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5-Year-Old Girl Dies After
Hit-and-Run Traffic Crash;
Man Turns Himself In

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a fatal crash on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 6 p.m., near Mira Lagos Apartments, 358 34th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton. Now, the man who says he's responsible for the death of a 5-year-old girl has turned himself in.

Kieron James

On Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Kieron W. James, 38, went to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and stated he wanted to turn himself in.

During a statement to officers from the Florida Highway Patrol, Kieron James stated he was operating his vehicle at the time of the crash that struck and killed Kimora Samuel, 5, and injured Kimora's aunt, Richecar Polinice, 15.

After the statement, Mr. James was placed under arrest and transported to the Manatee County Jail.

According to the FHP report, an unknown vehicle, now known to belong to James, was westbound in the driveway access from the apartments.

Kimora Samuel and Richecar Polinice were crossing 1st Street East (U.S. 41), just south of 34th Avenue East.

The unknown vehicle began to turn left onto 1st Street East and the front collided with both pedestrians.

Kimora was pronounced dead at the scene. Richecar was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with serious injuries. She has since been released from the hospital.

Above, FHP Troopers investigate involved vehicle
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

The unknown vehicle left the scene, traveling south on 1st Street East.

Two vehicles drove over Kimora's body without their tires contacting her.

Kieron James was charged with Failure to Stop and Remain at a Crash Involving Death, Failure to Stop and Remain at a Crash Involving Injury, and Driving While License Suspended (Habitual).

James remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond, due to a bond on an earlier Driving While License Suspended (Habitual) charge being revoked, because of the current arrest.

Man Arrested for Raping
Woman Anally

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jorge Villatoro-Suazo, 26, of Wayside Glen Mobile Home Park, 5120 14th Street West, Bradenton.

Jorge Villatoro-Suazo

According to the arrest report, the victim and Jorge are girlfriend/boyfriend, who have lived together as a family for about one year.

On Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 10 p.m., Jorge came home from work at Falkner Farms in Myakka City and they became involved in an argument over him possibly cheating with another woman.

Jorge then slapped the woman in the face and pulled her hair.

The woman went to bed around 10 p.m. and Jorge entered the room a few minutes later.

Jorge asked the woman to have sex and she told him no, because she was having her period, the report stated.

Jorge grabbed the woman and rolled her over on her stomach, saying, "You have to satisfy me."

He then got behind her, held her down and anally penetrated her with his penis. He said he would beat her up if she didn't let him have sex with her.

This went on for several minutes until he was done.

A child was sleeping in the bed beside them when the incident took place.

The woman said this is the 3rd or 4th time over the last several months that Jorge has forced himself on her and that he has done it both vaginally and anlly.

The woman was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital where a rape kit was performed.

Jorge is currently in the Manatee County Jail on a Domestic Battery charge in this case.

On Tuesday, December 6, 2011, he was arrested at the jail and charged with one count of Sexual Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time.

NewsManatee declined to name the woman.

Man with 2 Felony Warrants
Arrested Following Pursuit

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Richard C. Gaston, 50, of 4001 25th Street West, Bradenton.

Richard Gaston

A sheriff's report said Gaston had two felony warrants and on Thursday, December 8, 2011, at about 1:30 a.m., Gaston was seen driving a Corvette by deputies.

A traffic stop was initiated by a K-9 unit in the 200 block of 30th Avenue west.

Gaston did not stop, and a brief pursuit ensued.

Stop sticks were deployed two blocks west of the pursuit.

His front tire went flat and he stopped in the 2300 block of 30th Avenue west.

He was taken into custody for the warrants without incident.

At the jail, Gaston was found to be in possession of a controlled substance, which was not named in the report.

Gaston was charged with the two warrants, which were for Contempt of Court for not answering summonses for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, as well as the new charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $26,000.

Woman Accused of Felony
Retail Petit Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Sarah Rogers, 31, of 2915 8th Street Court West, in Palmetto.

Sarah Rogers

According to the arrest report, on Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at about 6:30 p.m., Rogers entered the Uppy's BP gas station at 7219 U.S. 41 North, in Palmetto and approached the cashier counter.

Rogers asked the cashier for a carton of cigarettes. The cashier laced the carton of cigarettes on the county.

Rogers took a food stamp card from her purse and swiped it in the credit card machine, but it was declined. Then she took an American Express card out and swiped it, but it, too, was declined.

Rogers told the cashier to take the next person in line, then grabbed the carton of cigarettes from the counter and exited the front door of the store without paying.

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Michael Scott was in the parking lot of the gas station fueling his patrol vehicle when Rogers exited the store and got into her vehicle and started to drive away.

The cashier rushed out, telling the trooper that Rogers had stolen the merchandise.

Trooper Scott then began a pursuit and successfully made a traffic stop on Rogers. Rogers was found to be in possession of the carton of cigarettes.

The sheriff's office was called and a deputy responded to the scene.

The cashier was brought to the scene and positively identified Rogers as the person who stole the cigarettes.

Rogers was arrested and charged with Petit Theft. But because she had been arrested twice before, and convicted of the same crime in 2009, the charge was upgraded to a felony. She was also charged with Fleeing to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer.

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

Woman Arrested for Felony
Prostitution; 4th Offense

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Lyda Gaskill, 36, of the 1900 block of 13th Street West, Bradenton.

Lyda Gaskill

The arrest report said on Wednesday, December 7, 2011, undercover detectives from the Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit were patrolling the streets of Manatee County, posing as "Johns" in an attempt to arrest prostitutes.

At about 5:30 p.m., a detective approached Gaskill in the 2400 block of 13th Street West. Gaskill agreed to get in the detective's vehicle.

A brief conversation ensued, during which Gaskill agreed to give the detective oral sex for $20.

Gaskill was arrested and charged with Prostitution. During a records check, it was discovered that Gaskill had 3 prior convictions for prostitution. They were in 2005, 2007 and 2010. As a result, Gaskill's charged was upgraded to Felony Prostitution.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,000.

Armed Home Invasion
Reported in Palmetto
with Shots Fired

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed home invasion on Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at about 9 p.m., at a residence in the 700 block of 14th Street East, Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said three armed Black males approached two unnamed female victims as they were entering their residence.

They shoved the victims inside the residence and demanded money.

An unnamed male victim then emerged from inside the residence.

The armed suspects focused their attention on the male victim and began to shoot at him.

The male victim dropped to the ground, but was not injured.

The armed suspects then fled the residence and got into a vehicle that was parked outside.

None of the victims sustained any injuries.

The investigation is ongoing at this time.

The invaders were not further described in the sheriff's office report.

The sheriff's office declined to release the names of the victims at this time.

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.

HBPD, LBKPD Warn Residents
of Possible Scam Artist
in the Area

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT/The Islander] -- Holmes Beach Police Lt. Dale Stephenson wants residents to know there’s a possible scam artist working in the area.

