(April 9, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigators are looking into an early morning crash that sent two people to the hospital, with one in critical condition.

Just after 7:30 AM, officers responded to the intersection of Cape Coral Parkway West and SW 25 Place on a two vehicle crash.  The investigation revealed that one of the vehicles ran a stop sign, resulting in a collision which left both vehicles damages and in the front yard of a residence.

Both drivers sustained injuries and were trauma alerted to a nearby hospital.  It was later determined that only one of the drivers, Brendan James-Scott Younk, W/M, 20, of Cape Coral, Florida sustained life-threatening injuries.  The other driver was admitted for observation.

Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 9, 2015
TIME: 7:34 AM
LOCATION: Intersection of Cape Coral Parkway West and SW 25 Place
CR#: 15-005906
ASSIGNED MCI: M/Cpl. Satterlee

VEHICLE 1:  2015 dark purple Chevrolet Malibu car.
DRIVER 1:  Christian Rudolf Salinger, W/M, 61, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES:  Salinger suffered minor injuries.

VEHICLE 2:  2013 red Kia Soul 4-door SUV.
DRIVER 2:  Brendan James-Scott Younk, W/M, 20, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 2 INJURIES:  Younk suffered life threatening injuries.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1 was traveling North on SW 25 Place approaching the intersection with Cape Coral Parkway (stop sign).  Vehicle 2 was East on Cape Coral Parkway in the inside lane.  Vehicle 2 did not have a stop sign.  Vehicle 1 ran the stop sign and the front left of Vehicle 1 struck into the front right of Vehicle 2.  Vehicle 1 forced both vehicles to the Northeast and into the front yard of 2505 Cape Coral Parkway West.  Vehicle 2 came to rest in the yard, the front of Vehicle 1 struck a palm tree and came to rest in the yard.

Both drivers were unconscious and trauma alerted to a local hospital by ambulance.  At the hospital, it was determined that the driver of Vehicle 1 suffered minor injuries and was admitted into the hospital for observation (stable condition).  The driver of Vehicle 2 suffered life threatening injuries (was NOT wearing a seatbelt) and is in critical condition.

Due to the severity of injuries, a Major Crash Investigation has been started.  The next-of-kin HAS BEEN notified for both involved.  MCI Satterlee, Forensics personnel and Victim Advocates responded to assist.  This traffic crash IS NOT alcohol/drug related. 

***There are 3 traffic fatalities and 17 MCI usages in our city in 2015. (There are 0 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. These 0 "medical" fatalities are not included in the number of traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

• 2015= 3 Traffic fatalities (17 MCI usages- Motorcycle 5, Pedestrian 4, Bicycle 3)
• 2014= 11 Traffic fatalities (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2013= 14 Traffic fatalities (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
• 2012= 10 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages)
• 2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)
• 2010= 9 Traffic fatalities (22 MCI usages)

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

(April 10, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are investigating a serious injury crash that occurred last night in the 2600 block of Diplomat Parkway East that sent one man to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

At around 8:10 PM, Cape Coral Police Department responded to a crash involving a pickup truck and a pedestrian in the 2600 Block of Diplomat Parkway East.  Investigation revealed that the pickup truck was traveling eastbound in the outside lane when it struck a jogger, 20 year old James P. Rosso, of Cape Coral.  Rosso sustained life threatening injuries and was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.  The driver, 64 year-old Ronald Bulat of Cape Coral, was not injured.

Cape Coral Police Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 9, 2015
TIME: 8:11 PM
LOCATION: 2600-Block of Diplomat Parkway West
CR#: 15-005947

VEHICLE # 1:  a silver 2010 Dodge Ram truck.
DRIVER # 1:  Ronald Bulat, W/M, 64, of Cape Coral, Florida. 
DRIVER # 1 INJURIES:  Bulat reported no injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

PEDESTRIAN # 1: James P. Rosso, W/M, 20 of Cape Coral, Florida. 
PEDESTRIAN # 1 INJURIES:  Rosso suffered life threatening injuries due to the traffic crash and was airlifted to Lee Memorial Hospital in serious condition.  Rosso is currently in critical but stable condition at Lee Memorial Hospital.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1 was traveling East in the outside lane of Diplomat Pkwy West at the 2600 block. Pedestrian 1 was running on Diplomat Pkwy West in the outside lane at the 2600 block. Pedestrian 1 was running with witness 1 and witness 2. All three were running shoulder to shoulder and Pedestrian 1 was near the middle of the lane. According to witness 1, witness 2 and the driver of vehicle 1, pedestrian 1 was not wearing any reflective clothing or safely gear.

