(October 12, 2021) - A vehicle traveling westbound on Tropicana Parkway failed to yield the right of way and pulled out onto Burnt Store Road North directly in front of a dump truck. The T-bone collision resulted in the vehicle spinning several times and ultimately flipping over. Major Crash Investigators responded to the scene. The synopsis of the crash from the Major Crash Investigator is as follows:

DATE: October 11, 2021
TIME:  11:54 am
LOCATION: Burnt Store Road North/Tropicana Parkway West
CR#:  21-022217
ASSIGNED MCI: Corporal J. Barkley          

VEHICLE 1: 2016 Nissan Rogue, Florida tag
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER: James J Burns, DOB 03/13/1964, of North Fort Myers, Florida
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER INJURIES: Burns suffered life threatening injuries which were later downgraded to non-life-threatening.

VEHICLE 2: 2001 Western Star FX-4964 dump truck, Florida tag
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER: Eugenio Cardet-Garcia, DOB 09/08/1964, of Cape Coral, FL
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER INJURIES: Cardet-Garcia suffered no injuries in the crash.

SYNOPSIS:

Vehicle 1 was traveling westbound on Tropicana Parkway West in the inside travel lane approaching the intersection of Burnt Store Road North. Vehicle 1 had a stop sign.

Vehicle 2 was traveling northbound on Burnt Store Road North in the outside travel lane approaching the intersection of Tropicana Parkway West. Vehicle 2 did not have a stop sign. Vehicle 1 failed to yield the right of way and pulled out onto Burnt Store Road North directly in front of Vehicle 2. 

Vehicle 2 was unable to stop in time and the front bumper of Vehicle 2 struck the left side of Vehicle 1 (T-bone collision). Vehicle 2 began a counterclockwise rotation while being pushed in a northwest direction. Vehicle 1 left the roadway and entered the center grassy median and overturned and came to final rest on its driver side facing southeast. CCFD responded to extract the driver from the vehicle. 

The driver of Vehicle 1 suffered life threatening injuries and was airlifted by helicopter to the hospital as a trauma alert. While at the hospital, medical staff downgraded the driver’s injuries to serious but non-life-threatening. The driver of Vehicle 2 did not sustain any injuries in the crash. 

Major Crash Investigator J. Barkley responded due to the injuries initially being life threatening. 

Alcohol/drugs are NOT a factor in this crash. Speed is NOT a factor in this crash. Next-of-kin HAVE BEEN notified. 

If you witnessed this traffic crash or have information about this traffic crash, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department by calling 239-574-3223, submitting an anonymous tip at www.capecops.com/tips, https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous , sending us a message through our social media platforms or calling Crime stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. Please use the Case Report # 21-022217.

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***There are 12 traffic fatalities and 39 MCI usages in our city in 2021. (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 fatality ruled "medical" (i.e. cause of death not related to traffic crash injuries)).

2021= 12 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (39 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled death)
2020= 19 Traffic fatalities, 7 DUI related (54 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2019= 16 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (39 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2018= 10 Traffic fatalities, 3 DUI related (30 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2017= 17 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (46 MCI usages)
2016= 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (35 MCI usages) 
2015= 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2014= 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2013= 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2012= 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

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

(October 12, 2021) - A man arrested in 2018 after a lengthy fraud investigation by the Cape Coral Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit took a plea deal this week and was sentenced to prison.

Christopher Cheney (W/M, DOB: 3-29-78) pled no contest to one count of Scheme to Defraud (1st degree Felony) and was adjudicated guilty. He received a 21-month prison sentence followed by 10 years probation.

Cheney took somewhere in the amount of $700,000 to build homes through his business Southern Premier Homes, LLC. The complete 2018 press release detailing Cheney’s crime and his arrest can be found here.

Cheney will also be:

• Prohibited from application for or hold a contractor’s license, nor work under a “qualifier”

• Prohibited from application or appointment as an officer, manager or member of any entity licensed by the State of Florida Department of Corporations.

• Prohibited from working in any financially-related field

• Prohibited from having signatory authority on any bank accounts, except his own personal account.

