Osceola County News Feed

10-Year-Old Missing

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-227

Osceola County Sheriff's deputies need the public's help in locating a 10-year-old boy missing since 2:15 p.m. this afternoon. Moises Reynaldo Liriano was last seen at his residence on Madrid Drive in Poinciana. Moises is legally blind with a diminished mental capacity. He stayed home sick from school today because he had a high fever. Moises is described as a Hispanic male with hazel eyes and brown hair. He is 4'0” tall and weighs 50 lbs. He was last seen wearing a dark blue polo shirt and a white diaper with no shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Osceola County Sheriff's Office at (407) 348-2222 or Crimeline at (800) 423-TIPS.

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Detectives Arrest Suspect

Osceola County, Florida

PR #09-225

On November 6, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested Phillip Lee Rogers and charged him with one count of Attempted/Assisting in Self Murder for his involvement in his wife's attempted suicide.

The investigation began on September 19 when deputies responded to 2801 Sweet Plum Court in Kissimmee in reference to an attempted suicide. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with Rogers who told deputies he and his wife, Tammy Rogers had been drinking and arguing that day. Rogers told Tammy, “why don't you just kill yourself.” Tammy asked Phil to give her his gun and he did. Rogers went on to tell detectives Tammy held the gun to her head but it did not go off, so she gave the gun back to Rogers who put a round in the chamber. Tammy then shot herself. She was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center. Her injuries were not fatal but she has limited day-to-day functions and her family is caring for her.

After further investigation and based on the information Rogers provided, a felony warrant was issued on November 6 and Rogers was booked into the Osceola County Jail.

Phillip Lee Rogers (DOB 10/7/46), 2801 Sweet Plum Court, Kissimmee

Zero Tolerance Operation

Osceola County, Florida

PR#09-226

On November 5 & 6, Osceola County Sheriff's deputies successfully conducted Operation Zero Tolerance which resulted in 75 arrests and 275 citations. Deputies from all areas of the agency including aggressive driving, agriculture/marine, aviation, communications, criminal investigations, community response team, evidence, forensics, tourist policing, motors, K-9, narcotics enforcement team, reserves, robbery, traffic and warrants worked all areas of the county. In addition, other local agencies including the Osceola County Corrections Department and Juvenile Probation assisted.

Based on the Sheriff’s Office community-oriented policing mission, the goal was to reduce crime in these areas, while gathering valuable intelligence.

This was the eleventh time the Sheriff's Office conducted such a large-scale operation involving almost all aspects of the Sheriff’s Office. The result of all eleven operations has been 1,078 arrests and 3,283 citations issued.

Detectives Arrest Suspect

Osceola County, Florida

PR# 09-224

Late last night, Osceola County Sheriff's deputies arrested Mandarita Lupo and charged her with Solicitation to Commit Murder. The investigation began on November 4 when detectives with the Violent Crimes Unit received anonymous information Lupo was looking to hire a hit man to kill her ex-husband. On November 5, detectives conducted an investigation which resulted in an undercover deputy meeting with Lupo. Lupo told the undercover deputy her ex-husband was trying to take away her son and she was “hoping you can get rid of him.”She went on to say she wanted the incident to look like an accident. Lupo drove the undercover deputy to show him his residence and place of work and provided her ex-husband's work schedule and they agreed on a price. Based on the information, deputies arrested Lupo and took her into custody. Lupo cooperated with detectives during an interview before being taken to the Osceola County Jail on with no bond.

Mandarita Lupo (DOB 8/15/80), 3834 La Salle Drive, St. Cloud

Detectives Arrest Bus Driver & Attendant

Osceola County, Florida

PR# 09-223

Osceola County – Late this afternoon, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested a bus driver and bus attendant for neglect after a 3 ½ year old special needs child was left on a bus for more than 6 hours. The investigation began on November 3 when the Department of Children and Families contacted the Sheriff's Office about a possible child neglect. The mother had taken the child to the hospital to be checked out. The child appeared to be in good health. The mother told DCF investigators and deputies she put her son on the bus that morning at approximately 6:53 a.m. The bus attendant helps to secure the child into a car seat. At approximately 2:50 p.m., the mother received a call from a school employee indicating her son appeared to be in good health but was left on the bus the entire day. The school took the child home around 3:15 p.m. and the family took him to Osceola Regional Medical Center to be checked by a doctor.

