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    UCF Graduate And Her Ex-Husband Murdered

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    monica spear and thomas berry
    Monica Spear and Thomas Berry

     

    Venezuela, a country with one of the world’s highest murder rates has claimed the life of a University of Central Florida graduate, according to Venezuela authorities.

    Monica Spear,29, a former Miss Venezuela beauty queen and current soap actress along with her ex-husband Thomas Berry,39, business owner, were both murdered on January 6, 2014 as they sat in their broke-down car, police said. Both were shot to death as their five-year-old daughter watched. The daughter sustained injuries during the shooting as well, she was treated and released from the hospital.

    According to reports, Spear and Berry locked their car doors during an attempted robbery after their car broke down, the robbers shot them both for resisting the robbery.

    Spear and Berry were murdered near Puerto Cabello which is the country’s main port.

    Reports indicate the car hit a sharp object that had been placed in the road and that is what caused the car to break down. Investigators said the road was purposely “booby trapped.”

    Witnesses stated that their car had already been lifted onto the tow truck and when the family saw the thugs coming, they locked themselves in the car thinking they would be protected.

    Police say they have arrested five suspects, most under the age of 18.

    Reports say the couple had an excellent relationship despite being divorced.

    The family, who split their time between the U.S. (Florida) and Venezuela were on vacation at the time of their murders.

    Manhunt Underway – Richard Barnes Main Suspect

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    richard barnes, ocala post, ocala news, op, op
    Richard Barnes

    Sanford, Florida — On January 6, 2014 shortly after noon, Sanford Police were dispatched to McGee Insurance Company located at 400 West 25th Street, Sanford, Florida in reference to a Homicide.

    According to eyewitnesses, Cynthia McGee Bryant’s boyfriend, Richard Lawrence Barnes,46, was walking toward the location of the incident and shortly after he arrived several gunshots were fired; Barnes was seen fleeing the area. Barnes’ clothing at the time of the shooting is described as a grayish/blue hoodie sweatshirt with blue work pants, and glasses.

    Shortly after the shooting occurred a customer arrived at the location to pay her insurance bill and found McGee Bryant dead, she immediately called 911.

    According to investigators, Barnes has been identified as the prime suspect and Probable Cause for his arrest does exist.

    Barnes has multiple felony convictions and has been arrested multiple times on charges ranging from Cocaine Distribution to Obstruction of Justice.

    Barnes may have ties to other cities throughout Central Florida.

    If anyone knows the whereabouts of Richard Barnes you are asked to call 911. Do not take any personal action, or approach Barnes, as he is considered armed and extremely dangerous.

    This investigation is ongoing and no further information can be released at this time.

    [Updated January 8, 2014 at 6:26 p.m.]

    Barnes was caught and arrested this evening.

    USF Follows Court Ruling For Guns On Campus

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    USF, ocala post, tampa, op, ocala news

    Tampa, Florida — The University of South Florida (USF) will now allow guns on campus, however they have to remain in a persons vehicle in accordance with new state laws.

    Like most colleges and universities across Florida, USF has never allowed weapons on campus. However a new court ruling states that colleges and universities do not have the right or the authority to prohibit weapons, namely guns, from being stored in vehicles.

    Ocala Post reached out to USF and media spokeswoman Lara Wade said, “In response to a court ruling last month, USF placed policy 6-009 ‘Weapons on USF System Property’ under review shortly after. As of Friday January 3, 2014, the policy has been amended to comply with Florida statutes. Additional amendments were made January 6, 2014.”

    However Wade did state that the policy remains under review.

    USF has in fact amended “Weapons on USF System Property”on their website under “Regulations and Policies,” to include Florida Statutes 790.115, 790.251 and 790.25(5).

    The University of North Florida and Florida State University are also making changes to its weapon policies in order to conform to the new court ruling.

    The changes across Florida came after colleges and universities were threatened with a law suit by gun owners, citing the colleges and universities were now breaking the law by not allowing guns to be carried in cars on campus.

