Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 10/24/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 10/24/2009

Man Arrested for Exposing
Sex Organ to Detective
At Adult Book Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to an arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, David Wayne Mason, 40, of 4600 Summer Oaks Drive, in Sarasota, has been arrested and charged with Indecent Exposure.

David Wayne Mason

On Wednesday, October 21, 2009, at about 9:20 p.m., detectives were working in an undercover capacity, investigating C.J.'s Adult Book Store in the 4900 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

They went into the adult book store's theater room and sat down.

At about 10:50 p.m., David Mason exposed his penis. He masturbated for about 30 seconds. He was standing next to a soda machine at the time and kept looking at one of the detectives, as well as the movie that was playing. The report did not mention the sex of the detective who Mason was allegedly looking at.

Shortly afterward, Mason walked out of the theater room and exited the store. The detectives followed Mason. Mason began walking rapidly.

Mason then took off running at a full sprint. Detectives ran after him and identified themselves several times as they ordered Mason to stop.

Mason ran to his pickup truck and got into the driver's side seat. Detectives caught up to him and he was ordered out of the vehicle.

As Mason exited the vehicle, detectives took him into custody. He began to tense up and was resisting, so detectives took him to the ground.

Mason was arrested and charged with Exposure of Sexual Organs and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He posted a $1,250 bail bond the next day and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Man Charged with Grand Theft
For Allegedly Ripping Off
Manatee Historical Society

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Scott Fodor, 42, of 2805 33rd Avenue West, Bradenton, has been arrested by the Bradenton Police Department and charged with Grand Theft.

Scott Fodor

The arrest report from BPD said Scott Fodor owns and operates Fodor Fence LLC. On or about June 18, 2008, Fodor agreed to install metal fencing around the perimeter of the property of the Manatee Historical Society, 604 15th Street East, Bradenton.

Fodor accepted a partial payment of $26,600 for fencing materials prior to any work being performed.

According to representatives from the Manatee Historical Society, after Fodor accepted the payment for materials, he failed to provide any fencing materials or perform any of the agreed upon work.

The Historical Society informed Det. Stahley that they allowed ample time for Fodor to pay them back the money that he "stole." Fodor failed to repay any of the money, the report said, as he has been promising to do for approximately one year. They filed a complaint with BPD.

On Wednesday, October 21, 2009, Detectives Stahley and Thomas located Fodor at his residence and attempted to speak to him.

Fodor said he wouldn't speak to them without his attorney present.

Fodor was then arrested and charged with Grand Theft.

He posted a $10,000 bail bond and was released from jail the next day.

Man Arrested for Punching
Guy in Car for Allegedly
Speeding; Old Case

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David L. Gibson, 28, of 2945 Haywood Meadow, in Sarasota.

David L. Gibson

According to the arrest report, on December 8, 2005, Gibson allegedly became angry with an unnamed victim because Gibson believed the victim was speeding.

Gibson then approached the victim who was sitting in his truck.

When the victim started to exit his truck, Gibson reached into the truck and punched him.

The victim had small cuts on the inside of his mouth and a chipped tooth, the report said.

Gibson was arrested on Wednesday, October 21, 2009, on a warrant for his arrest.

He was charged with Battery; he was also arrested on a Contempt of Court bench warrant for not answering a summons for No Vehicle Registration.

Apparently, authorities just caught up to him; the warrant was issued in 2006, according to records.

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

Boy-on-Boy Sexual Battery Case
Between Two Brothers Referred
To State Attorney's Office

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Last week, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office asked local media to withhold a reported sex crime between two brothers. This week, Detective Todd Sellitto, of the Sheriff's Crimes Against Children Task Force, authorized the release of the information we had.

The report alleges that a 15-year-old unnamed boy had sexually battered his 11-year-old unnamed brother, both White males, and that the sexual battery had been ongoing for the past year.

The crimes had occurred at a residence in the 1000 block of 67th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Specifically, the 11-year-old victim alleged his older brother regularly sits on his chest to hold him down.

The 15-year-old then unzips his pants, and rubs his penis on the victim's face, the report said.

The victim said his older brother has been trying to put his penis in the younger boy's mouth, and succeeded once a few months ago.

The older boy also regularly holds the victim down and "dry humps" him with their clothes on, the report said.

Crimes Against Children and Child Protective Services personnel responded to assist with the investigation.

The matter has since been referred to the State Attorney's Office, Det. Sellitto told NewsManatee.

Armed Home Invasion Reported;
2 Black Males Steal from
Hispanic Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009, at about 11 p.m., in the 1200 block of Princeton Avenue, in the Bayshore Gardens section of Manatee County.

The report said two unknown Black males entered the victim's house through an unlocked front door. One of the invaders was armed with an unknown type handgun.

Once inside, they had the victim, Valter A. Carneiro, 36, lie on the floor and one of the robbers went through the house looking for property.

According to the victim, a laptop computer was taken.

The victim was not injured.

While surveying the crime scene, units from the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) located a small amount of drug paraphernalia and some residue.

Crime scene responded and processed the scene.

The invaders were described as two Black males. One was 6' tall and muscular; the other was 5'7" tall and muscular. Both were wearing T-shirts and blue jeans.

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.

Sheriff's Cruiser Damaged in
Attempt to Arrest Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's cruiser was damaged as deputies attempted to arrest a man on warrants on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009, at about 10:30 a.m., at 2851 Whitfield Avenue, Bradenton.

A sheriff's office report said detectives had located a subject they had felony warrants for.

With the assistance of K-9 Deputy Kruse, they attempted to take the subject into custody while he was parked at 7-11 at the above location.

Deputy Kruse pulled into the parking lot in front of the subject, and the wanted man pulled from his parking place and rammed Deputy Kruse's patrol vehicle, then fled from the scene.

Deputy Kruse attempted to catch up to the subject, however the subject was approximately 1 mile away and losing Deputy Kruse.

The pursuit was then terminated.

The wanted man was not named in the report, except to say he was a Black male.

All Hazards Homeland Security
Initiative Training Planned

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit has announced a training session planned for Saturday, October 24, 2009, from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the Moose Lodge, 310 44th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The National Sheriff’s Association, funded by the US Department of Homeland Security is hosting this training. This will be a one day, 8 hour training seminar on our community’s role in preparation for a major incident in the event that one ever occurs in Manatee County.

The class will have limited seating of up to 80 participants.

Program Itinerary Topics include:

~ Awareness and Comprehensive Emergency Management Basics
~ Preparation and Prevention
~ Response: Community Partnerships
~ Recovery
~ Continuing the Community Partnerships Building Process

If interested in attending, contact Deputy Stephen Ogline, at the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, 747-3011, ext. 2586.

