(January 18, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are investigating a crash that occurred around 6:45 PM in the 2600 block of SW Pine Island Rd. that sent two motorcyclists to the hospital and shut down Pine Island Rd. for several hours.

Cape Coral Police Patrol, Major Crash Investigators, and Forensics personnel responded to the crash.  The road has been re-opened for regular traffic flow.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below.

DATE: January 18, 2015
TIME: 6:45 pm
LOCATION: 2600 SW Pine Island Road
CR#: 15-001066
ASSIGNED MCI: Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle.
DRIVER 1: Douglas Charles Westpfahl, W/M, 63, of Sterling Heights, Michigan.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Westpfahl suffered several life threatening injuries and was airlifted to the hospital.

VEHICLE 2: 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle.
DRIVER 2: Victor Earl Mastrogiovanni, W/M, 45, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 2 INJURIES: Mastrogiovanni suffered several minor injuries and was transported by ambulance.

SYNOPSIS: Both vehicles, motorcycle, were traveling East on Pine Island Road from Burnt Store Road in the outside lane.  The motorcycles were riding in a small pack of other motorcycles.  Vehicle 2 was the rear rider in the pack with Vehicle 1 trailing the pack by several car lengths.

According to witnesses, they were driving in the inside lane when the pack of motorcycles passed on their right.  After passing, the vehicles changed to the left into the inside lane.  Vehicle 1 then passed on the right side and changed lanes into the inside lane approaching the rear of Vehicle 2.  The witnesses observed Vehicle 1 brake hard and then strike the rear of Vehicle 2, causing both vehicles to go down onto the roadway.  During the traffic crash, both drivers were ejected from the vehicles.  Both riders came to rest in the East lanes of Pine Island Road.

During the traffic crash, the driver of Vehicle 1 suffered life threatening injuries and was airlifted to Lee Memorial Hospital.  The driver of Vehicle 2 was trauma alerted by ambulance to Lee Memorial Hospital.  The driver of Vehicle 1 is listed in critical but stable condition at Lee Memorial Hospital.  The driver of Vehicle 2 suffered minor injuries and has since been released from the hospital.

This traffic crash is alcohol related. The next-of-kin HAS BEEN notified (out of state).  Forensic Specialist Buckner and MCI Satterlee responded.

This traffic crash resulted in the East lanes of Pine Island Road being shut down for several hours.  Case is under investigation. Criminal charges are pending.

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)

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

(January 22, 2015)-  On January 10, 2015, the victim was inside the Winn Dixie Supermarket located at 1016 Cape Coral Parkway East.  Sometime between 1:45 PM and 2:10 PM, an unknown suspect took the victim’s purse and its contents from the victim's shopping cart.

A white female was seen on store video surveillance entering the store without a purse and leaving the store moments later with what has been identified as the victim’s purse.  The purse was later located in the store parking lot with cash and credit cards missing.

Please take a look at the photos below.  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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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT | Public Affairs Office | 1100 Cultural Park Boulevard | Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 242-3341

(January 22, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives are trying to identify a family who stole a customer's wallet from the Wal-Mart jewelry counter on December 27, 2014.

The victim stated that she was looking at a watch to purchase at the jewelry section. The victim then left the jewelry section and walked away, accidentally leaving behind her wallet. The victim stated that when she noticed that she forgot her wallet and walked back to the jewelry counter, the wallet was gone.

In the surveillance footage you can see a family at the jewelry counter near the wallet. The son covers up the wallet with his body to distract and block the view of the sales clerk while the mother, described as being in her lower to mid 40`s, blonde hair, medium build, grabs the wallet and immediately puts it in her shopping cart and places her purse on top of it to conceal it. The family then walks to the front of the store, pays for their items in their cart, and leaves in a black SUV.

Please take a look at the photos below.  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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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT | Public Affairs Office | 1100 Cultural Park Boulevard | Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 242-3341

(January 22, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives have arrested 16 year-old Keenan Jermaine Stanley on charges of Home Invasion Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Grand Theft stemming from a January 7th home invasion in SE Cape Coral.

On January 7, Cape Coral Police responded to 423 SE 8th St. in reference to a home invasion.  The victim (a juvenile) told Officers and Detectives that he was lying in bed when 3 black males entered his bedroom, armed with baseball bats, and stole numerous pairs of sneakers, an iPhone 5, and an Xbox 360. One suspect told the victim that he had a gun in his pocket and not to move.

The suspects loaded the items into bags and exited the residence through the rear slider. The victim ran after them and saw the three black males leave in a car which was parked on SE 7th Street.

