Crime In Charlotte, NC

On July 2, 2009, at 8:43 pm, the Circle K store, located at 9501 University City Boulevard was robbed by the two suspects shown below.

The detective assigned to this case is seeking any information on the suspects and their identification. If you have any information that may help police, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

A witness to a bank robbery at the Bank of Granite at 3920 Sharon Road got a good look at the Bearded Bandit this morning, giving detectives a new clue about the serial bank robber’s identity.

A witness noticed a portion of the robber’s neck that was not covered by make-up. Detectives now believe he is a white man, not a Hispanic or black man. Witnesses have given different descriptions in the other robberies linked to the Bearded Bandit because he is covering his exposed skin with make-up. He’s also using a wig, fake facial hair, glasses, a hat, gloves and a padded suit to disguise his true identity.

This is the 11th robbery linked to the Bearded Bandit in the last three years. The most recent was on November 25, 2008 at the Wachovia at 10210 Couloak Drive. He has used a weapon in all the robberies, and even threatened customers forcing them to the floor.

The Charlotte Safe Streets Task Force considers this man to be armed and dangerous to the public. If anyone has any information regarding the robberies or the robber, they are asked to call the Charlotte Division of the FBI at 704-377-9200 or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600

Case Update: Based on the information obtained from the preliminary investigation and evidence at the scene, this incident has been ruled a suicide.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide and ADW Detectives are currently conducting a death investigation at 1400 Parker Rd. The incident occurred on Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 5:05 p.m. in the Westover Division. The victim has been identified; pending family notification her name will be released.

Westover Division officers responded to an assist fire call. Upon their arrival, The Charlotte Fire Department had extinguished a vehicle fire and discovered a female victim suffering from a single gunshot wound. CFD and Medic treated the victim on scene and transported her to Carolinas Medical Center. A short time later she was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Westover Division officers and K-9 officers canvassed the neighborhood for witnesses. Crime Scene Search units are processing the scene for physical evidence and members of the Arson Task Force are working to determine the cause and origin of the vehicle fire. In addition, Homicide and ADW detectives are interviewing witnesses.

Based on the information obtained from the preliminary investigation and evidence at the scene, detectives are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the victim’s death.

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

On May 11, 2009, Demario Rollins, 18, entered the Old Navy store located at 9000 JM Keynes Dr., and violently attacked a 46-year old female employee. According to police, Rollins punched her in the face causing serious facial injuries. He also robbed the business of merchandise.

The case was presented to the District Attorneys office and warrants were signed on Demario Rollins on June 11, 2009, charging him with Common Law Robbery and Assault Inflicting Serious Injury in reference to the robbery.

This is Rollins 6th arrest in Mecklenburg County-- since he turned 16.

Richard Priode, 44, a former CMS band teacher is accused of having a sexual relationship with a 16-year old student.

Priode was teaching at South Mecklenburg High School in 2007 when he had the consensual sexual relationship with the student. The accusations only involve one student.

The police investigation didn't begin until April of 2009 when someone reported the incident to CMPD. Priode is charged with indecent liberties with a student.

Priode worked for CMS from August 2006 to June 2008. He left CMS last year and went to work at Sullivan Middle School in Rock Hill, SC.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are currently conducting a homicide investigation at 4519 Wynbrook Way in the North Division. The victim is Douglas Bernard Black, 43. The incident occurred on Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at approximately 8:00 p.m.

North Division officers responded to an assault with a weapon call at Tanglewood Apartments. When officers arrived on scene, they found the victim sitting inside a vehicle, suffering from an apparent gun shot wound; he was pronounced deceased on scene. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and then seeing a black male leaving the scene in a silver four door compact vehicle.

Homicide Detectives are conducting a canvass of the neighborhood. Crime Scene Search is on scene as well, photographing the scene and collecting physical evidence.

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

UPDATE II: Two suspects have been arrested in connection to this incident. A fifteen year old juvenile has been arrested and charged with Murder, Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon. The juvenile’s name will not be released in accordance with North Carolina State Law.

In addition, Jonas Jermel Davis (R) was arrested earlier today by the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team and charged with Murder, Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon and Conspiracy to Commit Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon.

UPDATE: The victim, Shawtel Demond Montgomery, died at Carolinas Medical Center at 10:36 a.m. as a result of the injuries he sustained in this morning’s shooting on Westridge Dr.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department ADW and Homicide Detectives are currently investigating a shooting on Westridge Dr. which left one man seriously injured. The victim in this incident has been identified; pending family notification his name will be released. The incident occurred on Sunday, June 7, 2009, at approximately 2:30 a.m., at the intersection of Westridge Dr and Ranch Rd. in the Freedom Division.

