Manatee County Florida News Archive for week ending 1/8/2011

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Local/State News for week ending 1/8/2011

DUI Woman Grazes Deputy,
Strikes Vehicle During
Traffic Stop, Leaves

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Lyubov Mazur, 60, of 5044 Lakehurst Court, Palmetto.

Lyubov Mazur

A sheriff's report said on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011, at about 9:15 p.m., Dep. Jordan conducted a traffic stop on Elizabeth Gladkowski’s vehicle at the 1500 block Ellenton Gillette Rd. Elizabeth had pulled her entire vehicle off onto the shoulder of the road. Dep. Jordan’s vehicle was properly offset with a sergeant's vehicle behind his with all of their emergency lights activated.

Dep. Jordan concluded his traffic stop and obtained consent from Elizabeth to search her vehicle. All of the occupants were removed from the car and were standing on the shoulder of the road.

Dep. Jordan began his search in the driver’s compartment with the driver’s door open while Lyubov Mazur was heading northbound on Ellenton Gillette in a black Pontiac.

Lyubov drifted over and struck the open driver’s door, grazing Dep. Jordan’s back while he was searching the vehicle.

Lyubov stopped her vehicle down the road and got out to check her vehicle, as the sergeant was assessing Dep. Jordan for any injuries. She looked at deputies and then got back into her vehicle, driving away from the scene.

Dep. Wilder was a couple of blocks away and he was called to stop the vehicle as it went north on Ellenton Gillette.

Dep. Wilder immediately got behind the vehicle and she finally stopped for him at the 2800 block of Ellenton Gillette Rd. It was very clear that she was intoxicated, the report said.

Dep. Cline responded and conducted the Accident/DUI investigation.

She was arrested and charged with DUI with Property Damage, DUI with Personal Injury and Leaving the Scene.

She later blew an alcohol reading of .175 and .168 (the legal alcohol limit in Florida is .08).

Dep. Jordan sustained no injuries and was able to return to work.

Mazur later posted a $6,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Parrish Man Arrested for
Child Abuse, Domestic
Battery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tyler Adam Howell, 23, of the 3000 block of River Woods Drive, Parrish.

Tyler Adam Howell

The arrest report said on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011, at about 5:45 p.m., Howell and his girlfriend, who have lived together for about a year and have a child together, became involved in an argument over his girlfriend not getting dressed fast enough for dinner.

The unidentified woman was attempting to get their infant out of her car seat when he shoved her into a wall.

She picked up the car seat and he attempted to take it from her.

Finally, when he removed the car seat from her arm, he slammed it to the floor with the baby in it and allegedly began violently shaking the car seat.

The woman then finished getting dressed and they all headed to the car where she strapped the child in and then got into the driver's seat.

He got into the passenger side and removed the keys from the ignition and got out of the car.

She immediately locked the doors.

He then allegedly said that he was going to "beat her head in."

He was arrested and charged with Child Abuse and Domestic Battery.

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

Traffic Stop Nets Two Pounds
of Pot, Handgun, Two Arrests

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brandon Houston, 24, and Evrick Blenman, 29 years old.

Above, L to R, Brandon Houston and Evrick Blenman

A sheriff's report said on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2011, at about 3:45 a.m., Deputy Kruse conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven / occupied by the listed suspects in the 5100 block of 9th Street East.

Upon approaching the vehicle, Deputy Kruse could smell the strong odor of what he recognized to be marijuana coming from the vehicle.

Through the course of his investigation, Deputy Kruse learned that the driver’s (Houston) driver license was suspended.

Additionally, the following was found in the vehicle: About 2 pounds of marijuana (trunk); a loaded .357 revolver (under front seat of vehicle); several rounds of ammunition (Houston’s pocket); a small amount of loose marijuana (front seat area).

The suspects were taken into custody without incident.

Brandon Houston was charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon, and Driving on a Suspended License. He was also charged with two counts of Violation of Probation for earlier charges of Sale of Cocaine and Possession of a Controlled Substance. He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bail.

Evrick Blenman was charged with misdeanor Possession of Marijuana. He posted a $120 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Career Offender Arrested on
Warrant for Failure to Report
Change of Address

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Samuel R. Ates, 48, of 2106 26th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Samuel R. Ates, Jr.

A sheriff's report said Samuel Ates, Jr. was arrested on a warrant for Failure to Report Address Change as a Career Offender.

Warrant was obtained 12/13/10 after it was learned that Ates had been evicted on 11/5/10 and had failed to notify of his address change.

Ates remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $75,000.

On the Florida Offender information website, Ates has a listing of 21 aliases, including Pumpkin Ates and Panther Ates.

A list of his crimes was in the process of being updated as NewsManatee wrote this report.

[Ed. Note: As of January 1, 2003, under the Florida Career Offender Registration Act, a select group of convicted felons, the "worst-of-the-worst," are required to register their residences with law enforcement and a state registry maintained by FDLE , the Career Offender Application for Statewide Tracking (COAST). These offenders, by virtue of their histories of offenses, present a threat to the public and to communities.]

Two Undercover Detectives
Arrest Woman for Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tangela Singletary, 28, of 604 60th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

Tangela Singletary

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2010, at about 5:45 p.m., two undercover detectives with the Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit were posing as "johns" in an attempt to solicit prostitutes walking the streets of Bradenton.

They came across Singletary in the 3500 block of 14th Street West walking northbound.

They made contact and during the conversation, Singletary offered oral sex for $10, and sexual intercourse for $30.

She was arrested and charged with Prostitution. She was also charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, although the report did not give any details of that.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,620.

Sex Offender Arrested for
Failure to Update DL

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Daniel Dainton, 46, of 6926 15th Street East, Sarasota.

Daniel Dainton

A sheriff's report said on December 14, 2010, a warrant was issued for Daniel Dainton. Dainton failed to update his driver's license within 48 hours as required.

On January 5, 2011, Dainton came to the Sex Offender Unit office wanting to update his address.

He was subsequently arrested without incident and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

Dainton later posted a $10,000 bail bond.

Funeral Arrangements Set for
BFD Chief Mark Souders

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton has announced the funeral arrangements for Bradenton Fire Chief Mark L. Souders, who passed away suddently this past Wednesday of an apparent heart attack.

