Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 11/7/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 11/7/2009

Deputies Find Man, Taser Him
After He Fled from Scene of
Strong Arm Robbery of Two
Women at Kids' Bus Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Anthony Allan Johnson, 19, of Bradenton, and charged him with two counts of Robbery.

Anthony Allan Johnson

According to Johnson's arrest report, on Wednesday, November 4, 2009, at approximately 2 p.m., hours deputies were dispatched to the 5700 block of 10th Street East for an apparent robbery.

The victims, Brenda Albarran, 22, and Maria Albarran, 47, were walking to pick up their children from the bus stop when Johnson approached them.

Johnson demanded a phone from the victims. When they advised that they had no phone, Johnson grabbed Brenda around the throat and pulled Maria’s necklace off, breaking it, but did not get it. Johnson then ripped Brenda’s necklace off and fled on foot to the north east behind some houses.

Patrol deputies, COPS (East and West) deputies, and a K-9 deputy quickly responded to the area and set up a perimeter. Units were directed to the area of Pine Village.

Deputies located a subject matching Johnson’s description, who immediately became confrontational.

A show up was conducted and Johnson was positively identified by the Albarrons.

Johnson was holding the victim’s necklace clutched in his fist when he was captured. The necklace was also positively identified by the victim.

Johnson resisted deputies while being handcuffed and tried to exit the patrol vehicle.

Johnson was drive-stunned with a Taser in the abdomen, taken to the ground and further restrained. Johnson began threatening the deputies on scene.

Johnson was then transported directly to the Manatee County Jail.

The victims were not injured during the incident.

As of Thursday afternoon, Johnson remained in jail without bail.

FWC Arrests Wildlife Handler for
Misuse of 911 System and Unsafe
Handling of Captive 14-Foot Python

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Fish and Wildlife Commission has arrested Justin L. Matthews, 47, of 7416 41st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Justin L. Matthews

On July 25, 2009, Matthews called local news media outlets and 911 to report he had found a 14-foot Burmese python in a drainage pipe. That report turned out to be a hoax, investigators found.

On Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, Matthews was arrested by a Fish and Wildlife Officer and charged with Misuse of Emergency 911 Service in excess of $100 of service and response, a felony, and Maintaining Captive Wildlife in Unsafe Manner, a misdemeanor.

Specifically, the FWC arrest report said Matthews:

~ Requested assistance utilizing misuse of the 911 emergency system;

~ Maintained captive wildlife (python) in unsafe manner or in manner which results in threats to the public safety;

~ Possess or exhibit reptile of concern in manner not approved as safe, secure and proper by FWC; and

~ Possess reptile of concern for personal use without permanent identification for reptile/passive integrated transponder (microchip).

At the time, Matthews said residents had reported seeing the python over a period of time.

During a press conference, Matthews admitted he had staged the capture to bring awareness to the growing problem of loose pythons.

Matthews posted a $5,750 bail bond and has been released from the Manatee County Jail.

One of Two Men Arrested for
Vehicle Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David Dean Darr II, 19, of 214 55th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

David Dean Darr II

The arrest report said on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, at about 1:45 a.m., a witness heard a neighbor's dog barking and looked out the window to find two White males in the driveway of a residence in the 2500 block of 30th Avenue East.

The witness saw Darr flashing a flashlight in the victim's vehicle from the driver's side to provide light for another White male in the vehicle.

While the other White male was inside of the vehicle, the witness knocked on the window and both White males looked up and then fled on bicycles eat on 30th Avenue East, then south on 27th Street East.

A deputy located 2 White males matching the description just a block south and stopped them.

Darr stopped but the other White male fled and was not located.

The witness was brought to the scene of the stop and was able to positively identify Darr as one of the two burglars.

The faceplate to the radio taken from the vehicle was located in the 2600 block of 32nd Avenue East, just at the end of the road where Darr was traveling.

Darr was arrested and charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Conveyance.

As of Thursday afternoon, Darr was being held in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a bail bond of $7,500.

Bradenton Cop Arrests Man for
Trafficking in Hydrocodone

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Eniel Marzo-Alayo, 24, of 4215 Magnolia Drive, in Ellenton.

Eniel Marzo-Alayo

The arrest report from BPD said on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 2 a.m., an officer pulled over a vehicle for having a cracked windshield.

Consent to search the vehicle was granted by the driver, but nothing was found.

Consent to search Marzo-Alayo was granted and the officer found 12 Hydrocodone pills wrapped in a white plastic bag in the right front pants pocket.

The report said Marzo-Alayo was too distraught to answer any questions.

Marzo-Alayo was charged with Trafficking in Hydrocodone and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

He posted a $5,000 bail bond and was released from jail.

Man Allegedly Robbed of $3K
By Two Black Males with Gun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, at about 10 p.m., outside a residence in the 5200 block of 20th Street West, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Phillip Ross, 41, and his live-in girlfriend had just moved into the residence five days ago.

Earlier, Ross had withdrawn $3,000 from the girlfriend's bank account to pay the rent. The victim placed the $3,000 into his wallet.

Later, he took the trash out to the side of the road.

While outside, Ross was allegedly approached by two Black males who came from the South. Only one was described in the report as being 18-20 years old, 5'-9"-6' tall, 150-175 pounds wearing a gray shirt and dark pants. He was armed with a handgun. The other was only described as being 18-20 years old.

The suspect in the gray shirt with the handgun pointed it at Ross and demanded he give them everything that he had, the report said.

Ross allegedly gave the suspect his wallet with the $3,000 in it.

The alleged robbers fled northbound on foot.

A perimeter was quickly set up and a K-9 unit and the sheriff's helicopter searched the area with negative results.

Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) Investigator Parham responded and assisted with the investigation.

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.

Solemn Parade, Ceremony
Planned for Veterans Day

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Solemn events are planned on Nov. 11 to commemorate Veterans Day.

A Veterans Day parade will begin Nov. 11 at 9:30 a.m. at Rossi Park, between Ninth and 10th Street West, near the Municipal Marina. The parade will travel east down Third Avenue, then north on Riverfront Drive, ending at Veterans Monument Park behind Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Following the parade, a Veterans Day ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. There will be a massing of colors by the Manatee County veterans and auxiliary groups, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the national anthem. Manatee County Veteran of the Year and Auxiliary Member of the Year awards will be announced. U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan will be the guest speaker for the ceremony.

"Veterans Day is the one day of the year, when we as Americans and citizens of Manatee County, can say thank you to our Veterans for their service and sacrifice," said Andy Huffman, Manatee County Veterans Services Officer.