Witnesses in the neighborhood saw the suspects running from the house.  All three black males were described as approximately 5'09", 150 lbs and around 16 years of age. The first black male was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with his face exposed. The second black male was also wearing a hooded sweatshirt but had a red bandana covering his face from the nose down.  The third black male was lighter skinned with a blonde afro.  Detectives and Forensics personnel responded to the scene.

A few days later, both the victim and a neighborhood witness positively identified Stanley as one of the three suspects from a photo line-up.

Officers took Keenan into custody at his home yesterday afternoon.  At the time of his arrest, Stanley was wearing a black pair of sneakers which matched the description of a pair of sneakers that were stolen from the victim.  

The investigation is ongoing.  Additional charges/arrests are pending.

ARRESTED: Keenan Jermaine Stanley, B/M, 01-15-1999, of 610 E Hancock Bridge Pkwy., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Home Invasion Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Grand Theft.

ARRESTED: Keenan Jermaine Stanley, B/M, 01-15-1999, of 610 E Hancock Bridge Pkwy., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Home Invasion Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Grand Theft.

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

(January 23, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics Detectives concluded a month-long undercover investigation yesterday into synthetic marijuana sales that netted one arrest and the seizure of over 165 grams of synthetic marijuana.

At around 3:00 PM yesterday afternoon, Cape Coral Police Department SWAT and VIN Detectives executed a search warrant at 1122 Country Club Boulevard, Unit B.  The warrant was obtained as a result of a month-long undercover operation during which Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics Detectives learned that suspect, Amber Williamson, was manufacturing and selling synthetic marijuana at her residence.  

Williamson was taken into custody without incident and was later transported to the Lee County Jail.

During the execution of the search warrant, Detectives seized over 165 grams of synthetic marijuana from the residence as well as chemicals and other paraphernalia for the manufacture, packaging, and sale of synthetic marijuana.

ARRESTED: Amber Lynn Williamson, W/F, DOB: 10-18-1993, of 1122 Country Club Boulevard #B, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Sale of Synthetic Marijuana, Possession of Synthetic Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Possession of a Structure to Manufacture Narcotics, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

ARRESTED: Amber Lynn Williamson, W/F, DOB: 10-18-1993, of 1122 Country Club Boulevard #B, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Sale of synthetic marijuana, Possession of synthetic marijuana with intent to sell, Possession of a structure to manufacture narcotics, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

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

(January 25, 2015)-  Earlier this morning, Cape Coral Police responded to a single-vehicle fatality crash in the 1100 block of SE 16th St.  Sometime during the overnight hours, a motorcyclist left the roadway, striking a tree in front of a residence.  The crash was discovered some hours later by the homeowner, who called Police.

Cape Coral Police Department Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, Victim Advocate, and Forensics personnel responded.  The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: January 25, 2015
TIME: 8:36 a.m. 
LOCATION: 1000 Block of Southeast 16th Street
CR#: 15-001442
ASSIGNED MCI: Corporal Nickolas J. Slover #0626

VEHICLE 1: 2008 Suzuki GSX 650F Motorcycle.
DRIVER 1:  Scott W. Ogden, W/M, 42, of Cape Coral, Florida.

DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Ogden was pronounced deceased on scene.

SYNOPSIS:  Vehicle # 1 was west bound on SE 16th Street at a high rate of speed.  In the 1000 block, driver of Vehicle # 1 attempted to slow down and brake leaving skid marks. The driver of Vehicle # 1 was unable to stop and left the roadway, entering into the property of 1002 SE 16th Street.  Vehicle # 1 and driver slid on its/his side through the property and struck a tree in the front yard.  The driver came to final rest in front of the residence and the motorcycle traveled further west, coming to final rest on the side of the residence. 

There are no independent witnesses to the crash.  The homeowner and neighbor both remember hearing a loud noise in the middle of the night but have conflicting times.   The owner of the residence came out this morning to find Vehicle # 1 and the driver at final rest. After inspecting the motorcycle, it does not appear any other vehicle made contact with this vehicle, and the accident appears to be a single-vehicle traffic crash.

Due to the fatality, MCI Corporal Nickolas Slover, Forensic Specialist Lisa Lansky and VA Marisol Pena responded.  Alcohol/drugs are pending autopsy results.  The next-of-kin has been notified. This case is pending further investigation at this time.

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

(January 26, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are asking for your assistance in identifying a group of credit card fraud suspects.