Detectives Arrest Mother of
18-Month-Old on Sex Charges

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes detectives late Thursday afternoon, Oct. 22, 2009, arrested Melissa Ann Bailey, 26, 20133 Helms Way, Port Charlotte, in connection with a child sex investigation involving her 18-month-old daughter and her boyfriend.

Melissa Ann Bailey

Bailey is charged with Capital Sex Battery on her 18-month-old baby girl; Capital Sex Battery-Principle, Lewd & Lascivious Molestation Under 12 Years Old; Possession of Child Pornography (2 videos), Use of a Child in Sexual Performance, Lewd Exhibition, Lewd or Lascivious Conduct,

The detective’s investigation led to obtaining a search warrant for Bailey’s home and confiscating her computer and other items. That investigation led to getting search warrants for the home and office of Glenn M. Nelson, 59, 28200 Bermont Rd., Punta Gorda; a total of six computers were confiscated. CCSO Computer Crimes detectives found child pornography images, chat files between Bailey and Nelson discussing having sex with her baby via webcam, and other images.

Nelson was arrested Tuesday (See Thursday's Local News) and was charged with Capital Sexual Battery on an 18-month-old baby girl, Lewd & Lascivious Molestation on a Child Under 12 Years Old, and 20 felony counts of Possession of Child Pornography by Sex Performance by a Child. Nelson remains at the Charlotte County Jail on no bond.

MCU detectives said this is an active, ongoing investigation and will take time to download all of the images in the seven computers; more charges may to be filed.

Cops: Robbery Spree
Suspect Killed Self

APOPKA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a robber killed himself in the same Orange County apartment where his accomplice was arrested early Wednesday morning, deputies said.

Quentin Jenkins' body was found at the Chapel Trace apartments after Jarrett Gallagher was arrested on suspicion of terrorizing several people while wearing a Halloween mask, deputies said.

Deputies said as they entered the apartment complex, they heard a gunshot and found Jenkins, 23, dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, WKMG said.

Sheriff: Body ID'd As Amber Alert
Girl Somer Thompson

ORANGE PARK, Florida [NMT/WJXT] -- Authorities believe a body found under trash in a landfill is that of 7-year-old Somer Thompson, a north Florida girl who vanished on her walk home from school, the sheriff in charge of the case said Thursday, according to Jacksonville television station WJXT.

Above, Somer Thompson, deceased

Clay County Sheriff Rick Beseler said the tentative identification was based on clothing and on a birthmark that matched the girl's. An autopsy was being performed Thursday by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation in Savannah after the body was found near the Florida state line.

Detectives spotted the legs first and found the body partially covered by garbage Wednesday in a Georgia landfill, after investigators followed garbage trucks leaving the neighborhood where the child disappeared Monday, WJXT said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

$50,000 Reward Offered in Death of
Kathleen Briles by Crime Stoppers,
The Gold Star Club and the Briles
Family, Press Conference Reveals

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At a press conference on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009, it was announced that Crime Stoppers, The Gold Star Club of Manatee County and the family of Kathleen Briles are offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murder of Kathleen Briles.

Above, L to R, Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube
and Dr. James Briles, husband of the murdered woman
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Dr. James Briles found his wife dead inside their Terra Ceia home at approximately 7:45 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2009.

While the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has substantial DNA and fingerprints found at the crime scene, they are not a match to anyone in law enforcement databases, Sheriff Brad Steube said at the press conference.

Above, Kathleen Briles, deceased
(Photo provided)

Dr. Briles said, "The person who did this was the most cowardly of cowards, murdering a woman who was bound and helpless and severely beaten."

He called the killer "a pathetic sociopathic punk full of hatred, self-serving and greed."

"The outrage boils over and consumes you," Dr, Briles added.

Dr. Briles said his wife was a kind soul with a good heart and a kind spirit and he found her cold, lifeless body in a pool of blood. He said he sees the image every day, wakes up with it and goes to bed with it, NewsManatee's Heather Chadwick reported.

Sheriff Steube said they are looking at pawn shops to see if there has been anything sold that matches up with what was taken from the home, and that the unidentified fingerprint found at the scene was not that of Delmer Smith, who has been arrested for several home invasion robberies and rapes in Sarasota County.

Dr. Briles was married for 17 years and had three children with Ms. Briles. Some family members were present at the press conference, Chadwick said.

Kathleen Briles, 48, wife of the prominent Palmetto family practice physician James Briles, was murdered by blunt force trauma, according to Sheriff Steube. The murder weapon has been found, but Steube has not said what it is.

Ms. Briles was found bound, beaten and dead by Dr. Briles when he returned home that night. Sheriff Steube wouldn't say what Ms. Briles was bound with.

There was no sign of forced entry to the home, according to Steube.

Dr. Briles has been cleared as a suspect, Steube has previously said; his alibis held up. He was working at the time.

Several items of value are missing from the home, but Steube has declined to say what.

Ron Getman, representing The Gold Star Club, told NewsManatee the community-minded crime-fighting organization has donated $10,000 of the reward money. Crime Stoppers is responsible for $1,000 of the money and the Briles family has given the rest of the $50,000 reward fund -- $39,000.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call Detective Ives at the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011, ext. 2493, 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.

Holmes Beach Police Arrest
Three People in Separate
Burglary Incidents

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department reported it has arrested three people involved in vehicle burglaries.

Above, L to R, Collin Thompson, Julie Stokes and Michael Wallen

According to a press release from HBPD, on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2009, HBPD officers responded to vehicle burglaries that he occurred in the south end of the city.

Upon further investigation, Collin Thompson, 27, and Julie Stokes, 37, both of Bradenton Beach, were found to have committed these burglaries.

Thompson was charged with two counts of Burglary and one count of Grand Theft. Stokes has been charged with two counts of Burglary.

Also on October 20, a Holmes Beach Police Officer was investigating a car burglary on 59th Street.

Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Michael Wallen, 21, of Holmes Beach. He is charged with Burglary to a Conveyance and Violation of Probation.

All three remain in the Manatee County Jail.

Thompson is being held on a $31,000 bail bond. Stokes is being held on a $25,000 bail bond. Wallen is being held without bail, because of his probation violation.

Further charges are pending against all three people, according to the press release from HBPD.

3 New People Sworn in as
Bradenton Police Officers

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Three new Bradenton police officers were sworn in during a ceremony Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the City Council Chambers.

