Todd P. Ginestra, his car, Citrus County Sherrif’s Office and Fort Island Gulf Beach
Crystal River, Florida — The search for 48-year-old Todd P. Ginestra, has come to a tragic end.
Today, July 16, 2014, Ginestra was found after the Citrus County Sheriff’s Aviation Team spotted his body floating in the water off Fort Island Gulf Beach.
Investigators with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office said they do not suspect foul play at this time and the cause of death is currently being determined by the medical examiner’s office.
Ginestra’s vehicle was found parked at Fort Island Gulf Beach after he was reported missing by his family in Lake County.
Investigators believe he arrived at Fort Island Gulf Beach around 10 a.m., or maybe later.
“Ourthoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends,” said Lindsay Blair, Public Information Officer with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office.
If anyone has information about Ginestra that may help investigators, you can call the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office at 352-795-4241.
Mallory Loyola [Mugshot]Madisonville, Tennessee — The Monroe County sheriff’s Department has made their first arrest under a new state law that allows law enforcement to arrest the mother of a newborn that tests positive for drugs.
Mallory Loyola, 26, of Madisonville, gave birth to a baby girl on July 6, 2014. UT Medical Center notified the Department of Child Services that Loyola’s baby tested positive for methamphetamine and DCS then notified the sheriff’s department. Loyola was then arrested and charged with assault.
“Loyola admitted to smoking meth just a few days before giving birth,” said Monroe County Sheriff Bill Bivens. “Anytime someone is addicted and they can’t get off drugs for their own child, their own flesh and blood, it’s sad,” he said.
Sheriff Bivens said he hopes this first arrest will be a warning to other moms and maybe save someone’s life.
The new law went into effect July 1, 2014.
The new law states: “A woman may be prosecuted for assault for the illegal use of a narcotic drug while pregnant, if her child is born addicted to or harmed by the narcotic drug.”
The assault charge is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail. However, the new law does allow entering into a treatment program before the birth and successfully completing it afterwards as a defense.
State officials said the only opposition they have encountered, is other drug addicts.
Loyola also has previous arrests for Violation of Probation and Possession of Methamphetamine.
Her bond was finally set at $2,000 on July 10, 2014.
Ocala, Florida — An opportunity for kids to interact with public service officials. It will be fun for the whole family. The event is being presented by the City of Ocala.
Alicia Thompson [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — Wells Fargo Bank teller, Alicia Mario Thompson, 21, was arrested Monday, July 14, 2014, after investigators with the Ocala Police Department said they found evidence that she helped steal $15,000 from a customer’s account.
According to reports, Thompson worked for the Wells Fargo located at 3541 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala.
At the beginning of the investigation, OPD Detective Mark Proco interviewed Thompson and several other bank employees. During the interviews, Thompson denied any involvement in the theft.
According to reports, the withdrawal slip had the customers Social Security number along with his home address, but the signature was not his. The withdrawal was executed on May 22, 2014. On May 23, 2014, a second attempt was made for $16,000 at an Orlando location. The man that attempted to withdrawal the money, failed.
A bank audit showed that Thompson accessed the customer’s account the day before the withdrawal and on May 27, 2014.
When questioned by Detective Proco, Thompson did not have an explanation as to why she accessed the account. She also did not log her access, according to reports.
Phone records show multiple text messages, as well as phone calls between Thompson and another person right before and after the withdrawal from the customer’s account.
Thompson is charged with Principal to Grand Theft and Conspiracy-Offense Against Computer Users. Her bond has been set at $17,000. She remains in the Marion County Jail.
Police are asking the public to take a look at the photo. If you recognize the suspect, call police immediately.
Anyone with information about the suspect can phone Detective Proco at 352-369-7105, 352-427-2729 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP, text a tip to 274637 using keyword 368-STOP or go to www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
DeBary, Florida — When a DeBary doctor recently tried to use his business’ credit card and it was declined, he knew something was wrong. He just didn’t know how wrong — until an investigation by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office revealed that the doctor’s former office manager had ripped him off for more than $100,000.
The Sheriff’s Office has obtained an arrest warrant charging the ex-employee, 40-year-old Tisha Krutsinger, with Organized Scheme to Defraud and Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card. However, after nearly a week of searching and Krutsinger nowhere to be found, the Sheriff’s Office is turning to the public for help in finding her.
As office manager since August 2011, Krutsinger was entrusted with the day-to-day financial operations of Dr. Humberto Dominguez’ family practice in DeBary. But it wasn’t until late May when he realized something was amiss.
After his credit card was declined, the doctor called Krutsinger to find out what was going on. She told her boss that it was probably “just a mistake” and that she would get it taken care of. Later that day, Krutsinger called the doctor back to let him know that everything was “fixed” with the credit card. However, when the doctor asked her for the account’s access number, Krutsinger claimed that she didn’t have it. That’s when Dominguez decided to contact his credit card company himself. What he discovered was that Krutsinger had made arrangements to have her own credit card issued and that her card also was linked to the business’ account.
