to a Glock handgun, a marijuana grinder and a cable bill in the name of Corbett.

Corbett told officers she was the lawful renter of the residence.

Later, at BPD headquarters, Corbett denied any knowledge of the contraband at her residence and said she was the only person living at the residence.

However, officers noted in the arrest report there was "a lot of male clothing inside the residence during the search."

Corbett was arrested and charged with Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana Under 20 Grams and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

She posted a $2,740 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
for Battering Pregnant
Girlfriend

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Marquis Orville Vegas, 23, of the 900 block of 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Marquis Orville Vegas

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at about 10:45 a.m., Vegas stopped his unnamed girlfriend, who is 24 weeks pregnant, from leaving her apartment in the 300 block of 26th Avenue West and started pushing her, causing her to hit the bedroom wall.

Vegas then grabbed her by the waist and began to squeeze, the report said.

He allegedly said he wanted to kill her and threatened to throw her out of the window.

Vegas then pushed her again during her attempt to flee, causing her to fall and hit the bed frame.

The woman said that she crawled onto the bed, where Vegas then sat on her and held her in a "sort of a choke hold" and continued to threaten her.

She was later able to flee.

Vegas had fled the area prior to police arrival, but was located later and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He was charged with Aggravated Battery (Knew or Should Have Known Victim was Pregnant).

He remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $5,000, as of Thursday.

Deputy Arrests Man for
'Strangling' Brother

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Nickolas B. Guerra, 25, of the 6900 block of Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Nickolas B. Guerra

The arrest report said on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at about 7:15 p.m., Guerra and his brother, Michael, 23, were in an argument about not leaving a friend's house when asked to do so.

The argument led to physical violence when Nickolas began to strike his brother in the upper body with a closed fist.

Nickolas then ripped off his brother's tank top and wrapped it around his brother's neck and began to choke him with it from behind, the report said.

His brother told deputies that he started to "black out." The brother began to fight back by throwing punches. In doing so, he injured his right fist, then broke free and ran away.

A neighbor then called 911.

Nickolas was arrested and charged with Felony Domestic Battery By Strangulation.

He posted a $100 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Man Barges Into Ex's Home,
Puts Her in 'Bear Hug,' But
Only to Restrain Her

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robert G. Price, 47, of 5509 Fountain Lake Circle, Bradenton, who is already incarcerated on related charges.

Robert G. Price

The arrest report said Price and Lillian Blaney were girlfriend and boyfriend for about a year. They broke up in March of 2009 and have no children in common.

On May 2, 2009, shortly after midnight, Price walked right into Lillian's house in the 3800 block of 117th Street West, Bradenton, uninvited, and began arguing with Lillian.

Lillian walked out of her house and told Price to leave. Price insisted on continuing the argument and during it he grabbed Lillian and tried to restrain her.

Lillian's neighbor came outside and told Price to leave, the report said.

Over the course of their relationship, police were called to numerous domestic disturbances between each other, but Lillian was reluctant to report any of the incidents because of her feelings toward Price, the report said.

Lillian told a deputy that by "restrain" she meant a "bear hug."

Price, who is already in jail for Violation of a Domestic Injunction and Contempt of Court, was arrested on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, and charged with Burglary with Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Attempted Purse-Snatch at
Cortez Road 7-11

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a White male attempted to snatch a woman's purse on Thursday, July 30, 2009, at about 1 a.m., outside the 7-11 convenience store located at 2011 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Nina Lagodimas, 43, of the 2200 block of 38th Avenue West, Bradenton, was at the 7-11 when an unknown White male grabbed her purse and attempted to flee the area.

Three good Samaritans chased the robber and tackled him.

While on the ground, the thief used a “stun gun” on one of the Samaritans legs and broke free. He fled south on 20th Street West.

The suspect left the purse as he fled. The purse and all its contents were returned to the victim.

The area was searched by the sheriff's helicopter with negative results.

The clerk told deputies they do have video but that they don’t have access.

None of the victims involved was injured.

The thief was described as a White male, 5'6" tall, 125 pounds, last seen wearing a brown shirt, black jeans and a blue hat.

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 at Palmetto Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion robbery at a residence in the 1000 block of 29th Street East, in Palmetto.

According to the report, 3 armed Black males kicked in the back door, made a demand for money, then hit Harmando Reyna in the head approximately 3 times with a gun.

They got a watch, an X-Box 360 video game, a wallet, a purse, and $15.00 cash. They demanded his vehicle and took Harmando outside to unlock the vehicle.

As they went outside, they allowed Harmando to walk ahead, at which time he ran away, went to a neighbor and called 911.

Harmando was treated on scene by EMS for minor head injuries, and released.

Harmando's wife and 3 kids were home, but never came in contact with the suspects.

K-9, a helicopter, and members of the Violent Crimes Task Force responded, but the suspects were not located.

The invaders were not described in the 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.

Palmetto Plans National
Night Out Festivities

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Police Chief Garry Lowe and the City of Palmetto would like to invite the community to a National Night Out Barbecue.

This event will celebrate the community coming together and showing their collective commitment to a safe and crime-free City.

The City of Palmetto National Night Out celebration will take place next Tuesday evening, August 4th, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The event will be at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Palmetto, 1600 10th Street West.

The event will feature free hot dogs and hamburgers (while they last), Child I.D. fingerprinting, face painting, and a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

Several local businesses and safety organizations will also be present, including: the Manatee Safety Council, Manatee County Crime Stoppers, the Palmetto Youth Academy, Sweetbay, Wal-Mart, and Publix.

Come join with them for an evening of fun, dedicated to taking a bite out of crime.

Sarasota Sheriff's Office Seeks
Female Wallet Thief

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a woman in connection with the theft of a wallet from Winn Dixie on 17th Street in Sarasota.

Detectives say on July 3rd, a customer accidentally left her wallet on the checkout counter, and the woman in the orange dress (pictured above) is seen on surveillance video putting the wallet in her purse and leaving the store.

The victim says the suspect left in a gold four-door Mitsubishi Galant with a sunroof, but she was not able to retrieve the tag number.

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).

20-Month-Old Boy Drowned in
Canal, Detectives Say

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office was called at 7:26 p.m. Wednesday evening, July 29, 2009, on a report of a 20-month-old boy who apparently fell into the canal behind his home in the 18200 block of Burkholder Cir. in Port Charlotte.

The child was taken to Peace River Regional Medical Center and was pronounced deceased at 8:45 p.m.

Major Crimes Unit detectives said it appears the boy opened a rear door of the home while the father was in another room and the boy fell into the water.

The Medical Examiner will perform an autopsy on the child to determine cause of death.

Also, as standard procedure, a Department of Children and Families case agent was called to the home for their investigation.

The name of the child, a juvenile, has not been released.

Sheriff's Employee, Man Found
Dead; Apparent Murder-Suicide

DELTONA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported the bodies of two adults were found inside a Deltona home Wednesday afternoon in an apparent murder-suicide.

