BRADENTON BEACH – Bradenton Beach Police officers Devon Straight and Tom Ferrara were at the Circle K near Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach when a concerned citizen came in and told them there was a man on the Bradenton Beach side of the Cortez Bridge screaming for help and running into traffic. The incident began around 7:35 p.m. on May 7.
“Myself and Officer Ferrara quickly responded and soon located the male standing in the middle of Cortez Road next to the Bradenton Beach Police station,” Straight said in a written report. “The male, later identified as Gregory Cawley, appeared wide-eyed and very anxious.”
Officers said that throughout the encounter, Cawley continued to reference people on the scene that weren’t there, including a group of people across the street that were watching the incident. No such group was present on the scene, leading officers to believe he was hallucinating and, due to his dilated pupils, they believed the incident was drug-related.
Straight’s report said Cawley was still fighting police and trying to break free even after EMS arrived and he was handcuffed to a stretcher. Once in the ambulance, he admitted to snorting and consuming crystal meth, although no drugs were found on him. Cawley was taken to HCA Blake Medical Center.
ANNA MARIA – After suffering a major heart attack in December, Sgt. Brett Getman is back on duty and again leading the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s (MCSO) Anna Maria Unit.
Getman’s heart attack occurred on Dec. 19. He returned to his full-time law enforcement duties on March 29.
“On Wednesday, the 29th, I was released to come back to full active duty. It feels great. I was a little anxious about getting back to work for the first time in a couple months, but I love being out here in Anna Maria. I love the citizens. I love the businesses. I have a great relationship with everybody, so it’s good to be back to what I like to call my second home,” Getman said.
When his heart attack occurred, Getman was on duty, filling out a report and working in the MCSO satellite office in the city hall building. Deputy Jared Leggett was also in the office at that time and his quick actions likely saved Getman’s life.
Lifesaving actions
On Jan. 3, Getman and Leggett participated in a press conference held at city hall.
“I came back to the office and started doing my report. I was sitting at the desk typing and everything just went black,” Getman said during the press conference. “Thank God Deputy Leggett was in the office with me. If he wasn’t there, I would not be here. The medics treated me quickly and transported me to Blake (HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton).”
Getman referred to his heart attack as a ‘widowmaker’ – the type of heart attack that occurs when the heart’s largest artery is blocked.
Deputy Jared Leggett and Sgt. Brett Getman shared their stories during a Jan. 3 press conference. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
During the press conference Leggett said, “We do a lot of our reports in our cars. On this day, I went back to the office. We started having a conversation about what we were going to charge the defendant with. Just after we finished our conversation, he fell out of his chair. At first, I thought he was having a seizure. I checked for a pulse. He didn’t have one. I started CPR immediately and started doing chest compressions.
“On the desk, where he sits, was the AED (defibrillator). I grabbed the AED after two rounds of CPR. I hit the shock button and gave him his first round and started CPR again. About five or six minutes in, Sgt. Tommy Fraser from the Holmes Beach Police Department showed up and was able to relieve me on CPR so I could go get a VBM (breathing device) and start working on his airway. I had one in my truck.”
Leggett was a firefighter and an EMT before he joined the sheriff’s office 11 years ago.
Lifestyle changes
While standing outside of city hall Friday morning, Getman discussed his return to work, his recovery and the lifestyle changes he’s made.
“I’ve dropped a significant amount of weight. I live off chicken, fish and a lot of vegetables. I’m drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated – no soda and no carbonization whatsoever. I’m exercising and walking a couple miles a day. It’s a definite lifestyle change, but when you’re given that second chance you don’t want to take it for granted,” he said.
Getman’s heart attack reshaped his outlook on life.
“It changes a person. It changed me wholeheartedly. You look at a lot of things differently. You don’t take things so seriously and you don’t let the little things bother you anymore. You just can’t. You just move on. I’m thankful every day that I can wake up and come back to work and look at the ocean and spend time with my family and see everybody,” Getman said.
“It’s cliché to say you’re thankful, but I can’t thank Jared enough for being there when he was –
and West Manatee Fire Rescue and Sgt. Fraser from Holmes Beach, Doctor Baig and all the medical staff. You’re indebted to them for the rest of your life. It’s still emotional at times, when you sit back and think about it, but life goes on and you’ve got to live it,” he said.
