Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 8/15/2009

This website contains archived material from NewsManatee.com which is supported through private funding, supporter donations and advertising. If you are looking for the latest news in Manatee County Florida visit Newsmanatee.com or perform an archive search at Newsmanateearchive.com. NOTE: Archiving did not begin until March 14, 2008. If you are seeking articles published prior to this date, you will need to contact us directly.

Review archived pages by date OR Text search of archived pages

Local/State News for week ending 8/15/2009

Deputy Arrests Woman for Child
Abuse; Syringe, Spoon, Empty
Bottle of Oxycodone Found
Near Toddler

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy has arrested Lois B. Bischoff, 26, of the 7500 block of Alicia Lane, in South Manatee County.

Lois B. Bischoff

According to the arrest report, a deputy was called to a residence in the 6800 block of 12th Avenue Northwest on Tuesday, August 11, 2009, at about noon, when someone noticed Bischoff's 20-month-old son had dumped out Bischoff's purse on the living room floor.

Next to the purse, and the boy, were a syringe/needle with a cap on it, a spoon with white residue on it and an empty bottle of Oxycodone.

The purse-dumping occurred while Bischoff slept, the report said.

The report went on to say that Bischoff's sister was supposed to be watching the boy.

After Bischoff was arrested and read her Miranda rights, she at first said the spoon most likely had old baby food on it and that she didn't know the needle was in her purse.

Then she said she had let someone borrow her purse and knew nothing about the contents of the purse.

Finally, Bischoff admitted it was her purse and that she used to use needles and "shoot up" but hasn't in a long time.

Bischoff said she needs help, because ever since she lost her job, "things have been going terrible for her and her son."

Bischoff was charged with one count of Child Abuse and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

As of Thursday, she remained in jail on a bail bond of $10,000.

There was no mention in the report of the disposition of the child.

Man Arrested for Theft of Laptop,
Jewelry from East Manatee Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Gary W. Saur, 54, of 2611 221st Street East, Bradenton.

Gary W. Saur

According to the arrest report, relatives told deputies Saur stole jewelry from a bedroom and a laptop computer from the home. A portable radio was also taken.

The jewelry was reportedly worth $15,000; the laptop was valued at $1,400 in the report.

The family members said the unemployed Saur never had permission to take the items.

Saur was arrested on Wednesday, August 12, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m. and taken to the Manatee County Jail.

He was charged with two counts of Burglary to a Structure.

As of Thursday, Saur remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $20,000.

Bradenton Honors Two Officers
With Medals of Valor

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Sgt. Curtis Johnson and Officer David Durrance of the Bradenton Police Department were awarded Medals of Valor for their role in subduing an armed suspect who pointed a gun at them, City of Bradenton Public Information Officer Tim McCann said.

Above, L to R, Sgt. Curtis Johnson, Mayor Wayne Poston and Officer David Durrance

They were recognized before the Bradenton City Council Wednesday morning, August 12, 2009.

The Medal of Valor is the police department’s second-highest honor.

The suspect, Charles T. Kincaid of Sebring, was charged with Aggravated Assault on a law Enforcement Officer and Attempted Armed Robbery after he tried to enter a bank on Manatee Avenue West on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 2.

After failing to enter the bank, the suspect attempted to flee but was stopped by the two Bradenton police officers. After the suspect pointed his gun at Sgt. Johnson, Officer Durrance subdued him with a gunshot to the abdomen. The suspect was taken to the hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

It was later determined that the weapon the suspect had pointed at police was a fully-loaded, semi-automatic .380 caliber handgun.

Deputy Chief William Tokajer told the city council that the suspect likely would not have hesitated to shoot anyone in order to make his escape.

Premier NewsManatee Supporter
Announces Founder Received
"Best Doctor in America" Award

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Eye Associates proudly announced that Harris Silverman, MD, founding partner of The Eye Associates, has been selected as one of “The Best Doctors in America” for 2009-2010, marking the tenth time he has been named for inclusion in this prestigious listing.

Above, Dr. Harris Silverman

“The Best Doctors in America” designation is available only to those physicians who have been selected by consensus of their peers as the result of a nationwide survey in which doctors cast more than one million votes. Only about 5% of all doctors in the U.S. are honored in this way.

“Best Doctors” is widely regarded as the preeminent listing of its kind in the country, and has been favorably featured on “60 Minutes”, “The Today Show” and CNN’s “Headline News”. Each year, Best Doctors, Inc. surveys tens of thousands of leading medical specialists worldwide to determine what doctors would be their personal choices for treatment in their specialty. The result is a comprehensive database containing a list of doctors who have been recognized by their colleagues for their superior clinical abilities. Because no one can pay for or buy a listing on “Best Doctors”, it has earned the reputation of being a trusted referral source of the highest caliber. This resource is a tremendous benefit to patients who seek reliable information to access the best possible medical care available.

The Eye Associates has 5 convenient locations. Nine board certified ophthalmologists cover the specialties of Cataracts, Cornea, Glaucoma, Retina, Refractive Surgery and Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery. Four board certified optometrists provide routine eye care, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. As a public service, The Eye Associates offers FREE vision and glaucoma screenings for community organizations. In addition, Dr. Harris Silverman offers FREE seminars about Cataracts and Cataract Surgery on Thursdays at 3:30 PM. Call 792-2020 for more information.

Drive-By Shooting in
Duplex City

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a drive-by shooting on Wednesday, August 12, 2009, at about 10:30 p.m. in the 200 block of 60th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said unknown person(s) in a dark Cadillac began shooting out of the vehicle. Several rounds were fired.

The victim’s vehicle was hit once in the driver’s door.

Several shell casings were found in the road and placed into property.

Photos were taken of the vehicle by patrol deputies.

There was no further description of the vehicle or shooter.

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.

Grand Theft of Jewelry Reported;
Female Caretaker Missing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the theft of jewelry from the residence of a 67-year-old woman.

According to the sheriff's report, Lordes Foster, 67, no address given, hired Gloria Chan, 63, to take care of her in Foster's home.

Chan was paid for these services through September.

Chan left unexpectedly on or about August 9th or 10th, prior to fulfilling her obligation,

After Chan left, it was noticed that jewelry was missing. A dollar amount was not given in the report, but the report was designated "Grand Theft."

It is not known if Chan returned to her home state of New Jersey.

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.

Good Samaritan's Car Stolen
After Giving Jump-Start
To a Friend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a stolen auto, which was later recovered, but not until the culprits had crashed the car into a residence.

According to the report, on Thursday, August 13, 2009, at a few minutes past midnight, the unnamed victim was at a residence in the 100 block of 51st Avenue West, Bradenton, assisting a friend jump-start the friend's vehicle.

The victim then noticed her car moving. It took off with three unknown males inside of it.

The victim's son gave chase on foot, but lost the vehicle.

The vehicle was later found in the 500 block of 51st Avenue Terrace West.

The driver had crashed it into a residence, destroying a front screened-in patio and had slammed into an unoccupied parked vehicle in the driveway of that residence.

No injuries were sustained by anyone.

The suspects apparently fled on foot, Dep. Ken Cristello wrote in his 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.

Emergency Response Refresher
Given to Manatee Leaders

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida -- On Thursday, August 13, 2009, a group of Manatee County’s top officials, law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel took part in an annual training exercise designed to refresh government leaders on continuity of operations during an emergency.