Above, L to R, Mayor Wayne Poston, Christopher Deshaies,
ElizabethVan Fossen and Phillip Smolinsky
(Photo provided)

Mayor Wayne Poston swore in Officers Christopher Deshaies from New Hampshire, Elizabeth VanFossen of Bradenton and Phillip Smolinsky of Pennsylvania.

The new hires put the department's force at 120 sworn officers.

Deputy Involved Shooting Lawful,
State Attorney Rules

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2009, the State Attorney of the Twelfth Judicial Circuit ruled that the action taken by Deputy Thomas Shirley on September 24, 2009, was a justifiable use of deadly force.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office completed an administrative review of Deputy Shirley’s action on October 5, 2009, and forwarded the findings to the State Attorney’s Office.

Deputy Shirley returned to full duty on October 6, 2009.

On September 24, 2009, at 2:57 p.m., Deputy Shirley responded to 1222 Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, to investigate a report of a man with a gun.

He was confronted by Jonas Guerrero, who pointed a gun in Deputy Shirley’s direction as he fled into the residence.

Deputy Shirley fired three rounds from his department issued handgun, striking the door as it closed. Two subjects inside the residence suffered minor injuries.

Guerrero was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, Resisting an Officer with Violence, and Improper Exhibition of a Firearm.

Detectives Arrest Man, 59, for
Sex with 18-Month-Old Baby

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives Tuesday arrested a Punta Gorda man for having sex on a baby girl.

Glenn M. Nelson

MCU detectives arrested Glenn M. Nelson, 59, 28200 Bermont Rd., and charged him with Capital Sexual Battery on an 18-month-old baby girl, and Lewd and Lascivious Molestation on a Child Under 12 Years Old.

Detectives obtained a search warrant for the mother’s home in Port Charlotte, and found child pornography images on her computer. The CCSO Computer Crimes Forensic Investigator also found files and chat sessions between the mother and Nelson discussing having sex via webcam with her baby.

MCU detectives then obtained two more search warrants, one for Nelson’s apartment, and the other for the Villa Del Sol office where Nelson is the property manager. Detectives said their investigation revealed Nelson and his girlfriend engaged in sexual acts with her child since the girl was born. Photos were taken on numerous occasions and also sent to Nelson’s home computer and his workplace which were recovered for evidence.

Nelson remains at the Charlotte County Jail on no bond. The baby was originally turned over to the Department of Children and Families, and is now in the custody of a relative.

MCU detectives say more charges are expected in this ongoing case; specific details about the mother are not being released at this time.

LATE UPDATE: Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes detectives filed 20 additional charges late Wednesday afternoon on Glenn M. Nelson at his County Jail cell in connection with sex charges on an 18-month old girl. The CCSO Computer Crimes detective located the additional photos in Nelson’s computer and he is now charged with 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography by Sex Performance by a Child.

Two Arrested on 238 Counts of
Counterfeiting $10, $20 Bills

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Economic Crimes Unit detectives arrested two people Tuesday and shut down a major counterfeiting operation in the Englewood area. A total of 238 felony charges were filed by ECU Detectives; bond was set at $297,500 each and both remain in the Charlotte County Jail this morning.

Above, L to R, David Kay Lawrence and Kellie Kay Ordish

The investigation began Oct. 13th with the arrest of David Kay Lawrence, 44, 12372 Bacchus Rd., Gulf Cove, on two felony charges of Possessing and Uttering Counterfeit Bills; he posted bond that day. On that date, an alert clerk at the Sunoco station, 1680 S. McCall Rd., Englewood, notified her manager who called the CCSO to report a man attempting to pass a fake $20 to purchase items. The clerk recognized him as the same man who passed a bogus $20 on Oct. 3 in the store which was caught on video. When deputies arrived they arrested Lawrence as he was leaving.

The ECU detective’s investigation led to a home at 10113 Edmonton Ave., Englewood, where the fake bills were being manufactured. Detectives notified the U.S. Secret Service and both agencies went to the home and met Kellie Kay Ordish, 30, who allowed them to search the house. Detectives seized an HP Printer, special paper, and various items used to make the fake bills. The front and back of the counterfeit bills were printed separately and then glued together.

ECU Detectives report they confiscated 10 counterfeit $10 bills and nine $20 bills. A search of the garage located a large garbage bag with 73 counterfeit $20 bills, and 25 counterfeit $10 bills in various stages of production. Detectives say the couple had been printing the bogus bills and passing them at multiple businesses in Charlotte and Sarasota counties.

Upon completing their investigation, ECU detectives arrested Lawrence and Ordish and transported them to the Charlotte County Jail. Both are charged with 117 felony counts each for Forging Bank Bills, one count of Possessing Forged Bills, and one count of Making/Possessing Instruments for Forging Bills.

FDLE Arrests Ex-Cop for Sexual
Battery by a Law Enforcement
Officer on an Inmate

SEBRING, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s (FDLE) Sebring Field Office has announced the arrest of former Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) employee, Sergeant Tommie Joe Brock, 51, of Okeechobee, Fla. for Sexual Battery by a Law Enforcement Officer, a first-degree felony and sexual misconduct between a detention facility employee and an inmate, a third-degree felony.

The FDLE investigation began July 2009 at the request of the OCSO who received allegations that Brock was having a sexual relationship with an unwilling inmate.

The case will be prosecuted by the 10th judicial circuit.

Brock was booked into the Okeechobee County Jail.

Robbery Suspect Arrested;
Body Found in Apartment

APOPKA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a body was found in an Orange County apartment early Wednesday morning after a man was arrested on suspicion of terrorizing several people while wearing a Halloween mask, deputies said.

The body was found at the Chapel Trace apartments after a man wanted in at least five robberies was arrested. The connection between the body and the robbery suspect is not known.

According to Orange County sheriff's deputies, a man wearing a Halloween mask approached a man at 17th Street and Central Avenue in the Apopka area and tried to rob him.

The man was shot in the back three times, a witness said.

The man's condition is not known.

The man accused in the robbery and shooting denied any involvement while he was being arrested.

Deputies believe the gunman and another person were involved in other robberies or robbery attempts, including two near the University of Central Florida and one near the apartment where the body was discovered, WKMG said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Violent Crimes Task Force Arrests
Two Men Who Attempted to Rob
An Alleged Drug Dealer; Drug
Dealer Struck with Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office Violent Crimes Task Force Detective Bill Waldron reported the attempted robbery of an alleged drug dealer who was struck with a vehicle by one of the would-be robbers. The incident occurred on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at about 2:45 p.m., at 1103 67th Street Northwest, in Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Douglas D. Moore II and Peter G. Fellows

On the above date and time Douglas D. Moore II, 18, of 5711 2nd Avenue N.W., Bradenton, and Peter G. Fellows, 22, of 1818 43rd Street West, Bradenton, met up with the victim, Michael Mullins, 19, of 1107 67th Street N.W., Bradenton, to allegedly purchase narcotics from Mullins -- 7 Roxycodone pills.

