(October 8, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives, Forensics, Patrol, and K9 units are currently on the scene of a bank robbery at Iberia bank, located at 812 Del Prado Boulevard South.

The subject in the pictures below entered the bank this morning around 9:40 AM, threatened bank personnel, and demanded cash.  He received an as-of-yet determined amount of cash and fled the bank on foot.

Cape Coral Police units are in the area looking for this suspect, and there is currently a large police presence in the area.  Units will be on the scene for the next couple of hours, processing the crime scene.  We will provide additional information as it becomes 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.

PHOTO:  A subject wearing all black and a "ninja mask" and displaying a firearm robbed the Iberia Bank at 812 Del Prado Boulevard S. This morning.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  A subject wearing all black and a "ninja mask" and displaying a firearm robbed the Iberia Bank at 812 Del Prado Boulevard S. This morning.  (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

(October 9, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives have released the surveillance video from yesterday’s armed robbery at Iberia Bank.

###

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

(October 9, 2014)- On October 08, 2014 the Cape Coral Police Department received numerous calls regarding shots fired at 2404 Santa Barbara Blvd S (McDonald's Parking lot). Witnesses reported seeing a male shoot several rounds at another male and then leave in a white Honda Civic, northbound towards Cape Coral High School.

Within moments of the shooting, Patrol Officers located a white Honda Civic in the 200 block of SW 23rd Street which is directly north of the McDonalds. Officers conducted a high-risk traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. Three male subjects were detained based on reasonable suspicion. One of the males was later identified as 16 year-old Carlos Ortiz, W/M, DOB: 12-11-1997 of Lehigh Acres, FL.

Officers conducted a "show-up" at the scene of the traffic stop and a witness positively picked out Carlos Ortiz as the male he saw shoot a handgun in the parking lot of Mc Donald's.

Cape Coral Police Detectives and Forensics personnel responded to the scene.  Numerous shell casings were located in the parking lot. Detectives viewed the video surveillance at McDonalds and observed a male (Carlos Ortiz) wearing black clothes holding a silver handgun in the parking lot.

Investigation revealed that Ortiz got into a verbal altercation in the parking lot with some other subjects which escalated into a physical fight.  During the fight, Ortiz produced the weapon and discharged multiple rounds into the ground.  Ortiz and his companions then left the scene in the white car and attempted to discard the firearm nearby.  Officers located the firearm and seized it as evidence.

McDonald's and Cape Coral High School are divided by SW 24th Street and within 1000 feet of one another.  Ortiz discharged a hand gun in the parking lot of McDonald's during a school function (Cape Coral High School football practice was going on at this time) which was taking place at Cape Coral High School. Based on the totality of the circumstances Carlos Ortiz was placed under arrest for discharging a firearm within 1000 feet of a school during a school function, F.S.S. 790.115, a 3rd Degree Felony.

Ortiz's mother was notified of Carlos's arrest. Carlos Ortiz was processed at CCPD and later conveyed to Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED:  Carlos Jose Ortiz, W/M, DOB: 12-11-1997 of Lehigh Acres, FL.
CHARGES:  Discharging a Firearm Within 1000 Feet of a School, 3rd Degree Felony

###

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

null

(October 9, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives have released their BOLO (Be On the Lookout) sheet regarding the Iberia bank robbery that occurred yesterday morning.

The Detectives’ BOLO sheet shows a still photo of the suspect's vehicle.  It also reveals a possible type of hat worn by the suspect as well as glasses that were worn by and left at the scene by the suspect.  Click on the link below to download and view the BOLO.

BOLO Sheet

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.

PHOTO:  Still photo captured from bank surveillance video shows the robber holding a gun at the teller window.  (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

(October 9, 2014)- On Tuesday afternoon, Cape Coral Police Detectives  executed a search warrant at the M&E Gold Store at 1327 NE Pine Island Rd., culminating a year-long investigation into one of the largest "fence" operations in Cape Coral history.

Over the past year, Detectives with the Property Crimes Unit have conducted repeated transactions with Julio Juan Guerra Molina.  These operations revealed that Molina failed to complete the legally mandated paperwork, that he knowingly purchased items that were presented to him as stolen goods, and that he made requests for additional stolen items for future purchase.