During the four-hour Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) seminar, a hypothetical emergency scenario was posed to several groups, including the Board of County Commissioners, Manatee County Public Safety Department, the County Administrator’s Office, Manatee Sheriff’s Office and other key response teams.

Each group worked through the scenario using a set of plans it has developed to address emergencies. COOP plans are designed to ensure governmental operations are up and running within 12 hours of an emergency. The plans map out emergency lines of succession, provide relocation options and serve as a guide for orderly response and recovery to re-establish normal operations.

“Today’s exercise served as a valuable part in Manatee County Government’s ongoing efforts to improve our response procedures in the event of an emergency,” said Deputy County Administrator Karen Windon. “I believe we have established a thorough response plan and a great team that could adapt to any emergency scenario. The public can have great confidence that local government is well-prepared for unforeseen events.”

To learn more about Manatee County’s emergency response plans, call (941) 749-3500 or click on the Public Safety link under the Departments tab at www.mymanatee.org

Woman Found Dead; Detectives
Say 'Apparent Suidice'

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff's Detectives are investigating the death of a woman, found Thursday morning, August 13, 2009, at Red Bug Slough Preserve, 5200 Beneva Rd., as an apparent suicide.

The body was discovered around 10:30 a.m.

The victim has been identified as Susana Vega, a White female, 56, of 3273 W. Cross Creek Rd., Sarasota.

A press release did not say how the woman died.

9 Hour SWAT Standoff Results
In Suicide of Man

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office released some details concerning a nine-hour standoff in Port Charlotte that resulted in a man shooting and killing himself.

The CCSO received a call at 9:56 p.m. Wednesday night, August 12, 2009, after a woman went to her neighbor at 18595 Goodman Circle and said that she managed to escape and said she had been tied up by her husband who threatened to kill her and himself.

Detectives, deputies, SWAT, K-9 and CCSO Crisis Negotiator arrived on scene and set up a perimeter; homes in the immediate area were evacuated.

At the CCSO Mobile Command Post, detectives learned from Hazmat that chemicals in the home that the man used in his insulation business were highly flammable if ignited and would give off Cyanide gas.

When phone calls to the man by the negotiator failed to convince him to give himself up, the SWAT team launched tear gas into the home; moments later two shots were fired inside. At 6:21 a.m., SWAT did a forced entry into the home and located the deceased man with a gunshot wound.

Crime Scene and the Medical Examiner were called to the home to continue their investigation. The body was taken to the M.E.’s office.

Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives identified the man who killed himself.

He was 49-year-old Michael J. Hoffman.

Autistic Boy, 15, Molested
In Theater Bathroom Stall

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man crawled under a bathroom stall at an Orlando-area movie theater and tried to molest a 15-year-old boy, deputies said.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, the teen was going to a movie Tuesday night at the Regal Cinemas at Waterford Lakes Town Center when he went into the bathroom.

As the teen was in a stall, a man crawled under the partition and assaulted the boy, deputies said. The man attempted to force his hand down the boy's pants, but the teen was able to free himself and strike the man in the face, deputies said.

WKMG News reporter Jessica D'Onofrio has confirmed that the boy is autistic.

The man, described only as in his 20s, then fled the bathroom, and he could not be found, deputies said.

It's not known if the man was captured on surveillance video.

Management at the movie theater would only say that they're fully cooperating with the investigation.

Orange County sex crimes detectives are searching for the man, WKMG said.

Governor Crist Emphasizes H1N1
Swine Flu Prevention as Kids
Head Back to School

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] – On Thursday, August 13, 2009, Governor Charlie Crist kicked off a two-day awareness campaign to promote back-to-school health safety and H1N1 Swine Flu prevention. Alongside the Governor during the press conference were State Surgeon General Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros, Education Commissioner Dr. Eric Smith and Superintendent Jackie Pons of Leon County, on behalf of superintendents statewide. Earlier Thursday, the Governor, Surgeon General, and Commissioner sent a letter to school district superintendents, providing information about keeping Florida’s school children healthy and safe.

“We want to take a proactive approach to staying healthy as we begin the new school year,” said Governor Crist. “I know parents and teachers will agree that keeping our children healthy and learning is a top priority.”

Governor Crist recommended that parents and teachers explain to students the importance of the following basic preventive hygiene measures:

~ Make it a routine to wash your hands often with soap and water.
~ Cough into your elbow or into a tissue, not into your hands.
~ Avoid contact with those who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
~ Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
~ Stay home from school if you feel sick.

"Our health experts at the state and local level have been working closely with Commissioner Smith and schools statewide to ensure that we keep our children safe," said Surgeon General Dr. Ana Viamonte Ros. "We want to remind parents that they are our partners and keeping sick children home is best.”

The letter sent to superintendents statewide Thursday presented helpful information about addressing parents’ concerns regarding H1N1 Swine Flu. A sample letter to parents also provided tips and methods for reducing transmission. The key component of the prevention strategy is continuous education through public outreach. A toll-free hotline will also be set up by August 24th, the first day all school districts will have begun the school year.

Commissioner Dr. Eric Smith added, “Sharing valuable health-related information and tips for prevention are two valuable components in ensuring the well-being of our students. By maintaining our awareness, we will be able to better alleviate transmission, particularly among our students.”

For more information, please visit the Florida Department of Health flu information Web page at:

~ THURSDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Teenage Girl, 14, in Home When
Two Black Males Break In,
Ransack Ellenton Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two armed Black males who broke into a home in the 5900 block of Willows Bride Loop, in Ellenton, on Tuesday, August 11, 2009, shortly before midnight, discovered a teenage girl hiding in the bathroom; she was not injured, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said deputies responded to the location after receiving a 911 call from the victim stating that someone was in the house.

Dep. Quiles was the first to arrive and observed 2 males fleeing from the rear of the residence. Dep. Quiles cut between the houses and saw the subjects getting into a maroon colored Dodge Neon. Dep. Quiles ran towards the vehicle and ordered the occupants to show their hands.

At that time, the driver started the vehicle and fled in reverse at a high rate of speed. The vehicle continued driving backwards for approximately 75 feet before losing control and driving in between two houses nearby on the same street. As the vehicle went between the houses, it struck the utility meter and the side of one house before coming to rest on top of the A/C condenser of that residence. Dep. Quiles observed at least 2 occupants flee from the vehicle.

K-9 and the watch unit were utilized but yielded negative results.

In plain view on the driver's side floor board was what appeared to be a Mac-11 firearm.

The residence where the robbery took place was ransacked and it appeared entry was made by prying the rear door open.

After conducting an interview with the victim, it was determined that she was inside of the residence when she heard someone trying to get into the house. She got her phone, hid in the bathroom and called 911. She then heard the suspects inside the residence.

Suspect #2 was able to get into the locked bathroom and locate her hiding in the shower. He asked her where the money was and also asked her who she called. She told him that she called her mom.

Shortly after that, both suspects fled the house.

The victim was not injured during the incident.

The investigation is ongoing.

The invaders were described as:

1. A light-skinned Black male, 5'8" tall, 140 pounds, wearing a ski mask, camouflage clothes and what was described as a ballistic vest, armed with an "AK-47" rifle.