Getman acknowledged there’s a certain amount of stress associated with being the leader of a law enforcement unit.
“Thankfully, I have a good administration that gives me a lot of support. They are taking on more of the workload that I used to carry. With that, I’ll be able to manage everything else out here just like I used to and it will be just fine,” he said.
Getman’s return coincides with the Island’s peak tourist season.
“The city’s busy. It’s nice to see everybody out and about. It’s nice to see all the activity and all the kids around. I’m just enjoying the scenery out here,” he said.
ANNA MARIA – Sgt. Brett Getman is recovering from a heart attack he suffered while on duty on Dec. 19 and he credits Deputy Jared Leggett and others for saving his life.
Getman has led the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Anna Maria Unit since January 2020. Leggett transferred to the Anna Maria Unit in early December.
On Tuesday, Jan. 3, Getman and Leggett spoke during a press conference held at Anna Maria City Hall and organized by the Sheriff’s Office in response to press inquiries from The Sun and Fox 13 Tampa Bay.
Also in attendance were Getman’s mother, Vicki Getman, his father, Ron Getman, his daughter, Abbey Getman, his sister, Amy Lock and his brother-in-law, Keith Lock, who serves as a Manatee County EMS district chief. Getman’s daughters Sophia and Savannah were unable to attend.
Family members Ron Getman, Vicki Getman, Abbey Getman, Amy Lock and Keith Lock joined Sgt. Brett Getman (center) at the press conference. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Tampa-based American Heart Association Communications Director Johnny Johnson also attended the media event that coincidentally occurred the morning after NFL player Damar Hamlin experienced cardiac arrest during the nationally televised Buffalo Bills-Cincinnati Bengals football game.
“On Dec. 19th, around 10:30 in the morning, we got a call for a trespassing complaint. We located the subject on the beach and made the arrest,” Getman said.
The alleged criminal activity occurred at an unlocked vacation rental home at 806 North Shore Drive. The incident sheet names 26-year-old Devon Keith Guidry as the alleged offender and lists unarmed burglary of an unoccupied dwelling as the alleged offense. Getman said he located the suspect on the beach near Magnolia Avenue.
“We’ve had issues with the same subject before but we hadn’t been able to pinpoint him at a location. He was going into unlocked vacation rentals. We’ve stressed to the rental companies that their cleaners and other contractors need to lock the doors when they leave,” Getman said.
“I came back to the office (in the city hall building) and started doing my report. I was sitting at the desk typing and everything just went black. Thank God Deputy Leggett was in the office with me. If he wasn’t there, I would not be here. The medics treated me quickly and transported me to Blake Medical Center (HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton).”
Deputy Jared Leggett visited Sgt. Brett Getman at the HCA Florida Blake Hospital in Bradenton. – Amy Lock | Submitted
Getman referred to his heart attack as a “widowmaker” – the type of heart attack that occurs when the heart’s largest artery is blocked.
When asked how he felt, Get- man said, “I’m doing OK. I’m sticking to the advice of my doctors and doing what they tell me. It’s cliché to say it’s a true blessing, but that’s exactly what it is. I have a second chance at this life. I know that I have something more to give and something more that I have to provide for my children. I wasn’t meant to go yet.”
When asked when he might return to work, Getman said, “It’s up to the doctors. There’s no timetable right now for a return.”
Lt. Lou Licata is currently in charge of the Anna Maria Unit.
Leggett’s actions
“We do a lot of our reports in our cars. On this day, I went back to the office,” Leggett said. “We started having a conversation about what we were going to charge the defendant with. Just after we finished our conversation, he (Getman) fell out of his chair. At first, I thought he was having a seizure. I checked for a pulse. He didn’t have one. I started CPR immediately and started doing chest compressions. On the desk where he sits was the AED (defibrillator). I grabbed the AED after two rounds of CPR. I hit the shock button and gave him his first round and started CPR again. About five or six minutes in, Sgt. Tommy Fraser from the Holmes Beach Police Department showed up and was able to relieve me on CPR so I could go get a VBM (breathing device) and start working on his airway. I had one in my truck.”
Leggett was a firefighter and an EMT before joining the sheriff’s office nearly 11 years ago and Keith Lock was one of his EMT instructors.
