Cape Coral Police Department Newsroom - Cape Coral Police Department

(March 17, 2016)- The Cape Coral Police Department will conduct another High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) operation, as part of its Impaired Driving Project, tonight.

This is the third HVE operation since being awarded a second grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

The goal of the Impaired Driving Project is to conduct special HVE operations focused on impaired driving in an effort to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities attributable to impaired driving.

The operation will be a 5-officer traffic saturation patrol that will focus on impaired drivers citywide tonight, Thursday, March 17, 2016, running from 8:00 PM to 3:00 AM.

"If you are going to celebrate St. Patricks Day, please do so smartly. Have a designated driver, take a taxi, get a ride...don't rely on the luck of the Irish to get you home safely if you've been drinking."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

PHOTO: Cape Coral Police Car at night. (Photo Courtesy of Emma Mullen)

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

(March 18, 2016)- Last night, the Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Unit conducted its third High Visibility Enforcement (HVE) DUI Operation since being awarded a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) in the later part of 2015.

The operation was a 5-officer saturation patrol that was conducted city-wide. Officers were focused on identifying and taking impaired drivers off the road. Below are the results of this operation:

ARRESTED: Marcia Marie Ortega, W/F, DOB: 07-02-1961, of 2709 SW Santa Barbara Pl #4, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: DUI (BAC: .158/ .146)
LOCATION: 100 block of SE 38th Ter
Ortega was stopped for running a stop sign at SE 47th Ter and Palm Tree Blvd. After the stop, Ofc. Mills saw signs of impairment. Ortega completed field sobriety exercises. At the completion, Ortega was arrested for DUI.

ARRESTED: Marcia Marie Ortega, W/F, DOB: 07-02-1961, of 2709 SW Santa Barbara Pl #4, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: DUI (BAC: .158/ .146)
LOCATION: 100 block of SE 38th Ter
Ortega was stopped for running a stop sign at SE 47th Ter and Palm Tree Blvd. After the stop, Ofc. Mills saw signs of impairment. Ortega completed field sobriety exercises. At the completion, Ortega was arrested for DUI.

ARRESTED: Adam J Stewart (W/M 5-11-77), of 709 SE 46th Ter, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: DUI (BAC: Refused)
LOCATION: 4800 Vincennes Blvd
Sgt. Mena stopped Stewart for failing to maintain a single lane. Cpl. Fessel responded as back up and completed a DUI investigation. Stewart was arrested after signs of impairment were seen. Stewart refused breath.

ARRESTED: Adam J Stewart (W/M 5-11-77), of 709 SE 46th Ter, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: DUI (BAC: Refused)
LOCATION: 4800 Vincennes Blvd
Sgt. Mena stopped Stewart for failing to maintain a single lane. Cpl. Fessel responded as back up and completed a DUI investigation. Stewart was arrested after signs of impairment were seen. Stewart refused breath.

According to Sergeant Patrick O'Grady of the Cape Coral Police Department Traffic Unit, Officers noticed a higher than normal amount of taxi and Uber traffic and a large number of cars left in parking lots after closing time.

Operations such as this will continue throughout 2016.

Total Traffic Stops: 35
Warnings: 5
Speed Citations: 14
Seatbelt Citations: 0
Moving Citations: 7
Non-moving Citations: 3
Open Container Driver: 0
Open Container Passenger: 0
.02 Violation: 0
Criminal Citations: 2
Citations Total: 26
DUI Arrests: 2
Motorcycle DUI Arrests: 0
Other Arrests: 0
Total Arrests: 2

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

(March 23, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Detectives are looking for a woman who is using illegally cloned credit cards.

The victim reported to the Cape Coral Police Department that on March 8, 2016, her card was fraudulently used at two locations in Cape Coral.

Investigation revealed that the suspect was using a cloned credit card. Detectives were able to obtain video surveillance from one of the transactions that took place at the Target located at 1890 NE Pine Island Road of the female suspect using the cloned card.

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

(March 24, 2016)- Two women, using a cleaning service as a cover to commit burglary, are behind bars thanks to an observant victim and quick action by Officers.

Yesterday, Cape Coral Police responded to a burglary in progress in the 900 block of SE 43 Terrace.

