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Press Releases
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On May 24, 2013, at approximately 1:50 PM, a male entered the People’s National Bank located at 1899 Woodmoor Drive in Monument, CO. The suspect approached a teller and demanded money. The suspect fled away on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.
The suspect is described as a white male, between 6’4’’and 6’6’’ tall, with facial hair, wearing a green t-shirt, black pants, and a white baseball cap.
Attached are photos of the suspect and anyone with information regarding the suspect or the robbery is encouraged to call the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office at 390-5555.
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MR 13-042
DATE: May 23, 2013 [2:35 p.m.]
SHERIFF MAKETA TO CO-HOST LOCAL EVENT ON SECOND AMENDMENT
El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa will be co-hosting a presentation on Colorado’s Assault on the Second Amendment with Independence Institute Research Director, David Kopel. Sheriff Maketa will be joined by Weld County Sheriff John Cooke and Larimer County Sheriff Justin Smith.
The presentation will be held at the Freedom Financial Expo Center at 3650 N. Nevada Avenue in Colorado Springs on Tuesday, May 28, 2013, at 6:30 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and tickets are $5 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance at http://secondamendmentcs.eventbrite.com/ or at http://www.i2i.org. The event is co-sponsored by the El Paso County Republicans and the Pikes Peak Firearms Coalition.
The recent passage of the gun control bills by the Colorado Legislature this past session has generated a great deal of attention. The enforceability of these new laws and the impact they may have on law abiding citizens is unknown and has created concern. Of the 62 Colorado County Sheriffs, Sheriff Maketa is one of 55 who have joined in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of these laws based on previous court decisions, unenforceability, and vagueness contained within two of them. Those interested in gaining a better understanding of the implications of these laws and the pending litigation should attend this event.
Anyone is welcome to attend and the information provided should prove very valuable. This is a fundraising event but the cost is minimal and essentially will cover the cost of the event; the remaining funds will be applied to the litigation fund.
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MR 13-041
DATE: May 18, 2013 [12:00 p.m.]
ARRESTS MADE IN THE HOMICIDE OF MIGUEL BARAJAS
On February 13, 2013, at approximately 7:20 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from Dawn Richburg who reported she had returned home in the 100 block of Judson Street to find it had been burglarized.
Deputies responded and searched the home and discovered Dawn's father, 47 year old Miguel Barajas, deceased in the home. Mr. Barajas had suffered an apparent gunshot wound.
Investigating the case as a homicide, detectives from the Sheriff's Office have worked diligently over the past three months to determine who was responsible for Mr. Barajas' death. Those efforts have resulted in three arrests during the early morning hours today and include, 34 year old Tommy Wright, 33 year old Dawn Richburg, as well as Mr. Barajas' wife, 52 year old Sandra Barajas. Tommy Wright is a mutual acquaintance of both Dawn and Sandra.
Although arrests have been made, this case remains active and many aspects of the case cannot be shared; arrest affidavits have been sealed.
Each suspect has been charged with the following and held without bond.
First Degree Murder - class 1 felony.
Criminal Solicitation - class 2 felony.
Criminal Conspiracy - class 2 felony.
Sandra Barajas and Dawn Richburg are being held at the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center. Tommy Wright was in custody in Douglas County on unrelated charges and will transfer to the Criminal Justice Center on a date yet to be determined.
Of the arrests, Sheriff Maketa commented, "The arrests in the Barajas homicide are a direct result of the hard work and diligence our investigators have shown. Their persistence and detailed police work in this case are a great example of the level of work they do day in and day out.”
Tommy Wright
Sandra Barajas
Dawn Richburg
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MR 13-040
On May 11, 2013 at 2:00 a.m., two officers from the Manitou Springs Police Department were conducting an investigation at the La Fon Motel at 123 Manitou Avenue. During the investigation an altercation ensued and the suspect fired at one of the officers who returned fire, striking the suspect. The officer was not injured; the suspect was transported to a local hospital. The suspect is identified as 37 year old Christopher Clemons and is currently listed in stable condition.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office are investigating the incident.
On May 8, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation after two seventeen year old females reported they were approached by an adult male who was driving a white Chevrolet truck. The females had been walking on Widefield Drive near Widefield High School at 1:55 p.m. when the male drove up and began talking to them from the truck. He complimented their appearance and even offered to buy their lunch. At no time did the male try to lure them into the vehicle, speak of sex or expose himself before driving away.
Video surveillance from the school captured footage of the truck and was reviewed by the deputy who serves as the School Resource Officer (SRO) at Widefield High School. At approximately 2:20 p.m. the truck returned to the area and was stopped by deputies. The driver was identified as 38 year old Ernesto Martinez-Lopez and it was determined Lopez was driving under revocation and had an unrelated misdemeanor warrant for his arrest. He was taken into custody for those offenses and booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center.
Although Lopez’s interaction with the females does not fit the statutory definition of Enticement of a Child, his actions were suspicious in nature and his motive in speaking with them is unknown. Parents are asked to continually remind their children about the possibility of enticement situations and how to keep themselves safe.
On Friday, May 10, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office will host the 20th Annual Pikes Peak Region Peace Officers' Memorial Day Service. The service will begin at 10:00 a.m. at America the Beautiful Park located at 126 Cimino Drive.
The memorial service honors the 28 Pikes Peak area peace officers who have given their lives in the line of duty since 1895. The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. George Hertner, Medical Director for Memorial North Emergency Department. El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa and Colorado Springs Police Chief Pete Carey will also speak. The public and the media are invited to attend.
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MR 13-037
El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa will co-host a Town Hall meeting with Teller County Sheriff Mike Ensminger on Thursday, May 9, 2013. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Ute Pass Elementary School located at 9230 Chipita Park Road.
Sheriff Maketa and Sheriff Ensminger will discuss upcoming legislative changes on a wide variety of topics as well as current crime trends and patterns in the surrounding area. Sheriff Maketa will also speak about progress his Office has made since the passing of 1A this past November.
The meeting will serve as a great forum for residents to become better educated on how the legislative changes may impact them or the community.
