~ Friday's Local/State News ~

Bradenton Police Report 4th
Homicide; Woman Stabbed
by Husband, Police Say

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- On the evening of Wednesday, May 15th, at 10:22 p.m., officers of the Bradenton Police Department responded to a 911 call at 2000 block of St. George Drive East, in the City of Bradenton.

The 911 caller advised that Sean Mudgett was stabbing his wife, Karen Mudgett, with a knife.

When officers arrived they heard screaming and entered the residence to find Mrs. Mudget with life threatening stab wounds to her upper torso. Officers also found Mr. Mudgett stabbing himself.

Officers were able to take Mr. Mudgett into custody.

Both were sent to area hospitals for their injuries.

Detectives with the Manatee County Homicide Investigative Unit responded to the scene and took over the investigation.

Mrs. Mudgett was later pronounced dead at 11:32 p.m.

Mr. Mudgett is in intensive care but expected to survive.

The Investigation is still ongoing and anyone with information, please contact Detective Jim Curulla at 941-932-9311, or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS (8477) -- or, to provide an anonymous e-Tip by computer, click here, or text MCSTIPS plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).

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

This is the fourth homicide in 2013. All four homicides have occurred in the City of Bradenton.


Two Men Arrested for Robbery
of Two Manatee County
Convenience Stores

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Michael J. Yon, 42, of 5615 36th Court East, Ellenton, and Gary Robinson, 50, of 905 63rd Avenue West, Bradenton.

Above, L to R, Michael Yon and Gary Robinson

According to two arrest reports, on Friday, May 3rd, at about 12:45 a.m., Yon and Robinson arrived at the Seven-Eleven convenience store located at 224 Pearl Avenue, in South Manatee County.

Prior to arriving, the pair had discussed robbing the store in order to get more money to buy crack cocaine.

Upon arriving, Yon gave Robinson his white and navy blue horizontal striped shirt and black skull cap, telling Robinson he needed to cover his tattoos so he is not "identifiable."

Yon waited in the vehicle while Robinson robbed the store.

Robinson exited the store and the pair fled in Yon's beige Nissan Pathfinder, being driven by Yon.

The pair then traded the shirt and skull cap.

Then, at about 1 a.m., the pair arrived at the Circle K located at 904 30th Avenue East, Bradenton.

Yon, this time wearing the striped shirt and skull cap, entered the store and selected a can of beer from the rear cooler.

He walked to the register as though he was going to pay.

The clerk scanned the beer and Yon handed her a $5 bill. When the cash drawer opened, Yon jumped onto the counter and reached his hand into the cash drawer.

A brief struggle ensued and the clerk eventually slammed Yon's hand in the cash drawer.

Yon fled the store, taking only about $12.

At about 2:45, the suspect vehicle, the Nissan Pathfinder, was located and stopped by deputies. Robinson was driving.

They were both arrested and charged with two counts of Robbery.

Yon remains in the Manatee County Jail on a combined bail bond of $50,000.

Robinson remains in the jail on a combined bail bond of $15,000.


Holmes Beach Man Arrested for
Grand Theft from Employer
to "Pay His Bookie"

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department has arrested James A. Driscoll, 54, of 302 Clark Drive, in Holmes Beach.

James Driscoll

The arrest report said Driscoll was working as a cashier at "Jessies" store located at 5424 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

Between the dates of February 1st of this year through May of this year, Driscoll would ring up customers for merchandise.

Instead of completing the transaction on the register, he would hit the cancel/no sale button after scanning the items so it would not register as a transaction, but would open the cash drawer to make it look like he did complete the transaction.

The customers would leave with the merchandise and Driscoll would then keep the money from the sale.

An audit of the inventory was done by the owner and manager, which showed a loss of $5,684.74.

Driscoll was confronted by the owner and a Holmes Beach Police Officer.

Post-Miranda, Driscoll allegedly admitted to the thefts.

He said that he owed a bookie over $5,000 and he had just paid the bookie all of the money owed to him. That is why he took the money, the report said Driscoll said.

Driscoll was given three days to pay back the money but he failed to do so and had not returned the owner's phone calls.

Driscoll was arrested on Tuesday, May 14th, and charged with Grand Theft.

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


U/C Detective Arrests Woman
for Felony Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Alshay T. Whitty, 32, of 6032 11th Street East, Bradenton.

Alshay Whitty

The arrest report said on Tuesday, May 14th, an undercover detective attached to the Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit was patrolling the streets of Manatee County, posing as a "John" in an attempt to arrest prostitutes.

At about 10:30 p.m., he spotted Whitty walking on 59th Avenue East, approaching 13th Street East.

He made contact and after a brief conversation Whitty agreed to perform oral sex on the detective for $15.

She was arrested by the takedown team.

Subsequent to her arrest, she was searched and 4 pills identified as 10 mg Valium were located in one of her pockets.

A computer check revealed that Whitty had two prior convictions for Prostitution i 2011.

She was charged with Felony Prostitution and Possession of a Controlled Substance.

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


Child Protective Services Car
Crashes Into Civilian Vehicle

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported a crash between a CPS vehicle and a civilian vehicle on Wednesday, May 15th, at about 4:45 p.m., in the 4200 block of State Road 64 East.

A sheriff's report said CPS worker Sonia Gonzalez was traveling behind Tzui Lin, of Bradenton, in heavy rush hour traffic, in the construction zone at 4200 S.R 64 East.

While moving at less than 5 mph Gonzalez struck the back of Lin's vehicle causing minor damage to the bumper.

Lin's mother and sister were also in his vehicle.

No injuries were reported.

A DHSMV Crash Report was completed.


CHFR Announces New Chief at
"Passing the Torch" Ceremony

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue has a new Fire Chief.

Above, exiting CHFR Fire Chief Randall R. Stulce
pins a badge on new Fire Chief Jeffrey S. Hoyle

On May 9th, Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue held their "Passing the Torch" Ceremony. The Board of Fire Commissioners appointed Jeffrey S. Hoyle, Fire Chief.

Retiring Fire Chief Randall R. Stulce enjoyed the honor of pinning Hoyle's new badge on him.

Chief Stulce served 12 years with Cedar Hammock and had a total of 42 years in the fire service. Under Chief Stulce's guidance, a strong succession plan comes to fruition.

During this succession plan over 130 years of senior administrative experience will leave Cedar Hammock with the recent retirements of Chief Stulce, Division Chiefs Dan Center and Robert Permane, and Training Officer Leigh Hollins.

Hoyle started his career with Cedar Hammock in 1994 and has risen through the ranks serving the department as a company officer, Training/ Safety Officer, Fire Marshal, and Division Chief .

After officially taking the helm, Chief Hoyle promoted 9 members of Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue.

