Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 12/5/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 12/5/2009

Man Tries to Run Down His Wife
With Her Car; She Wanted to
Be a Stripper; He Punched,
Kicked Her, Report Says

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kevin Allen Renick, 26, of 5200 16th Street East, Bradenton.

Kevin Allen Renick

According to the arrest report, Renick is married to Alicia Popper, the victim; they live together and have a child in common.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at about 1:30 p.m., they got into a verbal altercation, because Popper was going to work as a stripper in Palmetto.

The altercation turned violent when Renick took the keys to Popper's vehicle and tried to leave with it.

Alicia stepped in front of the vehicle in order to stop Renick from leaving and he tried to run her over, she told a deputy.

He stopped the vehicle and got out.

He proceeded to punch her in the collar bone and kicked her in the stomach. Alicia fell to the ground and Renick kicked her in the head, the report said.

Renick then left the residence.

He was located at about 4:30 p.m. that same day and arrested.

Renick was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle and Domestic Battery.

Renick is awaiting trial on two counts of Grand Theft and other charges from a previous arrest and his bail bond on those charges was revoked. According to Manatee County court records, Renick has a long list of other felony charges dating back to the year 2000.

He now remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $6,500.

Father Arrested for Stabbing His
Son's Girlfriend; Dad Wanted
Sex from Her

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Louis McDonald, 61, of 1432 22nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

Louis McDonald

The arrest report said on Tuesday, Dec. 1st, 2009, McDonald's son, who was not named in the report, found his girlfriend, Colleen Kramer, sitting in a chair behind the old Circle K at 3000 14th Street West, bleeding.

When the son was approaching Colleen, he saw his father driving away in his white pickup.

The son called 911.

The son told a deputy that his dad has an infatuation with Colleen and "keeps bugging her for sex." The son also said that there have been other occurrences in the past, which went unreported.

EMS responded and treated Colleen for a wound just above her right eye. She declined to be taken to a hospital, but emphatically said that Louis was the person who cut her.

Another deputy responded to Louis' residence and arrested him.

He was brought to the scene, where Colleen positively identified him as the person who cut her.

Louis McDonald was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Battery.

He posted a $3,250 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail on Dec. 3rd.

Man Chases His Wife with Sharp
Butcher Knife, Slaps, Chokes,
Punches Her Over Drug $$

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Hector Luis Gonzalez, 41, of 5406B 23rd Street West, Bradenton.

Hector Luis Gonzalez

On Wednesday, Dec. 2nd, 2009, at about 4:45 p.m., Hector and his wife, Dorothy got into an argument over money for illegal drugs, a sheriff's report said.

The argument became physical when Hector slapped Dorothy in the face with an open hand, then proceeded to choke Dorothy around her neck as well.

Hector then took a sharpened chef's knife that is about 13 inches in length and chased Dorothy, according to the report.

As Dorothy fled from Hector, he struck her with a closed fist in the back of the head.

Law enforcement was called and Hector was arrested at about 5:30 p.m.

He was charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery.

As of Thursday, Dec. 3d, he remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Man Strangles Girlfriend After
Only One Month Together,
Steals Her Car, Crashes It

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Joshua K. Hattaway, 22, of 5310 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Joshua K. Hattaway

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at about 11 p.m., Joshua placed his hand on the unnamed victim's neck and squeezed it hard enough to impede the victim's breathing.

Joshua and the victim are boyfriend and girlfriend and have been living together for about a month.

Joshua then took the victim's vehicle and intentionally drove it into the side of a building, causing damage tot the vehicle. The vehicle suffered damage to the front passenger side rim and tire; it also suffered damage to the paint on the front dumper. The damage was estimated at $250.

Joshua then left the area prior to arrival of law enforcement.

However, the initial deputy returned to the area at about 1:10 a.m. and saw Joshua in the vehicle having trouble making a turn in the apartment complex.

Joshua was arrested. The deputy at that time found a Muscle Man stun gun in Joshua's pocket.

Joshua was charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation, Grand Theft Auto, Criminal Mischief, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Driving While License Suspended, with Knowledge.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Peace River Wire Thief Caught
Trying to Sell Ill-Gotten Booty

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported that Sean Wolf, 31, of 2027 29th Avenue West, Bradenton, was arrested in Sarasota County on Dec. 2nd, 2009, at about 2 p.m.

Sean Wolf

The report said Sean Wolf was detained and arrested by the Sarasota Police Department while scrapping copper wiring for money at Trademark Metals Recycling, 1735 Myrtle Street, in Sarasota.

The copper wiring matched wire stolen in multiple incidents from power poles in eastern and northern Manatee County.

The wiring was positively identified by representatives of the Peace River Power Company.

Wolf was charged with Dealing in Stolen Property.

He bonded out of the Sarasota County Jail on Wednesday morning.

"The investigation is continuing and multiple additional charges are pending," Manatee County Sheriff's Lieutenant Barry Overstreet said.

Sarasota Sheriff Seeks Man
Wanted for Beating Wife

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is searching for Harold Thompson, 49, who is described as being 5’8” tall, and weighing 147 pounds, for an alleged attack on his ex-wife on November 26, 2009.

Harold Thompson

Detectives have obtained an arrest warrant for Thompson, who is wanted for Battery by Strangulation, False Imprisonment, Tampering with a Witness and Assault.

Thompson has no known means of transportation and his current address is unknown, but he is believed to be in the Venice area.

Anyone with information on Thompson’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency number at (941) 316-1201, or Detective Szalbirak in Criminal Investigations, (941) 861-1719.

Sarasota Announces Reduced
Animal Adoption Fees for a
Limited Time

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services pet population is at capacity. To alleviate this situation and to encourage prospective adoptive parents, Animal Services is offering reduced adoption fees for animals currently in the shelter.

The cost of adopting older cats, who have been at the shelter for a long period of time, are significantly reduced. For a limited time, the following fees will apply:

~ Cats 5 years and older $10
~ 1-5 years of age $20
~ Under 1 year (spayed/neutered) $30
~ Kittens $60

~ Altered dogs $30
~ Puppies $70

The reduced fees will continue through December 20, 2009.

Animal Services would like to find many animals a home for the holidays and encourages people to also consider becoming a pet foster parent.

Contact Animal Services by calling (941) 861-9523. To view adoptable animals, visit www.SarasotaSheriff.org

Sarasota County Offers Holiday
Fire Safety Tips

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Holiday celebrations may put a home at risk for fire. To get through the holiday season safely, Sarasota County Fire Chief Kenneth Ellerbe suggests following these important safety tips:

· Place candles securely in non-tip candle holders and well away from anything that could catch fire. Don’t leave candles unattended and blow them out before leaving the room or going to sleep.

