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Lehigh Acres man charged in multi-million-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud scheme
FORT MYERS, Florida - Lester John Parker Jr., a 55-year-old from Lehigh Acres, has been arrested on a 15-count indictment for his alleged role in a multi-million-dollar COVID-19 relief fraud scheme. The charges include conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, access device fraud, aggravated identity theft, and engaging in monetary transactions in criminally derived property. If convicted, Parker faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering, according to the United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg. He could...
Florida doctor settles ADA violation allegations with U.S. Attorneys Office
OCALA, Florida - The United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida has reached a settlement with Dr. Mark A. Nowacki, M.D., to resolve allegations of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The allegations stem from a complaint by a deaf patient who was denied an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter during an appointment scheduling call in October 2021. The investigation into Dr. Nowacki, an internal medicine specialist in St. Petersburg, was initiated after the complainant alleged she was denied access to healthcare services due to the lack of an ASL interpreter, according to a press release...
Kissimmee man sentenced to 30 months for illegal firearms dealing
ORLANDO, Florida - Jamal Joseph Mala Leonardo, a 20-year-old from Kissimmee, has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for possession or transfer of a machinegun and dealing in firearms without a license. The court also mandated the forfeiture of several machinegun conversion devices involved in the offense. Mala Leonardo entered a guilty plea on May 20, 2024. According to court documents, he met with an undercover law enforcement officer on multiple occasions between January and February 2024. During these meetings, Mala Leonardo sold the officer 17 machinegun conversion devices, which can convert a firearm into a fully automatic...
Tampa Convention Center closes due to Hurricane Milton threat
TAMPA, Florida - The Tampa Convention Center will remain closed on Tuesday, October 8, and Wednesday, October 9, due to the anticipated risk posed by Hurricane Milton. Decisions regarding reopening on Thursday, October 10, are pending. The Sail Plaza and Big Ray's Fish Camp are also closed and will stay shut until conditions are deemed safe, according to a press release from the Tampa Convention Center. The center's team has implemented standard hurricane preparation protocols, including placing sandbags and protective waterproof coverings at entrances. Once the storm passes and it is safe for staff to access the property, the Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering team will survey the facility for potential damage and begin cleanup efforts. Team members are prepared to activate post-storm procedures to resume normal operations as soon as it is safe. Updates will be shared when available, stated the source.
Lehigh Acres man indicted for wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions
FORT MYERS, Florida - Thakur Sukhdeo, a 38-year-old from Lehigh Acres, has been indicted on charges of wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison for each wire fraud count and up to 10 years for each illegal monetary transaction count. The indictment alleges that beginning in July 2021, Sukhdeo engaged in a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by making fraudulent representations in Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) documents, according to a press release from the United States Attorney's Office. Sukhdeo allegedly used the $414,000 EIDL funds for...
Tallahassee man arrested for fatal shooting at shopping plaza
TALLAHASSEE, Florida - A 34-year-old man has been arrested following a fatal shooting on September 29 at a shopping plaza parking lot, according to the Tallahassee Police Department. The suspect, John Coates, of Tallahassee, Florida, was identified after a thorough investigation by TPD's Violent Crimes Unit. The investigation revealed that the victim was involved in a verbal altercation with a crowd when Coates approached and shot him. The victim succumbed to his injuries, stated the source. Detectives collected physical evidence and witness statements, which led to the identification of Coates as the shooter. After consulting with the State Attorney's Office, warrants were obtained for second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. This arrest underscores TPD's dedication to apprehending violent offenders and delivering justice to victims and their families. The department encourages the public to report criminal activity by calling TPD at 850-891-4200 or anonymously contacting Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.
Volusia County imposes curfew and evacuations as Hurricane Milton approaches
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Florida - Volusia County officials have announced a countywide curfew and evacuation orders in anticipation of Hurricane Milton. The curfew will be in effect from 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, to 8 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 10, to minimize unnecessary travel during the storm's peak. The curfew exempts law enforcement personnel, employees traveling for work, and emergency workers, according to a press release from Volusia County. Violators may face fines up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 60 days. Evacuations will commence at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, for areas east of the intracoastal waterway, manufactured and mobile...
Mexican national sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for illegal reentry after deportation in Tampa
TAMPA, Florida - U.S. District Judge Richard A. Lazzara has sentenced 43-year-old Ramon Ochoa, of Mexico, to 18 months in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States after deportation. This sentence will run consecutively to another sentence Ochoa is serving in the Florida Department of Corrections. Ochoa, who entered a guilty plea on July 8, 2024, is a Mexican citizen who first entered the United States illegally in 2008 and again in 2014, according to court documents. He was deported both times, with the most recent removal occurring in May 2014. In 2017, Ochoa reentered the United States...