Cheney’s case and restitution owed by the numbers:

• Total amount of restitution due to the victims: $569,303.09

• Total amount for CCPD Cost of Investigation: $4,073.41

• Total amount of State Attorney’s Office Cost of Prosecution: $1,327.85

• Additional court fees and costs

“This case was a lengthy process from start to finish. I am very pleased with this outcome for the victims, and thanks to the State Attorney’s Office for prosecuting the case.” ~Detective Meghan Hicks, CCPD Financial Crimes Unit

Original News Release: Cape Coral Man Who Swindled Over $700,000 Is Arrested

State Attorney’s Office Release

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

(October 14, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Volunteer Unit (PVU) is now accepting applications for its upcoming academy class for those interested in becoming a member of the Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit.  

The next Cape Coral Police Volunteer Unit academy runs in January 2022 (exact week to be determined). It will run for one week, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This academy is a fun and informative combination of classroom, lecture, and practical exercises that prepares new volunteers to hit the streets. Recruits will learn the basics of police procedures, how to operate department vehicles and equipment, direct traffic, communicate on our radios, and more.

The Cape Coral Police Department has an incredibly active and vibrant Police Volunteer Unit. From administrative tasks at Police Headquarters to checking vacant homes for vacationing residents, to helping patrol the roads and waterways of Cape Coral, our Police Volunteer Unit is busy giving back to the community and helping to make Cape Coral a safe place to live, work, and play. The Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit provides over $1 million/year in in-kind services every year!

If you have some time, and an interest in both giving back to your community and becoming part of a world-class law enforcement agency, the Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit may be for you!    Download the application at the link below, fill it out and drop it off at the Cape Coral Police Department.  Application deadline is to be determined, but will be announced in advance of the determined end date. For more information, contact the Police Volunteer Unit at (239) 242-3346, and visit the PVU portion of our website here.

CCPD Police Volunteer Unit Application (PDF)

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

(October 14, 2021) - Yesterday on October 13th, 2021 the Cape Coral Police Department held a joint press conference with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office regarding the discovery of human remains in North Fort Myers. It was believed possible but not confirmed that the remains could possibly be those of Lauren Dumolo, whose missing persons case the Cape Coral Police Department has been investigating since June of 2020.

It was confirmed today through dental records that the human remains located in North Fort Myers are not those of Lauren Dumolo. That investigation is being conducted by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

“While this is a setback in the quest for closure for Lauren’s family, hope remains that Lauren is out there. We are grateful for the quick response to our plea for dental records at yesterday’s news conference. This new piece of evidence is vital for our ongoing investigation. I spoke with Lauren’s father Paul and he shares in the mix of emotions. While it’s disappointing to not achieve closure, that is balanced with wanting to keep hope alive that Lauren will be found safe.” ~ Cape Coral Police Chief Anthony Sizemore

Lauren’s missing persons case remains an active/open case for the Cape Coral Police Department, and our Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate Lauren’s disappearance. We continue to implore anyone who might have information on Lauren’s case to contact the Cape Coral Police Department at (239) 574-3223. Any tips or information no matter how seemingly small could be extremely helpful to Lauren’s case.

Please see below for information on Lauren.

###

The Cape Coral Police Department’s Investigative Services Bureau is asking for the public’s help and for ANY information that might help locate Lauren Dumolo.

Lauren Brittney Dumolo (DOB: 7-14-1990) was last seen on June 19th, 2020 at 4927 Coronado Parkway Apartment #1, and she was reported missing on June 21st. Her purse had been located by a citizen at Four Freedoms Park (4818 Tarpon Court) on June 19th, a place she was known to visit often. Her cell phone was also located in her apartment. Lauren’s status as a missing person was changed to a missing person endangered on June 24th as a result of the investigation.

Lauren was a frequent walker in the area and did not own a car. At the time of her disappearance she was 29 years old, 5’0'‘ and 110 pounds, with light brown hair (dyed blonde with brown roots) and brown eyes. When she was last seen on June 19th, she was wearing a T-shirt and shorts. She has several tattoos: “Namaste” on her right side, a symbol on her wrist, a “NY” symbol on her pelvis, and rosary beads on her ankle.

Anyone with any information on Lauren’s whereabouts or anyone who may have seen her at any point from June 19th, 2020 on is asked to please contact the Cape Coral Police Department at (239) 574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip at www.capecops.com/tips or https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous, send us a message through our social media platforms or call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. Please reference case number 20-011323.