2. A dark-skinned Black male, 5'10" tall, 195 pounds, wearing a ski mask and dark clothing, armed with an unknown handgun.

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, 33, Charged: Capital Sexual
Battery on Daughter, 13, from
Time She Was 8 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has charged Michael Lee Johnson, 33, of the 7800 block of 41st Court East, in South Manatee County, with Capital Sexual Battery on his own daughter.

Michael Lee Johnson

According to the arrest report, Johnson's unnamed 13-year-old biological daughter told detectives she came to live with Johnson when she was six years old.

She said almost immediately Johnson began making her perform sex acts with him. She said that Johnson would make her take her clothes off and that he would also take his clothes off and he would then rub his bare private parts against her bare private parts. She said that he called this act "bouncy." The little girl estimated Johnson made her do this at least 200 times from the time she was six years old until Monday, August 10, 2009, when he made her do it for the last time. She said he made her do it "at least 7 times" on Monday.

The girl went on to tell detectives that during the dates in question, Johnson also made her submit to anal and oral sex several times.

On August 11, 2009, Johnson was taken to a detective's interview room and read his Miranda rights. He agreed to talk about the incidents. He said he wanted to be honest and said he had done everything the girl alleged, but he said it didn't start until the girl was 8 years old.

Johnson admitted showing the girl pornographic movies to teach her how the sex acts were done, the report said.

Johnson said the girl had told him on numerous occasions she didn't want to do the sex acts, but he made her do them anyway.

He said he knew what he was doing was both morally wrong and against the law, was sorry for what he did and was glad it was all out in the open, the report said.

In all, Johnson admitted to forcing the girl to perform "bouncy" at least 100 times, oral sex on him at least 65 times, anal sex on the girl at least 3 times and showed her porn movies at least twice, the detective wrote in his report.

Johnson was arrested and charged with Capital Sexual Battery, Sexual Battery and Introduction of Obscene Material to a Minor.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Man Arrested for Felony
Domestic Battery By
Strangulation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Aramis Buggs, 21, of 1701 5th Avenue West, Palmetto.

Aramis Buggs

According to the arrest report, on Monday, August 10, 2009, at about 1:15 a.m., Buggs and an unnamed woman got into an argument which became physical when Buggs grabbed her by her arm and the hair on her head and started pulling her down the street in the 200 block of 21st Street West, Palmetto.

Buggs then grabbed the woman and slammed her to the ground, the report said.

He then pulled her by her hair and arms for about two blocks before he stopped.

He then pulled her off the ground and began choking her, using his left upper arm.

The woman attempted to tell him that she was choking and Buggs allegedly replied, "Bitch, I know and I don't give a [expletive deleted]."

After a few seconds, he threw the victim down and slapped her a couple of more times and pulled her hair.

He then fled the scene in his cousin's car, the report said.

Buggs was later arrested and charged with Felony Domestic Violence by Strangulation.

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

More Charges Against Man, 34,
Who Had Sex with Girl, 15,
Including Porn

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have once more charged Joseph Edmund Chiquet, 34, of 503 Gulf Drive South, in Bradenton Beach, with sex crimes against juvenile girls.

Joseph Edmund Chiquet

In the latest round of charges, police say on or about January 12, 2009, Chiquet befriended a 15-year-old girl at his skateboard shop in Bradenton called "The Yard."

The unnamed victim told police she and Chiquet had sexual intercourse too many times to keep count, but it was about 20 times.

The girl told detectives Chiquet told her he was 28, but she found out he was really 34. She also said he "was well aware she was only 15 years old."

She gave details of Chiquet's sexual preferences and tattoos that were located in private places on his body. She also gave detectives a full description of his apartment, where they sometimes had sexual intercourse and where he kept his sex toys.

Chiquet was charged with Lewd and Lascivious Battery in this case.

He now has 18 sex crime charges leveled against him, including showing porn to this and other girls.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond now totaling $293,000.

Drive-By Shooting, No Injuries
in Near East Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A juvenile barely escaped injury at about 4:15 a.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2009, when an unknown person fired shots in his direction in the 3300 block of 14th Street East, Bradenton.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the juvenile victim was sitting on the hood of his vehicle which was parked directly in front of his residence, when he saw a vehicle driving slowly going north on 14th Street East.

The victim felt something was not right so he got off of the hood of his vehicle and stood behind it.

The victim saw a Hispanic male roll down the front passenger window, sit on the window frame and fire four shots in his direction.

All four bullets struck the front of the house next to where the victim was standing.

The vehicle then sped off.

Neither the victim nor anyone in the residence was injured.

There was no description of the offending vehicle or the shooter.

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.

Firefighters Install Trail Markers
at Robinson Preserve

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Members of West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s A-Shift recently teamed with Manatee County Natural Resources Department (NRD) to install the first 29 trail markers at Robinson Preserve.

Above, L to R, NRD West County Supervisor Max Dersch, Hunter Vollmer,
Lieutenant Darren Vollmer, Firefighter Greg Wigeri van Edema,
Lt. Dan Tackett, Firefighters Mike Petrocino, Jeff Philips,
Greg Roan, NRD Ranger Randy West, Captain Chris
Shepard and Battalion Chief Dennis Dotson.

This fire department community risk reduction project will aid emergency responders in locating park patrons during an unexpected emergency.

Robinson Preserve’s trail markers are a pilot project for the Natural Resources Department and other County preserves could receive trail markers in the future.

Mother, Daughter Battered;
Suspect Flees, Captured

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 5:23 a.m. Wednesday morning, August 12, 2009, about a battery on a 43-year-old mother and her 7-year-old daughter in their home on Glenholm Ave. in Bayshore Park, east of Punta Gorda. Both were taken to Charlotte Regional Medical Center; their conditions are not life threatening.

When deputies arrived, the suspect fled in a red Pontiac. Two CCSO cruisers received damages when the suspect hit them on Regent Road; deputies were not injured. The suspect drove to U.S. 17 and headed southbound on I-75/Exit-164. Deputies followed and saw the suspect vehicle pull off at Jones Loop Road Exit-161, then reenter I-75 and continue southbound.

His car began smoking heavily, possibly due to the collision with the two cruisers. He continued southbound and at mile marker 154 crawled out the driver’s side window with the car moving about 10 mph, and fled into a wooded area. A CCSO deputy gave chase and lost him in the woods. Several LCSO units assisted the CCSO and set up a perimeter. A Lee County Sheriff’s helicopter with night vision was immediately available and located a hotspot in the woods. A K-9 unit responded and deputies found the suspect naked and he was arrested at 6:13 a.m. Deputies said they noticed a white substance on both sides of his nostrils and he was sweating profusely. EMS was called at 6:24 a.m. and transported him to CRMC.

Detectives continue their investigation into the battery of the mother and daughter, and the suspect at the hospital in Punta Gorda.

The victims and the suspect names are being withheld at this time, pending further investigation.

Police: Nurse Left Kids
Alone In Car While She
Worked at Nursing Home

EUSTIS, Florida [NMT/WMKG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a nurse was arrested on Sunday after her two children, ages 4 and 6, were found alone inside a car in the parking lot of a nursing home, police said.

Delores Logan, 46, of Clermont, was arrested on two counts of child neglect.