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MR 13-036
El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa will host a Town Hall meeting in the Security / Widefield area on Wednesday, May 8, 2013. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall located at 567 Marquette Drive (intersection of Main Street and Marquette Drive).
Sheriff Maketa will provide an update on Sheriff’s Office activity since the passing of 1A. He will also discuss upcoming legislative changes on a wide variety of topics as well as current crime trends and patterns in the surrounding area. The meeting will serve as a great forum for residents to become better educated on how the legislative changes may impact them or the community.
El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa will co-host a Town Hall meeting with El Paso County Commissioner Darryl Glenn on Thursday, May 2, 2013. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Lewis Palmer High School located at 1300 Higby Rd., Monument, CO 80132.
Sheriff Maketa and Commissioner Glenn will speak about upcoming legislative changes on a wide variety of topics and current crime trends and patterns in the surrounding area. The meeting will serve as a great forum for residents to become better educated on how the legislative changes may impact them or the community.
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MR 13-034
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will hold its Tenth Annual Teen Academy the week of June 3-7, 2013. Classes will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day at the Office of the Sheriff at 27 E. Vermijo Avenue.
The Teen Academy provides young adults with a unique opportunity to learn about the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office and its operations through classroom and hands-on experience. Some of the courses will include Jail Operations, Patrol Procedures, SWAT, K9, and Criminal Investigations. Attendees will also tour secure areas within the Criminal Justice Center, the Evidence Facility, and courtrooms at the Terry R. Harris Judicial Complex.
Interested applicants must be between the ages of 14-17 by June 3, 2013 to be eligible. Applicants must be residents of El Paso County and currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a school in El Paso County.
Applications are available online at the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office website (shr.elpasoco.com). The application deadline is May 27, 2013 and class size is limited to 40 students. Due to its popularity, priority will be given to those who will be attending for the first time.
For further information contact Sergeant John David at 520-7349.
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MR 13-033
Sheriff’s Office Hosting Local Law Enforcement Cadet Training
On Saturday, April 20, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will host a multi-agency training day for area law enforcement cadet/explorer programs. The training will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and provide valuable experience, in a controlled environment, regarding situations law enforcement officers handle in the performance of their duties. This is a valuable part of the decision process for young adults exploring law enforcement as a career choice. There are several members of the Sheriff’s Office who began their careers as cadets.
Approximately 60 Cadets/Explorers from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, Pueblo Police Department and Colorado Springs Police Department will converge at Widefield High School for a day filled with law enforcement related reality based scenarios including traffic contacts, building searches and in-progress calls for service. Deputy Andrew Holmes will be the point of contact at the training site.
Media partners are welcome and encouraged to observe.
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MR 13-032
On April 11, 2013, the Sheriff's Office received a report of a possible enticement of a child near King Elementary School. The incident took place a few blocks from the school on April 10, 2013, specifically on Burroback Court near Caballero Avenue. When deputies arrived they were informed a white male had approached two female juvenile victims while driving a car and asked them if they wanted to perform oral sex on him. The suspect was described as a white male, in his late 20’s with short grey hair, wearing glasses and an “army jacket”. The victims also provided a description of the suspect vehicle and partial license plate.
On April 23, 2013, while patrolling the area of King Elementary, a sheriff’s deputy noticed a vehicle and driver matching the suspect description from the incident. The driver, 27 year old Justin Nooner, was interviewed and subsequently arrested for Enticement of a Child, a Class 4 Felony, and booked into the Criminal Justice Center on $3,000.00 bond.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will present its Waldo Canyon After Action Report on Thursday, April 18, 2013. The presentation will begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Office of the Sheriff at 27 E. Vermijo Avenue in the third floor Community Room.
Sheriff Terry Maketa will discuss strengths and challenges as they pertain to El Paso County’s response during the fire, as well as future implications. The After Action Report will be made available following the presentation.
Members of the media who wish to attend are asked to arrive at 1:45 p.m. to set up so the presentation can begin promptly at 2:00 p.m.
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MR 13-031
SHERIFF TERRY MAKETA TO CO-HOST TOWN HALL MEETING WITH COMMISSIONER AMY LATHEN TO DISCUSS LEGISLATION
El Paso County Sheriff Terry Maketa will co-host a Town Hall meeting with El Paso County Commissioner Amy Lathen on Thursday, April 18, 2013. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Falcon Middle School located at 9755 Towner Avenue, Peyton, CO 80831.
Sheriff Maketa and Commissioner Lathen will speak about upcoming legislative changes on a wide variety of topics. The meeting will serve as a great forum for residents to become better educated on how the legislative changes may impact them or the community.
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MR 13-030
THOMAS GUOLEE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY
On April 11, 2013, at approximately 5:30 PM, Thomas Guolee, a person of interest in the Tom Clements murder investigation was taken into custody on an active felony warrant by local authorities in Colorado Springs.
Guolee is being held at the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Justice Center on a no bond hold for violation of parole.
The investigation of the shooting of Tom Clements remains active and no additional information will be shared at this time regarding the activities described above.
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MR 13-029
On April 8, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a possible sex assault on a child. An investigation began immediately, and by the evening detectives arrested 39 year old Carmen Centennial for several sexual assault related charges.
The investigation revealed Mr. Centennial had sexual contact on more than one occasion from December 2012 until March 2013 with a 15 year old female; the victim is not related to Mr. Centennial. Due to the nature of the offense and the age of the victim, no additional details will be shared.
Mr. Centennial is employed as a teacher at Otero Elementary School in Harrison School District 2. There is no information at this time which suggests there have been additional victims.
Carmen Centennial was booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center on April 8, 2013 on the following charges and is being held on $10,000 bond.
Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust (Class 3 Felony)
Sexual Assault on a Child – Pattern of Abuse (Class 3 Felony)
Sexual Assault (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
Beginning Monday, April 8, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center will assume 9-1-1 call-taking and dispatching responsibilities for the City of Manitou Springs Police and Fire Departments. This change not only demonstrates cooperation between regional public safety agencies to provide the best service possible to area residents, it also allows for cost savings by the City of Manitou Springs. The $50,000 annually that will be paid to the Sheriff's Office for the services will be applied to part time salary and/or overtime for staffing.
