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    Condoms washed, repackaged and sold as new

    Ocala Post
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    39
    Condoms washed, repackaged and sold as new
    used condoms, ocala post, world news
    Handout

    It was a sticky situation when police in Vietnam said they found between 320,000 and 350,000 used condoms that had been collected to be repackaged and sold as new. The condoms weighed nearly 800 pounds.

    Police got the tip and raided a factory in the Binh Duong province near Ho Chi Minh City.

    The factory is owned by a 34-year-old woman who confessed to paying an unnamed man to collect the used condoms.

    It wasn’t a hard sale. The woman said that she would be paid .17 cents per 2 pounds of repackaged condoms.

    According to a press release, many of the condoms had already been repackaged and sold at local markets.

    The woman told police that the condoms would be boiled, washed, reshaped using a wooden tool, and then repackaged. The condoms would then be placed into plastic bags and shipped to buyers.

    Authorities said they are not sure if any of the condoms made it to the U.S, but did confirm that thousands had already been sold to retailers who were selling them at local markets and online.

    Health officials have joined the investigation.

    The woman, who was not named, was also arrested.

    Armed robbery suspect on the loose, can you identify?

    Ocala Post
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    2
    Armed robbery suspect on the loose, can you identify?

    Ocala, Florida — The Ocala Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying an armed robbery suspect.

    On September 4, an unidentified black male walked into the Martin Oil gas station at the corner of SW 10th ST and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and pretended to do business with the cashier.

    During the encounter, the suspect pulled a handgun and robbed the store.

    He got away with an undisclosed amount of money.

    No injuries were reported.

    If you have any information, please contact OPD at 352-369-7000 or Crime Stoppers at 352-368-7867.

    Human remains found in retention pond identified

    Ocala Post
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    5
    Human remains found in retention pond identified

    human remains, ocala news, ocala post

    Ocala, Florida — On September 15, the Ocala Police Department responded to the 4900 block of E. Silver Springs Blvd. after a maintenance crew found badly decomposed human skeletal remains in a drainage retention pond.

    Even though the body was badly decomposed, the Leesburg Medical Examiner’s Office was able to use tattoos and other visible markings to identify the body.

    On September 23, the body was identified as 50-year-old Amy LaFerriere of Ellington, CT.

    Detectives found empty liquor bottles, a grey jacket, and a wig near Ellington’s body. She was dressed in black shorts and a shirt and investigators found an EBT card in one of the pockets.

    Police said they had had previous dealings with Ellington due to public intoxication. Officials also stated that she was homeless.

    Foul play is not suspected at this time, however, detectives are still waiting for the Medical Examiner’s office to determine the cause of death.

    Health officials say Marion County seeing drop in COVID-19 cases

    Ocala Post
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    2
    Health officials say Marion County seeing drop in COVID-19 cases

    covid-19, marion county, ocala news, ocala post

    Ocala, Florida — The Florida Department of Health says that Marion County is moving in a positive direction as far as local COVID-19 cases. The department says they are seeing a drop in the number of new cases reported each day and a reduction in the daily positivity rate.

    “We’re seeing a 50% or more reduction in the average daily positivity rate and in the number of new cases announced each day compared to where we were one month ago,” said Department of Health in Marion County Administrator Mark Lander. “This is encouraging to see, and it shows how well mitigation measures work in minimizing the transmission of the virus.”

    From cases reported Sept. 16 to 22, Marion saw an average of:

    · 39 new cases per day

    · 1.14 COVID-19 related deaths per day

    · 4.44% daily positivity rate

    In comparison, from cases reported Aug. 16 to 22, Marion saw an average of:

    · 109 new cases per day

    · 3 COVID-19 related deaths per day

    · 11.94% daily positivity rate

    “Although we are moving in the right direction in terms of COVID-19 numbers, it’s important that we don’t become complacent in fighting the spread of COVID-19,” Lander said. “We need to continue to wear masks when in public, practice social distancing, stay home when sick and follow other basic precautions to protect ourselves and others from the virus.”