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

(October 20, 2021) - To celebrate the holiday season the Cape Coral Police Department is celebrating its 19th Annual “Shop With A Cop” event on Monday, December 20th, 2021.

To ensure the safety of all, this year the event will be handled differently. For the safety of both shoppers and officers, shoppers will need to be picked up and dropped off at Super Walmart at 1619 Del Prado Boulevard South in Cape Coral. Parents will need to drop off their child at 9 a.m. and pick them up by 11 a.m. at the Super Walmart. Once a child arrives, they will sign in, receive a mask, and then meet their officer. The officer will stay with the child the entire time as the two enjoy their Christmas shopping experience and learn a little bit about each other.

The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #33 and the Cape Coral Police Department's "Do The Right Thing" program sponsors makes this event possible. The event allows officers to spend positive one-on-one time with children of families that are struggling during these difficult times.

This year especially, there are more children than ever whose families are having financial difficulties. Each year, the department chooses approximately 40 students to participate in the program. Once the team is paired off, they will be entering Super Walmart in spaced-out groups. After shopping and before parents come to pick them up, the pair will be given a boxed to-go lunch.

The “Do the Right Thing” program reinforces the idea of sharing and giving while promoting the idea that law enforcement role models are crucial to the development of our youth. The positive one-on-one experience each student receives from “Shop with a Cop” is one that is never forgotten.

The Cape Coral Police Department is now accepting applications for this year’s “Shop with a Cop.” The event will take place Monday, December 20th. To nominate a child, parents should pick up a nomination form at the Cape Coral Police Department’s lobby or click here for PDF format: 2021 Shop With A Cop Application.

To qualify:

• You must be able to drop your child off by 9:00 a.m. and pick them up by 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 20th at Super Walmart on Del Prado Boulevard

• Child must be available on Monday, December 20th to shop

• Child must be in grade Kindergarten through 12th grade

• Child and family must live in Cape Coral

• Application, liability release and photo release must be received no later than Thursday, November 18th at:

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

If your application is chosen you will be notified by phone no later than Wednesday, November 24th. If your application is not chosen for “Shop With A Cop” it will automatically be rolled over to our “Fill The Boat” Program.

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

(October 22, 2021) - A man was found guilty by a Lee County jury and sentenced to life in prison, the end result of a sexual battery investigation by the Cape Coral Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit.

In late 2018, the Cape Coral Police Department received a report alleging sexual battery/abuse of a minor by Garnett Salmon (B/M, DOB: 9-6-81). The Major Crimes Unit immediately began working the case and as a result of their investigation obtained an arrest warrant on March 14th, 2019. Salmon was arrested upon being located four days later by the Cape Coral Police Department.

In early September of 2021 after pleading not guilty and receiving a trial by jury, the jury returned a guilty verdict against Salmon for sexual activity with a child, Florida Statute 794.011 (8b), a first degree felony. On October 13th, 2021 Salmon was sentenced to life in prison for his crime.

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

(November 2, 2021) - Please join us in congratulating our October 2021 “Do The Right Thing” recipients. These students exemplified what it means to “Do The Right Thing.”

Mackenzie Jenkins 6th Grade, Gulf Middle School

Mackenzie was at her grandfather’s house and had gone outside when she heard the neighbor’s dog barking and saw smoke coming from the house.  She quickly called 9-1-1 and told dispatchers what she saw.  When firefighters were able to make entry they knew to search for a dog, Fiona, thanks to the information provided by Mackenzie. Fiona was unresponsive when firefighters found her, but Lee Country EMS cooled her and provided oxygen, and by the time the fire was out she was up and walking around.

Eli Gerl 5th Grade, Skyline Elementary School

Eli was playing soccer in the school yard when he saw a 1st grader run and fall down. Eli stopped what he was doing and approached to check on the smaller student.  It turned out that Eli did not know the child but said it was the polite thing to do. 

DeShon Jenkins 8th Grade, Caloosa Middle School

DeShon was at basketball tryouts when another student, whom he knew from elementary school, showed him his sneakers. They were ripped and the soles were coming off. DeShon spoke to his mother about it and asked if they could get the student some sneakers. They bought 3 pairs of sneakers and DeShon brought them to school and gave them to the other student.

