Tevin Dean. {BSO}

A second suspect has been arrested after police say a Coconut Creek home invasion left a victim bound naked while cash, property, and cryptocurrency were stolen.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Tevin Dean, 31, was arrested on July 29 and is facing 12 felony charges stemming from the June 8 home invasion, according to an arrest warrant and Broward County jail records.

CCPD records show Dean acted alongside co-defendant Sheendalie Joseph, who investigators say orchestrated the robbery by allowing Dean into the victim’s apartment while the victim was upstairs.

Once inside, authorities allege Dean pointed a gun at the victim before pressing a kitchen knife against the back of his head and threatening to kill him. While Dean held the victim at knifepoint, Joseph allegedly forced the victim to unlock his cellphone by holding it to his face.

Investigators said the victim was ordered to strip naked before the suspects bound him with duct tape and searched the apartment for valuables.

Police said the pair stole more than $27,000 in cash, personal property, and digital assets during the robbery.

According to the arrest warrant, the suspects gained access to the victim’s Coinbase account, sold his cryptocurrency holdings, and transferred approximately $1,200 via Zelle to an account belonging to the Victim’s son.

Investigators also allege they linked the victim’s debit card to a Cash App account that did not belong to him and that the victim attempted multiple fraudulent transactions. Additional credit cards were reportedly stolen from a dresser drawer.

After the suspects fled, the victim remained tied up and struggled for approximately 30 minutes before freeing himself and contacting authorities.

Police said the suspects attempted to destroy evidence after the robbery by deleting seven Ring camera recordings just minutes after leaving the apartment. Investigators also allege they factory-reset the victim’s iPhones before pawning them, preventing detectives from recovering evidence.

A Broward County judge ordered Dean held without bond. Joseph had previously been arrested in connection with the case.

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Eliezer Santana {BSO}

A former Broward County JROTC instructor is behind bars after Miramar police accused him of repeatedly raping one of his 15-year-old students while using his position of authority to groom and exploit her more than two decades ago.

According to Miramar Police Department records, Eliezer Santana, 77, of Coconut Creek, surrendered Wednesday on a warrant charging him with sexual battery by a person in familial or custodial authority involving a victim between the ages of 12 and 17.

The school where the crimes initially occurred is redacted in the report, but Santana has prior charges related to his time as a JROTC instructor at South Miami Senior High School. 

According to investigators, the victim reported that Santana sexually assaulted her more than 20 times between 2004 and 2005 while he was serving as her JROTC instructor. She was 15 years old at the time, and detectives say Santana was “in a position of power and trust” over her.

Investigators allege Santana first groomed the student by showering her with compliments, telling her she was beautiful and deserved someone who would care for her. Detectives say those conversations eventually escalated into inappropriate touching inside the JROTC office before progressing to repeated sexual assaults.

The victim told investigators Santana would have her come into his office, where he would sit close to her, rub her thighs and shoulders, and touch himself over his clothing. She later reported that Santana raped her multiple times inside the office when no one else was present, including on a conference table.

According to the arrest report, the victim said Santana also sexually assaulted her numerous times at an apartment complex in Miramar’s Sherman Circle neighborhood, including in the backseat of an Astro van and inside another vehicle. Investigators said the alleged abuse also occurred in Davie and Pembroke Pines.

As detectives reopened the case, they interviewed former coworkers and witnesses.

One former coworker told investigators he regularly saw the student alone inside Santana’s office with the door closed, although he never witnessed any sexual conduct.

Another witness said he became so concerned by Santana’s interactions with a different female student that he filed a formal complaint with the school’s principal, alleging Santana was speaking inappropriately to the girl and grooming her. 

According to police, the witness said he was assured the matter would be handled and law enforcement would be notified, but investigators found no evidence Miramar police were contacted at the time.

Detectives also learned Santana later transferred to Miami-Dade County after leaving Broward Schools.

Santana remains jailed without bond as the case moves through the court system.

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Mark Shapley {BSO}

Police say a man writing a book at Tradewinds Park pulled a knife on a visitor, threatened him, and used an anti-gay slur.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Mark Shapley, 57, of Coral Gables, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly pulling a knife on a man during the morning hours of July 9.

According to officers, a 911 call came in at about 10:00 a.m. from the alleged victim, who reported to police that he had been threatened near a pavilion at the front of the park.

Upon arrival, Shapley told an officer that he had been sitting on a park bench writing a book when the other man walked past him. He denied speaking with the man or being involved in an altercation, according to the affidavit.

The alleged victim provided a different sequence of events. 

He told police that as he walked to the pavilion, Shapley allegedly removed a small knife with a black handle from a bag, waved it at him, and threatened to cut him while yelling, “Faggot, I’ll cut you!” 

The man said the threats and confrontation happened out of nowhere, as he did not know Shapley and had no prior interactions with him. 

Shapley was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Leonard Levon J. Williams, {BSO}

Police arrested a Coconut Creek man accused of choking and bloodying a woman inside a vehicle before fleeing the scene on foot.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Leonard Levon J. Williams, 37, was arrested on July 7 at his home located near the 2400 block of Northwest 49th Terrace following an investigation into a domestic violence 911 call.

Police said the victim told officers she was sitting in the rear passenger seat of a vehicle while Williams was in the driver’s seat. During what police described as a heated verbal argument, the victim allegedly threatened to call law enforcement in an attempt to calm Williams down.

According to the report, Williams then turned around, reached into the rear passenger area, and grabbed the victim by the neck with both hands. After briefly letting go, Williams allegedly grabbed her neck a second time with greater force before striking her in the face with a closed fist.

The alleged blow caused the victim’s nose to bleed, swelling to her face, and visible injuries, police said. Officers reported observing swelling and bleeding from her face, along with scratches on her neck.

The couple’s child was restrained in a rear seat throughout the incident and was not struck or injured, according to the affidavit.

Police said the victim later attempted to call 911 from her cellphone, but Williams took the phone from her before he fled the area on foot before officers arrived.

Investigators later located Williams in the 4800 block of West Copans Road. When officers asked him to identify himself, Williams allegedly provided the false name “Dan” in an attempt to hinder the investigation. Officers later confirmed his identity, police said.

 Williams was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. He was later released after posting an $8,000 bond. 

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Oscar Ivan Larragoiti Santiago {BSO}

A man is accused of secretly recording a teenager in the bathroom after his wife allegedly discovered deleted videos on his iPhone, police said.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Oscar Ivan Larragoiti Santiago, 44, of Fort Lauderdale, was arrested July 6 on a charge of digital voyeurism involving a minor after officers responded to a residence in Coconut Creek after receiving a call.

The victim’s mother told police she had recently become concerned about her husband’s behavior and decided to search his iPhone. While reviewing the device, she allegedly recovered several deleted videos.

Investigators said the recovered videos allegedly depicted the teenager inside the home’s bathroom while showering, using the toilet, or otherwise nude and unaware she was being recorded. Police said the recordings were dated between January 18 and June 17.

The mother told officers she had been in a relationship with Larragoiti Santiago for 14 years and had been married to him for 13 years. After confronting him about the videos, she told investigators he left the residence on foot with his Mexican passport.

Police later interviewed the alleged victim, who became upset and cried after learning about the recordings. According to the affidavit, she told investigators she had no idea she had been secretly recorded.

