For the first time in nearly a century, there will be a full moon rising tonight, Friday the 13th. And for some, superstitions of these two phenomena are very real.
The last time it happened was on October13, 2000, and it won’t occur again until August 13, 2049.
If you’re a selenophobic— people who fear the moon— or suffer from friggatriskaidekaphobia—fear of Friday the 13th— you may not want to leave the house today.
National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Tilley said there was a pretty good chance skygazers will be able to catch a glimpse of the full moon, if skies stayed clear and they were willing to stay up past midnight.
Even though fear of Friday the 13th goes all the way back to medieval times the date is best known from the 1980 film, ‘FRIDAY THE 13TH.’ Jason – the main character featured in the sequel – was originally named Josh. However, the writer did not feel the name was “mean enough” to live up to the title so he decided to name him after a school bully whose name just happened to be Jason.
In the U.S. there are millions and millions of people who just want to stay home and not take any chances on either one of these – Friday the 13th or a full moon – and here they are both together.
Ocala, Florida — At approximately 3 a.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2014, someone drove by the home where 17 pit bulls puppies were stolen on Monday, and fired several shots into the home.
Bullets zipped through the home, hitting Taegren Jones, 31, in the hand and Taegren Jones Jr., 3, in the forearm as they were sleeping. Both were taken to the hospital for their injuries.
On Monday, the woman that reported the theft of the pit bulls recalled seeing a burgundy in color late 90’s vehicle parked outside her home.
The pit bull puppies were stolen from a yard in the 7600 block of NW 49th Avenue.
The victim told deputies that she left her home around 8 p.m. to eat and at approximately 9:15 p.m. the victims boyfriend noticed the dogs were gone from their pens.
The suspect(s) crossed a privacy fence into the victims backyard and made off with the puppies.
This theft makes a total of 29 pit bull puppies that have been stolen since May 21, 2014.
The puppies are either being stolen solely for the resale value or possibly to be sold and then trained for dog fighting, authorities said.
The combined estimated value of the 29 stolen pit bull puppies is $15,000.
In all instances of the thefts, victims had left their homes for just a few short hours. This most likely means that the suspect(s) are casing potential targets.
Many times, if they are able to, the suspect(s) will take photos prior to stealing the dogs. If you see anything suspicious, report it right away. Also, take down the license plate number of any suspicious or unfamiliar vehicle(s) in your area.
If you are someone breeding pit bulls for resale, you should be very wary of potential buyers that come to your home after responding to advertisements. Sellers posting puppies for sale on Craigslist should use extra caution.
On May 21, 2014, five pit bull puppies were stolen from inside an Ocala home. The thief is suspected to be someone that had previously shown interest in the puppies.
Ocala Post is not releasing further details of the shooting at this time.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information can call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 732-9111 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 advised residents that a horse located about four miles east of Citra tested positive for Eastern equine encephalitis infection.
This is the second horse to test positive for the Eastern equine encephalitis virus in Marion County. A horse in the Sparr area tested positive on April 22.
“This is the time of year when mosquito-borne diseases are on the rise,” 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.”
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.
Marissa Williams [Mugshot]Tuscaloosa, Alabama — An Alabama teen who was unknowingly speaking to her aunt on Facebook about killing her family is now behind bars.
Marissa Williams, 19, has lived with her aunt in Fosters, Alabama since April 2014, and [she] would frequently invite men she met online over to get drunk and have sex with her.
Williams’ aunt did not approve of her social media habits and asked her to stop bringing men to the house for sex. Williams’ aunt also forbid her to attend parties with strangers she met online, according to court documents.
When Williams’ aunt asked her to stop her unacceptable behavior, Williams blocked her aunt from Facebook.
According to court documents, Williams’ aunt decided to create a Facebook profile for a fictional man that she named Tre ‘Topdog’ Ellis so that she could add Williams as a friend and chat with her. The woman hoped for a rare glimpse into her niece’s online activity and for an opportunity to teach Williams about the dangers of interacting with strangers online.
The setup did not take long to produce results, however, it was not the results Williams’ aunt was expecting. Williams began unknowingly talking to her aunt, posing as Ellis, in late May, and on the first day they interacted online, she gave the fictional boy her phone number and home address and asked him to come over and get drunk with her. She also offered to have sex with him if he would agree to pay her $50 cell phone bill.
