Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 12/19/2009

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Local/State News for week ending 12/19/2009

Authorities Seek Whereabouts of
Man Who Stole Ex-Girlfriend's
Cell Phone, Cash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is actively seeking the whereabouts of Lashay Smith, 20, whose last known address as of 3 weeks ago 623 20th Lane East, in Palmetto.

Lashay A. Smith
(Prior mug shot)

A sheriff's report said on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at about 5:30 p.m., the victim, Myslene Gabriel, 23, and her ex-boyfriend and her child’s father, Lashay Smith, were in the parking lot of Chuck E. Cheese, 1005 Cortez Road West, Bradenton. Lashay was going to take their son into Chuck E. Cheese while she went to get her nails done.

However, when he asked to use her cell phone, she said, "No."

Lashay became upset and snatched the phone out of her hand, along with a five dollar bill.

He then fled eastbound on foot.

The area was searched with negative results and a BOLO was issued.

Detectives and the Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) were notified.

According to Manatee County court records, Lashay Smith is currently scheduled to stand trial in June on three counts of Sale of Cocaine and one county of Possession of Cocaine.

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 Accused of Grand Theft
for Stealing 28 Cans of Paint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Moises San Juan, 27, of an unknown address.

Moises San Juan

The arrest report said on Nov. 28, 2009, at about 6:30 p.m., a security guard who works at Manatee Woods apartment complex, located at 485 34th Avenue Drive East, saw Moises commit burglary and theft.

Moises was seen opening a shipping container that was used to store numerous 5-gallon buckets of paint. He selected a bucket of paint and walked at a very fast pace behind a building at the apartment complex.

Then he placed the 5-gallon bucket of paint behind some bushes next to three other buckets of paint.

When he was approached by the security guard, the guard was able to get Moises' name and date of birth from a Mexican ID card and also recognized Moises because he was trespassed from the property two days before by the sheriff's office.

Moises took his ID and fled the area in a dark green SUV before deputies arrived.

The report said a total of 28 5-gallon buckets of paint were stolen from the shipping container with an approximate value of $2,500.

Deputies caught up with Moises on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at the same apartment complex and arrested him.

He was charged with Burglary to a Structure and Grand Theft.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $11,000.

Woman Arrested for Punching
Juvenile at School Bus Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Julie Austin, 35, of 1918 49th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Julie Austin

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at about 5:30 p.m., Julie and two juveniles went to the bus stop of the victims, located at 1900 49th Avenue East.

When the victims, Julius and Renel, ages 15 and 17, got off the bus, Julie began to argue with them over a situation that occurred at daughter Julie's school.

During the argument, Julie, the mother, struck Julius on the left side of he face, causing slight swelling just at the bottom corner of his eye. She also pushed Renel.

At that time, the other two unnamed juveniles who accompanied Julie, the mother, to the bus stop began to argue with the victims.

That's when the two other juveniles began to punch and kick one of the victims; the report didn't say whether it was Julius or Renel.

The victim fell to the ground.

Once on the ground, one of the two others put the victim into a head lock and began to kick the victim in the ribs, causing a scrape to the victim's right elbow.

Julie, the mother, was arrested and charged with two counts of Battery.

She posted a $1,500 bail bond the next day and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

[Ed. Note: This story is confusing, but the report came to us with the names of "the others" blacked out. Plus, the mother and daughter have the same name. In addition, the report referred often to "the victim" but didn't say which one, as there are two victims in this incident. Oy vey!]

Manatee Memorial Hospital
Patient Busted for Stealing
Drug Injection Supplies

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Cody Toby Roach, 21, of 5223 31st Street Court East, Bradenton.

Cody Toby Roach

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at about 5 a.m., Roach was in an exam room at Manatee Memorial Hospital being treated for his teeth hurting.

While alone inside the room, Roach stole several medical supplies, including syringes, needles, tourniquets and other Intravenous related items.

Roach was approached by Manatee Memorial Hospital security. Roach admitted stealing the items and all were found in his pockets, the report said.

Post-Miranda, Roach said he knew what the items were used for and that he only stole them because he has a drug problem.

Roach was arrested and charged with Petit Theft.

He posted a $120 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Two Women Arrested for
Burglary of Bank-Owned
Home One Once Lived In

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Leelu Izadi, 44, of 2850 Bayshore Road, in Sarasota, and Denise Richman, 49, of 1674 University Parkway, in Sarasota.

Above, L to R, Leelu Izadi and Denise Richman

According to the arrest reports, Leelu used her key to enter the residence at 5734 Pleasant Hill Road, in the Tara subdivision, which at this time is bank-owned and has several "No Trespassing" signs posted in the windows.

Upon arrival of deputies, several announcements were made at the front door to come out, but no response was heard.

A K-9 unit was sent in and began to search for the pair. The K-9 unit found the pair hiding in the front guest bedroom of the residence and finally surrendered.

No key was located on either Leelu or Denise.

Leelu claimed she used to live at the residence and came back to gather a picture frame and some photos.

However, there were no personal items located in the house whatsoever or on either Leelu or Denise, the report said.

While in custody, Leelu removed one of her handcuffs. When she was removed from the cruiser to put the handcuffs back on, a deputy observed a crack pipe laying on the seat next to her.

Both women were charged with Burglary to an Unoccupied Dwelling. Leelu was additionally charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Both women remain in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a $1,000 bail bond.

Man Tasered During Trespass
Warning; Disorderly Conduct

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Frank Joseph Sirignano, 49, after he became hostile during a trespass warning.

Frank Joseph Sirignano

The arrest report said on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at about 2:30 p.m., deputies were dispatched to the Manatee Town Center, 5539 33rd Street East, Bradenton, for a trespass warning.

Upon arrival, deputies located Frank Sirignano.

Stacy Butler is permitted to issue the trespass warning on behalf of the Manatee Town Center. As Stacy did so, Frank became hostile and threatening towards Stacy.

The deputies intervened and Frank began to resist the deputies.

Frank was taken to the ground and placed under arrest. He was resistant during the handcuffing, the report said, so a deputy use his Taser and drive stunned Frank to gain compliance.

There were no injuries.

Frank was charged with Trespass and Disorderly Conduct. He was transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Holy Cow! Bones Found in
Palmetto Belong to Cow

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man found some bones in Palmetto on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2009, at about 5:20 p.m., in a park in Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said Erik K. Orsborne was walking his dog in the community park when his dog found two bones.

Osborne brought the bones home, and called the sheriff's office.

Dep. Zimmerman responded and took custody of the bones.