When the suspects met up with Mullins near his residence on 67th Street N.W., they asked to see the narcotics. When Mullins didn’t comply, Fellows got out of the vehicle driven by Moore and attempted to approach Mullins.

Mullins began running towards his residence at 1107 67th Street N.W.

Moore accelerated the vehicle he was driving and struck Mullins with the vehicle, causing Mullins to be thrown up onto the hood of the vehicle then onto the ground.

Moore then lost control of the vehicle he was driving and struck a Jet Ski that was on a trailer, then hit the garage of the residence at 1107 67th Street N.W. and damaged another Jet Ski and the garage door.

Fellows kicked Mullins several times while he lay on the ground and went through Mullins' clothing, attempting to take the alleged narcotics.

A witness confronted the suspects and the suspects fled the scene in the vehicle they were driving.

Mullins was transported to Blake Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. Mullins was later released with minor injuries.

Less than an hour later, Manatee County Sheriff's Office Anna Maria Island Deputies, a sheriff's K-9 Unit and Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) Detectives learned of a possible location for Moore on Anna Maria Island. Contact was made with Moore at his girlfriend’s residence on the island, in the 200 block of Gladiolus Street, and he was arrested by VCTF.

At approximately 8:00 p.m., Patrol Supervisor Lt. Christine Thomason advised VCTF that she had spoken to Peter Fellows by phone after he made several calls to the Sheriff’s Office wanting to turn himself in for his involvement in this incident.

VCTF made contact with Fellows and he turned himself in at the Sheriff’s Office Operations Center, located at 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton.

Moore was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Motor Vehicle, Attempted Robbery, Driving on a Suspended Driver’s License, Reckless Driving Involving Property Damage, Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage and Careless Driving.

Fellows was charged with Attempted Robbery and Principle to Aggravated Battery with a Motor Vehicle.

Both suspects were booked into the Manatee County Jail on these charges with no bail bond.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Man
For Assaulting Another Man
With a Knife, Battery

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police have arrested Shawn L. Saunders, 25, of 1911 19th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Shawn Saunders

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at about 9 p.m., Saunders and another unnamed man were involved in a verbal argument. Saunders then "got into his face" and a physical altercation ensued.

The victim was able to get away from Saunders and went to another room.

While the victim was going to the other room, he heard his girlfriend and her mother yell at Saunders to put the knife down.

The victim realized that Saunders was coming for him with a knife and, being in fear for his life, locked himself in his bedroom until law enforcement arrived.

While in the bedroom, the victim said Saunders was trying to get him to come out.

The victim suffered a small abrasion on his left forearm.

When law enforcement arrived, prior to Saunders being arrested, Saunders pulled the knife out of his back pocket.

Saunders allegedly admitted to the incident.

Saunders was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Battery.

As of Tuesday, Saunders remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
For Burglary of Vehicle at
Movie Theater Parking Lot

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Matthew J. Kinney, 30, of 3308 32nd Street West, Bradenton.

Matthew J. Kinney

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, at a few minutes past midnight, police were called to the CVS pharmacy located at 4302 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

CVS employees had called police to report a man, later identified as Kinney, acting suspiciously in the store.

An officer made contact with Kinney outside the store. At the time, he was carrying a backpack containing a blue paintball gun and a CO2 tank. Kinney said it belonged to him. The officer obtained an address where Kinney was headed and let him go, having no reason at that time to detain him.

Then, at about 12:30 a.m., a woman reported her vehicle had been burglarized at the Oakmont Theater, located at 4801 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Taken in the burglary were a black chained wallet, a brown purse and a blue paintball gun and CO2 tank with the name "Chris" painted on it.

The officer remembered the previous encounter with Kinney and went to the address where Kinney said he would be going, 3308 32nd Street West, Bradenton.

The officer found Kinney on his bed. Also on the bed was the blue paintball gun and CO2 tank with the name "Chris' painted on it. The other stolen items were also located.

Kinney was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Conveyance.

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

Two Teens Arrested for
Multiple Vehicle Burglaries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David Stuckey, 19, and Stephen Marland, 18, both of 2704 36th Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, David Stuckey and Stephen Marland

A sheriff's report said deputies were dispatched to 8186 Natures Way in Lakewood Ranch after a witness observed the two young men enter a vehicle and try the handles of multiple other vehicles.

As Dep. Georgian arrived on scene, he was flagged down by the witness who pointed out the vehicle that the young men had fled in.

Dep. Georgian stopped the vehicle that was occupied by the pair.

Both were immediately separated and read their Miranda Rights.

Both admitted to entering multiple unlocked vehicles in the Colonial Grande complex as well as multiple unlocked vehicles in the Summerfield area of Lakewood Ranch.

In addition, they admitted to committing other vehicle burglaries in the past within the county.

Both young men were being charged with the four burglaries in Colonial Grande, although additional charges will be forthcoming.

Man Arrested for Theft of
Cast Net from Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jose Davila, 19, of 2714 69th Street West, Bradenton.

Jose E. Davila

According to the arrest report, Davila was at Emerson Point, 5801 17th Street West, Palmetto, on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at about 6 p.m. when he reached inside the bed of a truck belonging to Rod Griffon and took a cast net that was inside a white painter's bucket.

The victim and his friend were fishing when they saw Davila and another man look into the truck and take the cast net and bucket.

Griffon said he ran out of the woods yelling at Davila, who was in the process of putting the bucket containing the net in the back of a green Ford Expedition.

Davila then put the bucket and net on the ground and drove to the end of Emerson Point.

When a deputy and a lieutenant from Fish and Wildlife arrived, they called Davila and his friend back to shore.

Griffon pointed at Davila and said he was the one who took the net.

Davila told the deputy that the net was on the ground, not in the truck, when he took it.

Davila was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Vehicle.

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

Several Shots Fired into
Unoccupied Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported several shots were fired into an unoccupied vehicle on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2009, at about 2:45 a.m., in the 300 block of 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

According to the report, unknown suspect(s) fired several bullets into a vehicle parked in the driveway of the above address.

The victim, Josefina Sayaz, 55, heard several shots and then squealing tires.

No one was in the vehicle at the time of the shooting.

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 PAL Plans
Halloween House of Terror

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Police Athletic League of Sarasota County is prepared to scare at its annual Halloween House of Terror.