Her plans grew increasingly intricate and sinister as time passed. According to the court documents, Williams told the fictional boy how to get into her aunt’s bedroom so he could kill her and the woman’s fiancé first, then she asked him to shoot her cousin and the family dog on the way out. Williams allegedly planned to pack her things in his car while ‘Tre’ murdered her family.
When the aunt read what Williams was asking the fictional boy to do, the aunt immediately called the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and asked for help.
Deputies arrived shortly after and interviewed Williams. Williams admitted to the murder plot but apologized and said she didn’t really mean for anyone to be killed. However, her apologies fell on deaf ears.
Williams was arrested and taken to the county jail. She is charged with the Solicitation of Murder. Williams is being held on a $30,000 bond.
According to reports, authorities told the aunt she did the right thing, citing if Williams solicited someone for murder once, she would most likely attempt it again.
Tallahassee, Florida — Florida residents are outraged following the secret signing of House Bill 851.
Governor Rick Scott quietly signed legislation over the weekend that allows students who are illegal immigrants to qualify for in-state tuition at Florida colleges and universities. And it is at the expense of Florida families that are in the U.S. legally.
House Bill 851 was a priority of House Speaker Will Weatherford, who overcame opposition from Senate conservatives to achieve passage in the final days of the 2014 session. Yet Scott didn’t provide an opportunity for them to take a victory lap, since he chose not to hold a formal bill signing, as he has for other priorities.
While many legal students have been turned down after applying for financial aid due to their hardworking parents making “too much money,” illegal immigrants will now be allowed to qualify for in-state tuition.
Thousands of Florida residents and students alike have turned to social media to express their disapproval and disgust. Many calling Scott a political terrorist.
One person wrote on Facebook that this is clearly a political based move in an attempt for Scott to win the election over Charlie Crist.
When Rick Scott made his maverick push for Florida governor four years ago, the Republican took a hard line against illegal immigration that he used to assail his main GOP rival for the job. But with a likely tight re-election campaign looming, the incumbent is making a concentrated push to win over Hispanic voters. Allowing in-state tuition for illegal immigrants is part of that push.
Republican administrators criticized Scott’s decision, calling it a “deathbed conversion.”
Four years ago when Scott was elected, he had full support of conservatives because of his strong stance on keeping illegal immigrants from crossing the borders.
Conservatives are now turning their backs on Scott.
In April of 2014, a statewide poll was conducted that found more than 75 percent of those that actually support the bill were Cuban, Mexican and Puerto Rican. Republican administrators say this is clear evidence that Scott’s sole purpose of passing the in-state tuition bill was to gain the trust of the Hispanic community.
House Speaker Will Weatherford, contends the push in the Legislature was not about a political goal of helping Governor Scott but about policy.
Floridians, however, say they are not “buying” into Scott’s lies.
Student John Forsyth wrote on Facebook, “Why should anyone believe Rick Scott? He clearly lied about keeping illegal’s from crossing the border just to gain the vote of conservatives. And now that Charlie Crist is running democrat Scott wants to get the Hispanic vote. It is clearly political. Illegal’s are just that, illegal. I am tired of them getting favored over Americans that work hard to get into school.”
The group Floridians for Immigration Enforcement had urged Scott to veto the measure by reminding him of his own statements on immigration. Legislative director Jack Oliver said he believes Scott purposely misled voters in 2010 when he indicated support for Arizona-style reforms that never came to fruition.
“Inevitably, when colleges and universities incur an expense by discounting tuition for some, the cost is shifted to others – including Florida families with children in college and Florida taxpayers who are asked each year to send more public funds to higher education,” said Senator Don Gaetz. “Our federal immigration laws are a mess. Democrats and Republicans alike have failed to face the issue honestly and effectively. And, real solutions are unlikely to be popular. However popular this bill may be with some – is not a solution and I cannot support it.”
Are you a student? We want to hear from you. What do you think about the bill?
Aerial photo of plane crash provided by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office
Daytona Beach, Florida — Two people died when a single-engine plane crashed on property just east of Daytona Beach International Airport Monday night and burst into flames.
The plane took off from the general aviation runway at the airport just before 10 p.m. Monday, June 9, 2014 and crashed off airport property shortly after take-off, landing on the west side of South Clyde Morris Boulevard at its intersection with Bellevue Avenue then erupted into flames.
Units with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the Daytona Beach Police Department, Volusia County Fire Services and the Daytona Beach Fire Department rushed to the scene after the first report of the crash came in at 9:57 p.m. County and city firefighters extinguished the flames.