Freedom Division officers responded to a 911 call in reference to a suspicious vehicle in the 4400 block of Westridge Dr. When officers arrived on scene they located a male victim unresponsive inside a dark colored Ford Explorer with the passenger side door open suffering from a gunshot wound. Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene, treated and transported the victim to Carolinas Medical Center where he remains in critical condition.

ADW and Homicide detectives, along with Freedom Division officers canvassed the neighborhood for any potential witnesses. Crime Scene Search units processed the scene for physical evidence.

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

CMPD reported the following robberies on June 6, 2009:

6500 Wisteria Dr.
Division 26 Westover
6/6/2009 - 14:25
Robbery from Person - Armed
The victim reports being robbed by an unknown B/M suspect. The victim was getting items out of his SUV when he was approached by the suspect that pointed a black semi auto hand gun at him and demanded money. The suspect fled the scene on foot.

8400 Maclphine Park Dr.
Division 17 Independence
6/6/2009 - 12:38 Robbery from Business - Strong Arm
The victim reports he was robbed by a known B/M suspect. The victim attempted to run and fell, while he was on the ground the suspect punched the victim in the face. The victim stated that he handed he suspect money from his pocket, but the suspect threw the money back to him when another person approached.

5800 Monroe Road
Division 17 Independence
6/6/2009 - 03:33
Robbery from Person - Strong Arm
The Hispanic male victim advised that he walked from his apartment into the common area of the apartment community and observed two black males talking. The victim stated that the black males quickly approached him and grabbed him, demanding money. The victim stated that the suspects were both muscular and very intimidating.

3700 Michigan Ave
Division 07 North Tryon
6/6/2009 - 03:23
Robbery from Person - Strong Arm
The victim stated that while he was walking home, he was approached by three black males. The victim stated that the suspect beat him up and stole his wallet.

3900 Carlyle Drive
Division 27 Freedom
6/6/2009 - 00:38
Robbery from Business - Armed
The victim stated that he was making a Pizza delivery when he was approached by the listed suspects, one of which acted like he had a gun under his jacket, who demanded, and then took the listed property from the same.

CMPD reported the following robberies on June 5, 2009:

4100 E. WT Harris Blvd
Division 07 North Tryon
6/5/2009 - 22:23
Robbery from Person - Armed
The victim reported that suspect #1 got in the victim's unlocked passenger door while the victim was stopped at a stoplight. The suspect struck the victim in his face and displayed a handgun. Suspect #1 ordered the victim to drive to a nearby ATM where suspect #2 was waiting. The suspects forced the victim to withdraw money from the ATM, which the suspects took from the victim. The suspects then punched the victim several times before they fled the scene in a vehicle.

1000 Valley Ridge Road
Division 27 Freedom
6/5/2009 - 22:09
Robbery from Person - Armed
The suspects forced entry into the victim's residence without consent from the victims, while the victims were located inside the residence. The suspects used a firearm to pistol whip the victim causing serious lacerations to the victim's head and face. The suspects then took the victim's cell phone and wallet while the victim was still in possession of his property.

200 Stamey Circle
Division 26 Westover
6/5/2009 - 21:51
Robbery from Person - Armed
The two unknown B/M suspects robbed him at gunpoint and took the victim's wallet and car keys.

8500 Bellhaven Blvd
Division 11 North
6/5/2009 - 20:39
Robbery from Person - Armed
The listed W/M unknown suspect attempted to rob the store located at 8450 Bellhaven Blvd on 6/5/2009 at approximately 8:35 pm. The suspect pointed a handgun at the victim. No items were taken.

7200 Albemarle Road
Division 12 Hickory Grove
6/5/2009 - 14:43
Robbery from Person - Strong Arm
On the above date and time at the above listed address, the listed victim stated that the listed suspect intimidated her and made her give him money.

2500 Dunlavin Way
Division 06 Eastway
6/5/2009 - 13:06
Robbery from Person - Armed
The victim stated that he was robbed by two BM suspects armed with guns. One suspect is clean shaven, wearing a black t-shirt, is about 5' 5" tall and 170 pounds. The other is about 5' 6" tall, 170 pounds, wearing a white t-shirt and jeans.

On May 18, 2009, at 7:40 pm, the Family Dollar located at 3400 Wilkinson Boulevard, was robbed by two suspects. The detective assigned to this case is seeking any information on this suspect and his identification.

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

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are currently conducting a homicide investigation at 3431-D St Vardell Lane in the Westover Division. The victim has been identified as Yong Roo Hwang. The incident occurred on Thursday, June 4, 2009, at approximately 6:36 p.m.

