Crime In Charlotte, NC

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are investigating multiple stabbings that occurred at 1939 Eastway Drive, which left one person deceased. The deceased has been identified; pending notification of next of kin, his name is being withheld.

Shortly before 2:30 a.m. on November 15, 2009, Eastway Division officers responded to a call for service in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon.

The altercation stemmed from a verbal disagreement that took place at a local bar. When officers arrived, there were a total of three victims suffering from multiple stab wounds in the parking lot of the Townhomes of Ashbrook. All three victims were transported to CMC-Main with life-threatening injuries. Based on initial witness statements, the victims were stabbed subsequent to an altercation in the parking lot.

The suspects are described as five Hispanic males, two of which left in a green vehicle. This incident does not appear to be a random event, but rather an ongoing dispute. Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Homicide Detectives are in the process of interviewing multiple witnesses.

This investigation is in its early stages. Detectives with the Homicide Unit, ADW Unit, Vice and Narcotics, Firearms and Gang Units are on scene and will continue to work the investigation. 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 A. Fant is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Crime Statistics Summary for October 2009 (Released November 10, 2009):

Through the end of October, the preliminary total for Index Offenses:
- 19.7% lower than the same ten months last year.
- Property crime decreased by -19.6% while violent crime was down -20.7%.
- 43 homicides were reported compared to 67 in the same period in 2008, resulting in a decrease of -35.8%.

* All but one of the violent Index crime categories experienced decreases over the same period last year:

- Total robberies decreased -22.5%.
- The number of rape offenses increased +15.7%.
- Aggravated assaults declined -21.5%.
- Burglary overall was down -20.0%, with declines of -16.1% in residential and -31.8% in commercial cases.
- Reports of vehicle thefts decreased by -37.9%.
- Total larceny cases declined by -16.1% with the larcenies from auto down by -23.5%.
- Total arson cases were down -22.0%.

* View Overall Index Report for October 2009.
* Overall and Division Summary Report for October 2009
* 2008 Year-End Report -- Overall and Division Summary

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Come out to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and Fire Training Academy on November 21st and join in for the First Annual Thin Blue Line Run!

Registration: Register on-line or print out the form and mail it in. The cost is ONLY $10.00 to run, or you can make any monetary donation in memory of Officers Clark and Shelton.

This 5k race is to help support the Charlotte’s Finest Legacy Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-pro-t organization set up to honor those officers who were killed in the line of duty. The Charlotte’s Finest Legacy Foundation was established to organize and raise money for a scholarship, in memory of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Officers Sean Clark and Jeffrey Shelton. The scholarship is to help those high school seniors who are wishing to pursue a career in law enforcement.

Show your support to honor Officer’s Clark and Shelton’s legacy! The 5K takes place at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and Fire Training Academy, 1770 Shopton Road, Charlotte, NC. The race starts at 8:00 am.

An armed robbery/shooting occurred this morning at the Continental Inn located at 1100 W. Sugar Creek Road.

Police report a male victim was transported to CMC with gunshot wounds his leg. His injuries are non-life threatening at this time. This incident was the result of a robbery. The victim was going to visit someone at the hotel when he was approached by a masked black male suspect armed with a handgun.

The victim turned to run away and heard a gunshot at which time he fell. The suspect then took property from the victim and fled the scene on foot.

Case Update: November 9, 2009 8:24 p.m.
Davon Londell Thomas turned himself in tonight at 8:00 p.m., at CMPD Headquarters. He will be transported to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office where he will remain in their custody. The CMPD wishes to thank the local media and citizens of Charlotte for their help with this investigation.

Case Update: November 7, 2009 5:10 p.m
The victim has been identified as Tigist Yemane, DOB: 12/12/1985. Her next of kin has been notified.

Case Update: November 7, 2009 1:09 pm: A murder warrant has been obtained for the arrest of Mr. Thomas. He remains on the loose and we reiterate that he is to be considered armed and dangerous. Please advise the public to call 911 immediately if they have any information as to his whereabouts.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Unit Detectives are investigating a shooting at 9636 Willowglen Trail which has left one person dead. The victim has been identified; pending notification of next of kin, her name is being withheld.

Shortly before 5 a.m., on Saturday, November 7, 2009, University City Division officers responded to a 911 call in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon with injuries. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying on the floor, suffering from apparent gunshot wounds; she was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic.

The victim and the suspect, Davon Londell Thomas were involved in a dating relationship. Mr. Thomas and the victim arrived at his parent’s home on Willowglen Trail shortly before 5 a.m. Based on information gathered from witnesses, Mr. Thomas shot the victim multiple times shortly after they arrived at the house.

Mr. Thomas then fled the scene on foot. Patrol officers along with VCAT and SWAT are on scene searching for Mr. Thomas. Mr. Thomas was last seen wearing dark clothing and is 6’2” tall and about 225 pounds. If anyone sees Mr. Thomas, have them call 911 immediately.

