Woman Killed by Hit & Run Accident - Driver Arrested

Amber DeJesus

UPDATE: The CMPD Major Crash Investigation Unit received information about the driver and vehicle involved in this collision on 11/19/2011. This information led to the arrest of Amber DeJesus. She was subsequently charged with Felony Hit and Run and possession of drug paraphernalia.
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A woman was crossing the 5900 block of Monroe Road when she was struck by a vehicle that was headed inbound toward downtown Charlotte. This vehicle left the scene without leaving any information or rendering aid to the victim.  The victim has been identified as Valerie Miranda.

Medic arrived at the scene and pronounced the victim deceased. The CMPD Major Crash Investigation Unit responded to the scene and is conducting the investigation. The information gathered at the scene indicates the suspect vehicle could be a dark colored pick-up truck with dually rear wheels. This vehicle could have damage to the right front headlight assembly and right front corner.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or the Major Crash Investigation Unit at 704-432-2169.

Armed Robbers Tie up Employees During Store Robbery

CMPD did not send a 'media alert' on this crime so the following is from WBTV News:

Two teenage girls and two adults were working at the La Providencia grocery store when it was robbed at gunpoint Monday night.Charlotte Mecklenburg Police were called to the store at 809 East Arrowood Road near South Boulevard around 11pm.

The employees told police two people with guns came into the store and locked the front doors before pointing their guns at them, demanding money. Police said one of the employees was dragged by her hair and forced to go into a back room with one of the gunmen.  Another employee reported they were tied up.

The robbers took $50,000 in cash and a cell phone. According to a police report, the two gunmen ran out the back door to the business.

If you have any information about this robbery, please contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Shot & Killed on Dianthus Court

CMPD's Homicide Detectives are currently conducting an investigation into a shooting that occurred in the CMPD South Division on Dianthus Court. The victim has been identified and his name will be released once family notification is made. 

At 5:43pm, CMPD Officers arrived on scene and located a male subject suffering from an apparent gunshot wound.  Medic transported the victim to Carolinas Medical Center-Pineville for treatment.  A short time later, the victim succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased by physicians.

The other individual involved has voluntarily been transported to the Law Enforcement Center for questioning and is cooperating fully with detectives. This is not a random act of violence; both parties are known to each other.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process and collect physical evidence.  Detective Morales is the lead detective assigned to the case.

Intoxicated Man Charged with Murder after Accident

Eric Cox

Early this morning, Eric Cox, a driver of a Chevrolet Tahoe, was driving east on E. Sugar Creek Road at a high rate of speed and entered the intersection of The Plaza while the traffic light in his direction was showing red. As he crossed the intersection, he struck a Nissan Altima in the left side. Both vehicles slid through the intersection and came to rest in the southeast corner of the intersection.

The driver of the Nissan, H’Luon Sin, died at the scene from her injuries, and her 4-year old son was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. He is currently listed in critical but stable condition.

Eric Cox was not injured in the crash and he was arrested for DWI at the scene. He was later charged with the listed offenses. Mr. Cox had an alcohol concentration (.04) restriction on his North Carolina driving record from a previous DWI conviction. He has been transported to the Mecklenburg County Jail.

The CMPD Major Crash Investigation Unit responded to the scene and is conducting the investigation. Any persons with information on this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or Detective M.A. Sammis at 704-336-8862.

Shop SAFE and SMART this Holiday Season!

Attorney General Cooper & the BBB encourage shoppers to avoid common problems:

 

Many North Carolina consumers have already started shopping for the holidays, and Attorney General Cooper and the Better Business Bureau of Central North Carolina today encouraged them to take steps to avoid common problems such as items that can’t be returned, gift cards that can’t be used and orders that never arrive.
 

“For many families, giving gifts to loved ones is an important part of holiday celebrations,” Cooper said. “You can make the holidays even more enjoyable if you learn how to avoid potential headaches, shop smart and spend wisely.”
 