He said the police department has taken complaints this week from residents in the southern part of the city who say a young man came to their doors asking for donations. He allegedly claims to be new to the neighborhood, saying “I live around the corner.”

The man appeared to be in his early 20s, and was dressed in shorts and shirt, according to Stephenson.

He said the man sometimes references a duplex, or "the house with the dogs," and tells the resident that his mother asked him to knock on doors and meet the neighbors. He also says she’s planning to have a party to meet everyone.

He then says he’s forming a baseball team and asks for donations.

Stephenson said he learned this week of similar people or a pair working their scam door-to-door on Longboat Key.

He said Longboat Key police also are looking for a van with Georgia plates in conjunction with the scam artists.

Stephenson warned residents to be careful when they open their doors or give money. He suggested that while talking to a person at the front door, another person could be ransacking the home through the rear entry.

He suggested getting identification or viewing an ID card of solicitors, such as magazine sales people, before paying any money for goods or services or making a donation.

For more information or to report any suspicious activity, call HBPD at 941-708-5804, 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: The Anna Maria Islander newspaper is a news partner of NewsManatee's. We frequently share reports.]

Missing Mom Michelle Parker's
iPhone Found by Police

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- The iPhone of Michelle Parker, a mother of three who vanished three weeks ago, has been found by police, according to Orlando television station WKMG.

Above, the iPhone belonging to Michelle Parker
(Photo courtesy WKMG)

Parker's family told WKMG of the discovery Wednesday night, and Orlando police confirmed the finding Thursday morning. Police will not disclose when or where the 33-year-old's iPhone was found.

"The phone was found in remarkably good condition and is currently undergoing forensic testing in the hopes that it will yield physical evidence and/or data which will assist in this investigation," Orlando police said in a statement. "The phone has been identified by the family and the serial number confirmed that it is Michelle Parker's phone."

Family members said police called them late Wednesday to identify a photograph of the phone, which has a pink and black case.

Parker disappeared Nov. 17 after she appeared on an episode of "The People's Court" with her ex-fiance, Dale Smith, Jr., who is the prime suspect in her disappearance. He has not been charged with any crime, however.

After weeks of searching and combing area lakes, Erickson said the search had flat-lined, but this discovery has renewed the family's efforts, WKMG said.

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

NewsManatee Reporter Praises
Sheriff's Citizens Academy;
She's a Graduate

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- NewsManatee reporter Sandy Deland recently attended the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Citizens Academy as a student. She has since graduated and wanted to pass along the many fine lessons she learned, which you can read below.

Above, L to R, Sheriff's Deputy Bruce Meade, Sandy Deland and Sheriff Brad Steube
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

Manatee County has a real jewel in its midst and most people are probably not aware of it.

It is called Citizens Academy, and it is sponsored by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. It is a series of classes designed to educate citizens on the functions of law enforcement in our county. The only things that one must do to participate are, have a willingness to give one night a week of their time for eleven weeks and submit to a background check.

Approximately 3,000 citizens have already participated in this program which has been in effect for about fifteen years. It was started by previous sheriff, Charlie Wells, and has fortunately been continued by our present sheriff, Brad Steube. Many graduates of the program refer friends, come back as alumni to support the mew members, and enjoy another tour through the Academy.

Deputy Bruce Meade serves as our guide through the program. He organizes our classes, keeps the sessions running smoothly and on time, provides us with a a wonderful assortment of snacks and drinks, and lends his support in general to any questions we may have as he guides us through our journey.

When you start the classes, you are photographed for an ID badge, and given a loose leaf binder containing the outline for each class. You also are provided with a nice green polo shirt with the Citizens Academy logo on it.

The actual classes cover every aspect of our law enforcement from routine patrol to the bomb squad. Law enforcement officers speaking to us include highway patrol, narcotics, marine patrol, SWAT, jail officers, and many other departments, and of course, Sheriff Steube. We are very grateful to Sheriff Steube for allowing and supporting continuation of this fantastic program.

As well as the wealth of information all the speakers gave us in regards to their departments, we also had the privilege of some outside field trips. These included one to the jail and farm, and also the opportunity to shoot on the gun range. I was quite fascinated with how the farm and its' facilities make this a completely independent community. I personally enjoyed the chance to fire an actual police automatic weapon. I have the privilege of possessing a concealed weapon permit, but have never handled an automatic before.

Various departments brought the tools of their trade to us so we could see how they operate. This included the canines, those four legged deputies, the helicopter, marine patrol boat, bomb squad and SWAT vehicles and the command center bus.

Our classes were all extremely informative and plenty of opportunity was provided for questions and comments. It was so enlightening to see how all the different law officers spoke with such pride and enthusiasm about their role is keeping us all safe.

My personal high point of this program was to have a ride along with a deputy on his actual patrol. This was the best way to be able to see up close and personal exactly what a routine shift consists of. My companion deputy, Rob DeCarolis, explained all of the equipment that he uses and how it functions. I got to go with him on his calls and see exactly how a deputy deals with the public. I was extremely impressed with the patience and compassion he showed when interacting with people. This is a deputy that enjoys his job and is dedicated to the community.

Sadly, the classes had to end, but we were treated to an awesome banquet at the Bradenton Country Club for our graduation. We were awarded our certificates of completion, given a special pin, photo ops with Sheriff Steube and Deputy Meade, and given the opportunity to purchase the coveted red polo shirt which signifies us as graduates.

