Image of the park entrance sign at Rotary (Glover Bight) Park at 5505 Rose Garden Rd., Cape Coral, FL.

PHOTO:  Aerial map showing the location of Glover Bight Park in Cape Coral, FL.  (Photo Courtesy of Apple)

PHOTO:  Aerial photo showing Glover Bight park and its nature trail.  (Photo Courtesy of Apple)

PHOTO:  Booking photo of Eugene Charles Ferrante, W/M, DOB: 07-25-1938.  CHARGES:  Indecent Exposure of Sexual Organs.  (Photo Courtesy of YYY)

PHOTO:  Booking photo of Joseph John Law, W/M, DOB: 04-20-1972, of 920 SE 31st St., Cape Coral, FL.  CHARGES:  Indecent Exposure of Sexual Organs, Possession of Marijuana Under 20 grams.  (Photo Courtesy of LCSO)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Arrest Two for Lewd Acts in Cape Coral Park

(February 21, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police arrested two subjects for indecent exposure in one of Cape Coral's most popular parks Thursday afternoon.

After receiving complaints from park-goers of people engaging in lewd activity at Rotary (Glover Bight) Park, the Cape Coral Police Department tasked its Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics Unit (VIN) with investigating and addressing the problem.

VIN Detectives set up an undercover operation on Thursday.  In less than the span of an hour, undercover detectives were approached on two separate occasions by men who exposed themselves and attempted to engage in lewd acts with detectives.

Both subjects were arrested without incident and later transported to Lee County Jail.  

ARRESTED:  Eugene Charles Ferrante, W/M, DOB: 07-25-1938.  
CHARGES:  Indecent Exposure of Sexual Organs.
CR#:  14-003058

ARRESTED:  Joseph John Law, W/M, DOB: 04-20-1972, of 920 SE 31st St., Cape Coral, FL.  
CHARGES:  Indecent Exposure of Sexual Organs, Possession of Marijuana Under 20 grams.
CR#:  14-003063

One of the subjects, (Law) was found to be in possession of a small amount of marijuana which was discovered during a search of his person incident to arrest.  He was charged accordingly.

"Our City Parks are some of the greatest recreational venues you could ask for here in Cape Coral.  People who are enjoying a day at the park by themselves, or with friends or families shouldn't have to be concerned about their safety or encountering this kind of behavior.  The Cape Coral Police Department is committed to keeping our parks safe for residents to enjoy year round."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Make Arrest in Multiple Auto Burglaries

(February 25, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police have arrested a 15 year-old W/M juvenile in a string of "car-hopping" burglaries that have plagued residents in the Northeast corner of the city.

Patrol officers investigating this rash of burglaries developed a suspect and made contact at the juvenile's residence.  A cooperative parent allowed officers to conduct a consent search of the juvenile's room.  Inside, numerous items from auto burglaries that took place between January 21 through January 28, 2014 in neighborhoods near Del Prado Boulevard and Diplomat Parkway were discovered.

Cape Coral Police property Crimes Detectives assisted in the investigation.  The juvenile provided a Post-Miranda confession to Detectives and drove with them to various locations, pointing out where burglaries were committed.  Cape Coral Police are still in the process of returning property to victims.  

In total, the juvenile was charged with nineteen (19) counts of Burglary and Theft.  Additional suspects have been identified and the investigation is still ongoing at this time.

"This is a case where tenacious work of patrol officers led to a break in the case.  Once we had something solid, the teamwork between Patrol and Detectives resulted in us clearing 19 burglaries, which totals almost 16% of our total auto burglaries we have experienced this year."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

As good as this police work is, we still want to encourage our citizens to take common sense preventative measures to lessen their likelihood of becoming a victim of auto burglary:

• Don't leave valuables in your car.
• Lock your car doors and windows.
• If your car is equipped with a theft deterrent system, make sure it is activated.

Remember, "Lock It or Lose It!"

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PHOTO:  Cover of the 2013 Cape Coral Police Department Annual Internal Affairs Report .  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Department Publishes Its 2013 Annual Internal Affairs Report

(February 27, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department has published its annual Internal Affairs Report for 2013.

As part of the Department's ongoing commitment to transparency and community engagement, the Cape Coral Police Department provides an annual statistical analysis of several categories for which our Professional Standards Bureau is responsible.  These categories include: Employee Grievances, Inquiries, Internal Affairs Investigations, Use of Force, Traffic Crashes/Vehicle Damage, and Pursuits.