“During the holidays, we ask you to pay special attention to family and friends who are senior citizens. These people are usually the first victims of con artists. Their willingness to talk to strangers makes them vulnerable,” added Kevin Hinterberger, president and CEO of the BBB of Central N.C   “Make sure senior citizens in your circle of friends and family know where their money is going.”

 

• Buy from stores you know. Buying from reputable retailers improves the odds that you’ll be able to return or exchange a purchase if needed. To check out a company’s track record, call the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or contact your local Better Business Bureau.

• Shop safely online, too.  If you shop online, stick to buying from well-established companies with secure web sites (look for a lock icon on the site and a web address that starts with “https”). Get the company’s street address and telephone number and verify them before you place an order.

• Learn about refund and return policies. Stores aren’t required by law to accept returned merchandise, so ask about refunds and return policies before you buy. Many retailers offer store credit instead of a cash refund, and some charge a “restocking fee” for returns.   Hang on to receipts, and remember to print receipts for online purchase and keep invoices that arrive with mail order gifts. If your purchase came by mail, you may have to pay shipping costs to return it. 

• Consider paying by credit card to improve your chances of getting a refund if the retailer goes out of business. If you order a gift that never arrives, you may be able to dispute the charge. Also, if your credit card is lost or stolen, federal law limits your liability to $50. 

• Giving gift cards or certificates? If you buy a gift certificate with a credit card and the store or restaurant closes before the certificate can be used, you may be able to contest the charge through your credit card company. Under North Carolina law, retailers can’t charge a maintenance fee on their gift cards within the first year and must clearly disclose any fees they’ll deduct from the value of the gift card after that. 

• Give wisely.  Planning to make a donation as part of your holiday gift giving? Learn where your money will go and how it will be used. Research charities with the BBB’s Wise Giving Alliance and the NC Secretary of State’s Office. Give to causes that you choose rather than being swayed by high-pressure telemarketers or text messages and emails that may be scams.

• Remember that criminals and scammers don’t take a holiday. Always be aware of your surroundings and protect your wallet and access to your credit or debit cards when in public. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Consider paying by credit card because federal law limits your liability if your credit card is stolen. And never share personal information with telemarketers who call you or respond to emails or text messages that ask you for personal information. 

To check out a company with the Attorney General’s Office or file a consumer complaint, call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM toll-free within North Carolina or visit www.ncdoj.gov. To check out a company’s record or file a complaint with your local Better Business Bureau, visit www.bbb.org.

Five Years Later... Still Stealing Cars

Jermaine Hoover

On January 20, 2006, Jermaine Hoover stole my vehicle and totaled it running from the police.  It looks like he is still thugging and stealing cars nearly six years later.

Hoover was arrested again yesterday for possession of a stolen vehicle.

Hoover is in the Mecklenburg County jail with a bond of $15,000.

Bank Robbery: RBC Centura on East Blvd

On Wednesday, November 23, 2011, at approximately 4:40 p.m., the shown suspect entered the RBC Bank branch located at 1000 East Blvd. and pretended to be a customer. The suspect then approached one of the tellers and demanded money.

The suspect obtained cash and fled on foot. There was no weapon seen and no injuries occurred as a result of the robbery. The suspect description is:

Race / Sex: Black male
Date of Birth: Approx. 35 years old
Height: Approx. 5ft 4in tall
Weight: 230 pounds, heavy build
Hair: Short black in color
Clothing: Black ball cap, white short-sleeve T-shirt (that was long in the body), black pants. He was wearing gold colored wire rim sunglasses.
Other: The suspect wore a mustache. The suspect was last seen on foot.

If there is any information available from the public, pertaining to this robbery, please contact the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department or Crime Stoppers. The Crime Stoppers telephone number is (704) 334-1600.

Man Shot & Killed on Ambassador Street

UPDATE: Zamario Delandro Blakeney and Lakeem Roamele Baker have been charged with the murder of Mr. Glenn.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and ADW Unit are conducting an investigation into a shooting near the 900 block of Ambassador Street in the Metro Division, which left one person deceased. The call for service was reported at 10:37 p.m., on November 24, 2011. The victim has been identified as Justin Glenn.