Detectives interviewed the bus driver, Benjamin Gonzalez and the bus attendant Carmen Pacheco who indicated they picked up the child, along with other children that morning to transport them to Sunrise Elementary School. The children were dropped off at school and because they neglected to check the bus, no one saw the 3 ½ year old child still on the bus. Gonzalez parked the bus at the bus barn located at Horizon Middle School and it wasn't until they went to get the bus to pick up the students in the afternoon did they notice the child still restrained in a car seat on the bus. Detectives viewed a videotape which confirmed this information and based on the evidence, arrest warrants were obtained for Gonzalez and Pacheco. They were charged with one count of child neglect and taken to the Osceola County Jail.

Benjamin Gonzalez (DOB 8/31/43), 701 Delray Drive, Kissimmee

Carmen Pacheco (DOB 2/22/49), 2247 Stonehenge Loop, Kissimmee

Deputies Locate 2 Grow Houses and 2 Suspects Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-221

Osceola County Sheriff's deputies arrested 2 suspects for their involvement in two grow house operations. The investigation began on November 2 when deputies received information about a possible grow house at 2356 Town and Country Drive in Kissimmee. Representatives with the local utility company met with deputies and confirmed theft of utilities at the residence. While on scene, deputies smelled what appeared to be marijuana and the homeowner, Victor Salgado, was contacted. Salgado gave deputies permission to search the residence and deputies found 47 cannabis plants, approximately 3-4 feet in height, in a closed room near the kitchen. Deputies interviewed Salgado who cooperated with the investigation. Salgado took deputies to his primary residence at 2336 Pine Tree Court in Kissimmee where deputies found 10 marijuana plants, 4-5 feet tall in a back bedroom. On November 3, Salgado was arrested and charged with Cultivation of Cannabis and Theft of Utilities. His wife Felicitas Salgado was charged with Producing Marijuana. They were booked into the Osceola County Jail.

Victor Salgado (DOB 2/25/49), 2336 Pine Tree Court, Kissimmee
Felicitas Salgado (DOB 3/31/52), 2336 Pine Tree Court, Kissimmee

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For Failing to Comply, Sex Offender Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

On November 2, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office Sex Offender Unit arrested Steven Hassan-Lopez Farahat after he failed to comply with sex offender registration laws. Sex Offender detectives first began investigating Farahat after receiving information from New York that Farahat might be living in Osceola County. Law enforcement in New York were looking for Farahat after he absconded. Detectives located Farahat at 2027 Grande Court in Kissimmee. Farahat had been residing at this apartment for three months but failed to notify the Sheriff's Office. Farahat was arrested for Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration.

Florida Statutes require registered sex offenders to notify law enforcement within 48 hours of establishing a new residence. Failure to comply is a third degree felony. Farahat was convicted of Lewd or Lascivious Conduct Victim Under 16 Years Old by Offender 18 Years or Older in June of 2004 in Osceola County.

Suspect: Steven Hassan-Lopez Farahat (DOB 6/17/85) 2027 Grande Court, Apt. 308, Kissimmee

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Sex Offender Notification

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-219

In an effort to keep citizens informed, the following information is being provided about several sex offenders who have recently moved to the area or changed addresses:

Hector Ocasio, W/M (05/19/1962) was convicted of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Person over 14 year of age in Barnstable County Massachusetts on August 6, 1992. He recently moved to 1015 Illinois Avenue in St Cloud. He is released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

Juan Florez, W/M (08/12/1967) was convicted of 4 counts of Lewd and Lascivious on a Child under 16 and Sexual Battery-Injury in Orange County on April 29, 1996. He recently moved to 2550 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway # 112 in Kissimmee. He is currently on supervised probation until April 28, 2011.