The report is available to download at www.capecops.com/bureaus/psb

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Arrested:  Yoel Escano Trimino, W/M, DOB: 07-16-1973, of 1206 NE 8th Place, Cape Coral.

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Images form a marijuana grow house operation taken down by the Cape Coral Police Department VIN and SCU units.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Bust Million Dollar Grow House Operation

(February 28, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police Department Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics (VIN) Detectives and members of our Street Crimes Unit (SCU) served a search warrant on 1206 NE 8th Place, Cape Coral after obtaining intelligence and developing probable cause that a marijuana grow house operation was being operated at the residence.

The search warrant revealed a substantial, high tech marijuana grow operation.  Elaborate lights, watering systems, temperature controls, and wiring setups, along with mylar-insulated rooms were found.  Cape Coral Police Detectives seized a total of 60 plants and harvested marijuana buds, with a goal weight of 436.3 pounds and street value of over $1 million dollars.

Arrested:  Yoel Escano Trimino, W/M, DOB: 07-16-1973, of 1206 NE 8th Place, Cape Coral.

Charges:  Trafficking in Marijuana (In excess of 25 lbs or 300 plants), Cultivation of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

"This is another example of the outstanding work that the men and women of the Cape Coral Police Department do each day.  I'm proud that our Officers and Detectives were able to work quickly and safely to take down one of the largest single grow house operations ever located in Cape Coral without incident and with minimal disruption to the good law-abiding citizens in the area."- Bart Connelly, Chief of Police

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PHOTO:  Spreadsheet detailing Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data for Cape Coral in 2013.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Department Publishes its 2013 Uniform Crime Statistics

(February 28, 2014)- The Cape Coral Police Department is releasing Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) statistics for 2013. The department saw a drop of violent crimes of 14%; the biggest decline was in the area of sex offenses (-56.3%) and homicides (-25%).

The Index Crime Rate for Cape Coral dropped from 2341.1 in 2012 to 2217.7 in 2013, a decrease of 5.3%.  The "Index Crime Rate" is calculated for the number of Part I crimes per 100,000 residents.  Part I Crimes include: Murder, Sex Offenses, Aggravated Assault, Robbery, Burglary, larceny, and Motor Vehicle Thefts.

Non-violent crime was also on the decline last year, dropping by 4.1%.

"We are encouraged by the declines in both violent and non-violent crime here in Cape Coral.  While we are enjoying the benefits of a nationwide downtrend in crime, we would be remiss if we did not recognize the hard work of our Officers, Detectives, Forensics, and Telecommunications personnel for their part in continuing to drive crime down and make Cape Coral a safe place to live, work, and play.  We must also acknowledge the tremendous partnership that we have with our community.  Without the terrific relationship that we enjoy with our citizens, these types of results just wouldn't be possible."- Bart Connelly, Chief of Police.

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Respond to Attempted Murder-Suicide

(March 2, 2014)-  At around 8:30 PM Saturday night, Cape Coral Police Officers responded to a call of a shooting at a residence in the 600 block of SE. 7th Ave., Cape Coral, Florida.

One subject was found to have sustained a life-threatening injury as a result of at least one gunshot wound.  The suspect in the shooting barricaded themselves inside of the residence.

The injured subject was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital on a trauma alert. Cape Coral Police Patrol Units were quick to establish a perimeter around the residence and attempt to make contact with the suspect inside.

Once attempts to make contact with the subject inside failed, Cape Coral Police SWAT and crisis negotiators were activated and responded to the scene. 

At around 11:20 PM, Cape Coral Police Department SWAT team made entry into the residence.  Once inside, officers were able to confirm that the suspect was deceased as a result of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

No additional information, including the identity of the victim or the suspect, is being released at this time, pending notification of next of kin.   

An additional release will be issued  once proper notifications have been made.

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

UPDATE- Cape Coral Police Department Releases Names of
Persons in Saturday’s Attempted Murder-Suicide

(March 3, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department is releasing the names of the individuals involved in this weekend's attempted murder-suicide.

