Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office deputies located a man wanted for a Riviera Beach car-jacking hiding inside a vehicle that was stalled on U.S. Highway 98 just inside Wakulla near the Jefferson County line Saturday, April 4, according to Sheriff Charlie Creel.

Walter Snell III, 22, of West Palm Beach was arrested for grand theft of an automobile and possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana. He was transported to the Wakulla County Jail where he is being held to face additional charges from the Riviera Beach Police Department.

The WCSO Dispatch received a call from a citizen about a vehicle abandoned in the westbound lane of U.S. Highway 98 at approximately 5 a.m. WCSO deputies, Florida Highway Patrol troopers and a Jefferson County deputy arrived on scene.

The vehicle was locked and law enforcement officials began an inventory of items inside the vehicle while looking through the windows. After being on the scene for 30 minutes deputies heard the vehicle remote lock deploy and discovered some condensation on a window near the trunk of the Chevrolet Sonic.

Once law enforcement officials observed the condensation, the decision was made to break a small window and pull part of the back seat down. Deputies observed a male subject hiding in the trunk. The subject exited the vehicle and was taken into custody. The keys were located in the trunk. A gram of marijuana was also located inside the vehicle. No weapons were located.

Major Trey Morrison, Deputy Ashton Lesane, Deputy Ward Kromer, Detective Clint Beam, Lt. Sherrell Morrison and the Florida Highway Patrol investigated.

By NICOLE ZEMA
nzema@thewakullanews.net

Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Ray Johnson and Lt. Mike Kemp were honored for their acts of compassion by Sheriff Charlie Creel and Senior Center Director Maurice Langston.
Thanksgiving traditions at the Wakulla Senior Center include turkey dinners, live music and recognition of local Good Samaritans.

Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Ray Johnson and Lt. Mike Kemp were honored for their acts of compassion at the 2015 Community-Wide Thanksgiving event on Nov. 24.

“Every once in a while you’ll find people who go above and beyond to help one of our senior citizens,” said Senior Center Director Maurice Langston.

When Sgt. Johnson learned that some local senior citizens might lose their homes, he called Langston to collaborate on a solution.
“We had the opportunity to find a home for them before they became homeless,” Langston said. “Sgt. Johnson initiated that effort, and they have a home now. We are proud of that.”

Langston said Lt. Kemp then built a wheelchair ramp and other amenities at the residence.

“That’s going above and beyond what their call of duty is,” Langston said, as he presented glass plaques to the deputies on behalf of the Wakulla Senior Citizens Council. “We deeply, sincerely and genuinely appreciate what you did for our seniors.”

Sheriff Charlie Creel said he is proud of his helpful deputies. He said events like WCSO golf tournaments raise money that is reinvested into the community for things like mobility ramps.

“These are our parents and grandparents,” Creel said. “We want to do for you, what you have done for us.”
The Crawfordville branch of Prime Meridian Bank sponsored this year’s Thanksgiving feast, and donated 100 turkeys.

Local officials worked with the Senior Center’s Angels to serve turkey plates piled with dressing, gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce and rolls. Sheriff Creel visited with guests as he carried large trays of pecan and pumpkin pie slices. Elections Supervisor Buddy Wells, Veterans Service Officer Harold Ross, and County Administrative Coordinator Patty Taylor also stayed busy serving plates and refilling drinks.

The Pickin’ n’ Grinnin’ Band played hymns and country favorites, that brought many guests to the dance floor.
Langston prayed a blessing: “We want to take this time now, to turn this Thanksgiving into ‘Thanks-living’ – a way of life for each one of us who received blessings from Your hand time and time again.”

Nicole Zema is a reporter for The Wakulla News.

On Nov. 19, Chad Hanson of Crawfordville reported a credit card offense. Four fraudulent charges were observed on the victim’s bank card from a Target in Brooklyn, NY. The total value of the fraudulent charges is $885. Deputy Alan Middlebrooks and Detective Randy Phillips investigated.

On Nov. 20, Winn-Dixie Manager Heather Helms provided Sgt. Scott Delbeato with three wallets that had been found inside the store. One wallet without any identification was impounded. A second wallet containing a Social Security card was also impounded when the WCSO was unable to locate the Crawfordville owner. The third wallet contained $49 and a Florida driver license and was returned to the owner.

On Nov. 20, Billy Hudson of Panacea reported a residential burglary. Someone entered the victim’s unsecured home and removed a chainsaw and air compressor. The missing property is valued at $411. Deputy Ethan Ard investigated.

On Nov. 20, Hilda Stewart of Crawfordville reported a residential burglary. Dishes were removed from the victim’s home with a value of $300. A suspect has been identified. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Nov. 20, Judy Paris of Crawfordville reported a fraud. The victim observed an unauthorized charge on her bank card for $505 at a Walgreen’s in Miami Beach. The victim believes her Social Security number was compromised and she was given the Taking Charge identity theft pamphlet. Deputy Brett Surace and Detective Randy Phillips investigated.

On Nov. 20, Ronny Fransson of Fort Lauderdale reported a one vehicle traffic crash at Sink Drive in Crawfordville. The victim’s vehicle struck a deer. There were no injuries. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Nov. 20, Henry Gray of Crawfordville reported a traffic crash at 2209 Sopchoppy Highway. Two vehicles were involved in a minor crash with no injuries in a parking lot. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Nov. 20, the Sopchoppy Express Lane reported a criminal mischief. Graffiti was observed on a picnic table. Deputy Ethan Ard investigated.

On Nov. 21, Lt. Jimmy Sessor responded to a disturbance at the Skybox Lounge. The subject left the establishment and entered the parking lot. The subject grabbed the complainant and refused to let go, but she declined to press battery charges. Charles Isaac Blanchard, 25, of Woodville was arrested for disorderly intoxication. He was issued a trespass warning to the Skybox. Sgt. Jeremy Johnston also investigated.

On Nov. 21, Thomas Mallow of Crawfordville reported a fraud. Two unauthorized charges were observed on the victim’s bank card. The charges totaled $464 in Dubai and Kansas. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Nov. 22, Marcus Stringer of Crawfordville reported a vehicle burglary. The victim reported the theft of his firearm and three magazines from the vehicle. The victim was unable to determine where and when the firearm was stolen. The stolen property is valued at $1,225. The pistol was entered into the NCIC/FCIC data base as stolen. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Nov. 22, James Brock of Crawfordville reported a burglary to his hunting property. A forced entry was discovered at a storage building. A generator, tools and a trailer were reported missing. The value of the missing items is $3,300 and the damage to the building is estimated at $500. The utility trailer was entered into the NCIC/FCIC data base as stolen. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Nov. 22, Loren Lowers of Crawfordville reported a burglary to a storage building on his hunting property. Damage to the structure was estimated at $500. The victim did not determine if anything was taken from inside the structure. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Nov. 23, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. A female subject was observed concealing items in a bag. The female was observed passing the final point of sale with a cart of merchandise she did not purchase. Sixteen items were recovered with a value of $487. Theresa Lynn Carroll, 54, of Crawfordville was arrested for felony retail theft and transported to the Wakulla County Jail. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Nov. 23, Moses Howard of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. A vehicle window was broken at his home. A female suspect admitted breaking the victim’s window as she was being transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for treatment related to another case. She was not arrested at the time due to being placed in the hospital. Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

On Nov. 23, Deanna Tedder of Dentistry for Children in Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. Someone tampered with the power box on the side of the building. A forced entry was attempted. Damage was estimated at $25. Deputy Ashton Lesane investigated.

On Nov. 24, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. A female subject was observed taking a PlayStation 4 out of the store without purchasing it. Two food items that were also stolen were located in her bag. The food and electronics are valued at $359. Rebecca Harkness Shiflett, 28, of Crawfordville was arrested for felony retail theft and transported to the Wakulla County Jail. Deputy Ashton Lesane investigated.

On Nov. 24, Justin Pichard of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. The victim heard a loud truck in his front yard creating damage to his lawn. Damage was estimated at $300. Deputy Alan Middlebrooks investigated.

On Nov. 25, Thomas Revell of the Panacea Area Water System reported an attempted burglary. Someone attempted to break into the water tower pump house. The door to the pump house was damaged along with some of the security system. A damage estimate has not been determined. Deputy Jeff Yarbrough investigated.

On Nov. 25, Clifford Bruce Ryals, 46, of Crawfordville was arrested for retail theft at Winn-Dixie after being observed taking an 18 pack of beer past the last point of sale without paying for it. The store manager recovered the beer and Ryals left the scene on a bicycle. Deputy Ward Kromer, Lt. Mike Kemp, Sgt. Scott Delbeato and Deputy Ross Hasty went to Ryals’ home and found him hiding in a bedroom. The beer was valued at $14.