The bodies were discovered at about 12:50 p.m. after Volusia County deputies were called to the 600 block of Alexander Avenue, according to the sheriff's office. Investigators recovered a handgun at the scene.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, the bodies were tentatively identified as 37-year-old Julyann Rivera and her boyfriend, 34-year-old Jesus Negron. The couple has four kids together and had recently separated after living together, deputies said. The kids were not home at the time of the shooting.

Rivera worked for the sheriff's office as a civilian school-crossing guard supervisor in Deltona. She was first hired as a school-crossing guard four years ago and was promoted to the supervisor position in September 2008, the sheriff's office said.

A preliminary investigation indicates that the deaths appear to be the result of a murder-suicide, deputies said. Authorities are waiting on the results of the autopsies before officially declaring the deaths a murder-suicide, WKMG said.

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Assistant Publix Store Manager
Arrested for "Lighting Up"
A Sheriff's Deputy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who lists his occupation as Assistant Store Manager for the Publix store located at 1005 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, has been arrested by the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.

Dennis Woodruff

According to the arrest report, Dennis Woodruff, 34, of 8134 Natures Way, in Bradenton, has been charged with Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer and Unlawful Use of a Blue Light.

The report said on July 18, 2009, a Sarasota County Sheriff's Detective was traveling southbound on I-75, approximately 1 to 1 1/2 miles north of the Fruitville Road exit ramp in Sarasota County. He was driving his personal vehicle and was off-duty.

He noticed a vehicle that was traveling behind him in the left lane. The detective moved into the center lane to allow the vehicle to pass. The vehicle did not pass, but moved into the center lane and kept following the detective at a close distance.

The vehicle then moved in closer behind his vehicle and activated a red and blue strobe light, which was on the dashboard of his vehicle.

The vehicle was trying to conduct a traffic stop on the detective's vehicle, as if it was an emergency vehicle/law enforcement, with the authority to enforce the laws of the State of Florida, the detective wrote in the arrest report.

As the detective began to edge toward the right lane to stop, the strobe light was quickly turned off and the vehicle moved to the left lane and passed the detective.

The detective could clearly see that it had no markings on it to indicated it was a law enforcement vehicle. It was a black BMW with a Florida tag.

The detective followed the vehicle and obtained the license plate number.

He obtained information as to the registered owner of the vehicle, Dennis Woodruff.

On Tuesday, July 28, 2009, the detective made contact with Woodruff at the Publix store on Cortez Road West.

Woodruff allegedly confessed it was he who was driving the BMW and activated the strobe light.

Woodruff was arrested and charged with the above-listed offenses and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He bonded out of jail on a $1,120 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Severely
Beating Other Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Lee A. Davis, 36, of 1109 3rd Avenue West, in Palmetto.

Lee A. Davis

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at about 11:15 p.m., Davis approached John Riccota, who was sitting in a chair at a friend's house in the 600 block of 301 Blvd.

Davis pulled the chair from under Riccota and hit him with the chair. Then Davis began to punch Riccota multiple times in the face and head.

Riccota suffered a deep gash over his left eye that was bleeding heavily. He had bruises on his face and was unable to move his left hand. He also had bruises to his ribs. Riccota was also bleeding heavily from the nose, the report said.

Riccota was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Davis was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

He remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $5,000 bail bond, as of Wednesday.

Sheriff: Couple Used Stolen
Credit Card; Asks Help With
Identification

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is asking the public's assistance in identifying a couple associated with use of a stolen credit card.

Above, L to R, the female and male halves of the couple

According to a press release from the sheriff's office, these two subjects used a stolen credit card on July 2, 2009, to purchase a generator at the Lowes store at 4012 14th St. W., Bradenton.

The card was stolen about 40 minutes prior to the Lowes incident during a car burglary at a nearby restaurant.

These two subjects are also suspects in other burglaries in Manatee County.

Anyone with information on their identity should call the Sheriff’s Office at 941-747-3011, ext. 2494 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.

SCAM ALERT: Markham Securities
Check is Fraudulent, Sheriff Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Deputy Steve Ogline, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit is alerting the public to a scam going around.

If you receive a letter with a check from Markham Securities, Inc., out of Markham, Ontario with an enclosed check from an address in Pontiac, Michigan, through a bank in Detroit, Michigan, made out to you for $4,993.00 and a letter asking you to send the “tax amount” of $2995.00 US dollars by Western Union, this is a scam!

Simply shred and throw the letter and fake check away, as it is not a crime, unless you do send money. If you have already sent money to these scam artists, you can make a report with your local law enforcement agency but the case will more than likely be forwarded somewhere else. Why? Because, in most of these cases, the scam originates in another state or country and other law enforcement agencies, including possible federal authorities, will have to be used to investigate the scam.

Remember these little tidbits:

~ If you did not enter a sweepstakes or contest, how can you win one?
~ If it sounds too good to be true, it isn’t true!
~ If it is unsolicited and originated from another country, it is a scam!
~ If it asks or requires money be wired by Western Union, it is more than likely a scam!

For a good list of current scams that out there, check out the Florida Attorney General’s website at www.myfloridalegal.com, highlight the “Consumer Protection” link and then click on the “Frauds and Scams” link. You can also research this website for other information regarding scams and identity theft at your leisure.

Stolen Jeep Pursued, Recovered;
Suspects Escaped K-9, Chopper

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two deputies spotted, then pursued a stolen vehicle on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at about 1:45 a.m., starting from the 900 block of 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said Deputy Thames and Deputy Petta were riding together in a marked sheriff's vehicle. They observed a 2009 Jeep Liberty that had been reported stolen out of the sheriff's office.

When they engaged their emergency lights for a traffic stop, the vehicle fled. A pursuit was then initiated.

The pursuit lasted for eight minutes. The weather was clear and roads were dry. There was no pedestrian traffic and the maximum speed was 70 mph.

The pursuit ended when the stolen vehicle crashed into Alicia Jaster’s parked vehicle located in the 8100 block of Glenbrook Place, in the Glenbrook subdivision.

The two suspects in the stolen vehicle exited and ran from the location to an unknown location.

The sheriff's helicopter and K-9 units attempted to locate the suspects, but were unsuccessful.

The two inside the Jeep who fled were only described as two White males.

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

Sheriff's Chopper Spots Fire
in East Manatee County; Fire
Department Says "Suspicious"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported one of their Watch Units (helicopter) spotted a fire at 4282 222nd Street East, the location of Precision Farms in East Manatee County, on Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at about 1:20 a.m.

After it was located by deputies on the ground, a total of 3 tractors (one completely burned), a mini-van and other farming equipment were found to be on fire.

The fire department arrived and put out the fire.

The Fire Marshal ruled the fire to be "suspicious."

The total damage is approximately $90,000.