· Use flame-retardant or non-combustible costumes and decorations.

· Supervise children and keep them away from matches, lighters and candles.

· When cooking, keep an eye on the range. Three of every 10 reported home fires start in the kitchen, more than any other place in the home. Remember too, drinking and medication can impair your judgment.

· Make sure there’s a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and every member of the household knows how to use it.

· Provide smokers with large, deep, no-tip ashtrays. Empty ashtrays often and wet contents before dumping them. After a party, check cushions and furniture for smoldering cigarette butts.

· Buy a fresh tree that does not have shedding needles. Cut the trunk at an angle and install the tree in a large, deep non-tip stand well away from fireplaces, exits and heat sources. Ensure the tree has a constant supply of water – check it daily.

· Use a flame-retardant artificial tree if you are not using a live tree.

· Throw away light sets that have cracked or frayed cords or loose or damaged sockets.

· Unplug all decorative lights before leaving your home or going to bed.

For more information on keeping your family safe for the holidays, Call the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for the Emergency Services Public Education Office or visit the county’s Web site at www.scgov.net.

Man Wanted for Attempted
Murder Flees Deputies

OVIEDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Authorities closed in on a man Wednesday who was wanted in an attempted killing in Orange County, but he slipped away from deputies again despite an aggressive search, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Demarcus Reddick is wanted in relation to a shooting on Oct. 25 at a Hess gas station in Orange County, the Orange County Sheriff's Office said.

According to the Sheriff's Office, deputies were watching Reddick from a helicopter as officers were moving in to arrest him on the ground Wednesday afternoon. The silver Pontiac G6 that Reddick was driving stopped at a Circle K convenience store near Dean Road and University Boulevard, officials said. A passenger got out of the car and went into the store.

But Reddick noticed that he was being followed and he immediately drove off at a high speed, the Sheriff's Office said.

Deputies did not pursue Reddick because of heavy traffic, but officers kept an eye on him from the helicopter, deputies said.

Deputies said the man eventually drove into Seminole County on Alafaya Trail and jumped out of his moving vehicle, which then crashed into a fence, near Mitchell Hammock Road.

Seminole and Orange county deputies, as well as Oviedo police, searched for Reddick in a nearby wooded area, but that search was called off at about 8 p.m., WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Detectives Searching for Man
Who Removed Boy, 2, from
His Mother's Custody

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Detective April Dugan and other Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies are searching for John C. McDermott, 22, of 1107 39th Street West, Bradenton, who apparently took a 2-year-old boy from the custody of his mother on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009.

John C. McDermott
(Prior mug shot from 2008)

According to a report released by the sheriff's office, on Friday, Nov. 27th, Sara Steward, 31, was involved in a previously unreported Domestic incident with her best friend of 4 years, John C. McDermott.

During the incident, Steward claims that McDermott choked her. He also threatened to take their 2-year-old baby (John B. McDermott) from her if she left him.

On Saturday, Nov. 28th, Steward took the baby and moved out of the couple's residence at the listed address.

On Monday, Nov. 30th, McDermott, Sr., responded to her new residence in the 3700 block of Manatee Avenue West, begging her to come home. When she refused, he threatened to kill himself.

Steward was able to get him calmed down and allowed McDermott, Sr., to watch the child the following morning, with the understanding that she would pick the baby up after work.

Steward responded to the listed address at 4 p.m. and could not locate her best friend or the child.

McDermott's roommates advised her that they last saw him and the child at 11 a.m. and that he called his mother in Maryland asking her to send him a bus ticket.

Steward kept checking McDermott's residence over the next couple hours and was unable to locate him or the child.

Deputies checked several addresses, the bus station and a local hotel with negative results. Attempts were also made to contact several of McDermott's friends, as well as his mother in Maryland. Deputies were unable to reach any of them.

McDermott does not have a cell phone or a vehicle.

A BOLO was issued, the abuse registry was notified and requests for arrest warrants for Interference with Child Custody and Domestic Battery were completed on McDermott.

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

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

Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 Pino
Hit by Bradenton Beach Officer's
Cruiser in Pursuit of Drug Suspect;
Man Was Arrested; Pino to Surgery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's K-9 Pino has undergone surgery for a dislocated hip that resulted from being struck by a Bradenton Beach Police Officer's cruiser on Friday, Nov. 27, 2009, during a pursuit of Gerald S. Cole, 33, of 1818 Martin Luther King Blvd., Bradenton.

Above, L to R, MSO K-9 Deputy Pino and Gerald S. Cole

According to a report from the Bradenton Beach Police Dept., Officer Tom Ferraro said he was on patrol on Friday, at about 2 a.m. when a Holmes Beach Police Officer signed out with a suspicious person in a non-lit parking lot outside the Publix grocery store in the 3900 block of East Bay Drive, in Holmes Beach.

HBPD Officer Hall observed a second subject walk off from the vehicle.

About a minute later, BBPD Officer Ferraro saw a white vehicle with its lights off exit the Sunbow Bay Condo at 3700 East Bay Drive.

Due to the time of day, as well as the suspicious nature of the contact, Officer Ferraro attempted to catch up to the vehicle, which now traveled east on Manatee Avenue, going towards town (Bradenton).

Officer Ferraro was able to catch up to the vehicle in the 12000 block of Manatee Avenue West, at which time he attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle did not immediately stop, but pulled over about 100 yards away. As Officer Ferraro stepped out and reached the vehicle, it sped away at a high rate of speed and a pursuit was on.

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office was notified of the pursuit, which went to 75th Street West, then south to 53rd Avenue West, then east to 34th Street West, at which point the driver began throwing things out of his window, including what appeared to be a small plastic baggie. At 34th Street, the vehicle sustained a flat tire and went into College Plaza at that location. The driver, later identified as Cole, bailed out of his then sparking vehicle and fled on foot across Cortez Road West.

Sheriff's vehicles and Officer Ferraro in his vehicle pursued Cole as he fled.

At one point K-9 Deputy Jeremy Bertolino released his K-9 Deputy Pino, who pursued Cole across the street and ran directly into the path of Officer Ferraro's cruiser. Officer Ferraro wrote he was unable to avoid the K-9 and the passenger side wheels struck Pino.

Pino bounced across the roadway, injured. He was immediately taken to Dep. Bertolino's vehicle and transported to an emergency veterinarian.

Cole was subsequently apprehended. The baggie which was found to contain crack cocaine was recovered.

