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Man, 37, Arrested on Two Counts of
Lewd & Lascivious Molestation of
Teenage Daughter, 14 Years Old

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Detective Camacho, of the Bradenton Police Department, has arrested Gerardo Luna, 37, of the 1200 block of 21st Avenue West, Bradenton.

Gerardo Luna

According to the arrest report from BPD, Luna and his family live at a residence in the 1200 block of 21st Avenue West, Bradenton.

On Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, Luna entered his 14-year-old daughter's bedroom while she was still asleep.

Lune then removed the covers from the girl and started touching her on her leg, using his hand.

Luna then moved his hand up her leg and slid his hand underneath her shorts via the open bottom of the pant leg.

He then pulled the daughter's underwear to the side and touched his daughter with his hand on top of her vagina, the report said.

The daughter was awakened by these actions, but was too afraid to move or say anything.

A similar incident to this one ocurred approximately six months ago, according to the report.

The daughter was asleep on the sofa when Luna began touching his daughter on her leg, then moved his hand up underneath the shorts she was wearing and pulled the daughter's underwear to the side and touched her on to p of her vagina, using his hand.

In an interview with Detective Camacho, Luna denied ever touching the girl in a lewd & lascivious manner, but did say on one occasion while she was on the sofa, she got up, somehow lost her footing and started to trip. Luna said he accidentally touched her on the inside of her thigh, just below her vaginal area, but said nothing else has ever occurred.

Luna was arrested and charged with two counts of Lewd & Lascivious Molestation.

Gerardo Luna has since posted a $20,000 bail bond and has been released from the Manatee County Jail.

Mother Charged with Manslaughter
In Drowning Death of Son,
11 Months Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- An 11-month-old boy, Ryan Walter Gerken, drowned in a foot of water in a bathtub when his mother, Jessica Barnes, left him alone in the tub, according to information in a report released by Detective Todd Sellitto, of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. The incident occurred on Sunday, May 31st, 2009, and the boy died on Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009. On Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009, Jessica was arrested and charged with Manslaughter.

Jessica Barnes

The report said on Sunday, May 31, 2009, Jessica Barnes, 19, of 3606 19th Street West, Bradenton, called 911 with concerns that her son had drowned in the bathtub.

Jessica had placed her now deceased 11-month-old baby in the bathtub located in the bathroom of the above address. Once the child was in the tub, Jessica used a plastic saucer type drain plug to create a suction to enable the bathtub to fill with water.

Jessica later explained that she did check the temperature prior to leaving the room to locate the child's clothing and a towel.

At this point, Jessica left her child unattended for an extended period of time estimated to be between 5-10 minutes based on statements, medical opinion, and testing of the tub water levels.

Jessica admits that she may have lost track of time and became concerned when she didn`t hear her son playing and splashing.

When Jessica entered the bathroom, she found her son face down submerged in the tub with what she originally stated was about a foot of water.

Jessica removed the child, unplugged the tub and tried to give her child CPR. She called 911 and EMS responded.

Based on the totality of information it is clear that Jessica was negligent and failed to provide adequate supervision resulting in the death of the 11-month old-child, Det. Sellitto wrote in his report of the incident.

The investigation was forwarded to the State Attorney's Office for review.

On Thursday, a warrant was issued for Manslaughter by the State Attorney's Office and executed by Detective Sellitto.

Jessica Barnes was arrested on the warrant and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Her bail bond is to be set at first apprearance.

Sheriff's K-9 Catches Man Who
Just Committed Burglary
For Food, Tools

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Douglas D. Swan, 37, a homeless man who lives in a wooded area in the 1700 block of 51st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 Leo and Douglas D. Swan

According to Swan's arrest report, on Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009, at about 2:40 a.m., an unnamed victim was asleep in his residence in the 5100 block of 17th Street Court East, Bradenton, when he was awakened by a squeaking noise coming from outside.

The victim then saw his motion light come on outside. He looked out the window and saw Swan pushing the victim's wheelbarrow with his son's tool box in it.

The victim yelled to Swan and then ran outside, chasing Swan with a .357 handgun.

Swan ran northbound from the house.

Dep. Thames and his K-9 Leo arrived and began tracking. They located Swan laying in a ditch line just east of the crime scene.

The victim positively identified Swan, who told the deputy he was hungry and looking for food. He crossed a stream into the victim's back yard and entered an unlocked shed, where he found a freezer with food inside.

Swan took a laundry basket, loaded it with food and took the basket full of food back to the stream line. He then went back for the wheelbarrow and tool box. He was pushing the wheelbarrow to the stream. That's when the motion light came on.

The wheelbarrow had a bent axle, causing damages of about $30.

Swan was arrested and charged with Burglary and Criminal Mischief.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a bail bond of $10,120.

Retired Deputy's Store Cited
As One of 50 Best in Nation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Retired Manatee County Deputy Steve Litschauer has been granted a prestigious award for his store On A Shoestring, located at 3633 Cortez Road West, Unit A-4, in Bradenton.