I am really pleased and honored that I had the opportunity to participate in the Citizens Academy. I highly recommend it to members of our community. It has given me so much knowledge, and increased understanding of how our law enforcement agencies actually function. They are able to do this in spite of budget cuts, job stress, and frustration in how to "get the job done." They continue to do an excellent job in spite of this and deserve our utmost respect and support.

~~~~~~~~~~

Slew of Deputies Capture
Burglary Suspect; K-9
Unit Credited

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Rayfield Byrd, 46, of last known address of 2026 51st Avenue East, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Rayfield Byrd and MSO K-9 Rex

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at approximately 1 a.m., Watch One advised dispatch that a possible burglary in progress was occurring at 7671 15th Street (Quick Stop) and a Black male was seen fleeing north on 15th Street East.

Watch One immediately took to the air while having dispatch respond patrol units to the location to determine if there was a burglary committed.

Responding patrol units and East Side Cops units arrived at the location within matter of minutes and confirmed that a burglary had occurred.

A perimeter was quickly established around the surrounding location.

Sgt. R. J. Tucker and Dep. Wolfinger responded to the location and without hesitation started conducting a track with their K-9s for the possible suspect(s).

Sgt. R. J. Tucker and his K-9 Rex tracked from the listed location to 7621 15th Street East unit 2E and determined that another burglary had been committed. Dep. Wolfinger then took over the track of the suspect.

While the tracks were being conducted, Det. Drymon was at the Quick Stop with the owner, Gunvantbhai Patel. Patel and Det. Drymon reviewed the surveillance video during this time and BOLOed the information of the suspect to the units on perimeter.

Dep. Wolfinger and his K-9 tracked the suspect to the 7600 block of 16th Street East in Tallevast. Once in the area, Dep. Wolfinger tracked directly to a white four-door vehicle that was parked.

Dep. Wolfinger and Dep. D. Patterson noticed a Black male, later identified as Rayfield Byrd, and a White female, identified as Deena Romano, were sitting in the vehicle. Both persons were removed from the vehicle.

Dep. Wolfinger and Dep. D. Patterson noticed that Byrd closely matched the description that Det. Drymon had BOLOed. Byrd, during this time, started acting nervous.

Detectives located items that were taken in the burglary from the Quick Stop.

During the investigation enough probable cause was established to arrest Byrd for the Burglary to the Quick Stop.

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

Young Man Arrested for
Assaulting Girl with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Richard Reyna, 19, of 307 58th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Richard Reyna

The arrest report said on Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at about 12:45 p.m., Reyna allegedly threw Rachel Eichelkraut on the couch and sat on top of her.

He then pulled a pocket knife out and laid the blade on her neck, telling her she shouldn't move, because "These things slip," the report said.

He sat on her for about 10 minutes with the knife at her throat, then got off of her and she ran out of the house.

He took her phone, so she returned to the house to retrieve her phone, but he wouldn't give it to her.

He left on a motorcycle.

Reyna was arrested an hour and a half later and charged with Aggravated Assault.

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

Shoplifter Accused of Holding
Nearly 200 Narcotic Pills

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested James Wesley Nagy, 31, of 5503 19th Street West, Bradenton.

James Nagy

According to the arrest report, on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 5:30 p.m., Nagy was observed by two loss prevention associates at Sears in the DeSoto Square Mall selecting and concealing merchandise.

Nagy then exited the store, passing all points of purchase without paying for the stolen goods.

The two loss prevention associates and mall security identified themselves and attempted to stop Nagy. Loss prevention asked for the merchandise back, at which time Nagy said, "No!"

He then pushed both loss prevention associates and ran from them.

Nagy was eventually caught by the loss prevention people and mall security and taken to the Sears office.

The merchandise was recovered, but one item was broken.

The total amount of the stolen merchandise was $169.97.

Subsequent to Nagy's arrest, K-9 Deputy Wolfinger searched Nagy and discovered 76 pills identified as Hyrdocodone, and 121 pills identified as Alprazolam (Xanax).

Nagy was charged with Trafficking in Hydrocodone, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, 1st Degree Petit Theft, and Resisting a Merchant.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without a bail bond.

Man Arrested for Battery
on a Person Over 65

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Gary Jan Konicov, 46, of 3343 39th Place West, Bradenton.

Gary Konicov

On Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 5 p.m., Joseph Robideau, 79, called Konicov to tell him that he could not park his truck on the roadway because those were the association's rules. Robideau, being the president of the association, felt the need to let him know that, the arrest report said.

Konicov then walked over to Robideau's home and got into a heated argument with him.

When Robideau came out to talk to Konicov, Konicov grabbed him as if in a bear hug and would not let go.

Konicov accused Robideau of being anti-Semitic.

Robideau said that he was then pushed up the street to where the truck was, where they continued to argue.

A witness observed Konicov push Robideau on his chest as they walked up the street.

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

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

Bradenton Police Arrest
Man for Possession of a
Controlled Substance

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Adam J. Noto, 24, of 807 64th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Adam Noto

The arrest report from BPD said on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 3 p.m., officers responded to a call regarding a man with a gun at 2306 Manatee Avenue East.

Upon arrival, Officer Brian Wingate observed Noto sitting in a car; he matched the description of the subject.

Officer Wingate removed Noto from the vehicle and upon checking the vehicle for the firearm, the officer located a syringe, a spoon and a small baggie containing 3 small blue pills, later identified as Oxycodone, as well as a realistic-looking pellet gun.

Upon further search, a second syringe was found, full of an unknown fluid.

After speaking to Noto, post-Miranda, he said that all the items were his and that he had just bought the pills.

Noto was arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

He later posted a bail bond of $1,120 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

Woman Takes Tire Iron
to Person, Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Gisela Mijares, 37, of 1108 6th Street East, Bradenton.

Gisela Mijares

The arrest report said on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 7 a.m., Gisela "did knowingly and intentionally strike the victim" in the right arm with a tire iron, causing a scratch.

Then she used the tire iron to break the driver's side outside mirror and put multiple dents in the driver's front door, rear door and right rear quarter panel.

The victim was not identified in the report.

Mijares was arrested and charged with Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and felony Criminal Mischief.

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

3 Survive Car Plunge
into Orlando Lake

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported three people were able to escape after a car plunged into an Orlando lake, police said.

The car crashed into Lake Ivanhoe around 1:30 a.m. Wednesday, and two men and a woman, described only as young adults, were able to get out safely, Orlando police said.

Police said the woman missed a turn and drove into the lake.

A wrecker pulled the car, which was nearly fully submerged, from the lake, WKMG said.

The driver was does not face any charges but may be ticketed, Orlando police said.

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

Man Arrested for Sex Acts
with Minors; Possession
of Child Pornography

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Todd Andrew Noble, 46, of the 12900 block of Yacht Club Place, Cortez, Florida.

Todd Noble

The arrest report said on August 16, 2011, at about 11 a.m., the sheriff's office received a call from the Siesta Inn, 2303 1st Street, Bradenton. The manager stated he could not get into a room that had been occupied, but that was now supposed to have been vacated.

