Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 10/17/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 10/17/2009

Man Already in Jail Charged with
Murder in Deadly Shooting in
September; 25th Murder of 2009

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Antwon Stuckey, 21, in connection with the September 17, 2009, fatal shooting of Julius Brown at 618 20th Lane E., Palmetto. Stuckey is charged with Murder and Armed Burglary. Stuckey was arrested shortly after the shooting on an unrelated charge of Armed Robbery and has been in the Manatee County Jail since September 17th.

Antwon Stuckey

Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives said Stuckey, of the 500 block of 21st Street, Palmetto, was the "prime suspect" in the murder of Julius Lee Brown, 21, on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2009, at about 7 a.m., at Highlands Apartments, 618 20th Lane East, Palmetto, across the street from the address where Stuckey was arrested.

According to information on the armed robbery obtained by NewsManatee, on July 13, 2009, at about 12:15 a.m., Stuckey and the victim, Kalvin Williams, 22, were hanging out in a vehicle in the back seat together, with two woman in the front seat, at 2610 5th Avenue East, Palmetto.

The victim had provided some "weed" (marijuana) for the four of them and they were smoking some of it.

The suspect, Stuckey, got out of the car, a silver Dodge Neon, walked around the rear of the vehicle to the rear driver's side, opened the door and pointed what Williams described as a .45 caliber handgun at Williams' face/head. Stuckey demanded that Williams get out of the car and get on his knees; Williams did.

Stuckey forced Williams lower on the ground, put him in a choke hold, went through Williams' pockets, and removed the remainder of the "weed" and $487.

The woman fled in the vehicle after encouraging Stuckey to stop. Stuckey ran away in an unknown direction. Williams remained on the ground, crawled to some bushes, hid momentarily, then called 911. Williams claimed he was not injured, and refused an EMS response.

Stuckey was not located at the time and a warrant for his arrest was later issued.

Then, on Thursday, Sept. 17, at 7:10 a.m., an unidentified person, now believed to be Stuckey, entered Julius Brown's grandmother's apartment and, according to a 15-year-old boy inside, killed Brown while he slept, then demanded money from the boy or he would be killed, too. After a struggle with the boy, the killer fled the apartment.

The killer was described as a Black male, about 5'6-5'8" tall, weighing 15-160 pounds, and was wearing a black T-shirt and ski mask.

Detectives, acting on information or evidence they have not yet disclosed, later that day arrested Stuckey on the unrelated Armed Robbery charge. Stuckey matched the killer's description.

Stuckey was questioned about the killing, but was not charged with it at that time.

Then, in a search warrant of Stuckey's residence signed by the same judge, detectives found two handguns, a rifle and ammunition. The handguns were to be tested to see if they are possibly the murder weapon.

Julius Brown was Manatee County's 25th Murder overall in the county. At that time, there were 21 murder in unincorporated Manatee County and 4 in the City of Bradenton. There are now 22 murders overall in unincorporated Manatee County and 5 in the City of Bradenton, for a total of 27.

Palmetto Police Seek Public's Help
Identifying Bank ATM Attempted
Robbery Suspect

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying an individual involved in an attempted robbery last Thursday afternoon, Oct. 8, 2009.

The incident occurred at the Bank of America ATM machine, 700 8th Avenue West, in Palmetto.

At about 5:15 p.m., a female Palmetto resident was using the ATM machine located near the front entrance of the bank.

She saw a medium to dark-skinned man standing behind her. He was wearing a black muscle shirt and black pants, was approximately 5' 06" tall, and weighed about 180 pounds. The man had a noticeable tattoo on his left arm.

As the woman continued her business, she noticed that the man walked up directly behind her.

When the woman concluded her business and started to walk away, the man grabbed her by the arm.

She screamed, struggled, and managed to break away.

Her assailant ran off in an unknown direction.

The woman was unhurt.

Today, Palmetto detectives received stills from the bank surveillance camera (see above).

Persons with any information about this incident are urged to contact Detective Chris Cavazos at 941- 723-4587, ext. 124, 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 Loses Temper, Strikes
Child, 22-Months-Old; Man
Wanted to Play "Madden
Football" With Friends

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Nathan S. Hurst, 19, of 4923 20th Street East, Bradenton.

Nathan S. Hurst

The arrest report said Hurst and the mother of an unnamed 22-month-old boy are boyfriend and girlfriend and have been so for several months. During this time, Hurst has assumed the father role for the boy.

On Monday, Oct. 12, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., the boy would not go to sleep and kept coming out of his room. Hurst went into the boy's room on several occasions and spanked the child, according to the boy's mother, the report said.

The mother also claimed that Hurst has a bad temper and anger issues.

Hurst struck the boy in the face, with an open hand, after losing his temper, according to the report.

The boy received a hand-shaped bruise to the left cheek and eye area of his face, including his eye lid. Other bruises were observed on the boy's lower buttocks and leg region, detectives said.

In an interview with detectives, Hurst admitted that he lost control and hit the boy in the face, but claimed it was an accident. He went on to explain that he and the boy had been fighting all day and he is tired of disciplining the child.

He admitted that he was angry and tired of fighting, and that "his friends were over and they just wanted to play Madden Football on the Playstation III."

Hurst was arrested and charged with Child Abuse. The charges will be amended if further evidence of abuse is discovered during an upcoming forensic examination, the report said.

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

Man, 60, Back on Streets After
Rape of Autistic Teen Girl, 18

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's website, Michael S. Taylor, 60, of 3710 23rd Avenue West, Bradenton, has been released from the Manatee County Jail after posting a $40,000 bail bond on Tuesday, October 13, 2009. It is a supervised release, according to Manatee County court records.

Michael S. Taylor

According to an arrest report from the Bradenton Police Department, Taylor was arrested on Sept. 17, 2009, and charged with Sexual Battery of an 18-year-old girl who is mentally challenged.

The incident occurred on or about July 31, 2009, at Taylor's residence.

An unnamed female victim was 18 years old at the time of the incident. However, the victim suffers from Asperger's Disorder, a variant of Autistic Disorders. "The victim, even though an 'adult,' mentally is years behind," the report said.

In Asperger's Disorder, affected individuals are characterized by social isolation and eccentric behavior in childhood. There are impairments in two-sided social interaction and non-verbal communication. Though grammatical, their speech may sound peculiar due to abnormalities of inflection and a repetitive pattern, the Asperger's Disorders website said.

The victim had been visiting with Taylor during the last week of July of 2009. On the last night at Taylor's residence, Taylor got into bed with the victim.

The victim said Taylor was "going to help her fall asleep."

Taylor then removed the victim's panties, forced her legs apart and inserted his penis into the victim's vagina, the report said. The victim said that the act lasted "5 minutes or more."

The victim reported the incident on August 12, 2009.