Donald Clayton Maxwell (W/M, DOB: 09-14-1963, of 619 SE 7th St., Cape Coral) Florida was found deceased inside the home after an almost 3-hour standoff with police that began at 8:30 PM on Saturday night.  Shortly after 11:00 PM, Cape Coral Police Department SWAT team members used a remote camera to locate Maxwell inside the residence.  When the team made entry, they were able to confirm what the camera showed them: that Maxwell was deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The situation began at around 8:30 PM when officer responded to a call of a shooting at that residence.  Officers and medics found Linda Marie Maxwell (W/F, DOB: 01-20-1963) severely injured with a gunshot wound to the head.  She was trauma-alerted to Lee Memorial Hospital.

"We are proud of the quick action of our Patrol Officers in securing the scene to allow medics to do their life-saving work and our Crisis negotiators and SWAT team who kept this tragic situation contained and attempted to resolve it without any further violence.  Our thoughts and prayers are now with Mrs. Maxwell and her family as they begin the long road of recovery from their trauma and loss."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Original release after the break.

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Respond to Attempted Murder-Suicide

(March 2, 2014)-  At around 8:30 PM Saturday night, Cape Coral Police Officers responded to a call of a shooting at a residence in the 600 block of SE. 7th St., Cape Coral, Florida.

One subject was found to have sustained a life-threatening injury as a result of at least one gunshot wound.  The suspect in the shooting barricaded themselves inside of the residence.

The injured subject was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital on a trauma alert. Cape Coral Police Patrol Units were quick to establish a perimeter around the residence and attempt to make contact with the suspect inside.

Once attempts to make contact with the subject inside failed, Cape Coral Police SWAT and crisis negotiators were activated and responded to the scene. 

At around 11:20 PM, Cape Coral Police Department SWAT team made entry into the residence.  Once inside, officers were able to confirm that the suspect was deceased as a result of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

No additional information, including the identity of the victim or the suspect, is being released at this time, pending notification of next of kin.   

An additional release will be issued  once proper notifications have been made.

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PHOTO:  A Cape Coral Police Department Motorcycle officer conducts a traffic stop.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Department Reminds Drivers To "Click It or Ticket"

(March 6, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department wants to remind drivers to buckle their seat belts.  The first "Click It or Ticket" campaign of 2014 is currently underway.  Running from March 1 through March 15th, Cape Coral Police will be focusing on enforcing seatbelt use.  Officers will be looking for seatbelt violations as primary offenses and will be issuing tickets, instead of warnings.

"The fact of the matter is that seat belts save lives.  Enforcement campaigns such a Click It or Ticket allow us to raise awareness among drivers and remind them to get in the habit of buckling up and to change behaviors and get drivers to voluntarily comply with the law."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer

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PHOTO:  Do The Right Thing logo.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Do The Right Thing for March 2014

(February 13, 2014)-  The next "Do The Right Thing" ceremony for March 2014 will be held on Wednesday, March 12th at 2:00pm in City Council Chambers.  This ceremony is open to the public and we encourage our community to come out and show their support to these outstanding young men and women who "did the right thing.” 

Eight Cape Coral students will be recognized.  The winners’ nominations are after the break.

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Caloosa Middle School

Courtney Hennes – 8th Grade
Bjorn Tangedahl – 8th Grade            
Michael Mills – 8th Grade        
Matthew Kynett – 8th Grade        

Four students from Caloosa Middle, were walking home from school on Viscaya.  All of a sudden, two vehicles collided in front of them.  One vehicle, a green Toyota SUV, rolled over and ended up on its roof.  Without thinking of their safety, all four students rushed to the overturned vehicle and pulled out the driver of the vehicle and escorted her to a safe location.  Once away from the overturned vehicle, the four students waited with the driver until emergency personnel arrived.  The actions of these Caloosa Middle School students bring great credit upon themselves, Caloosa Middle School and their families. We thank these young students for their altruism and heroic efforts.

Oasis Charter Elementary

Eric Feichthaler Jr.-3rd Grade

Eric wanted to do something nice for Mrs. Gamboa, the school librarian at Oasis Elementary since she puts in countless extra hours sponsoring special reading nights and contests for his school.  Eric  decided that he was going to set up a hot chocolate & Gatorade stand during Cape Coal Tour De Cape to raise money for his school library.  Eric thought he could appeal to thirsty bikers.  He enlisted his dad to lend him the start up money to buy hot chocolate packets, since the weather was an abnormal chilly 40 degrees and Gatorade.  With 300 bottles of Gatorade and hot chocolate in toe, a tent to keep the sun away, colorful signs to attract customers and his brother and sister assistance, Eric was on his way.   After a long 8 hours,  and tips from customers who enjoyed his enthusiasm, Eric counted up the cash and presented his profits to Mrs. Gamboa the next day.  Eric showed amazing initiative and generosity devoting most of his Sunday and several hours on Saturday executing a plan to raise money for his school library.  Eric’s donation went to the Oasis Charter Elementary School Library for the purchase of books for all students to read and borrow.  We thank Eric for his kindness, compassion and generosity.