According to Eustis police, a co-worker of Logan's notified a supervisor of the Bayview Center, located at 301 S. Bay St., at about 2:50 a.m. after she discovered the children inside the car.

Police said officers located the car, which had sheets covering its windows in an apparent effort to prevent anyone from looking inside. Police said blankets inside the car were arranged as potential bedding.

The children, who had been given a pizza by their mother earlier in the night, were left alone for about four hours and 15 minutes, police said. The time was estimated by the 6-year-old's statement that they watched the movie "Annie" twice.

The children have been placed in the custody of the Department of Children and Families, WKMG said.

~ WEDNESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Palmetto Police Arrest Drunk
Woman for Child Abuse, Theft;
Found Wandering in Parking Lot
At Wal-Mart, Incoherent, w/out Kids

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested Elizabeth L. Fjare, 40, of 9009 71st Avenue East, Palmetto.

Elizabeth L. Fjare

The arrest report said on Monday, August 10, 2009, at about 5:15 p.m., Fjare was observed by a PPD Officer staggering around the parking lot at the Wal-Mart store located at 508 10th Street East, Palmetto.

Fjare fell in front of his patrol car and then stood up and leaned against a vehicle.

The officer stopped his patrol car and asked her if she was okay. Fjare said no, and then began to cry. When the officer asked Fjare what was wrong, she began to laugh. She said nothing was wrong and asked why the officer was bothering her.

When the officer asked Fjare how she had gotten to Wal-Mart, she said she and her boyfriend had gotten into a fight and he had left her. The officer asked where the boyfriend was and she said she didn't have a boyfriend.

Fjare continued to be completely incoherent and spontaneously uttered she was an alcoholic and had consumed a whole bottle of vodka, the report said.

She then said she drove to Wal-Mart and was fine. The officer noticed she was carrying merchandise and asked her where she got it. Fjare dropped three shirts on his floorboard and said, "Are you serious? I did not steal it."

Wal-Mart loss prevention confirmed that she had stolen the shirts, valued at $15.98 (3 tank tops).

Fjare had driven to Wal-Mart with her 9-year-old daughter and 12-year-old niece. They were left in the store while Fjare staggered around the parking lot. Fjare denied driving the girls to Wal-Mart and said they were not with her.

The girls confirmed that Fjare had driven them to Wal-Mart and said she was acting "strange."

Fjare was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, who cleared her medically. The hospital said her blood alcohol level was .279, which was determined two hours after the incident.

Fjare was arrested and charged with one count of Child Abuse and one count of Petit Theft (Retail).

She remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond, as of Tuesday.

There was no disposition of the children mentioned in the arrest report.

Teen Fires Shots At Man
In Police Athletic League
Parking Lot Monday Evening

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A teenager caused an uproar among parents of about 150-180 football players, cheerleaders and others Monday evening, August 10, 2009, at about 6 p.m., when a man in a truck cut off a teenager on a bicycle which caused a road rage incident that ended outside the Police Athletic League, 2020 13th Avenue East, in Bradenton.

Jose Gavia

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, the victim, Paul Barger, 60, was traveling north on 1st Street in his truck and attempted to turn East onto 26th Avenue when Jose Gavia, 17, turned in front of him on his bicycle.

Barger yelled at Gavia and that’s when Gavia pulled a silver .22 caliber handgun from his waistband and fired two shots in the direction of Barger.

Barger chased Gavia until reaching the PAL (Police Athletic League) parking lot off of 13th Avenue East, where a football practice was in progress..

Gavia then pulled the firearm out again, pointed it at Barger and fired another round towards Barger and the houses located just north of 13th Avenue, in an opposite direction from the Police Athletic League.

Gavia then fled on foot Northeast through a field and was caught minutes later by Deputy Eddie Starling and three coaches, who had been on hand for the football practice.

Barger was not injured in the incident nor was his vehicle struck. Nobody else in the vicinity was injured either.

Gavia was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm and Discharging a Firearm on School Property.

He was transported to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Dep. Starling, of the PAL staff, addressed the incident with NewsManatee.

Dep. Starling said, "No one from PAL was involved [in the shooting], including any of the football players, cheerleaders, parents or staff."

"The staff at PAL reacted quickly to prevent any further danger to the children," Dep. Starling told NewsManatee.

Man, 46, Accused of Having
Sex with Girl, 16

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Lance O. Wilson, of the 1100 block of Millbrook Circle, Bradenton.

Lance O. Wilson

The arrest report said Wilson moved in across the street from the grandmother of his female victim, 16 years old, in November of 2008, and befriended the girl and her family.

At the end of January or early February, the girl told Lance that she was 16 and he thought he was much older, the report said.

On a subsequent visit to her grandmother's, Lance kissed her, which freaked her out because of the age difference, according to the report.

Over time, she got used to it and just "went with it."

As time passed, they began a relationship and he began fondling her breasts and vagina.

Subsequently, a sexual relationship ensued one afternoon while visiting the community pool together. Lance would bring condoms and intercourse became an often occurrence while visiting the pool together, the girl claimed.

The girl told detectives she believes they had sex about 20 times over the six-month period they were in a relationship. All incidents occurred at the community pool and no force or intoxicating substances were used, the girl said.

The last occurrence would have been during the end of July, right before her mother found several e-mail correspondences between Lance and the girl, which the girl's mother reported to law enforcement.

Wilson was arrested and charged with two counts of Unlawful Sex with a Minor.

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

Parrish Man Arrested for
Strangling Wife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Thomas J. Gallagher, 41, of 4619 Oliver Manor Drive, in Parrish.

Thomas J. Gallagher

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, August 9, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., Thomas and his wife, Julie, were in their bedroom talking when Thomas started verbal argument about watching a movie.

The argument escalated when Thomas went over to the bed where Julie was sitting, put his nose against hers and pushed her as an intimidation tactic, the report said. He then proceeded to lick her face in an upward motion.

According to Julie, she walked outside the room and told him one of them had to leave for the night.

Thomas started to scream, grabbing her by her upper arms, and pushed her back into the bedroom where he proceeded to push her against the wall. He then grabbed her by her throat applying pressure, impeding her normal breathing. Her feet and heels were slightly off the floor, making it harder to breathe, according to the report.

When she started screaming for help, he let her go, but grabbed her again by her upper arms, pushing her on top of their bed, pinning her down.

Her son came running and pushed his dad off his mother.

Thomas then grabbed the keys for his car and fled the scene before the arrival of Dep. Jordan.

Thomas returned for his wallet, but fled the scene again after deputies had left.

However, a Violent Crimes Task Force undercover unit was able to capture Thomas when he returned to the house once more.

Julie told deputies someone had been making continuous phone calls from an unknown number to the house. A search of Thomas' vehicle revealed that he had purchased a prepaid phone at Wal-Mart.

Thomas Gallagher was arrested and charged with Felony Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

As of Tuesday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $10,000.

Arrest Made in Beating Death
of Man in 2005

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a man in connection with the beating death of a man in the county in 2005.

Claude Kite

Detectives have arrested Claude Kite, 39, and charged him with murder in connection with the death of Thomas Summerlin.

On December 27, 2005, Summerlin was found beaten to death behind an abandoned gas station at 5235 14th St. W., Bradenton.

Summerlin was homeless and his body was discovered by another homeless man.