Metro Division officers responded to Ambassador Street to investigate the report of a person shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located a black male subject suffering from an apparent gunshot wound; he was pronounced deceased on scene. Based upon initial information, this is not a random act of violence. The victim and suspect were meeting to conduct a drug transaction, when a brief altercation occurred and the suspect fired a weapon striking the victim. All witnesses have been transported to the Law Enforcement Center to provide statements.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process and collect physical evidence. The Vice & Narcotics Unit responded to the scene as well to aid in the investigation.

Detective Sarvis the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Two Killed & Three Arrested for Murder and Armed Robbery

Dominick Cole

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit is conducting an investigation that occurred in the Freedom Division. The call for service was reported at 6:45 p.m. on November 21, 2011. The victims have been identified as Benjamin Acahua-Itehua and Floriberto Acahua-Itehua.

CMPD Freedom Division officers responded to a Missing Persons call for service near the 11200 block of Mt. Holly Road. The caller advised that he had not seen or spoken to his cousin in several days.

When officers arrived at the residence, they located evidence that was consistent with foul play. Another complainant arrived at the residence to check on his employee who had not shown up for work.

Efrain Tzompaxtle

The officers then contacted Missing Persons and Homicide Unit detectives to take the lead on the investigation. Based upon information developed during the course of the investigation, there was missing property, including vehicles that belonged to the victims. Detectives canvassed the neighborhood to follow any leads and additional information.

Upon further investigation, suspects were developed and a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) was sent out to surrounding agencies. Within a short time period, three suspects were apprehended; Aquilino Tzompaxtle, Dominick Vershon Cole and Efrain Tzompaxtle. This is not a random act of violence; the victims and suspects were known to each other.

Aquillino Tzompaxtle

Detectives with the Homicide Unit as well as the Fayetteville Police Department and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina worked cohesively together to apprehend these suspects.

Each suspect has been charged with 2 counts of Murder and Armed Robbery, and will be transported to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office where they will remain in their custody.

VINELink- NC's Free Offender Notification Service

NC SAVAN Resources:  VINELink is the online version of VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), the National Victim Notification Network. This service allows crime victims to obtain timely and reliable information about criminal cases and the custody status of offenders 24-hours a day.

Victims and other concerned citizens can also register to be notified by phone, e-mail, text message (SMS) or TTY device when an offender's custody status changes.  Users can also register through their participating state or county toll-free number.

34 Offenders Convicted by the D.A.'s 'Crimes Against Persons Team'

Thirty-four defendants plead guilty in Mecklenburg County Superior Court before The Honorable Robert C. Ervin, Superior Court Judge. The defendants entered their guilty pleas between Monday, November 7th - Thursday, November 10, 2011.

Among those to plead guilty were:
Gennadiy Rizhkov, 31, plead guilty to second degree sex offense. Rizhkov was sentenced to 44-62 months in prison.

Renee Portillo, 22, plead guilty to taking indecent liberties with a child. Portillo was sentenced to 10-12 months in prison.

Terry Clay, 21, plead guilty to assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill. Clay was sentenced to 26-41 months in prison.

Andre Staton, 22, plead guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Staton was sentenced to 13-16 months in prison.

Keshia Newton, 28, plead guilty to conspiracy to commit common law robbery. Newton was sentenced to 10-12 months in prison.

Student Brings Gun to Hidden Valley Elementary School

According to several news sources,  a 5th grade CMS student brought an unloaded gun to Hidden Valley Elementary school yesterday. 

The report states the 5th grader spilled bullets on the bus at a separate time and a fellow first grade student found one of the bullets and brought it home to their Mother, who contacted the school.

Toys-for-Tots Campaign Starts Today!

On November 22nd, The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Charlotte Fire Department and the U.S. Marine Corps kicked off the 2011 'Toys for Tots' campaign to help bring Christmas to the underprivileged in Mecklenburg County.