The victim reported that a 9 mm pistol, an iPad, and laptop stolen from his home. The victim was able to provide a suspect vehicle description, reporting he saw the vehicle speed off as he pulled into his driveway. The victim recognized the car as one belonging to a cleaning service he had out to his home earlier for an estimate.

One of the officers who responded was familiar with the suspects and located the suspect car and suspects, who were found still in their uniforms, at 4117 SE 19th Ave. The investigation revealed that Vasques and Condon threw a stolen iPad, iPod, and a cell phone into the pool at this location attempting to conceal them from investigating Officers. The stolen 9mm pistol was recovered from the suspect's vehicle. The victim identified all of the stolen property as his.

Investigative Services Bureau Property Crimes Detectives were notified and a ledger of clients has been seized for follow-up to determine if there are additional victims.

Both were transported to Lee County Jail.

"This was a great job by the victim who maintained his cool and gave us great information, and a fantastic response by Officers within our Patrol Bureau. The quick identification and location of the suspects is a testament to good old fashioned police work and sound community policing principles- partnering with your citizens and knowing who's who in the area." - Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

ARRESTED: Stacy M. Pastoriza Vasques, W/F, DOB: 04-25-1986, of 4807 Triton Ct. E. #4, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Firearm, Felony Criminal Mischief, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Knowingly DWLSR
CR#: 16-004865

ARRESTED: Stacy M. Pastoriza Vasques, W/F, DOB: 04-25-1986, of 4807 Triton Ct. E. #4, Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Firearm, Felony Criminal Mischief, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Knowingly DWLSR
CR#: 16-004865

ARRESTED: Bobbie G. Condon, W/F, 10-21-1982, of 3719 SE 1st Pl., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Firearm, Felony Criminal Mischief
CR#: 16-00486

ARRESTED: Bobbie G. Condon, W/F, 10-21-1982, of 3719 SE 1st Pl., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Grand Theft, Grand Theft Firearm, Felony Criminal Mischief
CR#: 16-004865

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

(March 24, 2016)- On Thursday, March 24, 2016, in the early evening, Officers responded to 4214 NW 12th Street, Cape Coral, in reference to a terminally ill male subject with a gun.

When Officers arrived on scene, the subject came outside and began shooting at the Officers. An Officer returned fire and the subject went back in the house.

The Officers heard a shot fired from within the house and made entry to find the subject deceased. The Officers on scene were not hurt.

Investigative Services Bureau Detectives, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded to the scene to assist. Police personnel will be at the residence and in the area for the next several hours processing the scene and gathering evidence.

The Officer that fired a weapon will be placed on administrative leave, pending the conclusion of the investigation. This is normal protocol, per department policy in any officer-involved shooting.

Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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

(March 25, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Detectives are able to release the name of the deceased in last night's shooting.

Investigators have identified the deceased as John Melvin Toles, W/M, 66, of 4214 NW 12 St., Cape Coral. Next of kin have been notified.

The investigation is ongoing and as of this morning members of the Investigative Services Bureau are still on scene. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.

Link to original news release is below:

Officer-Involved Shooting; One Subject Deceased

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

(March 25, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator completed the investigation into the serious injury crash that occurred on January 26, 2016 (CR# 16-001413) at the intersection of NE Pine Island Road and NE 24 Avenue.

This crash was the result of a vehicle driving east on Pine Island Road and turned north, directly into the path of a dump truck, that was traveling west. The at-fault vehicle was t-boned by the dump truck directly on the passenger side which caused multiple life threatening injuries to an 11 year old boy in the back seat. The young boy was airlifted to a local hospital and then to a regional children's hospital (currently still in ICU).

The driver of the at fault vehicle (mother of the victim) has been issued a citation for violation of right of way when turning left in an intersection.

Due to the mother remaining in at the hospital with her child, the citation has been issued and accepted by her attorney as of 3:00 pm March 23, 2016.

An accident report update is being completed and the case is now closed. This traffic crash does not involve any criminality.