Manatee Board of County Commissioners Tuesday approved a Veterans Day proclamation that calls on all Manatee citizens, schools, businesses, clubs and media to pay tribute to veterans during a weeklong celebration of American Patriotism, from Nov. 9 – 14. The proclamation asks everyone to display the flag of the United States of America, to conduct or attend patriotic ceremonies and to appreciate the freedoms and privileges that “so many fought and sacrificed their lives for.”

Manatee County is home to 42,000-plus veterans. That number grows by about 10,000 during winter months as snowbirds flock south.

"I believe that as a country we owe veterans a lot of gratitude," said Ken McCoy, Chairman of Manatee County Veterans Council. "They sacrificed to give us the freedoms we take for granted."

Located on the third floor of Manatee County Administration Building, Manatee County Veterans Services serves thousands of veterans each year. The office provides veterans with several channels of help for veterans. Its primary role is being an advocate for veterans seeking benefits that can be hard to obtain from many government sources, especially the Veterans Administration.

For more information on Manatee County Veterans Services, call (941) 749-3030 or click on Veterans Services under the Services tab at www.mymanatee.org

Sarasota, Manatee Issue
Proclamations for Women
Veterans, Past & Present

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On November 2nd in Sarasota County and on November 3rd in Manatee County, the Sons of the American Revolution joined with the Daughters of the American Revolution in receiving copies of a Proclamation acknowledging the service of American women in uniform, both present and past.

Above, L to R, Theresa Cobb, Past Regent of Manatee Chapter, DAR;
Harold Crapo, Jr., President, Saramana Chapter, SAR;
and Sarasota Mayor Richard Clapp

Receiving the Proclamation in Manatee County from Commissioner Larry Bustle were Harold Crapo, Jr., President of Saramana Chapter SAR and Dee Kermode, Past Regent of Osceola Chapter DAR.

In Sarasota County, receiving the Proclamation from Mayor Richard Clapp were Crapo and Theresa Cobb, Past Regent of Manatee Chapter DAR.

Cops: Man Arrested In
Sex Slave Scheme

PALM BAY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Palm Bay police arrested a 44-year-old man Tuesday on charges involving kidnapping and a plot to commit sexual battery on a long-time friend, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

In a release, police said that Tony Green contacted the 38-year-old victim on Monday and requested a ride to pick up his vehicle at an auto repair shop. Due to a long-existing friendship, police said the victim did not notice anything suspicious.

Police said the victim went to Green's home, located at 1698 Wyoming Drive SE, at about 1:45 p.m. Upon arrival, she was invited inside, grabbed from behind, and handcuffed by the wrist, police said.

In the incident report, police stated the two struggled, and the victim kept her left arm out of reach of an additional handcuff.

The report also states that Green knocked the victim to the floor several times and repeated, "I got to have it." Once she realized he was referring to sex, police said she, in fear of her safety and to avoid being bound, told Green they could talk about sex.

Police said the victim spoke with Green for nearly two hours to try to calm him down.

At one point, police said Green moved closely, and the victim gave him a hug and told him she loved him like a brother. Afterward, Green stopped struggling, unlocked the handcuffs and released the victim, police said.

The victim notified authorities about the alleged kidnapping after she left Green's home and detectives with the Major Case Unit began to investigate.

According to the Palm Bay Police Department, Green has been charged with kidnapping, attempted sexual battery, aggravated stalking, battery and threats of extortion. If convicted, he could face 30 years in prison, WKMG said.

Two Charged in Disappearance of
Shannon Lea Dedrick

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Florida [NMT/FDLE] -- On Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, Washington County Sheriff Bobby Haddock announced the arrest of Susan Baker, 50, and Crystina Lynn Mercer, 25, both of Chipley, in the disappearance of seven-month-old Shannon Dedrick.

Shannon Lea Dedrick

Baker, the child’s babysitter and half-sister to the child’s father, was charged with:

~ Neglect of a child with aggravated circumstances – 2nd degree felony
~ Interference with child custody – 3rd degree felony
~ Filing a false report regarding a missing child – 1st degree misdemeanor
~ Filing a false report of a crime – 1st degree misdemeanor
~ Contributing to the delinquency of a child – 1st degree misdemeanor

Mercer, the child’s mother, was charged with:

~ Interference with child custody – 3rd degree felony
~ Desertion of a child – 3rd degree felony
~ Filing a false report regarding a missing child – 1st degree misdemeanor
~ Filing a false report of a crime – 1st degree misdemeanor
~ Contributing to the delinquency of a child – 1st degree misdemeanor

Investigators learned that on the night of Oct. 30 Baker and Mercer agreed to allow Baker to take permanent custody of the baby. The two arranged to meet at 1:30 a.m. on Oct. 31 at Mercer’s residence for Mercer to give the child to Baker. Mercer later reported the child missing at 11:23 a.m.

Shannon Dedrick was safely located at 9:55 p.m. last night at Baker’s residence located at 3395 Orange Hill Road in Chipley after Baker gave investigators consent to search the residence. The baby was found in a 2-foot by 3-foot wooden box under a bed in Baker’s home.

The baby was taken to Northwest Florida Community Hospital where she was evaluated. The child is currently in the care of Florida Department of Children and Families.

Susan Baker’s husband, James Baker, was detained last night but has since been released.

Baker and Mercer were booked into the Washington County Jail.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

NOTICE

Beginning Monday, November 9, 2009, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Records Management System will be shutdown due to an upgrade in the system. It’s estimated the upgrade will take 2-3 days. Therefore, police reports and criminal history checks from the Records Section will not be available until Thursday, November 12. The Records Section will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, for Veteran’s Day.