* During this campaign the community is encouraged to bring new toys to any Charlotte Fire Station. These items will be collected as part of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Explorers Christmas Project. *

The CMPD, CFD and USMC have worked together for more than thirty years to ensure the neediest children in our community have toys to open on Christmas Day!  Thank you CMPD, CFD & USMC. 
* Event Info on Facebook

WANTED: Charlotte's Non-Compliant Sex Offenders

The following 33 registered sex offenders in Mecklenburg County have failed to notify the Sheriff's Department of a valid address.  All 33 people shown in this slideshow have active warrants for arrest.  If you have any information on their immediate whereabouts, call 911 or call in a tip to Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.




(RSS Feed)

 Useful Links:

• National Sex Offender Registry
• North Carolina Department of Justice Victim and Citizens Services
• North Carolina Department of Correction Offender Search Page
• US Federal Bureau of Prisons Inmate Locator
• North Carolina Attorney General’s Internet Safety
• NC General Assembly
• NC Sheriff’s Association
• NCMEC - Preventing the Sexual Exploitation of Children

Six Habitual Felons Sentenced to Prison Terms

The Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Habitual Felon Team called six cases for trial the week of November 14, 2011. The trials were held before the Honorable Yvonne Mims Evans, Superior Court Judge, Honorable Linwood O. Foust, Superior Court Judge, and the Honorable Richard D. Boner, Senior Resident Superior Court Judge.

John Mayhew, 31, was tried for 1) possessing with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, 2) selling cocaine, 3) delivering cocaine, and 4) being a habitual felon. The jury found Mayhew guilty of selling cocaine, delivering cocaine, and being a habitual felon. Judge Evans sentenced Mayhew to 98-127 months in prison. Some of Mayhew’s prior convictions include embezzlement, felony breaking or entering, larceny after breaking or entering, and assault on a female.

Terrell Williams, 22, was tried for 1) felony breaking or entering, 2) felony conspiracy, and 3) being a habitual felon. The jury found Williams guilty of both felony breaking or entering and conspiracy, and he admitted his status as a habitual felon. Judge Boner sentenced Williams to 88-115 months in prison. Some of Williams’ prior convictions include multiple counts of felony breaking or entering, larceny after breaking or entering, larceny of a motor vehicle, and possession of a stolen vehicle.

Wesley Davis, 57, was tried for 1) felony breaking or entering and 2) being a habitual felon. The jury found Davis guilty of felony breaking or entering and he admitted his status as a habitual felon. Judge Foust sentenced Davis to 76-101 months in prison. Some of Davis’s prior convictions include uttering a forged instrument, breaking or entering a motor vehicle, larceny of a motor vehicle, assault on a government officer, as well as convictions in federal court.

George Thompson, 40, was called for trial and changed his previous plea of not guilty to guilty as charged to 1) possessing a stolen vehicle and 2) being a habitual felon. Judge Boner sentenced Thompson to 117-150 months in prison. Some of Thompson’s prior convictions include robbery with a dangerous weapon, assault with a deadly weapon, multiple counts of felony breaking or entering, assault on a female, and communicating threats.

Maurice Patton, 36, was called for trial and changed his previous plea of not guilty to guilty as charged to 1) two counts of possessing with intent to sell of deliver cocaine, 2) two counts of selling cocaine, 3) one count of delivering cocaine, and 4) being a habitual felon. Judge Evans sentenced Patton to 114-146 months in prison. Patton has in excess of thirty prior felony convictions including multiple counts of breaking or entering.

Carlos Phillips, 32, was called for trial. During jury selection, Phillips changed his previous plea of not guilty to guilty as charged to 1) possessing a firearm by a convicted felon, 2) possessing with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, 3) possessing of drug paraphernalia, and 4) being a habitual felon. Judge Boner sentenced Phillips to 88-115 months in prison. Some of Phillips’ prior convictions include robbery, larceny of a motor vehicle, assault on a female and felony drug charges.