On Nov. 25, Gettis Barrow of Talquin Electric reported the theft of utilities. A meter box had been tampered with at a Crawfordville location. The damaged meter is valued at $150. It is undetermined how much electricity was stolen at the residence. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Nov. 25, Ciera Edmonds of Crawfordville reported an attempted vehicle burglary. The victim’s secured vehicle window was broken in the driveway and damage was estimated at $300. Nothing was reported stolen from inside the vehicle. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Nov. 25, Random Fuller of Panacea reported a vehicle burglary. The victim reported the theft of her wallet from the Stop n’ Save on Highway 267 and U.S. Highway 319. The vehicle became disabled at that location and when the victim returned to pick up the vehicle the wallet was discovered missing. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Nov. 26, Marci Laribee of Crawfordville reported the theft of a motorcycle key from her home. After investigating the case, the victim called back and informed the WCSO that the key had been found. Deputy Ward Kromer and Lt. Jimmy Sessor investigated.

On Nov. 26, a Crawfordville man reported receiving harassing telephone text messages. The victim also reported receiving harassing e-mails from the suspect who was identified. Deputy Brett Surace investigated.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1,130 calls for service during the past week including: 30 residential and business alarms; 12 assists to other agencies; 11 school bus stop interactions; 79 citizen contacts; 15 disturbances; 21 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 38 E-911 calls; 42 investigations; 52 medical emergencies; 10 school security checks; 410 residential and business security checks; 20 special details; 31 subpoena services; 12 suspicious people; 10 suspicious vehicles; 20 traffic enforcements; 131 traffic stops; 14 reckless vehicles; 10 wanted people; and 12 watch orders.

On Nov. 27, Cameron Brackin of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. The victim found two of his tires were slashed overnight. Damage was estimated at $80 and a suspect has been identified. Deputy Alan Middlebrooks investigated.

On Nov. 27, Charles Smith of Crawfordville reported the theft of two mailboxes. The victim valued the mailboxes at $400. Deputy Kenneth Miller recovered one of the mailboxes in a wood line.

On Nov. 27, Shannon Smith of Crawfordville reported a traffic crash at the 4700 block of Crawfordville Highway. A deer ran out of the wood line and into the side of his vehicle. There were no injuries. Sgt. Matt Helms investigated.

On Nov. 28, Judith Pennington of Crawfordville reported a vehicle burglary. The victim’s wallet was stolen from her purse. The vehicle was left unsecured and the missing property is valued at $200. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Nov. 28, Sharol Brown of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. Someone entered the victim’s property and stole livestock. A field fence was damaged. Five 300 pound hogs were missing from the property. Evidence at the scene indicated that one of the hogs was killed at the location and dragged away. The other hogs may have left through the open fence. Damage to the fence is estimated at $100 and the value of the hogs is estimated at $1,000. Deputy Alan Middlebrooks investigated.

On Nov. 29, Vito Knowles of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. Someone smashed a window of his vehicle. The window was smashed while the vehicle was at a Crawfordville business establishment. Damage was estimated at $300. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Nov. 30, Susan Walker of Alligator Point reported the loss or theft of her wallet. The wallet may have been taken from the victim’s vehicle. The wallet is valued at $61. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Nov. 30, Crystal Harris of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. Jewelry was taken from the victim’s home. The jewelry is valued at $1,200. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Nov. 30, Amy Lee of Crawfordville reported a fraud. The victim observed a fraudulent charge on her bank card. The charge was created at a Home Depot in Lovejoy, Ga. and is valued at $1,959. Lt. Mike Kemp investigated.

On Nov. 30, Mariah Vernon of Crawfordville reported a vehicle burglary. Someone stole the vehicle title from inside the unsecured vehicle. The victim also reported the theft of change from the vehicle. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 1, Deputy Anthony Paul investigated a disturbance in the McDonald’s parking lot when a vehicle exited a parking space at a high rate of speed. A traffic stop was conducted and Robert Jefferson Keith, 35, of Panacea was unable to produce a driver license. The vehicle tag was also expired. Keith was arrested for driving while license is suspended or revoked with knowledge. He was also issued traffic citations for improper backing and an expired tag.

On Dec. 1, Travis Durrance of Crawfordville reported a residential burglary. The victim reported the theft of $360 from his home. A suspect has been identified. A friend of the victim also reported the theft of $240 from her vehicle with the same suspect named. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 1, Aja Bowman of Crawfordville reported a fraud. The victim determined that someone filled a prescription without her authorization. The prescription was filled in Crawfordville in July and a suspect has been identified. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 1, David Nicholson of Crawfordville reported a fraud. Someone opened a phone account using his personal information. The victim received a $3,845 bill from the company. He did not open or authorize the account. Lt. Mike Kemp investigated.

On Dec. 1, Trease Wright of Wakulla Title Company reported a criminal mischief. The victim could not get the air conditioning unit to work and a repair man determined that the wiring had been deliberately cut. Damage to the unit was $225. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 1, two subjects attempted to sell firearms to George Barefoot at Noshoe Firearms. The firearms were determined to be stolen from Tallahassee. Tallahassee Police Department reported the firearms stolen in July. Tallahassee Police Department took over the follow-up investigation and seized the firearms. One subject was arrested on an outstanding TPD warrant. Sgt. Scott Delbeato investigated.

On Dec. 1, Melinda Martin of Panacea reported a customer turning in a wallet to Crum’s Mini Mall. The wallet was found at U.S. Highway 98 and Spring Creek Road. The owner of the wallet was unable to be located in Fruitland Park, FL. The value of the wallet is $12. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Dec. 1, a criminal mischief was reported to a stop sign on Sonja Lynn Street. Deputy Taylor Saladin observed the graffiti and requested the county road and bridge department replace the sign.

On Dec. 1, Jennifer Castineira of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. Someone threw an unknown object at the victim’s vehicle on the 3300 block of Crawfordville Highway. The victim observed two young white males on the road who ran from the scene when she stopped. Damage to her vehicle is estimated at $500. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Dec. 2, Deputy Anthony Paul conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle that failed to stop at a stop sign at McDonald’s. John Walter Herman, 43, of Crawfordville did not possess a valid driver license. He was arrested for driving while license is suspended or revoked with knowledge. The driver was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine during the arrest investigation. Materials were also located in the vehicle that are commonly used in the manufacture of methamphetamines. Herman was charged with possession of methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of chemicals with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine; and a traffic citation for failure to stop at a posted stop sign. The methamphetamine weighed 2.5 grams. Sgt. Jeremy Johnston also investigated.

On Dec. 2, William McKendree of Sopchoppy reported finding pills in a parking lot next to the Bayside Marina boat ramp. The pills are owned by a resident of Ochlockonee Bay but efforts to reach the citizen were unsuccessful. The pills were turned into the Property and Evidence Division. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Dec. 2, Randall McCoy of Panacea reported finding property inside his trash bin. A safe was found in his trash can. The safe was recovered and turned over to a WCSO detective for investigation in another case. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Dec. 2, Christy Harbin of Crawfordville reported a fraud. A friend of the victim was contacted by someone on CraigsList about receiving packages and transferring the contents to another package for mailing to a third party. The merchandise was determined to be stolen from another state. A law enforcement official from Wisconsin contacted the victim and asked her not to send out any more packages. The incident was determined to be part of the “reshipping scam.” Contact was also made with the U.S. Postal Inspector. Sgt. Danny Harrell and Detective Randy Phillips investigated.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1,005 calls for service during the past week including: 22 business and residential alarms; 12 bus stop interactions; 67 citizen contacts; 16 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 22 E-911 calls; 23 investigations; 52 medical emergencies; 16 school security checks; 440 business and residential security checks; 32 special details; 19 subpoena services; 19 suspicious people; 79 traffic stops; 12 reckless vehicles; and 10 watch orders.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit served a search warrant at a Crawfordville home on Croatan Street and arrested two men in connection with cocaine and marijuana found at the home Dec. 7, according to Sheriff Charlie Creel.

Willie James Calloway, 28, of Tallahassee and Kenneth Bernard Godbolt, Jr., 29, of Sopchoppy were both charged with possession of cocaine with intent to sell and possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

Deputies entered the home and observed two baggies of marijuana prepackaged for sale. Crack and powder cocaine bagged for sale were also discovered in the kitchen. Deputies recovered more than $6,000 in cash from Godbolt.

Deputies recovered 2.0 grams of crack cocaine, 2.0 grams of powder cocaine and 4.5 grams of marijuana. The two men were transported to the Wakulla County Jail without incident.

