CCSO Media Relations Bureau Closed Thursday, Friday

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office Media Relations Bureau will be closed Thursday and Friday for the Thanksgiving holiday.

The arrest reports will be available at the jail. For breaking news inquiries, please contact the on-call Media Relations Officer.

CCSO Traffic Enforcement Spots

Monday, Dec. 1:

Collier Boulevard and Rattlesnake Hammock Road - Speeding
U.S. 41 East and Bayshore Drive – Red-light running
Vanderbilt Beach Road and Logan Boulevard – Red-light running

Tuesday, Dec. 2:

U.S. 41 North and Gulf Park Drive - Speeding
Naples Boulevard – Aggressive driving
Golden Gate Parkway and Sunshine Boulevard – Aggressive driving

Wednesday, Dec. 3:

Santa Barbara Boulevard and Calusa Park Elementary - Speeding
Collier Boulevard and Immokalee Road - Speeding
Airport-Pulling Road and Ponce De Leon Drive – Red-light running

Thursday, Dec. 4:

U.S. 41 North and Vanderbilt Beach Road – Aggressive driving
Vineyards Boulevard and Pine Ridge Road - Speeding
111th Avenue North at Naples Park Elementary – Aggressive driving

Friday, Dec. 5:

Goodlette-Frank Road and Pelican Marsh Boulevard - Speeding
Vanderbilt Beach and Livingston roads – Red-light running
Collier Boulevard and I-75 southbound exit – Aggressive driving

Suspect Sought In Drug Trafficking Investigation

WANTED; Rafael Lesende

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in finding a man wanted in connection with a long-term narcotics investigation that has netted 14 people so far and spanned decades in South Florida.

Rafael Lesende, 43, is wanted on an active Collier County Sheriff’s Office warrant for conspiracy to traffic cocaine 400 grams or more. His bond has been set at $500,000.

Lesende is described as Hispanic, 5 feet 8 inches tall and 190 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. His last known address is 311 3rd St. S.W. in Golden Gate.

Detectives say he is known to frequent the Naples Manor area in East Naples, where he has family living on Gilchrist Street and Floridian Avenue. He is also known to frequent Everglades City and Isles of Capri, where his vessel, “Sea Note,” is docked at Capri Fisheries, 218 Kon Tiki Drive.

Lesende is known to drive a black GMC Denali with Florida license plate number S531TM.

Anyone with information on Lesende’s whereabouts is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward, contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477.

On Nov. 13, CCSO, in cooperation with Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Drug Enforcement Administration, rounded up 13 suspects whom detectives say conspired to traffic more than $1 million worth of cocaine. A 14^th suspect turned himself in later. 

Original news release:
Long-Term Narcotics Investigation Nets 13 Arrests
Collier County Sheriff's Office
Posted Date:  11/13/2014 2:15 PM

On Nov. 13, 2014, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, along with its partners at Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted an operation to arrest those involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy that has spanned decades in South Florida.

This investigation, initiated by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, has been ongoing for approximately two years.

“The individuals who have been arrested in connection with this investigation are part of a drug trafficking organization that has plagued the citizens of South Florida for decades,” Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said. “Some have previous arrests and others have evaded arrest until now.”

The conspiracy was not confined to any single jurisdiction and arrests have been made in Dade, Collier and Lee counties Thursday.  Residences and vehicles were searched based on K-9 alerts, consent and search warrants. During the searches U.S. currency, vehicles, firearms and narcotics were seized at various locations.

"We, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Collier County Sheriff's Office, have brought down this large-scale drug trafficking ring that has funneled drugs onto South Florida streets for years. My Office of Statewide Prosecution will aggressively prosecute these defendants," stated Attorney General Pam Bondi.

During the investigation detectives seized or purchased more than 13 kilograms of cocaine, with a street value of $442,000. Those involved in the conspiracy conspired to traffic approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine with a street value of approximately $1.02 million.

On Nov. 14, detectives seized approximately 10 ounces/283 grams of cocaine with a street value of $13,000, approximately 6 pounds of high-grade marijuana with a street value of $18,000, approximately 14.46 ounces/405 grams of methamphetamine with a street value $15,000, 6.5 grams of Xanax, four vehicles, two handguns and more than $40,000 in U.S. currency.
     

Some people connected to the organization have yet to be located. Their warrants will remain active until they are apprehended.

Summary of the allegations and charges:

Erlin Y. Carrasco
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 2,710 ounces (75,904) grams of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5) (first-degree felony).

•Trafficking in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1)(b)(1)(c).

Jonny Gonzalez-Tia
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 51 ounces (1,428 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Tomas E. Ruiz-Serrano
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 402 ounces (11,259 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Francisco Gato Jr.
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 972 ounces (27,216 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).•Trafficking in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1) (b) (1) (c). 
     

Enrique Henry Lesende
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 289 ounces (8,092 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Fredrico Solis-Contreras
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 979 ounces (27,422 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

•Trafficking in cocaine 28 grams or more, but less than 200 grams, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1) (b) (1) (a).

Jose Miguel Diaz
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 385 ounces (10,780 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Juan Rafael Ramos
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 4 ounces (112 grams) of cocaine

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Cristopher Thomas Ocampo
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 2.5 ounces (70 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Joel Melqui Vanegas
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 3 ounces (84 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Jeronimo Mendez-Cruz
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 3 ounces (84 grams) of cocaine.

•Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Orlando Daniel Avalos
Conspired in total to traffic approximately 258 ounces (7,224 grams) of cocaine.

•Charging him with conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Nicolo Busi
Trafficked approximately (9) ounces (255 grams) of cocaine

•Trafficking cocaine over 200 grams in violation of F.S.S. 893.135.