Above, Bradenton Fire Chief Mark L. Souders

A private viewing and post-service reception will be held for family and Bradenton Fire Department members only.

A public viewing will be held on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kingdom Life Christian Church at 825 9th Street West, Bradenton.

Funeral services will be 2:00 pm on Sunday, January 9, 2011, at the Manatee County Convention Center located at One Haben Boulevard, in Palmetto.

Flowers may be sent to Kingdom Life Christian Church at 825 9th Street West, Bradenton.

Donations may be sent to the Bradenton FireFighters Association (c/o Bradenton Fire Department, 1010 9th Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida 34205.

Donations will be held in trust for the Mark L. Souders Memorial Educational Fund, a press release said.

Distraction Burglaries Are
a Warning for Residents

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is investigating two distraction burglaries that occurred Thursday afternoon, Dec. 6, 2011, in Venice and on Siesta Key. Both followed a pattern the agency warned residents about as recently as late November.

In both cases, a man knocked on the door and told the homeowners that they needed to go outside to examine work they were doing that might affect the property line. It is believed that while the pair went outside a second suspect or possibly a third entered the home and stole cash and jewelry.

In one incident, one of the suspects also went inside the home with the resident, sprayed what he claimed was a chemical on her hands and convinced her to remove her jewelry to clean it off.

The suspects are described as men in their 40s, one thin, about 5’10” tall and the other heavy set, about 5’7” tall. Both speak fluent English with a mild accent. They may be driving a black or dark blue passenger car or a small SUV.

These are unfortunately common scams this time of year. Residents should never let anyone into their homes. If they ask you to come outside, refuse.

“Polite society cannot tolerate people like this,” said Sheriff Tom Knight, “These criminals don’t think twice about stealing from our citizens so residents should turn them away and not take chances. Someone who is there for honest business purposes will have official company documents that explain the work that is about to be done.”

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).

Teen, 15, Shot While
Trying To Rob Couple

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Deputies in Orange County are searching for a teen who was shot late Wednesday night after a person he was trying to rob turned the tables on him, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The attempted robbery and shooting took place near South Texas Avenue and Americana Boulevard as a couple was returning to their home at the Royal Grande Apartments.

According to Orange County sheriff's deputies, two robbers -- one of whom had a gun -- approached the couple and demanded their cell phones and wallets.

One of the assailants fled during the incident, and the man got into a scuffle with the armed bandit, deputies said.

The victim told deputies that the gun fired during the fight, striking the robber in the arm. The man then ordered the culprit to the ground, and the culprit said, "Hey man, I'm only 15 years old," according to deputies.

The victim then turned to check on his girlfriend, and the teen ran away, deputies said.

The couple was not injured, WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Bradenton Fire Chief Souders
Suddenly Passed Away;
City Mourns Death

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The City of Bradenton Fire Department sadly regretted the announcement of the sudden passing of Fire Chief Mark L. Souders, CFO at 9:16 Wednesday morning, Jan. 5, 2011.

Above, Mark L. Souders

Chief Souders had called in sick on Tuesday with a respiratory problem. On Wednesday morning, his fiance' found him unresponsive. He was rushed to Blake Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead of an apparent heart attack.

City leaders were in shock over Mark's death.

Mayor Wayne Poston rushed to the hospital from a meeting that was in progress when he was notified.

Police Chief Michael Radzilowski issued a brief press release.

Some who knew Mark Souders said he was always thoroughly immersed in his work and loved it.

City of Bradenton spokesman Tim McCann told NewsManatee, "I couldn't believe it when I heard about it. I had to ask to have it repeated. We are very saddened. He had seemed to be in great shape. He really was a great guy."

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Chief Souders' family moved to Florida in 1968.

Mark joined the Cedar Hammock Fire Department in 1977, retiring 20 years later as Deputy Fire Chief.

He was appointed Fire Chief of the City of Bradenton Fire Department in 1997.

Mark earned an Associate of Science Degree in Fire Science, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Management, and a Master of Business Administration Degree.

He also participated in the Executive Fire Officers program through the National Fire Academy and earned the designation of Chief Fire Officer (CFO).

He was 55 years old.

Fire Chief Mark Souders is survived by his daughter Lauren Elliot, her husband Patrick, and grandson Brogan of Denver, CO; Sister Laura Traback, her husband Bill, nephew Ben and niece Taylor of Oviedo, FL; Brother John Souders, his wife Paula, nephew Cody and niece Savannah of Sarasota, FL; Aunt and Uncle Kathy and Warren Simmons of Longboat Key, FL; Uncle Tadd Johnson and cousin Coby Johnson of Albuquerque, NM.

Details of the funeral arrangements have not yet been released.

NewsManatee will report them as soon as we know.

Man Caught by Homeowner
in Act of Stealing Air
Conditioning Unit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Bo Stewart, 53, a homeless man.

Above, L to R, Bo Stewart and Mike's Mini Mart
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011, at about 2:30 p.m., Stewart walked behind a home in the 1000 block of 57th Place East, Bradenton, with a hand truck.

He then came out from behind the house with an air conditioning unit.

Larry Harrison, the owner of the home, saw Stewart with the unit going north on 10th Street East. As Larry approached Stewart, Stewart left the air conditioner and walked away.

Larry called the sheriff's office.

He was apprehended a short time later at Mike's Mini Mart, 5640 15th Street East.

The report said the cost of the A/C unit is $1,250 installed.

The A/C unit was recovered.

The cost to reinstall it is about $450.

Stewart was arrested and charged with Grand Theft.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a bail bond of $1,000.

Two Men Arrested for Burglary,
Theft of Copper Coils

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Richard Dennis Parks, 49, a homeless man, and James Tyndale Barron, 49, of 915 Gillespie Avenue, Sarasota.

Above, L to R, Richard Parks and James Barron

The arrest reports said on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about 1:35 a.m., James was driven by his accomplice, Richard, to the locked fenced storage area behind Custom Climate Concepts located at 2282 72nd Avenue East, Bradenton.

The fenced area is posted as "No Trespassing."

The location was known to James, due to past business with the company's owners.

Once there, Richard climbed over the fence and handed James scrap copper air conditioning coils.

James then placed them into the bed of the truck which is registered to James.