Cape Elementary

Mason Whiteside-Apicella- 3rd Grade

Mason is a third grade student at Cape Elementary School. His teacher says that Mason is very kind and caring to his classmates. He is helpful, completes his work on time, and is a very hard worker. Mason did the right thing when a check written out to a teacher in another grade level fell out of her purse. The teacher did not know that the check was not in her possession. Mason found the check while walking on campus. Instead of ignoring the piece of paper on the ground, Mason picked it up. When he realized that it was a check, instead of keeping it or throwing it away, he presented it to an adult at the school and the check was returned to the kindergarten teacher, Ms. Menzel who was very glad to have the check returned.  We thank Mason for his    integrity and honesty.

Challenger Middle

Sydney Mixon    -8th Grade

Sydney Mixon, an 8th grader from Challenger Middle took it upon herself to let her mother know what was happening at Challenger Middle regarding the Kristy’s Kids Program. This is a program where students contribute money to help needy children to receive Christmas presents. It is like a giving tree with students and their family's names on the tree. Staff members purchase items for the selected child. In the cafeteria students participate by providing additional money to purchase items.  Sydney knew that her mother worked for a retail store and donated 1 huge box and 1 huge bag of gifts for the children in our community.  These were able to be given to specific children in need. We thank Sydney for demonstrating kindness, generosity and compassion. 

Danielle Wielzen-7th Grade

Danielle is the perfect example of consistently doing the right thing. She has social ethics and continues to serve others. Danielle picks up litter around her neighborhood, in Four Freedoms Park, at the Yacht Club and at the beaches. She does this when and where she sees trash. Danielle helps her elderly neighbors with daily chores. When she sees something that needs doing, she does not need to be asked. She just does it. She washes the outside of an elderly neighbor's house every other week. She also picks fruit and vegetables from neighbor's gardens for them.  Danielle participates in a church community. She writes letters to specific church family members who are in the military. This is most often done during holiday times. Danielle makes cards for people in the military or hospital. She works on community campaigns and has previously volunteered at an animal shelter. She contributes money to bucket campaigns when people are in need. She has purchased teddy bears and get-well cards for people in the hospital. She is continuously helping others.  We thank Danielle for her good character, dedication and commitment to her community.

PHOTO:  Photo of Police Crime Scene Tape.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Looking for Suspects Who Shot at a House Overnight

(March 6, 2014)-  Shortly after 5:00 AM, Cape Coral Police Department responded to a call that someone had shot into a dwelling at 5238 SW 2nd Avenue, Cape Coral, FL.

A witness stated that a dark colored, possibly green, older model Ford F-150 with a white topper, was seen leaving the area right after the shots were heard.

Cape Coral Police Department Patrol units along with Detectives and Forensics personnel responded.  No one was injured in this incident, but several bullet impacts were found on the residence.

The investigation is still ongoing at this time.

"We are hopeful that we will be able to quickly develop a suspect and make an arrest in this case.  We are off to a good start with information that Patrol and Detectives have obtained from witnesses and what Forensics has collected."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer 

If you have any information on the identity of the suspect, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip- text CCPD+"Your Message" to CRIMES (274637). Finally, you can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.

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PHOTO:  Photos of credit card fraud suspect who purchased an iPad with a stolen credit card from Wal-Mart (1619 Del Prado Blvd. S.) on February 18, 2014.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Photos of credit card fraud suspect who purchased an iPad with a stolen credit card from Wal-Mart (1619 Del Prado Blvd. S.) on February 18, 2014.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Photos of credit card fraud suspect who purchased an iPad with a stolen credit card from Wal-Mart (1619 Del Prado Blvd. S.) on February 18, 2014.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Photos of credit card fraud suspect who purchased an iPad with a stolen credit card from Wal-Mart (1619 Del Prado Blvd. S.) on February 18, 2014.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Photos of credit card fraud suspect who purchased an iPad with a stolen credit card from Wal-Mart (1619 Del Prado Blvd. S.) on February 18, 2014.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Need Your Help Identifying a Credit Card Fraud Suspect

(March 6, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a credit card fraud suspect.