Anthony Perfeito De Almeida 5th Grade, Skyline Elementary School

Anthony has volunteered to stay and clean up the lunch tables for the year, for those classes that cannot do it for themselves, as well as for any other class that needs help.  He does this every day without asking for any reward and is always willing to do more than is expected. 

Sebastian Solis 6th Grade, Mariner Middle School

When would-be burglars attempted entry into his home, Sebastian quickly armed himself with a knife, called the CCPD, and successfully thwarted the suspect’s intent. This speaks to Sebastian’s ability to operate well under stress, and the importance of his knowledge of proper procedures to follow in an emergency.

Dominic D’Andrea 1st Grade, Oasis Elementary School

Dominic set up a lemonade stand and instead of keeping the money he earned to buy something for himself, he donated it all to the Cape Coral Caring Center. 

Nathaniel D. Aites 5th Grade, Caloosa Elementary School

Nathaniel did the right thing when he reported a potentially dangerous situation to a trusted adult. As a result of Nathaniel’s action, everyone went home safely. 

Craig Odom 6th Grade, Caloosa Middle School

Craig found a folded $5.00 bill on the floor and handed it to the teacher at the podium. Another student who was standing at the podium reached into her pocket and panicked when she realized her money was not in her pocket. She asked the teacher if it was $10.00. When the teacher unfolded the money, she found out that it was not one five-dollar bill, but two and handed it to the student who lost it.

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

(November 3, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department uncovered illegal weaponry while serving a warrant for multiple felonies, adding the weapons charges to the suspect’s list of troubles.

The Property Crimes Unit identified William Meyer (W/M, DOB: 9-2-91) as the suspect in a residential burglary that occurred on October 15th. A search warrant was obtained and served on Meyer’s residence, which recovered stolen property from the burglary. During the search warrant detectives also located a short-barreled rifle and a second suppressed short-barreled rifle, which Meyer did not have the proper licensing/stamps to possess.

William Meyer was charged with burglary of a dwelling causing damage over $1000, grand theft, dealing in stolen property, providing false information to a pawn broker, and possession of a short-barreled rifle (2 counts). He was transported to the Lee County Jail.

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

(November 3, 2021) - The two Cape Coral Police officers from an officer-involved shooting in March of 2021 have been cleared by the State Attorney’s Office.

“Unfortunately, this type of incident is a difficult reality of policing and one which needs to be thoroughly and professionally investigated by the State Attorney’s Office. After their investigation, the State Attorney determined that the actions of Officer Bianco and Officer Meadows were legally justified in their use of deadly force. ” ~ Master Sergeant Julie Green, CCPD Public Affairs Office

With our commitment to transparency, the Cape Coral Police Department will always share important information internally and to the community we serve.

See below for the previous news releases in this case:

Officer Involved Shooting

Male in Officer Involved Shooting Identified

Cape Coral Police Identify Man in Officer-Involved Shooting (WINK News)

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

(November 5, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit needs the public’s help in identifying a pickup truck that caused over $30,000 in damage to the Coral Oaks Golf Course.

On October 28th, 2021 at around 2:00 a.m., a pickup truck was caught on surveillance video driving in several areas on the Coral Oaks Golf Course. The pickup did serious damage to the tee area at the 7th hole, ripping up the grass and other features of the course. The damages were estimated to be around $30,000.

The pickup truck appears to possibly be a Dodge, with a maroon top half and a gold lower half. Anyone with information on this vehicle is asked to please call the Cape Coral Police Department at (239) 574-3223; send an anonymous tip at www.capecops.com/tips or https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous; send us a message through our social media platforms; or call Crimestoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. Please use case report #21-023624.

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

(November 17, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Volunteer Unit (PVU) is now accepting applications for its upcoming academy class for those interested in becoming a member of the Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit.  

The next Cape Coral Police Volunteer Unit academy runs in January 2022 (exact week to be determined). It will run for one week, Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This academy is a fun and informative combination of classroom, lecture, and practical exercises that prepare new volunteers to hit the streets. Recruits will learn the basics of police procedures, how to operate department vehicles and equipment, direct traffic, communicate on our radios, and more.

The Cape Coral Police Department has an incredibly active and vibrant Police Volunteer Unit. From administrative tasks at Police Headquarters to checking vacant homes for vacationing residents, to helping patrol the roads and waterways of Cape Coral, our Police Volunteer Unit is busy giving back to the community and helping to make Cape Coral a safe place to live, work, and play. The Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit provides over $1 million/year in in-kind services every year!

