This website contains archived material from NewsManatee.com which is supported through private funding, supporter donations and advertising. If you are looking for the latest news in Manatee County Florida visit Newsmanatee.com or perform an archive search at Newsmanateearchive.com. NOTE: Archiving did not begin until March 14, 2008. If you are seeking articles published prior to this date, you will need to contact us directly.

Braden River High School
Teacher Arrested for
Head-Butting Own Kid

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Charles E. Willis, 43, of the 400 block of 65th Street East, Bradenton.

Charles E. Willis

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010, at about 9 p.m., a confrontation began between Willis and his son.

The confrontation began as a parental disciplinary situation and escalated, the report said.

The boy is 12 years old.

Willis struck the boy on the left side of his forehead with his own forehead ("Head-Butt"), causing a very mild swelling, according to the report.

The incident was witnessed by a girl, who filled out an affidavit.

There was no discoloration or obvious swelling of the wound area, the report said.

Willis invoked his right to an attorney; no questions were asked and no statements made after that.

Willis was charged with Child Abuse.

Willis posted a $1,500 bail bond and wsa released from the Manatee County Jail.

Woman Arrested for Prostitution,
Prescription Drugs without a
Prescription, Paraphernalia

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Wendy J. Oakes, 42, of the 1000 block of 59th Avenue Terrace West, Bradenton.

Wendy J. Oakes

The arrest report said an undercover deputy with the Special Investigation Division Tactical Unit was prowling the streets of Bradenton looking to pick up women engaged in prostitution.

On Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 4 p.m., he saw Oakes riding a bike in the 5900 block of 12th Street East. He made contact and she got in the undercover vehicle. The detective placed her bike in the trunk.

After conversation, Oakes agreed to give the detective oral sex for $20.

A signal was given and Oakes was arrested.

A search incident to Oakes' arrest produced a crack pipe and a prescription bottle with 3 different types of pills inside. There was no label on the bottle and Oakes did not have a prescription for the pills.

She was charged with Prostitution (2nd offense), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and 3 counts of Possession of a Legend Drug without a Prescription.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a bail bond of $1,860.

Man Points Gun at Other Man;
Gun Found, Man Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jesse Moreno, 33, of 316 52nd Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Jesse Moreno

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 10:45 p.m., Jesse and his girlfriend, Mary Elgersma, were in a verbal dispute at the above location.

Mary left the residence and went to 403 52nd Avenue Plaza West. Jesse gave chase and Mary ran inside, yelling that Jesse had a gun.

The resident at 403 52nd Avenue Plaza West, Jerry Mofield, exited the residence and saw Jesse pacing in the street. Jerry walked out to the driveway and told Jesse to leave.

Jesse told Jerry if he wanted a problem, he would give him one. Then Jesse pulled a handgun out and pointed it at Jerry. Jesse pulled the slide back and charged the firearm the report said. Jesse then told Jerry that he would shoot Jerry and didn't care.

Jesse was in fear for his life and called 911. Deputy Kaczmarek arrived and met with Jerry. The deputy was told Jesse ran inside his house when he saw the deputy coming down the street.

The deputy searched for the gun between the homes, with negative results. He then met with Jesse, who said he did not have a gun and insisted the deputy search his car.

The deputy searched the car and located a 9mm Hi Point handgun under the passenger seat. The gun was loaded with a round in the chamber. The gun was seized as evidence.

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

As of Thursday afternoon, Jesse Moreno remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $200,000 bail bond.

Man Suspected in 7-11 Robbery
Arrested on Another Charge

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Mark A. Smith, 29, of 2020 46th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Mark A. Smith

According to the arrest report, Manatee County Sheriff's Detectives had information that "Mark," who allegedly committed a recent robbery at the 7-11 convenience store located at 5640 14th Street West, was at a residence in the 5600 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton, on Sept. 13, 2010, at about 7:20 p.m.

The suspect in that robbery was described as a light-skinned Hispanic or possibly Black male, who had a shirt pulled over his nose. The suspect implied he had a weapon and demanded cash. The suspect received the money and fled from the store, but was not apprehended.

On Saturday, Sept. 18, 2010, at about 9:40 p.m., detectives went to the address where "Mark" allegedly was and the owner gave them permission to search for "Mark."

An announcement was made, identifying the deputies, but nobody answered. An initial search found nobody.

However, during a second search, Mark Smith was found hiding in a kitchen cabinet under the sink.

As Mark exited the cabinet, a detective saw Mark spit a small blue pill into his left hand and then drop it on the floor, crushing it into smaller pieces.

Smith was arrested and charged with Tampering with Evidence.

Smith has denied involvement in the robbery.

At this time, he remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $500.

$5,000+ Items Stolen in
Burglary at Sunset Village

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary to a residence in Sunset Village Mobile Home Park, 3715 14th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said while the victim, Starla Cobb, 50, was on vacation out of state for a month, burglars entered her mobile home and stole items valued at $5,305. The incident occurred on Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., the report said.

The resident had left keys to her residence with a friend to take care of her pets, the report said.

No signs of forced entry to the residence were found.

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.

DUI Wolfpack Planned
for This Weekend in
Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol will conduct a DUI Wolfpack Operation commencing on Friday, September 24, 2010 at 5 PM and ending on Saturday, September 25, 2010 at 3:00 AM.

The Wolfpack Operation will take place in Manatee County with a central focus on alcohol and drug impaired drivers. Troopers will saturate areas that are known for having a high concentration of crash related injuries, fatalities and impaired drivers. Enforcement efforts will also include speed, seatbelt and aggressive driving violations.

There were 398 alcohol related crashes in Manatee County during 2009. These crashes have resulted in 296 injuries and 17 fatalities. Driving Under the Influence is a crime and these deaths were preventable.

The Florida Highway Patrol takes this crime seriously and has a zero tolerance policy for impaired drivers.

Bradenton Man's Car Stolen
in Carjacking Incident

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported a 2009 Honda Accord was taken at gunpoint from Glenn D. Rausch, of the 3200 block of 58th Terrace East, Bradenton, on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2010, at about 11:20 p.m.

A sheriff's report said the above named victim reported a Carjacking to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.

The incident occurred at the intersection of Conservatory Drive and Desoto Road, Sarasota, Florida.

Two suspects approached the victim at this intersection and after a brief interaction, one of the suspects produced a firearm. The victim was ordered to exit his vehicle. The victim complied with the order and the suspects drove away in the victim’s vehicle.