The Independent Running Retailers of America, The Competitor Group and Formula 4 Media, LLC, recognized On A Shoestring, Inc., as one of the 50 Best Running Stores in America, (only one in Tampa Bay and on the Westcoast of Florida). Owners Steve and Sharon Litschauer along with Manager Mary Bellows received this award at the annual running retail industry conference in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, November 11, 2009.

Serving Manatee County since 2005, On A Shoestring is a specialty running and walking retail store that offers a unique product line of running and walking shoes and apparel as well as service dedicated to runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts.

The Independent Running Retailers of America (IRRA) is a non-profit association of specialty running retailers promoting the interests of every independent specialty running retailer in the United States and Canada.

The award for the 50 Best Running Stores in America, sponsored by IRRA, The Competitor Group and Formula 4 Media, LLC, was created to recognize not only the 50 best stores in the country but also more than 500 independent stores that serve the American runner.

The awards presentation and subsequent publication of the special report is the culmination of months of extensive research and reporting that included feedback from more than 1000 consumers and input from a team of store raters from the Franklin Resource Group, the sports industry's leading in-store merchandising company. More than 200 stores were evaluated in determining the final list of the 50 Best. Stores were also rated on their product knowledge, environment and community involvement. The 50 Best stores will be featured in a special report that will appear in The Competitor publications in December 2009.

Local Humane Society Offers
'Revealing' Calendars

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- For the first time, the Humane Society of Manatee County is offering a 15 month calendar for 2010-2011; aptly named Passions & Paws. Inspired by the 2003 movie "Calendar Girls", each month features a revealing yet tasteful photo of one of Manatee's prominent women of business and industry posing with a beloved pet. The photos also reveal their individual passions (other than their pets). This calendar is a fun and unique way to showcase the diversity of animal lovers in our community.

Calendars are $20 if picked up at the Humane Society of Manatee County or $25 if shipped. They also can be ordered online at www.humanemanatee.org. Support the orphaned animals of the community all year long with this great reminder of what some brave women did to show their love of their pets.

All proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Manatee County and their mission to create a "Humane Community" where animals receive the compassion and respect they deserve and there is no more euthanasia of adoptable dogs and cats simply because of a lack of resources and awareness.

The Humane Society of Manatee County is located at 2515 14th Street West, in Bradenton. For further information, please call 941-747-8808 x 311, e-mail info@humanesocietymanatee.org. or visit www.humanemanatee.org.

Sarasota Police Investigate
Shooting Homicide

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police are investigating the death of Johnny L. Ball, 45, a Black male.

Ball was discovered in the 1400 block of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way at approximately 1:45 am Thursday morning, Nov. 12, 2009.

Ball had been riding a bicycle in the area prior to his death.

After the completion of the preliminary autopsy, SPD confirmed the cause of death to be a Homicide and the death was as a result of trauma caused by gunshot(s) injury.

Johnny Ball is a long time Sarasota resident who has at times identified himself as homeless.

The Sarasota Police Department is offering a reward of $500 for information leading to the identification and arrest of a suspect in this case.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sarasota Police Department at 364-7340.

Detective Michael Jackson is assigned as the lead investigator in this case

Medication Turn-in Event
Scheduled for Saturday

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, Nov. 12, 2009, Sarasota County Sheriff Thomas M. Knight announced a new initiative to ultimately save lives that are being lost to lethal doses of legal drugs.

To get the community involved, the Sheriff’s Office is holding Operation Medicine Cabinet™ this Saturday, November 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at six locations throughout Sarasota County. This medication turn-in event allows citizens to safely dispose of unused or expired medications and keep them out of the wrong hands.

Additionally, the Pharmaceutical Diversion Investigative Unit intends to crack down on prescription fraud, reduce what is known as “doctor shopping,” and minimize the number of people who are overdosing on potent pain medications and other pharmaceutical drugs that are harmful and often lethal when taken without physician direction and supervision.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has responded to 32 accidental deaths so far this year where pharmaceutical drugs are believed to be involved. According to state statistics, Sarasota County has twice the state average of fatal overdoses.

“This problem is affecting all of our citizens,” said Sheriff Knight. “It does not discriminate based on socioeconomic status, age or race. We can’t be a community of denial. The men and women of this office who see the devastating effects of this problem every day won’t stand for it.”

The Pharmaceutical Diversion Investigative Unit will focus on education, enforcement, partnerships with physicians, pharmacists, community groups and rehabilitation professionals, and the appropriate disposal of medication that is no longer needed.

Port Charlotte Man Arrested
For Having Sex with Girl, 9

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives arrested Rodney Anthony Carter, 47, of 22000 block of Marshall Ave., Port Charlotte.

Rodney Anthony Carter

The arrest stems from a report from the Department of Children & Families about a reported sexual battery on a 9-year-old girl.

Following an investigation with the victim, the girl’s mother, and Carter, MCU detectives charged him with four counts of Capital Sexual Battery, and two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Molestation.