If you have some time, and an interest in both giving back to your community and becoming part of a world-class law enforcement agency, the Cape Coral Police Department Police Volunteer Unit may be for you!    Download the application at the link below, fill it out and drop it off at the Cape Coral Police Department.  Application deadline is to be determined, but will be announced in advance of the determined end date. For more information, contact the Police Volunteer Unit at (239) 242-3346, and visit the PVU portion of our website here.

CCPD Police Volunteer Unit Application (PDF)

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

(November 18, 2021) - A vehicle traveling southbound on NE 5th Place pulled out in front of a motorcyclist on Diplomat Parkway East. The motorcyclist was ejected and suffered life-threatening injuries. Major Crash Investigators responded to the scene. The synopsis of the crash from the Major Crash Investigator is as follows:

DATE: November 17, 2021 
TIME:  8:42 pm
LOCATION: Diplomat Pkwy Ease and NE 5th Place
CR#:  21-025269
ASSIGNED MCI: Corporal J.Barkley          

VEHICLE 1: 2017 Nissan Altima, Florida tag
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER: Yolanda Bon, DOB 03/07/1992, North Fort Myers, Florida 
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER INJURIES: Bon suffered no injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 1: JUVENILE
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Juvenile suffered no injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 2: JUVENILE
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 2 INJURIES: Juvenile complained of head pain. Medics refused on scene.
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 3: JUVENILE
VEHICLE 1 PASSENGER 3 INJURIES: Juvenile suffered no injuries in the crash.

VEHICLE 2: 1987 Suzuki LS650, Unregistered
VEHICLE 2 DRIVER: Frank E Sangster, DOB 04/9/1988, Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 2 DRIVER INJURIES: Sangster suffered life-threatening injuries and is undergoing major surgery at the time of this press release. 

VEHICLE 3: 2019 Toyota Rav 4, Florida tag
VEHICLE 3 DRIVER: Ysienay Lopez-Diaz, DOB 03/30/2002, Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 3 DRIVER INJURIES: Lopez-Diaz suffered no injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 1: Adriana Gonzalez, DOB 6/10/1973, Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Gonzalez suffered no injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 2: Reinaldo Cordenes-Martinez, DOB 10/12/1991, Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 2 INJURIES: Cordenes-Martinez suffered no injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 3: Alejandro Serrano, DOB 09/13/1994, Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 3 PASSENGER 3 INJURIES: Serrano suffered no injuries in the crash.

SYNOPSIS:

Vehicle 1 was traveling southbound on NE 5th Place, stopped at the stop sign at the intersection of Diplomat Pkwy E.
Vehicle 2 was traveling westbound on Diplomat Pkwy E in the outside travel lane approaching the intersection of NE 5th Pl.
Vehicle 3 was traveling westbound on Diplomat Pkwy E in the inside travel lane approaching the intersection of NE 5th Pl several hundred feet behind Vehicle 2.
The driver of Vehicle 1 stated that she did not see Vehicle 2 approaching and entered Diplomat Pkwy with the intention of turning left (eastbound) and pulled out directly in front of Vehicle 2.

Vehicle 2 applied heavy braking and skidded approximately 50 feet and laid the motorcycle on its left side and slid an additional 28 feet. While sliding on its side, Vehicle 2 struck the left side front quarter panel of Vehicle 1. Vehicle 2’s rider was ejected from the vehicle and came to final rest in the paved portion of the center median. Vehicle 2 came to final rest on its left side taking up the two westbound travel lanes facing north. As Vehicle 3 approached the crash scene, the driver did not see Vehicle 2 laying in the middle of the roadway and struck Vehicle 2 with the front right quarter panel of Vehicle 3. 

The driver of Vehicle 2 suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital via ambulance. While at the hospital the driver of Vehicle 2’s injuries was upgraded and he was transported to another hospital for emergency surgery. One juvenile passenger in Vehicle 1 complained of head pain but refused medical treatment. The remaining occupants of Vehicle 1 did not sustain any injuries in the crash. The occupants of Vehicle 3 did not sustain any injuries in the crash. 

