Ocala, Florida – A Florida Highway Patrol trooper was killed in the line of duty today while working a traffic crash on Interstate 75.
At 1:40 p.m. today, an FHP Trooper arrived on the scene of a two-car crash on I-75 southbound at mile marker 341.
Both cars involved in the crash were located on the shoulder.
Just after 2:00 p.m. as the trooper was talking with the tow truck driver, a multi-vehicle crash occurred in the southbound lanes of I-75, in the same area. During the crash, a southbound pickup truck traveled onto the east shoulder and struck the FHP Patrol vehicle, the trooper, the tow truck driver and another pedestrian as they stood on the shoulder of the road. The trooper and the tow truck driver were pronounced deceased on the scene. The third pedestrian was transported in critical condition to Ocala Regional Hospital.
Northbound lanes of I-75 remain open. South lanes of I-75 have heavy delays due to the traffic homicide investigation.
Travelers that must go south can access I-75 southbound from the Belleview/484 I-75 on-ramp. Every Ramp before the Belleview exit is closed.
As more information is confirmed, an update will be sent out.
I-75 Accident in Ocala/Marion County
[Updated at 7:02 p.m. on May 3, 2014]
One southbound lane is now open. FHP will continue to investigate the scene as traffic slowly clears.
Ocala Post cannot release the names of the deceased at this time.
[Updated at 12:11 a.m. on May 4, 2014]
During a press conference tonight, the identities of those killed and injured in Saturday’s tragic crash were released. Ocala Post had previously not released information that was received in a tip, out of respect for the families; fearing notification of next of kin had not been made.
The Florida Highway Patrol Trooper has been identified as Chelsea Renee Richard, 30, and the tow truck driver, who reportedly worked for Duggan Towing in Ocala, was identified as John Duggan. The injured man, George Robert Phillips, was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center, where he is currently still listed in critical condition.
Traffic was at a standstill for nearly eight (8) hours on Saturday. Drivers were stuck in their vehicles and children grew anxious as the hours passed, said officials.
Officials said this is a very complicated accident involving a total of seven vehicles and will take investigators time to sort out all of the details. Sergeant Tracy Hisler-Pace, Public Affairs Officer for the Florida Highway Patrol, said she would not speculate on many of the questions that have been left unanswered.
Richard was a nine (9) year veteran of the FHP and was described as a loving mother that has left behind a 4-year-old son.
As Sergeant Hisler-Pace described Richard, it could be heard in her voice that she was trying to hold back her tears.
“This is a tragic day for the state of Florida and for the men and women of the Florida Highway Patrol,” said FHP Director Colonel David Brierton.
Further information on Duggan and Phillips was not immediately available to Ocala Post.
FHP also would not release any information in regards to the driver that caused the deaths of two innocent people and badly injured another. Officials did say that they do not believe alcohol was a factor, however, it has not been officially ruled out.
This is a sad situation for those that lost their lives, the injured, as well as all family members that are left with so many unanswered questions. Tonight, these families will go to bed not knowing, and without their loved ones.
Remember, Ocala Post welcomes comments and submitted photos. If you knew any of the parties involved and would like to provide further information, use Ocala Post’s “Contact Us” page, or “Tweet” them to @ocalapost .
Kathryn Altman- Owner of Ray the Locksmith [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On April 26, 2014, Kathryn Altman, 49, business woman and former owner of Ray the Locksmith, Inc., in Ocala, was arrested by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office on a felony warrant.
Corporation papers filed with the Florida Department of State Divisions of Corporations show Altman listed as the President/Officer/Director and Registered Agent of the business. George Altman is also listed as an Officer/Director of the company.
However, According to the Florida Department of State Divisions of Corporations, Ray the Locksmith, Inc. was dissolved as a corporation, effective date November of 2013, and is no longer active. The “Notice of Corporate Dissolution” that was filed in September of 2013, shows that the business was taken over by a Dolores Talsky.
According to reports, Altman was arrested and charged with Felony Larceny/Failure to Pay State Sales Tax.
According to the IRS, from March 2012 through October 2012 Altman failed to pay all sales tax to the state that her company had collected from its customers.
Altman pocketed more than $15,000 in collected sales tax, according to the IRS.
If Altman is convicted, she could possibly be sentenced to five years in prison, $5,000 in fines and will be required to repay the $15,000 already owed to the state. Additionally, accrued interest and penalties as well as court costs and investigative costs will be added to the amount owed.
Altman was released on $2,000 bond.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office did not indicate if Altman was arrest at her place of business or while she was home.
Ocala, Florida — The Ocala Police Department says they have been experiencing problems with minors late at night on the weekends at Wal-Mart on Easy Street and other surrounding businesses.
On April 26, 2014, multiple officers were dispatched to Wal-Mart and the McDonald’s across the street due to large groups of minors causing disturbances.
There was no adult supervision present and their behavior was disruptive to other patrons of the businesses as well as the business owners.
Once stopped and detained, parents were called to respond and take custody of their children.
Many parents could not pick up their children or simply didn’t care enough to arrive prior to the close of business at McDonald’s, therefore the minors had to be transported to OPD headquarters to await pickup.
The Ocala Police Department wants to remind the community that there is a curfew law (State Law) that the City of Ocala has adopted for minors and that the law holds the parents responsible for making sure their child/children don’t violate this law.
Minors prohibited in public places and establishments during certain hours; penalty; procedure:
(1)(a) A minor may not be or remain in a public place or establishment between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. of the following day, Sunday through Thursday, except in the case of a legal holiday.
(b) A minor may not be or remain in a public place or establishment between the hours of 12:01 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.
(2) A minor who has been suspended or expelled from school may not be or remain in a public place, in an establishment, or within 1,000 feet of a school during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. during any school day.
(3) A minor who violates this section shall receive a written warning for her or his first violation. A minor who violates this section after having received a prior written warning is guilty of a civil infraction and shall pay a fine of $50 for each violation.
(4) If a minor violates a curfew and is taken into custody, the minor shall be transported immediately to a police station or to a facility operated by a religious, charitable, or civic organization that conducts a curfew program in cooperation with a local law enforcement agency. After recording pertinent information about the minor, the law enforcement agency shall attempt to contact the parent of the minor and, if successful, shall request that the parent take custody of the minor and shall release the minor to the parent.