According to investigators, Larragoiti Santiago returned to the residence while officers were still on scene and was taken into custody. His iPhone 8 was seized and turned over to detectives as evidence.

Larragoiti Santiago was booked into the Broward Main Jail and is being held without bond.

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Frantzley Aristide {BSO}

Police say a Lake Worth man nearly drove off with a $70,000 Chevrolet Traverse from Bachrodt Chevrolet using a fake identity and forged documents.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Frantzley Aristide, 29, was arrested June 24 after officers responded to Bachrodt Chevrolet on North State Road 7.

Police said dealership employees told investigators that Aristide identified himself as “Lowery Lorenzo” while purchasing a 2026 Chevrolet Traverse, valued at over $69,000. During the sales process, he allegedly gave them a photocopy of a Florida driver’s license featuring his photograph but another person’s name and date of birth, rather than producing a physical license.

Investigators say Aristide selected the vehicle, completed the paperwork, provided a $1,000 cash down payment, and was issued a Florida registration, license plate, and the keys to the SUV before dealership staff became suspicious. 

According to the arrest affidavit, a DMV check revealed that the driver’s license number belonged to someone else, while the registration on the paperwork listed a completely different name. Dealership employees then contacted the police.

When officers questioned Aristide, he allegedly continued identifying himself as “Lowery Lorenzo”. Police said they were unable to locate any records for that identity through law enforcement databases.

According to the affidavit, officers also determined the Social Security number used during the transaction did not belong to a legitimate person. Police reported finding sales documents, a credit application, and other paperwork completed using the fictitious identity, as well as a Visa card bearing the false name. 

Officers located Aristide in the dealership parking lot with the vehicle’s keys still in his possession and placed him under arrest. 

Aristide was booked into the Broward County Main Jail, where he remained held on felony charges. 

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Arnaudson Earle Neil Jean Baptiste. {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man faces attempted murder charges after police say he fired at two teens who allegedly stole marijuana during a drug deal gone bad at Monarch Station Apartments.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest affidavit, Arnaudson Earle Neil Jean Baptiste, 38, was arrested June 16 on charges of attempted second-degree murder.

Police said the incident unfolded on June 12 at Monarch Station Apartments, 4901 West Sample Road, after multiple 911 callers reported hearing a gunshot and seeing two males running from the area. Officers recovered a spent 9mm shell casing near the front entrance of the complex.

Investigators initially believed the shooting stemmed from a robbery. According to the affidavit, two juveniles later admitted they arranged to meet Jean Baptiste to purchase $100 worth of marijuana but instead planned to steal the drugs. 

Detectives said the pair sent four Cash App transactions that were never completed before grabbing the marijuana and running from Jean Baptiste’s vehicle.

One of the teens told investigators he saw Jean Baptiste reach for a firearm as they ran. Both juveniles reported hearing a gunshot while fleeing and later said Jean Baptiste chased them through the apartment complex, allegedly telling them, “You can’t hide forever; we’re gonna find you.”

Police said surveillance footage and witness statements placed Jean Baptiste at the scene. Detectives also linked him to the phone number used to arrange the meeting and said both juveniles later identified him in photo lineups as the shooter.

During the investigation, detectives recovered a large amount of marijuana from a backpack allegedly carried by one of the juveniles after the theft. 

Jean Baptiste was booked into the Broward County Jail and later released after posting a $75,000 bond.

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Stephan Kofi Bio {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man accused of receiving $20,000 from a Texas couple in a Chase Bank scam may be linked to additional victims, according to investigators probing the alleged fraud scheme.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest affidavit, Stephan Kofi Bio, 31, was taken into custody on June 3 and charged with an organized scheme to defraud a person 65 or older.

Records show the investigation began after the Dallas Police Department forwarded a fraud case to Coconut Creek detectives involving a 78-year-old woman and her 78-year-old husband. Investigators said the couple received a phone call from someone claiming to be a bank employee who warned them about alleged internal fraud at their financial institution.

According to the affidavit, the caller instructed the victims to travel to a Chase Bank branch in Dallas and conduct what was described as a “roofing” transaction to determine whether bank tellers were involved in fraudulent activity. Believing they were helping protect their money, the couple withdrew $20,000 from their USAA account and deposited it into a Chase account while remaining on the phone with the caller.

The victims later realized they had been scammed and reported the incident to authorities.

Detectives said subpoenaed bank records identified the recipient account as belonging to SB94 LLC and listed Bio as the account holder. Investigators further said that not only was the $20,000 deposit discovered and confirmed, but it was also followed by multiple Zelle transactions to various individuals, suggesting a string of similar crimes. 

Court records state that detectives contacted Bio in April 2025 and that, during the encounter, he admitted the bank account belonged to him. Investigators said Bio claimed the money was connected to his music business, but no evidence to support that claim was provided. 

Bio was arrested and booked into the Broward County Main Jail. An investigation into whether there were additional victims is currently underway. 

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Jean Richard Adoux {BSO}

A witness called 911 after discovering a 5-year-old girl alone, crying, and banging on the windows of a locked vehicle outside of a restaurant.

According to Coconut Creek Police, Jean Richard Adoux, 23, of Lauderdale Lakes, was acting as a caregiver for the child with her parents’ knowledge when the incident occurred on May 27 near the 4100 block of West Hillsborough Boulevard, outside La Brasa Grill.

Investigators said a witness parked next to a Kia and noticed the young girl sitting alone inside the vehicle. After entering the restaurant to order food and returning approximately 20 minutes later, the witness reportedly found the child crying and banging on the window and immediately called 911. Records show how Adoux came out, opened the car door, and took the child out.

According to an arrest report, officers reviewed surveillance video from inside the restaurant that allegedly showed Adoux speaking with the manager for about 15 minutes before sitting at a table with the manager for another 35 minutes. Police said the child remained alone in the vehicle for approximately 50 minutes while temperatures outside reached 85 degrees.

An investigating officer noted in the report that the vehicle was turned off with all windows rolled up, creating conditions that could have resulted in severe injury or death of the child.

Authorities said the girl, who is related to Adoux, did not appear to suffer any obvious injuries.

Adoux was arrested and charged with child neglect without great bodily harm and leaving a child unattended in a vehicle for more than 15 minutes.

According to Broward County jail records, he was transported to the Broward County Main Jail and is being held on a $10,000 bond.

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Daniela Aguirre {BSO}

An Opa-locka woman accused in a recent prior Miami-Dade test drive theft case was found half-naked, covered in blood, and holding broken glass during an alleged Coconut Creek burglary spree, police said.

According to Coconut Creek court records, Daniela Aguirre, 23, was arrested around 3:52 a.m. on May 9 after officers responded to reports of a burglary in progress at an apartment complex in Coconut Creek.

Police said officers arrived to find Aguirre partially naked, covered in blood, and holding a shard of broken glass while yelling incoherently in a stairwell area. Officers reported she appeared highly agitated and initially refused commands to get on the ground.

Investigators said Aguirre repeatedly resisted officers while they attempted to handcuff her and attempted to grab police equipment. Officers said she even slipped off one handcuff during the struggle, forcing multiple officers to restrain her again before she was fully secured.

According to police, the incident began when Aguirre allegedly forced her way into a neighbor’s apartment after aggressively banging on the front door. When the resident opened the door, investigators said Aguirre shoved the victim backward, entered the residence without permission, and battered the victim inside the home before being pushed back out.