Sex Offender on Electronic Monitoring Charged with Rape

Jason Miller

UPDATE:  4/24/12- Jason Miller was found dead in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg County jail this morning.  According to the Sheriff Dept, it appears to be a natural death.

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It is my opinion that some criminals cannot be stopped nor rehabilitated!  For example, 38-year old Jason Lamont Miller.  He is a registered sex offender and on electronic monitoring who is accused of raping a woman in the early morning hours Wednesday on North Graham St.

Thankfully, the victim noticed the suspect was wearing an ankle bracelet so her testimony is the only reason why he was apprehended quickly.

According to a Charlotte Observer article,  Miller had been released from prison in 2010 after serving two years for taking indecent liberties with a minor, and was being monitored by authorities there, said Capt. Mike Smathers, who oversees the department's robbery and sexual assault unit.

Charlotte's Missing Persons

Persons Reported Missing in 2011:

Woman Found Dead in Parking Lot on North Tryon Street

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit and A/D/W Unit are conducting a homicide investigation at 1018 North Tryon Street in the Metro Division. The call for service was reported at 7:02 pm, on Wednesday, November 16, 2011. The victim has been positively identified as Bridgette Nicole Evans. Sadly, Evans has appeared on this website several times due to her history of prostitution arrests.

Metro Division officers responded to a Person Down call for service in reference to a woman who was found lying on the ground behind a business. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying unresponsive in the parking lot. Medic transported her to Carolinas Medical Center where she was pronounced deceased at 8:07 p.m. Based upon initial statements, witnesses saw a woman lying on the ground and went to a nearby business to call 911 and report the incident.

Detectives are currently following up on leads and will continue to canvass the area in the coming hours to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the area that may be related to this 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 Tisdale is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Man Shot & Killed at the Steeplechase Apartments

WANTED:  Jeremiah Luke

UPDATE II (11/22/11)-  Luke turned himself in to authorities.  He is currently in the Meck County Jail.

UPDATE:   Detectives with the CMPD Homicide Unit have obtained a warrant for the arrest of Jeremiah Lamont Luke charging him with the murder of Mr. Legrande. Homicide Unit Detectives are requesting the assistance from the public in helping to locate Mr. Luke.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are conducting an investigation into a shooting which left one man dead at the Steeplechase Apartments. The incident took place in the parking area outside of 7228 Wallace Road, in the Independence Division. The call for service was reported at 12:05 am. The victim has been positively identified as Mikal Lee Legrande.

Independence Division officers responded to an A/D/W call for service in reference to a man who had been shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying unresponsive in the parking lot; he was pronounced deceased on the scene. Based upon initial witness statements, the victim and a friend came to the apartment complex to meet another subject.

Witnesses stated that the victim was outside in the parking lot when they heard a gunshot. When they went outside to see what had happened, they found the victim lying in the parking lot suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Detectives are currently following up on leads provided by residents of the complex. Detectives will continue to canvass the complex in the coming hours to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the area that may be related to this investigation.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. The K-9 Unit responded to the scene to assist in the investigation.

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

Side Note: The North Carolina Department of Correction says Luke spent about 13 years in prison after being convicted of second-degree murder in Charlotte in 1995.  

Man Tried and Convicted of Killing Landlord

Shawn Howard

Shawn D. Howard, 29, was tried for first-degree murder and discharging a firearm into occupied property, for the 2008 shooting death of Jacob Massachi, 53.  Today, the jury returned verdicts of guilty as charged.

The Honorable Richard D. Boner, Senior Resident Superior Court Judge, sentenced the defendant to life in prison without the possibility of parole, plus 25-39 additional months in prison.

On the afternoon of July 29, 2008, Mr. Massachi, the defendant’s landlord, was sitting in his work van in front of the defendant’s residence, preparing to leave for the day. The defendant, who was being evicted from the residence that same day, approached the van with a shotgun and fired one shot at Mr. Massachi from close range. Multiple eyewitnesses were present when the murder occurred. The defendant fled the scene but was apprehended by Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officers that evening.

