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Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
Wanted for Attempted Murder
Within Two Days of BPD Request
To Public for Help in Locating Him

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have Kenye D. Cooper, 20, who was wanted for Attempted Murder, in custody. NewsManatee ran the original article on Monday of this week for BPD, who asked the public's assistance in locating him.

Kenye D. Cooper

According to Deputy Police Chief J.J. Lewis, who spoke to NewsManatee on Thursday, Cooper turned himself in at the Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday.

"Detectives obtained a confession from him [Thursday] during their interview," Lewis said.

NewsManatee reported that, according to Dep. Chief Lewis, on Thursday, October 1, 2009, at about 2 p.m., Bradenton Police officers responded to a reported shooting in the 2000 block of 5th Street West.

Officers located an adult victim who had been shot at but not struck by bullets or injured.

Investigation revealed that the victim and the suspect, identified as Kenye D. Cooper, of Manatee County, are acquaintances; however, they do not get along with one another.

The victim reported that Cooper approached him holding a semi-automatic handgun. The victim, fearing he was going to be killed, began to run.

Cooper fired three shots at the victim as the victim fled. The victim was able to run away without being shot.

Cooper was last seen leaving the scene in a 2001 White Cadillac 4-door sedan with a Florida tag of C407FV.

Detectives were searching for Cooper and had obtained an arrest warrant for the charge of Attempted Murder.

Cooper was to be considered armed and dangerous.

He was arrested on Wednesday, October 7, 2009.

Cooper is now being held in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000,000.

Manatee Deputies, K-9 Unit
Arrest Two for Attempted
Armed Robbery of Local
Gas Station, Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Michael Abel Huerta, 19, of 1709 12th Street West, Bradenton, and Javier Tovar-Martinez, 22, of 2304 12th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Michael Huerta and Javier Tovar-Martinez

According to the arrest reports, on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at about 8:15 p.m., an undercover vehicle was in the parking lot of Whitfield Plaza in the 6800 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton. Detectives were set up for a burglary surveillance detail.

A black Lincoln Towncar pulled into the shopping plaza parking lot behind the BP gas station and convenience store.

Two men exited the vehicle. They were later identified as Huerta and Tovar-Martinez.

Javier was wearing white latex gloves and holding a shotgun. Michael was also wearing white latex gloves and had a mask covering his face.

The two subjects walked away from the Lincoln in the direction of the BP gas station.

The two men walked to a point about 30 feet from the undercover vehicle when they suddenly turned around and hastily walked back to the Lincoln.

The undercover detectives were already alerting marked vehicles in the area when the Lincoln quickly drove out of the parking lot.

Marked units were able to pull the Lincoln over in Trailer Estates Mobile Home Park at Bay Drive and American Way.

Michael opened the passenger door and fled the vehicle through Trailer Estates.

A K-9 unit responded to the area and tracked Michael, who was found hiding under a small boat on Massachusetts Street. The arrest report did not identify which K-9 unit was involved.

Both men were arrested without incident.

Inside the Lincoln, deputies found the shotgun, live shotgun shells and latex gloves.

Both men were charged with Armed Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery. Michael Huerta was additionally charged with Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Wearing a Mask while Committing a Felony and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Both men remain in the Manatee County Jail without bail bond.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
In Connection with Burglary

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Evan Davenport, 19, of 4004 39th Street West, Bradenton.

Evan Davenport

According to the arrest report, on August 30, 2009, shortly before 1 a.m., Davenport was riding in a car with two other men.

One of the other men said he had something to pick up on the side of the road at 3220 1st Avenue West, Bradenton.

When they arrived, Davenport got out of the front seat of the vehicle and grabbed a blue box with a lid on it. He put the box in the trunk of the vehicle and they drove to a residence of one of the other men and the box was put in a closet.

Police learned that the property was previously taken in a burglary.

Davenport was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling.

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

Did You Know? Gang Members
Wear a Rosary-Style Necklace

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A NewsManatee confidential source from the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice has passed on some interesting information about the rosary-style necklaces often worn by gang members in Manatee County (and elsewhere).

The rosary-style necklace is a necklace that gang members wear. The number of beads on their "rosary" will decipher which gang they are affiliated with.

Thirteen (13) beads on each side is meant to represent the Sur 13 gang, while fourteen (14) beads on each side is meant to represent the Norte 14 gang (La Familia).

As all Catholics know (which is how these kids are getting away with wearing them at school) you never wear a Rosary, but hold it to pray.

There are a significant amount of gang kids wearing these gang rosaries, our source said.

REMINDER: FREE Walk-In
Vision Screenings By The
Eye Associates In October

ELLENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Dr. Michael Manning, of the Eye Associates, will be holding one-on-one meetings with people to discuss results of a FREE vision screening at the offices of The Eye Associates in Ellenton, located at 7915 US Hway 301 North, Suite 101.

Above, Dr. Michael Manning

Not seeing as well as you used to? Think you might have a cataract? Do you have a family history of glaucoma?

The Eye Associates wants you to come in for a FREE vision screening and find out about the options available.

Dr. Michael Manning, a comprehensive ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon, will meet with you one-on-one to discuss your results and answer any questions you may have.

The dates and times available in October are:

Thursday, October 8, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Thursday, October 15, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Thursday, October 22, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm

Call 941-729-2020 for more information, or log on to the website of The Eye Associates, www.TheEyeAssociates.com, or click on their support ad at the top of NewsManatee's Cover page.

The Eye Associates wants us to be sure and tell you this is a screening and does not take the place of a comprehensive eye examination.

[Ed. Note: The Eye Associates is a premier supporter of NewsManatee.com -- our publisher had his cataract surgery at The Eye Associates, which was successful and without complications.]

Multi-Agency Pursuit Ends in
Man's Arrest, SSO Says

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, October 8, 2009, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office arrested David Allen Cence, 31, on several charges stemming from a case that started at a local bank and led to a brief pursuit.

David Allen Cence

The Sarasota Police Department responded to BB&T, 1202 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, for a report of someone trying to pass a fraudulent check.

When officers arrived, Cence was sitting in a car that sped off as they approached. Officers determined the vehicle was stolen and began their pursuit.

Sheriff’s deputies spotted the vehicle when it crossed onto Siesta Key.

Cence then bailed out of the car and disappeared after crossing a canal.

Deputies were searching for the Cence when a landscaper flagged them down and said someone had just stolen his truck.

Deputies followed the truck down Freeling Drive but Cence turned the truck around at the dead end and crashed into a Sheriff’s Office vehicle. The deputy was not injured.

Cence fled on foot but was found hiding in the hull of a boat docked behind a home on Freeling.