At the time of his arrest, Taylor asked for an attorney; no interview was conducted by Bradenton Police Detectives.

The incident was being reviewed by the State Attorney's Office, according to Bradenton Deputy Police Chief William Tokajer.

Taylor is set to appear in court for an arraignment on October 23, 2009.

Man Arrested for Allowing
Juveniles to Drink Beer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Renaldo Guevara, 30, of 5310 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Reynaldo Guevara

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009, at about 12:45 a.m., a deputy was called to the pool area of the Garden Walk Apartments for a report of people being loud and drinking.

When the deputy arrive, he observed Guevara and three other adults in the pool area. He also observed an open 12-pack of Bud Light beer and open beer cans on the ground right next to a juvenile boy, 17. He also observed the boy put a beer can down on the ground right next to the case of beer.

Guevara admitted to buying the beer and allowing the boy to drink it.

Guevara was arrested and charged with Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

He later posted a $1,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Holmes Beach Police Arrest
Man in Connection with Five
Vehicle Burglaries

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- Holmes Beach Police have arrested Mark S. Krauss, 19, of 304 58th Street, in Holmes Beach.

Mark S. Krauss

Police say Krauss is connected to four vehicle burglaries in the beach city.

According to the arrest reports, on Sept. 27, 2009, Krauss allegedly entered a vehicle in the 3800 block of Eastbay Drive, Holmes Beach, and removed a Garmin GPS unit, a radar detector and $8 in cash. The GPS unit was later located at Pawn Star, 4540 14th Street West, Bradenton. The GPS unit was valued at $300. Krauss was charged with Burglary and Grand Theft in that incident.

On Oct. 13, 2009, Krauss entered a vehicle that was unlocked in the 500 block of 69th Street, in Holmes Beach. He allegedly removed a $1 bill that was located in the ash tray. He was charged with Burglary and Petit Theft in that incident.

On Oct. 13, 2009, Krauss entered two vehicles in the 500 block of 68th Street, Holmes Beach. Nothing was taken from either vehicle. Krauss was charged with Burglary for each of those two incidents.

Krauss has allegedly admitted to all four burglaries.

Apparently, according to the sheriff's website, there was another burglary for which Krauss was also charged.

Krauss was arrested on Oct. 14, 2009, and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $51,240.

Holmes Beach Detective Steve Wolff was the arresting officer.

Vehicle Burglary Trend in
Bayshore Gardens Area

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported multiple vehicle burglaries in the Bayshore Gardens area of Manatee County, specifically in the 6000 block of Columbia Drive and 2500 block of Rose Avenue.

The report said in the late evening to early morning hours from Wednesday, Oct. 14th to Thursday, Oct. 15th, several vehicles in the area of the above locations were burglarized.

All the vehicles were left unlocked giving unknown suspects easy access to the items taken.

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

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

Sarasota Police Report Bank
Robbery on Thursday

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department is investigating a bank robbery that occurred at the Liberty Savings Bank located at 1950 South Tamiami Trail.

On Thursday, October 15, 2009, at 9:52 a.m., the man pictured above entered the bank armed with a handgun. He presented a bank bag and told the teller to fill it.

He left the bank and headed west. The robber is described as approximately 6 feet tall, weighing about 195 pounds, wearing a yellow striped T-shirt, khaki cargo shorts and tennis shoes.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the above individual should contact the Public Safety Communications Center at 316-1199 or 316-1201.

Man, Woman Arrested by SSO for
Operating a Pot Grow House

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Alfredo Zafra, 36, and Tonia Cruz, 40, of 1619 Oakland Road, North Port, for Cultivation of Cannabis and Maintaining a Residence for the Purpose of Manufacturing a Controlled Substance.

Above, L to R, Alfredo Zafra and Tonia Cruz

On October 14, 2009, detectives with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force observed the couple leaving their home, which had been under investigation for several weeks.

Detectives initiated a vehicle stop and with the assistance of K-9 units, located and seized $20,500 in cash from the trunk of the rental vehicle they were driving.

A search warrant executed at the home revealed it was primarily used for the cultivation of marijuana.

One of the rooms had signs of a recent harvest and another contained 71 growing plants along with an extensive amount of related equipment.

The Sheriff’s Office will file for forfeiture of the seized cash.

Sarasota County Fire Department
Trains for Mass Destruction,
Pandemics

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County firefighters are receiving simulated training for mass destructions and pandemics during the week of Oct. 12-16. The training takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fire Station 5, 400 N. Beneva Road, Sarasota.

The training is provided by the Emergency Medicine Learning and Resource Center, which received a grant to train fire and emergency service providers throughout Florida. Using a mobile simulation lab, the company provides five scenarios during the day-long training and the firefighters are videotaped during the simulation.

“These simulations range from small pox and the H1N1 virus to terrorism and mass destruction scenarios,” said Capt. Donnie McBrayer, the fire department training captain. “The videotape then allows them to view themselves in the various simulations and see how they performed.”

The Emergency Medicine Learning and Resource Center is a nonprofit organization based in Orlando dedicated to the promotion of public health by providing lifesaving education for first responders. The organization’s Mobile Simulation Lab is a 45-foot mobile coach that contains a full ambulance bay and emergency department for the training simulations.

3 Arrested on 17 Charges in
Charlotte Drug Raid

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives raided a Rotonda West home Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009, at 7:45 a.m. and arrested three people on 17 charges.

Arrested were Richard Adelard Desjardins, 46, and Sarah Elizabeth Dietz, 48, who both lived in the home where the search warrant was served at 594 Rotonda Circle. The other person was Susan Kimberly Lewis, 53, 300 W. Rotonda Blvd.

When detectives searched the home, they found a total of 10 grams of Crack Cocaine in four locations, one gram of Marijuana, Roxicodone, Xanax and Soma pills, and Cocaine residue on three baggies, brillo, a suitcase with numerous baggies, and a plate. Also found were various drug paraphernalia: two crack pipes, two plastic bottles converted to smoking devices, pushrods, and roach clip.

Detectives found a loaded .38 caliber revolver in Desjardin’s bedroom with five bullets in it, and one spent bullet.

They were transported to the Charlotte County Jail and all three charged with Possession of Cocaine, Xanax and Drug Paraphernalia. Lewis was additionally charged with Possession of Soma. Desjardins and Dietz were also was charged with Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, and Desjardins charged with Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Florida Felon. Dietz and Lewis both bonded out of jail Wednesday while Desjardins remains in custody; this is his 14th booking into the County Jail with 32 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).

Man Finds Burglars In Home,
Opens Fire, Deputies Say

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man who works as an ice cream truck driver shot and killed a burglar when he returned to his Orange County home and found two people inside, deputies said.

The fatal shooting occurred Tuesday at 10:40 p.m. on Rubens Court near Hiawassee and Clarcona Ocoee roads.