There were no suspect leads at this time.

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.

Sheriff's Crime Prevention Tip
of the Week: Garage Security

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit is passing along their tip of the week. This week's tip: Garage security.

Do you leave your garage door open a lot? Is your garage door electric and work from a remote? Do you leave your garage door opener in your vehicle?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you need to be concerned about the security of your home. Why? Simple: If you leave your garage door open all of the time, then you are giving criminals a lot of options to look at. They can see what you have of value in your garage and come back later to take it; If they are looking for a quick fix, they may go ahead and take something from your garage while you are home; or, If you don’t have your door locked between the garage and main house, you have just allowed anyone easy access into your home.

If you don’t take the time to make sure your garage door closes all the way after hitting the button on the remote, then how do you know it closed? Take the time to make sure the door is closed. Remotes for garage doors are very convenient but need to be treated like a key. Would you leave your house key outside for someone to use? By leaving your garage door opener in your vehicle, you are inviting a burglar to easily make entry into your home.

Take the time to make sure your garage doors are secure. If you don’t, then it is just a matter of time before you become the victim of a crime. We have had numerous reports of burglars entering an open garage while someone was in their home or in the back yard, including some home invasion robberies, as well as burglars using the garage door opener left in a car to gain entry into a home.

Don’t become a victim! Shut your garage door so you and your family are safer and remove the garage door openers from your vehicles!

Charlotte County Detectives:
Rash of Jet Ski, Trailer Thefts

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office reports thieves are targeting and stealing pairs of jet skis on dual trailers. Three such incidents have been reported recently, according to Detective Richard Nix who said, “Thieves are backing up to trailers containing a pair of jet skis, hooking on, and simply driving away.”

Det. Nix is asking those who own these type vehicles to, “Please take extra precaution in securing your jet skis and trailers.” Only one of the three trailers had a trailer lock but that was cut off and the trailer stolen.

The following is a list of recent thefts:

July 14: Stolen from a Harbour Heights home, a 2002 dual Jet Ski trailer, Florida tag L696GY, with a 2005 Kawasaki JT-12 and a 1998 Yamaha Jet Ski.

July 22: Stolen from a Harbour Heights home, a 2001 dual Jet Ski trailer, Florida tag E529BA, with a 2001 Sea-Doo Jet Ski and a 2001 Sea-Doo Jet Ski.

July 28: Reported stolen from a home in the 19500 block of Midway Blvd., Port Charlotte, a trailer with neon green Kawasaki 500 Jet Ski and a Neon Green Kawasaki 550 Jet Ski.

Anyone with information about thefts of these three trailers and six Jet Skis is asked to please call Det. Nix at 941-575-5374, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Manager Solicited Job Applicant;
Teenage Boy Says Man Offered
Money for Oral Sex

OCALA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a Central Florida store manager admitted to soliciting oral sex from a 17-year-old job applicant, police said.

James Murray

Ocala police said James Murray sent the teen a text message offering work paying $300 - $500 after the boy dropped off a job application at the T.J. Maxx store Murray manages.

When the applicant called Murray to inquire about the offer, Murray offered money for oral sex, the boy told police.

Murray then sent the boy several text messages in which he became increasingly concerned about the boy's reaction, police said.

"Very nervous please text me back that u r cool no matter what u decide. Please understand the importance of our conversation," said a text message from Murray's number to the boy's phone.

When confronted by the victim's mother, Murray did not deny her accusations and told her he was sorry, police said.

When officers arrived at the store, Murray told them "he made a really big mistake," police said.

Police said Murray waved his Miranda rights and admitted to offering the teen money for oral sex and admitted that he knew the boy was 17. Police said Murray told them he was lonely and has had a hard time in Ocala.

Murray was charged with Attempted Sexual Battery with a person under the age of 18, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Tennis Academy Owner, Coach
Arrested on Child Porn Charges;
Boy Photos Found on Computer;
Detective Seeks Local Victims

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- As NewsManatee reported on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, on our Breaking News page, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Creekside Tennis Academy owner, tennis pro and coach Donald Kristen Gagnon, aka "Kris Gannon," 59. The tennis academy is located at 6318 47th Avenue East, in Bradenton. Detective Todd Sellitto is asking the public to report any incidents that may have occurred to their children by Gagnon, aka "Kris Gannon."

Above, L to R, Donald Gagnon, aka Kris Gannon

On Monday, July 27, 2009, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Gagnon was arrested on multiple charges of Possession of Child Pornography.

The investigation in short reads as follows:

On July 21, 2009, 1 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office's Internet Crimes Against Children Unit initiated an investigation relating to the possession of Child Pornography.

The Sheriff's Office received information from the owner of a local computer repair shop in eastern Manatee County that while working on a computer repair an employee who works for the business as a technician removed a hard drive from a Dell Inspiron Laptop computer brought in by a man who identified himself as a Kris Gannon.

During the repair, the technician observed images that depicted young boys (teens) posing in the nude, as well as in underwear. The images were under the folder titled "students" in the "My Pictures" folder on the hard drive.

The repair shop contacted law enforcement and described what they had seen to Detective Todd Sellitto, who responded to the place of business.

Upon arrival, the owner explained what was happening and advised that it is part of their procedure to guarantee the work that they performed to check the hard drive to make sure it is working properly after they repair it.

The computer was seized and a search warrant was obtained.

After an extensive forensic examination of the computer, there were thousands of images of child erotica depicting young boys posing in their underwear and multiple images of children either performing and or posing in sexually explicit activities.

Information obtained during the examination suggests that there may be children who could have been or are being exploited and or victimized.

Gagnon was arrested and charged, at least for now, with 9 counts of Possession of Photos of Sexual Performance by a Child.

Donald Kristen Gagnon, aka "Kris Gannon," was being held in the Manatee County Jail on a $90,000 bail bond. He has since posted that bond and has been released from jail.

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is asking the public if they have any information regarding the above type incidents relating to Donald K. Gagnon, aka "Kris Gannon," to please contact Detective Todd Sellitto at 941-747-3011, ext. 1909, 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 Arrested for Throwing
Baby, Battering Wife After
She Says "No" to Sex

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brian P. Brookhart, 21, of the 8000 block of Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Brian P. Brookhart

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, July 22, 2009, at about 11:45 p.m., Brookhart was trying to have sex with his wife, but she didn't want to.

He was pretty intoxicated, the report said.

His wife repeatedly told Brookhart to get off of her and to please stop, but he wouldn't. He was holding her down on the bed.

She finally wiggled away and fell to the ground, but the violence continued when Brookhart allegedly picked up his 15-month-old baby son out of his crib and threw him on the bed toward the mother. When this happened, the baby started screaming.

Then Brookhart went after his wife and the baby's mother again, as she headed toward the front door while holding the baby.

Brookhart then allegedly struck his wife on the head with a phone and also grabbed her in the neck area. The deputy writing the report of the incident said "that could reaasonably be expected to result in physical or mental injury to the child."