Link to original news release below:

Traffic Accident with Serious Injuries Involving a Juvenile

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

(March 28, 2016)- Today, the Cape Coral Police Department was awarded a $2500 grant by Rotary Fort Myers South. The grant will allow the Cape Coral Police Department to purchase additional medical trauma kits for Police personnel.

The medical equipment will give the agency as a whole the added ability to provide more medical care to civilians in the event of a critical incident. Officers will now have the training and equipment to provide more than basic first aid/CPR.

"It is necessary to have advanced medical equipment, not just band aids and gauze, so that trained personnel will be able to begin to administer trauma care on scene and extricate the wounded into the hands of emergency medical personnel."-Officer Stephen Scrobe, Cape Coral Police Department Instructor.

These trauma kits will let Officers deal with a variety of traumatic injuries varying from deliberate acts of violence, to automobile accidents, to general medical calls for service where it is difficult for EMS to arrive as quickly Police. Just last year, an Officer and a civilian bystander credited with helping to save the life of a motorcyclist who lost a leg due to a traumatic amputation during a crash, by applying an emergency trauma tourniquet.

"If the equipment saves just one life, then it has truly served its purpose." Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

PHOTO: Captain Kurt Graf and Grant Writer Shannon Northorp accept the grant check from Rotary Fort Myers South. (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

(March 29, 2016)- Cape Coral Police investigated a single vehicle crash that shut down a major intersection this afternoon for about 2 hours.

Shortly after 2:30 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to a single vehicle crash at the intersection of Del Prado Boulevard and Hancock Bridge Parkway. The vehicle let the roadway, striking a utility box and pole.

Patrol, Major Crash Investigator, and Forensics responded to assist. Investigation revealed that the driver suffered a major medical event prior to the crash. The driver was hospitalized in critical condition.

Major Crash Investigator synopsis is below:

DATE: March 29, 2016
TIME: 2:39 pm
CR: 16-005150
LOCATION: Del Prado Boulevard and Hancock Bridge Parkway intersection.
ASSIGNED MCI: M/Cpl. Andrew Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2011 Ford F-150, bronze in color.
DRIVER 1: Mark Andrew Boyar, W/M, 47, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Boyar is in critical condition.

SYNOPSIS: According to witnesses, Vehicle 1 was south on Del Prado Boulevard approaching the intersection of Hancock Bridge Parkway in the outside lane. As Vehicle 1 entered into the intersection, it veered to the right and drove off the corner of the intersection and onto a sidewalk. Vehicle 1 continued and struck a metal utility box, a crosswalk pole, and came to final rest against a large metal utility pole.

Several witnesses ran to the driver of Vehicle 1 (sole occupant) and observed that he was having a medical episode. The driver of Vehicle 1 was helped from his vehicle and CPR was started. Lee County EMS arrived and again CPR was performed inside of the ambulance. The driver of Vehicle 1 was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The driver of Vehicle 1 was later transported by ambulance to another hospital where he is currently. Medical staff advise that the driver of Vehicle 1 has suffered a major medical event.

The next of kin HAS BEEN notified. This traffic crash DOES NOT appear to be drug/alcohol related. There is no evidence of contact between Vehicle 1 and any other vehicle. Case pending further investigation.

***There have been 1 traffic fatality and 6 MCI usages in our city in 2016. (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 6 years, FYI:

2016: 1 Traffic fatalities, 0 DUI related (6 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 0 medical ruled death)

2015: 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)

2014: 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled death)

2013: 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)

2012: 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

2011: 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)

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

(April 2, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigator investigated a single-vehicle crash involving a motorcycle last night.

Around 10:20 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to a traffic crash in the 100 block of Hunter Boulevard. A motorcyclist, 71-year old Martin Peter Kaczerski of Cape Coral, failed to make the turn onto Hunter Boulevard from SE 24th Avenue, and left the roadway. Kaczerski lost control of the motorcycle and crashed, suffering multiple injuries. Kaczerski was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Cape Coral Police Department Major Crash Investigator and Forensics responded to the scene. Kaczerski was trauma-alerted to a local hospital. It was later determine that Kaczerski's injuries weren't life-threatening and that his blood alcohol content was .157, almost twice the legal limit.

Criminal charges are pending.

The preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 1, 2016
TIME: 10:22 pm
LOCATION: 100 block Hunter Boulevard (near Hancock bridge Pkwy/SE 24 Avenue)
CR: 16-005355
ASSIGNED MCI: M/Cpl. Andrew Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2001 red Harley Davidson motorcycle.
DRIVER 1: Martin Peter Kaczerski, W/M, 71, of Cape Coral, Florida.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Kaczerski suffered life threateninginjuries (originally reported).

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1, a Harley Davidson motorcycle, was driving south on NE 24 Avenue and turned left onto Hunter Boulevard. Hunter Boulevard is a small connector roadway between NE 24 Avenue and Hancock Bridge Parkway. Hunter Boulevard is straight and then curves left then right when traveling South prior to the intersection of Hancock Bridge Parkway.

According to the witness, Vehicle 1 turned onto Hunter Boulevard and failed to negotiate a left curve in the roadway. As the road curved left, Vehicle 1 drove off the roadway and entered the curb/gutter area and possibly struck a raised curb. Vehicle 1 began to “wobble” and the driver was thrown from the motorcycle. Vehicle 1 crashed onto the roadway with both driver and vehicle coming to rest in the Northbound lanes of Hunter Boulevard. During the traffic crash, the driver (sole occupant) suffered multiple injuries, including a head injury. The driver of Vehicle 1 was NOT wearing a helmet. Lee County EMS trauma alerted the driver to a local hospital. MCI Satterlee, Ofc. Fessel, and Forensics personnel responded.

At the hospital it was determined that the driver of Vehicle 1 had multiple non-life threatening injuries (head, arm, and chest injuries) and was beinglisted in stable condition. It was further determined that the driver of Vehicle 1 had a BAC of 0.157, well above the legal limit of 0.080.

Based on all information, the driver is expected to survive and a criminal investigation has begun. This traffic crash IS alcohol/drug related. The drive of Vehicle 1 WAS NOT wearing a helmet at the time of the traffic crash.

***There are 1 traffic fatalities and 7 MCI usages in our city in 2016. (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 6 years FYI:

2016: 1 Traffic fatalities, 0 DUI related (7 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 0 medical ruled death)

2015: 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)

2014: 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled death)

2013: 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)

2012: 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

2011: 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)

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

(April 5, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Detectives are investigating a home invasion that occurred last night in SE Cape Coral.

Last night, shortly after 9:00 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to a shots fired call at 913 SE 27th Terrace.

The complainant stated that they heard the shots go off and then looked out their window and saw several subjects with flashlights break the rear screen door of their neighbor’s house and enter the residence.

Officers arrived on scene and set a perimeter around the house. A male exited the back lanai and was ordered to come out where the officers were. Officers learned that the male was a resident at the house. Investigation revealed that two males, who were known to the victim, forced their way into the house with guns, demanding money that was owed to them. The two suspects left the house and fired rounds into the hood and rear quarter panel of victim’s vehicle that was parked behind the house.

Sergeant Donakowski was able to make phone contact a female resident that was inside the house and gave instructions for each individual that was still inside the home to come outside, which they did without incident. The house was then cleared.

A witness stated that the suspects possibly fled the area in a GMC Jimmy.

Nobody was injured but there were three children inside of the house when the crime occurred. DCF was notified.

Investigative Services Bureau Detectives and Forensics personnel responded to the scene. The investigation is ongoing.

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

(April 5, 2016)- The Cape Coral Police Department will host its 6th annual Candlelight Ceremony on the plaza outside of the lobby of Police headquarters on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at 7:00 PM.

The ceremony, which this year will be held just following National Crime Victims' Week (April 10-16), is to remember loved ones who have passed. Typical vigils and ceremonies associated with National Crime Victims' Week are in remembrance of those who have died as a result of a crime.

The Cape Coral Police Department's ceremony is also inclusive of those loved ones who were taken from us too soon as a result of other means as well.

We encourage you to bring a framed photo of your loved one. RSVP to cseymour@capecoral.net.

PHOTO: Invitation to Annual Candlelight Ceremony. (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 7, 2016)- Two suspects in an April 4th home invasion are behind bars.