On February 18, 2014, the subject shown in the pictures above went to the Wal-Mart located at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard South and purchased an Apple iPad, valued at $500, with a stolen credit card.

If you have any information on the identity of the suspect, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip- text CCPD+"Your Message" to CRIMES (274637). Finally, you can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.

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PHOTO:  Video surveillance still of credit card fraud suspect.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Video surveillance still of credit card fraud suspect.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Need Your Help Identifying a Pair of Credit Card Fraud Suspects

(March 6, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a pair of credit card fraud suspects.

On January 15, 2014, the subjects shown in the pictures above went to the Wal-Mart located at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard South and purchased items using multiple fraudulent credit cards.

 Video surveillance shows that the suspects used Self-Checkout registers next to each other and walked out of the store separately, but met in the parking lot and walked to the same vehicle (no photo of the vehicle is available).

If you have any information on the identity of the suspect, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip- text CCPD+"Your Message" to CRIMES (274637). Finally, you can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.

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PHOTO:  A dispatcher monitors calls at his console.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Emergency Communications Experiencing Phone Outage

(March 8, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Emergency Communications Center is currently experiencing a technical problem that is affecting all incoming telephone lines to the Communications center.

The malfunction directly impacts the Center’s ability to receive emergency and non-emergency telephone calls.

Alternate phone numbers for non-emergency calls have been established.  For now, residents who would normally contact Cape Coral Police Department or CCFD’s via the non-emergency number (239) 574-3223 should use the following until further notice:

• (239) 242-3347
• (239) 707-1973
• (239) 707-0454

Residents who have an emergency and need Police, Fire, or EMS should still call 9-11.  Those calls are being routed to an alternate receiving facility and emergency service will not be affected.

Service personnel are currently working to restore phone service.  We will provide an update once phone service to the Communications Center has been restored.

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341  

UPDATE- Cape Coral Emergency Communications Center Phones Restored  

(March 8, 2014)-  As of 8:00 AM, all phone service to the cape coral emergency Communications Center have been restored.  This means the non-emergency number, (239) 574-3223, is operational and that the Communications center is now handling 9-11 calls rather than routing them to an alternate location.  Original release after the break.  

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Emergency Communications Experiencing Phone Outage

(March 8, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Emergency Communications Center is currently experiencing a technical problem that is affecting all incoming telephone lines to the Communications center.

The malfunction directly impacts the Center’s ability to receive emergency and non-emergency telephone calls.

Alternate phone numbers for non-emergency calls have been established.  For now, residents who would normally contact Cape Coral Police Department or CCFD’s via the non-emergency number (239) 574-3223 should use the following until further notice:

• (239) 242-3347
• (239) 707-1973
• (239) 707-0454

Residents who have an emergency and need Police, Fire, or EMS should still call 9-11.  Those calls are being routed to an alternate receiving facility and emergency service will not be affected.

Service personnel are currently working to restore phone service.  We will provide an update once phone service to the Communications Center has been restored.

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Investigate Serious Injury Crash Over the Weekend

(March 10, 2014)-  On March 08, 2014 at around 1:20 AM, Cape Coral Police responded to a serious injury crash at the intersection of Cape Coral Parkway and Santa Barbara Boulevard.  The crash involved three vehicles and had the road closed for over 3 hours overnight.  The Traffic Homicide Investigator's preliminary synopsis is below:

DATE: March 8, 2014
TIME: 0120
CR: 14-004018
LOCATION: Cape Coral Parkway / Santa Barbara Boulevard
ASSIGNED THI: Corporal Nickolas J. Slover

VEHICLE 1: a blue, 2002 Chevrolet Suburban SUV, Florida license plate # 573VF.

DRIVER 1:  Collin J. Woods, W/M, 07/31/1989, 3434 Southwest 26th Place, Cape Coral, Florida 33914.

DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Woods suffered life threatening injuries in the traffic crash but is listed in stable condition now.

PASSENGER 1: Thomas C. Brown, W/M, 02/15/1991, 1715 Viscaya Parkway, Cape Coral, Florida 33990.

PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Brown suffered non-life threatening injuries in the traffic crash.

VEHICLE 2: a black, 2014 Dodge Ram pickup truck, Florida license plate # 118QDA.

DRIVER 2: Rafael D. Diaz, H/M, 06/26/1969, 4401 Southwest 7th Avenue, Cape Coral, Florida 33914.

