Tayon Alexander [left] and Ashley Webber[Last updated at 2:38 p.m., January 22, 2015, to include information from a second report received from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office]
Ocala, Florida — Deputies responded to a mobile home park in Ocala, following reports of a male suspect assaulting a 17-year-old female victim.
Upon making contact with the victim, deputies learned that Tayon Alexander, 23, had battered the teen.
Alexander fled on foot prior to deputies arriving.
According to reports, when deputies arrived they saw a female, later identified as Ashley M. Webber, 20, screaming profanities at the victim. Deputies reported that the victim was crying hysterically.
While deputies attempted to interview the victim, Webber began yelling profanities at deputies. Webber told deputies she didn’t want them to look for her boyfriend, Alexander.
She stated, “F**k the police, ni**a! I don’t want ya’ll mother f***ers here.”
Webber was then told to calm down, at which time she held up a cell phone and began recording. She then yelled out, “freedom of the press.”
She was told she was free to record, but she had to maintain a safe distance.
While she continued to record, she yelled, “F**k the police, ya’ll ain’t got no case.”
According to deputies, the victim purchased some marijuana from Alexander, who is also known as the “weed man,” and the two became engaged in a verbal argument. Alexander then got in the victim’s face and began screaming profanities at her. The victim stated it was at that point she became scared and “shoved Alexander away from her personal space.”
Alexander then grabbed the victim by the hair and slammed her face into the floor, busting her nose. While the victim was on the floor, Alexander stood over her and began punching her in the face. A witness then exited a bedroom and pushed Alexander and told him to stop. That is when the victim ran out of the house.
Deputies reported that the victim was bloody and had markings consistent with being hit in the face.
Deputies entered the residence in an attempt to apprehend Alexander, but he had fled out the back door.
According to the arrest affidavit, a witness told deputies she heard the fight, but did not witness the physical part of the confrontation.
Deputies attempted to deploy a K-9, however, Webber continued to yell at deputies and would not back away from their patrol vehicles. Therefore, the deputies could not deploy the K-9 without risking injury to Webber.
Webber continued to walk really close to deputies while yelling, “I do what the f**k I wanna do.”
During the commotion, Webber began to make threats toward the victim. While the victim was writing a statement, Webber approached her, took a fighting stance, and yelled, “I’m going to f**k you up b**ch.” Deputies then intervened to prevent Webber from striking the victim.
While questioning the victim, deputies also learned that Webber had assaulted the teen in an attempt to prevent her from notifying authorities about Alexander.
Upon learning this, Webber was taken into custody. While she was being handcuffed, she continued to scream profanities and threaten the victim. Webber then pulled away from deputies and attempted to run, at which time she was escorted to the ground. When deputies attempted to place her in the patrol car, she kicked the side of the vehicle to prevent deputies from placing her in the back seat. A second deputy had to assist with placing Webber in the vehicle.
According to reports, after Webber was placed into the patrol vehicle, she began to cry and stated, “I am sorry, I was just trying to protect my boyfriend.”
Deputies then deployed K-9 “Rambo.” While searching the mobile home park, the K-9 sniffed out a large bag of marijuana that had been thrown on the ground in the direction in which Alexander had fled.
K-9 “Rambo” also tracked down Alexander, who had returned to the residence and was hiding. When deputies asked the witnesses to have Alexander come out, they stated he was not in the house. However, deputies knew Alexander was in the home. Deputies told the witnesses to have Alexander come out, but they insisted he was not in the home. According to reports, after 20 minutes, Alexander stepped out of the trailer.
Alexander told deputies that he and the vcitim argued because she spilled beer on his PS4 gaming console while they were playing beer pong. When asked why the victim had a bloody nose; Alexander replied, “Because I hit her.”
“I am bipolar when somebody hits me, my tempter gets the best of me,” Alexander told deputies.
Deputies reported that the victim only weighs 90 pounds.
Webber was charged with Simple Assault/Intimidating a Witness and Resisting Arrest.
Alexander was charged with Battery.
Alexander has an extensive criminal record. He has been arrested and charged with Torture to Animals by causing Pain and Suffering and Death (x3), Burglary, Larceny, Resisting Arrest, Theft, Possession of Marijuana, and numerous Violation of Probation offenses.
Both Webber and Alexander were released on Bond and are back on the streets.
Witnesses described the duo as “dangerous neighborhood trash.”
Ocala, Florida — In May, Ocala Post told you about the curfew being enforced by the Ocala Police Department. However, some parents seem to have ignored the issue.
According to OPD, many parents are allowing their children to roam the streets at night. While the problem is mostly with teens; children as young as 9-years-old have been seen out past 11 p.m., without adult supervision.
A drive through Marion Oaks or Silver Springs Shores after 11 p.m. revealed children by the dozens roaming the streets, many carrying backpacks and wearing all black clothing in the darkness of the night.
The state of Florida does have a curfew law, but unlike the City of Ocala, Marion County has not adopted the law. Authorities say even though Marion County has not adopted the law, parents should use common sense. For the safety of the children; keep them from walking the streets after dark.
According to the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, “Unsupervised juveniles are the most likely to commit crime, in general, so it seems almost obvious that crime might peak, especially during summer months, when students are off from school with idle hands.”
According to FDLE, during the summer months – when school is out of session – crime tends to rise.
The Ocala Police Department wants to remind the community that the City of Ocala has adopted the law for minors and that the law holds the parents responsible for making sure their child/children don’t violate this law.
Minors prohibited in public places and establishments during certain hours; penalty; procedure:
(1)(a) A minor may not be or remain in a public place or establishment between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. of the following day, Sunday through Thursday, except in the case of a legal holiday.
(b) A minor may not be or remain in a public place or establishment between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.
(2) A minor who has been suspended or expelled from school may not be or remain in a public place, in an establishment, or within 1,000 feet of a school during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. during any school day.
(3) A minor who violates this section shall receive a written warning for her or his first violation. A minor who violates this section after having received a prior written warning is guilty of a civil infraction and shall pay a fine of $50 for each violation.
(4) If a minor violates a curfew and is taken into custody, the minor shall be transported immediately to a police station or to a facility operated by a religious, charitable, or civic organization that conducts a curfew program in cooperation with a local law enforcement agency. After recording pertinent information about the minor, the law enforcement agency shall attempt to contact the parent of the minor and, if successful, shall request that the parent take custody of the minor and shall release the minor to the parent. (Depending on the reason the minor was taken into custody)
In April, Business owners complained and reported that they fear they will lose business if kids continue to hang out and cause trouble.
Businesses owners and residents alike have expressed their concerns and say they feel this matter is a parenting issue. Parents in Marion County are being asked to step up and take more responsibility for their children.
In the city limits, the curfew will be enforced and fines will be issued if parents do not take appropriate measures.
The Ocala Police Department said, “We appreciate the cooperation from all parents and minors.”
Ocala, Florida — Tonight, January 20, 2015, the Ocala City Council will be holding several public meetings.