There were two occupants onboard the Cessna 172 that was registered to Phoenix East Aviation. There were no survivors.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will be investigating the cause of the crash. The Sheriff’s Office’s Major Case Unit also is investigating to confirm the cause of the deaths. The incident didn’t affect operations at the Airport, which remains open for business.
The victims from last night’s plane crash have been tentatively identified as 22-year-old flight instructor Marlene Mork and 22-year-old student Gabriel De Souza Marinho Falcao.
Ocala, Florida — A father and son have been arrested for dumping nearly 1,000 lbs of trash on the back-end of someone else’s property.
Anthony Leonardo Sr., 55, and Anthony Leonardo Jr., 32, were arrested on June 9, 2014, after the victim reported that a large amount of trash had been dumped on his property.
The trash consisted of two large black couches, night stands, dressers, a large amount of carpet and several filled black trash bags. The trash bags contained mail with the address of 1425 NW 83rd Place which turned out to be vacant and completely empty. The carpet had also been stripped from the floors.
A neighbor told deputies that Anthony Sr. and Anthony Jr. had cleaned out the house, including the furniture and carpet. The neighbor also told deputies that the father and son lived right down the street from the house they had cleaned out.
Both suspects were located down the street while they were outside mowing grass.
They were asked to meet at the Marion County Sheriff’s North District Office for questioning, to which they both agreed.
Initially, during questioning, they denied dumping the trash, but later admitted they dumped it after being paid $175.00 to clean out the house.
Both were arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail.
Anthony Leonardo Sr. was charged with Conservation Environment Littering/Commercial Hazard over 500 lbs (F) and Violation of Probation in a previous arrest for burglary.
Anthony Leonardo Jr. was also charged with Conservation Environment Littering/Commercial Hazard over 500 lbs (F) and Violation of Probation in a previous arrest for burglary.
Ocala, Florida — Authorities are now issuing an alert to all Marion County residents in regards to pit bull puppies.
On Monday, June 10, 2014, 17 more pit bull puppies were stolen from a yard in the 7600 block of NW 49th Avenue.
The victim told deputies that she left her home around 8 p.m. to eat and at approximately 9:15 p.m. the victims boyfriend noticed the dogs were gone from their pens.
The suspect(s) crossed a privacy fence into the victims backyard and made off with the puppies.
This theft makes a total of 29 pit bull puppies that have been stolen since May 21, 2014.
The puppies are either being stolen solely for the resale value or possibly to be sold and then trained for dog fighting, authorities said.
The combined estimated value of the 29 stolen pit bull puppies is $15,000.
In all instances of the thefts, victims had left their homes for just a few short hours. This most likely means that the suspect(s) are casing potential targets.
Many times, if they are able to, the suspect(s) will take photos prior to stealing the dogs. If you see anything suspicious, report it right away. Take down the license plate number of any suspicious or unfamiliar vehicle(s) in your area.
The victim in this newest case stated that there was a burgundy late 90’s vehicle parked on the side of her house prior to the dogs being stolen.
If you are someone breeding pit bulls for resale, you should be very wary of potential buyers that come to your home after responding to advertisements. Sellers posting puppies for sale on Craigslist should use extra caution.
On May 21, 2014, five pit bull puppies were stolen from inside an Ocala home. The thief is suspected to be someone that had previously shown interest in the puppies.
Anyone with information can call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 732-9111 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP, text a tip to 274637 using keyword 368-STOP, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
Suspicious packages found at several locations in Marion County.
Ocala, Florida — Suspicious packages/envelopes have been received at several locations throughout Marion County.
Lake Weir High School (County)
Forest High Schoool (County)
Belleview High School (County)
Hillcrest School ( City)
Marion County Court House (City)
Ocala Star Banner (City)
Elk’s Lodge (City)
Westport High School (City)
Blessed Trinity School (City)
Marion County School Board
Marion County Jail
According to the Ocala Police Department, Marion County Fire Rescue Hazmat team is on scene at the Marion County Judicial Center in response to an envelope that contains suspicious white powder. One envelope was received in the mail room and staff immediately shut off the vents, along with the closing off the mail room.
According to MCFR Hazmat, the courthouse is temporarily shut down until the packages can be cleared as being a threat. Ventilation to other areas of the courthouse have been closed off, however, all other court proceedings (hearings) will continue as normal.