The three subjects pictured below were involved in using a stolen credit card to purchase over $2000 worth of merchandise from the Wal-Mart located at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard S. on December 3, 2014 at around 9:50 PM.

The suspects were seen leaving the premises in a newer, white, Chevrolet Impala.

Please take a look at the photos below.  If you have any information on the identity of these suspects, 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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CAPE CORAL POLICE DEPARTMENT | Public Affairs Office | 1100 Cultural Park Boulevard | Cape Coral, FL 33990 | (239) 242-3341

(January 26, 2015)-  From Patrol, to Detectives, to K9, it was a busy weekend for members of the Cape Coral Police Department.  That busyness paid off in the arrest of several burglars.

Two separate instances resulted in four arrests, the clearance of several burglaries, and potentially more charges coming for the perpetrators.

NO PHOTO
ARRESTED: Tristan M Gendron W/M, 15, of Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Burglary to a vehicle, Theft (15-001469); Grand theft, Use of anti-shoplifting control device countermeasure, Carrying concealed weapon (15-001463)

Gendron was observed by Wal-Mart Loss Prevention cutting security devices off several items.  Gendron placed the items in his back pack and passed all points of sale without paying.  Loss prevention detained Gendron and contacted the Cape Coral Police Department.  While retrieving the stolen items from Gendron’s back pack several other items were located.  Investigation revealed that Gendron had also committed several vehicle burglaries in the area.  Cape Coral Police Detectives responded and assisted with locating victims of the stolen property.

ARRESTED: Blake M. Armfield, W/M 09/16/1996, of 18161 Leetana Rd, N. Fort Myers
CHARGES: Burglary, petit theft, resting an officer without violence, & contributing to the  delinquency of a minor (15-001492).

ARRESTED: Blake M. Armfield, W/M 09/16/1996, of 18161 Leetana Rd, N. Fort Myers
CHARGES: Burglary, petit theft, resisting an officer without violence, & contributing to the  delinquency of a minor (15-001492).

NO PHOTO
ARRESTED: Kierston L. Meadows, W/F, 14, of Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Burglary & resisting an officer without violence (15-001492).

NO PHOTO
ARRESTED: Shannon K. Mickel, W/F, 16,  of Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Burglary & resisting an officer without violence

Officers responded to a burglary in progress in the 400 block of NE 4th St. and observed the above suspects at another residence conducting another burglary. The suspects they fled on foot and were eventually located and charged accordingly. K9, Aviation, and Cape Coral Police Detectives assisted with the investigation. Investigation revealed several other burglaries in the area which Detectives are still investigating.  Additional charges are pending. 

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

(January 28, 2015)- The next "Do The Right Thing" ceremony for January 2015 will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 2:00 PM 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."

Nine (9) 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)

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Mason Boyce- 8th Grade, Oasis Middle
Mason found some money in the hallway between two classrooms and as tempting as it may have been to pocket the money, he informed his teacher.  Mason then turned the money into the front office, so that whoever lost it could claim it.

Kylie Lusk – 2nd Grade, Gulf Elementary
While Kylie was at P.E. she found money on the floor.  Without a second thought Kylie immediately ran and gave it to her teacher and turned it in.  She never hesitated, showing wonderful spirit and sincerity.  

Brayden Loughren – 6th Grader, Challenger Middle
Brayden is a very responsible and a honest young man.  Brayden was walking with another student and the other student found some money in the hallway.  The other student spoke about keeping the money but Brayden convinced the student that it was best to turn the money in to the teacher, which he did.  Brayden is able to positively influence his peers and is respected by them.

Maria Minto- 5th Grade, Diplomat Elementary
Maria took it upon herself to help several students raise money for their 5th grade field trip to the Museum Of Science and Industry in Tampa.  Maria did so by helping a couple of students sell additional chocolate bars.  Because of Maria’s commitment to her 5th grade Field Trip, she was able to raise $360.00.

Zachary Kashman – 8th Grade, Oasis Middle
Samantha Esposito – 8th Grade, Oasis Middle
Mary Brady – 8th Grade, Oasis Middle School
For their 7th grade assignment, their teacher Mr. Fennell, had his students developed a non-profit organization.  These three students chose to collect donated shoes and funds for local children in need, designating their name as “A Pair2 Share”.  They developed a website and attended school festivals advertising their cause.  What makes Zach, Samantha and Mary stand out is that they continued their organization beyond their 7th grade project.  Now in the 8th grade the trio still runs their non-profit organization.  This school year it appeared that some of the students were in need and Mr. Fennell decided he was going to approach “A Pair 2 Share” to see if they would be interested in supporting a cause.   After the three discussed it among themselves, they told Mr. Fennell that they would like to donate $500.00 towards the cause. This trio’s kindness exemplifies their genuine heart and strength to make the world a better place.  The internal drive, determination and continual kindness that these three student posses will make them very successful with any of their goals in life.  