A weapon was recovered on scene. It is unknown whether or not Mr. Thomas has additional weapons in his possession. The K-9 Unit and Helicopter Unit are on scene assisting in the search for Mr. Thomas. At this time, he is to be considered armed and dangerous. CMPD Homicide Unit Detectives are currently seeking a murder warrant for the arrest of Mr. Thomas.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit, ADW Unit, Firearms Enforcement Unit and VCAT Unit are on scene conducting the investigation. 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 an ADW Unit detective. Detective Garry McFadden is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg PD Homicide Detectives are conducting an investigation of a shooting that occurred at 9924 Shadowood Lane involving a State Probation Officer/Charlotte City Councilman.

The Probation Officer, Warren Turner, was conducting a routine investigation in the area and was fired upon by someone he did not know. Mr. Turner officer was not injured.

Officer Turner engaged in a short foot pursuit. The suspect got into a vehicle and fled the scene. Officer Turner followed the subject and lost sight of the vehicle while calling in the suspect’s location to CMPD Communications.

A short time later, the Steele Creek Division officers spotted the vehicle in the Woodlawn Road area and gave pursuit. The pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle turned into the church parking lot of the Clanton Presbyterian Church located at 335 Freeland Avenue.

Officers were able to apprehend the suspect after a short foot pursuit without incident. Derrick Alan Daniels, was taken into custody and is currently being interviewed by detectives. In addition, Homicide Detectives are conducting a canvass of the neighborhood. Crime Scene Search is collecting physical evidence.

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

Damion Mattice Geter, 31, of Charlotte was sentenced Thursday, October 29, 2009 by The Honorable Robert J. Conrad, Jr., Chief U.S. District Judge for the Western District of North Carolina, to serve four years and three months in federal prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release in connection with two Charlotte bank robberies.

Geter was also ordered to pay restitution to the subject banks in the total amount of $4,434. Geter entered a guilty plea on October 14, 2008 to two separate counts alleging bank robbery; one in connection with the robbery of the Coastal Federal Credit Union located at 1835 West W.T. Harris Boulevard, Charlotte, on October 1, 2007, and the second in connection with the robbery of the Bank of America located at 7911 Providence Road in Charlotte.

The case was investigated by officers of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and agents of the Charlotte FBI Office. Geter has been in federal custody since April 18, 2008.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Sexual Assault Unit is investigating a sexual assault that occurred in the area of 200 East 5th Street.

On November 3, 2009, just before 3:30 am, officers from the Central Division were dispatched to Mercy Hospital in reference to a sexual assault report. The victim told officers that between 2:15 and 2:30 a.m. she was walking on the sidewalk that runs along side of the light rail line from Dixie’s Tavern to retrieve her vehicle at the Epicentre when she was approached from behind by two men.

The victim stated the men proceeded to force her into an unknown location and sexually assaulted her. The victim told investigators following the attack the suspects ran away before she drove herself to Mercy Hospital.

The suspects in this case are described as two light skinned black males who were wearing dark clothing. Investigators from the Sexual Assault Unit and officers from the Central Division conducted extensive canvasses and interviews in the area following the incident. Investigators are also reviewing video from several surveillance cameras mounted in Center City.

The Central Division will continue to aggressively patrol the entertainment district, paying particular attention to the area in which this crime took place. They will also monitor the area for individuals walking alone to provide personal safety information to prevent future crimes from occurring. Crimes of this type are rare in the Center City, and there have been no crimes with corresponding similarities of this nature reported this year.

Anyone with information on this case can call to speak directly to lead Sexual Assault Detective J. Bumgarner at 704-353-0094. Anonymous tips can also be phoned in to our Crime Stoppers tip line at 704-334-1600.

A CMPD/Gang of One and Gang Prevention Coalition Agency and Community Workshop:
Join us for an important Workshop to learn about opportunities for funding from Gang of One through an RFP Process.

November 12, 2009
Albemarle Road Recreation Center- 5027 North Idlewild Road
(12 Noon – 1:30 pm) * Bring your own lunch!

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Robbery Unit is attempting to locate the man pictured in the shown photos.

On October 23, 2009, the suspect entered the Circle K at 1809 East Arbors Dr. The suspect started a conversation with the clerk and was talking about being overseas. He then pulled out a knife and demanded money. The suspect got the money from the clerk and left the scene in a silver Ford Taurus.

The suspect was described as a W/M, early 20’s, 5-10, 185 lbs., dark mustache and goatee. He was last seen wearing a camouflage shirt and pants with a black knit hat, black gloves and black boots. Earlier the same night, a suspect with a similar description was in the same general area loitering for money.

Anyone with information regarding this suspect’s whereabouts is asked to call the lead robbery Detective R. Andringa at 704-336-7743.

The public can also phone in anonymous tips to our Crime Stoppers tip line at 704-334-1600. Tipsters who provide important information to the case may earn a reward of up to $1,000 dollars.