Carter was taken to the Charlotte County Jail and is being held on no bond.

Man Stabbed at Port Charlotte
Bar Underwent Surgery

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives are investigating a stabbing that occurred at Boomers Bar, 2360 Tamiami Trail, in Port Charlotte, early Thursday morning, Nov. 12, 2009.

CCSO received the call at 1:47 a.m. in reference to a fight inside the bar.

The bouncers pushed those involved into the parking lot where the stabbing took place; the injured man was stabbed in the abdomen.

EMS was called, took him to the Peace River Regional Medical Center helipad and flew him to the Lee Memorial Hospital Trauma Center, where he underwent surgery.

The victim is Anthony Charles Henry, 34, of 18094 Northern Ave., Port Charlotte.

Detectives said the man remains in Lee Memorial Hospital after undergoing surgery.

The investigation continues.

Woman Shoots, Kills Man
Through Door; Attempted
Break-In

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a mother caring for five children shot and killed a man Wednesday night when he and two others tried to break into her Orlando home, her family said.

Mark Clark, 25, was shot at the home located on Botany Court just east of Kirkman Road, police said. Orlando police are investigating the shooting, and the two other alleged assailants have not been located.

The single mother who shot the man has three children and was also watching her nephew and niece.

Family members said they did not know Mark Clark, WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Garage Fire Causes $100-200K
In Damages, WMFR Captain
Says; No Injuries to Residents

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On November 11, 2009, at approximately 2:45 a.m., a fire was reported by the occupants of 1108 64th Street NW, Bradenton. The occupants of the home reported that they were awakened by the sound of the burning fire. They immediately called 911 and exited their residence through the front door, West Manatee Fire Rescue Captain Tom Sousa reported.

Above, 1108 64th Street NW, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Units from West Manatee Fire Rescue, the City of Bradenton and Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue responded to the incident. The first units arrived on-scene at approximately 2:55 a.m. and found smoke and fire coming from the garage.

Fire Crews battled the blaze for about 20-30 minutes and had it completely under control by within one hour.

The fire was contained to the garage of the house. However, the house was extensively damaged by smoke and water.

According to Capt. Sousa, 25 personnel responded overall. West Manatee Fire Rescue responded with 4 engines and a Battalion Chief. Bradenton Fire District responded with an engine and Cedar Hammock responded with an engine.

On-scene medical care, though minor, was provided by Manatee County EMS.

The damage to the interior of the structure was extensive, with estimates of damage between $100-200 thousand dollars.

West Manatee Fire Rescue and the State Fire Marshal are investigating the cause of the fire.

Pedestrian Struck and Killed
On Cortez Road West

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a pedestrian was struck and killed on Monday, Nov. 9, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., in the 1700 block of Cortez Road West.

(Photo by Charles Mills, NewsManatee)

According to the FHP report, a 1999 Ford pickup, being driven by Peter R. Dospel, 33, of Bradenton, was eastbound on Cortez Road, and had just passed 17th Street West.

A pedestrian, Dennis L. Erlandson, 59, of Bradenton, was crossing the busy street from north to south and stepped in front of the pickup truck.

Erlandson was struck by the vehicle's front end and thrown into the center lane of traffic.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

No charges have been filed.

Woman, Angry with Lover,
Strikes Him in Groin with
Baseball Bat

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- It's what every man fears: Man pain.

Carlotta M. Wedge

But that's what Gary Dufore got from Carlotta M. Wedge on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 2:45 a.m.

According to a report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Carlotta and Gary have an intimate relationship and have been living together as a family for the past three months.

Carlotta became angry with Dufore, he told deputies, because he had left her at a party.

She then went to his residence at 515 77th Street East, Bradenton, in the Lazy Acres Mobile Home Park, with a baseball bat.

Dufore said Carlotta pushed a motorcycle over and then hit him in the groin with the baseball bat. She also punched him in the chin, he said.

When a deputy arrived on scene, he saw a motorcycle pushed over and laying on the ground.

There were no visible signs of injury or trauma to the area where Dufore said he was hit, the deputy wrote.

Dufore declined medical services, said he was okay and not in pain.

He told the deputy Carlotta also used the bat to break several windows out in the mobile home. There was glass breakage at one of the windows on the trailer, according to the deputy.

Carlotta Wedge, 59, of 18 Meadow Lark Circle, in Ellenton, was charged with Domestic Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

As of Wednesday, she remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail, according to the sheriff's website.

Man Late Picking Up Girlfriend;
Girlfriend Stabs Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Carmen A. Dominguez, 31, of 508 60th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Carmen A. Dominguez

According to the arrest report, Carmen and Jose Fuentes have been dating for about 9 months and got into an argument outside of the above location, at about 3:20 a.m., on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009.

Jose said that Carmen was mad at him because he was late to pick her up from work on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009.

Carmen then went inside the residence and grabbed a kitchen knife.

Jose followed Carmen up to the front door of the residence and when Jose reached the front door, he saw that Carmen had the knife.