    Marion County is reporting 9,491 cumulative cases of COVID-19 as of this afternoon. This is an increase of 38 cases since yesterday (Sept. 21). Of Marion COVID-19 tests from Sept. 21, 5.87% were positive; the county’s cumulative positive test rate is 13.3%. The daily positivity rate for all new COVID-19 tests in Florida on Sept. 21 was 5.83%; the state’s cumulative positive rate is 13.38%.

    Testing still being offered locally

    The department continues to offer COVID-19 testing at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion (2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala) several days a week. Available dates are posted at http://marion.floridahealth.gov/events.

    Testing runs from 8 to 10 a.m. on the scheduled dates. People who would like to be tested can line their vehicles up starting at 7:30 a.m. on each testing day. Testing will run until 10 a.m. or until the day’s available samples are used, whichever comes first. To be tested, individuals should bring a valid photo ID; minors under age 18 will only be tested if they are accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

    People should be prepared for to stay in their vehicles while waiting for testing; restroom facilities will not be available. Only people who are being tested should be in the vehicle, with the exception of parents, guardians or caregivers. No pets are permitted in the vehicle during tests. For more information, call the Marion County COVID-19 Hotline at 352-644-2590.

    Residents and visitors can also be tested for COVID-19 at other local health facilities, including:

    · Heart of Florida Health Center

    · Langley Health Services

    · Local urgent/express care facilities

    · Some primary care providers

    · Some pharmacies/labs

    Before visiting a specific facility for a COVID-19 test, contact the business to let them know you would like to be tested. Each site may have its own procedures or availability windows for testing.

    Two career criminals arrested after stealing car from a motel

    Ocala Post
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    Two career criminals arrested after stealing car from a motel

    ocala news, ocala post, grand theft
    Michael Joseph Pent Jr. [left] and Zachary Alan Hamel
    Ocklawaha, Florida — Two car thieves are behind bars after they were arrested for stealing a car from the Microtel Inn & Suites, located at 1771 Southwest 134th Street, Ocala.

    The victim told deputies that he had given the suspect, later identified as Zachary Alan Hamel, 22, a ride to the motel the night before.

    The victim stated that the following morning Hamel asked for the car keys because he needed to retrieve his things from the car. The victim said he gave Hamel the keys but instructed him to bring them right back. He said he did not tell Hamel he could use the vehicle.

    Moments later, the victim said he noticed that Hamel had not returned with the keys, went outside, and saw that his car was gone.

    Surveillance footage showed that Hamel got into the vehicle with a known criminal, Michael Joseph Pent Jr., 20.

    The car was equipped with a GPS tracker, which deputies used to locate the vehicle in the 13000 block of Highway 25, Ocklawaha. The vehicle was parked behind a residence.

    The owner of the residence, who stated that he thought it was weird that the two had parked behind the home, gave deputies permission to enter the property.

    Hamel and Pent were located inside the home. Hemel was allegedly using the bathroom and Pent was hiding in the shower.

    Pent told deputies that he did not know that Hamel had stolen the vehicle. He said he was hiding because he does not like cops.

    Hamel and Pent were charged with Grand Theft Auto.

    Pent had just been arrested in August.

    Both suspects have a lengthy criminal history.

    Man battered his mother while driving, had recently been released from jail

    Ocala Post
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    Man battered his mother while driving, had recently been released from jail
    ocala news, ocala post, mother, ocklawaha, battery
    Jared Hanson

    Ocklawaha, Florida — A 29-year-old Ocklawaha man is behind bars again following a physical altercation with his mother.

    He had just been released from jail on June 24.

    According to the victim’s mother, she and her son, Jared Hanson, were riding in a car when the two began to argue. Hanson was in the passenger seat and his mother was driving.

    During the argument, Hanson started screaming at his mother, and at one point, attempted to put the vehicle in park while it was in motion.

    According to reports, Hanson got physical with his mother, and forcefully grabbed her wrists as she was trying to drive.