Cole was charged with Possession of Crack Cocaine and Loitering and Prowling. He also was charged with an outstanding warrant for Contempt of Court for not appearing for Driving on a Suspended License. He has since bailed out of jail on a $3,120 bail bond.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Dec. 1st, Pino underwent surgery to place a pin in his dislocated hip. The surgery, we are told, went well and he returned home on Wednesday, Dec. 2nd. We don't know if he will be returning to active duty -- that will depend on his ability to recuperate.

Man, 24, Threatens Father:
'Gonna Gut You Like a Fish'

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Emery O'Neal Duba, Jr., 24, of 807 56th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Emery O'Neal Duba, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at about 9:45 a.m., Duba and his father, Emery Duba, Sr., were in a verbal confrontation regarding usage of his father's computer without permission.

The son then told his father, "I am going to gut you like a fish." He then went into the kitchen.

Due to what the father claims was the son's past violent history he was in fear for his life and believed that the son was getting a knife from the kitchen.

The father told deputies that his son has been physically abuse in the past.

A Deputy arrived and, after investigation, arrested the son for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (knife).

He was transported to the Manatee County Jail and later released on his own recognizance, supervised.

Armed Robbery Reported
Near Old Circle K Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at about 7:40 p.m., in the 1400 block of 30th Avenue West, Bradenton, near the site of a store that once was owned by Circle K.

According to the report, the victim, Nick Raimey, 22, of the 3000 block of 15th Street West, told deputies he was walking in the 1400 block of 30th Avenue West when two men pulled up in a White Caprice.

The passenger in the Caprice jumped out and put an unknown type handgun to Nick's back.

Nick was advised to empty his pockets and he handed the man $306 in cash. The men fled West in their vehicle on 30th Avenue.

Nick was not injured during the incident.

He was unable to provide any further information on the men or their vehicle.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded and will follow up on the investigation, the report said.

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

Bradenton Police Issue
Holiday Vehicle Caution;
How to Protect Your Valuables

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department would like to remind citizens to lock your vehicle and remove valuables or anything that looks like it could be of value.

The would-be thief often wanders through parking lots and side streets looking for unlocked vehicles. If he finds one unlocked, he will enter it and steal whatever he can quickly take. If it is locked, but there is something valuable in plain sight, the thief is more willing to take the risk of forcing entry for the bigger payoff.

Most recently, thieves are targeting cars with items in plain view such as: purses, wallets, GPS units, briefcases and laptop computers.

Please take your stereo’s removable faceplate, if it is removable, as well as your portable GPS and your cell phone and charger out of your vehicle.

Remember: You may know that the bank bag you left in your vehicle is empty, but the potential thief doesn't know that until he after he has damaged your car in his attempt to steal the bank bag.

For more information on how you can protect yourself and your property, please contact the Bradenton Police Department Crime Prevention Division, (941) 932-9300 ext. 351.

Downtown Bradenton to Host
County-Wide Firefighters
Training Exercise

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton Fire Department, along with fire districts from across Manatee County, will participate in a major training operation on Thursday, Dec. 3rd and next Tuesday, Dec. 8th, in downtown Bradenton.

More than 30 firefighters, EMTs and paramedics will simulate a multi-jurisdictional effort to rescue victims from a burning high-rise building. Firefighters plan to use the vacant “Pink Palace” on Ninth Street; firefighters have used the building in the past for similar operations.

The exercises will run between 6:30-8:30 p.m. each night.

The City will close Fourth Avenue West between Ninth and 10th streets along the south side of building. This will not block access to the parking garage and if a vehicle needs to get through the City will try to accommodate them, said Capt. Tom Woods of the Bradenton Fire Department, commander of the training exercise.

"Home 4 the Holidays"
Adoption Special from
Humane Society of Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Humane Society of Manatee County (HSMC) has teamed with nearly 3,500 shelters from around the world to participate in the annual Iams Home 4 the Holidays (IH4TH) pet adoption campaign, founded by the Helen Woodward Animal Center and supported by Iams. HSMC is participating in the campaign through Jan. 4, 2010, to help place 1.5 million pets into homes.

“With as many as 8 million homeless pets, it is important everyone get involved to help save an orphaned animal this holiday season,” said Denise Deisler, Executive Director. “We’re proud to be a part of this amazing campaign and are dedicated to helping reach our pet adoption goal so 1.5 million homeless animals can experience a happy life with their new, loving family.”

Adoption fees for all dogs and cats will be reduced to $55, which is $20 off the regular adoption cost. All animals have been spay/neutered, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations and come with 30 days free pet insurance. Dogs, cats, puppies and kittens adopted during IH4TH will go home with an Iams Adoption Kit. Included in each kit are information tips to help the new parent and their furry friend get off on the right paw.

“The team here at HSMC is specially trained and can help families choose the perfect pet for their personalities and lifestyles,” said Deisler.

Animals available for adoption can be seen at their website, www.humanemanatee.org. HSMC is located at 2515 14th St.W. in Bradenton. For more information, please call 941-747-8808, ext. 313, or email info@humanesocietymanatee.org.

Man, 32, arrested for Sexual
Battery of Girl, 11, from
Manatee County

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested Daniel E. Palmer, 32, formerly of Normandy Dr., Port Charlotte, on a warrant for Sexual Battery on an 11 year old girl that occurred two years ago.

Daniel E. Palmer

Palmer was arrested Tuesday afternoon at the Charlotte County Jail after he was brought from the Desoto Annex of the Department of Corrections to face the new charge here.

Palmer was convicted last March after being found guilty on 12 counts of Possession of Child Pornography that occurred in 2007. He was released from the Charlotte County Jail on May 7 and sent to the Desoto prison facility. Detectives also learned in 2007 that Palmer may have committed a sexual battery on a girl but the child was afraid at that time to discuss the matter with the CCSO Forensic Interviewer.

Last July the case was reactivated when a relative of the girl informed CCSO detectives that the girl was now willing to discuss the sexual incidents involving Palmer. Detectives worked with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Child Protection Services and a forensic interview was conducted.

During the interview detectives said the girl reported she had been sexually molested by Palmer since she was five years old.

Based on the detailed information received, a warrant was issued for Palmer to be brought back to Charlotte County to face the felony charge.

He remains in the County Jail without bond.

59-Year-Old Accused of
Chasing Neighbor with
Lawnmower Blade

MELBOURNE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 59-year-old man who Melbourne police said chased a neighbor with a lawnmower blade while asking him if he had seen the movie "Sling Blade" has been jailed on assault charges, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Mark Colgate was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon after Melbourne police were called this past weekend to the 2300 block of Apache Drive to investigate reports of a disturbance, police reports show.

A Brevard County judge also ordered Colgate not to have any further contact with the neighbor.

The neighbor told police he was watering his plants in the front yard when he looked up and saw Colgate approaching him with a lawn mower blade.