Pinellas County orders mandatory evacuations ahead of Hurricane Milton
PINELLAS COUNTY, Florida - Pinellas County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents in Zones A, B, and C, as well as all mobile homes county-wide, in anticipation of Hurricane Milton's expected landfall on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. Effective at 7:00 p.m. tonight, October 7, through 7:00 p.m. tomorrow evening, access to the barrier islands will be restricted to residents, business owners, and employees only, requiring a re-entry permit or other documentation, according to a press release from Pinellas County. Businesses are advised to use this time to prepare their properties rather than operate. Rideshare operators will be allowed to transport people off the islands, and debris removal operators may continue their cleanup efforts until it is deemed unsafe. Starting at 7:00 p.m. on October 8, all access to the barrier islands will be closed. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office will maintain a significant law enforcement presence on the barrier islands to protect property until conditions become unsafe for first responders, stated the release. Residents can find their evacuation zone and shelter information at www.disaster.pinellas.gov.
Tallahassee deploys resources to aid recovery efforts after Hurricane Milton
TALLAHASSEE, Florida - The City of Tallahassee is mobilizing resources from various critical service areas to assist neighboring cities in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Teams from the electric utility, fire, and emergency management departments are set to deploy, according to a press release from the city. City Manager Reese Goad emphasized the city's commitment to service, stating, "At the heart of our City's mission is a commitment to service and as our neighboring cities prepare for the impacts from Hurricane Milton, we are sending resources to support them." Tallahassee's electric utility and fleet department, having recently returned from aiding...
Tampa man arrested in connection with September homicide
TAMPA, Florida - A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old male in Tampa, according to a press release from the Tampa Police Department. Tyree Newsome, of Tampa, Florida, was taken into custody on October 1, 2024, following an investigation into the September 23 incident. The shooting occurred just after 9:00 p.m. in the 1600 block of E. 24th Avenue, where officers found the victim with gunshot wounds. Despite efforts by Tampa Fire Rescue, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives identified Newsome as the suspect through witness interviews and surveillance footage analysis. The investigation revealed that the shooting stemmed from a dispute earlier that day, during which Newsome confronted the victim and his friend, ultimately producing a firearm and shooting the victim multiple times. "Our detectives worked tirelessly to bring this suspect to justice," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "We hope this arrest will provide the first step toward closure for the victim's loved ones." Newsome faces charges of First Degree Murder and Felon in Possession of a Firearm and is currently held at the Orient Road Jail.
Mexican national sentenced to 30 months in prison for repeated illegal reentry into the united states
JACKSONVILLE, Florida - A Mexican national has been sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States, according to a press release from the U.S. District Court. German Altamirano-Hernandez, a 42-year-old native of Mexico, entered a guilty plea in June 2024. Altamirano-Hernandez had been granted voluntary removal from the United States 10 times between 1999 and 2002 after it was determined he was in the country illegally. In 2005, he was encountered by law enforcement in New Mexico, prosecuted for illegal entry, and deported to Mexico. He was again encountered in Florida...
Tampa opens self-service sandbag sites ahead of heavy rainfall
TAMPA, Florida - Self-service sandbag sites will be available on Sunday, October 6, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at two Parks & Recreation facilities in Tampa. The National Weather Service forecasts heavy rainfall beginning Sunday, which may affect operations at these sites. Residents can visit the Himes Avenue Complex at 4501 S Himes Ave or Al Barnes Park at 2902 N 32nd St to fill up to 10 sandbags per household, according to a press release from the City of Tampa. Free tarps will also be provided at the sandbag sites on Sunday while supplies last. Sandbags are most...
Tampa parks and recreation facilities close ahead of Tropical Storm Milton
TAMPA, Florida - The City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department will close all facilities and suspend programming starting Monday, October 7, in preparation for Tropical Storm Milton. This move is part of a broader effort to focus on critical storm preparation, according to a press release from the department. In coordination with other city departments, Parks and Recreation staff are assisting with storm debris removal from Hurricane Helene, a high priority as the city braces for another storm. This collaborative effort ensures that major roadways, residential streets, and public areas remain clear and safe, both before and after the storm. In addition to debris removal, Parks and Recreation is also preparing park facilities for the impending severe weather by securing equipment and safeguarding vulnerable structures that could be impacted by high winds and heavy rain. Limited Parks & Recreation staff will continue to provide assistance to residents at the two self-service sandbag sites open to city residents on Sunday at the following locations until 7 PM: Al Barnes Park (2902 N 32nd St.) and Himes Avenue Sports Complex (4501 S Himes Ave.). City parks and programming will resume normal operations as soon as it is safe following the storm.