During the investigation, detectives received information that Kite, who was also homeless at the time, may have killed Summerlin.

Detectives were able to locate an eye witness and the necessary probable cause to obtain an arrest warrant.

Kite was arrested at the Manatee County Correctional Facility where he has been since April when he was arrested on an unrelated charge.

Kite has been in and out of jail since the death of Summerlin.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Woman Arrested for Assaulting
Bradenton Beach Police Officer

BRADENTON BEACH, Florida [NMT/The Islander] -- A woman was arrested by Bradenton Beach Police following an altercation with an officer that started in the 300 block of Gulf Drive South.

Morgan Woodland

Morgan A. Woodland, 24, of Cortez, was arrested Aug. 8 and charged with battery on a law enforcement officer.

According to the police report, a driver flagged down Officer John Tsakiri on Gulf Drive, complaining a woman had thrown a stick at his car. The complainant was asked to follow Tsakiri, who proceeded to look for the suspect.

Tsakiri said the complainant pointed out the female suspect as they drove east on the Cortez Bridge, and he stopped and asked the woman to get in his police car. When she complied, he then drove to approximately 121st Street West in Cortez, where he stopped and asked her to step out of the police vehicle.

Tsakiri stated the suspect, wearing a blue bikini, left behind a white rag, which she said was a diaper, and the woman refused to remove it from his car.

As she started to walk away, Tsakiri said in his report that he “grabbed her left arm and told her to get her garbage.”

Woodland then punched Tsakiri on the right eye with her left fist.

He stated that he then took her to the ground and handcuffed her.

Woodland was treated by EMS at the Bradenton Beach police station for a cut lip, which Tsakiri said happened when she was taken to the ground.

Tsakiri also took a witness statement, and added that the defendant told him she recently left a “psych ward.”

[Ed. Note: The report above was written by the Anna Maria Islander. The Islander is a news partner of NewsManatee and we frequently share reports.]

Man Accosted by 3 Black Males;
Incident Was Attempted Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted robbery on Tuesday, August 11, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m. in the parking lot of Mike's Mini Mart, 5620 15th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, David Clarkson, 37, of the 5300 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton, was walking through the parking lot of Mike’s Mini Mart when he was approached by three Black males.

The would-be robbers told Clarkson to give them all of his money.

Clarkson stated "no" and then stated he did not have any money.

One of the culprits hit Clarkson in the back of the head with an unknown object.

The three men fled the scene and did not obtain any of Clarkson’s property.

Clarkson was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS with a small laceration to the back of his head.

The culprits were not further described except to say they were dressed in all black clothing.

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 Burglary of Bank
ATM Machine Reported

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported someone tried to pry open an ATM machine at Liberty Savings Bank, 1411 Flamingo Blvd., Bradenton, on Monday, August 10, 2009, at about 11 p.m.

A White male wearing a ski mask and jean shorts was seen by a witness attempting to pry open the ATM machine at the above bank.

Deputies arrived on scene and confirmed that a burglary had occurred to the ATM machine.

Crime Scene responded and processed the ATM machine, which was severely damaged.

The key holder arrived and advised that they would not be able to determine how much money, if any, was taken until the morning.

There has not since been an update to this 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.

Humane Society of Manatee
County Adoption Special

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Humane Society of Manatee County is recognizing National Homeless Animal Day on Saturday, August 15, 2009, a day that animal shelters around the nation note to call attention to the millions of homeless pets that suffer every year because they have no home.

Beginning on Aug 15th and running until Sept. 15th, the shelter is offering a special reduced adoption fee of $25 on all cats 6 months and older. All cats are spay/neutered, microchipped and up to date on their shots. There are cats of every color and size, but the one thing they all have in common is that they are looking for their forever home.

For dog lovers, the shelter is offering a free goody bag filled with food samples, treats and lots of good information with each dog adoption.

The Humane Society is located at 2515 14th St W in Bradenton. Visit their website at www.humanemanatee.org, call 941-747-8808 x 313 or email:

info@humanesocietymanatee.org

for information on cats and dogs available for adoption.

Woman in Wheelchair Robbed
of $1,000 by Hispanic Male

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Monday, August 10, 2009, at about 4 p.m.

The report said the victim, Juanita E. Pinkney is in a wheelchair.

The Victim had just retrieved over a $1000 from the Western Union in the Winn-Dixie store at 17th Street and Lockwood Ridge Road.

Juanita told deputies as she was wheeling along the storefronts, the suspect snatched her purse from her lap and took off on foot.

The area was searched but the suspect was not located.

There was no video of the incident and the victim was not injured.

The robber was described as a Hispanic male in his early 20s, 5'1" tall, wearing a baseball cap, white shirt and tan shorts.

If you have any information about this case, please contact the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.

Traffic Stop Leads To Weapons,
Marijuana Discovery

POINCIANA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A traffic stop on Saturday led Osceola County sheriff's deputies to a home with a hidden closet that contained three mortar launchers, several mortar shells -- one of which had a live charge in it -- three improvised explosive devices and other weapons, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

William Scott Clark, 43, was arrested on charges making or attempting to make a destructive device, production of marijuana and possession of marijuana.

According to deputies, a fully automatic MAC-11 submachine gun, timing fuses, a binary explosive compound and numerous other high powered semiautomatic weapons were also found at the home.

Deputies said a man and woman were pulled over in Poinciana Saturday morning and a marijuana plant was found inside the vehicle. The occupants, Jett Thomas Cramer and Gayle Justice, told deputies that the plant came from their home, located at 103 Nicholas Court in Poinciana.

Deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence and located only one marijuana plant but also discovered the hidden closet in the master bedroom behind a mirror, according to the sheriff's office.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms removed the firearms from the residence. The ATF is investigating if Clark has the proper documentation to possess the firearms.

Cramer, 20, and Justice, 18, cooperated with detectives and the investigation led to a Cypress Cove trailer, owned by Clark's 22-year-old girlfriend, Elizabeth Haley, where three lamps used to grow marijuana and potting soil were found, deputies said. The area appeared as if plants had recently been removed, deputies said.

While deputies were at the residence, Clark and Haley arrived at the house, and Haley was arrested and charged with cultivating marijuana and possession of marijuana, WKMG said.

Cramer and Justice were arrested and charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana under 20 grams. They were booked into the Osceola County Jail.

~ TUESDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Woman, 30, Arrested for Using
Sex Toy in Presence of Girls,
2, 7 and 8 Years of Age

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tawnya Rae Burrows, 30, of the 6500 block of 1st Street West, Bradenton, and charged her with three counts of Sexual Battery, four counts of Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition and one count of Introduction of Obscene Material to a Minor.

Tawnya Rae Burrows

According to the arrest report, between the dates of April 1st and June 30th, Burrows was the live-in girlfriend of the father of the victims, three girls aged 2, 7 and 8.

The two older girls gave statements to Manatee County Detectives that on the dates in question, Burrows openly masturbated in the presence of the victims with the full knowledge that the victims were present and watching.

The girls said Burrows would use several sex toys that "made a humming sound."

Once they woke up next to Burrows, who was in their bed, and found her nude and masturbating. When they asked her what she was doing and what that noise was, they were told to go back to sleep, the report said.