With the assistance of the US Marshal's Task Force, Norman Hendricks and Jonathan Romero were taken into custody based on probable cause developed by Cape Coral Police Detectives at around 3:00 PM, yesterday afternoon.

"We are glad to see such a quick apprehension in this case. This was a great effort by all components: Patrol, Investigative Services Bureau, and Forensics. Thank you to our partners on the US Marshal's Task Force for their assistance in this case." -Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

ARRESTED: Norman Edward Hendricks, B/M, DOB: 02-11-1996, of 3302 Santa Barbara Boulevar N., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Aggravated Assault

ARRESTED: Norman Edward Hendricks, B/M, DOB: 02-11-1996, of 3302 Santa Barbara Boulevar N., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Aggravated Assault

ARRESTED:Jonathan Christian Romero, W/M, DOB: 02-17-1998, of 20 SE 17 Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Aggravated Assault

ARRESTED:Jonathan Christian Romero, W/M, DOB: 02-17-1998, of 20 SE 17 Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Armed Burglary, Aggravated Assault

Link to original news release: Cape Coral Police Detectives Investigating Home Invasion Overnight

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

(April 7, 2016)- A search warrant served yesterday at a NW Cape Coral home resulted in the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of over 60 marijuana plants.

Last night around 11:30 PM, the Cape Coral Police Department Vice, Intelligence, and Narcotics (VIN) Unit served a search warrant with the assistance of Street Crimes (SCU) and the SWAT Team at 51 NW 33 Terrace, Cape Coral. The warrant resulted in the discovery of an elaborate marijuana grow operation and the seizure of 60 mature marijuana plants, weighing over 156 pounds.

During the execution of the warrant one of the suspects, Katia Gonzalez Ruiz, fled into the attic resulting in a considerable delay in the investigation. She was additionally charged with resisting Officers without violence.

ARRESTED: Yosvany Hernandez Sanchez, W/M, DOB: 8-29-89, of 51 NW 33rd Ter., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Cultivation of Marijuana, Trafficking in Marijuana

ARRESTED: Yosvany Hernandez Sanchez, W/M, DOB: 8-29-89, of 51 NW 33rd Ter., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Cultivation of Marijuana, Trafficking in Marijuana

ARRESTED: Katia Gonzalez Ruiz, W/F, DOB: 11-11-87, of 51 NW 33rd Ter., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Cultivation of Marijuana, Trafficking in Marijuana, Resisting w/o Violence

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

(April 11, 2016)- A serious injury crash overnight has sent three people to the hospital with life threatening injuries.

At around 11:12 PM, Cape Coral Police responded to a serious injury crash in the 2400 block of NE Pine Island Rd., involving two vehicles.

Both vehicles left the roadway. One striking a tree, and the other rolling-over, coming to rest on its roof. Both vehicles caught fire in the crash. A passer-by removed two of the vehicle occupants. Cape Coral Fire Department responded and extricated the third.

All sustained life threatening injuries as a result of the crash and were trauma-alerted to a nearby hospital.

Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded to the scene.

Investigation revealed that the crash was alcohol/drug related. Investigation is ongoing.

Preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below:

DATE: April 10, 2016
TIME: 11:12 PM
LOCATION: 2400 block NE Pine Island Road
CR#: 16-005869
ASSIGNED MCI: M/Cpl. A. Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2013 maroon Kia car.
DRIVER 1: Michael John Getts, 35, W/M, of North Fort Myers, Florida.
DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Getts suffered life threatening injuries.
PASSENGER 1: Lonnie William Retherford, 36, W/M, of Lake Wales, Florida.
PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Retherford suffered life threatening injuries.

VEHICLE 2: 2005 white Chevrolet van.
DRIVER 2: Francis George Paulette III, 19, W/M, of North Fort Myers, Florida.
DRIVER 2 INJURIES: Paulette suffered life threatening injuries.

SYNOPSIS: Vehicle 1 was traveling east on NE Pine Island Road in the outside lane in the 2300 block. Vehicle 2 was traveling east on NE Pine Island Road in the inside lane in the 2300 block, slightly in front of Vehicle 2.