Business owners have complained and said that they fear they will lose business if the kids continue to hang out and cause trouble. Many have expressed their concerns and said they feel this matter is a parenting issue. One local business owner Ocala Post called, said via phone, “These kids do not have any discipline. The child will act how the parent allows them to act, and if the parent doesn’t care or has been in trouble with the law themselves, then the apple usually doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
Parents in Marion County are being asked to step up and take more responsibility for their children.
The curfew will be enforced, and fines will be issued if parents do not take appropriate measures.
The Ocala Police Department said, “We appreciate the cooperation from all parents and minors.”
Squirrel Selfie [Photo courtesy of Paula Genest] CLICK PHOTO TO ENLARGEPalm Harbor, Florida — Brian Genest, 17, was visiting Chestnut Park with his mom, Paula Genest, in Palm Harbor, Florida when he saw a squirrel on the hand rail of the wooden walk way.
Genest approached the squirrel in hopes of capturing a few close up pictures.
Genest said when he got close enough to the squirrel, it actually reached out and tried to grab his phone.
Genest’s goal was to take a “selfie” with the squirrel, but when the camera flash went off, the squirrel freaked out he said.
The squirrel was clearly not up-to-date on “selfie” etiquette.
While mom stood and continued to snap photos, the squirrel jumped on Genest’s shoulder, ran under his shirt then ended up hanging off the back of his shirt.
Mom was able to take some good photos of the encounter with the furry attacker before Genest was finally able to remove the squirrel from his shirt.
Genest and the squirrel were not harmed during the funny encounter.
Ocala, Florida —Looks like another wet day, as well as Friday and Saturday. Have your umbrella ready. Drive with extra caution if you get caught in the rain and watch for standing water.
Today, May 1, 2014 there is a 57% chance of rain — intervals of clouds and sun with a shower or thunderstorm around this afternoon capable of producing heavy rain and lightning strikes.
On Friday, May 2, 2014 there is 68% chance of rain — couple of showers and a heavy thunderstorm capable of producing heavy rain and lightning. These storms may carry into Saturday afternoon with a 89% chance of heavy thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rain that can lead to flooding and lightning.
Boaters that plan on taking a fishing trip should plan accordingly.
Be sure to check your local listings for frequent changes in the weather.
Weather information provided to Ocala Post by AccuWeather, our partner in daily fishing and weather reports.
Money was being wired from bank accounts in Colombia to bank accounts in Colorado for the purchases of marijuana grow facilities.
Hector Diaz ironically wearing a DEA hat. [Photo courtesy of the U.S Attorney’s Office]Denver, Colorado — Denver Police said this is exactly why marijuana does not need to be legal.
Hector Diaz, 49, David Jeffrey Furtado, 48, Luis Fernand Uribe, 28, and Gerardo Uribe, 33, were named in a just unsealed superseding indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in Denver on April 22, 2014, federal law enforcement agencies announced. The superseding indictment alleges violations of federal firearms law and money laundering related to marijuana laws. Diaz, who was previously charged, was sent a summons to appear in court Wednesday, April 30, 2014. Furtado and Luis Uribe were arrested on Friday, April 25, 2014.
Furtado and Luis Uribe made their initial appearances this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Boyd N. Boland, where they were advised of their rights and the charges pending against them. Gerardo Uribe has been charged but is not in custody. He is currently considered a fugitive from justice. Furtado, Luis Uribe, and Hector Diaz were scheduled to be back in court on Wednesday, April 30, 2014.
The superseding indictment includes the original charge that Hector Diaz illegally possessed a firearm. The superseding indictment further alleges that Diaz committed visa fraud by making a false statement regarding the purpose of his visit to the United States.
The superseding indictment alleges that all four defendants conspired with each other and others known and unknown to the grand jury, to commit offenses against the United States. The manner and means of their conspiracy include:
Affect the international transfer of funds from the Republic of Colombia into the United States to facilitate the purchase of real property, with existing physical structures, located at 5200 East Smith Road, in Denver, Colorado.
The defendants intended to permit the use of the Smith Road property to cultivate, manufacture, and/or distribute marijuana.
In 2013, Gerardo Uribe filed documents with the Colorado Secretary of State to incorporate a company known as Colorado West Metal, LLC. Attorney David Furtado was the registered agent. Hector Diaz was listed as the person responsible for forming the corporation.
Furtado opened a bank account at Wells Fargo in the name of Colorado West Metal, LLC, and was the sole signor on that account.
Furtado used his attorney trust account, held in the name of his law firm, to facilitate the purchase of the Smith Road property.
It was part of the conspiracy for Furtado, Gerardo Uribe and Hector Diaz to communicate regarding a wire transfer associated with Colorado West Metal, which was later used to purchase the Smith Road property.
On November 7, 2013, Furtado transferred $424,000 from the Colorado West Metal Wells Fargo account to a Colorado First Bank account, held in the name of Land Title Guarantee Company.
The conspirators caused and/or agreed for Land Title Guarantee Company to transfer those same funds to Westerra Credit Union – the mortgagor for the Smith Road property.
Between November 1, 2013 and November 4, 2013, Furtado made and caused to be made two separate wire transfers in the amount of $200,000 each from his attorney trust account into the Colorado First Bank account in the name of Land Title Guarantee to facilitate the purchase of the Smith Road property.
Members of the conspiracy deposited, and attempted to deposit into financial institutions, and/or converted to cashier’s checks and/or bulk U.S. currency (cash) to facilitate the purchase of the Smith Road property. These bulk currency amounts included proceeds from the cultivation and sale of marijuana.
On October 31, 2013, Furtado met with Gerardo Uribe and obtained $449,980 in U.S. currency (cash). Those funds represented proceeds of specified unlawful activity, namely the cultivation and sale of marijuana, as derived through the operation of the “VIP Wellness Center”, operated by Gerardo Uribe, Luis Uribe and others.
The superseding indictment also alleges that Diaz, Furtado and Gerardo Uribe did transfer $424,000 using wire transfers from the Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argenteria (BVVA) in the Republic of Colombia to the Colorado West Metal, LLC Wells Fargo account with the intent to cultivate, manufacture and distribute marijuana. Also, Furtado did two wire transfers, one for $100,000 and a second for $20,000 from the Banco de Occidente, in the Republic of Colombia, to his attorney trust account with Wells Fargo in Colorado, with the intent to promote the cultivation, manufacture and distribution of marijuana.
Finally, Furtado, Luis Uribe and Gerardo Uribe did knowingly engage in money laundering by and through a financial institution affecting interstate and foreign commerce, in criminally derived property greater than $10,000; that is, the attempted deposit of $449,980 in U.S. Currency (cash) into a Wells Fargo bank account, with such property having been derived from a specified unlawful activity, namely the cultivation, manufacture and distribution of marijuana.