Held at the PAL Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, this year’s haunted house has more than a dozen rooms of terrifying fun.

The experience is not for the faint of heart, so attendees must be at least 12 years old.

The Halloween House of Terror is open Thursday through Saturday, October 22-24 and October 29-31, from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Tickets are $10 per person, and proceeds support PAL programs for the youth of Sarasota County.

Charlotte Sheriff Schedules
DUI Checkpoints

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Cameron announced that the Traffic Safety Team will be conducting low manpower DUI checkpoints between Thursday and Sunday, Oct. 22-25.

Deputies will stop traffic and conduct various test procedures looking for impaired drivers at multiple locations around the county.

The Sheriff Office does not announce days, times, or locations in hopes it will deter those who may drink and drive, or use drugs and drive.

Man Shot In Chest
Walks Into Hospital

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG is reporting a man walked into an Altamonte Springs hospital Monday night with a gunshot wound to his chest.

The man, whose name has not been released, was listed in stable condition at Florida Hospital Altamonte.

According to police, the man was shot at 550 Hattaway Drive No. 5 in Altamonte Springs before 8:51 p.m.

A dog was found dead from a gunshot wound at the home, police said.

An investigation is under way, WKMG said.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Girl, 15, Raped by Man, 32, After
Burglary of Residence by Man,
Sheriff's Press Release Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, October 18, 2009, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies have arrested Gregory Milton-Laverne Johnson, 32, of Bradenton, following the burglary of a residence in the 600 block of 27th Avenue West, Bradenton, and the forcible rape of a 15-year-old girl.

Gregory Milton-Laverne Johnson

According to a press release, Johnson was known to the victim's family and had been in the area earlier Saturday evening causing a disturbance. Later in the night, Johnson returned and knocked on the door and was asked to leave. The resident then returned to bed.

A short time later, Johnson began knocking on all the windows around the house. At some point, the knocking stopped.

The juvenile victim and her two younger siblings, ages 2 and 9, were staying at the residence with friends because the victim’s mother was ill. The siblings and another adult female, who has diminished mental abilities, were also sleeping in the room with the victim, the report said.

Sometime around 1 a.m., Johnson made entry to the residence through a window.

Johnson began groping the mentally challenged adult female prior to turning his focus on the juvenile victim.

The adult members of the home heard a commotion coming from the victim's room, and heard the 15-year-old girl say, “Stop, get off of me.”

When an adult male resident entered the victim's room, Johnson was on top of the victim and fully involved in his sexual attack on the girl.

Johnson quickly got off the victim and started to put on his pants and allegedly made incriminating statements at that time to the adult male resident.

A fight ensued between Johnson and the adult male resident. Johnson was held down, but managed to break free and fled from the residence.

At approximately 1:07 a.m., deputies responded to a call from the residence.

The victim was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by ambulance. Rape Crisis was contacted by the hospital.

On Sunday, at approximately 12:46 p.m., patrol units found Johnson at a house located in the 1100 block of 23rd Avenue West in Bradenton.

Johnson was taken to the Crimes Against Children offices for an interview and later transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Johnson was charged with Sexual Battery on a Minor with Force and two counts of Burglary.

As of Monday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Deputy Arrests Man, 54, for
Unnatural & Lascivious Act

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David Dean Morley, 54, of the 1300 block of Willow Oak Circle, in Bradenton.

David Dean Morley

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, at about 3:30 a.m., an unnamed victim was asleep on a couch at a residence in the 5200 block of 47th Street East, Bradenton, when he felt someone touching his penis.

The victim opened his eyes and saw Morley next to him. He ignored Morley's actions and turned back around, thinking Morley would leave.

Morley then put his hands inside the victim's underwear and touched the victim's penis for a second time.

Morley then tried to touch the victim's penis for a third time.

The victim tried to defend himself by striking Morley with a closed fist to Morley's face, the report said. Morley never reported the assault to law enforcement.

Morley was arrested at about 6 a.m. at his residence.

Morley was charged with Unnatural and Lascivious Act.

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

Man Already in Jail Arrested for
Strangling Live-In Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Julius Brown, 30, of 1204 61st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Julius Brown

Julius and a woman named only as "Nakiya" in an arrest report, are boyfriend and girlfriend, live together as a family and have a 2-month-old child together.

According to the arrest report, on October 4, 2009, at about 7:30 p.m., Brown punched, then strangled his live-in girlfriend.

Brown went to the residence on that date and stared pounding on the door. When the woman opened the door, Brown allegedly hit her once in the face.

She then went outside with their child in her arms.

He followed her, grabbed her by the throat and picked her up in the air, then struck her again.

Nakiya told a deputy her face hurt and he cut off her breathing, but she refused EMS.

The deputy did not observe any physical marks on the woman.

Brown was arrested on October 17th at the Manatee County Jail, where he is incarcerated on unrelated charges.

He was charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Woman Robbed Outside
Furniture Warehouse

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery in the parking lot of Furniture Warehouse, 1100 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at about 9 p.m.

The report said as the victim, Maureen Mastroieni, left the business she was confronted by a White female who asked for change.

Maureen refused and sat down in her vehicle.

The White female held the door open as a Black male approached and grabbed Maureen's purse.

Maureen refused to let go and a scuffle ensued. The Black male kicked Maureen in the head before grabbing the purse and fleeing east through the parking lot.

Both robbery suspects escaped with $400 cash, various ID and a cell phone.

A perimeter was set and K-9 tracked with negative results.

The victim suffered abrasions on her arm and was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital, where she was expected to be treated and released.

The thieves were described as a White female, 20-30 years old, 5'6" tall, with a thin build, last seen wearing a pink top and blue jeans, and a Black male, 20-30 years old 5'7" tall, with no further description.

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.

Bicyclist Mugged, Bike
Stolen on Saturday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said a bicyclist was mugged on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., in the 6300 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said Brian MacDonald, 41, of the 1600 block of Marilyn Avenue, in Bradenton, was riding his bike at the above location on 9th Street East when he heard someone running up behind him.

MacDonald stopped his bike and was immediately grabbed by one of two men by the back of his jacket and was pulled to the ground.

As MacDonald stood up, he was punched in the face by the other man.

One of the men picked up MacDonald's bike and both men fled northbound on 9th Street East with the bike.

MacDonald had no injuries and refused EMS treatment at the scene.

The bicycle is a red Magna mountain bike with a red lock around the seat.

One of the muggers was described as a Black male, 5'5" tall, of unknown age, and unknown weight, and was last seen wearing a red and white jacked and dark-colored shorts. The other man was not described in the report.