Major Crash Investigators J. Barkley and P. Wilson responded due to the life-threatening injuries. V.A. M. Pena and Forensic Tech K. Buckner-Brager responded

Alcohol/drugs are not a factor in this crash. Speed is not a factor in this crash. Next-of-kin HAVE BEEN notified. 

The Traffic Homicide Unit deployed the Leica RTC360 scanner and laser mapped the scene of the incident. 

If you witnessed this traffic crash or have information about this traffic crash, please contact the Cape Coral Police Department by calling 239-574-3223, submitting an anonymous tip at www.capecops.com/tips, https://new.tipsubmit.com/en/create-report/anonymous , sending us a message through our social media platforms or calling Crime stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. Please reference Case Report # 21-025269.

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***There are 12 traffic fatalities and 40 MCI usages in our city in 2021. (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 fatality ruled "medical" (i.e. cause of death not related to traffic crash injuries)).

2021: 12 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled death)
2020: 19 Traffic fatalities, 7 DUI related (54 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2019: 16 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (39 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2018: 10 Traffic fatalities, 3 DUI related (30 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2017: 17 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (46 MCI usages)
2016: 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (35 MCI usages) 
2015: 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2014: 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2013: 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2012: 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

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

(November 22, 2021) - The results of our 10th annual Holiday Heroes Food Drive benefiting the Harry Chapin Food Bank are in, and once again the incredible generosity of our city has come through.

Cape Coral Police Officers were stationed at the city’s two Neighborhood Walmart locations on November 18th. From these two locations we collected 2,673 pounds of food and $2,239.59 in cash for the Harry Chapin Food Bank. These donations will go directly to those in need right here in our area.

Over the ten years the Cape Coral Police Department has held this event, that brings our food collection total to approximately 25 TONS of assistance for the needy. We thank our amazing citizens for their kindness and generosity in making this possible.

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

(November 30, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department is pleased to announce our 15th annual "Fill The Boat" Toy Drive for the 2021 holiday season. This is the 15th straight year that the Cape Coral Police Department has run this event. Each year, almost 2,000 toys are collected.

During this upcoming weekend the Cape Coral Police Department will be collecting toys for Cape Coral children in need. The schedule is as follows:

Friday, December 3rd, the boat will be at Walmart, 1619 Del Prado Blvd. S. from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Saturday, December 4th, the boat will be at Walmart, 1619 Del Prado Blvd. S. from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.

Sunday, December 5th, the boat will be at Walmart, 1619 Del Prado Blvd. S. from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm.

 A Cape Coral Police Department Marine Unit boat will be on display and will serve as the drop-off/collection point.

To donate, purchase a new, unwrapped toy and simply place it in the boat.  At the end of the drive, the toys will be taken to the Cape Coral Police Department where they are then distributed to children in need throughout Cape Coral in time for the holidays.

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

(December 1, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department is proud to announce it is once again partnering with the 3H Exchange for the eighth consecutive year. The 3H Exchange (High Schools Helping the Homeless) is a program committed to providing goods to homeless, in need students and their families throughout the Lee County School District.

Starting now and running through Friday December 10th, 2021 the Cape Coral Police Department will have donation bins in the lobby of the Cape Coral Police Department headquarters (1100 Cultural Park Boulevard) where people can drop off donations for the 3H Exchange.

The 3H Exchange is asking for donations of the following:

• Canned food

• Non-perishable foods

• New, unwrapped children's toys 

As always, we thank the community for their incredible generosity during the holiday season.

CCPD Sgt. Julie Green and 3H Exchange founder Eric Decker give details on 2021’s Food/Toy Drive.

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

(December 2, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department responded to a serious crash last evening on NE. Pine Island Road. Major Crash Investigators responded to the scene. The synopsis of the crash from the Major Crash Investigator is as follows:

DATE: December 1, 2021 
TIME:  7:11 pm
LOCATION: 1700 block of NE Pine Island Rd
CR#:  21-026373
ASSIGNED MCI: Corporal J. Barkley          

VEHICLE 1: 2016 Blue Toyota Corolla, Florida tag
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER: Juvenile 17 years old, of Cape Coral, Florida
VEHICLE 1 DRIVER INJURIES: Juvenile suffered no injuries in the crash.