The neighbor ran to the back of his house as Colgate chased him, shouting, "Have you seen the movie 'Sling Blade' (expletive)?" police reports show.

Officers took Colgate into custody as he asked them if they had seen the 1996 movie about a man released from an asylum that starred Billy Bob Thornton.

Colgate was held at the Brevard County Detention Center on $15,000 bond and will face a Jan. 26 hearing on the charge, WKMG said.

FHP Releases Results from
Holiday Travel Period

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Col. John Czernis, director of the Florida Highway Patrol, today announced the preliminary enforcement results from the Thanksgiving holiday travel period on Nov. 25-29. During the five-day heightened travel period, the Patrol beefed up its force by adding troopers who typically perform administrative duties, as well as reservists and auxiliary troopers, to patrol duty.

Troopers issued nearly 8,000 traffic citations and made 157 arrests for Driving Under the Influence of alcohol or drugs. They cited nearly 6,000 drivers for speeding and nearly 1,400 for failure to buckle up. Troopers also assisted more than 4,000 motorists and worked crashes that resulted in 21 fatalities.

“The Florida Highway Patrol enhanced our patrols to remove unsafe drivers from the streets so that families could reach their destinations safely and enjoy the holiday with friends and loved ones,” said Czernis. “Throughout the holiday season we will continue our enhanced enforcement efforts with special emphasis on impaired drivers. Motorists should always designate a sober driver if they plan to consume alcohol.”

One way to give the gift of peace of mind to loved ones is to register your Emergency Contact Information. Floridians may provide two contacts by visiting www.flhsmv.gov/eci or a driver license office. Parents can even register their child’s contacts if the child has a Florida ID card. A child as young as five years old is eligible.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Armed Home Invasion Reported
Early Tuesday Morning on
Manatee's East Side

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at about 3 a.m., in the 5200 block of 31st Street Court East, Bradenton. Arrested as a result of an investigation of the incident was Archie L. Thomas, 41.

Archie L. Thomas

According to the report, the victim, Cody Roach, 21, was lying on the couch when he woke up to his dog growling.

Cody said he opened the front door and noticed the motion light was not working and the gate to his back yard was open. Cody said he screwed the light back in and went inside.

Cody said he noticed the motion light come on and he let his dog outside. He followed the dog out and saw the dog run towards the shed, growling.

Cody said he and his roommate, Christina Meder, 28, went to see what the dog was growling at, when the suspect, later identified as Archie Thomas, came from the back of the shed pointing a gun at them.

Christina ran back into the house and Cody was led back to the house at gunpoint. Cody said Archie Thomas kicked in the window and entered the house.

Archie Thomas made Cody come in and lay on the kitchen floor, then searched the house for Christina, but she had fled the house by going out the kitchen window.

Cody said Archie Thomas took Cody's wallet, then went into Christina's room and that is when Cody ran out the front door to the neighbor’s house.

Cody said he found Christina in the front yard of the neighbor’s house and she was calling 911.

A perimeter was immediately established and a K-9 was called out.

K-9 Ranger and Deputy Franklin responded to conduct a track; however, Archie Thomas was not located.

A wallet was located in the neighbor’s yard.

The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of Archie L. Thomas hours later.

He was charged with two counts of Home Invasion Robbery.

As of mid-afternoon on Tuesday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Man Arrested for Threatening
To Kill His Wife, Stepson

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Thomas Scott, Jr., 58, of 1114 West Faith Circle, Bradenton.

Thomas Scott, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2009, at about 12:45 p.m., during a verbal argument with both victims, his wife, Patricia Scott and his Stepson, Mark Werbelow, Thomas Scott was carrying several rifles.

Thomas Scott told both victims that if they were not out of his house by the time he returned, that he would kill them.

Both victims said that because of his drug and alcohol abuse that they were fear for their lives, the report said.

Thomas Scott was found in the back of Rye Wilderness Estates, in the 17,200 block of 4th Avenue Northeast about two hours later with a loaded rifle in his vehicle.

He was arrested and charged with two counts of Aggravated Domestic Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

He posted a combined bail bond of $15,000 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Woman Arrested for Smashing
Hubbie's Speakers with Her Car

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

Cindy Sotolongo

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at about 11 a.m., Cindy's husband, Timothy Murkerson, was riding his bicycle in the 500 block of 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton, when he saw his wife, Cindy, drive by in a green Honda.

Cindy turned around and hit the trailer attached to the bicycle that Timothy was riding with her car. The trailer was carrying Timothy's speakers.

When Cindy hit the trailer with her vehicle, it caused Timothy to fall off his bike, resulting in minor scratches on Timothy's knuckles and hands.

After Cindy hit the trailer, she stopped, backed up, and hit the speakers, causing them to scatter in the road, as well as causing significant damage to them.

Cindy had her two children in the car at the time of the incident.

After she hit the speakers, she fled the scene.

Cindy was located back at her residence about an hour and a half later and was taken into custody.

She was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery with a Deadly Weapon (the car).

As of early Tuesday afternoon, she remained in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

It is unknown as to what became of the two children she had with her; the report didn't say.

Woman Tasered, Arrested
Following Traffic Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brittany D. Thomas, 20, of 1423 8th Street East, Palmetto.

Brittney D. Thomas

The arrest report said while working a power track detail in the North Sector of Manatee County, Deputy Wagner attempted to stop a vehicle at the 700 block of US 41 N for no tail lights.

The vehicle pulled into Palmetto Trace Apartments and when the vehicle stopped the driver, later identified as Thomas, fled the vehicle and was subsequently Tasered by the deputies just a short distance away.

While the deputies were attending to the driver, an unnamed Black male juvenile approached the scene. He was told more than three times to remain back and on the last time he was told that he would be arrested if he continued to try to get closer. He refused to stay back and was taken into custody for Obstruction.

Thomas was charged with Resisting Arrest without Violence.

She posted a $750 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Ex-Boyfriend Arrested for Snatching
Woman's Purse After Asking for Ride

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a purse snatcher, Bruce W. Gabriel, 36, of 5217 4th Street East, Bradenton, was arrested on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, at about 2:15 a.m., on charges stemming from an incident that occurred on Nov. 3, 2009, at about 11:40 p.m., in the 4500 block of 9th Street West, Bradenton.

Bruce W. Gabriel

According to the report, the victim, Katherine Mullins, 52, received a phone call from her ex-boyfriend, Gabriel, requesting a ride to his residence.

Once she arrived, the ex-boyfriend immediately began asking Katherine for money to buy crack cocaine and when she refused he became irate.

Katherine exited her vehicle and began walking down Orlando Avenue to avoid a confrontation.

The ex-boyfriend ran up behind Katherine and snatched her purse off her shoulder.