The meetings will cover the Trinity Lane mixed-use development that would destroy the farmland at Red Oak and Ocala Stud farms, for the purpose of development. The farms are located off of Southwest 27th Avenue.
Jennifer L. Hoefsmit, of Ocala, plans to speak about a new ordinance that prohibits businesses from displaying outside sales racks, sidewalk signs advertising specials, and this is just to name a few of the prohibitions being placed on small businesses by the city.
Business owners say the “Outside Sales Ordinance” could potentially destroy many small businesses in the area. Which is kind of ironic since the tag-line for the city is “Find Your Place.”
Ocala, Florida — Once again, residents of Spring Manor Apartments, Ocala, listened to helicopters as they flew over the apartment complex Sunday night.
According to the Ocala Police Department, police were searching for a suspect that reportedly fired shots in the area.
Luckily, no one was injured during the shooting.
Police said the shooter was described as a black male, approximately 6 feet tall wearing blue jeans and a hoodie.
According to police, this is the only information they have at this time.
Anyone with information about this shooting can call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP, text 274637 using keyword 368-STOP, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. Anonymity is guaranteed.
Marion Oaks — Sunday, at approximately 2:00 p.m, Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy J. Clark responded to the 3700 block of Southwest 150th Loop, Marion Oaks, in reference to a battery on a 8-year-old female victim.
The juvenile had been shot in the throat with an Airsoft gun while she played outside her grandfather’s home.
The victim’s grandfather was outside with the children at the time of the incident.
According to reports, two males slowly drove a vehicle up into the grandfather’s yard, but stayed parallel to the road. The driver then leaned back in his seat, while the passenger shot the child directly in the center of her throat. The vehicle then sped off.
Witnesses said they could hear the victim scream.
The suspects yelled something just before they shot the victim, but no one could make out what had been said.
Witnesses said the passenger took his time and looked through the sights before he fired the Airsoft gun.
The deputy noted that the mark from where the child had been shot was still visible when he arrived.
The vehicle is described as a small, dark-color (black, maybe midnight blue) 4-door sedan with a red pinstripe around the outer ring of the hubcaps. The victim’s sister stated, “The vehicle looked like it hadn’t been washed in a long time.”
The 8-year-old told the deputy, “The driver has a round face, fat like the marshmallow man.” The driver could be in his late 20s early 30s, and is described as having dark brown, possibly black hair. The victim said, “He looked crazy and I was scared.”
The passenger was described as a skinny teenager, between the ages of 14 to 17, with “spiked” brown hair.
Both suspects were described as white or possibly light skinned Hispanics.
“The deputy was very professional and treated my children with the utmost respect,” the victim’s father said. “I appreciate that the deputy took the matter serious and questioned the children in a courteous manner.” He went on to say, “As for the low-life punks that did this, they will get what is coming to them.”
According to reports, someone had called and reported a reckless driver in that same area on Saturday. The description of the vehicle matches the one from Sunday afternoon.
If caught, the suspect faces charges of Simple Battery. Officials said thankfully the child was not hit in the eye.
If you have any information about this crime, please call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111, Crime Stoppers at 352-368-STOP, text a tip to 274637 using keyword 368-STOP, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. Anonymity is guaranteed.
Ocala, Florida — Ocala police said two people were injured at Vanguard High School Friday night after someone opened fire at a basketball game.
A 14-year-old was shot in the arm, and a 19-year-old was cut by flying glass during the incident. The juvenile is a student at Howard Middle School.
According to police, two officers were working the basketball game when the shooting happened; however, the shooter(s) fled the area before the suspect(s) could be apprehended.
Police said the juvenile was walking through the parking lot when she was struck in the arm by a bullet. The older female was in her car backing out of the parking lot when bullets hit her windows, causing glass to hit her arm.
About an hour and a half after the shooting, someone posted a message on Facebook alleging they were the shooter. The message even contained the hash tag “#imissed (sorry).” The Facebook post was deleted immediately after it was posted. Oddly enough, there was a second shooting outside the city limits, after the Vanguard High School shooting. At this time, it is unclear which shooting the individual was allegedly taking credit for.
A short time later, a friend of the individual that posted the message wrote, “It was just lyrics to a song.” Another person wrote, “It was a joke.” Then, Ocala Post received the following Facebook post.
The Facebook posts have many asking: where are the parents?
The Ocala Police Department has possession of an unedited copy of the message. If OPD is able to verify its authenticity, Ocala Post will, at that time, release the shooter’s name and photo.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the second shooting, in which no injuries were reported. It is not clear if the shootings are related.
The victims of the Vanguard shooting were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Anyone with information about this shooting can call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP, text 274637 using keyword 368-STOP, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com. Anonymity is guaranteed.
Ocala, Florida — Last year, Ocala Post reported on Bennie L. Wilson, III, 41, the now former Ocala police officer arrested on two counts of Unlawful Sexual Activity with a Minor.
According to documents received from the Ocala Police Department, Wilson attended a pre-disciplinary conference on Thursday, following the end of an Internal Affairs investigation.
“After carefully reviewing the documentation and considering the facts presented, I find that your actions constituted misconduct detrimental to the public service and were inappropriate, inexcusable, and contrary to the actions and demeanor of an officer of the Ocala Police Department,” Ocala Police Department Chief Greg Graham wrote. “As discipline for this misconduct, I am imposing the following: Termination of employment effective January 15, 2015.
On October 28, 2014, Sgt. Young was requested to investigate a criminal complaint against Wilson. Sgt. Young spoke with the 16-year-old victim who advised that she had run away from home about a month and a half prior, and was engaging in prostitution.
She stated that she encountered Officer Wilson one night and spoke with him. She said the conversation became sexual in nature and the officer asked if he could touch her. She told him yes and he fondled her breasts beneath her clothing. The officer then asked if he needed to wait until her 18th birthday.
The victim told investigators that approximately two weeks later (first two weeks of October) she encountered Officer Wilson again, at which time he asked if she would like to go somewhere alone with him. She stated, “Yes, but I want to go somewhere and smoke my crack cocaine first.” Approximately 40 minutes later, Officer Wilson picked the girl up in his patrol car. They then drove behind Party Time Rentals, where they got out of the vehicle. She stated that once they were out of the vehicle, he unzipped his pants and she performed oral sex on him. According to reports, she then removed her pants, put a condom on him, and had sex. Officer Wilson gave her $20 afterwards.
Investigators found the used condom behind Party Time Rentals; and processed it for DNA.
Wilson began his career with OPD in September of 2012. According to the Ocala Police Department, his salary was $36,003.96.
Polk County — The more than 100 officer manhunt for four murder suspects, has ended. All four suspects are now in custody. They are currently being interrogated by detectives.
Sheriff Grady Judd said he appreciated the community’s help. He said the community came together, shared photos on social media, and helped warn family members. Everyone worked together to bring these criminals to justice.
Charges (so far)
Devonere McCune: Two counts Armed Robbery; one count Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery; three counts Attempted Murder on a LEO; one count Fleeing to Elude; one count Grand Theft.