The victim’s vehicle was a blue 2009 Honda Accord, two door, bearing FL tag 437HFE. The incident is currently being investigated by the Criminal Investigations Section.

The carjackers were described as a Black male, approx. 19 years old, 5’9" tall, 180-200 pounds, with short “dread” style hair, and a possible name of “Mike;” and a Black male, approx. 22 years old, 6’1" tall, 150 pounds, with long “dread” style hair.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Criminal Investigations Section at 941-861-1719 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS (8477), or online at www.crimestoppers.com.

Stupid Criminal: Teen Steals Car,
Drops Driver License Inside;
Cops Find Car, License,
Arrest Teen

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s detectives recovered a stolen car but didn’t have a problem identifying one of two suspects because one of them dropped his driver’s license in the vehicle.

Miles Jared Overway

On Sep. 15, Miles Jared Overway, 17, of 510 Ridgewood St., Port Charlotte, and another man went to the Car Care Center, 19500 Peachland Blvd., and inquired about buying a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria police package vehicle on the lot for $3,000.

The keys were given to them by a salesman so they could take a test drive; they came back but did not return the keys. A check of the lot that night at 10 p.m. found the car stolen.

The next morning, the business owner called CCSO to report the stolen car was returned and parked in the lot. A deputy opened the driver’s door and saw Overway’s Florida driver’s license between the door and seat. The car was returned with various electronic items inside that were stolen; value was set at $1,500.

The business owner provided surveillance video that showed the two suspects that came into the lot the day the car was stolen; it also showed the red Pontiac Grand Prix they drove to the business and left in that day. The investigation continued to locate Overway’s accomplice.

Detectives Wednesday went to Overway’s home and observed the red Pontiac in the driveway. He was taken into custody, charged with Grand Theft Auto, transported to the Charlotte County Jail, and then released to his parents’ custody.

Mom Jailed After Boy, 10,
Misses 64 Days Of School

DeLAND, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a DeLand woman's lax attitude about school attendance landed her in jail, according to the state attorney's office in Volusia County.

Penny Kersey

Penny Kersey, 32, was arrested after the Volusia County Sheriff's Office discovered her 10-year-old son had missed more than 64 days of school at Freedom Elementary. All of the missed days were unexcused absences.

Based on a complaint and evidence handed over by police, prosecutors charged Kersey with failing or refusing to allow her child to attend school.

The Daytona Beach News-Journal reported that Kersey failed to show up for a court appearance Sept. 8 on the truancy charge, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. She was picked up Saturday and booked into the Volusia County Jail. Kersey was released on $500 bond.

The district said her son has a marked pattern of absences since kindergarten, when he missed 96 days and was late 107 times.

Kersey claimed that their son "refused to go to school" but provided no documentation to explain his absences.

Florida law encourages schools to take criminal action against a student's parents if the child has more than 15 unexcused absences within 90 days with no valid excuse, WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Mother Arrested for Child Abuse
After Encouraging Daughter
to Fight Another Girl; Caught
on Video on YouTube

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested April M. Newcomb, 39, of Palmetto.

April M. Newcomb

A press release from the sheriff's office said on Sept. 17, 2010, deputies responded to a fight between two Palmetto High School students, both female and both 16 years old, in the 4800 block of 17th Street West, Palmetto.

When deputies arrived, the fight was over but subsequent investigation determined that April Newcomb, the victim’s mother, was present at the fight and actively encouraged her daughter to fight the other student.

The daughter stated she told her mother that day of plans to fight the other student at a vacant field by Emerson Point in Palmetto.

The Sheriff’s Office obtained video of the fight that was posted on the Internet. The video shows Newcomb encouraging her daughter to fight and not making any attempt to stop the fight.

The video was posted on YouTube and was entitled "Did you get a muffler? No an Exhaust!"

However, it was removed by YouTube late Wednesday, due to "terms of use violation."

But before it was removed, NewsManatee watched it. The video clearly showed two girls dancing around each other in fight positions, and then throwing punches at each other. April Newcomb can be seen looking on. At one point, both 16-year-old girls were on the ground, one on top of the other, throwing rapid-fire punches at each other. Nobody made a move to stop it. Dozens of others (apparently students), who were watching the fight were egging them on.

"It showed several other people looking on, as if it's a dog fight," Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office told NewsManatee.

The fight broke up when police arrived and all the student on-lookers scattered.

Early Wednesday, detectives obtained an arrest warrant and Newcomb was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

As of Wednesday evening, April Newcomb remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $15,000.

The investigation continues.

Braden River High Student, 18,
Popped for Smoking Pot in
High School Bathroom

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Angela M. Babecki (also spelled Babechi by the sheriff's office), 18, of 4119 61st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Angela M. Babecki, aka Babechi

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at about 1 p.m., a call came into the sheriff's office from a teacher who reported smoke was coming from the girl's restroom in the 700 building of Braden River High, 6545 State Road 70 East, Bradenton.

The restroom was checked, and Angela Babecki was found in class and had just left the restroom.

She was checked by Miss Hazleton and Mrs. Wilson, and a glass pipe and marijuana was found in her wallet and backpack, the report said.

There was also a synthetic marijuana found.

The amounts of the drugs were not disclosed in the sheriff's report.

Babecki was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

She was later released after posting a $120 bail bond.

It is unknown whether Babecki will be or has been suspended or expelled from the high school.

LoJack System Finds Man
with "Borrowed" Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James W. Cates, 43, of 2515 34th Avenue East, Bradenton.

James W. Cates

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at about 1:15 p.m., the sheriff's office received a call from an automotive shop employee that a 2004 Grand Am had been stolen, and that it had an active LoJack system. The auto shop employee said the vehicle was located at that time at or near the intersection of 43rd Street East and State Road 64.

A deputy checking the area for the vehicle saw the car parked in a parking spot at the Walgreen's store. The deputy hid and waited.

Shortly afterward, he saw a White male unlocking the vehicle with a key. That man was identified as Cates.

Cates was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Motor Vehicle.

Cates told the deputy he had just "borrowed" the vehicle and was going to pay money for that, and that he never knew the vehicle was stolen. He said he was just using it to pick up his prescription from Walgreen's.

Cates remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $12,500.

Woman Arrested for Striking
Other Woman, Daughter

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tammy Bell, 36, of Bradenton.

Tammy Bell

On Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 8 p.m., the victim, Erica Span, 37, was told that her daughters were involved in a physical altercation in front of their residence in the 3300 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton.

Erica went outside and observed the 14-year-old female victim involved with numerous individuals.