Once the copper was stored in the bed of the truck, both men climbed back into the vehicle and fled the area.

They were arrested on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011 and each charged with Burglary.

Both men remain in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of bail bonds of $7,500 each.

Jail Inmate Caught with
Marijuana in Laundry

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Charles Bowman, 38, of 1915 32nd Avenue East, Bradenton, currently incarcerated in the Manatee County Jail.

Charles Bowman

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010, at about 10 p.m., Jail Deputy Goode opened the laundry room door and saw Bowman bend down and pull an unknown substance from his bin and place it in his mouth and star chewing.

Dep. Goode gave an order to Bowman to open his mouth. Bowman opened his mouth and Dep. Goode saw a leafy substance on Bowman's tongue.

Bowman said to Dep. Goode, "Give me another chance and don't say anything."

Jal Deputy Thieringer searched Bowman's bin and found a small amount of a leafy substance.

A test revealed the substance was marijuana.

Bowman was charged with Possession of Marijuana under 20 Grams.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on that and other similar charges from a Dec. 28th arrest.

His bail is now set at $2,620.

Bradenton Cops Arrest Teen
for Carrying Concealed Gun

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Zachary Reabon McDaniel, 18, of 1019 Hagle Park Road, Bradenton.

Zachary McDaniel

According to the arrest report, on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011, Bradenton Police pulled over a vehicle for a traffic violation.

McDaniel was a passenger in the vehicle.

Under the passenger seat, officers located a loaded .40 caliber Smith and Wesson.

McDaniel admitted to owning the firearm and said he "found it in a graveyard in Alabama about 4 months ago."

McDaniel was arrested and charged with carrying a Concealed Firearm.

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

Undercover Cops Arrest
Woman for Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ashley Iacovelli, 24, of 3506 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Ashley Iacovelli

The arrest report said on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011, two undercover deputies with the sheriff's Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit were posing as "johns" to solicit prostitutes walking the streets of Bradenton.

At about 3:15 p.m., they came across Ashley walking east in the 1100 block of 19th Avenue West.

They made contact with Ashley, who agreed to oral sex for $20.

Ashley was arrested and charged with Prostitution. She also was charged with Violation of Probation on a Reckless Driving charge.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,620.

Man Cut on Arms, Neck,
Robbed by 2 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a robbery with injuries on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2010, at about 12:30 a.m., in the 12-1400 block of Whitfield Avenue, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Scott Casey, 43, was walking from a pay phone at the plaza on Whitfield Ave., when he was confronted by two Black males, who told him to give up his stuff. He refused and they knocked him to the ground.

One of the suspects went through his pockets, while the other one cut him with a box cutter.

The suspects took $280 and prescription medications from the victim.

The victim went home and fell asleep.

Around 10:30 a.m., the victim had his dad take him to Lakewood Ranch ER for treatment.

He had several cuts on both arms and his neck. The victim received several staples and stitches.

On Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2011, around 12:30 a.m., the victim went to the sheriff's office to file a report. The victim

The robbers were described as two Black males in their 30s, 5'8" to 6' tall. One was heavy and one was thin. They were both wearing dark clothing. One was armed with a box cutter.

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.

Woman Robbed by Two Men
in Broad Daylight

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported the daring daylight robbery of a woman on a busy highway on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011, at about 5:30 p.m.

The victim, Lindsay Fyfe, 28, of Sarasota, called the sheriff's office to report that she was walking southbound at the 6300 block of U.S. 301, in Ellenton, when a white pickup slowed down and offered her a ride.

She refused and the truck left as traffic was starting to back up. The truck pulled to the side of the road and two Hispanic males got out of the truck and waited for her as she walked towards them.

The two unknown males, then demanded money from the victim.

The victim told them she had no money and the unknown males had her empty her pockets. The victim was in fear and complied with their demands.

They then made her open and empty her purse. Seeing there was no money in her purse, they made her hand over other personal valuables.

The suspects then left the area and the victim was not injured.

There was no further description of the robbers in the report.

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

Manatee County Animal Services
to Open New Downtown
Adoption Center Jan. 10

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT[ -- Adopting your next family pet will soon become even more convenient for Manatee County residents.

Manatee County Animal Services will open a new downtown adoption center next Monday, Jan. 10 at 1002 B Manatee Ave. W., just east of the Manatee County Administrative Center. The facility has room for five dogs and five cats and a “Get Acquainted Room” for prospective buyers to spend time with the pets.

Manatee County Animal Services Adoption Center Downtown Division will operate Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The primary Animal Services location will remain open at 305 25th Street W., Palmetto.

Also, for the first time ever, anyone wishing to adopt a pet can get a preview of the available animals on Animal Services new and improved website, www.mymanatee.org/pets. The site is updated every hour, giving visitors a chance to see a photo and read a brief description of the pets who are up for adoption. Pet owners can also use www.mymanatee.org/pets to find missing pets.

Each year families adopt more than 300 dogs and 150 cats from Manatee County Animal Services. Animal Services Chief Kris Weiskopf hopes the new location will boost those numbers in 2011.

“We want to let everyone know that we have dogs and cats available for adoption in a more centralized location,” Weiskopf said. “We want to make it easier for anyone living or working in Bradenton to adopt a pet.”

The adoption fee for dogs is $80 and $60 for cats, not including the required Manatee County License Certificate and Tag for Manatee County residents.
Special promotional fees are offered throughout the year.

For more information, or to learn more about Manatee County Animal Services, visit www.mymanatee.org/pets or call (941) 742-5933.

Man Shot In Head
In Mount Dora

MOUNT DORA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Mount Dora police are investigating after a 29-year-old man was shot in the head on Tuesday night, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Authorities released few details but said the shooting happened around 9 p.m. near Orange Street near State Road 441.

A Mount Dora police officer in the area reported the shooting after hearing gunshots.

Police said they are searching for the shooter but are unsure what led up to the incident.

The 29-year-old man, whose name was not released, was airlifted to the Orlando Regional Medical Center in critical but stable condition.

He is expected to survive, WKMG said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

First Bank Robbed by White Male
Tuesday; Wife Sees TV News,
Calls Cops; Arrested

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a robbery of First Bank, 4601 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011, at about 10:50 a.m.

