Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 8/28/2010

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Local/State News for week ending 8/28/2010

Woman Attacks Three with
Crowbar; Son Said Someone
Threw a Cup of Urine on Him

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Rosalia Chambers, 35, of 4119 79th Street West, Bradenton.

Rosalia Chambers

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, August 24, 2010, at about 7 p.m., Rosalia's son came home and said that someone threw cup of urine on him. However, another sheriff's report said it may have been Mountain Dew.

When Rosalia heard her son's story, she went to a nearby home at 4009 79th Street West, entered the dwelling without permission by opening the front door and walked in on three people.

The three people went to the front door.

Rosalia then swung a crowbar around, hearly hitting the three people, while yelling obscenities at them.

She then left without talking to any of the adults to figure out what had happened.

Rosalia admitted to having a crowbar at the residence, but denied being inside their house or swinging it at anyone, the report said.

Rosalia was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Burglary.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $15,500.

Owner of Pawn and DWG Motors
Arrested for Trafficking in Stolen
Property and Grand Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Mark Goodman, 51, of Bradenton.

Mark Goodman

The Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Thursday, August 26, 2010, at 15th Street Pawn and DWG Motors located at 5712 15th St. E., Bradenton.

The owner of the property, Mark Goodman, was arrested and charged with Trafficking in Stolen Property and Grand Theft.

Detectives recently received information that Goodman could be involved with trafficking in stolen property.

The subsequent investigation provided detectives with the evidence necessary to obtain a search warrant and to arrest Goodman.

Detectives have confiscated several stolen items including tools and jewelry.

The investigation continues with additional charges and arrests pending.

The sheriff's office was assisted in the investigation by the Florida Bureau of Investigation, which regulates pawn shops in the state.

Sex Offender Arrested for
Armed Trespassing
at School

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested George G. Yerian, 51, of 1623 8th Avenue West, Bradenton.

George G. Yerian

The arrest report said on Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at about 7:50 p.m., Yerian was seen walking on the property of GD Rogers Garden Elementary School located at 515 13th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Yerian was seen pulling on doors leading to the cafeteria, but they were locked. Then he was seen attempting to open the door to a Kia located nearby.

Yerian was startled by two unknown children walking past the school and quickly knelt between the Kia and an exterior storage building.

Yerian was then seen trying to open a locked gate that led to the dumpsters, but was unsuccessful in doing so.

He then walked to another vehicle, a gray Hyundai SUV and tried the driver's door, but it was locked.

At that point, a BPD officer made contact with Yerian. A search of Yerian yielded a knife, a pair of gardening gloves an unopened math booklet and his personal effects, including a wallet and phone.

The report noted that Yerian is a Registered Sexual Offender.

He was arrested and charged with Armed Trespassing on School Property and Possession of Burglary Tools.

Man Arrested for Theft
of Lawn Mower from
Home Depot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Bryan Edward Richardson, 41, of 12557 30th Street Circle East, in Parrish.

Bryan Edward Richardson

The arrest report said on Saturday, August 21, 2010, at about 3 p.m., Richardson was at the Home Depot store located at 2350 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton with a White male and White female.

The White male and White female, who were not identified, attempted to pay for a Honda lawn mower with a stolen credit card, which was denied.

Meanwhile, as the checkout clerk was being distracted by the White male and White female, Richardson wheeled the mower to a silver Dodge truck which had a trailer attached and loaded the mower off of the shopping cart and onto the trailer.

A surveillance video then shows the White female exit the store and drive the truck and trailer from the parking lot with the mower, while Richardson followed in another vehicle.

A loss prevention agent from Home Depot responded to a sheriff's substation the next day to view Richardson, who had been arrested on an unrelated traffic charge. He positively identified Richardson as the person who he had seen on video wheeling the mower out of the store and loading it onto the trailer.

Richardson was charged with Grand Theft and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked.

He posted a $3000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Female Passenger at Traffic Stop
Arrested for Possession of Crack,
Xanax, 8 Items of Paraphernalia

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Cassie Rae Harpest, 30, of the 5100 block of Dartmouth Drive, Bradenton.

Cassie Rae Harpest

The arrest report said on Monday, August 23, 2010, at about 12:30 a.m., a deputy pulled over a vehicle for not coming to a complete stop at a red light before turning. The traffic stop was located in the 800 block of 60th Avenue West. Another deputy showed up as backup.

After removing the driver, the front seat passenger and Harpest, who was in the back seat as a passenger, a search of the vehicle was done and nothing was found. The other two were let go and Harpest was detained.

She had a large paper bag and a purse, which were searched. Inside the bag, a deputy located .3 grams of rock cocaine (crack), and 12 blue oval pills identified as .5 Xanax pills.

Also in the bag were Q-tips. In her purse, were a set of measuring pills with burnt white pills on it, 7 regular spoons with unknown substances on them, 5 push rods for use with crack pipes, 4 other containers that Harpest said she uses to shoot up, multiple pieces of brillo, a package of rolling papers, 3 syringes, 3 crack pipes and a clear "contraption" that Harpest said was a pill crusher that she uses to snort pills, and a large amount of cotton that she said she used to filter her drugs.

Harpest was arrested and charged with two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance and eight counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,960.

Woman Arrested for Battery
On a Person Over 65

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Valerie G. Hoyt, 52, of 4508 3rd Street Circle West, Bradenton.

Valerie G. Hoyt

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at about 10 a.m., Mary Phillips, 74, went to the above location in order to help her son Warren Phillips remove his belongings.

When Warren was walking downstairs with his belongings, Mary was walking upstairs.

While upstairs, Hoyt intentionally pushed Mary in the chest against her will and called her trash.

Three witnesses verified Mary's claims.

Hoyt was arrested and charged with Battery on a Person Over 65.

As of Thursday afternoon, Hoyt remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,500.

Man Shot in Leg by Would-Be
Black Male Armed Robber

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was shot in the leg on August 26, 2010, at about 1 p.m., in the area of 12th Street East and 62nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Dilshonne Veillard, 19, was walking eastbound in the above listed area. The exact crime scene is still trying to be determined and located.

The suspect, is described as a Black male, 6’2, skinny, wearing black shorts, a black long sleeve shirt with a black T-shirt over his face and black sneakers. The suspect's age could not be determined by the victim.

The would-be robber pointed a handgun at the victim and demanded everything he had. The victim said he had nothing and began backing away from the robber.

The culprit fired the handgun, striking the victim in the lower right leg.

After the shot was fired, the victim ran to a nearby relative's residence and was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital by a family member.

The would-be robber fled north, the same direction he had come from.

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

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

Sheriff's Office Seeks Info
on Safe Found Along Road

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a person found a safe on a Manatee County roadway on Thursday, August 26, 2010, at about 11:40 a.m.

The sheriff's report said the Manatee County Sheriff's Office was contacted by Dorma Muncie, 62, in reference to a safe that was found alongside a roadway.

The exact location was in the 6300 block of 18th Avenue East.

The safe was taken into protective custody for the time-being.

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.

County Clerk Receives Award
for Port Authority Report
17th Time

MANATEE COUNTY, Flordia [NMT] -- For the seventeenth consecutive year, the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller, R.B. “Chips” Shore with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Manatee County Port Authority’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR).

The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management.