During the transition, there will be no drop in public safety services to residents of Manitou Springs. They do need to be aware of changes when calling 9-1-1 or trying to place a non-emergency call. When dialing 9-1-1, Manitou Springs residents will hear, “El Paso County 9-1-1”. If non-emergency services are needed, residents should call the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line of 719-390-5555. The Manitou Springs Police administrative number of 719-685-5407 will continue to work. Please do not call the administrative line during an emergency, instead call 9-1-1.
Of the partnership, Sheriff Terry Maketa commented, "This serves as a great example where two government agencies came together and through a cooperative effort, identified financial efficiencies and increased service delivery by consolidating services. The Sheriff's Office has a long history of operating the only regional dispatch center in the county and we look forward to the partnership with the City of Manitou Springs."
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MR 13-027
EVIDENCE / FIREARM REGARDING JAMES LOHR ARREST
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has collected a video from a business surveillance system in the 2300 block of East Bijou Street that shows a firearm being thrown from the vehicle James Lohr was operating during the pursuit that occurred this morning just after 1:30 a.m. The video goes on to show what appears to be two adult males finding the gun and one of the men picks it up and sets it back down. The two men return later and the same man picks up the gun and they leave with it.
Those who found the gun and have it in their possession are not in trouble, but it’s important they notify the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office so the gun can be placed into evidence as part of the ongoing investigation. For their safety and for the preservation of other evidence, we ask they please not handle the firearm further. Please notify the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office at 719-390-5555.
Still photographs of pertinent images and segments from the surveillance are attached.
As part of the Tom Clements homicide investigation, a collaborative effort between the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, Colorado Springs Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation resulted in the apprehension of James Lohr who had been previously named as a person of interest in the Tom Clements case and whom also had outstanding warrants for his arrest unrelated to the current investigation.
At approximately 1:30 a.m. Lohr was seen by law enforcement officers leaving a business along Platte Avenue east of Union Boulevard. Officers from the Colorado Springs Police Department attempted to stop the vehicle Lohr was driving and the vehicle fled. A short vehicle pursuit followed and Lohr fled on foot after the vehicle he was driving became disabled near Bijou Street and Hancock Avenue. A search of the area was conducted and Lohr was taken into custody without incident by officers from the Colorado Springs Police Department at approximately 3:25 a.m. in the 200 block of Cedar Street.
James Lohr has been booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center for Felony Eluding, several traffic offenses, and for the three outstanding arrest warrants unrelated to this investigation.
· Vehicular Eluding, class 5 Felony, bond $250,000
o Reckless Driving
o Speed Limits
o Fail to Obey Traffic Control Device
· Warrant #1 – El Paso County – Failure to Comply on Third Degree Assault and Harassment, bond $5000
· Warrant #2 – Las Animas County – Violation of Bail/Bond Conditions, bond $500
· Warrant #3 – Las Animas County – Failure to Appear / Contempt of Court on Violation of Protection Order, bond $1500
Regarding his new charges, Lohr will receive court advisement via video at the Criminal Justice Center on Monday, April 8, 2013 at 1:30 p.m.
The investigation of the shooting of Tom Clements remains active and no additional information will be shared at this time regarding the activities described above.
On April 3, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office broadcasted a BOLO (Be On the Look Out) on their primary radio talk group to deputies in the field. A BOLO can be used for a variety of reasons and Officer Safety related information is amongst the most common reason to broadcast a BOLO. The information aired was regarding two men whose names surfaced during the Tom Clements homicide investigation and could pose a threat to deputies/officers if contacted. Once media became aware of the BOLO there were numerous inquiries and a broad level of reporting occurred. In an effort to provide consistency on what is being reported, the following information and points of clarification pertaining to the BOLO and the Clements investigation is being shared.
James Franklin Lohr is a 47 year old male described as 6 feet tall, 160 pounds, with blond hair and brown eyes and has several tattoos. He currently has UNRELATED misdemeanor warrants for his arrest.
Thomas James Guolee is a 31 year old male described as 5 feet 09 inches tall, 160 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes and has several tattoos. He currently has an UNRELATED felony warrant for his arrest.
Both men are members of the 211 Crew and are considered armed and dangerous; they have associated in the past with Evan Ebel. Although their names surfaced during the Tom Clements homicide investigation they are not suspects at this time, but are “persons of interest”. We are not providing details at this time regarding specific ties to Ebel or their association to this case.
Anyone with information concerning their whereabouts is asked to call the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office at 719-390-5555.
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MR 13-024
James Lohr
Thomas Guolee
On March 27, 2013, at approximately 1050 PM, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received an emergency call reporting a structure fire at 1099 Kachina Drive in Cimarron Hills. The Cimarron Hills, Colorado Springs, and Peterson Fire Departments responded and extinguished the fire. The home owner, Clay Cline and his two dogs were able to escape the home without injury.
Arson investigators from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and began a preliminary investigation shortly after the fire was extinguished. Their investigation continued throughout the next two days. The continual and diligent investigation resulted in the identification and subsequent arrest of a suspect.
On March 29, 2013, at approximately 6:30 PM, Clay Alan Cline DOB 11/14/1960 was arrested and charged with First Degree Arson a class 3 felony and booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center with bond set at $10,000.00
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the additional fires on Kachina Drive that have been reported over the past several months.
Clay Cline
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MR 13-023
UPDATE #5 (Ballistics) March 25, 2013 [1:45 p.m.]
The Colorado Springs Metro Crime Lab has completed the analysis of shell casings collected in Texas by El Paso County Sheriff’s Office investigators. The analysis done by ballistics experts has concluded the gun used by Evan Ebel in Texas was the same weapon used in the shooting death of Tom Clements. The confirmation goes well beyond acknowledging the same caliber and brand of ammunition being used, but rather is based on unique, and often microscopic markings left on the casings at both scenes.