If you have a court hearing today, you will be required to attend, according to authorities.
Ocala Fire Rescue has indicated that the substance found in the package at Lake Weir High School tested negative for hazardous material. The package actually contained a grocery product (artificial sweetener).
Authorities say these types of threats must be taken seriously, no one should ever assume a suspicious package is a hoax.
The investigation is ongoing, according to Ocala Police.
[Updated June 10, 2014 at 2:15 p.m.]
According to officials, the white powdery substance found in an envelope received at the court house has also been identified as artificial sweeter. The courthouse is now fully operational.
Shawn Collins [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On June 6, 2014, Deputy Jesse Terrell responded to the 1200 block of NE 35th Street in reference to a disturbance.
When Deputy Terrell arrived on the scene he was met by a female victim whom stated her live-in boyfriend and father of her 2-month-old daughter had assaulted her.
The victim told the deputy that she had recently found out her boyfriend, Shawn Collins, 32, was using cocaine and she had asked him to leave because she did not want that type of element in she and her daughter’s life.
The victim stated that Collins became enraged, grabbed her by her shoulders and threw her into the kitchen wall. Collins threw the victim with such force it caused her head to slam into the wall, leaving a head shaped hole, according to reports.
Scared for her life, the victim ran outside with her daughter and attempted to dial 9-1-1 from her cell phone. As she was attempting to dial 9-1-1 Collins was screaming at her, stating “Don’t you call the police,” according to statements provided to the deputy by the victim.
While she was holding her daughter in her arms Collins began chasing the victim around the yard, eventually tackling her. He then held the victim down on the ground and forcefully ripped the cell phone from her hands. Collins then took the victims car keys and fled the scene in her vehicle.
Nearby witnesses stated that they could hear Collins screaming at the victim as he chased her around the yard trying to tackle her. Witnesses also stated the victim was holding her 2-month-old daughter.
Collins was tracked down and arrested. He refused to cooperate with the deputy during questioning.
Collins is a felon and career criminal with an extensive arrest record in Florida. In 2004 Collins was arrested after deputies realized he was a Fugitive From Justice and wanted in Georgia.
He was transported to the Marion County Jail and charged with Aggravated Battery (F) and Obstructing Justice by Threat/Tampering with a Victim (F).
He is currently being held on a $10,000 bond.
The hole in the wall, fresh drywall dust on the floor as well as the victim were photographed. The photos were placed into evidence.
The Florida Department of Children and Families was also notified.
Ocklawaha, Florida — On Sunday, June 8, 2014, two boat motors were stolen off of a boat that was parked at a home in the 15700 block of SE 115th Place Road, Ocklawaha.
The motors are described as a Minn Kota trolling motor and a Yamaha outboard.
The home owner said prior to the motors being stolen, he noticed a gold Honda creeping by his house two times.
During the Summer months authorities see an increase it boat motor thefts. If you own a boat, there are anti-theft devices available that can help detour thieves. Contact your local boat shop for details on what device would be best for your boat.
Anyone with information about the case can call the Sheriff’s Office at 732-9111 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
Ocala, Florida — The Scott Springs Grand Opening has been rescheduled to Wednesday, June 11, 2014 from 4-6 p.m. There’s a beautiful new nature themed playground that children will love.
Visitors can also enjoy taking a walk on the nature trails.
Visitors are welcome to come on out for all the festivities.
The park is located at 2300 SW 24 Avenue, Ocala. It’s off of Easy Street near Walmart.
Lakeland, Florida — The Polk County Sheriff’s Office received a call about a domestic disturbance in north Lakeland, at approximately 6:20 p.m., on Saturday evening. The victim, 33-year-old Jackie Brown reported that he and his brother, Rodney J. Brown, 31, had been involved in a verbal altercation which turned physical. Jackie Brown told deputies his brother had hit him with “a plant from the yard.”
Jackie and Rodney are brothers by birth, reside at the same residence and currently live together as a family. Jackie stated he and his brother were engaged in a verbal argument in which Rodney uprooted several plants and then actually and intentionally struck Jackie in the face with the plants. The plants left welts on the side of Jackie’s face.
Further investigation revealed the plants that had been uprooted were actually marijuana plants varying in lengths up to three feet.
Rodney Brown, the homeowner, allowed deputies to search the property where they found 10 marijuana plants outside and drug paraphernalia inside the residence.