According to Orange County sheriff's deputies, Anthony Julian returned home and realized his house was being burglarized, so he grabbed his gun and went to the front door. A person inside opened and closed the door, so Julian opened his garage door and saw two men run back into the home.

A confrontation ensued, and Julian shot one of the culprits, deputies said.

Julian said he did not mean to kill the man, he just wanted to protect himself and his belongings.

Julian then called 911 to report the incident, deputies said.

The second burglary suspect, who was also shot, was found in the driveway of a nearby home, Orange County sheriff's deputies said. He was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center, but his condition was not known.

Julian was not injured and will likely not face charges because he has a concealed weapons permit, police said.

An investigation is ongoing.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Violent Crimes Task Force Sgt.:
Sheriff's Deputies Seek Man
In Shooting of Man, 61

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to a media release from Sgt. Kevin Pease, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF), warrants have been obtained for the arrest of Derrick K. Scott, 34, wanted in the shooting of a 61-year-old man Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m., in the 900 block of 59th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Derrick K. Scott
(Prior mug shot from 2008)

According to the media release, Jennifer Washington was visiting friends at a residence in the 900 block of 59th Avenue Drive East when her husband, Derrick Scott, arrived in a vehicle.

Scott yelled at Washington and threatened to harm her.

Scott then left the area in a white SUV.

John Koernke, 61, fearing for Washington's safety, drove her to another location and later returned.

Scott returned a short time later and fired several times from an unknown type handgun striking Koernke in the right thigh.

Scott then fled the area.

Koernke was taken to Bayfront Medical Center.

Arrest Warrants for Aggravated Battery with a Firearm and Discharge of a Firearm within 1000 feet of Another Person were obtained for Scott but his whereabouts is unknown at this time.

Anyone with any information about Derrick Scott's whereabouts 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.

Second Man Arrested in Murder
Of Palmetto Mother in October

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested a second suspect in connection with the October 1, 2009, fatal shooting at 3909 3rd Ave. Dr. E., Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Bryan Yarn and Lamont Yarn

Bryan Yarn, 21, of Bradenton, was arrested on warrants last night for Murder and Armed Burglary and is being held with no bond at the Manatee County Jail.

Bryan Yarn’s brother, Lamont Yarn, was charged with Murder and Armed Burglary on October 2nd.

When deputies arrived, they discovered a male and female dead and another male, Lamont Yarn, suffering from a gunshot wound.

The deceased subjects were identified as Patricia White, 43, and her son, Clarence J. White, 22, both of the above address.

Clarence White died from a self inflicted gunshot wound after his mother was shot.

Detectives believe a third suspect entered the residence with the Yarn brothers while a fourth suspect may have remained outside.

The investigation continues.

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.

Detectives Arrest 2nd Man, 19,
For Sex with Girl, 14; One
Other Previously Arrested,
One Other Implicated

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kyle James Parcels, 19, of 3715 70th Street East, Palmetto.

Above, Kyle James Parcels

According to the arrest report, sometime in June of this year, the 14-year-old female victim said she was picked up by her boyfriend (Oliver Wagner IV, 19 -- see report on Wednesday's Local News page) and his friends and took her back to Wagner's residence.

Upon their arrival, she, Wagner, Parcels and two other males were drinking Bud Light.

The group started watching a porn video, then the victim started having consensual sex with her boyfriend, Wagner, while Parcels and one of the other males were present in the room.

At one point, the victim's boyfriend, Wagner, said to his friends, who were still in the room, that he needed help.

Parcels and another male then had non-consensual sex with the 14-year-old girl.

The girl then said that she told them she needed to go home and Parcels and Wagner took her home.

The girl said she drank about 8 1/2 beers before having sex.

Parcels was arrested on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, and charged with Sexual Battery on a Child Between 12-15 Years of Age, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

Parcels is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bail bond.

BPD Arrests Woman for
Assaulting Man with Gun

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Stacy Chelsey Shontae Blue, 21, of 2118 13th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Stacy Chelsey Shontae Blue

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, at about 3:30 a.m., Bradenton Police responded to 813 12th Avenue West, reference an assault.

Upon arrival, the officer spoke with Charles Southwick who told the officer he was heading west on 12th Avenue West when he was approached by a Black female, later identified as Stacy Blue.

Blue asked Southwick, "Cracker, what are you doing on my street?"

Southwick said he told Blue he was just leaving his girlfriend's house and was going home.

Blue then said she would leave Southwick in the street to rot. When Southwick asked what she meant, she pulled a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at his face, he told the officer.

Southwick pointed out the vehicle in which Blue was sitting.

The officer walked toward the vehicle and as he did Blue exited the vehicle and fled into the house at the above location. The officer followed Blue, made a forced entry in fresh pursuit and saw Blue exiting the garage.

The officer detained her.

Southwick positively identified Blue as the woman who had accosted him.

Another officer searched the area and located a black semi-automatic handgun that Southwick positively identified as the weapon Blue had used.

The handgun was later discovered to have been stolen out of Palmetto, according to PPD records.

Blue was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Displaying a Firearm During a Felony, Grand Theft of a Firearm and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

She is being held in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a $20,750 bail bond.

Bomb Threat to a School Bus
Loaded with 40 Children

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a bomb threat was called in about a Manatee County school bus on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, at about 1 p.m., when the bus was in the 6800 block of 11th Street West, Bradenton.

The report said, an unknown person called the Manatee County School Board Transportation Department and said that there was a bomb on a specific bus.

The Transportation dispatcher immediately contacted the bus driver as that bus had approximately 40 students aboard.

The driver stopped the bus and had everyone exit.

Sheriff's Office deputies responded, established a perimeter and searched the bus.

A bomb was not located.

Another school bus responded and safely delivered the children to their homes.

The investigation is ongoing.

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.

Multiple Vehicle Burglaries
Reported in East Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT} -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported five vehicle burglaries in East Manatee County, near Lakewood Ranch Blvd., just south of State Road 70.

During the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, October 13/14, 2009, a total of five cars were broken into.

Four of them had their windows broken out, while one vehicle had been left unlocked.

Taken from the cars were electronics, such as GPS, I-pods, cameras, and lap tops.

All vehicles were processed for prints.

No one reported seeing or hearing anything suspicious during the night.

The addresses of the burglaries were on Winding Woods Way and Yellowtop Drive, Bradenton.

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

Gulf Cove Man Charged with
Counterfeit Bill Possession

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested David Kay Lawrence, 44, 12372 Bacchus Rd., Gulf Cove, on two felony charges of Possessing and Uttering Counterfeit Bills.

David Kay Lawrence

An alert clerk at the Sunoco station, 1680 S. McCall Rd., Englewood, notified her manager who then called the CCSO at 8:19 a.m. Tuesday to report Lawrence was attempting to use a fake $20 bill to purchase items. The clerk recognized Lawrence as the same man who passed a bogus $20 bill Oct. 3 in the store which was caught on video.