    The mother was able to stop the vehicle safely and notify the police.

    Hanson was arrested and charged with Battery, Violation of Probation for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and VOP for Battery on an Elderly Person. Additionally, Hanson was found to be in possession of drugs and charged with Possession of Crystal Meth.

    Hanson was arrested in April of 2020 when police responded to a domestic disturbance and found Hanson standing over the top of the victim screaming at him. The deputy reported that there was blood smeared on the walls, doors, and a large puddle of blood on the floor where the badly beaten victim was lying.

    At that time, Hanson’s mother told the deputy that her son had been out all night and came home early in the morning and “exploded.” She told the deputy “he went crazy” and that she believed her son was on drugs. She said it all started when Jared became enraged because the victim would not give up the car keys.

    According to the arrest affidavit, when the victim told Hanson he could not take the car, Hanson punched him in the face several times. While the victim was on the ground, Hanson also kicked him multiple times. During the altercation, the victim was also repeatedly struck with a porcelain doll, which shattered into pieces.

    When Hanson stopped battering the victim, he grabbed a butcher knife and threatened to stab him. Jared held the knife to the victim’s chest and stated that he would kill him. The deputy arrived a short time later.

    Hanson’s mother told the deputy that when her son is under the influence of drugs he thinks people are trying to rape and poison him.

    When questioned about what he had done to the victim, Hanson stated, “I bitch slapped him because he was acting like a female.”

    Hanson was arrested and taken to a local hospital for evaluation. While at the hospital, Hanson was able to get out of the handcuffs. He resisted arrested and had to be subdued, at which time he was handcuffed to a hospital bed.

    He is currently being held without bond. His next court date is slated for October 14, 2020.

    Lee Farkas, former owner of Taylor Bean & Whitaker, a free man after 9 years

    Ocala Post
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    Lee Farkas, former owner of Taylor Bean & Whitaker, a free man after 9 years
    ocala news, ocala post, lee farkas
    Lee Farkas

    Ocala, Florida — A wholesale mortgage executive responsible for one of the largest fraud schemes in U.S history has been released from prison after only serving nine years of a 30-year sentence at Coleman prison in Wildwood, Florida

    Lee Farkas, 67, was released after he petitioned the court due to COVID-19 concerns.

    Farkas was the majority owner of one of the nation’s largest wholesale mortgage companies, Taylor Bean & Whitaker, when the company engaged in fraud estimated at $2.9 billion.

    Prior to the company being defunct, it was valued at more than 30 billion.

    The collapse of the company was directly linked to the Great Recession and caused the loss of more than 2,000 jobs. It also caused the sixth-largest bank collapse in U.S history, which was Colonial Bank.

    At the time, Farkas owned multiple Ocala businesses, including Compass Gym, Ipanema, Dee Dee’s Hot Dogs, Cactus Car Wash, just to mention a few.

    Farkas owned several luxury vehicles, including a fully restored vintage Rolls-Royce. Additionally, he owned a private jet and multiple luxury homes.

    According to court records, U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, said, “Yes it was a large financial crime, but he was not the only person engaged in that type of crime.”

    The judge released Farkas based on his age and health condition. The judge said COVID-19 running rampant through the prison system was a huge concern, therefore she felt it was best to release him.

    Prosecutors disagreed, but the judge said that Farkas is a non-violent criminal and that his health was a huge concern giving the circumstances.

    Farkas will live with his sister in Albuquerque after he completes a 14-day quarantine.

    More than a half-dozen Colonial and Taylor Bean & Whitaker executives pleaded guilty to their roles in the fraud.

    Taylor Bean treasurer Desiree Brown cooperated with the FBI. She allowed her phones to be tapped and had dozens of recorded conversations with Farkas. Brown testified against Farkas at his 2011 trial in return for a lighter sentence — a 20-year sentence reduced by 60 percent. In the end, she was sentenced to six years.

    Court documents show that Brown was a key player in the day-to-day aspects that made the majority of the fraud possible.