Police said Aguirre then went to a second nearby residence, where she allegedly removed a screen from a kitchen window and attempted to climb inside while yelling, “Let me in, let me in.” Investigators said the resident slammed the window shut, but Aguirre punched through the glass, shattering it and suffering cuts to her arm.

Further investigation revealed that Aguirre had allegedly arrived at the apartment complex driving a truck reported stolen out of Orange County, according to police. Officers said the truck was found still running in the middle of the street with the driver’s door open and no license plate attached. 

Aguirre was transported to Northwest Medical Center for treatment of self-inflicted injuries before being booked into the Broward Main Jail, according to the report.

The Coconut Creek arrest comes just weeks after Aguirre was arrested in Miami-Dade County in April in a separate alleged vehicle theft case involving a dealership test drive.

According to Miami-Dade authorities, Aguirre was arrested after deputies said she stole a 2021 Ram truck during a test drive at Metro Ford Miami while arriving at the dealership in a separate stolen vehicle. Investigators said Aguirre told a salesman she wanted to show the truck to her father before allegedly driving off. She was charged with two counts of grand theft auto in that case.

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Ronel Myrtil {BSO}

A man was arrested after police said he threw cookies and bottled drinks during a drunken disturbance inside a Coconut Creek Subway.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department report, on May 18, officers responded to a 911 call from the Subway at 5415 Lyons Road after employees reported that a disorderly customer was causing damage inside the restaurant and refusing to leave. 

Upon arrival, officers located Ronel Myrtil, 37, of Oakland Park, kneeling on the floor with his hands raised, begging officers to arrest him.

After detaining him, officers spoke to witnesses who said Mytril entered the restaurant and asked an employee where “Debra” was. When told she was not working, investigators said Myrtil became upset, knocked an entire tray of cookies onto the floor, and walked out of the store.

The employee told police Myrtil allegedly threatened him while leaving, saying, “When you see Debra, tell her I’m coming for her neck.”

Police said Myrtil later returned to the restaurant, opened a cooler, and began taking bottles of drinks and smashing them onto the floor, causing them to burst and spill throughout the store. 

Officers said he then climbed onto a restaurant table and refused to leave, yelling at employees and customers. 

Investigators said they smelled alcohol on Myrtil’s breath and discovered a can of Heineken beer and an open case of beer inside his red Tesla parked outside the Subway.

Myrtil was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. He later posted a $300 bond.

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Roger Wilson {BSO}

Coconut Creek Police say four officers were needed to subdue a man calling himself “God’s Warrior” after he was allegedly caught smoking crack outside a Publix.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, officers responded around 9:35 a.m. on May 16 to the Publix at 4849 Coconut Creek Parkway after a manager reported a man – later identified as Roger Wilson, 36, smoking from a glass pipe outside the store.

When officers approached Wilson, police say he continued smoking from the pipe and told officers his name was “God’s Warrior.” Investigators later noted Wilson has a “GODS WARRIOR” tattoo across his chest.

Police said Wilson claimed the pipe contained CBD, but officers suspected it was crack use based on the type of glass pipe being used. When officers attempted to detain him, Wilson allegedly resisted, pulled away, grabbed at an officer’s neck and vest, and continued fighting even after being tased. Authorities said it ultimately took four officers to pin him down.

Investigators said officers recovered three burnt glass pipes from a search of Wilson, which later tested positive for cocaine.

Wilson was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Seminole Coconut Creek award recipients. {courtesy}

The Seminole Coconut Creek Education Foundation awarded $64,000 in scholarships to 80 Coconut Creek High School seniors during the Class of 2026 awards ceremony, in recognition of academic excellence and community service.

Held on May 13 inside the Coconut Creek High School auditorium, the event honored the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of the graduating Class of 2026. 

In total, 80 students were recognized for achieving among the school’s highest weighted grade point averages and for their community service.

Leading the way in community service was Negeberth Pierre, who completed an impressive 2,232 service hours. Enrique McKyle Muschett and Abianeta Louis also surpassed the 2,000-hour milestone to finish among the top service leaders in the graduating class.

On the academic side, Christaly Jean Baptiste, Daniel Therne, and Layla Wilcox earned recognition for posting the highest weighted grade point averages among the senior class.

The top-ranked students in each category received $2,500 scholarships, while second-place recipients earned $1,500. Students finishing between third and twentieth place received $1,000 awards, and those ranking from 21st through 40th earned $500 scholarships.

The Seminole Coconut Creek Education Foundation is a partnership between the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the City of Coconut Creek. The nonprofit organization supports educational opportunities for Coconut Creek students, local public schools, and children of city employees.

Foundation officials said scholarship presentations will also take place later this month at Atlantic Technical High School and Dave Thomas Education Center.

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Bryan Kristopher Clark {BSO}

Seminole Police say a man accused of burglarizing vehicles at Seminole Coconut Creek Casino later tried selling a stolen Nintendo Switch back to the victim’s girlfriend through Facebook Marketplace in return for sex.

According to a Seminole Police Department booking report and probable cause affidavit, Bryan Kristopher Clark, 18, of Margate, was arrested on May 10 on charges stemming from a March burglary spree. 

Police said the investigation began after a casino employee reported that a Nintendo Switch 2 gaming console and several games were stolen from a vehicle parked inside the Seminole Coconut Creek Casino garage on March 1. 

According to the affidavit, surveillance footage allegedly showed Clark entering the victim’s vehicle and later checking door handles on multiple other cars throughout the parking garage in what investigators described as an attempt to locate unlocked vehicles. Detectives also noted the suspect was linked to another vehicle burglary involving a stolen firearm.

Investigators said surveillance video captured Clark’s vehicle and later identified him through the footage and additional evidence.

The case took another turn when the victim’s girlfriend allegedly found the stolen Nintendo Switch 2 listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace. According to police, she recognized the device because of a unique icon displayed on the console and the games shown in the listing photos.

Detectives said Clark allegedly communicated with the woman through Facebook Marketplace and offered to sell the console for about $500. The affidavit further alleges that Clark suggested he would lower the price in exchange for sexual favors.

Police said Clark also allegedly sent photographs of himself and his tattoos, which investigators said matched the suspect seen on surveillance footage.

According to the affidavit, detectives also reviewed a prior February arrest involving Clark for false imprisonment, domestic battery, and criminal mischief. An officer involved in that case allegedly identified Clark from still images pulled from the casino surveillance footage.

Clark was arrested by the Coral Springs Police Department at a home located near the 10000 block of Northwest 20th Street and transported to the Broward Main Jail, where he is held without bond.

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Dallen Luis Morejon {BSO}

A Pompano teen was arrested after police said he used Snapchat’s location feature to track his ex-girlfriend, then chased and rammed the car she was riding in during a first date through multiple Broward cities.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department police report, Dallen Luis Morejon, 18, was arrested on May 11 on two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. 

The report shows Morejon had been texting his ex-girlfriend through Snapchat throughout the evening, asking about her whereabouts. Investigators say he used Snapchat’s location-sharing feature to find her as she was riding as a passenger on a first date and at a birthday dinner with another man, near the 200 block of South Lyons Road.

The victims told police Morejon pulled his car alongside theirs, surprising the woman, who told her date who Morejon was and that they should avoid him. The driver attempted to flee, heading south into Pompano Beach before making a U-turn and driving back north. 