Detectives executed the warrant  and seized hundreds of items of jewelry, electronics, and miscellaneous retail merchandise .  Julio Juan Guerra Molina was taken into custody based on probable cause developed during the course of the investigation. He is currently charged with Dealing in Stolen Property (Dealing) (x4),  Dealing in Stolen Property (Organizing) (x2) and  Second Hand Dealer Violation (x8).  Detectives anticipate additional charges and arrests.

"Our Detectives believe that this operation is tied to hundreds of burglaries and thefts across Southwest Florida.  Over the next several weeks, we will be working with Detectives from other agencies to determine if any property recovered can be associated with crimes occurring outside of Cape Coral. We anticipate that  there will be additional charges, suspects, and arrests as the pieces of the investigation fall into place."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer."

The Cape Coral Police Department has received hundreds of phone calls from victims who saw the news regarding this seizure and who want to review the seized items in hopes of retrieving their stolen belongings. While we realize that people are anxious to see if any of their stolen property has been recovered, we have to inventory and catalog each piece. Since there was a large amount of property recovered, this will take at least several weeks. The agency is currently developing a method by which victims can review the evidence seized to determine if it is theirs.

If you suspect your stolen property may have been sold here, please contact Detective Walt Womack at:

Detective Walt Womack
Cape Coral Police Department
Investigative Services Bureau Property Crimes
e-mail:  wwomack@capecoral.net

PLEASE NOTE:  You will NOT receive an immediate response.  E-mails requesting contact WILL be returned at a later date.

Finally, the Cape Coral Police Department and its Investigative Services Bureau would like to thank our corporate partners who assisted in this operation.  Their assistance in providing decoy merchandise was key in the believability and success of the undercover operation.  The Department extends its appreciation to:

• Home Depot
• Wal-Mart
• Beall's
• Sunglass Hut/Luxottica Sunglasses

ARRESTED:  Julio Juan Guerra Molina, W/M, DOB: 06-24-1968, of 1806 NE 22 Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES:  Dealing in Stolen Property (Dealing) (x4),  Dealing in Stolen Property (Organizing) (x2), Second Hand Dealer Violation (x8)

###

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

(October 11, 2014)-  Last night, Cape Coral Police responded to an attempted abduction in a neighborhood near the 2200 block of Del Prado Boulevard South.

At around 9:30 PM., an 18 year old female, was walking her dog in the neighborhood behind KFC on Del Prado when a male in a vehicle pulled up next to her, got out of his vehicle and approached her.  The male told her she had a “nice dog” and then attempted to grab the dog's leash from her arm/hand.  He then grabbed her by the arm.  The dog lunged at the man and possibly bit the suspect on the arm.  The female ran home and the vehicle/suspect left in an unknown direction of travel.

The victim said she walks her dog every night around the same time and she has never noticed the man or the vehicle before.

The victim described the vehicle as a darker, 4-door, mid-sized car.  She described the male as white, in his mid to late forties, approximately 6’0 and "chubby"  and that one of his eyes looked different than the other (possibly an eye injury).  The victim said he had a goatee but only a day or two worth of growth.  She also said he had on a gold watch and a ring.

Cape Coral Police are asking residents to be vigilant and to contact the Cape Coral Police Department if you see any suspicious vehicles in your neighborhood or suspicious persons matching this description.

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.

###

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

(October 13, 2014)-  Shortly before midnight, Cape Coral Police responded to a serious injury crash at the intersection of Retunda Parkway and Country Club Boulevard.  Responding officers found a single-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle.  Investigation revealed that the motorcyclist ran a stop sign and struck a concrete median, which ejected both the driver and the passenger from the motorcycle.  The driver died at the scene.  The passenger was transported for life-threatening injuries.  Cape Coral Police Patrol, Traffic Homicide Investigators, Victim Advocates, and Forensics personnel responded to the scene and worked into the early hours of the morning.

The preliminary synopsis is below:

DATE: October 12, 2014
TIME: 11:46 p.m.
LOCATION: Retunda Pkwy and Country Club Blvd
CR: 14-016338

Vehicle 1: a 2006 Yamaha R6 Motorcycle.
Driver 1: Santiago Cadavid-Velasquez, DOB 04/17/1989, of Ft. Myers, Florida.
Injuries: Cadavid-Velasquez died on scene due to injuries suffered in the traffic crash.

Passenger 1: Liset Dayana Sanchez-Castro, DOB 06/22/90, of Colombia, South America.
Injuries: Sanchez-Castro suffered life threatening injuries and was trauma alerted to a local  Hospital where she is listed in critical condition.