The Sarasota Police Department charged Cence with Uttering a Forged Instrument, Fleeing to Elude and Burglary of a Vessel.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office charged him with Two Counts of Grand Theft Auto, Fleeing to Elude and Aggravated Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

Deputies also determined Cence has an outstanding warrant out of North Carolina for failure to appear on a charge for the Manufacture of Dangerous Drugs.

Sarasota County Sheriff
Investigating Death of
Man, 24 Years Old

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of Joseph L. Jones II, 24.

Joseph L. Jones II, deceased

Jones' body was discovered early Thursday behind an apartment building in the 3100 block of Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

Detectives are working with the Medical Examiner’s office.

After an initial autopsy the cause of death remains undetermined. Toxicology results are pending.

According to Sarasota County court records, Jones had a number of previous drug and alcohol-related arrests, and a burglary charge.

Anyone with information relating to this investigation 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).

ALERT: Escaped Prisoner
Eludes Capture

WINTER PARK, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orange County authorities on Thursday morning called off an active search for a man who escaped from prison nearly a year ago, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Christopher Ware

A tip led deputies to Eastbrook Boulevard at Periwinkle, north of Aloma Avenue, where they searched for Christopher Ware, who escaped from the Department of Corrections in Kissimmee in November, authorities said.

Ware eluded authorities Thursday morning after ramming two unmarked police cars and fleeing on foot.

Deputies from Orange and Seminole counties conducted a massive search for Ware but could not locate him.

Ware was jailed on charges of Grand Theft with a Firearm, and deputies said he should be considered armed and dangerous, WKMG said.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to call police.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Woman Arrested for Assault
On Hubbie with Firearm; He
Was Later Baker Acted

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Ulrike J. Childs, 50, of 5416 90th Avenue Circle East, in Parrish.

Ulrike J. Childs

According to the arrest report, Ulrike Childs and "Vernon" (no last name in the report) are husband and wife. They both live together and have children in common.

On Monday, October 5, 2009, they both had an argument because Vernon made a comment to his friend about Childs.

The argument turned physical when Childs went to their closet, got their gun, pointed it at Vernon and threatened to shoot him.

Vernon was able to get the gun away from Childs. He took the bullets out of the gun and threw them on the ground.

Then they both began throwing things around the house, after which Vernon packed a bag and left the house.

On Tuesday, October 6, 2009, Vernon returned home. They started arguing again. Vernon tried to leave, but Childs got into their truck with him.

Long story short, he tried to get her to leave the truck, she wouldn't, so they both left in the truck, then returned, when they continued to argue.

Vernon then took the gun, loaded it, went into the bedroom and decided to shoot himself, but changed his mind; however, he was unable to "de-cock" the handgun and accidentally fired the gun.

Meanwhile, Childs was attempting to get into the bedroom and damaged the door.

About 3 minutes later, Vernon opened the door and went into the living room. Then he heard the gun fire again. He thought Childs might be injured, so he ran into the bedroom.

Childs had the gun and said, "Don't think you're the only one who can do something around here."

Vernon had to physically take the gun away from Childs, then tried to leave again.

They both got into a pushing match in the laundry room. Finally, Vernon was allowed to leave and he went to a sheriff's substation to report the incident and brought the gun with him.

A deputy responded to their address, made contact with Childs and took her into custody.

She was charged with Felony Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Firearm and Domestic Battery.

As of Wednesday, she remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Vernon had bruises on his right forearm where Childs bit him. He was taken to Manatee Memorial hospital, where he was admitted under the Baker Act for evaluation.

Man Already in Jail Busted
for Burglary, Grand Theft
From Crime Stoppers Tip

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Detective has arrested Eli Lantz Locklear, 30, of 5007 31st Street East, Bradenton.

Eli Lantz Locklear

According to the arrest report, on April 22, 2009, Locklear allegedly smashed in the front door and entered the Chevron gas station located at 8471 Lockwood Ridge Road, in South Manatee County.

Locklear then stole 8 cartons of cigarettes and 20 packs of Black and Mild cigars. The total amount of the items taken was $360.

Damage to the door was approximately $750.

When deputies responded to the burglary scene, they observed a cement ashtray that was used to smash in the front door. Deputies obtained surveillance photos of the incident and submitted them with their report.

On April 24th, Manatee County Sheriff's Detective Aaron Bradley received an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers that identified Locklear as a potential suspect.

Detective Bradley researched Locklear's name and viewed several photos of Locklear. He then compared them with the photos from the surveillance system and they were a match to Locklear.

On October 5, 2009, Detective Bradley went to the Manatee County Jail, where Locklear was incarcerated on a Domestic Battery by Strangulation charge from Sept. 7th and charged Locklear with Burglary, Grand Theft and Criminal Mischief.

Locklear remains in the Manatee County Jail on a combined bail bond of $21,500.

Detectives Arrest Man in
Westside Burglary Who
Is Already in Jail

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Vincent R. Decosmo, 21, already in jail charged with multiple burglaries.

Vincent R. Decosmo

According to the arrest report, on Sept. 3, 2009, Decosmo was present with unnamed others during the burglary of a residence in the 5300 block of 69th Street West, Bradenton.

Taken in the burglary were a number of items, including a .38 caliber revolver and a black mini-laptop computer.

Decosmo purchased the handgun for $160 and stored the other items at his mother's house, in his bedroom.

On Sept. 4, 2009, a Bradenton Police Detective investigating other burglaries in the city recovered the handgun and laptop from Decosmo's mother's house.

On Sept. 26, 2009, Decosmo was arrested for outstanding arrest warrants issued for him in this case and several others.

On October 6, 2009, Decosmo was formally charged at the Manatee County Jail with Armed Burglary of a Dwelling (this case).

Decosmo remains in the Manatee County Jail on a combined bail bond of $341,000.

Ellenton Father Arrested for
Choking Daughter's Boyfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Charles M. Ankrim, 64, of 494 Outer Drive, in Ellenton.

Charles M. Ankrim

According to the arrest report, Bryan is the boyfriend of Kerri, daughter of Charles Ankrim. Both Bryan and Kerri live together with Charles.

on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, shortly after midnight, Bryan and Kerri had an argument, during which Bryan called Kerri "a bitch."

Charles overheard the argument, came into Bryan and Kerri's room, jumped on Bryan and proceeded to choke Bryan using both hands.

Bryan had trouble breathing, the report said, but didn't lose consciousness.

Bryan left the house and walked away.

Charles followed Bryan.

Bryan first claimed that Charles tried to hit him with his car, but later changed his story to say that Charles pulled alongside of Bryan, threw money at Bryan and told him to "Go [expletive deleted] himself."

Charles was arrested and charged with Felony Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

He refused to talk with the deputy and asked for a lawyer.