Morejon allegedly followed the vehicle toward the intersection of Lyons Road and West Atlantic Boulevard, and allegedly struck the rear of their car three times at roughly 45 mph. 

Both vehicles stopped at the intersection. The driver got out to confront Morejon, and a verbal argument turned physical when Morejon allegedly grabbed the man’s arm and punched him in the back of the head. The two grappled to the ground before the woman stepped in to break it up. 

Morejon then followed the couple again as they pulled into a Cumberland Farms gas station, where he finally drove off.

Officers located Morejon at his Pompano Beach home, where the damaged car was parked in the driveway. He also had visible abrasions consistent with the altercation.

Morejon was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. He was later released after posting a $21,000 bond. 

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The Paula family: Diego, Giselle, Camila, Edward, and Lucas. {Courtesy}

A couple has officially taken over ownership of Allbrite Pool Supplies and says they are proud to continue the longtime business’s legacy of serving the community.

Edward and Giselle Paula of Paula Pools LLC recently acquired the family-owned pool supply and service company located at 8036 Wiles Road, taking over a business that has been owned and operated by the Eagan family for two generations.

For the Paulas, the acquisition is both professional and deeply personal.

Giselle grew up in Coral Springs and lived across the street from Allbrite from the age of five. After graduating from Coral Springs High School, she and Edward returned to Coral Springs more than nine years ago to raise their family and further establish roots in the community they love.

The couple said they immediately recognized the strong reputation and trust the Eagan family had built over nearly four decades in business.

“We immediately saw the impact the Eagan family had on the community through Allbrite,” the Paulas said. “It’s an honor to continue that legacy while helping the business grow for future generations.”

Both Edward and Giselle come from family business backgrounds and bring experience in distribution, warehousing, logistics, operations, and customer service — skills they believe position them well to continue the level of care and reliability Allbrite customers have come to expect.

For customers, the transition is expected to feel seamless.

The Paulas say their priority is maintaining the personal relationships, dependable service, and strong communication that have long defined Allbrite, while gradually expanding route services to meet growing demand in the area.

All current staff members will remain with the company, except for Tracy, who is retiring after many years of dedicated service. Gary Eagan Sr. will also remain involved during the transition period to help ensure continuity for employees and customers alike.

“No major changes are planned,” the Paulas said. “The Eagan family built this business on reliability, honesty, and customer service, and we fully intend to continue those values moving forward.”

Allbrite currently serves Coral Springs, Parkland, and surrounding communities, with plans to gradually expand as the company continues to grow and add team members.

Founded in 1985, Allbrite Pool Supplies has built a longstanding reputation for quality service and trusted expertise. The company offers retail pool supplies, professional water testing, weekly pool service and maintenance, equipment repairs and installation, leak detection, Diamond Brite finishes, pool remodels, and renovations.

The business also continues to support homeowners who maintain their own pools through in-store guidance and supplies, while offering full-service maintenance programs for customers seeking ongoing pool care.

New customers can find Allbrite promotions in Smart Savings magazine, including a current offer of the fourth month free with new weekly service. The company also offers a customer rewards program in which customers receive one free chlorine refill after purchasing 12.

Beyond the business itself, the Paulas say their investment in Coral Springs is personal. Their three children participate in local sports, dance, swimming, and community camps, and the family are active members of Parkridge Church.

For Edward and Giselle, taking over Allbrite is about more than acquiring a business — it’s about continuing a trusted local institution that has served families and neighbors for nearly 40 years.

“We are proud to continue the Allbrite legacy.”

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Darrious Lamar Davis {PBCS}

A Coconut Creek man is accused of using a GameStop employee-issued device to steal Magic: The Gathering cards from two Palm Beach County stores.

According to the Palm Springs Police Department, Darrious Lamar Davis, 35, is accused of stealing more than $3,500 worth of merchandise from two GameStop locations in a single afternoon.

The investigation began after a Palm Springs GameStop manager discovered several items missing during a routine inventory check. Police said nine Magic: The Gathering Avatar Play Booster Box sets had been taken from a locked display case on January 8.

Surveillance footage reviewed by officers allegedly shows Davis entering the store, unlocking the secured cabinet, removing the merchandise, and leaving without paying. Authorities estimated the value of the stolen items at just over $3,500.

Detectives later linked the incident to a similar theft reported earlier that same day at a GameStop on Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach. In that case, police say locked display cases were also accessed and high-value items removed.

Records show investigators believe both thefts occurred within about 30 minutes of each other and were carried out using the same method. In each instance, Davis allegedly used a magnetic unlocking device, a tool generally issued only to store employees, to open the secured cases.

On January 20, West Palm Beach police responded to the GameStop on Okeechobee Boulevard after Davis reportedly returned to the store. Officers took him into custody and said they recovered a magnetic unlocking device, a tan backpack, and a black dreadlock wig believed to have been used during the thefts.

Court records, following an investigation, show that the PSPD later issued a warrant and that Davis was taken into custody on April 28 and transported to the Palm Beach County Main Detention Center.

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Rellington Charles, Jayda Washington, Isaiah Louis-Jacques, Katelyanna Charles, Mabensky Jean Mary, and Connor Ritenour. {courtesy}

Four Coconut Creek High School chess players placed in the top 30 out of more than 160 competitors at a Millennium 6-12 tournament, helping the team finish fourth overall.

Competing in the May 2 tournament, the CCHS chess team finished fourth out of 13 high school teams, with more than 160 players.

The Cougars placed behind only South Broward, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Coral Springs High School, with team members Connor Ritenour, Isaiah Louis-Jacques, Mabensky Jean Mary, Rellington Charles, Katelyanna Charles, and Jayda Washington representing Coconut Creek.

The tournament gave students an opportunity to showcase their chess skills, challenge peers from other schools, and enjoy a day of friendly competition.

Coconut Creek also had four students finish in the top 30 individually.

Jayda Washington led the team with a 12th-place finish, followed by Isaiah Louis-Jacques in 17th, Connor Ritenour in 21st, and Mabensky Jean Mary in 28th.

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Mika Petit-Homme, Abianeta Louis, and Jayda Washington.

Three Coconut Creek High School seniors have been nominated to represent their school at the Miami Herald Silver Knight Awards, one of the area’s most prestigious student honors.

The CCHS nominees are Abianeta Louis, Mika Petit-Homme, and Jayda Washington, who were selected to compete in three academic categories.

The Miami Herald Silver Knight Awards recognize high school seniors who excel in academics while making meaningful contributions through community service. The program includes 15 academic categories, including Art, Athletics, Business, Journalism, Mathematics, Science, and others.

Coconut Creek High School’s Magnet Coordinator for Creek Technical Academy, Dr. Marlene Bodine-Landis, is serving as the school coordinator for this year’s competition.

Louis was nominated in the General Scholarship category in recognition of her strong academic record and leadership.

Petit-Homme was nominated in the Vocational Technical category, highlighting her achievements in hands-on learning and real-world skills.

Washington was nominated in the Digital & Interactive Media category for her creativity, technical dedication, and work in the field.

Silver Knight winners receive a $2,000 scholarship, a Silver Knight statue, and a round-trip ticket from American Airlines. Three honorable mentions in each category receive $500 and a plaque.