Michael Gordon: Two counts 1st Degree Murder; one count Armed Burglary of a Dwelling; two counts Armed Robbery; one count Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery; three counts Attempted Murder on a LEO; two counts Fleeing to Elude; one count Grand Theft Auto; one count Grand Theft.
Jovan Lamb: Two counts Armed Robbery; one count Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery; three counts Attempted Murder on a LEO; one count Fleeing to Elude; one count Grand Theft; one count Violation of Probation (Felony Criminal Mischief).
Terrell Williams: Two counts Armed Robbery; one count Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery; three counts Attempted Murder on a LEO; one count Fleeing to Elude; one count Grand Theft.
Criminal History (Original article is below criminal history)
Devonere McCune:
11/27/04 – Arrested by HCPD – Disorderly conduct
8/12/06 – Arrested by HCPD – Grand theft
9/25/06 – Arrested by HCPD – Aid Runaway Juvenile
10/27/06 – Arrested by HCPD – Disorderly conduct
12/14/06 – Arrested by Lake Alfred PD – Battery on education employee, Disturbing the peace
5/1/09 – Arrested by PCSO – Robbery
11/10/09 – PCSO – Robbery
12/30/10 – PCSO – Armed Robbery, VOP
FL state prison: March 2010 – November 2010; April 2012 – September 2014
Released from prison on 9/11/14
Currently on probation for Robbery
Michael Gordon:
10/13/94 – LPD – Agg Assault with weapon, Burglary
12/19/12 – HCPD – Agg Assault, Agg Battery, Possession of Weapon by Convicted Felon
4/24/14 – Seminole Co SO – FTA
4/25/14 – PCSO – FTA, VOP
FL state prison: March 2005 – August 2005; June 2006 – September 2007
[Updated January 16, 2015, at 8:47 a.m.]
“I want you to understand how ominous, how dangerous, the people we are dealing with here are,” Polk County sheriff Grady Judd said, pointing out that the suspects had already attacked officers with vehicles and firearms, and killed two innocent women.
Two victims, 51-year-old Deborah Royal and 72-year-old Patricia Moran, of 618 Astor Road, Haines City, were murdered in cold blood. Sheriff Grady Judd said, “The victims were viciously murdered, much too graphic to describe.” He added, “We don’t want a gunfight, but if they want one, we will give them one they will never forget.” Sheriff Judd said the women murdered were as normal as they come. He said they were sitting inside their home minding their own business, and they were murdered.
Patricia Moran, [left] and her daughter, Deborah Royal. [Both deceased]School has been cancelled in the area while the manhunt continues. “We’re not taking any risks,” Said Sheriff Judd. “If they pull guns on us, make no mistake about it — we will shoot them. A lot.”
The photos of the captured criminals have been released; however, Ocala Post is focusing on the last remaining suspect at large.
(Original Article)
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Auburndale Police Department (APD), and the Haines City Police Department (HCPD), are conducting an investigation into an armed robbery and a double homicide, in Auburndale and Haines City.
Around 5:45 p.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2015, the Auburndale P.D. and PCSO were dispatched to a robbery in progress at the Cash America Pawn located on Havendale Boulevard in Auburndale.
Upon arrival, officers and deputies obtained information about the suspect vehicle, which is described as a burgundy GMC SUV. The robbery suspects were described as three armed black males dressed in hoodies, with an additional black male suspect as the getaway driver.
Shortly thereafter, the suspect vehicle was spotted by a Haines City P.D. officer heading eastbound on US 17/92 in Haines City; at which time the HCPD officer engaged in a pursuit with the suspect vehicle.
The suspects in the vehicle fired several shots at the HCPD patrol car – neither the car nor the officers were struck by any bullets. The suspect vehicle then crashed near Chanler Ridge subdivision, west of US 27 and north of US 17/92.
All four suspects fled on foot.
One suspect was immediately apprehended by a PCSO K-9 team. The other three suspects continued to flee. A perimeter was set up by officers and deputies from APD, HCPD, and PCSO.
A short time later, law enforcement received information from a resident that a house nearby had suspicious activity. As deputies and officers surrounded the house, a blue car came barreling out of the garage straight at the deputies and officers, who opened fire on the car. The car stopped and one suspect inside the car was immediately taken into custody. He was shot and also bitten by a K-9. He has non-life threatening injuries.
Law enforcement officers found two deceased adults in the home – they are both victims of homicide.
There are two suspects in custody at this time.
The two remaining suspects are still at large and are considered armed and extremely dangerous.
Residents are asked to stay behind locked doors and do not, under any circumstances, answer the door unless it is a law enforcement officer knocking to check on your well-being.
Law enforcement agencies will maintain a perimeter and conduct a thorough search through the remainder of the night.
There are no additional injuries to other persons or law enforcement officers at this time.
If you have family in the area, officials say you should alert them. The individuals that are on the run have zero respect for life and they will not hesitate to kill.
This is the only information available at this time.
If you see anything suspicious, please call 9-1-1. If you have information about the suspects’ whereabouts, you can remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward – call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPSInline image 1 (8477).
Ocala, Florida — The Correctional Operations Inspection and the Medical Compliance Inspection for the Florida Model Jail Standards has been completed for the Marion County Jail and Juvenile Detention Center and reflects a 100 percent compliance for all standards.
The inspection team for the FMJS looks at all the corrections operations, security, inmate support services, and the medical program within the jail.
According to reports, the jail and medical inspectors complimented the high standard of cleanliness throughout the jail, the positive interaction with the staff they came in contact with, and the preparation and knowledge reflected by the staff.
Another aspect of their commendation was that overall inmate custody and control was extremely well-maintained, and inmates reflected to inspectors that they were very satisfied with how they were treated by staff at the Marion County Jail, reports noted.
“I would like to congratulate the hard-working corrections staff on such an outstanding accomplishment. Our jail personnel are dedicated to their jobs and to the citizens of Marion County and are determined to set the standards high to make sure we provide high-quality services to our community,” Sheriff Chris Blair said.
Shelton Bell [Mugshot]Jacksonville, Florida — Assistant Attorney General for National Security John P. Carlin, U.S Attorney A. Lee Bentley III for the Middle District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Michelle S. Klimt of the FBI Jacksonville Division announced that Shelton Thomas Bell, 21, of Jacksonville, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to terrorists. U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan also ordered Bell to a lifetime of supervision following his release from prison. Bell pleaded guilty on March 19, 2014.
“We must be vigilant in investigating and prosecuting United States citizens who seek to travel overseas to assist terrorists,” said U.S. Attorney Bentley. “Not only do these individuals present an obvious threat abroad, they could also return to the United States after being radicalized and trained in the use of firearms, explosives, and weapons of mass destruction. Cases such as these remain a top priority for the United States Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice.”
“With our local, state, and federal agencies working together through the JTTF, we’re able to detect, deter and defend our nation from these types of threats,” said Special Agent in Charge Klimt. “We’re strongest working together and this is a perfect example of success through collaboration.”