DRIVER 2 INJURIES: Diaz suffered non-life threatening injuries in the traffic crash.

PASSENGER 2: Jose L. Castaneda-Mojica, H/H, 02/08/1994, 4400 Southwest 7th Avenue, Cape Coral, Florida 33914.

PASSRNGER 2 INJURIES: Castaneda-Mojica had no reported injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

VEHICLE 3:  a white, 2005 Honda CRV SUV, Florida license plate # K823UU.

DRIVER 3: Juliana Michelle Ponce, W/F, 06/29/1994, 5035 Skyline Boulevard, Cape Coral, Florida 33914

DRIVER 3 INJURIES: Ponce had no reported injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

SYNOPSIS

Vehicle # 1, was South bound on Santa Barbara Boulevard approaching the intersection of Cape Coral Parkway.

Vehicle # 2, was West bound on Cape Coral Parkway in the middle lane, stopped for the traffic light.

Vehicle # 3, was West bound on Cape Coral Parkway in the inside lane, stopped for the traffic light.

As the traffic light turned green for West bound traffic on Cape Coral Parkway, Vehicle # 2 and Vehicle # 3 started to travel West in the designated lanes through the intersection. Vehicle # 1 then entered the intersection, violating right-of-way of Vehicle # 2 and Vehicle # 3. Vehicle # 1 struck Vehicle # 2 on the rear right side.  The impact caused Vehicle # 2 to cross into Vehicle # 3’s lane and strike Vehicle # 3 in the front right side fender.  Vehicle # 3 was then forced into the median where it struck a traffic sign and shrubbery before coming to final rest, half on the roadway and half on the median. 

After striking Vehicle # 3, Vehicle # 2 spun approximately 180 degrees and came to final rest facing East bound.  After the initial impact with Vehicle # 2, Vehicle # 1 traveled West on Cape Coral Parkway and crossed over the East bound lanes of Cape Coral Parkway West (at the turn lane entrance to Publix). Vehicle # 1 then struck a concrete wall on the south side of the roadway, damaging a sign before coming to final rest.  

The driver of Vehicle # 1 suffered life threatening injuries and was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital by ambulance where he is in stable condition. The Passenger of Vehicle # 1 suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital. The driver of Vehicle # 2 suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to Cape Coral Hospital.  The Passenger of Vehicle # 2 and Driver of Vehicle # 3 had no reported injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

Alcohol/drugs ARE a factor in the traffic crash.  THI Officers Slover and Green responded, as well as Forensics Potts.

Breakdown of the past 5 years:

2013= 18 Traffic fatalities (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)

2012= 10 Traffic fatalities

2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)

2010= 9 Traffic fatalities

2009= 8 Traffic fatalities (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police and Lee County Bomb Squad Investigate Suspicious Package Overnight

(March 11, 2014)-  A call about a suspicious package created quite a stir in a secluded SW Cape Coral neighborhood, Monday night.

At 8:40 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to 1237 SW 53rd Terrace, for a report of a suspicious package.  The homeowner reported that an unknown subject left a paint bucket containing an unknown liquid with a black cardboard box sitting atop it.

Due to the fact that the homeowner was not expecting a package and he felt it was suspicious in nature, he contacted police.

As a precaution, residents from nearby homes were contacted and asked to vacate their homes and move to a safe distance.  

Lee County EOD officers responded to the scene.  EOD officers using a variety of tools to include a robot and portable x-ray, determined that neither the box, nor the bucket contained explosive items.

Once EOD cleared the package, the scene was released and residents returned to their homes inconvenienced, but unharmed.  It is unclear at this time who was responsible or what the motive for this may have been.

"We are glad that the homeowner played it safe and called us.  We are glad that this turned out to be a prank, rather than something more serious."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

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PHOTO: Drive Sober or get Pulled Over Logo.  Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Participating In "Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over" Campaign

(March 11, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department is once again participating in the annual St. Patrick's Day Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign.  This enforcement wave began last night, and is running through March 17th, 2014.  Cape Coral Police Officers will be focusing enforcement efforts on impaired driving.  You can expect to see a noticeable increase in traffic enforcement during this 7 day period.

With all of the celebrations that will be going on and around St. Patrick's Day, we at the Cape Coral Police Department encourage people to plan ahead.  Have a designated driver, don't allow friends who've been drinking to drive, take a taxi, or avail yourself of one of the many low-cost/no-cost "free ride" programs out there that many establishments offer.