Jose said that Carmen then attempted to stab him in the abdomen, but he put his left hand up to block the knife and sustained a 3-inch laceration on the outside of his left hand.

Carmen was located in her bedroom.

The knife was found in the kitchen sink.

Carmen was arrested and charged with Dating Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

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

Woman, 21, Ambushed, Punched,
Robbed by White Male, Female

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery with injuries on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, at about 7 p.m., at the intersection of 48th Avenue and 20th Street West, in the Holiday Heights section of Manatee County.

The report said while Cathy Morrison, 21, of the 200 block of 48th Avenue West, Bradenton, was walking home from a meeting, she was approached by a green Subaru station wagon, in which the passenger, who was a White female, asked her for directions to Oneco.

The White female then said, "My boyfriend is better at this than me."

Then the White male driver of the vehicle approached Cathy and asked her three times for directions to Oneco.

He then punched her several times upon the top of her head, causing her to fall to the ground. She blacked out for approximately 5-10 seconds.

When she awoke, her $100 purse was missing and she had an Indian head necklace in her hand, possibly from the suspect.

She looked down the street and saw the suspect vehicle heading towards 53rd Ave., but was unable to obtain a license plate number.

She walked home and called a friend who took her to Manatee Memorial Hospital for the large bump she sustained on the top of her head.

Cathy's assailants were described as a White male, 5'-6" tall, 180 pounds, wearing a sweater and baseball hat; and a White female, 5'-7" tall with short brown hair, wearing a sweater, jeans and baseball hat. They were in a green Subaru station wagon.

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.

Two Teens Accosted, Robbed
Getting Off School Bus

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported two teenagers were robbed on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2009, at about 3:15 p.m., in the 300 block of 39th Street East, in Palmetto.

The report said victim 1, a 15-year-old boy, and victim 2, a 16-year-old boy, had just gotten off the school bus.

They were walking westbound, when a Black male confronted the two. He said, "Can I get some money?"

Victim 1 stated he didn't have any money, so the suspect told him to come over to where he was. Victim 2 went to go by them, and the suspect grabbed his pants pocket and ripped them.

Victim 1 tried to stop him, and the suspect punched victim 1 and then took everything out of victim 2's pocket, which was $2.75, some candy and a school ID.

Victim 1 then took the ID back and the candy and went to get the money back but the suspect stated he couldn't have the money back.

Victim 1 and Victim 2 fled.

There were no weapons.

Victim 1 stated he had a bruise on the side of his face where he was punched, but it was not visible.

The assailant was described as a Black male, about 26 years old, 5'9" tall and weighing 160 pounds.

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.

Ellenton K-Mart Burglarized,
$26K in Jewelry Stolen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary of the K-Mart store located at 6126 U.S. 301 North, in Ellenton, on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009, at about 4:15 a.m.

The sheriff's report said patrol units responded to an alarm call at the K-Mart store.

The doors in the garden center were pried open and entry was made.

The store video reveals that the suspects went to jewelry counter, smashed it and stole approximately $26,000 worth of the jewelry.

A small perimeter was set, K-9 searched the interior, then attempted a track, to no avail.

A detective and a crime scene technician responded to the scene.

The suspects were not described in the report.

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.

20 Storage Units Burglarized
Overnight in West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the burglary of Budget Self Storage, 5305 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said sometime during the night early Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2009, unknown suspects entered 20 storage units by cutting off the locks that secured the doors.

The extent of the loss is not yet known, due to the fact that not all of the victims have been contacted, the report said.

An early investigation revealed that there are "3 unknown suspects." The report did not say how that is known.

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.

Osceola Chapter, Daughters of the
American Revolution, Meets

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Osceola Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met Saturday Nov. 7, 2009, at the Bradenton Country Club.

Above, L to R, Lenore Horner, Chapter Scholarship Chairman,
with Laura Helen Scott and Jo Lee Potts accepting
scholarships for their daughters
(Photo provided)

Their special program of the day was given by Dee Kermode, Honorary Regent and member of the Florida State National Defense Committee. The very interesting program was entitled "Women and National Defense."

The Osceola Registrar inducted our two latest members into the Chapter, Vivian Bernard and Kayte Payton.

The Chapter Chairman of Scholarships made presentations to sisters Emily and Sarah Potts, the daughters of Jo Lee Potts, chapter Librarian. Laura Helen Scott accepted a scholarship for her daughter Sarah Beth Scott, the granddaughter of Marilyn Whatley, chapter Chaplain.

The Chapter was saddened by the death of Past Regent Marta McMaster, on November 1, 2009. Marta became a member in 1974 and held many offices. She was active in other lineage societies and very involved with the Christ Episcopal Church.

Police: DCF Employee
Molested Girl, 7

SOUTH DAYTONA, Florida [NMT/WMKG] -- A Department of Children and Families employee has been arrested on charges that he molested a 7-year-old girl, Orlando television station reported Wednesday evening, Nov. 11, 2009.