    Temperatures Lowest In Decades – Freeze Warning

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    freeze warning, ocala post, ocala news, marion county, op

    Meteorologists are calling it a “Polar Vortex.” Most residents across the U.S. are just calling it “Way Too Cold.”

    The temperature predictions are startling: 25 below zero in Fargo, N.D., minus 31 in International Falls, Minn., and 15 below in Indianapolis and Chicago. At those temperatures, exposed skin can get frostbitten within minutes and hypothermia can quickly set in because wind chills could hit 50, 60 or even 70 below zero in some areas.

    Several schools across the U.S. have suspended class, and not because of the snow. School officials are scared children that walk or ride their bikes to school will literally freeze to death or get frostbite before they make it to class. Temperatures are hitting record lows, and we want to be safe, said one school official.

    While Florida certainly will not be 70 below zero, and classes will not be canceled,with the windchill it may feel like 13 degrees in some areas such as Tallahassee.

    Marion county is under a hard freeze warning. With windchill, meteorologists say it may feel like 19 degrees.

    If you have pets you will want to bring them in. If a resident is reported for leaving an animal in the freezing cold, that person could be charged with Animal Cruelty. Also, remember to cover plants, pipes, and wrap your well pump if you have one, and the best way to keep your water from freezing is to leave a faucet on drip or steady stream; this will keep the water flowing.

    Antifreeze in your radiator is a must, expert mechanics say a radiator will crack if it freezes and is suddenly heated once a car is started.

    The elderly are extremely susceptible to bitter cold, so be sure to bundle grandma and grandpa up with a warm blanket. If you know someone that unfortunately cannot afford heat, lend them a blanket as well; especially if they have children.

    Be safe, stay warm, and use extreme caution if using a space heater.

    Dentist kills 3-year-old Finley Boyle

     

    finley boyle, ocala florida, ocala post, op, ocala news, tarver
    Three-year-old Finley Boyle [Facebook]
    Kailua, Hawaii — On December 3, 2013, mother Ashley Boyle, took her three-year-old daughter, Finley Boyle, to Island Dentistry in Kailua, Hawaii for a dental visit.

    Dr. Lilly Geyer had previously insisted that her daughter needed four root canals.

    Prior to the root canals being done, Dr. Geyer administered a high dose of Demerol to Finley, along with another sedative. A “Kiddie Cocktail,” something Ocala, Florida residents are all too familiar with. Twenty-six minutes after Dr. Geyer administered the sedative, Finley went into cardiac arrest. According to reports, Finely did not receive CPR immediately.

    According to medical records that were obtained, Dr. Geyer and his staff did not take proper notes during the incident, barely making mention of what actually happened. Records also indicate that the staff was not prepared for this type of situation. Staff had to run down the hallway of the dentistry and ask for help during the incident.

    According to The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a Child’s vitals must be monitored very closely — in five minute intervals.

    Finley, who went home on Hospice, remained brain dead until her tragic passing on January 3, 2014, at 8:47 p.m. According to Hospice, the family did not leave Finley’s side for a moment.

    A Pray for Finley Facebook group was set up for friends and family and expresses gratitude for the support from the community.

    The Boyle family is now suing Dr. Geyer.

    Unlike Florida, Hawaii officials say they will not tolerate this type of behavior by a licensed professional. “This could have easily been avoided,” said one investigator.

    Later reports indicated that the dental work attempted to be performed on Finley was not necessary.

    Dr. Geyer could face criminal charges; however, charges have not been filed at this time as the investigation is ongoing.

     

    Man arrested for puppy love

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    animal sex, ocala post, melbourne, ocala news, op
    Joshua Werbicki [Mugshot]
    Palm Bay, Florida — Palm Bay Police arrested a Palm Bay man at a PaPa Johns located at 2430 Minton Road in West Melbourne; he is accused of having sex with the family dog.

    According to reports, Joshua Werbicki, 23, has been having sexual intercourse with the family pet for months.