NewsManatee.com will not be published on Wednesday, November 11, due to the Veteran's Day holiday.

~~~~~~~~~~

Juvenile Shot While Playing
Soccer; Hospitalized with
Bullet Wound to Torso

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 17-year-old Hispanic male was shot while playing soccer on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 7 p.m., in the 5900 block of 6th Street East, Bradenton.

Above, the juvenile being loaded into an EMS wagon
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

According to the sheriff's report, the unnamed juvenile victim and his friends were outside of the above address playing soccer when they heard one gunshot.

The victim and his friends started to run for cover when they heard at least two more gunshots.

The victim then realized he was shot and told his friends to call for help.

A round from an unknown caliber gun penetrated the victim's left torso and exited approximately three inches from the entry wound.

The victim was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment of his gunshot wound, which was not life-threatening, the report said.

The report said the shooters were possibly Hispanic males.

Deputies set up a perimeter, but were unable to locate the shooters.

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.

'Domestic Situation' Lands Man
in Jail on Multiple Charges;
SWAT Called Out

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested Steve Rotolo, 28, on multiple charges on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, after the sheriff's SWAT Team was called out to handle what the sheriff's office is calling a "domestic situation."

Steve Rotolo

The sheriff's report of the incident said at approximately 3:30 Tuesday afternoon, deputies were notified of a possible situation at 903 65th Ave. W., Bradenton.

The SWAT Team set up set up their command post at Sarabay Baptist Church, 415 67th Ave. W., Bradenton.

Deputies were told that Steve Rotolo went to the above address at around 11:00 Tuesday morning to see his girlfriend, Michelle Mosley, 27. The father of Michelle, Larry Mosley, 57, lives at the listed address.

While at the residence, Rotolo became upset and pulled a knife on Michelle, Larry, and Linda Smith, 49.

Rotolo threatened the three subjects, held them against their will and physically assaulted Larry. Larry Mosley and Linda Smith managed to leave the residence and called authorities.

The Sheriff’s office responded to the residence and entered the house but Rotolo and Michelle Mosley had already left.

Rotolo was located at approximately 8:00 p.m. at a nearby Hess gas station on U.S. 41.

Mosley was located at about the same time back at the residence. She appears to be in good health, the report said.

Rotolo was arrested on a warrant for False Imprisonment and Sexual Battery of a Child Less Then 13 Years old. Since then, Rotolo has also been charged with two more counts of Sexual Battery of a Child Less Than 13 Years Old, three counts of Corrupt by Threat of a Family, Aggravated Assault with a Knife, Battery, Criminal Mischief and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

As of Wednesday morning, Rotolo was being held in the Manatee County Jail on a $212,000 bail bond for most of the charges, and with no bond on the Agg. Assault with a Knife charge.

The investigation continues.

Taser Used to Gain Compliance of
Man Involved in Altercation; Man,
Woman Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Charles J. Manning, 27, of 1013 57th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton, and Shiquel Pressey, 19, of Sarasota.

Above, L to R, Charles J. Manning and Shiquel Pressey

A sheriff's report said on Wedneday, Nov. 4, 2009, at about 5:20 a.m., units were dispatched to the address above in reference to a domestic disturbance.

Upon arrival, Manning was involved in a physical altercation in front of the deputies with Shiquel and both were arrested.

Manning became combative and belligerent, forcing Deputies Ensign and White to take him to the ground. While Manning was on the ground, Shiquel approached and slapped Manning in the face.

While walking Manning to the car, he attempted to pull away from Deputy White.

White opened the door to his patrol vehicle and advised the subject to sit down. The subject straightened and tensed his body and continued to scream at other people on scene. He was advised numerous times to sit in the patrol vehicle. He was further advised that if he did not get into the vehicle he would be Tasered.

Manning turned around to face the deputies in a threatening manner, at which point Sgt. Young deployed his Taser with one 5-second drive stun to Manning's abdomen causing immediate compliance.

Manning was taken to the Manatee County Jail on charges of Battery and Resisting Arrest without violence.

Shiquel Pressey was charged with Battery.

Manning was not injured during the incident.

Manning remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,500, as of Wednesday afternoon. Pressey remains in jail in lieu of a $750 bail bond.

Palmetto Police Arrest Man
Committing Lewd Act

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department has arrested Mario Zepeda, 54, of 2719 7th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Mario Zepeda

According to an arrest report from PPD, on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 10:45 a.m., Zepeda was in a Palmetto park in his vehicle with the door open.

He was masturbating in front of five different victims. Three of them were juveniles and two of them were adults.

When Zepeda saw the victims in the area, he got out of his vehicle with his pants down and began to masturbate faster in front of the victims.

Zepeda was arrested and charged with five counts of Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition.

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

Man Robbed in His Front Yard in
Broad Daylight by Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was robbed on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 4:15 p.m. in the 1200 block of 44th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said Eugene Sarahman, 47, was standing in his front yard when a Black male driving a blue Buick LeSabre drove up, exited his vehicle and demanded that Sarahman give him his money.

Sarahman told the suspect that he didn't have any money, so the suspect picked up a brick and again demanded that Sarahman give him his money.

Sarahman got on his cell phone and dialed 911.

The suspect grabbed Sarahman's cell phone from his hands after a short struggle.

The suspect then left the area.

Sarahman was not injured.

The Black male robber was 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.

Man Slightly Injured During
Home Invasion Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was slightly injured during a home invasion robbery on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 11:30 p.m., inside a residence in the 2900 block of 9th Street East, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Daniel Gardner, 60, was sitting inside the residence at the above location and his two roommates were sitting in the screened-in front porch.

Two Black males entered the residence through the back door and repeatedly punched Gardner in the head.

The invaders then took Gardner’s wallet and fled through the front door.

Gardner sustained small lacerations to the left side of his temple.

The robbers were Black males dressed in all black clothing, but their faces were covered. There was no further description of either man 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.

Teenager Accidentally Shoots
Himself in Hand

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an 18-year-old boy accidentally shot himself on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at about 9:45 p.m., at a residence in La Mirada apartments, 1680 55th Avenue Circle East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said deputies responded to the above location in reference to an individual who was shot.

Upon arrival, deputies found Dwayne Lewis, 18, standing in the parking lot cradling his right hand.

EMS responded and transported Lewis to Manatee Memorial Hospital due to his injuries.

Deputies searched the parking lot, west side fence line and rear yard behind the 1680 building.

They located a .25 caliber semi-automatic handgun hidden under an A/C unit located behind building 1680.