On Dec. 3, Dylan Hill of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. The victim reported the theft of a Yeti cooler from his vehicle while he was parked at Gulf Coast Lumber. The cooler is valued at $377. Deputy Kyle Hanks investigated.

On Dec. 3, a Crawfordville juvenile reported a fraud as unauthorized charges were observed on the victim’s bank card. The charges were made at a Walgreens in Orlando and the charges totaled $284. Deputy Ashton Lesane investigated.

On Dec. 4, Deputy Ward Kromer investigated a bicycle that was parked near the entrance for the Florida Trail near Spring Creek. The bike is valued at $50. The deputy did not find any recent activity near the bike and he walked a distance on the Florida Trail and did not observe any activity on the trail. The bicycle was turned into the Property and Evidence Division.

On Dec. 4, Lisa Slaght of Panacea reported a vehicle burglary. A subject removed a bottle of liquor from her vehicle. While she confronted her suspect about the missing liquor, a second subject removed $100 and a food card from the victim’s wallet inside her vehicle. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 4, Leslie Alford of Crawfordville reported a credit card offense. The victim observed an unauthorized charge on her bank account. The charge was for $63 at the Kangaroo Express in Wakulla Station. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Dec. 4, deputies responded to the CVS Pharmacy in Crawfordville after dispatch received multiple 911 calls from citizens regarding a male subject wanting to fight an elderly male in the parking lot. Patrick Christopher Evans, 60, of Crawfordville was observed cursing a 68-year-old Crawfordville man. The victim was holding a cane and leaning up against a truck when deputies arrived. Evans threatened to injure the elderly victim. Witnesses at the scene confirmed the account of the victim. Evans also cursed WCSO deputies and was belligerent as they made their arrest. He was charged with aggravated assault on a person 65 or older, disorderly conduct and resisting an officer without violence. Deputies recovered a firearm on the victim’s vehicle floorboard, but the victim had a valid CCW permit. The victim had the firearm in his possession as he was approached by Evans but dropped it to the floorboard as he moved around in his vehicle. Detective Randy Phillips, Deputy Taylor Saladin, Sgt. Eddie Wester, Detective Richard Moon, Deputy Evelyn Brown, Deputy Jeff Yarbrough and Lt. Mike Kemp investigated.

On Dec. 4, Fernando Cancel of Crawfordville and Eden Springs reported the theft of money from his room. A search of the room was conducted but a large sum of money said to be missing was not located. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 5, Shelly Brown of St Paul, MN reported a residential burglary at her Crawfordville property. The victim reported that former tenants had taken various items from her property. Furniture, tools, cabinets, ornaments, a freezer, mower, radio equipment, a vehicle, car parts and vehicle door locks and ignition switch, valued at $37,900, were reported missing. A forced entry was made into a garage and damage was estimated at $100. Suspects have been identified. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 5, William Dalton of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. A subject kicked the side of the victim’s truck causing a large dent. Damage was estimated at $1,500 and a suspect has been identified. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Dec. 5, a concerned Crawfordville citizen recovered a lost cell phone on U.S Highway 98 in Panacea following the Christmas parade. The phone was turned over to Deputy Brett Surace who observed an inappropriate video on the phone involving a young girl. Attempts were made to locate the owner of the phone but the efforts were unsuccessful. The phone was turned over to the Property and Evidence Division.

On Dec. 6, a traffic crash was reported by a 17-year-old female juvenile at 1700 Sopchoppy Highway. The crash involved a vehicle and animal. There were no injuries. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 7, Cathy Barefoot of Noshoe Firearms reported receiving a stolen firearm from a customer. The firearm was reported stolen out of Leon County. The subject brought the firearm in for a repair and it was turned over to Deputy Alan Middlebrooks. The subject who brought the gun to Noshoe was able to produce a sales receipt from when he purchased the gun at a Tallahassee show. The handgun was seized and turned into the Property and Evidence Division.

On Dec. 7, Riversprings Assistant Principal Shannon Smith conducted a search for marijuana and tobacco of a 14-year-old student. The student did not have any contraband in his locker but had marijuana and tobacco in his jacket. The student was written a Juvenile Civil Citation for the marijuana and was transferred from RMS to Sopchoppy Second Chance School. Deputy Lisa Crum investigated.

On Dec. 7, a concerned citizen from Smith Creek expressed concern about a subject entering her property and being observed on a video camera. The victim reported suspicious individuals on her property prior to this incident. The subject left the scene without removing anything. Deputy Ethan Ard investigated.

On Dec. 8, Gettis Barrow of Talquin Electric Cooperative reported the grand theft of electricity from a Crawfordville home. The suspects, who have been identified, rerouted the power without going through the meter. Since it was the second theft of power from Talquin Electric at the location, the power provider cut off the power to the home. The cost for Talquin to investigate the theft is $312. The exact loss of revenue from the stolen power has not been determined. Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

On Dec. 8, Katherine Newman of Crawfordville reported a fire at her commercial structure. An unknown animal chewed a wire which created smoke outside the building. The animal created a nest with paper that caused the paper to smoke after the wire arced. There was no fire damage and the building is being remodeled. Deputy Kyle Hanks investigated.

On Dec. 8, Christopher Wilkins of Crawfordville reported a residential burglary. The victim observed a forced entry into his home and $331 worth of items removed from the home including tools, clothing, a television, lawn mower and fishing rods. A suspect has been identified. Deputy Kyle Hanks and Detective Richard Moon investigated.

On Dec. 9, Matthew Hamilton of Sopchoppy reported the loss or theft of his wallet. The wallet is believed to have disappeared while the victim was at Wal-Mart. Lt. Mike Kemp investigated.

On Dec. 9, Wyndra Mock of Crawfordville reported a vehicle burglary. Someone entered two vehicles on her property and removed a jacket from one vehicle. The victim also reported a second vehicle was entered and $120 was taken from her purse. One of the vehicles was left unsecured. The jacket is valued at $95. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 9, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a counterfeit bill. Store officials are not sure when the $20 bill was received. The bill was seized and turned over to the Property and Evidence Division. Detective Randy Phillips investigated.

On Dec. 9, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. The store reported the theft of a Chromebook, valued at $143. A suspect has been identified. The case has been turned over to the Criminal Investigations Division. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Dec. 9, Deputy Anthony Paul observed a vehicle with an expired tag and conducted a traffic stop. The driver did not have a valid driver license. Brian M. O’Connell, 37, of Tallahassee was arrested for driving while license is suspended or revoked with knowledge third offense. He was also issued a traffic citation for the expired tag. During the inventory of the vehicle drug paraphernalia and a substance consistent with methamphetamine was discovered. Drug charges are pending an analysis of the substance. The subject was transported to the Wakulla County Jail without incident.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 972 calls for service during the past week including: 23 business and residential alarms; 50 citizen contacts; 16 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 3 E-911 abandoned calls; 30 E-911 calls; 49 investigations; 42 medical emergencies; 14 school security checks; 348 business and residential security checks; 37 special details; 27 subpoena services; 14 traffic enforcements; 93 traffic stops; 11 reckless vehicles; 17 wanted people; 12 warrant services; and 14 watch orders.

On Dec. 10, John Shiver of Crawfordville reported discovering multiple empty liquor and orange juice bottles at a school bus stop in northern Wakulla County. The bus stop serves mostly Leon County students. Deputy Ross Hasty made contact with the Wakulla County School District to make the Wakulla school bus driver in the area aware of the situation.

On Dec. 10, Janel Stringer of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. Jewelry and currency were removed from her home. The property is valued at $700. A suspect has been identified. Deputy Ward Kromer and Detective Richard Moon investigated.

On Dec. 10, Brock Boyatt of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. The victim reported the theft of a firearm as he was moving his home. A person of interest has been identified. Deputy Roy Gunnarsson investigated.

On Dec. 10, Blonza Washington of Crawfordville reported a trespass at New Mount Zion Church. An alarm alerted law enforcement to movement at the door of the church. Nothing appears to have been taken from the church. A 20-year-old homeless man from Tennessee approached Deputy Gibby Gibson and told the deputy he was only looking for a warm place to stay. He had also started a small campfire nearby. The victim declined to press criminal charges but requested a trespass warning be issued. The homeless man was transported to Leon County in an attempt to stay with a relative.

On Dec. 11, a concerned parent contacted the WCSO in regards to juveniles possibly possessing illegal narcotics. The juveniles were detained as they walked on a road near the high school. Marijuana was discovered on a 14-year-old juvenile. The juvenile was issued a notice to appear in court for possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana and turned over to a parent. A second 14-year-old juvenile was also charged with possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana. He met the requirements to be detained at the Juvenile Assessment Center. Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

On Dec. 11, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. A chainsaw was discovered missing from the store two days earlier. A male subject removed the saw from the store without paying for it. The saw is valued at $147. Deputy Alan Middlebrooks investigated.