    Family members became suspicious after the German Sheppard began showing signs of abuse. The family said the dog became skittish around others and that was not like the dog to be scared around family. According to reports, at one point, the dog developed a limp.

    Reports indicated that the homeowners eventually checked home surveillance video and that is when they saw Werbicki having intercourse with the dog on more than one occasion.

    Werbicki was arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty and Performing Sexual Acts with an Animal.

    Werbicki was released on a $2,500 bond.

    We Bike For Kids Charity Ride In The Villages

    villages, ocala post, ocala news, ocala

     

    The Villages — The third annual “We Bike For Kids” charity bicycle ride will be held on March 15, 2014 starting at the SeaBreeze Recreation Center in The Villages.

    The event features a Metric Century (62 miles) beginning at 8:30 a.m., a 30-mile ride starting at 9:30 a.m., and a 10-mile ride starting at 10 a.m. Maps will be provided to participants, and traffic control assistance is provided by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

    Breakfast and lunch will be catered by “redsauce American-Italian Restaurant.” Riders will also receive a complimentary ticket for a raffle prize and free massage. A DJ will start the rides and a band will perform at lunch.

    The ride benefits Project Legacy and the Sumter County Youth Center in their efforts to help the children in the tri-county area. Last year, We Bike For Kids raised $12,000 for the two charities.

    For more information, visit: webikeforkids.com.

    Registration is now open on Active.com via the link below.

    Mother Sonya Bremmer Jailed On Multiple Felony Charges

     

    ocala post, reddick, ocala news, op,
    Sonya Bremmer [Mugshot]
    Reddick, Florida — In the early morning hours on January 5, 2013, Deputy Alan Lee assisted by Deputy John Lightle responded to the 6900 block of West Highway 316 at which point Deputy Lee made contact with a 16-year-old victim.

    The victim told Deputy Lee that her and her mother Sonya Michelle Bremmer, 42, had been drinking. The victim told Deputy Lee that her mother (Bremmer) forces her (the victim) to drink be because she (the mother) does not like to drink alone, and she gets upset if she does.

    The victim also said that her mom had been drinking all day and when she had picked her mom up around 8:30 p.m. she was already intoxicated.

    According to reports, the victim was concerned for her own safety. The victim said her mom becomes very violent when she drinks heavily so she (the victim) invited a friend over to stay the night.

    The victim said at some point her mom became very belligerent toward her and her friend so they retreated to a back room in an attempt to avoid any problems. Shortly after, Bremmer followed.

    According to reports, Bremmer became infuriated at her daughter for trying to avoid her and began to yell and curse. Bremmer then pushed her daughter (victim) into a wall and struck her in the face with an open backhand. The victims dog then jumped on Bremmer and bit her in the stomach ripping her shirt.

    The victim stated that after the dog bit her mom, her rage escalated. The victim then exited the room in an attempt to go outside and remove herself and the dog from the situation. Bremmer then tried to lock the victim out of the house.

    A short time later the victim made her way back into the house, at which time Bremmer again pushed the victim up against the wall, but this time the victim pushed back, and yelled stop. Bremmer then punched the victim in the face, busting her lower lip, according to reports. After being punched in the face, the victim tried to retrieve ice from the freezer which is a bottom freezer fridge. While the victim was bent over getting the ice, Bremmer kicked the freezer door shut causing the victim to fall and hit the left side of her face on a drawer in the kitchen.

    According to Deputy Lee, the victim did have noticeable injuries to her face and mouth.

    Deputy Lee interviewed the witness (friend) in the house who corroborated the victim’s story. Deputy Lee noted that he also made contact with Bremmer’s boyfriend who stated that Bremmer did in fact give the victim shots of liquor.

    According to reports, Bremmer was extremely intoxicated and her statements were not clear. However, reports indicate that Bremmer lied about hitting the victim, and says she did not give her alcohol; although she admitted to knowing the victim was drinking with her.

    Reports also show that Bremmer did have a laceration on her belly consistent with being bit by a dog. Bremmer told Deputy Lee that the dog attacked for no reason.