Lewis admitted that he accidentally shot himself in the hand while handling the firearm.

Charlotte Detectives Raid Port
Charlotte Drug House, Make
5 Arrests on 19 Charges

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives raided a Port Charlotte drug home Tuesday evening, Nov. 3, 2009, at 4045 Conway Blvd. and arrested five people on a total of 19 charges.

The five in the home included Guy Douglas Owens, 18; Vickie Ewing Nelson, 44; Robert Raymond Ewing, 18; and 21 year old Jason Andrew Pringle. Brittany N. Redden, 17, of 241 Dalton Blvd., was also in the home when the raid took place.

Detectives found a cultivated marijuana plant, Cocaine, Darvocet, Vicodin, MS Contin, Xanax pills, and a crack pipe.

Narcotics undercover detectives made two undercover Crack Cocaine buys with Owens on Sep. 18 at the Conway Blvd. home. Pringle’s arrest Tuesday was for an undercover Crack Cocaine purchase from the same home on Oct. 6.

Owens was charged with two counts of Sale and Delivery of Cocaine, three counts Possession of Cocaine, one count of Cultivation of Marijuana and Possession Darvocet. Pringle is charged with Sale and Delivery of Crack Cocaine and Possession of Crack Cocaine. Ewing is charged with Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Cocaine and Darvocet. Nelson was charged with Possession of Cocaine, MS Contin, Vicodin and Paraphernalia. Redden, a juvenile, is charged with two felony counts of Possession of Cocaine and Xanax, and Possession of Marijuana.

Pringle posted bond this morning and Redden was released to a parent. Owens, Nelson and Ewing remain in custody at the Charlotte County Jail.

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

Two Murder Suspects Arrested
In Filthy Central Florida House

SANFORD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported two people living in a house of filth were arrested Tuesday night in the death of a roommate whose body was discovered after being dumped in a field near two retention ponds, Sanford police said.

Devin Simpson, 33, and Kellie Chellette, 46, have been charged in connection to the death of 30-year-old Robert Bebout, whose body was found near the home over the weekend. Simpson faces a murder charge, and Chellette is charged with being an accessory.

According to police, Bebout was likely killed last Monday inside the filthy house, located on Marshal Avenue in Sanford.

Police did not release a motive in the killing, but said it was not a drug dispute.

Five people, including the suspects and victim, lived inside the house, which Sanford police called filthy and unhealthy. Investigators donned hazmat suits before entering the home, which D'Onofrio described as having a horrible stench.

The owner of the house will not face charges because police do not believe he had anything to do with the slaying.

Sanford police said they are talking to another roommate, but she has not been charged.

Simpson was being held on no bond, and Chellette's bond was set at $4,900, WKMG said.

OMCC Officer Recovers Two
Stolen Trailers in Same Week;
Officers Seek Information

MIAMI, Florida [NMT] -- Colonel David Dees, Director of the Florida Department of Transportation’s Office of Motor Carrier Compliance (OMCC), announced the recovery of two stolen commercial trailers totaling a combined value of approximately $43,000.

On October 23, 2009, an OMCC Officer assigned to the Miami Area Tactical Operations Multi-Agency Cargo Anti Theft Squad (TOMCATS) noticed an abandoned 53-foot refrigeration trailer on the side of NW 36th Avenue in Miami-Dade County. The Officer noticed that the trailer (2008 model) was missing a refrigeration unit along with one of the rear sliding axles. A statewide check of the trailer’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) revealed that the trailer had been stolen from the Davie, Florida, area earlier in the month. After being processed, the trailer was returned to its owner.

On October 28, 2009, their same TOMCATS Officer conducted an investigation of an empty 1999 flatbed trailer parked alongside a street in the North Miami Beach area. A Nationwide check of this trailer’s VIN revealed that it had been stolen from Forrest City, Arizona, just three days prior. At the time of the theft, the flatbed was loaded with over 40,000 pounds of aluminum T-bars.

OMCC/TOMCATS Officers are working on follow-up investigations with all agencies involved and ask that if anyone has information on these or other commercial vehicle thefts, please contact their office at (305) 499-2298 or your local Law Enforcement Agency.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Female Landlord Arrested for
Pulling Gun on Tenant Over
Tenant's Dog, Late Rent

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, November 2, 2009, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested Carol A. Holt, 48, of 807 35th Street West, Bradenton.

Carole A. Holt

According to an arrest report, at about 5:45 p.m. on that day, Carol Holt became involved in an altercation with her tenant, who was not named in the report.

During the altercation over the tenant's dog and him being late on his rent, Holt displayed a firearm and made threats to kill the victim if he didn't leave her house.

During the deputy's initial interview with Holt, she said she did not have a firearm in her house and she did not threaten the tenant.

After the deputy interviewed witnesses and the victim, he was informed that Holt does own a gun and has frequently threatened people in the household.

Holt finally admitted to owning a firearm, but said that she did not threaten the tenant with a weapon and didn't want to speak with the deputy regarding whatever threats made, but did make spontaneous statements, such as, "I did not want to tell you I had a gun because I would have looked guilty" and "I only have a gun because I am scared of my ex-husband."

Holt told the deputy where to locate the handgun.

It was located under her bed in a blue cooler.

Holt was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

As of close of business on Tuesday, she remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail, according to the sheriff's website.

Man, Woman Arrested for
Domestic Battery After Fight
Between Woman, Other Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Don C. Stephens, 39, and Lynn M. Williams, 47, both of 5310 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Don C. Stephens and Lynn M. Williams

According to the arrest report, Don and Lynn are boyfriend and girlfriend and live together as a family.

On Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at about 6 p.m., Lynn was involved in a fight with Lisa Stinton. According to Lisa, Lynn did some housework for Lisa.

When Lisa went to pay Lynn for her work, for some reason Lynn tore up the money and threw it at Lisa.

The incident turned physical hen Lynn struck Lisa in the chest. Lynn then pushed Lisa to the ground where a short struggle ensued.

Lisa sustained a red mark on the right side of her chest, just above the breast.

Don became involved when he separated Lisa and Lynn. Don took Lynn next door.

When Don and Lynn got back into their home, Lynn began to strike Don in the face and kick him repeatedly all over his body.

According to a witness statement, who saw the action through Don and Lynn's sliding glass door, Don began to strike Lynn and pull her hair.

Law enforcement was called and arrested both Don and Lynn on scene.

Both Don and Lynn were charged with Domestic Battery. Lynn was additionally charged with Battery (on Lisa).

Don was released from the Manatee County Jail on his own recognizance, supervised. Lynn paid a $500 bail bond and was released from jail.

Deputy Arrests Man, Woman:
Clobbered Other Man with
Ratchet Wrench

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Curtis E. Butler, 21, and Tangela Singletary, 27, both of 604 60th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Curtis E. Butler and Tangela Singletary

The arrest report said on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at about 5:30 a.m., the victim, Levette Moore, went to his girlfriend's home and she (Tangela Singletary) hit him in the back of the head with a ratchet wrench.

Tangela dropped the wrench to the floor and Curtis picked it up and hit Levette on the side of the head with it.

Levette ran out the door and down the street. He said Curtis did not follow him.