Westover Division officers responded to an assault with a weapon call at Golden Eye Trading, a clothing store owned by Mr. Hwang. When officers arrived on scene, they found Mr. Hwang suffering from an apparent gun shot wound; he was pronounced deceased on scene. Based on preliminary witness statements, and evidence collected at the scene, robbery is believed to be the motive.

Homicide Detectives will complete a canvass of the surrounding area. Crime Scene Search is on scene as well, photographing the scene and collecting physical evidence.

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

In the past 24 hours, CMPD is reporting 24 different 'Larceny from Auto' cases occurring in the University City Division. 19 of these cases occurred in Response Area 2, which encompasses the apartment complexes surrounding the UNCC campus.

CMPD and the University City Division is asking that you please remove all valuables out of your vehicles. This is especially true for GPS' (and their mounts), laptops, money, weapons, purses, etc. Also, police ask that you lock your cars and your apartments.

Keep in mind... it only takes the bad guys seconds to get into your vehicle and take your valuables.

Police say they have extra patrols in all of the complexes and are continually patrolling these areas. If you see any suspicious vehicles or suspicious people please call 911. Police need your assistance in catching these guys.

If you have any questions, please call the University City Division Office at 704-432-3900. If you see any suspicious vehicle or suspicious person(s), please call 911.

Through the end of May 2009, the preliminary total for Index Offenses was -24.5% lower than the same five months last year.

-Property crime decreased by -24.3% while violent crime was down -25.5%.
- 16 homicides were reported compared to 37 in the same period in 2008 for a reduction of -56.8%.

All but one of the violent Index crime categories experienced decreases over the same period last year:
- Total robberies decreased -26.8%.
- The number of rape offenses increased +4.6% (5 additional cases)
- Aggravated assaults declined -25.9%.
- Burglary overall was down -25.3%, with declines of -23.4% in residential and -31.0% in commercial cases.
- Reports of vehicle thefts decreased by -35.4%.
- Total larceny cases declined by -22.2% with the larcenies from auto down by -31.5%.
- Total arson cases were down -13.0%.

* View Overall Index Report for May 2009
* Overall and Division Summary Report for May 2009

UPDATE: On Sunday afternoon, CMPD Homicide Unit Detectives signed a murder warrant against Keenan Daryl Harte for the murder of Mr. Blackeney. The Violent Criminals Apprehension Team (VCAT) along with the assistance of officers from the University City Division arrested Mr. Harte without incident on Sunday night.

This marks Mr. Harte’s 11th arrest in Mecklenburg County since August of 2005.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are currently investigating a homicide which occurred in the parking lot at 3112 The Plaza. The incident occurred on Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 4:00 a.m., in the Eastway Division. The victim has been identified as Brandon Blackeney, 21.

Eastway Division officers responded to a call for service in reference to a subject having been shot in the area of Club Crystal. When officers arrived on scene they located Mr. Blackeney suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the chest. Medic pronounced Mr. Blackeney deceased on scene.

Based on the preliminary information, detectives have reason to believe that Mr. Blackeney was in the area with the intention of going to Club Crystal. While standing in a parking lot across Shamrock Drive, Mr. Blackeney had a dispute with a black male. The black male is believed to have shot the victim and fled the area in a white Dodge Charger.

The Homicide Unit and ADW Unit canvassed the neighborhood for any potential witnesses. Crime Scene Search units processed the scene for physical evidence.

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

UPDATE IV: The Richland County Sheriff's Office released a timeline of events surrounding Nikki McPhatter's murder.

UPDATE III: A second arrest was made today in the case of the disappearance and death of Nikki McPhatter. Deputies said Kendra Goodman was an acquaintance of Manning, who drove with him last month to the location where he dumped McPhatter’s body and car. Goodman is charged with being an accessory after a felony, and was denied bond late Thursday afternoon.

UPDATE II: News Release from CMPD: On May 11, 2009, Nikki McPhatter was reported missing to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department with the case being assigned to the Missing Persons Unit.

During the course of their investigation, information was developed indicating a possibility of foul play. Due to these developments, CMPD Homicide detectives took the lead in the investigation on May 20, 2009.

CMPD dedicated significant investigative resources that led detectives to Richland County, S.C. At this time, CMPD Homicide unit began a joint investigation with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office. Over the course of the past week, detectives developed information that identified Theodore Roosevelt Manning IV "Teddy" (Photo above) as being responsible for the death of Ms. McPhatter.

The investigation led detectives to the location of Ms. McPhatter’s 2003 Black Honda Accord and the body of which we believe to be that of Ms. Mcphatter in Fairfield County, which neighbors Richland County. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department obtained a warrant for the arrest of Theodore Roosevelt Manning IV (DOB 10/10/1979). Richland County Sheriff’s Department arrested Mr. Manning at 7:04 p.m. this evening at his residence, which is located at 8047 Bluff Road Gadston, S.C.