On Dec. 11, a male victim reported that his vehicle was stolen from Wal-Mart. It was determined that a friend of the victim removed the vehicle. Due to the vehicle being registered to both parties, a vehicle theft did not occur. However, the friend was to have no contact with the victim and sent him text messages. Deputies are determining whether the messages constitute a violation of a court order. Deputy Vicki Mitchell investigated.

On Dec. 11, Kenneth Douglas of Crawfordville reported the theft of three firearms from his home. A suspect has been identified. The firearms are valued at $1,150. Deputy Kyle Hanks investigated.

On Dec. 11, Jessica Trombini of Crawfordville reported a criminal mischief. The victim’s front door was kicked in. A suspect was identified. On Dec. 13, Curtis Ray Woodward, 20, of Crawfordville admitted to kicking the door and was arrested for criminal mischief. Deputy Kyle Hanks investigated.

On Dec. 12, the FWC reported an officer in need of some assistance at the front of Tropical Trader in Panacea. Curtis William Nowling, 24, of Sopchoppy got into an altercation with the business owner. Nowling had become intoxicated and was escorted out of the establishment by the owner. The owner decided against pressing charges but requested a trespass warning be issued for Nowling which was granted. Nowling was escorted off the property. Deputy Ethan Ard investigated.

On Dec. 12, Timothy Rose reported a business burglary at Mack’s Meats. Deputy Matt Hedges observed damage to the screen door and main door. Hot dogs, valued at $50, were reported missing. Sgt. Danny Harrell and Detective Ashley McAlister investigated.

On Dec. 12, Howard White discovered a wallet on Cajer Posey Road while picking up trash along the road. Contact was made with the owner of the wallet. A bank card and gift card were reported missing. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Dec. 12, Alfonso Guerra of Crawfordville reported losing his cell phone while at Wal-Mart. The victim provided the phone’s serial number. Deputy Kyle Hanks investigated.

On Dec. 13, Katrena Bell of Crawfordville reported a vehicle theft. A suspect has been identified. The vehicle was entered into the NCIC/FCIC data base as stolen. Later, the victim reported the suspect returning her vehicle. She decided not to pursue charges and the vehicle was taken out of the NCIC/FCIC data base. Deputy Kyle Hanks, and Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

On Dec. 13, Deputy Matt Hedges responded to Spring Creek Highway and a young child running down the road. A concerned citizen stopped his vehicle and secured the child until Deputy Hedges arrived. The child was not wearing shoes or a shirt, just pants. Sgt. Danny Harrell assisted and the deputies were able to identify the six-year-old child. The child was returned to his home. The deputies found the living conditions inside and outside the home to be unacceptable. Several piles of dog feces were observed on the floor of the home along with trash and the home had a strong odor. The child was turned over to grandparents. The Department of Children and Families was contacted and is investigating.

On Dec. 13, Terrance Kimbrell of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. The victim reported the theft of power tools from his porch and vehicle. Drills, a stereo, two chainsaws and a weed eater, valued at $1,384, were reported missing. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Dec. 13, Herbert Brown of the Florida Highway Patrol recovered a handgun at Revell Road and Churchill Road. The handgun had not been reported missing. The weapon was placed in the Property and Evidence Division. Later, Dylan Miller called the WCSO about losing his firearm while walking a dog. He was given instructions on how to retrieve the gun from the WCSO. Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

On Dec. 13, Larry Wetherington of Crawfordville reported the grand theft of a boat motor, battery and gas tank. The motor and other property was taken off the victim’s boat at his home. The boat motor was entered into the NCIC/FCIC data base. The property is valued at $3,160. Deputy Kenneth Miller investigated.

On Dec. 13, Eric Nordlof of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. The victim reported his iPad missing from his relative’s home. It is valued at $400. While attending a television event at the home, a 16-year-old juvenile and Dakotah Carl Curtis, 18, of Crawfordville admitted to driving one of the victim’s relative’s vehicle without permission. They were both arrested for grand theft of a motor vehicle. The missing electronic has not been located. Deputy Matt Hedges and Sgt. Matt Helms investigated.

On Dec. 14, a business burglary was reported at the Bloxham Cutoff Stop N Save. The front glass door was observed shattered. Coins were removed from the store and several credit cards that had been lost and stored were missing. Investigators determined that bank deposits were also stolen. Damage to the store was estimated at $500. A bank bag was recovered along with other evidence that will be submitted to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for DNA analysis. Deputy Brett Surace, Sgt. Matt Helms, Deputy Anthony Paul, Detective Ashley McAlister and Lt. Jimmy Sessor investigated.

On Dec. 14, a two vehicle traffic crash was reported at U.S. Highway 319 and Whitlock Way in Crawfordville. Joshua Emmanuel Wilson, 21, of Crawfordville rear ended a vehicle driven by Alesha Waller. There were no injuries and no road blockage. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 14, Clinton Williams of Crawfordville reported losing a vehicle tag from his vehicle. The victim retraced his steps in Crawfordville but was unable to locate the tag. The victim was provided with a lost tag form. Lt. Jimmy Sessor investigated.

On Dec. 14, fast action by Lt. Jimmy Sessor resulted in the arrest of a male and female subject who were caught attempting to break into the home of Shaun Dougherty of Crawfordville. Lt. Sessor observed the pair attempting to enter the home with a screwdriver. Fresh pry marks were observed at the home along with additional tools. Gabriel John Robert Mathis, 18, of Crawfordville and a 14-year-old female juvenile were arrested for burglary of a dwelling, possession of burglary tools and criminal mischief. Deputy Brett Surace also investigated.

On Dec. 14, a structure fire was reported on Dickson Bay Road in Panacea by Brenda Thomas of Panacea. Wakulla Fire Rescue arrived on scene and extinguished the flames and reported that there were no injuries. The victim was getting ready to fry fish on the stove when a phone call was received. The kitchen was engulfed in flames when the victim contacted emergency services. Fire damage was estimated at $10,000 and the American Red Cross was notified to provide the victims with some assistance. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Dec. 14, Robert Donaway of Crawfordville reported a fraud. The victim received notification from the Social Security Administration that he set up an online account. He also received a letter from the U.S. Postal Service showing a change of address from Crawfordville to Auburndale. The victim did not submit a change of address to the USPS or contact Social Security. Lt. Jimmy Sessor investigated.

On Dec. 14, Janice Putnam of Crawfordville reported the theft of $50 from Eden Springs. The victim was unable to determine exactly when the money was taken. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 14, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. Four unidentified females entered the store at 1:30 a.m. and left the last point of sale without paying for multiple items of merchandise. The items were placed into a carry bags by the females. There was a wide variety of stolen items that were valued at $335. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Dec. 14, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a counterfeit bill. The counterfeit $100 note was seized and turned into the Property and Evidence Division. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Dec. 14, Patricia Donaldson of Crawfordville reported a credit card offense. Suspicious activity was observed on her bank card in Orlando. One fraud attempt at a Neiman Marcus was declined. A second attempt charged $500. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 14, two male subjects were arrested after striking a 19-year-old male victim outside El Jalisco in Crawfordville. Anthony Thomas Cagle, 23, of Sopchoppy was charged with battery and disorderly intoxication. Corey Lee Cagle, 19, of Crawfordville was charged with battery. Both subjects were transported to the Wakulla County Jail without incident. Deputy Ward Kromer and Deputy Jeff Yarbrough investigated.

On Dec. 15, Jon Harrell of Newton Grove, NC reported a grand theft. The victim is a supervisor for Southern Electric Corporation and reported three company trucks were burglarized. One truck suffered $300 worth of damage to doors and locks. A second truck had a chainsaw stolen from it. The third truck also had a theft of a chainsaw. The stolen property is valued at $1,520. A person of interest has been identified. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On Dec. 15, Wal-Mart Asset Protection staff reported a retail theft. Store employees confronted a male subject about merchandise taken from the store without paying. Three drills were taken and hidden under the clothing of the suspect. Richard Vernon Rawls, 39, of Crawfordville was arrested for retail theft. The drills are valued at $131. The subject was transported to the hospital before he could be booked into the jail. He was issued a notice to appear in court for misdemeanor retail theft later in the day. Two other men who were with Rawls in the parking lot, Harry Lee Rosier, 70, of Crawfordville and Melvin Bernard Rosier, 56, of Crawfordville, were issued trespass warnings for Wal-Mart. Deputy Anthony Paul investigated.