Brookhart's wife finally fled the apartment to her parent's house.

Brookhart told deputies he was pretty intoxicated at the time. He said it was she who struck him on the side of his head with a slap and hit him on the head with the phone. He denied throwing his son on the bed and said he placed the baby on the bed by his wife. He said he just stood by the door, but never put his hands on her.

The deputy did not observe any injuries on the wife.

Brookhart was arrested and charged with two counts of Child Abuse, one count of Domestic Battery and one count of False Imprisonment.

Brookhart posted a $6,500 bail bond and was released from jail on Friday, July 24, 2009.

Deputy Arrests Man for
Pushing Friend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Scott Michael Blake, 50, of 219 57th Street East, Bradenton.

Scott Michael Blake

According to the arrest report, on Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 3:30 a.m., Blake and a friend had been out drinking when they returned to his friend's residence in the 7100 block of 87th Lane East, Bradenton.

The two got into an argument about something that had taken place while they were out.

Blake told his friend that he was going into his friend's house because something of his was inside the residence. The friend told Blake that he would get whatever it was and bring it to Blake, but Blake tried to enter the residence anyway.

His friend was standing at the entrance to the house from the garage when Blake pushed the friend in the chest as hard as he could to move him out of the way, but his friend in return head-butted Blake to keep him from going past and inside the residence.

Blake was arrested and charged with Battery.

Blake posted a $750 bail bond and was released from jail.

Woman Goes To Shelter
After Boyfriend Smacks Her

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Wayne M. Carter, 48, of 8455 Coral Way, in Sarasota.

Wayne M. Carter

The arrest report said on Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 1 a.m., Carter and his girlfriend, who both live together, became involved in an argument.

The argument turned physical when Carter kicked the woman, knocking her off the bed onto the floor. Then he allegedly slapped her across the right side of her face.

A deputy observed no injury to the woman.

Carter was arrested without incident when he returned to the area at about 10 a.m. the next morning.

He denied that any violence had occurred.

Meanwhile, the woman requested transportation to a domestic violence shelter in Sarasota County.

Carter was charged with Domestic Battery.

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

Woman Splashed with Chemical
After Telling Boyfriend "It's Over"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Dwayne Walton, 33, of 1319 26th Street Court East, in Palmetto.

Dwayne Walton

On Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m., Tracey Walls, 34, of the same address in Palmetto, told her boyfriend, Dwayne Walton, who lives with her, that she was going to leave him.

Walton then obtained a cup of a dark chemical and threw it onto Tracey's face and upper body.

The liquid caused severe skin irritation and Walls was transported to Bayfront Medical Center.

Walton was located hiding in a house next door to the scene and was arrested.

Walton was charged with Aggravated Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $100,000.

There is no word on what the chemical was, or Tracey's condition.

Bradenton Police Seek Man
Who Used Stolen Credit Card

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police detectives are investigating a Theft and Credit Card Fraud case involving the person pictured below (male with White Tank Top Shirt) on Friday, July 24, 2009, at about 12:45 p.m.

Above, L to R, man police are seeking and his vehicle

Detectives are asking for the assistance of the public in an attempt to identify this person. The person left the gas station in the Blue vehicle (which is also pictured) after using the stolen credit card.

The victim’s purse was stolen from her shopping cart while she loaded groceries in her car in the parking lot of Publix supermarket, 3913 Manatee Ave. West. The suspect/male then used the stolen credit card at the BP gas station at 2925 Manatee Avenue West, where the pictures above were taken.

Anyone who knows the identity of this individual and/or is familiar with the vehicle is asked to contact Detective Dennis Stahley at (941) 932-9327 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.

Murdered Woman's Boyfriend
Arrested on Drug Charges
(From Breaking News page)

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, July 27, 2009, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives arrested Lawrence Funsch, 21, on charges of Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell.

Lawrence Funsch

Funsch was the boyfriend of Crystal Johnson, who was shot to death during a home invasion on July 12, 2009, at DeSoto Village Apartments, 3810 5th St. E., Bradenton.

During the investigation, detectives discovered evidence of drug activity at the residence including a small amount of marijuana, a scale and a ledger. A search warrant was executed and detectives discovered 36.5 grams of marijuana, 10 Oxycodone pills and 3 Alprazolam pills.

The investigation into the murder of Crystal Johnson and her baby continues.

Evverick Houston and Gregory Kennon have been arrested in connection with the shooting and detectives believe there was a third subject involved.

Funsch posted a $16,000 bail bond on Tuesday and was released from jail.

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

[Ed. Note: After an article appears on the Breaking News page, we also run it on the Local News page, so that our archives will pick it up. We have no archives for other pages.]

Man Claims He Was Robbed,
Changes Story Slightly

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man claimed he was robbed on Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 7 p.m. at the Hess gas station located at 2885 University Parkway, Bradenton.

The report said Carmine Diamonte, 56, was going into the Hess Station to purchase more beer. Diamonte claimed a White male friend by the name of John, aka "Pony Tail" walked up to him for no known reason and punched him in the jaw.

A Hess attendant called 911 because he observed two men arguing in front of the store.

When deputies arrived, Diamonte said John hit him in the jaw. Deputies did not observe any redness to Diamonte’s face area.

Deputies said Diamonte appeared to be intoxicated.

After speaking to Diamonte, Diamonte then said John also took $20 out of his pocket.

Diamonte said the twenty dollars was taken in front of the store, but changed his story after deputies told him they would check the Hess video surveillance film. Then Diamonte said it occurred over by the pay phone away from the store.

Diamonte said John is homeless and lives at some church in Sarasota.

There was no description of "Pony Tail."

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.

Attempted Suicide Reported
At Palmetto Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman attempted to commit suicide by hanging on Tuesday, July 28, 2009.

The report said the victim's neighbor, Mrs. Sewell, came over to the victim's residence in the 8400 block of Imperial Court, Palmetto, to wake her.

She found Paula Blatter, 72, hanging from a rope in the hallway of the dining room.

Mrs. Sewell cut her down with a kitchen knife and then called 911.

EMS transported the victim to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Her condition is unknown at this time.

CID responded to process the scene with Crime Scene technicians.

Federal Grant Allows BPD
To Maintain Force

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- A federal grant will allow the City of Bradenton Police Department to maintain its maximum force of 122 officers despite the tough economic times, City of Bradenton Public Information Officer Tim McCann said in a press release Tuesday.

The Florida Attorney General’s Office announced Tuesday that Bradenton is one of the dozens of local governments statewide to receive funds from the COPS Hiring Recovery Program to help hire or retain law enforcement officers. The City expects to receive about $1,141,548.00 later this year.

The grant will pay for six sworn officers for three years. Police Chief Michael Radzilowski said the grant will let the department fill five openings on its force of 122 later this year.