UPDATE: An arrest has been made in the disappearance of Nikki McPhatter. The Charlotte woman disappeared more than three weeks ago. Relatives say they were notified today that McPhatter is dead. Police in Charlotte are holding a news conference at 9 pm Friday to provide more information.

Name: Nikki McPhatter
Incident Date: 5-11-2009
Last Seen: 8618 Rozumny Dr.
Race: Black - Gender: Female
Height: 5’5” - Weight: 150
DOB: 9-28-1978
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Black

SYNOPSIS: Ms. McPhatter was last seen leaving her residence on May 4, 2009 en route to an unknown destination driving a 2003/Black/Honda-Accord/ displaying N.C. tag # PHATTAH. If you see this vehicle, please call 911.

- View America's Most Wanted coverage

WCNC: A frightened domestic abuse victim begged a judge to protect her family on Friday. The judge was asked to keep the family safe after the NewsChannel-36 I-Team asked the court system some tough questions, like why the abusive ex-husband was not being required to stay away.

As Thomas Price Jr. dodged WCNC's cameras Friday in Greensboro, his ex-wife, Heather Thompson faced them. She finds the courage to face the cameras these days, even though she has photographs in her mind that will haunt her forever.

More than 14 years ago, Price nearly beat Thompson to death. Those crime photos show a bruised, battered and beaten woman -- not the woman we now see.

But today, Price walks free again and Thompson says she will live in fear again.

"The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior," Thompson said.
Price terrorized Thompson from behind bars with letters.

"... I can't wait to see the fear in your eyes... before I kill you!" he wrote.

Price even threatened to kill their children. Price was then moved to federal prison, but that eased his release restrictions to not include a restraining order. After a NewsChannel 36 investigation, a hearing was scheduled to change that.

The hearing was at the federal courthouse in Greensboro on Friday. WCNC was in court and so was Heather Thompson.

"He agreed to six months GPS and curfew, and three years no contact with me and the kids," said Thompson. "I would've recognized him on the street," said Thompson after seeing Price for the first time in 14 years. "We didn't make eye contact."

She says it was chilling to hear is voice again. "He didn't say a whole lot, but that bothered me a little bit because the last time I heard his voice was that night and he was telling me that I wasn't going to live to see my kids," Thompson said.

"That voice haunts me," she added. "I do feel empowered right now because every step of the process that I have pushed for to get more restrictions on him, it was empowering, you know. I won today. We won."

Links: Read Full Post about Heather Thompson's story & WSOC-TV's News Story & MSNBC Article

On Wednesday May 27, 2009, at approximately 3:00 p.m., a female victim was walking along Burroughs Street when she was approached from behind by two unknown black males. The victim was taken behind a vacant house and sexually assaulted by the two unknown males. A passerby, hearing the victim's screams for help, approached and confronted the suspects which allowed the victim to flee.

The suspects are described as follows:

#1- Light skinned black male, very thin, 5'8", 140-160 lbs. Mustache, mole on left cheek, long, shoulder length dreds, deep voice, 19-20 years old. Last seen wearing: White tanktop, light gray "Dickie" style pants, baggy, with a belt, Dingy white Air Force One shoes.

#2- Dark skinned black male, round, heavy set, 5'5", 200 lbs, goatee and mustache, 2 diamond earrings, Dreds, to the neck line, with gold tips on ends, deep voice, 19-20 years old, fresh/new cut over his left eye. Last seen wearing: Long Red Shirt, white pants, muddy white Air Force One shoes.

Witness: Black male, tanned/medium dark skinned, 14-16 years old, hair style is short braids in different directions all over his head. Last seen wearing: White t-shirt, tan pants.

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

On May 4, 1997, a 29 year old female was walking on Boone St near Oaklawn Ave. when an unknown black male pulled up to her and forced her into his vehicle. He threatened to assault her with a knife. He drove her to a remote location and sexually assaulted her. He then drove her to Ludlow Ave where he forced her out of the vehicle. She immediately found help from a nearby resident who contacted the police.

No suspect was developed in the case during the initial investigation, however, using forensic evidence collected during the original investigation, the CMPD Crime Lab and the Sexual Assault Cold Case Unit have identified and charged Johnny William Bell of Charlotte with the crime.

The Mecklenburg County District Attorneys Office has reviewed the investigation and authorized the charges of 1st degree Kidnapping and two counts of 2nd degree Sex Offense. This investigation was completed within days of Johnny Bell being released from the NC Department of Corrections where he was serving time from a Charlotte drug conviction.