When deputies arrived they saw Lawrence leaving the building and walk toward his vehicle. As they approached they observed him attempting to toss a fake bill under his vehicle; deputies also found a second fake bill on the ground. Lawrence was arrested and taken to the County Jail.

The CCSO Economic Crimes Unit and Secret Service are continuing their investigation.

If you have information about this case, please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101 or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

18-Year-Old Boy Arrested After
Sawed-Off Shotgun Found
At School

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an 18-year-old student at an Orange County school was arrested after a sawed-off shotgun was found in a gym bag he was carrying, deputies said.

The student, who attends Life Skills School located at 4504 S. Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando, told Orange County sheriff's deputies that someone offered him $500 to take the bag to another location, where someone would recognize him and take the bag.

The student said he knows the person who gave him the bag but refused to provide any other details in fear of retaliation, according to the sheriff's office.

The shotgun is a New England Firearms Co. 20-gauge and the 13-inch barrel is sawed off, deputies said. The butt of the weapon is also sawed off, and the butt and the front grip of the shotgun are covered with electrical tape, deputies said.

Inside the gym bag were also four Winchester shotgun shells, deputies said.

Gov. Crist Petitions Florida
Supreme Court to Impanel
Statewide Grand Jury

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, October 13, 2009, Governor Charlie Crist filed with the Florida Supreme Court a petition for order to impanel a Statewide Grand Jury.

Governor Crist deems it to be in the best interest of the public for a Statewide Grand Jury to investigate criminal activity committed by public officials while acting in their official capacity, a press release said.

"A recent rash of crimes committed by public officials in South Florida has led to a crisis of confidence among those who have elected them to office," Crist said.

Crist went on to say, "Today, I have petitioned the Florida Supreme Court to impanel a Grand Jury to investigate these crimes, bring indictments and provide specific recommendations to address fundamental problems within the system that may be cultivating a culture of corruption."

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Manatee Detectives Arrest Man, 19,
For Sex with Girl, 14; Two Other
Young Men Implicated

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Oliver James Wagner, IV, 19, of the 1600 block of 39th Avenue Drive East, Ellenton.

Oliver James Wagner, IV

Oliver and an unnamed 14-year-old White female were boyfriend and girlfriend at one point, the arrest report said.

According to the report, it has recently come to light that sometime in June of this year, at about 6:30 p.m., Oliver picked up the girl at her house and took her back to his house.

The girl was hanging out with Oliver and two of his friends. They were all drinking beer and watching porn, when the girl and Oliver began having sex on the bed, while one of his friends played guitar and watched them have sex.

The girl told detectives that while she was having sex with Oliver, he became tired and asked his friends to come help him finish. The friends were not named in the report; their names were redacted.

The girl then had non-consensual sex with the other two, the report said. The girl said that Oliver was outside on his cell phone while the others were having sex with her.

The girl said that she and Oliver had sex several times while they were dating.

During an interview between detectives and Oliver, he at first said that he had only been to the skate park in Palmetto with the girl. Then, when confronted with the details of knowing where he lived, Oliver admitted to having the victim at his house.

Oliver denied having sex with the girl, but did admit to dating her for a short period of time.

Oliver also denied giving the victim alcohol, even though the parent of the girl said the girl appeared to be intoxicated after being with Oliver on the date of the incident, according to the report.

Oliver was arrested on Monday, October 12, 2009, and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Victim 12-15 Years of Age, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

Oliver Wagner posted a $1,120 bail bond and was released from jail.

According to Manatee County court records, Oliver was arrested in May of this year and charged with Serving Alcohol to a Minor. He pled No Contest and was sentenced to 3 months probation.

Also, according to the sheriff's website, Oliver was arrested in August of this year for Failure to Answer a Summons of Driving without a Valid License.

Two Men Fled Palmetto Wal-Mart
After Major Retail Theft; Two K-9
Units Captured Both of Them

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Two Manatee County Sheriff's Office K-9 units captured Charles Tolson, 18, and Nathaniel Harris, 18, after the two men stole items valued at over $800 dollars from a Palmetto Wal-Mart store on Monday, October 12, 2009, at about 5:20 p.m.

Above, L to R, K-9 Nitro, Charles Tolson, Nathaniel Harris and K-9 Vito

According to the sheriff's report, the two listed suspects fled the Palmetto Wal-Mart, located at 508 10th Street East, with over $800 worth of items.

Palmetto PD set up a perimeter and called in sheriff's K-9 units to locate the suspects.

Deputy Kruse arrived on scene and began a track with K-9 Nitro.

After a short track, Nitro located Charles Tolson hiding under 119 14th Street West. K-9 Nitro engaged Tolson and pulled Tolson from under the house.

Deputy Petta then went back to where the suspects were last seen and saw the other suspect, Nathaniel Harris, who took flight upon being spotted by Deputy Petta.

Harris ran into a house at 105 12th Street Court East.

The house was surrounded and the owners of that house were located. The owners told units on scene that no one was supposed to be in the house.

K-9 Vito located Harris in the home and Harris was taken into custody without further resistance.

Both suspects were taken into custody and taken to jail.

Both suspects were charged with Felony Retail Theft and Resisting Arrest without Violence by Palmetto PD. Tolson was charged with Violation of Probation on original charges for Fleeing and Eluding and Grand Theft Auto.

Harris was also charged with Burglary for entering the house on 12th Street Court East, the report said.

Both men remain in the Manatee County Jail.

Young Woman Arrested After
Damaging Car, Breaking
Window to House, Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Allison M. Sieloff, 19, of 2558 222nd Street East, Bradenton.

Allison M. Sieloff

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, October 11, 2009, shortly before midnight, Allison went to her former boyfriend's house, located in the 1400 block of 55th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Allison and Eric Reynolds were boyfriend and girlfriend and resided together at the address above on 55th Avenue West, but she no longer lives there.

Allison went to the house to get her massage table.

Upon her arrival, Eric came out of the house and a verbal altercation ensued.

Eric went back inside and Allison began to kick a vehicle that was parked in the driveway belonging to another person. Allison then entered the vehicle and began to kick the inside of the vehicle.

Allison then broke out a front window and entered the home, the report said.

After she made entry to the home, a physical altercation began between Allison and Eric. Allison slapped Eric and hit him in the groin, the report said.

Allison then left the residence with her massage table.

Eric refused EMS treatment.

At a sheriff's substation, Allison said, "I kicked the car and entered the home looking for that bitch."

The damage to the vehicle was a dent about 12 x 12 inches long, with scratches to the rear passenger door.

Allison was arrested and charged with Burglary, Domestic Battery and Criminal Mischief.

She was released from jail on her own recognizance, with supervision.