On October 19th at 11:29 am, the Mint Hill Police answered a call regarding a home invasion in the 6600 block of Danbrooke Park Drive. The victim was home and reports that someone rang the doorbell, which the victim did not answer.

Approximately fifteen minutes later, the front door of the victim’s residence was kicked in and the victim stated that two black males, in their early twenties entered her home. The victim chased the suspects out of her house. The suspects got into a burgundy in color sedan type vehicle and fled the scene. No items were taken from this victim.

On October 20th at 11:57 am, the Mint Hill Police responded to the 7600 block of Hogans Bluff Drive located in the Olde Sycamore Subdivision. The victim reported a similar incident where suspect(s) entered the residence while the victim was present and removed two televisions and some cash. The victim saw the suspects as they were leaving the residence and driving away in a burgundy colored vehicle. No suspect description was available.

Neither victim was injured during these incidents.

Mint Hill Police encourage citizens to contact police if they are visited by suspicious persons during the daytime hours. If your home if forcibly entered while you are present, comply with any demands made by the suspects and contact police as soon as it is safe to do so. Police ask that citizens be vigilant within their neighborhoods and report any suspicious vehicles and/or persons immediately.

Anyone with further information about these two incidents is asked to contact Detective Garmon with the Mint Hill Police Department at 704-545-1085.

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Missing Persons Unit and Homicide Unit have arrested two men who attempted to rob a Hawthorne High School student at gunpoint on Point Lake Drive .

The incident took place at 6:00 a.m., on September 24, 2009. Jason Jenkins and Nicholas Robben have been charged with Attempted Armed Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon.

Mr. Jenkins and Mr. Robben were driving in a blue Ford Taurus yesterday morning and drove up to the student and attempted to rob her as she walked to her bus stop. After a brief exchange, the two men fled the scene driving towards Albemarle Road ; the victim was uninjured during the incident.

Today, Friday, September 25, 2009, at around 7:30 a.m., a blue Ford Taurus sedan was involved in a hit and run resulting in property damage in Mint Hill , NC. A witness followed the car to a home on Martin Lake Road and called 911.

When Hickory Grove Division officers arrived on scene, they found a gun and bandana in the car that connected Mr. Jenkins to yesterday’s Attempted Armed Robbery. A short time later, Mr. Robben voluntarily came to CMPD Headquarters for questioning in reference to yesterday’s Attempted Armed Robbery.

Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s Special Victims Division arrested John Patrick Bush and charged him with First Degree Rape- Victim Under 13.

The incident took place on September 1, 2009, at Smith Academy of International Languages, which is located at 1600 Tyvola Road . Mr. Bush is employed with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools as a teacher, and the victim is a CMS student.

The investigation was initiated after the victim informed her parents about the crime. The victim was referred to Pat’s Place Child Advocacy Center .

UPDATE II: Mr. Harris was arrested tonight in the 4700 block of Wildwood Avenue . He was a passenger in a vehicle and was taken into custody without incident by members of the CMPD SWAT Team and VCAT.

In addition, members of the Firearms Unit and Vice and Narcotics Unit assisted in the apprehension of Mr. Harris, who has been charged with the Attempted Murder of his girlfriend, Shakete Young. The Mercury Grand Marquis, in which Mr. Harris fled the scene, has been located at a separate location. It will be taken to CMPD headquarters to be processed for evidence.

UPDATE I: The two young girls have been located. They are alive and well. Police are still seeking information on the whereabouts of Mr. Harris and the vehicle he was last seen driving. CMPD Homicide Detectives have obtained a warrant on Mr. Harris for the Attempted Murder of Shakete Young

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 1989 Mercury Grand Marquis that was seen leaving the scene of an assault at 313 Benjamin Street .



The vehicle is beige or champagne in color and has four doors; NC tag: YRY-7698. Maurice Jermaine Harris is the driver. He is about 5’10” tall, has shoulder length braids and is wearing a blue and red t-shirt with blue jeans.

Mr. Harris took his two young girls with him as he fled the apartment. Their names are as follows: Markayla Harris, BF, 06/15/2006 & Malaya Harris, BF, 01/09/2009.

Mr. Harris is suspected of stabbing the girls’ mother and then fleeing the area in their vehicle. CMPD Homicide Detectives are in the process of obtaining a warrant for attempted murder on Mr. Harris. He is considered armed and dangerous.

Alert the public that if they see the vehicle, Mr. Harris, or either of the girls, to call 911 immediately.

The Safe Streets Task Force is seeking the public’s help in identifying a bank robber who demanded money from tellers at the BB&T at 8558 University City Boulevard just before ten ‘o’clock this morning.