The Defendant, Tammy Bell, 36, was called by her daughters stating they, too, were involved in the fight.

Tammy picked an unknown dark object, possibly a pipe or other hard object, and struck Erica in the left shoulder, causing significant injury. Tammy also struck the juvenile with the blunt object on the side of the head, causing injury.

Both victims were transported by EMS to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Tammy was arrested without incident.

She was charged with Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Child Abuse.

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

Holmes Beach Police
Arrest Burglar

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department has arrested Miles E. Quartermain, 19, of Holmes Beach.

Miles E. Quartermain

A HBPD press release said as part of an extensive investigation and mobile surveillance over the course of several days, a suspect was questioned in connection with recent burglaries in the City of Holmes Beach.

After being read his rights, the suspect, Miles E. Quartermain, confessed to three burglaries within the City and took Detective Leonard to those locations. All of the locations were on the north end of the City and in Key Royale.

Quartermain was arrested and charged with three counts of Burglary.

Additional charges are possible and subsequent charges are pending from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and the City of Bradenton Police Department, the press release said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Quartermain remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $22,500.

Two Women Mugged by
White Male in Parking Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted strong arm robbery on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 3:30 a.m., in the parking lot of Harbor Pointe Apartments, 4510 70th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the two women, Dana Fields, 38, and a woman named Jessica, were walking through the parking lot when they were approached by an unknown White male.

The man grabbed Jessica by her arms and demanded Dana's purse.

Dana ran and Jessica struggled with the would-be robber.

Jessica got away and joined Dana, who called 911.

The White male disappeared from the northeast corner of Harbor Point Apartments.

He was not further described in the report.

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

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

SAR Presents Proclamations
to Palmetto Commissioners

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- Below is a picture that was taken at the Palmetto Commission meeting on Monday evening, Sept. 13, 2010. There were two proclamations given to each recipient by local chapter members of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Above, L to R, center front, Harold Crapo, Jr., President Saramana Chapter SAR; Peggu Veeder
Regent, Osceola Chapter, NSDAR and Sydney Shaurette, Regent, Manatee Chapter NSDAR.
Back row: Alan Zirkelbach, Tambra Varnadore, Tamara Cornwell,
Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant, and Brian Williams. 
(photo by SAR Auxiliary member Elaine Crapo)

The first Proclamation recognized the 227th Anniversary of the Treaty of Paris on September 3, 1783 whereby the peace commissioners of the United States, Great Britain, France and Spain signed a Treaty of Peace in Paris which recognized American Independence and boundaries, and provisionally with the Netherlands to bring a cessation of hostilities between the nations.

The second Proclamation recognized the 223rd Anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America on September 17, 1787 by the Continental Convention convened in Philadelphia. Congress, by joint resolution of August 2, 1956 requested the President proclaim the week beginning September 17 and ending September 23 of each year as Constitution Week.

By issuance of this Proclamation, Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant of Palmetto, Florida, asked all citizens to reaffirm the ideals the framers of the Constitution had in 1787, by vigilantly protecting the freedoms guaranteed to us through this guardian of our liberties, remembering that lost rights may never be gained.

Oxycodone Drug Trafficker
Arrested in Port Charlotte

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detectives in an undercover drug operation Monday evening, Sept. 20, 2010, arrested a Port Charlotte man for drug trafficking in Oxycodone pills from his home.

(mug shot)
Anthony James Mazza

Arrested was Anthony James Mazza, 38, 740 Floral Lane.

Mazza told undercover detectives to come to his home where 45 Oxycodone pills were exchanged for $560 cash.

Once the deal was completed, K-9 and road patrol units moved in and arrested Mazza.

He was transported to the Charlotte County Jail and charged with Trafficking in Oxycodone, Possession of Oxycodone and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

He remained in the jail on $28,500, as of Wednesday morning.

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

Mystery Surrounds
Lake Search

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orange County investigators and divers scanned the waters of Lake Underhill on Tuesday, but they have been mum as to why, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Many questions linger, but officials have confirmed that a homicide detective and scuba divers were called out to Lake Underhill near Conway Road in Orlando.

A spokesman with the Sheriff's Office said the search is part of an Orange County criminal case, even though the lake is technically within the jurisdiction of the Orlando Police Department.

Officials would not confirm whether the investigation is part of a homicide case and did not specify what they were searching for.

A team of about eight to 10 divers took turns going into the water, concentrating on an area near the boat ramp while an Orange County Sheriff's Office boat cruised near some pylons of the State Road 408 bridge.

Witnesses said the divers appeared to be marking certain areas of the lake with buoys while a homicide detective supervised.

By the end of the afternoon, the divers had pulled up the buoys, packed up all their equipment -- including the yellow crime scene tape -- and left.

The OCSO spokesman said officials may release more information about the dive later in the week, WKMG said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Sarasota County Firefighter
Arrested for DUI; Was in
Full Firefighter Gear

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol has arrested Derek Maxwell, 24, of 9026 White Sage Loop, in Lakewood Ranch.

Derek Maxwell

The arrest report said FHP Trooper Menzies was dispatched to a single vehicle rollover accident at University Parkway and Lakewood Ranch Blvd. on Saturday, Sept. 18, 2010, at about 1:50 a.m.

Upon arrival, he found Maxwell in full firefighter gear with an odor of alcohol "so strong it was nauseating." When the firefighter gear was finally removed, Maxwell had his shorts unzipped and urine along the front.

Maxwell could not stand and was very loud in his speaking, the report said.

He said he had been at Applebee's on State Road 70, where he hung out with a lot of girls, then went to the Applebee's on University Parkway, where he drank 6 beers and had two shots of Wild Turkey.

He said he wanted to come home to get rest so he could watch a football team with his mom and have a BBQ.

He said he had lost his job and was going to lose his house and he wanted to kill himself, the report said.

Chief Wayne Balcome and Chief Flynn arrived at the scene and removed all of the fire department's belongings.

Maxwell was arrested and charged with DUI with Property Damage.

He later posted a $2,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Deputies Arrest Man for
Armed Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Michael J. Dailey, 28 years old.

Michael J. Dailey

A sheriff's report said Holly Cote was in her residence in the 4500 block of 86th Street West, Bradenton, when Michael Dailey arrived with his girlfriend, Megan Sessions.

Sessions had to leave and Dailey asked if he could stay and hang out.

Shortly after Sessions left Dailey ordered Cote to lie on the ground. Cote was confused until Dailey lifted his shirt and showed her what she believed was a handgun.

Cote immediately went to the ground as Dailey went into her room and took $350 from her purse.