As Pedestrian 1 was running, vehicle 1 approached him from the rear at which point the driver of vehicle 1 saw Pedestrian 1 running in the roadway. The driver of vehicle 1 attempted to swerve to the left, however he was unable to avoid pedestrian 1 at which time the right front end of vehicle 1 struck the pedestrian 1.  Pedestrian 1 was then thrown onto the hood of vehicle 1 and then ejected off of vehicle 1 passenger`s side. Pedestrian 1 then struck the ground in the front yard of 2610 Diplomat Pkwy West. Pedestrian 1 then continued to travel East, sliding across the driveway of the residence until he came to his final rest on the East side of the driveway.  After striking pedestrian 1, the driver of vehicle 1 immediately pulled off into the median where vehicle 1 came to its final rest.

Pedestrian 1 suffered incapacitating injuries and was treated at the scene by LCEMS, he was later air lifted to a local hospital further treatment. The driver of vehicle 1 did not sustain any injuries as a result of the traffic crash.

Due to injuries, a Major Crash Investigation has been started.  The next-of-kin HAS BEEN notified for both involved.  MCI Nicholas Green, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded.  This traffic crash IS NOT alcohol/drug related. 

***There are 3 traffic fatalities and 18 MCI usages in our city in 2015. (There are 0 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. These 0 "medical" fatalities are not included in the number of traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

• 2015= 3 Traffic fatalities (18 MCI usages- Motorcycle 5, Pedestrian 5, Bicycle 3)
• 2014= 11 Traffic fatalities (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2013= 14 Traffic fatalities (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
• 2012= 10 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages)
• 2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)
• 2010= 9 Traffic fatalities (22 MCI usages)

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

(April 10, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Detectives are asking for your help identifying a robbery suspect.

Detectives are looking for a suspect in a robbery that occurred in the early morning hours of April 7th in the 1200 block of SE 6 Terrace.  The male suspect pictured below attacked the victim at his residence, beat him, and stole valuables, including the victim's car, a white 2014 Chevrolet impala with New York tags.

The suspect was a casual acquaintance of the victim and was at the residence, initially under invitation.  Detectives do not believe this to be a random act.  Investigators believe the suspect is a Canadian national.  The suspect is described as a white male in his early 20's, with short, dirty blond/light brown hair.

Below are surveillance photos from a nearby store where the suspect conducted a transaction prior to the robbery.  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

(April 11, 2015)-  The motorcyclist involved in an overnight crash on April 4 at the intersection of SE 6 Avenue and Cape Coral Parkway East, has died.

Today, Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator was notified by the Medical Examiner’s Office in reference to the driver, Robert Philip LeBlanc, Jr, 50, of Cape Coral.  LeBlanc died as a result of injuries suffered in the traffic crash.  An autopsy is being completed and the next-of-kin has been notified.  The investigation is ongoing.

Click the link below for the original news release:

Cape Coral Police Investigate Overnight Motorcycle Crash

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

(April 13, 2015)- Since the Cape Coral Police Department was awarded the High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) Grant it has been conducting operations targeting the areas specified regarding high Ped/Bike injury and/or traveled areas.  The goal has been to educate the motorist, pedestrian, or cyclist regarding the rules of the roadway and how to travel safely to and from destinations. 

The HVE Operation began on March 7, 2015.   Cape Coral Police have been operating within the first phase of the program, emphasizing education and public awareness.  As of  April 7,  2015 (one month)  the Cape Coral Police Department has completed eighteen (18) operations.  The numbers are listed below:

• Total Man-Hours:  592
• Motorist Contacts:  233
• Pedestrian Contacts:  98
• Bicyclist Contacts:  301

A large amount of these contacts resulted in the Officer issuing a Warning Ticket and the Florida Pedestrian/Bicycle Law Synopsis pamphlet, which explained the violation and also provided them with the opportunity to read about all of the applicable Pedestrian/Bicycle Laws.

As the Cape Coral Police Department enters into the second phase, emphasizing enforcement efforts, the Officers will be checking with the Cape Coral Police Department Teletype system to see if the person has been contacted during the campaign, if they have been issued a Warning,  and for what the Warning Ticket was issued.  If the person was issued a Warning for the same offense they are being stopped for a second time, the Officer will have the choice to issue a Uniform Traffic Citation to the offender.  This will be phase two of our education/enforcement campaign. 

"The HVE Operations have been very successful and we are looking forward to the continued success of the program."- Sgt. Jon Kulko, Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Unit.

Click the link below for the original news release regarding he HVE Operations:

Cape Coral Police Department Begins Bike-Ped Enforcement Operations

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

(April 14, 2015)- The next "Do The Right Thing" ceremony for April 2015 will be held Wednesday, April 15, 2015 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."

Thirteen (13) 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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Emilee Hauser-7th Grade at Caloosa Middle School
Emilee is a leader at Caloosa Middle School.  She constantly chooses to do the right thing.  She is an academic superstar, a tremendously gifted athlete, and a fabulous front office student aide who goes out of her way to share a smile with both adults and other students.   Emilee is always polite and willing to help with anything when asked to do so.  She helps the teachers by finding creative ideas for the bulletin boards, designing and decorating them so that teachers can focus on working with students.  Emilee also volunteers with her soccer club, Cape Coral Soccer for the TOP Soccer program (The Outreach Program).  It is a program to involve special needs children in the skills and game of soccer.  Emilee is truly a gift.