Witnesses in the bank say he’s a white man, in his mid 40’s, about 6 feet tall and weighs about 200 to 220 pounds. He was wearing a yellow straw hat, and had beard stubble on his face. He gave the teller a black bag with a note attached demanding money. No customers were in the bank at the time of the robbery. No weapon was shown.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Charlotte Division of the FBI at 704-377-9200 or CrimeStoppers at 704-334-1600.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Detectives are investigating a homicide that occurred in the 6700 block of Mallard Creek Road. The victim has been identified as Tiffany Wright, 15.

Shortly before 6:00 am, University City Division officers responded to a call advising one person had been shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying in the street suffering from a gunshot wound. The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene and transported the victim to CMC Main where the victim died a short time later.

Ms. Wright was 32 weeks pregnant at the time of the shooting. The baby has been delivered and is currently being treated at CMC-Main.

Responding officers immediately began setting up a perimeter around the neighborhood to search for a suspect. Detectives are aggressively working the case and have several promising leads.

Based on witness statements gathered during the preliminary investigation the suspect(s) shot the victim while she was at the bus stop.

Homicide, Robbery, Fraud, Auto Theft, Sexual Assault, Gang and Firearms Unit detectives; with the assistance of University City Division officers conducted a neighborhood canvass. Crime Scene Search responded, photographed the scene and collected physical evidence. In addition to canvassing the neighborhood several specialized units are assisting with the investigative leads as they develop.

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

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are conducting a homicide investigation at 3840 Whitehall Dr. in the Freedom Division. The victim has been identified as Manuel Mosqueda-Savedra.

Shortly before 11:30 pm on September 11, 2009, Freedom Division officers responded to a call advising one male had been shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying on the floor inside of the residence suffering from a gunshot wound. The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene and pronounced the victim deceased.

Responding officers immediately began setting up a perimeter around the neighborhood to search for any suspects. As a result of this action several individuals were stopped and identified however; at this time there is no evidence to connect these subjects to the crime. Canine and Air Support responded to assist in the search. At this point, CMPD is still searching for the suspects.

Based on witness statements gathered during the preliminary investigation- an unknown number of suspects forced their way into the residence and shot the victim inside his home.

Homicide, Robbery, Gang and Firearms’ detectives; with the assistance of Freedom and Metro Division officers conducted a neighborhood canvass. Crime Scene Search responded, photographed the scene and collected physical evidence.

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

UPDATE: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have made an arrest in the homicide at 3416 Teal Point Drive.

Detectives signed warrants on 27-year old Corey Douglas Grant after working all through the night and following several leads in the case. CMPD's Violent Criminal Apprehension Team arrested Mr. Grant and he is in custody and charged with murder.
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At 10:30 pm on September 11th, 2009, Officers from the CMPD Eastway Division were dispatched to 3416 Teal Point Drive at the Greenbryre Apartments in reference to a person shot.

Once officers arrived, they discovered a male victim in apartment F2 suffering from gunshot wounds. Medic transported the victim to CMC Main where the victim died a short time later.

Preliminary information indicates this is not a random shooting and that the victim had some type of altercation with a suspect before the shooting.

Witnesses describe hearing several gunshots in front of 3416 Teal Point Drive before the suspect fled in a newer model silver four door car.

Homicide Detectives and Division officers canvassed the area and interviewed neighbors while Crime Scene gathered evidence and took photographs.

Detectives have identified the victim as Jimmy Deshawn Sanderlin, 24.

Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or the Homicide Tip Line at 704-432-TIPS and speak with Detective D. Abbott.

UPDATE: The suspects are: Kevin David Bishop Jr. and Demarcus Donte Ivey.

Both suspects have been charged with: Murder, Armed Robbery of Business, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, 4 counts of Armed Robbery from Person, 2 Counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon Inflicting Serious Injury, 9 Counts of Attempted Armed Robbery & 13 Counts of Kidnapping.
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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide and Robbery Detectives are conducting a homicide investigation, which was the result of a robbery at 3001 Little Rock Rd., in the Freedom Division. The victim has been identified as Adrian Youngblood.

Shortly before 2:00 p.m., on September 10, 2009, a Freedom Division officer was on a traffic stop in the 6100 block of Wilkinson Blvd, one block from the scene, when he was alerted by a concerned citizen of a possible robbery and shots being fired within the club.

In addition, at 1:54 p.m. 911 received a call for service at Club Nikki’s, which is located at 3001 Little Rock Rd, in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon call advising one male had been shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying on the floor inside of the nightclub suffering from a gunshot wound. A second victim was located inside suffering from a gunshot wound as well.

The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene and treated both victims. One victim was pronounced deceased on scene by Medic and the second victim suffered non-life threatening injuries.

Responding officers promptly obtained descriptions of the suspects and their vehicle. Communications broad casted the descriptions to the surrounding patrol divisions and within a short period time, Metro Division officers quickly spotted the vehicle on I-85N, exiting onto Beatties Ford Rd. A short vehicle pursuit ensued which ended when the suspect vehicle crashed and the occupants fled on foot.