Rodney was charged with Domestic Battery, Cultivation of Marijuana, Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Rodney was arrested and transported to the Polk County jail without incident; he has since bonded out.
Christopher Finlayson [Mugshot]Winter Haven, Florida — “This suspect admitted to smoking a blunt and a half of marijuana, staying up all night then becoming enraged enough to throw a baby across a room just because it was crying,” said Sheriff Grady Judd. “This is just another example of marijuana abuse linked to child abuse.”
In the pre-dawn hours of Friday, June 06, 2014, Polk County Sheriff’s Office detectives charged 24-year-old Christopher Finlayson, 5600 Cypress Gardens Road, Winter Haven, with Aggravated Child Abuse, after learning Finlayson had thrown an 11-month old baby across a room.
The baby suffered a skull fracture, two broken wrists, and five fractured ribs.
The baby had been left in Finlayson’s care while the mother went to the store on Thursday evening, June 5th. When the mother returned around 7:00 p.m., the baby was unresponsive. The mother questioned Finlayson, who told her the baby had hit its head on the play pen. The mother transported her baby to Winter Haven Hospital which in turn contacted the PCSO.
Finlayson admitted to detectives he had smoked a “blunt and a half” of marijuana on Wednesday, and had been up the night before, and that he “lost it.” He said in a moment of rage and frustration he threw the baby across the room when he could not stop the baby from crying. Finlayson told detectives he told the baby, “I’ll give you something to cry about,” before throwing the baby into the air toward the end of a bed causing the baby to hit face-first on the floor.
Finlayson also admitted that, on previous occasions, he has yelled at the baby in an attempt to “scare” the baby into being quiet.
Detectives say Finlayson stated that he “just tossed” the baby, however, the injuries the 11-month-old sustained point to the baby having been thrown with extreme force.
According to the arrest affidavit, after being confronted at the hospital Finlayson admitted to actually throwing the baby across the room. Finlayson said, “After I threw her, I picked her up from the floor and tossed her onto the bed.“
Finlayson did not attempt to render aid to the baby or call for help after the incident occurred.
The baby was transported to St Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa for continued medical treatment.
Finlayson has previous arrests for Battery, Criminal Mischief, and Tampering/Harassing Witness/Victim or Informant.
He was booked into the Polk County Jail on no bond.
Darren Chiacchia [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — Darren Chiacchia, the former U.S. Olympic equestrian rider, and part-time Ocala resident who was arrested on January 20, 2010, and charged with Sexually Transmitting a Disease to his partner, now has a warrant for his arrest, according to court documents.
Chiacchia, now 49, was scheduled to appear before Judge Hale Stancil for a pre-trial conference on Thursday. When he failed to appear, a warrant was issued.
According to the original arrest affidavit, the victim told investigators that he and Chiacchia had unprotected sexual intercourse several times between February and June of 2009.
The victim told investigators that while [they] were vacationing in New York, the victim stumbled upon some of Chiacchia’s medical documents. The reports pointed to the fact that Chiacchia is HIV positive.
The victim told investigators that he had asked Chiacchia at the beginning of their relationship if he had been tested and that Chiacchia told him he was negative.
The victim, at a later time, was able to provide investigators with an e-mail from Chiacchia in which he admitted he knew he has been HIV positive since 2008.
In a recorded interview with Chiacchia he stated that he did not tell the victim he was HIV positive because he did not feel the victim was trustworthy.
Judge Stancil later threw out the charges, citing there was not any solid proof that the victim and Chiacchia had sexual intercourse.
In May of 2013, the Florida Fifth District of Appeals overturned Judge Stancil’s decision and reinstated the charges.
While there has not been a federal law passed, 32 states have adopted state laws that protect innocent women, as well as men, from sexual partners who feel they should not be required to disclose to their partners they have an STD.
In California, if a person has sex with another person and neglects to inform them of an STD, it is a misdemeanor; for HIV/AIDS, you could actually be charged with attempted murder or eight years in prison.
New York (the first state to actually convict someone) and Florida, as with California’s law, make it a misdemeanor for STDs other than HIV/AIDS, such as HPV and could bring a sentence of up to one year in jail with hefty fines.
In Georgia, doctors may actually call the partner to inform them about the other person if they test positive, as state law mandates.
Chiacchia faces up to 30 years in prison under a Florida law passed in 1997 that makes it a felony for people with H.I.V. to have sexual intercourse without informing their partners of their condition.