The deputy had Osborne take her back to where the bones were found, searched the park, but didn't find any more bones or suspicious items.

Sheriff's spokesman Dave Bristow told NewsManatee on Thursday that investigators had determined that the bones belonged to a cow.

The investigation is ongoing.

[Ed. Note: If you find bones on the ground, do not pick them up and take them home; they might be human and you would have disturbed a potential crime scene.]

NOTICE: Two County
PAL Bowl Postponed

MANATEE/SARASOTA COUNTIES, Florida [NMT] -- It appears that there is some severe weather heading our way in the next couple of days.

Therefore, the Brad Price Memorial PAL Bowl All-Star football game, scheduled for Friday evening, Dec. 18th, at Sarasota Riverview High has been postponed for the safety of all involved.

The Police Athletic League (PAL) programs of Manatee and Sarasota Counties have made a decision to reschedule the 2009 PAL Bowl until Friday, Jan. 8th, 2010.

Sarasota Sheriff Seizes
101 Marijuana Plants at
Grow House

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Task Force, including the North Port Police Department, has seized 101 large cannabis plants from a home on 2423 Mistleto Lane in North Port.

On Wednesday, December 16, 2009, the North Port Police Department Dispatch Center received a call reporting a suspected indoor cannabis grow operation at that address.

Patrol officers investigating the complaint did not find anyone at the residence, but smelled the strong odor of raw cannabis emitting from the residence.

Officers contacted Task Force detectives who responded to the scene for a follow-up investigation.

As a result of the joint effort, a search warrant was obtained and executed that night.

The plants weighed about 50 pounds, once cultivated, with a street value of at least $150,000.

There have been no arrests at this time but the investigation is continuing.

Christmas Gifts Stolen from
Central Florida Church

CLERMONT, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported Christmas gifts collected for needy children were stolen Tuesday night from a Central Florida church.

The presents were stolen from The River church on Hook Street, located between U.S. 27 and Lake Minnehaha, in Clermont.

Keith Carter, a worship leader at the church, said the thief or thieves got into the building through a ground-floor window.

Carter said that 90 percent of the toys intended to go to 150 low-income children were stolen.

Carter said the news is especially hard to bear this year because collecting toys during the recession has been difficult.

Carter said several amplifiers and guitars were also stolen, as well as an air conditioner, WKMG said.

Anyone who would like to help can drop off donations at the church, which is located at 796 Hook Street in Clermont, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Saturday.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Manatee Detectives Arrest
Woman in Connection
With Murder of Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives have arrested Maria Guadalupe Sanchez, 18, on two warrants for Murder and Armed Robbery.

Maria Guadalupe Sanchez

Detectives believe Sanchez was involved in the planning of the robbery of Rolando Martinez-Rosales, 52, which turned into a murder.

On June 15, 2009, Martinez-Rosales was found in the 4100 block of 8th St. Ct. E., Bradenton, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Detectives do not believe Sanchez is the shooter.

According to NewsManatee archives, on Monday, June 15, 2009, around 3 a.m., three victims met two Hispanic females at the Cuernavaca Bar and Grill located at 830 301 Blvd. They agreed to go to another location for some pizza and got into the victim’s vehicle.

One of the Hispanic females told the driver she needed to stop at her place to pick up a car phone charger for her cell phone. When they got to 4004 8th Street Court East, the two Hispanic females exited the vehicle and walked behind the residence.

Moments later, five to six Hispanic males ran up to the three victims with handguns demanding they get out of their vehicle. The two victims on the passenger side were ordered to the ground with guns pointed at their heads.

The driver of the vehicle, Rolando Martinez-Rosales, ran from the vehicle and the suspects fired multiple gunshots at him.

The other two victims got back into the vehicle, drove away and contacted law enforcement.

Upon arrival at the crime scene, deputies found Martinez-Rosales approximately 100 yards away with a gunshot wound to the head.

Witnesses say they saw a small black pickup truck with four to five Hispanic males speed out of the area. The suspects are said to be in their late teens to mid-20s.

The investigation continues with additional arrests pending.

Maria Sanchez remains in the Manatee County Jail, with a $500,000 bail bond for the Armed Robbery charge, and no bail on the Murder charge.

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

Teenager Arrested for Battery
On Law Enforcement Officer,
Vehicle Theft Warrants

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Quame Johnson, 17, of 1615 28th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Sheriff's K-9 Rosco and Quame Johnson

According to a sheriff's report, on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at about 8:30 p.m., Deputy Boldin was dispatched to 1703 36th Avenue East to investigate a stolen vehicle case and was advised that Johnson had two warrants, which he confirmed; the deputy requested backup.

Deputy Aleppo arrived and Deputy Boldin attempted to guide Johnson out toward Deputy Aleppo, when the suspect pushed Deputy Boldin and fled.

Deputy Boldin pursued Johnson, as Deputy Aleppo set a perimeter.

Deputy Boldin lost Johnson as he jumped over a locked fence that enclosed the entire backyard of 3507 18th Street East.

Deputy Sutton and his K-9 Rosco started a track and located Johnson hiding under a truck topper in the backyard. Rosco bit Johnson in the left foot, causing two small puncture wounds.

EMS was summoned, treated Johnson’s wounds and then he was transported to the hospital for further treatment, after which he was transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility.

The truck topper sustained approximately $100 in damage that occurred during the apprehension.

Johnson was charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and with the two warrants.

Woman Arrested for Assaulting
Other Woman with Scissors

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Sherlondra T. Houston, 28, of 15102 Sea Robin Drive, in Lakewood Ranch.

Sherlondra T. Houston

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at about 12:45 p.m., Houston was at a residence in the 1100 block of 60th Avenue Drive East, visiting the roommate of Kendra Monix. Houston and Monix were sitting in the front yard talking, while the unnamed roommate was showering after mowing.

The conversation turned into a dispute when Monix asked Houston to get her school books out of the trunk of her vehicle.

Houston told Monix, "No," and Monix tried to push the button to release the trunk.

Monix told deputies Houston was "in her face" provoking a physical confrontation.

Monix didn't want to fight Houston, she said.

Houston then said, "I am not gonna fight you. Straight up, I'll just stab you."

Houston had a pair of scissors in her hand and was jumping around with them.

Monix was in fear for her safety.

The scissors were found by the deputy sticking out of Houston's right front pocket.

Houston was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

After Houston's arrest, she told the deputy she had done prison time in the past for stabbing someone.

Checking records with the Florida Dept. of Corrections, we found Houston was in fact incarcerated on the same charge in a Florida prison in November of 2005 and was released in April of 2007.