Shayanne Walsh-5th Grade at Skyline Elementary
While working a Girl Scout Cookie booth with her mom on Feb 20th, Shyanne showed true strength and bravery.  After selling cookies to a customer Shyanne’s mom fell to the ground and had a seizure.  Shyanne acted quickly by grabbing her mom’s phone and calling 911 followed by calling her father.  She then helped move the cookie booth out of the way so that EMS could get to her mother.  Mom was taken to the hospital by ambulance.  Shyanne proved that she can save someone in an emergency situation by acting quickly and calmly.

Christopher Slagle– 4th Grade at Gulf Elementary
Christopher is a very reliable and honest student.  He has been tasked with taking the lunch money envelope to the cafeteria and his teacher knows it will be turned in correctly.  When asked by his teacher, Christopher always tells the truth even if it meant that he or a close friend are going to be in trouble for breaking a rule.  One morning during the care program, Christopher found a hundred dollar bill on the floor.  Many of the students were telling him to keep the money but Christopher is a very honest and trustworthy child and turned the money in. The parent that lost the money showed up to school to present Christopher with a soccer ball and an offer for a free limo ride to thank him for his honesty.

Delaney Blackwell-5th Grade at Pelican Elementary
Delaney is committed to helping others.  She started a small “breakfast club” at her school with younger students who do not speak English as their first language.  Delaney eats with them two days a week and tutors these students in English.  She holds conversations with them to expose them to everyday words.   At times, she uses flash cards and electronic devices to enhance their learning opportunities.   

Isabella Lopez – 3rd Grade at Pelican Elementary
Ruben Ruiz – 3rd Grade at Pelican Elementary
Bella and Ruben have befriended a non-English speaking student.  They helped to show her where things were located and tried to make her feel more comfortable.  They led their new classmate to recess and lunch and continued to help her learn more about the school’s environment and language each day.  Bella and Ruben have embraced their leadership roles and are truly kind and caring students.

Kailyn McLeod – 3rd Grade at Pelican Elementary
One afternoon, while waiting for her bus to arrive, a young boy told Kailyn that he was going to harm the bus driver. This boy even drew a picture of himself holding a weapon. As soon as Kailyn arrived home she told her mom about what happened. The following morning, Kailyn shared what had happened with her teacher and the administration at her school. It took bravery for Kailyn to come forward and talk about this incident.

Yaul Del-Rio Perez – 6th Grade at Diplomat Middle
The Fire Department was dispatched to Yaul’s home for an elderly female who was having severe arm pain.    Yaul’s grandmother was in a lot of pain and the family was visibly worried.  The family only spoke Spanish and if it was not for 11 year old Yaul on scene the Fire Department would have struggled due to the language barrier.  When the Fire Department arrived, this brave young man was very calm and collected and translated step by step both to his grandmother and the Fire Department the information that was needed.  Lt. Michelle Clore of the Fire Department states that she was very impressed with Yaul’s mature and professional demeanor and the way he handled himself.   She also stated that she has been on numerous calls where grown adults were not as collected and as helpful as he was.  The Cape Coral Police Department along with the Fire Department would like to let Yaul know that we are very proud of him for being such a great asset during his family emergency.

Erick Ortiz-6th Grade at Oasis Middle
Erick is a well mannered, polite young man whose kindheartedness inspires those around him.  Ever since the year began, Erick has picked up the trash left on the tables and floor of students who left behind their garbage.  Although his teacher told him he didn’t need to do so, his respond is always the same, “it’s okay, I don’t mind.” 

Emmanuel Saint Luc – 6th Grade at Challenger Middle
Emmanuel is a very responsible and honest young man.  Throughout the year he has demonstrated a remarkable amount of growth in all areas. The other day Emmanuel found fifty dollars on the floor while walking with another student.  The other student tried to persuade Emmanuel to keep the money but Emmanuel knew better, he turned the money in.  Emmanuel is able to positively influence his peers and is respected by them.  He has improved tremendously in his academic grades and has a positive attitude. 

Noah Wyatt Smith – 6th Grade at Challenger Middle
Noah is a very honest young man.  He found a pair of expensive tennis shoes in the boy’s locker room during PE.  Several students told him to keep it since they were nice shoes.  Although no one claimed the shoes, rather than keeping the shoes or giving them to a friend, he turned them into the front office so that it could be claimed by the student who lost it.  He told the office that “it wouldn’t be right to keep the shoes.” Noah’s positive behavior is one to be admired.

YonCarlos Jimenez – 6th Grade at Challenger Middle
YonCarlos is a wonderful young man and is very helpful in and out of school.  He volunteers his time to mow his elderly neighbor’s lawn whenever he notice it is growing, this usually takes about 2 hours to do. 