According to a witness, as the vehicles entered the 2400 block, Vehicle 1 changed lanes abruptly into the inside lane. The left front of Vehicle 1 struck the passenger side of Vehicle 2. Both vehicles were redirected to the right (southeast) and drove off of the roadway. Vehicle 1 drove into a ditch with the driver’s side leading. Vehicle 1 was exiting the ditch when the driver’s front side struck a large tree and came to final rest. Prior to leaving the roadway, Vehicle 2 began to roll over. Vehicle 2 continued off the roadway and entered into the ditch where it came to final rest on its roof.

A witness was able to stop and remove the driver of Vehicle 2 and front passenger of Vehicle 1. The driver of Vehicle 1 remained pinned inside of the vehicle. Both vehicles then caught on fire (separately). Cape Coral Fire Department arrived on scene and was able to extricate the driver of Vehicle 1. All three involved suffered life threatening injuries and were trauma alerted to a local hospital by ambulance.

The driver of Vehicle 1 is listed in critical-stable condition in ICU. The passenger of Vehicle 1 is life threatening-critical condition. The driver of Vehicle 2 is in critical-stable condition in ICU. MCI Satterlee, Forensics personnel, and a Victim Advocate responded.

This traffic crash IS alcohol/drug related. The next-of-kin of all involved HAVE BEEN notified. Based on all evidence, a criminal investigation is being conducted. The eastbound lanes of the 2400 block of NE Pine Island Road were shut down for several hours to conduct the traffic crash investigation.

***There are 1 traffic fatalities and 8 MCI usages in our city in 2016. (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 6 years FYI:

2016: 1 Traffic fatalities, 0 DUI related (8 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 0 medical ruled death)

2015: 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)

2014: 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled death)

2013: 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)

2012: 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

2011: 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)

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

(April 12, 2016)- A message from Police Chief Bart Connelly about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week:

Mr. City Manager, City Council Members, and Fellow Directors,

Each year, the second full week of April is dedicated to the men and women who serve as Public Safety Telecommunicators. National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week brings celebration, honor, and publicity focused on the otherwise unsung hero on the other end of the line. It is a great time to remember just how important the roles of the 9-1-1 Operator and Telecommunicator are as the first, first responder.

Please take a moment to read the tribute below.

A Tribute to Dispatchers
by Tom Wagoner

April 14, 1995

Someone once asked me if I thought that answering telephones for a living was a profession.

I said I thought it was a calling.

-- and so is dispatching.

I have found in my law enforcement career that dispatchers are the unsung heroes of public safety. They miss the excitement of riding in a speeding car with lights flashing and sirens wailing. They can only hear of the bright orange flames leaping from a burning building. They do not get to see the joy on the face of worried parents as they see their child begin breathing on its own, after it has been given CPR.

Dispatchers sit in darkened rooms looking at computer screens and talking to voices from faces they never see.

It's like reading a lot of books, but only half of each one.

Dispatchers connect the anxious conversations of terrified victims, angry informants, suicidal citizens and grouchy officers. They are the calming influence of all of them--the quiet, competent voices in the night that provide the pillars for the bridges of sanity and safety.

They are expected to gather information from highly agitated people who can't remember where they live, what their name is, or what they just saw. And then they are to calmly provide all that information to officers, fire fighters or paramedics without error--the first time, and every time.

Dispatchers are expected to be able to do five things at once--and do them all well. While questioning a frantic caller, they must type the information into a computer, tip off another dispatcher, put another caller on hold, and listen to an officer run a plate for a parking problem. To miss the plate numbers is to raise the officer's ire; to miss the caller's information may be to endanger the same officer's life. But the officer will never understand that.

Dispatchers have two constant companions. Other dispatchers and stress. They depend on the one, and try to ignore the other. They are chastened by upset callers, taken for granted by the public, and criticized by officers. The rewards they get are inexpensive and infrequent, except for the satisfaction they feel at the end of a shift, having done what they were expected to do.

Dispatchers come in all shapes and sizes, all races, both sexes, and all ages. They are blondes, and brunettes, and redheads. They are quiet or outgoing, single or married, plain, beautiful or handsome. No two are alike, yet they are all the same.