•Possession of marijuana with intent to sell, manufacture or distribute in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-1a2

•Possession of marijuana over 20 grams in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-6a

•Possession of controlled substance Xanax in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-6a      

CCSO Offers Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office is busy planning ways to keep our community safe this holiday shopping season.

Deputies will be patrolling retail parking lots when shoppers hit the stores for Black Friday specials on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, and the day after, Nov. 28.

Throughout the holiday season, deputies will patrol on foot, in cars and on horseback. They’ll also use the agency’s Skywatch Sentinel to help keep a close eye on shopping center parking lots.

Deputies have been out reminding store managers to adjust parking lot lighting if they’re planning to offer extended hours of nighttime shopping.

CCSO also reminds the community to follow these holiday shopping tips:

* Shop during daylight hours when possible. If shopping at night, take a friend or family member and park in a well-lit area.

*Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

* Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. They are prime targets in crowded areas. Keep cash in your front pocket.

* Avoid carrying large amounts of money.

* Be alert to your surroundings.

* Locate your keys and have them in your hand before you arrive at your car.

* Don’t leave new merchandise, wallets and purses in unattended vehicles.

CCSO also wants you to stay safe while shopping in cyberspace this holiday season. Thanks to the World Wide Web, the bulk of your shopping can be done online. You can even have your orders gift-wrapped. With the added convenience of shopping online, you need to know how to protect your bank account and identity.

Here are some tips to help keep your personal information safe:

* Use companies you know.

* When making purchases online, make sure the Web site you are using is secured with “https://www...” in the URL and make certain the padlock symbol is on the bottom of your browser.

* Read the company’s privacy statement carefully. Will they sell your personal information to other companies?

* Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, then it probably isn’t.

* Limit the amount of personal information you give out and print all online receipts.

* Consider obtaining a credit card that you use only when shopping online to easily keep track of all your purchases.

* If possible, call in your order.

* Notify the issuer if your credit card is lost or stolen.

CCSO Chief Hedberg Graduates From Chief Executive Seminar

A Collier County Sheriff’s Office chief is among 17 recent graduates of the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Chief Executive Seminar.

Legal & Court Services Department Chief Michael Hedberg and his fellow graduates, representing criminal justice agencies from around Florida, were recognized at a ceremony in Tallahassee on Nov. 19.

Each graduate serves in a leadership role within his or her agency. Over a three-month period, the participants met for one week a month to take classes on topics such as managing generations, Florida economics, risk management, succession planning, and implementing strategic change.

The goal of the Chief Executive Seminar is to prepare Florida’s criminal justice leadership for the challenging demands of the future. Participants study trends and events that may affect criminal justice professionals and Florida, while developing new leadership skills to address the changes that lie ahead.

The Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute, established within the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and affiliated with the state university system, was established in 1990 by the Florida Legislature in recognition of the need for an innovative and multifaceted approach to the education and training of criminal justice professionals.

Chief Hedberg is a graduate of the 48^th Chief Executive Seminar.  

CCSO Earns National Reaccreditation

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has earned reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. (CALEA).  The reaccreditation was awarded Saturday, Nov. 22, during a CALEA conference in Albuquerque, N.M.

In July, a team of CALEA assessors examined all aspects of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services. The team verified that the Sheriff’s Office meets the organization’s state-of-the-art standards. The assessment is part of a voluntary process to retain accreditation – a highly prized recognition of law enforcement professional excellence.  The Collier County Sheriff’s Office was originally accredited by CALEA in November, 1994, and reaccredited in 1999, 2002, 2005, 2008, and again in 2011.

The CCSO complied with more than 400 standards in order to earn reaccreditation.

“Maintaining law enforcement accreditation ensures that the citizens of Collier County are receiving the highest quality of public safety services possible,” Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said.

Assessors were particularly impressed with the agency’s ability to increase services while lowering the budget during the economic downturn. During the downturn, Sheriff Rambosk cut $20.6 million from the agency’s budget, for a cumulative $48 million reduction. Also during the downturn, the Sheriff introduced multiple programs including Summerfest, the Collier County Organized Retail Theft Association and the Call Before You “Pay” Fraud Hotline.

Accreditation is for three years, during which the Sheriff’s Office must submit annual reports attesting to continued compliance with those standards under which it was re-accredited.

CCSO Names November “Do The Right Thing” Winners

Eight Collier County students were recently recognized for good deeds ranging from calling 911 to save their parent’s life and helping a lost child find their home.

The students were recognized at the second “Do The Right Thing” award ceremony for the 2014-15 school year at Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology on Monday, Nov. 17.

The Collier County Sheriff's Office adopted the "Do the Right Thing" program in January 1988, and has honored hundreds of children for acts that reinforce good behavior, positive acts and outstanding accomplishments in the community.

The following students have been recognized for November:

Jeremiah Senecharles, kindergarten, Naples Christian Academy

Jeremiah was home with his father and two younger siblings when his father fell to the floor during a medical emergency. At 6-years-old, Jeremiah knew to call 911 immediately and was able to provide the dispatcher much-needed information for the emergency responders. Even though he was scared, Jeremiah’s quick actions helped save his father’s life.

Benjamin Quintana, fourth grade, Mike Davis Elementary School

During a class presentation on bullying by his Youth Relations deputy, Benjamin shared that he knew of another student who brought a BB gun on his bus the previous day. The deputy was able to take Benjamin’s information and locate two students, who were both found to have BB guns, and discipline them for their actions.

Jonica Louis, fifth grade, Pinecrest Elementary School

Jonica recently shared with her teacher how she had spotted a young man in her neighborhood step on and kill a baby chicken in the nest. Not only did she report this to her teacher, but at the time scolded the young man for his actions and moved the nest containing two more baby chickens to a safer location.