Dailey then left the residence and fled in his Dodge Intrepid being driven by Sessions.

Deputy Wolfinger located Dailey's vehicle at Baxter's Motel a few hours later.

K-9 and VCTF arrested Dailey a short time later without incident.

Dailey admitted being at the victim's home but denied the Robbery.

He was charged with Armed Robbery. His bail bond was also revoked on previous drug charges and a charge of DWLS.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $255,000.

Woman Arrested for Neglect
of Boy, 3 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ashley D. Workman, 24, of 4015 72nd Avenue East, in South Manatee County.

Ashley D. Workman

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, Sept. 19, 2010, at about 6 p.m., Ashley and her 3-year-old son were at home in the computer room.

The boy had to use the bathroom so he walked in between a table and the couch. While doing so, he knocked over a laundry basket.

Ashley became upset and grabbed the boy by the back of the neck to guide him through the couch and the table. As he walked through, he tripped and fell while Ashley was still holing him by the neck.

Ashley picked him up to see if his neck was okay and he began to cry. He walked down the hall to where his grandmother was and told her that his mom choked him.

Ashley and Teresa, the grandmother, got into a verbal argument, during which Teresa asked Ashley to leave. She agreed and grabbed the boy and tried to exit through the front door, but Teresa blocked her path because she did not want Ashley to take the boy because of her state of mind at the time.

Ashley left through the garage door with her son and drove away.

In the ensuing couple of hours, her husband located her and tried to calm her down, but Ashley instead grabbed the boy and ran out onto Whitfield Avenue and sat down, rocking the boy.

The boy was finally retrieved from Ashley, but she once again walked back onto Whitfield Avenue, sat down and began to cry.

She was arrested at that location by sheriff's deputies and charged with Child Neglect.

She was later released from the Manatee County Jail on her own recognizance, supervised.

Man Arrested for Domestic
Battery by Strangulation

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Troy D. Sandifar, 45, of 5310 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Troy D. Sandifar

According to the arrest report, on Friday, Sept. 17, 2010, at about 5:30 a.m., Sandifar, who is married to the victim, started to act up verbally and demanded her last $20.

He then started hitting the victim with a pillow and pushed her onto the bed. Then he proceeded to wrap both of his hands around the victim's neck and said he would "put her to sleep."

Troy took the victim's phone and money and fled from the house.

The victim told a responding deputy she became dizzy wile she was being choked.

He was later arrested in the 5500 block of 86th Street West, Bradenton.

He was charged with Domestic Battery by Strangulation.

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

Man Arrested for Soliciting
Undercover Deputy for
Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Edward Romer-Sauceoa, 27, of 6118 10th Street East, Bradenton.

Edward Romer-Sauceoa

The arrest report said on Friday, Sept. 17, 2010, at about 7:45 p.m., deputies from the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit conducted an undercover prostitution reverse in the 5800 block of 15th Street East, in Bradenton. A female deputy assisted by posing as a prostitute.

At about 7:45 p.m., Edward approached the fake hooker in a black Honda Civic. He asked her if he could get "head" (meaning oral sex) for $20.

At that point, a signal was given and the takedown team moved in and arrested Edward.

He was charged with Soliciting Prostitution. In addition, deputies learned that Edward had no driver license and never had one issued to him. He was also charged with NVDL.

He was released from the Manatee County Jail on his own recognizance.

Shot Fired, Victim Wounded;
No Arrests At This Time

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 5:30 p.m., at 1119 33rd Avenue West, Bradenton.

A sheriff report said at approximately 5:30 p.m. Tuesday afternoon, deputies responded to the listed address in reference to a disturbance involving a shooting.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered the victim, Rose Leonard, 40, inside the lanai with a single gunshot wound to her right leg.

The shooting suspect, Robin L. Morrissey, 44, who lives there, was also on scene, along with her boyfriend and another male.

According to initial statements, Rose jumped the fence from her yard onto Robin's yard, initiated a disturbance, then proceeded to enter the lanai against repeated warnings to stay out by Robin's boyfriend.

Apparently, while Robin's boyfriend was confronting and warning Rose to stay out of their house, Robin came inside the lanai and shot Rose once in the leg.

There were no other injuries reported.

Rose was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

There appears to have been an ongoing conflict between the parties which led to this incident.

The investigation continues and, at this time, no one has been charged.

Woman's Purse Snatched by
Black Male in Parking Lot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 3:20 a.m., in the parking lot of Sanctuary Condos, located in the 5400 block of 26th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said on the above date/time, Cori Harding, 20, was walking to her apartment from her car in the parking lot.

She was approached by an unknown Black male suspect from behind. The suspect did not say anything and grabbed the victim’s purse.

The victim refused to let go of her purse and was pulled back towards a white car (possibly a Toyota) driven by an unknown Black female suspect.

As they got to the car, the victim let go of her purse. Simultaneously the victim’s phone fell from her hands into the suspect’s car.

The suspects then fled in an unknown direction from the complex.

They were described as a Black male, 5'6" tall, 170 pounds, last seen wearing a blue and red hat, a black shirt and red pants; and a Black female with no further description. They were in a white vehicle, possibly a Toyota.

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.

Stolen Semi Truck, Trailer
Recovered; Contents Missing

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the recovery of a stolen semi truck and trailer on Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, at about 8:15 p.m.

A sheriff's report said deputies responded to C.R. 39 and S.R. 62, in Duette, in reference to a semi truck with a semi trailer attached to it.

Both truck and trailer were reported stolen out of Osceola County on Sept. 10, 2010.

Approximately $50,000 in over-the-counter medication and female hygiene products are missing from the trailer, the report said.

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

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

Sarasota Police Conduct Juvenile
Curfew, Home Detention Checks

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- As part of the efforts to expand community policing, the Sarasota Police Department is working with the Department of Juvenile Justice to verify compliance with restrictions for juvenile offenders that have been placed on Home Detention or assigned a curfew.

A juvenile that has been placed on curfew must be in their residence from 8 p.m. – 6 a.m. unless at work, church, school, or with their guardian.

A juvenile placed on Home Detention must be inside the residence at ALL times, unless at work, church, or school.

By conducting these checks, the department is making a proactive effort to improve compliance with the restrictions, and minimize the chances of additional criminal behavior. The goals of these efforts include crime reduction for the community and awareness for the juveniles involved that these restrictions will be enforced.

Detective Kim Laster is coordinating the efforts of the Sarasota Police Department to monitor the compliance with the Curfews and Home Detentions. Information obtained by officers regarding any violations of the restrictions will be documented in a police report and then forwarded to the Department of Juvenile Justice.