The superseding indictment includes an asset forfeiture allegation, which includes the firearms possessed by Diaz, and the money derived from the unlawful activity, namely the cultivation, manufacture and distribution of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance.
The investigation and charges closely follow the guidance provided by the Department of Justice in August 2013. More than one of the enforcement priorities outlined in the Department guidance are implicated in this ongoing criminal matter.
In the superseding indictment, Hector Diaz is named in counts one, two, three and four. David Furtado is named in counts three, four, five, six and seven. Luis Uribe is named in counts three and seven. Gerardo Uribe is named in counts three, four and seven.
Count one is possession of a firearm by a prohibited possessor. If convicted, the defendant faces not more than 10 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000 fine. Count two is false statements with respect to a material fact. If convicted, the defendant faces not more than 20 years imprisonment, and up to a $250,000 fine. Count three is conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted, the defendants face not more than 20 years imprisonment, and a $500,000 fine (or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater). Count four is money laundering and aiding and abetting the same. If convicted, the defendants face not more than 20 years imprisonment, and a $500,000 fine (or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater). Counts five and six are money laundering and aiding and abetting the same. If convicted, the defendants face not more than 20 years imprisonment, and a $500,000 fine (or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater). Count seven is engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from specified unlawful activity. If convicted, the defendants face not more than 10 years in federal prison, and up to a $250,000 fine.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS CI), and the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Services (DSS). This investigation is ongoing, and no further information outside of the superseding indictment can or will be provided.
The proposed constitutional amendment on marijuana is now front and center in Marion County
Ocala, Florida — Sheriff’s across Florida are gearing up for a campaign called “Don’t Let Florida Go To Pot,” a campaign against the legalization of marijuana. Voters will decide on the legalization of medical marijuana in November of 2014.
The Florida Sheriff’s Association is heading up the campaign and is looking for huge support from Florida Sheriff’s as well as anti-drug groups.
“Of the 20 states with the highest driver acknowledgement of drugged driving, 15 were states that have passed legislation legalizing marijuana,” The Florida Sheriff’s Association said in a statement. “The Los Angeles and Denver police departments have reported significant increases in crime since marijuana was legalized in their respective states.”
The association says marijuana has a high potential for abuse and presents significant dangers to youths in the state.
“The legalization of marijuana will make this drug more readily available and easier to obtain by teens, as they would not need parental consent to get a ‘physician’s certification’ for marijuana,” the association said. “With no quality or dosage control, there is nothing in place to prevent these storefront marijuana dispensaries from selling to minors.”
Alcohol is the most commonly used addictive substance in the United States, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. It’s legal for those 21 and older, yet highly abused by teens. Alcohol’s addictive qualities are well-documented. Approximately 17.6 million people, or one in every 12 adults, suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence, according to the NIAAA.
For comparison’s sake, cocaine hooks about 20 percent of those who use it, and marijuana about 9 percent. The potential for alcohol, tobacco and cocaine abuse are far greater and more dangerous. And although the likelihood of someone comitting a crime while under the influence of alcohol or cocaine is far greater than that of a person impaired by marijuana, the use of marijuana usually leads to the abuse of harder more potent drugs which are often times mixed with the use of marijuana, the potential for marijuana abuse is there, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Marijuana is classified by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as a Schedule 1 substance — the same category as heroin, LSD and Ecstasy — and is illegal in almost all states for recreational use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse said data on marijuana misuse in the United States is limited due to the DEA prohibiting lab testing as well as clinical studies, and even though the potential for abuse is great, marijuana should not be in the same category as heroin, LSD or Ecstasy.
Pasco County, Florida Sheriff Chris Nocco said he doesn’t have an issue with legitimate uses of medical marijuana, but believes, “the real purpose of this amendment is for recreational marijuana to be legalized.”
Many Floridians believe that the government should not have the right to make plants that grow in the wild illegal. In 2013, a judge from Hawaii concluded that no government entity has the right to place bans on plants that are naturally grown in the wild, but said anyone that is caught breaking the law while marijuana impaired should face the same penalties as those who abuse alcohol or other drugs.
Like Sheriff Nocco, Marion County Sheriff Chris Blair told Ocala Post that he does not agree with the legalization of marijuana, except for in the treatment of serious medical diseases.
“Let me be clear when I say legalization…I mean legalizing it for recreational use, without the need for a prescription,” Sheriff Blair said. “If there is a genuine medical need for marijuana, I am all for that…if it is medically necessary, prescribed by a doctor to treat a serious medical disease and closely monitored. But to completely legalize marijuana for recreational use would open the door to a lot of other issues.”
Sheriff Blair said, “In my 37 years of law enforcement experience, I have seen marijuana become a gateway drug. This is how it starts…when marijuana is no longer strong enough, a user will find something stronger. There is no denying the facts. I have seen it with my own eyes and drug rehabilitation centers deal with it on a daily basis.”
Sheriff Blair added, “Again I will say, medical use of marijuana for serious medical diseases is not what I have a problem with if it is proven to help with illnesses such as cancer, but who’s to say the same that has happened with prescription pills will not happen with marijuana. Who’s to say the doctor won’t prescribe it to every person that walks into his or her doctors office just to make a buck. Florida has had a huge problem with “Pill Mills,” we don’t need the same problems with marijuana. It is a real issue, and citizens should be concerned that marijuana could end up in the hands of their child. Moreover, the proposed constitutional amendment would exempt a prescribing physician from any liability for abuse in writing prescription for medical marijuana.”
According to Colorado authorities, since the legalization of marijuana, there have been many different issues that law enforcement has had to deal with. Officials say the issues namely involve kids getting their hands on their parents marijuana, “stoned driving” and drug dealers looking to buy and sell.
School officials have reported issues with teens bringing marijuana to school in an attempt to sell it.
“We have seen a sharp rise in drug-related disciplinary actions which, anecdotally, from credible sources, is being attributed to the changing social norms surrounding marijuana,” Janelle Krueger said. Krueger is the program manager for Expelled and At-Risk Student Services for the Colorado Department of Education and also a longtime adviser to the Colorado Association of School Resource Officers.
Marijuana that parents or other adults might have kept hidden in the past may now be left in the open, where it is easier for kids to dip into it to sell, use, or in some cases, simply to show off, said school officials and law enforcement.