Jerika Wisniewski – 6th Grade at Challenger Middle
Jerika is an awesome student.  She serves as a role model for other students in class.  She maintains her 99% grade in science and also helps her older sister to baby sit younger kids.

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

(April 15, 2015)-  Detectives with the Cape Coral Police Department Financial Crimes Unit have participated in two operations in the past week in an effort to crack down on fraudulent activity within the city.

The first, on April 8th, was an unlicensed contractor sting. The agency worked with the City of Cape Coral Code Compliance/Licensing Division, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in an effort to crack down on unlicensed contractors. The operation took place at 1231 Lafayette Street which is an empty commercial building owned by the City of Cape Coral. Individuals that did not have a license were contacted through their ads on Craigslist.

Once at the building, if the individual agreed to do work for which they did not have the proper license, they were charged accordingly.

The following individuals were charged with unlicensed contracting:

Thomas Peter Leech
DOB: 10/18/1944
2201 Jackson Street
Fort Myers, FL

David William Johnson
DOB: 11/12/1985
105 Hercules Drive
Fort Myers Beach, FL

John A. Bradley
DOB: 10/23/1959
118 SW 49th Terrace
Cape Coral, FL

The second operation involved the use of illegal skimmers on gas pumps. On April 14th, Detectives with the Financial Crimes Unit along with the Street Crimes Unit, checked gas stations within the City of Cape Coral for skimming devices. Over 84 gas pumps, at 24 different gas stations, were looked at. At that time, no skimming devices were located. However, on March 31, 2015, the agency was notified by the Florida Department of Agriculture that during a routine inspection, a skimming device was found on a gas pump at the Shell Station located at 2231 Delprado Boulevard.  

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(April 7, 2015)-  The Cape Coral Police Department's Annual Candlelight Ceremony is set for Thursday April 23, 2015 at 7:00 PM at Police Headquarters.

The ceremony is hosted by the Cape Coral Police Department's Victim Assistance Unit and is aimed at remembering loved ones who have passed. Survivors will be in attendance where they will display a photo of their loved ones.

If you plan on attending to honor a lost loved one, please bring a framed picture of him or her. You are encouraged to call the Victim Assistance Unit to RSVP at 239-574-0653.

Click the link below to download a PDF of the invitation.

Candlelight Ceremony Invitation (PDF)

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

(April 20, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police are working an overnight fatality crash that happened at Burnt Store Road and Durden Parkway this morning. Officers found the car overturned on the side of road and the female driver was found inside of the vehicle, deceased. Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigator and Victim Advocates responded to assist.

Preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 20, 2015
TIME: 2:56 a.m.
LOCATION: 4200-Block of Burnt Store Road North
CR#: 15-006571

VEHICLE # 1:  a blue 2013 Chevrolet Sonic.
DRIVER # 1:  Cindy Lou Gutierrez, W/F, 51 of Jacksonville,  Florida. 
DRIVER # 1 INJURIES:  Gutierrez was pronounced deceased on scene of the traffic crash.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle # 1 was northbound on Burnt Store Road North.  In the 4200 block, for unknown reasons, Vehicle # 1 left the roadway to the right and entered a vacant field. Shortly after leaving the roadway, Vehicle # 1 traveled down an embankment; Vehicle # 1 then struck the  embankment on the opposite side and became airborne.  After landing, Vehicle # 1 began to roll over several times and came to final rest on the hood of the vehicle, south of Durden Parkway.

The driver of Vehicle # 1, who was not seat belted, was pronounced deceased on the scene

Due to injuries, a Major Crash Investigation has been started. Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator, Forensic Technician, and Victim Advocate responded.  The next-of-kin has been notified.  This traffic crash is believed to be alcohol/drug related, however final determination is pending autopsy results.  At this time, there is no indication that any other vehicle was involved and appears to be a single car traffic crash.

***There are 4 traffic fatalities and 18 MCI usages in our city in 2015. (There are 0 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. These 0 "medical" fatalities are not included in the number of traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

• 2015= 4 Traffic fatalities (19 MCI usages- Motorcycle 5, Pedestrian 5, Bicycle 3)
• 2014= 11 Traffic fatalities (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2013= 14 Traffic fatalities (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
• 2012= 10 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages)
• 2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)
• 2010= 9 Traffic fatalities (22 MCI usages)

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

(April 20, 2015)-  A suspect who rammed the car of and pointed a gun at a newspaper delivery person back on July 11, 2014, has been sentenced.

Andres Ponti (W/M, DOB: 07-19-1958, of 231 Rue Labonne Rd., Fort Myers) was arrested on July 11, 2014 on charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, and Criminal Mischief after Cape Coral Police determined that Ponti rammed a vehicle of a newspaper delivery person and then threatened the delivery driver with a gun when they got out of their vehicle to confront him.  The incident occurred off of Rose Garden Road, near Tarpon Point.