A sheriff's report said the suspect entered the bank and handed the teller a note that demanded money.

The teller gave the suspect an undetermined amount of money.

The suspect fled southbound on foot.

The area was searched with negative results to include a vacant residence located in the 600 block of 46th St. W, due to a witness having last seen the suspect heading towards that residence.

The bank robber was described as a White male, 30-50 years old, 140-160 pounds, 5'10" to 6'2" tall, with brownish blond hair with a pony tail, and a full beard. He was last seen wearing gold-framed glasses and a white shirt and tan pants.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., Afra Sandifar called the sheriff's office and identified her husband, Troy, as the suspect in the bank surveillance photographs. Ms. Sandifar said she was watching the evening news when the bank surveillance photograph was shown.

Troy Sandifar, 46, then retrieved an unknown amount of money from under a fake fireplace in the living room and fled the apartment in a silver Chevy Cavalier, saying he was going to kill himself.

A few minutes later, Deputy Wolfinger spotted the Cavalier as it drove westbound on Cortez road from 14th Street West.

By this time Detective Parham had obtained Probable Cause for the arrest of Troy Sandifar for the Bank Robbery.

A K-9 unit, the Gang Unit, and the Violent Crimes Task Force conducted a Felony Stop at 20th Street and Cortez Road.

During the stop, Troy Sandifar refused to follow deputies' commands to exit the vehicle. Sandifar was then seen swallowing a large amount of what appeared to be rock cocaine as he sat in the driver’s seat. Sandifar had locked himself inside the vehicle and was continuing to refuse their commands to exit the car.

At this time, Deputy Kruse smashed the driver’s window with his ASP to gain entry.

Sandifar was extracted from the vehicle and after a brief struggle was placed under arrest.

Sandifar was taken to Manatee Memorial Hospital for treatment for the ingestion of the rock cocaine.

Detective Parham then interviewed Sandifar at the hospital and obtained a full confession.

Sandifar was charged with Robbery and remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond, as of early Wednesday morning.

Manatee Deputy Arrests Man
for Attempted Arson of
Apartment Building

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Wheelock John Minns, Jr., 47, of 2105 Banneker Way, in Sarasota.

Wheelock John Minns, Jr.

According to the arrest report from Deputy Kevin Vreeland, on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at about 9 p.m., a victim of an apartment complex at 2740 50th Avenue West, Bradenton, heard a loud crash and went to investigate.

The victim noticed a fire below his apartment in the bushes, and Minns walking away from the scene in a hurry.

Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene after the victim called 911.

While en route, the responding fire chief located a suspect walking from the scene who matched the description of Minns given by the victim.

Deputies went to the chief's location and detained Minns, pending further investigation.

Once on scene, Dep. Vreeland discovered the location of the incident and observed that the fire had been extinguished. The area where the fire had been burning had a bedroom window and screen that had been damaged.

On the ground, under the window, was a glass bottle covered with a fire fighting chemical. The bottle had some liquid in it and a slightly charred piece of fabric sticking out of the bottle's mouth. Dep. Vreeland noted that this type of incendiary device is commonly known as a "Molotov cocktail."

Minns was subsequently identified by the victim at a show-up.

The West Manatee Fire Rescue arson dog gave a positive alert to the presence of an accelerant.

The building Minns had attempted to set on fire houses 16 occupied apartments. Damage to the building was minimal and nobody was injured.

However, the bedroom which was the target of the attempted arson was the room a woman's children would normally occupy. They were not home at the time.

Minns was arrested and charged with three counts of Arson, Fire Bomb, Making/Throwing a Destructive Device, and Criminal Mischief.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $19,002.

Man Charged with Exposure
of Sexual Organ

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Julius R. Merchant, 23, of 4808 21st Street West, Bradenton.

Julius R. Merchant

According to the arrest report, on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about noon, Merchant was involved in a physical altercation with an unnamed victim's neighbor.

After the fight was over, Merchant allegedly pulled his penis out of his shorts and started waving it around.

According to the victim's affidavit, Merchant had his penis in his hand and yelled a vulgar epithet.

He then put his penis back in his pants and left the scene.

He was arrested less than an hour later and charged with Exposure of Sexual Organs.

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

Man Arrested for Aggravated
Battery on Pregnant Woman

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Tomas Diaz, jr., 18, of 5615 42nd Street East, Bradenton.

Tomas Diaz, Jr.

According to the arrest report, on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about 3:30 a.m., Diaz went to the unnamed victim's house in the 600 block of 26th Avenue West, Bradenton to talk with her in the bedroom.

Diaz and the woman are boyfriend and girlfriend and they are expecting a child, the report said.

They were both lying in bed talking when Diaz became upset at a comment the victim had said to him. He told her to be quiet and stay on her side of the bed, then grabbed the radio and threw it across the room.

She then tried to talk to him some more and that is when Diaz sat up in bed and punched her in the left leg with a closed fist.

She later told deputies he apologized to her for hitting her.

He admitted to deputies he knew she was pregnant.

Diaz was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Woman.

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

Man Arrested for Slapping Son
Report Indicated Incident
May Be Alcohol-Related

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Ricardo G. Campos, 51, of 5907 32nd Avenue Drive East, Palmetto.

Ricardo Campos

The arrest report said on New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 2011, at about 2 a.m., Campos and one of his sons, Jeremiah Campos, were engaged in a verbal argument that turned violent over a keyboard tray on a desk.

They were in the kitchen and began to swear at each other. Campos then slapped Jeremiah with an open hand on the left side of his face.

Campos' other son, Richard, said he heard the slap from his room with the door closed. He told the responding deputy he also heard Jeremiah say, "Why'd you slap me?"

Campos denied hitting his son, "because he loves them."

He was arrested and charged with felony Domestic Battery (he had a similar prior arrest and conviction).

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

New Year's Eve Party
Nets Pot Bust of Teen

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Corey M. Sabourin, 18, of 6711 64th Lane East, Palmetto.

Corey M. Sabourin

According to the arrest report, a deputy was investigating a large party at Lebanon Street and Bradenton-Arcadia Road on New Year's Day, Jan. 1, 2011, at about 2:30 a.m.

He approached a white Ford truck and smelled the odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle.