Unbeknownst to the doctor, Krutsinger had been charging large sums of money and then paying the bills with the doctor’s personal bank account. When he confronted Krutsinger, she admitted using the credit card for personal purchases and promised to re-pay all of the money she had spent. The doctor then told her to turn in her work keys and leave.
Krutsinger later sent text messages to the doctor asking him not to press charges against her. But that wasn’t the end of the problems. Mere minutes after Krutsinger was escorted out of the office, the doctor learned that the mortgage payments on his office building hadn’t been paid for several months and foreclosure proceedings had been initiated.
The doctor contacted the Sheriff’s Office to report the thefts on May 27, 2014, the same day that he fired Krutsinger.
Through the ensuing investigation, the Sheriff’s Office learned that Krutsinger also had written herself an extra payroll check – that she cashed -and also took cash advances out on the doctor’s credit card. According to reports, just prior to getting fired, Krutsinger had also altered some of the bank statements in an attempt to conceal her activities.
Including the phony paycheck, the cash advances and the related fees, the Sheriff’s Office uncovered fraudulent charges totaling $136,149. On July 9, 2014, the Sheriff’s Office presented their findings to Circuit Court Judge Margaret Hudson, who issued the arrest warrant.
Investigators have been searching for Krutsinger ever since. Her last known whereabouts was Longwood, Florida.
Judge Hudson has ordered her held on $255,000 bond.
While investigators are still poring over financial records, they’ve confirmed that Krutsinger spent some of the money to pay her cell phone, auto insurance, car repairs, home cable and orthodontic bills. Additionally, she also bought weekly tanning sessions, boat rentals, prescription drugs, theme park tickets and a plane ticket to Kansas City. She also used some of the money to pay her housekeeper.
Krutsinger may have ties to other areas in Florida, or possibly may have left the state all together.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Krutsinger is asked to call the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers of Northeast Florida, toll-free, at (888) 277-TIPS. You can also text a tip to Crime Stoppers by texting “TIP231 plus your message” to CRIMES. Individuals who provide information to Crime Stoppers will remain anonymous and can qualify for a reward of up to $1,000.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office said they appreciate any help the public can offer and are encouraging citizens to share Krutsinger’s photo on social media.
Cole S. Decker [Mugshot]Cole Decker – Department of Corrections
Ocala, Florida — On July 10, 2014, Cole S. Decker, 20, of Belleview, was released from the Marion County Jail and transported to the Florida Department of Corrections where he will begin serving his sentence.
Decker was arrested on October 30, 2013, and charged with Capital Sexual Battery on a Child Under 12-Years-Old(x2) and Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition(x2). He was released November 7, 2013 on $75,000 bond. Decker’s bond was later revoked and he was re-arrested.
In October, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received information about a possible sex offense. Deputy Rawls responded to the scene.
The step-father told Deputy Rawls that during a conversation with his 11-year-old step son, he learned that between the dates of August 1, 2013 and October 22, 2013, Decker had molested the 11-year-old boy on more than one occasion.
The victim was taken to Kimberly’s Center for Child Protection for an interview with investigators. According to reports, during the interview, the victim stated the first incident took place in August 2013, while he and his 10-year-old cousin were staying overnight at the home of their grandparents located in Belleview. The grandparents were not home when the assault took place, according to authorities.
The victim told investigators that Decker lured the two boys into a bedroom of the residence by stating, “Hey, I wanna’ show you something.” Both boys went into the bedroom which was used by Decker, according to reports. The victim stated that once they were all inside the bedroom, Decker produced a “fake vagina” masturbation device and showed it to both boys. According to reports, Decker then sexually aroused himself and masturbated with the device to the point of ejaculation. The victim told authorities that this was done in he and his cousin’s presence.
Following the initial incident, Decker took the boys outside to play for a while, according to reports.
When it began to get dark outside the three went inside to get washed up. The victim stated the he got in the bath while his 10-year-old cousin got into the shower of the same bathroom.
According to reports, Decker entered the bathroom a short time later and got into the bath tub with the victim and molested him.
According to reports, on a separate occasion in October 2013, Decker molested the boy at his home while the two were playing video games.
On October 30, 2013, authorities made contact with Decker in an attempt to interview him. According to reports, Decker stated that he did not want to speak about the investigation and requested a lawyer. Decker was placed under arrest and transported to the Marion County Jail.
On July 7, 2014, Decker plead guilty on two counts of Capital Sexual Battery and two counts of Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition.
Decker was sentenced to 25-years on each count of Capital Sexual Battery and 15-years on each count of Lewd or Lascivious Exhibition. The sentences will run concurrent.
According to the Department of Corrections, he will be eligible to go before the Parole Review Board in the year 2038.
In 1977 the Florida Supreme Court ruled that the death penalty can only be imposed if a Capital Felony causes the death of another.