Officers immediately set up a perimeter and both suspects were taken into police custody without further incident. Both suspects are being interviewed at police headquarters and once charged their names will be released.

Based on witness statements gathered during the preliminary investigation, the two suspects entered and demanded money. Witnesses also said that shots were fired inside of the club resulting in both victims being shot.

Homicide, Robbery, Gang and Firearms’ detectives; with the assistance of Freedom and Metro Division officers conducted a neighborhood canvass. Crime Scene Search was on scene as well, photographed the scene and collected physical evidence.

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

On September 8, 2009 at 7:49 a.m. Freedom Division Officers responded to 3901 Hargrove Ave in reference to an assist Medic call. Upon officers arrival, they located the victim, Alvaro-Dario Galeano-Echavarria, 76, lying on the sidewalk unresponsive.

The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic responded to the scene, treated Mr. Galeano-Echavarria, and transported him to Carolinas Medical Center where he is currently in critical, but stable condition.

Based on witness statements and evidence gathered at the scene, it was determined that Mr. Galeano-Echavarria was employed as a security guard with Security Forces Inc. and was working third shift in the parking lot of the Wal-Mart located at 3240 Wilkinson Blvd.

Detectives believe the suspects approached Mr. Galeano-Echavarria while he was patrolling the parking lot and an unknown type of altercation occurred resulting in the injuries to Mr. Galeano-Echavarria. It is still unclear on the specifics of how Mr. Galeano-Echavarria ended up on Hargrove Ave. , which detectives are continuing to investigate.

On September 8, 2009, Robbery detectives worked all day and into the night developing leads from the initial investigation. Then on September 9, 2009 at approximately 10:00 a.m. CMPD Robbery and VCAT detectives went to Durham , NC in response to information they had developed.

As a result of the Robbery/VCAT detectives’ exhaustive efforts and along with the cooperation of the Durham Police Department, Raleigh Police Department, State Bureau of Investigation and the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force, Mr. Jonathan Prince, was developed as a suspect and taken into Police custody in Durham, NC without incident at 2:00 a.m. on September 10, 2009.

CMPD Robbery detectives transported Mr. Prince back to Charlotte where he was subsequently interviewed. Mr. Prince is currently in custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

From News Channel 36: A teenager was shot and a pregnant teen was trampled during a party in east Charlotte, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police say.

It happened around 12:39 a.m. Monday at the Machu Picchu Restaurant and Lounge on Independence Boulevard near North Sharon Amity Road.

Officers tell NewsChannel 36 that the restaurant was rented out for a party for 16- to 18-year-olds at the time. A fight started inside the restaurant and moved outside where the shots were fired.

According to police, a teen who was an innocent bystander was shot in the leg. He was transported to Presbyterian Hospital by private vehicle. His injuries are not life-threatening.

A pregnant teen fell to the ground and was trampled during the shooting as a crowd tried to run back inside the restaurant, police say. She was transported to the hospital as a precaution.

No arrests have been made so far. If you know anything about this case, you're asked to call police or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are investigating a robbery and subsequent shooting off the 11000 block of John Price Road , which left the robbery suspect dead. The deceased has been identified as Renaldo Raphael Astin Smith, 17.

Shortly before 9:45 p.m., on Sunday, September 06, 2009, Steele Creek Division officers responded to a robbery call placed by a cab driver. The cab driver stated that he was dispatched to the Colonial Village at Stone Point apartment complex to pick up a fare.

Once inside the complex, the cab driver was flagged down by a subject who then entered the right front passenger seat. The cab driver stated that as he exited the complex, the subject that he picked up produced a gun and demanded money. The cab driver then produced his own handgun and shot the subject, killing him.

The cab driver stopped his vehicle on John Price Road , just before South Tryon Street and called 911 to report the incident. The subject whom the cab driver shot was pronounced deceased on scene. The cab driver was uninjured; he remained with his cab until a patrol officer arrived and he is cooperating fully with detectives.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit are on scene conducting the investigation. Crime Scene Search is on scene as well, photographing the scene and collecting physical evidence. Once the investigation is complete, the case will be presented to the Mecklenburg Count District Attorney’s Office to determine whether or not the cab driver will be charged.

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

Brian Lutes (R) was sick and tired of the rising crime rate in his South Charlotte neighborhood and decided to take action by creating a one-man community watch bike patrol. He patrols at various hours of the day and night.

Mr. Lutes, a former police officer, lives in the Stonehaven Community, which is located in the South Park area near Rama Rd. The incident that prompted him to start the patrol was when a drunk driver ended up on the curb outside his home.

Lutes said, "He had a bottle of Wild Turkey between his legs and a girl wearing nothing but lingerie in the passenger seat. He detained the driver until the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police arrived.

In addition, Lutes has detained a 19-year old drunk driver that drove his mother's Honda through 2 solid brick towers on Gate Post Road. He has also discovered several doors left unlocked at the local Elementary School, etc.