Levette told a deputy Curtis and Tangela hit him because they thought that he had beat up Tangela in Sarasota earlier in the night.

Both Curtis and Tangela were arrested about an hour later and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

They were transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Tangela was released on her own recognizance, supervised. Curtis was released after he posted a $10,000 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Stealing
Watches, Clothing, Food
From Wal-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James Mobley Love, 43, of Holly Hill, Florida.

James Mobley Love

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at about 1 p.m., Love entered the Wal-Mart store located at 2911 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

A Wal-Mart Asset Protection Officer observed Love remove several watches from their cases and place them in his pants pocket.

Then Love, while pushing a grocery cart, placed packages of clothing, hats, gloves and food in the cart.

Love took several empty bags from his pants pocket and concealed the items in the bags, the report said.

Love proceeded past all points of sale without paying and exited the store. Asset Protection Officers stopped Love at the entrance, identified themselves and escorted him to the security office.

The total of merchandise Love tried to abscond with was $302.22.

Love was charged with Grand Theft Shoplifting. He was released on his own recognizance from the Manatee County Jail, supervised.

Holly Hill, Florida, is near Daytona Beach on the east coast.

Wal-Mart Video Camera,
GPS Thief Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Mirko Kolaric, 26, of 1013 65th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Mirko Kolaric

The arrest report said on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., Kirko entered the Wal-Mart store at 2911 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Once inside the store, Mirko opened packaging on a video camera and a GPS unit and concealed the items in the cargo pockets of his shorts.

Then he attempted to exit the store, passing all points of purchase.

A Wal-Mart Asset Protection Officer observed Mirko through Closed Circuit TV and notified law enforcement.

Mirko was detained and the merchandise, valued at $288.00, was recovered.

Mirko was charged with Retail Theft. He paid a $120 bail bond in cash and was released from the Manatee County Jail the next day.

Humane Society Announces
Free Rabies Vaccination
for Veterans' Dogs, Cats

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- If you are a military veteran, you can receive a free rabies vaccination for your dog or cat with each spay or neuter during the month of November at the Humane Society of Manatee County’s low cost spay/neuter clinic. Prices for spay/neuter range from $35-$50 for cats and $55-$65 for dogs. This discount is available to all veterans with no residency or economic requirements. Proof of military service required.

Veterans also will receive $25 off the price of a dog or cat adoption during November.

There are also programs available for free spay/neuter of pit bulls and pit bull mixes as well as for those with economic hardships. The free surgeries are available to Manatee County residents only. Call 747-8808 x 302 to see if you qualify.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call 941-747-8808 x 302 or email info@humanesocietymanatee.org. Offer valid through November 30, 2009.

The Humane Society of Manatee County Spay/Neuter Clinic is located at 2515 14th St. W, Bradenton, FL 34205. Clinic hours are 8 am to 5 pm, Monday thru Friday. Adoptions are open Tues-Fri from 11am – 6 pm and Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm.

Two Arrested in Port Charlotte
Brutal Robbery Homicide

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Cameron announced the arrest of two men in connection with a homicide investigation at 163 Buckeye Ave. in Port Charlotte.

Above, L to R, David Wayne Price and Jamie Lee Poe

Charged with Murder in connection with a robbery were David Wayne Price, 49, 3334 Gatun St., North Port, and Jamie Lee Poe, 32, 27250 Adam St., Punta Gorda. Both men were booked into the Charlotte County Jail around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. Sheriff Cameron said, “Our CCSO Major Crimes Unit, District-4 CID detectives and the Forensic Unit brought the case to a successful and swift conclusion.”

MCU detectives identified the victim as Philip Charles Casper, 58, who was found Sunday by a neighbor when she smelled a foul odor coming from Casper’s home. She found a door open, went inside and saw Casper deceased and called the CCSO. Detectives said Casper had sustained numerous stab wounds. The body had been there for three or four days. The scene revealed bloody shoe prints left at the scene. Casper’s 1999 red Dodge pickup was taken but recovered in the parking lot in front of Publix on S.R. 776 in the Gulf Cover Plaza.

Price and Poe were arrested after being questioned at the District-4 Office in Port Charlotte and transported to the County Jail where they remain on no bond. Price has an extensive criminal record here in Charlotte County as he’s been booked 14 times with 103 records; Poe has 15 bookings with 21 records.

MCU detectives said the investigation remains open at this time and the motive has not been released.

Recently Released Sex Offender
Molested Girl, 8 Years Old

PALM BAY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A recently released registered sex offender was arrested by Palm Bay police Monday evening on charges of molesting an 8-year-old girl, Orlando television station WKMG rpeorted.

Eric Anderson, 29, was arrested after an investigation that began when the mother of the girl contacted police on Friday.

Police said Anderson had befriended the mother earlier and picked up the girl from school Friday at the request of the mother who was dealing with a medical emergency.

Anderson took the child to her home and molested her, Palm Bay police said.

Anderson has two prior convictions involving sex crimes on children. In 1996, he was convicted of sexual battery of a child younger than 12 and was sentenced to community control and released. In 2002, Anderson was convicted of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child younger than 16, WKMG said.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Manatee Sheriff's Detective Arrests
27-Year-Old Man for Molesting
Boy, 7 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, November 1, 2009, Detective Brett Getman, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, reported the arrest of Pedro Flores-Marquez, 27, 506 60th Avenue Drive East, in Bradenton, for Lewd and Lascivious Molestation of a 7-year-old boy.

Pedro Flores-Marquez

According to a sheriff's report, on August 30, 2009, at about 8:45 p.m., the Manatee County Sheriff's Office was contacted with allegations that a Hispanic male pulled a 7-year-old boy inside his residence and molested him.

The 7-year-old unnamed victim said that his neighbor wanted to show him a BB gun.

The boy alleged that the suspect "squeezed" his penis on the outside of his clothing while he was inside the suspect's residence.

After a two-month investigation, information was gathered and a possible suspect was named.

Through investigative techniques, the suspect was positively identified by the victim on November 1, 2009, as Pedro Flores-Marquez.

Flores-Marquez was arrested without incident.

Flores-Marquez denied touching the juvenile, but did admit that the boy was inside his residence.

Pedro Flores-Marquez is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Anyone with any information about this case or information about any other victims, is asked to call Detective Brett Geman at the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011, ext. 1906, 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.

Transient Caught Stealing
Socket Sets from Sears

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James Andrew Shumaker, 33, a transient.

James Andrew Shumaker

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at about 1:45 p.m., Shumaker entered the Sears store in the DeSoto Square Mall, 303 301 Blvd. West, Bradenton, and was seen by loss prevention personnel selecting four socket sets from a display.

He went to the women's department and put the socket sets in a display area.