On Dec. 15, Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated a residential burglary on Argyle Street in Sopchoppy. A door was discovered open at a vacant residence. A door frame was also broken. The former homeowner was determined to be deceased and it has not been determined if anything was removed from the home. The home is now believed to be owned by a bank.

On Dec. 15, Thomas Lewis of Crawfordville reported a residential burglary. The victim’s shed was entered following a forced entry. Two generators and a welder, valued at $1,550, were stolen. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On Dec. 15, a Crawfordville couple reported someone shining a flashlight into their home. The couple reported this is the second time someone has been on their property. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Dec 15, Keeta Ray of Crawfordville reported a credit card offense. Someone changed her address with her bank and had a bank card issued at the new address. Three cash advances were observed from Miami totaling more than $600. Deputy Jeff Yarbrough investigated.

On Dec. 15, Katie Thurman of Crawfordville reported a grand theft. A subject, who has been identified, removed a computer, jewelry, household items and personal items that are valued at $9,150. Deputy Ward Kromer investigated.

On Dec. 15, Steve Nunnery of Panacea reported a residential burglary. The victim returned home to find a window missing and his door open. Nothing was reported missing. Suspects have been identified. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On Dec. 16, Patty Jackson of Crawfordville reported the theft of a no trespassing sign from her property. Only a small portion of the sign remained where it had been posted. The sign is valued at $3. A person of interest has been identified. Deputy Vicki Mitchell investigated.

On Dec. 16, Cameron Miller of Crawfordville reported a fraud. The victim observed where he owed taxes for unemployment compensation. The victim has never been unemployed. Someone in North Miami Beach received $3,575 worth of unemployment using his personal information. Deputy Matt Hedges investigated.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 877 calls for service during the past week including: 14 business and residential alarms; 66 citizen contacts; 12 disturbances; 26 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 2 E-911 abandoned calls; 24 E-911 calls; 52 investigations; 45 medical emergencies; 12 school security checks; 281 business and residential security checks; 34 special details; 19 subpoena services; 16 suspicious people; 13 suspicious vehicles; 10 thefts; 47 traffic stops; and 11 watch orders.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Christopher Lee Lambert, 40, Crawfordville, Florida for lewd or lascivious molestation of a child. The Florida Highway Patrol assisted in the arrest.

FDLE agents began investigating Lambert at the request of the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office after they received a complaint regarding Lambert. Agents believe Lambert molested a female child under the age of 12.

Agents say there could be additional victims. Anyone with information concerning this investigation is urged to contact the FDLE Tallahassee Regional Operations Center at (800) 342-0820.

Lambert was booked into the Wakulla County Jail without bond. This case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, 2nd Judicial Circuit.

April 28 through May 5, 2016.

April 28, 2016 Jason Thompson turned over to the WCSO a wallet belonging to Kyla Nettles out of Tallahassee, Florida. Effort to reach her by phone were unsuccessful. The wallet and contents were submitted to the Sheriff’s Office to be held until the owner can be contacted.

April 28^th Adam Enfinger reported a vehicle burglary on Wakulla Arran Road. Medication was reportedly taken from inside his unlocked vehicle. It is thought that the incident occurred on Monday or Tuesday night of last week.

April 28 a felony battery was reported in the Wakulla County Jail. Inmate Robert Sims was arrested for Aggravated Battery after he and inmate Frank Johnson were involved in a physical altercation. Johnson was taken to Capital Regional Medical Center for a laceration to the back of his head he sustained when he fell and struck a bed frame. He has since returned to the county jail.

On April 29 a school resource Deputy investigated a student who had given out credit card number and additional information to other students. According to the student he downloaded the credit card numbers off a website. The student is cooperating with Deputies to try and identify the website and the credit card owner’s names. The investigation is ongoing.

On April 30^th, Deputies responded to a physical altercation at Dux’s Liquors. Upon arrival a bar patron was found unconscious after being punched in the face. He was checked and cleared by Emergency Medical Services. On May 1 the victim came to the Sheriff’s Office to request no further action be taken in the matter. Deputies attempted to meet with the victim but he left the office before the deputy working the incident could make contact with him. The investigation is being closed with no further action being taken at this time.

On April 30^th, Deputy Ard observed Katie Caldwell driving southbound on Crawfordville Highway. Deputy Ard knew that Caldwell’s license was suspended for a previous DUI and refusal to submit to breath, urine, or blood test. The suspension was confirmed through the Communications Division and Deputy Ard subsequently stopped and arrested Caldwell for driving with a suspended license.

On April 30^th, Deputy Kenneth Miller went to a home on Tully Avenue to attempt and serve a felony violation of probation warrant on Eldon “Teddy” Hicks Jr. While trying to secure Hicks in handcuffs he was able to break away from the deputy and run. The deputy deployed his Tazer but both probes did not make contact. They both ran around the block and through adjacent woods until Hicks was able to enter the home again. Deputies entered the home and found Hicks hiding under some clothes. He was arrested on the outstanding felony warrant and resisting officer without violence.

On May 1^st, Judith Harriss of Greenough Road reported the theft of checks that had been ordered from her bank. It was confirmed that the checks were delivered. Since confirming the theft a stop payment has been ordered for all the checks missing.

On May 1^st deputies responded to Linzy Mill Subdivision in regards to suspicious vehicle and persons. The complainant described to deputies that they had seen a vehicle drop people off several people that went into the wood line and then behind homes.  Deputies found the suspect vehicle parked on the street, lights out. Upon making contact with the sole occupant of the vehicle the subject was hostile towards the deputies and initially refused to cooperate with them. As the investigation progressed the subject gave a false name and contact information for himself. Using the Rapid ID fingerprint scanning system the subject was identified as a seventeen year old from Tallahassee, Florida. The juvenile was placed under arrest and placed in a patrol vehicle. Deputies initiated a search of the vehicle and found a small amount of marijuana and that the tag was unassigned to any vehicle. When the vehicle identification number was ran it was learned that the Ford Explorer was reported stolen out of Orlando, Florida. The Wakulla Correctional Institute, Canine Team was requested and responded. A sweep of the neighborhood did not find any other suspects. The seventeen year old was arrested and charged with Grand Theft Auto, Obstruction without Violence, Possession of Less Than 20 grams of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Providing False Identity to Law Enforcement, and written traffic citations for Vehicle Tag Not Assigned, and Driving While License Suspended or Revoked.

On May 1^st deputies responded to a home off of Ridgeway Court in regards to a verbal disturbance. Upon making contact with the complainant it was learned that George Scott came to the complainant’s home uninvited and intoxicated. The homeowner attempted to get him to leave and Scott made threats towards the homeowner. Eventually Scott was escorted to another residence. Upon deputies arriving Scott returned outside and continued yelling profanities at the deputies and the neighbors. When it was decided that he was not going to return indoors to defuse the situation, Scott was arrested and transported to the county jail. He was charged with Disorderly Intoxication.

On May 2^nd, a gas drive off was reported at the Triangle Petro convenience store in Medart for $47.00. The clerk stated that they believed the customer to be a regular and activated the pump before payment. The white male suspect drove off without paying. Video of the incident was reviewed. It is thought that the suspect will be identified once the video can be collected from the store.

On May 2rd, Jimmy Reed reported a burglary to his home on Celebrity Lane. He stated that he had went to church and upon returning he found his home in disarray. Suspects removed approximately $150 in coins from the home. An entry point was found in the rear of the home. The investigation continues.

On May 4^th deputies responded to an alarm at the Stop and Save convenience store at Bloxham Cutoff and Crawfordville Highway. Upon arrival deputies found the glass to the front door broken but still intact. A review of the surveillance video did not reveal how the damage occurred. The repair is estimated to cost approximately $500.

On May 4^th Nikki Barnes reported damage to a political sign located on Coastal Highway in Panacea. The sign was found to have been spray painted over. The cost to replace the sign is estimated at $53.

On May 4^th Bonnie Brinson reported the theft of a trailer tag. Mrs. Brinson was having work done to the trailer at a location off of Shadeville Highway. Upon retrieving her trailer she found the tag missing. The tag has been entered in the NCIC system as stolen. No suspect has been identified.

May 4^th Brenda Strickland, owner of Tangles Hair Salon, reported the theft of a five foot tall carved figurine from the driveway leading to the business. Mrs. Strickland states that the wooden carving of a hand holding a fish, cost her $500. Possible suspects have been identified and the investigation has been forwarded to the Criminal Investigations Unit.