Investigators are actively pursuing all pieces of information and angles to determine whether Ebel acted alone in the shooting of Tom Clements or if others were involved. There are no answers at this time surrounding motive and gaining these answers could be a lengthy process for investigators. To safeguard the investigation, we will not provide details on what our investigators have learned thus far, nor will we share details in the future until such time the information does not jeopardize the investigation. Please be mindful that if other people are implicated in this crime, it is imperative we do all we can to aid in the successful prosecution of those responsible, and that starts with the integrity of the investigation.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
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MR 13-022
UPDATE #4 March 22, 2013
Investigators from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office have completed their work in Texas and have returned to Colorado Springs. Items of evidence which may be relevant to the Tom Clements homicide have been collected and brought to Colorado. Although we won’t identify all the specific items of evidence collected, some include shell casings which will be analyzed by the Colorado Springs Metro Crime Lab. The ballistic comparison would hope to prove or disprove whether or not the same weapon used in Texas was used in the Clements homicide. Additional information will be provided when it becomes available.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
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MR 13-021
UPDATE #3 March 21, 2013 [7:30 p.m.]
Information was posted by the Denver Post which linked a specific suspect to the shooting death of Tom Clements. According to their report, “Federal and state authorities, speaking on a condition of anonymity, identified the man as Evan Spencer Ebel…”
It is disappointing that any law enforcement official would speak under a clause of anonymity and reveal a suspect and describe a link which has not been investigated fully. Doing so undermines an active investigation and can have a negative impact on any future prosecution. Cases are not tried in the courtroom on the basis of assumptions, but rather require evidence beyond a reasonable doubt which links a suspect to the crime. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been and will continue to be the lead agency in this investigation; as such, any information released by our Office can be depended upon as accurate and reliable.
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been in contact with authorities in Texas since the time they were involved in a pursuit and officer involved shooting earlier today. We began a high level of information exchange and have since sent some of our investigators to Texas to meet with the authorities there and get a better sense on whether or not the suspect from Texas is linked to the Clements shooting.
The process our investigators will engage in will be multi-faceted and likely involve the inspection of any items of evidence in Texas which may be relevant to our case. These efforts take time and could involve the need for analysis from a crime laboratory before any confirmation of a link could be described.
We will be diligent in releasing information which does not jeopardize the investigation as soon as it becomes available.
UPDATE: #2 March 21, 2013
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with the FBI and local authorities in Texas to determine if an earlier incident involving a high speed chase is connected to the death investigation of Tom Clements. The potential witness described below has not made contact with the Office and we are asking the unidentified woman contact the Sheriff’s Office at 719-390-5555.
UPDATE:
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a person who may have valuable information concerning the vehicle of interest which was identified earlier. We believe there was a white female, 35-50 years of age, who may have been speed-walking last night along Colonial Park Drive at 8:30 p.m. She was wearing light pants, a dark wind breaker and a hat. This woman is not a suspect, but someone the Sheriff’s Office would like to speak with. We would like her to call 719-520-7225 to speak with an investigator.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
UPDATE: #2 March 21, 2013
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with the FBI and local authorities in Texas to determine if an earlier incident involving a high speed chase is connected to the death investigation of Tom Clements. The potential witness described below has not made contact with the Office and we are asking the unidentified woman contact the Sheriff’s Office at 719-390-5555.
UPDATE:
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a person who may have valuable information concerning the vehicle of interest which was identified earlier. We believe there was a white female, 35-50 years of age, who may have been speed-walking last night along Colonial Park Drive at 8:30 p.m. She was wearing light pants, a dark wind breaker and a hat. This woman is not a suspect, but someone the Sheriff’s Office would like to speak with. We would like her to call 719-520-7225 to speak with an investigator.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
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MR 13-019
UPDATE:
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has been made aware of a person who may have valuable information concerning the vehicle of interest which was identified earlier. We believe there was a white female, 35-50 years of age, who may have been speed-walking last night along Colonial Park Drive at 8:30 p.m. She was wearing light pants, a dark wind breaker and a hat. This woman is not a suspect, but someone the Sheriff’s Office would like to speak with. We would like her to call 719-520-7225 to speak with an investigator.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
On March 19, 2013, at approximately 8:47 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received a 9-1-1 call from a resident in the 17400 block of Colonial Park Drive reporting a shooting at the residence. Deputies arrived at the residence to find an adult male deceased; the male was identified as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, Tom Clements.
Detectives from the Sheriff's Office are working diligently to determine what occurred and who perpetrated the crime. We are sensitive to the high profile position in which Mr. Clements served and the fact there could be people who would target him based on his position. However, we remain open minded to all investigative possibilities and continue to work all available clues and sources of information.
There is no suspect identified in this case, but a vehicle of interest has been identified. The vehicle was seen by a local resident near the Clements' home approximately 15 minutes prior to the first 9-1-1 call. The vehicle was running but unoccupied. The vehicle was gone a few minutes later but was observed a short time later traveling west on Higby Road, turning south on Jackson Creek Parkway.
The vehicle of interest is described as a late model 2-door, "boxy" style, similar to a 90's model Lincoln. It's shiny and black or dark in color. When the vehicle was seen on Higby Road, it had one occupant but no description of the occupant is available.
Agencies assisting in this investigation include the Colorado Department of Corrections, Colorado Bureau of Investigations, 4th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Attorney General's Office, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Monument Police Department and Palmer Lake Police Department.
Anyone with information regarding this vehicle or crime is encouraged to call the Sheriff's Office at 719-390-5555.
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MR 13-017
During the past few weeks the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has received an increase in reports of new home construction burglaries. The primary targets are the Northern and Eastern areas of unincorporated El Paso County. New homes and those under construction are targeted for copper wire and appliances.
Construction companies should do their best to secure these homes while crews are not actively working and the public should report any activity they observe after hours. Homes under construction are not open to the public and access to these areas is prohibited.
The Sheriff’s Office has taken a proactive approach to this concern with the goal of reducing these incidents and solving the active cases associated with this crime.
The public is encouraged to be observant if you live in areas with new construction. Under no circumstance should the public confront individuals if suspicious activity is detected but immediately report it to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office at 390-5555.