Sheriff's deputies and the manager banged on the door for some time without success. Just as they were about to force the door open, it was opened by a young girl, 16 years old. Another girl, 17 years old, was asleep on the bed. There were sex toys visible. There was also a bong and a glass pipe and a video camera.

The 17-year-old was awakened and they both said that their sponsor, Todd Noble, had rented the room for them.

Detectives were called in.

Before interviews were conducted, Noble and the girls' mother arrived on scene. At this point, it was believed that Noble had only rented the room for them and had given them the key immediately and left.

However, through two receipts also found in the room, it was determined that Noble had purchased the sex toys from the XTC Adult Center on Cortez Road and had purchased the video camera from Wal-Mart, with the girls in tow at both stores on the night they checked into the motel.

After interviewing the girls, it was determined that both girls were "high" on "a lot of marijuana" when all three, Noble and the two girls, had sex and videotaped the incident.

When Noble was interviewed, he said he took the girls in to help with a drug problem.

However, when confronted with the allegations of sexual misconduct, he asked for a lawyer.

The girls' mother said that one of them had run away from home and contacted her months later. It was learned that she was living with Noble. She had entrusted the girls to Noble's care.

Later, a search warrant was served at Noble's residence. During the search, multiple computers, digital cameras, cell phones and multiple media devices were seized. An FDLE examiner did locate searches for teenage pornography in one of the seized computers.

On Saturday, December 3, 2011, Noble was arrested at his home and charged with Unlawful Sex Acts with a Minor; Sexual Battery by Custodial Authority; Promotion of Child Pornography; and Possession of Child Pornography.

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

5-Year-Old Girl Dies After
Hit-and-Run Traffic Crash;
FHP Requests Assistance

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a fatal crash on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 6 p.m., near Mira Lagos Apartments, 358 34th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Above, FHP Troopers investigate a possible involved vehicle
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

According to the FHP report, an unknown vehicle was westbound in the driveway access from the apartments.

Kimora Samuel, 5, and Richecar Polinice, 15, were crossing 1st Street East, just south of 34th Avenue East.

The unknown vehicle began to turn left onto 1st Street East and the front collided with both pedestrians.

Kimora was pronounced dead at the scene. Richecar was transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital with serious injuries.

The unknown vehicle left the scene, traveling south on 1st Street East.

Two vehicles drove over Kimora's body without their tires contacting her.

The Florida Highway Patrol is asking for assistance in locating the unknown vehicle, which was described as a 4-door dark colored vehicle, possibly dark blue or dark green.

If anyone has any leads on this vehicle, please contract FHP Corporal Carroll, at 941-751-7647, ext. 100.

Deputies Arrest Ex-Con for
Concealed Weapon, Cocaine

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Francisco Martinez, 23, of 903 59th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Francisco Martinez

According to the arrest report, on Sunday, December 4, 2011, at about 7 a.m., deputies were called to the 5800 block of 9th Street East regarding a battery that had just occurred.

Upon arrival, they met with Latisha Alvarez, who said she had been slapped in the face by a Hispanic male.

While conducting the investigation, Alvarez came running back to them and said some Hispanic males were fighting around the corner.

As deputies pulled up to that location, Martinez was seen pulling an object from his waistband and walking around the other side of a Ford SUV and placing the object on top of the rear drive side tire.

A deputy located the object, which was a Jennings 9mm handgun, fully loaded. He immediately took Martinez into custody.

Upon searching Martinez, a green bag with a powdery substance was located in his front right pocket.

Martinez was charged with Carrying a Concealed Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession of Cocaine. He was also charged with Violation of Probation on an earlier Tampering with Evidence charge.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

BPD Arrests Man for Battery
on a Security Officer at
Manatee Memorial

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Elfego Saucedo, 42, of 1424 12th Avenue West, Palmetto.

Elfego Saucedo

The arrest report said on Sunday, December 4, 2011, at about 8:20 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a battery call at Manatee Memorial Hospital, 206 2nd Street East.

Upon arrival the officer met with Leroy Tillman, a security guard who is employed by the hospital.

Tillman said he was called to the emergency room to assist other security officers with Saucedo.

Tillman said Saucedo pushed him in an attempt to get around him.

Tillman had no visible injuries and wanted to press charges.

Saucedo was arrested and charged with Battery on a Security Officer. He was also charged with a warrant for non-support.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $2,570.

Woman Arrested for Felony
Retail Theft at Bealls

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jamila Reese, 32, of 711 56th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

Jamila Reese

The arrest report said on Sunday, December 4, 2011, at about 1:15 p.m., Reese and another woman walked into the Bealls store located at 5838 14th Street West, Bradenton.

They proceeded to select items from the shelves and place them into their bags.

A loss prevention officer said the pair then exited the store, passing all points of sale, failing to pay for the concealed items.

He stopped them and grabbed Reese, who started yelling and swinging her arms and said she would "kick his ass" and "would pepper spray him."

The other woman got away in a silver vehicle.

The total amount of items found were valued at $315.68.

Reese was arrested and charged with Felony Grand Theft (Retail), and Resisting a Merchant. Reese was found to have also violated her probation for Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail without bond.

Man Arrested at Traffic Stop
for Bottle of Narcotics

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested David Joseph Hulley, 23, of 1622 39th Avenue Drive, in Ellenton.

David Hulley

The arrest report said on Monday, December 5, 2011, at about 10 minutes past midnight, Dep. Alan Judy pulled Hulley over in the 6200 block of State Road 64 East; Dep. Judy could not read the state on the license tag. He was driving a U-Haul truck.

As he approached, he could see Hulley moving around and looking in his rear view mirror. Dep. Judy asked Hulley to step out of the vehicle, which he did, leaving the door open and the engine running.

It was learned that Hulley's license had been suspended and Hulley said he knew that.

Hulley was arrested for Driving on a Suspended License with Knowledge.

Dep. Judy then went to close the door of the U-Haul truck and turn off the engine and spotted a bottle of pills, later identified as Xanax.

Hulley said he did not have a prescription for them.

Hulley was additionally charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance.

Hulley later posted a bail bond of $1,120 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

SPD Arrests Ex-Con for
Concealed Weapon

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police are conducting self-initiated activity in an effort to reduce violent crime in a neighborhood where five victims were shot and one died days earlier. On November 26th Naomi Clyburn was murdered and four others wounded by gunfire in a north Sarasota residential neighborhood (Leon Avenue & 30th Street).

Terrance Bryant

On December 1st officers observed approximately ten individuals standing in the breezeway of an apartment complex (less than six blocks from the location of the recent shootings). The complex in the 2400 block of Leon Avenue is enrolled in the Sarasota Police Department Trespass Enforcement Program (TEP). The TEP allows Sarasota Police Officers (based on a signed agreement with the property owner) to stop and investigate people on the property to determine if they are residents, guest, or trespassing. Three signs are posted on the property identifying participation in the TEP.

Six officers developed a strategy to contact the individuals. Four officers approached on foot from the back of the complex while two officers arrived in a patrol vehicle at the front of the complex. This technique allowed officers to contact six of the subjects, including Terrance Bryant.