The CAFR has been judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

“I am honored to be presented this award as it reflects the diligence and accuracy of my Finance Department,” says R.B. “Chips” Shore, “My office strives to provide the highest level of service and information to our citizens with these reports and it is a pleasure to be recognized by the GFOA as doing such.”

Charlotte County Cops Arrest
Two on Drug Charges

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives arrested an Oxycodone dealer and drug trafficker in an undercover operation Wednesday at 3285 Normandy Dr., in Port Charlotte.

Above, L to R, Ashley Marie Cox and Jeremy Steven Barger

Arrested were Ashley Marie Cox, 21, 1196 Vinita Ave., Port Charlotte, and Jeremy Steven Barger, 23, of the home where the drug deal occurred. Once a quantity of Oxycodone pills were purchased from Cox and Barger, back up units moved in and made the arrests.

Detectives said Cox sold Crack Cocaine in an undercover operation June 24 in the parking lot of a pharmacy at 2480 Tamiami Trail that led to yesterday's drug purchase at Barger’s home.

Cox was charged with Trafficking in Oxycodone, Sale and Delivery of Crack Cocaine and Possession of Crack Cocaine. Barger and Cox were charged with Sale and Delivery of Oxycodone and Possession of Oxycodone from the sale Wednesday.

They were transported to the Charlotte County Jail; Cox posted an $11,000 bond, Barger posted a $7,500 bond and they were released.

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

Police: Man Targeted,
Molested Girl, 7

MERRITT ISLAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Police are searching for a man who molested a a 7-year-old girl in the middle of a crowded book store, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Detectives with the Brevard County Sheriff's Office said the man targeted the children's book aisle at the Books-A-Million store on Merritt Island Causeway.

Agent Kirk Gewiniger said the man molested the girl while she was kneeled down, looking at a book. He said the man was in and out of the store in three minutes.

Gewiniger said the man looked up and down several aisles without children before he chose the aisle the girl was on.

The Sheriff's Office said it hopes someone recognizes the man, because they're afraid he will try to molest another child.

Surveillance video shows the man running away as soon as he exits the store.

Deputies are working with other agencies to try to identify the man, WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Man Arrested for Battery,
Child Abuse and False
Imprisonment

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Christopher D. Godfrey, 33, of the 1900 block of 49th Street East, in Palmetto.

Christopher D. Godfrey

According to the arrest report, Godfrey and Michelle Bois are boyfriend and girlfriend who have lived together for the past 4 months as a family, with two of Bois' children, a boy and a girl.

On Monday, August 23, 2010, at about 3:00 a.m., Godfrey came home from a bar and started pulling the blankets and pillows from Bois.

Godfrey got upset at Bois when she wanted to turn the lights off and spat in her face.

Then, at about 7 a.m., Godfrey yelled at Bois to get off the phone. He followed her into her daughter's bedroom, calling her a whore.

He attempted to pull off Bois' pants, then hit her 5 times in the buttocks and restrained her by her shoulders. He then hit Bois in the back of the head.

Bois started pleading with Godfrey to leave the residence, but he refused.

Bois attempted to leave, but Godfrey prevented her from leaving by standing in front of the bedroom door. Bois was able to push Godfrey to the side and exit the bedroom.

Bois made her way to the living room, where her minor son was sitting. Her son told Godfrey to leave his mother alone and Godfrey yelled at him saying, "Shut your [expletive deleted] mouth, boy," and pushed the boy.

Bois attempted to take her two children to school, but Godfrey insisted that he go as well, yanking the keys out of Bois' hand. Bois eventually left the residence to drop her children off at school.

Bois then returned to the residence to gather a few belongings. When she was ready to depart, Godfrey jumped in front of the door and pushed her back, preventing her from leaving once again.

Godfrey decided to shower, at which point, Bois texted a friend, who in turn called the police.

Godfrey was arrested and charged with Battery, Child Abuse and False Imprisonment.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $13,500.

Man Tasered, Arrested After
Assault with Knives

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Keith Van Der Wiele, 32, of the 300 block of Bougainvillea Circle, in Parrish, the location of The Gardens Mobile Home Park.

Keith Van Der Wiele

A sheriff's report said on Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at about 2:30 a.m., Keith engaged in an argument with the victims, Sharron Carr, 48, and John Van Der Wiele, 66, as they were drinking alcohol.

At some point, Keith went into the kitchen and armed himself with two 8" knives.

Keith returned to the porch and threatened the victims with the knives.

This prompted John Van Der Wiele to call 911, during which he could only provide vague information.

Deputies arrived and Keith immediately armed himself with one of the knives, making suicidal threats.

Keith was struck with a Taser and the scene was secured.

Keith was arrested for Domestic Aggravated Assault and Domestic Aggravated Assault on a Person Over 65 Years of Age.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Keith remained in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Traffic Stop Nets Arrest of
Man Holding a Pound of
Marijuana

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Nathan L. Kelley, 35, of the 3600 block of 16th Court East, Bradenton.

Nathan L. Kelley

The arrest report said on Sunday, August 22, 2010, at about 10:30 a.m., deputies saw a white four door Nissan traveling northbound on 9th Street East fail to stop at the stop sign at 37th Avenue East and initiated a traffic stop.

When deputies approached the driver, identified as Nathan Kelley, they smelled the odor of marijuana.

A driver's license check revealed Kelley was deemed a habitual traffic offender on August 9, 2007.

Nathan was removed from his vehicle and put in a patrol vehicle and a search for cannabis (marijuana) was conducted.

On the driver's side rear floorboard, a brown box was found with a large clear plastic bag that contained about a pound of marijuana.

Nathan admitted that the pot was his and said, "I was gonna go home and roll up a gar (cigar) and smoke, then play basketball. I like to get high and it was gonna last me for two months."

Nathan Kelley was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana in Excess of 20 Grams and Driving While License Suspended (Habitual Traffic Offender).

He posted a $3,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Deputies Catch Burglar
Shortly Afterward

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Corey Grier, 36, of unknown address.

Corey Grier

A sheriff's report said on Tuesday, August 24, 2010, at about 5:20 p.m., a man later identified as Corey Grier was observed in the victim’s garage in the 100 block of 28th Avenue East, Bradenton, removing a yard blower.

Grier was seen fleeing westbound on 28th Avenue East on a bicycle.

He was located attempting to cross 1st Street East and was detained by patrol deputies.

Grier was positively identified as the man who removed the victim's belongings during the burglary.

Grier was arrested without incident and charged with Burglary and Petit Theft.

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

Manatee Sheriff Announces
DUI Crackdown Now Through
Labor Day

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Brad Steube has announced a DUI crackdown by the sheriff's office from now through Labor Day.

The sheriff's office is participating in Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest.

This is a national program that will crackdown on impaired driving through the upcoming Labor Day Holiday weekend.

The sheriff's office Traffic Unit will have 3-5 deputies focusing on DUIs during the week and 6 deputies on the weekends.

Regular patrol deputies will also be looking for impaired drivers.

Manatee County EMS Receives
High Marks for Routine
State Inspection

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Bureau of Emergency Medical Services recently sent high praise to Manatee County EMS, after a stellar – and unannounced – state inspection.

John Bixler, Bureau Chief for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for the Florida Department of Health (DOH), extended “congratulations on your outstanding Compliance Monitoring site survey” in an Aug. 5 letter to Manatee County EMS Chief Ron Koper.

“We found no deficiencies during our site survey,” Bixler wrote. “Your vehicles and service records were outstanding. Thank you for being a role model of excellence as an EMS provider in the state of Florida.”