SYNOPSIS:

Vehicle 1 was traveling East on Retunda Pkwy, approaching the intersection of Country Club Blvd. Cadavid-Velasquez was operating the motorcycle and Sanchez-Castro was the rear passenger.

As V1 approached the intersection, the driver of Vehicle 1 failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection and continued to travel East across the Southbound lanes of Country Club Blvd. After crossing the South lanes, the front tire of Vehicle 1 struck the concrete median of Country Club Blvd., at which time the driver and passenger were completely ejected from Vehicle 1. After being ejected, the driver and passenger of Vehicle 1 continued to travel East across Country Club Blvd., until they came to their final rest in the grass on the East side of the Country Club Blvd. After striking the median, Vehicle 1 became airborne, landing in the North lanes of Country Club Blvd. Vehicle 1 continued to travel East across the North lanes, striking the curb on the East side of the roadway. After striking the curb Vehicle1 traveled across the sidewalk and slid on the grass on the east side of the road until it came to its final rest.

Cadavid-Velasquez died on scene as a result of the injuries he suffered during the traffic crash . Sanchez-Castro suffered life threatening injuries and was trauma alerted to a local Hospital by LCEMS.

Due to the nature of the injuries, THI Ofc. N. Green responded to the scene along with Forensic Technician Buckner and VA Lucas.

The next of kin for Cadavid-Velasquez and Sanchez-Castro have been notified of the incident.

At this point in the investigation, it is unknown if the traffic crash is or is not alcohol or drug related and the case is pending further investigation.

***There are 6 traffic fatalities in our city in 2014. (There are 0 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. The 0 "medical" fatalities are not included in the number of 3 traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

2014= 6 Traffic fatalities
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

PHOTO:  Picture of Cape Coral Police Patrol Car outside of crime scene tape at a serious injury crash.  (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

(October 14, 2014)- The next "Do The Right Thing" ceremony for October 2014 will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2014 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."  Our guest speaker will be Lee County School Board member, Mary Fischer.

Six (6) Cape Coral students will be recognized.  The winners’ nominations are after the break.

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

###

Matthew Furman- 5th Grade        
Gulf Elementary
Matthew found money on the P.E. Court and without hesitation brought it immediately to his teacher.  In this day and time finding lost money with no one around watching, it is very tempting to keep the money and not tell anyone.  His teacher states she is very proud of Matthew’s honesty and good character in turning in the lost money.

Gavin Vaughn– 4th Grade            
Skyline Elementary
Gavin has had to overcome a lot of difficulties in his life.  He attends “All Superstar Daycare” during the summer and after school.  While he is there, he takes the time to help the younger students that are struggling with their homework.  On days that he is there all day, he helps the teachers with the 3-5 year old children.  Not only does Gavin help the students at his daycare, he often gives up his “Free Friday” time to come volunteer in Mrs. Chaffee’s 3rd grade classroom.  He has been working hard on improving himself and others around him.  Gavin is an excellent role model to his two younger brothers, proving to them, that they too can do anything they put their minds to.  

Clena Lausis- 7th Grade            
Challenger Middle School
Clena has taken another student under her wing and goes out of her way to insure this young lady does not get academically frustrated.  She has not only befriended her, but also helped her understand Math.  She has eased the other student’s frustration greatly!  Clena is always pleasant and has a smile on her face.  She does the little extras in class without being asked.  She really has helped this other student acclimate to Challenger Middle School.   

Solanch Dupeyron– 8th Grade            
Challenger Middle School
Solanch has been witnessed standing up for other students who were being criticized.  In middle school this can be a risky thing to do because students want others to like them.  Solanch is always respectfuly and calm in her demeanor and not afraid to speak up and take risks.  She truly cares about other people.  

Alex Knoblauch– 6th Grade            
Trafalgar Middle School
Eleven year old Alex discovered his dad Donald unconscious and not breathing on September 21st of this year.  At that time Alex rushed to the phone and dialed 9-1-1.  Alex listened to dispatch and got his unconscious dad out of bed and started CPR.  When Medics arrived, Alex was desperately attempting to save his father’s life.  Sadly, God had different plans for Alex’s father that day, Donald passed away.  Alex was incredibly brave, and did all the right things to try to save his dad’s life.  When he called 9-1-1 he gave the right answers and followed instructions better than most adults.  The dispatcher taking the call said that she has “never talked to a more controlled caller, even though he was scared and upset.  He did everything they asked and gave the information very clear.  This young man is a hero in our eyes”!!!” and must know that he did absolutely everything right and everything humanly possible to save his dad’s life and that we are all very proud of him.