Alexander Lobeto -- Division Chief Administration
Michael DeChelbor -- Division Chief Operations
Mark Bandstra -- Battalion Chief A shift
Gene Brown -- Battalion Chief C Shift
Billy Whitfield -- Captain B Shift
Nick Herlihy -- Captain C Shift / Training Officer
Bill Smith -- Lieutenant B Shift
Joe Falcone -- Lieutenant C Shift
James Taylor -- 1st Class Firefighter C Shift

In his promotional message, Chief Hoyle described his excitement in continuing Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue's proud tradition of "Providing Quality Service with Pride, Commitment, and Courage."


Two Teenagers Arrested for
Beating at Siesta Key Beach

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested two Sarasota teenagers for beating a third teen at Siesta Key beach just after midnight on May 6th.

Devin Roman

Witnesses say Devin Roman, 18, 6051 McKown Road, Sarasota, and an unnamed 15-year-old boy, attacked 17-year-old Chance Prater after he tried to intervene when the two threatened to beat up his friend. Roman and his co-defendant punched Prater several times and ultimately rendered him unconscious. Witnesses also reported that the 15-year-old suspect ordered them not to assist the victim.

During the investigation, detectives learned that Roman and his co-defendant were at Walgreen’s about an hour after the crime and were overheard discussing the attack. The 15-year old had blood on his hands and the two paid with a blood-stained $5 bill.

Roman and his codefendant are charged with one count each of misdemeanor Battery. It is the first arrest for both teens.

Per Florida law, the 15-year-old suspect isn’t being identified because it is a misdemeanor charge and he has no prior criminal history.

Detectives would still like to speak with anyone who has additional information about this case. Contact Det. McGath, 941.861.4928.


CCSO Arrests Two Men for
Barracuda Bill’s Robbery

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office has arrested Karl William Recine, 26, and Matthew Ryhan McNanna.

Above, L to R, Karl Recine and Matthew McNanna

Acting on information while looking for a man with an active warrant, Charlotte County detectives were able to gather the evidence needed to arrest two Rotonda West men in connection with the Tuesday night armed robbery of Barracuda Bill’s Mobil convenience store as well as an occupied residential burglary.

On Wednesday, members of the Street Crimes Unit were looking for Recine, of 109 Annapolis Lane, to serve an active warrant. Shortly after noon, Recine and McNanna, of 147 Rotonda Circle, left Recine’s residence in a car driven by a woman. When deputies stopped the car for a traffic infraction, they found items of clothing that matched what was worn by the man who robbed Barracuda Bill’s the previous night, as well as other evidence.

Recine and McNanna were taken into custody. Detectives obtained a search warrant for the car and located the same type of deposit bags that Barracuda Bill’s uses and cans of black spray paint.

Further investigation led detectives to connect both Recine and McNanna to an occupied residential burglary that occurred sometime early Sunday morning May 12 in the 200 block of Annapolis Lane. During that burglary, a 2001 green Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle and a helmet were taken from the garage.

On Tuesday night when the shot-gun wielding robber fled from Barracuda Bill’s, a witness saw a sport-type motorcycle leaving the area at a high rate of speed on Cape Haze Drive. The suspect had been wearing a full-faced motorcycle helmet during the robbery.

Late Wednesday night, detectives charged McNanna with Armed Robbery, Grand Theft, Wearing a Mask While Committing an Offense, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Burglary of an Occupied Residence and Grand Theft Auto. Recine was charged with being a Principal in and Armed Robbery, Burglary of an Occupied Residence, Grand Theft Auto and Failure to Appear.

Both are being held without bond at the Charlotte County Jail.

Detectives are continuing their investigation into these incidents.


Pastor Accused of Viewing
Child Porn While Working
at Disney World

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- A 49-year-old pastor who also worked at Disney World is no longer employed at either job after he was arrested Tuesday on suspicion of viewing online child porn videos at the theme park while preparing a sermon, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Cedric Cuthbert

Cedric Eugene Cuthbert, who worked as a custodial manager at Port Orleans Resort and pastor at Historic St. James African Methodist Episcopal Church in Sanford, was arrested on charges of solicitation of a minor via computer and possession of material depicting sexual performance by a child.

According to an arrest affidavit, Disney contacted the Orange County Sheriff's Office in April after it was discovered that Cuthbert had allegedly tried to access websites blocked by the entertainment giant.

A Disney employee also told detectives that Cuthbert downloaded pornographic videos, accessed his personal email account and typed a sermon based on two Bible passages: John 13 and Psalm 148.

According to investigators, Cuthbert viewed several inappropriate YouTube videos posted by young girls and sent them messages such as "you are so cute! Great sexy bodi! Send me a private vid."

The arrest affidavit detailed the pornography that Cuthbert is accused of viewing and also stated that semen was found in Cuthbert's office.

Cuthbert wrote an apology letter to Disney, according to the affidavit.

Cuthbert is not currently working with the theme park, where he's worked for more than seven years.

According to a statement from the bishop for the district of Florida's AME churches, Cuthbert can't work in any AME church until church leaders meet in September, WKMG said.

Governor Scott Announces Florida’s
2012 Uniform Crime Report

TALLAHASSEE, Florida [NMT] -- On Thursday, May 16th, Governor Rick Scott announced the 2012 Annual Uniform Crime Report. The report shows Florida’s crime rate dropped 6.5 percent compared to 2011. The total number of crimes fell 5.7 percent from last year which translates into 43,536 fewer crimes in 2012. The number of violent crimes was down 4.3 percent or 4,218 fewer crimes reported. The complete 2012 Annual Uniform Crime Report, including county-by-county breakdowns, can be found on FDLE’s website at www.fdle.state.fl.us/fsac/ucr/.

Governor Scott said, “It is because of the hard work of Florida’s law enforcement community that we can celebrate today’s great news about Florida’s crime rate. Having a low crime rate is important to my goal of creating jobs and opportunities for Florida families, and making our state the best state in the nation to live, work or raise a family.”

Non–violent crime decreased 5.9 percent or a reduction of 39,318 reported crimes compared to 2011. The value of stolen property decreased by 9.1 percent while the value of property recovered increased 2.7 percent. Total arrests increased 0.8 percent from 2011.

Overall domestic violence fell 3.3 percent. While there were 3,635 fewer victims of domestic violence in 2012, cohabitants continue to be the largest group of victims in this category, with spouses remaining the second largest group.

Crimes committed by firearms continue to drop in 2012, down 2.0 percent with 489 fewer crimes committed with guns in 2012.

The report also contains information on officers killed feloniously. Two law enforcement officers and one correctional officer died from criminal causes while on duty during 2012. In addition, two law enforcement officers died accidently during the course of duty.

FDLE began tracking crime statistics in 1971.

 

~ Thursday's Local/State News ~

Man Arrested for Domestic
Battery on Pregnant Girlfriend;
Also Had Burglary Arrest Warrant

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Corey L. McNeal, 22, of 1419 8th Avenue East, Palmetto.