Authorities said there have also been cases where small children have ingested large amounts of un-burnt marijuana.
Colorado State Police told Ocala Post that the state has had a significant increase in “stoned driving” accidents. As a result, the state will begin to keep tallies on “stoned driving” as it does with DUI’s.
Denver Police said, “Because of the new law, we are facing new problems. We are now dealing with drug dealers that are obtaining marijuana to resell it, as well as an increase in money laundering directly linked to individuals using the new marijuana law to do it.”
DEA officials told Ocala Post that California has had an issue with “Marijuana Mills” popping up all over the state, and it has only been legalized in certain parts of California, it is a huge issue that we fight everyday they said. The DEA public affairs office also told Ocala Post that because of the new laws in Colorado, they are now dealing with the infiltration of Columbian drug lords into Denver trying to operate marijuana businesses by manipulating the new marijuana laws.
Sheriff Blair said, “There are loopholes in the marijuana constitutional amendment that need to be amended. Otherwise, law enforcement as well as law abiding citizens are going to be forced to deal with a lot of issues involving the misuse and illegal distribution of marijuana.”
All officials that Ocala Post spoke with also agreed on one specific issue, the issue revolving around the revenue that the sale of marijuana generates.
Officials said, “For citizens to say marijuana should be legalized for income purposes is reckless, citizens should be more concerned with public safety and the safety of their children.”
Molly on April 29, 2014 [Photo courtesy of Marion County Animal Services]Ocala, Florida — On April 27, 2014 a dog named “Molly” was beaten and nearly stabbed death by Steven Fleming, 49, of Ocala.
Molly was taken to Marion County Animal Services where she has been receiving exceptional care. Molly was initially listed in critical condition. However, by 2:28 p.m. on April 28, 2014 Molly was listed in stabled condition, but was being monitored very closely.
Elaine McClain with Animal Services said, “Molly is currently in stable condition, but staff is continuing to monitor her condition, as well as provide supportive care, treat her wounds and manage her pain.”
Today, April 29, 2014, just two days after the brutal attack on Molly, she has shown tremendous improvement and is healing exceptionally fast. Molly appears to be “one tough female.”
Marion County Animal Services’ Public Information Officer Elaine McClain, told Ocala Post at approximately 3:58 p.m., that Molly is more stable than she was yesterday and the veterinarian is continuing to monitor her progress and treat her pain.
Molly is up, moving around and has made excellent progress in only a few days, considering what she has been through.
Molly on April 29, 2014 [Photo courtesy of Marion County Animal Services]The Ocala Police Department said they will handle the process of establishing who actually owns Molly.
“If deemed necessary, custody will be relinquished over to Animal Services,” said Angy Scroble, Public Information Officer with the Ocala Police Department.
“If custody is given to Animal Services, any placement or adoption will be handled by them…the process will take time”
Elaine McClain with Marion County Animal Services and Angy Scroble with the Ocala Police Department have both been more than willing to answer Ocala Post’s questions and provide any information that has been requested. Their compassion for Molly is truly exceptional.
Molly’s wounds will continue to need care until they are fully healed and her pain will be managed, but it looks like Molly may make a full recovery.
[Updated on May 1, 2014 at 10:54 a.m.]
According to Angy Scroble with the Ocala Police Department, officer Wabbersen, whom is heading up the investigation, was able to get both Fleming and the girlfriend to voluntarily sign away their rights of ownership of Molly. This negates the need to get a court order terminating their ownership, and speeds up the process.
Molly remains with Animal Services and ownership is being given to them. Holds on Molly are for prosecution of the case and Molly’s continued medical treatment.
“Hopefully, Animal Services will be able to place Molly in a loving home in the very near future!”, said Angy Scroble.
Ocala, Florida — On April 29, 2014 at 3:32 p.m. the National Weather Service issued a significant weather advisory for Alachua, Putnam and Marion Counties for strong winds.
The National Weather Service Doppler Radar indicated strong thunderstorms centered along a line extending from 3 miles south of Melrose to 7 miles southeast of Dunnellon…moving east at 15 mph. These strong thunderstorms will also affect areas around Reddick, Mcintosh, Lowell, Orange Heights, Melrose, Lochloosa, Flemington, Dunnellon, Grove Park and Cross Creek.
Frequent lightning and gusty winds of 40 to 50 mph can be expected along with possible minor wind damage. Heavy rainfall will produce ponding of water on roadways and minor flooding of low-lying areas.
Report any damage to the nearest law enforcement agency or your county emergency management.
Murphy Express robbery suspect [Click to enlarge]Ocala, Florida — Around 3:40 a.m., Monday, April 28, 2014, a suspect committed armed robbery of the Murphy Express, 17 Cedar Radial Pass, Ocala.
Security photos show the suspect wearing a white T-shirt over his head, a dark long sleeve shirt, blue jeans and red sneakers.
The witness described the suspect as a black male, standing about 5 foot 9 inches tall, weighing around 165 pounds and between 19-25-years-old.
The suspect has tattoos from his right wrist up to the elbow. The criminals shoes also stand out.
The security photos show the suspect pointing a handgun at the store clerk and demanding money.
The clerk placed the money in a bag and the suspect ran south from the store.
“We are hoping someone knows the suspect from the security photos and from the description and we want them to call us,” said Public Information Officer Judge Cochran with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
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.
Someone knows who this is. Share on Facebook and help catch this criminal.
Paul Bryan Orr [Mugshot] Ocala, Florida — An investigation into the former Belleview Sonny’s BBQ Manager Paul Bryan Orr, 37, which began on March 17, 2014, ended with his arrest on April 28, 2014.
The investigation began when the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous cyber-tip in reference to child porn that had been uploaded using a Google G-mail account.
Orr was arrested for utilizing Sonny’s BBQ’s wireless internet and IP address to download and upload child porn images using his personal e-mail on company time.
Orr admitted to being the owner of the e-mail addresses used during the electronic transferring of the porn, but denied that he actually transmitted the porn.
When investigators questioned Orr’s live-in girlfriend a second time, she stated that Orr had never told her that he was being questioned and she found that odd and became suspicious. She told investigators that Orr had a tablet at work with him and she also informed investigators that he was using a shared computer to download movies. Investigators showed the girlfriend photos to see if she could identify the victims, but she could not.
On April 2, 2014, investigators secured a warrant for Orr’s Dell laptop that he frequently carried to work.
Investigators were able to locate deleted files in the recycle bin, which contained child porn.