The Bureau routinely inspects county EMS stations around the state every two years, sometimes unannounced, to ensure compliance with state statutes and Bureau rules. During this summer’s inspection of Manatee EMS, the Bureau:

~ Inspected personnel files for current driving records;
~ Checked for state-mandated certifications;
~ Inspected two ambulances for required equipment;
~ Verified inventories of EMS medications.

“It’s pretty much a front-to-back inspection of what the state requires of an EMS provider,” Koper said. “They found no deficiencies, so it was pretty outstanding for us. Over the years, we’ve developed processes and procedures that have far exceeded state requirements.”

Manatee County EMS includes a staff of just over 150, and 18 EMS vehicles. Koper said the state’s high marks are a reflection of Manatee EMS’ vigilant commitment to a high level of preparation.

“I’m extremely proud of our staff,” Koper said. "They understand and model our commitment to excellence."

Sarasota Sheriff Arrests Two
for Pharmaceutical Diversion

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- At approximately 8:30 a.m. Tuesday morning, August 24, 2010, members of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office Pharmaceutical Diversion Investigative Unit and the Special Investigations Section, working in conjunction with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the North Port Police Department, served a search warrant at 3243 Upson Terrace in North Port, and arrested two men.

Above, L to R, Jeffery B. Kenney and Christopher T. Kenter

This location was searched in relation to an ongoing prescription drug diversion case.

Items seized during the search included firearms, anabolic steroids, fraudulent prescriptions and two personal water-craft reported stolen out of Charlotte County in 2009.

Arrested were two residents, Jeffery B. Kenney, 30, and Christopher T. Kenter, 35.

Kenney is charged with Violation of Community Control, Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Blank Prescriptions. Christopher Kenter was arrested for a warrant from Charlotte County for Violation of Probation/Obtaining Substance by Fraud.

Both subjects remain in the Sarasota County Jail and additional charges are pending.

If anyone has information regarding these subjects they are asked to call Detective Don Kennard at 861-4004 or Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.SarasotaCrimeStoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP 109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Pharmacy Burglar Identification
Needed by Sarasota Sheriff

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect in a burglary at Medical Arts Pharmacy, 4517 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota.

Surveillance video shows the burglar broke in around 10:40 p.m., Saturday night, August 21, 2010, by smashing the glass on the front door. The suspect entered the business, jumped over the counter and removed handfuls of pills from several bottles. The suspect then left the store through the broken door and fled west on foot.

An inventory of the medication found that Hydromorphone, Methadone and Oxycodone pills were taken. The suspect appears to be a White male in his twenties.

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), online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Crime Stoppers Tip Gets
Moose Lodge Burglar Busted

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives arrested Thomas Kevin Pegg, 41, 28024 Cleveland Ave. for the Aug. 14 burglary of the Moose Lodge, 27590 Disston Ave., in the Cleveland area east of Punta Gorda.

Thomas Kevin Pegg

CCSO sent out surveillance photos to media asking the public to help identify the man shown. One of the identifying marks was a tattoo on his back below his neck. While inside the lodge, Pegg pulled his shirt up over his head to hide his face; however, a security camera also shows the tattoo on his back.

An alarm went off at 4:12 a.m. at the Moose Lodge; deputies responded and a K-9 unit tracked the suspect to an area on Mitchell Ave. where the track ended and the suspect was not located.

On Aug. 21, detectives received the Crime Stopper tip naming Pegg that matched the suspect in the security video.

Pegg was questioned by CCSO detectives Tuesday, August 24, 2010, and photos were taken of the tattoo on his back that matched the security photos sent to the media.

Pegg was charged with Burglary and Petit Theft then transported to the Charlotte County Jail. He remains in jail on $3,000 bond.

Police: Girl, 4, Wanders
Off; Dad Charged

ORANGE CITY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 4-year-old girl left her home while her dad was sleeping and zig-zagged from street to street barefoot for nearly a mile before being found at a Central Florida convenience store, police said.

The youngster ended up at Lil Sammie's Food Mart, and the store's surveillance video shows the girl walking and wandering from aisle to aisle.

The little girl wandered the store for 15 minutes, Desai said. She grabbed gum and a Capri Sun, but when she didn't have any cash to pay for the items, a clerk became suspicious.

Concerned patrons tried to help the girl, who said she seemed very talkative and didn't seem to think she was lost.

Police later found out her mother was running errands and her father was in charge of watching the 4-year-old.

Orlando Mendoza told police he fell asleep and the youngster slipped out of the house, but his neighbors are surprised the little girl took off.

Mendoza was arrested Monday night, charged with child neglect. He's been released on bond.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Man, 21, Arrested After Taking
Two Teen Girls on 'Shrooming
Trip Without Parents' Permission

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jeffrey D. Wilkinson, 21, of 1311 67th Street NW, Bradenton.

Jeffrey D. Wilkinson

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, August 19, 2010, at about 11:30 p.m., two White females, 15 and 16, snuck out a back window of the home of one of the girls, without the knowledge or permission of either of their parents.

They walked to the 59th Street boat ramp at 5900 Riverview Blvd., where they met Jeffrey, along with another person, who they knew. The report said Jeffrey knew they were sneaking out without permission.

Jeffrey took all of them for a ride in his white truck. He took them to a park 20 miles from their home, next to Witt Elementary, off of Rye Road.

From there, he led them on a walk into the woods toward a field which was known to contain Psilocybin mushrooms, which produce a psychedelic effect in the user.

Once in the woods, the group became lost.

After wandering around barefooted for about 2 hours, the group decided to call 911 for help.

Jeffrey and the others eventually found their way out of the woods, about 2 miles away, and got a ride back to their vehicle.

The parents of one of the girls responded and said they did not know Jeffrey and never gave him permission to transport their daughter anywhere and certainly no permission was given to expose them to criminal activity. The other girl remained at large as of the writing of the sheriff's report. It is not known if she has returned.

Jeffrey was arrested and charged with two counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

At this time, Wilkinson remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $2,000 bail bond.

Ellenton Teen Arrested for
Theft of Money from
Employer, 7-11

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Darren A. Waterman, 19, of 5465 36th Court East, Ellenton, the location of Tuscany Lakes Apartments.

Darren A. Waterman

According to the arrest report, Waterman works for the 7-11 convenience store located at 8705 U.S. Highway 301 North, in Manatee County.

Between the dates of July 16, 2010, and August 19, 2010, Waterman stole money from the cash register by inputting sales and then voiding them. The cash drawer would then open and he would immediately removed the money.

A total of 14 void/refunds were done between those two dates.

The owner of the store became suspicious when she noticed Darren making too many voids and viewed the store's surveillance video, which showed 14 occasions when Darren made the transactions, but no customers were at the counter.

Darren was interviewed by a detective on August 21, 2010, and post-Miranda admitted to taking money from the register. He said he had been doing it for a few weeks.

Darren Waterman was arrested and charged with Grand Theft.

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

Two Women Arrested
for Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Melinda Lippincott, 24, of the 2100 block of Cass Street, Sarasota, and Eventa Mesidor, 23, of Orlando.

Above, L to R, Eventa Mesidor and Melinda Lippincott

According to the arrest reports, on Saturday, August 21, 2010, undercover detectives with the Special Investigations Unit of the sheriff's office were on patrol, looking for women engaged in prostitution.