    Bremmer was placed under arrest and transported to the Marion County Jail.

    Derrick with The Department of Children and Families was notified as was Crisis Intervention, and photos were taken of the victims injuries.

    The victim was released into her grandmothers custody after medics examined the victim.

    Bremmer has a prior arrest in Brevard County for DUI and a previous conviction in Marion County for Battery.

    Bremmer is charged with Felony Child Abuse, Felony Battery, Felony Violation of Probation, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

    Kodi Matthews Body Found In Polk County

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    ocala news, ocala post, op, ocala,
    Kodi Lee Matthews

    Polk County, Florida — The search for a 19-year-old that went missing on January 1, 2013 came to a tragic end today.

    Kodi Lee Matthews’ body was found at 4:57 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, 2013. His body was located in a wooded area of Fish Hatchery Road in Lakeland, the same area in which he was last seen.

    Matthews’ family reported him missing after they tried contacting him several times but failed to reach him. Matthews’ family feared something was wrong, they say it was unlike Matthews not to return calls or check in with his family.

    Polk County Sheriff’s Office detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing and endangered person.

    The investigation is ongoing and an autopsy will performed to determine the manner and cause of death.

    Anyone with information on Matthews’ death is urged to contact the Polk County Sheriff’s office at 863-298-6200.

    Skeletal Remains Found In Ormond Beach

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    ormond beach, ocala post, ocala news, op, Ormond Beach, Florida — The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of human skeletal remains that were found early morning on January 4, 2013 near Ormond Beach.

    According to reports, an initial assessment of the remains determined that they are old, naturally bleached, and covered in mold. A few pieces of clothing were found around the remains as well.

    The Sheriff’s Office said they were notified about the remains at about 1 a.m. by a transient. He led deputies to a wooded area in the 1700-block of West Granada Boulevard. The human skeleton was found about 50 feet back from the road and near a homeless camp, according to deputies.

    The Volusia County Medical Examiner has taken possession of the remains. The remains will be examined in hopes of determining the age, sex, and possible cause of death.

    The Sheriff’ s Office Major Case unit is investigating.

    School Teacher And Tennis Coach Randy Majors Arrested

     

    colorado, ocala post, ocala news, randy majors, op, fruita
    Randy Majors [Mugshot]
    Fruita, Colorado — Teacher Randy Majors, 58, of Fruita was arrested after a parent that was going through her 16 year-old daughters Facebook account found private messages between her daughter and Majors.

    Majors is also a tennis coach.

    Majors is accused of asking female students to send him topless and nude photos of themselves.

    According to reports, the messages from Majors to the 16-year-old were sent in October. One of the messages read, “will you send me nude photos of yourself and not tell anyone.”

    When Majors was confronted by police he admitted he had asked several girls for nude photos. Majors also allowed police to seize his computer. After searching the computer police found several conversations with various female students between 15 to 17 years-of-age. Police also discovered nude photos of current and former female students as well as female athletes from the tennis team.

    Randy Majors has been teaching in Mesa county since 1994.

    Majors has not yet been dismissed from his position as a school teacher, according to the school district. According to reports, the school district is launching its own investigation into the allegations. A spokeswoman for the school said if they find the allegations are true, Majors will be dismissed at that time.

    Majors is facing three counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child and five counts of Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Child.

    Majors is due back in court on January, 10, 2014.

    Harley Gant Age 17 Missing

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    If you have any information about Harley Gant please contact the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000 or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678.

    Harley may also go by the name Holly.

    ocala news, ocala post, op,
    CLICK TO ENLARGE

     

     

    Charlie Crist Retracts His Anti-Gay Marriage Statement

     

    Charlie Crist, ocala post, ocala news, political
    Charlie Crist

    Florida — Former Florida Governor Charlie Crist has apologized for backing a state constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage in 2008 during an interview with an Orlando LGBT publication on December 31, 2013.