On May 5th deputies responded to a residence on Spring Creek Highway after a concerned neighbor saw flashlights in the yard. Deputies made contact with three people at the home, one of which was the homeowner. During the incident a vehicle parked in the yard was found to be reported stolen from Tallahassee. The homeowner, a family member of the vehicle owner, stated that they had borrowed the vehicle days earlier from the reporting person. Contact was made with the reporting agency, the Tallahassee Police Department, who in turn contacted the owner and confirmed that he had recovered his stolen vehicle but failed to alert law enforcement. WCSO took no action and all information about this incident was forwarded to TPD. Sgt. Matt Helms and Deputy Ashton Lesane investigated.

On May 5^th a concerned citizen turned a small baggie of marijuana over to Deputy Kenneth Miller. The marijuana was found in the parking lot of the store. The baggie was turned in to the evidence section of the Sheriff’s Office to be destroyed.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1,237 calls for service including: 38 residential and business alarms; 8 assists to other agencies. 2 vehicle burglaries; 90 citizen contacts; 18 disturbances; 28 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 33 E-911 calls; 56 investigations; 164 medical emergencies; 168 business and residential security checks; 40 special details; 38 subpoena services; 14 suspicious vehicles; 10 traffic enforcements; 91 traffic stops; and 19 reckless vehicles.

WCSO Community Conversation

Wakulla County Sheriff Charlie Creel instituted a series of “Community Conversations” within the county after he was elected in 2012. The latest session will take place at the New Bridge Hope Missionary Baptist Church.

Sheriff Creel will speak on a variety of topics related to the WCSO and law enforcement.

Once the Sheriff finishes his presentation, time will be set aside for interaction and questions and answers from the community members to the WCSO staff. School Resource Officers (SROs) and other staff are also planning to attend.

The WCSO cordially invites all members of the community to attend.

Thursday, May 19, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.

New Bridge Hope Missionary Baptist Church

1282 Spring Creek Hwy.

Crawfordville, Florida 32327

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting our annual “Kids Fishing Tournament” on May 21, 2016.

This is a community sponsored event that is funded by local business and individuals. The event will be held at Wooley Park in Panacea. It is open and free to all children ages 3-15. We will have prizes and awards at the conclusion of the weigh-in. Weigh-in will begin at 10 am and conclude at 2pm at Wooley Park. Lunch will be provided to all participants and there will also be a water slide at the park. Bring out the family for a day of fun.

If you have any questions or want to volunteer, please call or email Lt. Billy Jones at (850)728-6835, wjones@wcso.org.

Sheriff’s Report May 6 through May 12, 2016

On May 6^th, Lt. Mike Kemp responded to the residence of Wilma Grimes in Lake Ellen Shores in regards to the vandalism of her mailbox. It was observed that the mailbox had been pulled up and thrown down causing damage. The estimated replacement cost is $50. No suspects have been identified at this time. An area check was set for the address.

On May 6^th, Deputy Yarbrough met with Michelle McDaniel in regards to suspicious activity on her credit card. According to Mrs. McDaniel she was having issues using her card and upon contacting her bank it was found that there were five unauthorized transactions totaling $170. The activity was in the Delray Beach, Florida area. Mrs. McDaniel is working with the bank to attempt and identify suspects.

On May 6^th, Lt. J. Sessor and Deputy Jenna Beceriklier responded to the residence of April Turner in the Farm Subdivision in regards to the theft of prescription medications. According to Mrs. Turner she had a vendor doing work in her home earlier in the week and this might be when the medications went missing.

On May 6^th, Lt. Maxwell Jansen and Detention Deputy Jeff Carroll investigated a felony vandalism inside the county jail. According to incident reports, two juveniles being housed separated from adults, damaged the fire suppression system which in turn caused water damage to the contents of the cell and the video visitation system. Charges are pending as estimates for repairs haven’t been completed.

On May 7^th, Kenneth Faircloth of Springwood Subdivision reported the theft of approximately $660 worth of miscellaneous sporting goods from his porch and yard. Additionally, approximately $600 worth of damage was reported to his work truck. Mr. Faircloth described a disturbance that he was involved in earlier in the week in another jurisdiction. It is thought that the theft and vandalism may be related. A suspect has been identified.

On May 8^th, Deputy Ross Hasty responded to the Wakulla Correctional Institute in regards to an attempt to bring contraband into the facility. Staff at the prison conduct searches of all personnel that enter the facility. During the normal search process, Anthony Lanier who works in food service was found to possess a cellular phone that he was trying to hide on his person to take into the prison. When Lanier was questioned he admitted the phone was for a prisoner. Lanier was arrested on scene and transported without incident to the county jail.

On May 9^th, Deputy Alan Middlebrooks and Deputy Kenneth Miller responded to a residence on Woodlake Road in regards to a suspicious male subject that was pulling on doors to homes. Michael Johnston was arrested when he was found to have active warrants from Jefferson County for Violation of Probation the original charge being Possession of Cocaine. Johnston relayed to deputies that he had been in the forest for two days after getting his truck stuck. He stated that he was trying to find water and food. Johnston admitted that he travelled the back roads because he knew he had active warrants. Johnston was transported to the county jail on the active warrant and checked by medical staff.

On May 9^th Kenneth Strickland met with Deputy Middlebrooks at the Sheriff’s Office to report the theft and passing of several checks from his band account. Mr. Strickland stated that he had found where one check had been passed in St. Cloud, Minnesota over the weekend in the amount of $900. The case is being forwarded to the Criminal Investigations Division.

On May 9^th Gregory Richards reported to a vandalism to his vehicle. Mr. Richards reported that he had two tires damaged on his vehicle and thought that the damage occurred at McDonald’s in Crawfordville. A request for surveillance video will be made. A suspect has been identified. Deputy Vicki Mitchell and Deputy Matheus investigated.

On May 10^th Deputy Vicki Mitchell was flagged down by Hubert Stephens of Panacea in regards to a theft at the Panacea Park Baptist Church. According to Mr. Stephens he checks on the church regularly and today he noted that a go cart owned by the pastor was missing. The go cart was kept in a fenced area behind the church. During the investigation two suspects were identified by residents in the neighborhood. At this time the go cart is still missing. It is valued at $1200.

On May 10^th Bryan Shoemaker reported the theft of a leaf blower and children’s play mats. The victims stated that they had items outside in the front yard for a yard sale and found these items missing. The victim named two persons of interest that had been in the area looking at the items. The total estimated cost of the items stolen is over $300. Deputy Ethan Ard investigated.

On May 11 Sgt. Jeremy Johnston responded to Walmart in regards to a retail theft. Upon meeting the complainant, Loss Prevention Officer Gardy Gisme, it was learned that Donald Wayne Tointigh, 22 years of age, had attempted to leave the store without paying for items totaling $55.69. Video was collected which showed Tointigh concealing batteries, fireworks, pizza, and a fan on his person. He then attempted to leave the store without paying. Tointigh was arrested and transported to the county jail without further incident.

On May 11^th Robert Seber of Beechwood Drive reported a theft at a home under construction. Mr. Seber explained that previously the WCSO had apprehended suspects stealing property from the site and since then he has had no further incidents until this date. Upon arriving at the home he noted that some items had been moved around and then realized that a pair of binoculars valued at $100 were missing. An area check was set for the address and the case is being turned over to the Criminal Investigations Division. Deputy Ross Hasty investigated.

On May 11^th Lashay Webster reported that her car tag was lost or stolen. No suspects have been identified. The tag has been entered NCIC as stolen/lost. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

On May 12^th Deputy Anthony Paul attempted to stop a car on Spring Creek Highway for an expired tag. The vehicle refused to stop but dropped its speed to 30 miles per hour or less until it arrived at a home in the Wakulla Gardens Subdivision. Upon making contact with the driver, Jay Cole, it was learned that his driver’s license was suspended for the third time and he had an active warrant from Leon County for failure to appear in regards to a criminal mischief. Cole was arrested and upon a search of the vehicle a loaded, un-holstered, pistol was found under the driver’s seat. Cole was transported to the county jail and upon intake a small baggie of marijuana was found in his pocket. Cole was charged with driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license, introduction of contraband into the county jail, possession of a concealed firearm, and a hold placed in regards to the out of county warrant.

On May 12 Deputy Ward Kromer met with Michele Roddy at a residence on Alverson Way in regards to a theft of fuel from two vehicles. According to the complainant the vehicles had been fueled earlier in the week but upon using them the fuel light came on. No damage was found to either vehicle.

On May 12 Deputy Jeff Yarbrough and Deputy Ross Hasty went to a residence on Allen Harvey Street to attempt and arrest Jessie Vautier on outstanding warrants from Lee County, Florida. Vautier fled out the back door of the home and at one point jumped a fence in an attempt to get away from the deputies. He was eventually caught on the street in front of the home. An additional charge of Obstructing Justice was made and Vautier was transported to the county jail without further incident.