Jimmie McCrimon, B/M (DOB 8/31/64) pled guilty to Grand Theft, Sexual Battery, and Aggravated Stalking on May 24, 2001. He was sentenced to 10 years with the Department of Corrections, followed by 10 years probation. McCrimon was released from the Department of Corrections on June 5, 2009, and is currently serving his probation term. He is residing at 2765 Green Meadow Circle in Kissimmee.

Edwin Perez, W/M (09/27/1952) was convicted of Attempted Sexual Battery Victim Under 12 years of age in Osceola County on October 7, 2002. He recently moved to 2321 S. Cheryl Court in Kissimmee. He is currently on supervised probation until October 6, 2012.

Lester Gentis, W/M (01/12/1974) was convicted of Lewd Act on a Child in Osceola County on November 7, 1997. He recently moved to 1493 Penniwa Street in Intercession City. He is currently released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

Javier Diaz, W/M (11/10/1974) was convicted of Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child over 14 in Worcester Massachusetts on October 19, 2000. He recently moved to 4699 Prairie Point Boulevard in Kissimmee.. He is currently released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

Pedro Pena, W/M (05/01/1929) was convicted of Criminal Sexual Intention in Hudson County New Jersey on October 14, 2009. He has recently moved to 5020 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway #232 in Kissimmee. He is currently on supervised probation in Osceola County.

Everett Moran, W/M (02/10/1979) was convicted of 2 counts of Lewd Assault/Battery on a Child under 16 in Orange County on September 2, 1998. He recently moved to 326 Buttonwood Drive in Kissimmee. He is currently released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

Joseph Galindez, B/M (11/06/1960) was convicted of 2 counts Lewd Assault/Battery on a Child under 16 in Nassau County on October 19, 2000. He recently moved to 124 Tijuana Drive in Kissimmee. He is currently released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

Michael Madden, W/M (09/14/1981) was convicted of Lewd or Lascivious Battery Victim 12-15 years of age in Martin County on October 20, 2003. He was recently released from the Department of Corrections on October 4, 2009. He recently moved to 2323 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway #188 in Kissimmee. He is currently released from sanctions and has no restrictions.

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4 Search Warrants and 8 Arrests

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-218

Early this morning, the Osceola County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team and deputies in conjunction with the Orange County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team executed four search warrants which resulted in the arrest of 8 drug suspects, the recovery of numerous drugs, one vehicle and nearly $25,000 in cash. Results of today's special operation was the culmination of a four-month long investigation. Following is a breakdown of the locations and those arrested:

564 Floral Drive, Kissimmee
Arrested: Amadis Ortiz-Rivera (DOB 6/14/70), 564 Floral Drive, Kissimmee Possession of Marijuana Less than 20 Grams, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

5325 Jade Street, Kissimmee
Arrested: John Robert Mitchell (DOB 8/12/58), 5325 Jade Street, Kissimmee Possession of Marijuana Less Than 20 Grams, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Sale & Delivery of Cocaine (2 counts), Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (3 counts)

Arrested: Lisa Marie Buckley (DOB 9/11/62), 5325 Jade Street, Kissimmee Possession of Marijuana Less Than 20 Grams, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Arrested: Garin Buckley (DOB 8/22/91), 5325 Jade Street, Kissimmee Possession of Marijuana Less Than 20 Grams & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia Arrested: Lindsey Liebl (DOB 8/5/87), 4700 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (2 counts)

2816 Newcombe Lane, Kissimmee
Arrested: Vincent Joseph Klaus (DOB 5/15/85), 2816 Newcombe Lane, Kissimmee, Sale & Delivery of Cocaine. Sale & Delivery of Cannabis (3 counts), Sale & Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance (2 counts) Recovered: Nearly a pound of marijuana, .45 cal pistol