    I’m sorry I did that. It was a mistake. I was wrong. Please forgive me,” Crist said. Crist said, “he was a Republican trying to fit in.”

    Crist was a Republican when he served as governor from 2007 to 2011, but is now once again running for Governor of Florida as a Democrat.

    In 2008, he voted for the successful Amendment 2, which enshrined a ban against same-sex marriage in the state’s constitution. At the time, Crist said, he believed in the sanctity of marriage between a woman and a man.

    Now it seems as though Crist has changed his mind and completely supports controversial marriages between the same-sex.

    Conclusion, now Crist is a Democrat trying to fit in.

    Swine Flu Cases For 2014

     

    h1n1, swine flu, ocala post, ocala news, op, marion county, florida

    Brevard County, Florida — Health officials in Brevard county have confirmed several serious cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu) in the county.

    Health officials are urging residents to get a flu shot. A recent spike in cases has them concerned a possible outbreak of the Swine Flu could be on the horizon. Health officials do not want a repeat of 2009 when the Swine Flu infected millions of people.

    In a recent case, a pregnant woman who refused to get a flu shot, got the flu and ended up having the baby in late December while still with the flu. The woman is now listed in critical condition and reports say she may not make it.

    Swine Flu has also been recently reported in Alabama, Texas, Michigan, and Nebraska.

    According to the Alabama Department of Health, recent patients that had tested flu specimens were all identified as Influenza A, 2009 H1N1, commonly known as “swine flu”.

    Many people refuse to get the flu shot for religious reasons or the fear of side effects that have been reported across the country.

    Below are side effect reports, according to the CDC.

    The flu shot:

    The viruses in the flu shot are killed (inactivated), so you cannot get the flu from a flu shot. Some minor side effects that could occur are:

    • Soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given
    • Fever (low grade)
    • Aches
    • Nausea

    The nasal spray (also called LAIV):

    The viruses in the nasal-spray vaccine are weakened and do not cause severe symptoms often associated with influenza illness. (In clinical studies, transmission of vaccine viruses to close contacts has occurred only rarely.)

    In children, side effects from LAIV can include:

    • runny nose
    • wheezing
    • headache
    • vomiting
    • muscle aches
    • fever

    In adults, side effects from LAIV can include:

    • runny nose
    • headache
    • sore throat
    • cough

    If these problems occur, they begin soon after the shot and usually last 1 to 2 days. Almost all people who receive influenza vaccine have no serious problems from it. However, on rare occasions, flu vaccination can cause serious problems, such as severe allergic reactions. A federal program has been created to help pay for the medical care and other specific expenses of certain persons who have a serious reaction to this vaccine. For more information about this program, call 1-888-275-4772.

    The flu season hasn’t hit its peak just yet, that typically happens in January and February. The health department said there an abundant supply of vaccine available.

    According to the CDC, the flu kills more than 36,000 people nationwide every year.

    We want to hear from you. Do you believe in the H1N1 (Swine Flu) vaccine, or are you completely against it?

    Combi Car Seat Recall Alert

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    Combi USA Car Seat Recall Alert, ocala news, op, ocala post
    Combi USA Car Seat Recall Alert

    Combi USA, a Charlotte, North Carolina company, is recalling more than 33,000 Coccoro, Zeus Turn and Zeus 360 child car seats that could be putting your child in danger in the event of a car accident.

    Car seats made before January 2013 are being recalled because the harnesses aren’t strong enough and do not meet federal safety standards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the seat straps don’t meet minimum strength requirements. If there’s a crash, children may not be properly secured.

    Combi says they will notify “registered” owners and send out free harness replacement kits starting in February. If you have not registered your car seat you should contact Combi at (800) 543-7734.

    Make: COMBI

    Models: 8220 (COCCORO), 8815 (ZEUS TURN), 8836 (ZEUS 360)

    Production Dates: September 3, 2010 – December 5, 2012

    Noncompliance: Combi USA, Inc. (Combi) is recalling certain model 8220 (Coccoro) child restraints manufactured January 6, 2009, through December 5, 2012; model 8836 (Zeus 360) child restraints manufactured February 25, 2009, through May 24, 2012; and model 8815 (Zeus Turn) manufactured from July 15, 2007, through March 25, 2009.