Jarred Pinto – 7th Grade. Gulf Middle
On Thanksgiving Day Jarred volunteered at “Lamb of God church” to feed the needy; Jarred helped by cutting pies and packing them for the families.  He then went to an elderly home to help feed them.  Jarred helped serve about 200 residents in the Lehigh Acres Community.  Jarred enjoys reaching out to the needy and states that he looks forward to doing it every year.

Connor Leith – 9th Grade, North Ft. Myers High School
When Officer Zarrillo responded to the call he stated the following, “I came across a young man during a residential fire call.  The young man was at home babysitting his younger sister, Camryn when the stove was accidentally bumped, turned on, and ignited a glass candle causing it to explode.  The quick thinking Connor got his younger sister and family dog out of the house, called 911 and his parents.  The Cape Coral Police Department and the Cape Coral Fire Department arrived quickly to put out the fire which caused damaged to the kitchen, but no structural damage.”  If it were not for Connor’s quick thinking, the outcome would have been quite different.

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

(January 29, 2015)-  A Cape Coral man who was busted by narcotics Detectives twice last year for drug trafficking, has taken a plea that will land him in prison for 15 years.

Lorenzo Marquez, W/M, DOB: 03-16-1966, of 3802 SW 3rd Street, Cape Coral, FL pled guilty on Tuesday to two counts of Trafficking in Opiates- Trafficking heroin (22.8) grams, and Trafficking in his homemade pills that he was pressing (779 pills/118.5 grams) which were also an opiate.

"This is an example of the outstanding work the men and women of the Cape Coral Police Department Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics Unit do.  We want to thank the State Attorney's Office for their hard work in getting this case ready and in securing the plea that will get a big  drug dealer off the streets of Cape Coral for a long time to come."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Original release below:

Cape Coral Police Take Down Heroin Trafficking Operation...Again

PHOTO: Lorenzo Marquez, W/M, DOB: 03-16-1966, of 3802 SW 3rd Street, Cape Coral, FL, took a plea deal on two counts of Trafficking in Opiates, stemming from two separate busts in 2014.

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

(February 2, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are investigating a fatality crash in the 1300 block of NE Pine Island Rd. Eastbound Pine Island Rd. is reduced to one lane, causing traffic to back up to Andalusia Boulevard. Drivers should seek an alternate route.

A detailed news release will be sent later today, once the Major Crash Investigator completes his preliminary synopsis.

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

(February 2, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are looking for a suspect in a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of a bicyclist on Pine Island Road.

This morning, Cape Coral Police responded to a serious injury crash in the 1300 block of NE Pine Island Road. Officers arrived to find a single bicyclist laying in a ditch on the south side of Pine Island Road.  The bicyclist, an apparent victim of a hit-and-run, sustained fatal injuries.  Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, Victim Advocates, and additional Patrol units responded to assist. The investigation had most of eastbound Pine Island Rd. shut down for several hours as the Major Crash Investigator investigated this fatal hit-and-run crash.  

The Major Crash Investigator determined that the crash occurred around 8:00 PM last night, but the victim was not discovered until after 7:00 AM, likely due to poor lighting in the area and the location where the deceased came to rest.

The victim has been identified as Joel Scott Nichols, 27, of Cape Coral, Florida.

Please take a look at the synopsis and photo below.  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.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: February 2, 2015
TIME: 7:10 AM
CR: 15-001943
LOCATION: 1300 block of NE Pine Island Road

VEHICLE 1: Mid to Late 1990’s, White, Dodge pickup truck, Vehicle tag# is unknown at this time.
DRIVER 1: Unknown
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Unknown
PASSENGER 1: Unknown
PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Unknown

BICYCLE 1: Black and Red Magna, Excitor, mountain bicycle.
PEDESTRIAN 1: Joel Scott Nichols, 27 YOA, of Cape Coral, Florida.
PEDESTRIAN 1 INJURIES: Nichols died as a result of the injuries he suffered in the traffic crash.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1 was traveling East on SR 78 (NE Pine Island Rd.) in the outside lane. Pedestrian 1 was operating Bicycle 1, traveling East on SR 78 (NE Pine Island Rd.) and was traveling on the shoulder of the road.