Charles Ankrim was released from the Manatee County Jail on his own recognizance.

Two Arrested in Bradenton
Beach Vehicle Burglary

BRADENTON BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Beach Police have arrested Derek D. Lauterbach, 27, and Clarissa L. Sportelli, 18, both of 305-A 62nd Street, Holmes Beach.

Above, L to R, Derek Lauterbach and Clarissa Sportelli

The arrest report from Bradenton Beach Police Department said on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at about 7 p.m., both Derek and Clarissa went to the West end of Bridge Street, in Bradenton Beach, walked over to the Moose Lodge, located at 110 Gulf Drive South and began to look into unoccupied parked vehicles there.

They located a silver Chevrolet Avalanche pickup truck with a North Carolina license plate. The truck had its driver side front window down slightly.

Derek picked Clarissa up and Clarissa reached down through the open window and unlocked the driver side door.

Once inside the vehicle, Clarissa removed a radar detector and a cell phone from inside the front cab of the truck.

Both then walked away and got back in their red Jeep Cherokee.

An unnamed person witnessed the act and copied down the license number of the Jeep.

BBPD Officer Roy Joslin investigated the incident and discovered the address to where the Jeep belonged. He went to that location, which was Derek and Calrissa's residence. The Jeep was parked in the driveway.

Officer Joslin knocked on the door and both individuals came out and spoke with him, admitting to the theft.

Lauterbach went back inside and retrieved the radar detector and the cell phone and handed them to Officer Joslin.

Lauterbach said he had not gotten paid from his job yet and they needed money.

Both Derek and Clarissa were arrested and charged with Burglary of a Conveyance.

They both remain in the Manatee County Jail on bail bonds of $10,000 each.

Sarasota County Detectives
Raid Grow House, Arrest One

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Joshua Silberman, 26, 3742 Fresno Rd., North Port, for Trafficking in Cannabis, Cultivation of Cannabis, Possession of a Residence for the Purpose of Manufacturing a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Resisting a Law Enforcement Officer Without Violence.

Joshua Silberman

The Special Investigations Task Force, working in conjunction with the North Port Police Department, received a tip regarding an indoor cannabis grow-house.

Detectives executed a search warrant on October 5, 2009 and discovered Silberman was operating a sophisticated grow operation inside his residence.

When detectives arrived, Silberman fled on foot but was apprehended soon after by North Port Police officers.

Detectives subsequently located 66 cannabis plants inside the house weighing approximately 43 pounds, worth approximately $172,000 on the street.

Parents Return Home,
Find Son Slain

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- An Orange County couple returned home Tuesday night and found their 20-year-old son shot to death in his bedroom, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The body of Demedrick Hardy was found in a house located on Osprey Woods Circle.

Investigators said Hardy was shot twice, but it's not known what led to the shooting.

Hardy was recently in jail, but it's not known why he was being held, WKMG said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Man Shoots, Kills Himself
Over Warrant for Probation
Violation for Traffic Ticket

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man shot and killed himself Tuesday over a traffic VOP warrant.

Above, 1103 60th Street West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

At approximately 10:00 a.m. Tuesday morning, a warrants deputy was attempting to serve a warrant at the residence at 1103 60th Street West, Bradenton.

The deputy went to the door and announced himself to the individual inside.

The subject never opened the door, but the deputy could see him through the glass of the front door.

The deputy saw the person go into a back area of the residence and then heard what sounded like a gunshot.

At that time, the deputy backed off and the Sheriff’s SWAT Team was called out.

SWAT entered the residence and discovered a man dead of an apparent gunshot.

There were no other people inside the house.

The subject was 49 years old, a sheriff's office press release said.

According to a NewsManatee source, he was Stephen Carl Harless.

That same source said Harless had no relatives living in the area and was from Michigan.

The warrant was for Violation of Probation on a Reckless Driving charge.

Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, told NewsManatee Tuesday, "He may have had other issues as well, but they are unknown to the sheriff's office."

Manatee County court records show Harless was arrested on August 31st for Reckless Driving, Failure to Wear a Seat Belt and Failure to Maintain a Lane. He still owed the court $314 dollars for the Seat Belt and Lane Failure charges and was scheduled to go to court on November 1st on the Reckless Driving charge; he was on court-ordered supervision on a release from jail on his own recognizance.

Other than those charges, there is no record of arrests for Harless in the court records.

Man Arrested for Striking
Other Man in Head with
Aluminum Baseball Bat

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Curtis L. Stephens, 47, of 2902 16th Street West, Bradenton.

Curtis L. Stephens

According to the arrest report, on Friday, October 2, 2009, shortly before 1 a.m., Stephens had a verbal argument with Pamela Wall for unknown reasons.

The verbal argument turned physical when Curtis punched Pamela in the back.

Curtis then had a verbal argument with Brian Jeffries, which turned physical when Curtis struck Brian in the head with an aluminum baseball bat.

When a deputy arrived on scene, he observed blood coming from the back of Brian's ear.

Brian was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Both Pamela and Curtis had a strong odor of alcohol coming from their breaths.

The bat was recovered at the scene. It had spots of blood on it.

Curtis was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery and Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $6,000.

Parrish Man Arrested for
Hitting Two Men with Hoe,
Breaking Woman's Window

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Randy Wilson, 35, of 7610 116th Avenue East, in Parrish, has been arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Randy Wilson

According to the arrest report, Randy Wilson used to be friends with Juan Molina, Sr., until some items came up missing and Wilson believed Molina, Sr., had taken them.

on Saturday, October 3, 2009, Molina, Sr., approached Wilson and said, "Hello."

Wilson then punched Molina, Sr., on the right side of his mouth, causing a laceration to the top lip that required 4 sutures.

At that time, Juan Molina, Jr., got out of his vehicle to see what was going on and Wilson grabbed a hoe from his truck and chased Molina, Jr., and Sr., back into their truck.

Wilson then took the hoe and swung it at the passenger side window of the vehicle, which belonged to Barbara Orlando, breaking the window, which caused $100 in damages to the window.

Wilson then hit Molina, Jr., in the arm, causing a small laceration on the right forearm that did not require medical attention.

Barbara Orlando also sustained some minor cuts on her face and right hand from the broken glass.

Wilson admitted to hitting Molina, Sr., in the mouth and grabbing the hoe and breaking the window, but denied hitting Molina, Jr., with the hoe.

Wilson was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Battery and Criminal Mischief.

