CMPD Makes Arrest in 2008 Homicide

Branden Williams

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit have arrested and charged Branden Marell Williams for the murders of Kevin Javier Cano and Jamie Aubrey-Marquis Gill, which took place on November 7, 2008.

Kevin Cano and Jamie Gill were inside a vehicle stopped at a traffic signal at Cedar Street and Trade Street shortly after midnight when they were shot multiple times.  They were both pronounced deceased at the scene. The shooting occurred a few yards from Johnson & Wales University campus.  The spray of bullets struck two city buses and damaged cars parked along the street where a local tavern was open with customers. 

As a result of the initial investigation, Richard Henry Jordan was arrested the day of the murders and charged with two counts of Murder.  He has been in the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office since. Homicide Unit detectives continued their investigation and recently established Mr. Williams’ participation in the shooting.  Branden Williams was arrested earlier today and charged with two counts of Murder.   This is Williams' 12th arrest since July 2009.

This incident remains under active investigation.   Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600

Two ADA's Robbed & Assaulted in Uptown Cemetery

Early Saturday morning, two Mecklenburg County Assistant District Attorney's were robbed and attacked while cutting through Elmwood Cemetery (700 block of West 6th Street) to get to the woman’s car. 

Police say the victims do not wish to be named but both are 28 years old, one is male and the other is female.  The male victim was hit in the head with a 2x4 and needed to get many stitches. A watch and earrings were taken from the pair during the robbery.

The District Attorney’s Office released this statement about the assault:  “All of us here in the D.A.’s Office are members of this community and feel the impact of crimes such as this one. We’re looking forward to both of them being back at work soon.”

Police say the suspect is a light-skinned black man in his 30's who is bald with a muscular build.  If you have any information, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Shot & Killed on Billingsley Rd

Ronald Martin

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and A/D/W Unit are conducting a homicide investigation at 624 Billingsley Road in the Providence Division.  The call for service came in at 1:19am.

Providence Division patrol officers responded to an A/D/W call in reference to Ronald Martin shot at the listed address. When officers arrived on the scene they located the male on the front porch suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic. The victim has been positively identified as Ronald Monroe Martin.  The victim’s family has been notified of his death.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit and ADW Unit are canvassing the neighborhood to determine whether there are additional witnesses to this incident. The investigation is in its early stages.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. The Helicopter, K-9 and Gang and Vice Units all responded to the scene as well as representatives of the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Homicide Prosecution Team.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Sarvis is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

* This is Charlotte's 17th murder of 2012, compared to 9 at this time in 2011. 

Woman Shot on Doctor Carver Road

Shortly after midnight, a woman was seriously injured during a shooting on Doctor Carver Road, which is located near West Blvd.  Police have not released the victim's name nor a motive for the shooting. 

The female victim was rushed to the hospital, underwent surgery and is currently in intensive care.  I will provide more details as they become available.

If you have any information, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Two Men Shot & Killed in University City Division

Nelson Brice

UPDATE II:   Travis Peters, the suspect wanted in the murder of Steffon Quinton Montgomery and Jonathan Michael Green, turned himself in to authorities earlier today at the Prince George County Jail in Maryland. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Homicide Detectives will be interviewing Mr. Peters and extradition is pending.

UPDATE:   Detectives with the CMPD Homicide Unit have charged three suspects in this case. They have arrested Nelson Joseph Brice and charged him with two counts of Murder and two counts of Attempted Armed Robbery.

UPDATE: Patton was released from the hospital and is in the Mecklenburg County Jail--  Jeremy Lynard Patton is currently at CMC in critical condition suffering from a gunshot wound sustained during this incident. He is in police custody and charged with two counts of Murder and two counts of Attempted Armed Robbery.

Jeremy Patton (via Facebook)

The third suspect, Travis Gerald Peters, has also been charged with two counts of Murder and two counts of Attempted Armed Robbery.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and ADW Unit are conducting a homicide investigation at 1736 Forest Side Lane in the University City Division. The call for service came in at 12:53 a.m., on Friday, April 27, 2012.  The victims have been identified as Steffon Quinton Montgomery and Jonathan Michael Green.

University City Division patrol officers responded to an ADW call in reference to two people shot inside the above listed residence. When officers arrived on the scene, they found two males inside the residence suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The victims were pronounced deceased on scene. A male and a female stated that they and the two victims were inside the residence when two other subjects showed up at the door. The shooting took place shortly after these two subjects were allowed inside.

Travis Peters

Detectives with the Homicide Unit and ADW Unit are canvassing the neighborhood to determine whether there are additional witnesses to this incident. The investigation is in its early stages.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. Representatives of the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Homicide Prosecution Team responded to the scene as well as Detectives with the Vice & Narcotics Unit and the Gang Unit.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Jolly is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

* This is Charlotte's 16th murder of 2012, compared to 9 at this time in 2011.

Truliant Federal Credit Union Robbed

The Truliant Federal Credit Union, located at 1915 Back Creek Drive was robbed shortly before noon today.

The suspect was described as a light skinned black man, late 20's, between 5'9" and 5'10" and weighs approx 180 pounds. He was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt during the robbery.

Investigators said the man may have left the scene in a blue Hyundai Sonata, possibly a 2005 model.