Corey was sitting in the driver seat and when asked if it was his vehicle, he replied, "Yes."

A search of the vehicle was conducted and a small clear zip-lock baggie was found in the front seat center console which contained 7.7 grams of marijuana. Next to the baggie was a marijuna joint.

Corey admitted the Marijuana was his, the report said.

He was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana under 20 Grams.

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

Sarasota Police Arrest Nine
Individuals for Prostitution

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- In response to citizens concerns over Prostitution, Officers from the Sarasota Police Department’s Street Crimes Unit, assisted by the Criminal Investigation Division, conducted an undercover prostitution operation in the North and Central districts of the City of Sarasota. The primary location was the N. Tamiami Trail.

Officers arrested 9 individuals during the January 3rd operation on a total 10 criminal charges, including one Possession of drug paraphernalia, and nine Prostitution arrests (two felony and seven misdemeanor Prostitution charges).

Those arrested were:

1. Breona Wilson (9/24/87)
2. Rachelle Tocco (6-28-88)
3. Kristina Miles (5/8/77)
4. Mary A. Hilton (12/16/58)
5. Wenonam Sauls (10/3/74)
6. Teresa A. Briceland (7/18/62)
7. Darlene Debord (12/6/82)
8. Jubilee Hardman (4/20/75)
9. Amanda Fleming (10/11/85)

Cops: Burglar Chased By Pit Bull
Dies After Jumping Thru Window

SUMMERFIELD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Marion County deputies said a man died after jumping out of the window of a home he had broken into and severely cutting himself, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Detectives said they believe Laird Butler was in the middle of a weekend drug binge when he broke into his neighbor's mobile home on Southeast 143rd Lane on Sunday.

Deputies said they believe Butler was chased by a pit bull in the home, prompting him to jump out a window and injure himself.

Deputies said Butler, 41, was found several blocks away and pronounced dead at Villages Regional Hospital Sunday afternoon.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Woman Runs Over Her Boyfriend
Following Argument; He Went
to Hospital, She Went to Jail

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Brittany McCullough, 22, of 5003 20th Street East, Bradenton.

Brittany McCullough

Thomas Samuels and McCullough are boyfriend and girlfriend who have resided together at the above residence as if husband and wife.

On Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011, at about 2:30 a.m., they got into an argument in the driveway of the listed address over whether or not McCullough would go pick up her daughter from the child’s father's address.

McCullough was driving the listed vehicle from the driveway with Samuel outside the passenger door.

Samuel completed a sworn affidavit alleging McCullough intentionally ran him over with the car.

McCullough and the vehicle were located and the crime scene preserved. She was read Miranda, the report said.

She completed a sworn affidavit alleging Samuels was hanging on the car, trying to get in as she was driving away. She said she accidentally drove over him in the heat of the argument.

Following the event, they both went back into the house and slept until Sunday morning, when McCullough drove Samuels to Manatee Memorial Hospital.

Samuels was treated and released for multiple lacerations to his face and a hunk of flesh missing from his right knee.

A nurse from Manatee Memorial Hospital called the sheriff's office at 11:15 A.M., reporting a domestic disturbance with injuries that occurred in the county.

CID and crime scene responded and assisted the investigation.

McCullough was arrested and charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

She later posted a $5,000 bail bond and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Man Arrested for Threatening
Two Men with Handgun

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Marbin Villacorta, 19, a transient.

Marbin Villacorta

A sheriff's report said on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at about 6:30 p.m., Francisco Martinez, 19, and Erik Baxiola, 10, said as they arrived at their residence in the 300 block of 24th Avenue East, Bradenton, Villacorta pulled a black hand gun out, cocked it, and while pointing it towards the victim stated “Ya’ll ain’t gonna be here long.”

One of the victims stated he was in fear and felt that he was going to get shot.

Upon arrival, Deputies secured Villacorta and located the firearm within close proximity.

Villacorta was arrested without incident.

He was charged with two counts of Aggravated Assault.

Two Women Arrested for
Prostitution by Undercover
Deputies

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Susan Painter-Arenas, 54, a homeless woman, and Sandra Kennedy, 27, of 4109 9th Street Esat, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Susan Painter-Arenas and Sandra Kennedy

The arrest reports for both women indicated they were both arrested in separate incidents on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010.

In the first arrest report, three deputies were working undercover in an attempt to solicit prostitutes working in the 3500-3800 block of 14th Street West.

At about 4:50 p.m., they observed Painter-Arenas walking west on 35th Avenue toward 14th Street. They made contact and after some conversation Painter-Arenas agreed to oral sex for $20 and intercourse for $20.

She was arrested and charged with Prostitution. She remains in the Manatee County Jail in lieu of a $500 bail bond.

The second arrest was made about a half hour later at 5:30 p.m.

Undercover deputies made contact with Kennedy, who was walking north on 14th Street West.

After some conversation, Kennedy agreed to oral sex for $20.

She was arrested and charged with Prostitution. The deputies also found a glass crack pipe and a small amount of marijuana in her possession, so she was additionally charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana.

At the jail, she was additionally charged on 3 Contempt of Court warrants for Failure to Appear on Cocaine and other earlier charges.

She remains in jail on a bail bond of $7,360.

Woman's Cell Phone Snatched
from Behind While Walking

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a robbery by sudden snatching on Saturday, Jan. 1, 2010, at about 10 p.m., in the 5800 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Heather smith, 28, of the 6100 block of 5th Street East, Bradenton, was walking north on 5th Street East in the 5800 block when a Black male approached her and asked if she wanted to buy some “weed.”

Heather declined and kept walking northbound while talking on her cell phone.

The Black male then came up from behind Heather and snatched her phone from her hand(s).

He then fled east along 57th Avenue from 5th Street East and was not located.

The thief was described as a Black male, 5'10" tall, with a solid build, about 200 pounds, last seen wearing a red ball cap, dark shirt and dark shorts. He was riding an older beach cruiser style bike.

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 Punched, Robbed
by Unknown Assailant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a man was punched and robbed outside a local business on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, at about 5:15 p.m., at 727 301 Blvd. East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Manuel Abilmar, 28, was standing at the north side of the business.

The unknown suspect walked up and punched the victim, causing him to fall.

The suspect reached into the victim's pocket and took $50 and a phone, the report said.