Man Already in Jail Charged
With Burglary of Dwelling

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has leveled additional charges against Vincent Decosmo, 21, of 2505 20th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Vincent Decosmo

According to the arrest report, on July 7, 2009, at about 2:30 p.m., Decosmo tried to break into a residence in the 4900 block of 50th Court West, Bradenton, by cutting a screen on the enclosed pool attached to the residence, then cut and removed a screen on a back window of the residence.

Decosmo then attempted to pry the lock of the sliding glass door, but was unsuccessful. Entry was not made to the main residential area of the home.

Decosmo also kicked out a section of a privacy fence in the victims' back yard.

Latent fingerprints were lifted at the scene which came back to Decosmo.

Decosmo was charged with Burglary. Along with other numerous charges, including Burglary, Theft and Dealing in Stolen Property, Decosmo remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $351,000.

Child, 2, Ingests Blood Pressure
Medication, Falls Unconscious

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 2-year-old child was hospitalized on Monday, October 12, 2009, at about 5:15 p.m., after ingesting blood pressure medication at his residence in the 1100 block of Danny Drive, in South Manatee County.

The report said EMS and sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the above location for an overdose.

The 2-year-old White male victim, whose name was not released, had allegedly gotten into an unattended purse and retrieved some blood pressure medication, Clonidine.

The boy ingested somewhere between 1-3 pills and fell unconscious.

The child was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital and was awake and alert, but only when stimulated.

He was subsequently transported to All Children's Hospital; his condition remains stable at the time of this writing.

School Bus Window Shot Out,
No Children Injured

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a school bus was damaged when a window was shot out on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at about 3:45 p.m., at 23rd Street East and U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto.

According to the report, county bus #508 was occupied only by the driver, Thomas Apostle.

The bus was westbound on 23rd Street East, stopped for the US 41 light.

An unknown suspect(s) shot out the rear passenger emergency exit glass window with an unknown weapon.

The damage incurred was likely by a sling shot or BB gun impact, the report said. The projectile did not appear to have entered the bus cabin, and the driver was not injured.

The bus was photographed.

No witnesses or suspects have been developed in the case at this time.

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

Charlotte Sheriff Raids Home;
4 arrests, 30 charges

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives raided a major Port Charlotte drug trafficking home Monday afternoon, October 12, 2009, and arrested four people on a total of 30 charges.

Detectives made two previous undercover drug buys Sep. 21 and 24 at 18173 Hillsborough Blvd., and on Monday served a search warrant. Three of the four arrested lived in the home, they are: Julie Tonya Chambers, 21; Jason T. Chambers, 28; and Tabatha Sue Ricker, 22. The other arrest James Edward Smith, 38, 5705 Gallatin Lane, North Port.

A search of the home found 29.2 grams of Heroin, plus numerous quantities of Oxycodone, Roxicodone, Valium, Marijuana, Lorcet, Alprazolam, Soma, and Tylenol with Codeine. Various narcotics equipment was also seized and a hollow point bullet.

Julie Chambers was charged with Sale and Delivery of Roxicodone, Oxycodone and Alprazolam; Possession of Alprazolam, Roxicodone (2x), Valium, Soma, Tylenol with Codeine, Narcotics Equipment (2x) and Marijuana. Jason Chambers was charged with Trafficking in Heroin, Possession of Cocaine, Opiates, Marijuana, Lorcet, Narcotics Equipment, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and Probation Violation for Possession of Cocaine. Tabatha Ricker was charged with two counts of Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana and Narcotics Equipment. James Smith was charged with Sale and Delivery of Roxicodone and Oxycodone, Possession of Oxycodone, Marijuana and two counts of Possession of Narcotics Equipment. All except Tabatha Ricker remain in the County Jail; Ricker posted bond this morning.

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).

Police: Man Killed Boy
For Not Eating

KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 19-year-old man was charged with first-degree murder after allegedly injuring his girlfriend's 2-year-old son and then pouring boiling water on the boy, who later died, Kissimmee police said.

Jonathan Alicea

Jonathan Alicea was initially arrested on a charge of attempted felony murder of the child, who was in critical condition at Arnold Palmer Hospital in Orlando. The charge was upgraded after the boy died on Monday, police said.

According to Kissimmee police, officers were called to the Osceola Regional Medical Center at about 7:15 p.m. Sunday in reference to a possible child abuse case.

Detectives talked with Alicea, who was the caretaker of the child when he was injured, and Alicea said he became angry with the boy because he would not eat and he soiled his pants, according to Kissimmee police.

Alicea told police he pushed the child's head, causing him to lose consciousness. He said he tried CPR, but when it didn't work, he poured boiling water on the child in an attempt to revive him.

Alicea was arrested and transported to the Osceola County Jail, where he is being held without bond.

The Department of Children and Families has assumed custody of the mother's 6-year-old child, WKMG said.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Man, 37, Arrested for Two
Counts of Capital Sexual
Battery on Daughter, 5

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective James Wischer has arrested James P. Gallagher, 37, of the 6900 block of Stetson Street Circle, in South Manatee County.

James P. Gallagher

According to the arrest report, on Sept. 29, 2009, the five-year-old victim was at home at another location with her grandmother when the little girl ran over to the grandmother wearing only a shirt and no underwear. The grandmother said, "Hey, where's your underwear?"

The little girl then bent over in front of her grandmother and said, "Grandma, stick your finger up my butt."

That bothered the grandmother, who decided to tell the little girl's mother, which she did the next day.

The news shocked her mother and said she initially thought the little girl may have heard some kid at school say it, but the mother could not stop thinking about it.

The following day, October 1st, she spoke to the little girl and asked her if she remembered what she had told her grandmother. The little girl said she did. The mother asked the child if anyone had ever done that to her and the child said, "Yes, daddy did."

The mother scheduled an emergency session with the family therapist which was scheduled for the following morning, October 2nd. The little girl repeated to the therapist what she had told her mother.

At that point, Gallagher was told to move out of the family residence.

An investigation was pursued with the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Child Protection Services.

The little girl essentially told the CPS investigator that her father had stuck his finger in her rectum once while in the shower together and once while "cuddling" on a couch, according to the report.

Further information from the mother revealed Gallagher had also asked his wife (the little girl's mother) for anal sex, that she refused, and that he "keeps making a big deal of it as if he is being deprived of something."

Gallagher was arrested and charged with two counts of Capital Sexual Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail bond.

Deputies Arrest Teenager
for Vehicle Burglaries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Kevin R. Gorman, 18, of 923 Patterson Drive, in Sarasota.

Kevin R. Gorman

The arrest report said on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., deputies responded to a residence in the 9200 block of Forrester Drive, in the Braden Run subdivision, in Manatee County on a report to a burglary to a vehicle.

Upon arrival, the homeowner said her dogs woke her up and she found her Toyota car door open. A navy blue bag had been taken from the vehicle that contained nursing equipment inside it.