At about midnight, they ran across Eventa Mesidor, who was walking southbound in the 7700 block of North Tamiami Trail. They made contact and asked if she was working. She replied that she was and agreed to give one of the detectives oral sex for $35. A good deal signal was given to the takedown team and Mesidor was arrested. She was charged with Prostitution.

Then, at about 1:20 a.m., detectives saw Melinda Lippincott walking in the 6500 block of 14th Street West. One of the detectives asked if she needed a ride and she replied that she did. She got in the undercover vehicle and asked one of the detectives what he was looking for. She agreed to give him oral sex for $60. A good deal signal was given to the takedown team and Lippincott was arrested. She was charged with Prostitution.

Both women have posted a $120 bail bond and have been released from the Manatee County Jail.

Manatee Deputy Ambushed
by Pit Bull, Bitten

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a deputy was bitten by a pit bull on Monday, August 23, 2010, at about 8:30 a.m., in the 2300 block of 30th Avenue East, Bradenton.

According to the report, While attempting to make contact with the homeowner at 2327 30th Avenue East, Bradenton, with a civil service, Deputy F. White accessed a chain link gate.

After knocking on the door, a large white pit bull charged Dep. White through a homemade dog door.

Dep. White was bitten in the left calf, puncturing the skin.

EMS was summoned and treated Dep. White.

Animal Control took the dog and will quarantine it until a determination is made of its health status for rabies, etc.

FHP Seeks Witnesses to
Hit and Run Crash

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Florida Highway Patrol Troopers are continuing to investigate a hit and run crash that occurred on Thursday, August 19, 2010.

The crash occurred on 57th Avenue east just west of 15th Street east at 9:05 p.m.

Daisy Walker, 50, of Bradenton, was a pedestrian traveling north across 57th Avenue east. She was struck by an older model white pickup truck traveling eastbound on 57th Avenue east.

After the collision, the driver left the scene without stopping.

Walker was flown to Bayfront Medical Center with incapacitating injuries.

Troopers are looking for an older model white truck with front end damage.

Troopers are requesting that if anyone witnessed this crash or has information regarding this incident; please contact Trooper Brett Fitzpatrick at 941-751-7647 ext. 428.

Ten Residences Burglarized
on Two Streets in a Month

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported ten residences on Coral Way and Hibiscus Drive were burglarized during the month of August.

A sheriff's report said between August 1st and August 24th, six residences on Coral Way and 3 residences on Hibiscus Drive, at Parkway Villas were burglarized and various items, not listed in the report, were taken. One residence on Hibiscus Drive was an attempted burglary.

The homes were processed for evidence, 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.

Clerk Receives Highest Award
for Financial Reporting

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT[ -- For the 31st consecutive year, Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, R.B. "Chips" Shore, has been presented with the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for the County’s comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR), for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009.

This Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by government and its management.

“As pleasing as it is to be recognized by the GFOA for our reporting, it is even more gratifying to be able to give the members of our community a document that fully discloses the financial decisions and operations of our local government and to do so with complete transparency. As elected officials, it is our responsibility to manage public funds with the highest integrity,” says R.B. “Chips” Shore.

This report is available by calling the Clerk’s office at 941-749-1800 ext. 6102, on the Internet on the Finance page of the Clerk’s web site, http://www.manateeclerk.com/Portals/0/docs/Finance/Reports/CAFR/2009_CAFR.pdf , or at the Clerk’s office located at 1115 Manatee Avenue West in Bradenton.

Agencies Work Together to
Locate Missing Swimmer

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- On Sunday, August 22nd, 2010, at about 8:42 p.m., Michelle Manning reported that her husband Chris Manning, 26, had become depressed and swam out into Sarasota Bay.

Chris Manning had been observed swimming in the bay at about 8:00 p.m. near 40th Street and Bayshore Drive. Michelle was unable to convince him to return to shore and left to get assistance from other family members. When they were unable to locate him they notified Sarasota Police.

A water search was conducted using Sarasota Police Department Marine Patrol Officer Goebel, the Sarasota County Fire Department Rescue Boat, the Longboat Key Police Marine Patrol vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office helicopter (Air One). A land search was conducted by officers of the Sarasota Police Department.

After one hour and forty minutes, Chris Manning was found 3/4 of a mile off shore by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Chris Manning was brought to the 10th Street Boat Ramp and then referred for medical evaluation and treatment.

Charlotte Sheriff Announces Arrest
in 1999 Cold Case Murder of
4-Year-Old Pilar Rodriguez

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Cameron has announced an arrest in the Pilar Rodriguez homicide investigation.

Melissa Harding Jones, aka Melissa Cooper

The CCSO Cold Case Unit has obtained an arrest warrant for Melissa Harding Jones, aka Melissa Cooper, 33, currently residing in Everett, Washington. The Honorable John W. Dommerich, Circuit Judge, issued a warrant for the arrest of Jones for Aggravated Manslaughter of a Child, a felony of the first degree based on a failure of an obligation to protect, in the Feb. 1999 death of the then 4-year-old Pilar Rodriguez.

Jones was a babysitter for young Pilar when the little girl disappeared. In 1999, Pilar's father had given permission for Jones to take Pilar from Hollywood, Florida, to Punta Gorda to be with her [Jones'] boyfriend.

Sheriff Cameron at a Tuesday afternoon press conference said, “Today’s arrest is the culmination of over ten years of hard work by many very talented investigators and I am so pleased that we can finally bring some degree of closure to this very sad case. I truly want to commend the five men of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit who worked tirelessly over the past year and half to help get us to where we are today. I also want to thank the investigators and attorneys of our State’s Attorney’s Office for working side by side with my staff this entire time. Without their assistance and the assistance of many other law enforcement agencies that helped over the years, we would not be making this arrest this week.”

According to Cold Case Supervisor Det. Mike Gandy, “Evidence and materials related to this case were reviewed by members of our unit, and Detective Kurt Mehl was assigned as lead investigator for this case. Det. Mehl painstakingly organized the enormous case file, while Detective Mike Vogel reviewed and examined each item of evidence related to this investigation. Detectives Mehl, Vogel, and other detectives of the Cold Case Unit began reviewing all information previously gathered in the last 10 years by the many investigators involved in the investigation. Subsequent interviews were conducted and additional activities performed, including service of a search warrant, evidence examinations, surveillance operations, and public information solicitations.”

The follow-up activities by the Cold Case Unit led to the discovery of critical information, evidence, and witnesses, which along with previous investigative information, provided evidence establishing probable cause for the arrest of Cooper. The CCSO Cold Case detectives, assisted by FBI agents, and the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office in Everett, Washington, served the Charlotte County warrant on Melissa Harding Jones, aka Melissa Cooper, at her home in Everett Monday night, August 23, 2010, without incident.

Charlotte Detectives Buy
1/2 Pound of Pot from Teen

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday afternoon, August 23, 2010, Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics detectives purchased a half-pound of marijuana from Steeven Abraham, 19, 26190 Paysandu Dr., Deep Creek.

Steeven Abraham

Following the transaction at Gardens Apartments, 25100 Sandhill Blvd., Abraham was arrested and charged with Sale and Delivery of Marijuana Over 20 Grams, and Possession of Marijuana Over 20 Grams. Weight of the marijuana was 232 grams.

Bond was set at $5,000.