On April 28, 2014, Google was brought into the investigation and cooperated fully with investigators. Google was able to supply investigators with three e-mail addresses, the physical address associated with the e-mails, and the fact that all were registered to Orr’s personal Facebook and Google accounts.
The accounts and e-mails provided by Google showed transmission dates and contained the specific image that had been described in the cyber-tip. Other e-mails contained images of minors in a lewd manner.
On April 28, 2014, Orr was arrested and transported to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for questioning.
Orr continued to deny any involvement in possessing child porn and refused to cooperate with detectives.
He was charged with two counts of Possession of Child Pornography.
Orr was also arrested in June of 2002 and charged with Writing Worthless Checks.
At this time, he is being held without bond.
If you know of any inappropriate contact that Orr may have had with children, you are asked to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
Dallas Archer [Mugshot]Kingsport, Tennessee — Dallas Archer, 19, was pulled over by Tennessee Police for speeding this week. Upon running a drivers license check, it was determined that Archer’s license was suspended.
Archer was placed under arrest and transported to the Kingsport Jail.
During the booking process, a female guard noticed that Archer was a little “squirmish.”
The decision was made to perform a full-body search of Archer, and police say it was the right call.
Authorities said that during the search, the female guard noticed something protruding from Archers “crotch.”
A full body cavity search revealed that Archer had a loaded North American Arms .22 caliber mini revolver shoved inside her vagina.
According to police, the gun turned out to be stolen from a salesman’s car in Kingsport.
Authorities said the situation could have turned out much differently had the guard not been as observant as she was.
Police said after removing the weapon from inside Archer’s body, they gave the weapon “a good bleaching.”
The weapon was later returned to its rightful owner, who said he plans to bleach it again.
When authorities asked Archer why she had the weapon; she replied, “It’s for protection.”
Archer was charged with Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Illegal Possession of a Firearm, Introducing Contraband to a Jail, and Driving on a Suspended License.
Erica Peluso [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On April 26, 2014, Officer Pitman responded to a single vehicle crash with injuries at the intersection of SW 10th Street and SW 27th Avenue.
When Officer Pitman arrived, he saw a white Chevy Malibu that had crashed into a tree that was in the median. The vehicle had severe front end damage, according to reports.
Officer Pitman made contact with the driver, later identified as Erica Peluso, 28, of Ocala as she was attempting to remove her six-year-old from the back seat. A witness, of whom was assisting with the accident, was in possession of Peluso’s other child that is two-years-old.
According to the witness, Peluso was driving with the two-year-old in [her] lap when the crash occurred.
According to reports, the six-year-old that Peluso was attempting to remove from the vehicle is autistic and did sustain injuries during the crash. The child was bleeding profusely from his head and was inconsolable, according to reports. Officer Pitman advised Peluso not to move the child to prevent further injury.
The two-year-old boy also had a laceration on his forehead.
In the car, there was hair from Peluso’s head hanging from the rear view mirror where her head hit the windshield causing it to crack.
Once Marion County EMS and the Ocala Fire Department arrived on the scene, Peluso refused to allow them to treat the children’s injuries. She stated she had gauze at her house.
During the crash investigation, Officer Pitman noticed Peluso was unsteady on her feet and also smelled alcohol coming from the interior of the vehicle. Officer Pitman also stated that Peluso made some very questionable statements during the investigation that showed a total disregard for the children’s well being.
According to reports, Peluso said, “I just washed the car, and now he (her child) put his bloody hand prints all over my car.”
Officer Armstrong arrived on the scene and conducted a DUI investigation. Peluso failed all of the field sobriety tests and was clearly unsteady of her feet, according to reports.
Peluso continued to refused medical treatment for her children, however, the decision was made to transport them to MRMC where the autistic child received several staples to close the laceration on his head.
Peluso was arrested and taken to the Marion County Jail where she submitted to a breathalyzer test and blew a .260, which is more than three (3) times the legal limit of .08 in Florida.
She was charged with DUI and Two (2) Counts of Child Neglect. The Department of Children and Families has been notified, but they have not taken custody of Peluso’s children. DCF said they are working with law enforcement and this is still an open investigation.
Dunnellon, Florida — Two motorcyclists were killed on April 26, 2014 as they were cruising in a rural area of Marion County.
Justin Richard, 22, of Weeki Wachi, Florida and Douglas Keller, 27, of Citrus Springs, Florida were traveling together, southbound on SW 180th Avenue at a high rate of speed when both drivers failed to negotiate a left hand curve, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Richard and Keller drove off the roadway onto the west grassy shoulder at approximately the same time.
Richard was the first to collide with a wire fence bordering the shoulder. Keller collided with a large wood post that supported the fence.
According to the FHP, Richard and Keller were ejected from the motorcycles as they began to overturn. Keller, along with his motorcycle then slammed into a stand of three trees causing the motorcycle to break into multiple pieces. Keller’s body came to rest at the stand of trees.
Richard and his motorcycle continued further south, tumbling through trees and brush before slamming into a larger tree. Richard’s motorcycle also broke into multiple pieces.
Richard was thrown, and his body came to rest near a paved trail in Rainbow River State Park, west of the stand of trees.
The motorcycles along with the bodies of Richard and Keller were not discovered until early Sunday morning.
The bodies were found by state park employees prior to opening the tubing entrance.
FHP said that both drivers were wearing helmets.
According to FHP, the motorcycles were in so many pieces that the parts had to be collected with milk crates. FHP said they will have to piece everything together for the investigation.
Gabrielle Trullender [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On April 28, 2014, Corporal Moore with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 5200 block of West State Road 40 to assist Deputy Bowers with a DUI investigation.
According to reports, Deputy Bowers was traveling eastbound on State Road 40 when he saw a white Honda traveling at a high rate of speed in a posted 50MPH zone.
Deputy Bowers turned his patrol vehicle around and activated his emergency lights. The Honda then accelerated at an even higher rate of speed, forcing Deputy Bowers to increase his speed in order to catch up to the vehicle, according to reports.
As Deputy Bowers pulled behind the Honda he immediately noticed that the driver, later identified as Gabrielle C. Trullender, 26, could not maintain her lane and at one point nearly crashed into a concrete median.
Deputy Bowers continued to follow Trullender until she finally decided to stop.
As Deputy Bowers approached the vehicle, to his surprise, he saw Trullender’s two-year-old son in the car. The car also had visible fresh damage to the entire driver side of the car.
Trullender stated that she did not remember hitting anything.