Melia Coughlin– 11th Grade            
Oasis High School
The SRO of Oasis High School observed Melia during the second week of school.  He observed Melia walk to a table where a female freshman student was sitting alone. The female freshman student appeared to be intimidated by the large crowd of mostly older students. Melia sat next to the female freshman, smiled and invited her back to her table. The female freshman student smiled, accepted and accompanied Melia. Melia then introduced the female freshman to the other older students at the table and invited her to sit with them. Later when Melia was asked why she did this, she responded "I was that girl when I first arrived at this school."  Melia's teachers also have only great things to say about her describing Melia as a hard worker and an all around good kid. 

Melia's act of kindness toward the female freshman student was just a small sample of Melia's willingness to help others. 

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

(October 15, 2014)-  Yesterday afternoon around 2:00 PM, Cape Coral Police Department SWAT Team and Investigative Services Bureau Detectives served a search warrant at 1330 NE 20 Place, and arrested Jose Benitez on charges of Armed Robbery, Grand Theft, Assault, and Drug Trafficking.

Cape Coral Police Detectives have been working this case non-stop over the last week.  Piecing together eyewitness accounts, surveillance video, tips from Crimestoppers, and Forensic evidence, Detectives were able to establish ample probable cause and obtain a warrant. 

The warrant was served by the Cape Coral Police Department SWAT Team yesterday around 2:00 PM.  Benitez was taken into custody without incident  Detectives seized additional items of evidence from the home.  While executing the warrant, Detectives observed narcotics out in the open, in plain view.  Cape Coral Police Department Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics Detectives were notified and responded.  An additional warrant was obtained for the narcotics (Alprazolam and Hydrocodone).

"This is a great example of the Police Department and Community working together.  Witnesses willing to talk to us and tipsters willing to step up and make a call were key in helping Detectives identify and apprehend this violent offender."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

ARRESTED:  Jose Benitez, W/M, DOB:03-26-1969, of 1330 NE 20th Place, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES:  Robbery with a Firearm, Grand Theft, Assault w/ Intent to Commit a Felony (x3), Possession of Controlled Substance Without a Prescription, Trafficking in Opium Derivative.

ARRESTED:  Jose Benitez, W/M, DOB:03-26-1969, of 1330 NE 20th Place, Cape Coral, FL.
HARGES:  Robbery with a Firearm, Grand Theft, Assault w/ Intent to Commit a Felony (x3), Possession of Controlled Substance Without a Prescription, Trafficking in Opium Derivative.

PHOTO:  Cape Coral Police Department SWAT Team executes a search warrant on the home of the Iberia Bank robbery 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

null

(October 17, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Homicide Investigators have concluded an almost 2-month long investigation into an early-morning crash that involved a young bicyclist and a Lee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy driving a marked patrol car.

Investigators have concluded that Deputy Doug Hood was at-fault in the August 22nd crash that resulted in the death of 15 year-old Austin Dukette of Cape Coral.

The investigation revealed a number of factors contributed to the crash to include environmental conditions, the computer in the patrol car, as well as dark clothing worn by Dukette and inadequate lighting on the bicycle.

Earlier today, Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Homicide Investigators met with Command Staff from LCSO and issued a citation for Careless Driving to Hood.

At this time, the investigation is closed.

###

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

(October 21, 2014)-  Shop with a Cop provides children whose families are having financial issues, positive interaction with Cape Coral Police Officers.

December 22, 2014 will mark the Cape Coral Police Department’s 12th annual “Shop with a Cop.”

The event, sponsored by the Cape Coral Police Department's "Do The Right Thing" program, allows officers to spend some positive one-on-one time with Cape Coral children whose families are having financial issues.

Each year, the department chooses approximately 35-40 students to participate in the program. Students who are chosen to participate receive a Wal-Mart gift card. Students are picked up by their police escorts and taken to the store. There, with the help of their police officer escorts, the students select gifts for each family member as well as something special for themselves.

After shopping, the students and officers head to the police department headquarters, wrap the presents and enjoy a free lunch and gift-wrapping before being taken back home with their presents.

The “Do the Right Thing” program reinforces the idea of sharing and giving and promotes the idea that role models of all ages are crucial to the development of our youth. The positive one-on-one experience each student will get from “Shop with a Cop” is one that is never forgotten.