Antonio Kilpatrick teaches Michael Jarmon how to cast at the FWC Kids’ Fishing Clinic in Panacea. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Kids’ Fishing Clinics are statewide events that introduce kids to saltwater fishing and ethical angling. File photo – April 21, 2012 Amanda Nalley
Florida — Teaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling appreciation for Florida’s marine environment and providing fun, family outings are the objectives for the Kids’ Fishing Clinic in Palm Coast on July 19, 2014.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will offer a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children between the ages of 5 and 15 from 9 a.m. to noon July 19, 2014 at Bing’s Landing County Park, 5862 N. Oceanshore Blvd. These clinics are sponsored in part by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration.
This free clinic enables young people to learn the basics of environmental stewardship, fishing ethics, angling skills and safety. In addition, environmental displays will offer participants a unique chance to experience Florida’s marine life firsthand.
Kids’ Fishing Clinics strive to achieve several goals, but the main objective is to create responsible marine-resource stewards by teaching children about the vulnerability of Florida’s marine ecosystems. In addition, organizers hope to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and provide participants a positive fishing experience.
Fishing equipment and bait are provided for kids to use during the clinic, but organizers encourage children who own fishing tackle to bring it. A limited number of rods and reels will be given away to participants upon completion of the clinic.
If conditions allow, participants will have the opportunity to practice their new skills and fish from the pier. This event is a photo catch-and-release activity. An adult must accompany all participants.
Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering at the clinic should contact Mike Vickers at 386-569-9674 or the FWC’s Rebecca Lucas at 850-487-0554.
To find out more about taking a kid fishing, go to MyFWC.com/Fishing and select the “Youth & Student” option under “Education.”
Ocala, Florida — Drowning is the number one cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1–4. On average, more than 1,000 children die each year in the U.S. due to unintentional drowning and more than 5,000 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries from near-drowning incidents. In an effort to protect Marion County’s children and reduce the number of drownings, the Florida Department of Health in Marion County and Kids Central, Inc. are partnering to provide summer swimming lessons to Marion County children and teens.
Kids Central provided funding for drowning prevention in Marion County. The funding will provide opportunities for children to have swim lessons. This project is a collaborative partnership between the Department of Health, Kids Central, the Safe Kids Coalition, the Marion County Children’s Alliance, and Ocala Recreation and Parks.
“Florida is surrounded by water—lakes, oceans, rivers, springs and thousands of swimming pools,” said Kids Central CEO John Cooper. “Every child needs the right level of supervision around water, and it is crucial that every child learn how to swim. It’s a critical skill of survival.”
Children and teens ages 3–17 who have not previously been taught to swim are eligible to take part in the swim program. Two eight-day sessions are scheduled: July 21–31 and August 4–14. Lessons will take place at the Hampton Aquatic Center, 1510 NW 4th St.
“Florida loses more children under age five to drowning than any other state,” said Meaghan Crowley, Health Education Program manager at the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. “Offering free swim lessons is one way we can help protect Marion County’s children.”
A limited number of free swim lessons are available, so residents should not wait to sign up. Call the Florida Department of Health in Marion County at 352-629-0137 and ask for Megan Reimer at ext. 2084 or Liz Cruce at ext. 2117.
Kids Central is the nonprofit lead agency charged by the Department of Children and Families to prevent and treat child abuse in Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Marion and Sumter Counties. Kids Central is dedicated to protecting children, supporting families and engaging communities. For more information about Kids Central, please visit www.kidscentralinc.org.
The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts. Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.
William Taylor [Mugshot]Summerfield, Florida — A tip from the FT. Lauderdale Police Department leads to an arrest in Marion County.
It all started on May 12, 2014, when the Marion County sheriff’s Office received a referral report from Detective Mauro from the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department in reference to a cyber stalking incident involving a suspect in Marion County.
According to the report, on February 20, 2014, the mother and her 15-year-old daughter (victim) reported the incident to FT. Lauderdale Police. The victim stated that she met the suspect, identified as William Gardner “AKA” William “Sharky” Taylor, 33, on meetme.com. She stated that they met approximately 15-months-ago and began exchanging online messages, text messages, e-mails and also engaged in phone conversations.
The victim provided detectives with an e-mail address and phone numbers for Taylor.
The victim stated that she sent Taylor at least 25 explicit nude photos of herself during the time they were conversing. According to reports, some of the photos were very sexual in nature.
According to reports, the victim tried several times to end the relationship. However, every time she attempted to, Taylor would threaten to send the nude photos to the victim’s mother, friends, distribute them online, and post them throughout her neighborhood.
On February 20, 2014, the victim attempted to end the online relationship when Taylor “lost it” and began sending threatening text messages as well as left several threatening voicemails. The messages suggested if the victim were to end the relationship that [he] would kill the victim’s mother, her family and the victim’s new boyfriend. In messages sent to the victim, Taylor refers to her new boyfriend as a n****r and threatens to inflict bodily harm upon him.
The following was provided by the phone carrier following a subpoena:
I know your on
you better stop ignoring me
Im giving you the opportunity
Ok I tried too get you too talk
You want too keep ignoring me
So don’t be mad when I send the pics N videos
N don’t worry your F*****g N****r boyfriend is dead
Im going to cut off his F*****g head
Ignoring me wont F*****g protect you
Im talking to you F*****g whore.