All three CCHS nominees will represent the school at the 68th Annual Silver Knight Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, May 12,  at the James L. Knight Center in Miami.

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{Abbot’s Frozen Custard}

A new dessert destination is preparing to open its doors in Coconut Creek, bringing more than a century of cold treat tradition with it. 

Abbott’s Frozen Custard is targeting a June 1 opening at 6562 North State Road 7, according to franchise owner Ian Osorio, who spoke with Coconut Creek Talk about the highly anticipated debut. 

The shop will mark Osorio’s first location with the historic brand, and he felt Coconut Creek was the perfect place to introduce its signature frozen custard to the South Florida market.

“We wanted a vibrant, welcoming area that appreciates quality and tradition,” Osorio told Coconut Creek Talk. “Coconut Creek is the ‘Butterfly Capital of the World,’ and that sense of community and family-centric growth made it the perfect choice for our first Abbott’s location.”

Osorio said the team is currently “putting the finishing touches on the space to ensure everything is perfect for our first guests,” and that plans are still on track for a June opening.

Unlike traditional ice cream, frozen custard offers a richer, creamier texture, which is something Osorio is eager for the community to experience.

“The biggest difference is the texture and the process,” he said. “Frozen custard is made with a hint of egg yolk and is churned much more slowly than traditional ice cream. This prevents excess air from entering the mix, resulting in a much denser, smoother, and creamier product.”

He added that custard is served slightly warmer, allowing flavors to stand out more immediately.

The Coconut Creek location will feature a counter-service setup with approximately 12 indoor seats, designed for quick visits and grab-and-go convenience. Guests can expect eight daily flavors, including staples like vanilla and chocolate, as well as cakes, pies, and catering options for events and gatherings.

While Abbott’s is known for its classic recipes dating back to 1902, Osorio said local influences will play a role in the menu.

“While we stay true to the classic recipes that made Abbott’s famous, we are definitely looking into flavors that resonate with the South Florida palate,” Osorio said. “Expect to see some tropical influences and bright, refreshing options that pair perfectly with our local climate.”

A rotating “Flavor of the Day” will also be a key part of the experience, featuring both fan favorites and seasonal specialties. Customers will be able to stay updated through the shop’s social media channels, including Instagram and Facebook.

Osorio said bringing Abbott’s to Coconut Creek is about blending tradition with a modern experience.

“Abbott’s has survived and thrived since 1902 because the quality is timeless,” he said. “Bringing that ‘Upstate New York’ nostalgia to a modern, fast-paced market like South Florida is about bridging the gap, offering a classic, high-quality product in a space that feels fresh and contemporary.”

Beyond the product itself, Osorio hopes the shop becomes a staple for local families.

“I’m most excited for that first spoonful,” he said. “There is a specific ‘wow’ moment when someone tries real frozen custard for the first time and realizes how different it is from anything else. I want our shop to be a place where families make memories, much like people have been doing at Abbott’s for over 120 years.”

Following a brief soft opening period, the business plans to host a grand opening event featuring giveaways and special promotions.

“We will be announcing giveaways and special promotions via our social media channels, so keep an eye out for those details soon,” Osorio said.

While the focus remains on launching the Coconut Creek location, Osorio hinted at future expansion in Broward County.

“Our current focus is 100% on making our Coconut Creek location the best it can be,” he told Coconut Creek Talk. “However, we see a lot of potential in Broward County and would love to bring the Abbotts’ experience to more neighbors in the future.”

For now, Osorio has a simple message for the community:

“We can’t wait to meet you all,” he said. “Whether you’re a long-time fan of Abbott’s from up north or you’ve never heard of frozen custard, we invite you to come by this June and find your new favorite treat.”

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Michael Sands {BSO}

Federal authorities say a Randazzo School employee in Coconut Creek used Roblox’s in-game currency, Robux, to coerce children into sending explicit content.

Federal authorities arrested Evan Michael Sands, 26, of Tamarac, on Thursday following an investigation that began late last year. School officials confirmed Sands was employed at the Randazzo School in Coconut Creek, though they did not specify his role.

According to a federal criminal complaint, the case was launched after Discord submitted a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which was then forwarded to the South Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The tip involved two videos allegedly shared through the platform that depicted very young children.

Investigators later obtained a warrant to review Sands’ Discord account. Data provided by the company reportedly showed he used the username “astraldrag0n#0” to communicate with minors, including children under 12, and allegedly pressured them to send sexually explicit photos and videos.

Authorities said Sands also sent explicit content of himself to minors and identified himself using his real name, home address, and workplace. In addition, investigators said they uncovered evidence that he distributed illegal images and videos through the platform.

Agents executed a search warrant at Sands’ home in Tamarac on Thursday and detained him after spotting him leaving the residence. During the investigation, officials said they examined his phone and found numerous illicit files involving minors.

According to court documents, Sands admitted during questioning that he had communicated with minors online and used “Robux,” a virtual currency associated with the online game Roblox, to entice them. He also acknowledged sending explicit material and told investigators he believed at least one of the minors he contacted was around 12 years old. Authorities said he indicated this behavior began in 2021.

Sands has been charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, along with enticement of a minor. Prosecutors are expected to seek his detention pending trial.

In a statement from the school obtained by Local 10, Randazzo School officials said they were notified of the arrest and described the situation as “shocking and deeply concerning.” They added that Sands is no longer employed at the school and emphasized their cooperation with law enforcement.

“The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” the school said, noting that authorities have not indicated any students from the school were involved.

Sands appeared in federal court in Fort Lauderdale on Friday. As of that morning, he remained in custody at the Broward Sheriff’s Office Main Jail under a U.S. Marshals hold.

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Coconut Creek HIgh School {Aiden Palmer}

Eight Coconut Creek High School students have been recognized as 2026 BCAA Scholar Athletes, earning honors for their excellence in academics, athletics, and community service.

Each year, the Broward County Athletic Association celebrates outstanding student-athletes across its 34 member schools through its Scholar Athlete Program. Honorees are recognized at annual banquets and become eligible for a share of more than $100,000 in scholarships. 

The program highlights individuals who embody the true meaning of “student-athlete,” balancing high-level athletic performance with academic excellence and community involvement.

This year’s group from Coconut Creek High School showcases that balance at an elite level.

Leading the class is Mika Petit Homme, ranked 5th out of 370 students with a remarkable 5.11 GPA and an astounding 878 service hours. A four-year volleyball athlete and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital scholarship winner, Petit Homme is also dual-enrolled at Broward College and holds multiple medical certifications. She plans to attend Florida International University to study Physical Therapy.

Michael Buggam, ranked 15th with a 4.8 GPA, has made his mark in both football and track and field. A Cambridge Diploma recipient and BCAA Athlete of the Month for April 2026, Buggam will continue his academic and athletic journey at FIU, studying Exercise Science.

Darrel Carroll, ranked 22nd with a 4.78 GPA, has combined leadership and technical excellence throughout his high school career. A senior captain on the boys’ volleyball team and a Teaching Fellow in Boca Raton, Carroll holds multiple COMPTIA certifications and plans to attend Florida State University to study Criminology.

Ruthann Powell, ranked 28th with a 4.68 GPA, has left a lasting legacy on the track. A school record holder in the 400 meters and a multi-time BCAA finalist, Powell has also served as class treasurer and earned certification as a pharmacy technician. She is currently deciding between Florida A&M and LSU, where she plans to study Pharmaceutical Science.