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

Kids Found Alone
In Hot Car At Jail

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported three children under the age of 6, including a 2-month-old, were placed in state custody on Monday after they were found alone in a hot car at the Orange County Jail, state officials said.

According to the Florida Department of Children and Families, a person on Sunday spotted the children in the car, which had its windows slightly lowered, and contacted authorities.

The children were removed from the vehicle, which had the potential to reach 125 degrees inside, DCF officials said.

Their mother was later arrested, according to the DCF.

It's not known how long the children were in the hot car, but they were all checked out by emergency medical personnel and did not demonstrate any physical distress associated with the temperatures, the DCF said.

Officials said the family has an extensive history with the DCF, including past allegations of abuse that include inadequate supervision and environmental hazards, WKMG said.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Granny's Burglar Captured By
Video Surveillance, K-9 Team,
Other Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary at Granny's Motorsports, 2001 University Parkway, Bradenton, on Monday, August 23, 2010, at about 2:50 a.m.

Above, L to R, K-9 Dep. Nitro and Leroy Lee Hope, Jr.

A sheriff's report said Deputy Darbonne was dispatched to an alarm at the listed location. Dispatch advised that the alarm company had contacted the owner of the business, who had checked his remote camera system. He could see a person in the enclosed gated area at the rear of the business.

Seconds later, Sgt. Skala attached to the call and advised that he was arriving at the business. As he arrived, he saw a white Chevy Caprice leaving the business, and directed Deputy Darbonne to the vehicle. Deputy Darbonne pulled in behind the vehicle, followed by Deputy Huff and Sgt. Redmond.

Deputy Darbonne activated her emergency lights in an attempt to stop the vehicle. The vehicle sped away, reaching speeds up to 80 mph.

A pursuit was initiated, which lasted approximately 5 minutes. Stop sticks were deployed by Deputy Lake with a good hit on both driver side tires.

Nearing the end of the pursuit, the vehicle was traveling northbound on 9th Street East at the 5800 block. The vehicle veered off the road and cut through a field to 58th Avenue Drive East, followed by Deputy Darbonne in the primary position.

Deputy Huff, in the secondary position, attempted to follow, but hit a tree in the field with the left front corner of his patrol vehicle.

Once on 58th Avenue Drive East, the vehicle turned north onto 9th Street Court East and immediately crashed into a tree.

The driver bailed and fled west, but was forced to hide, due to westside units arriving on 9th Street East. A perimeter was quickly set up.

K-9 Deputy Kruse and his K-9 Dep. Nitro arrived shortly afterwards and began tracking. Seconds later, the suspect, later identified as Leroy Lee Hope, Jr., 20, was flushed from his hiding spot and ran east, but was quickly apprehended and bitten on his right thigh by K-9 Nitro.

Burglary tools, to include a large pair of bolt cutters, were found in Hope's vehicle.

It was later learned that the gate to the fenced area of the business had been cut by a similar tool.

Hope was charged with Burglary, Possession of Burglary Tools, Fleeing to Elude, Resisting Arrest without Violence, Reckless Driving, Felony Driving While License Suspended, No Vehicle Registration and Leaving the Scene of a Crash. He was also charged with Violation of Probation on an earlier burglary charge.

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

Deputy Huff was not injured in the crash, and he was able to drive his vehicle from the scene.

Teenage Babysitter Arrested
on Child Neglect Charge

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kaytlin Jenkins, 17, of the 5400 block of 26th Street West, Bradenton.

Kaytlin Jenkins

A sheriff's report said at 9:50 a.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2010, David Allen observed a 2-year-old child walking alone in the middle of the road, heading towards the entrance of the apartment complex at the above address.

David quickly looked around for an adult with negative results and then called 911.

Deputies Evers, Guthrie, and Bowden searched the apartment complex for approximately 45 minutes.

Deputy Evers located a person who recognized the listed child, named only as White male L.R. in the report, and directed her to the apartment that the child lives in.

Deputy Evers and Deputy Guthrie located the child's 17-year-old babysitter, Kaytlin Jenkins, who was responsible for the listed child.

C.P.S. Investigator Wilkes responded and interviewed all listed subjects.

The child’s mother, Nicole Miszewski, was notified of the incident and responded home from the school she was attending in Sarasota.

Kaytlin Jenkins advised that she and the child went to sleep in the same bed at 9:30 a.m. and she just woke up when the deputies knocked on the door.

Somehow the child got out of bed, exited the bedroom, then exited the apartment and walked all the way from the back of the apartment complex to the front undetected.

Kaytlin Jenkins was arrested and charged with Child Neglect and her mother, Shannon Jenkins, was notified.

Kaytlin was transported to the Juvenile Booking Facility.

Man Arrested for Domestic
Battery by Strangulation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Terrance T. Lewis, 23, of 5608 5th Street East, Bradenton.

Terrence T. Lewis

According to the arrest report, on August 17, 2010, at about 7-8:30 p.m., Terrence and his girlfriend, Camari Domino, got in an argument.

Camari lives with Terrence, along with a child, who was not present at the time.

Camari confronted Terrence about him cheating on her with other women.

After the verbal altercation, Camari then asked Terrence to leave.

Terrence became violent by grabbing Camari around the neck, strangling her and cutting off her ability to breath for about two seconds.

Terrence then grabbed her hair as she tried to walk away and slammed her on the ground covered with broken glass.

Camari got up and told him to leave again and she was going to call the police.

Terrence then slapped her twice and left, the report said.

One half hour later, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Terrence came back. Camari then told him she was going to call the police.

Terrence spit in Camari's face and left.

Terrence was arrested on August 22, 2010, at the Manatee County Jail, where he is currently incarcerated on other unrelated charges.

He was charged with Felony Domestic Battery by Strangulation and Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a combined bail bond of $20,500.

Man Struck, Slashed, Robbed
During Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Sunday, August 22, 2010, at about 9:30 a.m., in the 1200 block of 63rd Avenue Esat, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Caleb Snyder, 30, of the 3100 block of 47th Avenue East, Bradenton, was walking in the 1200 block of 63rd Avenue East when he was suddenly struck by an unknown object on the left side of his forehead.

As he fell to the ground, he saw 3-4 Hispanic males surround him; he had not seen them approach.

One of the males kicked him in the ribs, while another slashed his left forearm with what he described as a "butcher knife" with an 8 to 10-inch blade.

One of the robbers reached into Snyder's left pocket and took his prescription pill bottle.

After the robbery occurred, Snyder ran out of the area. He did not immediately report the crime to the Sheriff's Office.

Sgt. Redmond observed a large egg-shaped bruise on Snyder's forehead, and a 2-inch cut on his left forearm.

Snyder refused EMS.

The robbers were described as follows: 3-4 Hispanic males, one described as having a ponytail with the sides of his head shaved. Another male has the Virgin Mary tattooed to one of his forearms. Both of these males were 5'6" to 5'8" and 145-165 pounds. A third male was heavyset with a "pimply" face. A description of the possible fourth suspect was not available.

https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=348

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.

Pizza Delivery Driver
Mugged in Palmetto

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a pizza delivery driver was mugged in Palmetto on Sunday, August 22, 2010, at about 11:30 p.m., in the 200 block of 19th Street East, Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Mark Mclean, 41, who works for Domino's Pizza, was delivering pizzas to 203 19th St. E., Palmetto.

Mclean could not find the address, so he called the number on the delivery ticket and spoke to the suspect who told him he could see him and to keep driving.