"I think we as citizens have to be responsible for our own communities and if we’re not, then we cannot just look to government all the time. We’ve got to take proactive measures in our own community and do it.,” Lutes said.

NEWS/VIDEO LINKS: News 14 Carolina & WCNC

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide Detectives are investigating a shooting at 2601 Lanecrest Drive, that left one person dead and two injured. The deceased has been identified as William Delorean Norman. In addition, two other people were shot and transported to area hospitals with non-life threatening injuries.

Shortly after 10 pm, on August 26, 2009, North Tryon Division officers responded to a 911 call in reference to multiple shots fired. The gunshots came from the apartment complex parking lot behind 2601 Lanecrest Drive . When officers arrived on scene, they found Mr. Norman lying on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound; he was pronounced deceased on scene.

Based on statements gathered during the preliminary investigation, detectives believe that Mr. Norman and two other suspects were standing in the parking lot when two other subjects walked up. After a brief exchange of words, shots were fired and the groups scattered.

Detectives believe that Mr. Norman and the other two suspects intended to rob the other two subjects. The two groups are known to each other; this is not believed to be a random act. Based on information gathered during the preliminary investigation, detectives believe that this incident is a drug related robbery.

This investigation is in its initial stages. A second suspect was shot and transported to the hospital. One of the other subjects was shot as well and transported to the hospital. At this time, detectives are still attempting to locate and identify the third suspect in the robbery attempt and the second subject. As information develops, an updated release will be sent out including a list of names and charges.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit, ADW Unit, Firearms Enforcement Unit and the Gang Unit are on scene conducting the investigation. 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 M. Burke is the lead detective assigned to the case. In addition, you may also call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

UPDATE: The homeowner will not be charged by authorities, the Mecklenburg District Attorney announced today per the following press release:

On August 22, 2009, 76 year old C.L. McClure was sitting in his basement room cooling off after cutting his yard. At approximately 12:30 in the afternoon, he saw a young black male walk past the door of this room. He thought it was his grandson coming by to see him. When he didn’t come into the room, Mr. McClure walked to the door to see what he was doing. He was greeted by a young man with his face covered and armed with a weapon.

Mr. McClure was told to get on the ground. He was duct taped and robbed of cash and jewelry. Another man entered into the basement as well. Mr. McClure was asked who and what was in the main house. Mr. McClure told them his wife was upstairs and to please not hurt her. One man left the other stayed. Mr. McClure’s wife was also a victim of this home invasion when they entered the home and took items from there as well.

After a brief period, the other man left and Mr. McClure got off the ground, retrieved a gun he had in the basement, and went to check on his wife. He saw a number of young men running from his house into the woods. From previous break-ins at his residence he believed that the robbers were running to a vehicle on the other side of the woods. His wife told him she was okay and he got into his vehicle. His intention at that time was to get to their car before they did and to shoot out the tires to immobilize their car until the police arrived.

As Mr. McClure approached the area where he thought a car might be parked, there was no car, and instead he saw all the young men running towards him. At this point he fired a shot in the air in an attempt to scatter them away from him and his vehicle and back into the woods. Instead, they kept running towards him. Some passed in front of his car and some behind. As Marcus Fluker passed his car he began to turn towards Mr. McClure. McClure, an Army veteran, had identified the weapon pointed at him at his house as some type of automatic weapon. When Fluker turned towards him he thought he was about to get “sprayed” by fire from this automatic weapon. He fired at him. McClure did not know if he struck him because Mr. Fluker turned back around and continued to run. At this point, McClure no longer felt in danger and did not fire his weapon again.

After the police arrived they went with Mr. McClure into the apartment complex where the individuals had been last scene. At this point, it was learned that Marcus Fluker had been struck by a single gunshot wound. At the place where he was found there was no gun. This location was not secure until the police arrived.

The investigation of this case recovered two firearms taken from Mr. McClure’s home and it is clear that Mr. Fluker was one of the individuals involved in the home invasion robbery. As a result of these events, Mr. McClure’s 70 year old wife suffered a heart attack.

In making a decision as to whether to charge Mr. McClure in this case, the District Attorney’s Office has considered all of the above facts as well as the law of self defense.

The only eyewitness to this shooting is Mr. McClure. The physical evidence corroborates what he told detectives. His idea to find the vehicle and try to delay the escape of those who invaded his home did not make him the aggressor nor did that take away his right of self defense. Mr. McClure believed that his life was in danger and fired in self-defense. It is the burden of the State in a criminal case to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a charged individual did not act in self defense. The State cannot meet that burden in this case as it appears from all the credible evidence that Mr. McClure feared for his life.

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The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department is investigating a home invasion/robbery which resulted in a homicide. The victim has been identified as 15-year old, Marcus Antonio Steven Fluker.

At 12:41 p.m., North Tryon Division officers responded to a home invasion robbery where four suspects broke into a home at 7619 Grier Road.