“It all kind of goes full circle,” Leggett said. “Sgt. Getman is a perfect example of how important CPR is. If you have the opportunity to learn CPR and AED usage it could save a life. I’ve done CPR on other individuals, but this is my sergeant, my supervisor, my friend I’m trying to save. I’m grateful he’s still here with us.”
While being transported to the hospital, Getman received a police escort through the Holmes Beach detours.
“I thank God for Deputy Leggett and Sgt. Fraser. I also want to thank West Manatee Fire Rescue and Manatee County EMS. And my surgeon Dr. Baig was phenomenal. I remember talking to him and saying, ‘Don’t let me die. I have my kids.’ I want to thank everybody for their love and support,” Getman said.
Regarding Hamlin’s on-field cardiac arrest, Getman said, “Obviously, it got my attention. It’s more personal now when I see anything like that.”
Deputy Jared Leggett and Sgt. Brett Getman shared a hug after their press conference. – Joe Hendricks | Sun
Heart Association
“It’s an amazing story. Everything happened the exact way it’s supposed to,” Johnson said of Getman’s close call. “We want to tell people that CPR is easier than you think. You only need to know two steps: call 911 and then push hard and push fast until help arrives. There’s no liability risk for trying to save somebody’s life. Good Samaritan laws will protect you. Contact the American Heart Association at Heart.organd we can help you find CPR training, and you can learn hands-only CPR in two minutes with thevideo at our website. We encourage everyone to feel comfortable performing CPR.”
Family thoughts
Vicki Getman said, “I think God has something else planned for Brett and our family had our miracle at Christmas. He’s only 48 years old. He’s too young. The doctor at Blake was absolutely wonderful.”
Ron Getman said, “We’re just so happy that Jared was available to save our son’s life. Had he not been there, we would’ve had a funeral instead of a Christmas celebration.”
BRADENTON BEACH – Despite multiple police departments, a helicopter and a K9 unit, a suspect remains at large after a high-speed pursuit on Oct. 15 ended with an SUV crashing into the Gulf of Mexico.
The encounter began as Holmes Beach police observed headlights driving on the beach around 2 a.m. and began to pursue the vehicle. Police believe the vehicle drove onto the beach in Anna Maria, but the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, which patrols Anna Maria, was not yet involved in the chase.
According to a report filed by Bradenton Beach Police Officer Devon Straight, the Chevrolet SUV was driving on the beach at such a high rate of speed that Holmes Beach officers in pursuit lost sight of the vehicle. Straight was monitoring the radio, realizing the vehicle would soon enter into his jurisdiction.
“While on scene at Via Roma, I observed a pair of headlights on the beach quickly approaching. The truck then passed by me at a dangerously high rate of speed, at which time I made my way back to my patrol car and attempted to catch up to the vehicle,” Straight said in his report.
After activating his lights and siren, Straight pursued the SUV on Gulf Drive before entering the beach at the beach access in the 1300 block of Gulf Drive. Even though the vehicle could only continue down the beach or cross back over to Gulf Drive at some point, stopping the fleeing truck and arresting the driver would prove to be incredibly difficult.
“The truck appeared to be traveling approximately 100 mph down the beach, and it stayed at least 15 blocks ahead of me,” Straight said. “I then lost visual on the truck around the 300 block of Gulf Drive South, believing it had possibly gotten back on Gulf Drive or had blacked out their headlights.”
Straight then left the beach and got back on Gulf Drive heading southbound towards Coquina Beach, attempting to get a visual on the vehicle. After about 10 minutes of searching, witnesses that were fishing in the area said they saw the vehicle driving recklessly on Coquina Beach, according to the report.
Straight then returned to the beach in his patrol car and continued to Longboat Pass, following the tire tracks of the suspect vehicle, which he found located more than 15 feet off the beach partially submerged in the Gulf of Mexico.
“I notified dispatch of my location and called out perimeter positions for responding units,” Straight said. “I then held the vehicle at gunpoint until a Holmes Beach officer arrived and we confirmed the vehicle was unoccupied.”
A possible suspect was detained at the scene and released because police were unable to positively link him to the vehicle at the time.
The search for the driver of the SUV intensified as the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office assisted with a K9 unit and a helicopter. The K9 alerted to a man crossing over the Longboat Key Bridge into the town of Longboat Key.