“With the budget and the economy the way it is we didn’t know if we could keep everybody,” he said. “We can now maintain 122 officers for three years.”

Statewide, nearly $88 million was distributed to 66 law enforcement agencies. The money will hire or retain more than 400 sworn police officers Statewide.

Manatee County Marks Night Out
Against Crime with Free Movie
At Pride Park

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Government will commemorate the 26th Annual National Night Out Against Crime on Tuesday, August 4th, with a free movie in Pride Park, sponsored by Manatee’s South County Community Redevelopment Area and the South East Residents Association.

Residents are invited to a free showing of “Hotel for Dogs,” a family comedy starring Emma Roberts and Don Cheadle. The movie will begin at 8:15 p.m. Families attending may bring chairs and refreshments. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

“Pride Park provides an excellent venue for the National Night Out Event,” said Karen Stewart, Manatee County’s Economic Development program manager. “People can join together to celebrate unity in their neighborhood, strengthen relationships with between the community and law enforcement, and enjoy a great time with the whole family.”

Community Redevelopment Areas are designed to attract new private capital and new building projects to a specific area, improve a specific geographic area, increase the tax base and encourage public and private improvements. The South County CRA is bounded by 53rd Avenue West on the north, Bowlees Creek, west of 15th Street (Old U.S. 301) on the east, 65th Avenue and the U.S. 41 corridor to 69th Avenue West on the south, and the west side of U.S. 41 on the west.

The South County CRA Citizen Advisory Board meeting is held every third Tuesday of the month at Harllee Full Service Family Center, 6423 9th St. E., Bradenton at 5:30 p.m.

National Night Out is an annual event designed to heighten crime-prevention awareness, to build support and participation in local anti-crime programs and to send a message that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. It’s also a good opportunity to get to know neighbors better.

According to www.nationaltownwatch.org, last year's National Night Out campaign involved residents, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from more than 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. More than 37 million people participated in National Night Out 2008.

For more information about Manatee County Neighborhood Services Department programs, call (941) 749-3029 or click on Neighborhood Services under the Departments tab at www.mymanatee.org

Sarasota Sheriff' Detective Arrests
Man for Lewd & Lascivious Battery
On Boy Under 16; There May Be
More Victims

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Jory Louis Stephen-Vicens, 19, of last known address 1585 Key Way Ct., Englewood, and charged him with two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a child under 16.

Jory Louis Stephen-Vicens

According to the victim, he was high on marijuana when Stephen-Vicens assaulted him.

Detectives believe other teenage boys who have visited the residence also could be victims of Stephen-Vicens.

Anyone with information in this case 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).

Charlotte Sheriff Cameron Stops Car,
Finds Men from FedEx Robbery
Moments Earlier

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Cameron made a routine traffic stop Tuesday morning, July 28, 2009, on a gray SUV that ran a stop sign in front of him around 9:15 a.m. at Airport and Piper roads by the airport. Moments later he heard the robbery and theft call at FedEx, 7569 Golf Course Blvd., Punta Gorda. Sheriff Cameron called and said he believes he had the two suspects in a gray Ford Escape; he was right.

Above, Sheriff Cameron with one of the suspects

Detectives said a Gulf Cove area man went to FedEx to pick up a prescription package containing 90 Oxycontin 80mg pills valued at $990. When he came out, a man grabbed the package, jumped into the SUV and the vehicle sped off. Little did they know, Sheriff Cameron saw the stop sign violation several hundred feet south of FedEx and followed, making the traffic stop on I-75 just north of Exit-161. Detectives found the FedEx package thrown from the vehicle, and a search of the SUV found the stolen pills inside.

The two Port Charlotte men were taken to the District-3 Office and after questioning; both were charged with Strong Armed Robbery and Grand Theft. Taken to the Charlotte County Jail were the driver Wayne Charles Veader, 53, 23318 Lehigh Ave., and passenger David Vernet Loucks, 28, of 2504 Beacon Ave.

Sheriff Cameron commented by saying, “Officers never know when a seemingly simple traffic violator is actually guilty of much more. As the luck of the timing would be, just as I pulled the car over on the interstate and began to call in the stop to the dispatchers, the dispatcher transmitted the bulletin about the robbery. So I now knew I might have robbery suspects in the car before I walked up to the driver side of the car. That changed the way I conducted the stop. What happened to me today happens with our officers all of the time, but the fact that it was the Sheriff’s turn today highlights for the public the job of every deputy and police officer in our county.”

$1M Marijuana Grow House
Busted; Two Men Arrested

APOPKA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two men were arrested in Apopka on Monday in connection with a marijuana grow house that held more than $1 million worth of pot, according to police.

A tip led police to the home, located on Conure Street off Vick Road near Dixie Highway and Orange Blossom Trail in Apopka.

Police said the three-bedroom home was being rented by two men who gutted the rooms, which were outfitted with cables, lights, and lamps and were constantly kept at 72 degrees.

Police said more arrests are expected.

Neighbors said two men were only at the home once or twice per week and never stayed long or spoke to anyone, WKMG said.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Man Arrested on Multiple Charges
of Sex Acts with Multiple Minors,
Giving Alcohol, Drugs, Showing
Pornography to Minors

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Derrick (Rick) Gary Faircloth, 38, of the 7100 block of 84th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Derrick (Rick) Gary Faircloth

According to the arrest report, a juvenile girl between the age of 12-18 went to the sheriff's office to complain about Faircloth and was concerned that many more juveniles may be victims of Faircloth's behavior.

The 16-year-old girl said she was a victim herself. She said Faircloth was in the habit of throwing parties with juvenile girls present and on at least one occasion, he gave her alcohol and proceeded to give her oral sex.

At the time, she believed Faircloth was 25 years old, as he had told her, she told detectives.

In early June, detectives received information that Faircloth was providing minor females with alcohol and narcotics (Xanax) and having sexual relations with them.

Subsequent investigation led to three victims, ages 14, 16 and 17.

Faircloth would get to know the girls through his son, who is 20 years old, a press release from the sheriff's office said.

These parties occurred from late May and early June until the present.

Another girl of about the same age told detectives she was given alcohol and a Xanax pill and was shown pornography on Faircloth's computer in his bedroom. She recognized one of the porn participants as a friend from Lakewood Ranch High School who was only 17 at the time, she said.

The arrest report said Faircloth "was always making sexual comments and advances toward the underage girls at these parties."

Faircloth made lewd grabs at the breasts and buttocks of some of the girls, the report said.

Detectives say there are several other victims who have yet to be contacted.

They plan to serve a search warrant and future charges may be added.

For now, Faircloth has been arrested on several charges, including Sexual Battery, two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation, three counts of Introduction of Obscene Material to a Minor, three counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor and one count of Delivering a Controlled Substance to a Minor.

He was arrested on Saturday afternoon, July 25, 2009.