Corey McNeal

According to the arrest report, on Friday, May 10th, at about 1:45 p.m., McNeal committed aggravated domestic battery on Janelle Washington.

Washington is McNeal's girlfriend of six years and mother of his two children, the report said.

On the day in question, they got into a verbal argument that turned physical.

Corey allegedly grabbed Janelle around the neck and threw her to the ground, then kicked her in the face.

Janelle was able to get away from Corey and was able to lock herself in the bathroom.

Corey was yelling at her and was trying to get into the bathroom with her.

Janelle called 911.

Corey continued to yell at her until deputies arrived.

He was taken into custody without incident.

The report said Janelle is six weeks pregnant and Corey knows it.

Corey was charged with Aggravated Domestic Battery on a Pregnant Woman.

He was additionally charged with an outstanding arrest warrant for Burglary.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail on a combined bail bond of $20,000 at this time.


BPD Arrested Woman for
Battery on a Cop

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Janice Scriven, 54, of 4845 50th Street West, Bradenton.

Janice Scriven

The arrest report from BPD said on Monday, May 13th, at about 11:15 p.m., an officer was called to 4885 49th Avenue West for a domestic incident.

While trying to check the status of Scriven's son, who seemed to be unconscious at the time, the officer tried to pull Scriven off her son, at which time she turned around and pushed off the officer and fell to the ground.

Scriven then began to kick the officer in the stomach and legs repeatedly, preventing the officer from giving aid to the unconscious man.

Scriven was arrested and charged with Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer.

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


Man Arrested for Grand Theft
Auto from North Florida

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested George Othell Drawdy, 37, of 10405 Carlton Drive, in Myakka City.

George Drawdy

The arrest report said on Monday, May 13th, at about 9 a.m., Dep. Steve Ogline stopped a truck just west of the intersection of County Road 675 and State Road 70 because it matched the description of a stolen vehicle that dispatch had just BOLO'd.

The vehicle had been stolen earlier that morning from a northern Florida county and was last seen heading south on U.S 41.

After confirming the vehicle as stolen, Dep. Ogline read the passenger, Drawdy, his Miranda rights.

Drawdy said he stole the vehicle belonging to Schwan's Home Service, Inc., from a north Florida location. The keys had been left in the vehicle, so he took it to drive to Manatee County.

Drawdy was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto.

He later posted a bail bond in the amount of $1,500 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

The driver, Drawdy's girlfriend, was not arrested; Drawdy said he picked her up after he stole the vehicle.


Bicyclist Critical Following
Collision with Pickup Truck

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol reported a collision between a bicyclist and a pickup truck on Wednesday, May 15th, at about 7:30 a.m., at the intersection of Cortez Road West and U.S. 41.

The FHP report said a 2004 Ford pickup truck being driven by Johnny Anderson, 42, of Bradenton was northbound in the left lane of US 41 approaching the intersection of Cortez Road West (SR
684).

A bicyclist, Mark Saba, 44, of Bradenton, was eastbound on the south shoulder of Cortez Road West, approaching US 41.

The bicyclist failed to observe the pickup truck and entered into its direct path.

As a result, the left front of the pickup truck struck the bicycle.

Saba was ejected off of his bike and into the intersection.

Saba was not wearing a safety helmet.

He was transported to Blake Medical Center in critical condition.

Charges are pending, the report said.


FHP to Conduct DUI Wolfpack
Detail in Manatee Friday Eve

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Florida Highway Patrol will conduct a DUI Wolfpack Detail in Manatee County on Friday, May 17, 2013 from 7:00 p.m. until May 18, 2013 at 3:00 a.m.

The Florida Highway Patrol organizes such details to proactively remove impaired drivers from the roadways and ultimately enhance the safety of the motoring public.

Troopers conducting the detail will be mobile while monitoring traffic in an effort to maximize their visibility and effectiveness in removing impaired drivers from the roadways in Manatee County, Florida.

Driving impaired from alcohol or drugs put everyone on the roadways in danger.

Florida law considers a driver with .08 or higher Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) to be impaired. Drivers under the age of 21 with a BAC of .02 or higher are also in violation of Florida law.

The Florida Highway Patrol would like to remind everyone that *FHP (*347) dialed from any cell phone contacts FHP should you need to report an aggressive driver or require roadside assistance.


Operation Red Flag Enhances
Safety and Deters Crime

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Wednesday, May 15th, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office today announced the results of “Operation Red Flag,” a crime reduction initiative designed to enhance the safety of local citizens.

Using Intelligence to Action (I2A), the agency’s intelligence-led policing model, deputies developed a proactive plan to deter crime in north Sarasota County, particularly near 17th Street and Lockwood Ridge Road north to University Parkway and unincorporated areas to the west, where a number of burglaries were occurring.

The operation included the arrest of three teenagers – who upon further investigation were ultimately connected to at least 28 vehicle burglaries, two auto thefts and the fraudulent use of a credit card.

In all, the results of Operation Red Flag included:

53 Arrests
126 Criminal Charges (76 Felonies/50 Misdemeanors)
249 Traffic Citations/8 Notices to Appear

The arrest history of these offenders is of great concern. The 53 people arrested have 418 prior felony charges and 487 misdemeanors. Only a quarter of those cases resulted in convictions, and while some of these subjects served jail time, only eight of the 53 people arrested have ever been sentenced to state prison for their crimes.

“Our system of intelligence gathering and data analysis gives us the ability to rapidly respond to an increase in reported crimes,” said Sheriff Tom Knight.

“Because crime is transitory in nature, we will continue to use special operations, directed patrols and community oriented policing to deter or displace high-risk individuals and prolific offenders where and when the need arises to keep the citizens of Sarasota County safe and preserve the quality of life they expect.”


Man with Shotgun Robs
Barracuda Bill’s Mobil

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man carrying a short-barreled shotgun entered the Barracuda Bill’s Mobil convenience store at 8675 Placida Road Tuesday night and made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

At about 10:30 p.m., a White male wearing a black full-face motorcycle helmet over another type of white face mask entered the store brandishing a short-barreled shotgun. The man demanded that the clerk fill a small back pack with cash. The clerk complied and the man fled the store.

Another clerk who was on his way to work at Barracuda Bill’s noted a sports type motorcycle travelling in the opposite direction on Cape Haze Drive at about that time.

The suspect was described as being about 5 ft. 3 to 5 ft. 6 inches tall, about 120 pounds and between 18 and 22 years of age. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, gray shorts and black sneakers.

Anyone with information about this robbery is asked to please call the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office at (941) 639-2101, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).