The driver was described as a Hispanic male in a camouflage long-sleeved shirt. Witnesses fishing on the bridge said someone matching that description crossed the bridge on foot shortly after the crash, complaining of a back injury, confirming the escape route the K9 unit detected. The witnesses also had an answer for how the vehicle managed to end up so far out in the water, saying it hit the rock jetty at a high rate of speed, went airborne and landed in the water.
The vehicle was towed from the scene by Bullet Towing about three hours after landing in the water, at which point a full inventory search of the vehicle was conducted by police, who say multiple alcohol containers were found, along with personal belongings of the driver. Bradenton Beach police say that a man matching the name of the suspected driver called them to report the vehicle stolen in the following days. The suspect was told the vehicle had been involved in a crash, hoping he would come to the station to answer questions, but he didn’t, and further efforts to contact him have been unsuccessful.
The suspect vehicle’s path was back-tracked to look for any damage the rampage may have caused. Police found that a small wooden fence and hitching post by lifeguard stand #8 was obliterated in the sand with vehicle parts from the suspect vehicle scattered around it. Two signs that were posted on the Coquina Beach south jetty had also been run over. Police say it could have been much worse and were thankful nobody was taking a late-night walk on the beach when the incident occurred.
A hit-and-run crash report remains open as police continue to try to locate the suspect. Additional charges will most likely be added when and if he is captured. These could include attempting to elude police, statutes that ban driving vehicles on Florida beaches where it is not expressly permitted, leaving the scene of a crash and possibly more. Bradenton Beach police are not commenting at this time on exactly what charges will be filed if they make an arrest, but say it was a serious and dangerous incident that they are hopeful will result in an arrest.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police at 941- 778-6311.
ANNA MARIA ISLAND – For many, no proper Fourth of July celebration is complete without setting off fireworks. However, private displays of bombs bursting in air are illegal on the Island.
Though fireworks can be purchased in Florida, rules regarding their legal use are more complicated.
In April 2020, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 140 into law. The bill allows people 18 and older to buy fireworks to use on three holidays: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day and Independence Day. The previous law required signing a waiver saying the fireworks were for specific agricultural reasons.
While the state law is clear, local cities and counties have their own rules that supersede what the state allows.
Each of the three cities on Anna Maria Island has a slightly different approach to how fireworks violations will be enforced, but setting off fireworks of any kind is forbidden anywhere on the Island, especially the beaches – fireworks can disturb nesting shorebirds, sea turtles and other Island wildlife.
The sound of fireworks can cause shorebirds such as this Black Skimmer to abandon their nests. – Submitted
Audubon Florida says the bursts of color and noise wreak havoc on coastal birds, especially nesting species. After each fireworks explosion, birds panic and fly from their nests, scattering the chicks and exposing them to predators and heat until their parents return.
It’s also sea turtle nesting season, and both adult and hatchling turtles can easily be disoriented by light, sometimes leading to their deaths.
Here is how officials in the three Island cities approach fireworks:
Anna Maria
The city of Anna Maria is patrolled by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. The department refers to Manatee County Ordinance 04-27, which covers fireworks rules and laws at length and also echoes other area laws that prohibit individuals from lighting any shell that flies in the air or explodes above the ground without a permit. A spokesman did not directly address whether the department recognizes the state bill that legalizes fireworks on July 4.
“Our response to fireworks enforcement has not changed. When deputies respond to complaints involving fireworks, their goal is to obtain voluntary compliance through education,” said Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Randy Warren.
Bradenton Beach
Bradenton Beach police will be enforcing a local ordinance that does not allow fireworks on the three state-designated holidays and will confiscate fireworks from anyone caught setting them off. It’s also possible to be issued a citation, even on July 4.
“The use of fireworks is illegal and they will be confiscated. Depending on
the severity of the amount someone possesses, they can also be fined,” Bradenton Beach Police Lt. Lenard Diaz said. “Nothing that projects up is allowed.”
Holmes Beach
Holmes Beach has a similar approach to enforcement of local laws regarding fireworks in the city. Police Chief Bill Tokajer said most private fireworks displays in the city are illegal and there will be consequences for violators.
“Exploding, launching and projectile fireworks are illegal,” Tokajer said. “We will be handling each report of fireworks depending on what the firework is and how it’s being handled. The fine is up to $500. Also, be sure to closely supervise children while using legal fireworks” such as sparklers.