Through cooperation of the NC DOC and CMPD, Johnny W Bell was picked up at the Morrison Correctional Facility in Hoffman, NC as he completed his active prison sentence.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are currently investigating a homicide and an assault with a deadly weapon on Brooksvale St. which left one male deceased and one male seriously injured. The subjects in this incident have not been identified; pending identification and family notification their names will be released.

The incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, 2009 shortly before 1:30 p.m. at 1625 Brooksvale St., in the Westover Division.Westover Division officers responded to a call for service in reference to shots fired in which two subjects had been shot. Officers located one of the subjects lying on the ground near the basketball court and the other subject lying across Brooksvale St. The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene, treated both subjects and Medic transported both to Carolinas Medical Center.

One subject was pronounced deceased upon arrival and the second subject is currently in surgery where he remains in critical condition.Homicide, ADW detectives, and Westover Division officers are on scene canvassing the neighborhood and Crime Scene Search units are processing the crime scene for physical evidence.Prior to this incident there was a pick up basketball game in progress on the neighborhood court.

At some point, an altercation occurred and witnesses advised they heard several shots fired and people fleeing the scene. Based on the preliminary investigation and witness statements, detectives believe the individuals involved in this incident know each other.Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call 704.432.TIPS and speak directly to a homicide detective. Detective S. Sarvis is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704.334.1600.

America's Most Dangerous Cities by Forbes Magazine

Charlotte Ranks 14th

Population: 1,635,133
Violent Crimes per 100,000: 721

CMPD - Crime Statistics Summary for March 2009
(Released April 7, 2009)

Through the end of March, the preliminary total for Index Offenses was -25.8% lower than the same time last year. Property crime was down -25.0% while violent crime was down -31.3%. 9 homicides were reported compared to 20 in the same period in 2008 which results in a -55% decrease.

All of the other Index crime categories experienced decreases over the same period last year:
- Total robberies decreased -29.3%.
- The number of rape offenses decreased -4.3%.
- Aggravated assaults declined -34.2%.
-Burglary overall was down -27.3%, with decreases of -27.0% in residential and a decrease of -28.3% in commercial cases.
- Reports of vehicle thefts decreased by -31.0%.
- Total larceny cases declined by -23.1% with the larcenies from auto down by -30.9%.
- Total arson cases decreased by -24.4%.

MORE INFO:
* View Overall Index Report for March 2009
* Overall and Division Summary Report for March 2009
* Click here for 2008 Year-End Report - Overall and Division Summary

News 14 Carolina: One Charlotte neighborhood gained national attention when the History Channel aired a one-hour documentary on the Hidden Valley Kings gang, which at one point had 500 members.

In the documentary, local detectives and the assistant US Attorney talked about how the city handled the growing gang problem in the city years ago.

The documentary is set to air again on the History Channel April 30th and May 1st.

CrimeinCharlotte.com's coverage of the Hidden Valley Kings:
- Feds Bust 'Hidden Valley Kings' Gang
- Leader of the 'Hidden Valley Kings' Captured
- 15 People Indicted in Charlotte-Area Drug Conspiracy with Gang Ties

On 04-08-2009, at approximately 12:32 pm, Mint Hill Police Officers were dispatched to 9610 Stoney Glen Drive in reference to four black males using a pistol and forcefully robbing a victim. Officers arrived on scene and were told by witnesses that four black males had exited the wood line near the apartment complex and were picked up by another black male driving a green in color Dodge Intrepid. The vehicle was last seen travelling on Margaret Wallace Road towards Independence Blvd.

Officers circulated the area and dispatch provided the suspect description to surrounding jurisdictions, including Matthews Police and Charlotte Mecklenburg Police (CMPD). Mint Hill Officers were soon advised that officers from the Independence Division of CMPD had located the vehicle and taken five black males into custody.

Officers arrested the following individuals:

- Stefan Hibbert
- Nico Buckle
- Guy Maldonado
- Omari Fung
- Josiah Fung

Two firearms were found inside the suspect vehicle.

Nico Buckle and Guy Maldonado were charged with Armed Robbery of a Person and Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. Stefan Hibbert, Omari Fung and Josiah Fung were charged with Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. All suspects were transported to Mecklenburg County Jail.

At approximately 1:29 pm yesterday, four black male suspects came into the Carolina Industrial Supply located at 3301 Parkside Dr. and robbed a man at gunpoint. During the robbery, the gunman fired a shot at the victim, missing him and instead, striking his partner, later identified as Roman Johnson in the face. All suspects then fled the scene in a light blue Ford product.

Roman Johnson was dropped off by the other suspects at CMC University where he attempted to seek treatment for his gunshot wound. Johnson was transferred to CMC main where he is currently recuperating from his injuries under police guard and will be charged with armed robbery upon his release.