VEHICLE 2: 2001 Blue Harley Davidson Road King, Florida tag
VEHICLE 2 DRIVER: Donald J Bomba, DOB 2/8/1961, of North Fort Myers, Florida
VEHICLE 2 DRIVER INJURIES: Bomba suffered life threatening injuries in the crash.
VEHICLE 2 PASSENGER 1: Linda M Schaub, DOB 8/17/1958, North Fort Myers, Florida
VEHICLE 2 PASSENGER 1 INJURIES: Schaub suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries in the crash.

SYNOPSIS:

Vehicle 1 was traveling southbound in the parking lot of Lowes (1651 NE Pine Island Rd) approaching the business entrance/exit at NE Pine Island Rd. 

Vehicle 2 was traveling westbound on NE Pine Island Rd approaching the same business entrance/exit.

Vehicle 1 pulled out onto westbound NE Pine Island Rd at the same time Vehicle 2 entered the intersection. 

The left front quarter panel of Vehicle 1 struck Vehicle 2 on the right rear side causing Vehicle 2 to lay over on its left side. Vehicle 2 began sliding and then began tumbling westbound, and Vehicle 2’s occupants were ejected from the vehicle. 

The driver of Vehicle 2 suffered a life threatening head injury. The passenger of Vehicle 2 suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Neither occupant of Vehicle 2 were wearing helmets. The driver of Vehicle 1 suffered no injuries in the crash.

Major Crash Investigators J. Barkley and P. Wilson responded due to the life threatening injuries with the assistance of Officer Schwigk. V.A. M. Pena also responded. 

Alcohol/drugs are NOT a factor in this crash. Speed is not a factor in this crash. Next-of-kin HAVE BEEN notified. 

The Traffic Homicide Unit deployed the Leica RTC360 scanner and laser mapped the scene of the incident. 

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***There are 12 traffic fatalities and 43 MCI usages in our city in 2021. (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 fatality ruled "medical" (i.e. cause of death not related to traffic crash injuries)).

2021: 12 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled death)
2020: 19 Traffic fatalities, 7 DUI related (54 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2019: 16 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (39 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2018: 10 Traffic fatalities, 3 DUI related (30 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2017: 17 Traffic fatalities, 8 DUI related (46 MCI usages)
2016: 11 Traffic fatalities, 4 DUI related (35 MCI usages) 
2015: 13 Traffic fatalities, 9 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 1 medical ruled death)
2014: 10 Traffic fatalities, 5 DUI related (40 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 2 medical ruled deaths)
2013: 19 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (43 MCI usages) (DOES NOT INCLUDE 3 medical ruled deaths)
2012: 10 Traffic fatalities, 6 DUI related (21 MCI usages)

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

(December 6, 2021) - Detectives with the Cape Coral Police Department’s Major Crimes Unit brought serious felony charges against a Cape Coral man for sexual battery and false imprisonment.

On December 4th, 2021 Cape Coral Police detectives responded to a reported sexual battery. The investigation led to the acquisition of a search warrant at the home of the suspect, Douglas Skoczek (W/M, DOB: 1-3-55). The investigation and evidence obtained in the subsequent execution of the search warrant led to probable cause for the arrest of Skoczek for sexual battery and false imprisonment, both felony crimes. Skoczek was booked into the Lee County Jail.

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

(December 6, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department conducted a grant-funded traffic saturation operation on December 6, 2021. Funding was provided by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). This operation was conducted citywide and resulted in over three dozen citations (ten of those for violating a traffic control or signal device) as well as one arrest. Despite the many traffic stops made, no drivers were cited for seatbelt violations, and we thank the motoring public for always buckling up.

The detailed results are as follows:

OPERATION TIME: 6 a.m. - 11. a.m.

TOTAL TRAFFIC STOPS: 46
WARNINGS: 11
SPEED CITATIONS: 27
SEATBELT CITATIONS: 0
MOVING CITATIONS: 37
NON-MOVING CITATIONS: 4
VIOLATION OF TRAFFIC CONTROL/SIGNAL DEVICE: 10
OPEN CONTAINER (DRIVER): 0
OPEN CONTAINER (PASSENGER): 0
.02 VIOLATION: 0
CRIMINAL CITATIONS: 1
CITATIONS (TOTAL): 42
DUI ARRESTS: 0
ARRESTS (OTHER): 1

ARRESTED (NOT PICTURED)

ARRESTEE: Roy Clewell Leighnor, W/M, DOB: 9-6-69, of 3347 Caracas Drive, Dallas TX
CHARGES: Misuse of Dealer/Manufacturer License Plate

Leighnor was stopped for speeding (71 MPH in a 45 MPH zone) at the 1200 block of Skyline Boulevard. This led to the discovery of his misuse of an out-of-state dealer plate (Montana).