If you have any information, you are asked to call the FBI Charlotte Office at 704-672-6100.

This is the 2nd Credit Union robbed in the Charlotte area today.

Pineville SECU Credit Union Robbed- Suspect Caught!

Reginald Hunter

UPDATE:  The Charlotte FBI and Pineville police arrested a man accused of robbing a credit union in Pineville by gunpoint yesterday morning.   Authorities charged Reginald Anthony Hunter, 48, with robbing the State Employees' Credit Union.  He is in the Mecklenburg County Jail.
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FBI Investigators are looking for the man who robbed a SECU credit union this morning. The man was armed with a silver revolver when he entered the State Employees' Credit Union (SECU) at 9007 Pineville-Matthews Road in Pineville, NC around 9:00 am.   The suspect was wearing a hat and sunglasses.

Anyone who recognizes the man in the photos shown below is asked to call the FBI Charlotte at 704-672-6100 or Pineville, NC police at 704-889-2231.

CMPD Crime Stats Show 12% Increase in Crime in Charlotte

CMPD Crime Stats (Released April 24, 2012) Through the end of March 2012, the preliminary total for Index Offenses was 12.0% higher than this time last year.  Property crime increased by 10.4% while violent crime increased by 23.0%. 12 homicides were reported through March, compared to 6, resulting in an increase of 100.0%. 411 robberies were reported compared to 292, resulting in an increase of 40.8% 52 rapes were reported compared to 46, resulting in an increase of 13.0%. 733 aggravated assaults were reported compared to 638, resulting in an increase of 14.9%. Burglary overall was up 5.5%, (1759 compared to 1667) with a increase of 8.3% in residential (1421 compared to 1312) and a decrease of -4.8% in commercial cases (338 compared to 355). 397 vehicle thefts were reported compared to 450, resulting in a decrease of -11.8%. Total larceny cases increased by 14.6% (5226 compared to 4562) with the larcenies from auto up by 9.6% (1908 compared to 1741). 45 arson cases were reported compared to 48, resulting in a decrease of -6.3%.

Statistical Document Links: View the Monthly Summary Report for March 2012  View the Crime Index Report for March 2012  View the 2011 Year-End Statistical Report  View the 2010 Year-End Statistics Report  View the 2009 Year-End Statistics Report

CMPD North Division Officers Arrest Three for B&E

Barnes-Johnson

CMPD North Division officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Isiah Xavier Barnes-Johnson, Terrance Derrell Lee and Maurisha Rogina Edwards for their involvement in several residential breaking and entering cases.

On Wednesday, April 25, 2012, at approximately 12:30 p.m., North Division officers were dispatched to a residential breaking and entering call at a home in the 1100 block of Fox Glen Road. A neighbor called 911 and reported observing several suspects breaking into a home before driving away from the location. A detailed description of the suspects and the vehicle they were occupying was broadcast to patrol units in the field. Officers observed the vehicle a short time later and detained the occupants.

Lee

The witness was transported to the scene of the vehicle stop and identified the three suspects as the people he witnessed break into the home. Officers also recovered stolen property in the possession of the suspects from the B&E’s that included: televisions, laptops, and a significant amount of jewelry.

During the investigation, detectives determined that the three suspects arrested were also the same suspects responsible for two additional residential breaking and entering cases that occurred in the University City area. Detectives are also investigating whether the suspects are connected to any additional active cases.

All three suspects were charged with (3) counts of Felony Breaking & Entering with Force, (3) counts of Felony Larceny, and (3) counts of Felony Possession of Stolen Property.

Edwards

Two of the three suspects arrested have lengthy criminal histories that include:

• Barnes-Johnson is a two-time convicted Felon, with Burglary/Felony Larceny convictions from May and July 2009. He has additional arrests for Armed Robbery, Assault on Female and Misdemeanor B&E. He is under a $65K secured bond.
• Lee is a three-time convicted Felon, with Burglary/Felony Larceny convictions from January and February 2008 and October 2009. He has additional arrests for Carrying a Concealed Weapon (Gun) and Possession with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana. He had an additional outstanding warrant for Assault on Female with a $2,500 secured bond added.

The CMPD will continue to work to remove these type of career criminals from society before they can repeatedly prey on our community. These arrests are the result of the community and police working together.  Had it not been for an engaged neighbor calling 911 to report this activity, these individuals would likely still be free to victimize our community. The CMPD continues to urge the community to call 911 whenever see or hear anything suspicious.

Charlotte FBI Seeking Serial Bank Robber

UPDATE: Federal agents in Charlotte arrested Clyde Allen Nixon, 60, Tuesday at approximately 10:30 a.m. by the Kingsport Police Department in Kingsport, Tennessee, according to the FBI. Officers received information regarding Nixon's location and when they tried to take him into custody he fled the scene in a vehicle. He was arrested a short time later and is now facing charges in Tennessee in additional to numerous charges related to bank robberies in North Carolina. 
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Clyde Nixon

The Charlotte Division of the FBI, the Asheville Police Department, and the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office are seeking assistance to locate a serial bank robbery suspect. Currently there are three outstanding arrest warrants for Clyde Allen Nixon aka Thomas Carl Nixon.