Parrish Man Wanted in Nashville
Arrested on 10 Counts of Rape

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Fugitive Apprehension Squad was responsible for the arrest of a man wanted on 10 counts of Rape in Nashville, Tennessee.

Donald Andrews

CCSO was contacted by a Metro Nashville Police investigator seeking assistance in locating 45-year-old Donald Andrews who relatives said was now living in Port Charlotte. His last known address in Port Charlotte was in the 800 block of Sunset Lane.

CCSO FAS detectives started its investigation here and learned that Andrews was now staying in Manatee County, in Parrish, Florida, at 2334 123rd Place East.

CCSO FAS detectives, with assistance of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Apprehension Squad, went to the home last Friday morning and did locate Andrews; he was taken into custody without incident.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Family Says Bear Mangled,
Killed Pet Cat

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Residents in an Altamonte Springs neighborhood say at least one bear is getting too close for comfort, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Above, a bear in a breezeway

This week, a family along Lost Creek Court said they found their cat dead, and they think it was mangled by a bear.

Other neighbors said bear sightings have become more frequent and the bears are becoming more aggressive by banging on garage doors or walking up to houses.

Many said the bears do not seem to be afraid of people, and one man said a bear lunged at him just a few days ago.

Parents said they're now afraid to let their kids go out at night or walk to a bus stop early in the morning.

Families said they have called authorities about the issue but haven't received any help for three months, WKMG said.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Two Arrested for Armed Robbery
at Baxter's Motel in Bradenton;
Victim Suffered Knife Wounds

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Matthew Edward Conner, 30, and Tina M. Thompson 29, both of 2509 Alhaven Terrace, North Port.

Above, L to R, Matthew Edward Conner and Tina M. Thompson

According to the arrest reports, on Saturday, Sept. 18, 2010, at about 11:45 p.m., Conner pulled an unnamed victim inside a room at Baxter's Motel, 3225 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Then, Conner and his spouse, Thompson, robbed the victim at knifepoint.

The report said Conner held the victim at knifepoint demanding money, while Thompson physically reached into the victim's pants pockets and removed the victim's wallet, taking $103 from the victim.

However, deputies had been called.

Upon their arrival, Conner was observed holding the victim in a headlock with a knife in his hand.

Conner showed signs of blood on his white boxer shorts and abdomen area, as well as on his face, hands and arms. But he had no physical injuries, the report said.

The victim showed signs of lacerations and swelling over both eyes, along with multiple cuts to the top and back of his head.

Both Conner and Thompson were each charged with Robbery with a Deadly Weapon.

As of Monday afternoon, they both remained in the Manatee County Jail on a $200,000 bond each.

Conner is no stranger to law enforcement. At the beginning of this year, he was arrested for Grand Theft Auto. In 2006, he was arrested for Dealing in Stolen Property. There have been a number of misdemeanor arrests in his past as well, according to Manatee County court records.

Those records also show Thompson has been arrested in the past for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Grand Theft, both felonies, as well as a number of misdemeanor arrests.

Man Arrested for Threatening
Brother with Handgun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested William R. Fort, Jr., 47, of 806 45th Street West, Bradenton.

William B. Fort, Jr.

The arrest report said on Friday, Sept. 17, 2010, at about 7:20 p.m., Joseph Fort went to William Fort's front door to speak with William. Joseph and William are brothers.

William proceeded to grab a handgun, open the door, and pointed it at Joseph, pressing it up against Joseph's neck and said, "Now what? I'm going to have to shoot you."

William told deputies he saw someone at his front door through his camera, but didn't know who it was due to only seeing the back of the person. William said, "I didn't know who it was, but I wasn't scared, so I opened the door to see who it was."

However, the report says due to the fact that William could not articulate the fact that he was in fear for his safety by not only stating he wasn't scared, but by opening the door. He was not justified in pulling out a gun and pointing it at his brother, the deputy wrote.

William was arrested and charged with Domestic Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

He later posted a $2,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man for
Stealing Grandma's Jewelry

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Justin W. Miller, 21, of 1402 22nd Street West, Bradenton.

Justin W. Miller

According to the arrest report from BPD, Justin, along with his grandmother and numerous other members of his family, all live at 1401 22nd Street West.

On Sept. 11, 2010, while his grandmother was out of town, Justin found his grandmother's safe, and forced it open using a metal spoon that he grabbed from the kitchen.

Once the safe was opened, Justin took a gold bracelet and several gold rings belonging to his grandmother. The jewelry had an estimated value of $3,000.

Justin and a friend took the jewelry to a jewelry store inside DeSoto Square Mall, where Justin sold the jewelry for about $400 cash.

Justin was arrested on Sept. 15, 2010, and post-Miranda told police he has an addiction to Roxycodone and said he purchased 8 Roxys, cigarettes, two fishing poles and a motorized scooter with the $400.

Justin was charged with Grand Theft.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a $3,000 bail bond.

Five Teens Suspected in
Palmetto Burglaries

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is investigating five teenagers who are under suspicion of at least two burglaries in Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said on Monday, Sept. 20, 2010, at about 11:20 a.m., a burglary victim's next door neighbor observed a green minivan in front of 1406 24th St. E. with a group of girls and a couple of boys standing outside the van while she took her trash out.

That residence had been burglarized during the day on Friday, Sept. 17th.

She observed all the occupants get back in the van and continued to see the van driving through the neighborhood for quite a while. She then she saw it parked on the corner of 13th Ave and 24th St. E.

She went to the back of her house and observed two females and a yet unidentified male in the rear of the residence at 1306 24th St. E., prying on a window. The subjects ran from the residence when she called to them and the van fled the area.

The attempted entry method was identical to the prior burglary on Friday.

A short while later, the suspect van was located in the driveway of a residence in the 1800 block 23rd St. E.

No one would answer the door, but neighbors reported seeing four teenage girls and two boys get out of the van and go into the house.

Contact was made with the home owner and upon her entering the residence, five suspects were located in the living room.

A screw driver and gloves were recovered and placed into evidence.

The witness positively identified all five suspects and presently the investigation continues.

The five suspects are two 18-year-old persons & three 17-year-old persons. The report did not indicate their gender.

Local Chapters of Sons, Daughters
of the American Revolution
Celebrate Constitution Week

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- During a meeting of the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday morning, September 14, 2010, "Constitution Week," was proclaimed September 17-23 throughout Sarasota County. Commissioners presented their formal proclamation document to representatives of the local Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and Daughters of the American Revolution Chapters. This event occurred at the Board of County Commission Chambers, Robert Anderson Administration building, South Venice, Sarasota County.