Ponti claimed to be a private investigator who was contracted by a local resident to investigate a suspicious vehicle that was revving its engine in the area.  Point told Officers that he hit the vehicle to prevent it from escaping and he only displayed the firearm when confronted by the driver.

On April 14, 2015, Andres Ponti pled to False Imprisonment, Simple Battery, and Criminal Mischief.  He was sentenced by the court and received the following:

False Imprisonment 3rd Degree Felony:

• 48 mos probation
• $413 court costs
• $100 cost of prosecution
• $100 public def fees
• $310.05 defense counsel fee
• $1500 restitution ot victim Fletcher Crawford along with a no contact order
• DNA sample ordered
• Anger management course
• Forfeit firearm to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office due to the adjudication on the felony charge…State will seek that the defendant to lose his CCW along with his PI License (to be determined at a later date)

Simple Battery-1st Degree Misdemeanor and Criminal Mischief less than $1000 more than $200:

• 12 months concurrent probation all to be under State Probation
• adjudication on both misdemeanors 
• No early term of probation allowed 

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

(April 22, 2015)-  Cape Coral Police Department are investigating a serious injury crash that occurred last night involving a work van and a skateboarder.

Last night at around 9:40 PM, Officers responded to the 1000 bock of Embers Parkway W. on a traffic crash.  Initial responding officers discovered that the skateboarder, Matthew Stephen Sheung-Burden, 18, sustained life threatening injuries.  He was transported to a local hospital as a trauma alert for treatment.

The driver of the van, Richard Michael Heisler, 32, reported no injuries at the time of the crash.

Cape Coral Police Department MCI, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded to assist.  The roadway was shut down for several hours during the investigation.  A Ping4alert was sent  to notify drivers and neighborhood residents. 

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 21, 2015
TIME: 9:41 PM
LOCATION: 1000-Block of Embers Parkway West
CR#: 15-006698

VEHICLE # 1:  a white 2007 Ford E250 work van.
DRIVER # 1:  Richard Michael Heisler, W/M, 32, of Cape Coral, Florida. 
DRIVER # 1 INJURIES: Heisler reported no injuries at the time of the traffic crash.

PEDESTRIAN # 1:  Matthew Stephen Sheung-Burden, A/M, 18, of Cape Coral, Florida.  
PEDESTRIAN # 1 INJURIES:  Sheung-Burden suffered life threatening injuries as a result of the traffic and was trauma alerted a local hospital where he remains in critical condition in ICU.                                                                                                                                   

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle # 1 was westbound on Embers Parkway West in the outside lane.

Pedestrian # 1 was riding his skate board in outside lane and was traveling near the center of the of the lane. 

In approximately the 1000-Block, during transport, Vehicle # 1 struck Pedestrian # 1 from the rear.  This portion of Embers Parkway West has poor lighting  and Pedestrian # 1 was wearing new dark colored clothing.   

Due to injuries, a Major Crash Investigation has been started. Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator, Forensics Personnel, and Victim Advocate responded.  The next-of-kin HAS BEEN notified.  This traffic crash is not believed to be alcohol/drug related.

***There are 5 traffic fatalities and 20 MCI usages in our city in 2015. (There are 0 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. These 0 "medical" fatalities are not included in the number of traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

• 2015= 5 Traffic fatalities (19 MCI usages- Motorcycle 5, Pedestrian 6, Bicycle 3)
• 2014= 11 Traffic fatalities (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2013= 14 Traffic fatalities (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
• 2012= 10 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages)
• 2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)
• 2010= 9 Traffic fatalities (22 MCI usages)

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

(April 22, 2015)-  A Cape Coral man who fought with officers outside of a pool hall has taken a plea deal.

Today in court, Travis Robey, 21, pled guilty to Resisting an Officer with Violence, a felony of the 3rd degree, and was sentenced to 24 months probation, paying court costs, and 100 hours of community service.

Robey was arrested on June 29, 2014 outside of BA Hustler's after officers responded to a call of a suspicious person yelling and hitting a car in the parking lot.  When Officers made contact with Robey at his truck, they saw cannabis in plain view and began a narcotics investigation.

Robey quickly became verbally and physically resistant towards officers and attempted to run away.  Officers gave chase into a nearby vacant field and attempted to take Robey into custody.  Robey continued to resist despite repeated verbal orders; even after both a Taser and pepper spray were attempted by Officers, with no effect.  When the resistance escalated and Robey began striking Officers with fists, he was subdued with a baton.

"We are appreciative of the efforts of the State Attorney's Office in this matter.  This matter could have been settled that evening with citations.  Instead, Mr. Robey made bad decisions and chose to do violence towards our Officers.  Too often, violence agains Police Officers is viewed as being 'just part of the job.'  This decision reaffirms what we know to be true- violence against Officers is not acceptable."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Link to original news release.