According to court documents, beginning in May 2012, and continuing through at least July 18, 2012, Bell conspired to train and prepare as a combatant for overseas violent jihad, then travel from Jacksonville to the Middle East for the ultimate purpose of providing the skills to terrorists, including members of Ansar al-Sharia in Yemen. Once overseas, the plan included receiving further training and deadly weapons from Ansar al-Sharia, and then engaging in violent jihad against, and killing, others in Yemen and elsewhere.
In May 2012, Bell recruited a juvenile for the purpose of engaging in violent jihad and inspired him with the teachings of an Al Qaida spokesperson, Anwar al-Awlaki. Bell suggested traveling to Yemen to fight because of al-Awlaki’s teachings—that all young people should travel to Yemen to “take up the fight.” Bell and the juvenile subsequently agreed to travel to Israel and then make Hajj. As part of the plan, the conspirators told others, including their parents, that they were traveling overseas to make Hajj, to study, and to get an education. By July 2012, the conspirators began taking actions to train for their unlawful activities by conducting mental training that included watching al-Awlaki videos and looking at images of dead Muslims.
Another part of the training took place on July 4, 2012, when Bell conducted a late-night “jihadi training mission” that involved the destruction of religious statues in a multi-denominational cemetery located in Jacksonville. In preparation for the mission, he dressed in all black clothing, wore tactical gloves, a mask, and wrapped his shoes in black duct tape to avoid leaving footprints. Bell brought a loaded 9 mm pistol with him on the mission to use “in case any kuffar want to cause any trouble.” Other training sessions conducted by Bell included a homemade firing range and impromptu battlefield lessons intended for recording and uploading to the Internet, to be used in the recruitment of others in the “the actions of jihad.” At the conclusion of one training session, Bell placed an American flag on a machete, burned it, and commented that the flag was “burning to the ground by the mujahidin’s hands.” To recruit other youth to travel and join in armed conflict, Bell and the juvenile also planned to take footage of their participation in armed conflict in the Middle East, once they made it there and began fighting.
On September 25, 2012, Bell and the juvenile left Jacksonville and flew to New York, Poland, and Tel Aviv, Israel, where they were detained by Israeli officials and deported to Poland. From there, Bell and the juvenile traveled to Jordan to stay with the juvenile’s relatives. While in Jordan, Bell and the juvenile contacted another person to assist in their plan of joining up with Ansar al-Sharia. Bell and the juvenile also bought airline tickets to Oman, believing they would fly to Oman and walk across the border to Yemen and join the armed conflict there. During their overseas travel, Bell and the juvenile took steps to avoid detection by law enforcement.
Ultimately, Bell and the juvenile were deported from Jordan to the United States on November 21, 2012.
This Philadelphia row house was firebombed by individuals who worked for Philadelphia drug trafficker Kaboni Savage. Four children and two adults, family members of a federal witness, died in the fire. The adjacent row homes were also damaged. [FBI file photo]Philadelphia — As far as witness intimidation goes, Philadelphia drug trafficker Kaboni Savage and members of his criminal enterprise appeared to corner the market on how far they would go to silence anyone willing to testify against the organization. The most horrifying example of this was the brutal firebombing that resulted in the deaths of six members of a federal witness’ family in retaliation for his cooperation with law enforcement.
But a long-term, multi-agency investigation eventually proved that Kaboni Savage was responsible for those six murders—and at least six others—and that he headed a drug trafficking enterprise that excelled in using violence and other criminal tactics against anyone who threatened its drug trade. Recently, the final defendant charged in the firebombing deaths was sentenced to 40 years in prison, and Savage himself, convicted in 2013 on murder and racketeering charges, eventually received the death sentence.
In the late 1990s, Kaboni—then a small-time drug dealer—began buying cocaine in bulk and building his criminal organization. He was making a name for himself, especially for his often-brutal methods of operation— which included murders, beatings, kidnappings, and threats—against anyone who crossed him (customers, rival gang members, his own underlings, even law enforcement).
Law enforcement, however, had Kaboni in their cross hairs, and he and his organization soon became the focus of an investigation by the Philadelphia FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, made up of local, state, and federal agencies. In May 2004, Kaboni and others were indicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine, money laundering, firearms offenses, and later on, witness intimidation. The perpetrators were arrested and held for trial.
It was from jail that Savage orchestrated the arson murder of six members of Eugene Coleman’s family. Coleman, a member of Savage’s gang who was among those named in the May 2004 indictment, had agreed to cooperate in the case. Through visits with family members—including his sister, Kidada—and surreptitious phone calls with other gang members, Savage planned the murders and solicited the help of his sister and two other gang members—Lamont Lewis and Robert Merritt. Kidada Savage passed the plan on to the other two and identified the Coleman home. Then Lewis and Merritt, in the early morning hours of October 9, 2004, drove to the Philadelphia row house, fired warning shots into the residence, and threw two full gasoline cans with a lit cloth fuse into the home.
After extinguishing the flames, the fire department found the bodies of six victims—Coleman’s 54-year-old mother, his 15-month-old son, and four other relatives, including a 10-year-old girl and 12- and 15-year-old boys. (Coleman was incarcerated at the time of the arson.) Through investigative techniques like court-authorized electronic surveillance and the use of informants, members of the task force were eventually able to collect evidence—some of it in Kaboni Savage’s own words—of how the plot was hatched and carried out.
Kaboni Savage and four of his associates went to trial in November 2004 on the initial drug trafficking charges—14 others had already pled guilty before trial—and were convicted and sentenced. Eventually, though, Kaboni Savage and a number of his associates—including Kidada Savage—were indicted and ultimately convicted by a federal grand jury looking into the arson deaths of Coleman’s family.
By the time it was all over, Kaboni Savage’s criminal organization was dismantled—thanks in part to former associates and others willing to testify against him. Recently, the final defendant charged in the firebombing deaths was sentenced to 40 years in prison, and Savage himself, convicted in 2013 on murder and racketeering charges, received a death sentence.
The six innocent people murdered in their home—one of many ruthless attempts by Savage to keep his operations running—finally received justice.
Calvin Nitesia Ketara [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On January 14, 2015, at approximately 8:55pm, officers responded to the El Toreo restaurant, located at 3510 SW 36th Ave., in reference to an altercation that involved an armed female.
Off-duty Marion County Sheriff’s Office Deputy, John Lightle, was in the restaurant at the time, eating with his family.
Deputy Lightle stated that as he exited the restaurant, he observed the suspect, later identified as Ketara Calvin, 22, waving a gun in the air and pointing it at people in the parking lot.
Deputy Lightle immediately directed his family to a safe place, and then confronted Calvin. He said Calvin then “racked” the slide of the gun, and pointed it directly at a 19-year-old pregnant female.
Deputy Lightle then quickly disarmed Calvin and secured the weapon until Ocala Police Officer, Richard Knobloch, arrived on the scene.
Calvin told police that she and the victim had “words” on Facebook earlier.