The Cape Coral Police Department is now accepting applications for this year’s “Shop with a Cop”. The event will take place Monday, December 22.

To nominate a child, parents should pick up a nomination form at the Cape Coral Police Department lobby, visit our website at capecops.com, or download the application packet below:

2014 Shop With A Cop application packet

To qualify:

• Child must be available on Monday, December 22nd to shop. 
• Child must be in grade Kindergarten through 12th grade. 
• Child and family must live in Cape Coral. 
• Child must be eligible for “free lunch” at his or her school. 

Application, liability release and photo release must be received no later than Monday, November 17th at:

Cape Coral Police Department
1100 Cultural Park Blvd
Cape Coral, FL  33990
Attn: Shop with a Cop
(Applications may be mailed or dropped off)

PHOTO:  Office Jasmine Correa takes time to pose with her shopping buddy.  (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

(October 21, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department is asking the community to be on the lookout for burglary suspect(s) who are targeting elderly victims.

On 10/15/14 at 1:00pm a suspicious person call was reported in Southeast Cape Coral regarding a male who knocked on the victim’s door and said he needed to check on her hot water and make sure it was functioning.  The victim, who is in her eighties, let the male in and he turned her faucet on and then began to look around her home.  She described the male as:

• Hispanic
• medium height and weight
• dark goatee with gray hairs but no mustache
• wearing a baseball cap that was dark green or blue, or a mixture of the two  
• dark, long-sleeve striped shirt, and dark pants

The suspect was unsuccessful in stealing anything from this first victim.  

Later that day at 3:30pm, another female in her eighties called and reported the same type of incident, however, this time jewelry was stolen from her bedroom.  The male (similar description as above) had her turn the hose on in the backyard while two other males that were with him entered her home while he talked on his cell phone next to her in the backyard.  She described the following:

• white work style van with two white males inside (she did not see them enter her home and could only say they were White)
• van was large with second row seating
• possibly Hispanic male that she dealt with
• mid to late 40’s
• 5’09”
• 190 lbs

If you have any information on the identity of the suspect(s), 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.

###

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

null

(October 23, 2014)- A Cape Coral man who fled from officers last night with his infant son in the back seat of his car is behind bars today on multiple charges.

Last night at around midnight, Cape Coral Police attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a car in the 3600 block of Del Prado Boulevard S.  for running a stop sign and multiple equipment violations.

As soon as the officer turned on his lights and sirens, the car made a U-turn and proceeded south on Del Prado at a high rate of speed with total disregard for other vehicles on the road.  The driver of the car even went so far as to drive up onto a curbed median to avoid other cars and turned off its headlights to continue fleeing from officers.

Seeing this display of reckless driving, Officers terminated their efforts to stop the car, and backed off, keeping the driver in sight.  As additional officers came into the area, the driver began making several u-turns and eventually drove into a residential neighborhood, almost striking a bicyclist in the 2700 block of SE 15 Pl.  When officers would attempt to re-engage and stop the driver, the driver would take off again.  

Officers in marked patrol cars set up at positions north and south of this neighborhood and prepared to deploy tire deflation devices.  When the vehicle came out of the neighborhood and entered the parking lot of the Casa Loma Motel, Officers moved in.  The driver opted not to continue fleeing and Officers took him into custody without additional incident.

The driver was identified as Esley K. Blassengame (B/M 12-02-90), of 1328 NE Juanita Place, Cape Coral, FL.  Investigation revealed that his license was suspended multiple times and he had an active warrant for Failure to Appear.  Inside the car, Officers located an infant child.  The child, as it turned out, was Blassengame's son.  DCF was notified and the child was turned over to the care and custody of its mother.

Blassengame was taken into custody on these charges and was additionally charged with Fleeing to Elude and Culpable Negligence.

ARRESTED:  Esley K. Blassengame (B/M 12-02-90), of 1328 NE Juanita Place, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Fleeing to Elude, DWLS, FTA Warrant, and Culpable Negligence.

ARRESTED:  Esley K. Blassengame (B/M 12-02-90), of 1328 NE Juanita Place, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Fleeing to Elude, DWLS, FTA Warrant, and Culpable Negligence

###

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

(October 24, 2014)-  On Thursday afternoon, Cape Coral Police responded to a burglary in progress call in the 3000 block of SW 10th Avenue.