The suspect then told him when to pull into a driveway at approximately 207 19th St. E.

Mclean got out of his car and set 4 pizzas on the step.

When he did, two suspects began punching him.

He told the guys to stop and they picked up the pizzas and fled southeast from the residence on foot.

Mclean was not injured.

The muggers were described as 2 unknown Black males, 1 chubby, 1 skinny, both about 5'10 tall. One was wearing a black shirt the other a black tank top.

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 Accidentally Shoots
Himself, Deputies Say

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an accidental shooting on Sunday, August 22, 2010, at about 7:10 a.m., in the 4500 block of Coral Blvd., Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Justin, Gray, 23, of 1912 3rd Avenue East, Bradenton, was helping his friend Mike load Mike’s boat to go on a fishing trip and accidentally discharged his handgun that was in a holster when he took it out of his pocket.

The bullet was stuck in Justin’s right leg and he was transported to Bayfront Medical center by E.M.S. with injuries that were not life-threatening, the report said.

Deputy Magro secured the firearm, placed it into property and evidence and completed a report.

Burglar Caught in the Act By
Sarasota Sheriff's Detectives,
Sarasota Police Units

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported the Sarasota Police Department received information in advance that Christopher M. Havlicek. 39, was planning to conduct a residential burglary in the 900 block of Sirus Trail, Sarasota, on Monday, August 23, 2010.

Christopher Havlicek

Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office detectives staged inside the residence while members from both agencies conducted surveillance of Havlicek.

At approximately 7:30 a.m., detectives observed Havlicek leaving his residence in the 800 block of Gantt Avenue, Sarasota, and drive directly to the 900 block of Sirus Trail.

He then parked on the street near the residence, exited his vehicle and was observed walking toward the rear of the residence where he entered a door with a screwdriver in hand.

Detectives inside the residence attempted to arrest Havlicek as he was going through the drawers in the master bedroom. He attempted to flee and was Tasered by detectives on scene in order to prevent his escape.

After being handcuffed and walked toward an awaiting patrol car, Havlicek broke free and again attempted to flee on foot. As he ran past a parked Sheriff’s Office vehicle, he was struck by the passenger door as it was intentionally opened into his path. He was able to continue running a short distance across the roadway before being Tasered again and taken back into custody.

Havlicek has a criminal past including prior burglary, grand theft, and escape arrests.

He has been charged with Burglary, Possession of Burglary Tools, Resisting Arrest, and Attempted Escape for Monday’s incident.

The investigation is on-going as detectives from both agencies continue to work together.

A search warrant will be conducted at Havlicek’s residence so investigators can attempt to identify other possible burglary victims and other crimes Havlicek may have committed.

SPD Arrests Man for
Strong Arm Robbery

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department has arrested Robert Ware III, 35, for a strong arm robbery that occurred on Saturday, August 21, 2010, at about 10:40 p.m., in the 800 block of 42nd Street, Sarasota.

Robert Ware III

A report from the Sarasota Police Department said Michael Robinson, 35, reported that he was the victim of a robbery that had occurred in the 800 block of 42nd Street.

Mr. Robinson reports that he was walking home from the store when he was contacted by the perpetrator, later identified as Ware.

Ware requested a cigarette, which Robinson gave him, then asked for cash, which Robinson refused.

Ware then punched Robinson twice in the face and began going through Robinson's pockets, removing the victim’s cell phone and wallet.

Officer Nicholas Dominis accompanied Robinson back to the robbery location. Officer Dominis located Robinson's cell phone, wallet, and credit cards. Robinson advised that he had about $30 inside his wallet; the money was not recovered.

Officer David Dubendorf and Officer Gregory Miller located Robert Ware in the 900 block of 42nd Street.

Robinson was transported to that location and positively identified Robert Ware as the robber.

Ware was arrested for Strong Arm Robbery.

Mom Left Five Kids Home
Alone To Go Clubbing

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A woman was arrested Monday in Orlando on suspicion of leaving her five children -- all under the age of 13 -- home alone while she was at a nightclub, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Formeka Sanders, 29, was arrested on child neglect charges.

According to Orlando police, a 5-year-old boy was found wandering by a security guard around 1:30 a.m. in the parking lot of the Oak Glen apartments, and the guard called police.

The boy showed the guard where he lived, but he didn't answer when he was asked about the whereabouts of his mother, according to a police report.

When officers took the child home, the other children, ages 12, 10, 9 and 2, were discovered alone and asleep in their home. All of the children appeared to be OK, police said.

Police said Sanders left a cell phone number with her children, but when police called her, she could not be heard because of loud music in the background, and she hung up. Orlando police said Sanders was at Firestone, a downtown Orlando night club. One of the children told police that Sanders left the apartment around 11 p.m. Sunday.

Sanders returned home around 3:30 a.m. with her boyfriend and was later arrested, police said.

According to Orlando police, officers smelled alcohol on Sanders, who admitted to having one drink after initially saying she did not have any alcohol.

Sanders said she left one of the children in charge of the apartment and feels the child is old enough to care for the four siblings, according to the police report. She also said she typically goes out on weekends and leaves the child in charge of the others for about three hours overnight approximately once a week, according to police.

The children were placed in the care of Sanders' mother, according to the police report, but it's not known if they will remain in her custody.

The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified of the incident and an investigation has been launched, WKMG said.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Bradenton Police Department
Gang Unit Officer Receives
Award as Gang Investigator
of the Year for Tampa Bay

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Bradenton Police Department Gang Unit Officer Ben Pieper has been awarded the Gang Investigator of the Year award by the Florida Gang Investigators Association and the Multi Agency Gang Task Force (MAGTF) – Tampa Bay area . Officer Pieper was nominated by Doug Bieniek who is a Major Crimes Investigator with State Attorney's Office in Hillsborough County and the Multi Agency Gang Task Force – Tampa Bay area.

Above, BPD Gang Unit Officer Ben Pieper

Every year the Florida Gang Investigator’s Association ask their members to nominate an individual for the Gang Investigator’s Investigator of the year, for the Gang Unit of the year, and for other awards. The Multi Agency gang task force also has a separate award ceremony that awards the individuals that they feel contributed the most to the MAGTF. Ben Pieper has been an intricate component of the MAGTF for several years. He has become a very seasoned gang investigator and still is very enthused with gang investigations. Officer have all worked close with Pieper and when he sees a gang member that he wants to talk to, you can see him become excited and cannot wait to talk to this individual. Bieniek said he has watched Pieper approach and talk to people; he has fantastic interview skills, as he is able to stand and talk to gang members and get information that others cannot.

One such incident occurred at the State Fair this last year. Pieper observed a Blood gang member and approached the individual and began talking to him. Pieper then placed the individual in a State database. Later in the year he responded to a triple homicide. The names of the victims naturally were run in databases. An individual who Pieper talked to at the State Fair was one of the homicide victims and Pieper had entered him into the State gang database. Now they knew they were dealing with a gang-involved homicide. Pieper remembered speaking to the individual at the fair and was able to recall their conversation. This assisted in the investigation. Several arrests have been made and the investigation continues.