A K-9 team responded to the scene and began tracking. The K-9 unit found the bag two houses down from the victim's house in a yard.

The bag was returned to the owner, who began going through it; she found a GPS unit that didn't belong to her and a prescription bottle with Gorman's name on it.

Just prior to finding the bag, Gorman was located walking down the street but deputies at that time didn't have anything to hold him on, so he was released.

However, with the new information about the pill bottle, deputies once again located Gorman and placed him under arrest.

The GPS' owner was located in the 6400 block of 98th Street East. The owner said it came from their Chrysler 300 and had been stolen.

That same homeowner said cigars had been taken from a Toyota van they owned.

When Gorman was located the first time, he had been chewing on a cigar and had other cigars in his hand, which he ditched after the first contact with law enforcement.

Gorman was charged with two counts of Burglary to a Conveyance.

He would not talk to the deputy on his way to jail, instead saying "his lawyer would not want him to."

He was released from the Manatee County Jail on his own recognizance, but supervised.

Juvenile Arrested, Tasered,
Charged with DUI, Battery
On Law Enforcement Officer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested a 17-year-old girl following a traffic crash on I-75 in Ellenton on Sunday, October 11, 2009, shortly after midnight.

Deputies responded and found her under the influence of alcohol and drugs and acting violently.

A deputy made contact with the juvenile and she started running through the median.

The deputy went to catch her to keep her out of the roadway until FHP arrived and while giving chase the juvenile fell.

As the deputy approached the juvenile she punched the deputy in the legs.

Deputies then attempted to handcuff the juvenile, but she resisted. Deputies then drive-stunned her with a Taser one time in the shoulder and gained compliance.

The juvenile was then transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, due to her intoxicated state.

FHP later arrested the juvenile for DUI and charges for Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Resisting Arrest were filed.

Burglar, Surprised by Landlord,
Escapes on Foot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary on Monday, October 12, 2009, at about 9:30 a.m., in the 1500 block of 55th Avenue West, Bradenton.

The report said Douglas Wilson observed a White male entering one of his rental units through the rear kitchen window.

The suspect noticed Wilson, so he went out through the front door and ran towards 14th Street West.

Wilson gave chase but lost him at 1400 55th Ave. W.

Deputies set a perimeter and K-9 tracked but they did not apprehend the suspect.

The burglar was described as a White male, 5'09" tall, 130-150 pounds, last seen wearing a blue jersey with the number 20 and plaid shorts, with a tattoo on the back of the neck.

5 Vehicle Burglaries Reported
in Greenbrook Sudivision

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported multiple vehicle burglaries in the Greenbrook subdivision, just west of Lakewood Ranch Blvd., in East Manatee County.

The report said between Friday, Oct. 9th at 11:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 10th at 2 p.m. unknown subject(s) entered several vehicles in the area of the Greenbrook Subdivision and stole electronic items.

The entry method was both by force and to unlocked vehicles.

GPS units, CD players and stereos were stolen along with a small amount of change and other small items.

All of the vehicles were processed for fingerprints.

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.

Underage Drinking Operation
Nets 21 Establishments for
Selling Alcohol to Minors

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On October 10th, 2009, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office conducted an underage drinking operation.

Juvenile confidential informants were used to visit various convenience stores and bars/restaurants throughout the county.

A total of 49 establishments were checked. Of those, 21 failed to comply with existing beverage laws pertaining to the sale of alcohol to minors.

The involved employee at each establishment was charged with Selling/Serving Alcohol to Minors and was issued a Notice to Appear.

Below is a list of the establishments that sold to the juvenile informants.

1. 12324 US301 N., Parrish General Store
2. 12205 US301 N., BP Gas Station
3. 8705 US301 N., 7-11
4. 6402 US301 N., Chevron Gas Station
5. 5802 20th St. E., Ruby Tuesdays
6. 1318 10th St. W., Dizzy Peacock
7. 8744 SR70 E., Sopranos
8. 8406 SR70 E., BP Gas Station
9. 6916 14th St. W., Banana Factory
10. 6123 26th St. W., Cottage Mini Mart
11. 5704 14th St. W., Shell Gas Station
12. 6920 14th St. W., Texaco Gas Station
13. 6619 14th St. W., Citgo Gas Station
14. 3611 1st St. E., Chili’s
15. 108 44th Ave. E., The Distillery
16. 320 Cortez Rd. W., Antojitos Mexicanos
17. 894 Crotez Rd. W., Cody’s
18. 4908 14th St. W., Hooters
19. 5105 14th St. W., Wing House
20. 4343 Palma Sola Blvd., Aces Lounge
21. 7423 Manatee Ave. W., Tequila Beach

FHP Trooper Injured in
Hit-and-Run Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported one of its troopers was injured on Sunday, October 11, 2009, at about 8:53 a.m., following a traffic crash in Palmetto.

The FHP report of the incident said a pickup truck was traveling eastbound on US 301 in the inside lane, about 200 feet West of Canal Road, in Palmetto.

An FHP cruiser driven by Trooper David McInturff, 48, was traveling westbound on US 301 in the inside lane.

The pickup truck lost control after driving into standing water and traveled in a northeast direction across the median.

Trooper McInturff observed the pickup truck's action and swerved right to avoid a collision.

The pickup truck continued out of control, rotating counterclockwise and a collision occurred between the left front of Trooper McIntuff's and the pickup truck's left rear.

After the collision, the driver of the pickup truck fled the scene in an easterly direction on US 301.

Trooper McInturff suffered minor injuries and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for a dark-colored pickup truck with damage to the left side and left rear. The left rear taillight lens will be broken.

Anyone with information on this hit and run vehicle is asked to contact the Florida Highway Patrol at 239-938-1800, ext. 118, and leave a message for Lt. Vincent Crawford, or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Sarasota County Teen Drivers
Invited to Take the Challenge

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s office is offering a free hands-on program to help teens become safer drivers.

The Teen Driver Challenge is a two-day course designed to give students the experience they need to drive safely. Deputies teach the class in association with the Florida Sheriffs Association.

The first day drivers are taught about teen crashes, safe-driving habits and the importance of their five senses behind the wheel. The class also helps them become more familiar with their vehicle. The second day, students are on the driving course learning skills such as backing up, emergency braking and evasive maneuvers.

The Teen Driver Challenge is open to licensed drivers. The training will be held twice each quarter, with each session limited to 20 students.

The first two sessions are:

• October 16-17. The classroom portion will be held Friday night from 5-9 p.m. at the Criminal Justice Center, 2071 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota. The driving portion will be held Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the driving range, 664 West Price Blvd., next to North Port High School.