Responding officers arrived at the home and found that a vehicle was backed into the driveway and that entry had been made into the home by forcing open the rear slider.  Officers also saw that electronics from inside the home had been collected in preparation to be loaded into the car. 

Officers quickly established a perimeter in the area.  K9 and Aviation also responded to assist.  Perimeter units quickly located two suspects that matched the description provided by witnesses, walking behind ABC Lawn Equipment.

The suspects were identified as Henry Alfred Thomas, B/M, DOB: 07-20-1971, of 2022 Cuba St., Fort Myers, FL and Quamaine Smiley, B/M, DOB: 06-23-1994, of 528 SE 24 Ave., Cape Coral, FL.

nvestigation revealed that the vehicle located at the residence was stolen out of Lehigh Acres.  Inside the vehicle was a flat screen television that had been stolen at another burglary in Cape Coral earlier in the day in the 500 block of SE 5th Court.  Cape Coral Police Department Investigative Services Bureau Property Detectives and Forensics personnel responded to assist.

Thomas and Smiley were both arrested on charges of Burglary and Grand Theft.  Thomas was found to have had an active warrant for Armed Robbery as well.  Both were transported to Lee County Jail.  Additional charges are pending from LCSO.

ARRESTED:  Henry Alfred Thomas, B/M, DOB: 07-20-1971, of 2022 Cuba St., Fort Myers, FL.

CHARGES: Burglary (x2), Grand Theft, Warrant- Armed Robbery

ARRESTED:  Quamaine Smiley, B/M, DOB: 06-23-1994, of 528 SE 24 Ave., Cape Coral, FL.

CHARGES:  Burglary (x2), Grand Theft

###

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

(October 27, 2014)- On Friday afternoon (10-24-14), at around 5:15 PM, the Cape Coral Police Department Vice, Intelligence and Narcotics Unit (VIN), with the assistance of the Street Crimes Unit (SCU), and the Cape Coral Police Department SWAT team served the search warrant at 808 Miramar St. Apt. #23.  The CCPD SWAT Team located Boris Nouchtaev in the residence and subsequently detained him. The search warrant was based on several narcotic sales from the apartment involving Boris Nouchtaev.

Detectives began to search the residence, a studio style apartment with only one large room and a bathroom and located:

• 2.91 pounds of marijuana
• Smith and Wesson Handgun
• 9mm Bullets and magazine
• $36,605 in U.S. currency
• Kyocera Phone and iPad
• Digital Scale

Boris Nouchtaev was transported to the Cape Coral Police Department for booking. 

The $36,605 U.S currency that was found inside Boris Nouchtaev's residence was seized based on the following facts:

• There is probable cause to believe that Boris Nouchtaev was packaging and selling marijuana.
• There is probable cause to believe that the money originated from the illegal sale of narcotics.
• During the search warrant, Boris Nouchtaev's identification card was found in a shoebox along with the marijuana and money.
• Large amounts of money in small denominations are a common indicative of drug trafficking.

The marijuana was later placed into evidence at the Cape Coral Police Department by Detectives from the VIN Unit.

PHOTO:  Cape Coral Police Department VIN Unit served a warrant at 808 Miramar St. Apt #23.  Detectives dieted almost 3 lbs. of marijuana, a 9mm handgun, and over $36,000 in cash.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Cape Coral Police Department VIN Unit served a warrant at 808 Miramar St. Apt #23.  Detectives dieted almost 3 lbs. of marijuana, a 9mm handgun, and over $36,000 in cash.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

Special Agent Tejada from Homeland Security responded to the CCPD to speak with Nouchtaev. It was learned that Nouchtaev may be here illegally based on the fact that his Visa expired in 2001.

Boris Nouchtaev was later transported to the Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED:  Boris I. Nouchtaev, W/M, DOB: 05-13-1991, 808 Miramar St. Apt. #23, Cape Coral, Florida.

CHARGES:  Possession of marijuana with intent to sell, Sale of Marijuana within 1,000 ft. of specified area (x3), Possession of marijuana (x3), Sale of cocaine within 1,000 ft. of specified area, Possession of cocaine (x2), and Sale of synthetic narcotic within 1,000 ft. of specified area.

ARRESTED:  Boris I. Nouchtaev, W/M, DOB: 05-13-1991, 808 Miramar St. Apt. #23, Cape Coral, Florida.