Then Shumaker went to a register area, got a Sears bag and exited the store.

He re-entered the mall via the food court doors, came back into Sears, and went to the display are where he had hidden the merchandise.

Shumaker pulled the Sears bag from his shorts pocket and concealed the socket sets inside.

He then went past all points of payment and exited the store without paying for the concealed items.

These actions by Shumaker was all seen on closed circuit TV.

When he was stopped by loss prevention personnel, he attempted to resist and had to be placed on the ground and handcuffed.

The four socket sets were valued at $212.98 and were recovered.

Shumaker was charged with 1st Degree Petit Larceny.

In addition, a mall security officer issued a trespass warning to Shumaker for the entire mall.

Shumaker remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000.

$65K+ in Landscaping Equipment
Stolen from Parrish Business

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary and major theft from Greenbriar Landscaping, 11850 U.S. 301 North, in Parrish.

The report said Jerimy O'Neal is the operations manager for Greenbriar Landscaping. When he arrived at the business Monday morning, he observed the storage garage had been broken into and a large amount of lawn equipment had been taken, along with a 2000 Isuzu flat bed truck.

The incident occurred sometime between Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at 5:30 p.m. and Monday, Nov. 2, 2009, at 5:30 a.m.

There is no surveillance equipment on the property, but after conducting inventory, Mr. O'Neal will have serial numbers available for the missing equipment, which is valued at approximately $40,400. The truck is valued at $25,000, for a total loss of $65,400.

The scene was photographed and processed and a crowbar and flashlight was placed into Property & Evidence.

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.

Drug Arrest Round-Up Nets
33 on 74 Charges

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- During the months of August, September, and October detectives from the Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit conducted multiple undercover drug purchases from individuals throughout Manatee County. As a result of these operations, 125 arrest warrants were generated from 53 different suspects.

Starting on 10-30-09 the Special Investigations Division began a round up operation focusing on the physical arrest of these narcotics dealers.

With assistance from C.O.P.S., Warrants, Gang, and C.I.D. detectives have been able to effectively arrest 33 individuals on a total of 74 charges. Listed below is the name of each individual arrested and their respective charges.

In addition to the listed charges, detectives seized an additional 140 grams of cocaine, 37 prescription pills, and $1836.00 in U.S. currency.

The investigation continues with more arrests forthcoming.

1. Dustin Eckersen, Sale of a controlled substance, Sale of marijuana
2. Omar Edwards, Sale of rock cocaine
3. Lavoral Hamilton, Trafficking in illegal drugs
4. Jerrlyn Kayser, Prescription fraud, Uttering a forged instrument
5. Keyvis McCullough, Sale of marijuana
6. Robbie Waiters, Sale of rock cocaine
7. Donta Anderson, Sale of rock cocaine
8. Aaron Dunbar, Sale of cocaine
9. Juvenile, Poss. of a controlled substance
10. Juvenile, Poss. of a controlled substance
11. Marquinn Gibson, Sale of cocaine
12. Michael Gilbert, Sale of rock cocaine
13. Antonia Harvey, Sale of cocaine
14. Eugene Jones, Sale of marijuana
15. Willie Lee, Sale of rock cocaine
16. Juvenile, Sale of rock cocaine
17. Juvenile, Sale of cocaine
18. Pauline Leonard, Sale of rock cocaine
19. Kelvin Martin, Sale of marijuana
20. Sharon McCullough, Sale of rock cocaine
21. Willie McMann, Sale of rock cocaine
22. Gina Orum, Trafficking in illegal drugs
23. Joel Rogers, Sale of rock cocaine
24. Humberto Salazar, Sale of rock cocaine
25. Randolf Simmons, Sale of cocaine
26. Chadd Spicer, Armed Trafficking
27. Tony Thomas, Sale of rock cocaine
28. Isaac Welch, Sale of rock cocaine
29. Wayne Yates, Sale of rock cocaine
30. Alexander Belcher, Sale of cocaine
31. Ricky Taylor, Bench Warrant
32. Lewis White, Violation of Probation
33. Jesus Castillo, Bench Warrant

Palmetto H.S. Future Farmers of
America Alumni to Hold Dinner

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Would you like to help send a senior to college and have a hot, nutritious meal at the same time?

Palmetto High School FFA Alumni are hosting a dinner on Friday, November 6, 2009, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., in the school cafeteria.

Tickets are $8.00 and to go boxes are available. The meal consists of BBQ Pork, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, roll and a cool refreshing drink.

Tickets can be purchased from any FFA member or FFA alumni member, or purchase your ticket Friday night.

For further information call Julie Tillett at 941-723-4848, ext. 2069.

FREE Vision Screenings in
November in Ellenton

ELLENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Not seeing as well as you used to? Think you might have a cataract? Do you have a family history of glaucoma?

Come in for a FREE vision screening between 10:00 and 11:00 am on the dates listed below and find out about the options available.

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

The screenings will be held at The Eye Associates, in the Harris Center, 7915 US Hwy 301 N, Suite 101, Ellenton, on:

Thursday, November 5, 2009, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Thursday, November 19, 2009, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

You may call 941-729-2020 for more information, or to find out more about The Eye Associates, logon to www.TheEyeAssociates.com.

NOTE: This is a screening and does not take the place of a comprehensive eye examination.

[Ed. Note: The Eye Associates is a premier supporter of NewsManatee. Our publisher had a cataract removed by The Eye Associates, without complication.]

Charlotte County Sheriff Looking
At Suspicious Death in
Port Charlotte

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives are investigating a suspicious death in Port Charlotte at 163 Buckeye Ave.

A neighbor found the body of an adult male inside the home and called CCSO at 5:45 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009.

A search warrant was obtained late last night; MCU detectives and the CCSO Forensics Unit were on scene conducting their investigation Monday morning.

No other details are being released at this time.

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

7-Month-Old Girl Missing
In Florida Panhandle

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Officials in Florida's Panhandle are looking for a 7-month-old baby who disappeared from a Chipley home and that they are considering endangered, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Shannon Lea Dedrick

The Washington County Sheriff's Office said Shannon Lea Dedrick disappeared from a home about 11:30 a.m. Saturday.

The child was reported missing by the parents and an active search is under way in the Brown Street area of Chipley. Search and rescue teams from Bay, Gulf, Jackson and Liberty counties are assisting in the search, as well as the Graceville Police Department.

Washington County Sheriff Bobby Haddock told the Panama City News Herald that nothing at this time makes them think the baby was abducted, but she "didn’t crawl or walk away."

The girl is 2 feet tall, weighs 11 pounds and has brown hair and blue eyes.

Late Sunday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued a statewide alert for the child, WKMG said.

Anyone with information about the child is asked to call the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 850-638-6111.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Man Shoots, Critically Wounds
Live-In 'Wife,' Then Kills Himself;
Two Kids, 12 and 19, Unhurt, Safe

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman was shot and critically wounded and a man committed suicide on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at about 11:50 p.m., at 4116 62nd Street West, Bradenton.

Above, 4116 62nd Street West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The report said Maria de Leon DeJesus, 43, and Jose Ramirez, 49, lived together.

They were arguing Thursday night over her wanting him to move out of the house.