Officer Combs and Officer Skinner contacted Bryant. Bryant stepped behind one of the other people partially concealing the officers’ view of Bryant. The officers were concerned that Bryant may be concealing himself so that he could discard contraband or access a weapon.

As the other person stepped aside Bryant backed against an apartment door and knocked yelling “open the door”. When the door opened Bryant attempted to run inside, the resident shut the door to try to prevent Bryant from entering. Officer Combs attempted to restrain Bryant, Bryant continued to resist. As Officer Combs took him to the ground the officer saw the handle of a semi-automatic handgun protruding from Bryant’s waist band.

Officer Skinner retrieved the .40 caliber Sig Saur firearm while Officer Combs handcuffed Bryant. Officers recovered a pair of gloves from Bryant’s pocket, a black skull cap, and a black bandana that was around his neck. This type of clothing has been worn by perpetrators of criminal activity including Robberies. The firearm was loaded (including a round in the chamber) and had been reported as stolen in an auto burglary (12/31/2009, SPD case 2010-000087).

Terrance Bryant was previously arrested on 52 criminal charges (31 Felony, 21 misdemeanors) and convicted on 22 charges (7 Felony and 15 misdemeanors). His previous arrests include: Attempted Murder, Robberies, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Burglary, Arson, violations involving firearms, and narcotics.

Terrance Bryant, 33, 2428 Tallwood Terrace, North Port, was arrested for: Carrying a Concealed Firearm, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, and Resisting a Law Enforcement Officer.

Because of the officers self initiated activity an armed individual was removed from this residential apartment complex. The officers’ safety was at risk (arresting a convicted felon with a concealed loaded handgun) but their self initiated activity helps improve the safety of the community.

Thief Cuts Into Women's
Purses, Steals Cash

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT] -- Orlando police are searching for a thief who cut into two women's purses and stole their money over the weekend, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Police said two separate women became victims without even knowing it at the Mall at Millenia.

The first crime happened about 6 p.m. Saturday inside Macy's department store. The woman told police she was shopping and never noticed that someone had cut her purse until things inside were gone.

Another woman said someone cut her purse from top to bottom on two different sides without her noticing 15 minutes later in the mall's common area.

WKMG found it's not easy to cut into a purse, although police did not say what type of purses the women had. It takes some effort with a box-cutter and even more with scissors to cut into most purses.

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

Man Arrested for Pointing
Gun at Two Victims
in Traffic

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jamie W. Freeman, III, 51, of 2308 S. Wellesley Drive, in Bradenton.

Jamie Freeman III

The arrest report said on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 12:45 p.m., while traveling southbound in the 4800 block of 14th Street West, Jamie had stepped on his brakes while two unnamed victims were traveling behind him on several occasions.

As the victims drove up beside Jamie, they saw a snub nose revolver pointing at them by Jamie.

The victims slowed down and pulled into a parking lot where they contacted the sheriff's office.

Jamie had pulled into a parking lot across the street from them and stepped out of his vehicle. He placed his handgun inside his pants, in the rear.

He then went into a tent area that was selling Christmas trees. After purchasing a tree, he came out and put the tree in his vehicle and left southbound on 14th Street West.

Dep. Russell Younger observed the vehicle as he approached the area and conducted a traffic stop.

Jamie placed his hands over his head as deputies approached him at gunpoint.

He was asked where the gun was and instead of pointing to its location, he reached for the gun.

He was instructed to keep his hands up and he was immediately assisted out of his vehicle.

The handgun, a .38 Special, with 5 rounds chambered was recovered from the center console.

James said he had a concealed weapons permit for the gun.

He said he knows the law and didn't know why deputies were so aggressive with him reaching for the gun.

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

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

Domestic Argument Escalates
to Stabbing of Male Half

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a stabbing incident on Friday, December 2, 2011, at about 10:45 p.m., at a residence in the 2900 block of 8th Street West, Bradenton, that led to the arrest of a woman.

Allison Sanchez

A sheriff's report said Martin Goldberg, 25, and Allison Sanchez, 30, escalated an argument into violence.

Allison eventually stabbed Martin in the back puncturing his skin twice.

It is unknown what exactly led to the stabbing, but witnesses to the two exiting their home heard Allison say Martin beat her, and followed the statement up with “…who's [expletive deleted] up now?”

Martin was uncooperative prior to his transport to Blake Medical Center.

K9 attempted to track Allison with negative results, but afterward neighbors stated Allison may have fled the scene in a vehicle.

She was later located and arrested.

She was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $100,000.

Man Arrested for Punching
Pregnant Girlfriend

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested David Freeman, Jr., 31, of 504 11th Street West, in Palmetto.

David Freeman, Jr.

The arrest report from BPD said on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 10 a.m., Freeman got into a verbal argument with his girlfriend, Natashia Ellis, in her residence in the 1200 block of 19th Street Court East, Bradenton.

Ellis said Freeman punched her several times in her head area and face.

Ellis had several large bumps on her head area and was bleeding from her nose and mouth area.

EMS responded and transported Ellis to Manatee Memorial Hospital due to her injuries. Ellis said she was pregnant.

Officers located Freeman walking in the 700 block of 19th Street East and was arrested.

He was charged with Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Woman.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $25,000.

Woman Arrested for Theft
of Collection Box Money
Destined for U.S. Troops

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Mitzi C. Collier, 45, of 1653 Flamingo Blvd., Bradenton.

Mitzi Collier

The arrest report stated on Friday, December 2, 2011, at about 4:45 p.m., Collier entered PostNet, located at 6094 14th Street West and took a money collection box that the victim, Roland Kennedy, had put out on the counter to benefit U.S. troops.

She left the store with the box and walked north through the plaza.

The store owner, Kennedy, ran after her and caught her a few doors down from the business.

He observed Collier trying to open the box.

He retrieved the box and money. Collier walked off.

A witness observed the victim retrieve the box from Collier and followed Collier, calling the sheriff's office.

Collier was located across the street from the plaza and arrested.

The witness positively identified Collier as the person who took the money.

The box contained approximately $25. in coins and bills.

Collier was charged with Retail Theft. Her bail bond on an earlier bench warrant for failure to appear for an unarmed robbery was revoked.

She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $15,120.

Bradenton Cops Arrest
Woman for Theft of
Laptop Computer

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Ashley Condon, 29, of 1505 17th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Ashley Condon

According to the arrest report, on November 6, 2011, at about 11 a.m., Ashley stole her unnamed roommate's computer, which was located under her roommate's bed at the residence they lived at together, 1505 17th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Ashley drove out to the 800 block of 56th Avenue East and sold the computer for $40. She told the buyer that it was hers and that she needed the money.

On December 2, 2011, a Bradenton Police Detective located the stolen computer and received a written statement from the unnamed buyer that Ashley told her the computer was not stolen.

The detective located Ashley and she agreed to go to BPD for an interview.

Post-Miranda, Ashley admitted to stealing the computer and selling it.

She said she knew it was wrong, but that she needed the money for food for her children.