As Vehicle 1 was traveling, the vehicle veered right toward the shoulder of the road, leaving its lane. The front end of Vehicle 1 then struck the rear end Bicycle 1.  Pedestrian 1 was then totally ejected from Bicycle 1.  Pedestrian 1 along with Bicycle 1 then came to rest on the south side of SR 78 (NE Pine Island Rd.). 

After the collision occurred, Vehicle 1 did not contact PD to report the accident and the driver of Vehicle 1 left the scene without rendering aid to Pedestrian 1.

A witness stated that Vehicle 1 was a white, mid to late 1990’s Dodge Ram Pickup with a silver cap over the bed and had front end damage to the right side. Witness also stated the right front head light was not working after the collision.

Pedestrian 1 suffered life threatening injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Due to the severity of the traffic crash, MCI N. Green, Forensics Specialist Lansky and V.A. Seymour responded to the scene.

*****This is a HIT-AND-RUN traffic crash that occurred on February 1, 2015 at 7:58 PM and was not discovered until February 2, 2015 at 7:10 AM******

The Cape Coral Police Department is currently looking for a mid to late 1990’s Dodge Ram pickup truck, which was involved in a hit and run traffic crash on February 1, 2015 at approximately 7:58 PM. The truck is white in color and had a silver topper on the bed of the truck. It will also have damage to the right front side (passenger side) which will included a broken head light, mirror and possible parts of the chrome front grill.

Above is a picture illustrating the type of truck, and is not a picture of the actual suspect vehicle.

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

(February 2, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Department is currently working an armed robbery at the Publix liquor store located at 127 Cape Coral Parkway W. The robbery occurred around 7:15 PM. Suspect entered the store and threatened store employee with a knife. Suspect then took the cash register drawer and fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Patrol, K9, and Aviation units are still on scene in the area.  Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Please take a look at the attached photo. 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:  Surveillance still of robbery suspect. 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 Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

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

(February 2, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police have made an arrest in a fatal hit and run crash that claimed the life of a bicyclist along NE Pine Island Road Sunday night.

At approximately 4:40 PM, while still working the original call-out, Cape Coral Police Department received a tip with information regarding the identification and location of the Suspect and Suspect vehicle. 

MCI Officer Green followed-up on this tip and found the lead valid.  At 6:27 PM, Officer Green and Corporal Satterlee arrived at 2203 NE 15 Terrace and located the suspect vehicle sitting on the East side of the house in a vacant lot.  The vehicle was a 1996 white Dodge Ram truck that had suffered heavy front right and passenger side damage.  Tire marks from striking the bicycle tire were plainly visible in the lower bumper area.  All damage was consistent with the traffic crash. 

A white male, now identified as Timothy Wayne Turner, voluntarily exited the house and advised that he was the driver of the vehicle at the time of the traffic crash and wished to turn himself in.

Turner voluntarily went to the Cape Coral Police Department where he cooperated with investigators. Turner was placed under arrest for Leaving the Scene of a Traffic Crash Causing Death, F.S.S. 316.027(1b), Felony of the First Degree by Officer N. Green.  Turner was booked at CCPD and then transported to Lee County Jail.

"While there is no happy ending to this story, we are heartened that we were able to make an  arrest in this case to find justice for the victim and begin the process of closure for the victim's loved ones."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

ARRESTED: Timothy Wayne Turner, W/M, DOB: 10-30-1966, of Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Leaving the Scene of a Traffic Crash Causing Death, F.S.S. 316.027(1b), Felony of the First Degree

Original releases after the break.

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UPDATE: Cape Coral Police Seeking Suspect In Fatal Hit-And-Run Crash

Cape Coral Police Department Investigating Traffic Fatality

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

(February 4, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives have made an arrest in an armed robbery that occurred at a south Cape Coral Publix liquor store Monday night.

On February 2, 2015 at approximately 7:15 PM a white male suspect entered the Publix Liquor Store located at 127 Cape Coral Pkwy W, Cape Coral, Lee County, FL.  The suspect produced a knife from his pocket and pointed it at a store employee while demanding the money from the cash register.  The suspect grabbed the entire cash drawer and fled from the store with an undetermined amount of cash.

Store surveillance video revealed that the male was about 5'8"-5'10", thin build, and dark stubble head and facial hair.   He was wearing a unique gray hooded sweatshirt with multi-colored symbols, black shorts, and gray and reflective maroon color running shoes.  Upon fleeing the store the suspect is seen leaving in a white vehicle.