Katherine chased after her ex-boyfriend and was able to retrieve her purse that was discarded on the ground.

When Katherine checked the contents of her purse, she noticed that three credit cards were missing.

Katherine was not injured.

Gabriel was charged with Robbery by Sudden Snatching and remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $5,000.

Multiple Vehicles Burglarized
At Sabal Harbour

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported five vehicles were burglarized overnight from Monday, Nov. 30 into Dec. 1, 2009 in the Sabal Harbour area of the county.

The report said a total of 5 vehicle burglaries and 1 criminal mischief occurred at the above location.

Unknown person(s) entered the vehicles by breaking windows and/or entering through unlocked doors.

Some evidence was recovered at the scene. A blanket was recovered on one of the vehicles. It appeared the blanket was used to break the windows and prevent the suspects from getting cut while they made entry.

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.

More Copper Wire Stolen
Shortly After Replacement

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported copper wire was stolen from a Peace River Electric Company location shortly after wire was replaced from another theft.

A sheriff's report said Peace River employees were on Oak Knoll Road in the roadway in the 22500-23100 block on Monday night, Nov. 30, 2009, replacing wire from the last theft and left around 11 p.m.

At 7 a.m., their dispatch received a complaint that the power was off down Oak Knoll Road and the Peace River employees responded to the same location.

Upon arrival, they noticed that sometime after they left the night before someone returned to Oak Knoll Road and took another 4800 feet of #6 copper wire from the pole.

The value of the missing wire was not stated 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.

When Pigs Fly, Sometimes They
Attack a Sheriff's Cruiser

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- You've all heard of the retort, "When pigs fly." Well, three pigs (hogs) didn't fly just after midnight on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, but they did get in the way of Manatee County Sheriff's Deputy Ragoonanan's cruiser. (At least we don't think they flew.)

According to a sheriff's report, Deputy Ragoonanan was operating his sheriff's cruiser eastbound on Buckeye Road in the 11800 Block when he saw two wild hogs in his lane and swerved into the westbound traffic lane to avoid them.

Upon entering the oncoming traffic lane, a third hog abruptly entered the roadway and attempted to run across the street heading south.

At this point, Deputy Ragoonanan attempted to maneuver back to his lane; however, the hog failed to yield to the vehicle.

The hog was struck by the vehicle's push bumper, front left bumper, and then the driver door area on the side of the vehicle.

Deputy Ragoonanan was not injured.

No word on whether jail inmates will be eating pork, i.e., we don't know if the hog was killed, injured, or escaped without further violence.

FREE Walk-In Vision Screenings,
FREE Skin Cancer Seminar in
Ellenton Announced

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, or are you thinking about LASIK to get out of glasses or contacts?

Just stop by The Eye Associates at the Harris Center, 7915 US Hwy 301 North, Suite 101, Ellenton on the dates listed below free Vision Screening with Dr. Michael Manning.

Thursday, December 3, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Thursday, December 10, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Thursday, December 17, 2009 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm

Call 941-729-2020 for more information, or logon to www.TheEyeAssociates.com, or click on their ad on the top of our cover page.

Also, there is a free seminar planned on Skin Cancer: The Complete Story, by Dr. Gary B. Rosen, M.D.

One in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer, and more than 20 of those Americans will die every day. Gary B. Rosen, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist at The Eye Associates, strongly believes in early detection and treatment of all forms of skin cancer. Join Dr. Rosen for a free seminar to discuss the different types of skin cancer, their causes, and the treatments.

The seminar will also be held at the Harris Center in Ellenton. It is scheduled for Monday December 7th, 2009, at 3:30pm.

Call 941-794-DERM (3376) or toll free 1-877-816-DERM (3376) for reservations.

[Ed. Note: The Eye Associates performed a cataract operation on our publisher, without complication. The Eye Associates is a premier supporter of NewsManatee.com.]

Sarasota County Arrests 2 in
Connection with String of
Gang-Related Burglaries;
Seeks Two Others

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office detectives have made two arrests in relation to a string of burglaries that occurred east of I-75 along the Fruitville Road and Clark Road corridors.

Above, Robert Williams and Angelica Villanueva,
being sought by Sarasota County Sheriff's Office

Since August of 2009 in excess of twenty homes have been burglarized by individuals who are known members and/or associates of the gang known as SUR-13.

Edelma Santos, aka Edelma Quiroz, 24, and Rosario Vazquez Hernandez, 21, have been charged with dealing in stolen property in relation to the selling of items which are known to be stolen from these Sarasota residences.

Detectives are also seeking the whereabouts of Robert Williams, 27, and Angelica Villanueva, 24, in connection to these crimes.

In cooperation with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, detectives have determined that the crimes were committed by an organized burglary ring of individuals with gang affiliations.

Additional arrests are anticipated, and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Criminal Investigations at 941-861-4900 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Detectives Arrest Boy, 15, for
Burglary of Home, Stealing
Vehicle...Twice

CHARLOTTE, Florida [NMT] -- Detectives of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office arrested Daniel James Foster, 15, of 1297 Yorkshire St., Port Charlotte, for burglarizing a home and stealing its car…twice.

Daniel James Foster

On Sep. 16, 2009, the 63-year-old victim of 1298 Yorkshire St., Port Charlotte, contacted the CCSO when she discovered her home had been burglarized and her 2003 Ford Mustang missing from her garage while she was away.

Deputies found the stolen car the next day at Yance St. and Randall Ave.

Then on Nov. 23, the victim was away and when she returned, she reported her home was burglarized and her car was missing again.

The next day, deputies recovered the car at Kensington St. and Quesada Blvd.

An alert witness told detectives he observed a juvenile park the stolen car on the side of the road and gave a description of the boy. The description was presented to the victim who then said she suspected her neighbor, Foster, who may have taken her car as he had visited her home before and knew where she kept keys to her Mustang.

Detectives went to Port Charlotte High School Monday and interviewed Foster.

He was arrested and charged with two counts of felony Burglary and two counts of felony Grand Theft Auto. Foster was taken to the Charlotte County Jail, booked, released to his parents and placed on 21 days detention.

Cops: Male Deputy Had Sex with
Other Man While Working

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an Orange County sheriff's deputy has admitted to having sex with another man while working security at a Disney-area hotel, which was a host facility for "Gay Days."

Orange County sheriff's Deputy Bryan Villella was hired in June to provide extra security at the Royal Plaza Resort.

The hotel night manager said he walked into the Jasmine Bay conference room at about 1 a.m. and saw two men engaged in what appeared to a sex act. Although the manager thought one of the men resembled Villella, he did not see a uniform and could not positively identify him.