An elderly couple was inside the residence when the suspects broke in, tied up the male victim and then proceeded to ransack the house. At least one of the suspects was armed with a handgun.

After the suspects fled the scene on foot, the male victim freed himself, had his wife call 911 and then went to look for the suspects.

A few minutes later and a short distance away, the male home invasion victim encountered the suspects on Ginger Lane. The victim fired a handgun at one of the suspects, striking Mr. Fluker at least once.

At 12:44 p.m., CMPD telecommunications received a call in reference to the shooting which took place on Ginger Lane. When officers arrived on scene, they located Mr. Fluker lying on the ground suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene, treated Mr. Fluker and transported him to CMC where he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.

Officers detained the victim of the home invasion robbery shortly after the shooting and transported him to police headquarters. The individual responsible for the shooting on Ginger Lane is the victim from the home invasion robbery.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit, ADW Unit, Robbery Unit, Gang and Firearm Enforcement Unit and officers with the North Tryon Division conducted a neighborhood canvass. Crime Scene Search was on scene as well collecting physical evidence and photographing the scene.

Homicide Detectives are working closely with the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office to determine if any charges will be filed against the victim of the robbery who shot Mr. Fluker.

Three suspects are in custody in connection to the home invasion robbery. Their names and charges are as follows:

** Joseph Graves- Charged with 2nd Degree Burglary, Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon & Conspiracy to Commit Robbery
** Matthew Everett Morgan- Charged with 2nd Degree Burglary, Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon & Conspiracy to Commit Robbery
** Tahjaue Wiley- Charged with 2nd Degree Burglary, Robbery with a Dangerous Weapon & Conspiracy to Commit Robbery.

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

Since Monday 8/17, the Providence Division has had 37 reported incidents of larceny from auto.

The majority of these incidents were reported in the Dilworth area and stem from a rash of vehicles entered the night of 8/18-8/19. Multiple vehicles were hit on Corton Drive , Salem Drive, Lyndhurst Avenue , Dilworth Heights Lane , East Tremont Avenue, Charlotte Drive and Euclid Avenue .

The reports that night from Dilworth all involved windows being broken in order to gain entry to the targeted vehicles. The suspects targeted small items such as phones, iPods, laptops, and cash. This amount of reported vehicle break-ins in one week significantly exceeds the Providence Division's weekly average for 2009 (26.9).

Providence Division officers are investigating suspects for many of this week's incidents, but still ask that anyone who thinks they may have information about vehicle break-ins to contact Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600. Reported information to Crime Stoppers is confidential and anonymous.

Please remember:
--Secure your vehicle. Always keep it locked.
--Remove all items of value and remove items that might appear to have value. An empty backpack can entice a thief to break into your car. Remove accessories for electronics. The GPS unit mount on your dashboard may lead a thief to think that the GPS unit itself is hidden in the glove box or console.
--Make sure to remove your vehicle's valet key and spare keys to your home or other vehicles you own.
--Try to park in a well lighted area.
--Do not hide your purse or valuables in a vehicle trunk when you arrive at a destination. If possible secure those items ahead of time. A thief may see you place the items in the trunk.
--Many vehicles have alarms. If you hear a car alarm activated in your neighborhood, do not assume that it's a false alarm.
--If your vehicle has a locking glove box, utilize the feature.
--Do not leave spare change and cash in your car.

David Gerard Smith, 56, was criminally charged today by the Federal grand jury sitting in Charlotte, in a federal bill of indictment alleging in two separate counts that he did knowingly produce child pornography.

A third count alleges that David Gerard Smith knowingly possessed child pornography.

Today’s announcement is made by Acting U.S. Attorney Edward R. Ryan, Owen D. Harris, Special Agent in Charge of FBI operations in North Carolina, and Chief Rodney Monroe of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

“Producing and possessing child pornography are serious federal crimes, and offenders will be held accountable for their actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan.

Defendant Smith is currently in the custody of the North Carolina Department of Corrections and will be brought into federal custody at a future date to face the current charges.

A date for his initial appearance in U.S. District Court has not yet been set. If convicted, David Gerard Smith faces no less than 15 years in federal prison (commonly known as a “mandatory minimum” sentence) on each of the two counts alleging roduction of child pornography (counts one and two). Count three possession of child pornography) carries a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.

In the last 10 days alone, CMPD University Division officers have made a total of 5 arrests for residential breaking and entering in Response Area 3. CMPD also has pending charges on another suspect.

Officers would like to thank everyone involved, especially our citizens whose calls to us resulted in three of the below mentioned arrests!

Call 911 when you see suspicious people in your neighborhoods! As you can see, your efforts are helping police to take these criminals off the streets and keep you safer!

The breaking and entering suspects police arrested are as follows: All have previous arrests. Anthony Byrd, Lamonte Frieison, David Brown, Lawrence Bowie, and Cassius Sutton.

Case Update: On Monday, August 17, 2009, CMPD Homicide detectives arrested Wesley Orion Woodling for the murder of Joseph D. Muse.