She currently remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $15,000 bail bond.

BPD Arrests Man for Domestic
Battery by Strangulation

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Stephen Mark Richard, 25, of 4601 66th Street West, Bradenton.

Stephen Mark Richard

According to the arrest report from BPD, on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at about 2:50 p.m., a Bradenton Police Officer was dispatched to the above location reference an assault and battery call.

Once on scene, the officer spoke with Stephen Richard, who appeared intoxicated. He asked Richard if the address was his residence and Richard said, "No." Then he asked what happened and Richard said, "Nothing."

The officer then spoke with Elizabeth Greene, who lives at the residence. She told the officer she had allowed Richard to stay with her until he found a job.

She said that she noticed money missing and thought Richard was stealing it from her.

She told Richard that he needed to move out and Richard started yelling at her and broke a wooden chair located in the living room.

After breaking the chair, Richard then said he would hit Greene with the broken leg of the chair.

Greene then went into the kitchen, and that is when Richard put his arm around her neck and started to strangle her.

The officer noted that Greene had visible red marks around her neck from being strangled.

Richard was arrested and charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

Post-Miranda, Richard told the officer that he and Greene were boyfriend and girlfriend and he had been living there for about a week. He denied touching Greene.

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

"I Don't Want Him Anyways,"
Mother Tells Cops About
Son, 4, As She is Being
Hauled Away to Jail

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Lekisha Lee Hall, 24, of the 1500 block of 21st Street East, Bradenton.

Lekisha Lee Hall

According to the police report, on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at about 7:45 a.m., a 4-year-old boy, later identified as Hall's son, was found wandering the parking lot of Citrus Meadows apartment complex. A woman said she was sitting on the steps of her apartment when the boy approached her and said nobody was home and he was hungry.

The woman took the boy inside, fed him and called police. They noticed bruising on his face.

Police arrived and asked the boy if he could show them where he lived. He took them to the apartment, but said he didn't want to go inside. The officer had to push the door open and push a couch out of the way which was blocking the door. Nobody was there.

The officer told the boy to go back to the other apartment. The officer also requested the sheriff's Child Protective Services unit to respond. He noted that police had been to the apartment before reference child neglect.

At about 8:30 a.m., Lekisha Hall returned to the apartment. The officer told the boy to return to the apartment. As the boy started to return, he began to cry hysterically. Hall yelled at him in an abusive manner in the presence of detectives.

Hall was arrested and charged with Child Neglect.

As she was being led away, she said, "F _ _ _ it. I don't want him anyways."

The boy was placed in foster care by CPS investigators.

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

Three Arrested in Attempted
Theft of Copper Wire from
Verizon Cell Tower

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested R. Eugene Walker, 40, of unknown address; and Matthew J. Walker, 32, and Ashley Rinehart, 23, both of Nokomis, Florida.

Above, L to R, R. Eugene Walker, Matthew J. Walker and Ashley Rinehart

According to a sheriff's report, on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at about 8:50 p.m., an alarm showing “copper power ground bar” went out for the Verizon cell tower at 11375 Erie Rd., in Parrish.

Deputies arrived and saw copper bars, 2 pair of gloves, bolt cutters, and a duffel bag lying next to the gate near the cell tower.

A black Jeep was pulling out of Copperstone, just across the street from the cell tower. It was stopped by deputies.

A sheriff's K-9 located R. Eugene Walker hiding under a flatbed trailer that was about 100 feet west of the tower. He was dressed in all black, and wearing gloves. He complied with the K-9 unit's commands and came out from beneath the trailer.

He said there were two others, and that they were driving a black 4-door Jeep. He said their names were Ashley and Matthew (his brother). This was the Jeep that deputies stopped, and the suspects named by him were in it.

Rinehart and M. Walker came up with stories inconsistent with the circumstances, but admitted R. Eugene was with them earlier. R. Eugene’s wallet was found in the car.

All three were arrested and charged with Burglary from a Building, Felony Criminal Mischief and Conspiracy to Commit Burglary, a life felony.

The all remain in the Manatee County Jail on bail bonds of $17,000 each.

It was found later that the copper bars and wires did come from this tower, and that the fence was cut in order to make entry.

Sarasota Man Arrested for
Punching Other Man in Face

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Victor Kajko, Jr., 49, of 5630 Creekwood Drive, Sarasota.

Victor Kajko, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at about 3:50 p.m., Victor and Philip Dash got into a verbal altercation which turned violent when Victor punched Philip on the right side of his face.

The altercation started when Victor went to Philips house in the 5000 block of Breeze Way, Bradenton, and was looking around Philip's vehicle. Philip confronted Victor about Philip being around the vehicle.

Victor denied hitting Philip.

Victor was arrested and charged with Battery.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Victor remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $750 bail bond.

Sarasota Police Arrest Man for
Armed Bank Robbery

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police have arrested John William Battle, 35, of Sarasota, and charged him with Armed Robbery.

John William Battle

At about 09:15 this morning a suspect walked into the BB&T Bank on Main Street, in Sarasota, and demanded cash. The suspect implied that he had a gun, although no weapon was observed. The suspect fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of stolen cash. The robbery was captured on the bank’s surveillance cameras.

The suspect clothing worn during the robbery included a black jacket and a white stocking cap (New York Mets). The suspect fled on foot. The jacket and hat were recovered in a nearby dumpster.

The investigators discovered that approximately 5 minutes prior to the robbery the same suspect entered the IBERIABANK (formerly Century bank) at 1680 Fruitville Road. This was captured on the bank’s surveillance cameras.

John Battle has been identified by multiple witnesses as the perpetrator of the robbery. A witness advised that the hat worn during the robbery was given to John Battle days prior to the robbery.

At the time of the robbery, Battle was living in the 1700 block of 5th Street in Sarasota (within blocks of the robbery). Mr. Battle’s criminal history includes 26 previous arrest incidents including three previous arrests for Robbery, according to a press release from the Sarasota Police Department.

Detectives obtained an Arrest Warrant for Mr. Battle, took him into custody and charged him with Armed Robbery. His bond was set at $100,000.

The investigation is continuing.

Deputy Punched in Face
By 'Bizarre' Man

APOPKA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported an Orange County sheriff's deputy was punched in the face Tuesday night by a man who was acting "bizarre."

The deputy, whose name has not been released, was checking out a report of illegal dumping at about 9 p.m. when he was flagged down near Country Rose Lane and McCormick Road in Apopka.

The person who flagged down the deputy told him that a man in the area was acting "bizarre," according to investigators. The deputy approached the man, who punched him in the face and ran away, investigators said.