Officials know some will choose to ignore the law and take their chances. Anyone choosing to do so is strongly encouraged to avoid densely populated areas and beaches.
After a hiatus due to COVID-19, the Sandbar Restaurant in Anna Maria has announced the return of Fourth of July weekend fireworks. The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 2 at the Sandbar, and can be viewed free by the public. The VIP event at the restaurant is sold out. not changed. When deputies respond to complaints involving fireworks, their goal is to obtain voluntary compliance through education,” said Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Randy Warren.
ANNA MARIA – Holmes Beach resident Cash John Nichols, 27, has been arrested and charged with criminal mischief after being denied a ride on one of the free trolleys that serve Anna Maria Island.
Cash Nichols was arrested on Tuesday, March 8. – MCSO | Submitted
“The trolley made its last stop at the Anna Maria City Pier at 10:15-10:20 (p.m.) that night and the driver refused to take a patron because he had no shoes on,” Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Dep. Patrick Manning of the Anna Maria Unit told The Sun regarding the Feb. 11 incident. “The patron became upset and in a fit of rage caused over $200 in estimated damage to the trolley’s door windows.”
Nichols was arrested on March 8 and charged with one first-degree misdemeanor count of criminal mischief for damages between $200 and $1,000.
According to the arrest complaint, “The driver of Manatee County Transit trolley 63861 stopped at the bus stop of 100 S. Bay Blvd. Trolley camera footage showed a white male with a beard and no shoes approach the doors in order to ride the trolley home. The driver denied the male access due to him not having any shoes on. The male then became argumentative towards the driver, at which point the driver closed the doors. The male then began hitting the glass on the doors with his fists, causing it to crack. After causing the damage, the male walked away. The damage was estimated at $500.”
According to the arrest complaint, “The male was identified by Deputy Manning as Cash Nichols. Additionally, on the same date (approximately one hour later), Deputy Penberthy made contact with Cash Nichols at the post office across the street from the incident location. Prior to making contact, a passerby informed Deputy Penberthy that they had spoken to the defendant (Nichols) and the defendant stated he was denied bus access due to not having any shoes on. The defendant requested a ride and was ultimately transported by Deputy Penberthy. Based on the circumstances, probable cause exists to charge the defendant with criminal mischief greater than $200 and less than $1,000.”
When speaking to The Sun, Manning said, “Through a couple weeks of investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, a suspect was developed and confirmed through the trolley driver and the trolley’s on-board cameras. Our trolley buses have cameras that face the doors and also inside the trolleys. Through interviews and the video obtained from the Manatee County Transit Authority, the suspect was identified and arrested on a misdemeanor charge of criminal mischief to public property. It was a joint investigation between Det. Hartsell, who serves as our criminal investigator, along with the Anna Maria deputies. He wrote the warrant based on our identification of the suspect who was known to us. Up until recently, he had been a resident of Anna Maria. By the address he provided, he’s now a resident of Holmes Beach.”
The probable cause affidavit lists Nichols’ current address on Marina Drive in Holmes Beach.
According to court records, Nichols was released on bond and a misdemeanor arraignment hearing is scheduled for Monday, April 11 at the Manatee County Judicial Center before Judge Renee Inman.
Speaking on behalf of Sgt. Brett Getman, Manning said, “The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office works very hard to protect the ever-increasing amount of visitors and the residents on our Island. Sgt. Getman feels that whether you live here or vacation here, we can’t tolerate you intentionally damaging public property. That will not be tolerated and you’ll be identified and arrested.”
Previous arrest
According to court records, Nichols was previously arrested in Anna Maria in 2018 and charged with assault on a Manatee County Sheriff’s Deputy, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting, obstructing or opposing an officer without violence.
On Feb. 28, 2022, after multiple delays and court appearances, Nichols entered no contest pleas on all three charges stemming from his 2018 arrest. As a result of those pleas, he was placed on probation and assessed $796 in fines, fees and court costs.
HOLMES BEACH – A Manatee county resident and employee of the Island Grill has been arrested by Manatee County Sheriff’s deputies and charged with 26 counts of possession of child pornography, a felony, based on two cyber-tips from Dropbox Inc.