They are people who were selected in a difficult hiring process to do an impossible job. They are as different as snowflakes, but they have one thing in common. They care about people and they enjoy being the lifeline of society--that steady voice in a storm--the one who knows how to handle every emergency and does it with style and grace, and uncompromised competence.

Dispatchers play many roles: therapist, answer man, doctor, lawyer, teacher, weatherman, guidance counselor, psychologist, priest, secretary, supervisor, politician, and reporter. And few people must jump through the emotional hoops on the trip through the joy of one caller's birthday party, to the fear of another caller's burglary in progress, to the anger of a neighbor blocked in their drive, and back to the birthday caller's, all in a two minute time frame. The emotional roller-coaster rolls to a stop after an 8 or 10 hour shift, and they are expected to walk down to their car with steady feet and no queasiness in their stomach--because they are dispatchers.

If they hold it in, they are too closed. If they talk about it, they're a whiner. If it bothers them, it adds more stress. If it doesn't, they question themselves, wondering why.

Dispatchers are expected to have the compassion of Mother Teresa; the wisdom of Solomon; the interviewing skills of Oprah Winfrey; the gentleness of Florence Nightingale; the patience of Job; the voice of Barbara Streisand; the knowledge of Einstein; the answers of Ann Landers; the people skills of Sheriff Andy Taylor; the humor of David Letterman; the investigative skills of Sgt. Joe Friday; the looks of Melanie Griffith or Don Johnson; the faith of Billy Graham; the energy of Charro; and the endurance of the Energizer Bunny.

Is it any wonder that many drop out during training?

It is a unique and talented person who can do this job and do it well.

And it is fitting and proper that we take a few minutes or hours this week to honor you for the job that each of you do. That recognition is overdue, and it is insufficient....But it is sincere.

I have tried to do your job, and I have failed.

It takes a special person with unique skills. I admire you and I thank you for the thankless job you do.

You are heroes....And I am proud to work with you.

Bart

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

(April 12, 2016)- Two suspects are in custody following a robbery in a NW Cape Coral neighborhood.

This morning around 1:30 AM, Cape Coral Police responded to 1028 NW 9th Ave. in reference to a gunshot victim. Once on scene, Officers discovered the victim, a juvenile, had been shot through the arm, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries, during a robbery that occurred less than a block away.

The victim reported his cell phone, bicycle, and $100 in cash was taken from him, then he was shot once. The suspects were known to the victim.

Officers quickly established a perimeter on a residence nearby where one of the subjects lives. Several occupants of the residence, not involved in robbery, came out of the house without incident. LCSO Aviation was on scene and the Cape Coral Police Department SWAT Team Bearcat was utilized to approach the home where the suspects were ordered out of the home and taken into custody.

Forensics and Detectives from the Cape Coral Police Department Major Crimes Unit (MCU) responded. MCU is currently interviewing and conducting a search warrant for the residence; 1021 NW 10th Ave.

Residents in the area can expect to see Police activity for the next few hours.

"This was not a random incident. The suspects were known to the victim, and to Police as well. Thanks to the outstanding work of Patrol and ISB Detectives, a quick apprehension was made."- Det. Sergeant Dana Coston, Cape Coral Police Department Public Affairs Officer.

An additional news release will be forthcoming later today with suspect information and charges.

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

(April 12, 2016)- Cape Coral Police Detectives have released the identities of the two suspects who were arrested in connection with a robbery that happened overnight that sent one person to the hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Detectives have charged 16 year-old Matthias James Poteet and 17 year-old Jerimyah Paul Raski with Robbery With a Firearm, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft. Both are currently at the Lee County Jail/Juvenile Assessment Center.

Detectives spent most of the day serving a search warrant at their residence and gathering evidence.

Link to original news release: Cape Coral Police Detectives Investigating Robbery and Shooting Overnight

ARRESTED: Matthias James Poteet, W/M, DOB: 12-31-1999, of 1021 NW 10th Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Robbery With a Firearm, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft

ARRESTED: Matthias James Poteet, W/M, DOB: 12-31-1999, of 1021 NW 10th Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Robbery With a Firearm, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft

ARRESTED: Jerimyah Paul Raski, B/M, DOB: 05-06-1998, of 1021 NW 10th Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Robbery With a Firearm, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft

ARRESTED: Jerimyah Paul Raski, B/M, DOB: 05-06-1998, of 1021 NW 10th Ave., Cape Coral, FL.
CHARGES: Robbery With a Firearm, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Grand Theft

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

(April 13th, 2016) A serious injury crash last night sent a motorcyclist to the hospital with life threating injuries.