He posted an $18,500 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Three Ladies Arrested for
Fighting with Other Lady
At Local Nightclub

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Alicia Green, 23, and Jonnetta Green, 25, both of 2118 13th Avenue East, Bradenton, and Takisha Grooms, 33, of 823 12th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Alicia Green, Jonnetta Green and Takisha Grooms

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, October 4, 2009, at about 2:30 a.m., the three women had gotten into an argument with Joyce Dawes at a nightclub located at 5100 14th Street West, Bradenton.

After the club closed, Joyce was sitting in her vehicle when Alicia opened Joyce's driver side door, saying, "Do you have a problem?" and proceeded to punch Joyce in the face.

Jonnetta opened up the passenger side door and entered the vehicle in an attempt to pull Joyce out, but was pushed out of the way by Takisha Grooms.

Takisha entered the vehicle and grabbed Joyce by the feet in an attempt to pull her out of the car.

Takisha failed to pull Joyce out because she was buckled into her seat belt, so she grabbed Joyce's shoe.

Joyce attempted to flee the scene and Takisha used the shoe to smash out Joyce's back passenger window, which caused about $200 dollars in damages.

No injuries were observed by deputies on Joyce.

Alicia, Jonnetta and Takisha were taken into custody without incident.

The three arrestees were charged with Burglary to a Conveyance with Battery. Takisha was additionally charged with Criminal Mischief.

All three later posted bail bonds of $10,000. Takisha had to post an additional $500 dollars for the Criminal Mischief charge.

Man Mugged by 3 White Males
While Walking Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was mugged in the 800 block of U.S. 301 Blvd. East, Bradenton, on Sunday, October 4, 2009, at about 6 a.m. as he was walking home

The report said the victim, Timothy Muncie, 22, was walking home from the Shell station when he was jumped and beaten to the ground by three White males.

During the beating, $34.00 was taken from his pocket.

The robbers then fled the area.

Muncie received a black eye and a cut lip during the incident.

The incident was not reported until 40 hours later when Muncie went to the hospital for treatment.

He stated that he did not report the incident when it occurred because he was afraid of retaliation.

The robbers were described as three unknown White males, 18 years old, dressed in white shirts, black shorts and hats.

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.

HCSO Finds Missing Items
Taken from Parrish Home
In Car Pursued by FHP

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, October 6, 2009, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office was asked by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) to check on a residence in the 4200 block of 98th Avenue East, in Parrish.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, HCSO sent a request to make contact with Virginia Chapman of the above address after a checkbook belonging to her was found in a white Buick.

The vehicle had been involved in a pursuit conducted by FHP on I-75, which then crashed in Tampa.

Two young men, Gregory Reeves, Gregory, 18, and Donald Camel Steadman, 21, had been taken into custody and one or two other suspects managed to flee.

The vehicle contained two computer systems, a flat screen TV, a small home safe, which contained the checkbook, and handguns.

Upon arrival at the residence, deputies found the front door had been kicked in and the residence had been ransacked.

Missing from the residence was the safe, a computer, camcorder, game system, and some medications.

At present time, it is unknown where the other items had been taken from.

Juvenile Charged with Burglary,
False Imprisonment Following
Abduction of Female Juvenile

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, October 5, 2009, at about 2:30 p.m., Sarasota Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 200 Block of Lakeview Dr. in Englewood on the report of an abduction of a 17-year-old female.

Deputies determined that Christopher Widmann, 17, confronted his former unnamed girlfriend, a juvenile, who was riding home from school with a friend. Widmann forcibly pulled the girl from the passenger side of the Jeep Liberty she was riding in and pushed her into his truck then fled the area. Deputies issued bulletins to neighboring agencies.

Approximately an hour later, Widmann’s truck was spotted by an SSO deputy northbound on I-75 near University Parkway. The vehicle was eventually stopped with the assistance of Manatee County deputies near the J.D. Young bridge.

The female was unharmed and Widmann was taken into protective custody as a reported runaway, pending further investigation.

During the subsequent investigation, it was determined that Widmann had entered the victim’s unoccupied home earlier in the day without permission and had taken a dog and other various items.

This act, along with the suspect’s admission that he took the victim by force because he needed to talk to her, resulted in Widmann facing charges of False Imprisonment and Burglary of an Unoccupied Dwelling.

Widmann was turned over by detectives to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

The victim was returned to her family and the dog was recovered with the help of the suspect’s mother.

SSO First in State to Deploy
New Mobile Rapid ID
Technology

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has become the first Sheriff’s office in the State of Florida to deploy PrintSearchMobile™, idSoftware’s mobile rapid identification and booking system using fingerprint biometric technology.

Using forfeiture funds, the Sheriff’s Office purchased 14 portable systems, which allow for quick, positive identification of individuals in local and state databases, and the FBI Repository for Individuals of Special Concern (RISC). Unlike most statewide fingerprint systems which must be done at the jail and can take hours to return results, this provides positive identification in a matter of seconds while still in the field.

"Positive identification is a critical requirement for the safety of our deputies," said Sheriff Tom Knight. "The sooner law enforcement knows who they are dealing with and what their criminal history might be, the more quickly they can make better, informed decisions."

The first night of use, deputies were able to positively identify a man as a previously deported convicted felon who had re-entered the United States. Another subject wouldn’t provide his correct name, but because of the system, we learned he had a warrant out of Manatee County.

"This community wants a progressive agency with the appropriate tools and latest technology available," Sheriff Knight said, "and the men and women of this office deserve nothing less."

By streamlining the identification process, this technology also makes each call more efficient and can minimize the amount of time a deputy spends at the jail should an arrest be made. Additionally, a book and release function can be utilized for all misdemeanors requiring only a Notice to Appear, eliminating the trip to jail altogether and keeping the deputy on the street.

Cops: Shoe-Cam Used
For Upskirt Video

LAKE MARY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A man was arrested on Friday on charges that he was videotaping up a girl's skirt with a camera located in his shoe, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Gustavo Barreto

The girl's mother told police she noticed a man following her daughter around the Target in Lake Mary Friday evening.

The mother said she watched Gustavo Barreto move his left foot toward her daughter whenever she moved. She said she noticed a small hole with a camera lens sticking out of it in Barreto's left shoe and ordered him to remove it.

Seminole County deputies arrived at the store, and the victim's mother gave them the camera and the wires.

Deputies observed that the SD card slot in the camera was empty. Barreto, 41, said he never had a memory card, but X-rays revealed small metal objects in Barreto's stomach and intestines.

Deputies said Gustavo told them he was trying to videotape up the victim's skirt, but this was his first time.

A computer and video camera were recovered from Barreto's house. Deputies said the computer had other videos taken under girls' skirts at various other locations.

Barreto was charged with video voyeurism on a 16-year-old and destroying evidence.

He was released from the Seminole County Jail on $3,000 bail.

He lives in a Sanford neighborhood located across the street from an elementary school, WKMG said.