Cape Coral Police Department Patrol, K9, Aviation, Detectives, and Forensics personnel responded.  A Ping4alert was sent to the surrounding neighborhood to alert people of the police activity and to provide people in the area with a photo of the suspect.

Later that night, at around 2:30 AM the Lee County Sheriff's Department received a robbery report at a 7-11 store in North Ft Myers involving a suspect that matched the description from the Publix robbery.  Deputies spotted the suspect vehicle fleeing the scene and a pursuit ensued.  The vehicle was a white PT Cruiser.  The suspect crashed near the Bell Tower shopping center in South Ft Myers and was taken into custody.  He was identified as Timothy John Holden, W/M, DOB: 06-04-1984, of 1117 SW Santa Barbara Pl. #2, Cape Coral, FL.  Holden was transported by Lee County EMS to a local hospital for injuries from the accident.  

Cape Coral Detective Kurtis Grau responded to the crash scene.  There, he noticed the same unique multi-colored, hooded sweatshirt that was worn by the Publix robber, laying on the ground outside the crashed car.  Shoes that appear to be the same in the surveillance video were also on the ground.   Visible on the back seat of the car was a cash drawer that appeared to be the same as was stolen from Publix.  Money was also visible on the ground outside and inside the car.

Detective Grau responded to the hospital where he identified Holden as being the same person in the surveillance video that robbed the Publix.  Forensic Specialist Fordham compared Holden's palm prints on record at CCPD to a palm print recovered by at Publix and confirmed that it matched.

In addition to LCSO's charges, Holden was charged with 1 count of Armed Robbery.  Holden has since been released from the hospital and is currently at Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED:  Timothy John Holden, W/M, DOB: 06-04-1984, of 1117 SW Santa Barbara Pl. #2, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES:  Robbery With a Weapon

"This is a great example of cooperation and teamwork, not only within our Department, but between the Cape Coral Police Department and Lee County Sheriff's Office as well.  Thanks to some solid police work and forensics, we have put together a solid case to get a violent offender off the street."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer

Original release is below:

Cape Coral Police Department Investigating Armed Robbery

ARRESTED:  Timothy John Holden, W/M, DOB: 06-04-1984, of 1117 SW Santa Barbara Pl. #2, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES:  Robbery With a Weapon

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

(February 4, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Chief Bart Connelly will be hosting a series of Town Hall-style community meetings in the coming months, starting on February 12, 2015.

Each Town Hall meeting will be held in a different area of the City, in order to provide the opportunity for people to participate along with others from their own neighborhoods, and to discuss issues which may be of importance to that specific area.

“I’m eager to meet and talk face-to-face with a lot of Cape Coral residents during our Town Hall Meetings.  These gatherings are an important way for residents and police to create partnerships, to learn from one another, and to build trusting, cooperative relationships that are the very foundation of a strong, safe community. We can only do this if we talk to each other, and that’s what these Town Hall meetings are all about.”- Bart Connelly, Chief of Police

"This is similar to a highly successful program we've been doing called Coffee With a Cop.  But, instead of meeting with the street officers, citizens can talk directly with the leaders and decision makers of the Cape Coral Police Department.  We anticipate holding a Town Hall meeting at various locations throughout Cape Coral every other month.  The meetings offer a way for people to meet the Chief and members of his Command Staff, to create connections between the community and the Police Department, exchange information, and engage in small-group discussions around neighborhood issues. From these Town Hall meetings, the Chief and his staff will also gain the community’s perspectives and concerns on law enforcement and related issues for each area."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Community members are invited and encouraged to attend and participate in the Police Chief’s Town Hall Meeting which will be held on Thursday, February 12, 2015 at Tony and Ada's Coffee located at 2110 Chiquita Boulevard S., from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.  Tony and Ada's Coffee will provide fresh brewed coffee for attendees and will have the coffee bar open for attendees to purchase espresso drinks or hot teas.

WHAT:  Town-Hall Meeting with Chief Bart Connelly
WHEN: Thursday, February 12, 2015 from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
WHERE: Tony and Ada's Coffee located at 2110 Chiquita Boulevard S., Cape Coral, FL. (click for directions)

PHOTO:  Police Chief Bart Connelly.  (Photo Courtesy of Cape Coral Police Department)

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

(February 5, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are investigating a serious injury crash that occurred last night, leaving one person in critical condition.

Cape Coral Police Department responded to the 800 block of Andalusia Boulevard shortly after 9:00 PM on a crash involving a vehicle vs. pedestrian.