    Illegal Russian immigrant to face multiple felony charges after injuring two Ocala police officers

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    Illegal Russian immigrant to face multiple felony charges after injuring two Ocala police officers
    ocala news, ocala post, high speed chase
    Mijail Koshenskov

    Ocala, Florida — An illegal Russian immigrant who lives in Gainesville is being held without bond after he was arrested on an outstanding warrant for aggravated battery on two Ocala Police Department police officers.

    The incident began last September.

    On September 19, 2019, officers responded to Scott Springs Park in reference to a stolen vehicle out of Alachua County.

    Upon arrival, Officer Paz saw a male suspect, later identified as Mijail Koshenskov, 32, sitting inside the vehicle.

    Officer Paz approached the vehicle with his gun drawn and instructed Koshenskov to exit the vehicle, which he refused to do.

    According to reports, Officer Paz then opened the driver’s side door, at which time Koshenskov started the vehicle. At that time, Officer Paz reached inside the vehicle and grabbed Koshenskov and attempted to drag him from the vehicle. Koshenskov then put the vehicle in reverse and began dragging Officer Paz.

    A second officer on the scene, Sgt. Fried, attempted to help Officer Paz and was struck by the vehicle door as the suspect reversed the vehicle.

    Koshenskov then led police on a high-speed chase with speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour. The chase went from Ocala to Alachua County. The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office picked up the chase once Koshenskov entered their jurisdiction.

    The ACSO deployed stop sticks and disabled the stolen vehicle, at which time Koshenskov exited the vehicle and fled into a wooded area on foot.

    He was later tracked down using a K-9 and taken into custody.

    On December 18, 2019, Koshenskov was sentenced to 300 days with 91 days of time served in the Alachua County Jail.

    Upon his release, he was transported to the Marion County Jail where he will face charges of Aggravated Battery on an Officer (x2), Fleeing and Eluding, Resisting Arrest, and Driving without a Driver’s License.

    His next court date is slated for September 26, 2020.

    According to reports, the two officers sustained minor injuries during the incident.

    Police said the chase lasted for 35 miles.

    Woman removed adult toy from package, used it while still in store

    Ocala Post
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    Woman removed adult toy from package, used it while still in store
    adult toy, sex toy, ocala post, ocala news
    Theresa Stanley

    Fort Pierce, Florida — It was a sticky situation when a Florida woman was arrested after she removed a sex toy from a shelf, stripped off her clothes, and began pleasuring herself while still in the store.

    Police identified the woman as 36-year-old Theresa Stanley.

    According to the arrest affidavit, by the time police arrived at the Lion’s Den, Stanley was completely nude and had moved to the stock room area to continue pleasuring herself.

    The report states that when a police officer entered the stock room, Stanley stopped what she was doing and dropped to the floor.

    “When I entered the room she was sitting in an office chair with her legs spread and propped up on a desk. She was using a pink, penis-shaped toy to masturbate herself,” the officer wrote.

    Stanley, who was intoxicated, told police she just couldn’t resist.

    The adult toy was valued at $45.98. The merchandise was taken as evidence but later returned to the store. The store said they disposed of the unit for sanitary reasons.

    The store manager said that Stanley also tried on several outfits while in the store.

    Stanley was charged with Petit Theft, Indecent Exposure, and Lewd Behavior.

    FWC: Picking saw palmetto berries could get you arrested

    Ocala Post
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    FWC: Picking saw palmetto berries could get you arrested
    saw palmetto berries, ocala news, ocala post
    saw palmetto berries

    The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission wants to remind everyone that as the berries come to fruit to follow the laws of Florida.

    According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as of July 2018, a permit is required to harvest saw palmetto berries in Florida.

    In 2019, Ocala Post reported on two Marion County residents who were illegally harvesting the berries and arrested by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. The two were harvesting the berries after midnight on a Friday in the vicinity of the Baseline Trailhead Park when they were spotted as the MCSO helicopter happened to be in the area.