Corporal Moore attempted to have Trullender perform a field sobriety test, however, she was so intoxicated she could hardly stand on her feet. Corporal Moore stated that he had to catch Trullender several times to keep her from hitting the pavement, according to reports.
Trullender stated that she had a 32oz drink of vodka prior to driving.
Trullender was transported to the Marion County Jail and charged with DUI-Blood Alcohol .20 or Higher With Person Under 18.
Trullender was also arrested in January of 2014 on Grand Theft Charges.
The two-year-old was released into the custody of his grandmother.
Steven Fleming [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On April 27, 2014, Ocala Police Officers Wabbersen and Drawdy responded to the 1100 block of NE 13th Street in reference to a domestic dispute and beating of a dog. Callers reported hearing lots of screaming and a dog yelping coming from inside a residence.
Upon arrival, a group of neighbors were standing in the street and were more than happy to point out the house in question to the officers.
A man, later identified as Steven Fleming, 49, was seen walking west from the residence.
According to reports, Officer Drawdy exited his patrol car and instructed Fleming to stop. Fleming looked directly at Officer Drawdy, then fled on foot and jumped a fence.
Officer Drawdy jumped the fence and gave chase, followed by Officer Wabbersen.
Officers were able to catch up to Fleming and place him under arrest after a little resistance from him. Fleming also had two knives in his pocket at the time of his arrest, and his jeans were saturated in blood.
Witnesses told police that they heard loud banging and then glass breaking at the home. They said they then walked in that direction to see what was going on and saw Fleming repeatedly banging on the front door with what appeared to be a piece of lumber. Witnesses said after Fleming gained entrance to the house they could hear violent screams and a dog crying and yelping as if it were “being killed.”
Molly’ eyes swollen
Witnesses stated that they yelled to Fleming to stop beating the dog. They said just prior to police arriving, the dog ran out of the house. Witnesses stated that Fleming then charged them, yelling, “you coming at me…you challenging me?” That is when the police arrived and he fled.
Side view of Molly after being cleaned up
The investigation revealed that neighbors had taken the dog to safety.
The dog, a female American Boxer Lab mix named “Molly,” was completely soaked in blood. She had three visible deep lacerations on top of her head, blood in her nasal cavity and blood coming from her ears. Her third eyelids were visible and her face was swelling.
Animal Services Veterinarian David Jebens examined Molly after being transported by Animal Services.
The examination revealed that Molly [the dog] had a fractured skull and had been stabbed through the top of her head three times. One of the stab wounds penetrated the bone into the left sinus cavity. She had swelling around her left eye, and bleeding from the nostril as a result of the damaged sinus cavity.
The blood coming from the dog’s ears was due to a mixture of the stab wound piercing the sinus cavity and sustaining a fractured skull from being bashed in the head with a baseball bat.
Top view of stab wounds
According to reports, the pattern of the wounds on Molly’s head indicated that she was looking up at Fleming when he stabbed her in the head.
Neighbors stated that they felt that Fleming’s girlfriend, Judy Rangle, was inside the home and may have been injured. When officers entered the house, they found overturned furniture, blood on the floor in the hallway, blood on the back of the back door, blood on the floor in the master bedroom as well as bloody drag marks from the adjacent bathroom.
Inside the bathroom, officers found blood on the walls and floors, as well as a broken bloody baseball bat that was most likely used to fracture the dog’s skull.
Shows broken bat and blood in the shower. Also, drag marks from where the dog had been dragged.
Officers later determined that Rangle was not home during the incident. She and Fleming had been drinking at a local lounge and he had returned home after arguing with her.
Officers responded to the lounge, but Rangle was extremely intoxicated and could not stand on her own nor hold a conversation. Officers actually found her passed out next to a tree.
During the investigation, officers learned that Rangle is a veteran suffering from PTSD. The Veterans Affair Administration advised that Rangle has a history of self-medicating with alcohol in an attempt to treat her PTSD.
EMS had to be called due to Rangle’s high level of intoxication.
Fleming was charged with Aggravated Animal Cruelty-Attempt to Mutilate or Kill, Resisting Arrest, and Violation of Probation for Possession of Cocaine charges stemming from a previous arrest.
Fleming refused to cooperate with police.
He is being held on a $5,500 bond.
Molly is being treated for her injuries, her prognosis is unknown at this time.
[Updated at 2:28 p.m.]
Ocala Post was able to make contact with Animal Services today. They were more than cooperative and extremely compassionate toward the situation.
Elaine McClain with Animal Services said, “Molly is currently in stable condition, but the staff is continuing to monitor her condition, as well as provide supportive care, treat her wounds, and manage her pain.”
Signs in Opa-Locka, Florida warn residents about the saggy pants law.
Saggy pants could soon be a crime in all of Florida, and the legislation for the ban is being welcomed with open arms.
The city of Opa-Locka, Florida was the first city to ban saggy pants.
Daytona Beach, Florida doesn’t have a ban – as of yet- on saggy pants, however, they were one of the first cities in Florida to ban “thongs” being worn in public.
City officials from, Opa-Locka, Lynwood, West Palm Beach, and Cocoa Beach, Florida say they are fed up with the saggy pants culture. They say it’s disgraceful and it is teaching the much younger children that it’s OK to walk around with their underwear hanging out.
An official with the Black Mental Health Alliance out of Massachusetts said, “My children and I visited a theme park in Florida and we were disgusted. My children were subjected to a lot of indecency involving saggy pants. Some were young girls and others were young men, two of which were not wearing underwear….exposing their ‘cracks’.”
He said, youth today should have more respect for themselves, especially girls. He added, it is no secret that this type of culture is linked to drugs, gangs and other criminal activity. Our misguided youth call it “Profiling,” while I call it statistical fact. And it is a gross misconception that the “Saggy Pants” culture is just a “black thing.” Additionally, he said, the “Penguin” walk also causes hip and other joint problems.
Other states such as Alabama, Georgia, New York, Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee, Mississippi, New Jersey, Illinois, Michigan, Massachusetts and Boston also have cities where saggy pants have been ban.
The fine for wearing saggy pants that show a person’s “crack” or underwear range from $25.00 to $500.00, depending on where you are, for first time offenders. Habitual offenders could actually be arrested and charged with indecent exposure.
Officials say the law is not just limited to “saggy pants” per-say, but also to those that wear “skinny jeans” far below the waist line. Officials say men that wear “skinny jeans” below the waist line tend to show more of an “inappropriate area” than women do.