The manager said he later saw Villella sitting in a chair by the front desk, acting professional.

An investigation was conducted into the incident, and Villella turned down an opportunity to be interviewed by investigators, instead signing a disciplinary document admitting he violated the agency's policy governing moral character, according to sheriff's officials.

Villella will lose 150 hours of pay and he'll be put on probation for one year. He's also been re-assigned to patrol another part of the county.

Sheriff's officials insisted Villella was treated fairly.

Seven years ago, Villella was suspended on accusations of taking a $550 check from his ex-wife and depositing it into his own bank account.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Alleged Teacher Arrested for
Choking Pregnant Girlfriend,
False Imprisonment

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man who listed his occupation as a teacher was arrested Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at about 4:30 p.m., at his residence, 4498 Sanibel Way, Bradenton, for an incident that occurred on Nov. 2, 2009.

Jeff Charlton

According to the arrest report from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Jeff Charlton, 22, and Laneesha Robinson, 19, the victim, are friends. Laneesha is 2 months pregnant with Jeff's child.

Laneesha told deputies they both had a verbal argument because she wanted to leave Jeff's apartment, but Jeff would not allow her to leave.

He locked the door and told her that she was not going anywhere, so Laneesha went into Jeff's room and sat down.

Jeff asked her where she was going and she told him that she was going to her cousin's house.

Jeff became angry and Laneesha ran to the front door.

Jeff chased her and caught her. He grabbed her by the arms and again told her she was not going anywhere, the report said.

Laneesha ran into Jeff's room again and tried to go through a window.

Jeff grabbed Laneesha and threw her down on the bed. Laneesha began screaming for help. Jeff told her to shut up, but Laneesha started screaming louder.

Jeff then locked Laneesha in the bathroom.

Laneesha kicked at the door so Jeff would open it, at which point Jeff pulled her into the bedroom and started choking her. She told him she could not breathe, so he let her go.

Laneesha then ran for the front door again, but Jeff grabbed her and put his hand over her mouth because she was screaming. Laneesha bit Jeff's hand so he would let her go.

During the incident Jeff took Laneesha's phone. He also pulled out a gun and threatened to kill himself, the report said.

Laneesha's cousin took the gun away from Jeff and a relative took Laneesha to her mother's house.

Laneesha was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital by EMS because she was complaining of stomach pains. She also had a swollen upper lip.

When deputies went to Jeff's home to arrest him, he was not there, but they located him on Wednesday, Nov. 25th and arrested him. He was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery by Strangulation, Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Female and False Imprisonment. He was released from the Manatee County Jail the next day on a supervised release on his own recognition.

Man Arrested for Battery on
83-Year-Old Victim for
Taking a Grapefruit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Sonny Smith, 46, of 4650 La Jolla Drive, Bradenton.

Sonny Smith

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, at about 10:30 a.m., the victim, John Devivo, 83, was playing golf at the El Conquistador Golf Course and took a grapefruit from a tree behind Smith's house.

Smith came out of the house and started arguing with John.

The dispute became physical when Smith struck John in the head with his fist. John tried to push Smith away with a golf club by placing it against Smith's neck and shoulder.

Smith struck John again, knocking him to the ground.

The deputy who was called to the scene observed a large lump with an abrasion on it on the top of John's head, along with a 2-inch laceration to the back of John's head and John's left jaw was swollen, the report said.

Smith was arrested and charged with Battery on a Person Over 65 Years Old.

On the way to the Manatee County Jail, Smith told the deputy that he only hit John once and that John hit his head and that's how he got hurt. Smith also told the deputy he only hit John after John hit him twice with the golf club in his head and neck, but the deputy had observed no injuries to Smith.

Smith posted a $2,500 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Palmetto Police Ask Public's Aid in
Locating Runaway Teenager

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a runaway teenage girl.

Above, Jessica Palacios

Jessica Palacios, 13, was last seen at Lincoln Middle School on November 20th.

Jessica is 4’ 9” tall, 120 lbs, with long black hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing white jeans and a purple shirt.

She is believed to be with her adult boyfriend, who drives a white 1999 Pontiac Grand Am.

Jessica is believed to have run away and has telephoned home several times to speak to her family. She refuses to disclose where she is and refuses to come home.

She is not believed to be in any danger.

Anyone with information about where Jessica Palacios is can telephone the Palmetto Police Department at 723-4587 ext. 0.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Police investigators wish to remind the public that it is a crime to knowingly allow a teen-age runaway to stay with them.

Palmetto Police Ask Public's Aid in
Locating 2nd Runaway Teenager

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Palmetto Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a runaway teenage girl.

Above, April Wasden

April Wasden, 14, was last seen at a friend’s house, in Palmetto, on November 25th.

April is 4’ 11” tall, 115 lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes.

She is believed to be with her adult boyfriend, who may be driving a white van with damage to the front end.

April is believed to have run away and has telephoned home several times to speak to her family. She refuses to disclose where she is and refuses to come home.

Anyone with information about where April Wasden is can telephone the Palmetto Police Department at 723-4587, ext. 0.

Callers may remain anonymous.

Police investigators wish to remind the public that it is a crime to knowingly allow a teen-age runaway to stay with them.

Young Woman Arrested for
Burglary of Neighbor

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Alyssa Margaret Trichter, 22, of the 1100 block of 45th Street West, Bradenton.

Alyssa Margaret Trichter

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at about 11:30 a.m., Trichter was called by a friend to return home because her laptop computer had been stolen.

When Trichter got home, she went next door, opened the back door, went inside and swung on a man by the name of Culp.

She was blaming him for taking the computer and pictures of her sister that were on it.

On her way inside, Trichter knocked down Culp's 1-year-old daughter to get to Culp.

There have been ongoing issues between the two parties, the report said.

Trichter was arrested and charged with Burglary.

As of Monday, she remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $10,000.

Man Struck by Vehicle After
Trying to Steal from Best Buy

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted Grand Theft on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, at about 12:45 p.m., from the Best Buy store located at 4210 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Larry Johnson

According to an arrest report, Larry Johnson, 30, of 1365 24th Street, Sarasota, Johnson entered the store and selected a total of three Playstation 3 video game consoles worth $899.97.

He placed the game consoles in a cart and went past the cash registers to the loss prevention desk to check out, just inside the front doors.

He asked if this was where he was to pay and was directed to go back to a register to pay for the merchandise.

Johnson then attempted to push the cart out the front door.

Loss Prevention Officer Ryan Graham grabbed the cart and pulled it back into the store.

The cart fell over and Johnson tried to grab one of the games before fleeing, but Graham pushed him away.

Johnson then fled out into the parking lot and ran in front of a vehicle which struck him.