DCF Uses New Program to
Crack Down on Fraud

MIAMI, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Department of Children and Families Secretary David Wilkins announced Tuesday that Florida would become the first state in the country to use new technology to crack down on food stamp and other welfare fraud, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

He said the program will become a national model with other states expected to follow this fall.

Florida divvied out roughly $27 billion last year in food stamps, medical, temporary cash assistance and other welfare programs. The agency declined to say how much of that was fraudulent.

DCF obtained federal funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to pilot a program that uses computer technology similar to what credit card companies rely on to analyzes suspicious billing patterns to spot fraud.

Applicants will be asked a series of personalized questions that officials say crooks can't answer, WKMG said.

 

~ Wednesday's Local/State News ~

[Ed. Note: The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is transitioning
to a new mug shot program; until that is complete, we will
be running city/county arrest reports without mug shots; we were told Tuesday afternoon that the transition is nearly complete.]

Deputy Arrests Man Who Assaulted
Other Man Over Sleeping with
First Man's Girlfriend

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Daniel Thomas Hensley, 52, of 3715 14th Street West, Bradenton.

The arrest report said on Thursday, May 9th, at about 2:45 a.m., MSO received an anonymous complaint regarding a fight across the street in Sunset Village, 3715 14th Street West.

Upon arrival, the deputy heard two voices. The deeper voice said "Don't ever mess with my girl or I will kill you." That voice continued to threaten the other man.

After about 5 minutes of listening to the argument, the deputy heard signs of a struggle.

He ran into the carport of the mobile home with his gun drawn, and at "low ready."

When he entered the mobile home, he saw Hensley holding the victim, Ronald Moore, up against the kitchen counter 10 feet from the front door. Hensley was ordered to the floor and he complied.

Once Hensley was handcuffed, and in the cruiser, the deputy spoke with Moore, who said Hensley had punched him in the face, chest and back. When Moore tried to leave, Hensley pulled him back inside the trailer and started punching Moore again and again.

Moore was able to get his cell phone out of his pocket to call 911, but Hensley smacked the phone out of Moore's hand, breaking it.

Hensley told the deputy that Moore got what he deserved, that he is a crackhead and was sleeping with Hensley's girlfriend.

Hensley was charged with False Imprisonment of an Adult and Battery.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time without bail.


Man Arrested for Threatening
to Kill Woman with Knife

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Peter William Straub, 29, of 4602 8th Avenue East, Bradenton.

The arrest report said Straub, the female victim and a witness are neighbors and are involved in an ongoing dispute over unstated reasons.

On Tuesday, May 7th, at about 7:10 p.m., the victim and witness were in the parking lot of the Walmart store located at 2911 53rd Avenue East when they spotted Straub driving through the parking lot.

Straub spotted the victim walking through the parking lot and stopped his vehicle.

He exited the vehicle with a knife in his right hand.

He then told the victim, "I'll kill you motherf _ _ _ _ r" as he began walking toward the victim.

The victim, in fear for her safety, began to walk backwards away from Straub as she called 911.

Straub got back in his car and fled the scene.

A BOLO was issued and Straub was stopped in the 2400 block of 53rd Avenue East, about four blocks away from the scene of the incident.

Straub was arrested and the knife was recovered.

He was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

He later posted a bail bond of $1,500 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.


Man Found in Possession of
Nearly 4 Pounds of Pot
after Traffic Stop

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Anthony Ralph DiCarlo, 37, of 5713 7th Avenue NW, Bradenton.

The arrest report said on Friday, May 10th, at about 2:45 p.m., DiCarlo was observed by law enforcement with his vehicle, a pickup truck, next to gas pumps at a gas station located in the 100 block of 53rd Street NW, Bradenton.

Another vehicle, a hatchback, was also parked there, and the hatchback was back to back with the truck's tailgate.

A man opened the hatchback and removed a package, placing it in the bed of the pickup truck.

DiCarlo then left the station, driving the pickup.

The window tint on the vehicle appeared to be illegal, so the truck was stopped.

MSO K-9 Stitch was used to conduct a sniff of the perimeter of the truck. Stitch showed an odor of drugs response.

A search of the pickup truck revealed 7 individually wrapped heat sealed bags. The bags, which tested positive for marijuana, weighed 3.9 pounds.

DiCarlo was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell.

He later posted a bail bond of $1,500 and was released from the Manatee County Jail.

The report did not say whether the man with the hatchback was arrested.


U/C Deputy Arrests Woman
for Felony Prostitution

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Diana Leigh Garren, 52, of the 7000 block of Willow Street, Sarasota.

The arrest report said on Wednesday, May 8th, an undercover detective attached to the Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit was patrolling the streets of Manatee County, posing as a "John" in an attempt to arrest prostitutes.

At about 9 p.m., he spotted Garren in the 3600 block of 14th Street West, Bradenton.

He made contact and after a brief conversation, Garren indicated by nodding her head that $50-60 for oral sex and vaginal sex was agreed upon.

Garren was arrested and charged with Prostitution.

A computer records check revealed that Garren had previously been convicted of Prostitution in 1999, 2006 and 2008.

The charge was then upgraded to Felony Prostitution.

At this time, Garren remains in the Manatee County Jail on a bail bond of $1,500.


Woman Arrested for Theft
of Clothing from Bealls

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Chelsie Danielle Able, 34, of 5112 8th Avenue Drive West, Bradenton.

The arrest report said on Friday, May 10th, at about 6:45 p.m., Able entered the Bealls store located at 6355 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton.

She proceeded to the woman's clothing department, where she selected several items and entered a dressing room.

When she emerged from the dressing room, she put a pair of shorts on the "go back rack."

When she exited the dressing room, she had less clothing than when she entered and her purse was bigger.

She then exited the store, passing all points of sale and was detained by loss prevention.

She was found to be in possession of $569.97 worth of clothing that she had stolen from the store.

She was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Shoplifting.

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


No Forced Entry to Heritage
Harbour Burglary

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has reported a burglary to an apartment at Heritage Harbour, 6615 Anchor Loop, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said on Monday, May 13th, sometime between 9:45 a.m. and 6:45 p.m. unknown person(s) gained entry to the victim’s apartment and removed numerous items.

There was no forced entry.

The unknown person(s) fled in an unknown direction of travel.

The scene was processed by crime scene technicians.

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, click here, or text MCSTIPS plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).

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


Motorized Wheelchair Taken
from Englewood Man

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office reported the theft of a motorized wheelchair from a man who needs it.

Above, a generic Golden Compass wheelchair

An unnamed Englewood man reported that his motorized wheelchair valued at $6,000 was taken after it broke down in the area of Edmonton and Euston Avenues mid-day Monday.

The victim said he uses his Golden Technologies Compass motorized wheelchair every day to get around the neighborhood.

On Monday when he was riding it, the batteries died and he was forced to leave it at the corner of Edmonton Avenue and Euston Avenue in East Englewood at about 1 pm. When he returned at about 1:45 pm to retrieve his chair, it was gone.