Ocala, Florida — Xavier Washington, 43, was brought to the Marion County Jail for Violation of Probation and Career Offender Registration on May 30, 2014.
Washington was in the booking office being disruptive and creating a disturbance when Corrections Officer Damon instructed Washington to follow him to the holding cell where he intended to place him until he calmed down.
Washington refused, stating “I’m not f***ing going anywhere.”
After refusing to move a second time, Officer Damon instructed him to put his hands behind his back to be handcuffed. Washington again refused, at which time Officer Damon told him he would be sprayed with pepper spray if he did not put his hands behind his back.
Again, Washington stated “I’m not f***ing going anywhere…I’m not doing anything.” Officer Damon then sprayed Washington in the face with a burst of pepper foam, at which time Washington jumped up and punched Officer Damon solidly in the left side of his face with a closed fist.
Before Officer Damon could react, Washington wrapped his arms around him in a front “bear hug,” picking him up off his feet and body slamming him. Officer Damon’s head struck a metal bench and then the floor.
Washington continued to punch Officer Damon in the face and head while he was on his back.
Multiple corrections officers were finally able to pull Washington off of Officer Damon and restrain him.
Officer Damon was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center where he was treated for contusions, swelling and bruises to his head.
Xavier Washington is a violent career criminal with an extensive arrest history, including multiple charges for felony battery on a law enforcement officer.
Kevin Bansley [Mugshot]Summerfield, Florida — On May 30, 2014, Marion County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the 14100 block of Southeast Highway 301 in Summerfield, Florida in reference to a stolen 2012 Jeep Wrangler valued at $38,000.
The victim stated that he left the vehicle unlocked, however, he lives on a large piece of property which is completely fenced with an electric gate.
The items listed as being inside the vehicle when it was stolen include: Beats headphones, .357 handgun, several knives and the cover to the Jeep.
On June 4, 2014, at approximately 11:30 p.m., A Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a Lake County Sheriff’s Deputy enter Marion County in the area off C25 and 42. The Lake County Deputy was in pursuit of a vehicle that was refusing to pull over. The Marion County Deputy then activated his lights and sirens and joined the pursuit.
The chase reached speeds of nearly 100 mph.
It was later determined that the vehicle they were pursuing was the stolen 2012 Jeep Wrangler.
The suspect, later identified as Kevin Bansley, turned north onto Southeast 98th Terrace from C25. The chase ended when Bansley entered Lake Smith Village where he jumped from the vehicle and fled north on foot.
Numerous units along with Air 1 responded to the area and began setting up a perimeter.
A Lake County K-9 deputy joined the search and began tracking Bansley.
A short time later a call came in from a nearby resident whom stated someone was on her back porch. Units responded to the area and located Bansley.
Bansley refused to surrender and would not comply with deputies, at which time the Lake County K-9 persuaded Bansley to comply by inflicting a dog bite.
A female, identified as Kristi Riley also fled from the vehicle, but managed to elude authorities.
Inside the vehicle deputies found crystal meth, ephedrine and Alprazolam.
The victims handgun and other property have not yet been retrieved.
Bansley was transported to the Marion County Jail and charged with Fleeing & Eluding Police, Grand Theft Auto, Resisting Arrest, Knowingly Driving While License Suspended, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Schedule IV Narcotic and Violation of Probation.
Bansley refused to cooperate with authorities and immediately requested an attorney.
This morning, the body of Domarius Simpson, 19, was discovered in an open field after he crashed his Ford pick-up truck. Simpson was in the vehicle alone at the time of the crash.
Simpson, a North Marion High School student, was set to graduate tonight.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Simpson was driving east on Northwest 100th Street when he apparently lost control of his vehicle after his tires met the grassy shoulder – causing him to veer off the roadway – and hit several tees and a Sprint communication box. Skid marks on the roadway indicated that Simpson had attempted an evasive maneuver in an attempt to return to the roadway but was unsuccessful.
Simpson was not wearing his seat belt and was thrown from the vehicle.
Domarius Simpson’s Ford Ranger. [Photo provided by FHP]Simpson had left his home at approximately 9:30 p.m. the night before, his body was not found until 6:30 a.m. the following morning.
On May 29, 2014, Domarius Simpson’s mom , Dominika Simpson , wrote on her Facebook page, “Today my first born is officially crossing over a plateau, I am so proud and sad at the same time it’s been a long time coming THANK YOU LORD.”