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

Public Storage on Cortez Road
Burglarized on Sunday; Locks
Cut Off 16 Units

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported Public Storage, 920 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, was burglarized on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009.

The report said at approximately 10:30 a.m., on Sunday, deputies responded to Public Storage for an apparent burglary.

Sometime during the night, unknown person(s) cut through the back fenced-in area and entered the storage complex.

A total of 16 storage units had the locks cut off and had been entered.

The management company made notification to all of the tenants.

It is unknown at this time if anything had been taken.

Management advised that their sister company in Ft. Myers had also been burglarized during the night, with 50 units broken into.

Crime Scene Technicians 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.

Electric Business in Ellenton
Burglarized; $30K in Electric
Items Stolen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office said Slentz Electric, 1202 Gary Avenue, Ellenton, was burglarized between Thursday, Oct. 15th at 5 p.m. and Friday, Oct. 16th, at about 6 a.m.

Unknown person(s) pried open a rear door to the business.

The burglar(s) then opened an overhead door and stole about $40,000 worth of electric-related supplies and equipment, i.e., tools LED street lights, electric boxes, generators, etc., the report said.

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

Warning To Elderly Issued
In Money Wire Scam

WEST MELBOURNE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported the West Melbourne Police Department has issued a warning about a scam targeting the elderly using social media Web sites.

According to a release from the police department, scam artists in Canada are using social networking sites, like Facebook, to find out enough information about their target's grandchild before calling them and pretending there is an emergency.

Police said the scammers create a sense of urgency and panic to get their victim to respond quickly by wiring money.

West Melbourne police said they have had two victims report the scam, and there are possibly more that have not come forward. Police said one reported a loss of $3,100, and the other sent $2,900.

In both cases, the victims were called by young males claiming to be a grandson in a Canadian jail needing money to get out, WKMG said.

[Ed. Note: This scam has also occurred in Manatee and surrounding counties.]

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Sheriff's Dispatcher Credited with
Arrest of Man in Armed Robberies
of Four People in Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A Manatee County Sheriff's Office dispatcher is being credited with helping to solve the armed robbery of four victims on Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, in West Manatee County, within an hour of the robberies. Under arrest and charged with four counts of Armed Robbery and one count of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon is Brent Bland, 24, of Orlando, Florida.

Brent Bland

The sheriff's report said on Friday, between the hours of 3-4 p.m., armed robberies occurred at 3 separate locations. The suspect in each of the 3 incidents was described as a heavy set Black male with dreadlocks, driving a white Buick. The incidents occurred as follows:

At 1901 46th Avenue Drive West, the Black male pulled up in the white Buick Century and confronted the victim, Stanley Stevens II, in his driveway. The suspect pointed a handgun at the victim and ordered him to the ground. The suspect demanded money and the victim emptied his pockets. The suspect collected $280 cash, a wallet and the victim's ID before fleeing in the White Buick. The victim was able to provide deputies with a partial tag "915." The suspect vehicle fled North on 20th Street West.

Then, at 6003 14th Street West, the victim, Joseph Dolmar, was at the Bank of America ATM when he noticed a Black male in a white car pull into the parking lot. The victim crossed the road to Walgreens and was followed by the suspect vehicle. As Dolmar exited his vehicle at Walgreens, he was confronted by the suspect who pointed a handgun at him and demanded money. As the victim was emptying his pockets, the suspect struck Dolmar in the face with the gun causing a laceration to his mouth; EMS responded after the robbery. The suspect took $3 in cash, a debit card and the victim's ID. He entered his white vehicle and fled North on 14th Street West. Dolmar was treated and released.

A few minutes later, at 5506 14th Street West, the victims, Beatriz Guerrero and Maria Granados-Ortega were closing their taco stand for the evening when the suspect approached and ordered food. The victims advised him that they were closed. The suspect went to the rear and entered the stand. He produced a handgun and pointed it at the victims, demanding money. The suspect took $400-500 cash and fled in a white buick.

Northside sheriff's dispatcher Ryan Smith heard the radio traffic and noticed the similarities in the incidents. He used a law enforcement database with the partial tag of "915" and provided deputies with a possible tag of 915-KIL, which belonged to a White Buick Century registered to Kashema Williams at 5731 24th Street West.

Sgt. Mark Young sent units to the address where they located the suspect vehicle and made contact with Williams.

During a short interview with Williams, it was learned that her brother down from Orlando, Brent Bland, matched the description of the suspect.

Bland came to the door. The victims from each of the incidents responded separately in different patrol vehicles. Each of the victims positively identified the suspect vehicle and Brent Bland.

A consensual search of the suspect vehicle was conducted with negative results. Williams allowed us into the home where a handgun holster was located on the couch where the suspect had been staying. A Concealed Weapons Permit in Bland's name was also located and provided to deputies by Williams.

The handgun and the victims' belongings have not yet been located.

Bland was arrested and taken to the Manatee County Jail.

Detectives were contacted and responded to take over the investigation.

Bland declined to be interviewed.

As of Saturday, Bland remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $50,000.

Five Tampa Area Men Arrested for
2 Local Burglaries; Guns, Jewelry,
Auto Stolen; Some Items Recovered

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested five men in connection with a burglary on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at about noon, in the 5300 block of Lansdowne Way and the 4800 block of 70th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Top to Bottom, Clarence Stewart, Carlton Shepard,
Armond Gilyard, Benjamin Jackson, and Adawneis Taylor

A sheriff's report said a neighbor of one of the residences called in to report two suspicious vehicles in neighbor's driveway, a black 2005 Chrysler Crossfire and a 94 silver full size Cadillac occupied by five Black males. Four of them made their way into the back yard while the other subject stayed in the Cadillac, the caller said. The caller was sure the subjects did not belong there.

Dep. Choate and Dep. Hernandez arrived at the location where Dep. Choate immediately took the suspect in the Cadillac into custody. Dep. Hernandez saw the other suspects fleeing over the back yard fence and went into foot pursuit. He then lost sight of them in a wooded area running westbound.

The suspects made it across I-75 where they were seen walking southbound.

Shortly afterward, Dep. Staley, who was driving the sheriff's transport van, observed all four of them under the I-275 overpass and stopped them.

Additional units arrived and they were taken into custody.

In their possession were items later identified by victims of both residences such as jewelry, coins, keys, etc.

Units responded to the residence registered to the Chrysler Crossfire and observed a broken rear sliding glass door.

A semi-automatic .40 caliber handgun, found under the driver’s seat of the Cadillac, was confirmed stolen from that residence along with other items recovered from the suspects.