Cape Coral Police Department Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, and Forensics personnel responded to assist.  

The pedestrian, Jason Ray Degraaf, of Cape Coral, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Investigators determined the driver, Robert Neal Rodriguez of Cape Coral, had a suspended drivers license.  Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigators are conducting the investigation and charges are pending.

The Major Crash Investigator’s preliminary synopsis is below:

DATE: February 4, 2015
TIME: 9:11 pm
LOCATION: 800 Andalusia Boulevard
CR#: 15-002112
ASSIGNED MCI: M/Cpl. A. Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2003 Chevrolet Impala.
DRIVER 1: Robert Neal Rodriguez, W/M, 31, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Rodriguez suffered no injuries in the traffic crash.
PASSENGER 1: ***Juvenile*** W/F
PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: W/F juvenile did not suffer injuries.
PASSENGER 2: ***Juvenile*** W/M.
PASSENGER 2 INJURIES: W/M juvenile did not suffer injuries.

PEDESTRIAN: Jason Ray Degraaf, W/M, 40, of Cape Coral, Florida.
PEDESTRIAN INJURIES: Degraaf suffered life threatening injuries in the traffic crash.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1 was traveling south on Andalusia Boulevard in the outside lane in the 800 block.  According to the driver, as he was passing 826 Andalusia Boulevard, he observed a pedestrian “run” into the path of his vehicle from the West to the East.  The front right of Vehicle 1 struck the Pedestrian, forcing him onto the vehicle and windshield area and then off of the vehicle.

After the impact, Vehicle 1 came to a stop in a vacant lot facing South.  The Pedestrian was ejected off of the vehicle and came to rest in a vacant lot on the West side of the roadway.  The Pedestrian suffered multiple life threatening injuries.  Lee County EMS transported the Pedestrian to a local hospital by ambulance.

The Pedestrian is listed in critical- life threatening condition.  The driver of Vehicle 1 and passengers did not suffer injuries.  During the course of the investigation, it was determined that the driver of Vehicle 1 has a suspended Florida license (further investigation being conducted) and should not have been driving.

The next-of-kin of the Pedestrian has been notified.  The driver of Vehicle 1 DID NOT show signs of impairment.  It is unknown at this time if the Pedestrian was impaired at the time of the traffic crash.

Due to the nature of the traffic crash, MCI Satterlee and Forensics Buckner responded.  This case is pending further criminal investigation.

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)

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

(February 8, 2015)-  Last night around 8:40 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to the intersection of Del Prado Boulevard and Hancock Bridge Parkway on a multi-vehicle crash involving an SUV and two motorcycles.

Multiple units responded to the scene to render aid, conduct the investigation, and direct traffic.  A  Ping4alert was sent, warning drivers in the area to seek an alternate route.

Officers determined that the SUV, driven by Joseph J. Scafuri, was northbound on Del Prado Boulevard when it entered into the left turn lane at Hancock Bridge Parkway and struck a motorcycle driven by Aaron William Pfuhl.  Pfuhl's motorcycle was propelled into another motorcycle, driven by Benjamin Lewis Hale, as a result of the impact.  Both motorcyclists were stopped for traffic at the time of the crash.  The crash resulted in serious bodily injury to Pfuhl, who was trauma alerted to a local hospital.  Hale reported no injuries at the time of the crash.  Cape Coral Police Department Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, and Victim Advocate personnel responded to assist in the investigation.

While conducting the investigation, Officers observed signs of impairment from Scafuri.  Officers concluded the crash investigation and began a DUI investigation.  As a result of their findings, Scafuri was placed under arrest.

Preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: February 7, 2015
TIME: 8:38 p.m. 
LOCATION: Del Prado Boulevard / Hancock Bridge Parkway.  
CR#: 15-002279
ASSIGNED MCI: Corporal Nickolas J. Slover #0626

VEHICLE 1: A white, 2001 Ford Explorer SUV.
DRIVER 1:  Joseph J. Scafuri, W/M, DOB:11-19-1954, of 232 SE Van Loon Ter Cape Coral FL 33990.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Scafuri suffered minor injuries in the traffic crash however refused medical treatment.

VEHICLE 2: A black, 2013 Harley Davidson, Motorcycle. 
DRIVER 2: Aaron William Pfuhl, W/M, 43, of, Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 2 INJURIES: Pfuhl suffered life threatening injuries as a result of the traffic crash and was trauma alerted to a local hospital.  