13525 Mallard Crossing Street, Orlando
Arrested: REGISTERED FELON: George Vincent Klaus III (DOB 10/22/81), 14778 Eagle Crossing Drive, Orlando Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell, Possession of Cannabis Over 20 Grams, Possession of Ecstasy with Intent to Sell, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Sale & Delivery of Cannabis
Arrested: Cristina Pina-Simon (DOB 3/8/86), 14778 Eagle Crossing Drive, Orlando, Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell, Possession of Cannabis over 20 Grams, Possession of Ecstasy with Intent to Sell Evidence Recovered: 4.1 lbs. Of marijuana, .40 Glock pistol with 30 round magazine, .30 caliber assault rifle, approximately $25,000 cash, 2005 Cadillac sedan

Pina-Simon and George Klaus were booked into the Orange County Jail and the other six suspects were booked into the Osceola County Jail. The investigation is on-going at this time.

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Armed Robbery Suspects - Academy Drive

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-217

Osceola County Sheriff's detectives need the public's help in identifying two armed robbery suspects. On October 23 at approximately 8:27 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to 2419 Academy Circle East in Kissimmee. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the victim who indicated she was exiting her vehicle when an unknown black male approached her and held her against her car. A second suspect pulled out a handgun and demanded money. The two suspects fled the area with the victim's personal items. The victim was not injured during the incident.

The victim describes the suspects as follows: Suspect one was approximately 5'5”, 130-140 lbs. wearing a yellow button down shirt, black wool cap and a black bandanna with white stars over his mouth. The second suspect was approximately 5'5”, 130-140 lbs. wearing all back clothes and a black ski mask on his face.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Osceola County Sheriff's Office at (407) 348-2222 or Crimeline at (800) 423-TIPS (8477). Crimeline offers a reward for information that leads to a felony arrest.

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Burglary Suspect Arrested in Poinciana

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-216

On October 24 at approximately 4:55 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to 502 Glade Court in Poinciana. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the resident who indicated someone knocked on the door. The resident did not answer the door, but several minutes later, he heard noise coming from the back bedroom. When he went into the room, he observed a black male remove the screen and attempt to gain entry into the house. The victim recognized the suspect as Jurrel Towns, someone he knew from school. A short time later, deputies located Towns at his residence on Lucaya Drive. Towns was arrested and charged with Burglary Occupied Dwelling and Criminal Mischief. He was booked into the Osceola County Jail.

Jurrel Elijah Towns (DOB 5/9/91), 767 Lucaya Drive, Poinciana

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MADD Award Received

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-214

Last night at the 23rd Annual MADD Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Awards Ceremony, Sheriff Hansell and deputies with the Traffic Enforcement Unit received top honors as the 2009 Heart of MADD Agency Award. The award recognized the Osceola County Sheriff's Office for its efforts to aggressively apprehend and arrest drunk drivers. Last year, deputies with the Traffic Enforcement Unit arrested 540 for DUI.

“The Sheriff's Office Traffic Enforcement Unit aggressively pursues impaired drivers. Their efforts make our roadways a safer place to travel. I congratulate them on their achievement,” stated Sheriff Bob Hansell.

In addition, Deputy Mike Hilley, Deputy Jason Teems, Deputy Joseph Lofoco and Deputy Jackie Molzer with Traffic Enforcement Unit received the 2009 Century Award for making more than 100 DUI arrests last year. Also, Deputy Jackie Molzer was selected as the DUI Officer of the Year for Osceola County.

Pictured from left to right: Deputy Mike Hilley, Deputy Joseph Lofoco, Deputy Jackie Molzer, Deputy Jason Teems and Sgt. Brian Adams.

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Teen Arrested for Manslaughter/Homeowner Charged with Open House Party

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-215

This morning, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested Adam Herring and charged him with Manslaughter and Violation of Probation. The investigation began at approximately 1:11 a.m. when deputies responded to 392 Boston Avenue in St. Cloud in reference to a stabbing. Upon arrival, deputies observed a party a with approximately 30 people at the residence. Chandler Collin Clark, 17 was laying on the ground bleeding. He was taken to St. Cloud Hospital where he died from his injuries.