The Sheriff's Office conducted a search with K-9s and a helicopter but did not locate the culprit.

The deputy who was attacked is okay, WKMG said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Eastside Bealls Outlet Store Victim
Of Retail Theft by Three Women;
Women Charged with Child
Neglect, Five Counts

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tillwanda Jones, 32, Whitney Hansen, 22, and an unnamed 16-year-old juvenile.

Above, L to R, Whitney Hansen and Tillwanda Jones

According to the arrest report, on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at about 7:15 p.m., the women entered the Bealls Outlet store, located at 5108 15th Street East, Bradenton, accompanied by five children.

While inside the store, the three women selected several items and placed them into the shopping cart.

Tillwanda acted as a lookout as Whitney and the juvenile concealed the items in a brown and black purse.

Whitney gave the purse to the juvenile and had the juvenile walk past all points of sale without making any effort to purchase those items.

The incident was observed by a loss prevention officer through a closed circuit video surveillance system.

Tillwanda and Whitney, acting as the caregivers of the five children, failed to provide supervision of the children by committing retail theft and using the children in the commission of that crime, the report stated.

Tillwanda, Whitney and the juvenile accomplice were charged with Retail Theft and five counts of Child Neglect.

Tillwanda and Whitney were transported to the Manatee County Jail.

The unnamed 16-year-old juvenile was transported to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Tillwanda and Whitney have bonded out of jail.

The report did not say what became of the juvenile after booking procedures.

Parrish Man Arrested for
Burglary, Battery, Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Matthew Tyler Hendricks, 20, of 2330 125th Drive East, in Parrish.

Matthew Tyler Hendricks

The arrest report said on Sunday, Dec. 12, 2009, at about 12:10 a.m., a man named only as John in the report was at Anglers Discount parking lot, 3904 U.S. 41 North, when Matt yelled at him.

John parked his truck and got out.

Matt and another unknown White male got out of a silver Grand Prix and approached John. While he was talking to Matt, the unknown male said something and when John turned his head, Matt punched him in the left side of his face and the other male started to punch him, grabbed him from behind, choking him, while Matt punched John a couple more times.

While John was still being held by the other male, Matt then went to John's truck, opened the door and went inside the vehicle. He removed John's prescription of Oxycodone from the truck.

When Matt had the pills, he yelled at the other guy to let John go and they both jumped into the Grand Prix and fled the area north on U.S. 41, then made a U-turn and went south on U.S. 41.

A deputy called to the scene observed that John did have a laceration above his left eye and had EMS respond.

John said that he knew Matt from a friend of theirs where Matt rented a room.

After an extensive search, Matt was located at his residence by VCTF.

John was taken to that scene and positively identified Matt as the man who punched him, went into his truck and removed the pills.

Matt was arrested and transported to the Manatee County Jail, charged with Burglary to a Vehicle and Battery.

He remains in jail on a bail bond of $5,750.

Deputy, K-9 Unit Arrest Man
For Car Wash Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Michael A. Gesregan, 48, of 3107 34th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Michael A. Gesregan

The arrest report said on Sunday, Dec, 13, 2009, at about 4:30 a.m., Gesregan broke into the Splash and Dash car wash located at 3104 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

Using a ladder, Gesregan climbed up and smashed through a concrete window with a rubber hammer. Once the window was smashed, Gesregan entered the window, which is in the rear of the building and not visible from Cortez Road, and lowered himself down into the car wash office.

Then Gesregan tried to pry open a cash register that was in the office.

When Dep. Cavallo arrived on scene, and after numerous attempts of banging on the door and announcing himself, Gesregan had to be threatened with a sheriff's office K-9 unit. The report did not identify the K-9 Unit.

Gesregan exited the window the same way he came in. While climbing down the ladder, Gesregan said that he only broke into the building to sleep and he wasn't trying to steal anything.

Gesregan was arrested and charged with Burglary to a Structure.

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

South Manatee 7-11 Store
Robbed at Gunpoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the 7-11 convenience store located at 224 Pearl Avenue, in South Manatee County, was robbed by a lone Black male on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009, at about 2 a.m.

The report said the Black male entered the store and approached the victim, Dawn Bowen, 32, who was stocking shelves.

He pointed a black gun in Dawn's face and demanded money.

Dawn walked behind the counter to the register, opened it and put all of the money into a backpack that the robber had opened.

The robber walked to the front door, turned around and made Dawn open the second register.

She opened the till and placed all of the money in the second register into the backpack.

The robber fled out the front door, north through the parking lot.

Dawn was not injured.

Patrol and VCTF units responded and set a perimeter for K-9 who attempted to track, but lost the scent.

The robber was described as a Black male, 5'10" tall, with a thin build, last seen wearing a black short sleeve shirt, black pants, a black knit ski mask, black gloves and was wearing a blue backpack. He was armed with a black gun.

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.

Storage Unit Burglarized in
North Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported A&W Storage, located at 4837 U.S. 19, in North Manatee County was reported burglarized on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009.

According to a sheriff's report, Mary Suggs, the manager of the storage unit, reported that sometime over the weekend a total of 14 storage units were broken into and 1 utility trailer.

At this time it is unknown what was taken but Ms. Suggs is presently contacting her customers.

The fence to the property on the north side was cut and tire tracks were visible in an open field leading to 50th Street. West.

A crime scene technician collected locks, which had either been cut or pried off the storage doors for processing, along with a drill found close by. She dusted for prints and took photos of tire tracks.

There are no surveillance cameras on the property.

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.

BPD Announces 2nd Annual
"Honoring the Badge" Program

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is again partnering with Kingdom Life Church for the second annual community outreach program called “Honoring the Badge”. The purpose is to provide toys to needy children in our City at Christmas time while teaching children that police officers are their friends.

The idea is to collect one hundred Toys R’ Us gift cards in $25 denominations. One hundred children under the age of 12 will be invited to join off duty uniformed Bradenton Police Officers at Toys R’ Us located at 512 Cortez Road on December 17th 2009, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm.

The children will be chosen by community leaders, and most will be from working families who do not have money to buy gifts. A child will be teamed up with a Bradenton police officer to go on a shopping spree. The officer will assist the child in selecting a toy under $25 and taking him/her to the cash register and paying with a gift card provided by community donations.

H1N1 Flu Vaccination Clinic
Open to the Public with
FREE H1N1 Shots

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Health Department and its Community Partners are continuing to provide the H1N1 flu vaccine to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) priority groups. Increased vaccine supplies have now enabled us to expand the program to the general public.