OMCC Plans Operation to Target
Aggressive Drivers

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Colonel David Dees, Director of the Florida Department of Transportation’s Office of Motor Carrier Compliance (OMCC) announces participation in Operation Safe Driver, which will take place Sunday, October 18, 2009 through Saturday, October 24, 2009.

Last year, nearly 200,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes in Florida, many of which were the direct result of unsafe or aggressive driving practices by both passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle drivers. OMCC, in partnership with the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has planned an aggressive enforcement campaign to target these aggressive drivers.

"Operation Safe Driver" is a weeklong event where OMCC Officers will be out in full force performing driver safety inspections and targeting unsafe driving habits on Florida’s roadways.

"The emphasis of this week will be traffic enforcement," said Major Clayton Tyson, commander of Law Enforcement Operations for the Northern Region at OMCC.

Officers will utilize both marked and unmarked vehicles equipped with RADAR and Laser speed measurement devices to concentrate on motorists traveling at excessive speeds, unrestrained occupants, unsafe lane changes, and violations of Florida’s Move Over Law. Officers not on patrol will be conducting outreach presentations to motor carriers and distributing educational materials throughout the state.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Sarasota Detectives Arrest Man
For Series of Home Invasions
In Sarasota County

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Sheriff's Office Detectives have arrested Delmer Smith III, 38, who has recently lived in Bradenton, Venice and North Port.

Delmer Smith III

According to a press release from SSO, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, working in conjunction with the Sarasota Police Department, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Bradenton Police Department and Venice Police Department, has arrested 38-year-old Delmer Smith III, in connection with several violent home invasion robbery cases that have been under investigation since February.

On September 10th, the Venice Police Department arrested Delmer Smith on a federal warrant for Violation of Probation, following a violent bar fight that triggered the other investigations.

During the arrest, officers learned Smith was suspected of a North Port residential burglary. They also gained information about his prior arrest record, and that Smith was in possession of a number of laptop computers and other electronic devices. The Venice Police Department recovered these items and identified Smith to Task Force members as a possible suspect.

Detectives discovered two of the laptops belonged to the victims in the Bougainvillea Street and Carmilfra Drive attacks in Sarasota. These two cases were previously forensically linked by DNA evidence independently collected by the Sarasota Police Department and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement DNA lab in Ft. Myers. DNA evidence with the same genetic profile was recovered from the crime scene on Whispering Sands.

Investigators determined that a DNA sample was taken from Smith by the Federal Department of Corrections in Indiana. That sample was entered into CODIS and through a computerized comparison provided a match of Smith’s DNA to the three samples obtained from the previously listed crime scenes.

Smith has remained in the Pinellas County Jail since his arrest on September 10th.

Investigators have spent the last several weeks developing background information, interviewing associates, executing related search warrants, and examining additional evidence including phone and financial records. Additional items recovered from Smith’s possessions have linked him to the crimes, including items belonging to victims from the attack that occurred on Osage Terrace, in Sarasota.

As of this time, Smith has refused to cooperate with investigators.

In relation to these attacks, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office charged Smith with Three Counts of Home Invasion Robbery, Four Counts of False Imprisonment and Two Counts of Sexual Battery, for the attacks on Carmilfra Drive, Osage Terrace and Whispering Sands Drive. The Sarasota Police Department has charged Smith with One Count of Home Invasion Robbery and One Count of False Imprisonment for the attack on Bougainvillea Street.

Smith remains a prime suspect in the other unsolved cases and those investigations are continuing. Additional charges will be filed if and when they are appropriate.

Authorities say Smith stalked women, scouting their homes, and waited until they were alone before attacking. Some were tied up, gagged and beaten; others were sexually battered.

One woman in Sarasota was murdered and detectives are attempting to connect Smith to that case.

In Manatee County, detectives are investigating whether Smith was involved in the August 4th home invasion and slaying of Kathleen Briles in her Terra Ceia home, according to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, who spoke to NewsManatee on Monday.

Bristow said no home invasion robberies in Manatee County have been linked to Delmer Smith yet. Hindering Manatee County investigations is the lack of fingerprint or other identifying evidence at the crime scenes, Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube said..

In Sarasota County, anyone with information about Delmer Smith is encouraged to call the Sarasota Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Unit at 941-861-4900 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

In Manatee County, 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.

"Werewolf" Blamed for Woman
Cutting Boyfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Here's an unusual explanation: A woman blamed a werewolf for cutting her boyfriend.

Deanna M. Cornelius

According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, on Saturday, October 3, 2009, at about 7 p.m., Deanna M. Cornelius, 18, of 3214 54th Drive East, Bradenton, had an argument with her boyfriend, Taylor Colwell.

The two people live together as boyfriend and girlfriend, the report said.

The argument turned physical when Deanna used a butcher knife to cut the left forearm of the Colwell, causing a deep 3-inch laceration.

Post-Miranda, Deanna said "a werewolf took over her body and cut her boyfriend."

Deanna was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery.

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

No word on what became of the alleged werewolf.

Man Threatens Woman; Taser
Deployed, Man Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Robert Morganstern, 24, of 3810 5th Street East, Bradenton.

Robert Morganstern

According to the arrest report, Robert Morganstern, and the victim, Michelle Hall, reside together at the above location.

On Monday, October 5, 2009, at about 1:30, p.m., both Michelle and Robert were engaged in a verbal argument. The argument became violent when Robert intentionally threw a lighter at Michelle's head.

Michelle fled the apartment fearing she was going to be battered. Robert made threats he was going to stab her with a knife and is known to carry a pocket knife.

During the investigation, Deputy Young and Ambriati were positioned near the front door of the apartment. Deputy Kiernan and and another deputy were parked a few doors down discussing the incident.

A short time later, Robert made an abrupt exit from the apartment and started to approach his vehicle.

Deputy Ambriati and Deputy Young ordered Robert to stop. Robert did not comply and tried to enter his vehicle.

Deputy Young and Deputy Ambriati took Robert to the ground. Deputy Kiernan joined and assisted with the arrest.

Deputy Kiernan. fearing Deputy Young and Deputy Ambriati were losing control of Robert, deployed his Taser. The probes struck the defendant in the center of his back, gaining full control of Robert. The probes were removed and photos of Robert were taken.

He was transported to the Manatee County Jail without further incident.

Robert was charged with Domestic Assault and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

Man Arrested for Burglary,
Theft of $3,000 in Items

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Daniel Ryan Rossi, 21, of 3601 51st Street Court West, Bradenton.

Daniel Ryan Rossi

According to the arrest report, on September 3, 2009, at about noon, Rossi entered a residence in the 5300 block of 89th Street West, Bradenton with two accomplices.