Above, L to R, Jean Maxwell Catsakis, Constitution Committee Chairman,
Sara De Soto Chapter, FSSDAR, and Harold Miller, Saramana Chapter, FLSSAR.
(photo by Nick Catsakis)

Each year, Jean Maxwell Catsakis of Sara DeSoto Chapter DAR, with cooperation from Saramana Chapter SAR members, undertakes the following actions in observance of "Constitution Week":

Requests the offices of the Florida State Governor in Tallahassee, of the Sarasota County Commission and of the Mayor of the City of Sarasota to proclaim "Constitution Week," September 17-23.

Prepares a display on the history and importance of the U.S. Constitution in the lobby of the Selby Public Library in downtown Sarasota throughout the month of September, where the proclamations of the Governor, County and City may be seen as well as contact information for the DAR, SAR and CAR local Chapters.

Contacts history teachers in local public schools, delivers copies of proclamations declaring "Constitution Week" and urges teachers to inform their pupils on the significance and relevance of the Constitution.

Sends letters to the editors of local newspapers urging citizens to fly the flag on Constitution Day, to read the Constitution and reflect on its significance and relevance. Today, Constitution Day, her letter was printed in the Herald-Tribune. A few days ago it appeared also in the Venice Gondolier and in the Pelican.

Requests local churches to ring their bells, as is the custom throughout the United States, in observance of Constitution Day for five minutes, at 4 p.m., on September 17th.

Sarasota Police Arrest 11
During Prostitution Sweep

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- In response to community concerns regarding prostitution, the Sarasota Police Department has conducted a series of undercover operations targeting prostitution, primarily on the North Tamiami Trail. So far this year, these operations have resulted in 74 prostitution arrests which is a 23% increase in arrests compared to the same time period in 2009 (60 arrests).

Individuals arrested for prostitution are frequently involved in other criminal acts and arrested for additional criminal charges during these operations.

On Friday, September 17, 2010, Officers from the Sarasota Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit and Narcotics Unit conducted another undercover prostitution sting operation. The primary locations for this operation consisted of the N. Tamiami Trail area and the Gillespie Park Neighborhood.

Officers arrested 11 people during the operation and had a total of 18 criminal charges consisting of 6 Felony arrests (3 Felony Prostitution), 10 Misdemeanor charges, and 2 misdemeanor warrant arrests.

The following people were arrested during the operation:

Elaine Wilkinson, 10/15/66, Prostitution / 2 warrants Failure to appear (18th Street and N. Tamiami Trail)

Jeanette Jehle, 08/23/90, Prostitution / Possession of a controlled substance (42nd Street and N. Tamiami Trail)

Sara Scott, 09/26/63, Felony Prostitution / Poss. Of Drug Paraphernalia (1400 N Tamiami Trail)

Regina Strickland, 11/08/72, Felony Prostitution / Poss. of Drug paraphernalia (14th Street and N Tamiami Trial)

Faith Dunsworth, 01/18/85, Felony Prostitution (4200 blk N Tamiami Trail)

Allison Carney, 09/16/75, Prostitution / Possession of a controlled substance (4700 blk N Tamiami Trail)

Christina Willette, 08/08/81, Prostitution (9th Street and Gillespie Avenue)

Maribel Lazo, 01/17/77, Prostitution / Possession of controlled substance (8th Street and US 301)

Bonnie M. Sparks, 01/27/86, Prostitution (12th Street and East Avenue)

Jenny Muncy, 09/27/89, Prostitution (4200 block N. Tamiami Trail)

Tamara Walters, 04/25/71, Prostitution (200 block of N. Tamiami Trail)

Public Service Announcement
Targets Fraud Schemes

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has released a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to raise awareness about telephone fraud schemes and to empower citizens to “Just Hang Up.”

The video shows a scam artist calling different people that he has targeted through newspapers and other means and asking for money. The spot profiles three scams similar to what has been reported in the Sarasota County area in recent months.

“While we had more reports of these scams than actual victims, we wanted to arm residents with the reminder that they should hang up on these types of calls,” said Sheriff Tom Knight. “These scam artists sound sincere, but they’re scoundrels trying to separate citizens, particularly our seniors, from their hard earned money.”

The PSA was produced as an educational component of the Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit and refers viewers to the Seniors vs Crime program. Production and placement of the PSA was coordinated by Community Service Media. To view the video, visit www.SarasotaSheriff.org, click on the News tab and then PSAs.

To help fight fraud and identity theft, the Sheriff’s Office will offer free shredding services courtesy of Sarasota Document Shredding at Lowe’s Safety Daze this Saturday, September 25, 2010, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., 1745 S. Tamiami Trail in Venice.

There will be prize drawings, child safety products, child ID kits and more. The Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol, Motorcycle and K9 units will be there, as well as the American Red Cross, Coast Guard Auxiliary and Sarasota County Fire Department

Charlotte Sheriff Investigating
Possible Child Abduction

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff’s received a report at 8:54 a.m. Monday morning, Sept. 20, 2010, concerning a possible child abduction around Midway and Harbor Blvd. in Port Charlotte, near Neil Armstrong Elementary School. Further investigation found that the incident occurred about 7:30 a.m.

Above, CCSO vehicles at Neil Armstrong Elementary School
(Photo by Robert Carpenter, CCSO PIO)

CCSO detectives, K9, aviation helicopter, and deputies said the caller stated a man got out of a tan older model 1970’s or 80’s large sedan and approached a child aged 6 or 8. The boy was wearing a red/gray horizontal striped shirt. The incident occurred in the area of Neil Armstrong Elementary School. A Child is Missing organization is doing a reverse call out in a two mile radius of the reported abduction.

The car was driven by a White male with gray hair, and the Black male passenger who got out had a piece of paper in his hand and took the child by his hand. The child reportedly was resistant but did get into the vehicle. The car was last seen on Midway Blvd. between Harbor and Birchrest boulevards heading toward U.S. 41. The first two letters on the tag were L5 or LS.

Charlotte County Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit detectives say there have been no reports of any missing children in this ongoing case of a reported possible abduction of a boy or girl, between the ages of 6 and 8. MCU detectives continue checking various home schooled children who live in the area and some unexcused absences today at Neil Armstrong Elementary School.

They are also continuing to check out all reports that came in from the reverse calls sent out to all homes in a two mile radius of the school by A Child is Missing organization.