Nixon is believed to be responsible for robberies at:

• Wells Fargo: 900 Smokey Park Highway, Asheville, North Carolina, on February 9, 2012
• RBC Centura: 1007 Smokey Park Highway, Buncombe County, North Carolina, on February 24, 2012
• First Citizens Bank: 1375 Patton Avenue, Asheville, North Carolina, on March 20, 2012
• First Bank: 6 Dogwood Road, Candler, North Carolina, on March 30, 2012

Nixon has friends and family throughout North Carolina and South Carolina. He has recently been seen in Buncombe, Carteret, Cleveland, Craven, Gaston, and Mecklenburg Counties in North Carolina. He should be considered armed and dangerous.

If you have any information about Clyde Allen Nixon, call the Asheville Police Department at 828-252-1110 or the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office at 828-255-5050 or the Charlotte Division of the FBI at 704-672-6100.  If you see Nixon, do not try to approach him; instead, call 911.

Jury Trials for Robbers, Thieves and Sex Offenders

The DA’s Habitual Felon Team tried habitual felons before Mecklenburg County juries during the week April 16, 2012 in three courtrooms. The trials were held in the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.

Jerry Mungo

Jerry Mungo, 52, was tried for 1) felony breaking or entering, 2) possession of burglary tools, 3) resisting a public officer and 4) being a habitual felon. The jury found Mungo guilty as charged and he admitted his status as a habitual felon. The Honorable W. Robert Bell sentenced Mungo to 135-171 months in prison. Some of Mungo’s prior convictions include common law robbery and multiple counts of felony breaking or entering. In addition, Mungo was previously convicted and served a sentence as a habitual felon.

Derrick Hamilton, 24, and Joshua Oliphant, 28, were tried together for 1) robbery with a dangerous weapon and 2) conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon. The jury found both defendants guilty as charged. Judge Bell sentenced Hamilton to 97-129 months in prison. Judge Bell sentenced Oliphant to 111-146 months in prison.  Some of Hamilton’s prior convictions include possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Some of Oliphant’s prior convictions include bank robbery and four counts of robbery with a dangerous weapon.

Willis Hopkins, 32, was tried for 1) failure to properly register as a sex offender and 2) being a habitual felon. The jury found Hopkins guilty of failure to properly register as a sex offender and he admitted his status as a habitual felon. The Honorable Forrest D. Bridges sentenced Hopkins to 52-72 months in prison. Some of Williams’ prior convictions include second degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor in the state of South Carolina and failing to properly register as a sex offender.

Jerry Edwards, 26, was called for trial in courtroom 5370. Edwards was tried for 1) felony breaking or entering a motor vehicle, 2) misdemeanor larceny and 3) being a habitual felon. The case was dismissed by the Honorable Yvonne Mims Evans at the close of all of the evidence.

Robert Williams

Lamont Welch, 33, was called for trial and changed his previous plea of not guilty to guilty as charged to 1) felony breaking or entering, 2) felony larceny, 3) felony possession of stolen goods, 4) conspiracy to commit breaking or entering and 5) being a habitual felon. Judge Bell sentenced Welch to 60-81 months in prison.

Jarvis Mitchell, 50, was called for trial and changed his previous plea of not guilty to guilty as charged to 1) felony breaking or entering, 2) felony larceny, 3) felony possession of stolen goods and 4) conspiracy to commit breaking or entering. Judge Bell sentenced Mitchell to 11-14 months in prison; that sentence was suspended pending his successful completion of 30 months of supervised probation. As one of his conditions of probation, Mitchell must serve 6 months of house arrest.

Robert Williams, 44, pled guilty to failing to properly register as a sex offender. Judge Bell sentenced Williams to 36-44 months in prison.

Lynn Kiser, 28, pled guilty to two counts of failing to properly register as a sex offender. Judge Bell sentenced Kiser to 36-44 months in prison.

16-Year Old Busted with Loaded Gun on CMS High School Campus

Mark Ellis

Mark Obrian Ellis, 16, was arrested yesterday after CMS' school officials said he brought a loaded gun to West Charlotte High School.

Mark Ellis is not a student at West Charlotte HS but a student of the CMS Right Choices Program, which is a 6-week alternative program for students who have violated the CMS Code of Student Conduct.

Ellis was charged with possession of a weapon on school grounds, possession of a handgun-minor, possession of a stolen firearm, carrying a concealed weapon (gun), resisting a police officer and trespassing.  His prior record includes common law robbery and disorderly conduct.

CMPD Seeking Two Robbery Suspects

Christopher Hamilton

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's VCAT (Violent Criminal Apprehension Team) is asking for the public's help in locating two fugitives who are wanted for armed robbery.

Christopher Charles Hamilton, 39, is wanted on outstanding warrants for robbery with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit robbery.  Christopher Hamilton has been a fugitive since March 9, 2012, when he assaulted and robbed a victim of property.  The N.C. Department of Corrections stated Hamilton has absconded from his probation/parole supervision. He is 5'8" and 155 pounds.

Mitchell Perry

Mitchell Leon Perry, 25, is wanted for a separate robbery that occurred on March 16, 2012 in which he robbed a victim at gunpoint while the victim was attempting to use an ATM machine on West Sugar Creek Road. Perry is is 5'11" and 150 pounds.