Herring told detectives Clark approached him at the party and attempted to punch him, while Herring was opening a can of tobacco with a knife. Herring began fighting back and, during the altercation Clark was stabbed. .Based on the evidence and information obtained, Herring was arrested for Manslaughter and Violation of Probation. The Violation of Probation charge was for an aggravated battery incident that took place in June. Prior to being taken to the Osceola County Juvenile Detention Center, Herring was treated at Osceola Regional Medical Center for minor injuries. He is being held at the Juvenile Detention Center with no bond.

In addition, the homeowner, Donald Corley was charged with Open House Party. He was booked into the Osceola County Jail earlier this morning.

Adam Herring (DOB 1/19/93), 3689 Ricky Lane, St. Cloud

Donald Corley (DOB /5/27/60), 392 Boston Avenue, St. Cloud

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Methamphetamine Lab on Greenskeep Drive Uncovered

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-212

On October 20, the Osceola County Investigative Bureau conducted an investigation in reference to a possible methamphetamine lab at 1059 Greenskeep Drive in Kissimmee. OCIB agents served a search warrant at this location and upon entry in to the residence located a methamphetamine lab in the master bedroom.

Today, OCIB agents obtained a felony warrant for Stacey Bartlett for Manufacturing Methamphetamine.

Stacey Bartlett (DOB 10/4/68), 1059 Greenskeep Drive, Kissimmee

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Methamphetamine Lab on Pineridge Circle Uncovered

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-211

On October 22 at about 10:55 a.m., the Osceola County Sheriff's Office received an anonymous call in reference to a wanted person at 3290 Pineridge Circle in Kissimmee, Florida. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with resident. Christina Assad (DOB 7/12/86) who had an active arrest warrant for Violation of Probation. Contact was also made with other occupants in the residence, and one of them, Thomas Edward Wilson (DOB 7/29/67), had an active felony warrant. Assad and Wilson were arrested without incident.

While deputies were arresting the subjects, they smelled a chemical odor coming from the bedroom and bathroom. Items were seen in the bedroom the led them to believe that a methamphetamine lab was in the bedroom. All occupants were removed from the home and the Osceola County Investigative Bureau (OCIB) was contacted. OCIB agents arrived and entered the home. Several items were recovered from the home that were consistent with a methamphetamine lab. Interviews were conducted and charges are pending. The investigation is on-going.

Christine Assad (DOB 7/12/86), 3290 Pineridge Circle, Kissimmee
Thomas Edward Wilson (DOB 7/29/67), 1691 Orange Lane, Campbell City

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Lewd & Lascivious Battery Suspect Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-210

On October 22, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested Jason Louis Rockholt and charged him with two counts of Traveling to Meet a Minor and 2 counties of Lewd & Lascivious Battery. The investigation began on October 19 when deputies took a report from a mother who indicated her daughter was having a sexual relationship with 31-year-old Rockholt. According to the victim's mother, the two met in October of 2008 at a local theme park. Rockholt knew the victim was 14 years old at the time, yet they continued to communicate via Internet and by phone. In March of 2009, Rockholt went to the victim's high school and they spent time together but did not engage in sexual activity. In April of 2009, they began exchanging nude photos of each other and engaged in sexual activity.

On October 22, detectives arranged a meeting with Rockholt who thought he was going to see the victim. When Rockholt arrived detectives took him into custody. During the interview, Rockholt cooperated with detectives and based on the information, he was arrested and booked into the Osceola County Jail.

Jason Louis Rockholt (DOB 8/18/78), 656 Blue Jay Drive, Davenport

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Hazelwood Drive Burglary Suspect

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-209

Osceola County Sheriff's detectives need the public's help in identifying burglary suspects. On October 20 at approximately 6:30 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to 501 Hazelwood Drive in Kissimmee. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the victim who indicated she arrived home and saw three black males running out of her house. She said they got into a dark colored, 4-door Honda and drove away. The residence was in disarray with items scattered throughout the house. It is unknown at this time if the suspects took anything from the house.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Osceola County Sheriff's Office at (407) 348-2222 or Crimeline at (800) 423-TIPS (8477). Calls made to Crimeline remain anonymous and tips that lead to the felony arrest of suspects and/or the recovery of stolen property and drugs are eligible for cash rewards of up to $1,000 dollars.