Faircloth was being held in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $69,500, which he posted and was released.

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 Arrest Man for
Possession of Pot, Coke

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man who was driving erratically was pulled over by deputies. Upon searching the man, they found marijuana and cocaine in his possession.

Charles Wesley Davis, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at about 10 p.m., a Manatee County Sheriff's Inspector observed Charles Wesley Davis, Jr., 32, of 611 60th Avenue Terrace West, Bradenton, driving "in an unusual manner" and called a road patrol deputy.

The road patrol deputy followed the vehicle and saw Davis cross over onto the eastbound side of 61st Avenue East as he was traveling westbound. The deputy stopped the vehicle.

The driver, Davis, was found to have a revoked driver license and he was arrested on that charge.

When Davis was searched, incident to his arrest, the two deputies found a bag of marijuana in his left front pocket with several other smaller baggies and a bag of marijuana in his right front pants pocket. The amount of pot was not given in the report.

A further search of Davis' vehicle revealed a small bag of marijuana and 2.5 grams of cocaine in the fold-up center console.

Davis told the deputies the items were his for personal use.

But Davis was additionally charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell and Possession of Cocaine, in addition to the Driving on a Revoked License charge.

Davis was taken to the Manatee County Jail. He has since posted a bail bond of $3,750.

Man Arrested for Assaulting
Other Man with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Manuel Perez, 48, of 3503 7th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Manuel Perez

According to the arrest report, On Saturday, July 25, 2009, at about 10 p.m., Manuel and another man, William Tippet, were at the park located at 3708 Manatee Avenue West.

The two men had an argument earlier in the day over Perez calling Tippet "a white cracker piece of [expletive deleted]."

Perez left the park and returned with a knife.

He chased Tippet with the knife, holding it in an upright position, motioning he was going to stab Tibbet, the report said.

Tibbet, in fear for his life, ran from Perez. He told deputies had he not run, Perez would have seriously injured him.

Perez was arrested about an hour later at his residence and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

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

Man Shot, Wounded During
Armed Home Invasion Robbery
On Manatee County's West Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot and wounded during an armed home invasion robbery on Monday morning, July 27, 2009, at about 6:30 a.m., at a residence in the 1800 block of 46th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Per the girlfriend of the victim, Jorge Santaella, 41, Mena Shaw opened the rear sliding glass door and she saw 3 thin Black males in their early 20s standing on the back porch.

The three Black males rushed into the home brandishing guns and separated Jorge and Mena. Then the three Black males demanded money and duct taped Mena's hands, along with Jorge's 12-year-old daughter, who was asleep in another room.

Mena heard a shot come from the living room area.

After the three Black males fled out the back door, Mena and the 12-year-old freed their hands from the duck tape.

Mena found Jorge on the living room floor with a gunshot wound to his upper thigh.

A sheriff's K-9 unit was called in and had a good track over the rear fence to 20th Street West, where the track stopped.

Jorge was flown to Bayfront Medical Center for treatment.

The perpetrators were not further described.

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 Robbery of Two Men
Reported in Duplex City

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 3 a.m., outside of a residence in the 200 block of 60th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said the victims, Florencio Segundo, 23, and Javier Munoz-Gueierrez, 23, were standing in the driveway of the address when a white Mercury Grand Marquis stopped and a Black male exited the vehicle. He was wearing a black T-shirt with "SECURITY" written on it.

The Black male ordered everyone to place their hands on the car and he searched the two victims.

He took a cell phone from one of the victims and $200.00 cash from the other.

One of the victims saw an unknown type pistol in the Black male's waistband.

The suspects fled west from the area.

None of the victims were injured.

The Black male was described as being 6' tall and weighing 270 pounds. He had short dreadlock-style hair, 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.

Paper Moon Robbery Victim
Recants Story; Charge Expected

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man who claimed he was robbed outside the Paper Moon, 105 Cortez Road West, on Sunday, July 26, 2009, has recanted his story after detectives found discrepancies.

As NewsManatee earlier reported, the man, David Badaszweski, 44, of 4141 Lake Bayshore Drive originally told deputies he had been robbed by a White male who took $90, a bank card, a cell phone and his Michigan driver license.

However, on Sunday, Detectives Sevier and Parham went to the Paper Moon to follow up the investigation of the Strong Armed Robbery.

Detective Parham spoke to the bartender, who advised that she remembered Badaszweski and advised that she obtained his Michigan DL and his Debit card due to him starting a tab.

She advised that he walked out on the tab and they ran his card to pay the $75.00 bill.

The bartender provided his DL and Debit card to detectives as proof he was not robbed.

VCTF detectives spoke to Badaszweski at his home where he admitted that he was extremely intoxicated and made up the story about being robbed.

Badaszweski said he woke up Sunday morning and noticed that his property was missing and assumed he was robbed.

Badaszweski completed another affidavit to the fact that the first affidavit was not the truth.

A charge of Filing a False Police Report is pending.

Two Palmetto Residents Held
At Gunpoint While Three Men
Ransacked House

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported three men broke into a Palmetto residence in the 1000 block of 14th Street East on Monday, July 27, 2009, at about 4 a.m., ransacked the house and stole items of value.

The sheriff's report said the three men entered the address by prying the locked garage door.

Once inside, the two victims were held at gunpoint while the house was ransacked.

Cash, Jewelry, a handgun, and a TV set were among items taken.

Two of the robbers were armed with handguns.

The victims were not injured but were told that if they called the police they would be killed.

The victims waited until later in the morning (8:30 a.m.) to call because of the threat.

The robbers were not described at all 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.

Six Vehicles Burglarized
in Northeast Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported six vehicles were burglarized in Northeast Manatee County sometime between Friday, July 24, 2009, at 9 a.m. and Sunday, July 26, 2009, at 5 p.m. The burglaries all occurred in the 13500-13600 blocks of 5th Avenue Northeast and the 400 block of 137th Court Northeast.

According to the report, an unknown suspect(s) entered the victims' unlocked autos. The incidents were discovered on Sunday, suggesting they had occurred on the night of July 25th. Car stereos were stolen from victims 1, 2 3 and 6. Victim 4 had a GPS unit stolen. Victim 5 had a purse, wallet and currency stolen.

There are no suspect leads at this time, the report said.

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

Man Struck By Lightning
While Gardening

HOLLY HILL, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 53-year-old man was released from the hospital on Sunday after being struck by lightning while gardening in Central Florida, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Ed Daviss, of Holly Hill, suffered burns to his face and head when he was hit by a bolt of lightning on Friday.

Daviss said he heard a clap of thunder -- although it was not raining in the area -- and blacked out.

"Nothing. I didn't see nothing. Didn't hear nothing. All I know is I was out one minute, waking up the next (while) laying on the ground," Daviss said. "It burned my whole face, it burned my eye and inside my mouth."