Burrows made no effort to move to a different location, cover herself or conceal what she was doing, but rather continued masturbating in their presence, the report said.

On another occasion, one of the girls walked into her open bedroom and observed Burrows lying on their bed nude and masturbating with one of her sex toys between her legs. The victim asked where the towels were and was told to look in the drawer, but again never stopped or attempted to conceal her actions from the child.

The two victims said they remember that type of activity at least four times each.

One of them also said that Burrows had instructed her to take a shower. She said that while she was in the shower, Burrows reached into the shower with one of her sex toys and attempted to put it inside her private area. She said that as the sex toy touched her, she squeezed her legs together to prevent Burrows from going any further.

The little girl said that she once saw Burrows hold her 2-year-old sister down and insert the sex toy into her private area; the 2-year-old screamed.

On one occasion, Burrows watched "a nasty movie" where men and women were naked and having sex and Burrows let the little girl watch the movie with her, the report said.

When Burrows was interviewed, she said she did own several sex toys, but denied the allegations. She then asked if she should have a lawyer and the interview was ended.

Burrows was arrested on the charges above on Saturday, August 8, 2009.

As of Monday, she remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $71,000.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Strangling, Slamming
Girlfriend

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Ronald Eugene Prenatt, 35, of 909 23rd Street West, Bradenton.

Ronald Eugene Prenatt

The arrest report said on Saturday, August 8, 2009, at about 6 p.m., Prenatt and his girlfriend were having a verbal argument at her place in the 1700 block of 9th Avenue West, Bradenton.

She asked Prenatt to leave because she did not want the situation to escalate.

According to the victim, Prenatt put both his hands around her neck and choked her, cutting off her breathing.

After that, Prenatt then slammed her three times on the ground, the report said.

An officer observed a red mark on the right side of the victim's neck.

Prenatt told the officer he only attempted to restrain the victim from continuing to attack him.

The woman denied ever touching Prenatt.

Prenatt was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation, Domestic Battery and a Probation Violation.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $3,600.

Man Arrested for Vehicle
Burglary, Warrants

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Richard Raymond Smith, 42, of 3507 Lorraine Road, Bradenton.

Richard Raymond Smith

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, August 8, 2009, at about 5 a.m., Smith entered the rear of a truck and removed items, then attempted to break the window of the truck, in the 1000 block of Manatee Avenue West at the King Fish boat ramp.

The Smith fled the area; he was spotted by a witness and deputies were called.

Smith was stopped in the 2000 block of Manatee Avenue West by K-9 Deputy Kruse.

Smith's passenger gave an affidavit stating that Smith told her that he was going to try to get into the vehicle.

Smith was arrested and charged with Auto Burglary. He also had three outstanding warrants.

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

Suspicious Activity Yields Gun,
Arrest in Holmes Beach

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT/The Islander] -- A man was arrested August 5th on weapons charges after a complaint by a Key Royale woman was made to law enforcement that he was “looking at her children playing in the yard.”

Larry Paul Graham

According to Holmes Beach Police Officer Stanley House, the complainant said a man had driven by her home on Key Royale several times. She described the vehicle to officers, who saw a vehicle matching her description make an illegal U-turn.

Larry Paul Graham, 59, described as homeless, told officers he was waiting for a friend to return home in Anna Maria and decided to take a drive.

The complainant confirmed that Graham was the man she had seen driving by her home. And neighbors said they recognized him as someone who had been following their daughter.

Record checks revealed Graham has a lengthy criminal record on burglary, weapon’s possession and drug charges.

Driver’s license, vehicle registration and insurance cards provided by Graham didn’t match. In fact, Graham had two driver licenses issued to different addresses.

He was arrested. A search of his truck revealed a loaded handgun and prescription drugs.

Graham was charged with Possession of a Concealed Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Failure to Notify Authorities of his Change of Address, Possession of More than One Valid Driver’s License and the U-turn made without signaling.

[Ed. Note: The report above was written by the Anna Maria Islander. NewsManatee is a news partner of the Islander and we frequently share reports.]

Holmes Beach Man Arrested
For Beating Girlfriend

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department has arrested Daniel Mercak, 33, of 6203 Holmes Blvd., in Holmes Beach.

Daniel Mercak

According to the arrest report, on Friday, August 7, 2009, at about 10 p.m., officers were called to the residence reference a disturbance.

Upon arrival, they could hear loud banging against the inside of the door to the bedroom of the residence.

They went around to the back sliding glass door and heard Mercak screaming at his girlfriend, "You [expletive deleted] up this time; you're in trouble."

The officers could see Mercak repeatedly slamming the girl into the door of the residence leading into the master bedroom. He had a metal padlock in his left hand and the officer believed Mercak was about to strike the girl with the lock.

The report noted that Mercak had a No Contact Order from the court that was in place as of March, 2009.

Mercak was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault, Domestic Battery and Violation of the No Contact Order.

Mercak remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $150,000.

The sheriff's website shows that Mercak was arrested twice in June on similar charges.

Deputy Arrests Man for
Stealing GPS Unit from a
Boat at West Manatee Dock

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Fred Leroy Gilliland, 51, who stays in the 4600 block of 124th Street West, aboard a boat named "Treasure One."

Fred Leroy Gilliland

The arrest report said on Friday, August 8, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., a crew member of a boat next to "Treasure One," "Ms. Rebecca," stepped away from "Ms. Rebecca" to use a restroom. When he came back he saw Gilliland aboard "Ms. Rebecca" getting some food. The crew member later told deputies Gilliland is homeless and stays on "Treasure One," next to "Ms. Rebecca."

When the crew member saw Gilliland aboard "Ms. Rebecca," he said Gilliland circled the wheel house, then quickly moved to the front of the boat and left.

Right after that, the crew member noticed that the GPS unit was gone. He notified the owner of the boat, who said he was sure the GPS was there earlier in the day because he had been working on the battery.

A video surveillance camera showed Gilliland was the only person on the boat at the time in question.

The owner of "Ms. Rebecca" searched "Treasure One," where Gilliland stays, and found his GPS unit among Gilliland's personal property.

On Saturday, August 8, 2009, a deputy located Gilliland coming out of Skipper's Bar. He admitted being on "Ms. Rebecca" but refused to answer any questions without an attorney.

Gilliland was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Vessel.

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

Man Beaten, Robbed By Man
Known as "Santa Claus,"
Two Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the beating and robbery of a man at his mobile home in the 5900 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, on Sunday, August 9, 2009.

The report said the victim, Brian Bundscho, 51, met a White female known as "Candy" at a bar. They went back to his trailer and had sex, the report said.

The next day Candy introduced Brian to a White male known as "Santa Clause."

On Sunday, "Santa Claus" brought two Black males over to Brian's trailer to hang out.

"Santa" and the Black males proceeded to hit and kick Brian until he passed out, and then took his wallet.

For the next several hours, Brian's debit card was used at several stores along 14th Street West.

Brian had a black eye from the incident but did not need medical assistance.

There was no further description of the assailants.

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 Receives Healthy Donation
From Gold Star Club Prez

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Gold Star Club of Manatee County has donated $25,000 to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Above, L to R, Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube and
Gold Star Club President Ron Getman

The money will go into the Sheriff’s Office investigative fund in hopes of getting information in the recent rash of Homicides and Home Invasions.