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Grow House Uncovered on Big Oak Lane

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-209

On October 15, Osceola County Sheriff's deputies with the Community Response Team received information about a possible grow house at 1701 Big Oak Lane in Kissimmee. Deputies obtained a search warrant and recovered 138 marijuana plants in a detached building behind the primary residence. Inside the house, deputies located a loaded handgun, paperwork for mail order cannabis seeds from out of the state, magazines on how to grow cannabis, 20 grams of marijuana and materials used to package and sell marijuana.

The homeowner, Karlos Salgado was arrested and charged with Cultivation of Cannabis, Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Sell, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Child Neglect and Owning a Structure for Manufacture of a Controlled Substance. Salgado's three young children were in the house so deputies notified the Department of Children and Families. Salgado was booked into the Osceola County Jail with $15,000 bond.

Karlos Louis Salgado (DOB 11/21/72), 1701 Big Oak Lane, Kissimmee

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Suspect Arrested for Grand Theft

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-208

On October 15, at approximately 6:38 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to 922 Delano Court in Poinciana. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the victim who indicated he received a call from someone, later identified as Michael Hidalgo, inquiring about a computer the victim was selling on an Internet site. The caller seemed interested in purchasing the victim's computer but did not have a car and could not drive to the victim's home. The victim agreed to take the computer to Hidalgo at what he thought was his residence on Delano Court. Hidalgo met the victim outside and asked him to wait in the driveway while in took the computer inside the house to see if it worked. The victim waited outside, and after about 5 minutes, the victim knocked on the door but Hidalgo did not answer. The victim walked around the house, looked in a window and realized the house was vacant. Deputies talked to neighbors who said three Hispanic males were seen walking down a nearby street carrying a computer. Deputies located the suspect and the computer at 728 Del Ray Drive. Based on the information, Hidalgo was arrested and charged with Grand Theft. The investigation is on-going with additional charges pending.

Michael Hildago (DOB 11/22/88), 728 Del Ray Drive, Poinciana

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Suspect Arrested in Almeda Drive Incident

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-206

Late last night, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested Ray Andres Lopez and charged him with Attempted Murder. Lopez is accused of stabbing Brandon Knibbs, age 17 who is recovering from his injuries at Florida Hospital Kissimmee. Detectives have not made an arrest in the death of Kissimmee resident Elmer Izaida Ardon, Jr. age 20, the other victim in the Almeda Drive incident. Detectives confirmed all three individuals were at a house party earlier in the evening, but it is unclear why they were fighting. Lopez was booked into the Osceola County Jail with no bond. The investigation is on-going at this time.

Background:

On October 9 at approximately 11:45 p.m., deputies responded to Almeda Drive in Buenaventura Lakes. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with witnesses who indicated a physical altercation between several individuals took place leaving one victim dead and another victim, injured. The injured victim, Brandon Knibbs was taken to Florida Hospital Kissimmee.

Ray Andres Lopez (DOB 10/7/88), 1740 Quail Ridge Loop, Kissimmee

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Homeowner Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-204

On October 9 at approximately 11:30 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to an anonymous noise complaint at 104 Alameda Drive in Buenaventura Lakes. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the homeowner and numerous teens at the residence. The homeowner told deputies his daughter invited her friends to the house who brought with them alcoholic beverages. Deputies observed open alcoholic containers in the residence.

Maikel Rodriguez, the homeowner was charged with Open House Party and was booked into the Osceola County Jail early this morning. A juvenile attending the party was arrested for Violation of Probation. In addition, Enroy Grant was arrested when he attempted to interfere with the investigation. Grant was charged with Resisting with Violence, Resisting without Violence, Harm/Threats to a Public Servant and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer. He was booked into the Osceola County Jail.