"A DUI arrest can be incredibly costly- thousands of dollars in fines and fees, loss of driving privileges, and hours of lost time due to jail, court, probation, and community service.  Not to mention, the potential to injure or kill yourself or someone else and the life-altering consequences that would have.  Don't count on the luck of the Irish- Plan ahead and use a designated driver."- Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

A Video Reminder About Drug House Odyssey 2014

(March 12, 2014)-  the Cape Coral Police Department wants to remind people that the 2014 drug house Odyssey is happening today.  Starting at 6:00 PM and running until 8:00 PM, parents can bring their kids, free of charge, to the Drug House Odyssey at 2110 Chiquita Boulevard S. (Cape Christian Fellowship).

Numerous Public Safety and community groups have partnered to bring this interactive program that teaches kids about the the consequences of bad decisions when it comes to drugs and alcohol.

There are numerous static and hands-on displays , demos, and tours happening that reinforce the message of saying no to drugs and alcohol, while giving kids a first-hand look at the tools of public safety.

Below are some videos that we shot from the day program, giving you a sneak peek at what Drug House Odyssey 2014 has to offer.

WHAT:  Drug House Odyssey 2014
WHEN:  Wednesday March 12, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM
WHERE:  2110 Chiquita Boulevard S. at Cape Christian Fellowship

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PHOTO:  Surveillance stills of a burglary suspect.  Suspect`s clothing from video: Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt, red jeans or pants, black athletic shoes, face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes, head was completely covered in the video.  The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Surveillance stills of a burglary suspect.  Suspect`s clothing from video: Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt, red jeans or pants, black athletic shoes, face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes, head was completely covered in the video.  The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Surveillance stills of a burglary suspect.  Suspect`s clothing from video: Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt, red jeans or pants, black athletic shoes, face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes, head was completely covered in the video.  The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Surveillance stills of a burglary suspect.  Suspect`s clothing from video: Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt, red jeans or pants, black athletic shoes, face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes, head was completely covered in the video.  The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Surveillance stills of a burglary suspect.  Suspect`s clothing from video: Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt, red jeans or pants, black athletic shoes, face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes, head was completely covered in the video.  The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Need Your Help Identifying a Burglary Suspect

(March 12, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police need your help identifying a burglary suspect.

On February 28 2014 at around 10:00 PM, officers responded to 2462 NW 22nd terrace on a past-occurred burglary.

Video surveillance from the home shows that at around 10:30 that morning, the suspect attempted to gain entry to the home through the glass sliders on the back lanai.  Ultimately, the suspect gained entry through a window and removed over $4,000 in jewelry and US currency.

Additional video surveillance (no stills available) shows the suspect leaving in a small gray sedan with tinted windows, possibly a Nissan Altima.

Suspect`s clothing from video:

1. Gray Buffalo Bills sweatshirt.

2. Red jeans or pants.

3. Black athletic shoes.

4. Face covered with a hood / bag with cut outs for eyes.

5. Head was completely covered in the video.

6. The suspect appeared to be using a cell phone while on the rear lanai of the home. 

Please take a look at the gallery of photos above  If you have any information on the identity of the suspect, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip- text CCPD+"Your Message" to CRIMES (274637). Finally, you can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.

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PHOTO:  Stills from surveillance video  show the suspect in a credit card fraud case exiting the Wal-Mart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S..  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Stills from surveillance video  show the suspect in a credit card fraud case exiting the Wal-Mart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S..  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Stills from surveillance video  show the suspect in a credit card fraud case exiting the Wal-Mart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S..  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Stills from surveillance video  show the suspect in a credit card fraud case exiting the Wal-Mart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S..  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Stills from surveillance video  show a subject who was with the  suspect in a credit card fraud case exiting the Wal-Mart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S..  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
Public Affairs Office
1100 Cultural Park Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33990
(239) 242-3341

Cape Coral Police Need Your Help Identifying a Credit Card Fraud Suspect

(March 14, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a credit card fraud suspect.

On February 20, 2014, the subject shown in the pictures above went to the Wal-Mart located at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard South and purchased an items, valued at over $250, with a fraudulent credit card.

If you have any information on the identity of the suspect (or the subject who accompanied him in Image 5), please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip- text CCPD+"Your Message" to CRIMES (274637). Finally, you can call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS.

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