Detectives were able to obtain dozens of messages sent from Taylor – to the victim – that were threatening in nature.
In a voicemail message left by Taylor, he said, “Get on VIBER and talk to me or I will come to your house and kill your mother, your n****r boyfriend and then the rest of your family.”
Detectives received confirmation that the online messages and e-mails were sent from a Century Link IP address – registered to the physical address – where Taylor resides with his mother.
On July 3, 2014, detectives responded to the 13000 block of South Highway 441, Summerfield and made contact with Taylor.
According to reports, he would not cooperate with detectives and stated that his phone was discarded after it broke approximately a month ago. Taylor denies any contact with the juvenile victim.
Due to the IP address matching the location and the cell phone carrier providing information registered to Taylor’s phone number, he was arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail.
He is charged with Extortion/Threats and Aggravated Stalking of a Child 16-YOA or Younger.
Ocala, Florida — Crossroads Church and Childcare Center is now under investigation after a 2-year-old was found wandering alone by a retention pond.
On July 9, 2014, Jessie Estock called the Marion County Sheriff’s Office after arriving at Crossroads Church and Childcare Center to pick up his son Braydon, and found him wandering on the edge of a retention pond behind the childcare center.
Deputy Skinner with the Marion County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene.
Estock told Deputy Skinner that no adults were present when he found his son.
The concerned father confronted daycare staff of whom told him that the kids had just come in from outside and that they had not yet performed a headcount, according to reports.
According to the police report, Employees Judy Morisette and Melinda Kimball told Deputy Skinner that they had 12 children on the front deck of the building doing activities. When some of the activities ended, they said some of the children wanted to go inside. Staff advised that they then began moving the children from the deck area to inside the building. Both Morisette and Kimball stated that they did not see Braydon leave the deck area and they had not yet performed a headcount.
Braydon was found approximately 30-yards from the deck area and on the edge of the retention pond that does not have a fence around it. The child would not have been visible to staff from where he was found, according to reports.
According to Deputy Skinner, the retention pond was empty at the time of the incident.
Deputy Skinner contacted the Department of Children and Families following the incident. DCF has since launched an investigation. DCF investigators stated that any retention area capable of retaining water should be fenced if it is near a childcare facility.
Crossroads Pastor Paul Woosley, stated that he was not aware of any neglect by his staff, but would take further precautions in protecting the children.
An e-mail to Ocala Post stated that after the family posted the story to Facebook, they were accused of lying by an administrator of one of the pages ran locally in Ocala. The e-mail states they would never make up a story involving the safety of their child. The reasoning behind posting it to Facebook was to warn other parents and to keep someone else’s child from being hurt, according to the e-mail.
Investigators said in situations such as this, parents should always contact authorities first – then local media – if they wish to do so; not Facebook pages geared toward bullying and gossip.
According to reports, shortly after the police report was filed and the child neglect investigation was initiated, Crossroads Church and Childcare Center announced they would be closing the doors to its childcare center.
The sudden closing has parents and investigators concerned that there may be other incidents that have not been reported.
According to an e-mail, the close date is set for July 25, 2014. Crossroads Church and Childcare Center is located at 8070 SW 60TH Avenue, Ocala. Parents whose children attend the daycare should make future arrangements.
If anyone has information pertaining to neglect that may have taken place at Crossroads Church and Childcare Center, you are asked to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Anonymity is guaranteed.
The investigation is ongoing.
[Last updated July 14, 2014 at 12 p.m.- corrected the term “wander.”]
Shooting in Silver Springs Shores claims the life of 21-year-old Thomas James Brown
Ocala, Florida — Marion County Sheriff’s Office Bureau of Special Investigations Detectives are gathering evidence and talking to numerous witnesses after a fatal shooting incident in a parking lot.
It all started just after 11 p.m., Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at 34 Bahia Ave., Silver Springs Shores when a 911 call indicated someone had been shot.
Upon arrival at the scene, detectives found Thomas James Brown, 21, deceased in the Wal-Mart parking lot.
It’s early in the investigation, but detectives learned that Brown and a second male had gotten into a fight leading up to the shooting.
Witnesses told investigators that during the physical altercation, the second male became the shooter when he fired several shots into Brown. The shooter then left in a SUV.
The suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Colt Thriemer, was later located near the Ocklawaha area.
He was detained, however, no charges have been filed at this time.
Detectives, however, said they have recovered a weapon that they believe to be the one used in the shooting. Detectives would not answer any other questions about the weapon at this time.
According to a very detailed e-mail sent to Ocala Post, friend Stephanie Torres stopped by Wal-Mart at the request of Brown because he thought Thriemer would be there.
While at WalMart, Brown was speaking with Thriemer when Torres said she saw Brown punch Thriemer in the face. According to the e-mail, she told detectives that Thriemer then reached into his truck, pulled out a gun and, shot Brown. When Brown turned around, Thriemer continued to shoot. According to the unnamed source, at least nine (9) more shots were heard being fired.
Detectives would not say if Brown was armed, however, sources say he was not. Sources also indicate that majority of the shots were fired into Brown’s back – some were fired while Brown was already on the ground.