They allegedly stole a Nintendo Wii game system, a Nintendo Wii game, a Canon Rebel digital camera and a Gateway laptop computer.

The items were valued at about $3,000, the report said.

Rossi then pawned the items on the same day as the burglary.

The victim later positively identified the items as those that were stolen from him and warrants were issued for Rossi.

A deputy located Rossi on Saturday, October 2, 2009, in the 5300 block of 36th Avenue Drive West and arrested him.

He was charged with Burglary, two counts of Dealing in Stolen Property and two counts of Defrauding a Pawn Broker.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $40,000.

Armed Robbery of MCC Student
Reported on Monday at Noon

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Monday, October 5, 2009, at about 12:20 p.m., in the 5600 block of 29th Street West, Bradenton.

The report from the sheriff's office said Timothy Dixon, 27, of the 5500 block of 25th Street West, Bradenton, was walking home from classes at the State College of Florida (MCC).

While walking in the 5600 block of 29th Street West, Dixon was approached by a gold SUV occupied by 3 Black males, all wearing red bandanas.

Two of the Black males exited the SUV. One was armed with an unknown type firearm and took Dixon's backpack.

They also went into Dixon's front pockets, removing his keys and cigarettes. They gave Dixon his keys back, then fled the scene in the SUV.

The robbers were not located by deputies.

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

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

White Male Slashed, Robbed
By Lone Black male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man suffered a knife wound and was robbed on Monday, October 5, 2009, at around 3:45-5:30 a.m., in the 5700 block of 15th Street East, Bradenton.

According to the victim, David N. Walker, 33, he was walking to Mike's Mini Mart when an unknown Black male approached the victim from behind and told the victim to give it up.

The Black male suspect knocked the victim to the ground and stabbed the victim in the left arm.

The victim sustained a one inch laceration on the left forearm.

The suspect stole a total of $364 in cash from the victim.

The suspect fled in an unknown direction.

The victim was unable to describe the suspect or direction of travel. The victim was not consistent about the sequence of events and did not recall the exact time the incident occurred.

The crime scene was not located by deputies.

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

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

$35,000+ Attempted Theft of
RV, Boat Motors at Palmetto
Storage Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a break-in and attempted theft at Jason's Mini-Storage, 5310 U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto, overnight between Sunday, October 4, 2009, and Monday, October 5, 2009.

The manager of Jason's Mini Storage called the sheriff's office and reported that that sometime during the night of 10-4/5, unknown persons attempted to steal a 1977 motor home by hot wiring it and then crashed the security gate with it.

Part of the torn down gate got hung up under the motor home, tearing the under carriage.

Inside the RV were three boat motors, two 200 hp and one 90 hp, taken off three stored boats by cutting the wires and removing hardware.

A cut in the fence was located parallel to US 41.

The scene was processed and photographed and there were no witnesses.

A surveillance camera is pointed towards the exit gate, but it was not operational.

Combined value of the boat motors is approximately $35,000 and damage to the RV and gate appears to be several thousand dollars.

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.

Man's Gold Bracelet Stolen in
Sudden Snatching Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man had his bracelet snatched from him on Sunday, October 4, 2009, at about 9 p.m. in front of a local motel, in Bradenton.

The report said Jesuraj Mookiah, 37, was walking along the 3100 block of 14th Street West, in Bradenton, when he was approached by an acquaintance Mookiah knows from the neighborhood.

As they were talking, an unknown Black male approached Mookiah from the back and snatched a gold bracelet off Mookiah’s right wrist.

The unknown Black male and the acquaintance fled south from the location.

A passerby picked up Mookaih and they located the unknown suspect and the acquaintance walking in the 3400 block of 14th Street West.

As Mookiah went to approach them, they fled east on 34th Avenue in between houses and weren’t seen again.

The robber was described as a Black male, 34-36 years of age, 6' tall, 180 pounds, last seen wearing a black shirt, unknown pants or shoes, short hair, with a muscular build.

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

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

Manatee, Palmetto, Bradenton
Officials to Address Crime in
Abandoned Homes, Properties

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida -- Manatee County Neighborhood Services is inviting county and municipal law enforcement, code enforcement and nuisance abatement offices to take part in a community safety and neighborhood crime prevention meeting Oct. 15.

Working with organizational representatives from the cities of Palmetto and Bradenton, Manatee County Neighborhood Services Director Cheri Coryea hopes the group will form a new plan to combat suspicious activity in and around abandoned homes and properties which can be hot spots for criminal activity.

"The meeting is intended to identify existing problems, with subsequent meetings set to prioritize the issues from a law and code enforcement perspective, formulize strategies and coordinate the information with the other organizations that are also addressing the crime problem," Coryea said. "We recognize, and fully support what other government offices, community organizations and agencies are doing throughout the community to address this problem. It is our intention to jointly work with them and assist in coordinating all of our findings and recommendations with them."

The meeting has been in the works since the summer, but officials doubled their efforts to make it happen after a spate of community violence that left two local teens dead.

“Because of the recent shooting tragedies, it is very important that we join together and move forward with such an undertaking to address neighborhood safety,” said Coryea.

The meeting will be held at 9 a.m., Oct. 15 in room 502 of Manatee County Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.

For more information, call Coryea at (941)749-3029 or e-mail her at cheri.coryea@mymanatee.org. For more information on Manatee County Government, visit www.mymanatee.org.

Charlotte County Reports
Dozen DUI Arrests

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office reports a dozen DUI arrests over the past weekend.

CCSO deputies arrested nine, PGPD had two, and FHP had one.

One involved a two vehicle crash with injuries, another a hit and run accident, and one involved speeding at 80 mph. Two of those arrested had breathalyzer tests in the .290 plus range; or just short of four times over the legal limit.

Five of those arrested are from Port Charlotte, four from Englewood, and three from Punta Gorda; eight of those were men, four were women.

CCSO deputies will continue the crackdown on drunk or drug impaired drivers on Charlotte County roadways.

2 Killed, 1 Tortured In
Drug-Related Invasion

POINCIANA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported authorities in Polk County on Monday continue to search for a group of men who executed two people and tortured and shot a third person inside a home where a 3-year-old girl was found sleeping under a slain woman.

The incident occurred early Sunday morning in the 600 block of Dunlin Lane in Poinciana.

According to a Polk County Sheriff's Office investigation, at least five males forced their way into the home shortly after midnight and told 29-year-old Wilkins Merilan, "If you're going to deal dope, you're going to deal for us."

Merilan, who is the child's father, was tortured and shot twice but survived the attack.

Polk County sheriff's deputies said the child was found unharmed and asleep under the body of 26-year-old Tamiqa Taylor.