Brandon Martinez and Dukens Senatus, sixth grade, East Naples Middle School

Brandon and Dukens found a small child wandering the neighborhood without any supervision. They reported it to CCSO after first going door-to-door in their apartment complex in an attempt to find the child’s family. Deputies responded and were eventually able to locate the child’s home.

Alejandro Hernandez, eighth grade, Immokalee Middle School

During lunch at school Alejando noticed another student was in possession of two sharp objects. He was able to get the sharp objects away from the student and threw them in the trash so one would get hurt.

Jesus Marquez, eighth grade, Immokalee Middle School

While riding the bus home from school Jesus spotted another student scratching herself with a razor blade. Jesus reported the incident and the girl was able to receive the help she needed.

Cal Jordan, 12th grade, Golden Gate High School

Cal and his teacher grabbed a student who was preparing to hurt himself by jumping off the second floor of the school building. Cal and the teacher were able to quickly pull the student from over the railing, preventing him from jumping.

7 CCSO Deputies Honored As Lifesavers

Dan Collins, a retired captain from DeSoto County Fire Rescue, hugs Cpl. Dan Kowal after presenting him and Sgt. Charles Frost (right) with Phoenix Awards at a ceremony honoring emergency responders Wednesday. Sgt. Frost and Cpl. Kowal helped save the life of Collins’ 40-year-old son Shawn Collins who accidentally came into contact with a power line. Photos by Cpl. Efrain Hernandez (3)

Bystanders were administering CPR to a 40-year-old linesman whose boom accidentally touched a power line in East Naples when Collier County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived.

Sgt. Charles Frost and Cpl. Daniel Kowal determined that the man had no pulse. Cpl. Kowal quickly used his CCSO-issued automated external defibrillator (AED) and delivered one shock. He and Sgt. Frost then took turns continuing CPR on the man to bring back his heartbeat and breathing so he could go to the hospital for further treatment.

The man walked out of the hospital two weeks later.

On Wednesday, the man’s father gratefully presented certificates to Sgt. Frost and Cpl. Kowal, along with three East Naples firefighters and a Collier County Emergency Medical Services paramedic for their lifesaving efforts on July 3.

“That 40-year-old man was my little boy,” Dan Collins said choking back tears as he thanked them for saving his son Shawn Collins.

Dozens of emergency responders, including seven CCSO deputies, were honored with the prestigious Phoenix Award at a ceremony at Collier County Emergency Medical Services, 8075 Lely Cultural Parkway in East Naples.

The award recognizes local emergency responders who were involved in the rescue and treatment of a patient who has suffered cardiac arrest and was brought back to life after being found without a pulse.

Collins, who recently retired as a captain from DeSoto County Fire Rescue after 26 years, said his son was unable to attend the ceremony to personally thank his rescuers because he started a new job Wednesday.

He said that while his son’s rescuers may think they were just doing their job that day, he wanted them to know what they did was so much more.

“You just think that’s what you do but to me it’s not just what you do, it’s what you did,” Collins said.

The other CCSO Phoenix Award recipients are:

Cpl. Shannon Patton and Cpl. Jack Hazel: On Oct. 5, 2013, Cpl. Patton and Cpl. Hazel responded to a call of a man who was unconscious and not breathing. The deputies partnered to provide lifesaving assistance with CPR and an AED. Paramedics evaluated the patient and found pulses and respirations. The man was later discharged from the hospital alive.

Cpl. Scott Pepin: On Oct. 27, 2013, Cpl. Pepin was on patrol in East Naples when he was dispatched to a call of an 81-year-old man who was not breathing. When he arrived at the man’s residence he found the man unconscious on the floor.  He used his AED and CPR to resuscitate him. The man regained his pulse and was transported to the hospital, where he was later discharged alive.

Cpl. Ralph Scala: On Sept. 7, 2013, Cpl. Scala found a 62-year-old man on the floor with CPR in progress. He applied his AED and delivered one shock. The patient became awake and alert. He was transported to the hospital and discharged alive.    

Cpl. Daniel Kennedy: On Oct. 26, 2013, Cpl. Kennedy found an 83-year-old woman on her bedroom floor with CPR already in progress by another person in the home. He applied his AED but no shock was administered. He continued CPR. The woman’s pulse and breathing returned. She was discharged from the hospital alive. 

Cpl. Daniel Kennedy receives his Phoenix Award for lifesaving from Dr. Robert Tober, Collier County medical director, Wednesday.  

Seven Collier County Sheriff’s Office deputies received prestigious Phoenix Awards for lifesaving at a ceremony at Collier County Emergency Medical Services on Wednesday. From left, the deputies are Sgt. Charles Frost, Cpl. Daniel Kowal, Cpl. Shannon Patton, Cpl. Ralph Scala, Cpl. Jack Hazel, and Cpl. Scott Pepin. Not shown: Cpl. Daniel Kennedy.

CCSO Launches 9th Annual 'Celebrate With A Star' Toy/Clothing Drive

The community is invited to join the Collier County Sheriff’s Office as we make the holidays merry and bright for some deserving Collier kids currently dealing with traumatic, life-changing events.

This year’s CCSO “Celebrate With A Star” program will benefit Youth Haven.

Youth Haven is Southwest Florida’s residential emergency shelter for children ages 6-16 who have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. Youth Haven serves as an immediate lifeline of safety, love and compassion to these children. More than 2,400 children and families receive their services on an annual basis.

Click here to learn more about Youth Haven. 

Participating in “Celebrate With A Star” is easy. If you’d like to provide a gift for a child, just send an e-mail to media@colliersheriff.org and we will reply with a child’s age and his or her holiday wish.