Anyone with information concerning this missing wheelchair is asked to please call the Sheriff’s Office at 941-639-2101, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).

The photo above is of a Golden Technologies Compass motorized wheelchair from the Golden Technologies website.


Polk County Prostitution Sting
Nets Nearly 100 Suspects

WINTER HAVEN, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Nearly 100 suspects, including a 15-year-old girl and a California youth minister, were arrested on prostitution charges over a 4-day period as part of an undercover sting by Polk County Sheriff's Office, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

Above, mug shots of those arrested

PCSO held a news conference on Monday to discuss the undercover sting operation, which targeted online prostitution ads.

The 92 suspects were charged with offering to commit lewdness, among other charges, after responding to ads on BackPage.com posted by undercover detectives posing as prostitutes.

Among the arrested were a 15-year-old girl from Sanford who went to the undercover location to prostitute herself, according to deputies. The girl has been prostituting since since was 13 years old and was branded with a gang tattoo, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.

Samuel Yoon, 45, a youth minister from California who was in Orlando for a youth ministry conference, came to the undercover location to have sex with a girl he thought was 14 years old.

"This is a dangerous man," Judd said, calling Yoon a 'pedophile.' His church, the New Community Mission Church in San Leando, Calif., has been notified.

Another arrestee was 50-year-old Raymond Skwainski from Davenport, a vice president at Popular Community Bank.

Judd said he will now investigate BackPage.com for making money off prostitution, WKMG said.

 

~ Tuesday's Local/State News ~

[Ed. Note: The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is transitioning
to a new mug shot program; until that is complete, we will
be running city/county arrest reports without mug shots.]

Bradenton Police Department's
Deputy Chief to Retire after
25 Years of Service

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- Deputy Chief of Police Keith F. Davis of the City of Bradenton Police Department has announced that he will effectively retire on May 24, 2013, concluding twenty-five career service years with the Police Department. His expertise, professionalism and knowledge of law enforcement practices are of the highest level and will be greatly missed.

Above, BPD Dep. Chief of Police Keith Davis

Deputy Chief Davis began his career with the City of Bradenton Police Department as a Parking Enforcement Officer on April 25th, 1988, and was soon transferred to the Patrol Division on July 20th, 1988, where he served until he was transferred to the Special Investigations Unit in October of 1992. Deputy Chief Davis successfully rose through the ranks in both the Patrol and Detective Divisions: Patrol Corporal, December 18, 1997; Patrol Sergeant, May 27, 1999; Detective Lieutenant, December 4, 2003; Patrol Captain, February 1, 2011; Deputy Chief of Police, April 1, 2012. Deputy Chief Davis has also served as a S.W.A.T. Team Member/Commander, and an Advanced Firearms Instructor. Deputy Chief Davis was named Officer of the Year in 1997, by the Police Benevolent Association, and has also been the recipient of numerous departmental awards, and citizen commendations.

Chief of Police Michael Radzilowski stated, "Deputy Chief Davis has served as a credible advisor, and his extensive investigative background is beyond reproach. Deputy Chief Davis ranks as one of the best criminal interrogators that I have worked with over my four decades of law enforcement experience. Deputy Chief Davis has been instrumental in overseeing or investigating every major criminal investigation that has occurred in the City of Bradenton over the past two decades. Lastly, Deputy Chief Davis' steadfast leadership to the men and women of this Police Department and dedicated service to the citizens of the City of Bradenton will be remembered for years to come."

As Deputy Chief Davis winds down his storied and decorated career, he stated, "I always knew that I wanted to spend my entire career with the City of Bradenton Police Department, and I have had the good fortune to work for such a professional organization, and with an outstanding staff. In addition to the hard work of our personnel, the support I've received from Mayor/Police Commissioner Wayne Poston, the business community, and citizenry cannot be over stated."

In honor of Deputy Chief Davis there will be a retirement party held on May 14, 2013, between the hours of Noon - 3:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Life Christian Church located at 825 9th St. West, Bradenton, Florida.


Man, 2 Juveniles, One with Gun
Busted for Trespassing on
Foreclosed Property,
Smoking Pot

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Andrew L. Rosa, 45, of 3210 12th Street Court East, Bradenton, and two unnamed 17-year-old juveniles.

A sheriff's report said on Sunday, May 12th, at 10:30 p.m., a Black male was observed going onto a posted, foreclosed property and residence.

MSO was advised that there were persons in the structure and that several males were heard talking from the proximity of the residence.

Upon arrival, the three listed suspects were located and detained on the porch of the foreclosed residence. All three suspects located were smoking marijuana.

A search incidental to arrest revealed that one juvenile was carrying a loaded .22 caliber revolver and a small bag of .22 caliber ammunition on his person.

A small amount of cannabis was recovered from the scene.

The juveniles were transported to a medical facility and cleared for transport to the Juvenile Booking Facility. The adult, Rosa, was transported to the Manatee County Jail without further incident.

Rosa was charged with Trespass, Possession of Marijuana and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time on a bail bond of $1,500.


Purse Snatch Reported
Outside Hooter's

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has reported a purse snatch incident.

A sheriff's report said on Sunday, May 12th, at about 9 p.m., two women, ages 23 and 26, were sitting at an outdoor patio at a table at Hooter's, 4908 14th Street West, Bradento, and had their purses sitting on a railing next to them.

The suspect, a Hispanic male, approached and grabbed their purses.

One of the victims grabbed her purse, but the suspect overpowered her and snatched the purse from her hands.

Witnesses at the scene were able to provide numerous leads and VCTF is currently working the investigation into this matter.

Neither victim was injured.

The purse snatcher was described as a Hispanic male, and was last seen wearing tan shorts and a white shirt.

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, click here, or text MCSTIPS plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).

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


Man Arrested for Occupied
Burglary to a Residence

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Blake L. Fitzpatrick, 24, of 2104 Hopkins Drive West, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said on Sunday, May 12th, at about 1:30 a.m., two men, ages 25 and 32, were inside of their residence when they observed the suspect tear down the front screen door and enter the residence.

A fight ensued within the residence resulting in the suspect incurring minor lacerations to his facial area.

The suspect then fled the residence in the vehicle that had brought him to the residence driven by an involved other.

The victims quickly contacted MCSO and a BOLO was quickly put out for the vehicle.

The vehicle was immediately located in the 15th Street East/ University area and a felony stop initiated.

The suspect and involved other were detained and a show up conducted with positive results on the suspect.

The suspect was arrested, treated for his injuries and transported to the Manatee County Jail without further incident.

He was charged with Occupied Burglary and Criminal Mischief. As well, four bonds for earlier charges were revoked.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time on a combined bail bond of $52,620.