The Manatee County Health Department is hosting a free H1N1 flu vaccination clinic for all county residents wishing to receive the vaccination. The Health Department will immunize as many people as possible during the clinic. Both the H1N1 nasal mist, which is preservative–free, and the injectable vaccine of inactivated virus will be available.

The clinic will be held at the Manatee Convention and Civic Center, 1 Haben Blvd., Palmetto, Florida on Saturday, December 19, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m.

Blank consent forms will be available at the clinic for those who do not download the vaccine consent form, in advance, from the Health Department website:

http://www.doh.state.fl.us/chdManatee/index.htm

Vaccine fact sheets are also available for viewing and downloading at this site.

Former Officer Convicted of
Attempted Sexual Battery

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A former Riviera Beach police officer accused of pulling over a driver and offering to rip up her tickets if she agreed to have sex with him has been found guilty, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

A Palm Beach County jury found Maurice Morris guilty on Monday of Attempted Sexual Battery, Bribery and Official Misconduct. He faces up to 35 years in prison at his January sentencing.

Prosecutors say Morris had sex with a female driver following a traffic stop, then disposed of two traffic tickets he had written her. The woman was reportedly driving with a suspended license and on felony probation when she was stopped in October 2008.

The defense said Morris visited the woman's home to check her claim that she had a letter proving she didn't know her license was suspended and that she lied about him raping her.

Morris took an early retirement from the Riviera Police Department following his arrest, WKMG said.

FHP Announces Holiday
Traffic Enforcement Plans

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- Drunk driving is one of the deadliest crimes. In 2008, 1,169 people died in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes in Florida. That is 39 percent of all traffic crash fatalities in the state. Earlier this month, Gov. Charlie Crist proclaimed December to be Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month. As part of the state’s focus on safe highway travel during the holiday season, the Florida Highway Patrol will join thousands of other law enforcement and highway safety agencies across the nation to take part in Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. The nationwide campaign aims to crackdown on impaired driving, beginning Wednesday, December 16, 2009 through Jan. 3, 2010.

The Florida Highway Patrol will use zero tolerance enforcement strategies to target impaired drivers, as well as those violating other traffic laws that put themselves and other motorists at risk. Motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians who comply with our state’s traffic laws and use sound judgment can help make the holiday period safer and less stressful.

“We will be out in full force conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols to remove drunk drivers from the roads, ultimately saving lives that might otherwise be lost,” said FHP Director, Colonel John Czernis. “If a trooper catches you drinking and driving, he/she will arrest you. Violators often face jail time, the loss of their driver license, higher insurance rates, attorney fees, time away from work and dozens of other expenses. So do not take the chance. Remember, if you are over the limit, you are under arrest.”

Every sworn member of the Florida Highway Patrol will work a shift this month to target those driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In addition, FHP Auxiliary and Reserve troopers will augment the Patrol during the heightened travel period. Troopers work hard to keep you safe, so do your part – drive responsibly!

Motorists are urged to contact FHP or local law enforcement officials to report an impaired, aggressive or dangerous driver by dialing *FHP (*347) from a cell phone. Callers may remain anonymous. Motorists who experience car trouble on the highway or otherwise need assistance from the FHP are also encouraged to call *FHP.

Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest. is a deterrence program organized by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that focuses on combining high-visibility enforcement with heightened public awareness. For more information on the campaign, visit www.Stopimpaireddriving.org.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides highway safety and security through excellence in service, education and enforcement. The Department is leading the way to a safer Florida through the efficient and professional execution of its core mission: the issuance of driver licenses, vehicle tags and titles and operation of the Florida Highway Patrol. To learn more about DHSMV and the services offered, visit www.flhsmv.gov.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Woman Arrested in Porn Probe;
Seen in 8 x 10 Image Giving
Boy, 5, Oral Sex

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Tabatha Marie Crawford, 31, of the 1100 block of 39th Street West, Bradenton, has been arrested by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and charged with Capital Sexual Battery and Promotion of Child Pornography.

Tabatha Marie Crawford

The arrest report from Det. Todd Sellitto said Crawford performed the sexual act of oral sex and that the act was captured by a digital image. Crawford was identified in the image by facial and identifying marks.

The picture depicts a five-year-old boy with his pants pulled down and his penis inserted in Crawford's mouth. Crawford's eyes were closed and cheeks were indented as if performing a suction movement.

The image was obtained through another investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Det. Sellitto said.

Crawford was arrested on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at her residence, which is also the residence where the photo was taken, in the bedroom, the report said.

When Det. Sellitto attempted to interview her, she invoked her right to an attorney and questioning was stopped.

Crawford was taken to the Manatee County Jail, where she was charged with Capital Sexual Battery and Promotion of Child Pornography.

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

Deputy Arrests Man Who
Mooned 3 Boys, Kicked 1

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Aaron J. Williams, 30, of 2520 34th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Aaron J. Williams

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, at about 6 p.m., three boys were playing outside and were sitting in the back of a truck across the street from Williams. Two of the boys were 11 years old; the other boy's age was not listed in the report.

Williams approached the 3 boys and asked them what they were doing.

One of the boys told Williams that it was none of his business.

Williams became upset, started grabbing one of the boys, then hit him in the leg multiple times, the report said.

At that point, the boy who was hit in the leg kicked Williams in self defense.

Williams walked back to his yard across the street. He then turned around and pulled his pants down. He then bent over and mooned the 3 boys.

One of the boys said that he saw Williams' buttocks and his testicles and looked away as soon as he could.

The deputy wrote that the statements of the three boys matched, except for one boy who didn't see Williams' testicles.

The deputy observed a small abrasion on the leg of the boy who was hit in the leg. The boy said Williams had made that mark.

All three boys positively identified Williams during a show-up.

Williams denied the allegations. He said that the 3 boys were throwing rocks at his house, but he never got mad and never went over and talked to them.

Williams was arrested and charged with Lewd and Lascivious Exhibition, Battery and was also charged on an arrest warrant for Non-Support.

As of Monday afternoon, he remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $11,300.

Attempted Armed Robbery at
Local Pharmacy; Man Busted

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Violent Crimes Task Force of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Dyllan D. Heyen, 18, of the 6200 block of 221st Street East, Bradenton.

Dyllan D. Heyen

A sheriff's report said on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, at about 2:50 p.m., the victims, Johnny Gibbons, 52, and Adam Brock, 49, were at The Prescription Store, 5332 26th Street West, Bradenton, getting a prescription of Oxycontin filled for Gibbons.