    What are the new requirements for a contract harvester of palmetto berries on public or private land?

    • The contract harvester must possess written permission from the landowner or the legal representative prior to harvest
    • The contract harvester must also possess a Native Plant Harvesting Permit from the Department prior to harvest.
    • The permit application must be submitted fourteen (14) days prior to the intended date of harvest.

    What are the new requirements for any person transporting for sale, selling, or offering for sale saw palmetto berries?

    • A person transporting for sale, selling, or offering for sale saw palmetto berries, which is harvested from the person’s own property, must possess a Native Plant Harvesting Permit from the Department.
    • The permit application must be submitted fourteen (14) days prior to the intended date of harvest.

    What enforcement action can be taken if these requirements are not followed?

    If found by law enforcement officials to not meet the requirements above, the harvester or person transporting for sale, selling, or offering for sale saw palmetto berries may be charged with a misdemeanor. The illegally harvested berries will be confiscated and returned to the owner. If the owner cannot be located, the berries will be destroyed.

    According to officials, saw palmetto is a supplement made from the fruit of the Serenoa repens tree, which is commercially exploited.

    It’s often used to treat enlarged prostate, improve urinary function, and enhance hair growth. Some also use the supplement to boost libido and fertility and reduce inflammation. Additionally, saw palmetto is claimed to have anti-cancer effects.

    Allegedly, Native Americans have long used the berry for its nutritional, sedative, diuretic, aphrodisiac, and cough-reducing properties.

    Woman who held knife to man’s genitals now charged with murder

    Ocala Post
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    Woman who held knife to man’s genitals now charged with murder
    ocala news, ocklawaha, ocala post
    Yvonne Wilkerson

    Ocklawaha, Florida — An Oklawaha woman who had previously been arrested for holding a knife to a man’s genitals has now been charged with Second Degree Murder.

    On Wednesday, September 9, 2020, Detective Pinder with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) arrested Yvonne Wilkerson.

    On August 27, 2020, MCSO deputies responded to Tall Pines Mobile Home Park, located at 11565 E Highway 25, Ocklawaha, Florida after Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) had discovered 85-year-old Jessie Blanding deceased inside of his residence.

    On the scene, investigators saw a wooden-handled hammer laying nearby and noted that the victim had suffered blunt force trauma injuries to his head and face.

    Detectives discovered that Wilkerson had been living with the victim.

    Article continued below

    Neighbors reported that the victim had not been seen for a couple of days.

    Wilkerson was later located and arrested on a separate outstanding warrant.

    While in custody, Wilkerson was interviewed about the murder of Blanding, at which time she stated she struck the victim at least three times with a hammer. Additionally, she said that Blanding was not fighting back.

    Wilkerson stated, “I don’t know why I could not stop myself from hitting him.”

    Wilkerson is being held without bond.

    $500 scholarship opportunity for students

    Ocala Post
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    4
    $500 scholarship opportunity for students

    ocala news, free scholarship, marion county news, legal field, law, ocala post, dean and dean, mary sullivan

    Ocala, Florida — The Marion County Legal Support Association is now accepting applications for the Mary Sullivan Scholarship Award in the amount of $500.00 for students interested in obtaining a degree in the legal field.

    The deadline to apply for the scholarship is December 1, 2020.

    No application fee.

    For scholarship information and/or an application packet, please contact Scholarship Chair, Lisa M. Wilson, FRP, at lisa@deananddean.net or 352-368-2800 x 108.

    Sheriff Prendergast refuses to require deputies to use body cameras or dash cams

    Ocala Post
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    0
    Sheriff Prendergast refuses to require deputies to use body cameras or dash cams
    citrus county taxes, body cams, dash cams
    Sheriff Prendergast refuses to require any type of camera for his deputies.

    Citrus County — While most sheriff’s offices across the state utilize dash and body cams, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office does not use either. Not one CCSO patrol car has a dashcam.

    In fact, Sheriff Prendergast refuses to use them, and county records show that he has never attempted to make a request for them.