HBPD Arrested Man for
Possession of Heroin,
Two Needles

HOLMES BEACH, Florida [NMT] -- The Holmes Beach Police Department has arrested Kristopher N. Smith, 29, of 309 57th Street, Holmes Beach.

According to the arrest report, on Wednesday, May 8th, at about 2:15 p.m., Holmes Beach Police had reason to search Smith's vehicle. The report did not say how police came to have reason to search Smith's vehicle in the 5600 block of Flotilla Drive, Holmes Beach. From the wording in the report, it may have been because of a traffic stop for unknown reasons.

Police found a pink baggie with a brown powdery substance on a handle at the driver's side door of the vehicle. That substance tested positive for Heroin. The report did not say how much heroin was confiscated.

Also found in the vehicle were two syringes.

Smith was arrested and charged with Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

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


Vehicles, Apartment Burglarized
on East Side at Mira Lagos

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has reported multiple burglaries in the Mira Lagos Apartment complex, 442 34th Avenue Drive East, Bradenton.

A sheriff's report said overnight between Saturday and Sunday, May 11-12, unknown suspect(s) attempted to break into three vehicles by prying the windows open. A fourth vehicle had the back window broken out and the suspect(s) attempted to take the stereo.

Additionally, unknown suspect(s) broke into one apartment which was occupied and stole a computer.

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, click here, or text MCSTIPS plus your message to 274637 (CRIMES).

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


County-Wide DUI Saturation
Patrol Results

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- On Friday, May 10th, members of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Traffic Unit conducted a county-wide DUI Saturation Patrol.

The following is a brief description of the results of the operation:

~ 3 DUI Arrests;
~ 3 Other Misdemeanor Arrest (NVDL - 3);
~ 31 Citations Issued: 21 Speeding Violations, 3 Seatbelt Viol., 7 Other Violations; and
~ 7 Written Warnings Issued.

Annually over 17,000 people are killed and another 305,000 people are injured as a result of impaired drivers. Studies show that the average DUI driver commits this violation 80 times per year (once every 4 - 5 nights). National averages show that an alcohol related fatality occurs every 30 minutes. Data revealed that these incidents cost society over $54 billion annually in lost productivity, medical expenses, damages, and other expenditures. (Source NHTSA)


Felony Stalking Suspect Busted
after Hotel SWAT Standoff

KISSIMMEE, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- Authorities say they evacuated a Kissimmee hotel on Monday morning after an aggravated stalking suspect barricaded himself inside the hotel, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

The SWAT situation was unfolding at the Amber Inn and Suites on West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, according to deputies.

Deputies said they arrived to the hotel at 4 a.m. to serve a felony stalking warrant to Bryan Campbell, 41, but Campbell refused to come out of the hotel room. He has since been arrested on charges of aggravated stalking.

Because Campbell wouldn't come out of the room as requested, SWAT was called and after about three hours of negotiation, Campbell willingly left the room at 7 a.m.

Witnesses tell WKMG employees came around to the hotel rooms banging on doors and telling people to get out of the hotel. Guests have since been let back into the hotel.

On Saturday, Campbell was released from the Osceola County Jail on a domestic stalking incident, deputies said. Since then, he repeatedly called the victim and left her voice mail messages demanding money and even threatening to kill her, according to deputies.

Campbell has a history of domestic violence and has previously been arrested for violating domestic violence injunctions against the victim.

Kissimmee police provided support by housing residents at the Kissimmee Civic Center until the situation was over, according to Stacie Miller with Kissimmee Police Department, WKMG said.

 

~ Monday's Local/State News ~

Search Warrants Served at
Two Businesses; $65,500 in
Synthetic Marijuana Seized

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has served search warrants on two local businesses owned by the same man.

Above, Shell station at 5704 14th Street West, Bradenton
(Photo by Heather Chadwick, NewsManatee)

On Thursday, May 9th, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division executed search warrants at two gas stations/convenience stores.

The search warrants were obtained as a result of undercover purchases of synthetic marijuana (Spice or K2) at the two Shell station locations at 5303 14th St. W., Bradenton and 5704 14th St. W., Bradenton.

Both stores are owned by the same person, Kourish Attari.

Detectives seized 5,531 packages of synthetic marijuana weighing 179 pounds with a retail value of approximately $65,500.

Detectives also seized several computers and documents relating to the sale of synthetic marijuana.

To see a video of parts of the two raids, click here.

No arrests have been made at this time but the investigation continues.

The Sheriff’s Office has sent out three letters to businesses since 2010 outlining the laws regarding the sale of synthetic marijuana.

Detectives will continue to monitor the situation to ensure area stores are in compliance with state law.


Man Arrested for Threatening
Friend at Knifepoint

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Darrin William Newman, 43, of 112 22nd Street Court NE, Bradenton.

Darrin Newman

According to the arrest report, on Monday, May 6th, at about 3:15 p.m., Newman went to 2121 3rd Street East, Bradenton, and started an argument with the unnamed victim at the front of the residence.

The argument was over Newman being accused of stealing property from the victim; the victim hada called police about the alleged theft.

As they were arguing, Newman pulled out a pocketknife and told the victim, "If you call the police on me again, I'll cut your throat."

At that time, Newman was pointing the knife at the victim.

This placed the victim in a well-founded fear that Newman was going to cut him.

A witness came out of the victim's home and stepped between the victim and Newman.

The victim called the sheriff's office, at which time Newman left the area.

Newman was later located at his home and arrested without incident.

He was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

Newman remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time on a bail bond of $2,500.

[Ed. Note: The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is transitioning
to a new mug shot program; until that is complete, we will
be running city/county arrest reports without mug shots.
These are the last two mug shots from the old system:

Above, L to R, Jordan Hird and Geno Saunders
That is why we're waiting for the new system.]

Off-Duty MCSO Reserve Deputy
Threatened by Man with Gun
after "Traffic Stop"

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office has arrested Jordan E. Hird, 19, of 1217 8th Street West, Palmetto [See mug shot above].

A sheriff's report said while driving westbound on State Road 64 East from the Country Creek neighborhood, the victim, off-duty MCSO Reserve Deputy Stephen Parsons, 35, followed the suspect, later identified as Jordan Hird, to the parking lot of the Publix plaza parking lot, at 1755 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, to talk to Hird about his improper driving.

Upon approaching Hird, who was still in his girlfriend’s vehicle, Hird became upset with Dep. Parsons and threatened to shoot Dep. Parsons several times.

Hird then pointed what appeared to be a black semi-automatic handgun at Parsons.

In fear for his safety, Parsons backed off and Hird fled the area.

After speaking with Hird's girlfriend, a deputy was able to obtain Hird's name, DOB, and address, as well as consent to search her vehicle. The gun was not located in her vehicle.