As the victims exited the store to their vehicle, the suspect, later identified as Heyen, approached the victims, sprayed them with "Mace," attempted to grab the victim's medication and then fled the scene on foot.

Gibbons chased Heyen and ultimately ended up at the BP gas station in the 3000 block of Cortez Rd. W.

Upon MSO arrival at the scene/area, Detective Waldron was able to locate Heyen a short distance away.

Deputy Finklea transported Brock to conduct a show-up; Brock identified Heyen as the attacker who "Maced" him.

Heyen was then placed into custody and later transported back to the scene.

Det. Lesselroth conducted an interview with Gibbons at the BP gas station and obtained a statement.

Heyen was later transported to detectives' offices for questioning.

Neither of the victims sustained injuries as a result of being sprayed other than the usual discomfort/burning. Brock was treated with water at the scene.

Heyen was charged with one count of Attempted Armed Robbery.

As of Monday night, Heyen remained in the Manatee County Jail.

Eight Cars Burglarized on
Streets Near Airport

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported eight cars were burglarized on Monday, Dec. 14, 2009, between midnight and 7 a.m., on Bernard Avenue and Suwanee Avenue, just west of U.S. 41, near the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

The report said unknown person(s) entered the cars by smashing out windows and entering through unlocked doors.

The vehicles were not dusted for fingerprints at the time of the reports, due to moisture on the exterior of the cars.

A Crime Scene technician will return later to dust for latent prints.

Deputies recovered a possible burglary tool left inside one of the vehicles.

The tool was placed in to property and Evidence for latent prints.

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.

West Manatee Fire Rescue
Honors Firefighters

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- West Manatee Fire and Rescue District honored several firefighters at their annual appreciation dinner.

Lieutenant Ryan Moore was named Officer of the Year, Firefighter Rodney Kwiatkowski as named Firefighter of the Year and Firefighter Andrew Lauricella was named Rookie of the Year.

Also receiving recognition were Firefighters John Stump and Jeff Philips, who both received the Exceptional Duty Award.

Years of Service Awards went to Firefighters Keith Miller, Bill Kimbrell, Jeff Philips, Jeff Taylor, Ben Dillon and Mike Petrosino all completed 5 years of service. Lieutenant Ryan Moore and Inspector Tom Soleau competed 10 years and Lieutenant James Leigh completed 15 years.

Chief Andy Price was recognized with a Career Service Award for 30 years of service.

Manatee County Clerk’s Office
Participates in 11th Annual
"Be an Angel for An Angel"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Each Christmas, the staff of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, R.B."Chips" Shore, open their hearts for Manatee County's children in foster care.

On behalf of the Manatee County Foster Parent Association, the Manatee County Citizens Review staff sponsors the annual "Be an Angel for an Angel" donation drive to collect presents from the wish lists of our community's abused, neglected or abandoned children in foster care.

The Clerk's office employees once again proved the generosity of their hearts by providing 197 presents for 35 children who otherwise might not be able to feel any spirit of Christmas.

“Gifts for Guns” Community
Gun Turn-in Event Announced

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Sarasota Police Department and the Sarasota NAACP, will hold a community gun turn-in event to help get guns off the street and potentially reduce the gun violence that has impacted the area in recent months.

“Gifts for Guns” will be held on Saturday, December 19, 2009, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at two locations in Sarasota: the Newtown Redevelopment Office, 1782 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, and Robarts Arena Parking Lot, 3000 Fruitville Rd.

The Sheriff’s Office will accept functional handguns or rifles. This is an anonymous gun turn-in event and participants will receive a $50 gift card for each weapon they turn in.

“Legally owned guns can fall into the wrong hands through burglaries or thefts,” said Sheriff Tom Knight. “We have come together as a community to give people the opportunity to remove guns from their homes and work cooperatively to make Sarasota County safer.”

To make the event as safe as possible, citizens are encouraged to follow these procedures:

~ Make sure the gun is not loaded before leaving the house.

~ Place gun in a secure area of the vehicle, such as the trunk, in a gun case if possible.

~ Upon arriving at the gun turn-in event, a law enforcement officer will meet participants in the parking lot.

~ They will retrieve the weapon and escort citizens to the area where gift cards are being distributed.

“Gifts for Guns” is sponsored by SNN Local News 6, Bealls Department Stores, Bealls Outlet, Jackson & Associates General Contractors, Florida Winefest & Auction, F.O.C.U.S., Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, the Gulf Coast Communication Foundation of Venice and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

Sarasota Sheriff Releases
DUI Checkpoint Results

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the North Port Police Department, conducted a DUI Checkpoint Friday night, December 11, 2009, into Saturday morning, December 12, 2009.

The location was 13000 Tamiami Trail, North Port, near the South Biscayne Baptist Church.

During the night’s operation, there was one DUI arrest, one arrest for drug possession, and two arrests for no valid driver’s license.

One minor was cited for drinking, and another 50 traffic citations were issued for various violations.

Robber Hides In Store,
Ambushes Clerk

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man posing as a customer hid inside a storage room of an Orlando dollar store before attacking an employee and robbing the store after it closed, according to deputies.

The ambush robbery occurred at about 9:30 p.m. Sunday at the Dollar General Store on Edgewater Drive just west of Lee Road.

Orange County sheriff's deputies said a man entered the store posing as a customer just before closing and hid. A female clerk and a store manager closed the store and locked the doors, and the man then attacked the clerk, putting her in a choke hold before throwing her down, deputies said.

The manager saw the attack surveillance video in the back of the store and came out to help his co-worker, deputies said.

The manager told the assailant where the cash was, and the thief grabbed the cash and fled, deputies said.

The clerk was not seriously injured, WKMG said.

FDLE Seeks Manatee County
Armed Robber and Murderer
Phillip Donovan

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Florida Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) are offering a reward for information leading to the capture of Phillip Donovan, 70, for his 1982 escape from the Bradenton Work Release Center. He is one of a dozen cold case prison escapees being featured during the “12 Days of Fugitives” campaign – a joint public outreach initiative by FDLE and DOC.

Above, Phillip Donovan, then and now

Donovan was convicted of first-degree murder for the shooting death of a hotel clerk. On April 11, 1964, Donovan entered a Miami Beach hotel and demanded the clerk hand over money. When the clerk refused, Donovan shot him between the eyes. Donovan is also believed to have committed other violent crimes in the New York City area.

Donovan served in the U.S. Army in a clerical position. He has been employed as a bartender, shipping clerk, delivery man, and has done farm work. He enjoys softball, baseball, shooting pool, swimming, and going to the movies.