The case is still under investigation.

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

Van Driven Into Store
In Smash-And-Grab

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Laptop computers, flat-screen TVs and perfume were among the items stolen early Monday morning in a smash-and-grab robbery in the tourist district of Orlando, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The robbery occurred around 3:30 a.m. after a white van was driven into Best Brazil, which is located on International Drive in Orlando.

According to Orlando police, the van was driven into the store around 3:30 a.m. and 10 laptops, four flat-screen TVs, watches, video game consoles and perfume were stolen.

The robbery was caught on video, which shows a dark van backing into the store and at least two men running into the store.

Police said about $20,000 in merchandise was stolen and the store sustained about $5,000 in damage.

Meanwhile, a white van was spotted in Seminole County a short time later, and deputies used stop sticks to try to halt the vehicle, which finally stopped on Princeton Street near the westbound ramp of Interstate 4 in Orlando. Three men were arrested, but it's not known if the van is connected to the smash-and-grab robbery.

Traffic was back to normal in the area around 6:30 a.m., WKMG said.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

YMCA Employee, 22, Arrested
for Sexual Battery of Girl, 15,
52 Times at Motel, and in Car

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Anthony L. Sessa, 22, of 14819 Bowfin Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, in Bradenton.

Anthony L. Sessa

According to the arrest report, Sessa is a coach at the YMCA, 3675 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton, and coaches the brothers of the unnamed 15-year-old female victim in football. That is where Sessa met the victim in the summer of 2010, and where Sessa began pursuing a relationship with the victim.

Beginning on July 7, 2010, and ending on August 27, 2010, on at least seven occasions, Sessa drove the victim to an area motel, secured a room, took her into the room and had sexual intercourse with her, the report said.

The girl told detectives that hit was her idea and it was all "completely consensual." She also said she performed oral sex on Sessa about 25 times.

"The law doesn't see it that way," said Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office. "She's a minor and he isn't," Bristow told NewsManatee.

During a controlled phone call between Sessa and the girl's father, Sessa admitted to him that he had engaged in sexual intercourse numerous times with his daughter.

During a post-Miranda interview with Sessa, he confessed that he had sexual contact with the girl at least 52 times. He said he knew the victim was a minor and that it was illegal to have sex with her. He said he had intercourse with her 7 times, she performed oral sex on him 15 times and he performed oral sex on her 15 times. He also digitally penetrated her vagina 15 times, he said.

Sessa said he committed these crimes in a motel room and in his car, all in Manatee County.

Sessa was arrested and charged with 52 counts of Sexual Battery on a Minor.

As of Friday, he remained in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $7,800 (52 times $150).

According to a local report, Sessa is on an unpaid suspension from the YMCA and is not allowed back in.

Bradenton Police Arrest Man
for Sexual Assault on a
Minor Related to Him

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Benjamin Rodriguez, 31, of 2112 19th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Benjamin Rodriguez

According to the arrest report, an unnamed girl, 12-16 years of age, is related to Rodriguez in some way, possibly by marriage, the report did not say.

While living with Rodriguez in Bradenton, in March of 2010, Rodriguez supplied the girl with marijuana and beer before going to bed.

The girl said she smoked the "weed" and drank some beer, then went to bed. A while later, she awoke to find Rodriguez on top of her "having sex."
She was able to push him off her.

A couple of days later Rodriguez encouraged her to smoke "weed" and drink alcohol again. Upon going to sleep, she awoke to find Rodriguez on top of her again, having sex.

The offenses were not reported until the girl returned to New York to live with her mother in June of 2010. Shortly after returning to New York, the girl made a suicide attempt, and that was when the offenses were reported to Middletown Police, in Middletown, New York.

Rodriguez was charged on an arrest warrant with two counts of Lewd and Lascivious Act with a Minor, 12-16 Years of Age. There is also a pending case in Middletown, New York, against Rodriguez. Because of that, he remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

It was noted in the report that Rodriguez was arrested on a similar charge in Bradenton on August 30, 2010, for which there is a pending trial, according to Manatee County court records.

Deputy Arrests Boyfriend, 45,
for Child Abuse By Battery
on Boy, 10 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Scott Willard, 45, of the 3600 block of 29th Street East, Palmetto.

Scott Willard

The arrest report said on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010, at about 4 p.m., an unnamed 10-year-old boy was home and started looking for his mom. He did not find her and went next door to his mom's boyfriend's house, Willard, thinking she would be there.

The boy knocked and thought Willard said, "Come in." He went inside and Willard was on the phone. Willard said to the boy, "What the hell are you doing?" and slammed the front door.

The boy mumbled, "This is stupid," and walked away.

Willard then came outside and grabbed the boy around the head, picked the boy up and slammed him on the ground, according to the report.

The boy screamed and started to crawl away when Willard kicked him, the report said.

His mother, Tammy Cornan, said she heard the boy yell at Willard to stop and noticed her son was grabbing his arm and crying.

The mother then said to Willard, "It's over. No one lays a hand on my child."

Willard later told a deputy when the boy came into his home, he pointed to the door and told the boy to leave. The boy left, slamming the screen door, Willard said. Then he went outside, grabbed the boy by his shirt and directed him off his property, Willard said.

Willard was arrested and charged with Child Abuse by Battery.

He later posted a $3,500 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Tools Recovered from Burglary;
Man Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a burglary on Thursday in the 4900 block of Palmetto Point Drive, Palmetto. Reed Roberts, 28, of Baxter's Motel, in Bradenton, has been arrested for the crime.

Reed E. Roberts

A sheriff's report said on Sept. 16, 2010, Reed Roberts went to the victim’s residence rear porch and took two power tools (a hammer drill and a drill).

Roberts was confronted and the tools were recovered.

Roberts left the scene but was later located at 1800 8th Ave. W., Palmetto.

Deputy Espindola responded to the scene and detained Roberts where he was positively identified as the suspect.

Roberts was arrested and transported to MCSO Jail.

He was charged with Burglary of an Occupied Residence.

He remains n the Manatee County Jail on a $7,500 bail bond.

Man, 22, Shot During Armed
Robbery in West Manatee

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported and armed robbery on Saturday, Sept. 18, 2010, at about 3:55 a.m., in the 5400 block of 23rd Street Court West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Mitchell Dee Wilson, 22, was getting out the driver’s side of his vehicle, which was parked in the yard at the above location, when the suspect, a Black male, entered the vehicle through the passenger door.

The suspect demanded money from Wilson, so Wilson threw $3000.00 dollars cash at the suspect.