Or, if you prefer, you may stop by and select an ornament from the tree in the Human Resources lobby of the Sheriff’s Office headquarters, 3319 U.S. 41 E., in the Collier County Government Center. Each ornament has a child’s holiday gift wish.

Youth Haven has requested gifts to be left unwrapped, but please make sure to securely attach the star provided to your donated gifts.

“Celebrate With A Star” gifts must be dropped off by Monday, Dec. 8. If you have any questions, call CCSO’s Media Relations Bureau at 252-0604 or e-mail media@colliesheriff.org.

Gifts may be dropped off in the Human Resources lobby of the Sheriff’s Office headquarters or at any of the following CCSO substation locations:

North Naples 

776 Vanderbilt Beach Road
Naples, FL 34108

Golden Gate 

4707 Golden Gate Parkway
Naples, FL 34116

East Naples 

8075 Lely Cultural Parkway
Naples, FL 34113

Golden Gate Estates 

1195 CR 858
Naples, FL 34120

Everglades 

32020 U.S. 41 East
Ochopee, FL 34141

Immokalee 

112 South First Street
Immokalee, FL 34142

CCSO Traffic Enforcement Spots

Monday, Nov. 24: 

Airport-Pulling Road and Grey Oaks Boulevard - Speeding
Logan Boulevard and Vanderbilt Beach Road – Red-light running
Collier and Forest Glen boulevards - Aggressive driving

Tuesday, Nov. 25:

Davis Boulevard at Ospreys Landing - Speeding
U.S. 41 North and Seagate Drive – Red-light running
Airport-Pulling and Radio roads - Seatbelt safety

Wednesday, Nov. 26:

Immokalee Road at Veterans Park Drive – Aggressive driving
Santa Barbara Boulevard and Coronado Parkway – Red-light running
U.S. 41 East and Rattlesnake Hammock Road - Speeding

Thursday, Nov. 27:

Livingston Road and Osceola Trail - Aggressive driving
91st Avenue North and U.S. 41 North - Speeding
Collier Boulevard and Grand Lely Drive - Seatbelt safety

Friday, Nov. 28: 

Collier Boulevard and Golden Gate Parkway -Aggressive driving
Airport-Pulling and Pine Ridge roads – Red-light running
Immokalee Road at I-75 southbound exit - Speeding

Join CCSO In 'Stuff The Cuffs' Holiday Food Drive

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office invites the community to participate in its “Stuff The Cuffs” holiday food drive benefiting the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida.

The drive takes place through Dec. 3.

Participants may place their donations into receptacles adorned with an oversized pair of mock handcuffs. Canned and other nonperishable food items are being accepted.

Community members may drop off their donations in the main lobby of the CCSO administration building, 3319 U.S. 41 E., East Naples. Agency members will find receptacles at the Naples Jail Center, the second-floor break room in the administration building and at the agency’s facility at 2373 Horseshoe Drive, Naples.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank serves more than 30,000 individuals each month. In fiscal 2013-2014 it distributed 18.7 million pounds of food, provided 15.5 million meals, and turned every $1 into $6 worth of food for those in need.

Traffic Alert: Road Closures In North Naples Sunday

The eastbound and westbound lanes of Immokalee and Livingston roads will be closed for approximately 30 minutes starting at 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, while the Collier County Sheriff’s Office escorts motorcyclists participating in the March of Dimes’ Bikers for Babies benefit ride.

The northbound lanes of Vanderbilt Beach and Livingston roads will also be closed during this timeframe.

The ride begins at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, and will continue north until the group reaches the final destination at the New Six Bends Harley-Davidson in Fort Myers. The northbound and southbound lanes will stay open, but northbound traffic will be reduced to one lane.

Please seek an alternate route.

For more information about this event, visit www.bikersforbabies.org/southwestflorida.

Long-Term Narcotics Investigation Nets 13 Arrests

On Nov. 13, 2014, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, along with its partners at Attorney General Pam Bondi’s Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted an operation to arrest those involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy that has spanned decades in South Florida.

This investigation, initiated by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, has been ongoing for approximately two years.

“The individuals who have been arrested in connection with this investigation are part of a drug trafficking organization that has plagued the citizens of South Florida for decades,” Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said. “Some have previous arrests and others have evaded arrest until now.”

The conspiracy was not confined to any single jurisdiction and arrests have been made in Dade, Collier and Lee counties Thursday.  Residences and vehicles were searched based on K-9 alerts, consent and search warrants. During the searches U.S. currency, vehicles, firearms and narcotics were seized at various locations.

"We, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Collier County Sheriff's Office, have brought down this large-scale drug trafficking ring that has funnelled drugs onto South Florida streets for years. My Office of Statewide Prosecution will aggressively prosecute these defendants," stated Attorney General Pam Bondi.

During the investigation detectives seized or purchased more than 13 kilograms of cocaine, with a street value of $442,000. Those involved in the conspiracy conspired to traffic approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine with a street value of approximately $1.02 million.

On Thursday, detectives seized approximately 10 ounces/283 grams of cocaine with a street value of $13,000, approximately 6 pounds of high-grade marijuana with a street value of $18,000, approximately 14.46 ounces/405 grams of methamphetamine with a street value $15,000, 6.5 grams of Xanax, four vehicles, two handguns and more than $40,000 in U.S. currency.      

Some people connected to the organization have yet to be located. Their warrants will remain active until they are apprehended.

Summary of the allegations and charges:

Erlin Y. Carrasco

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 2,710 ounces (75,904) grams of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5) (first-degree felony).
• Trafficking in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1)(b)(1)(c).