Above, Ronald Clark Thornton
(Photo courtesy WKMG-TV)

Detectives said Ronald Clark Thornton molested the girl while he was staying at his son's home in South Daytona.

According to the police report, Thornton's 7-year-old granddaughter had a friend over to spend the night.

His son noticed the girl go into the bathroom and close the door quickly behind her. When he asked her what she was doing, he heard his father, Thornton, reply they would be out in a minute.

When Thornton left, his son asked his daughter's friend what happened. She initially said nothing happened, but then asked if he could keep a secret and told him Thornton took her into the bathroom and made her hold his penis while he put his finger in her vagina.

Thornton works for DCF as a processor in the food stamp division, WKMG said.

He was charged with sexual battery on a child under the age of 12.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Deputies Arrest Man for Domestic
Battery, Pushing Woman's Car
Into Manatee River

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office arrested Anthony Boggs, 36, of 4012 24th Street West, Bradenton, after Boggs pushed a woman's car into the Manatee River, according to a sheriff's report. The incident occurred on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 9 p.m.

Anthony Boggs

The report said the victim, Mary Taylor, 52, of the same address, and Boggs live together and were involved in an argument while in her car. Bogs was driving.

During the argument, Boggs stopped the car and pushed her out.

A request for Boggs' arrest was completed by deputies for Domestic Battery against Boggs.

A short time later, Boggs was seen by witnesses pushing Mary's vehicle into the river and walking away.

Boggs was followed by the witnesses and located by deputies.

Boggs was identified as the suspect in the recent domestic battery and deputies began trying to contact Mary to make sure she was okay.

Boggs stated that it was an accident, but witness accounts indicated that it was intentional.

Subsequently, Mary was contacted and said that Boggs called her and told her that her car was in salt water.

During the investigation, the sheriff's dive team was contacted and responded to the boat ramp at 5800 Riverview Blvd., Bradenton.

A short time later, the vehicle was located, unoccupied, and towed from the river.

Boggs was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery and Illegal Dumping.

As of Monday afternoon, Boggs was being held without bond.

Man Busted, Charged with Battery
Following Fight on Soccer Field

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Rafael Mojica for hitting another soccer player, causing a serious head injury, on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 5 p.m., in the 4900 block of 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Rafael Mojica

A sheriff's report said Alexis Rios, 20, and Rafael Mojica, 24, were playing soccer at the above location on different teams.

A fight broke out between the two teams in which several people were involved.

Alexis was not fighting with anyone, but Rafael approached Alexis and hit him, knocking him to the ground. While Alexis was on the ground, Rafael kicked him in the head and the stomach several times. Alexis was knocked unconscious for several minutes, according to witnesses.

Rafael then fled the scene in his vehicle.

As EMS was treating Alexis, he became unresponsive and they decided to Bayflite him due to the possibility of him suffering a serious head injury. As they were getting ready to load Alexis in the helicopter, he became responsive and they decided to send him to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center by ambulance.

Rafael was located at his residence and a show up with two witnesses was done. Both witnesses positively identified Rafael as the person who stuck Alexis.

Rafael was arrested and taken to the Manatee County Jail, charged with Battery.

Alexis was treated for injuries which were not life-threatening and released from the hospital.

Mojica posted a $750 cash bond and was released from jail.

East Manatee Sonny's Bar-B-Q
Robbed at Gunpoint of $6K
By Man, Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the armed robbery of Sonny's Bar-B-Q, 631 67th Street Circle East, in East Manatee County, on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 10:45 p.m.

According to the report, Robert Lee was taking the trash out the back door, when he saw two people approaching.

Suspect 1 asked him if the restaurant was still open.

Robert immediately became suspicious because both of them had their faces covered.

He ran back inside and tried to close the door, but one of the suspects was able to get their hand inside the door and force it back open.

Humbertha Rodriguez was cleaning the floor inside and was forced into the back room with Robert. Both of them were ordered to the ground by the suspects.

Suspect 2 went into the manager’s office where Chad Newby was. He was ordered to open the safe and then to the ground.

The suspects then took the cash out of the safe and checked the contents of Robert’s wallet.

The suspects then made all three victims get into the cooler and the robbers fled out the back door.

There were no injuries and the suspects obtained approximately $5900.

The robbers were described as a White male with a heavy build, wearing a gray hoodie and bandana, carrying a black semi-automatic handgun; and possibly a White female, with a slender build, wearing a dark blue hoodie and bandana with dark colored pants and carrying a black semi-automatic handgun.

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.

Three Teenagers Arrested in
Shooting Incident with Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting with injuries on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 6:20 p.m., in the 500 block of 60th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said three teenagers became involved in a verbal argument with the residents of 503 60th Avenue East.

The suspects threatened to come back and shoot the residents.

The suspects shortly returned and, according to witness statements, Davone Royster, 14, began shooting at the residents who were sitting outside.

The victim, Ivan Gutierrez, 23, was shot in the left thigh, causing a small laceration. A Black F-150 truck was also struck several times, causing the back window to shatter.