Reportedly, the dispute was over money that Thriemer owed to Brown.
The e-mail describes both men involved as nice, positive and funny guys.
Detectives said they will continue to work this case and review evidence with the State Attorney’s Office. Once the investigation is complete, Detectives said they will turn the case over to the State Attorney.
Check back for updates.
Anyone with information about the shooting can call Detective Felix Rodriguez at 368-3508 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP, text a tip to 274637 using keyword 368-STOP or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
Ocala, Florida — The Florida Department of Health in Marion County today announced the WIC offices located in Dunnellon and Lynn will close in July. Currently these sites are open two days per month on alternating Wednesdays. All clients served at these two sites are already reassigned to receive services at the other locations.
The last day for services in the Dunnellon office is July 16, and for the Lynne office it will be July 23. Clients are assured they will continue to receive WIC services at the remaining three Marion County offices in Ocala, Reddick, and Belleview.
“We will continue to serve all our WIC clients from the other three locations,” said Mary Anne Hitson, Public Health Nutrition Program director at the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. “We have appointments available in Ocala, Reddick and Belleview, to ensure Marion County families continue to receive the nutrition assistance and other services provided through the WIC program.”
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, is a federally-funded program that provides healthy food, as well as breastfeeding education and nutrition counseling, to eligible families. Marion County’s WIC program will continue to operate three sites throughout the county to help families improve their diet and food choices with the assistance of licensed nutritionists and nutrition educators. In Marion County, the average annual value of WIC foods received by WIC clients is more than $7 million.
Health department staff are available to help clients schedule appointments at the nearest WIC office. For more information or to request an appointment, please call the Marion County WIC office at 352-622-1161.
The Department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.
Joy McCall [Mugshot]Marion Oaks — Joy McCall, 36, has pleaded guilty to having sex with a 12-year-old boy.
The incident came to light after the boy told a church member about his sexual encounters, along with several text messages that were discovered. The text messages helped provide investigators with a timeline of the events.
The boy’s mother reported the incident to the Ocala Police Department in February, they then started an investigation.
The boy said he began receiving Facebook messages from McCall and each message she sent became more, and more heated. He said she eventually sent him pictures of herself wearing only underwear.
On January 13, 2014, the boy said McCall sent a text message stating she wanted to meet at the Paddock Mall. The boy said he and his older brother then drove to the mall and when they arrived [he] told his brother he had to go to the restroom, at which point he met McCall outside and left with her.
McCall then drove to the outer portion of the Belk Parking lot and parked. The boy stated he and McCall then got into the back seat of the car where McCall removed his pants. The boy told investigators she then performed oral sex on him. McCall then removed her pants and the two had sex, according to the boy.
On January 18, 2014, McCall contacted the boy and wanted to meet again. The boy pretended to go on a bike ride, but instead she picked him up and drove to a wooded area where the boy said they both engaged in oral sex as well as sexual intercourse.
On February 16, 2014, the boy stated she picked him up again and returned to the same wooded area where they engaged in more sexual activity.
McCall was arrested and charged with three counts of Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Child Age 12 to 16.
According to court records, on Monday, July 7, 2014, McCall was sentenced to 10-years in prison. She was given credit for a little over 100 days of time already served.
The state attorney issued an order for HIV and Hepatitis testing, after that, she will spend the next decade of her life behind bars.
McCall graduated from Lake Weir High School in 1996, people that knew her say she always seemed a little unstable and “weird.”
It is unclear who has custody of McCall’s two children, whom are around the same age as the victim.
Ocala, Florida — The Marion County Citizens Coalition — Joined by Save Our Rural Area — has now filed a lawsuit against the Marion County Board of County Commissioners.
In January, Ocala Post wrote an article that specifically addressed the reasons the lawsuit has been filed. Citizens also filed a complaint with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the agency responsible for investigating local government corruption.
The article describes how the Sunny Oaks Estates project is set to destroy some 400 to 450 acres of farmland near Interstate 75 and County Road 318 in Irvine. A well as majority of the companies and individuals involved with the project have given campaign contributions to county commissioners.
The project will be a combination of residential, commercial, and industrial development — a development that will certainly invite more crime, traffic, and population to an already crowded Ocala; it is the city of Orlando in the making. Again, bringing public safety to the table.
Scott Siemens, a developer on the project, was originally cleared for a project that would allow for townhouses, apartments, and a 220-room hotel to be built. Siemens is frequently represented by engineer David Tillman of the civil engineering firm, Tillman and Associates.
Monetary campaign contributions to commissioners namely come from real estate investors. Also contributing to commissioners’ campaigns are farmers who would benefit from land sales, underground utility companies, engineers, and developers who are directly involved in the recent development projects.
On May 7, 2013, Tillman and Associates gave a contribution to Commissioner Carl Zalak, and on December 20, 2013, to Kathy Bryant. Ciraco Underground, a utility contractor, also gave contributions to Zalak and Bryant. Scott Siemens gave a contribution to Zalak on June 21, 2013, along with Linda Siemens who gave a contribution to Zalak on October 3, 2013. Companies Rainey Construction, Rainey, Ike (Road Contractor), Rainey Investments, LLC, and Rainey Land Company, have all given contributions to the commissioners’ election campaigns.