    Consequence of not replacing the harness:

    In the event of a crash, a child may not remain adequately secured, increasing the risk of injury or death.

    However the company is claiming the seats are still safe to use, citing the harness as a whole meets safety standards. The company says it’s the part of the harness that includes a plastic button failed strength tests.

    Ocala Post urges parents not to take a chance and get the harness replaced regardless of Combi USA’s claims.

    Consumers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

    Counterfeit Cosmetics Health Warning

     

    Cosmetics fraud, ebay, ocala post, ocala news, new york
    FBI file photo

    You see what appears to be your favorite brand name eye shadow, eye liner, or fragrance for sale at a flea market or on an unfamiliar website. You notice the price is lower than what you normally pay at your favorite retail store or through an authorized online dealer.

    Before you hand over your hard-earned money, keep this in mind:

    It could be counterfeit, and in addition to buying something that’s not the real deal, consumers are also risking their health by buying and using products that may contain substandard or even dangerous substances.

    The National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Center of which the FBI is a partner wants you to know that the volume of all sorts of counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances coming into the U.S. is definitely on the rise…that’s according to our industry partners as well as law enforcement. Why is this happening? Because the Internet has given counterfeiters widespread access to customers, and because criminals increasingly view dealing in counterfeit personal care products as well as other knock-off consumer goods a relatively low-risk crime since many of the perpetrators are located outside of the U.S.

    Government and industry studies and testing have discovered that some of the ingredients that make up counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances are downright dangerous:

    • Phony cosmetics often contain things such as arsenic, beryllium, and cadmium (all known carcinogens) along with high levels of aluminum and dangerous levels of bacteria. Some of these products have caused conditions like acne, psoriasis, rashes, and eye infections that could lead to blindness.
    • Counterfeit fragrances have been found to contain something called DEHP, classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a probable human carcinogen. These phony perfumes and colognes, which often contain urine, have been known to cause serious skin rashes.
    Indicators of Counterfeits:

    • The packaging differs slightly from the authentic brand (might be a different color or different lettering on the product), and/or the product’s wrapping appears haphazard.
    • The product is being advertised as a “limited edition” even though the authentic manufacturer doesn’t offer it as a limited edition.
    • The price is either slightly or drastically lower.
    • For cosmetics, the product’s consistency or texture just doesn’t feel or look like the authentic brand.
    • For fragrances, there’s something a little off about the scent, and the color of the fluid in the bottle might be different than the original.
    • For both products, they’re being sold at non-authorized retailers, including flea markets, mall kiosks, and over the Internet.

    There is no typical profile of the individual(s) or groups trafficking in these kinds of counterfeit product, however groups from India have been known to traffic these types of products, and this might just be one of their many illegal activities, often times, the illicit proceeds are used to fund other types of crime. The National IPR Center says they have also seen people selling counterfeit products through online auction sites such as Ebay and other websites just to make a little extra cash, some may not even realize their merchandise is fake.

    New York, Bahamas, and Florida are just three of the areas that are hit the hardest by illegal counterfeit merchandise, although the illegal activity is not limited to these three areas.

    Because of the dangers to the public, law enforcement is mobilizing against counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances. For example, the nearly two dozen U.S. and foreign agencies that make up the National IPR Center are working on the matter sharing intelligence with one another, coordinating with state and local law enforcement, and developing relationships with industry representatives.

    The FBI and the National IPR Center need the public’s help.

    First, educate yourself about some of the common indicators of counterfeit cosmetics and fragrances so that you don’t become a victim. If you’re not sure about the authenticity of a product, don’t buy it.