The suspects then fled the scene but were found a short time later walking down 5th Street East and were positively identified by the witnesses.

The other two teenagers were identified as Bobby Harper, 15, and Leroy Smith, 15.

All three teens were charged with Using a Deadly Weapon.

They were taken to the Manatee County Juvenile Booking Facility.

Man Beaten, Robbed Outside
Duplex City Residence by
6-7 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was beaten and robbed on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 11:20 p.m., outside a residence in the 600 block of 61st Avenue East, Bradenton.

The report said the victim, Abraham Lopez, 33, and his friends were at the listed address when they were approached by 6-7 Black males wearing all black clothing.

One of the suspects was carrying a baseball bat, another was carrying a crow bar. Several of the victim's friends ran into a nearby house. The victim and one of his friends remained outside.

The friend went to look for something to defend himself with. When he turned around he witnessed the suspects punching, kicking and hitting the victim with the bat and crow bar.

Occupants of the house ran outside to help causing the suspects to flee. One of the suspects took the victim's wallet before fleeing.

Some of the suspects fled on foot, others ran to a waiting Green Ford Explorer.

The victim suffered head trauma and was unable to answer questions. EMS responded and determined the victim's injuries were not life-threatening but serious enough to Bayflite the victim to Bayfront Medical Center, in St. Petersburg.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded to assist with the investigation. Crime Scene responded for evidence collection and photographs.

The status of the victim is unknown at this time.

The thugs who beat Lopez were not further described in the report.

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.

Hispanic Male Robbed at Gunpoint
By Three Black Males, 1 White Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., at 26th Street and 49th Avenue West, Bradenton.

According to the report, the victim, Mario Martinez, 27, of the 2700 block of 40th Avenue West, Bradenton, was confronted by three mane.

One of the men placed a black semi-automatic handgun to the side of Mario's head and demanded his money.

A second suspect placed a gun in Mario's back and went through his pockets.

The men took Mario's cell phone and cigarettes before fleeing eastbound on 40th Avenue.

A K-9 was unavailable to track.

Mario was not injured during the incident.

The robbers were only described as 3 Black males and 1 White male in the report.

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

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

Sarasota Police Report Shooting
Monday Morning

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department reported a shooting that occurred on Monday, Nov. 9, 2009, at 1962 19th Street, at about 8:30 a.m.

The victim, Willie Hadley, 20, was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with a gunshot wound to his hand and face.

The injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

No additional information was immediately available.

Girl, 16, Dead After Stabbing;
3 Gang Members Arrested

DAYTONA BEACH, Floria [NMT/WKMG] -- Daytona Beach police said they have arrested three men after an attack at the Daytona Beach bandshell late Saturday evening, Nov. 7, 2009, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Robyn Munsch, 16, died after she was stabbed in the chest. Desiree Juras, 22, was stabbed twice, and 19-year-old Jordan Hess was stabbed in the back.

Juras and Hess were taken to Halifax Medical Center where they are expected to recover.

Police told WKMG that the victims knew the suspects and the attack was provoked by a text message from Hess, the ex-boyfriend, to a girl that Dustin Lind is currently dating.

Police said Lind agreed to meet Hess so they could work out their differences.

After Lind began to fight with all three victims, Raymond North, Dallas Mobbs and Carl Beck arrived to assist Lind in the fight.

Police said North allegedly produced a knife and stabbed all the victims.

Lind also suffered bruises during the fight.

After the stabbing, Mobbs and Beck helped North get away from the scene and all three decided to keep quiet about the fight, police said.

All three are confirmed gang members, but police said there is no evidence to indicate this was a gang-affiliated attack.

Police told WKMG the alleged attackers were found at the Bristol Bay apartments in South Daytona.

Police said they have charged North with first-degree premeditated murder.

Mobbs and Beck have been charged with accessory to first-degree premeditated murder.

Police located the knife and also found a gun they believed Beck had in his possession, WKMG said.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Detective Arrests Stepfather for
Sexual Battery of Girl, Now 12,
When She Was Between 3 & 9

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detective James Wischer has arrested J.T. Hardy Hodges III, 41, of the 2400 block of 51st Street Blvd. East, Bradenton.

J.T. Hardy Hodges III

According to the arrest report, an unnamed girl, who is now 12 years old, disclosed to her therapist that she was sexually battered by her stepfather, Hodges, at least twice between the ages of 3 and 9 when she was still living with him.

The therapist immediately notified law enforcement and the girl was interviewed by the Child Protection Team at Manatee Children's Services the next day.

During the first incident, she stated that Hodges, believing that he was home alone with her, called her into his bedroom. She said she reluctantly obeyed.

Once in his room, she said that he ordered her to lay down on the bed next to him and he then put his arm around her and pulled her in close. She said that he then touched her private parts inside her clothing. She said she tried to get away from Hodges, but he was too strong. She also said he told her if she told on him, "He would hurt me and my mom."