The deputy then was able to get her to understand that it would be in her boyfriend’s best interest to talk to the sheriff's office about this incident.

She relayed this to him via a call to a friend.

Hird was located at the Palmetto Police Department parking lot.

The Violent Crimes Task Force (VCTF) responded, interviewed Hird and searched his vehicle and residence with the consent of his parents, who owned the Hird's vehicle and residence. The gun was not located.

It is believed that the gun used might have been a BB gun and that Hird ditched it prior to speaking to VCTF.

Hird was then arrested and transported to the jail with no further incident.

Hird was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.

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


BPD Arrests Man for Stealing
Two Car Stereos on Two
Separate Occasions

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Police Department has arrested Geno Saunders, 33, of 2205 7th Avenue East, Bradenton [See mug shot above].

The Arrest reports from BPD said Saunders heisted two car stereos from the Walmart store located at 5315 Cortez Road West, in Bradenton, on two separate occasions.

The first incident occurred on Monday, April 29th, at about 7:30 p.m. Saunders entered the store and went to the automotive department. Once there, he selected a car stereo and put it in his shopping cart. From there, he went to other areas of the store, removed the car stereo from its package, and exited the store. The value of the car stereo, which was not recovered, was $329.97.

Saunders returned to the store on Thursday, May 9th. He went to the electronics section, selected a car stereo, removed the stereo from the box, walked around with it, and then discarded the stereo in the garden center.

When Saunders was confronted outside the store, a foot pursuit began. He was pursued for three blocks, then he was found hiding in a dumpster.

When Saunders was searched by police, two small bags of marijuana were found in his shorts pocket, weighing 1.6 grams. Along with the marijuana, some wiring that is believed to come from the open stereo box from Walmart was found.

Saunders denied taking the stereo, but admitted that the marijuana was his.

Saunders was arrested on May 9th and charge with Grand Theft Shoplifting, Petit Theft Shoplifting, Possession of Marijuana and Resisting Arrest without Violence.

He remains in the Manatee County Jail at this time on a combined bail bond of $3,000.


Residential Fire Causes
$20,000 in Damages

BRADENTON, Florida [NMT] -- The Bradenton Fire Department reported a residential fire that caused approximately $20,000 in damages, a BFD press release said.

The press release said at 11:10 p.m. on Thursday, May 9th, City of Bradenton Fire Department crews responded to a report of a structure fire at 1716 2nd Avenue East.

Upon arrival at 11:13 p.m., the first responding units found smoke and flames showing at the front door.

Fire crews were able to contain the fire to the room of origin, although the single family residential home sustained significant heat and smoke damage throughout.

The situation was brought under control at 11:22 p.m.

Responders included: Five fire suppression units with 12 personnel, one BFD investigator, one Manatee County EMS unit, the City of Bradenton Fire Department Battalion Chief and the State Fire Marshal's Office.

There were no injuries.

Three residents are being assisted by the Red Cross.

Damage is estimated at $20,000.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by Bradenton Fire Department personnel and the State Fire Marshal's Office.


3 Hispanic Males Robbed at
Gunpoint by 2 Black Males

MANATEE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Manatee County Sheriff's Office reported an armed robbery on Saturday, May 11th, at about 4 a.m., at a residence in the 6100 block of 10th Street East, Bradenton.

While three Hispanic male victims, ages 23, 25 and 26, were hanging out in the driveway, two unknown Black males approached the victims in the driveway of the listed residence and pulled out firearms.

The culprits pointed the firearms at the victims` heads and ordered them to pull their pants down and give them all their money and property.

Once the suspects had the victims' property, they told the victims to count or they would kill them.

The suspects then fled the scene southbound on foot.

No injuries were reported.

The robbers were described as both being Black males, 25-30 years of age. The first one was 5'9-5'10 tall with a thin build, last seen wearing black shorts and a black T-shirt; he was carrying an assault rifle. The second on was 5'10-6'1 tall with a thin build, last seen wearing a black shirt and black shorts, and was carrying a semi-automatic handgun.


Man arrested for Aggravated
Assault with an Assault Rifle;
Told Cops: "Come and Get Me"

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- A man armed with an assault rifle was arrested Saturday after telling Sarasota Police Officers to "Come and get me."

Robert Rodriguez

A police report said on May 11th, at 3:57 a.m., the Sarasota Police Department arrested Robert L. Rodriguez, 24, of 993 Gary St, Sarasota, for Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

The victim, Lucas Sterling, owed Rodriguez $10 and went to Robert Rodriguez' home at 993 Gary St. to pay him back.

The victim stated that he gave the man a $100 bill, expecting money back, but the victim was thrown out of the house.

When the victim knocked on the door again, wanting his change, Rodriguez opened the door and pointed an assault rifle at the victim telling him he would kill him.

The victim then called police and officers arrived at approximately 2:15 a.m. Rodriguez would not answer his door and would not respond to officers. Rodriguez told officers, that he was not coming out and that they would have to go in and get him.

Officer's evacuated nearby homes, surrounded the house, and called out the SWAT Team.

Rodriguez gave himself up and was arrested without incident.

Detectives acquired a searched warrant for the home and located a High Point Assault Rifle, ammunition, crack cocaine, powder cocaine and scales.

Rodriguez, a convicted felon with a lengthy criminal history, was charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Robbery and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Other charges for the narcotics and ammunition are to follow.

Sarasota Police Chief Bernadette DiPino commended the officers involved for their professional demeanor and handling of a dangerous and potentially deadly incident.


SPD Burglary Arrests also
Clear Cases in Pinellas Park

SARASOTA, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota Police Department has arrested two men now accused of stealing used grease from area restaurants.

Above, L to R, Dargel Exposito and Leroy Shorter

On Thursday, May 9th, at 3:30 a.m., Sarasota Police Officers arrested two men for stealing used cooking/fryer grease from the Wendy’s at 1601 S. Tamiami Tr.

The manager of Wendy’s observed the two men in a white truck extracting the used fryer and cooking grease from the storage/extraction system attached to the inside of the restaurant. When the manager noticed the men were not wearing the normal uniform and were acting unusual, he called the Sarasota Police Department.

A patrol officer located the truck at Fruitville Road and Shade Avenue.

The manager positively identified the two men.

Four 250-gallon tanks attached to a gasoline powered portable sump pump were located in the rear of the large white truck.

After a thorough investigation, it was determined that the men were stealing used cooking and fryer grease from area restaurants. This “yellow grease” is a valuable commodity, in raw form, and can be recycled to make bio-fuel.

Detectives provided the arrest information to surrounding agencies and to FDLE. At this time, Pinellas Park Police Department cleared 4 similar cases due to these officer’s arrests.

Leroy L. Shorter, 23, of 5535 110th Ave, Pinellas Park) and Dargel Exposito, 28, were charged with Burglary of a Structure. Shorter was also charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Tampering with evidence.