“Donovan has been on the run for almost 28 years,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Madden. “He has relatives in New York City and has been spotted in the Miami and Belle Glades area.”

Chambers is 6’1” and at the time of his escape was approximately 170 pounds. He has brown eyes and gray hair. He has the following tattoos: a heart, “Joe” on his left arm, and a panther on his right arm. He may use the alias Joseph Michael Capano.

Donovan will be featured on digital billboards across the state. The Florida Outdoor Advertising Association (FOAA) and its network of member companies are broadcasting the faces of the fugitives and the tip line number throughout the campaign period. There are 90 digital billboard locations statewide.

There is an active warrant for Donovan for escape, a first-degree felony. The warrant is for nationwide extradition. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the toll free tip line at 1-877-FLA-WANTED (1-877-352-9268) or e-mail FLAWanted@fdle.state.fl.us.

The “12 Days of Fugitives” campaign is designed to reach the public during the holiday season when investigators believe the wanted men are most likely to contact friends, family and loved ones. More than $22,000 in reward money is available, with up to $2,500 offered per fugitive for information leading to their capture. To learn more about the “12 Days of Fugitives” visit www.fdle.state.fl.us.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

"A Night Before Christmas"
At GT Bray Park Brings Out
Multitudes for Fun, Games,
Visit with Santa Claus

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The 8th Annual "A Night Before Christmas" was held at GT Bray park, in Bradenton, on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009.

Above, children and parents waiting to see Santa
at "A Night Before Christmas" at GT Bray Park
(Photos by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

There were lots of activities for children to participate in, including cookie crafts, bounce houses, inflatable slides, face painting, quad power jumps, a snow mound and a hay ride.

Above, one of the children enjoys the snow

Topping it all off was a visit with Santa where anyone (but mostly children) could pose for photos with him and give him their Christmas list.

There were all kinds of "good eats," including Cold Stone Creamery, Smoothie King & Papa John's.

Exhibitors were: 210 Watermark, Ancient Ways, Autism Speaks, Bella Danza Dance, Bostocks Martial Art & Fitness, Cuddly Creations, Direct Buy, Division of Forestry, Edison Academics, Florida Highway Patrol, Manatee County EMS, Manatee County Recycling, Manatee Glens, Privateers, Sonic, Southern Manatee Fire Dept. and West Manatee Fire Rescue.

For entertainment, there was music in the baseball field by "With No Strings Attached" from 3.30-4 p.m.

Then, at 4 p.m. sharp, Santa arrived at the baseball field by helicopter.

Above, Santa confers with Mrs. Claus and one of his elves

He was greeted by Mrs. Claus and one of his elves and proceeded to hand out candy canes to the children.

Above, Paige & Lindsey Yingling of Bradenton visit with Santa

Then he got on a cart and his elf took him to his sleigh, where the children could pose for photos with him between 4:45 & 7 p.m.

There was a huge line waiting to see him, which went well past 7 p.m.

NewsManatee's reporter/photographer, Heather Chadwick, estimated 3,000 people were in attendance.

Man Nabbed Trying to Cash
Forged Treasury Check for
$6,500 at Amscot Store

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ronald L. Johnson, 39, of 5625 19th Street West, Bradenton.

Ronald L. Johnson

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Dec. 9th, 2009, at about 10 p.m., Johnson went to the Amscot store located at 3611 1st Street East, Bradenton.

While there, he presented a driver license from Illinois with another name, but his picture on it. He also filled out an application in the other name and tried to cash a U.S. Treasury check in the amount of $6,492. He placed his thumbprint on both the check and the application.

The clerk at the Amscot store followed store procedure for such a large check and called the corporate offices.

The corporate office checked Johnson's information and found the Social Security number he presented to be not a good number and advised the clerk to call police.

When Dep. Hartman arrived, Johnson confessed that his ID was fictitious and said "what he was doing was wrong," the report said.

He said he was going to received $1,500 of the money from an unknown person from who he received the check. He declined to name that person.

Johnson was arrested and charged with Uttering a Forged Instrument.

He posted a $1,000 bail bond on Saturday, Dec. 12th, and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Two Men Arrested for Multiple
Burglaries at Storage Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David A. Marshall, 38, of 3701 14th Street West, Bradenton, and Thomas R. Elam, Jr., 33, of Georgetown, Ohio, in connection with multiple burglaries at The Attic Mini-Storage, located at 5324 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, David Marshall and Thomas Elam, Jr.

According to the arrest reports, on Wednesday, Dec. 9th, 2009, at about 9:00 p.m., Dep. Daniel Ensign was dispatched to a suspicious circumstance call at the above location.

The deputy and a witness could hear somebody inside an R.V. that was parked on the other side of the fence at the furthest SW lot of the storage lot.

The deputy observed two men crossing the storage lot after leaving the area of the R.V. and running behind the boats that were parked near the building.

The deputy yelled for them to stop and then he scaled the chain link fence.

He ordered the two men to come out from behind the boats and they did. He ordered them to the ground, where they were handcuffed.

Several items that came from the burglarized vehicles were found in different areas of the lot.

One victim identified some of the items; the others could not be contacted.

Both man were arrested and each was charged with six counts of Burglary.

They both remain in the Manatee County Jail.

Two Men Arrested After Deputies
Spot Them Siphoning Diesel Fuel;
Were Holding Ounce+ of Marijuana

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Christopher Predd, 19, and Chad Michael, 37, both of 5819 17th Street East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Christopher Predd and Chad Michael

A sheriff's report said on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at about 1:30 a.m., deputies observed a vehicle driving through a wooded area behind several closed businesses in the 6000 block of 17th Street East, Bradenton, and requested the assistance of the aviation unit to conduct surveillance on the vehicle and the occupants within.

The suspects drove to a parked semi-trailer and siphoned 4 gallons of diesel fuel from the vehicle.

Patrol deputies initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and arrested the pair inside.

The thieves were found to be in possession of 38 grams of marijuana (1.3 ounces) and drug paraphernalia.

Both suspects admitted to stealing the fuel post Miranda.

The fuel was returned to the victim.

Both men were charged with Burglary to a Conveyance, Possession of Marijuana (more than 20 grams), Petit Theft, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Burglary Tools.

They both remain in the Manatee County Jail on bail bonds of $2,240 each.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Stabbing Nephew in Back

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Harpal Kahlon, 55, of 5605 20th Street West, Bradenton.

Harpal Kahlon

The arrest report said the victim, Kultar Goraya, 35, and his uncle, Harpal Kahlon, were drinking together when they got into a verbal argument.