According to reports, Calvin was invited to the restaurant by a group of friends. She stated that when she arrived, the victim was leaving the restaurant. Calvin said that is when the victim punched her in the face with a closed fist.
She told police that she knew the victim was pregnant so she did not hit her back; instead, she retreated to her car.
Calvin said the victim followed her and “mashed” her in the face with the victims hand. That is when Calvin said the victim pulled out a can of mace and sprayed her in the face, but Calvin used her jacket to block the spray.
Calvin then pulled out a handgun from her glove compartment and pointed it at the victim. She said she only did it to scare the victim.
Several females that was with the victim refused to cooperate with police. They would not provide their names or any details about the incident.
The victim told police that even though she and Calvin have mutual friends, she was not invited to dinner. She also stated that it was Calvin that approached her in the parking lot, and began cursing at her and then punched her in the side of the face.
The victim said she maced Calvin in self defense. She said she did follow Calvin to her car, but it was only to mace her again.
Calvin was arrested and charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
Ocala Police Department Public Information Officer, Sergeant Angy Scroble, said, “Deputy Lightle is to be commended for his quick thinking and actions that kept everyone safe.”
Anthony Ralph Ybarra [Family photo]Summerfield, Florida — Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy, Gregory Spicher, has been removed from patrol, and relocated to the Marion County Jail where he will work as a corrections officer. This move was made following an Internal Affairs investigation.
It all started on November 14, 2014, when Deputy Spicher responded to SE 155th Place, Summerfield, Florida, in reference to an attempted suicide involving Anthony Ralph Ybarra, 14.
Upon his arrival, there were two civilians performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) on Anthony; longtime nurse and close family friend, Karen Van Es, and former paramedic, Jay Timson.
When Deputy Spicher arrived, he instructed the two to cease CPR. This command was aggravated by the fact that once medical personnel arrived within minutes on the scene, they detected cardiac activity and transported Anthony to the hospital.
Anthony, who resided at his home with his mother, Jolene Waldron, 33, step-brother, Jaylon Waldron, 12, and step-sister, Devotion Waldron, 10, had been a student at Kingsbury Academy, an alternative school, and had worked his way back into Belleview Middle School. He had just learned that, due to his disruptive behavior at Belleview Middle School, he was being sent back to Kingsbury Academy. This is the only event that could account for his actions that tragic day.
On November 14, at approximately 3:30 p.m, Anthony was home with his mother and step-sister, Devotion, at which time his mother left the house to go pick up his step-brother, Jaylon. Anthony was restricted to stay inside his house. Once he found out Devotion was not leaving with his mother, he asked to go with her; however, she refused. As soon as Anthony’s mother left the house, Anthony ran out the front door and when the mother returned, at 3:40 p.m., she learned Anthony had gone outside.
She then went outside and called for him; however, he did not answer.
Jaylon, who shares a room with Anthony, went to his room. After a few minutes he looked out the window and saw the lower part of Anthony, and his feet weren’t touching the ground. He yelled to his mother to come into his room. Jaylon stated, “I don’t think he is standing up.” His mother responded, “don’t say that.” They both ran outside and discovered Anthony hanging from a tree.
Jolene (mother) began to yell for help as Jaylon attempted to lift his step-brother. However, Anthony was too heavy. Neighbors, Jay and Christina Timson, ran over and eventually were able to cut Anthony free from the belts he had used to hang himself.
That is when Jay, the former paramedic, began CPR and, after a few minutes, was assisted by Karen, a licensed practical nurse. They were performing CPR at a rate of 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
The first 911 call came in at 3:58 p.m., and law enforcement and medical units were dispatched at 4:01 p.m. Deputy Spicher was first to arrive on the scene.
Once he made contact with Timson and Karen, who were performing CPR, he instructed them to cease, which they did. During this time, Ladder 30 arrived on the scene and Deputy Spicher announced that the area was now a crime scene and that only one medical person could proceed, with him to observe Anthony, who Deputy Spicher thought was deceased.
The medical technician who accompanied Deputy Spicher, David Warren, stated in his report that the patient, Anthony, appeared severely cyanotic and unresponsive, and no pulse was detected. He was also limp and no lividity was noted. Once a monitor was attached to Anthony, a rhythm was detected; therefore, other medical personnel were immediately summoned to where Anthony was.
Anthony was transported to The Villages Hospital then air-lifted to UF Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Anthony remained on life support until on or about November 22, 2014, when he was removed from life support and pronounced dead.
Jaylon told investigators: “He must have struggled or something after he did it or thought about it because he was moving a little bit. So he must have just did it.” Jaylon was asked if Anthony had discussed suicide in the past and he replied “no.”
Jay Timson advised that he and his family lived a short distance down the road from where Anthony lived. He advised that he was in his garage and heard a bunch of dogs barking. He then heard this lady screaming for help saying “my son, my son.” Jay advised that at first he thought it might be a dog attack. Jay advised that he took off down the street running and yelled for his daughter to have her mother call 911.
Jay stated that he observed Anthony hanging in a tree. He was unresponsive and it looked like there were two ropes or belts tied together. He added that he couldn’t see how Anthony got up there. Jay stated that he grabbed Anthony and immediately lifted him up. He then instructed his wife to go and get a knife so he could cut Anthony down. Jay stated that he had been holding Anthony for maybe two or three minutes when Anthony’s mother came out with a knife, at which time he cut Anthony down.
Jay advised that he had been a paramedic before moving to Florida. Therefore, he got a brief medical history on Anthony while checking for a pulse, which he couldn’t find. Jay stated that he checked Anthony’s airway and noticed that he wasn’t as cold as he should have been, adding that he had no idea how long Anthony had been hanging in the tree. Jay advised that he gave Anthony a couple of breaths then thumped on his chest. He then started CPR, beginning with ten (10) compressions and two (2) breaths for maybe five (5) minutes, at which time a woman who stated she was Anthony’s grandmother arrived. Jay advised the grandmother stated she was a nurse; therefore, she took over CPR and completed maybe three (3) rounds of thirty (30) compressions and two (2) breaths when the deputy arrived. The grandmother mentioned is Karen, who is actually the mother of Jolene Waldron’s boyfriend.
Jay told investigators that “he (the deputy) pretty much called it, he told us to back away. I had a pulse when she was doing compressions; when she stopped doing compressions we both thought we felt a slight pulse. But he said back away, so we just backed away.” Jay advised it was about that same time that the paramedics arrived on the scene. Jay then stated that the deputy didn’t say “I officially call him dead,” but said the paramedics were almost there and it’s a crime scene, so back away. Jay added, “he (the deputy) was just doing his job.”
Christina Timson stated that when the boy’s grandmother (Karen) showed up, she (grandmother) started doing compressions while her husband did the breathing. She added that once the deputy showed up, he told her husband to stop and that it was a “Section 7 and told the paramedics they did not need to hurry.” When asked again what the deputy said, she stated he said “no rush, it’s a code 7.”
Karen stated that she is a licensed practical nurse and works the night shift at Promise Hospital, located in The Villages.