Two guns were taken from the residence at Lansdowne and one was recovered in that back yard while the other one is presently still missing.

Detectives took possession of the recovered items. The crime scenes and the stolen vehicle were processed for latent fingerprints.

The Cadillac was impounded pending a search warrant and the Crossfire was released to its owner.

All five subjects are from the Tampa area and were charged with Armed Burglaries and Grand Theft Auto.

They were identified by the sheriff's office as Clarence Stewart, 23; Carlton Shepard, 19; Armond Gilyard, 19; Benjamin Jackson, 19; and Adawneis Taylor, 17.

Clarence Stewart was additionally charged with Possession of Marijuana with an additional $120 bail bond.

As of Saturday, Oct. 17th, Stewart and Shepard remained in the Manatee County Jail on bail bonds of $22,000. Gilyard and Jackson posted similar bail bonds and were released. Taylor was taken to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Texas Man Arrested for
Strangling Local Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Patrick Everett Lund, 41, of Tyler, Texas.

Patrick Everett Lund

According to the arrest report, Patrick Lund and Amy Tekely have been in a relationship for about a year and were in Florida to pick up the remainder of Ms. Tekely's possessions for her to move into his home.

On Thursday, October 15, 2009, at about 4:15 a.m., Ms. Tekely went to a semi-tractor operated by Lund, which was in the parking lot across from the Days Inn, 629 67th Street Circle East, Bradenton, where they were sharing a room.

Lund was already at the truck.

A verbal argument ensued, which escalated into physical violence.

During the physical altercation, Lund placed his hands around Ms. Tekely's throat, severely hindering her breathing and causing bruising to her neck.

Ms. Tekely was afraid for her life, the report said; she could hardly breathe.

Lund was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

As of Saturday, Lund remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $25,000.

Man Arrested in Two Burglaries
Confesses to At Least 12 More

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Detective James Curulla has arrested Donald C. Zes, 37, of 3302 9th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Donald C. Zes

On Thursday, October 15, 2009, Det. Curulla arrested Zes for his involvement in a burglary that was committed in May. Det. Curulla brought Zes to the police station to be interviewed. During that interview, Zes confessed to another burglary that occurred on October 10, 1009, in addition to approximately a dozen more burglaries that occurred in the city and in unincorporated Manatee County.

In the May burglary, on May 22nd, 2009, the glass front door at the AMF Bowling Alley Pro Shop, located at 4208 Cortez Road West, was smashed and the business was burglarized. The victim stated over $100 in cash from the cash register and a laptop computer were stolen.

The crime scene was processed for fingerprints and blood evidence. They were matched to Zes.

When he was arrested, Zes said he smashed the glass door with a hammer and cut himself. He said he took $147 from the register and stole the laptop. He said he gave it to an unnamed co-defendant who was waiting outside. The computer was valued at over $1,000.

On October 15th, a burglary was discovered at Tanfastics Tanning Salon, located at 4838 Cortez Road West. The front glass door had been smashed with a brick. The owner said a 19" LCD TV had been ripped off the mounting hook affixed to the wall inside the business, just inside the smashed-out door.

When questioned by Det. Curulla, Zes said he took the TV to a residence in the 1000 block of 26th Avenue West and delivered it there.

Zes said he receives anything ranging from food to illegal narcotics for property he delivers there.

Zes also committed a Grand Theft that occurred on Wednesday, October 14, at 7423 Manatee Avenue West, the report said.

Zes has been charged with two counts of Burglary.

As of Saturday, Zes was being held in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $20,000.

More charges are expected to follow from law enforcement authorities.

Man Being Arrested Damages
Sheriff's Cruiser; Tasered
Twice, Hospitalized

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office was forced to use a Taser on a man twice while he was being arrested on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at about 4:40 p.m., in the 3400 block of 19th Street West, Bradenton.

Manuel G. Garcia

The suspect, Manuel G. Garcia, 45, of 3418 20th Street West, Bradenton, was in the process of being arrested for domestic battery when he became irate and began slamming his forearms on the truck of a patrol vehicle, causing it to dent.

Garcia then took flight on foot and while being chased by a deputy he was warned to stop running or he would be Tasered.

Garcia was Tasered and fell to his knees but was able to get up and take flight again; Garcia once again was Tasered, which resulted in him falling and hitting his head on the asphalt.

Garcia was transported to Bayfront Medical Center via ambulance with injuries that were not life-threatening.

Garcia was later transported to the Manatee County Jail, charged with Domestic Battery, Criminal Mischief and Resisting Arrest with Violence.

Garcia remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $6,500 bail bond.

Sex Offender Arrested for
Failure to Register

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Office Detective Carole Montague has arrested Alvhord Lee, 59, of Palmetto.

Alvhord Lee

Det. Montague said on Wednesday, October 14, 2009, warrants were signed for the arrest of Alvhord Lee.

He is charged with Failure to Reregister as a Sex Offender and Failure to Notify DHSMV of an Address Change.

Lee was arrested without incident on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, and taken to Manatee County Jail.

Alvhord Lee is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bond, pending a hearing.

Attempted Armed Robbery Near
Police Athletic League;
Man Shot In Chest

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot in the chest during an attempted armed robbery on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, at about 8:45 p.m., in the 200 block of 13th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said Kieron James, of the 200 block of 26th Avenue West, Bradenton, was walking alongside of 13th Avenue East in front of the Police Athletic League when a dark blue four-door vehicle pulled alongside of him.

A Black male and a Hispanic male exited the vehicle, pointed a gun at him, and demanded money.

Kieron said he didn’t have any and he was shot in the chest by the Hispanic suspect.

Kieron walked to the Citgo gas station nearby where he called a friend to take him to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Kieron suffered a grazing gunshot wound.

Kieron was expected to be treated and released with injuries that were not life-threatening.

The suspects were only described in the report as an unknown Black male wearing a dark shirt and dark pants, and an unknown Hispanic male wearing dark-colored pants and a red shirt, driving a dark blue four-door vehicle.

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

Two Black Males Rob Two
Hispanic Victims at Gunpoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2009, shortly before 9 p.m. in the 3200 block of 3rd Street West, Bradenton.

The report said while the victims, a 40-year-old Hispanic male and a 49-year-old Hispanic female, were at the above address, an unknown dark-colored vehicle pulled up next to them.

Suspect #1 exited the vehicle and pointed a handgun at the Hispanic pair and demanded money. The woman handed suspect #1 her purse.

Suspect #2 then exited the vehicle also armed with a handgun but was told by suspect #1, "I got her money let's go."