Maikel Rodriguez (DOB 4/23/64), 104 Alameda Drive, Kissimmee
Enroy Grant (DOB 10/2/91), 121 Pansy Court, Kissimmee
Brian Silva (DOB 4/14/95), 406 Woodland Creek Boulevard, Kissimmee

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CVS Pharmacy Armed Robbery Suspects Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-0205

On October 10 at approximately 5:30 a.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to CVS Pharmacy located at 3300 Pleasant Hill Road in Kissimmee in reference to an armed robbery. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the employee who indicated an unknown male entered the store to purchase medicine. He told the cashier he left his wallet in the car and when he returned he was armed with a knife and demanded money from the cash register. The suspect took an undisclosed amount of money and fled the area in a vehicle. Deputies arrived at the store within minutes and were able to locate the vehicle traveling southbound on Pleasant Hill Road. They followed the vehicle on 17-92 until it crashed into a ditch approximately three miles into Polk County. The driver attempted to flee the area but was apprehended with the assistance of K-9 Units.

Jeremy Burgos was charged with Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony, Fleeing/Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer and Driving While License Suspended. Burgos also had an active traffic warrant. Alexander Rivera was charged with Armed Robbery. They were booked into the Polk County Jail.

Jeremy Burgos (DOB 10/30/87)5313 East Johnson Avenue, Haines City
Alexander Rivera (DOB 10/9/84) 2800 Long Leaf Court, Kissimmee

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DUI Saturation Patrol Set for Tonight

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-204

The Osceola County Sheriff's Office will be conducting a DUI saturation patrol tonight as part of the Drunk Driving Over the Limit. Under Arrest campaign. The patrol will be from 7:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. covering all areas of the county. The Osceola County Sheriff's Office encourages everyone to act responsibly. If you intend to drink, make arrangements to get home safely. Use a designated driver, public transportation or a taxi. The last patrol on September 18 resulted in 1 arrest and 20 citations issued.

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Sex Battery Suspect Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-200

This afternoon, Osceola County Sheriff's detectives arrested Edwin Antonio Torres-Cruz and charged him with Sexual Battery, Kidnapping, Possession or Use of a Weapon and Attempted Armed Robbery. Torres-Cruz was identified several days after the incident when detectives received information the suspect was seen back in the area where the crime occurred. Torres-Cruz was brought in for questioning and initially cooperated but then refused to provide any information, but detectives obtained a positive match from DNA evidence from the crime scene that matched Torres-Cruz. An arrest warrant was obtained earlier today and he was picked up and brought back to the Osceola County Sheriff's Office. Torres-Cruz will be booked into the Osceola County Jail later this afternoon.

Background:

On October 1 at approximately 8:52 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to the Indian Wells subdivision in Kissimmee. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with a 47-year-old Hispanic victim who indicated she was walking in the area of Warrior Lane and Moccasin Drive when an unknown male attacked her from behind. The suspect demanded money from the victim and threatened her with a knife. When the victim told the suspect she did not have any money, he sexually battered her before leaving the area. Edwin Antonio Torres-Cruz (DOB 12/9/88), 2091 The Oaks Boulevard, Kissimmee

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Detectives Looking for Sex Battery Suspect

Osceola County, Florida

Osceola County Sheriff's detectives need the public's help in locating a sexual battery suspect. On October 1 at approximately 8:52 p.m., Osceola County Sheriff's deputies responded to the Indian Wells subdivision in Kissimmee. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with a 47-year-old Hispanic victim who indicated she was walking in the area of Warrior Lane and Moccasin Drive when an unknown male attacked her from behind. The suspect demanded money from the victim and threatened her with a knife. When the victim told the suspect she did not have any money, he sexually battered her before leaving the area.

The victim describes the suspect as a Hispanic male in his mid 20's, approximately 5'8” with a medium build and clean shaven. He was wearing a plain black t-shirt and khaki cargo shorts.

Detectives are also looking for a gray or silver Jeep or similar SUV with red stripes on the side. This vehicle might be related to this incident.