If anyone has any information, they are asked to contact the CMPD Violent Criminal Apprehension Team Hotline at 704-336-8228 or call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Shot & Killed on Effingham Road

Shaun Morgan-Dalton

UPDATE:   The Violent Criminal Apprehension Team located and arrested two suspects wanted for the murder of Myron A. Billings.  Shaun Morgan-Dalton was arrested at the 600 block of Ambassador Street and is charged with Murder, two counts of Armed Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery.

The second suspect, Prince Edward Hannah was also arrested by VCAT and is being charged with Murder, two counts of Armed Robbery and Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery. The initial investigation indicates that there was a per-arranged meeting between the victim and the suspects.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are conducting an investigation into a shooting that occurred at 1305 Effingham Road which left one man dead.  The victim has been positively identified as Myron Billings. The call for service came in at 12:06 pm.

CMPD Metro Division patrol officers responded to 1305 Effingham Road in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon call for service. Upon arrival, they located a male subject suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to CMC-Main with life-threatening injuries. He was pronounced deceased a short time later.

Prince Hannah

The initial investigation indicates that there was a per-arranged meeting between the Billings and the suspect(s). Shortly after the shooting, detectives located the getaway vehicle, a white Oldsmobile Cutlass Sierra, in the 2600 block of Rose Street, unoccupied.

Detectives are currently canvassing the area to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the moments leading up to the shooting that will aid in the investigation.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. The Helicopter Unit, members of the Vice and Gang Unit as well as the Robbery and Firearms Unit responded to assist with the investigation. Representatives of the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Homicide Prosecution Team responded to the scene as well.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Sterrett is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

CMPD Arrests Three Men for Several Armed Robberies

Corey Miller

* Update & Continuation of  Post: Man Jailed for Series of Armed Robberies

Robbery Unit Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Corey Miller, Sadiq White and Dontavious Drummer for their involvement in several armed robbery cases that include:

*Regional Finance / 5210 N. Tryon Street
*Sonic / 70820 Forest Point Blvd
*Auto King / 5923 Orr Road
*Regional Finance / 4401 E. Independence Blvd

Corey Miller has been charged with attempted murder, two counts of attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, two counts of conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon, and possession of stolen vehicle.

Dontavious Drummer

Sadiq White has been charged with attempted murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon.

Dontavious Drummer has been charged with attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and conspiracy to commit armed robbery with a dangerous weapon.

These cases remain under active investigation and will be reviewed for possible federal prosecution. If anyone has additional information regarding these cases, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Alert Neighbor Assists Police to Nab B&E Suspect

Scott Mueller

Central Division Officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Scott Robert Mueller for his involvement in a recent breaking and entering of a motor vehicle case.

On Friday, April 20, 2012, at approximately 3:00 a.m., officers were dispatched to breaking and entering of a motor vehicle incident in the 300 block of S. Clarkson Street. A witness called 911 and stated she observed a suspect breaking into a vehicle. As officers arrived on the scene they observed a vehicle with broken glass and the suspect attempting to hide behind a tree. When officers approached the suspect they observed several motor vehicle parts that were lying on the ground beside the suspect.

Scott Mueller was taken into custody and charged with felony breaking and entering of a motor vehicle. It’s likely this arrest would not have been made had it not been for an engaged witness calling 911 to report this break-in. The CMPD continues to urge the community to call 911 if they see or hear anything suspicious.

Anyone with additional information concerning this case or suspect is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Two Habitual Offenders Charged with Several Larceny from Auto Cases

Jacob Jacobs

North Division Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Jacob Jacobs (8th arrest since 4/10) and Markcus Herrera (8th arrest since 10/09) for their involvement in a series of larceny from auto cases.

Both suspects have been charged with incidents that include:

• April 20, 2012, larceny from auto in the 6900 block of Northlake Mall Drive.
• April 20, 2012, larceny from auto in the 9000 block of Kimmel Lane
• April 20, 2012, larceny from auto in the 5600 block of Westpark Drive (This incident included the theft of a handgun from the vehicle)

Markcus Hererra

Both suspects have been charged with three felony counts of breaking and entering of a motor vehicle, felony larceny of a firearm and several misdemeanors. Both suspects have lengthy criminal records involving property crime arrests.

The CMPD stated they will continue to work at removing these type of career criminals from society before they prey on any additional members of our community.

Anyone with additional information concerning these cases or suspects is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Sentenced to 2-years for Healthcare Fraud at Non-Profit

Edward Payton

The former Executive Director for the non-profit community mental health agency Mecklenburg County Open Door (“MOD”) was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to serve 18 months in prison for converting the funds of a health care benefit program and failing to file a tax return and pay taxes, announced Anne M. Tompkins, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

U.S. District Judge Max O. Cogburn, Jr. also sentenced Edward Gerard Payton, 52, of Charlotte, to serve two years under court supervision after he is released from prison and ordered Payton to pay $131,169 in restitution.

U.S. Attorney Tompkins is joined in making today’s announcement by Chris Briese, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division; and Kay B. Jernigan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI).