Jonny Gonzalez-Tia

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 51 ounces (1,428 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Tomas E. Ruiz-Serrano

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 402 ounces (11,259 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Francisco Gato Jr.

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 972 ounces (27,216 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).
• Trafficking in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1) (b) (1) (c).        

Enrique Henry Lesende

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 289 ounces (8,092 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Fredrico Solis-Contreras

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 979 ounces (27,422 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).
• Trafficking in cocaine 28 grams or more, but less than 200 grams, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(1) (b) (1) (a).

Jose Miguel Diaz

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 385 ounces (10,780 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Juan Rafael Ramos

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 4 ounces (112 grams) of cocaine

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Cristopher Thomas Ocampo

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 2.5 ounces (70 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Joel Melqui Vanegas

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 3 ounces (84 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Jeronimo Mendez-Cruz

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 3 ounces (84 grams) of cocaine.

• Conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Orlando Daniel Avalos

Conspired in total to traffic approximately 258 ounces (7,224 grams) of cocaine.

• Charging him with conspiracy to traffic in cocaine 400 grams or more, but less than 150 kilograms, in violation of F.S.S. 893.135(5).

Nicolo Busi

Trafficked approximately (9) ounces (255 grams) of cocaine

• Trafficking cocaine over 200 grams in violation of F.S.S. 893.135.
• Possession of marijuana with intent to sell, manufacture or distribute in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-1a2
• Possession of marijuana over 20 grams in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-6a
• Possession of controlled substance Xanax in violation of F.S.S. 893.13-6a                         

Deputies Make Arrest In “Scream” Mask Robbery

A handwritten script that began with, “This is a robbery,” was among the items found during a search Wednesday that led to the arrest of a 26-year-old man in connection with two recent armed robberies in East Naples.

Collier County Sheriff’s Office detectives said Jonathan Paul Wessel, who is homeless, wore a “Scream” mask in one of the robberies.    

Wessel is charged with two felony counts of armed robbery with a firearm and five counts of aggravated assault with intent to commit a felony. The charges stem from Monday’s armed robbery at the GameStop store, 9960 Business Circle, and a Nov. 4 robbery at the Circle K store at 12800 U.S. 41 E.

In The GameStop robbery, detectives say Wessel walked up to the counter and pointed a firearm at the three employees, demanding the cash. He removed an undisclosed amount of cash from a safe and secured the employees with zip ties before making his getaway.

Detectives said Wessel entered the Circle K store wearing gloves, a dark hoodie, dark pants with stripes up the side and a mask made popular by the Halloween movie “Scream.” He pointed a firearm at the clerk and demanded cash. He then secured the clerk and a customer in the bathroom and left the store.

More charges are possible as detectives investigate whether Wessel is linked to several other recent robberies in Collier County, including a Nov. 1 armed robbery at Bamz Deli, 2464 U.S. 41 E. East Naples, and a Nov. 2 armed robbery at Salsa Brava, 10265 U.S. 41 N. North Naples. The robber wore a “Scream” mask in both of those robberies.  

Deputies also continue to investigate two armed robberies Nov. 8 in North Naples: at the Newsstand Café, 1121 Health Park Blvd., and at CVS Pharmacy, 2344 Immokalee Road.

“Between the dates of Nov. 1 and Nov. 11, there have been multiple robberies with a firearm committed within Collier County involving a tall, thin, polite, white male subject that matched the physical description, the dialogue used during the robberies, and demeanor of Jonathan Paul Wessel,” Detective James Lockerby wrote in his arrest report charging Wessel with the Circle K robbery. 

According to arrest reports, Wessel was identified as a possible suspect in the robberies after detectives watched video surveillance footage from an Oct. 27 retail theft at Wal-Mart, 11225 U.S. 41 N., North Naples. There were similarities between the man who stole tools from Wal-Mart and the man who robbed The Game Stop, detectives said.

Upon further investigation, probable cause was developed for Wessel’s arrest in connection with the Wal-Mart theft, according to arrest reports. On Tuesday, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Wessel’s vehicle, and he and his female passenger were transported to the sheriff’s North Naples substation for interviews. Wessel declined to speak to detectives and requested an attorney.     

In her interview, the woman told detectives Wessel had been staying with her at her residence in Naples Park for the past three weeks, and that he recently came into a large amount of money, reports said. She also gave detectives permission to search her residence.

During the search, detectives found a handwritten note that began, “This is a robbery,” reports said. The note read like a script and contained a “check list” and “reminders” which were used in the Circle K robbery, reports said. Detectives also played the audio from the Circle K robbery for the woman and she identified the voice as belonging to Wessel.

The search also turned up a bank bag, which had been removed from a safe at The GameStop, along with heavy duty zip ties that matched the ties that the robber used to secure the employees and a written robbery note that resembled the dialogue he used.

On Wednesday, detectives executed a search warrant on Wessel’s 1995 Buick. A dark color pair of pants with white vertical stripes and a blue hooded sweatshirt were recovered from the vehicle. Detectives said the items are identical to the clothing worn by the suspect in Circle K robbery. 

Wessel remained in the Collier County jail Thursday.

New Community Gallery Exhibit To Feature Artistic Selfies By Collier Tykes

What happens when 34 preschoolers are asked to draw what they see when looking at their own reflection in a mirror using oil pastels, crayons and tissue paper brushed on watercolor paper? You have the unique and colorful compilation representing the 14th installment of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Community Gallery, “Vivid #Selfies.”

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with Collier Child Care Resources Incorporated to display the self-portraits of children ages 3 to 5 years old attending its NCEF Early Childhood Development Center.

CCSO will host a public reception for the 14th installment of the Community Gallery on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The gallery is located at the administrative offices on the second floor of CCSO headquarters, 3319 U.S. 41 E., East Naples.