The suspect then shot Wilson in the left hip/buttocks area, picked up the money and fled north on 23rd Street Court West.

Wilson was driven to Manatee Memorial Hospital by his friend Michael, and was released after refusing treatment.

The robber was described as a Black male, 5'09" tall, thin build, last seen wearing a black mask and armed with an unknown type handgun.

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

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

Attempted Robbery of Juvenile Girl
By Five Other Juvenile Girls
At Wal-Mart Bus Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an attempted robbery on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2010, at about 6 p.m., at a bus stop outside Wal-Mart, 2911 53rd Avenue East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, identified only as J.S., 16 years old, was sitting at the bus stop at Walmart when she was approached by five female juveniles.

The suspect, an unidentified 16-year-old girl, started an argument with J.S. accusing her of kissing the suspect’s friend’s boyfriend.

The suspect then demanded J.S.’s cell phone.

J.S. refused to hand it over and the suspect tried to take the phone but was unable to get it.

The suspect fled the scene heading westbound and could not be located.

J.S. was not injured and her mother responded to get her.

Body Found in Lake
Identified

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, September 15, 2010, a body was discovered floating in the lake at Bayshore on the Lake, 3841 Lake Bayshore Dr., Bradenton.

The victim has been identified as Manuel Nix Ventura, 36, of Bradenton.

There was no evidence of foul play and the cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner’s Office.

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.

Bradenton Man Arrested for
Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested William T. Phillips, 42, 4608 Park Acres Drive, Bradenton, and charged him with four counts of Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition in the Presence of a Minor and one count of Exposure of Sexual Organs.

William T. Phillips

On two different occasions last month, four juveniles and one adult reported seeing a naked White male standing near access points to Siesta Key Beach and masturbating. The victims reported the incidents to the Sheriff’s Office but the suspect fled before deputies arrived.

A few days later, an off-duty deputy spotted Phillips in the area and recognized him as the suspect charged in a string of similar incidents near The Legacy Trail last year.

Siesta Key victims were shown photo lineups and identified Phillips as the suspect.

A Sarasota County Deputy with the Fugitive Apprehension Unit, with assistance by the US Marshal’s Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force, took Phillips into custody on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2010, in Manatee County.

Parrish Man Faces Multiple
Charges for Battery on a
Law Enforcement Officer
and Injuring an SSO K-9

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Jason Reagan, 30, 4125 Kinsfield Drive, Parrish, for fleeing from deputies and fighting with several of them, including K-9 Zuul.

Above, L to R, SSO K-9 Zuul and Jason Reagan

Just before 11 p.m. Thursday night, Sept. 16, 2010, deputies tried to stop Reagan’s truck near Laurel Road and US 41 in Laurel for several violations.

The driver, later identified as Reagan, sped off but stopped a few blocks away, ran behind a residence and jumped in a lake.

A deputy eventually located the Reagan hiding in the water under some bushes.

When Reagan refused to show his hands and get out of the water, K-9 Zuul attempted to gain compliance by engaging the suspect on his wrist.

Reagan pulled Zuul’s head under water for about 10 seconds and punched the dog in the head several times.

When Zuul transferred his engagement to the Reagan’s leg, deputies were able to pull Reagan from the lake.

Reagan continued fighting, punching and kicking the deputies until another deputy deployed his Taser.

Reagan is facing several charges including two counts of Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, one count of Resisting Arrest with Violence, one count of Fleeing to Elude, one count of Driving with a Suspended License and one count of Injuring a Police Dog.

Reagan was taken to Venice Regional Medical Center for treatment of the injuries inflicted by K-9 Zuul.

None of the deputies or K-9 Zuul was seriously injured.

Detectives Arrest Mom Who Brought
Two Kids, 2 & 4, to Oxycontin Deals

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit detective arrested the mother of two daughters, ages 2 and 4, that she brought to undercover Oxycontin drug deals. Arrested was Sherry Annette Goulding, 36, 7920 Riverside Dr., Punta Gorda.

Sherry Annette Goulding

Narcotics detectives conducted a reverse buy operation with Goulding for Oxycontin pills. She told undercover detectives to meet her at the Charlotte High School football game but detectives declined that location and met instead at the Health Department parking lot, 514 Grace St. nearby. Detectives said they approached Goulding in her Chrysler van, handed her two Oxycontin pills and she gave them $30. Once the deal was completed, Street Crimes Unit deputies moved in and upon seeing the emergency lights, she swallowed both pills. Fortunately in the reverse drug buy, detectives provided two placebo pills instead of the narcotics.

In Goulding’s van was her two daughters; the father was notified and the children were released to him. Goulding was then transported to the Charlotte County Jail. Narcotics detectives said Golding also was involved in two other undercover drug operations with the children present on Aug. 17 and Sep. 11. She was charged with three counts of felony Child Neglect, Sale and Delivery of Oxycontin, Destroying Evidence, and Attempt to Purchase Oxycontin Within 1,000 Feet of two schools, Charlotte High and Sallie Jones Elementary and Abundant Life Assembly of God Church. She remains in jail on no bond.

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

Mom Charged In Infant's Death
Posts Bond With $15K Cash

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a mother charged in connection with her infant son's death was released from jail Friday after posting her $15,000 bond in cash, Orange County Jail records show.

Michelle Marie Ford

Michelle Ford was arrested Wednesday on child neglect charges in the death of her 7-month-old son who died last weekend at an Orlando hospital.

The infant's father, Keith Skinner, was also arrested in the infant's death. He was charged with first-degree murder.

Ford initially told authorities that her baby fell off a bed but later admitted that she lied, according to authorities.

The medical examiner ruled the baby's death a homicide, and investigators said Ford was partially responsible for allowing her children to be in Skinner's care.

Skinner has previously served time in prison for child abuse, WKMG said.

(Click on the logos to go to their website)

NewsManatee Archive Created 9/25/2010 2:00:05 PM

NewsManatee, Inc.
P.O. Box 10453
Bradenton, Florida 34282-0453
NOTICE
NewsManatee, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Bradenton, Florida.
Your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
E-mail: NewsManatee@aol.com
Michael C. Quinn, Publisher and President
Carole Law Atkins, Executive Vice President and Corporate Secretary

© 2008 -- Unless otherwise indicated or assumed, all material herein, written, audio or visual, is Copyrighted by NewsManatee, Inc., Bradenton, Florida.All worldwide rights reserved. ~ No material may be printed, transmitted, or broadcast in whole or in part, without the express consent of owner.