Payton was the Executive Director of MOD from 2006 until 2010.  In April 2011, Payton plead guilty to knowingly and willfully converting without authority moneys, funds, property, and assets of MOD and failing to file a tax return for 2008. During sentencing, Edward Payton admitted to unlawfully converting at least $147,000 by taking unauthorized pay “advances” from MOD, a health care benefit program which provides mental health services and housing to mentally ill individuals in the Charlotte area.

According to court documents and court proceedings, Payton also admitted to using an MOD corporate credit card and automobile for his personal use, in violation of MOD policy. In his plea agreement, Payton admitted that the total loss resulting from his criminal conduct at MOD was between $70,000 and $120,000 and that, as part of his criminal conduct, he abused his position of trust with MOD. Although Payton plead guilty to failing to file a tax return and pay taxes for tax year 2008, at sentencing the court found that Payton was responsible for failing to pay taxes for tax years 2007 and 2009.

At sentencing, Judge Cogburn noted, “It’s amazing to me that someone could go for a number of years and not file these [tax] returns.” In imposing a term of imprisonment, the Judge also observed that the criminal conduct “didn’t happen on just one day. [It] wasn’t a snapshot. It happened over a period of time.”

Upon designation of a federal facility, Payton, who is released on bond, will be transferred into custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Federal sentences are served without the possibility of parole.

The investigation was led by FBI and IRS. Both agencies are part of the Western District’s joint Health Care Fraud Task Force. The task force is a multi-agency team of experienced federal and state investigators and prosecutors, working in conjunction with criminal and civil Assistant United States Attorneys, dedicated to identifying and prosecuting those who defraud the health care system, and reducing the potential for health care fraud in the future.

Alert Neighbors Help CMPD Nab B&E Suspects

University City Division officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Juan Antonio Brown and Mark Antonio Steele for their involvement in a recent residential breaking and entering incident.

On Wednesday, April 18, 2012, at approximately 12:30 a.m. an alert neighbor called 911 stating he observed the suspects enter a vacant house in the 800 block of Reigate Road, remove appliances from the house, and place the items in a trailer before leaving the location.  The neighbor gave the tel-communicator a detailed description of the suspects and vehicle they were occupying.

A short time later, officers observed a vehicle matching the description and conducted a vehicle stop on Kempsford Drive. The suspects were detained and positively identified by the witness as the men involved in the incident. More than $2,500 in stolen household appliances were recovered and both suspects were taken into custody. The suspects have been charged with breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering, and felony possession of stolen goods.

These arrests illustrate how critical it is for the community and police to work together. Had it not been for this engaged neighbor who called 911, these two property thieves would likely still be in our community free to victimize others. Anyone with additional information concerning this case or these suspects is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Jailed for Series of Armed Robberies

Tony Humphery

On Wednesday, Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Robbery Unit charged Tony Andre Humphery, DOB: 01/13/94, for his involvement in a series of recent armed robberies.

This series included the robbery of the Sonic on April 6, 2012, where he put a handgun to the manager’s head and pulled the trigger twice; the handgun did not fire during either attempt. The two armed robberies of the Regional Finance Corporation were also included in the series of robberies. The getaway vehicle used in several of these robberies was a Dodge Caravan. Mr. Humphrey is in the custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office being held under secured bonds which total over $1M.

Detectives worked tirelessly in their efforts to solve these crimes. This was a complex investigation where the Fraud Unit and the Gang Unit were brought in to aid in the investigation. These cases remain under active investigation and will be reviewed for possible federal prosecution. If anyone has additional information regarding these cases, please have them call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Tony Andre Humphrey is facing 12 felony charges and 1 misdemeanor charge related to these robberies and an unrelated fraud case. The complete list of charges include:

• Felony- Larceny of Motor Vehicle
• Felony- Larceny of Motor Vehicle
• Felony-Attempted Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon
• Felony-Conspiracy to Commit Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon
• Felony- Conspiracy to Commit Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon
• Felony- Attempted First Degree Murder
• Felony- Robbery With a Dangerous weapon
• Felony- Robbery With a Dangerous weapon
• Felony- Conspiracy to Commit Robbery With a Dangerous Weapon
• Felony- Uttering a Forged Instrument (Unrelated charge for a separate case; Warrant service)
• Felony- PWISD Marijuana (Charged subsequent to a search warrant service of his home)
• Felony- PWISD Cocaine (Charged subsequent to a search warrant service of his home)
• Misdemeanor- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Charged subsequent to a search warrant service of his home)

The robberies and associated complaint numbers are listed below:

• 04/3/2012 at approximately 3:35 pm, Regional Finance Corporation located at 5210 N. Tryon Street #B
• 04/6/2012 at approximately 6:25 pm, Sonic located at 70820 Forest Point Blvd
• 04/14/2012 at approximately 12:30 pm, Auto King located at 5923 Orr Road; Attempted Robbery
• 04/16/ 2012 at approximately 11:15 am, Regional Finance Corporation, at 4401 E. Independence Blvd

Man Pleads Guilty in Exploding Pen Case at Turning Point Academy

Jessie Bauguess

On October 18, 2010, an explosion occurred after Jessie Bauguess brought an explosive pen to CMS' Turning Point Academy- and one child was injured during the explosion.  After the arrest, CFD Firefighters went to Burguess' home and three firefighters suffered minor injuries when a product they were testing exploded.  They found several explosives at his home.