The “Vivid #Selfies” exhibit will feature images inspired by Swiss artist Paul Klee. The children were asked about the shape of their faces and used mirrors to study and draw using the oil pastels and crayons. After drawing their portraits, the blocked-color backgrounds were created by brushing on squares of tissue paper with water.

CCCR’s mission is to support the needs of Collier County’s children, families and early learning professionals by providing high quality education, resources and child care services. It is a private, non-profit child care agency that serves children, families and early learning professionals.

The exhibit will be on display to the public through Friday, Feb. 13, 2015.

The CCSO Community Gallery welcomes any local public service organizations interested in setting up a future exhibit.

For more information about the gallery or how an organization can participate, contact CCSO Media Relations Officer Kristi Lester at 239.252.0608, or Kristi.Lester@colliersheriff.org.

Chamber Honors CCSO Deputy For Public Service

Business leaders honored a 27-year Collier County Sheriff’s Office veteran Wednesday for his service to the community, particularly for his work in crisis intervention.

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, in association with the Naples Daily News, honored Lt. George Welch with a Distinguished Public Service Award for Law Enforcement at a breakfast ceremony at the Hilton Naples, 5111 U.S. 41 N.

The annual awards are conferred for outstanding professionalism and public service rendered by those in law enforcement, fire safety, emergency medical services, and life and safety support.

Congressman Curt Clawson was keynote speaker and retired Naples Daily News Editorial Page Editor Jeff Lytle was emcee.

Lt. Welch was humbled by the recognition.

“I don’t do any of this alone,” he said. “I’ve had a strong team. We have a great network of people who are like-minded and work together to make life better for those with mental illness and their families. Their roles played a part in me getting this award.”

Lt. Welch serves as coordinator of the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) and has trained more than 650 criminal justice professionals, including law enforcement officers, correctional officers and dispatchers, how to identify a person with mental illness and de-escalate situations when a person with mental illness comes into contact with law enforcement. Sheriff Kevin Rambosk has made it a priority for CCSO, and nearly every member of CCSO has been trained, including all command staff. Lt. Welch has been integral in overseeing this effort. He has been CIT coordinator since 2008 when CCSO began offering the training. 

Under Lt. Welch, law enforcement professionals in Collier County have learned how to recognize symptoms, how to identify a crisis situation and about medications. The goal is to reduce violent crime and cut down on mentally ill patients behind bars. Not only is the training making the community safer, keeping mentally ill patients out of jail is saving taxpayers money.

Lt. Welch’s dedication to the mental health field expands to his posts as an active board member for David Lawrence Center and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Collier County. In 2013, the David Lawrence Center honored Lt. Welch for his contributions to support those in recovery as part of National Recovery Month. He was named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by NAMI in 2007.

Lt. Welch is dual certified as a deputy and as a correctional officer. He began his career at CCSO in 1987 as an officer in the Corrections Division of the Collier County jail. Later, as a deputy sheriff, he moved to the Patrol Division, where his first assignment was in the sheriff’s Immokalee district. He also worked as an investigator in Crime Scene Investigations and Vice Narcotics Bureau. He did a stint in the Youth Relations Bureau, where he was promoted to corporal and then sergeant. From there he was assigned to the Patrol Division, where he was promoted to lieutenant in charge of the sheriff’s substation in North Naples. Later he served as administrative assistant to the Sheriff followed by a stint as emergency preparedness coordinator for the Domestic Security Division and then followed by his current assignment to the Prevention Services Bureau of the sheriff’s Community Outreach Division.

Lt. Welch has also dedicated himself to the U.S. military. He retired from the military in 2013 after serving a combined 24 years with the Army and Air Force. 

Deputies Investigate 2 Related Armed Robberies In North Naples

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is investigating two related armed robberies in North Naples on Saturday evening.

Deputies were called to the Newsstand Cafe, 11121 Health Park Blvd., around 8:11 p.m.

Detectives said the suspect entered the restaurant carrying a plastic Publix grocery bag and sat down at a table, where he was served a glass of water. He went inside the bathroom twice and upon leaving the second time, entered the kitchen area, where he pulled a handgun from the Publix bag and demanded money.

He was not able to obtain any money and left on foot westbound on Immokalee Road toward U.S. 41 North.

At 8:24 p.m., CCSO was notified that a clerk at the CVS Pharmacy, 2344 Immokalee Road, was robbed at gunpoint.

The suspect entered and walked around the store. He eventually made his way to the cashier, where he pulled a gun from the bag and demanded money.

The robber obtained an undisclosed amount of money and left the store.

No one was injured during either robbery.

Deputies on the ground, along with CCSO air and K-9 units searched both areas, but were unable to locate the suspect.

The suspect is described as white, around 6 feet 3 inches tall, thin, with dark hair with a chin strap beard. He was wearing a long-sleeved, navy-blue shirt; blue jeans; a black baseball cap; and red shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers

New Community Gallery Exhibit To Feature Artistic Selfies By Collier Tykes

What happens when 34 preschoolers are asked to draw what they see when looking at their own reflection in a mirror using oil pastels, crayons and tissue paper brushed on watercolor paper? You have the unique and colorful compilation representing the 14th installment of the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Community Gallery, “Vivid #Selfies.”

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with Collier Child Care Resources Incorporated to display the self-portraits of children ages 3 to 5 years old attending its NCEF Early Childhood Development Center.

CCSO will host a public reception for the 14th installment of the Community Gallery on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The gallery is located at the administrative offices on the second floor of CCSO headquarters, 3319 U.S. 41 E., East Naples.