PHOTO:  Travis Robey, 21, pled guilty to Resisting an Officer with Violence, a felony of the 3rd degree, and was sentenced to 24 months probation, paying court costs, and 100 hours of community service.  (Photo Courtesy of LCSO)

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

(May 1, 2015)-  Since last Thursday, the Cape Coral Police Department has been receiving threats from a group that is unhappy with a verdict in a court case.

Travis Robey, 21, took a plea to a felony charge of Resisting and Officer With Violence following his arrest on June 29, 2014 when he fought with officers outside of a Cape Coral pool hall.

Since then, the group has been posting threatening videos online and conducting a "doxing" attack against department personnel.  Doxing is a when someone searches for and publishes private or identifying information about (a particular individual) on the Internet, typically with malicious intent.

The group has also alleged that it obtained this information as a result of unlawfully intruding into City computer systems and the City website.

The Cape Coral Police Department has been working closely with City Information Technology professionals to ensure the security of City networks and systems.

"The Cape Coral Police Department is working with multiple State and Federal partners on the ongoing criminal investigation.  The Cape Coral Police Department takes threats against its personnel, whether explicit or implied, very seriously.  We are vigorously exploring all investigative avenues at every level."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

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PHOTO:  Cape Coral Police Department HQ at night.  (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

(May 1, 2015)-  On May 1, 2015 at around 6:30 PM, the Cape Coral Police Department received a call of a possible explosion at 3956 Pomodora Circle, Isles of Porto Vista. 

Responding Police and and Cape Coral Fire Department units found a white male sitting outside on the ground with life threatening injuries, consistent with what might be sustained in an explosion.  The apartment had broken windows, doors blown off, and smoke was coming from the apartment. 

CCFD did a preliminary search and found no one else inside the apartment.

LCEMS arrived on scene and transported the victim to a local hospital as a Trauma Alert.

Lee County Bomb Squad, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, and FDLE all responded to the scene to assist with the investigation.

Residents in the area were evacuated as a precaution. Some residents affected will be able to return home in the next several hours. Those who will not be able to return home tonight are being assisted with temporary lodging through the Red Cross.

The investigation still ongoing at this time.  Investigators anticipate the investigation to extend well into tomorrow.  Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

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

(May 5, 2015)-  The Cape Coral Police Department has release the audio of the 9-11 call from a Friday night explosion that rocked a North Cape Coral condominium complex, leaving one man hospitalized with life-threatening injuries.

The case still remains under investigation at this time.  Additional updates will be released as soon as information is available.

Link to original news release.

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

(May 11, 2015)-  A Cape Coral man who was arrested in 2014 on charges of Trafficking in Heroin and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell has taken a plea landing him 15 years in prison.

Sean William Farley (W/M, DOB: 12-07-1968) of 1511 SW 40th Terrace Cape Coral FL 33914, was arrested back on January 29, 2014 after being stopped for a traffic offense in the 2500 block of Del Prado Boulevard N.  A K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle and a narcotics investigation was started.

A search of the vehicle revealed 299 individual plastic baggies of Heroin (71.4 grams), 1 baggie of powder cocaine (4.2 grams), and 1 baggie of crack cocaine (17.8 grams), and $1,641.00 in US currency.

Farley was placed under arrest and transported to the Lee County Jail.

Today, Farley took a plea deal to 15 years in Florida Department of Corrections.

"This was a cooperative effort involving numerous components of the Cape Coral Police Department- Street Crimes, VIN (Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics), and K-9.  Their solid Police work has taken another drug dealer off of our streets for quite some time."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

ARRESTED: Sean William Farley, W/M, DOB: 12-07-1968, of 1511 SW 40th Terrace, Cape Coral FL.
CHARGES: Trafficking in Heroin and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell.

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

(May 11, 2015)-  Just before 10:00 AM, Cape Coral Police responded to a traffic crash at the 1000 block of Country Club Boulevard.  a single vehicle left the roadway and struck a hedge in front of Florida Heart Associates.

Investigation revealed that the driver and sole occupant suffered a fatal medical event.  The Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator handled the crash investigation.  The Major Crash Investigator's preliminary synopsis is below:

DATE:  May 11, 2015
TIME:  9:53 am
LOCATION: 1002 Country Club Boulevard
CR#:  15-007803

DRIVER 1:  George Alfred Lamb, Jr, W/M, 83, of Cape Coral, Florida.
VEHICLE 1:  White 2003 Buick Century 4 door car.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES:  Lamb died at Cape Coral Hospital due to an apparent heart attack.

SYNOPSIS:  Vehicle 1 was West on Country Club Boulevard near the intersection of SE 10 Street.  Vehicle 1 drifted to the right and drove off the roadway at approximately 15 mph, across a sidewalk, and came to rest in a row of bushes in front of 1002 Country Club Boulevard (Florida Heart Associates).