VEHICLE 3: A black, 2007 Harley Davidson, Motorcycle. 
DRIVER 3: Benjamin Lewis Hale, W/M, 45, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 3 INJURIES: Hale reported no injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

Vehicle # 1 was North bound on County Road 867A, Del Prado Boulevard South in the inside lane.
Vehicle # 2 was North bound on County Road 867A, Del Prado Boulevard South in the left turn lane, side by side with Vehicle # 3 who was stopped for traffic.
Vehicle # 3 was North bound on County Road 867A, Del Prado Boulevard South in the left turn lane, side by side with Vehicle # 2 who was stopped for traffic.

The driver of Vehicle # 1 failed to maintain his lane and entered into the left turn lane.  Vehicle # 1 struck Vehicle # 2 on the right side.  Vehicle # 2 was propelled into Vehicle # 3.  After the collisions, Vehicle # 1 traveled North through the intersection and struck the raised cement median.

Vehicle # 1 traveled over the cement median and struck a traffic sign.  Vehicle # 1 continued to travel  North through the median for a short distance and entered back into the North bound inside lane of Del Prado Boulevard North.  Vehicle # 1 came to final rest in the inside lane.

The driver of Vehicle # 1 suffered minor injuries as a result of the traffic crash and refused medical treatment on scene.  The driver of Vehicle # 2 suffered life threatening injuries and was trauma alerted to a local hospital.  The driver of Vehicle # 3 reported no injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

Due to the injuries, MCI Corporal Nickolas Slover, Master Corporal Andrew Satterlee, Forensic Technician C. Potts and V.A. Pat Lucas responded. 

After arrival on scene, it was learned that Pfuhl's injuries were no longer life threatening, however he did suffer a serious bodily injury.  Pfuhl's is in serious but stable condition.  Next-of-kin notified.

The driver of Vehicle # 1 showed signs of impairment. After the traffic crash investigation was completed, a D.U.I. investigation was started.  Officer Carson placed the driver of Vehicle # 1 under arrest for D.U.I. - DRE

Charges as follows:

• DUI
• DUI Serious Bodily Injury ~ Felony of the third degree.  
• DUI Property Damage x 3 

ARRESTED: Joseph J. Scafuri Sr., W/M, DOB: 11-19-1954, of 232 SE Van Loon Ter., Cape Coral.
CHARGES: Driving Under the Influence, DUI Serious Bodily Injury (3rd Degree Felony), DUI Property Damage (x3).

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

(February 10, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives have made an arrest in a Grand Theft case thanks to tips received from citizens who saw the case on social media.

On January 10, 2015, the victim was inside the Winn Dixie Supermarket located at 1016 Cape Coral Parkway East.  Sometime between 1:45 PM and 2:10 PM, an unknown suspect took the victim’s purse and its contents from the victim's shopping cart.

A white female was seen on store video surveillance entering the store without a purse and leaving the store moments later with what has been identified as the victim’s purse.  The purse was later located in the store parking lot with cash and credit cards missing.

Still photos from in-store surveillance and a request to the community for information and assistance in identifying the suspect was posted online on January 22, 2015.  Over the next several days, Detectives began receiving tips from people stating that they saw the photos on Facebook, Twitter, and the Cape Coral Police Department website. Tipsters sent numerous replies via TipSoft and via phone to CCPD Communications, naming the suspect as Julie Ann Kovach, W/F, DOB: 10-06-1975, of 1504 NE 15 Ln., Cape Coral, FL.

Detectives spoke with Kovach, who admitted to the theft, and made arrangements or Kovach to turn herself in to Police.  On Monday, February 9th, 2015 Kovach came to Cape Coral Police Department to be interviewed.  Based on the totality of the investigation, Kovach was charged with Grand Theft F.S.S. 812.014(2c1).  Kovach was transported to the Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED:  Julie Ann Kovach, W/F, DOB: 10-06-1975, of 1504 NE 15 Ln., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES:  Grand Theft.

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

(February 10, 2015)-  A Cape Coral Teen who spent almost nine months on the run from her parents has been found safe and sound.

NY State Police made located Shelby Lynn Geraci, 16, of Cape Coral, on January 7, 2015.  Cape Coral Police Department was notified and Geraci was removed from FCIC/NCIC as a runaway.

All lookouts were canceled as of January 7, 2015.

"Thank you to all of our media partners and concerned citizens who assisted by sharing this story and assisting in the effort to locate Ms. Geraci."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Link to Original release below.

Cape Coral Police Department Needs Your Help Locating A Runaway

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