Man and Woman Shot & Killed in Parking Lot at Four Seasons Apartments

WANTED:  Rogelio Hernandez

11/13/11- UPDATE:  Murder warrants have been signed on Rogelio Tecuapa Hernandez.

in regards to this case. Homicide Unit Detectives are requesting the assistance from the media and the public in helping to locate Mr. Hernandez. Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Mr. Hernandez is asked to call the CMPD Violent Criminal Apprehension Team at 704-336-VCAT (8228).

VCAT conducts fugitive recovery investigations and operations targeting the most violent offenders operating or located within the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. The unit maintains sworn status through the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshal's Service in order to pursue individuals preying upon the citizens of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County wherever they may flee. 


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7/16/11-  At 2:21am, Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit began conducting an investigation into a shooting which left two people dead in the parking lot of 6520 Four Seasons Lane.


The homicide victims have been positively identified as Jorge Luis Morales and Olivia Raquel Martinez-Mercado.

'VEHICLE OF INTEREST'

CMPD Hickory Grove Division officers responded to the parking lot of the Four Seasons Apartments to investigate the report of a shooting. When officers arrived on scene, they located a female and a male inside a Jeep SUV.

The male victim was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic shortly after their arrival. The female victim was transported by Medic to Carolinas Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries at 3:24 am.

Based upon initial witness statements, multiple gunshots were fired in the parking lot. A black SUV occupied by at least one black male was seen leaving the complex heading towards Albemarle Road; in addition, a black male was seen running from the scene of the shooting also towards Albemarle Road.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence.  Anyone with information about this incident OR any information about the shown vehicle, please call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a Homicide Unit Detective.   Detective King is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Woman Raped by Man off Sugar Creek Rd

According to a news report by WBTV News, a man is still on the loose after raping a Charlotte woman as she walked into her home off Osceola Lane, which is near West Sugar Creek Road around 8:30 pm.

A man with a knife in his hand ordered her to get inside her house and get on the ground, the report stated. The suspect then raped her, took her car keys, $60 in cash and a laptop valued at $500, according to CMPD.

The rape occurred in the Potter Glenn neighborhood.  Police only have a vague description of the suspect and said he's a black male. The Sexual Assault Unit is actively investigating this incident and anyone with any information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-336-1600 or Detective C.A Banner at 704-336-8279.

Man Stabbed to Death on Northcliff Drive

Anka Thompson

UPDATE: Anka Lynne Thompson was arrested and charged with the murder of Mr. Gaskins. The two were known to each other as this was not a random act of violence. Ms. Thompson has been transported to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office, where she will remain in their custody.  
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department A/D/W and Homicide Units are conducting an investigation into an A/D/W, which left one person dead. The incident took place at 1824 Northcliff Drive in the Metro Division. The call for service came in at 11:13 pm on Friday, November 11, 2011. The victim has been identified as Leonard Gaskins.

Metro Division officers responded to an Assault with a Deadly Weapon call for service. Upon their arrival, they located the victim suffering from an apparent stab wound. Medic responded to the scene and transported the victim to Carolinas Medical Center-Main where he succumbed to his injuries. Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood locating witnesses and additional information.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process the scene and collect physical evidence. 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 Rainwater is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Detectives Conducting a Murder Investigation at the Runaway Bay Apts

Kayie Wright

UPDATE: CMPD Homicide Unit Detectives have arrested Kayie Wright and charged him with the murder of Catherine (Cathy) Barca.  Wright has been charged with Murder, Robbery and Auto Theft.
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Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit are conducting a murder investigation in the parking lot of the Runaway Bay Apartments. The incident took place in the parking area outside of 8110 Runaway Bay Drive at 9:00 pm on Thursday, November 10, 2011. The victim has been positively identified as 50-year old Catherine Barca.

Independence Division officers responded to a call for service in reference to a woman who was found lying unresponsive in the parking lot, was naked from the waist down and severely beaten over the head.  She was pronounced deceased on the scene. Cathy Barca lives approx. four miles from where Wright dumped her body.