The suspects then fled in an unknown direction.

The area was checked for the suspect vehicle with negative results.

Neither victim was injured.

The robbers were described as follows:

#1: A Black male, wearing a T-shirt and long dark pants, armed with handgun.

#2: A Black male, heavy set, wearing a light-colored shirt with short black hair, armed with handgun.

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

Armed Robber At Large After
Early Morning Incident; Cops
Identify Robber

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office said a man was beaten and robbed on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., in the 3500 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Colter Clark
(Prior mug shot)

According to a sheriff's report, at approximately 1:30 a.m. the victim, James Cartwright, 54, of the 1300 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, was riding his bike on 14th Street West when Colter Clark, 27, of 2403 12th Avenue West, Bradenton, pushed Cartwright off his bike.

Clark then brandished a knife and threatened Cartwright and told him to give up his money.

Clark began hitting and kicking the victim and then went through his pockets.

Clark got $25 in cash from Cartwright, the report said.

Clark fled west on 30th Avenue West and Cartwright lost Clark when he turned onto Garden Lane.

The victim did not require EMS treatment.

Colter Clark was not described in the report from Sgt. Orval Walker.

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

Sheriff's Office Investigating
Death of Woman 60 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of Judith Lynn Barbee, 60, of 3140 57th Avenue Circle East, Bradenton.

On Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, at about 10 a.m., at the request of EMS personnel the sheriff's office responded to investigate the death of a Barbee, a White female.

At this time, nothing at the residence indicates anything other than a death by natural causes.

A Victim Advocate was sent to assist the family.

No Need for Concern About
Powder in BJ's Wholesale
Club Mailer, Sheriff Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit has sent notification that there is no need for concern about a powder contained in a mailer that BJ's Wholesale Club is sending to local residents. The local BJ's Wholesale Club is located at 8085 Cooper Creek Blvd., in Manatee County.

The Crime Prevention Unit said the FBI in Tampa has forwarded information that BJ’s Wholesale Club is or will be distributing millions of mailers that may have a “powder-like substance” on them. The powder is “baby powder” and is used in the process of making up the mailers. Below is the notice that was sent to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office by the FBI notifying us of this. We felt it was important to let the public know to limit the amount of “suspicious packages” complaints that may come in as a result of this. In other words, if you get a mailer from BJ’s and it has a powder-like substance on it, it has been deemed safe by the FBI.

Original notice sent by FBI:

"Please note that BJ's Wholesale Club has identified that 10 million mailers are to be delivered on the east coast, east of Mississippi and from Maine to Florida, as part of a marketing push. These mailers were found to contain a powder-like substance, which caused an incident recently in Norfolk, Virginia. The powder-like substance on these mailers has been identified as baby powder, which is a blend of talc and fragrance. During production of these mailers, a glue application is first included for card affixing and next a baby powder is used on the machines to avoid the glue from sticking to the cylinders of the bindery and affixing equipment. This is common practice throughout the industry."

Man Shot Daughter's Boyfriend
In Pelvic Area for Having Sex

APOPKA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A Central Florida man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of shooting an 18-year-old who was having sex with his 16-year-old stepdaughter, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Wade Edwards, 41, of Apopka, was arrested on charges of attempted second-degree murder after allegedly shooting Julian Harp.

According to Apopka police, Edwards found his stepdaughter having sex with Harp at about 2:45 p.m. inside a home located in the 2000 block of Rafton Road.

Police said Edwards armed himself and confronted Harp, shooting him four times in the pelvic area. Harp suffered injuries that were not life-threatening, police said.

Edwards called 911 to report that he had shot Harp.

"I saw someone in my house, and I just shot him. He was inside my house, ma'am," Edwards told a 911 dispatcher.

Edwards asked the dispatcher how to help the teen.

Police said Edwards claimed that Harp "pounced out at him" and he felt forced to shoot. But police said that was inconsistent with what his daughter and Harp told detectives.

Edwards was denied bond in a court hearing Friday morning, WKMG said.

Semi-Submersible Vessel Crew
Sentenced in Cocaine
Smuggling Attempt

TAMPA, Florida -- On Friday, October 16, 2009, U.S. Attorney A. Brian Albritton announced that U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington sentenced Silvio Orejuela Ceron (age 53, of Colombia) to fourteen years in federal prison for operating a self-propelled semisubmersible (SPSS) vessel loaded with approximately five tons of cocaine.

Ceron had pleaded guilty to a Superseding Indictment charging him with conspiring to operate and operating an SPSS vessel with intent to evade detection and two drug counts. His sentence arises in part from a prior felony drug conviction in the United States.

Judge Covington also today sentenced Ceron's co-defendants, Adolfo Obregon (age 52, of Colombia), and Ricardo Victoria (age 40 of Colombia), to eleven years and three months each on related charges. A fourth co-defendant, Eladio Angulo (age 40, of Colombia), had previously been sentenced to five years and ten months. Obregon, Victoria, and Angulo had pleaded guilty earlier this year.

The charges against Ceron and his co-defendants were brought pursuant to the Drug Trafficking Vessel Interdiction Act of 2008, which was signed into law last October in response to the sharp increase in South American narcotics traffickers' deployment of SPSS vessels to smuggle cocaine.

According to court documents, on February 28, 2009, USS UNDERWOOD sighted an SPSS vessel stopped dead in the water northwest of Isla Gorgona, Colombia, in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. The vessel was 60 feet long, sloped on both ends, and painted blue, with an extremely low profile and no lights. It flew no flag, displayed no home/hailing port, and did not have any registration numbers. USS UNDERWOOD launched a Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) to intercept the SPSS vessel. By the time the LEDET reached the vessel, the
defendants had scuttled it by opening valves used to cool the engine with sea water. A cooperating witness later reported that the forward half of the SPSS vessel had been
nearly entirely loaded with bales containing cocaine.

This is the second time Ceron has been interdicted in the Pacific Ocean and prosecuted in the Middle District of Florida for drug smuggling. According to court documents, on December 18, 2000, USS MCCLUSKEY caught Ceron and six others on a stateless "go-fast" vessel carrying 737 kilograms of cocaine. Ceron served seventy months in federal prison for that offense before being deported to Colombia.

This case was investigated by OCDETF's Panama Express Strike Force, comprised of agents and analysts from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, and Joint Interagency Task Force South. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.

[Ed. Note: While the report above is not about a local crime, we are publishing it as a matter of general public education and concern regarding cocaine smuggling and law enforcement interest, and because the sentencing occurred in federal court in Tampa.]

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