• October 23-24. These classes will be held at the driving range, 664 West Price Blvd., North Port, next to North Port High School. The classroom portion is Friday night from 5-9 p.m., and the driving portion is Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Teen drivers can contact their School Resource Deputy for more information or call (941) 927-4190. Registration forms are available online at www.SarasotaSheriff.org by clicking on Teen Driver Challenge. An online video demonstrates elements of the course and includes testimonials from teens who have taken the challenge.

Search On For Missing
84-Year-Old Man

WINTER SPRINGS, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Authorities in Winter Springs are searching for a missing 84-year-old man who was last seen Sunday night, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

William Schimpf

William Schimpf was last seen at about 10 p.m. near his home in the Tuscawilla subdivision, and Winter Springs police said he may be in danger.

Schimpf is a White man with blue eyes and was last seen wearing purple pajamas with blue slippers, WKMG said.

Anyone with information about Schimpf's whereabouts is urged to call Winter Springs police.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Jail Inmate Fakes Illness,
Pushes Female Jail Deputy
Almost Over Jail Pod Railing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James H. Royals, 55, of 408 Clark Lane, Holmes Beach, who was already being held in the Manatee County Jail on charges of Violation of Probation on a previous charge of 3 counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm and Using a Firearm While Under the Influence of Alcohol, stemming from a January 2009 arrest.

James H. Royals

According to the latest arrest report of Royals, on Wednesday, October 7, 2009, at about 3 a.m., a deputy was conducting an inmate count in G2 West Pod when she heard a man yelling.

While investigating who was yelling, the deputy saw inmate Royals bent over, holding his stomach. As she went up the stairway to the 2nd floor, the deputy asked Royals if that was him doing all the yelling.

Royals replied, "Come over here and I will show you."

The deputy opened the cell door and Royals came out of the door and pushed the deputy with both hands on her upper body. The deputy was knocked backwards into the 2nd floor railing.

The deputy attempted to gain control of Royals by grabbing his left arm, but Royals broke free and pushed past the deputy. He then ran downstairs while the deputy called for assistance.

The deputy followed Royals downstairs and Royals ran toward the deputy as if he was going to hit her, so she pushed Royals with her hands to his upper body. Royals fell back on the wall.

The deputy told Royals to stop that and that he does not want to do this.

Royals replied, "Yes, I do."

The deputy continued to attempt to restrain Royals until assistance arrived.

Royals was arrested and charged wtih Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail bond.

Royals had been given probation for the January arrest and his license was revoked for 2 years. He was caught driving on October 2nd.

The NewsManatee report of Royals' original arrest can be found at:

Just enter his last name and wait for the archive search engine to take you to the report.

Man Stabbed Trying to Break
Up Fight, Bitten by Pit Bull,
Later Arrested on Warrant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Frank E. McDowell didn't have such a good day on Saturday, October 10, 2009. He was stabbed, bitten by a pit bull, and then arrested.

Frank E. McDowell

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, at about 2:00 a.m., Lela Arendshorst, 34, and McDowell, 37, were having drinks at Clancy's bar on Cortez Road West when they were invited to an after hours party by a man.

Arendshorst and McDowell arrived at the residence at about 4:30 a.m., somewhere near 1200 30th Avenue East, in Bradenton, and saw the man beating up a woman in the yard.

McDowell intervened and a fight ensued.

At some point during the fight, McDowell was stabbed with an unknown object between his shoulder blades and on his top left shoulder.

Arendshorst tried to break up the fight and she and McDowell were both bitten on the leg by a pit bull.

McDowell received two punctures that were not life-threatening.

Both McDowell and Arendshorst said they were unable to identify the suspect or give a better location as to where the incident occurred.

Based on the information provided by the victims, a search was conducted at the 1200 block of 30th Avenue East. Several residents were interviewed and no one matched the description given nor could they provide information on the stabbing.

McDowell was treated for his wounds and later arrested on an outstanding warrant for Escape from Police Custody and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

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

The man who stabbed McDowell was described as a male in his early 30s (no race given), tall, thin, dark coplexion, with medium length hair, last seen wearing blue jeans.

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

Process Server, Over 65,
Battered by Litigant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Richard W. Beirau, 52, of 4624 19th Street Circle East, Bradenton.

Richard W. Beirau

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, October 8, 2009, at about 5 p.m., a process server named Gyles Bayard said he was at the above location to serve Beirau with court paperwork.

Bayard said once Beirau was served, Beirau became upset and started to verbally argue with Bayard.

The argument escalated to physical violence when Beirau pushed Bayard twice in the chest.

Beirau was arrested and charged with Battery on a Person Over 65 Years of Age.

Beirau posted a $2,500 bail bond the next day and was released from jail, pending a court appearance on November 13th.

Counterfeit Money Found Among
Prisoner's Personal Items

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported finding counterfeit money among the personal items belonging to a woman who was arrested for Driving While License Suspended (2nd offense).

Jennifer Kramer

The report said on Sept. 12, 2009, Jennifer Kramer, 24, was arrested for Driving While License Suspended and taken to the Manatee County Jail.

during her intake, a property clerk conducted an intake of Kramer's money. The clerk checked the $50 bill for counterfeit and it tested positive. The bill was placed into a locker for safekeeping.

Later, on Sept. 29, 2009, a deputy retrieved the bill and conducted a 2nd test on it; it is suspect for being counterfeit, the deputy wrote.

The deputy faxed the information to the IRS in Tampa and placed the bill into property and evidence.

Meanwhile, Kramer posted a $1,500 bail bond and was released from jail.

Attempted Armed Robbery of
Ming's Palace in South Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Ming's Palace, located at 1152 Whitfield Avenue, in South Manatee County, was the victim of an attempted armed robbery on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at about 8 p.m., according to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

A sheriff's report said Adrian Jimenez, 29, was reentering the business through the back door when a Black male grabbed him from behind and put a gun to his head.

The would-be robber demanded to know where the money was and pushed Jimenez through the kitchen into the dining area of the restaurant.

The robber was scared away after seeing another employee in the restaurant.

A perimeter was established by deputies and a track was attempted by a K-9 unit, to no avail.

No one was injured during the crime.

The robber was described as a Black male, 5'09" tall, approximately 165 pounds, last seen wearing a white T-shirt with writing, black pants and a red bandana wrapped around his face. He was armed with a black revolver pistol.

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 Stabbed By Hispanic Male;
Victim Does Not Know Why

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was stabbed on Saturday, October 10, 2009, shortly before 2 p.m., in the 5700 block of 15th Street East.

The sheriff's report said the victim, Edgar Servin, of the 900 block of 61st Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton, was leaving Mike's Mini Mart and was approached by an unknown Hispanic male.

The unknown male stabbed Servin in the lower left back causing a puncture wound.

Servin did not call 9-1-1 or contact law enforcement.

He asked a friend for a ride to a local hospital for medical treatment. The hospital reported the stabbing to the sheriff's office.