The little girl said the second time he molested her was when he again believed that they were home alone. He found her on the living room couch watching TV and ordered her to go take a shower. At that time, he was wearing nothing but a towel around his waist, she said.

She obeyed him and went into the bathroom, locked the door and took a shower. Then, she said, he got into the bathroom, somehow unlocking the door, and got into the shower with her. He was naked, she said.

Then he took her into the bedroom and forced her onto his bed. He was naked, she said. He forced her to lay face down and he laid on top of her and sodomized her, the report said. He threatened to kill her and her mother if she told what he had just done to her, she said.

She said her brother, now 14 years old, then about 11 years old, walked in on them and saw Hodges molesting her.

The brother was later interviewed at a facility where he was being held and he told the same story, the report said.

When Hodges was interviewed by Det. Wischer, he basically denied the allegations and no longer wanted to talk to the detective.

Hodges was arrested on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, and charged with two counts of Custodian Capital Sexual Battery of a Child Under 12 Years of Age.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Bradenton Police Arrest
Young Man for Theft of
Drugs from Manatee ER

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Ronald Louis Bright, 20, of 4477 17th Street West, Bradenton.

Ronald Louis Bright

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, at about 2:50 a.m., a Bradenton Police Officer who was at the Manatee Memorial Hospital Emergency Room was stopped by an ER doctor in reference to a person trying to steal items.

Contact was made with Bright, who was with the patient. Bright gave consent to search him.

A BPD Sergeant located several items which were stolen from one of the ER rooms. Bright was arrested.

Incident to Bright's arrest, a search was done on Bright that resulted in several pill bottles located on Bright's person, for which he did not have prescriptions.

Found on Bright were controlled substance pills, including Soma, Methadone, Morphine and Klonopin. Also found on Bright was a small baggie of marjiuana, along with several items of paraphernalia, including a spoon that tested positive for cocaine, a bowl for smoking marijuana and a metal card used to cut pills. Bright said he last used it to cut of Xanax.

Bright allegedly admitted he was the one who went into the room and stole the items.

Bright was charged with four counts of Petit Theft, four counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription, one count of Possession of Marijuana and three counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Bright posted a bail bond of $4,960 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Undercover Detectives See
Altercation Between Man,
Woman; Man Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jeffrey Lee Blasko, 45, a homeless man, who gave his address as 305 Crescent Drive, in Anna Maria.

Jeffrey Lee Blasko

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, at about 9:45 p.m., detectives in undercover vehicles observed Blasko getting into an altercation with Carrie Hartley while being armed with a golf club. The incident occurred at about 9:45 p.m. in the 2700 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

It was later learned that Blasko and Hartley are former girlfriend and boyfriend.

During the incident, Blasko said, "I'm going to beat your ass," the report said, and began to swing the golf club around at Hartley in a threatening manner.

Hartley was afraid Blasko was going to carry out his threat.

No injuries were inflicted on either party involved.

Blasko was arrested without incident.

The golf club was seized as evidence.

Blasko was charged with Domestic Aggravated Assault.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a $7,500 bail bond.

Man Arrested After Crashing
Into Sheriff's Cruiser

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Wayne Miller, 46, of 305 37th Street West, Bradenton.

Wayne Miller
(Prior mug shot from 2008)

A sheriff's report said on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at a few minutes past midnight, a gold Buick driven by Wayne Miller turned left into the path of Dep. Byington's patrol vehicle in the 2200 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Byington applied his brakes and attempted an evasive maneuver but impacted Miller's vehicle in the right rear quarter panel with his right front bumper.

Miller then fled the scene followed by Byington.

Miller stopped in the 2300 Block of 10th Street West, exited his vehicle and fled on foot but later returned to the scene.

He was identified as the driver by a passenger in the suspect vehicle.

Post Miranda, Miller stated his twin brother from Trinidad was driving the vehicle, but the keys to the vehicle were located in Miller's pocket and his cell phone was on the driver's seat.

Miller was arrested and charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Property Damage and Driving While License Suspended (8th Offense). Miller was determined to have been at fault and was ticketed for Failing to Yield right of Way.

There were no injuries to any of the involved parties.

Damage to the deputy's cruiser was estimated at $1000. Damage to Miller's vehicle was estimated at $1,500.

Young Lady Arrested for
Striking Wal-Mart Loss
Prevention Officer, Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Stephanie M. Hazelbaker, 25, of 3265 Nature Circle, in Sarasota.

Stephanie M. Hazelbaker

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, at about 2 p.m., Hazelbaker entered the Wal-Mart store located at 8320 Lockwood Ridge Road, in Bradenton.

She took several items, concealing them in her purse. She then passed all points of purchase without paying.

When a Wal-Mart Loss Prevention Officer attempted to stop her, she struck him several times. The entire incident was captured on Wal-Mart surveillance video cameras and recorded.

The items were valued at under $100.

Hazelbaker was arrested and charged with Battery and Theft.

She posted a bail bond of $870 and was released the next day from the Manatee County Jail.