The suspect was not located.

There was no description of the suspect in the report.

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

Manatee Sheriff Looking for
Missing Man, 78 Years Old

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is searching for Arthur Simmons, 78, who went missing on Monday, Jan. 3, 2011, at about 2:30 a.m., from 7307 Meeting Street, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Monday Arthur Simmons and his wife, Helena, got into a verbal argument.

Because of the argument, Arthur became upset and wrote a note and packed a bag containing personal items.

He left their residence driving his 2011 Hyundai Sonata (FL tag 816TLX).

The note indicated that he may want to hurt himself.

Several locations were checked with negative results.

Arthur was entered as an attempt to locate - check the welfare.

Anyone with any information about this case is asked to call the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011.

Arson Fire Reported at
Fitness Center

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an arson fire on Friday, Dec. 31, 2011, at about 4:30 p.m., at the Stoneybrook Fitness Center, 200 Golden Harbour Trail, Bradenton.

According to a report from the sheriff's office, a man was using the gym and noticed smoke emerging from the hallway leading to the restrooms and contacted 911.

At the same time, another man who was with his children in the pool noticed the smoke and pulled the fire alarm. East Manatee Fire Rescue was notified by the alarm company of the fire.

It appeared that a garbage can had been lit on fire and placed on the restroom counter which set fire to the surrounding ceiling and walls.

Damages were estimated at $4,000.

The State Fire Marshal was contacted and will be continuing the investigation.

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.

Death Under Investigation
as Possible Homicide

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota police are investigating the death of a 36-year-old male that occurred at a home in the 1200 block of Tarpon Avenue, on Jan. 1, 2011, at about 3:20 a.m.

Police were dispatched to the residence and arrived at 3:20 a.m.

Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals who had sustained injuries.

One of the individuals had died from his injuries; the other required emergency medical treatment.

The deceased has been identified as Omar Hung-Gonzales, 36.

The second individual, Lincon Fernandez, 40 years-old, was Bayflighted for treatment of injuries sustained at the same location on Tarpon Avenue.

Omar Hung-Gonzales and Lincon Fernandez both are Sarasota residents.

The death is being investigated as a possible Homicide.

Anyone with information regarding this death is asked to contact Detective DeFrancisco at 941-954-7070.

Police Officer's Son Jailed
In Homeless Attack

SANFORD, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- The son of a Sanford police officer wanted on allegations of attacking a homeless man turned himself in to authorities on Monday, and the city's police chief has been relieved of duty, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Justin Collison

Justin Collison, the 21-year-old son of Sanford police Lt. Chris Collison, surrendered around 8 a.m. at the Seminole County Jail. An arrest warrant for Collison on an aggravated battery charge was issued Wednesday night in the Dec. 4 incident.

A witness captured video that police said shows Collison sucker-punching a man in the back of the head outside the Wet Spot Bar in downtown Sanford.

Police said Sherman Ware's nose was broken when he struck a steel pole after being punched by Collison.

The video shows Collison stumbling down the sidewalk yelling expletives after punching Ware, who was apparently trying to break up a fight, and then attacking another bystander.

Sanford police have launched an investigation into four officers who did not arrest Collison after responding to the incident.

The city of Sanford on Monday released a statement saying the handling of the incident has brought the public's trust and confidence in the Sanford Police Department into question.

In the letter, Sanford City Manager Thomas J. George said he has accelerated the date previously set for the retirement of Sanford Police Chief Brian F. Tooley from Jan. 31 to Jan. 3.

Meanwhile, members of the Seminole County NAACP were scheduled to meet with Hargrett on Monday to discuss the attack. They say Sanford police showed preferential treatment and are calling the incident a hate crime. Collison is white and Ware is black.

Collison was also arrested in 2007 in connection with a shooting. The charges were dropped because the state attorney's office said there was insufficient evidence and inconsistent witness statements, WKMG said.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Orlando Prison Escapee
Who Stole Prison Van
Captured in Manatee

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT] -- Orange County corrections officials were searching for James Russell, 35, who escaped from the Central Florida Reception Center, a prison run by the Florida Department of Corrections. Authorities said Russell escaped on Friday, Dec. 17th, 2010 and may have been headed for Manatee County.

James Russell

Russell was a minimum custody inmate. He had been staying at a work camp and had been doing maintenance work around the center. He had been there since June. On Friday, Dec. 17th, Russell was assigned to the automotive department.

Around 3:30 p.m., officers realized he was missing, along with a white 1998 Ford Econoline E350 15-passenger van with Florida Corrections tag DC 7217.

Russell is no stranger to the law. His charges began in 1998 and has been arrested for numerous crimes, including Dealing in Stolen Property, Grand Theft Auto and selling controlled substances. Russell was given a 3-year sentence in June for selling heroin. Many of Russell's arrests occurred in Manatee County.

Russell was described as being 5'6" tall, 176 pounds, brown hair in a buzz cut, hazel eyes and no bottom teeth. He has a mole on the left side of his face and a swastika tattoo on his left arm. A Viking demon tattoo is on his right shoulder.

The stolen prison van was later found in Brandon, Florida, and authorities maintained a visual surveillance on the van, hoping Russell would return to it.

Then, at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2010, Manatee County Sheriff's Deputies, with the assistance of the Office of the Inspector General, acting on tips, captured escaped prisoner James Russell.

Russell was arrested without incident at the Paradise Bay Hotel at 4406 102nd St. W., Bradenton.

Russell is charged with Escape and Grand Theft Auto.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond, pending extradition to Orange County, Florida.

Man Arrested for Attempting to
Torch West Side Post Office

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Rafiaele Mazzucco, 51, of 6904 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

Rafiaele Mazzucco

A sheriff's report said on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2010, at about 5:10 p.m., witness Jonathon Griggs was going to the post office at 115 75th Street West, Bradenton, to do some business when he observed Mazzucco standing at the entrance cursing at his lighter for not working and he had a piece of balled up paper in his other hand.

Griggs got in his vehicle to leave when he saw Mazzucco throwing the now lit piece of paper into the outgoing mail receptacle inside the post office.

Mazzucco fled in a green SUV.

Griggs went in and alerted employees, who put the fire out.