Last year, Detective R. Mateo, a member of the MAGTF had an idea after listening to a taped conversation of some people talking about killing another gang member. Several officers, including Pieper, met to put together an intermediate class for the Florida Gang Investigator’s association. Pieper took this idea and ran with it. He made photographs of gang members, he designed and manufactured a graffiti wall, he found a dummy and clothing to dress the class's homicide victim. He put together all the stations in the class. The class was tested in Haines City. Pieper was one of the instructors and was able to share his knowledge with the class. Students commented in very positive ways. Most said it was the best Law Enforcement class they have taken.

Pieper also put together a class on music and the gang culture. The class was very well received at the gang conference and he has become an F.G.I.A. instructor.

Pieper is a dedicated Police Officer and is always ready to help. All the people in MAGTF say that Pieper will give you the shirt off his back.

Doug Bieniek, Major Crimes Investigator for the State Attorney's Office in Hillsborough County said, "I was proud to nominate Pieper for Gang Investigator of the year both for the Florida Gang Investigator’s Association and for MAGTF; he received well-deserved awards."

Man, 56, Stabbed in Chest
on former Trail Motel Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was seriously stabbed on Saturday, August 21, 2010, at about 10 p.m., in the 3500 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Ronald Baskins

A sheriff's report said James Jaquier, 51, and Robert Ackerman, 47, were hanging out in the property formerly known as Trail Mobile Home Park when Ronald Baskins, 56, came up on a bicycle.

Baskins and Jaquier got into an argument and Baskins pulled out a pipe and began beating Jaquier with it.

Ackerman intervened and took the pipe away and Baskins pulled out a knife and stabbed Ackerman in the left chest.

Ackerman was transported via Bayflite to Bayfront Medical Center with a severe injury to his chest.

Jaquier was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital with minor injuries.

Ackerman's condition is not known at the time of this report, but it was likely a life-threatening wound.

It was later learned that Ackerman suffered a ruptured spleen and required surgery.

Shortly after this incident, Baskins arrived at the Manatee County Operations Center nearby where he was arrested without incident.

Baskins was charged with Attempted Murder with a Deadly Weapon and Aggravated Battery.

He is being held in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Homeless Man Robs Woman
at ATM Drive-Through at
Cortez Road Bank

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ronald Keith Zerr, Jr., 45, a homeless man, in Bradenton.

Ronald K. Zerr, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, August 19, 2010, at about 5:30 p.m., an unnamed female victim said she was driving her vehicle and pulled into the automated drive through at the Bank of America, 3401 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, when a man, later identified as Zerr, got in front of her car and motioned her to stop.

Zerr then asked the woman for some money and the woman said that she did not have any. Zerr then asked her if he could use her cell phone and the woman willingly gave him her cell phone to use.

The woman was going to help Zerr with $10, but then became scared when she asked for her cell phone back from Zerr and he refused to give it back to her, demanding $10 from her.

Scared, she told Zerr she could only get $20 from the ATM. Zerr told her to get the $20 from the ATM and go to a nearby store and get change, which she did. Zerr followed her into the store.

After receiving the $10, he gave the woman her cell phone back and after a few minutes Zerr left the store. The woman called 911.

Arriving deputies located Zerr in the same block a few minutes later and arrested him.

He was charged with Robbery.

Three Arrested in Area
Prostitution Sweep

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Kelly Breanna Kaufman, 23, of 1751 Fruitville Road, Sarasota; Delana Dee Brakeall, 42, of 1710 30th Avenue West, Bradenton; and Natalie Jane McKee, 31, of 8110 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.

Above, L to R, Kelly Kaufman, Delana Brakeall and Natalie McKee

On Friday, August 20, 2010, detectives working in an undercover capacity posing as "johns" were looking for women attempting to engage in prostitution.

At about 12:10 p.m., two women were seen walking east on 57th Avenue East at about the 900 block. Both women whistled at a detective when he drove by in an undercover vehicle. He stopped and they began to engage in conversation. During the conversation, one of the women asked him if he was looking for fun. The detective said yes and when asked if he had any money, he replied that he only had $29 and a pack of cigarettes. The woman replied that that was enough for vaginal sex and directed him to drive to a nearby home in the 5800 block of 11th Street East. The detective agreed to have vaginal sex with both women, but one said she only wanted to watch. At that point, a "good deal" sign was given and a takedown team arrived and arrested her. She was identified as Kelly Kaufman. The other woman was not arrested. Kaufman was charged with Prostitution after Prior Conviction.

Then, at about 12:30 p.m., detectives drove to the 2800 block of 14th Street West, where they came into contact with Delana Brakeall. Brakeall was walking north and was asked if she needed a ride. She said sure and got in the undercover vehicle. During conversation, Brakeall agreed to oral sex for $30. They drove a short distance, where Brakeall was taken into custody. She was charged with Prostitution.

At about 12:55 p.m., detectives spotted Natalie McKee walking southbound on Tamiami Trail at about the 7800 block (Tallevast Road). She was asked if she needed a ride and she said yes and got into the undercover vehicle. During conversation, McKee agreed to oral sex for $20. They drove a short distance where she was taken into custody. She was charged with Prostitution after Prior Conviction. After her arrest, McKee said she was walking the streets because she is pregnant and was saving money to get an abortion.

Bradenton Police Ask Help
Identifying Purse Snatcher

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department is asking the public's assistance identifying a man suspected of a purse snatching on Saturday, August 7, 2010, at about 1 p.m., at the Wal-Mart store, 5315 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton.

Bradenton Police officers responded to the Wal-Mart store regarding a reported purse snatching.

Investigation revealed that the male suspect, pictured in the striped polo shirt and blue jeans, exited the store and walked into the parking lot.

As he walked past the female victim who was loading groceries into her car, he snatched the victim's purse from her shopping cart.

The suspect fled the area with the purse.

He was last seen leaving in a black 1990’s model Toyota Camry.

If you know identity of this person or have information with regard to this incident, please call detective Michael Page at 941-932-9314 or the Bradenton Police Department at 941-932-9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000, call Crime Stoppers (toll free) at 1-866-634-8477 (TIPS) 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.

Woman Arrested for Retail
Grand Theft; 3rd Time

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Crystal Lynn Reinhardt, 21, of 3122 47th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Crystal Lynn Reinhardt

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, August 17, 2010, at about 2:45 p.m., Reinhardt walked into the Lowe's home improvement store, located at 7395 52nd Place East, Bradenton and went to the hardware department where she selected several items and placed them in a shopping cart.

She then went to the plumbing department and selected several items, placing them in the shopping cart.

She then went to the Lawn and Garden department where she was observed by loss prevention personnel concealing the items in a large purse.

She then exited the lawn and garden entrance, passing all points of sale, failing to pay for the concealed merchandise.

A loss prevention associate apprehended her.

The total amount of the merchandise taken was $411.05.

Reinhardt was charged with Retail Grand Theft.

Post-Miranda, she said she stole the items for a guy who promised to buy her $100-150 worth of groceries from his food stamp card.

The report by Dep. Bryce Mead noted Reinhardt has two prior convictions of retail theft.

Sunset Village Resident Robbed
While Sitting at Bus Stop; He
Sustained Minor Injuries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a robbery with minor injuries on Saturday, August 21, 2010, at about 12:30 p.m., in the 3900 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

According to a sheriff's report, at 12:25 p.m., while sitting on the ground at the MCAT bus stop located in front of 3907 14th Street West, the victim, James D. Egan, of 3715 14th Street West, Bradenton, was struck upon the back side of his head by an unknown object.

He then observed an unknown White male reach over his shoulder and snatched the dollar bill out of his hand.