CMPD has issued warrants charging Martin Lee Reid Jr., with Armed Robbery, Assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury (for shooting his partner) and conspiracy to commit robbery.

The pictured vehicle is believed to be Reid’s vehicle and all suspects are believed to reside in or around Kannapolis, NC. If you know Martin Reid Jr.’s current whereabouts you are encouraged to call 911. He is considered armed and dangerous.

The event itself will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2009, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., at seven Harris Teeter locations within Mecklenburg County. The purpose of the event is to provide members of the community a drop off location for any unused or outdated prescription medicine that they wish to discard.

• With the misuse of prescription drugs second only to marijuana as the Nation's most prevalent drug problem, the annual average number of people using pain relievers non-medically for the first time exceeds the number of new marijuana users, according to a recent study released by SAMHSA. (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
• More than 2.2 million youth in the United States aged 12 to 17 used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons in the past year to self-treat physical or mental distress, improve appearance or performance, catch an energy wave, or simply mellow out.
• 70% of teens who abuse prescription drugs admit to easily obtaining the drugs for free, primarily from friends and relatives
• The prescription drugs most abused by teens are "opioid" pain relievers such as Darvon, Dilaudid, OxyContin, Vicodin, and products containing codeine or morphine
  Teen abuse of prescription drugs also includes sedatives, tranquilizers, and stimulants such as Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall, which are known for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Every day, 2,500 kids age 12 to 17 abuse a prescription painkiller for the first time.
• Drug treatment admissions for prescription painkillers increased more than 300 percent from 1995 to 2005.
  
  Listed below are the sponsoring Harris-Teeter Stores:
  Southpark - 6701 Morrison Blvd.
  Stonecrest - 7852 Rea Road
  Steelcroft Shopping Center, 13000 South Tryon Street
  Arboretum - 3333 Pineville-Matthews Road
  Park Road Shopping Center - 4101 Park Road
  Old Towne Mall, 4100 Carmel Road
  Cochran Commons - 2720 W. Mallard Creek Church Road

On the morning of March 23, 2009, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Team, in coordination with the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force apprehended Omar Javier Torres, who was wanted for Murder by authorities in Houston, Texas.

A federal warrant for Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution was also obtained by the FBI’s Houston Violent Crimes Task Force. The fugitive investigation targeting Mr. Torres included critical assistance from the North Tryon Division’s Focused Mission Team and Robbery Offender Team.

Mr. Torres has been wanted since the commission of the murder in May of 2008. The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and VCAT began tracking Mr. Torres in March of 2009; he was apprehended without incident while working construction at 318 E. 5th Street in Charlotte.

On March 21st, Metro Division officers responded to a False Pretense at Reeder Memorial Church, located at 3725 Beatties Ford. The officer was met by two church employees who advised that the suspect had been to the church twice in the last two days telling church employees that a family member had been in a car crash and asking for money to get home to see them.

In between the first and second visit, the church had been notified by e-mail about the suspect and his father (with pictures) committing this crime at another church. The witnesses identified that the suspect who was getting in his vehicle to flee the scene. He was stopped and arrested before he could leave the parking lot. Further Investigation determined that the suspect's family members had not been hurt and that the subject was using a false story to get money from the church.

Travis Twitty (Top Photo) was also wanted in two other counties in North Carolina for similar charges using similar methods. Travis Twitty was arrested and charged with False Pretense. He was also served with Felony False Pretense warrants from Alamance and Moore County where a similar offense had been committed.

His father, David O'Neal Twitty, (Bottom Photo) was not involved in the Charlotte incident but is WANTED for similar felony offenses he committed with his son in Alamance and Moore County. David Twitty has over fifty prior arrests for various offenses committed in North and South Carolina. His last arrest was on 2/26/2009.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts or information on David or Travis Twitty’s involvement in other crimes should call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. That information will be forwarded to Patrol Officers and the Financial Crimes Unit.

Update: 5/29/09- Tommy Price was released from prison today. He was ordered to wear a GPS tracking device for 6 months, a 6 pm curfew for 6 months and ordered to stay away from Heather Thompson and her family for 3 years.

In 1994, Heather (photos R) was nearly beaten to death by her ex-husband, Thomas Price, Jr.

Price was charged and convicted of several crimes related to the beating and served his state prison sentence. While in jail, Tommy Price mailed Heather a death threat and is currently serving Federal prison time for communicating threats until April 24, 2009.