Griggs was also able to obtain the vehicle tag number that Mazzucco was driving in.

Deputy Jacobus used the tag information to locate Mazzucco at his residence.

Griggs and another witness were driven to Mazzucco’s residence where they positively identified him as being the person they observed lighting the fire. Mazzucco was taken into custody.

Post Miranda, Mazzucco admitted that he was mad at the post office for opening his mail. Mazzucco couldn’t understand how he committed a crime because the fire was put out before any damage was done.

Deputies located the lighter, some lighter fluid and drug paraphernalia on him at the time of his arrest. There was no damage to the mail inside the mailbox, nor any damage to the building.

The State Fire Marshall responded to the scene and contacted the Postal Inspector and ATF in regards to this incident. This incident was captured on surveillance cameras at the post office. The video was retained by the Fire Marshal pending their investigation.

Mazzucco was charged with Arson, Resisting Arrest and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $50,870.

Man Arrested for Stealing
Trailer, Scrap Metal from
Employer

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jackie Parker III, 30, of 2124 37th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Jackie Parker III

A sheriff's report said Parker had been working for Boaters Surplus and Supply Co., 6105 31st Street East, Bradenton, for about 3 weeks.

In the early morning of Monday, Dec. 27, 2010, before the business opened, he cut the lock off the front gate.

Once inside, he hooked up to a business trailer filled with scrap.

He drove the trailer to Tremarco Metal Recycling, 4515 15th Street East, where he sold the scrap for $180.

He then parked the trailer at a friend’s home and reported to work as if nothing happened.

Patrol investigated the case, developing several witnesses.

Leads were followed, resulting in Parker being arrested, and the trailer and scrap being recovered.

The driver license and fingerprint on the scrap ticket was an exact match to Parker.

Parker was charged with Burglary, Grand Theft Auto, Defrauding a Metal Recycler and Petit Theft.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $3,620.

Man Shot, Killed in Palmetto
the Day After Christmas

PALMETTO, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a fatal shooting in Palmetto on Sunday, Dec. 26,2010, at about 10:40 p.m., in the 700 block of 20th Lane East, Palmetto.

The report said deputies heard several gunshots coming from around the area of Oakwood apartments.

At approximately 10:40 p.m., deputies were dispatched to 716 20th Lane East in reference to a subject who had been shot.

Deputies located Ledarius Watkins, 19, on the floor.

They attempted CPR until EMS responded and took over.

EMS pronounced the subject deceased a short time later.

The victim’s friend, who was at the residence, stated she heard the shots, but didn’t see anything.

Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call MSO at 941-747-3011, ext. 2493 or 2557 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.

This is the 17th homicide overall in Manatee County in 2010. There have now been 13 homicides in the county, 3 in the City of Palmetto and 1 in the City of Bradenton.

Post Office Drop Box Torched;
Mail Inside Destroyed

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an arson fire in a U.S. Post Office drop box on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about 4 p.m., in the 4400 block of Pro Am Drive, in South Manatee County.

A sheriff's report said the sheriff's office was contacted to respond to the US Post Office Distribution Center located at 4112 53rd Ave East, Bradenton.

Upon arrival, Dep. Isbell was informed by a supervisor that the drop box located in the 4400 block of Pro Am drive had fire damage and most of the mail was destroyed.

It is unknown how the fire started at this time.

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.

New Year Celebration
Air Shot Wounds Man

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting with injuries on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about 11:58 p.m., in the 2900 block of 8th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Robert Benafield, 36, was in his backyard at the above location. As he began to walk toward his house, Benafield felt a pain in this right side/hip area.

Benafield said he thought someone threw something at him. Benafield got inside the house and realized he had been shot on a downward angle.

His wife, Laura Benafield, drove him to Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, which is when the sheriff's office was notified.

Benafield said he was hit by a stray bullet, as he heard shots being fired in celebration of the New Year. The entrance wound was about 2 inches above his right hip bone. The projectile traveled down about 5 inches at an angle.

Benafield was treated and released from LWRMC with further follow-up. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Evidence was collected and the investigation continues.

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

Manatee Sheriff Announces
Drug Drop Off Program

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Beginning Monday, January 3, 2011, the Sheriff’s Office will begin the Citizen Medication Collection Program. This program provides a safe disposal location for unused prescription medications.

The drop off location is the front desk of the Sheriff’s Office located at 600 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton. The front desk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Signs will be posted to assist citizens with the disposal procedures.

Medications should be placed into a supplied plastic bag and then placed in the drop box.

No liquids will be accepted.

Anyone with questions on the program can call MSO at 941-747-3011, ext. 2278.

iPhones Stolen by Two Black Males
in Strong Arm Robbery

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a strong arm robbery on Friday, Dec. 31, 2010, at about 6 p.m., at 3506 14th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Sasha Shans, 40, of North Port, met with two men to sell them two iPhones.

The two men, who found their victim on Craigslist, grabbed the phones and fled on foot.

Deputies were not able to locate the suspects.

The theft of the iPhones may be connected to a rash of similar crimes in Manatee and Sarasota Counties luring Craigslist sellers of iPhones (see article below).

The robbers were only described as two Black males.

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, SARASOTA AREA
CRIME ALERT: Armed Robbers
Using Craigslist to Lure Victims

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department is investigating a series of Armed Robberies where the suspects have made contact with the victims through Craigslist. Posing as legitimate buyers/sellers on Craigslist, the suspects have directed the victims to a location to facilitate the nonexistent transaction. Upon the victim’s arrival to the location set up by the suspects, the victims are subsequently robbed of their belongings at gunpoint.

The robberies have specifically dealt with the purchase and sale of i-Phones from the Sarasota/Bradenton Area Craigslist website.

When the sellers arrive at the site selected for the sale they are confronted by multiple perpetrators armed with handguns and the potential sellers become the victims of the armed robbers.

The robberies have been committed by 2-3 Black males armed with handguns.

At this time, the Sarasota Police Department is aggressively investigating these criminal acts.

If you have any information pertaining to any of these incidents please call the Sarasota Police Department at (941) 954-7049, or Sarasota CrimeStoppers at (941) 366-8477, or you may 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.

[Ed. Note: NewsManatee now knows of at least two similar incidents that have also occurred in the Bradenton area recently.]