She advised that she woke up to her phone ringing at 4:04 p.m. She could hear a woman screaming on the phone while talking to her husband. Karen stated that her husband immediately hung up the phone and stated that they needed to go to Anthony’s house because he had just hung himself.
Karen told investigators the trip took maybe two (2) or three (3) minutes and once they arrived, they observed Jolene (Anthony’s mother) sitting on the ground just rocking back and forth crying. Karen stated that Anthony was in the bushes and the neighbor was performing CPR on him. Karen advised that she took over the compressions and was telling the neighbor when to breathe. Karen described that she was doing “30 to 2.”
Karen advised that Anthony was gasping for breath at the time; he had no life, but he was gasping. Karen said the deputy arrived a short time later. She stated, “the first thing he said was to stop, he told us to stop everything,” at which time she disagreed. Karen added that she should have stood her ground because thirty (30) years of nursing tells her “you don’t stop; you don’t stop CPR until there is someone here to take over for you, and if I could see that man today, I would tell him to his face, don’t you ever tell a nurse to stop.” Karen added that at that time she did feel a pulse; it was not a carotid but a brachial, which she added was a small pulse.
Karen advised that when the paramedic came in, it had been a good two (2) or three (3) minutes that no CPR had been done.
The following is the interview with Deputy Spicher in its entirety:
Deputy Gregory Spicher advised that he arrived at 8675 SE 155th Place, and then proceeded to the wooded area just west of the residence located there. He observed a male subject administering CPR. He also observed a couple of objects, one blue and the other black, then looked for any objects that would have assisted the suicide victim in hanging himself. Deputy Spicher stated that the limb was 10 to 12 feet above the ground; therefore, he could not tell how the subject hung himself due to being cut down upon his arrival.
Deputy Spicher described the hanging victim, a young male subject, as being cyanotic, eyes fixed and dilated. He observed ligature marks on the subject’s neck and there was no sign of life whatsoever. Deputy Spicher stated that he checked for a pulse and that the subject’s hands were cold. Spicher then added “which is normal for shock because everything goes from the hands to the vital organs. Checked his carotid pulse, felt nothing. Before I done that I asked the person to stop CPR because before I was a law enforcement officer I was 15 years a paramedic.” Deputy Spicher stated that he had that type of experience and that about the same time he instructed them to stop CPR, the medics were arriving on the scene. Deputy Spicher advised that the grandmother (Karen) stated “but I felt a pulse,” and he responded “Ma’am, I didn’t feel anything.” The male subject (Jay) administering CPR then told the grandmother, “Ma’am, that could have been me doing the compressions.” Deputy Spicher advised he then told the two (Karen and Jay) that he had to treat this as a crime scene at that point in time; therefore, he escorted them out as the medics were walking up. Deputy Spicher stated that he looked at the medic who was walking up carrying the monitor and told him “I’ve already called it, but I want just one person coming in with the monitor because of a potential crime scene.” Deputy Spicher stated the medic then put the monitor on the male subject. It was flat lined for a few seconds then all of the sudden there was one beep. Deputy Spicher stated that the medic then requested that his Lieutenant come to assist him. Deputy Spicher advised that once the Lieutenant arrived, they looked at the monitor then another beep was observed. The medic advised “this is what we call an agonal heart rate, we have to work it.” At that point other medical personnel came into the area to assist and the male subject was transported to The Villages Hospital. Deputy Spicher advised that he left to go to the hospital also. However, prior to leaving the scene he advised the grandmother and the mother of the subject that they couldn’t find a pulse manually but the monitor showed a pulse; therefore, CPR was started back up and the subject was going to be transported.
Inspector Smith advised Deputy Spicher that the golden rule, taught in all CPR classes, is that once CPR starts, you don’t stop until you are medically relieved or you become exhausted. When asked if he (Spicher) was aware of that and that he had instructed two individuals to stop CPR, Deputy Spicher responded “The only reason I stopped it for that 30 seconds to a minute was to check for a pulse and at that time the medics were coming in. I didn’t want everybody coming in because of crime scene preservation. When I lifted his shirt I could see the pooling and the lividity in his back.”
Inspector Smith then stated to Deputy Spicher, “You transmitted he was Signal 7 (deceased) and for everyone to slow it down. You told these people to cease, the medical people showed up, their actions indicate that he is not deceased. You don’t have the authorization to pronounce someone as dead.” Deputy Spicher responded that he had been told that Florida Statutes say that “we can”; then added “In practice here we declare people Sig 7 all the time without medics coming in.” Inspector Smith then advised that does occur in certain circumstances; however, this incident would be different because no one knew for sure how long the subject had been hanging. Deputy Spicher then advised that the first CAD report stated it was at least 20 minutes; that the mother had left the house for 10 minutes; that she came home and couldn’t find the subject and when she did and the call came, it was now 28 minutes. When Inspector Smith explained that still no one could say how long the subject had been hanging, Deputy Spicher stated, “when I felt him he was cold; I felt no pulses and in my past training and experiences his eyes were fixed and dilated; the petechia eye, he was red, his mouth wide open, absolutely no sign of life. The medics didn’t feel any pulses when they first arrived either.” Inspector Smith then asked Deputy Spicher, “If you are dead, can they bring you back to life?” and he responded, “Yes.”
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According to the sheriff’s office, Spicher was hired in October 2005.
Deputy Spicher’s personnel file shows that he has been subject to three (3) other disciplinary actions, but has also received commendations, such as Eagle Eye awards. He was “top producer of the month” 15 times since 2006 and was on the team that apprehended repeat-escapee Yarnell Bagley.
On Wednesday, following an Internal Affairs investigation that found Dereliction of Duty, Spicher was transferred to the Marion County Jail, where he will work as a corrections officer.
Spicher also must successfully complete a CPR class. Additionally, all deputies will be told that they should never stop CPR until they are relieved by a medic or too exhausted to continue.
Internal Affairs Investigator, Leo Smith, concluded: Deputy Spicher was acting in the role of a law enforcement officer at the time of this incident; he had been trained to administer CPR. His years of advanced medical training and experience should have been a benefit in this instance.
CPR training will teach you that you don’t cease CPR once it begins, unless the person administering it is relieved by medical personnel or becomes exhausted. Deputy Spicher made, what he believed at the time, a correct decision when giving the order; however, he lacked the facts to do so. Deputy Spicher did not know that the civilians administering CPR had medical backgrounds or how long the subject had been hanging before he was cut down. Once someone is deceased you can, during a time frame, possibly bring them back to life.
Deputy Gregory Spicher’s actions at the time of his arrival, in as far as his commands to civilians, were not proper as to his role of a law enforcement officer and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Therefore, Violation of Operations Directive 1068.04(A) Dereliction of Duty is substantiated.
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Anthony’s family wants justice. They do not believe being moved from patrol to the jail is a sufficient punishment for Deputy Spicher.
Carolyn Waldron, mother of Jolene Waldron, said the family is actively seeking an attorney.
“This should have never happened. Anthony might be alive today if this officer had done his job. You never stop trying to save a life no matter what,” Carolyn said.