Detectives are currently following up on leads provided by residents of the complex. Detectives will continue to canvass the complex in the coming hours to determine if anyone saw or heard anything in the area that may be related to this investigation. As additional information develops, it will be released by the CMPD Public Affairs Office.

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

CPCC Student Robbed near Central Campus

CPCC's Security & Emergency Management Department is reporting that on Tuesday, November 8th at approximately 1 pm,  a CPCC student was the victim of an off-campus robbery along Elizabeth Avenue near the CPCC Central Campus.

During the incident, two suspects reportedly took the student’s personal property by force. The victim suffered an injury and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. The suspects are described as two black males- one was wearing a black coat and the other wearing a black hoodie.

CMPD is investigating the incident at this time.  Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or text information to TIP372.

Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Murder

Jamarr Springs

Jamarr Tremayne Springs, 29, plead guilty to the murder of Pamela Garmon and other related charges. The Honorable F. Lane Williamson, Superior Court Judge, imposed a consecutive sentence that totals 425 to 580 months (35-48 years) in prison.

Ms. Garmon was shot and killed by Springs on December 1, 2010 at approximately 10:30 pm in a home they shared.  Jamarr Springs chased Ms. Garmon through their home shooting at her as many as twenty times with an assault rifle. Ms. Garmon died as a result of multiple gunshot wounds.

After killing Ms. Garmon, Springs fled to North Lake Mall where he shot at two mall patrons and kidnapped a third who was later released unharmed.

Wanted by CMPD: Tomonta Simmons

Tomonta Simmons

Tomonta Simmons is wanted by the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) for outstanding warrants for interfering with an electronic monitoring device.  Simmons was released from jail on December 18, 2010 and placed on probation with the NC Department of Community Corrections and he was being monitored by CMPD.

On November 9, 2011 Simmons cut off his court ordered monitor and is currently on the run. Simmons was last seen in the area of I-277 and I-77.

Tomonta Simmons has previously been arrested for felony drug and weapon charges in Mecklenburg County.

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

CMPD and the NC Department of Community Corrections are involved in a pilot program to monitor priority offenders on probation. Simmons is the second offender to cut off a CMPD electronic monitor as part of this pilot program which is in its second year.

Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test on Wednesday at 2pm

On Wednesday, November 9th, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct the first national test of the Nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS) test. This nationwide test will kick off at 2:00 p.m. (EST) and run concurrently across all time zones.

This system test is the first of its kind designed to broadcast a nationwide message to the American public. In the history of the country, nothing like it has been conducted on such a level. As you may be aware, there have been tests in the past, but not of this magnitude encompassing all regions of the United States simultaneously. The three (3) minute test will run concurrently on all radio and Television band stations exceeding the previous messages broadcast which were anywhere from a 30 second to 1 minute message.

The test message on TV may not indicate that it is just a test. This lack of an explanation concerning the message might create confusion. Please share this information with your friends and family so they are aware of the scheduled test!!

Click here for FEMA's website that will provide more information concerning this test.

Male Body Found Floating in Pond in South Charlotte

Earlier today, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police were called to the Carolina Pavilion Shopping Center when a someone noticed a dead body floating in a retention pond on the property, located approx. 200 yards from Kohl's on the far side of the shopping center.

CMPD Search and rescue crews responded to the Carolina Pavilion Shopping Center (off I-485) at 9500 South Boulevard shortly before 2:00 pm to retrieve the body but police are not ready to release the male victim's name nor the exact cause of death.

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

23 Habitual Felons Sentenced to Prison

The Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Habitual Felon Team prosecuted 23 felons in the Mecklenburg County Superior Court from November 1-4, 2011. All of the defendants plead guilty and were given prison sentences. The cases were heard before The Honorable F. Lane Williamson, Superior Court Judge.   Among those convicted were:

Paulnique Eli Earl, 20, plead guilty to 1) felony larceny of a motor vehicle and 2) being a habitual felon. Earl was sentenced to 50-69 months in prison.