It should also be known to Marion County residents that all seven members of the Planning Board have ties to the construction industry; many are even involved in projects that come before them for review.
The Marion County Citizens Coalition contacted Ocala Post, expressing concerns over the lack of due process to landowners and citizens alike.
The Marion County Citizens Coalition said the following:
“The Marion County Citizens Coalition (MC3) has initiated a suit against the Marion County Board of County Commissioners. The suit resulted from a growing concern about a lack of due process.
Among the violations that Mr. Ralf Brookes, the MC3 attorney, has identified are the right to request timely documents, the right to examine documents, ask questions, and receive timely answers. MC3 requests that Marion County strive to take actions to increase meaningful participation enhancing the public voice in government public hearings and proceedings.
Neighborhood Property owners have the right to ask for notification of land-use changes, the changes those land-use amendments will bring, and how homes and property values will be affected.
Tag-a-long and last-minute land use requests without proper notice violate procedural due process and have no place in democratic government. Procedures for notice and public records explaining even minute changes must be followed by everyone without regard for status, position, profession, or standing with government entities. Too often it is just the inner circle (or those with high-powered lawyers) who are provided with email notifications and for whom procedures are shortened, fees are waived, and shortcuts are granted. Tag-a-long and last-minute land use requests without proper notice should not be allowed, Marion County should have a procedure that is followed by everyone.
Fees for applicant-generated land-use changes should be collected and not waived as tag-a-longs to County-generated plan amendment updates. We the taxpayers should not foot the bill for development impacts on our infrastructure, and not every piece of land should be converted to shopping centers and housing developments. What has happened to our sense of place and farmland preservation?
Furthermore, Marion County taxpayers and residents have the right to provide input and provide feedback regarding appointed boards. Boards that play a significant role in development decisions are currently made up of the regulated and weighted with developers, their contractors, and companies with which they do business.
We ask that commissioners seek balance on all county business as the constitution mandates. It is time we had a voice.”
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In January, Clayton S. Ellsworth Jr. of Dunnellon wrote, “I have been poring over the campaign contributions for all of the County Commissioners. About 50% of these contributions are from contractors developers, engineers, real estate, etc. These categories represent by far the single biggest contributors to the County Commissioners. No surprise at all. As I have said before, for years the County Commissioners haven’t met an investor or developer they haven’t liked. Wonder why?” He added, “Money Talks.”
Marion County residents are even more concerned that changes to the Sunny Oaks Estates project were slipped in without allowing input from the public. The land usage — at the last minute — was changed from 150 acres to 450 acres. One resident said, “The meeting was a joke, they clearly had their minds made up before the meeting even started.”
Experts have repeatedly argued that the Cross Florida Greenway and all of its surrounding area need to remain protected, not to mention the impact the development will have on the county’s water supply. Pleas from preservationists fell on deaf ears as the BCC moved forward with the projects.
The majority of Marion County residents, such as Mildred Grisson, agree that the BCCs involvement in the Equine Commerce Support District and Sunny Oaks Estates projects is a conflict of interest.
In response to the lawsuit, the board’s attorney, Matthew Minter, wrote that the commission followed all legal procedures in the agreement made with Ocala developer Scott Siemens.
The lawsuit alleges that — despite being requested multiple times — commissioners failed to provide a copy of the fully executed agreement between the County and Siemens; violating public records request laws.
On May 9, 2014, the County responded that the development agreement was still being revised due to changes made on May 8, 2014. On May 13, 2014, a copy of an unexecuted allegedly “final draft” (in underline strikethrough redline format) of the Development Agreement was provided. The lawsuit states, “To this day a fully executed agreement has not been received.”
Minter denies this allegation as well. However, there are e-mails included in the lawsuit that took place between involved parties; the e-mails seemingly “back up” allegations in the lawsuit.
Minter called the lawsuit “moot” and has requested the court throw out the lawsuit.
In an e-mail to Ocala Post, one local landowner wrote, “I hope the courts can see through the corruption of our commissioners. They should not be allowed to accept contributions from involved developers and they should not be allowed to “sneak” in last-minute land changes.” Adding, “The people of Marion County deserve a lot better than the individuals currently in office.“
Bradley Brown [left] and Sharryn BrownSummerfield, Florida — A 64-year-old man and 70-year-old woman have been arrested on multiple felony charges.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, on July 6, 2014, Deputies Clark and Race responded to the 9800 block of 163rd LN in response to a domestic dispute.
Upon arrival, Deputies Clark and Race made contact with Bradley Brown, 64, and his wife Sharryn Brown, 70.
Deputy Clark had to separate the husband and wife due to Sharryn continually yelling at Bradley. Bradley stated that his wife had thrown a glass bowl and ash tray at him during an argument. The glass bowl shattered when it struck Bradley; leaving a laceration on his hand. Deputy Clark noted that there was blood on Bradley’s shirt as well as glass and cigarette butts all over the kitchen floor.