Johnson continued to run through the parking lot and was tackled by Manatee County Sheriff's Lieutenant Perry, who was in the area.

Johnson was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Shoplifting and Resisting a merchant.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,500.

Woman's Wallet Snatched by
Three Black Females

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a robbery by sudden snatching on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at about 5:45 a.m.

According to the report, Laurie Futch, 40, of the 300 block of 59th Avenue East, Bradenton, went outside of her residence to smoke a cigarette with her wallet, which hold her cigarettes and personal identification.

Three Black females approached her. One of the women, who said that her name was Sadie, said she was looking for Futch's boyfriend Omar Cabrera, aka "Cowboy," because Cowboy buys pills from her.

One of the women walked to the front of the residence, another walked to the back of the residence and Sadie stayed with Futch.

Futch said that Cowboy was sleeping and as she went to go wake Cowboy up, Sadie grabbed Futch's wallet from her hand.

All three women then got into a newer white 4-door vehicle and fled the scene, traveling east on 59th Avenue East and then north on 5th Street East.

Sadie was described as a Black female, about 25 years old, 5' tall, 140 pounds, last seen wearing a white shirt and unknown color pants. There was no description in the report of the two other Black females.

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.

Copper Wire Stolen from
Three Locations

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the theft of copper wire from three locations belonging to Peace River Electric Co., sometime over the Thanksgiving weekend.

The report said on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, employees of Peace River called to report copper wire missing from three locations.

The locations were reported as 1) Taylor Road and Singletary Road; 2) 14805 Sugar Bowl Road; and 3) 8900 Bunker Hill Road.

The time frame is unknown because the wire taken is a neutral wire, thus it does not cause any disruption.

The first two sites reported approximately 1600 feet of #6 copper wire missing, the third location is estimated between 1200-1600 feet of wire.

The combined loss value is between $8,000 -$9,000.

There is no suspect information available.

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.

Humane Society of Manatee County
Spay/Neuter Clinic offers BOGO on
Dog Neuters During December

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Who says BOGO is just for shoes? The Humane Society of Manatee County Spay/Neuter Clinic is offering special discounts on male dog neuters for the month of December. Bring in 2 dogs, pay regular price of $55 for the first and the second dog will be neutered for FREE.

This offer is available to Manatee County residents only; there are no income qualifications. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity! Offer valid through December 31, 2009.

The clinic is still offering FREE spay or neuter surgery for pit bulls and pit bull mixes to Manatee County residents.

Regular low cost spay/neuter services are available to the public with no residency or income requirements.

Cat spays are $50, neuters $35, and dog spays are $65 while neuters are $55.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call 941-747-8808 x 302 or email info@humanesocietymanatee.org.

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.

Deputies Arrest Man Who
Attempted to Rob Denny's

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at about 8:45 p.m., deputies with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office responded to Denny's restaurant at 8214 South Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota, in reference to a robbery.

John T. Giles

The suspect, later identified as John T. Giles, 45, of 2055 Doud Street, Sarasota, attempted to get into the cash register and threatened employees and customers.

Responding deputies used a Taser to subdue and arrest Giles.

Giles was charged with Attempted Robbery, Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony, Resisting Arrest with Violence, Criminal Mischief, and Disorderly Conduct.

Tourist Arrested In Disney
Bomb Threat

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a German tourist was arrested Sunday after he told a cast member at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom that he had two bombs in his backpack.

Jochen Naumann

Jochen Naumann, 37, was arrested on charges of making a false report of a bomb.

According to the Orange County Sheriff's Office, Naumann was going through a security checkpoint at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom at about 10:22 a.m. and told a worker that he had two bombs in his backpack.

The Disney cast member questioned Naumann, of Leipzig, Germany, and he again stated that there were two bombs in his backpack, deputies said.

The cast member contacted an Orange County deputy who was posted nearby, and a bomb-sniffing dog checked the bag, the sheriff's office said. No explosive devices were found in the bag.

In an interview with deputies, Naumann claimed he was joking about the bombs.

Naumann was arrested and taken to the Orange County Jail, WKMG said.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Detectives Charge Man with
Attempted Murder for Shooting
Incident that Occurred Nov. 17th

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Feliz Falcon, 19, and have charged him with Attempted Murder.

Feliz Falcon

As NewsManatee reported on November 18th, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office responded on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009, at about 4:25 p.m., to the 900 block of 61st Avenue Terrace East, Bradenton.

According to a sheriff's report, deputies were dispatched to the address in reference to shots fired.

Upon arrival, neighbors were stating that they witnessed a Hispanic male shooting at a group of four Black males who were standing at the end of 61st Avenue East.

While on scene, dispatch advised that the victim, Alex J. Jackson, 18, a Black male, had arrived at Manatee Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound to the arm.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded to the hospital to interview the victim, who was treated and released from the hospital.

No arrests were made at the time.

No motive for the shooting was given in the sheriff's report.

However, detectives pieced together enough information to get an arrest warrant for Feliz Falcon.

On Wednesday, Nov. 25th, detectives arrested Falcon on the warrant and charged him with Attempted Murder.

Falcon remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $500,000 bail bond.

Man Arrested for Burglary,
Battery after Dispute at
Gas Pumps

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Gary Caruso, 43, of 6603 1st Street West, Bradenton.

Gary Caruso

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, at about 5:40 p.m., a man identified in the report only as "Alan" was at a gas pump at the Hess gas station, 6706 14th Street West, Bradenton, when Caruso pulled in behind him to another gas pump.

Apparently, Caruso thought the man named Alan had not pulled up far enough so that Caruso could not pump his gas.

Caruso gave Alan a look to indicate his displeasure and Alan asked him, "Is there a problem?"

At that point the victim was verbally abused with curse words from Caruso, the report said.

Caruso then got close enough to Alan to push him violently.

Alan got on his phone and called 911.

Caruso then reached into Alan's vehicle and took the car keys, allegedly to detain Alan so that "the story got told with complete truth."

When law enforcement arrived, Caruso threw Alan's keys back to him.

Caruso told the arriving deputy he only pushed Alan with his finger.

Later, at a sheriff's substation, Caruso said if he knew he was going to be arrested, he would have "punched his lights out."

Caruso was arrested and charged with Burglary and Battery.

He posted a $10,750 bail bond the next day and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Bradenton Police Seek Man
For Shooting His Brother on
Thanksgiving Day

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police are searching for Nery Zambrano, 21, of the 500 block of 24th Avenue West, Bradenton.

According to Deputy Police Chief William Tokajer, Zambrano opened fire on his brother in the home on Thanksgiving Day over a money dispute.

The brother was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital where he underwent surgery.