On May 12 Ashlee Dunn reported the theft of fishing poles from her yard on Haidi Trail. According to the victim her neighbors saw the suspect when the theft occurred and told her when she returned home. At this time it is unknown exactly what was taken. An inventory of items will be made. The investigation is being forwarded to the Criminal Investigations Division. Deputy Taylor Saladin investigated.

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The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1124 calls for service including: 14 residential and business alarms; 11 assists to other agencies. 02 vehicle burglaries; 57 citizen contacts; 14 disturbances; 29 E-911 abandoned cell calls; 33 E-911 calls; 39 investigations; 129 medical emergencies; 315 business and residential security checks; 39 special details; 29 subpoena services; 11 suspicious vehicles; 15 traffic enforcements; 95 traffic stops; and 16 reckless vehicles.

WCSO inmate found unresponsive in cell

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are currently investigating the death of an inmate at the Wakulla County Jail.

On Monday June 13^th at approximately 11:07 pm, a detention deputy conducting checks on inmates found Jessie David Vautier lying on the floor of his cell unresponsive. Medical Staff and detention deputies performed CPR until Wakulla Fire/Rescue took over and transported Vautier to a local hospital. Vautier died at the hospital Tuesday June 14^th.

FDLE was contacted and was requested to investigate the incident by WCSO. Preliminary indications are that this was a suicide.

Vautier was originally arrested on May 12 for Resisting Arrest without Violence. He was awaiting transport to Lee County, Florida in reference to an outstanding warrant.

HOME INVASION ON REHWINKEL ROAD

WCSO responded to a reported home invasion at a residence on Rehwinkel Road in Crawfordville at approximately 09:10 am on June 15^th, 2016. The sole occupant of the home described the assailant as a tall, black male, wearing dark clothing and a mask. The victim was threatened with a handgun. The suspect left the home and is believed to have left the area. An extensive search was made of the neighborhood using the Wakulla Correctional Institutions canine team. Interviews are being made throughout the neighborhood and evidence was collected at the scene by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Crime Scene Unit.

Thankfully, no one was injured during this incident.

FDLE CRIME STATISTICS FOR 2015

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) released crime statistics for Florida counties Friday June 3rd and Wakulla County has good reason to be happy. While statewide total index offenses declined by 3.1%, Wakulla County index offenses were reduced by 11.2%. When looking at just non-violent property offenses across Wakulla County the decline was even larger with a reduction of 15.4%.

There are seven index crimes the FDLE combines to produce its annual crime report. Four index crimes are violent offenses and include murder, forcible sex offenses, robbery, and aggravated assault. The remaining three offenses are non-violent property offenses and they are burglary, larceny and motor vehicle theft.

“We will continue to step up our efforts against illegal drug crimes because we know that the drug trade and thefts have a direct correlation with each other” said Sheriff Creel, “with proactive patrolling by Uniform Deputies and in depth investigations by our Detectives we will continue to keep our community safe.”
The Wakulla County crime rate is at its lowest point in the past five years.

A FEW SPOTS REMAIN OPEN FOR THE JUNE 29th AND JUNE 30th TEEN DRIVER CHALLENGE

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office will host another Teen Driver Challenge at the end of this month. This program will be a two day event from 08:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, June 29 and June 30.

On the first day students will have classroom instruction as the program begins at the Sheriff’s Office Emergency Operations Center Conference Room. Driving exercises, such as serpentine, forward and reverse, figure 8 and cornering, will also be conducted at the fire training center next to the Sheriff’s Office.

The second day of the program will shift to Wakulla High School for additional driving exercises. The driving exercises will include: threshold braking; evasive maneuvers; backing up; and off road corrections. Lunch will be provided both days.

Anyone interested in having their teenagers participate may call, Lt. Billy Jones at 728-6835 or email wjones@wcso.org. Students should have a valid driver’s license or a learner’s permit to participate.

On June 25^th Deputy Brandon Sheffield met with Tammy Parker at her residence on Trice Lane in regards to a criminal mischief. According to Mrs. Parker her son had a dispute earlier in the day with an acquaintance over some property. During the night occupants at her home heard noises that were determined to be a suspect doing the damage to her car. Upon inspection it was found that the tires to the car had been cut, there were scratches to the side of the car, and the taillights were broken. Mrs. Parker believes the acquaintance is responsible for the damage.

On June 25^th Deputy Kenneth Miller was working traffic enforcement on Old Shell Point road in regards to complaints made in that area. Deputy Miller observed a vehicle run one of the stop signs on Old Shell Point and made a traffic stop of that vehicle. It was found that the driver, Bakari Hines, did not have a valid driver’s license and had an active writ issued in Leon County. He was arrested and transported to the county jail without incident.

On June 25 Deputy Kyle Hanks was running radar on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard when he stopped a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver, De Andre Robinson, did not have a valid driver’s license. He was arrested for driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license with knowledge and transported to the county jail. The vehicle was turned over to another licensed driver.

On June 25^th Deputy Matthew Hedges was dispatched to a report of a bicyclist driving in and out of the lanes of traffic on Wakulla Arran Road in the area of Fox Run Subdivision. Upon arriving in the area Sgt. Helms witnessed Marc Carter “huffing” from an aerosol can. Upon contact Carter he denied inhaling from the aerosol can and also gave the deputy a different name than his own. Carter was subsequently arrested for inhalation of harmful chemicals/substances and providing a false name to law enforcement, both misdemeanor charges. He was transported to the county jail without incident.

On June 25^th deputies responded to a disturbance on Port Leon Drive in St. Marks in which it was reported one party had a handgun and had discharged it. Upon arrival contact was made with Wesley Manning. Mr. Manning stated that he and a female friend had been at the Riverside Café. The female walked outside and went to the vehicle they had arrived in. Mr. Manning went outside to check on the female friend and a white male appears from inside a boat on a trailer parked next to Mr. Manning’s vehicle. There was a verbal confrontation between the two men and the suspect, later identified as Richard Hughes, pulled a handgun out and fired a shot into the ground near Mr. Manning. Manning fled across the street and the WCSO was called. During the interview of Hughes it was realized that he was intoxicated. He stated that he had walked out to his vehicle with the intent of getting a friend to come get him as he had drank too much to drive. While outside he spoke to the female and was confronted by Manning. At the time they argued, Hughes was in his boat which was attached to his truck. Hughes was arrested for using a firearm while intoxicated and aggravated assault with a weapon. He was transported to the county jail without further incident.

On June 26^th Vernon Carter reported the theft of his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He stated that earlier in the evening he had friends over and during the night someone removed his motorcycle from the property. A suspect was named. On June 27^th the motorcycle was recovered when the victim became aware of its location and sent a wrecker to retrieve it. The wrecker driver notified the WCSO that he had the motorcycle and it was returned to the owner. Further investigation will be conducted by Detective Scott Powell.

On June 26^th Deputy Brandon Sheffield met with Chris Connell who turned over found property. According to Connell, while walking on the beach at Shell Point, Mr. Connell found several pieces of jewelry. Being unable to determine who the owner was he then called the WCSO. The jewelry will be held by the evidence section until the owner can be contacted.

On June 26^th Kenneth Faircloth of Autumn Woods Way reported the theft of a Chrysler sedan. Faircloth determined that the vehicle was taken during the night and it was noted that he still had the key fob which is needed to start the car. The vehicle was entered as stolen in the NCIC system. Deputy Gibby Gibson investigated.

On June 28 Deputy Gibby Gibson met with Brenda Forbes who reported the theft of a bike. According to Mrs. Forbes a family member had rode the bike to Sonic and left it on a trail just behind the restaurant. After making a purchase they found the bike was gone. The bike is a 26 inch Schwinn, black and green in color, valued at approximately $150.00.

On June 29^th Deputy Brandon Sheffield responded to the residence of Martha Powell on Lake Ellen Shores Drive in regards to the theft of two cement statuettes. Mrs. Powell explained that she had returned home the day before but could not say if the statuettes were present. On today’s date she realized they were gone. The statuettes are both eagles made of cement, valued at approximately $50.00 each. No suspects have been named at this time.

On June 29^th Susan Looney reported her home burglarized. Deputy Ashton Lesane conducted the investigation at the Walden Road home. It was found that approximately $100.00 worth of coins had been taken.  The scene was processed for evidence and the case turned over to the Criminal Investigations Division.

On June 29^th the clerk at Glenda’s County Store turned a lost tag over to Deputy Vicki Mitchell. The Georgia vehicle tag was found to be registered to Rosebud Farm Inc. in Monroe County, Georgia. No listing was found to contact the business. The tag will be held in the event the owner can be contacted.