The family said Anthony never talked about suicide and that he was a happy kid.
Green Township, Ohio — Assistant Attorney General for National Security, John P. Carlin, and Acting Special Agent in Charge John A. Barrios of the Cincinnati Division of the FBI announced today that the Joint Terrorism Task Force arrested a Cincinnati-area man for a plot to attack the U.S. Capitol and kill government officials. Acting Special Agent in Charge Barrios noted that the public was not in danger during this investigation.
Christopher Lee Cornell, 20, of Green Township, Ohio, — also known as Raheel Mahrus Ubaydah — was charged in a criminal complaint with attempting to kill officers and employees of the United States and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
According to court documents, Cornell planned to purchase firearms then drive to Washington D.C. Once there, he planned to set off pipe bombs at the Capitol building then shoot and kill employees and officials as they ran for their lives.
Cornell also used his computer to research government buildings and instructions on constructing pipe bombs, including ingredients.
The plot was inspired by ISIS.
According to the FBI, Cornell used Twitter and other social media accounts under the alias Raheel Mahrus Ubaydah. He posted videos, statements, and other content expressing support for the Islamic State of Syria and Iraq (ISIS).
On August 29, 2014, Cornell told an undercover FBI informant through online messages that [he] wanted to launch Islamic State-style attacks on U.S. soil.
“I believe that we should just wage jihad under our own orders and plan attacks and everything,” Cornell wrote in an online message to the informant. “I believe we should meet up and make our own group in alliance with the Islamic State here and plan operations ourselves.”
In the message, Cornell said that such attacks “already got a thumbs up” from radical cleric Anwar Awlaki “before his martyrdom.”
Today, as Cornell was walking out of a gun shop after purchasing two assault rifles, he was stormed by agents and arrested.
Cornell was taken into custody by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). The JTTF is made up of officers and agents from the Cincinnati Police Department, Colerain Police Department, Dayton Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, United States Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, United States Secret Service, West Chester Police Department and the Xenia Police Department.
Within hours of Cornell’s arrest, the FBI and Department of Homeland Security issued a bulletin to law enforcement agencies across the country notifying them of the case.
“The alleged activities of Cornell highlight the continued interest of US-based violent extremists to support designated foreign terrorist organizations overseas, such as ISIL, by committing terrorist acts in the United States,” the bulletin read. “Terrorist group members and supporters will almost certainly continue to use social media platforms to disseminate English language violent extremist messages.”
Cynthia Iglesia Walker [left] and Alexander YetmanFlagler County, Florida — Flagler County sheriff’s deputies arrested a woman who they say attempted to bond her abusive boyfriend out of jail.
According to reports, Cynthia Iglesia Walker, 47, tried to bond out Alexander Yetman, 35; the very man that had “beat” her a day earlier.
Yetman was arrested on Thursday at a Palm Coast motel where the couple had been staying. Deputies responded after someone reported a disturbance at the motel and Yetman was transported to the Flagler County Jail.
Walker refused to press charges, but the state said there was clear evidence she had been “beaten.”
A judge ordered that Yetman and Walker was not to have contact.
On Friday, Walker arrived at the jail and provided detention officers with a false name. Officials said she was acting suspicious and she was wearing sunglasses even though it was pitch black outside. She told detention officers she was there to bail out her boyfriend.
Detention officers determined her real name and explained that she could not bond out Yetman because a no contact order had been entered.
Walker then needed a ride back to her motel. She was offered a ride, and it was explained she would have to be searched before she could be transported by a deputy. Walker agreed to a search.
The search turned up 14 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and various controlled prescription drugs.
Walker was charged with Trafficking Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription.
Walker was booked into the Flagler County Jail on $26,000 bond.
Yetman was charged with Felony Domestic Battery. He is being held on $10,000 bond.
Records show this is not the first time the two have had disagreements.
Ocala, Florida — Troy Thomas Owens, 23, will not face any jail time for hitting and killing three people, including Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Chelsea Richard in a May 3, 2014, accident.
According to court records obtained by Ocala Post today, Owens was adjudicated guilty and will receive a six-month suspension on his license and pay a $1,000 fine.
Owens was cited for failure to use due care in the accident and attempted to fight that as well, but lost.
The family of those killed in the accident believe that Owens walked away with a slap on the wrist.
Owens was driving a black Ford F-250 pickup, and pulling a trailer large enough to haul a car. Between his truck and the trailer, it weighed nearly 10,000 pounds.
Judge Thomas Thompson III said it was proven that Owens was doing at least 65 MHP in the rain, in the left-hand lane, while approaching slowed traffic and a Florida Highway Patrol vehicle in a state with a “Move Over” law. However, Owens didn’t move over. Moments later, Owens drove off the roadway and slammed into the trooper.
Owens’ defense attorney, Pravesh Bobby Rumalla, said it was John Lindecamp who was driving a 2005 black Mercury Mariner that caused the accident.
According to records, Lindecamp stated that he saw the slowed traffic and began to slow down. He said his brakes locked, causing him to fishtail, and possibly swerve out of his own lane a “little bit” and into the left lane where Owens was driving.
Owens told the judge he slowed to the low 50s, and had his turn signal on; however, he continued to pass several cars in the middle lane. He said when he got close to Lindecamp’s vehicle, Lindecamp hit him.
When the judge again pointed out the issue of being in the left lane and not following the “Move Over” law, Owens claimed he didn’t have room to move over in accordance with the law.
However, several witnesses that had already merged into the middle lane, disagreed.
Witnesses testified that there was room, but that Owens didn’t attempt to move over or slow down. Witnesses also stated that while Owens had been weaving in and out of traffic and passing cars in the rain, he never used his turn signal; another allegation Owens denied.
Rumalla tried to argue that Owens had planned to exit at the County Road 484 off-ramp; therefore, it didn’t make sense that Owens was in the left lane.
Several of Owens’ statements seemed to contradict one another.
According to reports, witness Amy Barco, who was pulling a trailer with horses, said she saw Owens get on the highway at State Road 40, Ocala.
Barco testified that Owens entered the highway at a high rate of speed, and cut her off while he made his way across the lanes. She said she was doing 73 MPH when he cut her off and sped past her.
Barco testified that Owens was driving so fast she lost sight of his truck very quickly, but several miles down the road saw him again. By this time, he had already been in an accident and was standing by his truck.
The judge said Barco’s testimony was very important because it was consistent with all other testimony. The judge stated that Owens was able to disappear from sight, have an accident, and be standing outside his truck when Barco caught up to him. He said Barco’s testimony was very consistent with the argument that Owens was in the left lane and speeding.
Because criminal charges were never filed against Owens, the trail was about traffic only.
The judge said, “I can only impose what was legally allowed by law.”
Morally, however, he said Owens and Lindecamp would have to figure that out for themselves.
The outcome of this case has created outrage within the community.
Owens has been described on social media as a “spoiled brat” because he allegedly comes from money. Many say they feel the punishment did not fit the crime.