Owen Hagan, 27, also was in violation of his probation from a 2020 DUI involving property damage after missing a recent court date in May, according to a police report.
Deputies learned that Hagan had recently moved to Florida from Ohio to live with his mother in a Palmetto mobile home park, where they executed a search warrant on March 17. The warrant included an IP address provided by the cyber-tip from Dropbox Inc. advising that a user named Owen Hagan had uploaded at least 11 video files, 10 of which depicted child pornography. When police arrived, Hagan’s mother advised deputies that Hagan was at the residence in his bedroom.
During the search, Hagan’s iPhone 6 was confiscated by police after he declined to allow officers to look through it, although he had previously provided the password upon request. A further search of Hagan’s bedroom resulted in no more electronic devices being found. A later forensic search of Hagan’s phone found multiple visits to dropbox.com with emails being used that matched email addresses found on the phone. It was also found that the user of the phone visited multiple known child pornography sites. In total, 26 files involving sexually explicit images and videos of children as young as 3 years old were discovered on the iPhone, according to the report.
Hagan is currently in the Manatee County jail on a $650,000 bond and arraignment is set for Friday, July 23 at the Manatee County Judicial Center.
MANATEE COUNTY – Manatee County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh’s role in the controversial Lakewood Ranch pop-up vaccination distribution site has prompted a sworn criminal complaint filed by Sarasota-based paralegal Michael Barfield.
Barfield filed his complaint Monday evening with 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Ed Brodsky’s office and also with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). The complaint alleges Baugh’s vaccination-related efforts may have violated Florida law.
The sheriff’s office is now investigating Barfield’s complaint. When contacted by email on Tuesday, MCSO Public Information Officer Randy Warren said, “It’s an active investigation. Michael Barfield filed a complaint yesterday and our detectives are looking into it now.”
“Sometime near Tuesday, Feb. 9, Manatee County resident Rex Jensen received a telephone call from Pat Neal. Governor Ron DeSantis was already on the line when the call was made.” – Michael Barfield
In contrast to the randomized, lottery-style vaccine registration and standby pool protocols previously established by the Manatee County Commission, Baugh helped organize a pop-up vaccine distribution site for 3,000 recipients in the 34202 and 34211 zip codes only. In doing so, Baugh did not consult her fellow commissioners. The vaccinations occurred the week of Feb. 16.
On Feb. 16, Manatee County issued a press release regarding the pop-up clinic. In the press release, Baugh was quoted as saying, “This unique opportunity was made possible by Governor DeSantis calling Rex Jensen wanting to do a vaccination site near Lakewood Ranch. The governor has been trying to find large areas of neighborhoods to target.”
Jensen is the president of Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc. Schroeder-Manatee Ranch is the parent company of Lakewood Ranch.
In addition to restricting vaccine access to zip codes only, Baugh produced a list of five specific vaccine recipients who did not have to rely on their names being randomly pulled from the county’s standby registration pool. That list included Baugh herself, even though she decided later not to receive the vaccine.
“Vaccine distribution must not be based on politics. Manatee County unanimously adopted the Vaccine Standby Pool and residents have been patiently waiting for their number to be called. It’s offensive and criminal when one commissioner diverts 3,000 vaccine doses to an affluent area and then adds names, including her own, to a VIP list.” – Michael Barfield
On Monday, Feb. 15, Baugh emailed her list of specific recipients to Manatee County Public Safety Director Jake Saur. Baugh’s list included Jensen, whom she listed as living in the 34212 zip code, and his father, Lawrence Jensen, whom she listed as living in the 34208 zip code. Baugh’s list also included Lakewood Ranch residents Robert and Marie Keehn, whom she listed as living in the 34202 zip code, and herself, whom she listed as living in the 34202 zip code. Baugh also owns the Vanessa Fine Jewelry store in Lakewood Ranch.
Complaint allegations
“Based on the following information, I have a reasonable belief that violations of Florida Statutes occurred by Vanessa Baugh beginning on or about Feb. 9,” Barfield stated in his complaint.
The complaint references the following Florida Statutes:
“When Baugh inserted individuals and herself on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, she acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and used her official position to secure a special privilege, benefit, or exemption for herself and others, which may be in violation of section 112.313(6), Florida Statutes, Misuse of Public Position.