Ramirez, who was drinking, got his firearm and loaded it.

Maria and her two children, aged 12 and 19, ran out of the house and across the street.

Ramirez chased them, caught up to them and shot Maria twice.

Maria and the children then ran eastbound from the residence and called 911.

Ramirez ran back towards the house.

Maria was transported to Bayfront Medical Center in critical but stable condition.

Upon arrival, deputies were told that Ramirez was in the residence.

The house was surrounded and SWAT was activated.

A short time later, Ramirez was located in the residence, deceased, with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Ramirez' next of kin in Mexico have been notified of his death.

The two children are staying with relatives until Mom gets out of the hospital.

Woman Fires Shot(s) at Vehicle
With Three Teen Girls Inside;
Found, Arrested Next Day

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported one or more shots were fired at a vehicle containing three teenage girls on Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m., in the 3100 block of 1st Street East, Bradenton.

The sheriff's report said McKenzie Graham, 18, was driving her vehicle with Samantha Gardner, 18, riding in the front seat and Samantha Farmer, 18, in the back seat.

Ashley Wagner, 19, drove up to Graham’s vehicle and began to yell at her.

Ashley Wagner

According to Graham, at one point of the yelling, Wagner attempted to run Graham off the road when she pulled away from Wagner.

According to Graham, while Wagner was following her, Wagner displayed a black semi-automatic pistol. Graham said Wagner then pointed the pistol at her vehicle. Graham said everyone in her vehicle was in fear of being shot by Wagner.

Graham said she attempted to elude Wagner, but Wagner continued to follow them. Graham said that Wagner fired the handgun in their direction, but the bullet(s) did not strike them or her vehicle.

Wagner was located on Saturday, Oct. 31, at 4:30 p.m. at 4520 “B” 68th Street West, where she is now residing.

Wagner was arrested and charged with three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

As of Sunday, Wagner was being held in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Cops Searched for Man Who
Smashed Out Ex's Windows,
New Lover's Car Window,
Threatened Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- When many cops started showing up in the 'hood,' NewsManatee's Heather Chadwick was Johnny-on-the-spot with her camera.

Above, numerous sheriff's cruisers in the 5600 block of 7th Street Court East
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

On Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at about 9 a.m., the ex-boyfriend of Chanise Sutton, 30, who is now seeing Chanise's best friend's sister, returned to Chanise's residence in the 800 block of 56th Avenue East, Bradenton, to claim property that was his.

Upon arrival, he found his ex-girlfriend, Chanise, had another man with her through the evening hours the night before, and the other man was still there.

Even though he is seeing Chanise's best friend's sister, Chanise's ex-boyfriend didn't like that she was seeing another man.

So, he smashed out some of Chanise's windows, then put his foot through her new boyfriend's car window.

Before fleeing, he told someone at the residence if they called the cops, he would "have something waiting for them," a NewsManatee source said.

Because of the threat made against law enforcement officers, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office called out the troops, as seen in the photo above.

There were more cruisers called to the area, but they aren't in the photo, NewsManatee's Heather Chadwick said.

The deputies apparently thought they might have had a lead on where the ex-boyfriend went, which is why the cruisers are seen at the above location, around the corner from the incident's location. The sheriff's helicopter and a K-9 unit were also on scene.

The alleged perpetrator -- Chanise's ex-boyfriend -- was not found.

Deputies have requested an arrest warrant for the unnamed ex-boyfriend on grounds of Felony Criminal Mischief.

Trouble at Paradise Bay Motel:
Two Men Arrested for Chasing
Man, Strangling, Punching,
Hitting Him with Tire Iron

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Michael J. Guerra, 24, of 7516 1st Avenue West, Bradenton, and Nickolas Guerra, 25, of 4350 70th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Michael Guerra and Nickolas Guerra

The arrest report said on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at about 4 p.m., Michael and Nickolas went to the Paradise Bay Motel, located at 10205 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

Upon arrival, they went to room 3, where Michael knocked on the door, then threw a white lawn chair through the front window, breaking it.

The intended victim, Justin Crawford, 30, fled the room and Michael and Nickolas pursued him.

They caught up to him in a parking lot nearby where Nickolas held Justin down, while Michael struck him repeatedly while wrapping an arm around Justin's neck. Justin told deputies Nickolas also struck him in the head with a tire iron.

A witness took a cell phone photo that showed Michael strangling Justin with his arm.

Michael later told a deputy, "What I did wasn't that bad. He deserved it, anyway."

Michael was arrested and charged with Simple Battery and Criminal Mischief. He later posted a $1,250 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Nickolas was charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon. He is currently being held in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $75,000.

According to Manatee County court records, Justin has a slew of misdemeanor and felony arrests, and recently served 1 1/4 years of a 3-year sentence in prison for Burglary and Forgery. Nickolas Guerra has one felony and one misdemeanor arrest; his brother, Michael, has only traffic infractions.

Bradenton Police Arrest Woman
For Burglary, Battery, Felony
Criminal Mischief

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Amanda Darcel Gallon, 22, of 2114 13th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Amanda Darcel Gallon

According to the arrest report, on Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at about 3 a.m., Gallon went to 235 15th Avenue West, Bradenton, pushed her way into the residence via the front door, without permission from unnamed victim 1.

While inside the residence, Gallon then approached victim 1, a female, and began striking the victim in the back of her head with a black heeled shoe, causing a laceration on the back of the woman's head.

Gallon then began striking victim 2, a male, with the black heeled shoe in the face, causing a laceration above the man's left eye and scratches on his forehead.

Gallon then smashed victim 1's TV screen, exited the residence and broke out the window of victim 1's vehicle.

Gallon then left the area.

Gallon was arrested an hour and a half later at 111 12th Avenue East.

She was charged with Burglary with Battery, Simple Battery and Felony Criminal Mischief.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $11,750.

Armed Robbery of Pedestrian
On Cortez Road West

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at about 10 a.m., in the 2000 block of Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Carlton W. Zackery, 47, of the 4800 block of 21st Street West was walking home from the nearby 7-11 when he was approached by a Black and White team.

The White male pulled out a revolver, pointed it at Carlton's chest and told him to "Give it up."

Carlton surrendered his cell phone and an undisclosed amount of cash.

The area was searched, but the suspects were not located.

Carlton was not injured.

The culprits were described as an unknown White male and an unknown Black male, both in their 20s. There was no further description 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.

Strong Arm Robbery at Circle K,
60th Ave. and 14th Street West

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., in the Circle K parking lot, 60th Avenue and 14th Street West, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Jerry Mathis, Jr., 29, of the 3600 block of 16th Street West, was walking his bicycle around the west side of Circle K by the dumpster when a Black male approached him, grabbed him by the neck and demanded his money and bicycle.