Daviss' doctors said metal rods in his neck and back may have made him more prone to the lightning strike, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

2nd Man Arrested in Fatal Murder
of Woman, Baby At DeSoto Apt.;
Detectives Say Drug-Related

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested a second suspect, Gregory Kennon, 21, in connection with the fatal shooting of Crystal Johnson and the resulting death of her 7-month-old fetus on July 12, 2009.

Above, L to R, Gregory Kennon and Everrick Houston

Kennon was arrested Friday at his residence located at 711 26th Ave. E., Bradenton.

Physical evidence at the crime scene implicated Kennon in the shooting which occurred at Desoto Village Apartments, 3810 5th St. E., in Bradenton.

Detectives obtained arrest warrants on Friday for two counts of Homicide and one count of Armed Burglary to a Dwelling.

Crystal Johnson was pregnant at the time of the shooting. Her baby was delivered but later died at All Children’s Hospital.

On July 17th, detectives arrested Everrick Houston, 28, on charges of Murder.

Houston showed up at Manatee Memorial Hospital shortly after the shooting suffering from a gunshot wound.

Houston was apparently shot by the boyfriend of the victim, Lawrence Funsch, 21, who told detectives he returned fire when the suspects started shooting.

After Funsch shot Houston, he gave the weapon to Jeremy Stotz, 31, to hide for him because Funsch is a convicted felon and he was afraid he would be arrested for having a gun.

However, prosecutors were not likely to charge Funsch, because he was protecting his girlfriend and her baby by shooting the gun, a local report said.

On Thursday, July 16, 2009, detectives arrested Stotz at a local motel on an arrest warrant for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Tampering with Evidence and Making False Statements to a Law Enforcement Officer.

The firearm was located after the shooting despite the fact that Stolz made false statements and changed his story several times.

The incident appears to be drug-related, according to Bristow.

Houston was transferred from Manatee Memorial Hospital, where he was being treated for his gunshot wound, to the Manatee County Jail over the weekend. He remains in jail on a $1,000,000 bail bond.

Kennon remains in jail on a bail bond of $150,000.

The investigation continues with the possibility of more arrests.

These were the 20th and 21st murders in Manatee County overall in 2009. Previously, there were 15 homicides in unincorporated Manatee County and 4 in the City of Bradenton.

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.

Two Brothers Fight Over Selling
Drugs in Trailer Park; One Hit
By Baseball Bat; Other Busted

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was arrested on Friday, July 24, 2009, after he got into an argument with his brother over selling drugs in the Southern Aire Mobile Home Park, in the 5600 block of 14th Street West.

Leroy Brydson

Raymond Thomas, 33, and Leroy Brydson, 22, are brothers who got into an argument over Leroy standing by the mail boxes in the trailer park selling drugs.

At about 5:45 p.m., Raymond sat down under the carport while Leroy was walking down the dirt road.

The brothers continued to argue when Raymond got up, grabbed a 2 1/2 foot long piece of wood and walked up to Leroy. The argument continued in the roadway when Raymond pushed Leroy in the face.

Leroy then walked over to one of his other brother's truck, got a baseball bat out of the bed, walked up and struck Raymond twice on the head, and once on the back. Raymond fell to the ground and Leroy fled the scene.

The strikes from the bat caused a large laceration on Raymond's head.

Raymond was being driven to Manatee Memorial Hospital by family members when they were stopped by a Deputy for running a red light.

Raymond was then Bayflited to Bayfront Medical Center.

Leroy returned to the scene and was arrested by patrol Deputies. He was charged with Domestic Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

Leroy Brydson remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond, as of Saturday.

Deputies Arrest Man for Domestic
Battery After Sheriff's K-9 Bite

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man was bitten by a Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 and arrested after he fled from deputies who had responded to a domestic incident on Thursday, July 23, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., at a residence in the 2900 block of 50th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Above, Sheriff's K-9 Ranger and Courtney Harris

The arrest report said Deputies Kaczmarek and Struble responded to the listed address to investigate a domestic battery incident.

During the investigation, probable cause was developed for the arrest of Courtney Harris, 26.

Deputies Kaczmarek and Struble entered the residence of the victim, a 22-year-old woman, to apprehend Harris.

Upon entry to the residence, Harris locked himself into one of the bedrooms. Kaczmarek and Struble announced that the suspect was under arrest for Domestic Battery and to come out.

Harris opened the door and pushed Deputy Struble in the chest knocking him backwards. Harris then fled out of the front door of the residence.

Dep. Kaczmarek gave chase and deployed his Taser. One of the probes struck the suspect in the upper left shoulder. The other bounced off of the suspect's shorts. Harris kept running.

A perimeter was established and K-9 was called to the scene to track Harris.

K-9 Deputy Franklin and his K-9 Ranger located and challenged Harris, who failed to comply with commands. Dep. Franklin then released K-9 Ranger, who engaged Harris, biting him on his right arm forearm and left hand. Harris was then apprehended.

Harris was taken to Lakewood Medical Center where he was treated and released.

Harris was taken to the Manatee County Jail on charges of Domestic Battery and Resisting Arrest with Violence. He was also charged on an outstanding bench warrant for Failure to Answer a Summons of No Valid Driver License.

He posted a $3,500 bail bond and was released from jail.

Child Calls Cops on Drunk Dad;
Dad, Sleeping It Off, Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested John William Hannings, Jr., 39, of the 1000 block of 26th Avenue West, Bradenton.

John William Hannings, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, July 22, 2009, at about 9 p.m., a deputy responded to the above location because a child had called police needing help.

When the deputy arrived, he found two kids, ages 9 and 12, standing outside the trailer, where they said they lived.

The front door was open and the deputy could see the whole inside of the trailer was trashed.

The kids said their dad got drunk and attacked the 12-year-old, punching him and kicking him. The 12-year-old said his dad swung at him once and missed, hitting a window and breaking it.

The deputy found the father -- Hannings -- asleep on a bed holding a beer.

Both children were very upset and crying.

As their father was being arrested, he threatened to kill them and their mother, the report said.

The mother was not there and could not be contacted, the deputy wrote.

There was no indication in the report as to the disposition of the children.

Hannings was charged with one count of Child Abuse.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a $10,000 bail bond.

Boyfriend Pulls Gun on Girlfriend,
Tries to Get Pit Bull to Attack her

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Demetrius Lee, 30, of 5508 18th Street West, Bradenton

Demetrius Lee

According to a sheriff's report, at approximately 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2009, the victim, Tiffany Edwards, 24, of the 500 block of 63rd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton, went to her ex-boyfriend's house to pick up their 5-month-old child.

An argument took place and Lee pointed a pistol at Edwards and threatened to kill her, the report said.

Lee walked into the house and came back outside without the weapon, grabbed Edwards and took her into his house.

He held her while trying to get his pit bull dog to attack her.

Edwards was never attacked by the dog nor was she injured during the altercation.