Man's Face Slashed in
Road Rage Incident

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Ernest Couvertier, 43, 6216 Pauline Avenue, Sarasota, in connection with a road rage incident on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010.

Ernest Couvertier

Deputies say just before noon Couvertier was tailgating 56-year old Stephen Berliner as they drove east on Bee Ridge Road.

When the two came to McIntosh Road witnesses say Couvertier passed Berliner and stopped in traffic.

Couvertier approached Berliner’s vehicle and lunged at him with a knife, cutting the left side of Berliner’s face.

Berliner called 911 with the suspect’s tag number as the man sped away.

Deputies identified the vehicle as belonging to Couvertier and located him at work a short time later.

He was taken into custody and charged with Aggravated Battery.

Berliner was treated for superficial injuries at the scene.

Teenage Girl, 17, Walking Home
from Party, Forcibly Raped by
Black Male, 30-40 Years Old

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reported the rape of an unidentified 17-year-old girl on Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, at about 2:40 a.m., at Northeast Plaza, 3301 17th Street, Sarasota.

The victim was walking home from a party at around 2:30 a.m. through the rear of Northeast Plaza when she was confronted by a Black male in a white newer four door vehicle.

At first, the suspect called out to her from his car and told her to get in. When the victim changed direction of travel to avoid him, the suspect exited his car and forced the victim into the back seat where he sexually battered her.

The victim was released from the car and the suspect drove away.

The entire offense occurred at the rear area of the plaza; the victim called family and deputies from that location after the incident.

The rapist was described as a Black male, about 30-40 years old, heavyset, 5'8"-5'10" tall, with a dark complexion. The vehicle used was described as a white newer 4-door vehicle.

Sheriff’s detectives are investigating this incident and request anyone with information call the Sarasota Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Section at 861-4916 or CrimeStoppers at 366-TIPS.

Antique Shop Owner, Severely
Injured During Robbery, Dies;
Suspect Arrested

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Charlotte County Sheriff's Major Crimes Unit detectives continue to investigate a possible robbery motive of an East Englewood business on Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 29, 2010.

Above, the crime scene at Antiques + in Englewood East
(Photo by Robert Carpenter, CCSO PIO)

CCSO received a call at 2:40 p.m. that the owner of Antiques + (plus) at 3501 N. Access Road (S.R. 776) could not be reached by phone and another person went to check on the man and found him on the floor in a pool of blood. When deputies arrived they found the man, notified EMS who transported him to L.A. Ainger Middle School nearby from where he was flown out by MedStar to Lee Memorial Hospital Trauma unit with severe injuries.

CCSO Major Crimes detectives, CID detectives, road patrol deputies, K-9, Street Crimes and Aviation helicopter all responded and searched the area.

MCU detectives are asking the public for help if they saw anything around or in Antiques + in the Gallery Plaza located between the Tringali Community Center and Lemon Bay Drugs this afternoon. Please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101 or Crime Stoppers.

The name of the owner who was injured is Jeffrey P. Mazur, 64, of 1125 Larchmont Dr., Englewood (Sarasota County side near Buchan Airport).

Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Cameron announced Saturday afternoon that there had been an arrest in the Englewood East antique store robbery where the owner was critically injured and found in a pool of blood. Sadly, Sheriff Cameron also reported that the owner, Jeffrey P. Mazur, 64, died of those injuries Friday afternoon at Lee Memorial Hospital in Ft. Myers.

Major Crimes Unit detectives have worked around the clock since the incident was first reported Wednesday at 2:30 p.m.

Friday afternoon CCSO Major Crimes Unit detectives released two photos to the media taken by a surveillance camera at a convenience store and asked the public to help identify the man shown at the counter. Leads came into CCSO throughout the night and MCU detectives learned the identity of the man. Early Saturday afternoon detectives located the man seen in the photos and brought him in for questioning about the robbery.

James Besaw

After MCU detectives talked to James Besaw, 33, they developed probable cause to arrest him. He is charged with First Degree Murder and Aggravated Robbery with a Weapon. He was then transferred to the Charlotte County Jail late Saturday afternoon, where he is being held without bond.

No other details are being released at this time.

Man Fires Gun, Bullet Lands
Near Two Children

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Monday, Dec. 26, 2010, Charlotte County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a Charlotte Harbor man after he fired a gun into the upstairs bedroom floor; the bullet came through and hit the kitchen counter where two of his children were. Luckily there were no injuries.

Phillip Nguyen

CCSO received a call on Monday at 12:42 p.m. about a domestic disturbance involving a firearm at 4145 Riverbank Way.

When deputies arrived, a man's wife said she and her husband Phillip Nguyen, 44, were arguing and he removed a .380 automatic handgun from their safe.

Nguyen fired into the floor and the bullet traveled through and came to rest in the kitchen counter a few feet away from where his two children, ages 7 and 18, were sitting. A third child, 17, was upstairs at the time of the shot.

Nguyen fled the home with his handgun, got into his vehicle and left the area.

A BOLO was issued and at 1:07 p.m. a deputy located him in Punta Gorda at W. Marion Ave. and Goldstein St.

Nguyen was arrested and transported to the Charlotte County Jail.

He is charged with a felony, Discharging a Firearm Within a Dwelling. He remains in jail without bond.

CCSO notified the Department of Children and Families.

Sarasota Man Gets 15 Years
for $37 Million Ponzi Scheme

TAMPA, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010, U.S. Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announced that U.S. District Judge James S. Moody has sentenced Beau Diamond to fifteen years and 6 months in federal prison for wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering.

Beau Diamond

The court also ordered Beau Diamond to pay restitution to the victims in the amount of $23,065,090.34.

As part of his sentence, the court also entered a money judgment in the amount in excess of 37 million dollars, representing the proceeds of Diamond's fraudulent conduct. Beau Diamond was found guilty by a jury on July 21, 2010.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Diamond operated a fraudulent Ponzi scheme from April 2006 to January 2009 through his Sarasota company called Diamond Ventures LLC. He defrauded approximately 200 investors located in Sarasota and throughout the country out of approximately $37 million.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Terry A. Zitek and Kelley C. Howard-Allen and former United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton.

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NewsManatee Archive Created 1/8/2011 2:00:06 PM

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