According to family and friends on Facebook, Domarius was a loving young man that enjoyed life. He never cursed and was respectful to everyone around him.
Friends of Domarius said he loved his family, friends and most importantly he loved God.
North Marion High School Principal Ben Whitehouse said he plans to have a moment of silence to honor Simpson at Thursday nights graduation.
Jason Pomales [Left] Stacey Pomales [Right]Ocala, Florida — Charges have been dropped against the Ocala couple accused of “resisting arrest” at an alleged open house party that took place on April 5, 2014.
Before the state was able to file its final paperwork, Christopher Dillingham, attorney for Jason and Stacey Pomales, filed three (c)(4)motions to dismiss all counts of “resisting arrest” on behalf of the married couple.
It all started when Corporal Lisa Azure and Deputy Thomas Newbanks responded to the 15600 block of SW 16th Avenue, in reference to a complaint about a large party.
According to Captain Pistarelli of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Azure got on her PA system and announced that people at the party needed to move their vehicles that were obstructing traffic in the roadway, at which time deputies said Jason Pomales, 28, emerged from the crowed and began shouting, “you don’t have to do what they say, you don’t have to move your cars.”
Deputies indicated that Pomales told them (the deputies) to get off of the property – because it is private property – and they didn’t have a lawful right to be there.
Dillingham said Deputy Azure, as seen in the video, replied “I can do what I want when I want.”
“Deputy Azure is grossly mistaken…constitutional law as well as case law prevents her from doing whatever she feels like doing,” said Dillingham.
Dillingham said this is one of the worst cases he has seen for violation of the First Amendment.
“The Marion County Sheriff’s Office clearly does not know constitutional law and allows their deputies to violate Marion County citizens rights,” said Dillingham.
In a previous interview, Gregg Jerald, general counsel for the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said, “Neither of the defendants were arrested for video recording as they claim.”Adding, “Both defendants were impeding on an investigation and that’s the bottom line.”
“Jason was exercising his right to freedom of speech, Azure essentially arrested him because he wouldn’t ‘shut-up.’ There was no credible threat of violence, Jason never acted in a violent manner and he certainly did not ‘resist arrest.’ Disagreeing or questioning a law enforcement officer is not resisting arrest,” said Dillingham. “Not one deputy that was on the scene the night Jason and Stacey were arrested reported any violence in their reports.”
After Jason was cuffed and placed in the car, Azure continued to escalate the situation said Dillingham.
Stacey, who was recording the arrest on a cell phone, began asking why her husband was being arrested. After placing Jason in the back of a patrol car, Azure is heard saying “Who’s next? Who’s next? This camera does not scare us. Who’s next to go to jail?”
“The moment Azure re-approached Stacey instead of leaving the scene, she became the aggressor by choosing to escalate instead of de-escalate the situation,” said Dillingham. “More than a handful of witnesses have come forward and will testify that Azure – at one point- was standing in the road daring people to come into the street so she could arrest them, which is not seen in the video.”
According to the arrest affidavit, Stacey was “yelling and screaming” at deputies, however, Dillingham says she did not raise her voice at all. He said Stacey can be heard in the video telling party goers to stay back.
“If anything, Stacey was the voice of reason in the situation,” said Dillingham. “This situation is known as ‘contempt by cop,’ but unfortunately for the Marion County Sheriff’s Office a law enforcement officer cannot not legally arrest someone for ‘resisting arrest’ simply because the officer does not like what the other person has to say or did not stand in a spot approved by deputies.” Adding, “Resisting arrest or obstruction is a charge law enforcement use when they do not have any real evidence, but decide they want to make an arrest just to prove a point.”
Dillingham went on to say, “If the crowd had been cheering for Azure, no one would have been arrested.”
According to reports, 60 percent of all “resisting arrest” cases end in favor of the defendant. Most officers have not provided enough evidence to present their case, and often times the cases are thrown out before they even reach the court room. A South Florida judge said the key is knowing your rights. Also, never accept a plea deal for “resisting arrest,” insist on a jury trial he said.
Dillingham said his clients will be seeking an injunction declaring the Florida law concerning “resisting arrest without violence” unconstitutional because it grants law enforcement officers “unfettered discretion.”
In a previous interview, Chief Fred LaTorre with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said, “There are some things that Deputy Azure, as well as other deputies said in the video that were not appropriate and those issues are being addressed. If one of our deputies does something wrong we will correct it.”