    Despite multiple forum complaints of CCSO deputies turning on their emergency lights, and blowing through red lights, just to turn them off, Predenergast does not see the need. In one complaint, two deputies activated their emergency lights, blew through a red light in front of Home Depot on U.S. 19 just to get down the road, and turned into Fat Daddy’s for lunch. Other complaints reveal deputies doing well over the posted speed limit.

    Sam Mullins, wrote, “Where is the accountability? Because right now, there is none. The sheriff thinks his deputies can do no wrong and that is not the case.”

    A local business owner, wrote, “I see it all the time. I see them run red lights and then turn into a parking lot to go into a store or restaurant. At least two times a week. I have set up cameras and considered posting videos. But I am afraid of the backlash because this is a good old boy town. My advice to everyone is to get your own dashcam.”

    “Get your own dashcam” was a sentiment shared more than 1000 times on a group Facebook post in regards to the CCSO.

    Lack of accountability was demonstrated in May when a witness recorded two deputies using excessive force on a mentally ill, homeless woman. A woman who CCSO deputies already knew was mentally ill from previous dealings with her.

    In that case, Citrus Gazette viewed the video, which showed the petit woman being tossed around like a ragdoll. At the request of the witness, the video was not published. The witness, who is a store manager, said she feared retaliation from the CCSO.

    Prendergast says that “great leadership” makes the difference, not body cameras.

    Corrections officer suspended over attempted jailbreak

    Ocala Post
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    Corrections officer suspended over attempted jailbreak

    jailbreak, mcso, ocala news, ocala post

    Ocala, Florida — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office says they are taking bids and have set aside over $500,000 to have new fencing and razor wire installed around the jail.

    The decision comes after an inmate, Alexander Wayne Phillip, 20, who had recently been released, attempted to break out another inmate, Ronald Hasty.

    Officials say that on July 13, after being released, Phillip used bolt cutters to cut through a small section of fencing. Phillip then went to the window where Hasty was being held and began smashing the window with a pickaxe. However, Phillip got spooked and ran off.

    The jail is currently surrounded by fence and razor wire but officials say they want to reinforce it.

    On Tuesday, officials announced that Marion County Jail corrections officer Brandon Dowels has been suspended for six weeks for his failure to do a security check on the day of the attempted jailbreak.

    During an internal affairs investigation, it was learned that Dowels volunteered to do the security check of the area but did not because he “got busy.” Instead, he disappeared for a 45-minute lunch break, and when he returned, he said “it slipped his mind.”

    He also admitted that he failed to do a security check of the roof area.

    Dowels is suspended without pay.

    The only inmate to ever escape was Yarnell Bagley.

    MCSO sets aside over $500,000 for fencing around the jail, corrections officer suspended over attempted jailbreak

    Ocala Post
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    MCSO sets aside over $500,000 for fencing around the jail, corrections officer suspended over attempted jailbreak

    federal Prison Rape Elimination Act , rape in jail, ocal anews, marion county news, marion county jail

    [Last updated on September 8, at 5:02 p.m.]

    The Marion County Sheriff’s Office says they are taking bids and have set aside over $500,000 to have new fencing and razor wire installed around the jail.

    The decision comes after an inmate, Alexander Wayne Phillip, 20, who had recently been released, attempted to break out another inmate, Ronald Hasty.

    Officials say that on July 13, after being released, Phillip used bolt cutters to cut through a small section of fencing. Phillip then went to the window where Hasty was being held and began smashing the window with a pickaxe. However, Phillip got spooked and ran off.

    The jail is currently surrounded by fence and razor wire but officials say they want to reinforce it.

    On Tuesday, officials announced that Marion County Jail corrections officer Brandon Dowels has been suspended for six weeks for his failure to do a security check on the day of the attempted jailbreak.

    During an internal affairs investigation, it was learned that Dowels volunteered to do the security check of the area but did not because he “got busy.” Instead, he disappeared for a 45-minute lunch break, and when he returned, he said “it slipped his mind.”