Here is Heather's Story as written by Bryan Gregory in his book Ole Man on the Porch: The Trooper: (Read Full Version)

It was about a month before they got married that the abuse began. She was pregnant when he shoved her to the ground and she wondered ... “Am I making a mistake going into this relationship?” She hoped it might just be drug related and things would get better. And she also felt this was her best option, so she went ahead and got married anyway. They were married and before long his insecurities surfaced more with his continuous drug use. Soon, the accusations started and the beatings began. After abusing her, he’d sober up some and apologize … She’d give him another chance and they’d reconcile.

She began to walk on eggshells and tried to be more tender with him, because as most any therapist will tell you … It was partially her fault. But her efforts to make it right didn’t help any ... The beatings intensified. Slowly but surely, the abuse became more frequent and violent. He learned pretty quickly that if he gave her a black eye or busted her lip, people would start asking questions. So, he began beating her in areas that wouldn’t show. He was learning how to do it. He was becoming a professional wife-beater … He was running the show! Then the big day came.

One day, while their children were at his mother’s house and the two of them were home alone … A major beating occurred. He’d had just about all he could stand of her mouth and he was strung out on drugs. He was a lot larger than she was and he was certainly not afraid of his little wife. If he couldn’t get her attention with his fists, he certainly would with his pistol and assault rifle. He figured he was a real man and this time he would make it plain to her. Yes, this was the proper time. He would show her now … He was the boss!

He accused her of an infidelity that she was not guilty of, but he thought he knew better … So he just went ahead and began to beat the living hell out of her right then and there. (Somewhere during her torture is when she called my Dispatcher and tried to locate me. But just as the rest of the system has done, when she needed me the most ... I was nowhere around) He beat her some more. She fought back, but he was stronger ... And he loved to see the terror in her eyes.


He tortured her with pliers. He squeezed them onto her small fingers and toes, and even onto her delicate earlobes, before he blackened her sensitive eyes. He made her look up at the picture of their two children and say goodbye, and then he told her … This would be the last time she saw them! At gunpoint, he made her write notes to them and then her parents … Saying goodbye. Even then he wasn’t satisfied! With a broomstick, he beat her some more … And there was a lot more damage done than we’ll ever see. He wrapped a belt around her neck and began choking the life out of her. But it must not have been her time to die ... The belt broke.

His accusations continued and he demanded to know who her lover was. After three hours of beatings, telling the truth, that she wasn’t having an affair, wasn’t working. Her sense of survival finally kicked in and she tried the only other option she had ... She began lying. She made up a story and gave him a name … And it was only then that the dreadful beatings came to an end. Although she had asked him numerous times to go ahead and pull the trigger of the assault rifle he threatened her with, he backed off. He was content at last ... Because by now he had beaten her almost to death.

Maybe he began to feel a little guilty now, because he allowed her to call a friend to come and take her to the Hospital. But the friend had only one hour to get there, or he would kill her or whoever else came down their driveway. There he sat. This was the height of his manhood. He watched every move she made and he knew how to use the firearms he carried. He was in charge now! Never again would he take any crap from his half-dead, one hundred pound wife.
The friend came in the nick of time and took her to the Hospital, and even as they escaped down the driveway … He stood there with his assault rifle aimed at their backs. The Police Department came to the Hospital and listened to her story. They then took pictures of her now not-so-pretty face. Although she gave them all the details and pressed charges against him, the police never even went to his door. He stayed right where he was … He didn’t go anywhere. Warrants were drawn out for him, but never served … And not one police officer ever confronted him! Except for her statement and photo, not one piece of evidence was ever collected … And there’s more.

Only after his Father finally talked him into taking a ride, did he turn himself in. He was locked up until the court date, but because of no real police work ... The District Attorney didn’t have much of a case. Although the charges were very serious ... “Assault with a Deadly Weapon,” “First Degree Kidnapping” and “Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury with Intent to Kill,” and he was facing fifty-two years in prison ...

The DA offered him a plea bargain of three measly years. But he was confident, not only did his family have friends in high places, but he really didn’t think he’d done much of anything wrong. He declined the plea bargain and decided to gamble on a trial. Big mistake for him and a lucky break for her ... The Jury found him guilty of all charges and sentenced him to 24 years in the NC Dept. of Corrections.

But we all know how that goes … He ended up serving much less than half of that. And still, we wonder why these women keep going back … We’ve been so blind! It’s because that by allowing slaps on the wrists, we condone it! It’s because we let them right back out again and abusers don’t pay for their crimes, and they have no reason to expect to … That’s why!

The day that he was put into prison is the day that she blossomed into the flower that she has become. In her case, she didn't need counseling, she didn't need therapy, and she didn't need to pray more ... All she needed was for the threat in her life to be gone. Now is as good a time as any for me to tell you how she's handled her life and what she's become.