Authorities have also expressed disgust. They said Owens did not show any regret and that while they were investigating the crash scene, he kept asking if he could leave.
A closer look at Owens’ state records showed that he has had several traffic violations in Marion County alone, and was convicted of burglary and grand theft in 2010.
Driving history for Marion County
May 2012, unlawful speed on an interstate; May 2012, no proof of insurance; May 2013, failure to use turn signal; May 2013, excessive emissions (car heavily smoking and causing visibility issues for other drivers), and July 2013, running a red light.
His license was also suspended for failure to meet court obligations prior to the tragic I-75 accident.
Owens was arrested again in July 2014, for violation of probation. He spent one day in jail. He was still on probation at the time of the accident. A condition of his probation stated that he was not to leave Marion County.
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According to transcripts, Owens did not admit any wrongdoing during the trial.
It was also reported that Owens did not show any emotion, signs of remorse, and never apologized to the families of the deceased.
However, Owens’ defense attorney did say that Owens regretted what happened.
Funeral
During the funeral for the trooper, Trooper Tod G. Cloud urged Scott to veto a bill that — at that time — had passed to raise the speed limit from 70 mph to 75 mph on Florida highways.
Trooper cloud, in front of hundreds of people, said to Governor Scott, “The bill wasn’t a very bright idea.” He went on to say, “I fear working a crash on I-75, because people do not drive with common sense.”
Cloud said he would like to see a law that would drop the speed limit to 55 mph when highways are wet.
Reportedly, Governor Scott didn’t like being “called out” in front of everyone. There was speculation that Governor Scott had Trooper Cloud terminated, but those speculations were put to rest after Ocala Post reached out to the FHP this week.
“Yes, Trooper Tod G. Cloud is employed with FHP at this time,” said Sergeant Tracy Hisler-Pace, Public Affairs Officer for the Florida Highway Patrol.
Aftermath
The May 3, 2014, accident has affected many lives, not just those that were killed. The ripple effect that the sudden and tragic deaths of Trooper Chelsea Richard, Mr. John Duggan, and Mr. Robert Phillips has left behind is incomprehensible. Lives were lost, and the lives of the family and friends left behind will be forever changed.
Troopers said it is simple when you see flashing lights, move over, and if you can’t move over you are required by law to reduce your speed by 20 mph below the posted speed limit, period.
There are large signs posted along I-75 that clearly inform drivers of the “Move Over” law. Troopers said ignorance is not an excuse for breaking the law; especially when it could cost someone their life. The law will be enforced and drivers will be ticketed.
Jaymi Reilly wrote, “My brother, who was my hero was killed in that crash…He didn’t have to be taken from us if this boy had used some common sense. My family will never get over losing my big brother and it makes me physically ill that this kid not only fought the ticket he received as the result of killing 3 innocent people, but he couldn’t even show remorse for the result of his actions?!?! He got a slap on the wrist, and my family got a box of ashes to remember a man who was such an inspiration to so many. What a crock!! My brother would have wanted us to find forgiveness so that’s what we are trying to do, but this makes me sick!!”
You can read the original article and view photos by utilizing some of the below links.
Ocala Post was not able to obtain photos of Duggan or Phillips.
Michael Barnes, [left], and Toni Wilson. [Mugshots]Evansville, Indiana — An Indiana couple was arrested on multiple charges after police found cellphone videos of a baby playing with a .40 caliber handgun.
According to police, the video was discovered during an investigation in which Michael Barnes, 19, attempted to sell a firearm to an undercover Evansville police officer. After Barnes was arrested, detectives discovered the video.
Evansville police and investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) were checking his cellphone records for evidence when they found two videos of a baby playing with the handgun. According to reports, the handgun appeared to be the one recovered during the undercover operation.
The videos, which were released by police and obtained by Ocala Post, showed the 1-year-old girl playing with the gun and voices can be heard in the background telling the baby to say “pow” and “bang” on multiple occasions. At one point, Barnes said, “Shoot that thang’ fat baby.”
Te baby also placed the muzzle of the gun in her mouth.
Police said Barnes and the girl’s mother, Toni Wilson, 22, were both present when the videos were made.
According to the arrest affidavit, when officers confronted Wilson about the video Friday afternoon, she attempted to fool officers into believing it was a pellet gun.
The baby’s mother was later arrested and charged with Child Neglect, Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon, and Allowing a Child to Possess a Firearm.
Barnes was arrested on the same charges, in addition to the charges stemming from his initial arrest that included Resisting Arrest with a Weapon and Carrying a Handgun without a Permit.
Barnes, who is not the biological father of the baby, had an active warrant for armed robbery at the time of his arrest.
Barnes is the is the father of 1-month-old twins he had with Wilson.
All three children were placed into state custody.
The couple told police, “We didn’t do nothin’ wrong.”
Ocala, Florida — Jean Sumner has pursued an interest in wellness her entire life.
An avid runner, she is passionate about exercise, eating healthy, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Jean was diagnosed with cancer in May 2009, and the diagnosis has only served to fuel the flames of her passions and has encouraged her to learn more about wellness.
Her diagnosis actually led to the beginning of World Wellness Education with a mission of “Teaching the world about wellness — one story at a time.”
A book signing will be held on January 23, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., at 202 Southwest 17th Street, Suite A, Ocala. For directions visit Symphony Healthcare, Inc.
Ocala, Florida — This morning, Ocala Police responded to a seven vehicle crash at North Pine and Northwest 10th Street, on the west side of the intersection.
Police said Glenn G. Barkley, 66, was traveling east on Northwest 10th street when he rear-ended the back of a silver pickup truck in a left turn lane, which caused a domino effect. The incident led to seven vehicles being involved in the accident.
Lanes were closed for eastbound traffic while Ocala Police safely rerouted vehicles.
Ocala Police said they cited Barkley for careless driving.
Traffic is free flowing again and no injuries were reported.
Ohio State Buckeyes [Photo courtesy of Ohio State Athletics]The promise of returning the Ohio State Buckeyes to national prominence was enough for Urban Meyer to end a brief coaching sabbatical back in 2011.
Three seasons later, the job is done, although the program is just getting started.
Oregon played at the speed of light, with Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Marcus Mariota leading the way. Ohio State was at full speed with running back Ezekiel Elliott and quarterback Cardale Jones making his third start.
Ohio State won the inaugural college football playoff Monday, defeating Oregon 42-20.
Ohio State made Oregon’s lickety-split offense seem almost ordinary. Sure, the Ducks rolled up yards, mostly on Mariota’s 333 yards of passing. But when a big play was needed, the Buckeyes were there to make it.
“This goes down as one of the great stories in college football history,” Urban Meyer said in regards to Buckeyes’ improbable championship run.
Columbus-area Dick’s Sporting Goods stores closed as usual at 9:30 p.m. tonight, but since Ohio State beat Oregon for the national championship, the stores reopened for a few hours to sell T-shirts and caps in honor of the win.
The stores will stay open until around 2:30 a.m., then shut down for a few hours.