The “Vivid #Selfies” exhibit will feature images inspired by Swiss artist Paul Klee. The children were asked about the shape of their faces and used mirrors to study and draw using the oil pastels and crayons. After drawing their portraits, the blocked-color backgrounds were created by brushing on squares of tissue paper with water.

CCCR’s mission is to support the needs of Collier County’s children, families and early learning professionals by providing high quality education, resources and child care services. It is a private, non-profit child care agency that serves children, families and early learning professionals.

The exhibit will be on display to the public through Friday, Feb. 13, 2015.

The CCSO Community Gallery welcomes any local public service organizations interested in setting up a future exhibit.

For more information about the gallery or how an organization can participate, contact CCSO Media Relations Officer Kristi Lester at 239.252.0608, or Kristi.Lester@colliersheriff.org.

CCSO Traffic Enforcement Spots

Monday, Nov. 10:

Vanderbilt Beach Road and Oakes Boulevard- Speeding
Airport-Pulling Road and Orange Blossom Driving - Aggressive driving
Golden Gate Parkway and Santa Barbara Boulevard- Red-light running

Tuesday, Nov. 11:

Goodlette-Frank and Vanderbilt Beach roads - Speeding
Estey Avenue at East Naples Middle School – Aggressive driving
Immokalee Road and Northbrooke Drive- Red-light running

Wednesday, Nov. 12:

Livingston Road and Golden Gate Parkway – Red-light running
Vanderbilt Beach Road and Strada Place- Speeding
Davis Boulevard and County Barn Road- Speeding

Thursday, Nov. 13:

Bayshore Drive and Becca Avenue - Speeding
Santa Barbara and Hunter boulevards - Aggressive driving
Collier Boulevard at Oakridge Middle School - Seatbelt safety

Friday, Nov. 14:

Coronado Parkway - Speeding
Livingston Road and Osceola Trail- Speeding
Airport-Pulling Road and Curling Avenue - Aggressive driving

Update: CCSO Releases Video From “Scream” Mask Robbery

UPDATE: The Collier County Sheriff’s Office has released surveillance video from the robbery at the Circle K store at 12800 U.S. 41 E. in East Naples early Tuesday morning. 
 

Click on the link to watch the video: http://youtu.be/t8xqqxk4-mQ

CCSO is asking for the community's help in identifying the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477.

Earlier news release:
CCSO Searching For Suspect In 3^rd “Scream” Mask Robbery
Collier County Sheriff's Office
Posted Date:  11/4/2014 11:45 AM

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who detectives believe robbed two restaurants and a convenience store while wearing a mask from a popular Halloween movie.

CCSO has released surveillance images from the most recent robbery, which happened around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Circle K store at 12800 U.S. 41 E. in East Naples. 
   

In all three holdups, a tall, slender male armed with a handgun and wearing gloves, a dark hoodie and a “Scream” mask entered the business and demanded money. In each case the man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

In the Circle K robbery, detectives said the suspect entered the store and pointed a firearm at the clerk and demanded cash. As a customer pulled into the parking lot, the suspect ordered the clerk to the floor and then hid behind a display until the customer entered. The robber then demanded the customer’s car keys and cell phone, neither of which the customer had on him.

The suspect then secured the clerk and customer in the bathroom, and left the store.

Detectives believe the suspect also robbed two restaurants over the weekend. Both robberies occurred while the businesses were closing for the night. 

At around 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, the suspect entered Bamz Deli, 2464 Tamiami Trail E., East Naples, as three employees were closing the business. The man entered through the unlocked front door. Before leaving he locked the employees in the restroom.

At around 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, the suspect forced his way into Salsa Brava, 10265 Tamiami Trail N., North Naples, as one of two employees still at the business was leaving through the back door. Once inside, the suspect demanded money. When one of the employees pushed him, the suspect struck him with a closed fist. He left through the back door.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477. 

Original news release:
2 Restaurants Robbed At Closing Time
Posted Date:  11/3/2014 2:30 PM

Collier County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating two armed robberies at restaurants that took place over the weekend.

The crimes share similarities but detectives say it is too early in the investigations to say with certainty that they are related.

In both incidents, a tall, slender male armed with a handgun and wearing gloves, a dark hoodie and a “Scream” mask entered the business at closing time and demanded money. In each case the man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

At around 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, the suspect entered Bamz Deli, 2464 Tamiami Trail E., East Naples, as three employees were closing the business. The man entered through the unlocked front door. Before leaving he locked the employees in the restroom.

At around 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, the suspect forced his way into Salsa Brava, 10265 Tamiami Trail N., North Naples, as one of two employees still at the business was leaving through the back door. Once inside, the suspect demanded money. When one of the employees pushed him, the suspect struck him with a closed fist. He left through the back door.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477. 

CCSO: Beware Of Phone Scam Targeting Taxpayers

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is once again asking the public to beware of an Internal Revenue Service telephone scam targeting taxpayers.

 CCSO continues to field calls from residents who said they received a phone call telling them they owe back taxes that must be paid immediately to the IRS, said Lt. Chad Parker of the sheriff’s Financial Crimes Bureau.

The scammers spoof the IRS toll-free number on caller ID to make it appear that it’s the IRS calling and threaten potential victims with arrest or revocation of their driver’s license, he said.

“They scare people into providing credit card numbers or making some kind of payment immediately,” Lt. Parker said.

 CCSO reminds people that the IRS will always send taxpayers a written notification of any tax due via the U.S. mail.

 The IRS never asks for credit card, debit card or prepaid card information over the telephone.

 Other characteristics of this scam may include:
• Scammers use fake names and IRS badge numbers. They generally use common names and surnames to identify themselves. 

• Scammers may be able to recite the last four digits of a victim’s Social Security number.

• Scammers sometimes send bogus IRS emails to some victims to support their bogus calls.