She did not sit still as many others have done ... She didn't hide it. She went out into public without makeup on and she even allowed her battered picture to be displayed on a large billboard. Besides being instrumental in sending her spouse/abuser to prison, she became very vocal and has even influenced some of our laws. As soon as she could … She divorced him. In addition to raising four kids, she donates much of her time to any who will hear her voice ... She wants to be heard! So far, she has sacrificed much to help others and has been compensated very little for any of her work. She has one of the most hectic schedules of anyone that I’ve ever known.

At every turn, our Legal and Social Services systems have let her down. And had she stood still for one minute and tolerated any of it, her ex-husband would’ve been out of prison long before now and would’ve made good on his promise to her ... That she and her children would be dead! She had to fight her own way through this whole process. Oh, she got some help from her friends, but she didn’t get the help we’d expect her to get from the taxes we pay … She had to scramble around the best that she could on her own. Anyway, he went to prison and you’d think that would be the end the story ... No Sir, far from it.

She received a written “Death Threat” from prison! Even after she produced it to local authorities, still, no advice was given and no action was taken ... Can you believe it? She had to really raise hell and pound on the counter before the Fed’s were called in, and it was only because of her persistence that he’s now serving time for the federal offense of “Communicating Threats through the Mail.”

For obvious reasons, she gets no support at all from her abusive ex-husband ... Because he is still in prison. But for him, if he gets an ache or pain, or needs a root canal ... Our tax dollars pay for that, while he works out, gets three square meals a day, lies on his bed in jail and plots his time away. For her, it’s a different ballgame altogether.

Heather has spoken before Legislative Committees and influenced the making of better laws. She has appeared on television shows. She speaks frequently to students in High Schools and from the pulpits of Churches that allow women to speak … Her voice can also be heard. She will not sit still. She boldly fights the never-ending battle against bureaucracy. She is one of the bravest people I’ve ever known. Her health is less precious to her than achieving her goal and speaking out. How many of us feel so strongly about what we do with our lives? How many of us would expose ourselves, knowing that at any moment, a self-described killer might be released from prison and we could receive a shotgun blast to the back of our heads?

The life that she leads is filled with potholes, but she carries on with optimism ... “Yes, I will make a difference. Yes, I will be heard!” I’m sure Heather isn’t perfect, but surely, she deserves much better than that ... As do all the other women like her. “How in the world,” I wonder, “does she keep her chin up and that smile on her face?”

Read More @ Heather's Website / Facebook / Fox Charlotte Interview

WSOC: Police raided what they described as illegal high-end gambling operation in west Charlotte on Friday.

Inside what appeared to be a rundown warehouse, investigators said they found $40,000 cash, gambling paraphernalia, guns, moonshine, and a high-tech security system. Officers also arrested three people during the raid early Friday morning. This case is just the most recent in a series of gambling raids in Charlotte. Officers said gambling often leads to more violent crimes.

"High-stakes poker, you're gonna draw the wrong crowd, and you're lookin', places like this are known for homicides and robberies, so you're putting yourself at risk," said Officer Steve Selogy. Police said more charges and arrests were pending.

More Info @ WCNC

Case Update: Family notification for the victim in last night’s homicide at 4400 Tuckaseegee Road has been completed by Homicide detectives. The victim is Scott Larnell Jones.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are investigating a homicide at 4400 Tuckaseegee Road. The incident occurred on Monday, March 2, 2009, at 9:08 p.m. in the Freedom Division.

Freedom Division officers responded to a call for service in reference to a shots fired call where one person had been shot. When officers arrived on scene they located a male gunshot victim lying in the back yard of 4400 Tuckaseegee Rd. Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene, treated the victim, and transported him to Carolinas Medical Center. The victim underwent surgery on Monday, March 2, 2009 and died Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 1:45 a.m. due to the injuries he sustained. The male victim has been identified, pending family notification; the victim’s name will be released.

According to witness statements, they observed an altercation between the victim and an unknown suspect, shots were fired, and then a burgundy Dodge Charger occupied by several subjects was seen leaving the scene.

While the ADW unit conducted the initial investigation, when the victim passed away the case was transferred to the Homicide Unit.

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

From WSOC-TV: State officials said it could be a month before they come up with a solution for what to do with juvenile offenders in Mecklenburg County.

Budgets cuts are forcing the county to close the Gatling Juvenile Detention Center on Sunday. State officials said Charlotte officers will now likely have to take the juveniles to Guilford County to find open beds. Two officers are needed to transport outside inmates out of the county.

"If (police) arrest two juveniles in one shift, there goes four patrol officers if you arrest them at different times," said Officer Adam Planty.

The state hopes to set up a system where Charlotte officers can drive to Gaston County and state officials would take the offenders the rest of the way to a detention facility, but that wouldn't start until April. More News @ WCNC