This morning, Jessie Bauguess accepted a plea deal in the case - pleading guilty to malicious use of explosives inflicting injury, malicious damage by explosives and possession of a weapon on school grounds.  He was sentenced to 38 to 55 months in jail, which will include time served.

12-Year Old Found with Loaded Gun at CMS School

CMS officials are reporting that they discovered a 12-year old seventh grade student brought a loaded gun to CMS' Community House Middle School, located in Ballantyne area of Charlotte.

CMS Officials said the loaded gun was discovered about 1:30pm on Tuesday. It was found after classmates alerted a teacher about seeing a student with the weapon. That student was questioned who said it was another student was who had the loaded gun. Administrators questioned the second student and later found the gun.

Once the gun was found, authorities were notified immediately and Principal Jamie Brooks sent out a Connect Ed message to all parents.  The 12-year-old was taken off campus in a patrol car.

Murderer Sentenced to Life in Prison for 2010 Shooting

Michael King

Michael Leon King, 21, was tried for first-degree murder for the 2010 shooting death of Jared Bolli, 25. This morning, after a six day trial, the jury returned a verdict of guilty of first-degree murder.

The Honorable Yvonne Mims Evans, Superior Court Judge, sentenced the defendant to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Because a co-defendant is awaiting trial in this case, we will not detail the facts of the case at this time.

Four Masked Men Stop CMS School Bus on Dalecrest Drive

UPDATE II:  A juvenile was arrested in regards to the CMS bus incident.

UPDATE: Police are seeking a man who goes by the street name "bam-bam" - who is one of the three men responsible for causing havoc with CMS' Bus #112 driver.

At 4:40 pm, four people with red bandannas over their faces, jumped out of a white Chevy Yukon SUV and beat on the hood of bus #112 from CMS' James Martin Middle School. The incident occurred in the 2700 block of Dalecrest Drive, according to CMPD.

One of the suspects smashed a window on the bus during the incident and a second man attempted to force his way on the school bus to get to the 23-year-old bus driver.  The bus driver was able to maneuver around the SUV and drive off without further incident.

Caught: Jamarious Sherrill for Cutting Electronic Monitoring Device

Jamarious Sherrill

UPDATE:   4-17-12:  Sherrill was apprehended by the CMPD VCAT Team without incident.
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Jamarious Sherrill is wanted by the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) on outstanding warrants for interfering with an electronic monitoring device, breaking and entering a motor vehicle, and felony larceny. Sherrill has been on CMPD Electronic Monitoring since he was released from jail on 8/30/11.

Sherrill is the eighth offender to cut off his court ordered monitor in 2012. All of the previous offenders have been re-arrested. CMPD currently has 390 offenders on court ordered electronic monitoring.

Anyone with information on Sherrill’s whereabouts should immediately contact the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) at (704)336-VCAT or call 911.

CVS Robbed on Conlan Circle

On April 13, 2012 the CVS located at 13845 Conlan Circle was robbed at gunpoint by one male. The male wearing a skin colored stocking over his face, sunglasses and a black toboggan. The jacket the suspect is wearing appears to be a “Carhart” or an imitation type of jacket. After robbing the business the suspect fled the business on foot.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Robbery Detective. Detective Stutts is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Police Seeking Armed Robbery Suspects

On April 14, 2012, detectives responded to an armed robbery of a Shell Station store. According to witnesses, two black male suspects entered the business, one wearing a dark grey hoodie and black pants and the other wearing a red hoodie with black pants.  An employee was assaulted and a shot was fired during the robbery.  Both suspects wore black ski masks and fled the scene in a black or dark colored SUV, possibly an older model Ford Explorer or Expedition. No one was seriously injured during the robbery.

Please review the attached pictures of the suspects and the getaway vehicle. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Robbery Detective. Detective Ban is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

PNC Bank on East Blvd Robbed

Police are searching for two men who robbed the PNC Bank branch located at 1000 East Boulevard Friday afternoon. According to police, two black men in disguises- Jamaican wigs and sunglasses entered the bank, robbed it, fired a shot and left in a silver car, which they abandoned shortly after the robbery.

According to WCNC, there have already been nearly 50 bank robberies in Charlotte thus far in 2012, compared to 30 total through the first three months of 2011 and 38 through the first three months of 2010.

If you have any information that can help police, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

CMPD Recovers Over $1 Million in Stolen Merchandise

Daniel Reyes

Steele Creek Division Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Daniel V. Reyes on outstanding warrants stemming from a large amount of stolen property he was in possession of that was stolen in several commercial breaking and entering cases.

More than three months ago, Steele Creek detectives began an investigation into a series of commercial B&E cases that had similar trends. In those cases, the suspects disabled security alarms after business hours, forced their way into the establishments and removed large quantities of merchandise. The merchandise ranged from musical instruments, electronics, clothing, hunting and outdoor equipment and even included ballistic vests along with a multitude of other items.