Julian Panza, ranked 29th with a 4.6 GPA, has built an impressive resume in both academics and leadership. As Key Club President and MOSS Vice President, Panza has earned multiple COMPTIA certifications and recognition as a District CTE Scholar. He plans to attend the University of South Florida to pursue a degree in Cybersecurity.

Nia Ennis, ranked 34th with a 4.6 GPA, has emerged as one of the top flag football athletes in the region. A four-star recruit with seven college offers, Ennis also serves as Student Body Representative and holds multiple technology certifications. She plans to study Information Technology at the collegiate level.

Amara Lauriston, ranked 66th with a 4.2 GPA, has demonstrated leadership both on and off the field. A four-year cheerleader, class president, and Ms. Coconut Creek, Lauriston has also been recognized as a BCAA All-Star Cheerleader. She plans to attend FIU to study Marketing.

Makayla Simon, ranked 85th with a 3.9 GPA, rounds out the group with a strong combination of school spirit and academic achievement. A varsity cheerleader and team representative, Simon holds certifications in entrepreneurship, project management, and accounting. She plans to attend Bethune-Cookman University to study Pediatric Nursing.

Together, these eight students represent the very best of Coconut Creek High School. As they prepare to take the next step in their academic and athletic careers, Coconut Creek’s 2026 BCAA Scholar Athletes leave behind a legacy of excellence and a high bar for future Cougars to follow.

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Coconut Creek Market {Coconut Creek}

Coconut Creek was ranked the best retirement town in Florida for upper-middle-class residents by Yahoo! Finance, citing strong livability, affordability, and quality of life.

The ranking highlights Coconut Creek’s balance of livability, affordability, and overall quality of life, all key factors for retirees looking to stretch their savings without sacrificing comfort.

According to the report, Coconut Creek achieved a strong livability score of 83 while maintaining one of the lowest “comfortable cost-of-living” thresholds among the cities evaluated, at $121,656 annually. That figure represents the estimated income needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in the area, making it especially attractive for upper-middle-class retirees seeking value in South Florida.

The city’s demographics also played a role in the ranking. Nearly one in five residents (19.3%) is age 65 or older, signaling a well-established and growing retirement community. This mix often contributes to increased access to senior-friendly amenities, healthcare resources, and social opportunities tailored to older adults.

Housing costs, while reflective of South Florida’s competitive market, remain within reach for many in the upper-middle-income bracket. The average home value in Coconut Creek is approximately $524,251, with an average monthly mortgage of $3,023. Compared to other high-demand retirement areas across the state, these figures helped position Coconut Creek as a more attainable option.

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Samer Ismail Elhamad {BSO}

A Miami man was arrested at a Coconut Creek Planet Fitness after police say he made multiple elementary school shooting threats targeting schools in California, triggering a cross-country investigation.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department report, Samer Ismail Elhamad, 32, was taken into custody Monday at a Planet Fitness at 4291 West Hillsboro Boulevard after law enforcement in California traced the calls to South Florida.

Investigators say Elhamad, who was born in San Diego, called multiple preschool locations in the San Diego area, including one in Carlsbad, and made alarming threats. During one call, he allegedly said he was on his way to the school to carry out a shooting. Authorities said he also referenced “sleeper cells,” “rapists,” and other disturbing claims during the calls.

A Carlsbad Police Department sergeant identified Elhamad as the suspect and initiated a phone ping, which led officers to the 7100 block of Lyons Road in Coconut Creek. Coconut Creek police located his Toyota Prius in the gym parking lot and detained him inside the facility.

According to investigators, Elhamad initially gave officers a false name and claimed he was from Lebanon, later attempting to blame the calls on two homeless individuals. 

Authorities say Elhamad ultimately admitted to his identity after officers located a passport matching his name and photograph.

The investigation revealed the threats were not isolated. Police said multiple preschool locations in the San Diego area received similar calls within a short timeframe, all allegedly linked to Elhamad. In addition, authorities said he had previously contacted the San Diego Police Department in late March to make a false report involving his family. When officers determined no crime had occurred, Elhamad allegedly called police 21 more times that same day, threatening to kill officers and dispatchers.

While being taken into custody in Coconut Creek, Elhamad allegedly resisted officers and damaged a police vehicle by striking and breaking a side mirror, leading to an additional criminal mischief charge.

Elhamad was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail, where he is being held on a $77,500 bond.

Authorities note that the investigation into Elhamad’s actions for other false reports is ongoing.

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Anthony James Ackerman {BSO}

A man was arrested and charged with armed robbery after police said he pulled a gun and robbed a victim during a Facebook Marketplace meetup for a Dyson hair dryer.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Anthony James Ackerman, 22, of Plantation,  was taken into custody on April 4 following an armed robbery at a Shell gas station located at 6330 North State Road 7.

Investigators say the victim arranged to meet Ackerman from Facebook Marketplace to purchase a Dyson Airwrap hairdryer for $250. When the victim and his fiancée arrived at the agreed-upon location, Ackerman allegedly exited a black Mercedes carrying a taped box but refused to show the contents when asked.

According to the report, the situation escalated when Ackerman lifted his shirt and displayed a firearm tucked into his waistband. The victim told deputies he feared for his life and handed over approximately $450 in cash before the suspect fled the scene in the vehicle.

The report shows the main break in the case was that the victim captured a photo of the suspect and the vehicle’s license plate, which was traced back to Ackerman. A BOLO was issued, and Fort Lauderdale Police later located the vehicle near I-95 and Sunrise Boulevard.

Authorities conducted a traffic stop near 1701 North University Drive in Plantation, where Ackerman was taken into custody. The victim was brought to the scene and positively identified him as the suspect, according to investigators.

Ackerman was transported to the Coconut Creek Police Department. He remains held without bond.

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Berman Jose Sanchez Thumas {BSO}

A Coconut Creek auto dealer was arrested after investigators say he kept more than $154,000 in sales tax collected from customers, leading to a first-degree felony charge.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department investigation report, Berman Jose Sanchez Thumas, 31, was arrested on March 31 at his home near the 5200 block of Northwest 55th Boulevard. Investigators allege that while operating Evo Auto Sales LLC in Margate, Sanchez Thumas collected sales tax from customers between 2021 and 2024 but failed to remit the full amount to the State of Florida. 

Authorities say more than $154,000 in tax revenue was withheld, resulting in a theft of state funds charge, a first-degree felony.

According to a probable cause affidavit filed by the Florida Department of Revenue, the business collected approximately $246,470 in sales tax during that period but remitted only about $91,787.

Investigators say Sanchez Thumas was the managing member of the business and had direct responsibility for collecting and remitting taxes. Records show he filed sales tax returns during the period in question, indicating awareness of the obligation, but allegedly failed to pay the full amounts due.

Efforts by the Department of Revenue to obtain records and secure voluntary compliance were unsuccessful, and communication through legal representation did not resolve the outstanding balance, according to investigators.

A warrant for Sanchez Thumas’ arrest was issued on March 25, and he was taken into custody and transported to the Broward County Main Jail days later. He is currently being held without bond pending a court appearance.