    He also admitted that he failed to do a security check of the roof area.

    Dowels was suspended without pay.

    The only inmate to ever escape was Yarnell Bagley.

    Homicide investigation underway in Summerfield

    Ocala Post
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    Homicide investigation underway in Summerfield

    sumerfiled shooting, ocala news, ocala post

    Summerfield, Florida — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a homicide that took place in Summerfield on Tuesday.

    The homicide occurred in the area of SE 36th Avenue and SE 147th Lane. When deputies arrived they found a body inside the home.

    Homicide investigators are in the beginning stages of the investigation and have not released much information, including age, gender, or how the victim died.

    Officials said the death is being considered a homicide due to evidence collected at the scene.

    No arrests have been made.

    This is a developing story.

    If you have any information, call MCSO at 352-732-9111, Crime Stoppers at 352-368-7867, or visit www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.

    Detectives investigating after man and woman shot in Ocala

    Ocala Post
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    Detectives investigating after man and woman shot in Ocala

    shooting, ocala news, ocala post

    Ocala Police Department responded to the area of SW 12th Avenue near Carver Park at approximately 8:32 p.m Monday following reports of gunfire.

    Upon arrival, police found two victims — a male and a female.

    The Male was found to be suffering from a life-threatening gunshot would and was transported by EMS to a local hospital. The female was transported to a hospital by a family member with non-life-threatening injuries.

    At this time there are no suspects in custody, however, OPD stated that detectives are following up on leads.

    Anyone with any information about this shooting can call the Ocala Police Department at 352-369-7000 or contact Crime Stoppers at 368-7867 or www.ocalacrimestoppers.com.

    Ocala man captured in Indiana, faces molestation charges

    Ocala Post
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    5
    Ocala man captured in Indiana, faces molestation charges
    ocala post, ocala news, molestation,
    Angel Acosta-Cruz

    Angel Manuel Acosta-Cruz was captured in East Chicago, Indiana, and extradited back to Marion County to face molestation charges.

    Acosta-Cruz had been on the run for approximately two years.

    According to the arrest affidavit, in 2018, authorities received information that Acosta-Cruz had sexually molested two young boys — one under the age of 12 and the other between 12 and 16. The boys were molested on separate occasions.

    The boys stated that Acosta-Cruz instructed them not to tell anyone and bribed them with gifts.

    According to the victims, they did not report the incident right away because they were scared.

    Acosta-Cruz is charged with Sexual Assault on a Victim Under 12 and Lewd and Lascivious Battery on a Victim Between 12 and 16.

    He is being held at the Marion County Jail without bond. His next court date is slated for October 6.

    Florida woman urinated in front of deputy, offered to “go down” on him

    Ocala Post
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    Florida woman urinated in front of deputy, offered to “go down” on him

    ocala post, ocala news, leesburg

    Leesburg, Florida — A young woman who could have gotten a ride home found herself behind bars with a felony charge after she urinated in front of a deputy and attempted to bribe him.

    When Lake County deputies discovered a young woman sitting in the median of US 27 in Leesburg around 2 a.m., they offered to sit with her until someone could pick her up.

    Madison Ann Bryant, 19, told deputies she had exited a nearby truck after arguing with her boyfriend about “relationship issues.”

    While waiting for a ride, Bryant told the deputy that she had to urinate and that she intended to do so on the side of the road. The deputy instructed her not to and offered to drive her to a nearby gas station.

    Bryant, who was heavily intoxicated, did not want to wait. Instead, she pulled down her pants, and while holding on to the push bars of the patrol vehicle, began to urinate as traffic was passing by.

    As she was urinating, a Leesburg police officer who was on the scene walked away.

    When Bryant was finished, she pulled up her pants, at which time she was placed in handcuffs.

    On the way to the Lake County Jail, Bryant began to repeatedly ask for her Juul (a vaping device) that the deputy had confiscated from her, but the deputy refused. She stated that she needed it for anxiety.