• When unsuccessful the first time sometimes phone scammers call back trying a different strategy.

• Victims hear background noise of other calls being conducted to mimic a call site.

• After threatening victims with jail time or driver’s license revocation, scammers hang up and others soon call back pretending to be from the local police or DMV, and the caller ID supports their claim.

 If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS, here’s what the IRS advises you should do:
• If you know you owe taxes or you think you might owe taxes, call the IRS at 1.800.829.1040. The IRS employees at that line can help you with a payment issue, if there really is such an issue.

• If you know you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to think that you owe any taxes (for example, you’ve never received a bill or the caller made some bogus threats as described above), then call and report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1.800.366.4484.

• If you’ve been targeted by this scam, you should also contact the Federal Trade Commission and use their “FTC Complaint Assistant” at FTC.gov. Please add "IRS Telephone Scam" to the comments of your complaint.

 The IRS does not initiate contact with taxpayers by e-mail to request personal or financial information. This includes any type of electronic communication, such as text messages and social media channels. The IRS also does not ask for PINs, passwords or similar confidential access information for credit card, bank or other financial accounts.

Recipients should not open any attachments or click on any links contained in the message. Instead, forward the e-mail to phishing@irs.gov.

CCSO encourages residents to be vigilant against phone and e-mail scams. For assistance with any suspicious encounter involving a request for money or personal information, contact the Collier County Sheriff’s Office’s Call Before You “Pay” hotline – (239) 252-CALL (2255). The hotline is staffed by a CCSO deputy in the Financial Crimes Bureau between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

CCSO Searching For Suspect In 3rd “Scream” Mask Robbery

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who detectives believe robbed two restaurants and a convenience store while wearing a mask from a popular Halloween movie.

CCSO has released surveillance images from the most recent robbery, which happened around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Circle K store at 12800 U.S. 41 E. in East Naples.  

In all three holdups, a tall, slender male armed with a handgun and wearing gloves, a dark hoodie and a “Scream” mask entered the business and demanded money. In each case the man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

In the Circle K robbery, detectives said the suspect entered the store and pointed a firearm at the clerk and demanded cash. As a customer pulled into the parking lot, the suspect ordered the clerk to the floor and then hid behind a display until the customer entered. The robber then demanded the customer’s car keys and cell phone, neither of which the customer had on him.

The suspect then secured the clerk and customer in the bathroom, and left the store.

Detectives believe the suspect also robbed two restaurants over the weekend. Both robberies occurred while the businesses were closing for the night. 

At around 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, the suspect entered Bamz Deli, 2464 Tamiami Trail E., East Naples, as three employees were closing the business. The man entered through the unlocked front door. Before leaving he locked the employees in the restroom.

At around 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, the suspect forced his way into Salsa Brava, 10265 Tamiami Trail N., North Naples, as one of two employees still at the business was leaving through the back door. Once inside, the suspect demanded money. When one of the employees pushed him, the suspect struck him with a closed fist. He left through the back door.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477.

Original news release:
2 Restaurants Robbed At Closing Time
Posted Date:  11/3/2014 2:30 PM

Collier County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating two armed robberies at restaurants that took place over the weekend.

The crimes share similarities but detectives say it is too early in the investigations to say with certainty that they are related.

In both incidents, a tall, slender male armed with a handgun and wearing gloves, a dark hoodie and a “Scream” mask entered the business at closing time and demanded money. In each case the man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

At around 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, the suspect entered Bamz Deli, 2464 Tamiami Trail E., East Naples, as three employees were closing the business. The man entered through the unlocked front door. Before leaving he locked the employees in the restroom.

At around 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, the suspect forced his way into Salsa Brava, 10265 Tamiami Trail N., North Naples, as one of two employees still at the business was leaving through the back door. Once inside, the suspect demanded money. When one of the employees pushed him, the suspect struck him with a closed fist. He left through the back door.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477. 

2 Restaurants Robbed At Closing Time

Collier County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating two armed robberies at restaurants that took place over the weekend.

The crimes share similarities but detectives say it is too early in the investigations to say with certainty that they are related.

In both incidents, a tall, slender male armed with a handgun and wearing gloves, a dark hoodie and a “Scream” mask entered the business at closing time and demanded money. In each case the man made off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

At around 9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, the suspect entered Bamz Deli, 2464 Tamiami Trail E., East Naples, as three employees were closing the business. The man entered through the unlocked front door. Before leaving he locked the employees in the restroom.

At around 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, the suspect forced his way into Salsa Brava, 10265 Tamiami Trail N., North Naples, as one of two employees still at the business was leaving through the back door. Once inside, the suspect demanded money. When one of the employees pushed him, the suspect struck him with a closed fist. He left through the back door.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Collier County Sheriff’s Office at 239.252.9300, or to remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward contact Crime Stoppers at 1.800.780.8477.

CCSO Launches ‘Stuff The Cuffs’ Holiday Food Drive

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is inviting the community to participate in its “Stuff The Cuffs” holiday food drive benefiting the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida.

The drive will take place Monday, Nov. 3, through Thursday, Nov. 20. Drive participants will place their donations into receptacles adorned with an oversized pair of mock handcuffs. Canned and other nonperishable food items are being accepted.

Community members may drop off their donations in the main lobby of the CCSO administration building, 3319 U.S. 41 E., East Naples. Agency members will find receptacles at the Naples Jail Center, the second-floor break room in the administration building and at the agency’s facility at 2373 Horseshoe Drive, Naples.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank serves more than 30,000 individuals each month. In fiscal 2013-2014 it distributed 18.7 million pounds of food, provided 15.5 million meals, and turned every $1 into $6 worth of food for those in need.