According to reports, the altercation began when Bradley placed Sharryn’s computer on the floor and smashed it with an unknown object.
Deputy Clark asked Sharynn if she had thrown an ashtray at her husband and she stated “F**k yeah I did, I also threw a salad bowl at him.”
According to reports, while speaking with Sharryn she picked up a bottle of wine and began pouring a glass. Deputy Clark advised her to put the bottle down because she was under arrest. Sharryn then yelled, “F**k you , I am not going anywhere.” When Deputy Clark removed the bottle of wine from her hand and placed it on the counter she shoved the deputy away from her. As Deputy Clark placed Sharryn’s left hand in hand cuffs she grabbed a cordless phone off the counter and nearly struck the deputy in the face. Sharryn continued to yell curse words at Deputy Clark as he placed her into the patrol car.
After being placed in the back of the patrol car [she] yelled out to deputies and stated that her husband grows marijuana. Sharryn told deputies the marijuana was being grown in the backyard and they needed to “check it out.”
According to reports, Deputy Clark went into the back yard and found an area between a shed and the house that had been encased in a frosted plastic material. Inside the enclosed space was eight marijuana plants.
Bradley admitted that the plants were his and stated that he had been growing them for his wife. He stated that the marijuana helped his wife during her cancer treatments. It was later learned that Sharryn has been cancer free for 12 years.
When deputies asked Sharryn if she knew growing marijuana was illegal; Sharyyn replied, “F**k yeah! Why do you think we were hiding the plants?” Sharryn stated that she no longer has cancer; she just likes marijuana.
Bradley was charged with Cultivating Marijuana and is currently being held on $2,000 bond.
Sharryn was charged with Cultivating Marijuana, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Aggravated Domestic Battery. She is currently being held on $7,000 bond.
Jason Munda [Mugshot]Marion Oaks — On July 4, 2014, Deputy Bartlett responded to Crazy Dave’s Firework stand, located at 184 Marion Oaks Boulevard, in reference to a disturbance.
The victims told Deputy Bartlett that Jason Munda, 36, had purchased fireworks from the stand earlier in the day, and later returned for a refund.
According to reports, after Munda was refunded he went to the liquor store in the Winn-Dixie Plaza and later returned heavily intoxicated.
Munda re-entered the firework tent and told the victims to “make out” or [he] would make out with the female victim. Munda then grabbed the other victim by the shirt and stated “suck it.”
Both of the victims then moved away from Munda, but he followed.
Munda then “lit up” a cigarette and was smoking it while he continued to harass the victims as well as customers. The victims asked Munda to extinguish the cigarette due to the dangers of being inside a tent surrounded by highly explosive fireworks, but he refused.
Munda became agitated and stated that “he would get gasoline and burn the place down,” he then threw his cigarette into the entrance of the tent, according to reports.
Munda then approached one of the victims – and within inches of her person – stated [he] would punch her in the face. Munda then told the victim he had a concealed weapon and that if she “tried anything” he would shoot her. Munda then patted his hip as to suggest he had a weapon under his shirt.
Munda was later located by K-9 Deputy Collins near the location of the incident. At first, Munda denied being at the firework stand, but later stated he was there earlier in the day.
He would not admit to threatening the victims and refused to cooperate with law enforcement.
Witnesses were able to corroborate the victims accounts of the incident.
Munda was arrested and charged with Breach of the Peace, Battery/Touch or Strike, and Simple Assault/Intent Threat to do Violence. At the time of his arrest he was not in possession of a weapon.
Munda has previously been arrested for DUI BAC .15 and Violation of Probation.
Photo by Colleen Niska [Click photo to enlarge]Saskatchewan, Canada – A professional photographer in Saskatchewan, Canada took some amazing wedding photos Saturday.
Colleen Niska wrote, “I’ve dreamed about a day like this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Could NOT wait to post these! Pretty sure this will only happen once in my lifetime!”
Comments have been posted in the thousands since the photos were posted to Niska’s professional Facebook page.
Photo by Colleen Niska [Click photo to enlarge]The photos are so unbelievably amazing that many have questioned the authenticity of the photos. Niska, however, assures that the photos are 100 percent authentic.
The photos were taken on the same day that several tornados touched down in Saskatchewan and warnings were issued for numerous areas in south-central Saskatchewan Saturday afternoon. There were tornadoes reported near Outlook, Kenaston and Winnipeg as well.
Now, thanks to the once in a lifetime wedding shots, Niska is known worldwide.
Michael Meyers [Mugshot]Marion County – On June 28, 2014, Deputy Frost responded to the 5000 block of SE HWY 42 in reference to a traffic stop conducted by K-9 Deputy Parker; during the traffic stop K-9 Deputy “Hero” alerted on the driver’s vehicle.
The driver was identified as Michael Myers, 38, of Ocklawaha.
Deputy Parker stated that he observed a green Honda four door with a cardboard tag driving at a high rate of speed, so he began pacing the vehicle with his marked patrol car. The vehicle was traveling 15 mph over the posted speed limit.