A CCPD Public Service Aide was across the roadway and immediately responded and made contact with the driver.  Two nurses from within the Florida Heart Associates, one emergency room nurse from Cape Coral Hospital, and one off duty EMS medic also immediately were on scene.  The male driver was removed from the driver’s seat and found unresponsive.  CPR was given and an AED was used by those attending.  The driver was transported by ambulance to Cape Coral Hospital.  A Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator, Forensics personnel, and a Victim Advocate responded.

At 10:37 AM, the driver was pronounced deceased from an apparent heart attack. 

It was determined that Vehicle 1 has NO crash damage from prior to leaving the roadway (minor paint scrapes from the bushes, minor bush damage as well).  The driver of Vehicle 1 also suffered NO trauma from the vehicle/crash.  Based on all evidence, the Medical Examiner’s Office declined jurisdiction and no autopsy will be performed.  The driver died due to an apparent heart attack and has an extensive medical history.  The next of kin HAS been notified as of yet.

This death IS NOT traffic crash related and IS NOT added to the number of traffic fatalities for the city.  The breakdown is listed below:

***There are 5 traffic fatalities and 21 MCI usages in our city in 2015. (There are 1 fatalities that are ruled "medical" and the cause of death is not related to injuries in the traffic crash. This 1 "medical" fatality is not included in the number of traffic fatalities).***

Breakdown of the past 5 years FYI:

• 2015= 5 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages- Motorcycle 5, Pedestrian 6, Bicycle 3) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2014= 11 Traffic fatalities (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
• 2013= 14 Traffic fatalities (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
• 2012= 10 Traffic fatalities (21 MCI usages)
• 2011= 11 Traffic fatalities (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)
• 2010= 9 Traffic fatalities (22 MCI usages)

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

(May 12, 2015)-  On Tuesday 5/12/15 at approximately 7:14 AM, Cape Coral Police Department received a 9-1-1 call about a kidnapping that occurred at 2811 SE 15th Place #102, Cape Coral, FL. 

The caller said that her juvenile niece and nephew, ages 6 and 10, were missing and that purses had been stolen from their apartment.  The caller explained that she has a sister who recently was released from jail that broke into the apartment between 4:00 and 5:00 AM via a bathroom window.  Officers responded and were unable to locate the children hiding in/around the apartment or its complex.  Detectives and Forensics personnel were notified and arrived.

Investigation revealed that the two children were taken in the night by their aunt, Kristina Pantalias and taken to an apartment in Fort Myers.  While there, one of the children was attacked by a dog and sustained injuries that required emergency medical attention.

A friend of Pantalias, Shannon Weber, 40, of Fort Myers, took the injured child to the Emergency Room.  Lee Memorial Hospital notified one of the kids' school that she was in the ER, having been mauled by a dog in an attempt to make parental notification because Weber could not answer basic questions about the child.  Police were notified and Cape Coral Police Department Detectives and FMPD responded to Lee Memorial Hospital where investigators discovered that the child sustained multiple lacerations and deep puncture wounds to both sides of her face which required multiple stitches.

Meanwhile, the Cape Coral Police Department received a phone call with detailed information about Pantalias.  It was learned that Pantalias stole a car in Ft Myers and used that car to take the kids from their Cape Coral address and that Pantalias had the kids at an apartment complex on Braman St in Ft Myers, and that there were narcotics there.  Panatelas was described as “high on meth” and had the kids in her custody at that "drug-apartment."   FMPD and Cape Coral Police Detectives were able to ascertain a location and went to the Hilton House Apartments (3079 Cleveland Ave., Ft. Myers, FL) and found Pantalias with one of the kids outside apartment #23.  Through the window, they could see a purse and bloody towels on the floor, corroborating the dog-bitten child's injuries.

The caller with detailed information recontacted Cape Coral Police Department and advised Pantalias hid drugs in one of the kids' pants pockets.  The information was relayed to officers with the child and Pantalias and drugs were found in the child's pockets.  The items from his pocket were field tested and were positive for: 2 baggies of Heroin, 2 Methadone pills and Suboxone in tinfoil. 

Pantalias was taken into custody for the charges of Kidnapping and Grand Theft.  A search warrant was obtained for the Ft. Myers apartment.  The aunt’s and grandmother’s purses were found, along with a wallet that was stolen.  Bloody paper towels and swabbings were also seized. 

FMPD located the narcotics in the child's pockets and were going to charge Pantalias with additional crimes.  Weber was located admitted that her dog attacked the 6 year-old while they were at the apartment.

Pantalias was transported to Cape Coral Police Department and processed.  She was later transported to Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED:  Kristina Pantalias, W/F, DOB: 06-30-1985, of 2811 SE 15th Place #102 Cape Coral FL.
CHARGES:  Kidnapping of a Minor (x2) and Grand Theft (x1)
(Photo courtesy of LCSO, Most recent booking photo)

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

(May 15, 2015)-  The Cape Coral Police Department wants to remind drivers to buckle their seat belts.  The next "Click It or Ticket" campaign of 2015 is about to start.  Starting May 18, 2015 and running through May 31, 2015, Cape Coral Police are joining with law enforcement agencies all over the state and 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 to drivers who don't buckle up, or who don't have their passengers properly restrained.