“By including herself and individuals on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, Baugh acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and altered or caused the alteration of an official record or official document, except as authorized by law or contract, or caused another person to perform such an act, which may be in violation of Section 838.022, Florida Statutes, Official Misconduct.
“By including herself and individuals on a COVID-19 vaccine distribution list, Baugh acted contrary to the adopted Vaccine Standby Pool and used her official position to take action in reliance on information to which she had access in her official capacity and which had not been made public, to acquire a pecuniary interest or gain a benefit by such information, which may be in violation of section 839.26, Florida Statutes, Misuse of Confidential Information,” Barfield stated in his complaint.
Supporting statements
Barfield’s complaint includes several additional supporting statements.
“On Jan. 6, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) of Manatee County held a special meeting regarding COVID-19 and vaccinations. At the conclusion of that special meeting, the Manatee BCC adopted a motion authorizing the county administrator to implement the ‘Vaccine Standby Pool,’ effective Jan. 7, until further notice. The motion was adopted unanimously. As explained in the public presentation during the special meeting, the effect of the Vaccine Standby Pool was to randomize distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine through a lottery system,” the complaint states.
“On or about Feb. 8, constituents of Baugh were actively soliciting her about their eligibility and inability to get appointments for vaccine distribution in Manatee County. Sometime near Tuesday, Feb. 9, Manatee County resident Rex Jensen received a telephone call from Pat Neal. Governor Ron DeSantis was already on the line when the call was made. The reported purpose of the call was to facilitate a location for a pop-up vaccine distribution site at Premier Sports Campus for additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine,” the complaint states.
“On Feb. 9, Baugh sent an email to Jacob (Jake) Saur, Director of Public Safety of Manatee County stating, ‘Jake, the state wants Rex to keep a list. Can we do that.’ That same afternoon, Jensen sent an email to Courtney Coppola, a Florida Department of Health employee, stating Baugh helped reserve the pop-up site and outlining the tentative plan: ‘I have no infrastructure or staff to field all the calls necessary to assemble and maintain a list of candidates for the vaccine. I am copying Commissioner Baugh in the hope that she might be able to think creatively to find a solution,’” the complaint states.
“Baugh ignored the Vaccine Standby Pool process and selected two zip codes within her own district, including friends and herself, that would receive the additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine at the pop-up site. On Feb. 12, Alicia Niki Boyette, a contractor on behalf of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, sent an email to Baugh regarding the registration process for the ‘upcoming vaccination event.’ Boyette indicated that the information the department required for the event was a list with names, date of birth and phone numbers. Baur forwarded the email from Boyette to Saur, who replied that he was working on it. The next day, Baugh replied to Saur ‘Pls send to me when you have info as I am working on a list.’ On Monday, Feb. 15, Baugh sent an email to Saur with the subject matter ‘Names for list’ in which she added a number of individuals to the list of those who would receive the extra doses of vaccine at the pop-up site,” Barfield’s complaint states.
“A notice was sent out to Manatee County residents on Feb. 17 advising that the vaccinations scheduled for Bennett Park under the adopted process would be rescheduled due to inclement weather. Meanwhile, the plan to distribute the additional doses at the pop-up site went forward,” the complaint states.
Barfield comments
When contacted Tuesday, Barfield said, “Vaccine distribution must not be based on politics. Manatee County unanimously adopted the Vaccine Standby Pool and residents have been patiently waiting for their number to be called. It’s offensive and criminal when one commissioner diverts 3,000 vaccine doses to an affluent area and then adds names, including her own, to a VIP list.”
Paralegal Michael Barfield alleges the recent vaccination selection process may have violated state law.- Joe Hendricks | Sun
“Worse, the regular vaccine distribution that was planned for the same weekend was canceled on the grounds of inclement weather. Yet the vaccine distribution at the pop-up site for the VIP list went forward without a hitch. If those optics aren’t bad enough, the VIP list and two zip codes selected by Baugh for vaccine distribution at the pop-up site happen to be the most affluent and white in Manatee County. I might add that these two zip codes have the lowest rate of COVID-19 infection within Manatee County,” Barfield said.
“This conduct is the classic example of corruption and using official power to gain a benefit for friends and the well-connected. It’s time for our system of justice to hold her accountable,” Barfield said.
ANNA MARIA – The season of giving started early in the city of Anna Maria. Residents and business raised more than $18,000 for the Flight to the North Pole organization.