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MR 13-016
On May 8, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a tip concerning missing person Kara Nichols. The tip involved a possible previous sighting by a business owner in the Fillmore Street area in Colorado Springs of Kara and an unknown male. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office spoke with the tipster and immediately acted upon the information by canvassing numerous businesses along the Fillmore Street corridor, conducting interviews, and collecting and reviewing surveillance footage from the area.
Those efforts allowed them to identify the unknown male and determine he now resides in Wellington, CO. Investigators spoke in person with the male in Wellington and determined the female he was previously seen with in the Fillmore Street area was not Kara, but rather his current girlfriend. The specific observations made by the tipster of the male and female’s actions during the sighting were corroborated during the interview.
The investigation into Kara’s whereabouts remains active. Investigators are confident someone knows specific details about Kara’s disappearance that has not yet come forward. Those with information are asked to call 719-390-5555 or email information to findkaranichols@gmail.com.
On March 14, 2013, Sheriff Terry Maketa participated in a Town Hall meeting at Centennial Hall to address hundreds of members of the community on the topic of current gun legislation being proposed at the State Capital. The event was widely advertised ahead of time and was attended by most local media outlets.
Sheriff Maketa was appalled and disappointed to see the inaccuracy in reporting which occurred on behalf of a local TV station in their on-line coverage of the statements he made during the Town Hall meeting. The story was posted on the respective web page and had the title, “El Paso County Sheriff vows not to enforce some new gun control laws.” Furthermore, the fourth paragraph stated, “Maketa received a standing ovation when he started his presentation stating that he would protect Second Amendment rights and he laid out how his department would not support enforcement of news laws if they're passed. He said he would only enforce laws if the county could be held liable for any damages caused by his department's lack of enforcement.”
The text used was not only inaccurate, but communicated the exact opposite of the message Sheriff Maketa gave to residents who attended the meeting. He was clear when he told the residents that he has an obligation to enforce laws which follow the legislative process and are signed into law. Sheriff Maketa explained to not enforce the laws would be irresponsible and could cause El Paso County to incur potential liability which the taxpayers would ultimately pay for. He even prefaced the comment prior to delivering it by telling the audience they wouldn’t like what he was about to say.
Sheriff Maketa is working with this media outlet to correct this inaccuracy and gross misrepresentation of his statement.
A video recording of the Town Hall meeting will be shown on the Pikes Peak Library District Channel 17 Comcast and Falcon Broadband 75 tonight at 10 p.m. Subject to technical limitations, the video will also be posted this evening on the El Paso County YouTube Channel.
On Saturday, March 2, 2013, at 11:05 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received two 9-1-1 calls reporting a shooting in the 6500 block of President Avenue in Widefield.
Deputies responded to a home in the area and confirmed a shooting had occurred and an adult male was deceased. The victim was later identified as 36 year old James Fleming who lived in the home. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office were able to quickly identify all persons who were at the home when the shooting occurred and there was no remaining risk to the community.
The El Paso County Coroner’s Office completed an autopsy on Mr. Fleming and the cause of death was a gunshot wound. A juvenile family member is the suspect in this case; however, the investigation remains active and no additional details will be shared at this time concerning the events which are believed to have precipitated the shooting.
On February 26, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff's Office received reports of a cyber-bullying situation contained on a Facebook page titled, “Falcon Problems”. Due to information contained within the initial reports and content found on the site it was believed the postings and comments surrounded students from Falcon School District 49 and were threatening in nature.
Deputies from the Sheriff's Office immediately initiated an investigation while simultaneously opening lines of communication with school administrators from Falcon School District 49. Deputies worked diligently to pursue all available leads and quickly identified two suspects; 18 year old Alexander Natale and 18 year old Kyle Pate, who each attend different D49 schools. Natale was served a summons on February 28th charging him with Harassment. Issuance of a summons to Pate for the charge of Harassment is pending contact with him.
The Sheriff's Office takes cyber-bullying cases seriously because they can result in repeated events of victimization and escalate to physical altercations and violence. Furthermore, cyber-bullying often extends beyond the intended, individual victim(s) and interferes with school operations and their mission to educate our youth in a safe and secure environment.
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MR 13-012
On February 13, 2013 at approximately 7:20 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call from Dawn Richburg who reported she arrived to her home in the 100 block of Judson Street to find it had been burglarized.
Deputies responded and searched the home and discovered an adult male deceased in the home; that man has been identified as Ms. Richburg’s father, 47 year old Miguel Barajas. The Sheriff’s Office is investigating this case as a homicide.
Detectives are working hard to determine who may have been involved with Mr. Barajas’ death and the theft of property items from inside the home. The Sheriff’s Office is asking for anyone with information regarding this case to call 390-5555. Any information may prove valuable in solving the case and could consist of things as simple as local residents remembering suspicious vehicles or people they saw in or around the area on the date of this crime.
DATE: February 14, 2013 [2:15 p.m.]
CORRECTED INFORMATION – SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATES FATAL STABBING
It has come to our attention that incorrect information had been provided in media release MR 13-009, titled, SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATES FATAL STABBING. In our haste to provide timely information to the public, we misstated the female victim’s last name and the male victim’s date of birth. Please see the corrections in bold and underlined below. We ask that media outlets update their content to reflect the necessary changes. We apologize for any inconvenience or heartache this error may have caused.
On February 13, 2013 at approximately 11:12 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office responded to an address in the 9500 block of East Woodmen Road after receiving a 9-1-1 call and reported stabbing.
When deputies arrived on scene they discovered a one year old child was deceased and a three year old child had serious injuries; the three year old was transported from the scene to a local hospital where the child later died from his injuries. An adult male, who is the alleged suspect, was also transported from the scene and he too has died.
The victims are identified as Scarlett Gallagher 06/29/11 and Ryan Willhite 2/26/09. The suspect is identified as Ethan Courrau 09/18/90
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office are still in the early stages of this investigation and are working diligently to learn what led up to this tragic event.
On February 13, 2013 at approximately 11:12 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office responded to an address in the 9500 block of East Woodmen Road after receiving a 9-1-1 call and reported stabbing.