At around 8:28 PM on April 12th, 2016, Cape Coral Police responded to a serious injury crash at the intersection of Chiquita Boulevard and Gleason Parkway, involving a vehicle and motorcycle.

According to witnesses the motorcycle was traveling north and had the green light. The other vehicle did not see the motorcycle and turned from Chiquita Blvd S., to go east on Gleason, directly in the path of the motorcycle. The motorcycle struck the vehicle head on.

The motorcyclist suffered life threating injuries as a result of the crash and was trauma-alerted to a nearby hospital. The driver of the vehicle was uninjured.

Cape Coral Police Major Crash Investigator, Forensics, and Victim Advocates responded to the scene.

Investigation revealed that the crash was alcohol/drug related. Investigation is ongoing.

Preliminary synopsis of the Major Crash Investigator is below.

DATE: April 12, 2016

TIME: 8:28 pm

LOCATION: Intersection of Chiquita Boulevard and Gleason Parkway

CR: 16-005978

ASSIGNED THI: M/Cpl. A. Satterlee

VEHICLE 1: 2016 black Jeep SUV.

DRIVER 1: Claudia A. Szecsei, W/F, 5-11-85, 2636 SW 32 Street, Cape Coral, Florida 33914.

DRIVER 1 INJURIES: Szecsei suffered no injuries.

PASSENGER 1: Anna Szecsei-Sipos, W/F, 62, of Cape Coral, Florida.

PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Szecsei-Sipos suffered no injuries.

VEHICLE 2: 2013 black/grey Harley Davidson motorcycle.

DRIVER 2: Jerry Leon Freeman, W/M, 72, of Cape Coral, Florida.

DRIVER 2 INJURIES: Freeman suffered life threatening head injuries.

SYNOPSIS:

Vehicle 1 was South on Chiquita Boulevard approaching the intersection of Gleason Parkway in the East turn lane. Vehicle 2 was North on Chiquita Boulevard in the inside lane approaching Gleason Parkway. According to several witnesses, both vehicles had a solid green light. As Vehicle 1 entered into the intersection, the driver of Vehicle 1 did not see Vehicle 2. Vehicle 1 turned into the path of Vehicle 2. Vehicle 2 skidded and then struck the front of Vehicle 1 (head on). The driver of Vehicle 2 was ejected from his motorcycle and came down on his head on the roadway. Both vehicles came to a stop in the middle of the intersection.

During the traffic crash, the driver of Vehicle 2 suffered life threatening injuries and was ambulanced to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition after surgery in the ICU. The driver of Vehicle 2 WAS wearing a helmet at the time of the traffic crash. The driver and passenger of Vehicle 1 did not suffer injuries.

THI Satterlee, Forensics Specialist Potts, and V.A. Seymour responded. This traffic crash IS alcohol related. The next of kin HAS BEEN notified. Case pending further investigation.

***There are 1 traffic fatalities and 9 MCI usages in our city in 2016. (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 6 years fyi......

2016= 1 Traffic fatalities, 0 DUI related (9 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 0 medical ruled death)

2015= 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)

2014= 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled death)

2013= 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)

2012= 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

2011= 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (24 MCI usages) (this number DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical and 1 suicide ruled deaths)

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

On April 11, 2016, CCPD responded to a traffic crash in the 2400 block NE Pine Island Road. Two vehicles ended up in a ditch with one upside down. Both vehicles also caught fire. Three people suffered life threatening injuries and were trauma alerted to Lee Memorial Hospital.

UPDATE: On April 12, 2016 at 8:33 pm, the front passenger in Vehicle 1 (Lonnie William Retherford, 36 ) died at Lee Memorial Hospital. Next of Kin have been notified. Due to the death, this case is now classified as a DUI Manslaughter investigation.

Below is the original press release.