    Bryant then asked the deputy if he was married and had children.

    When the deputy answered, Bryant stated, “I am not trying to f**k that up. I will suck your d**k [if you give me back my Juul.]”

    Bryant was charged with Disorderly Conduct/Public Intoxication and Attempting to Bribe a Public Servant, which is a felony.

    She was released on a $3,000 bond.

    Ocala Post requested the dashcam video, but it was not available at the time this article was published.

    bestiality, citrus gazette, animal abuseFlorida man arrested for mounting horse

     

     

     

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    Remembering “Tony” Wu Li, owner of Tony’s Sushi

    Byron Durning
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    Remembering “Tony” Wu Li, owner of Tony’s Sushi

    Ocala has lost an icon.

    Tony’s Sushi Japanese Steakhouse owner, “Tony” Wu Li, died Saturday at the age of 46.

    Tony’s family said that Tony had a brain tumor and died from complications related to surgery.

    The restaurant, located 3405 SW State Road 200, has long been the favorite of many in Ocala. From the atmosphere to the food, Tony’s Sushi has always been one of the greats, if not the best.

    Those in Ocala who had the pleasure of meeting Tony knew what kind of person he was. You were never “just a customer” because he always made everyone feel like family. He was known for being a loving, fun guy.

    Tony was adored by many and thousands have expressed their sincerest condolences on Facebook.

    Erika Hensley, wrote, “I really don’t know what to say as I am lost. You were such a huge part of my life for many years, and even though I became a teacher and moved to another county when I came to visit you at the restaurant, you hugged me, had lunch with me, or visited with Mia and I trying to steal her nose and asking me life was going. There were a lot of ups and downs for me as I worked for you. You hired me when I was 20 years old and a bit of a mess. You helped me grow up, taught me the value of having a great work ethic, and not to be “shellfish” (which I always teased you about and you told me to shut up). You knew before I did that I was pregnant with Mia and helped motivate me into getting into education. If I ever needed a job, or even a second job, you and Jane welcomed me back with open arms. I wasn’t perfect, but you always pushed me to be better, stronger, faster. I would not be who I am without you.”

    Rhiannon Glunz, wrote, “I thought you would live forever.. 23 years of knowing you were just not enough. You were an inspiration, touching the lives of many people.. and bringing much joy, stability, and consistency, especially to those who needed it most. Thank you for being such a great friend, employer, and just an overall decent person in this world. I remember meeting you at 14 years old and thinking you were the most badass samurai warrior (such an enormous presence), with the best restaurant in town… we always had so much fun working and picking on each other. And you honored me greatly when I moved on to my own business, and you hired me to work in yours and your families/friends’ homes, and continued to consider me over all of the years. Now, at 37 years old, this impression has never changed. You will forever remain as a warrior in my mind and heart. I will always be grateful for knowing you. May your soul rest forever in peace.. you will be sorely and immensely missed, old friend ♥️.”

    Byron Jennings, wrote, “I’m not always good with words or putting my feeling out. But I had the privilege of knowing a wise man that was like a brother a councilor bodyguard a true friend. It really hard for me to this on. I’m going to miss you Tony Li til we meet again. You and your family will always have a place in my heart. The craziness thing just happened my brother Mark Dodge just called me to make sure I’m ok we are grieving together in our own way. God, please watch over our loved ones in Jesus’ name amen.”

    To his employees, he wasn’t just a great boss. He was a mentor, a father figure, and a great friend who always had a smile on his face.

    “Tony was a wonderful family man. He loved his family and he loved his customers. He was honest to God great guy who left us too early. He truly is an icon…a shining light. My heart goes out to his sweet wife. I hope the family heals quickly from this loss,” wrote Brian Johnson.

    Tony’s wife, Jane Li, said she would like to thank the community for their support during this difficult time. She said she deeply appreciates the warm condolences.

    Tony’s Sushi opened in 2000.

    [Video:Tony’s version of the chicken dance on his birthday]

     

     

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