Woman Carjacked at Gunpoint
By Young Black Male

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a carjacking on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at about 7:20 p.m., in the 5700 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton.

According to the report, Juana DeMerida, 35, of the 300 block of 61st Avenue East, was approached by a Black male in the parking lot of the above location as she was attempting to enter her vehicle.

The man demanded DeMerida hand over her car keys. She refused and the man pulled a black handgun, pointed it at DeMerida and pulled the trigger.

The handgun jammed, so DeMerida threw her keys at the man and fled on foot, looking for help.

The carjacker jumped into DeMerida's vehicle and drove southbound on 5th Street East.

DeMerida was not injured during the carjacking.

The man was described as a Black male, 25-30 years of age, 5'8" tall, 150 pounds, wearing all black clothing, armed with a black handgun.

DeMerida's vehicle was not described in the report.

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

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

Man Attacked with Own Bike
By 3 Large White Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was attacked with his own bicycle on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at about 10:15 p.m., in the 5300 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

According to the sheriff's report, Joseph Martin, 50, a homeless man, told deputies that he was riding his bicycle through the trailer park at the above location when he came across three heavy set White males.

All parties exchanged words before Joseph was attacked and beaten with his own bicycle.

Joseph was Bayflited to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries which were not life-threatening.

The three "big guys" were not further described in the report.

If located, they face charges of Aggravated Battery.

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

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

Man Convicted of Murder in
1978 Cold Case

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, November 6, 2009, Kenneth Paul Auringer, 60, was found guilty of the 1978 murder of John “Mac” Allaman, Jr., bringing to a close an investigation which has lasted over 31 years.

Kenneth Paul Auringer

John Allaman was found stabbed to death in his Bird Key home in October of 1978, his vehicle was stolen and numerous items of value were stolen during the course of the homicide.

Allaman’s vehicle was found west of Houston, Texas a few days following the murder, abandoned and empty at a highway rest area.

During the course of the investigation Kenneth Paul Auringer’s prints were found in numerous locations within the interior of the Allaman residence and Allaman’s stolen vehicle. Auringer’s DNA was also found inside the victim’s home on items that were recovered by the Crime Scene Unit in 1978; specifically, a wash cloth that was wet at the time it was recovered in 1978 which was found to contain a mixture of the victim’s blood and the suspect’s DNA when it was tested earlier this year.

Auringer was arrested in Laytonville, California on March 24, 2009, by Detectives of the Sarasota Police Department and Mendocino County Sheriff’s Department.

Auringer was extradited back to Sarasota shortly after his arrest to stand trial.

Charlotte Deputies Shoot Man
Who Pointed Shotgun,
Revolver at Them

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives are investigating an incident in Port Charlotte that involved deputies shooting a man who pointed a shotgun and a revolver at them.

On Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at 1:13 a.m., CCSO received a call to 3490 Cohoes St., in regards to a domestic incident where the husband threatened his spouse with a gun inside their home.

Deputies responded and upon arrival the man exited the home by the front door and was armed with a shotgun and a revolver.

The man refused to follow orders to drop his weapons in close range of the officers.

The man pointed the weapons at the deputies and they fired, striking him.

The man was airlifted to Lee Memorial Hospital Trauma Center; his condition is not known at this time.

MCU detectives identified the man who was shot as George Lafferty, 62. Charges against Lafferty are pending at this time.

Both deputies who fired on Lafferty are on paid administrative leave, which is routinely done pending outcome of the shooting investigation.

Disgruntled Former Employee
Shoots, Kills One, Injures 5

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Jason Rodriguez was formally charged with first-degree murder and ordered to be held on no bond on charges he shot five people, killing one in a downtown office building on Friday, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Jason Rodriguez

Rodriguez made his first court appearance Saturday morning at 10 a.m.

Police on Friday released the name of the shooting victim killed when a man opened fire at an Orlando high-rise. Police said 26-year-old Otis Beckford died in the shooting that wounded five others.

Police charged Jason Rodriguez, 40, with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting spree after an extensive search.

Police Chief Val Demings said Rodriguez surrendered to police at his mother's home after officers saw him through a window and asked him to come out.

Police said the shooting began around 11:45 a.m. at the Gateway Center located at 1000 Legions Place in downtown Orlando. Demings said Rodriguez was somehow able to leave the building, resulting in a search that ended around 2 p.m. She said tips from Crimeline helped lead to Rodriguez's arrest. She also said speedy police work helped quickly capture the suspect.

Orlando Police Sgt. Barb Jones said the shooting took place at Reynolds, Smith $ Hills, an engineering and construction firm located on the eighth floor of the high-rise office building.

Orlando Regional Medical Center said it is treating four patients, three men and one woman. All are in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries, the hospital said. The victims range in age from 23 to 49 years old. ORMC said two victims are recovering from surgery.

Another patient at Florida Hospital is reportedly in good condition, WKMG said

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NewsManatee Archive Created 11/14/2009 2:00:06 PM

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