CHARGES:  Possession of marijuana with intent to sell, Sale of Marijuana within 1,000 ft. of specified area (x3), Possession of marijuana (x3), Sale of cocaine within 1,000 ft. of specified area, Possession of cocaine (x2), and Sale of synthetic narcotic within 1,000 ft. of specified area.

###

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

(October 31, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department reminds drivers to be extra careful while out and about this Halloween night. Drivers should be vigilant- remember that kids will be out late trying to get that one last piece of candy.  Slow down- This is generally good advice, but especially in the early evening and dusk hours.  Visibility is dramatically reduced in the dusk hours and kids wearing dark-colored costumes will be more difficult to see.  By slowing down, you give yourself extra time to react.  Cape Coral Police will be out looking for traffic violations such as speeding, careless driving and DUI.  Remember grown-ups, if you are going to that Halloween party, be sure to use a designated driver.  

Trick-or-treaters should also be careful. Children are always at risk because they tend to think less about traffic safety and more about the fun of the night.  That, coupled with costumes that can be hard to see make Halloween safety paramount.  Here are a few safety tips for a safe and fun halloween:

• Children shouldn't trick-or-treat alone.  A parent or guardian should go along to supervise the fun.
• Plan a trick-or-treat route ahead of time.  Stick to houses in your neighborhood that you know.  If venturing out beyond your neighborhood, only trick or treat at houses that are well lit.  Take advantage of "Safe Trick-Or-Treat" events in the area.
• Cross streets only at corners.  Darting across the street in front of cars could end the Halloween festivities.
• That dark ninja costume or Darth Vader costume looks great but is hard to see.  Carry a light source with you, like a flashlight or glow stick (Or your lightsaber, Lord Vader).
• Choose costumes that don't obstruct vision.  We want trick-or-treaters looking out for cars as much as we want drivers looking gout for them.  If possible,  opt for nontoxic face paint instead of masks.  It looks great, and makes it much easier to see.
• Finally, add reflective material to a child’s costume and adjust the length of any costume that may cause a child to trip.  It won't ruin the look of the costume and it may just save your child's life.

###

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

(November 3, 2014)-  The Cape Coral Police Department conducted a traffic saturation operation starting at 9:00 PM Friday night (10/31/2014) through 3:00 AM Saturday morning (11/01/2014).  The results are as follows:

Mary Beth Williams (W/M 3-08-68)
1315 SE 19th Lane
DUI: 14-017453 - 2000 block of Del Prado Blvd S
Ofc. C Mills

Mary Beth Williams (W/M 3-08-68)
1315 SE 19th Lane
DUI: 14-017453 - 2000 block of Del Prado Blvd S
Ofc. C Mills

Williams was stopped for failing to maintain a single lane.  Ofc. Mills saw signs of impairment and asked Williams to complete field sobriety exercises, but Williams refused.  She also refused to take a breath test.

Serious Injury Traffic Crash NE 11th Ter/NE 7th Pl
CR: 14-017447
Scot Risner (W/M 03-07-70)
62 Gresham Lane, NFM

Risner was traveling northbound on NE 7th Pl.  At NE 11th Ter  and NE 7th Pl there is a T intersection.  Risner did not stop at the intersection and hit a wooden power pole.  The impact with the pole caused serious bodily injury to himself. he was impaired with a BAC almost 4x the legal limit.  LCEC responded to repair the downed line and to replace the pole.  Risner was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital due to the serious nature of his injury.  Investigation ongoing.

Also the Following Citations/Warnings were issued:

Nonmoving:  4
Moving:        14
Warnings:     13

###

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

(November 4, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police need your help locating a missing endangered adult.

This evening (November 4, 2014), Cape Coral Police responded to 1401 NW 2nd Street in reference to a missing person.

According to family, on November 3, 2014, James Rowland Teeter of 1401 NW 2nd St., Cape Coral went missing.  Teeter reportedly left on foot in an unknown direction of travel.  Family believes James may be suicidal, as he suffers from chronic pain and prior to departing the residence, packed personal effects into boxes and left them at the residence for his children.  Teeter is not believed to be armed and is not known to own a weapon.  Teeter was last seen at his residence around 7:00 PM yesterday.

Please take a look at the photo.  If you have any information on the location of Mr. Teeter, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. 

Teeter has been entered into FCIC/NCIC as a missing endangered person.