She was charged with Dealing in Stolen Property.

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

Manatee Crime Prevention
Issues Crime Trend Alert

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit, between 7 p.m. this past Saturday, December 3rd, 2011, and 9 a.m. Sunday morning, December 4th, 2011, several vehicles, a shed, a garage, and at least one boat were hit in Trailer Estates by thieves on Iowa Avenue, Marina Drive, Michigan Avenue, and American Way.

Taken from the vehicles and the boat was change and alcohol, but thousands of dollars worth of fishing poles and equipment were taken from the shed and garage. Most were left unlocked or unsecured.

Please remember to keep your vehicles, sheds, and garages locked. If you aren't sure if the locks on your shed or garage are sufficient, please contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (941)747-3011, ext: 2500, and ask for a free security survey. They will gladly come out and show you what you can do to make your place a harder target for thieves.

Meanwhile, if you know anything about these burglaries, please contact the Manatee County Sheriff's Office at (941) 747-3011 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, .

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

Manatee County Invites Public
to 10th annual Tour of Lights

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Manatee County Area Transit will host the popular Tour of Lights Friday, Dec. 16 and Saturday, Dec. 17.

Riders need only bring a non-perishable food item or unwrapped toy for admission. The food will be donated to local social service networks and the toys will be given to the Toys for Tots program.

Between 1,500 and 2,000 people take part in the tour each year.

Seating is limited and will be offered on a first come, first served basis.

Passengers should arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. and should be ready for departure at one of two park and ride locations at 6:45 p.m.:

State College of Florida (Manatee Community College)
5840 26th Street West
Building #29

Manatee Convention Center
One Haben Boulevard
(Meet in the lobby)

Four Arrested for Armed Home
Invasion Robbery & Burglary

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- Sarasota Police Officers arrested four individuals who burglarized an apartment in the 2100 block of Wood Street, and then returned hours later to the same residence and committed an Armed Home Invasion Robbery.

On December 2nd, at about 3:20 a.m., officers responded to a reported Home Invasion Robbery. During the investigation, officers learned that the same apartment had been burglarized hours earlier.

During the Burglary the suspects stole two laptop computers, two safes, and a XBOX 360. The victim had planned to talk to his roommate and then report the Burglary to police the next morning.

Before the Burglary was reported, the victims were confronted in their home, by suspects who concealed their faces with bandanas. One suspect was armed with a semi-automatic handgun and a second suspect with a knife. During the robbery, one of the suspects mentioned the name “Fabio”. The suspects stole a green duffle bag filled with clothes and then left the scene in a red convertible with a tan top. The victims believed that Fabio lived on Proctor Road near Las Vegas Road.

A BOLO was issued for the suspect’s vehicle by Officer Vanick. Sarasota Sheriff’s Deputy Adams located the convertible on Victoria Avenue. Officer Vanick and the deputy contacted Fabio Estrada at that location. Estrada turned over one of the laptops stolen during the Burglary to the officers.

Detective Roberson and Detective Llovio continued the investigation, they identified three other suspects involved in the Burglary and Home Invasion Robbery: Charles West, Jonathan Martinez, and Anna Arellano.

Detectives responded to one of the suspect’s apartment in the 400 block of Caruso Place. They made contact with West and Martinez. During a consent search, the detectives recovered two stolen safes, the other stolen laptop, a green duffle bag with cloths, a silver .25 semi automatic handgun, and a knife.

Anna Arellano was identified as the driver of the getaway vehicle for the Burglary and the Home Invasion Robbery.

The following suspects were arrested for Home Invasion Robbery with a Firearm and Burglary of an unoccupied Dwelling:

~ Fabio Emmanuel Estrada, 19, 4894 Victoria Avenue.
~ Charles E. West, 18, 409 Caruso Place.
~ Jonathan Martinez, 17, 3227 Beneva Road.
~ Anna Arellano, 20, 2311 Clark Avenue, Bradenton.

Thanks to excellent police work and the collaboration between the responding officers, deputies, and detectives, four individuals were arrested, the victim’s property was recovered, and the firearm that was used seized.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Roberson at 941-954-7070.

Ex-Boyfriend Arrested in
Woman's Abduction

ORLANDO, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a man was arrested Monday on allegations of abducting his ex-girlfriend at gunpoint, Orlando police said.

Jermaine Beeston, 30, was arrested after 10 a.m. at a home on Laconia Drive, north of State Road 408 in Pine Hills.

According to Orlando police, the woman's roommate called 911 around 4:45 a.m. to report the abduction, which occurred at an apartment on Vineland Road. The roommate said Beeston pointed a gun at her as he forced his ex-girlfirend into a car.

A SWAT team was later called to the Pine Hills home after a vehicle believed to be involved in the abduction was spotted there. Police said they made contact with the woman, who exited the house. Beeston then left the house and was arrested on charges of armed kidnapping and aggravated assault, police said.

According to Orlando police, the couple had been dating for about nine months and may have recently broken up.

No one was injured in the incident.

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Sheriff's K-9 Unit Discovers
Forgery Suspect, Narcotics
Following Traffic Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Aimee Crawford, 32, of 13180 State Road 62, in Parrish, and Ambrose Lozano, 32, of 4212 79th Street West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Aimee Crawford, MSO K-9 Leo, and Ambrose Lozano

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at about 2:30 a.m., while on patrol, Deputy Joel Taylor was traveling west on State Road 64 East at the 11000 block and observed a silver Ford crossing over the white dotted line. The deputy began to pace the Ford and saw that the Ford was traveling at a speed of 38 mph in a posted 50 mph zone. Then the vehicle crossed the white dotted line again. The deputy initiated a traffic stop in the 8100 block of State Road 64 East.

The driver was Lozano. He told Dep. Taylor he didn't have a driver license because it was revoked and didn't have any papers on the vehicle, which was a rental.

The deputy learned that Lozano's license was indeed revoked as a Habitual Offender.

Dep. Thames and his K-9 Leo were contacted to do a walk-around of the vehicle, which they did.

Meanwhile, Lozano was arrested and searched. A single blue pill was found, which Lozano said, "It's my Roxy (meaning Roxycodone).

The passenger gave a name of Ashley Crawford to Dep. Taylor.

The K-9, Leo, alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.

Upon searching the vehicle, a perfume case was located; something loose was inside. When the deputy opened the case, he found a plastic bag with Methamphetamine inside. He also found a folded up picture and found 14 Oxycodone pills inside. Dep. Thames found another pill on the floor in the back seat. Two more pills were found on the floorboard. And yet another pill was found inside a plastic ID card holder. All of the pills were identified as Oxycodone.

Ashley said her mother had rented the car. When her mother Suzette was contacted, she said she knew nothing about the rental car and asked which daughter had rented the car. Suzette said her daughter Aimee had probably done that and that she has a "drug problem." Suzette also said she was missing credit cards and jewelry.

"Ashley" admitted her name was Aimee Crawford. She said she rented the car using her mother's credit card and driver license and had signed her mother's name to the rental agreement.

The Methamphetamine weighed out to 1.6 grams. The Oxycodone pills weighed out to 1.9 grams.

Ambrose Lozano was charged with Driving on a Revoked Driver License (Habitual), and Possession of a Controlled Substance. He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $20,000.

Aimee Crawford was charged with two counts of Credit Card Theft, four counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, two counts of Possession of a Legend Drug, two counts of Obtaining Goods with False Information, two counts of Giving False Name to Law Enforcement, and two counts of Forgery. She remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $74,000.