After conducting a traffic stop, Deputy Parker utilized K-9 “Hero” and he alerted on the driver’s side door.
According to reports, when Deputy Parker searched that area of the vehicle he found an unmarked bottle filled with pills on the driver’s side floorboard. The pill bottle was in plain sight and in arms reach of Meyers.
The pill bottle contained the generic and non-generic form of Focalin; a prescription stimulant (speed) used to treat ADHD. Focalin is a Schedule II controlled substance.
Meyers admitted to not having a prescription, but denied having them in his possession with the intent to sell.
Meyers was booked into the Marion County Jail and released the next day on $2,000 bond.
Meyers has been arrested 16 times – three times in 2014 – and has more than 100 charges, most of which are felonies.
Some of those charges include, Battery, Aggravated Battery (multiple), Aggravated Batter With a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Weapon During the Commission of a Felony, Firing a Weapon Into an Occupied Dwelling, Possession of a Fire Bomb (multiple), Arson, Failure to Appear for Bond Hearing, Trafficking, Possession of Ephedrine With Intent to Manufacture, Possession of Ecstasy, Fleeing to Elude Law Enforcement and Violation of Probation; just to name a few.
On July 1, 2014 – less than 48 hours after being released – Meyers was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Sumter County for charges of Grand Theft.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is offering up to $5,000 in reward money for information leading to the capture of Yarnell Bagley. The 20- year-old has a felony warrant for his arrest concerning a case of robbery with a firearm. Additionally, detectives want to interview Bagley concerning facts surrounding the death of 55-year-old Michael Sumpter who died from a gunshot wound that happened On June 24, 2014.
Michael Sumpter [Deceased-MCSO]The sheriff’s office received a call about shots being fired in the 17300 block of NW 16th Terrace sometime after 11 p.m. on June 24. Michael Sumpter, 55, was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his gunshot wounds.
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Yarnell Bagley, 20, and Wayne Galloway Jr., 19, have been named as persons of interest in the Citra shooting. Both individuals are from Citra. Galloway Jr. is currently being held at the Marion county jail.
When Bagley was 17-years-old he was arrested and charged with Possession of a Weapon by a Delinquent, Obstruction, Armed Burglary, Escape From a Juvenile Detention Facility (x2) and Criminal Mischief. Bagley’s mother assisted in his escape during that time.
Bagley is a black male with black hair, brown eyes and has a distinctive tattoo on his upper right arm of the words “love always” over the image of a headstone.
Due to Bagley’s violent criminal history, detectives consider Bagley to be armed and dangerous.
An intense search is going on right now.
“We want people to know, Bagley is a fugitive and harboring a fugitive is a serious crime,” said Major Tommy Bibb of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. “If you’ve helped Bagley in the last 72 hours, you need to call 911.”
Bibb added, “It is in the best interest of Bagley to turn himself in and talk to detectives.”
Anyone with information on Bagley can call (352) 369-6832. Phone anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Marion County at 368-STOP or 368-7867. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
Detectives are asking the public to use social media and help “flush” this criminal out.
Ocala, Florida — Today, July 3, 2014, The Florida Department of Health in Marion County advised residents that a horse located about a mile west of Ocala Springs Elementary School tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis infection.
This is the third horse to test positive for the Eastern equine encephalitis virus in Marion County. Horses also tested positive on April 22, 2014 in Sparr and May 31, 2014 in Citra.
“A third infection in one of Marion County’s horses reminds us that mosquito-borne diseases are active in our area,” said Dan Dooley, environmental administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. “Residents and visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from being bitten by mosquitoes. Remember to drain and cover.”
The Department reminds residents and visitors to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and to take basic precautions to help limit exposure.
To protect yourself from mosquitoes, you should remember to “Drain and Cover”:
DRAIN standing water to stop mosquitoes from multiplying.
Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected.
Discard old tires, drums, bottles, cans, pots and pans, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.
Empty and clean birdbaths and pet’s water bowls at least once or twice a week.
Protect boats and vehicles from rain with tarps that don’t accumulate water.
Maintain swimming pools in good condition and appropriately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
COVER skin with clothing or repellent.
Clothing—Wear shoes, socks and long pants and long-sleeves. This type of protection may be necessary for people who must work in areas where mosquitoes are present.
Repellent—Apply mosquito repellent to bare skin and clothing.
Always use repellents according to the label. Repellents with DEET (N,N-diethyl-mtoluamide), picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and IR3535 are effective.
Use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
Repair broken screening on windows, doors, porches and patios.
Tips on Repellent Use
Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before you apply a repellent. Some repellents are not suitable for children.
Products with concentrations of up to 30 percent DEET are generally recommended. Other US Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.
Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing.
In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate. According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of three years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than two months old.
Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children. Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.
If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.
For more information on what repellent is right for you, consider using the Environmental Protection Agency’s search tool to help you choose skin-applied repellent products:
http://cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/#searchform.
The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis, Malaria and Dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds via the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s site—www.myfwc.com/bird. For more information, visit the Department’s website at www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases or call your local county health department.