On June 29^th Hazel Harvey reported the burglary of her home. She states she was contact by a neighbor who saw her front door left open. Upon arriving home she found her home had been forcibly entered and electronics had been stolen. The approximate value of items taken is $246.00. Evidence collected on scene was turned over to the evidence custodian at the Sheriff’s Office and the case is being forwarded to the Criminal Investigations Division.

On June 30^th Deputy Brandon Sheffield found a bicycle at an unoccupied home on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. A check of the NCIC system did not reveal it being reported stolen. A check with a neighbor did not develop the identity of a possible owner. The bicycle will be held at the Sheriff’s Office until the owner can be located.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1,174 calls for service including: 18 residential and business alarms; 06 assists to other agencies. 03 vehicle burglaries; 79 citizen contacts; 16 disturbances; 35 E-911 abandoned calls; 38 E-911 calls; 38 investigations;  146 medical emergencies; 126 business security checks; 241 residential security checks; 23 special details; 44 subpoena services; 09 suspicious vehicles; 10 traffic enforcements; 83 traffic stops; and 15 reckless vehicles.

Sheriff’s Report July 1 through July 7, 2016

On July 1^st Deputy Ross Hasty was dispatched to a residential burglary on Autumn Woods Way. Upon arrival Deputy Hasty met with Corey Faircloth who advised that upon returning home he found it ransacked and property stolen. Upon closer inspection it was found that electronics and other miscellaneous items had been taken. In all it is estimated that $290.00 worth of property is missing. A suspect was named by the complainant.

On July 1^st Deputy Jeffrey Yarbrough met with Ninfa Ezell in regards to a theft that occurred at a Big White Oak Drive residence. According to Ezell the home may have been left unlocked when suspects unknown entered and removed a bag which contained non-narcotic medication. The bag was valued at approximately $100.00. A complete list of medications was not available at the time of the report but will be provided at a later date.

On July 1^st Lt. James Sessor and Deputy Jenna Beceriklier responded to the residence of Mary Harvey on Lake Ellen Shores Drive in regards a trespass in progress. Upon arrival the deputies learned that Theresa Roberts had come to the home unannounced to retrieve personal belongings. Previously Roberts had moved out of the home. Roberts was asked to leave the home by the homeowner and the deputies but refused. She was arrested for trespass after warning and transported to the county jail.

On July 1^st Sgt. Scott Delbeato met with Autumn Powers where she turned over to him a found wallet. The wallet had items that identified Justin O’Ferrell of Jacksonville, Florida as its owner. No contact could be made with O’Ferrell so the wallet will be held by the Evidence Section at the Sheriff’s Office until it can be returned.

On July 2^nd Deputy Ross Hasty recovered a found wallet from a person whom wished to remain anonymous.  The wallet was found on Otter Lake Road and had a local address. Deputy Hasty went to the home but it appeared empty. Paperwork in the wallet indicate that John Thigpen owns the wallet. The wallet will be held by the Evidence Section at the Sheriff’s Office until it can be returned.

On July 2^nd Reserve Deputy Kirby Matheus met with Susan Wilhelm in Paradise Village in Shell Point in regards to a theft. Mrs. Wilhelm showed Deputy Matheus where the keypad to the gate at the entrance to the community had been removed. It is thought that it occurred during the weekend. The cost to replace the keypad is estimated at approximately $325.00.

On July 2^nd Deputy Jenna Beceriklier was working traffic enforcement at the intersection of Bloxham Cutoff Road and Crawfordville Highway when she stopped a vehicle for faulty equipment. The driver, William Francis was found to have a suspended driver’s license with five prior charges of driving while license suspended or revoked. Francis was arrested and transported to the county jail. The vehicle was turned over to another licensed driver.

On July 2^nd Deputy Ward Kromer was at Wakulla Springs State Park for an unrelated call when a park employee turned over some personal items that had been found abandoned in the park. A wallet with paperwork identifying Tony Cameron of Florida and a leather pouch with items that identified Phung Young of Maine as the owners was turned over to Deputy Kromer. With no contact information for either person available the items will be held by the Evidence Section at the Sheriff’s Office until they can be returned.

On July 3^rd Michael Plasay reported the theft of a wreath from the front door of his Revell Road residence. Mr. Plasay stated that he noticed the wreath gone on July 1^st but waited to report the incident until he could review surveillance video. A suspect has been identified from the video and the incident has been turned over to Detective Brett Surace for further investigation. The wreath is valued at approximately $50.00.

On July 3^rd Christina Morales reported several fraudulent charges on her bank account. Mrs. Morales was able to document five charges totaling $676.55 in Florida and Alabama. Mrs. Morales cancelled her card and the investigation has been forwarded to Detective Randy Phillips.

On July 3^rd Nathaniel Rawls was arrested at Shell Point on the beach after he threatened two individuals with a pocket knife. According to the victims and a witness, Rawls appeared intoxicated as he was uneasy on his feet and had slurred speech. The victims stated that Rawls approached the female victim and kept touching her and making advances towards her. She stated that a friend intervened and they walked away to attempt and diffuse the situation. Several minutes later Rawls again approached the victim. Rawls comments became threatening as he cursed at the pair and then at one point brandished an open pocket knife stating he would kill them. Deputies arrived on scene and Rawls was arrested without further incident. Nathaniel Rawls was charged with Aggravated Assault and Felony Battery as the female victim is approximately five months pregnant.

On July 3^rd Deputy Jenna Beceriklier was dispatched to Walmart in regards to a retail theft. Once on scene Asset Protection provided video surveillance of three female juveniles who had been detained after being watched conceal items and pass the last point of sale. The juveniles admitted to stealing items from Walmart. They were arrested and transported to the county jail being released to their parents after processing. Approximately $219.87 worth of merchandise was recovered.

On July 3^rd Deputy Gibby Gibson met with Thomas Vickery in regards to an attempt to make fraudulent charges on his credit card. According to Mr. Vickery he was alerted by his credit card company that a transaction had been rejected by store employees on his credit card. The attempted purchase was in Irving, Texas for gift cards in the amount of $214.59. Once the purchase was rejected the credit card company contacted Mr. Vickery to have the incident reviewed. Once all banking documentation have been obtained pertaining to this incident the investigation will be forwarded to that jurisdiction.

On July 4^th William Dickman of ABC Storage contacted the Sheriff’s Office in regards to a criminal mischief. Once Deputy Alan Middlebrooks was on scene he was shown where a vehicle had struck the gate, breaking the bottom of the frame. The gate was damaged between July 3^rd and 4^th. Evidence was collected at the scene and submitted to the evidence custodian at the Sheriff’s Office. The estimated cost to repair the gate is $1,050.00.

On July 4^th WCSO received multiple calls in regards to a vehicle weaving in and out of heavy traffic north bound on Crawfordville Highway. As Lt. Sherrell Morrison arrived in the area she met the suspect vehicle in the area of Hill Green Road. The deputy observed the suspect vehicle as it passed multiple vehicles. The deputy had to stop and exit the roadway to avoid a collision. Another vehicle traveling behind the deputy also had to take evasive action to allow the suspect vehicle enough room to reenter the appropriate lane. All traffic stopped and allowed the deputy to get turned around and make a traffic stop. Casey Kelley was arrested for Reckless Driving and transported to the county jail. Three motorist stopped and gave written statements detailing the incident. It was also learned that the Florida Highway Patrol had also received calls about the same suspect vehicle and Troopers had been dispatched to try and intercept the vehicle.

On July 5 Deputy Brandon Sheffield met with homeowner, Kenneth Richmond at his residence on Ace High Stables Road in regards to a vandalism. Mr. Richmond showed the deputy where suspects had broken light fixtures at the beginning of his driveway. It appears that someone hit the lights with rocks. Mr. Richmond added that this same type incident occurred on June 29^th but he didn’t report that incident. Repair to the lights is estimated at approximately $30.00. A watch order has been set for the home.

On July 6^th an employee of the Dollar General Store at 1885 Crawfordville Highway turned over to Deputy Gibby Gibson approximately 1.2 grams of marijuana that had been found in the store. No suspect has been identified so the marijuana was turned over to the evidence section of the Sheriff’s Office to be destroyed at a later date.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office received 1,171 calls for service including: xx residential and business alarms; 12 assists to other agencies. 00 vehicle burglaries; 67 citizen contacts; 19 disturbances; 28 E-911 abandoned calls; 26 E-911 calls; 21 investigations;  149 medical emergencies; 115 business security checks; 237 residential security checks; 20 special details; 39 subpoena services; 11 suspicious vehicles; 16 traffic enforcements; 76 traffic stops; and 20 reckless vehicles.