Upon the arrival of deputies, they observed both parties in the house arguing; Edwards had freed herself.

The gun was located in a bedroom closet.

Child Protective Services was notified due to the child being in the vicinity during the argument.

Lee was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Kidnapping.

A request to the State Attorney was completed for the female victim/suspect, the report said.

Lee remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond, as of Sunday.

Woman Carjacked at Taco Bell;
She's Okay, Car's Still Missing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Amanda Smith, 20, of the 1000 block of 59th Avenue Circle East, Bradenton, was carjacked on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at about 11 p.m. at the Taco Bell restaurant, 6004 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Smith said she went to the Taco Bell drive-through to get some food and was driving Roberto Gonzalez-Reyes’s pickup truck.

Smith said when she was leaving the rear parking lot area of Taco Bell, an unknown male wearing a hooded sweat-shirt opened her passenger door and got into her vehicle.

The unknown person had his hand in the front pocket of the sweatshirt as if he had an unknown type weapon. The unknown person told Smith to drive.

The unknown person continued to give Smith directions to the 1000 block of Manatee Avenue East.

Once at that location, the unknown person told Smith to pull over and get out of the vehicle. When Smith got out of the vehicle, the unknown male drove away.

Smith contacted Bradenton Police about the incident. BPD contacted the Manaetee County Sheriff's Office so Smith could make a police report.

Smith said the unknown male never touched her or threatened her at any time.

The owner of the pickup truck (Roberto Gonzalez-Reyes) was contacted and a stolen vehicle affidavit was completed. A BOLO was done and the vehicle was entered into FCIC/NCIC.

Neither the carjacker nor the vehicle was further described.

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

Man Robbed Outside Paper Moon
On Sunday By White Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was robbed outside the Paper Moon, 105 Cortez Road West, on Sunday, July 26, 2009, at about 1 a.m.

The report said the victim, David Badaszewski, 44, was leaving the Paper Moon. As David approached his vehicle, a White male, described as having blond hair, 5ft 7inches tall, wearing a white tee shirt and jeans, walked up to him and slapped him across the face, knocking his glasses off.

The White male then stated to David, "Give me what you got."

David then turned over an undisclosed amount of personal property.

The robber then fled the scene.

David drove himself home. He did not have a telephone so he e-mailed a friend and asked the friend to call 911, causing the delayed notification.

David also noted that five other subjects were nearby. It is unknown if they were with the robber.

David was not injured during the incident.

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 Police Conduct
Prostitution Sting, Net 14,
Including Two Juveniles

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, July 23, 2009, The Bradenton Police Department Street Crimes Unit and Detective Division conducted a prostitution operation on 14th Street, in Bradenton. The operation netted 14 individuals, including two 16-year old juveniles.

The following are the names, race, gender, age and charges of those people arrested.

Danielle Mccorkle, 29, White female, Solicitation for Prostitution, Possession of Narcotics w/o Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Christina Knaack , 21, White female, Solicitation for Prostitution, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Connie Simpson, 40, White female, Solicitation for Prostitution, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Edward Chaney, White male, 39, White male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Delmar Morales, 18, Hispanic male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Luis Ramirez-Rivera, 26, Hispanic male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Marvin C. Owens, 36, Black male, Solicitation for Prostitution

John W. Long, 68, White male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Aulburn Gayle, 57, Black male, Obstruction

Courtney Mccorkle, 19, White female, Obstruction

Mariano Antunez, 52, Hispanic male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Gregoreo Garcia-Perez, 20, Hispanic male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Plus, two juveniles, 16 years old; one White male and one Black male, Solicitation for Prostitution

Woman Punched, Robbed
By Three Hispanic Youths

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 52 year old woman was punched and robbed on Saturday, July 25, 2009, at about 2:40 a.m., in the 1300 block of 56th Avenue Terrace East, in Bradenton.

The sheriff's report said Maryanne Aust, 52, of the 5300 block of 3rd Street West, Bradenton, was walking home from a bar when three Hispanic youths, 18-20 years of age, approached her and started hitting her in the face.

The men grabbed her purse, pushed her to the ground and fled on foot.

Aust was transported by EMS to Manatee Memorial Hospital for bumps on the back of her head, a bloody nose, and swollen lip.

Aust's purse contained $50, her Florida ID and other papers.

Her attackers were not further described.

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.

Juvenile Girl Robbed of Cell
Phone By Lone Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 14-year-old girl had her cell phone snatched from her on Thursday, July 23, 2009, shortly before 9 p.m., in the 5700 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the 14-year-old girl was walking to the store when a tall Black male approached her and told her that one of his friends liked her, trying to start a conversation.

She ignored him and began to walk away, but he followed her.

She was holding her cell phone close to her chest when the man grabbed it and pulled it away from her, hitting her in the chin.

He took the phone and left the area.

The victim went home to call 911.

A possible residence was checked for the thief, but he was not located.

The girl was not injured.

The thief was described as a Black male, 6' tall, wearing a red shirt.

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.

Grand Theft Boat Reported
From Storage Lot in Ellenton

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Someone stole a boat worth thousands of dollars, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported. The theft was from a storage lot at U.S. 301 North and 73rd Avenue East, in Ellenton.

The report said between Monday, July 20, 2009, and Friday, July 24, 2009, unknown person(s) cut the chain on a gate facing 73rd Avenue East.

Once inside the lot, the subject(s) stole a $20,000 center console boat and entered a trailer.

It's unknown if anything was missing from the trailer.

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 Wanted for Burglaries
Turns Himself In to SSO

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man Sarasota County Sheriff's Detectives had been looking for turned himself in Thursday night, July 23, 2009, according to Wendy Rose, Community Affairs Manager for the sheriff's office.

Paul Alan Holder

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Paul Alan Holder, 43.

Holder was wanted for an Armed Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling and other Burglaries that occurred between July 7, 2009, and July 11, 2009.

Undercover Operation Nets Three
Who Sold 2,362 Oxycodone Pills

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives, arrested three drug traffickers in an undercover operation Thursday, July 23, 2009, about 9:45 p.m., and seized 2,362 Oxycodone pills. Detectives said the purchase of the pills was made at a motel at 26560 Jones Loop Rd., just off I-75 Exit-161, Punta Gorda.

Above, L to R, Venicia Lloyd, Tonya Simon and Linval Bailey

Arrested was Venicia Lloyd, 38, of 20309 NW 36 Ct., Miami, Tonya Denise Simon, 38, of 5901 SW 26th St., West Park, and Linval Bailey, 45, of 13200 NE 7 Ave., North Miami.

The three were taken to the Charlotte County Jail and all were charged with Trafficking in Oxycodone and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

The pills weighed 269.87 grams.

They are being held on no bond at this time.

Anyone with knowledge of illegal drug activity is asked to please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157 or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

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NewsManatee Archive Created 8/1/2009 2:00:08 PM

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