When deputies arrived on scene they discovered a one year old child was deceased and a three year old child had serious injuries; the three year old was transported from the scene to a local hospital where the child later died from his injuries. An adult male, who is the alleged suspect, was also transported from the scene and he too has died.
The victims are identified as Scarlett Kane 06/29/11 and Ryan Willhite 02/14/09. The suspect is identified as Ethan Courrau 09/18/90
Investigators from the Sheriff’s Office are still in the early stages of this investigation and are working diligently to learn what led up to this tragic event.
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13-009
INVESTIGATION OF OVERNIGHT SHOOTING RESULTS IN ARREST
On February 12, 2013 at approximately 1:50 a.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from a person in a home in the 7100 block of Tilden Street in the Widefield area. The caller was reporting someone inside the home had been shot.
When deputies arrived they discovered 33 year old Leonard James had suffered a single gunshot wound to his back. He was awake and spoke briefly with deputies and medical personnel before being transported to a local hospital where he is listed in serious but stable condition.
During the initial investigation detectives learned there had been a gathering amongst friends at the home and a gun discharged and Mr. James was struck. All people who had been at the home were interviewed by investigators and as a result of information gained through those efforts and the initial assessment of the crime scene, 31 year old Ian Whittaker of Widefield has been arrested and booked into the Criminal Justice Center on $10,000 bond for Second Degree Assault, class 4 felony, Prohibited Use of a Weapon, class 2 misdemeanor, and Reckless Endangerment, class 3 misdemeanor. Alcohol and marijuana appear to be factors in this case.
DATE: February 5, 2013 [4:10 p.m.]
On February 4, 2013, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received two reports of residential burglaries in progress which were determined to be connected. The first call was received at 9:30 a.m. regarding a burglary in the 4900 block of Sebring Drive where a firearm and several additional property items were taken. The second call was received 30 minutes later regarding a burglary in the 9300 block of Berrey Lane where the homeowner encountered the burglars and the suspects fled the scene. Based on common descriptions gained from witnesses and area residents at each scene, it was believed the burglaries were committed by the same people. The vehicle had been described as a 90’s model Chevrolet Suburban, goldish-brown in color with no visible license plate.
A short time later, a citizen called a tip into the Sheriff’s Office, reporting they observed a vehicle at a residence in the 400 block of Aztec Drive which matched the description of the suspect vehicle. When deputies arrived they quickly detained two people outside the home but learned several other people were likely inside. Deputies set up a perimeter and the Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team responded to the scene. Seven additional people eventually came out of the home and were detained without incident.
During the investigation which followed, property items from the Sebring address were recovered, including the stolen firearm. The suspects listed below were arrested and booked into the Criminal Justice Center.
Todd Gregor, 36 year old male, $25000 bond, First Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Second Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Theft, class 4 felony; Criminal Mischief, class 4 felony.
Vincent Taijeron, 31 year old male, $26000 bond, First Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Second Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Theft, class 4 felony; Criminal Mischief, class 4 felony; several traffic offenses.
Pedro Guerrero, 29 year old male, $25000 bond, First Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Second Degree Burglary, class 3 felony; Theft, class 4 felony; Criminal Mischief, class 4 felony; Menacing, class 5 felony.
Todd Gregor
Vincent Taijeron
Pedro Guerrero
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MR 13-007
DATE: January 29, 2013 [4:10 p.m.]
SHERIFF’S OFFICE ANNOUNCES FIRST CITIZENS’ ACADEMY FOR 2013
The El Paso County Sheriff's Office is now accepting applications for its first Citizens’ Academy being held in 2013.
The Citizens’ Academy will begin on Tuesday, March 26, 2013, and will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Academy will be conducted over an eight week period, culminating in a graduation on Tuesday, May 14, 2013.
The Academy will offer participants a broad overview and unique insight into the various functions of the Sheriff’s Office. Participants will be involved in a ride-along with deputies to observe firsthand the variety of calls handled by the Sheriff’s Office. A tour of the Criminal Justice Center will be conducted to demonstrate the challenges facing our detention staff. Topics of discussion will include the intricacies of a criminal investigation as detectives take them through the investigative process. Additionally, participants will learn about use of force, vice and narcotics operations, and emergency services, which includes our Wildland Fire and Search & Rescue teams.
The Citizens’ Academy also serves as a pre-requisite for those who are interested in participating in the Sheriff’s Citizen Patrol (SCP) volunteer program. Citizen Academy attendees interested in this program would be required to complete the SCP Academy for an additional four weeks.
Those who are at least 18 years of age and interested in attending the Citizens’ Academy can download and print an application from the Sheriff’s Office website at http://shr.elpasoco.com/ or may contact the Volunteer Program Coordinator, Ms. Cathryn Richards at 719-520-7216, to request an application. There is no charge to attend the Citizens’ Academy; however, seating will be limited to the first 40 completed applications received. Applications must be returned no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 1, 2013.
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MR 13-006
DATE: January 16, 2013 [9:00 a.m.]
On October 23, 2012, Aaron Gregory Lucas was taken into custody for separate Kidnapping and Enticement of a Child cases and several other charges following a multi-agency investigation. One of two El Paso County cases involved in the investigation included the June 19, 2012 kidnapping of a child in the 1200 block of Forest Road in Stratmoor Valley. The victim in the case was dropped off a short time later in a near-by neighborhood. Items of evidence were collected in this case and submitted to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to determine the presence of any biological evidence. A CBI analyst did confirm the presence of biological evidence which was further analyzed for a DNA profile and possible submission into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).
CODIS is a computer software program run by the FBI that operates local, State, and national databases of DNA profiles from convicted offenders, unsolved crime scene evidence, and missing persons. Samples submitted to CODIS must meet several criteria before submissions will be accepted. CODIS does not house names of persons related to DNA samples, just the samples themselves. If a sample submitted by an agency matches other DNA samples already housed in the database, the submitting agency is notified of the match. It becomes the submitting agency’s responsibility to notify the agency in which the match was found so case details can be shared.