NCIC/FCIC INFO:

ORIGINAL CASE#: 14-017615

NAME: James Rowland Teeter

RACE: White

SEX: Male

DOB: 03-20-1954

HEIGHT: 05`06"- 5`08``

WEIGHT: 210

HAIR COLOR: Grey

EYE COLOR: Hazel

CITY/COUNTY/STATE PLACE OF BIRTH: Delaware, Ohio, USA

SKIN TONE: Light

SCARS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION): NONE

MARKS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION : N/A

TATTOOS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION): N/A

DL STATE: Florida

CLOTHING DESCRIPTION: Khaki Shorts, Black Collared /"Polo" shirt. Glasses on face-Possibly

MEDICATION: Several Types of Pain Medications

SCHOOL:  N/A

EMPLOYED: Lowes - Pine Island Road; Did not show up or call into work today.

OCCUPATION: Sales

NOTE:  Packed 3 boxes for each of his kids and walked away from his house on foot.

VEHICLE YEAR: N/A

VEHICLE MAKE: N/A

VEHICLE MODEL:N/A

VEHICLE COLOR: N/A

VEHICLE TAG/VIN: FL-

DENTAL RECORDS AVAILABLE: YES

DENTAL RECORD LOCATION: FLORIDA

DNA AVAILABLE: YES

###

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

 (November 5, 2014)- A missing endangered Cape Coral man has been located and is safe.  

CCPD Patrol, K9, and Aviation conducted a search last night for James Rowland Teeter, a Cape Coral man who was reported missing and possibly suicidal, but did not locate him.  Teeter returned home shortly before midnight of his own accord.  He was transported for medical evaluation. He is now safe and has been removed from FCIC/NCIC as a missing endangered person. 

Original release after the break. 

###

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

(November 4, 2014)-  Cape Coral Police need your help locating a missing endangered adult.

This evening (November 4, 2014), Cape Coral Police responded to 1401 NW 2nd Street in reference to a missing person.

According to family, on November 3, 2014, James Rowland Teeter of 1401 NW 2nd St., Cape Coral went missing.  Teeter reportedly left on foot in an unknown direction of travel.  Family believes James may be suicidal, as he suffers from chronic pain and prior to departing the residence, packed personal effects into boxes and left them at the residence for his children.  Teeter is not believed to be armed and is not known to own a weapon.  Teeter was last seen at his residence around 7:00 PM yesterday.

Please take a look at the photo.  If you have any information on the location of Mr. Teeter, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. 

Teeter has been entered into FCIC/NCIC as a missing endangered person.

NCIC/FCIC INFO:

ORIGINAL CASE#: 14-017615

NAME: James Rowland Teeter

RACE: White

SEX: Male

DOB: 03-20-1954

HEIGHT: 05`06"- 5`08``

WEIGHT: 210

HAIR COLOR: Grey

EYE COLOR: Hazel

CITY/COUNTY/STATE PLACE OF BIRTH: Delaware, Ohio, USA

SKIN TONE: Light

SCARS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION): NONE

MARKS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION : N/A

TATTOOS (LOCATION/DESCRIPTION): N/A

DL STATE: Florida

CLOTHING DESCRIPTION: Khaki Shorts, Black Collared /"Polo" shirt. Glasses on face-Possibly

MEDICATION: Several Types of Pain Medications

SCHOOL:  N/A

EMPLOYED: Lowes - Pine Island Road; Did not show up or call into work today.

OCCUPATION: Sales

NOTE:  Packed 3 boxes for each of his kids and walked away from his house on foot.

VEHICLE YEAR: N/A

VEHICLE MAKE: N/A

VEHICLE MODEL:N/A

VEHICLE COLOR: N/A

VEHICLE TAG/VIN: FL-

DENTAL RECORDS AVAILABLE: YES

DENTAL RECORD LOCATION: FLORIDA

DNA AVAILABLE: YES

 ### 

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

Cape Coral Police need your help locating a missing teen.

Lena Pate, 16 years old, was discovered missing from her residence in Cape Coral, FL on October 27, 2014.  Pate left a note and took some personal property with her, including her dog, Gunner, as depicted in the photographs provided below.  Pate may still be in Florida or traveling to Georgia, North Carolina or Texas.  Additional identifying information for Pate and Gunner can be located on the poster provided by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

If anyone has information regarding Pate and where she may be located please contact the Cape Coral Police Department – 239-574-3223.

PHOITO:  Poster provided by the NCMEC. (Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Lena Pate, 16.  (Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Brindled Plott Hound mix, "Gunner" (Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

PHOTO:  Brindled Plott Hound mix, "Gunner" (Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

###

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