If captured, Zambrano faces charges of Agravated Battery with a Firearm and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Zambrano was convicted in 2006 of Fleeing to Elude Law Enforcement and No Valid Driver License.

Anyone with information on Zambrano’s whereabouts is asked to call the Bradenton Police Department at 932-9300, 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-County Pursuit Nets Manatee
Stolen Vehicle, Driver Escaped

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A deputy with the Manatee County Sheriff's Office pursued a vehicle from Manatee into Sarasota County on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009, at about 2:20 a.m.

While on patrol, Deputy C. Wolfinger spotted a gold Buick 4-door fitting the description of a vehicle that was stolen out of Horseshoe Cove RV Park, in the 5100 block of Caruso Road, Bradenton.

The vehicle had a temporary tag on it that did not belong to that vehicle.

Deputy Wolfinger attempted to stop the vehicle but when he activated his emergency equipment, the vehicle refused to stop.

The pursuit went south on 15th Street East to University Parkway and then onto Old Bradenton Road where it continued south.

The pursuit went into Sarasota County and ended at Carver Court/Bethune Drive in the Newtown area.

The vehicle rolled into a dumpster, causing minor damage to the vehicle.

Deputy Wolfinger and K-9 Rex attempted a track with the Sarasota Police Department but had negative results.

The driver of the stolen vehicle was described as an unknown Black male in his late teens or early 20s.

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.

Mercedes, Several Thousand in
Items Stolen in Daytime Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary in the 7600 block of Westmoreland Drive, Bradenton, on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at about 1:30 p.m.

The report said unknown person(s) entered the above location. The method and location of entry were not given in the report.

According to the victim, Dana Ries, multiple items were stolen, including multiple camera parts valued at $5-6,000, 2 safes containing personal papers and 1 men's watch valued in the thousands of dollars.

The suspect(s) also stole the victim's 2004 Mercedes, Florida license 598-IYM, and fled in an unknown direction.

A BOLO was sent out via dispatch and the vehicle was entered into the FCIC/NCIC databases.

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.

Four Lakewood Ranch Vehicles
Burglarized Early Thanksgiving

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported four vehicle burglaries in Lakewood Ranch overnight early Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009.

During the night hours person(s) unknown burglarized four vehicles within close proximity on Honeysuckle Trail, Waterpoppy Terrace, Spoonflower Court and Pimpernel Drive in the Lakewood Ranch area.

Entry was forced and personal items such as an I-pod and backpack were taken.

There was no further information in the sheriff's report.

Two Bradenton Officers Share
November Officer of the Month

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Two police officers will share the Bradenton Police Department’s Officer of the Month award for November 2009.

Officers Yolanda Cox and Jason Taulbee were near unanimous choices for their live saving measures performed during a call on Nov. 15th when they arrived at a residence to find an unresponsive man lying on the floor.

Without hesitation, Officer Cox began CPR and was assisted by Officer Taulbee upon his arrival.

Bradenton Fire Department arrived soon after and took over CPR.

As the subject was taken from the residence by EMS, he showed no signs of life; however, EMS was able to revive him while en route to the hospital.

According to Manatee County EMS and the Bradenton Fire Department, the measures taken by Officers Cox and Taulbee saved the man’s life.

Arrest for Impersonating a
Law Enforcement Officer

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office arrested Shaun Sparks, 20, 426 Magnolia Rd., Venice, for Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer.

Shaun Sparks

Just after 10:00 p.m. Tuesday night, Nov. 24, 2009, deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle.

The caller said she was eastbound on Central Sarasota Parkway when a white vehicle with flashing blue lights on the front bumper was tailgating her. She drove to the entrance of Bella Villino and stopped.

The suspect followed her and sounded a loud air horn twice. The woman held her cell phone out the window so the suspect would see it, because she was not sure it was a law enforcement officer.

The vehicle then sped around her and entered the complex.

A short time later, deputies located the 1994 White Chevrolet Camaro with the word “Camaro” written at the base of the doors and arrested Sparks.

Female Sarasota Motorcyclist
Killed in Crash Saturday

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported Natalie Dumbaugh, 22, of Sarasota, was killed in a traffic crash on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2009, at about 7:25 p.m.

According to the FHP report, Natalie was traveling south on U.S. 301 approaching a green traffic signal at the intersection of Myrtle Street.

A second vehicle, a Ford Ranger driven by Abel Cordova-Gomez, 37, of Sarasota, was traveling in the left northbound lane on U.S. 301, approaching a green traffic signal at the intersection of Myrtle Street.

Natalie then entered the left southbound turn lane on U.S. 301 to eastbound Myrtle Street. When she attempted to make a left turn to travel east, she traveled directly into the path of Abel's Ford Ranger.

The front of the Ford Ranger struck the right side of the motorcycle, a 2004 Kawasaki.

Natalie was ejected from her motorcycle and thrown in a northeasterly direction.

Abel steered his Ford Ranger in a northeasterly direction where it exited the roadway and traveled onto the east shoulder of U.S. 301, with the motorcycle under the front end.

Natalie was pronounced dead at the scene.

No charges have been filed.

Natalie was wearing a helmet and alcohol was not involved, FHP said.

Cops Search for Man who Killed
Four Relatives on Thanksgiving

JUPITER, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police were searching Friday for a man suspected in the Thanksgiving shooting deaths of his twin sisters, aunt and a 6-year-old cousin during a family celebration, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Paul Michael Merhige

One of the sisters, Lisa Knight, 33, was pregnant, said Jupiter Police spokeswoman Sally Collins-Ortiz. She did not say how far along the woman was in her pregnancy.

Police said 17 relatives were in the Palm Beach County house when the shootings were reported around 10 p.m. Thursday in Jupiter, a small beach town about 90 miles north of Miami that is best known as a home to celebrities including Michael Jordan and Burt Reynolds.

The little girl was sleeping in her bed when she was shot, police said. A fifth man was critically wounded and a sixth was treated at the scene for a gunshot graze.

Jupiter Police Sgt. Scott Pascarella said officers were looking for Paul Michael Merhige, 35, of Miami. Merhige is a cousin of the 6-year-old victim, Makayla Sitton, and has no criminal record, police said.

The others killed were Merhige's twin sisters, Carla Merhige and Lisa Knight, 33, and an aunt, Raymonde Joseph, 76, according to police.

Authorities said a fifth victim, Merhige's brother-in-law Patrick Knight, was being treated at a hospital. His condition was not available. Another man, Clifford Gebara, 52, was grazed by a bullet and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Police across South Florida and the U.S. Marshals Service were searching for Merhige. Pascarella said Merhige is believed to be driving a blue 2007 4-door Toyota Camry with Florida license plate W42 7JT.

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