Funds will be used to help terminally ill children and their families.
“Every dollar we earn is given right back to the families,” Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Patrick Manning said. Manning led the donation drive in Anna Maria.
The MCSO and Anna Maria city officials presented a check to Flight to the North Pole representatives outside Ginny’s and Jane E’s Nov. 1.
Manning began asking for donations in early September. It took less than two months to raise a total of $18,696.
“Ginny’s and Jane E’s raised the most,” Manning said. “Over $3,000. They were our biggest donor. Paul and Tammy Foster truly embraced the idea.”
The secret, according to Manning, was that every employee asked customers for any leftover change when they ordered food or drinks at the restaurant.
“The response was amazing,” Manning said.
Flight to the North Pole was founded in 1985 by Eastern Airlines flight attendants. When Eastern Airlines closed the organization hopped over to Continental Airlines. The Flight’s founder, Sidney Ettedgui, eventually landed with the MCSO, bringing the non-profit with him.
Ettedgui said, “As long as we have money there’s no limit to what we do.”
The Flight used to have an actual flight from Sarasota-Bradenton Airport to Fort Myers, but Ettedgui said the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the heightened security at airports put a stop to that. “It was too much to put the families and children through,” he said, “but there’s still plenty we can do, too.”
Flight to the North Pole funds go to help families with anything. Manning said in the past they’ve paid electric bills, rent and helped with travel costs. “Anything that’s needed,” he said.
Funds aren’t just raised during and before the holiday season. The MCSO holds events and donation drives throughout the year.
The next event is an exotic car show Nov. 10 outside the MCSO headquarters, 600 301 Blvd., Bradenton.
“There’s no better cause to be a part of,” Manning said. “Next year I’m hoping to raise $30,000 from Anna Maria businesses and residents.” The 2018 goal was $10,000.
Manning said, “The further in life you go, you learn it’s not about you, it’s about what you can do to help someone else.”
ANNA MARIA – Seven-and-a-half-year-old New Hampshire resident Nick Costa was recognized last week for an act that helped save the life of his four-year-old brother, Jake.
During the Anna Maria City Commission’s April 26 meeting, Sgt. Mike Jones presented Costa with a certificate of appreciation. The boys’ parents, Jeff and Jessica Costa, accompanied them to the commission meeting.
Before he presented Nick with his certificate of appreciation, Jones described the events that transpired.
“On Sunday, April 22, in the late afternoon, Nicholas was here on vacation with his family. They had just arrived and were settling in at their vacation rental on South Bay. Nicholas and Jacob were playing on the beach with their parents and decided to go to the pool deck. Unbeknownst to Jacob’s father, he followed behind his dad, defeating the pool gate lock. While his dad and brother were attempting to set up a pool table on the deck, Jacob decided to go into the pool. Jacob’s older brother, Nicholas, noticed he was beneath the surface and was in severe danger. Nicholas alerted his father immediately. Mr. Costa jumped in, pulled his son out of the pool and he was unresponsive and not breathing. Dad, along with other family members, started CPR and revived Jacob. On behalf of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Wells and the city of Anna Maria, please accept this small token of appreciation for your heroic act. Good job!” Jones said.
ANNA MARIA – It was a bittersweet honor for the two Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies who were first to respond to a drowning at a vacation rental.
Sheriff Rick Wells named Patrick Manning and Matthew Kiernan Deputies of the Month for August.
The tragic incident occurred on July 11 when a woman found her 2-year-old daughter in the swimming pool, unresponsive. The child managed to open both a door and gate to get to the pool.
Manning arrived at the scene within two minutes of getting the call and started CPR. Kiernan joined him and they both worked on the victim until EMS arrived. Manning followed the ambulance to Blake Medical Center while Kiernan secured the scene and arranged for the mother to get to the hospital. The victim did not survive.
In his announcement, Sheriff Wells praised the deputies’ knowledge of their zone, which produced the short response time.
“Despite the negative outcome of the incident, there clearly could not have been a faster, more professional or compassionate response,” Wells wrote.
Manning said the honor was “bittersweet” and he wants the public to know they have the full force of the sheriff’s office when needed.
Manning has been a law enforcement officer for 32 years while Kiernan has worn a badge for 18 years.