Submitted photos from the beach town
In Wildwood, New Jersey saggy pants have been ban on the boardwalk. And the ordinance doesn’t just apply to saggy pants; it also applies to women that walk around it cut up jeans, skinny jeans that do not fit (revealing “crack”) or bathing suits that practically leave nothing to the imagination. While most men consider women that wear pants that show their “crack” sexy, residents say they are sick and tired of the young youth literally showing their a**es.
Sondra, a long time resident of New Jersey said, “They do make a good point. After all, not everyone on the beach/boardwalk will have a beautiful body type. How would you like to stare at muffin tops and plumber cracks while trying to enjoy your day off?”
Outfits ban on New Jersey Boardwalks
New Jersey Mayor Ernest Troiano said, “Some visitors (who I imagine to be old and still upset about Elvis’ hip thrusts) have complained about looking at people’s rear ends ‘hanging out’ while walking the boardwalk.”
Local New Jersey Pizzeria, Guilio’s Pizza has also put a sign in their window regarding sagging pants.
Guilio’s Pizza
Multiple McDonalds locations in Texas have also ban saggy pants from being worn in their establishments. Most have posted signs in their windows.
Ocala Post reached out to McDonalds Corporate to inquire about the policy:
They told Ocala Post that corporate does not have any comment, but said, “Owner-operated franchises can customize the experience for their customers as they deem necessary.”
The health department said, “It’s a health issue. Why would you want to touch a counter or sit in a seat where someone else’s underwear or “crack” has been?”
One customer that was denied service at a Houston , Texas restaurant tried to sue the establishment, but lost. The Houston judge said indecent exposure is not a new law, and saggy pants that show a persons butt or underwear is not protected under Freedom of Speech or Freedom of Expression. It is simply disrespectful he said.
Saggy Pants Ban at McDonalds
Many officials across multiple states do agree on one thing; criminals that wear saggy pants and try to run from a crime scene often trip and fall, getting themselves caught.
An Orlando, Florida robbery was foiled after Anthony Garcia, 31, tripped over his baggy pants as he was attempting to flee after snatching a cash drawer from a church gift shop. Orlando Police said it made their job a lot easier.
Bank robber in Ohio trips over his pants
In Columbus, Ohio an armed bank robber was caught after his saggy pants caused him trip and fall on the dye pack, setting it off. Security footage showed the robber dropping the money bag and fleeing the scene waddling like a penguin. He was later caught with his pants down, literally. Columbus Police said saggy pants are a criminals “kryptonite.”
Billboards are beginning to pop up in cities across the U.S in an attempt to promote the saggy pants ban.
Memphis Tennessee
However not everyone is in support of the ban. The NAACP says the ban targets the black community and hinders their development.
Eric Adams, a black senator from New York said he is tired of the NAACP making everything about race. He said the ban is about instilling moral principles into our children, children of all races.
Adams said, “I am fed up with today’s youth walking around with “low slung” or saggy pants that exposes their underwear and often time their butt crack. It is offensive and represents a serious lack of respect from our youth today.” Adams said that today’s youth needs to realize that the trend of wearing saggy pants originated from inside prisons in the late 80’s early 90’s. Adding, “I hope one day there will be a nationwide ban on saggy pants.”
Senator Adams is responsible for at least three billboards in New York aimed at educating the public on the saggy pants ban.
Officials in Opa-Locka, Florida say the ban is working, and although there have been at least 72 citations issued since November of 2013, the community is showing great support in the ban.
In November of 2013, the saggy pants ban was also rewritten to specifically include women as well as men. The fine was also set at a solid $500 and/or 25 hours of community service.
Ocala Post reached out to Marion County officials via e-mail to inquire if a similar ban would be imposed in Marion County, or if they support the legislation, but our e-mail went unanswered.
We want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on banning saggy pants?
[Updated on May 8, 2014 at 5:36 p.m.]
Marion County, Florida– City of Ocala Council woman Mary Rich announced that she wants an ordinance put in place that will ban saggy pants. She said she as well as other citizens in Marion County do not like seeing young men and women walking around with their buttocks exposed.
“I have seen them do it in front of old people. I don’t consider myself old — maybe a little past middle age. They don’t have any respect for anybody when they do that,” she said. “It’s disgusting when you see them with their pants all down around their knees almost.”
Marion County schools already has a policy banning saggy pants. If it is passed as an ordinance, violators in Marion County could face fines.
No decision has been made on whether or not it will be put to a vote.
If you support the ban on saggy pants, you can show that support by e-mailing Mary Rich at mrich@ocalafl.org or John McLeod at jmcleod@ocalafl.org .
Julie Reddick [Mugshot]Ocala, Florida — On April 22, 2014, the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST) conducted a “Prostitution” operation throughout Marion County, Florida.
At approximately 4 p.m., an undercover officer posing as a “John” made contact with a female, later identified as Julie Reddick, 24, of Gainesville, in the area of South Pine Avenue.
During the conversation with the undercover officer, Reddick told him she would have sex with him for $250.00. Reddick said, “I will do anything you want me to do except anal, and you must use protection,” according to reports.
Reddick was then placed under arrest.
The undercover operation was monitored and recorded as it took place.
Reddick stated during an interview that she had previously made an appointment with the undercover officer, via phone. Reddick stated that she went to the area where the undercover officer agreed to meet, and that she charged the “John” $250.00 in exchange for one hour of sex. She said she usually charges $350.00 for a hour.
Reddick was advertising herself on the website www.backpage.com under Ocala, using the name “Casey.”
Reddick admitted to detectives that she was the one that created the on-line post and that the pictured uploaded was of her. She told detectives that she began prostituting approximately two months ago because she couldn’t find a job.
Reddick was charged with Violation of Probation stemming from an arrest out of Alachua County involving child abuse of her two children, and Prostitution.
[All cases in this article were carefully reviewed by Ocala Post.]
In the last five years the number of police brutality cases in the U.S have more than doubled.
YouTube reports police brutality video uploads in the tens of thousands, majority of the uploads are raw dash cam videos that have been released by a victim’s attorney or the media.
The most recent addition to the long list of brutality cases, is violence by law enforcement toward deaf people who have been brutally assaulted by police officers for what has been described by officers as “failure to respond to officers’ verbal commands, aggressive hand signaling, or resisting arrest.”
Two years ago, Robert Kim pulled over to fix a flat tire just before slipping into a diabetic episode. He was seated on the grass when female officer Leah Hall pulled up and said “what’s your problem?” Kim tried to make the officer aware of the fact that he was deaf, that he had trouble speaking, and that he was in diabetic shock.