The robber reached into Mathis's front pocket and took $150, then took his bicycle.

The robber fled the area and was not located.

Mathis did not sustain any injuries.

The robber was described as a Black male, 6' tall, 200 pounds, last seen wearing black pants, a black shirt and a black cap.

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.

Pickpocket Strikes at Dollar
Tree on Cortez on Saturday

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a woman's wallet was lifted from her purse on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at about 3:30 p.m., at the Dollar Tree store, located at 705 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton.

Nina Young, 68, of 2764 71st Street Court West, Bradenton, was shopping at the Dollar Tree store when she felt a tug on her purse, but did not think anything about it.

Ms. Young looked at her purse and realized her wallet was missing.

She looked around the store and did not see anyone around her.

Young notified the clerk who called the sheriff's office.

There was no description of the pickpocket because she or he was never seen.

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 Conduct Death
Investigation of Woman, 44

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported it is conducting an investigation into the death of a 44-year-old woman.

On Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at about 2:15 a.m., Edward Mench, 43, reported finding his wife, Kathleen Mench, on the living room floor of their home in the 10000 block of Reagan Dairy Trail, just west of Upper Manatee River Road. She was unresponsive.

Mench called 911 and was instructed to do CPR.

Upon the arrival of Deputies Coleman and Yero, they took over CPR.

Medic 12 arrived and continued the CPR, and transported Kathleen Mench to Lakewood Ranch Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

No further details have been reported.

Bradenton Police Officer
Mark Hashem Chosen
Officer of the Month

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Officer Mark Hashem has been selected to receive the Officer of the Month award for the month of November 2009.

Above, Bradenton Police Officer Mark Hashem
(Photo provided)

Officer Hashem was nominated by District II officials Captain Tibbitts, Lieutenants Davis & Castellow, and Sergeant Truluck.

Officer Hashem responded to a house located in the 1500 block of 8th Avenue West regarding a reported disturbance call.

Upon his arrival, he learned a former female resident by the name of Weeks was on the property and had become upset and broke a glass table.

The former resident then exited the house and climbed on the roof.

When Officer Hashem initially approached Ms. Weeks, she immediately walked to the edge of the roof, insinuating she was going to jump.

Officer Hashem backed away and began talking to her until she stepped away from the edge of the roof.

As a result, Officer Hashem was able to grab the woman and escort her off the roof.

"The former resident is pregnant and the officer’s actions possibly saved Ms. Weeks and her unborn child from serious injury or death," Sergeant Trulock wrote.

Officer Hashem has served with the Bradenton Police Department since 2009. He is currently assigned to Patrol Operations.

Serial Home Invasion Suspect
Transferred to Sarasota County
Jail from Citrus County

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office transferred 38-year-old Delmer Smith to the Sarasota County Jail to face charges related to four violent home invasion robbery cases in the Sarasota County area.

Delmer Smith

On October 5, 2009, the Sheriff’s Office charged Smith with three counts of Home Invasion Robbery, four counts of False Imprisonment and two counts of Sexual Battery, for attacks on Carmilfra Drive, Osage Terrace and Whispering Sands Drive.

The Sarasota Police Department charged Smith with one count of Home Invasion Robbery and one count of False Imprisonment for an attack on Bougainvillea Street.

Smith was brought to Sarasota from the Citrus County Jail. He was recently transferred there from the Pinellas County Jail, where he had been held since September 10, 2009, on a federal warrant for Violation of Probation.

Sarasota Sexual Battery
Suspect Arrested in Texas

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On October 28, 2009, The Sarasota Police Department along with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, obtained arrest warrants for Daniel Rangel, a 33 year old male, on three (3) counts of Sexual Battery and two (2) counts of Capital Sexual Battery on a minor.

The victim, who is presently 14 years old, was abused over a five year period.

During this investigation, Detectives learned that Daniel Rangel, who was visiting the Sarasota area, abruptly left.

The Sarasota Police Department, who are active members with the United States Marshall’s Florida Regional Task Force, located Daniel Rangel in Texas at 5:15 p.m. on October 29, 2009.

He is currently in custody in Dallas, Texas.

Daniel Rangel was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshall’s Dallas-Ft. Worth Apprehension Strike Force.

Daniel Rangel will be extradited back to Sarasota County, Florida to face his charges.

Charlotte Sheriff Arrests 2nd
Home Invasion Suspect

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Warrant Squad arrested 32-year-old Keith Allen Sowers, when he was released from a Ft. Myers hospital Thursday. Sowers recovered after being shot during a home invasion Oct. 24 at 21515 Beaverton Ave., Port Charlotte.

Keith Allen Sowers

Sowers, of 3410 Country Club Lane, Punta Gorda, is charged with First Degree Burglary While Armed, Robbery While Wearing a Mask, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Bond was set at $132,500.

Major Crimes detectives said Sowers and Joshua Eugene Becerril, 29, 173 Monica St., Port Charlotte, went to the home with the intent of taking 69-year-old Peter Gilmore’s prescription Roxycodone pills. Both men wore stockings over their face, Bercerril held a knife at Gilmore’s face and demanded the pills; Sowers was armed with a tire iron. Gilmore’s son, James McGlown, 25, ran into a bedroom where handguns were kept with Sowers in pursuit. McGlown was struck in the head with the tire iron and he then shot Sowers in the stomach.

Both men fled the home; Bercerril was arrested later at his home. Sowers ran a couple blocks before knocking on a door of a home saying he was shot and to call an ambulance. He was airlifted to Lee Memorial Hospital and was released Thursday.

Detectives said this was a home invasion, not a drug deal gone bad, and the shooting was justifiable.

Both men remain in the Charlotte County Jail.

Cops: Body of Abducted Woman
Found in Car in Central Florida

LONGWOOD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A convicted felon that was arrested late Thursday night on suspicion of abducting and killing a 19-year-old woman was given no bond at a court hearing Saturday morning in Seminole County, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The woman, whose body was found outside a Longwood bar, died of strangulation, police said Friday.

Police said William Davis, 31, was arrested on charges of kidnapping and first-degree premeditated murder in the death of Fabiana Malave.

Malave's body was found in a vehicle on Thursday outside the Post Time Lounge and Cafe, located at 2500 S. U.S. Highway 17-92 in Longwood.

Davis bought a vehicle last week at Super Sport Auto in Longwood, where Malave had worked for about the past year, deputies said. On Thursday, he walked to the dealership -- apparently to get the title -- after parking his vehicle at the Post Time Lounge.

Deputies said he forced Malave, who sold him his vehicle, into her car and made her drive him to the lounge.

They got into his vehicle, and he took her to an unknown location in Orange County where investigators said they suspect he killed her, according to the sheriff's office.

Deputies said Davis then drove back to the dealership and drove around with Malave's body in his vehicle. Family and friends at the dealership spotted the vehicle, got suspicious and cornered him at the Post Time Lounge, deputies said.

Deputies said there was a fight, and the sheriff’s office was called out. Malave's body was found, and Davis was arrested, WKMG said.

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