Information gathered during this investigation revealed that the stolen items were being transported and stored in a building located at 1124 Rosewood Avenue in Kannapolis, NC.   On Thursday, April 5, 2012, investigators executed a search warrant of the building. During the search, investigators discovered a marijuana growing operation and recovered a large quantity of stolen merchandise with an estimated value of one-million dollars.

Information and evidence gathered during the investigation revealed that Daniel V. Reyes was involved in this series of property crimes and was selling the stolen property on Craigslist.  Reyes has been charged with four counts of possession of stolen property stemming from cases:

• B&E- Barefoot Archery- 4410 Old Pineville Rd
• B&E- SafGard- 2900 Westinghouse Blvd.
• B&E- American Army Surplus- 5226 E. Independence Blvd.
• B&E- Diver’s Supply- 800 Clanton Rd.

Reyes also had outstanding arrest warrants in Jefferson County, Kentucky for B&E and Larceny charges at the time of his arrest.   Additionally, detectives have outstanding arrest warrants for Ineido Cepero Aldana and Elias Larosa for their roles in this criminal operation.

Anyone with information concerning their whereabouts’ is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704.334.1600. Detectives are also investigating whether the three men had any involvement in several similar B&E cases.

The CMPD would like to thank the Kannapolis Police Department, Greensboro Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department in Kentucky for their critical assistance in this investigation. Detectives are also working to identify the owners of a large portion of recovered property. Anyone who believes they may have been victimized by these property thieves is asked to contact CMPD Detective Amy Kelly at (704) 336-8004.

First Citizens Bank on Providence Rd Robbed

The Charlotte FBI announced today that a man entered the First Citizens Bank in the 800 block of Providence Road around 2:30 p.m. and robbed the bank. Surveillance cameras captured images of the suspect, who wore sunglasses and a gray hooded sweatshirt over his head. He also wore latex blue gloves and carried a messenger bag over his shoulder.

Authorities described him as white, 5-foot-7 to 5-foot-10, with a stocky build. If you have any information, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or FBI Charlotte at 704-672-6100,

BB&T on South Tryon Street Robbed

The FBI & CMPD are investigating a second bank robbery in two days.  Shortly before 3pm, the BB&T branch located at 9210 South Tryon Street was robbed by a black male who left on foot.

The suspect is described as approximately 5'7'' and was wearing a brown shirt with pants and white shoes. If you have any information about this incident your asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Know the Law Before you Shoot!!

In the past week, we've had two occurrences of homeowner's using deadly force to defend themselves.  In one instance, a man was shot and killed.  In the state of NC, we have a 'Castle Doctrine Law', which allows a person to protect themselves, using a gun- IF they feel their lives are in immediate danger.   If you have a gun, please make sure you know the law so you don't end up in jail! 

- Link to .pdf -

Man Killed at Intersection of West Blvd & Remount Rd

Jonathan Ervin

UPDATE II:   Jonathan T. Ervin was arrested April 12, 2012 by members of the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team at 1926 Woodcrest Avenue. Mr. Ervin was wanted in connection with the stabbing of Antoine Bernard Mayes Cureton.  Mr. Ervin is charged with Murder.

UPDATE:  The victim has been identified as Antoine Bernard Mayes Cureton.

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and A/D/W Unit are conducting an investigation into a stabbing that occurred at the intersection of West Boulevard and Remount Road which left Antoine Cureton dead. The call for service came in at 10:53pm on Tuesday, April 10, 2012.

A CMPD officer was working an off-duty job near the intersection of West Boulevard and Remount Road when the officer was flagged down by a citizen in reference to a male subject that had been stabbed. The officer located the subject nearby who was suffering from apparent stab wounds. The male was transported to Carolinas Medical Center with life-threatening injuries where he subsequently died a short time later.

According to witnesses, a black male with shoulder length dreads wearing a grey t-shirt or tank top, blue jeans and possible white tennis shoes was seen fleeing from the scene. The K-9 Unit responded and attempted to track the suspect. Patrol units also circulated the area but officers were unable to locate the suspect.

Detectives are currently canvassing the area to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the moments leading up to the stabbing that will aid in the investigation.  Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Burkard is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Domestic Stabbing Leaves Ex-NYPD Officer Dead

Carole LaRossa

UPDATE II:  Carole LaRossa has been released on bond and is at home on electronic monitoring.  Her next court date is August 2nd at 9am in courtroom 5350.

UPDATE:   The victim has been identified as James "Jimmy" LaRossa, 51.  He was stabbed 19 times in the back, according to Prosecutors.  LaRossa was a NYPD Officer for 15 years and retired in 2001.   CMPD Homicide Detectives have charged Mr. LaRossa’s ex-wife, Carole LaRossa, with murder.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are conducting an investigation into a stabbing that took place at  8500 Dianthus Court which left one man dead and a female with non-life threatening injuries. The call for service came in at 9:49pm.

South Division patrol officers responded to The Apartments at Blakeney off of Rea Road in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon call for service. Upon arrival they located a male and female inside of the apartment suffering from apparent stab wounds.

James LaRossa

James LaRossa was pronounced deceased on scene. The female was transported to Carolinas Medical Center where she is being treated for non-life threatening injuries. Based on the initial investigation this incident appears to be domestic violence related.  The couple’s daughter was at a sleepover during the killing.