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

(December 7, 2021) - Please join us in congratulating our November 2021 “Do The Right Thing” recipients. These students exemplified what it means to “Do The Right Thing.”

Samuel Foster Oasis Middle School - 6th Grade

A small group of students were pushing and shoving as they exited the classroom.  A wreath was accidentally damaged. Sam volunteered to take the wreath home to fix it and returned it back to its original condition. The Cape Coral Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Program would like to commend Samuel for his empathy and being a great role model.

Zachary Arthur Cape Elementary School - 2nd Grade

During the medical emergency of a beloved family member, Zach was extremely helpful to his Nana and demonstrated a high level of maturity and bravery in a very emotional and chaotic situation. During the chaos, Zach was able to maintain his composure and provide address information which was crucial to emergency responders. He called his parents and he also helped with his 3-year-old sister as the medical team provided assistance. Although the outcome was not what they had hoped, his family is extremely proud of him. The Cape Coral Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Program would like to recognize Zachary for his heroic efforts.

Presley Gibson Caloosa Middle School - 7th Grade

A student brought a potentially harmful contraband to school. On the way home on the bus, the student started talking about having it with him. Presley heard him and poured water on herself so that she could go to the front of the bus to “get a towel”. While up there, she told the bus driver about the potentially harmful contraband. The driver phoned the incident to the police. The police showed up and took possession of the harmful contraband and no one was hurt. Thankfully, Presley chose to do the right thing and keep everyone safe. The Cape Coral Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Program would like to recognize Presley for her bravery.

Kalel Hernandez Caloosa Middle School - 7th Grade

One morning before school, two students got into an argument and then started pushing each other. Kalel quickly got in between them and prevented them from having any further contact. Kalel acted in a mature manner and did the right thing by preventing anyone from getting hurt. The Cape Coral Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Program would like to recognize Kalel for his commitment and good character.

Lionel McGriff Caloosa Middle School - 8th Grade

Lionel found a baby rabbit at the bus stop.  He brought the rabbit to school to ask for help. They contacted the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) and got them to come to school to pick up the baby rabbit.  Lionel did the right thing to ensure the rabbit’s safety. The Cape Coral Police Department’s Do The Right Thing Program would like to commend Lionel for his empathy and being a great role model. 

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

(December 8, 2021) - The Cape Coral Police Department has been awarded CALEA Accreditation in Law Enforcement and in Communications effective November 19, 2021. These awards remain in effect for four years and the agency retains all privileges associated with this status during that period. CALEA Accreditation serves as the International Gold Standard for Public Safety Agencies.

The process of CALEA Accreditation begins with a rigorous self-assessment, requiring a review of policies, practices, and processes against internationally accepted public safety standards. This is followed with an assessment by independent assessors with significant public safety experience. Additionally, public feedback is received to promote community trust and engagement, and structured interviews are conducted with select agency personnel and others with knowledge to assess the agency’s effectiveness and overall service delivery capacities. The decision to accredit is rendered by a governing body of twenty-one Commissioners following a public hearing and review of all reporting documentation.

CALEA Accreditation is a continuous process and serves as the foundation for a successful, well managed, transparent, community-focused public safety agency. To this end, an agency must maintain its accredited status by remaining in compliance with CALEA standards at all times.

The Cape Coral Police Department is continually demonstrating a commitment to professional excellence through accreditation. The CALEA Accreditation indices are the Marks of Professional Excellence and will be displayed proudly by the Cape Coral Police Department.

We would also like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Detective Jennifer Silko and Detective Morgan Mills. We appreciate their tremendous knowledge and consistency in preparing our department for this enormous task.

Pictured from left to right: Deputy Chief Michael Catania, Detective Morgan Mills, Chief Anthony Sizemore, Detective Jennifer Silko, Deputy Chief Darren McKenna

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