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Briana Julmiste- Business and Entrepreneurship, Julian Panza- Applied Information Technology, and Jayda Washington- Applied Information Technology. {Coconut Creek High School}

Coconut Creek High School students were honored at Broward County Public Schools’ 2026 CTE Scholar Banquet, recognizing top achievers in career and technical education programs.

Hosted by Broward County Public Schools’ Career, Technical, Adult & Community Education Department, the banquet took place April 2 at Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, bringing together School Board members, administrators, educators, families, and community partners.

Several Coconut Creek High School students earned top honors for their achievements across multiple disciplines. Julian Panza was recognized in Applied Information Technology, Briana Julmiste earned honors in Business and Entrepreneurship, and Jayda Washington was also recognized in Applied Information Technology.

District officials said the awards celebrate students who have demonstrated exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment within their chosen CTE pathways. 

Selections were made by district leadership, including Mr. Michael Fridel and his team.

Career and Technical Education programs in Broward County Public Schools are designed to prepare students for high-demand careers through a combination of hands-on learning, industry certifications, and innovative academic pathways.

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Flornise Joseph {BSO}

A Coconut Creek mother was arrested after police say her child was found wandering a parking lot after being left with a disabled adult she was hired to care for.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Flornise Joseph, 32, was arrested on March 24 following an investigation that began with a concerned neighbor reporting a child screaming in a parking lot near the 3900 block of Coral Tree Circle. 

The report says when officers arrived, they escorted the child back toward his apartment, where they found the front door wide open and no responsible adult responding inside.

Inside the residence, officers discovered an adult male described as having special needs, who was sitting in a chair, rocking back and forth, and unable to communicate or respond to questions. Police later determined the man was blind, deaf, and incapable of caring for himself or supervising a child.

Investigators then made contact with the child’s mother, Joseph, through a Ring camera system. During that interaction, officers noted her speech appeared slow, and she was unable to clearly explain where she was or why she had left the residence. She told officers she had gone to pick up medication but could not provide a specific location.

Police also confirmed Joseph was employed as a caregiver for the disabled adult through Angel Care home care service.

Joseph later returned to the scene on foot from a different apartment building, not in a vehicle as she had initially claimed. Officers observed that she appeared unsteady and continued to provide conflicting explanations about her whereabouts.

Police reviewed Ring camera footage from the residence, which showed Joseph leaving the apartment with another adult around 6:37 p.m. Roughly an hour later, the child was seen opening the front door and walking outside unsupervised, calling out “Mommy” multiple times.

Investigators say the child had been roaming a dimly lit parking lot with active vehicle traffic and was near a body of water.

Joseph was arrested on charges of child neglect and neglect of an elderly or disabled adult, both felony offenses. She was transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Labrent Corwin Neal Jr {BSO}

Coconut Creek police arrested a man and detained two juveniles accused of wearing masks, burglarizing vehicles, and hiding in bushes after an early-morning crime spree at Legacy Apartment Complex.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Labrent Corwin Neal Jr., 22, of Pompano Beach, was arrested on March 18 on multiple charges tied to a string of vehicle burglaries reported at the Legacy apartment complex located at 4301 West Atlantic Boulevard. 

Police said the investigation began around 4:31 a.m., when a 911 caller reported seeing three males wearing hoodies walking between parked cars outside the apartment building before they ran deeper into the community. Officers responded to the complex, established a perimeter, and began canvassing the area.

According to the affidavits, officers found signs that at least two vehicles had been rummaged through. Multiple victims claimed items ranging from credit cards to a North Broward Hospital nursing identification card had been taken.

Police said officers later saw three suspects jump a fence separating the complex from Atlantic Boulevard and run southbound across the roadway toward the Florida Turnpike on-ramp, where they attempted to hide in bushes.

Neal was found hiding inside a bush and was taken into custody, according to police. Officers said a search of Neal turned up a purple FedEx balaclava and black rubber gloves. Two other juvenile suspects, a 17-year-old and a 15-year-old, were also detained nearby. 

Police said both juvenile suspects were also wearing balaclavas and black rubber gloves. 

One of the juveniles told officers that he, Neal, and the third suspect went to the apartment complex to break into vehicles, according to one affidavit. In another affidavit, he allegedly told police he had been “up to no good” and admitted he had broken into one vehicle.

Neal was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. He is charged with two counts of burglary of an unoccupied conveyance, two counts of contributing to the delinquency or dependency of a child, two counts of possession of burglary tools with intent to use, and two counts of resisting an officer without violence. 

The two juveniles were transported to the Juvenile Assessment Center after receiving medical clearance.

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Jacqueline Arias {BSO}

A woman is facing multiple felony charges after police said a months-long investigation uncovered what detectives described as a prostitution operation and money laundering scheme run out of a Coconut Creek apartment.

According to Coconut Creek Police Department investigative records, Jacqueline Arias, 49, was charged on March 19 with racketeering, money laundering, deriving support from the proceeds of prostitution, owning or operating a space for prostitution, and renting space for prostitution-related activity.

Investigators allege the operation was based in an apartment at Vista Verde Apartments, located at 4768 West Atlantic Boulevard.

According to police, the investigation began last September after the property manager at Vista Verde Apartments received an anonymous call claiming a woman was being trafficked at the complex. The manager then contacted Coconut Creek police. 

During the investigation, detectives learned that leasing office staff and a maintenance worker had previously entered the apartment during a maintenance visit in February 2025 and found what they described as two booth-like stalls built inside the living room. Police said the area had partitions, massage tables, and windows covered with sheets or fabric. Staff did not initially report it because they said they did not see obvious criminal activity or anyone appearing to be in distress.

Detectives determined the apartment was leased solely to Arias. Investigators noted that, despite several businesses being tied to her name, wage records showed no income reported since 2017.

As the investigation progressed, surveillance became a major part of the case, and detectives watched the apartment and reported seeing Arias repeatedly come and go, but said she did not appear to live there full-time. According to police, she often left in the early evening and was believed to return to her Miami-Dade address overnight, then come back to Coconut Creek the next day. 

Police also said Arias appeared to be transporting women connected to the operation. On September 30 and October 1, detectives reported seeing her pick up two Hispanic women from the apartment and drive them around throughout the day, which investigators said they believed were out-call sex appointments. Detectives added that the women were never seen leaving the apartment on their own and appeared to rely on Arias for transportation.

Another major break in the case came through interviews with men who visited the unit. Detectives said they observed multiple men entering and leaving the apartment, usually staying for 15 to 30 minutes. One man stopped after leaving told police he had paid $180 for 30 minutes of sex and provided phone numbers connected to women he said he met there. Detectives later linked those numbers to online escort ads for women in the Atlantic Boulevard, Margate, and Coconut Creek areas.

In December 2025, three more men were stopped and interviewed after visiting the apartment. According to police, one said he paid $120 in cash for sex. Another told detectives he found an online escort ad using the same phone number and paid $80 cash for oral sex. A third said he located an ad through Google that led him to List Crawler and paid $120 for oral sex. All three described similar encounters involving a blonde Hispanic woman.

Investigators then turned to the money trail. After learning from one of the men that Zelle had been used for payments, detectives subpoenaed account records tied to Arias and another woman. Police said the records showed payments coming from numerous unrelated accounts, many appearing to belong to men, often in amounts ranging from about $60 to $200. Detectives also alleged Arias moved money repeatedly between Citibank, Chase, and business accounts to disguise the source of the funds.