It turned physical when the Kahlon grabbed a knife and stabbed Goraya in the back. Kahlon also attempted to choke Goraya and caused scratches on Goraya's neck.

Goraya had two wounds to his back area on the left side. He was treated by E.M.S. and advised to get the one wound stitched up.

Kahlon was on scene and arrested. He was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Domestic Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $2,000 bail bond.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) assisted with the investigation, the report said.

Possible Attempted Child
Abduction, BPD Reports

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is currently investigating a suspicious incident which occurred on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at approximately 7:30 a.m.

A female juvenile was approached by an adult male driver as she walked in the 700 block of 14th Avenue East. The driver asked the juvenile if she needed a ride. She told the male driver “no” and kept walking.

The male circled the block, driving by the juvenile four times. The juvenile then walked into the parking lot of a nearby business and as she did so, she observed the male driver stop his vehicle in the parking lot and take his seatbelt off. She then ran inside the business seeking help.

The suspicious man then drove away from the area.

Officers searched for the driver, to no avail.

The male driver is described as being an Hispanic male approximately forty years of age. He has a goatee with no mustache. He was wearing a plain blue hat and a plain blue jacket. The vehicle is described as a white newer model pickup truck, possibly a Chevy.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Detective Carlos Craddock at 941-932-9310 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.

DeSoto Square Jewelry Store
Robbed of $44K Jewelry Items

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported M and N Jewelry in the DeSoto Square Mall was robbed on Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at about 7:30 p.m.

The report said Jignesh Parekh, clerk at the jewelry store, went to the back of the store to use the restroom.

When he returned, he noticed that the back of one of the jewelry cases was open with several items missing. He also found another case left open with items missing.

The clerk did not hear or see anyone in the store while he was in the back and there is no surveillance video, according to the report.

A local report of the incident said the missing items were valued at $44,000.

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.

Pedestrian Robbed at Gunpoint
In South Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a 28-year-old man was robbed at gunpoint as he was walking in South Manatee County on Thursday, Dec. 10, 2009, at about 9:30 p.m.

According to the report, the victim, Thomas Robert Curtis Silvia, 28, of the 1300 block of Idlewild Court, Bradenton, was walking westbound along Idlewild Court and was in the 1400 block when a vehicle passed him going eastbound.

The vehicle stopped, backed up and a Black male exited from the driver seat. The robber pointed a firearm in Silvia's face and demanded the backpack he was carrying.

Silvia handed the backpack over and the victim got back into the vehicle and fled southbound on 15th Street East.

Silvia was not injured.

The robber was described as a Black male, approximately 5’5” tall and weighing 145 pounds. He was last seen wearing a hat, black shirt with a design on it and black shorts. The vehicle was not described in the report.

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

Man Robbed at Knifepoint
Near Mini-Mart

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at about 8:20 p.m., in the 1100 block of 57th Avenue West.

According to a sheriff's report, the victim, Robert Price, 47, was walking west on 57th Ave from the area of Mike’s Mini Mart when two Black male juveniles approached him on bikes.

One of the juveniles pulled a knife and demanded money. Price kicked the kid's arm and fled.

The would-be robbers fled north on 14th Street West.

Deputy Silva stopped two Black males matching the description. One of the juveniles fled behind Peek-a-Boo; the report didn't say what happened to the other.

A track was attempted with K-9 but was unsuccessful, due to all the foot traffic in the area.

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 Victims of Attempted Armed
Robbery Pistol-Whipped

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a Hispanic male and a Hispanic female were pistol-whipped when they told two would-be robbers they didn't have any money. The incident occurred on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at about 3 a.m., in the 900 block of 59th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

According to the report, the victims, Jose Mensias, 33, and Maria Lemus De Nolasco, 49, were approached by 2 unknown race males dressed in black.

One was armed with a shotgun and pointed it at the victims, demanding money.

The victims didn’t have any money so the suspects hit the two victims multiple times in the face and head.

The suspects fled in a white van west on 59th Avenue Drive West.

The victims were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

The perpetrators were not further described in the report.

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

Daring Attempted Armed Robbery
At 10 AM Saturday Morning
Near Cop Shop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a daring daylight attempted armed robbery on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at about 10 a.m., in the 5700 block of 12th Street East, Bradenton, just a few blocks from the sheriff's substation on 57th Avenue.

The report said Gerald Jerome, 34, of the 1000 block of 61st Avenue East, Bradenton, was walking in the area of 5700 12th Street East.

A vehicle pulled up alongside of him and the passenger, a Hispanic male, 6'00" tall, and weighing about 270 pounds, stepped out of the vehicle holding a handgun.

The H/M stated, "Give me your money."

Gerald refused and a fight ensued. Gerald was hit several times over the head with the handgun.

The assasilant fled the area.

Gerald went to the hospital; his injuries were minor.

The sheriff's office was notified by Manatee Memorial Hospital.

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.

Telephone Scam Reported
By Sarasota Sheriff

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn citizens about a telephone scam being conducted in the area.

The Sheriff’s Office received several reports this week from residents who received a phone call from someone claiming to be with “the sheriff’s office” or “the police department,” without specifying a particular agency. The caller goes on to say they have a suspect in custody who attempted to access the victim’s bank account, and asks the victim to confirm their account information for the arrest.

Unfortunately, several victims have complied, and called the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office after the incident. None of their accounts were illegally accessed.

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind citizens to never provide personal financial information to anyone, particularly over the phone. Detectives would not conduct an investigation in this manner. However, if someone claims to be with a particular law enforcement agency, ask for their name and identification number, and then call that agency directly – not the phone number the caller provides – to verify their employment.

Residents who are concerned that this has happened to them should contact their bank immediately and notify them that your account may have been compromised.

Bear Wanted In Attack
On Man Captured

LONGWOOD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A bear that attacked a man has been caught by Fish and Wildlife officials, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

FWC said the 200-pound female bear will be euthanized. It was caught an hour and a half after traps were set.

There is evidence that the bear that attacked a man in front of his house may have been fed for en extended period of time, the FWC said.

The FWC said Ernest Stamm, 49, was scratched in the face by the bear as Stamm was leaving his home around 8 p.m. Thursday in The Springs subdivision in Longwood. The neighborhood is near Wekiwa Springs State Park.

Stamm was taken to Florida Hospital Altamonte with minor injuries, and he was later released.

FWC said scratches on the home and bear scat, as well as scattered food containers on the property and bedding on the porch, indicate the bear had been fed for an extended period of time.

Wildlife officials said Stamm had surgery on his eyelid, which was scratched, WKMG said.

Longwood is about 20 miles north of Orlando.

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