This was an excellent example of how the Sarasota Police Department along with other agencies and the community have come together to stop crime while it is happening by providing information thus thwarting further incidents of its kind.

Sarasota Man Arrested
on Drug Charges

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT} -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has arrested John Villecco, 22, of 1803 Tarpon Avenue, Sarasota, for selling a variety of narcotics from his home.

John Villecco

Members of the Special Investigations Section went to the Tarpon Avenue home today with a search warrant and three arrest warrants for Villecco stemming from prior drug purchases by undercover detectives. During the search they also found marijuana, cocaine, Oxycodone and Subutex, some of which were individually packaged for sale.

Villecco is charged with three counts for the Sale of Cannabis, two counts for the Sale of Subutex, one count each for the Sale of Cocaine and Xanax, and one count each for Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell within 1,000 feet of a Daycare, Possession of Oxycodone with Intent to Sell within 1,000 feet of a Daycare, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Subutex), Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

This is Villecco’s 12th arrest for crimes including burglary, weapons and drug charges.


28th Annual Law Enforcement
Memorial Service in Sarasota

SARASOTA COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office will host the 28th Annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service on Wednesday, May 15, 2013. The event is held each year during National Police Week, which is May 12-18, 2013.

The memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m., at Faith Lutheran Church, 7750 Beneva Rd., Sarasota. Sheriff Tom Knight encourages the public to attend.

In addition to the sheriff’s office, participating agencies include the Sarasota Police Department, Venice Police Department, North Port Police Department, Longboat Key Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol, Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners, the State Attorney’s Office and the Sarasota County Fire Department.

The service recognizes the men and women who serve and protect this community, and honors the following Florida law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in 2012:

Det. David White, Clay County Sheriff’s Office; Dep. Barbara Pill, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office; Sgt. Ruben Thomas, Florida Department of Corrections; Ofc. Bruce St. Laurent, Jupiter Police Department and Dep. Christopher Schaub, Broward County Sheriff’s Office.


CCSO: Armed Robbery at
Port Charlotte Beach

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Florida [NMT] -- A man and woman reported to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office that they were held at gunpoint early Friday morning at the Port Charlotte Beach Complex by two men who took their cellphones.

The victims said they were walking from the parking lot to the fishing pier at about 1 a.m. when they were approached by two men who both pointed handguns at them. They were ordered to lay on the ground and given the men their belongings. Each victim handed over their cell phones to the men. The victims continued to lay on the ground after the men left until they saw someone they knew in the area.

Deputies searched the area but were unable to locate anyone matching the descriptions given of the suspects.

Both suspects were armed with handguns and were described as being either Black or Hispanic. Both suspects had red bandanas over their mouths, partially covering their noses.

One suspect was described as being about 5 ft. 8 inches tall and about 140 pounds with lighter complexioned skin and reddish curly shoulder-length hair. He was wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans or longer shorts.

The second suspect was described as being about 5 ft. 8 inches tall and weighing about 220 to 250 pounds. He had short, buzzed-cut black hair and was wearing a black T-shirt and dark jeans or longer shorts.

They were possibly driving a red 4-door vehicle.

Anyone with knowledge of this robbery is asked to please call the CCSO Major Crimes Unit for Detective Rebecca Lissow or Corporal Jack Collins at (941) 575-5361, or Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS (8477).


OCSO Deputy Blows Nearly
Twice the Legal Limit after
Rear-Ending Car

ORANGE COUNTY, Florida [NMT/WKMG] -- An Orange County sheriff's sergeant under arrest for drunk driving refused the Florida Highway Patrol's request for a breathalyzer test, Orlando television station WKMG reported.

But sources tell Local 6 the deputy was later required by the Orange County Sheriff's Office to submit to a separate test as part of an internal investigation, which indicated his blood alcohol level was nearly double the legal limit.

According to the arrest report, Sgt. Kevin Meyer was driving an unmarked sheriff's department pickup truck with the emergency lights flashing, en route to an off-duty job at Walt Disney World, when he rear-ended a car on County Road 535 near Windermere. No one was injured injured in the crash, which occurred just after 9 p.m. Sunday.

After Meyer refused to participate in field sobriety exercises, troopers arrested him for driving under the influence and transported him to the DUI testing center near the Orange County Jail. At 12:21 a.m., Meyer refused the FHP's request to submit to a breathalyzer, according to investigators.

However, Local 6 has learned that before Meyer was booked into the jail, Orange County Sheriff's officials met with Meyer and required him to submit to a separate blood alcohol test as part of an internal investigation. Under Orange County Sheriff's Office policy, employees can be terminated if they refuse to submit to drug and alcohol testing or cooperate with an internal investigation.

According to multiple sources, Meyer's blood alcohol level registered .13, which is well above the .08 limit allowed to legally drive a vehicle. That test was conducted more than three hours after the crash, said sources.

Under Orange County policy, employees can be terminated if found to be under the influence of alcohol when driving county-owned vehicles.

"They can, and routinely do want their officers to submit to a breath test to ensure they weren't intoxicated at the time of the crash," said Local 6 legal analyst Luis Calderon.

Had Meyer voluntarily provided FHP with a breath sample, the results could have been used against him in court. But any incriminating evidence obtained during the sheriff's internal investigation is likely off limits to prosecutors, since Meyer was required to comply or risk of losing his job.

"These statements are made with the implicit promise they won't be used (in court)," said Calderon. "Therefore, (employees) are not waiving their rights."

When troopers began investigating Meyer after the crash, they say his breath smelled like alcohol. Troopers found a sports drink bottle in the sheriff's vehicle that also smelled like booze. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is conducting tests on the pink liquid to determine its contents.

On Thursday, Meyer entered a plea of "not guilty" in Orange County circuit court. Hhas been reassigned to a desk job as sheriff's officials complete their internal investigations. His attorney, Stuart Hyman, said he could not comment on the arrest due to the pending internal investigation, WKMG said.


Phishing Attacks on Phone Customers
Resulting In Account Takeovers

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- [NMT/IC3] -- The Internet Crime Complaint Center has received numerous reports of phishing attacks targeting various phone companies' customers.

Individuals receive automated telephone calls that claim to be from the victim's phone carrier. Victims are directed to a phishing site to receive a credit, discount, or prize ranging from $300 to $500.

The phishing site is a replica of one of the phone carrier's sites and requests the victims' log-in credentials and the last four digits of their Social Security numbers. Once victims enter their information, they are redirected to the telecommunication carrier’s actual website. The subject then makes changes to the customer's account.

The IC3 urges the public to be cautious of unsolicited telephone calls, e-mails and text messages, especially those promising some type of compensation for supplying account information.

If you receive such an offer, verify it with the business associated with your account before supplying any information.

Use the information supplied on your account statement to contact the business.