“This case goes far beyond Azure’s actions in the video. After the Pomales’ were arrested, Azure changed her Facebook profile picture to their mug shots and called them monsters. Not only did Azure’s actions violate law enforcement code of ethics – it shows malice on her part,” said Dillingham.
On Tuesday, June 10, 2014, Dillingham filed two separate civil rights lawsuits against the Marion County Sheriff’s Office as well as the deputies involved. He said there is far more damaging evidence against Azure and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office that will come out in trial.
“I have requested all dash cam videos and any other evidence related to this case. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has until June 15, 2014 to comply with my request,”Dillingham said.
“Arresting citizens for the ‘cover all’ charge of resisting arrest or obstruction is “coming to a head” in Florida. Marion County residents need to know their rights and hold law enforcement accountable,” said Dillingham. “I am sure Marion County Residents do not appreciate their constitutional rights being violated. They are being violated on a large scale, and not just the rights of those with criminal records, but also law abiding citizens.”
Dillingham said, “Law enforcement officers need to realize they work for the people and they are not above the law. I completely understand the job is stressful and dangerous, however, we do not live in a police state. We are protected by the constitution and all citizens have the legal right to question law enforcement, video record law enforcement, refuse to answer questions and even throw them off of your property if you are not suspected of committing a crime.”
“I am not happy with the way the Marion County Sheriff’s Office has handled this case and residents of Marion County should not be either,” said Dillingham. “I did not want it to come to this. In the beginning the Pomales’ just wanted an apology, but now, in light of all the evidence, this is the only way law enforcement will be exposed.”
Adding, “The Marion County Sheriff’s Office had their chance to speak, now my clients will have theirs.”
Ocala, Florida — Marion County Sheriff’s Office Detectives – working with other counties – have identified a retail theft ring responsible for large scale thefts of household products, personal hygiene products, and clothing items such as socks, underwear, and T-shirts.
This is a well-organized multi-level operation including low-level professional thieves -with lookouts – entering a retail store and snatching enough merchandise to fill a car trunk and the backseat. That merchandise is then “sold” to a mule who might pay with pills or cash. The mule takes it to a “booster” who in turn takes it to a fence, who might sell it on Ebay, Amazon, at yard sales, flea markets, online yard sales or through Facebook.
Detectives said it all started when Deputies Snodgrass and Wilkes responded to the CVS located at 17817 SE 109th Avenue, Summerfield in reference to a theft.
According to reports, when deputies arrived on the scene they observed Charlie Pitts, 65, and Willie Willis, 61, both of Orange County, in the parking lot. Deputies said once Pitts and Willis knew they (deputies) were there the pair began removing bottles from under their shirts and tossing them under vehicles in an attempt to conceal the evidence.
Surveillance video obtained from CVS revealed that both suspects were involved in the thefts that had been reported by the store manager.
A search of the suspects’ vehicle revealed that the trunk and backseat were filled with stolen products.
Trunk filled with goods stolen from different businesses.
Lieutenant Brian Dotten with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said this operation could potentially be a multi-million dollar operation. He said that somebody “at the top” is making a lot of money from this operation.
Lieutenant Dotten says the low-level thieves steal small ticket items because it makes it easier for the “fence” to “unload” and the items are much harder to trace, making for a clean get-away.
Products found in suspects car.
The low-level thieves are usually given a list of products to steal, along with an address of a business to steal from.
Lieutenant Dotten said consumers pay the ultimate price when someone commits retail theft. The more a business takes a loss, the higher prices become.
A short list of retail stores that have been targeted include: Publix, Dollar General, Family Dollar, CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart.
The theft ring spans from Central Florida to South Georgia.
“I have recently created a new position, a crime prevention officer, so he will be working with businesses in Marion County – establishing a partnership – so the business will know they can contact him if they have a problem,” said Marion County Sheriff Chris Blair. “We must protect our businesses…I mean they are the ones suffering the loss.“
Both Pitts and Willis admitted to being part of a larger crime organization and have extensive criminals records dating as far back as the 1970’s.
They are currently being held in the Marion County Jail on charges of Tampering With Evidence, Violation of Probation, and Felony Theft From a Retailer.
If you know of or suspect anyone of selling similar items on a large scale, you are asked to call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111 or Crime Stoppers at 368-STOP or 368-7867. Text tips to 274637 using keyword 368STOP. Tips can also be submitted at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.