Merilan's roommate, Dustin Freeman, 23, was also slain, deputies said.

"The two victims were executed," Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said. "We need the community's help to identify these suspects."

The child's mother was not at the home during the incident, WKMG said.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS.

Governor Crist Proclaims
Register Your Emergency
Contact Information Week

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] – Governor Charlie Crist has proclaimed Oct. 4-10 as Register Your Emergency Contact Information (ECI) Week in Florida.

ECI is an award-winning program operated by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and allows Florida driver license and identification card holders to voluntarily register their emergency contact information. The information can then be accessed only by law enforcement officers to find designated contacts in the case of an emergency. To date, more than 2.6 million Floridians have enrolled in the ECI program.

The concept for the ECI program came about after the tragic death of Tiffiany Olson who died in a motorcycle crash in 2005. Law enforcement did not have any contact information to timely notify her mother Christine Olson of the crash which led to her daughter’s death. Christine Olson founded TIFF’s (To Inform Families First) Initiative, and with the help of her local lawmaker, Representative Bill Galvano, brought an idea to the Department to allow people to register and law enforcement to access emergency contacts so that other loved ones might not have to suffer as she did.

As a part of this special week, Christine Olson and Department representatives will be joined by Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp to promote the program as he throws out the first pitch at the final home game of the Tampa Bay Rays this Sunday, Oct. 4.

“ECI is a great example of turning tragedy into triumph, and TIFF’s Initiative continues to play an integral role in our efforts to educate Floridians about this important service,” said new DHSMV Executive Director Julie L. Jones. “The recognition provided by Governor Crist and Lt. Governor Kottkamp further illustrates their commitment to all aspects of public safety, and I encourage each Florida driver license and ID card holder to log onto www.flhsmv.gov/eci today to register their emergency contacts. It takes only a minute to give your loved ones peace of mind.”

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov.

You can register your Emergency Contact Information through the above link.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Murder, Suicide, a Wounded Man;
Who Shot Who Remain Questions
In County's 27th Homicide of 2009

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- There are many unanswered questions in the latest Manatee County murder and Sheriff's Detectives can't, or won't, yet answer many of them.

Lamont Rashad Yarn

At approximately 11:45 p.m. on Thursday, October 1, 2009, deputies responded to a shooting incident at 3909 3rd Ave. Dr. E., Palmetto.

When deputies arrived, they discovered Patricia White, 43, dead from a gunshot. Her son, Clarence J. ("C.J.") White, 22, was also dead by a gunshot and another man, Lamont Rashad Yarn, 19, suffering from a gunshot wound.

Yarn was transported to a hospital in critical condition but at this time he is expected to live.

Detectives believe Patricia White was shot by one of two suspects, Yarn and another man, who entered the residence shouting and demanding a person by name. That name has not been released by detectives.

"It appears that Clarence White died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after his mother was shot," the sheriff's report said.

Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, told NewsManatee witnesses at the scene told detectives Clarence White had shot himself.

There were four other subjects (3 adult males and 1 adult female) in the residence at the time of the shooting. Those witnesses told detectives that two Black males entered the residence and began yelling and then started shooting.

Detectives do not believe this was a random incident. One Tampa area TV station reported detectives believe the incident is drug-related, but no information to that effect has been released by the sheriff's office in press releases.

Another Tampa area TV station reported someone shot through a wall from another room into the living room, but that has not been confirmed as yet.

For now, Lamont Yarn, still in the hospital, has been charged with Murder.

Patricia's boyfriend, whose name has not been released either, was arrested for Violation of Probation.

Questions that remain are: Whose bullet shot Patricia White to death? Whose bullet shot Clarence White to death; was it his or someone else's? And whose bullet shot Lamont Yarn?

Ballistics tests on the bullets, and possibly a match to guns collected by detectives on scene, may reveal the answers to those questions.

Also remaining outstanding is: Who is the other man who barged into the home with Yarn, and where is he now? And why, for certain, were the invaders there in the first place?

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.

This latest homicide is the 27th in Manatee County overall in 2009. There were previously 21 murders in Manatee County and 5 in the City of Bradenton.

Bradenton Cops Search for Man
Wanted for Attempted Murder

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- According to Bradenton Police Department Dep. Police Chief J.J. Lewis, on Thursday, October 1, 2009, at about 2 p.m., Bradenton Police officers responded to a reported shooting in the 2000 block of 5th Street West.

Kenye D. Cooper

Officers located an adult victim who had been shot at but not struck by bullets or injured.

Investigation revealed that the victim and the suspect, identified as Kenye D. Cooper, 20, of Manatee County, are acquaintances however do not get along with one another.

The victim reported that Cooper approached him holding a semi-automatic handgun. The victim, fearing he was going to be killed, began to run.

Cooper fired three shots at the victim as the victim fled. The victim was able to run away without being shot.

Cooper was last seen leaving the scene in a 2001 White Cadillac 4-door sedan with a Florida tag of C407FV.

Detectives are currently searching for Cooper and have obtained an arrest warrant for the charge of Attempted Murder.

Cooper should be considered armed and dangerous and if seen, do not approach him. Contact your local police agency immediately.

Anyone having information with regard to the whereabouts Kenye D. Cooper or this incident are asked to call Bradenton Police detective Kevin Bunch at 941-932-9380 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Woman Arrested for Neglect
Of Elderly Mother, 76

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Patricia K. Wilke, 40, of 9 Apple Avenue, Bradenton.

Patricia K. Wilke

Several months ago, Patricia moved into her mother's home for the sole purpose of becoming her care giver. Her mother, Kathleen, is 76 years old and needed assistance with every day life. During this time, Patricia was not working or receiving any money other than Kathleen's social security checks.

According to Patricia, she would cook and clean, along with assisting her mother in and out of bed and transporting her to and from doctor's appointments.

At some point, Patricia's son moved into the home off and on, and was also living off of Kathleen's money while he was there.

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, at about 5:15 p.m., EMS personnel responded to 9 Apple Avenue and found Wilke's mother, Kathleen, covered in her own feces.

Kathleen was not completely coherent and was transported to the hospital.

According to hospital staff reports to Deputy Lidell, Kathleen's mucous membranes were completely dry, she had a rash covering most of her body and had open bleeding sores, dry feces on her and unkept finger and toe nails with brown dirt under them.

Dep. Lidell was told that Kathleen had kidney failure and may not have had food or water for 1-2 weeks.

Det. Dickerman responded to the home and observed filthy conditions in Kathleen's bedroom and no sign of food or water. It appeared as if someone had attempted to clean up after Kathleen was taken to the hospital. Patricia told Det. Dickerman she wasn't sure when Kathleen had something to drink and that Kathleen had not eaten in about a week.