Mr. Woodling was interviewed by Homicide detectives at Police Headquarters and then transported to the Mecklenburg County Jail. He remains in custody of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office

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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide and ADW Detectives are conducting a homicide investigation at 5914 Monroe RD., in the Independence Division. The victim has been identified as Joseph D. Muse.

At 7:34 p.m., on August 16, 2009, Independence Division officers responded to a 911 call for service in reference to an assault with a deadly weapon call advising one male had been shot. When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying on the ground outside of the apartment building suffering from a gunshot wound. Charlotte Fire Department and Medic arrived on scene, treated the victim and the victim was pronounced deceased shortly after by Medic.

Based on witness statements gathered during the preliminary investigation, the victim and another individual were on the second floor breezeway talking when they heard several shots being fired. As the victim attempted to run away he was shot. In addition, witnesses advised seeing a white male fleeing the scene on foot.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit, ADW Unit, and Independence Division officers conducted a neighborhood canvass. Crime Scene Search was on scene as well, photographed the scene and collected physical evidence.

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

Investigators with Charlotte’s Fire Investigation Task Force have arrested Jason Scott Chappell, 16, in connection with a fire involving several pieces of heavy equipment and a refueling tanker at a construction site at 1015 Mt. Holly – Huntersville Road on Jue 9, 2009.


The construction site is the location of the new River Oaks Academy which is a new Charlotte - Mecklenburg elementary school location. The equipment involved included a 2,000 gallon fuel tanker, two large Caterpillar Bulldozers and an additional Caterpillar backhoe. The refueling tanker and one of the Bulldozers were completely destroyed as result of the fire.

In addition to the fire damage, EPA was notified due to the diesel fuel spill from the tanker which required soil and water contamination clean up. Total damage is estimated at $250,000.00.

Warrants were served on Chappell yesterday for Burning of Personal Property and Malicious Use of Incendiary material. He is currently being held in the Mecklenburg County Jail under a $150,000.00 secured bond.

As of Wednesday evening of last week, the Ballantyne area has been targeted by a group of suspects who are breaking into cars and stealing valuables.

The group targets grocery stores and restaurants along the Johnston Road corridor between the hours of 8:00 P.M. and midnight.

Please be on the look out for the car and suspects that you can view in the photos shown below. The photos are from a convenience store on the West side of town where one victim’s stolen credit card was used.

The suspects may also be driving a older white mini-van with a blue stripe. Please call 911 if you see these individuals or the car in the Johnston Road area.

Please remove all valuables form your car if you are going to the grocery store or eating out in the Johnston Road corridor.

UPDATE I: (Thursday, August 20, 2009)

Homicide Detectives arrested three people for the murder of Palo I. Childress. Detectives with the Homicide Unit worked closely with the Gang Unit and North Tryon Division officers to develop the information which led to these arrests.

This homicide is determined to be gang related and not a random act. Mr. Childress, a gang member, was shot and killed by members of another gang. Homicide Detectives worked through the night last night as information developed to locate, interview and arrest the listed individuals.

Those arrested and their charges are as follows:

** Warren Jae Avery - Murder
** Marco Santaine Davis - Murder
** Antonio Joshua Dade- Conspiracy to Commit Murder
** Kiera Thompson - Conspiracy and Accessory after the Fact of Murder

For information on the CMPD’s efforts to intervene and prevent local youths from joining gangs please visit the Gang of One link on the CMPD website @
http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/CMPD/Investigative+Services/Criminal+Investigations/Gang+Intelligence/Gang+of+One.htm.

Gang of One is a program of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's Gang Intelligence Unit and is a gang prevention and intervention initiative that utilizes a network of local resources to address youth needs related to gang membership and educates citizens about local gang trends.

Contact Gang of One, 24/7/365 @ 704.432.GANG/4264 or gangofone@cmpd.org.

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Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Homicide detectives are conducting a homicide investigation at 3800 Michigan Ave in the North Tryon Division. The victim has been identified as Palo I. Childress.

Shortly after 12:00 p.m., on August 10, 2009, North Tryon Division officers responded to an assist Medic call. The call for service advised that a male victim had been found lying in an open field.

When officers arrived on scene, they located the victim lying in a field unresponsive suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was then pronounced deceased on scene by Medic.

Based on witness statements gathered during the preliminary investigation, neighbors heard what they thought to be firecrackers last night. However, according to 911 records there were no calls in reference to possible gunshots or firecrackers in the immediate area. Detectives believe that robbery is the apparent motive for this shooting.

Detectives with the Homicide Unit and North Tryon Division officers conducted a neighborhood canvass and are speaking with neighbors to gather additional information. Crime Scene Search was on scene as well, photographed the scene and collected physical evidence.

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

UPDATE: The following photos are stills of the suspect, suspect vehicle and the female that was with the suspect. Each photo is identified with a box or circle.