MSO K-9 Unit Captures Man
Who Violated Injunction,
Burglarized Home

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Christopher Wilson, 27, of Palmetto.

Above, L to R, Christopher Wilson and MSO K-9 Rex

According to the arrest report, on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at about 9 p.m., deputies were called to a residence in the 2500 block of 2nd Avenue West, Palmetto.

Wilson, who has a domestic violence injunction for protection in place against him, went to the residence of the victim, Angela Buckner and forced entry.

The sheriff's office was called and Wilson was located inside, under a bed.

Wilson refused to cooperate or surrender and was apprehended by MSO K-9 Rex and his handler, Deputy Wolfinger. The dog bit Wilson on the arm.

He was taken into custody and transported to Manatee Memorial Hospital to be treated for the dog bite.

While at MMH, Wilson attempted to spit on a deputy, tried to bite another deputy, and kicked a third deputy.

During all of that, Wilson spouted various epithets, threatening to "[expletive deleted] them up" when he is released from jail.

He was treated and taken to jail.

No deputies were injured during the incident.

He was charged with 2 counts of Burglary, Resisting Arrest without Violence, 2 counts of Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer, 2 counts of Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, and 2 counts of Violation of Repeat Violence Injunction.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $385,100.

Copper Thieves Captured
Shortly After Theft

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jacob Ramsey, 18, and James Mason, 16 years old.

Above, L to R, Jacob Ramsey and James Mason

On Thursday, December 1, 2011, Dep. Zimmermann was patrolling the area along 700 block of 39th Street East, in Palmetto, when she observed a white Jeep pull out of the abandon house at 705 39th St. East and leave at a high rate of speed.

She caught up to the vehicle as it approached US 41 and 39th St. East and conducted a traffic stop on it.

As she approached the vehicle, she noticed that there was a large spool of copper wiring in the back seat and the suspects were covered in drywall dust.

Post-Miranda interviews were conducted with the suspects. They admitted to entering the house without permission and ripping the wire out of the wall.

The wire was seized from the vehicle, along with a pair of wire cutters and a wrench that they used to break up the drywall.

Deputies made contact with the property owner and she stated that they did not have permission to remove the wire. She wanted to prosecute both of the suspects.

Both Ramsey and Mason were charged with Burglary and Possession of Burglary Tools.

Mason was transported to the Juvenile Booking Center.

Ramsey remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $8,250.

Man Arrested for Burglary to
Residence of Woman, 77;
She Saw Him in Act

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Dominic Farrer, 32 years old.

Dominic Farrer

A sheriff's report said on Friday, December 2, 2011, at about 3:15 p.m., Jacqueline Keller, 77, entered her residence in the 7600 block of 4th Avenue West, in Bradenton, and noticed things out of place.

As Jacqueline walked further into residence she observed a White male, later identified as Farrer, walking out of her room carrying things of hers out the back door.

Due to Patrol and Cops-West units saturating the area due to burglaries in the area, response time was quick.

Patrol, K-9 and Cops-West responded and began setting up a perimeter.

While the track was started by K-9, Detectives Brian Moreland and James Wischer observed a subject in the parking lot of Albertsons at 75th Street West and Manatee Ave. matching the suspect description and sweating excessively.

As the detectives made contact with Farrer, it was apparent that he was the burglary suspect. The detectives detained Farrer as Cops-West Deputies arrived to their location.

The suspect was identified as Dominic Farrer and was in possession of medications, jewelry and coins, all of which were taken from the victim’s residence.

The victim was brought to the scene and gave a positive identification of the suspect and identified all her property.

Total value of property recovered and released back to the victim was roughly $4000.

Farrer was taken back to the cops-West office for further interview.

He was charged with Burglary of an Occupied Dwelling.

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

Woman Arrested for Battery
on Pregnant Sister

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Belinda R. Betancourt, 21, of 2712 8th Street West, Bradenton.

Belinda Betancourt

The arrest report said Betancourt and her sister, Castora Hunt, are sisters and have lived together in the past.

On Thursday, December, 1, 2011, at about 2:50 a.m., they got into a verbal argument when Belinda attempted to take her son outside in the cold weather. Castora felt that the child was not dressed appropriately to be out in the cold.

Belinda attempted to walk outside, but Castora grabbed the boy and tried to pull him back inside.

This angered Belinda, so she struck her sister with a close-handed fist in the face.

Castora is currently pregnant and Belinda later admitted that she had heard "rumors" that her sister was pregnant, but said she was not completely sure.

Castora admitted to striking Belinda in the face several times, but that it was in self-defense.

Belinda fled the scene prior to law enforcement's arrival, but came back during the course of the investigation.

Castora showed no injuries, but Belinda's face was swollen on the left side.

Belinda was arrested as the primary aggressor.

She was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery on a Pregnant person.

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

Woman Arrested for Soliciting
BPD Officer for Prostitution

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Camille Lashay Moses, 31, of the 700 block of 17th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Camille Moses

The arrest report said on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at about 9:30 a.m., two officers were attempting to locate a person with a felony warrant in the area of 2100 14th Street West, Bradenton.

While walking in the area of 2100 13th Street West, one of them was approached by Moses, who was standing in the intersection of 21st Avenue and 13th Street West, which is a known problem area for prostitution.

After a brief conversation, Moses said she would give the officer oral and vaginal sex for $20.

They then started walking toward the Royal Motel in the 1600 block of 14th Street West, where Moses said she had a room. A "good deal" signal was given and a marked patrol unit moved in and took Moses into custody.

Moses was charged with Solicitation for Prostitution.

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

Oregon Sexual Predator
Arrested for Failing to
Register Locally

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Wesley Scott Michael Kenny, 28, of the 3100 block of 39th Avenue West, Bradenton.

Wesley Kenny

The arrest report said Kenny was arrested on November 30, 2011, for Battery stemming from a Domestic Violence case. At that time, he gave the name of Ray Deleon.

Through a computer check, no data could be found identifying a person by the name of Ray Deleon.

Further investigation revealed that the man's name was Wesley Kenny and he is listed on the Oregon sexual offender website as a sexual predator.

However, Kenny has failed to register here in Florida as a sexual predator.

He was arrested on December 1, 2011, at the Manatee County Jail for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender and Failure to Provide Name Change Information (did not apply for Florida DL or ID card).

Including the earlier Battery charge, Kenny remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $300,000.

Woman Robbed at Gunpoint
Inside A Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Friday, December 2, 2011, at about 8 p.m., at a residence in the 3200 block of 10th Street East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said Mahogany Snyder was asked by her uncle to drive him to the aforementioned location.

Once at that location, Snyder stayed in her vehicle while her uncle went inside.

According to Snyder, she waited in her vehicle for 10-20 minutes without hearing from her uncle.

Curious as to what was taking him so long, Snyder entered the residence where she was confronted by a man who was not described in the report.

The suspect, who was armed with an unknown type handgun, pointed the weapon at Snyder and demanded her gold jewelry and medication.

Snyder complied with the suspect's demands and fled the residence.

Snyder drove to the BP gas station located 3101 15th Street East where she awaited the arrival of deputies.

VCTF responded to the BP and took over the investigation and will be conducting the follow-ups.