Initial indications are that the male and female began arguing which then escalated to the stabbing. Detectives are currently canvassing the complex to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the moments leading up to the stabbing that will aid in the investigation.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. Detectives from the Gang Unit and Domestic Violence Detectives also responded to the scene.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Tisdale is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Homeowner Fatally Shoots Intruder on Rolling Hill Rd

Anthony Aykroid

UPDATE:   The man who was shot in this case has been identified as Anthony Michael Aykroid.  Homicide detectives have concluded that the occupant of the home responsible for shooting the deceased was home alone and observed a car in the driveway and a person walking to the rear of the home.

A short time later the occupant of the home heard someone attempting to kick in the rear door. The occupant of the home announced to the intruder that he was present in the home, but Tony Aykroid continued to kick the door. The home’s occupant, who feared for his life, fired one shot through the back door of the home and struck the deceased who was pronounced on the scene.

Krystina Misskelley

It was also determined the girlfriend of the deceased drove him to the location under the assumption the home was unoccupied.  Additionally, she stated that she and the deceased intended to break into the home to steal property. The girlfriend of the deceased has been identified as Krystina Misskelley and has been charged with attempted breaking and entering and conspiracy to commit a breaking and entering. Additionally, it was determined that the deceased and the homeowner are former acquaintances.

After reviewing the evidence, interviewing several witnesses, gathering information and conferring with the District Attorney’s Office it has been determined that no charges will be filed at this time against the home’s occupant. The entire case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office for a formal review.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are conducting a death investigation into a shooting that took place at 7601 Rolling Hill Road. The call for service initially came in at 1:46 pm.

Hickory Grove patrol officers responded to a private residence on Rolling Hill Road off of East Lake Forest Road in reference to a Breaking and Entering of residence. Upon arrival they located the deceased subject at the location suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The male subject was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic.

Detectives are currently canvassing the neighborhood to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the moments leading up to the shooting that will aid in the investigation.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. Animal control also responded to secure an animal on scene. Representatives of the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Homicide Prosecution Team responded to the scene as well.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective. Detective Brewington is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600

Two Arrested for Breaking & Entering on Bearwood Ave

Devin Alexander

At approximately 10:30 a.m., CMPD officers were dispatched to a breaking and entering in progress call for service of a storage shed in the 4100 block of Bearwood Avenue.  The first officer who arrived on the scene encountered the two suspects behind the storage building.

Each of the suspects were in possession of a motorcycle when the officer approached them. The officer determined that both motorcycles the suspects were in possession of were reported stolen the night before in the University City area.

The officer was able to place both suspects under arrest without incident and recover the property that was reported stolen, he also stopped these property thieves while they were in commission of another crime before they victimized an additional member of our community.

North Tryon Division officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department arrested Devin Alexander and Jaquan Carter for their involvement in a recent breaking and entering case.  Both suspects were taken into custody and charged with two counts of larceny of motor vehicle, possession of stolen goods and breaking and entering with force.  This arrest marks Devin Alexander's 6th arrest in the past 3 years.

Habitual Offender Arrested for Breaking & Entering

Deshawn Speller

Hickory Grove Division Officers with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department have arrested Deshawn Speller.  On Wednesday, April 4, 2012, at approximately 2:30 a.m. officers were dispatched to an alarm call to a home in the 8100 block of Cox Court.

Officers arrived they discovered Speller in a car backed into the driveway with the lights off. Officers also observed a window of the home appeared to be opened to a room that had been ransacked.  In the trunk of the vehicle the suspect was occupying at the time, officers observed a personal computer, gaming system, clothing, and other items belonging to the homeowner. The homeowner advised that she did not give anyone permission to enter her home and remove her property.

Speller was arrested and charged with breaking and entering with force and felony larceny.  This is Speller’s third breaking and entering with force arrest since 2009. The CMPD will continue to work to remove individuals who repeatedly prey on our community from society. Anyone with additional information with regard to this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

UNCC Student Shot near Mallard Creek Church Rd

Davahughn Johnson

UPDATE:  CMPD Detectives with the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team arrested Davahughn Lamar Johnson,17 at Mallard Creek High School for his involvement in the shooting that occurred at 10916 Education Way at The Flatts Apartments.

After conducting their investigation, A/D/W Detectives and University City Division Officers discovered that Mr. Borek and Mr. Johnson were meeting one another to conduct an illegal drug transaction when Mr. Johnson shot Mr. Borek. Mr. Johnson is being charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill/Inflict Serious Injury, Possession with Intent to Sell and Deliver Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Handgun by a Minor.
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John Borek, Jr.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Detectives are searching for a suspect who shot UNCC student John Borek, Jr. in the neck around 12:30am.  Police say Borek was visiting friends at the The Flats of Mallard Creek Apartments near Mallard Creek Church Road.  The shooting occurred in the parking lot. CMPD Officers say the victim was in critical condition and had surgery at CMC-Main early this morning.  He is currently at Carolinas Medical Center in serious condition.

Detectives plan to review surveillance video for clues.  At this time, police say there were no witnesses and they do not know of a motive for the shooting.  UPDATE:  The suspect is described as a black male in his late teens to early 20's driving a 4-door silver or green Toyota Yaris.  If you have any information, please contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.