Brandon Howard, 23, plead guilty to 1) six counts of felony breaking or entering a motor vehicle, 2) five counts of financial card theft, and 3) being a habitual felon. Howard was sentenced to 76-101 months in prison.

Calvin Scott, 39, plead guilty to 1) felony breaking or entering a motor vehicle and 2) being a habitual felon. Scott was sentenced to 87-114 months in prison.

Ladante Hudson, 29, plead guilty to possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine within 1000 feet of a school; he was sentenced to 38-55 months in prison.

Allen Lowery, 52, plead guilty to 1) felony breaking or entering and 2) felony larceny after breaking or entering. Lowery was sentenced to 50-60 months in prison.

Derek Manning, 38, plead guilty to selling cocaine within 1000 feet of a school; he was sentenced to 40-57 months in prison.

Willie Marble, 38, pled guilty to 1) felony breaking or entering, 2) possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, and 3) possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine. Marble was sentenced to 24-30 months in prison. However, after a request from the defendant, Judge Williamson ordered that his sentence shall not begin until January 9, 2012; Marble was ordered to report to the Mecklenburg County Jail on that date.

Levitcus Johnson, 28, plead guilty to 1) felony breaking or entering and 2) felony larceny after breaking or entering. Johnson was sentenced to 38-55 months in prison.

Cornelius Tillman, 33, plead guilty to selling ccocaine within 1000 feet of a school; he was sentenced to 63-85 months in prison. However, after a request from the defendant, Judge Williamson ordered that his sentence shall not begin until January 6, 2012; Tillman was ordered to report to the Mecklenburg County Jail on that date.

Frenchetta Parker, 34, plead guilty to 1) five counts of identity theft and 2) larceny by employee. Parker also admitted probation violations; she was sentenced to 48-60 months in prison.

Barby Barchue, 34, plead guilty to trafficking in cocaine; he was sentenced to 35-42 months in prison and fined $50,000.

Demario Jenkins, 32, plead guilty to 1) two counts of felony possession of stolen goods and 2) being a habitual felon. Jenkins was sentenced to 58-79 months in prison.

CMPD & Murder Victim's Family Want Justice!

Kellie Owens

On December 27, 2007, Kellie Owens was found dead in her University City apartment.  Her 2-year old daughter was found unharmed inside the apartment.  To this day, Kellie Owens murder remains unsolved. 

Last week, Owens' mother, Linda, spoke with the media to ask for the public's help in locating her daughter's killer.  She said she's experienced "unimaginable pain" since the death of her only child. 

Kellie Owens grew up in Charlotte and attended Independence High School.  At the time of her murder, she was working with at-risk youth at CMS Schools.  If you have any information for police, please call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 704-334-1600.  The reward for information is at $5,000.

CMPD Investigating Robbery/Shooting on Archdale Dr

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Robbery Unit are conducting an investigation into an Armed Robbery that resulted in a shooting which took place on Archdale Dr, located in the Westover Division. The incident left one person injured.

Westover Division Officers responded to the 5900 block of South Boulevard to investigate the report of a person shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located a black male subject suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Medic transported the victim to Carolinas Medical Center, where he was rushed into surgery upon arrival. The victim was able to advise who shot him and the location as well.

Based on the initial investigation, the subject was meeting the suspect to conduct a transaction and as he was walking away, the suspect shot him and fled the scene on foot. As officers were canvassing the area for the suspect, officers located the suspect and a foot chase ensued. While doing so, an officer was injured while attempting to scale a wrought iron fence. He was transported to Presbyterian Hospital for treatment of his injuries. The suspect was apprehended and taken to the Law Enforcement Center for questioning. Detectives are canvassing the neighborhood to determine if there are any additional witnesses to this incident.

Crime Scene Search responded to the call for service to process and collect physical evidence. The K-9 Unit, Vice & Narcotics, and the Gang Unit responded to the scene as well to aid in the investigation.

Detective Clausius-Padilla is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.