The Gold Star Club is a non-profit organization which offers rewards for unsolved murders in Manatee County.

Anyone with any information about these cases 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.

[Ed. Note: Ron Getman is also a Manatee County Commissioner.]

Cops: Burglar Thrown From
2nd Floor By Victim

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man suspected of breaking into the second floor of an Orlando home early Monday morning was injured when he was thrown out of a window, police said.

The suspected burglar was last seen at about 1 a.m. hobbling away from a home on Greco Drive, which is located southwest of Orlando International Airport.

Orlando police said the burglar placed a ladder against the garage of the home and broke into the home through a bedroom window.

A 21-year-old man confronted the intruder and threw him to the ground below, police said. The resident received some cuts in the confrontation but is OK, police said.

The intruder was only described as having a pony tail, WKMG said.

~ MONDAY'S LOCAL/STATE NEWS ~

Deputy: Woman Arrested
For Child Neglect; Found
In Filthy Home with Son

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy attempting to serve an arrest warrant on someone else found Nicole L. Green, 32, in the filthy home with her son, age 13, and another person.

Nicole L. Green

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, August 6, 2009, Dep. J. Riley went to a residence in the 800 block of Orlando Avenue, Bradenton to serve a warrant for someone for Violation of Domestic Battery.

Upon arrival, a neighbor came out and told the deputy that the man came home late the night before and hasn't seen him leave.

The deputy knocked on the front door, but nobody would answer.

Another deputy informed Dep. Riley that the power to the house was shut off.

Dep. Riley then saw the blinds in the bedroom window move as if someone had just looked out. Dep. Riley yelled through the door that if someone didn't answer the door, he would open it for them, but still nobody answered.

After confirming the warrant, a supervisor told Dep. Riley he could make entry. Dep. Riley was able to pry the back door open, using a screwdriver.

He began walking through the house and when he got to the back bedroom, a 13-year-old boy came out of the bedroom with his hands up. A Black male also came out and was ordered to the ground. The deputy then went into the bedroom and located Nicole Green. She told the deputy the man he was looking for was in Sarasota.

The house was in complete disarray, with rotten food on the counters, dog urine and feces on the floor, no water or electricity, and cockroaches and fleas everywhere. Every room in the house had clothes piled up everywhere with other junk piled in with it. In the kitchen, the refrigerator had rotten food with maggots inside it and mold growing on everything. There were dirty dishes with molded food on the counters and in the sink. There was a 5-gallon bucket in the bathroom they were using as a toilet, the report said. In the bedroom, there was a lot of trash and used condoms beside the bed. An extension cord that was running a fan led from the bedroom to the neighbor's residence. The kids bedroom had clothing piled up almost to the level of the bed and there were no sheets or blankets on the bed.

When asked why she had her 13-year-old son in those conditions, Green replied, "We were just kicked out of where we were staying in Sarasota."

Green was arrested and charged with Child Neglect. She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000.

The child was taken into protective custody by Child Protective Services.

Man, 40, Arrested for Sex Act
With Girls, 13 and 16 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Gary Richard Roberts, 40, of the 4000 block of 50th Street West, Bradenton.

Gary Richard Roberts

According to the arrest report, on a date not certain in 2008, Roberts had a 13-year-old girl give him oral sex as he was naked and masturbating.

A 16-year-old girl told her counselor that she saw the act one night when she and the 13-year-old spent the night at his home.

Roberts allegedly provided the girls with marijuana and Smirnoff Ice, an alcoholic beverage.

In an interview with detectives, the 13-year-old, unaware a report had been made, related essentially the same story.

She said Roberts gave the girls "some kind of pills" and said that Roberts offered the girls $50 dollars to give him oral sex. She also said that both girls let Roberts put his penis in their mouth. He manually penetrated the girls' vagina, she said.

Roberts denied the allegations, but said the incident took place in the upstairs apartment of the girl, and not in his apartment. Then he 'lawyered up.'

He was arrested and charged with Sexual Battery on a Child between 12-18 Years of Age.

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

Woman, 46, Arrested for
Sex with Boy, 17

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Zoraya Narvaez, 46, of the 6900 block of Manatee Avenue West.

Zoraya Narvaez

The arrest report said a 17-year-old boy completed an affidavit that said he had a sexual relationship with the mother of a school chum.

The boy said he had unprotected sex with Narvaez at her father's doctor's office on Cortez Road West and had unprotected sexual intercourse with the woman two more times on different days inside her vehicle.

He explained that the woman gave him alcohol and marijuana.

The boy explained that his parents found out about his relationship with the woman and he tried to end it, but she would not leave him alone, so his parents filed for an injunction against Narvaez.

Narvaez told the boy she was pregnant with his baby, the report said.

The injunction was not granted, but during a controlled phone conversation with Narvaez she said she thought about getting an abortion but had decided to keep the baby.

Detective April Dugan met with Narvaez on her job and admitted talking to the boy the night before, but then said she didn't want to talk with Det. Dugan until she spoke to her attorney.

Narvaez was arrested and charged with Unlawful Sexual Acts with a Minor.

She has since posted a $1,000 bail bond and was released from jail.

Sheriff's K-9 Nabs White Male
Bicycle Thief, Bites Handler

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a K-9 Deputy was bitten by his dog, who had just captured a bicycle thief near U.S. 301 and 44th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Above, Manatee County Sheriff's Office K-9 Nitro

The report said Lt. Schaeffer was driving southbound on 301 Blvd., passing the Hi-Way Bar, when he observed the theft of a bicycle.

The suspect, later identified as Lawrence A. Goings II, 23, saw Lt. Schaeffer, ditched the bike and ran on foot into El Ranchero Mobile Home Park.

A perimeter was established and Deputy Kruse and K-9 Nitro responded.

Nitro quickly established a track. Even faster, Nitro located the suspect, the report said.

Deputy Kruse ordered the suspect to the ground. The suspect complied.

Sgt. Rob Hendrickson stepped in to handcuff the suspect. While doing so, Nitro bit Deputy Kruse. The injury was minor. A first report of injury was completed.

Goings, the suspect, was taken to the Manatee County Jail, charged with Theft and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

The bicycle was recovered and returned to the victim.

Two Young Men Arrested
After 'Burglary in Progress'
Call Dispatched to Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two young men were arrested following a burglary in progress call in Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Eric Cuello and Maelie Jean-Pierre

The sheriff's report said on Thursday, August 6, 2009, at approximately 2 p.m., a burglary in progress call was dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of 48th St. Ct. E., Palmetto.

COPS north units were close when the call went out and surrounded the house until support units arrived.

Once patrol units arrived, the suspects, who were still inside the residence were ordered to come out.

The two suspects, later identified as Eric Cuello, 19, and Maelie Jean-Pierre, 17, both of Palmetto, surrendered from inside the residence and were taken into custody by COPS north Deputies Quiles and Denmark.

A post-arrest search of the suspects yielded a wallet out of Eric's pocket and a pink Nintendo DS in Jean-Pierre's pocket. The wallet and the Nintendo DS were later identified as the victim's property.

Both suspects were transported to detective's officers; then Cuello was transported to the Manatee County Jail and Jean-Pierre was transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility.

Photos were taken of the property and returned to the owner.