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's Purse Snatched
Outside "The Cellar" Bar

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a purse snatching incident on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 2:15 a.m., outside The Cellar bar, 4307 26th Street West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said the victim, Carrie Schreck, 52, walked out of the bar.

The suspect approached and grabbed her purse.

She fell to the ground.

Some other patrons gave chase.

The suspect escaped on a bicycle.

The area was searched.

The investigation is pending.

The purse snatcher was described as a Black male, dressed all in black. He was riding a black beach cruiser bicycle.

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.

Elderly Man Kills Himself
at Local Golf Course

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a shooting investigation on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 2:20 p.m., at Greens of Manatee Golf Course, 101 Cortez Road West, Bradenton.

A press release said deputies responded to a shooting call at the golf course.

Upon arrival, the victim, who has not yet been identified, pending notification of next of kin, was located lying on his back next to a tree.

Prior to EMS arrival, CPR was performed and Deputy Cappiello utilized his automated external defibrillator (AED) in an attempt to revive the victim.

EMS continued with CPR and after a short time, rescue attempts were stopped.

CID and Crime Scene responded and took over the investigation.

The elderly White male victim expired shortly after MSO’s and EMS’s arrival.

At this time MSO is not looking at or looking for any suspects related to this incident.

According to Dave Bristow, spokesman for the sheriff's office, the man apparently took his own life. "This appears to be [a] suicide," Bristow said.

The shooting is not connected in any way to the business (Greens of Manatee Golf Course).

Two Men Robbed at Gunpoint
in Palmetto; 1 Rifle-Whipped

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Thursday, December 1, 2011, at about 7:15 p.m., at a residence in the 1400 block of 26th Street Court East, Palmetto.

A sheriff's report said while the victims were on their front porch talking about how they were going to get their money together to pay their bills, two unknown Black males wearing masks and black clothing came onto their porch and pointed long guns at them.

Suspect 1 pointed a shotgun at Andrew Nelson, 38, and said “Get on the ground and give me what you got,” while suspect 2 pointed a rifle at Anthony Crawford, 46, and put him on the ground stating, "If say anything I will kill you."

Suspect 1 butt stroked Andrew upon the head and removed approximately $150-$200 and a set of vehicle keys from his front pockets and then butt stroked him upon the head again.

Then suspect 2 kicked Andrew in the head and both suspects fled westbound on foot.

A perimeter was set up and a K-9 unit responded.

The area was searched with negative results.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded and took over the investigation.

The robbers were described as 2 unknown Black males in their 20s, wearing black clothes and masks and armed with long guns.

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.

Motorcyclist Critical After
Colliding with Vehicle
in Ellenton

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a collision between a motorcycle and a Mercury Sable on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at about 8:40 p.m., on 60th Avenue East, 200 feet south of the entrance to Factory Shops Blvd., in Ellenton.

An FHP report said a Mercury Sable being driven by Wendy Johnson, 45, of Bradenton, was traveling westbound in the parking lot of the K-Mart store located at 5140 U.S. 301 North. Johnson intended to make a left turn onto southbound 60th Avenue East.

A motorcycle driven by Stephen Kranik, 59, of Bradenton was traveling northbound in the left turn lane of 60th Avenue East.

Johnson made her left turn onto 60th Avenue East into the path of the motorcycle.

The Mercury's front struck the right front of the 1998 Harley Davidson motorcycle. Kranik was ejected from his motorcycle and came to final rest in the roadway.

No skid marks were left on the roadway, the report said.

Kranik was transported to Blake Medical Center in critical condition.

Johnson and her daughter passenger, Heather Johnson, 15, sustained no injuries.

Johnson was cited for Violation of Right of Way.

The report did not indicate whether Kranik was wearing a helmet or not.

SSO Arrests Man for Murder
of James Brotherton

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has arrested Charles L. Hill, Jr., 31, of 4104 Westminster Drive, Sarasota, for the shooting death of 49-year-old James Brotherton on November 21, 2011.

Above, L to R, Charles Hill, Jr., and the surveillance photo
of James Brotherton and the murder suspect Hill at an ATM

On Friday, December 2, a witness contacted the Sheriff's Office to report that Hill asked him for a ride to Gulf Gate Drive and Gateway Avenue on the night of the murder to see someone who owed him money.

Just after midnight, Hill contacted the witness and asked to be picked up on US41 just north of Stickney Point Road.

When Hill got in the car he told the witness that he shot and killed Brotherton because he "mouthed off" and would not get in the trunk of his vehicle.

An all-night operation coordinated by investigative detectives, undercover detectives and SWAT resulted in Hill's arrest on Saturday, December 3, 3011, as he exited a shopping center.

Hill is charged with Murder in the First Degree and is being held in the Sarasota County Jail without bond.

WARNING: Graphic Content --
6th Incident of Cat Body Parts
Found on Golf Course

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office is investigating the sixth incident of a person or persons dismembering cats and placing body parts on fairways at the Port Charlotte Golf Club, 22400 Gleneagles Terrace.

CCSO received a call at 8 a.m. Thursday morning (#6) from the grounds superintendent who said a grounds keepers found the head of a cat on the 14th fairway. Last Tuesday (#5), detectives were called by the general manager when an employee spotted six feet of animal intestines stretched out on the left side of the 14th fairway about 100 feet from the green.

In early October (#1) a cat carcass was found in the middle of the 14th fairway that was decapitated with legs and tail cut off. Near the end of October (#2) another cat carcass was found along a cart path by the 1st hole green, cut from the throat to belly with organs exposed. Neither incident was reported to CCSO; the carcasses had been disposed of.

On Oct. 30 (#3), CCSO received the first call when cat’s legs were found in the middle of the fairway to the 1st hole; these body parts may have been from a carcass found a couple days earlier. Then Nov. 17 (#4) another dead cat was found between the 2nd and 5th fairways; the cat was cut from the throat to belly with organs exposed.

No blood reportedly was found at any of the locations indicating the cats may have been killed elsewhere and then placed on the golf course.

CCSO detectives continue their investigation and asks if anyone might have information about these cat killings to please call the CCSO at 941-639-2101, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

Man Arrested After Ordering
Marijuana at Burger King
Drive-Through

DELTONA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Orlando television station WKMG reported a 32-year-old man was arrested in Volusia County on Thursday after ordering a "blunt and some herbs" at a Burger King drive-through, deputies said.

Shawn Porter, of Deltona, was arrested on charges of possession of a felony amount of marijuana.

According to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office, Porter and another man drove up to the Burger King on Elkcam Boulevard in Deltona about 10:30 p.m. and said they wanted a "blunt and some herbs" -- slang terms for marijuana.

The cashier said she could smell marijuana coming from the car, so she jotted down the vehicle's tag number and description and called the Sheriff's Office.

A deputy ran the tag number and went to a home on Sky Street in Deltona, less than two miles from the restaurant.

Two men then pulled up carrying Burger King bags, and the deputy said he smelled marijuana coming from the car.

Deputies said Porter admitted smoking marijuana while in the vehicle, and a search of the car turned up a marijuana cigarette in the ashtray and two plastic bags with about 28 grams of marijuana.

Porter was arrested and taken to the Volusia County Branch Jail in Daytona Beach. He was being held on $1,000 bond, WKMG said.

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NewsManatee Archive Created 12/10/2011 2:00:06 PM

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