    And second, if you think you or someone you know may have purchased counterfeit cosmetics or fragrances or if you suspect someone of selling counterfeit items, submit a tip to the National IPR Center. The more information law enforcement has, the more effective we can be. With the proliferation of counterfeit goods increasing at an alarming rate, the National IPR Center focuses on keeping these bogus and often unsafe products off U.S. streets while dismantling the criminal organizations behind this activity.

    Aubrey Price wanted by FBI, marijuana grow house in Marion County

     

    Aubrey Price, marion county, ocala post, new york, op, ocala news, marijuana
    Aubrey Lee Price LEFT-DMV-MIDDLE-FBI Wanted Photo-RIGHT-Mugshot from Glynn County Sheriff’s Office

    Marion County, Florida — On January 01, 2014, Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy Charles McIntosh responded to 16535 N.E. Jacksonville Road, in reference to a possible marijuana grow house. When Deputy McIntosh arrived, he was briefed by Deputy Jones, who was already on the scene.

    According to reports, Deputy Jones responded to the residence at the request of the owner Richard Snipes. Snipes stated he had returned from out of town and stopped by to check the property he rents to suspect Aubrey Lee Price, 47. Snipes stated the suspect also uses the name “Jason”. Snipes told deputies he observed several marijuana plants growing in the garage and also observed two Pit Bull dogs on the property.

    While investigating, Deputy McIntosh noticed a single-wide mobile home on the property and a detached garage. Reports also indicate there was an air-conditioning unit on the north side of the garage.

    Deputy McIntosh stated there was an opening next to the air conditioning unit, which allowed him to see into the garage area, at which time Deputy McIntosh observed several tall green plants believed to be marijuana. Deputy McIntosh also observed several bright lights throughout the room, where the plants were located.

    Sergeant McClain with the drug unit responded and assessed the situation, and then instructed deputies to stand by and wait for a search warrant. Deputy McIntosh secured the area until the search warrant was obtained. According to reports, once the warrant was obtained, Sergeant McClain returned with additional U.D.E.S.T. (Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team) agents and evidence technician Rachel Peavy.

    Reports show 225 marijuana plants were removed from the property in total: 140 plants were removed from the mobile home, and 85 plants were removed from the garage area.

    Further investigation by Ocala Post revealed that Aubrey Lee Price was wanted by both the FBI and Georgia officials.

    Price, originally from Lyons, Georgia, was indicted in July 2012 by a federal grand jury sitting in the Southern District of Georgia on a charge that he defrauded the Montgomery Bank & Trust, Ailey, Georgia, of over $21 million. He was arrested on December 31, 2013, by members of the Glynn County Sheriff’s Department during a routine traffic stop.

    According to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the indictment against Price shows that an investment group controlled by Price invested approximately $10 million in the failing Montgomery Bank & Trust (“MB&T”). Price was then made a director of MB&T and put in charge of investing the bank’s capital. Over an eighteen-month period, Price stole, misappropriated, and embezzled over $21 million from MB&T. To cover up his fraud, Price provided MB&T officials with bogus account statements, which falsely indicated that the bank’s capital was safely held in an account at a financial services firm.

    Before the December 31, 2013 arrest, Price was last seen in June 2012, boarding a ferry terminal in Key West, Florida, bound for Fort Myers, Florida. Price disappeared after writing a letter to acquaintances and regulators that he had lost a large amount of money, and that he planned to take his own life in Florida by throwing himself off of a moving ferry boat.

    The FBI says they have been actively searching for Price since the date of his disappearance. Price was arrested by deputies from the Glynn County Sheriff’s Department on Interstate 95 in Brunswick, Georgia, for a vehicle and traffic violation. When deputies learned of Price’s true identity, he was taken into custody.

    Price made his initial appearance on the federal arrest warrants on January 2, 2013, at 10:00 a.m., at the federal courthouse in Brunswick, Georgia.

    In the Southern District of Georgia, Price was charged with one count of bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Price also faces additional charges in New York. U.S. Attorney Edward Tarver emphasized that an indictment is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The drug house located in Marion County not only yielded a large quantity of marijuana, but also weapons and multiple fake IDs, including passports with Price’s photo on them. Price was reportedly using the name of David Guillermo Ramirez on his fraudulent ID’s.