Both suspects were charged with Burglary to a Dwelling. Cuello was also charged for Violation of Probation. Jean-Pierre was also charged with Shoplifting for an incident that occurred just prior to the burglary. The shoplifting was at the Mini Mart 4503 US 41 N.

Sexual Predator Sentenced
To 10 Years in Prison

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, August 6, 2009, Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Kim Zink reported a sexual predator who attempted to hide in Manatee County has been sentenced to prison.

Raymond E. Jones

Det. Zink said Raymond E. Jones, 59, is a Sexual Predator from Broward County who was found living in Manatee County under an assumed name in November 2008.

He was arrested and charged with Failing to Notify DHSMV of a Change in Address (as a Sexual Predator).

In April, he was found guilty by a jury and sentencing was postponed until August.

On August 4, 2009, Jones was sentenced to 10 years in prison under the Department of Corrections for that charge.

Deputy's Cruiser Victim of
Hit-and-Run Driver

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Sgt. Orval Walker's cruiser was struck by a hit-and-run driver on Friday, August 7, 2009, at about 10 p.m. in a parking lot located at 1643 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

The report said at about 8:50 p.m., Sgt. Walker’s vehicle was parked in a marked spot at Chipolti’s restaurant.

An unknown white male backed his White Ford Explorer into Sgt. Walker's right rear bumper, causing approximately $500 damage.

The driver of the vehicle got out, looked at the damage, then fled the scene East on Cortez Road.

Sgt. Walker was not in the vehicle at the time of the accident and was informed by another patron of the restaurant.

The vehicle was driven from the scene.

Further information in the report said the White Ford Explorer had Virginia license plates and a bike rack on the back.

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.

Three Charged with Grand Theft
Auto, Bradenton Man Sought

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested three men for stealing a prized 1980 Chevy Malibu from C and S Corvettes in Sarasota on May 14, 2009. The vehicle was valued for its LT1 Corvette engine, Moser rear end, custom disc brakes, air lift kit and other custom drive train parts.

Above, David Lawrence

Sam B. Blanton, 31, 4018 Berkshire Dr., Sarasota, is charged with Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure and Grand Theft Auto for taking the vehicle and dismantling it at a property in Myakka City.

Hobert Roberts, Jr., 33, 41 Patterson Ave., Osprey, is charged with Grand Theft for taking possession of the vehicle’s engine and drive train and installing them in his Chevy S10 pickup truck.

Erik M. Walker, 28, 12239 Durango Ave., North Port, is charged with Burglary of an Unoccupied Structure and Grand Theft Auto.

Detectives are still looking for David P. Lawrence, 22, 5’10,” 150 pounds, brown hair and brown eyes, with a last known address of 5329 36th Street East, Bradenton.

Anyone with information on Lawrence's whereabouts 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).

Man in Car, Eating, Robbed
At Knifepoint by White Male

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Thursday, August 6, 2009, at about 10 p.m. in the 4300 block of Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

According to a report from SSO, the suspect, with a knife in hand, approached the victim, Louis Blumenthal, 60, of Sarasota, as he sat in his car eating and demanded money.

During this encounter, the victim did sustain an injury to his hand.

The victim handed over his cash and the suspect fled on foot south through the plaza parking lot.

A search and canvass for the suspect and witnesses was conducted with negative results.

The investigation has been turned over to detectives.

The robber was described as a bald White male in his 30s, with a thin build, 140-150 pounds, last seen wearing a blue and white striped shirt and dark pants/

Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Section 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).

Grow House Raid Yields
Over 250 Pounds of Pot

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Section, working jointly with the North Port Police Department, seized more than 300 marijuana plants in one of the largest grow house busts to date.

During the execution of a search warrant at 3811 Albin Ave., North Port, investigators found several rooms being utilized for the operation, and two privacy fences concealing five air conditioning units.

Investigators found 313 pots with the roots still attached inside the residence.

It appeared the suspects had recently harvested the plants in that stalks appeared to be recently cut.

The discovery of a lighted miner-type hat led investigators to believe some of the activities had occurred under the cover of darkness and that the plants could be hidden nearby. After an exhaustive search, 14 large leaf bags were located approximately 100 yards to the rear of the residence in the woods. All the bags were full of the freshly cut cannabis plants weighing 257.5 pounds.

No arrests have been made in the case.

The investigation is continuing.

Narcotics Raid of Englewood Home
Yields 5 Arrests for Multiple Drugs,
Four for Child Neglect

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives executed a search warrant in Englewood at 6:50 a.m. Thursday morning, August 6, 2009, and raided a trailer at 1337 Seagull Dr.; five people were arrested on multiple drug charges and four for child neglect.

A search of the home found Methamphetamines, Ocycodone, Cymbalta, marijuana, razor blades, a bong, marijuana roach clips, syringes, lighters, spoons with drug residue, two stun guns, numerous electronics equipment including a police scanner which was on; they were listening to CCSO and Sarasota County Sheriff’s channels. Detectives said a 4-year-old girl was in the home and released to a grandmother.

Detectives also said the trailer was in complete disarray; the only food in the refrigerator had mold, there was hardly any food in the cabinets, and there were numerous holes in the floor. Two syringes were found in close proximity to the child in a drawer where her clothes were kept. The Methamphetamines were on a dresser where the child could easily reach them, along with numerous drug paraphernalia all over the bedroom where the child could easily get to them.

Arrested were Johnathon Lee Painter, 37; (father of the child), Kimberly Dawn McDaniel, 29; Jeramie M. Carr, 22 (the child’s uncle); Kelly L. Carr, 42, all of that address, and Amanda Lynn Pritts, 21, of 7180 Eldridge St., Englewood East.

All were transported to the Charlotte County jail; Painter and McDaniel were both charged with Child Neglect, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamines, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Medication without a Prescription. Jeramie Carr and Kelly Carr were both charged with Child Neglect and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Pritts was charged with Possession of Oxycodone and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

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).

Orlando Police Officer's
Gun, Uniform Stolen

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Guns, bullets, handcuffs and police uniforms are on the streets after being stolen from an Orlando police officer, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Orange County deputies said someone broke into an officer's home in the middle of the day and took the officer's police belt and handgun.

Deputies are investigating the theft and are concerned that in the wrong hands, someone could use the items to impersonate a police officer.

The sheriff's office is also investigating to see if the officer was targeted, WKMG said.

"The Islander" has news, too...click on their logo to go to their website.

(Click on the logos to go to their website)

News Manatee Archive Services provided by StaffMarket Services . Page Capture and Processing by StaffMarket on 8/15/2009 2:00:06 PM

NewsManatee, Inc.
P.O. Box 10453
Bradenton, Florida 34282-0453
NOTICE
NewsManatee, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Bradenton, Florida.
Your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
E-mail: NewsManatee@aol.com
Michael C. Quinn, Publisher and President
Carole Law Atkins, Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary

© 2008 -- Unless otherwise indicated or assumed, all material herein, written, audio or visual, is Copyrighted by NewsManatee, Inc., Bradenton, Florida.All worldwide rights reserved. ~ No material may be printed, transmitted, or broadcast in whole or in part, without the express consent of owner.

This archive website is hosted and maintained by StaffMarket Services , LLC
as a public service to the citizens of Manatee County Florida.