The robber then fled southbound on foot and Egan attempted to get onto the Manatee County bus.

The bus driver refused to let Egan on the bus because he was bleeding, but the bus driver did call 911.

Egan refused medical assistance and the bus driver continued his route.

Law enforcement responded to the area and searched for Egan with negative results.

At 1:09 p.m., the bartender from the nearby Cheers bar called and advised that Egan was inside his bar drinking and bleeding from the back side of his head.

Deputy Evers made contact with Egan who advised that he does not know the robber, had never seen him before, cannot identify robber and would seek medical treatment for his injuries.

The robber was described as an unknown White male, 5'-8" to 5'-09" tall, 160 pounds, with short hair; he was wearing an army green T-Shirt.

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.

Attempted Suicide Prevented
by Manatee County Deputies
at 14th Street West Apartment

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted suicide on Friday, August 20, 2010, at about 11:50 p.m., in the 2800 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Angela Ramon called 911 to advise that her husband, Eutimio Hernandez, no age given, had locked himself in the bathroom with a knife and was threatening to kill himself.

Upon arrival, Hernandez was found in the bedroom, lying on the bed, holding a large knife to his chest.

While Deputy Aviles negotiated with Hernandez to put the knife down, Hernandez moved it from his chest to his stomach and then to his throat.

When the opportunity presented itself, the arm in which Hernandez was holding the knife was seized, while at the same time Deputy Kruse deployed his Taser.

Hernandez was struck in the chest by the Taser and he was detained without further incident.

Hernandez was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital for evaluation.

Motorcycle Owner Dragged by
Would-Be Thief

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the attempted theft of a motorcycle on Friday, August 20, 2010, at about 12:30 a.m., in the 5300 block of 18th Street Blvd., Bradenton.

Units were dispatched to the above location and upon their arrival they met with Corey Krews, no age given.

According to the victim he was home and heard his motorcycle start up in his yard. Thinking his bike was being stolen, he immediately went outside.

When he went outside, he observed an unknown Hispanic male leaving the yard on his motorcycle.

Krews ran after the would-be thief and grabbed the back end of the bike. The thief continued to accelerate away from the area with Krews still holding on.

Krews was able to keep the suspect from getting away, however Krews fell and received a severe road rash on his face, body and legs.

Krews was unable to identify the suspect and returned home with the bike. He did not call 911 for over an hour or so. He was severely intoxicated and had trouble describing the sequence of events.

He was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment.

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.

School is Back in Session:
Watch for Children

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- NewsManatee Health & Safety Director Craig Herbert wants to remind everyone that as of Monday morning, August 23, 2010, students in Manatee County will be returning to their normal school schedule for the year. Children in other counties may already be back in school.

Herbert said, "Let's all take extra precautions while driving, so our children can have a safe and healthy school year. Watch for cross walks, speed limits, stop signs, and school zone signs. Most of all, watch out for the children!"

We also want to remind you to stop for school buses when they are stopped and have their stop flags out on the left side of the buses.

Drive safely, please. Our children are our most important asset.

Sarasota Man Charged with
Organized Scheme to Defraud,
Selling Unregistered Securities

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT/FDLE] -- Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) special agents and Sarasota deputies arrested Scott Leon Johnson, 58, of Sarasota on Friday on charges related to organized scheme to defraud.

Scott Leon Johnson

The investigation began in 2009 after Johnson’s acquaintances reported they had been victimized out of $50,000 by Johnson. The victims allege that Johnson had represented himself as a financial advisor and tax preparer, and had offered them an investment opportunity described as being managed through him.

Johnson told the victims that he was involved in currency exchange investments through which he was receiving a good rate of return.

Agents allege Johnson told the victims that their funds would be invested with an entity called Automated Trading Systems (ATS), which had currency traders in Panama and London. Johnson then provided the victims with an explanation of how his investment would be used to facilitate returns through currency exchange between various countries monetary systems, i.e. they might invest in Yen and leave it there overnight and later trade it for Pounds in England. Johnson told the victims that by playing the fluctuation in currency foreign markets, they would all make money. Johnson said that based on a 7 percent rate of return per month, the victims would receive 5 percent and ATS would receive 2 percent commission.

According to the victims, after leaving their funds in place with Johnson for over a year, in the beginning of 2008 they advised him they needed their funds at which time Johnson then informed them their funds were now worthless and that someone had disappeared with all their money

Johnson was charged with one count of organized scheme to defraud, a first-degree felony, one count of sale of unregistered security, a third-degree felony, and one count of selling security without being lawfully registered, a third-degree felony.

Johnson was booked into the Sarasota County Jail.

Armed Home Invasion Robbery;
Victim Pistol-Whipped

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, August 18, 2010, at approximately 10:11 p.m., Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call from Thomas E. Harris of 3327 Fauna Street, Sarasota.

Harris reported that he and a guest were inside the residence when he answered a knock at the door. When he opened the door, two suspects described as Black males, approximately 20 years of age, 6’ tall with short-cropped hair who were armed with handguns and wearing gloves, stormed in demanding drugs.

The suspects reportedly pistol-whipped Harris and used duct tape to bind and cover the victims’ eyes while ransacking and robbing the house of firearms, electronic game equipment and a television.

After the suspects left, Harris freed himself and called 911 from a neighbor’s house.

Mr. Harris was treated and released from the hospital for injuries sustained during the attack.

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), online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com or via text message by texting TIP109 plus a message to CRIMES (274637).

Pizzeria Owner Held Up
at Gunpoint

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 12:23 a.m. that the owner of Bella Napoli Pizzeria, located at 24123 Peachland Blvd., Port Charlotte, was robbed at gunpoint at his closed restaurant.

The victim reported that he answered a knock at the rear door and encountered two black males, wearing black hoodies, one armed with an unknown type revolver.

The unarmed subject patted the victim down, taking money out of his pocket and a necklace.

The two suspects then fled in an unknown beige or rust colored four-door Hyundai or Toyota type vehicle.

The victim was uninjured in the crime.

The crime is under further investigation by the Major Crimes Unit of the sheriff’s office at this time.

If you have any information about this crime, or the suspects involved, please contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at 941-639-2101, or Crimestoppers at 800-780-8477.

Port Charlotte Drug House
Raided; 4 Arrested

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit, Street Crimes Unit and SWAT raided a known drug house Thursday, August 19, 2010, at 6:45 a.m. at 122 Barre Dr., Port Charlotte.

Narcotics detectives purchased crack cocaine twice at the Barre Dr. home in undercover operations; June 21 from Massey, and Zavala on June 22.

Two men and two women who live in the home were arrested; they were:

Frank Elton Massey, 57, $7,500 bond, 9th booking.
Caryl Ann Zavala, 53, $11,000 bond, 7th booking.
Tiquisha Devona Bennett, 22, No bond, 10th booking.
Tommy L. Martin, 51, $3,500 bond, 2nd booking.

Narcotics detectives found heroin, cocaine, opium and Klonopin in the home along with residue on burnt brillo, spoons, plastic straws and a digital scale.

The four were transported to the Charlotte County Jail and all remained in jail Friday morning.

Massey and Zavala were both charged with Sale and Delivery of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Crack Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Bennett was charged with Possession of Opium, Klonopin, Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Martin’s charges were Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

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

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NewsManatee Archive Created 8/28/2010 2:00:06 PM

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