The biological sample gathered during the June 19th case investigation met the criteria and was submitted to CODIS. Two matches were found, one to a 2009 Aggravated Kidnapping / Sexual Assault case from Texarkana, Texas and the second to a 2007 Sexual Assault of a six year old child from Madison, Alabama. The Sheriff’s Office contacted each of those agencies and advised them of the match and that we had a named suspect in our case.
A biological sample was obtained from Aaron Lucas and sent to the CBI for comparison to the evidence obtained during the June 19th investigation. CBI notified the Sheriff’s Office of a positive match between Lucas’ DNA and the sample provided, which also links his DNA to the two out-of-state cases. As a result of this new information, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office will also be charging Lucas with Sexual Assault on a Child as part of the June 19th case. Authorities from Madison, Alabama already completed an arrest warrant for Lucas in their case and the warrant was served on January 2, 2013. It is anticipated that an arrest warrant will be forthcoming from authorities in Texarkana.
The link discovered in these crimes is just one example of the value found in national information sharing amongst law enforcement agencies at local, State, and Federal levels. Without this technology and current legislation which requires biological sample submissions into CODIS, this link would not have been made and the cases in Texas and Alabama may have gone unsolved.
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MR 13-005
DATE: January 9, 2013 [2:40 p.m.]
On January 9, 2013 at approximately 1:04 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a disturbance in the 8700 block of Shipman Lane in Black Forest. When deputies arrived they discovered 22 year old Anthony DeCarlo had been shot twice. Medical personnel transported him to a local hospital for what was believed to be non life threatening injuries.
Detectives responded and during their investigation determined Anthony’s father and owner of the residence, 45 year old Glenn DeCarlo, had a falling out with 24 year old Matthew Fancher. Matthew is a mutual friend of Glenn and Anthony. Matthew had been living at the address but due to the recent falling out was told by Glenn to move out; Matthew had come to the home to retrieve personal belongings. As he was picking up those items, Glenn fired multiple rounds at Matthew but struck Anthony by mistake.
Glenn has been charged with Attempted First Degree Murder (class 2 felony) and First Degree Assault (class 3 felony) and booked into the Criminal Justice Center. His total bond is $50,000.
EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE IDENTIFIES MURDER SUSPECT
On January 4, 2013 at 1:36 p.m., the Sheriff’s Office received a call from a resident of the Springs Mobile Home Park located at 1095 Western Drive who reported finding a bullet hole in his mobile home. Deputies responded and contacted the resident and began an investigation. After looking at the damage, deputies believed the bullet may have come from the mobile home next door.
Deputies had information which led them to believe someone should be home at the residence next door but could not get anyone to answer the door. They contacted one of the residents of the property via telephone and she returned to the mobile home to speak with deputies; she was identified as 57 year old Donna Kaiser-Anderson. Once inside the mobile home deputies discovered an adult male who they believed had been shot and an adult female, both deceased. The subsequent investigation led investigators to believe Ms. Kaiser-Anderson was involved and she was placed in custody. Information about possible motive is not available for release.
Ms. Kaiser-Anderson has been booked into the Criminal Justice Center for Second Degree Murder (class 2 felony) on $250,000 bond.
Out of consideration for the victims’ families and until each victim’s next of kin may be notified the identity of the victims will not be released.
Autopsies will be performed at a later date by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office to determine cause and manner of death.
DATE: January 4, 2013 [3:50 p.m.]
CLARIFICATION ON STATUS OF EX-EMPLOYEE
In addition to a story airing in the Denver Metro area, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office has received local media inquiries regarding a fraud investigation where former Deputy David Hawkins was named as the subject. The Sheriff’s Office has no details regarding the status of the investigation which is lead by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
David Hawkins was employed by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office from September 10, 2001 until December 22, 2011. Following his completion of the recruit academy he was assigned to the Detention Bureau. He transferred to the Patrol Division in May 2003 and worked as a patrol deputy until his resignation. He tendered his resignation on December 22, 2011 to pursue his own interests; at the time of his resignation his rank designation was that of Senior Deputy, earning a gross monthly salary of $5029.
At no time during David Hawkins’ employment was the Sheriff’s Office aware he obtained secondary employment. Sheriff’s Office policy requires employees to request written permission through their chain of command to engage in off-duty employment.
A couple months after David Hawkins ended his employment, the FBI notified the Sheriff’s Office that Hawkins was the subject of their investigation. The Sheriff’s Office cooperated with the FBI to insure they had access to employees who may have been victims in this case.
The status of the investigation or any current or pending court proceedings is not known.
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MR 13-002
AARON LUCAS BACK IN CUSTODY AT CJC ON OUT-OF-STATE CHARGES
DATE: January 2, 2013 [6:00 p.m.]
On January 2, 2013 at 1:55 p.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office took custody of Aaron Lucas at the Provost Marshal’s Office on Fort Carson. Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office were notified by the Madison Police Department in Madison, Alabama, that they obtained an arrest warrant for Lucas on a Madison case from 2002. The charges on the warrant consisted of Enticing a Child and Sexual Child Abuse of a Child Less Than 12 Years of Age.
The Sheriff’s Office coordinated with authorities on Fort Carson to have Lucas located and taken into custody. He has been booked into the Criminal Justice Center on no bond as a Fugitive from Justice. Lucas is scheduled for advisement from the court on January 3, 2013.
Lucas had been arrested on October 23, 2012 for connection to an El Paso County kidnapping case and separate Enticement of a Child case, each from 2012, as well as for his connection to similar cases from other area jurisdictions.
In an effort to safeguard any pending prosecution in Madison, Alabama courts, this Office will not release any details regarding their case.
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MR 13-001
EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE MAKES ARRESTS IN ARSON INVESTIGATION
On December 30, 2012, at approximately 8:30 AM, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office received reports of damage to holiday decorations in the Woodmoor and Monument areas believed to be caused by fire. Deputies and arson investigators arrived and confirmed residents' suspicions. The investigation revealed multiple residences had been targeted and received damage to outdoor holiday decorations and décor as well as damage to several mailboxes.