Servin told deputies he did not know the suspect and stated he did not know why he was attacked.

The suspect fled the scene in an unknown direction.

Servin did not have life-threatening injuries.

There was no description of Servin's attacker in the report.

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

NewsManatee Photographer
Captures West Side Gusher

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charles Mills, U-reporter and photographer for NewsManatee, captured a photo of a water main break on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at about 10:30 p.m. in the 3400 block of 20th Street West.

Above, water main break, 3400 block of 20th Street West
(Photo by U-reporter Charles Mills)

Mills called the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and Deputy Kevin Vreeland responded.

Dep. Vreeland helped the people of the home in front of the break while closing down the street.

Said Mills, "It looked like a volcano and pushed the asphalt up 2 feet."

Safe, Personal Items Found
in Dumpster; Owner Unknown

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a safe was found on Friday, October 9, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m. in a dumpster located at 1010 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said a large safe (2'h x 1.5'w x 2'd) was located in the dumpster of the listed location.

The hinges holding the door in place had been cut and the door was removed.

A significant amount of personal items belonging to a Paul Berinsky were located in the dumpster near the safe.

Berinsky was unable to be located. It is unknown if he has any relation to this incident.

The safe was taken to the bike barn for follow-up investigation.

Berinsky's personal items were placed into the sheriff's evidence room for safekeeping.

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.

MCAT Office Burglarized, Money
Stolen, 9 Lock Boxes Missing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the burglary of an MCAT office on Friday, October 9, 2009, at about 4:30 a.m., at 1108 26th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Deputies responded to the above location. Upon their arrival, they discovered the listed business (MCAT) was burglarized.

Unknown person(s) entered on the North side of the building.

The suspect(s) then entered a room containing lock boxes used for money collection. The room contained multiple lock boxes and a small safe.

A total of 3 boxes were pried open and 9 of the boxes are missing.

The small safe in the room was found with the door open and unlocked.

According to the county, a total of $394 was stolen.

Crime Scene Technicians responded and processed the scene.

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

Two Black Males Rob Hispanic
Man, Throw Him To Ground

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Sunday, October 11, 2009, at about 2:30 a.m., in the 3400 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said Hector Escobar, 29, of Palmetto, was walking northbound on 9th Street East, when a silver mini-van pulled up along side of him in the 3400 block.

A tall Black male and a short Black male exited the mini-van, grabbed Escobar and dug into his pockets.

The robbers took money and personal items, then threw Escobar to the ground and fled the area.

The robbers were not further described in the report.

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

Elderly Woman Goes Missing,
Later Found at Friend's House

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a missing woman was discovered at her friend's house, a half mile away from her home.

The report said Norma Link, 90, of the 7000 block of West Country Club Drive North, Bradenton, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer disease and becomes increasingly more confused in the evening.

On Saturday, October 10, 2009, at about 12:30 a.m., Link wandered off from her residence and a diligent search was conducted using patrol deputies and K-9 deputies.

Link was located approximately 1 ½ hour later at a friend’s residence approximately a half mile down the road.

Link was not injured and did not require medical attention.

Manatee County To Host
Latino Health Fair
This Saturday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Health Department, in collaboration with Healthy Start Manatee, Inc., will be hosting this inclusive health fair intended to raise awareness about health issues in the Latino community. Participants will be able to take part in various health screenings and activities, all offered free-of-charge.

The event will take place in Pride Park, located at 815 63rd Avenue East, Bradenton, on Saturday October 17, 2009, from 9:00 am until 1:00 pm.

Health screenings and services will range from cholesterol education and testing to blood pressure, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.

Food will be provided for those who participate in a variety of services, and prizes will be awarded as raffles at the conclusion of the event.

Family-friendly activities will include face-painting and children’s games.

Burglary Leads to Shooting of
Juvenile and Arrest of Man

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested George J. Johnson, 19, of 2113 32nd Street, Sarasota, for Burglary and Grand Theft of a Motor Vehicle.

George J. Johnson

On Friday, October 9, 2009, at 1:54 a.m., deputies responded to a call in the 2100 block of 32nd Street reporting a vehicle burglary and shooting.

The victim, 62-year-old Walter Gilliam, told deputies that after hearing noises coming from his locked, fenced back yard, he armed himself with a handgun and went to investigate. He was then confronted by two masked suspects.

Gilliam told detectives that he feared for his safety and fired his weapon after he noticed an object in one of the suspect’s hands.

A juvenile suspect was shot and transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital where he is being treated for injuries which are not life-threatening.

The second suspect, later identified as Johnson, fled the area but was located at his residence.

Charges are pending on the juvenile suspect.

Investigators believe the suspects were attempting to steal one of the vehicles parked in Gilliam’s back yard.

Alert Civilian Helps Charlotte Sheriff,
NPPD, Capture Two Burglars

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested two men Thursday, October 8, 2009, thanks to a witness who saw them stealing a $1,500 television from a Port Charlotte home.

Above, L to R, Charles Goldie and Ryan Possman

The witness, a woman, followed them, got the license tag number, and called the CCSO.

The call came in at 2:29 p.m. from the woman who saw the men put the TV in the back of their vehicle from a home at 16253 Hillsborough Blvd.

A BOLO was issued and at 2:56 p.m., North Port Police located the vehicle at 3610 Weidman Ave. and detained Charles Goldie, 26, of that address, and Ryan Christopher Possman, 24, 4210 Norris Ct., North Port.

CCSO detectives brought them back to Charlotte County for questioning and then charged them both with Burglary and Grand Theft.

Both were taken to the Charlotte County Jail; Goldie posted bond Friday morning but Possman remains in custody.

CCSO deputies found the stolen TV in a wooded area off Arcaro Ave., not far from where it was stolen.

Doctor Arrested In Central Florida
Murder-For-Hire Plot of Ex-Partner

LEESBURG, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a Central Florida doctor has been arrested and charged with hiring someone to kill his former business partner, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said.

Dr. Akram Ismail

Major Crimes detectives have arrested Dr. Akram Ismail and charged him with solicitation to commit murder and other charges.

Detectives said they received “credible information that Dr. Ismail hired two individuals to physically injure and kill” Dr. Nehme Gabriel.

The gastroenterologist reportedly paid one person $40,000 to break the victim’s legs and publicly discredit him, police said.

Investigators said he paid another person $25,000 to kill the victim.

Ismail was taken into custody after witnesses came forward and a warrant was issued for his arrest, police said.

WKMG News reported that Ismail has three offices across Lake County, including one in Leesburg on County Road 44.

According to court papers, Ismail wanted the would-be hit men to blow up Gabriel’s office, hire women to embarrass and sexually exploit him and cut off his hands and nose.

Ismail is expected to appear in court Monday to find out if he will be issued bond.

WKMG News reported that Ismail had also been arrested on drunken driving charges in 2004.

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