Patricia was arrested and charged with Neglect of an elderly person.

Kathleen remains in the hospital under a doctor's care for possible renal (kidney) failure.

Man Arrested for Choking
Pregnant Wife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brian Keith Tate, 22, of 3521 58th Place East, in Ellenton.

Brian Keith Tate

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, at about 12:15 p.m., Tate arrived home upset with his wife, Jessica.

Jessica is 9 months pregnant with their second child, the report said.

Tate started swearing and throwing things around the apartment. He then pushed her multiple times.

At one point he choked Jessica, making it very difficult for her to breathe.

Upon the arrival of a deputy, he observed Brian and Jessica on the floor. Jessica was crying hysterically and holding her belly.

EMS responded to the scene and cleared Jessica medically.

Due to her advanced pregnancy, Jessica's face and neck area and joint areas were swollen. The deputy was unable to observe any injuries on her.

However, he did observe things thrown all over the apartment.

Brian admitted to throwing things around, swearing and pushing Jessica in the heat of the moment, but denied choking her.

Brian was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery on a Pregnant woman and Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

Two Youths Wounded in
Early Sunday Shooting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two young men were wounded on Sunday, at about 12:45 a.m., when they were shot in the 2100 block of U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto, according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

The report said Joshua Houston, Jr., 18, of Palmetto, and Daniel Morris, 20, of Bradenton, were walking northbound on US 41 in the 2100 block.

The suspects, two unknown females and three unknown males, drove by the victims northbound in a dark-colored SUV.

Morris exchanged words with the suspects as they drove past.

The suspects turned around and parked the SUV in the median of US 41.

The male suspects exited the SUV and started arguing with the victims.

A Hispanic male suspect produced a gun and fired several times.

Houston was shot in the leg and abdomen. Morris was shot in the right arm.

The suspects then fled the scene presumably in the suspect vehicle.

Houston was transported to Bayfront Medical Center and his condition is stable, with injuries that are not life-threatening.

Morris has a gunshot wound to his arm that is also not life-threatening.

Descriptions of the suspects were vague, identifying two of the males as being in their teens, of average height and weight.

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.

Motorist Rear-Ends Deputy's
Cruiser At Traffic Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a motorist crashed into the rear of a deputy's cruiser as the deputy was conducting a traffic stop on another motorist.

According to a report from the sheriff's office, on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., Deputy Huff conducted a traffic stop in the northbound lanes of U.S. 301 at the 4900 block.

Dep. Huff was parked on the left shoulder with his emergency lights activated.

As he exited his vehicle to re-approach the violator's vehicle, his patrol car was struck from behind.

This action caused his vehicle to come into contact with the violator's vehicle.

The at-fault driver, Harvey Buchanan, apparently became confused as he approached the patrol vehicle and swerved into the right rear of Dep. Huff's cruiser.

Estimated damage to the cruiser is about $10,000.

Buchanan's vehicle is believed to be totaled as well.

Buchanan suffered minor injuries and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

There was no indication in the report as to whether Buchanan was cited in the crash.

Detectives Investigate Death
Of Elderly Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of Hattie Yarn, 99, of 1710 17th Avenue Drive East, Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009, at about 5:15 p.m., 99-year-old Hattie Yarn was left unattended in her bedroom for a few minutes.

When a family member returned to the bedroom, Ms. Yarn was found to be unresponsive.

911 was called, and CPR was initiated by the family.

Ms. Yarn could not be revived, and was pronounced dead by EMS.

Bradenton Officer to Receive
Officer of the Month Award

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Officer Danelle DeMilly has been selected to receive the Officer of the Month award for the month of October 2009.

Above, BPD Officer Danelle DeMilly

Officer DeMilly was nominated by District I, Zone 2/3 Commander, Lieutenant Darrell Akemon for going above and beyond her efforts to improve the quality of life for residents of her patrol zone.

Officer DeMilly has assisted in several special detail operations in the past month and has help make her zone area safer and a better place to live.

She initiated and organized an abandoned vehicle sweep with the help of Code Enforcement and was able to identify and tag over 60 vehicles in the District One area.

She also assisted an undercover officer with a prostitution sting in which she went undercover.

"She is always trying to improve the living condition inside her zone," Lt. Akemon said.

Officer DeMilly has served with the Bradenton Police Department since 2004.

She is currently assigned to Patrol Operations.

Undercover Detectives Arrest
Roxicodone Drug Dealer

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Undercover detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit arrested Mautz James Sanders, 18, of Beacon Dr., Port Charlotte late Friday, October 2, 2009, following a sale of Roxicodone pills.

Mautz James Sanders

Sanders asked to be picked up on Conway Blvd. A detective located him and he got into the detective's unmarked vehicle.

Once the exchange of the pills for cash was made, other detectives started to move in.

Sanders opened the door and fled, only to be tackled by two detectives with one detective receiving a minor injury.

Sanders was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held on no bond. This is his fifth arrest with eight records.

If you have information about illegal drug activity in Charlotte County, please call the CCSO Narcotics Unit at 941-575-2157, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Charlotte Sheriff Releases Name
of Man Found Dead Wednesday

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes detectives released the name of the man whose body was found in the Rotonda Lakes area Wednesday morning.

Nathanael Alexander Rother, deceased

The Medical Examiner positively identified the man as Nathanael Alexander Rother, 27, of 1584 Keyway Ct., Englewood (Sarasota County side).

MCU detectives said Rother's cause of death has not been determined and are awaiting the Medical Examiner to rule once toxicology tests are complete, which could take several weeks.

The case will remain open at this time.

Rother’s sister of Gaithersburg, Maryland, filed the missing person’s report Tuesday with CCSO saying her brother had not been heard from since Sep. 17.

A CCSO ground and air search of the area where he might have been seen last did find Rother’s decomposed body under very heavy peppertree brush about 30-40 feet off Albatross Rd. near Boundary Blvd.

300-Pound Man Sought in
Orlando Stabbing Death

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man was stabbed and killed in Orange County Thursday night in a fight with a man who is wanted by authorities, deputies said.

Walter Lee Ingram

Glenn Dilworth was stabbed at about 8:05 p.m. in the 2800 block of Mayer Street in Orlando.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, there was a dispute between two men earlier in the day that led to a physical altercation. During the fight, Dilworth was stabbed and critically injured, deputies said.

Dilworth was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center and was later pronounced dead.

Deputies said they are searching Walter Lee Ingram, 54, who was identified as a person of interest in the stabbing. Ingram is a black man, about 6 feet tall and 300 pounds, WKMG said.

He is believed to have run from the area with a woman following the altercation, deputies said.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Ingram is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff's Office or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS.

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