Suspect Arrested for Armed Trafficking Unprescribed Drugs

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-0200

On October 1, Osceola County Investigative Bureau agents arrested Thomas Rome and charged him with Armed Trafficking in Hydrocodone over 14 grams, Trafficking in Hydrocodone over 14 grams, Delivery of Controlled Substance within 1,000 feet of a School and Delivery of a Controlled Substance. The investigation began earlier in the day when the school resource officer at Gateway High School received information that Rome had provided a student with a “blue pill,” later identified as Vicodin. OCIB agents contacted the student and his parents. The student told agents on September 16 that after a football, he was in the parking lot at Gateway High School talking with Rome about having pain. Rome went to his truck and brought the student a handful of Vicodin pills.

Agents spoke with another student and his parents who indicated he had a similar conversation with Rome after another football game on September 11 and Rome provided him Vicodin pills. Agents conducted a controlled phone call with Rome who agreed to come to Gateway High School to provide one of the students with more pills. When Rome arrived at the school, agents took him into custody. They located a handgun and 26 Vicodin pills in his vehicle. Rome cooperated with agents and he was taken to the Osceola County Jail with no bond.

Thomas Rome (DOB 11/30/72), 805 Aspenwood Circle, Kissimmee ###

Agents Uncover Grow House

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-200

Today, Osceola County Investigative Bureau agents served a search warrant at 4398 Cypress Creek Ranch Road in St. Cloud after receiving a tip about possible illegal drug activity. Agents recovered 112 small marijuana plants in the house and 15 plants 3-4 feet tall in a shed. Miguel Angel Peguero was arrested and charged with Cultivation of Cannabis. He was booked into the Osceola County Jail. This is the 16th grow house located in Osceola County this year.

Angel Peguero (DOB 4/5/56), 4398 Cypress Creek Ranch Road, St. Cloud

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Detectives Looking for Burglary Suspect

Osceola County, Florida

Video is available to the media on the Sheriff’s Office FTP site.

PR09-196

Osceola County Sheriff's detectives need the public's help in identifying a burglary suspect. The investigation began in May when deputies took a burglary report at the Osceola County School Maintenance facility, 2540 Old Dixie Highway in Kissimmee. A school employee reported the someone had broken in the facility and stolen numerous tools. Since May, the facility has been broken into three more times, once in July and twice in September. In the July incident, the suspect took multiple tools and two riding lawn mowers. The last incident, which occurred on September 28, video cameras at the facility caught the suspect taking tools out of the location. The video shows a thin white male in his late 20's, early 30's.

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Registered Felon Arrested

Osceola County, Florida

PR09-195

On September 30, Osceola County Sheriff's deputies with the Narcotics Enforcement Team arrested Michael Lee Holden and charged him with numerous felony counts. The investigation began when undercover NET agents conducted a controlled drug purchase at Holden's residence, 1225 Crawford Avenue in Kissimmee. After the purchase was made, Holden left on a bicycle. Deputies followed Holden and attempted to place him in custody when he ran towards a canal. K-9 units searched the canal and located Holden who was hiding underwater. A K-9 dog attempted to apprehend him, but Holden punched the dog numerous times and even tried to drown the dog. During the altercation a deputy suffered minor injuries and was transported to St. Cloud Hospital. Holden was taken into custody and charged with Attempted Sale & Delivery of Cocaine, Battery on Police K-9, Resisting with Violence, Battery on an LEO, Aggravated Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Tampering with Evidence. In addition, Betty Jo Ward who was at the residence with Holden at the time of the incident was arrested and charged with Tampering with Evidence. Deputies observed Ward attempt to discard a glass pipe. Holden and Ward were taken to the Osceola County Jail. Holden has a 69 page criminal history which includes 42 arrests and more than 100 violent crimes and felony drug charges.

In addition to being arrested for trafficking drugs and escape, in 1993, he was sentenced to five years in state prison for Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer. In 2006, he served one year and three months for the same crime.

Michael Lee Holden (DOB 2/7/64), 1225 Crawford Avenue

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