"Seat belts save lives.  Click It or Ticket helps us to raise awareness among drivers and remind them to get in the habit of buckling their seatbelt and making sure their passengers are properly restrained."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Florida Safety Belt Law

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

(May 19, 2015)-  After months of preparation and thousands of miles ridden in training, Cape Coral Police Officers took to the streets beginning on March 7, 2015 on bicycles and in cars to conduct High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) operations focusing on bicycle and pedestrian safety.

The funding for these operations was provided through a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation for High Visibility Enforcement addressing pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Officers focused on areas of the city where bicycle and pedestrian traffic is most prevalent and distributed educational materials, issued warnings and/or citations to pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists who committed violation of Florida statutes.  The main objective of this effort was to reduce traffic crashes and fatalities involving pedestrians and bicyclists through the use of selective traffic education and enforcement operations.

This campaign was a component of Florida's Bicycle/Pedestrian Focused Initiative Communication & High Visibility Enforcement Implementation under the direction of the Florida Department of Transportation and the University of South Florida.

The results of the High Visibility Operations are as follows:

HVE Officer Hours spent:  718
Motorist Contacts:  239 Written Warnings/ 23 Uniform Traffic Citations
Pedestrian Contacts:  118 Written Warnings
Bicycle Contacts:  325 Written Warnings

In addition to warnings or citations, everyone contacted was given an informational pamphlet on bicycle and pedestrian laws.

"Even though this grant has come to a conclusion, the Cape Coral Police Department is committed to continued enforcement of bicycle and pedestrian laws in Cape Coral.  We want everyone to share the road and get where they are going safely."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians and Bicyclists

Information based on the following Florida State Statutes: 

F.S.S. 316.130 Pedestrians; traffic regulations. (1 through 18)
F.S.S. 316.2065 Bicycle regulations. (1 through 19)

• Pedestrians should always walk on the sidewalk and if no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists should not wear headphones or talk on their cell phones.  
• Pedestrians and bicyclists should cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections when possible and obey traffic signals such as WALK/DON'T WALK signs.
• Pedestrians should make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street and watch out for cars turning or backing from driveways or streets.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists traveling at night should cross the street in a well-lit area and/or in designated crosswalks.
• Pedestrians and bicyclists should wear bright/light and/or reflective clothing, making themselves visible to drivers.
• Walking or biking while impaired increases your chances of being struck.  STAY SOBER.
• Bicyclists should have their bicycle equipped with a white light on the front visible from a distance of 500 feet and a red light visible from a distance of 600 feet, between sunset and sunrise during operation.
• Pedestrians should carry a flashlight when walking at night.
• Bicyclists should wear a bicycle helmet for safety. Florida law only requires bicycle riders and passengers under the age of 16 yoa to wear a bicycle safety helmet during operation of the bicycle.
• Bicyclists operating on the roadway are subject to obeying all traffic control devices to include stop signs and lighted traffic signals.
• Pedestrians crossing the roadway at any other point other than a cross-walked intersection should yield the right-of-way to motor vehicles and cross at a right angle or shortest possible route to the opposite curb.
• Drivers should always be cognizant of pedestrians and bicyclists utilizing sidewalks, crosswalks and roadways.  Drivers should exercise due care to avoid colliding with a pedestrian or bicyclists, as they share rights on the roadway.
• Bicyclists operating upon a sidewalk or crosswalk shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian.
• All bicycles operated upon the roadway or sidewalk shall be equipped with brakes enabling the bicycle to stop within 25 feet from a speed of 10 MPH.
• Any person operating a bicycle is required to keep at least one hand on the handlebars while in operation.
• Parking lots and on-street parking spaces are common places for pedestrian crashes, be cognizant of backup lights on vehicles and engine noise.  Also, do not walk directly behind vehicles but several feet away from rear or front of vehicle to allow the driver to see you.
• Older adults should be cognizant of the crossing timer at lighted intersections and ensure not to start crossing late in the countdown.
• Older adults tend to have too much trust in the road safety system  and need to re-educate themselves on pedestrian and bicycle safety.

Unsafe driver behavior associated with pedestrian and bicycle violations, crashes and fatalities:

• Speeding (5 MPH can make the difference between types of injuries)
• Failure to stop for red lights or stop signs
• Failure to yield to pedestrians and bicyclists
• Distracted driving
• Blocking crosswalks
• Turning on permitted light (green signal) but not looking for pedestrian properly crossing in crosswalk -Right and Left turn crashes with pedestrian.

Link to original news release: Cape Coral Police Department Begins Bike-Ped Enforcement Operations

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