Instead of contacting paramedics, Hall called for backup and soon Officer Brandin Raney arrived. Raney almost immediately, followed by Hall, began to beat and taser Kim for “failing to respond” to their “verbal commands.” Doctors at the hospital where Kim was subsequently taken assessed his condition as life-threatening.
Officers charged Kim with “resisting arrest.” A catch all charge that the ACLU says officers frequently use to cover their tracks. This incident was caught on video, and not by a civilian, but dash cam video.
The video showed police officers attack Kim, whom is deaf, and was in diabetic shock then claim that he “resisted arrest.” The majority of the beating was done while Kim was already on the ground. According to reports, the officers also tased Kim multiple times while he was already down, handcuffed and near death. Witnesses passing by said that the officers appeared to be “having fun.”
Kim sued the police department, and during the investigation it was learned that Kim was the second deaf person in less than 30 days to have been tased by officers at the same police department.
The charges against Kim were dropped.
Pearl Pearson Case
Pearl Pearson 3 days after being released from hospital he was finally able to open both eyes.
This past January, Pearl Pearson, a 64 year-old deaf man, was attempting to show Trooper Eric Foster a placard that read “I am deaf” when he was violently pulled him from his truck. Trooper Kelton Hayes arrives, then a third trooper Jason Ownes, and they all brutally beat Pearson. During the beating, Pearson sustained multiple injuries, including a dislocated shoulder, both eyes were swelled shut, and he had busted blood vessels in both eyes due to being hit so hard. The Troopers beat him for nearly seven minutes.
Pearson was not immediately charged, but because the troopers were later embarrassed by the media, charges later followed.
Immediately following Pearson’s assault, the troopers’ dashboard camera revealed officers cursing after they run a quick check of his license and realize that Pearson is deaf. The district attorney announced that the officers involved would not be charged for this brutal attack on the same day that he decided to charged Pearson with, you guessed it, “resisting arrest.” It should be known that the district attorney has two sons that are directly involved in law enforcement, something Pearson’s defense attorney says is a huge conflict of interest.
The district attorney said, with a smirk on his face, “I think the troopers showed restraint, Pearson is lucky they didn’t shoot him.”
“I believe he came close to his death that night,” said Bill Coyle, Pearson’s defense attorney. “Pearson was scared… actually terrified, very confused and was trying to talk with his hands as deaf people do- not resist arrest.”
“Even more terrifying, the troopers got away with it. And they only perused this case after, and only after… they were embarrassed by the media.” Adding, “They chased him down and beat him because Pearson unknowingly “bumped” someone’s car.”
The dash cam clearly showed no resistance from Pearson as he was dragged from his truck and beaten, said Coyle.
The person that reported the “accident” said they wish they would have never made the call because it was only a scratch and it was very possible that a deaf person may not have even realized they bumped someone if they could not hear nor feel it.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol refused to release the dash cam video to Ocala Post. However, after filing a formal complaint with various agencies that protect the Freedom of the Press laws, as well as the Freedom of Information Act; they were forced to turn over a copy of the dash cam video in its entirety.
In the arrest affidavit, officers were quick to describe resistance and non-compliance by Pearson, even making him sound like a drug addict. They made him out to be a hardened criminal, but not one time in the affidavit was it ever mentioned that Pearson is deaf, even after they discovered he was deaf when they did a license check.
Records show that Pearson was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In February, Jonathan Meister was carrying his belongings from his friend’s home when three passing officers mistook him for a burglar. Officers said that his attempts to use sign language were aggressive. The three officers then began beating, tasering, and choking Meister to the point of unconsciousness as they took turns punching him in the face. Several Witnesses in the area came to Meister’s rescue. One witness actually threatened to kill the cops if they continued to beat Meister.
The officers charged Meister with “Assault on a Police Officer.” They said Meister was around 6′ 4″ and physically fit. Officers said because he was a Rugby player they felt they needed to take him down. Witnesses pointed out the fact that officers did not know Meister was a skilled Rugby player until after they had already beat him unconscious.
After reading witness testimony, the prosecutor dropped all charges. The judge then issued a warning to all police officers, stating, “Citizens are no longer going to take police brutality lying down and I don’t blame them.”
Meister’s defense attorney said, “Police need to learn their place. They are civil servants and are supposed to be peace keepers, not barbaric street fighters.”
These stories are just a few of more than a dozen since January 2014 that involve a deaf person being beaten by police and highlight the lack of training, education, and awareness of the Deaf Culture and communication within police departments across the U.S. They illustrate the urgent need for systemic change.
Even more alarming than the frequency and severity of these assaults, is the lack of charges against the officers responsible. Deaf victims of police brutality and family members of deaf homicide victims that have been killed by police tend to victor in lawsuits against police, costing taxpayers thousands of dollars. However, officers are rarely formally charged or dismissed from their positions of authority as a result of their actions. Law enforcement officers call it the “Brotherhood.”
The Americans with Disabilities Act has made it clear that officers must take appropriate steps to communicate effectively with deaf people. This obligation includes providing sign language interpreters and auxiliary aids. Moreover, there is a desperate need for police officers to be educated and have an understanding of how to communicate with members of the deaf community.
Many deaf people use their eyes and hands to communicate, as opposed to hearing people who more often rely on their ears and voice. Body language and facial expression are key components of sign language. Additionally, it is not uncommon for people who communicate through sign language to create a bit of space between themselves and the other person to ensure that the receiver has full view of the hands, body, and face. Officers who misunderstand these and other key components of the deaf culture and the way they communicate, might feel threatened retaliate against a deaf person.
Law enforcement agencies have a responsibility to ensure that officers are aware of and are sensitive to the various ways that deaf people communicate. If officers are educated, it will not only protect the deaf community, but also increase the safety of officers.
According to the ACLU, they are currently working on a video in sign language that will help deaf people understand their rights when encountering a police officer. The ACLU said, “Deaf people can only do so much. It is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to ensure that their officers are adequately trained and educated.”
What is it that law enforcement personnel always quote? “Ignorance is no excuse for breaking the law.”
Ocala, Florida —The Florida Department of Health in Marion County today, advised residents that there has been an increase in mosquito-borne disease activity in areas of Marion County.
A horse in the Sparr area recently tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis infection and there is a heightened concern residents could become ill.
The risk of transmission to humans has increased, the Department says it will continue surveillance and prevention efforts.
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.