    Marion County, Florida drug agents plan to travel to Georgia and question Price on the grow house as well as the multiple fraudulent IDs that were found inside the home.

    It is unclear at this time how Price obtained the weapons that were found inside the grow house.

    Animal control responded to the location and removed the Pit Bull dogs.

    This investigation is ongoing.

    Grandfather Bruce Fleming Shot On Christmas Day

     

    Bruce Fleming, ocala, ocala florida, ocala post, op, bruce fleming
    Bruce Fleming

    Deltona, Florida — The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after gunfire on Christmas morning in Deltona claimed the life of Bruce Fleming, 69. Investigators say they are trying to determine if the shooting was accidental, and if it was a stray bullet that hit Fleming.

    Deputies were dispatched to 3220 Cadehill Drive after the Sheriff’s Office’s Communications Center was notified of the shooting at 10:02 a.m.

    Fleming was in his backyard when he was shot by a bullet in the chest. He was taken by ambulance to Florida Hospital Fish Memorial in Orange City, where he was pronounced dead.

    According to reports, it appears that the fatal shot came from a property adjacent to where Fleming lived.

    A neighbor built a makeshift shooting range with a berm that is not at the proper height and investigators say it’s possible that a stray bullet may have struck Fleming. Deputies are currently interviewing the man who fired the fatal shot, according to reports.

    The Sheriff’s Office’s Major Case Unit continues to work with the Volusia County Medical Examiner’s Office as well as the 7th Judicial Circuit’s Homicide Investigative Unit to bring the case to conclusion. Items of forensic evidence collected during the investigation have been sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for analysis.

    Bruce Fleming is described as, “a true family man, a man that was always smiling and loved his family and friends. A man of God that would display kindness to anyone.”

    Investigators are not releasing the shooters name at this time, and no decision on whether to file criminal charges has been made.

    WARNING: 911 Call is unedited

    Two dead in Rainbow Lakes near Dunnellon

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    Photo Courtesy of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office

    Marion County, Florida — On December 29, 2013 at approximately 9 p.m. the Marion County Sheriff’s Office said that they are now investigating two deaths in the Rainbow Lakes area near Dunnellon.

    According to reports, a family friend got concerned when he had not heard from the deceased , and he checked on the house.

    Both Latalia Robinson, 32, and her estranged husband Dean Hamilton, 33, were found dead inside the house from what is being described as gunshot wounds.

    According to investigators, Robinson was an employee at West Port High School and Hamilton an employee at Cheney Brothers.

    Investigators are calling this a domestic violence death investigation. Investigators have not yet ruled out murder-suicide.

    This investigation is ongoing.

    $78,000 Stolen From Home In Dunnellon

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    $78,000 in cash stolen in Dunnellon, Florida

    Dunnellon, Florida — On December 22, 2013 $78,000 in cash was stolen from his motor-home in the Lake Tropicana area of Dunnellon.

    Charles Samuel Gensamer, 85, told deputies that the 2008 Winnebago was locked when he went to bed Saturday night. Gensamer said he was alerted when heard the smoke detector in the motor-home sounding off early Sunday. According to reports, the door was open and all of the drawers and cabinets had been opened and rummaged through. Reports indicate that two built-in safes were missing. One of the safes contained the cash; the other contained photos and personal items. According to investigators, the money was packaged in $4,000 increments inside of envelopes.

    According to reports, Gensamer kept the cash in the motor-home so he could be ready in the event of a hurricane or natural disaster. His wife is paralyzed and he wanted to make sure they could leave quickly, according to reports.

    Be on the lookout for individuals flaunting newly “found” money.

    If you have any information about this theft you are urged to contact the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at 352-732-9111. Tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Marion County by calling 352-368-STOP(7867), going to their website at www.ocalacrimestoppers.com or by texting to 274637 using keyword 368STOP.