Nassau County deputies volunteer to aid Hurricane Helene victims in Florida
NASSAU COUNTY, Florida - Off-duty deputies from the Nassau County Sheriff's Office have stepped up to assist victims of Hurricane Helene in Taylor County, Florida. Sgt. Zittrower, Sgt. Carter, and Deputy Huffmon are volunteering their personal time to help those affected by the storm.A week after Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida's panhandle, these deputies are demonstrating the true spirit of public service by sacrificing their time to support communities in need, according to the Nassau County Sheriff's Office. Sgt. Carter's older brother, Chris Carter, is also involved in the efforts. The Sheriff's Office expressed gratitude for their selflessness and commitment, noting that their actions highlight the strength and resilience of the community during times of crisis.
Tampa offers Uber vouchers for hurricane relief transportation
TAMPA, Florida - In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the City of Tampa is providing Uber ride vouchers to assist residents in reaching Comfort Stations for essential services. The Tampa Emergency Transportation Service offers vouchers for up to $25 off two round-trip Uber rides, aiding those who lost personal transportation due to storm-related flooding. The Comfort Stations, including the Gandy Civic Association, Marjorie Park Marina, and DeSoto Park, offer mobile laundry, showers, electronic charging stations, food, water, and permitting assistance for repairs. "We know that many in our community are facing overwhelming hardships right now, and we are here to help in any way we can," said Mayor Jane Castor. The service is available until October 25, 2024, and residents can sign up for vouchers at Tampa.gov/recoveryrides, according to a press release from the city.
Franklin County woman charged with methamphetamine possession
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Florida - Margaret Vermell Creamer, a 50-year-old resident, has been charged with possession of methamphetamine following a traffic stop, according to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office.The arrest was made during a routine traffic stop where deputies discovered the illegal substance in Creamer's possession. The operation was conducted by Deputy Rester, Major Segree, and Deputy Coatney, who were commended for their efforts. The Sheriff's Office encourages individuals struggling with substance abuse to seek help by contacting Sophia at 850-653-5775.
Jacksonville man sentenced to 18 months for possessing a machinegun
JACKSONVILLE, Florida - Mar'Kesie Williams, a 28-year-old from Jacksonville, has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for possessing a machinegun, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Williams pleaded guilty on June 28, 2024, according to court documents. The incident occurred on March 6, 2023, when a property manager at a Jacksonville apartment complex reported finding Williams inside a vacant apartment with a firearm. Jacksonville Sheriff's officers responded, arrested Williams, and found the firearm, a loaded Glock pistol equipped with a Glock switch, on top of a mattress. Williams admitted to possessing the firearm, which the Glock switch converted into a fully automatic machinegun. Federal law prohibits the possession of machineguns and Glock switches. The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering trust in communities and supporting violence prevention efforts.
Large-scale narcotics operation dismantled in Daytona Beach
DAYTONA BEACH, Florida - Authorities executed a search warrant early Friday morning, uncovering over 18 kilos of cocaine and trafficking amounts of fentanyl and methamphetamine. The operation led to the arrest of two individuals, according to the East Volusia Narcotics Task Force. The East Volusia Narcotics Task Force, with assistance from VSO SWAT and the Volusia Bureau of Investigation (VBI), conducted the search at 409 Pelican Bay Road following an investigation into complaints against Rakim Shabazz, who was suspected of large-scale narcotics sales. Shabazz, along with his girlfriend Sheanett Range, was found in the master bedroom, while Shabazz's two minor...
Ocala man indicted for robbery and firearm offenses
OCALA, Florida - A 22-year-old Ocala man has been indicted on charges of robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, according to the United States Attorney's Office. Johnisaac Felix faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the robbery charge. The firearm offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, up to life, which must be served consecutively to any sentence for the robbery, stated the source. The indictment alleges that on June 16, 2024, Felix robbed a gas station employee in Ocala using force, violence, and fear of injury, while brandishing a firearm. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ocala Police Department and will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, and setting strategic enforcement priorities.
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