After continuing investigation into the matter, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office identified three suspects. The names of the suspects will not be released due to each being under the age of eighteen. The suspects were charged individually with Second Degree Arson a Class 4 Felony and Criminal Mischief a Class 1 Misdemeanor and released to the custody of their parents.
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MR 12-100
On December 21, 2012, at approximately 11:59 a.m., the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 7-Eleven located at 5 Widefield Drive regarding an officer-involved shooting.
Although the investigation is underway and all details are not yet known, initial reports indicate the event began in the City of Colorado Springs as the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) was conducting an investigation involving a fugitive with multiple felony warrants. During the investigation, officers from CSPD conducted rolling surveillance of the suspect who traveled to the Widefield area.
Once in the area of the 7-Eleven, and as officers attempted to contain the suspect, he used his vehicle to ram police vehicles. The suspect was armed with a firearm and officers fired their weapons, fatally wounding the suspect.
Since the shooting occurred in unincorporated El Paso County, the Sheriff’s Office has assumed the investigation. Additional details will be released when they become available.
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MR-12-099
On December 20, 2012, Amanda Rowles, a former teacher at the Calhan School was arrested by the Aurora Police Department and booked into the Aurora City Jail on $50,000 bond reference a sexual assault on a child investigation conducted by the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
Earlier this school year, the Sheriff’s Office received information from administrators at the Calhan School of a possible sexual relationship between former Calhan School teacher, 27 year old Amanda Rowles, and a former student.
During the course of the investigation, detectives from the Sheriff’s Office conducted numerous interviews and determined that two male students, who were each under 18 years of age when the activity began, had a sexual relationship with Ms. Rowles while she was employed there as a teacher. The unlawful activity occurred over the course of the 2011-2012 school year. Ms. Rowles did not teach at the Calhan School the following year and moved to the Denver Metro area.
Ms. Rowles is charged with:
CRS 18-3-405.3 Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust – 2 counts (Class 3 Felony)
CRS 18-3-405 Sexual Assault on a Child / Pattern of Abuse – 2 counts (Class 3 Felony)
On December 18, 2012, deputies from the Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 7000 block of Wildridge Road in Black Forest to investigate an attempted burglary. The victim of the crime reported a white male left her residence in a hurry after she discovered he had kicked in the side door to her garage. The victim gave deputies a vehicle description for the suspect and a partial license plate.
While conducting this investigation, deputies received a report of a separate, but near-by burglary in the 7900 block of Forest Heights Circle. Numerous items of property had been stolen from the residence, including collector’s coins and jewelry.
A short time later and while still in the Black Forest area, deputies observed a vehicle traveling on Black Forest Road which matched the description provided by the first victim. The vehicle was stopped and deputies immediately recognized property items inside the vehicle as items reported as stolen from the second victim. The driver was identified as 43 year old Kevin Lee Mosher, joint owner of Fast Cash Pawn and Loan located at 203 N. Chelton in Colorado Springs. While the roadside investigation continued, deputies were told by another motorist of an additional burglary in the 15000 block of Milhaven Place. Evidence found at that location was linked back to Mosher as well. One additional burglary on December 18, 2012 in the Black Forest was also attributed to Mosher.
Mr. Mosher was taken into custody and booked into the Criminal Justice Center for Second Degree Burglary and Theft.
Information became available to deputies which indicated Mosher may be connected with additional burglaries from Douglas County. A collaborative effort began between the El Paso County and Douglas County Sheriff’s Offices. Several search warrants were executed today, to include one at Fast Cash Pawn and Loan; stolen property was recovered from that location. Investigative efforts will continue to determine if Mosher is responsible for other burglaries committed prior to these reports.
Kevin Lee Mosher
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is experiencing an unusually large volume of phone calls requesting appointments for concealed handgun permits.
The increase began shortly after the tragic events which took place in Connecticut and the subsequent talks of more gun control by the Federal Government. The Sheriff’s Office is asking those who have contacted the Concealed Handgun Program and left a message to please be understanding. The Concealed Handgun Program has received a record one hundred and six (106) messages today requesting information and/or appointments. The Sheriff has implemented changes to the duty hours of staff to specifically address the volume of phone messages and better accommodate the community by returning the messages as timely as possible.
Further changes will be evaluated as necessary to help expedite the concealed handgun permit process. Your patience is greatly appreciated.
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MR 12-096
DATE: December 17, 2012 [3:55 p.m.]
On December 16, 2012, at approximately 9:32 p.m., deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the Days Inn located at 2850 South Circle Drive reference a shots fired call. When deputies arrived they found evidence of a shooting but found no victim or suspect.
A short time later it was discovered the 22 year old victim had been taken by an associate to Fort Carson for medical treatment but was subsequently transported from that location to an off-post hospital. Despite receiving a gunshot wound to the face, the victim was conscious and able to speak with medical staff and investigators.
Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office worked diligently on available leads and have identified the suspect in this case as 23 year old Salvadore Pritchett. An arrest warrant for Mr. Pritchett has been obtained, charging him with:
· Criminal Attempt – First Degree Murder (Class 2 Felony)
· Criminal Attempt – Aggravated Robbery (Class 3 Felony)
· Assault in the First Degree (Class 3 Felony)
· Menacing (Class 5 Felony)
· Possession of a Weapon by a Previous Offender (Class 6 Felony)
The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mr. Pritchett to call 390-5555. He may have ties to the Pueblo as he has an active arrest warrant from the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office for Burglary and Escape.
Mr. Pritchett is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.
A ceremony recognizing four year old Abby Pena, eleven year old Sara Anderson and eight year old Scott Anderson, as 9-1-1 Heroes will occur on December 17, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. This exciting event will be located in the Community Room on the third floor of the Office of the Sheriff, located at 27 E. Vermijo Street in Colorado Springs. During the ceremony, we will honor these three heroes for their roles during emergency events this past October.
Media is welcome to attend the event; we ask you arrive by 3:45 p.m. to allow time to set up prior to 4:00 p.m., the designated start time.
Any questions concerning the 9-1-1 Heroes ceremony may be directed to Lieutenant Jeff Kramer at 719-520-7244 or jeffkramer@elpasoco.com.
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MR 12-094
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