According to police, Arias also paid the apartment’s rent with money orders, which detectives said was consistent with attempts to conceal banking activity. Investigators ultimately alleged that she engaged in $176,752.40 in transactions believed to be tied to unlawful proceeds over a 12-month period.

Arias was taken into custody on March 19 following a routine traffic stop and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. 

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Mitchell Gerard Guest {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man was arrested and faces felony gun and child abuse charges after police say he pointed a gun at a woman and threatened to kill her in the presence of a young child. 

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Mitchell Gerard Guest, 30, was taken into custody on March 15 following an incident that began near Windmill Park and continued at a residence in the 4700 block of Northwest 7th Manor.

Records show officers responded to a 911 call around 8:50 p.m., where the victim reported that an argument between her and Guest escalated into death threats and near gunfire. 

The report stated that Guest allegedly grabbed the woman by the throat before pulling out a gun from his waistband and pressing it against her stomach while commenting that he would shoot her and “bury her alive.”

The victim told police that a young child witnessed the incident and began crying. After the incident, the victim left the residence and called 911 from a nearby location.

Responding officers later located Guest and detained him. According to the report, Guest denied that anything had occurred but admitted to owning a firearm. Officers say they recovered a Smith & Wesson handgun from a vehicle associated with him.

Guest was arrested and booked into the Broward County Main Jail.

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Ryan Sankar Narain {BSO}

Coconut Creek police arrested a man suspected of brandishing a machete during a heated dispute over construction at a residential complex, according to an arrest report.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Ryan Sankar Narain, 38, was taken into custody on March 6 at his home near the 4700 block of Northwest 22nd Street and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

According to police, officers responded to the residence after receiving reports of a man attempting to attack people with a machete. Investigators said the incident began as a verbal dispute between Narain and another man over construction work near a parking lot at the complex. 

During the argument, police say Narain went inside his residence and later returned holding a machete. The victim told officers Narain removed the machete from its sheath and raised it while shouting, “What are you going to do?”

Records show Narain acknowledged the argument but denied having a machete. Narain told officers he felt scared during the altercation and claimed he was “standing his ground.”

Officers later recovered a machete matching the victim’s description from inside Narain’s home, where it was wedged between a mattress and box spring in a bedroom.

Narain was transported by Coconut Creek Fire Rescue to Northwest Medical Center for medical clearance before being transferred to the Broward County Jail.

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Louis Seth Kaye {BSO}

A man wanted by law enforcement for stealing thousands of dollars’ worth of LEGO sets from a Broward County Walmart was arrested at a Coconut Creek location and charged with crimes related to a broader string of LEGO thefts.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department report, Louis Seth Kaye, 54, of Fort Lauderdale, was arrested on February 28 by officers near the Walmart at 5571 West Hillsboro Boulevard. 

According to the report, Investigators say the arrest stems from a series of LEGO thefts at a Walmart in Pembroke Pines, located at 12800 Pines Boulevard, in which Kaye and an unidentified accomplice entered the store on multiple occasions, selected LEGO sets, placed them in a shipping cart, and exited without paying. 

Records show Kaye has previously been arrested for similar retail theft incidents. In 2025, he was arrested in connection with other Walmart thefts, and in 2024, he was arrested for a similar case involving theft from a Lowe’s store.

Following his arrest in Coconut Creek, Kaye was booked into the Broward County jail and held on a $2,500 bond.

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Johnny Batista and Mayeli Tacoronte Perrote. {BSO}

A Coconut Creek surveillance operation by BSO led to a multi-agency pursuit into Miami-Dade County, ending with the arrest of a couple accused of burglarizing work vans and stealing high-value tools.

According to a Broward Sheriff’s Office arrest report, Johnny Batista, 19, of Lauderhill, and his girlfriend, Mayeli Tacoronte Perrote, 18, of Homestead, were taken into custody on February 15 following a surveillance operation by BSO’s Burglary Apprehension Team and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Apprehension Team.

Investigators say deputies were tracking a vehicle tied to the crimes when they observed the occupants, later identified as Batista and Perrote, burglarize three work vans in the area of 6601 Lyons Road. Officers reported seeing Batista smash vehicle windows and remove tools before returning to the vehicle

According to the probable cause affidavit, multiple high-value tools were stolen from the vans. Victims reported losses totaling tens of thousands of dollars. One listed victim was Gary The Plumber LLC of Coconut Creek.

Deputies say the couple fled southbound, leading authorities into Miami-Dade County. A grappler device was deployed during the pursuit, but it was unsuccessful. The pair then eventually drove to a residence in Homestead, where they bailed out of the vehicle.

Batista fled on foot but was later located by law enforcement. Perrote was detained at the scene. Authorities say numerous stolen tools were found inside their vehicle.

Records show Perrote told investigators she believed they were going to a park and that she remained in the vehicle while Batista broke into the vans. She told deputies this was the first time she had been present during one of the alleged burglaries and said she did not know what he did with the stolen tools.

Batista faces multiple felony charges. In addition, records show he is being held on an out-of-state warrant from Tarrant County, Texas, for organized criminal activity, and authorities there have indicated they intend to extradite.

Perrote was also arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

The case remains under investigation.

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{Deer Creek Golf Club}

The Coral Springs Coconut Creek Regional Chamber’s Professional Women’s Alliance will host an International Women’s Day Soirée to bring together community leaders, healthcare professionals, and business owners to honor women who are making a meaningful impact in South Florida.

The luncheon-style celebration, set for Friday, March 6, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Deer Creek Golf Club, is being held in recognition of International Women’s Day and will spotlight leadership, innovation, and community service across multiple industries. 

According to the chamber, Juliet Roulhac of Florida Power & Light Company will be honored with the Christine Hunschofsky Trailblazer of the Year Award for her professional leadership and influence.

Also to be honored is Michelle Brown of Friends & Family Spinal Care, who will receive the Neighborhood Shero Award for her dedication to serving and uplifting the local community. 

PH Interiors will receive the Women’s Empowerment Champion Award for its commitment to supporting and advancing women through business and advocacy.

The event is themed “Mediterranean Chic.” Early-bird tickets are available at a discounted rate of $75 for members and $95 for future members. After February 20, ticket prices increase to $85 for members and $105 for future members, with admission including food and valet parking.

Visit the Coral Springs Coconut Creek Regional Chamber for tickets. 

Deer Creek Golf Club is located at  2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd in Deerfield Beach.

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Sir P. N. Fearon {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man was arrested after police say he raped and violently attacked his wife during an argument that stemmed from allegations of infidelity and the existence of a child outside their marriage.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, Sir P. N. Fearon, 30, was taken into custody on January 29 at the couple’s home in the 4400 block of Northwest 65th Street after a Crime Stoppers tip was received reporting sounds of a violent domestic altercation.

Investigators noted that 911 was not called at the time because the victim’s cellphone was allegedly taken during the incident.

Investigators say the incident occurred during the early morning hours and began as a verbal argument after Fearon’s wife confronted him about alleged infidelity and a one-year-old child he reportedly has with another woman. 

The victim told investigators that during the argument, Fearon groped her, turned her around, pulled her pants and underwear down, and proceeded to rape her. She also says that while being raped, Fearon struck her in the face and choked her, causing visible injuries, including facial bruising and a busted lip. 

Officers documented and photographed the injuries. 

Fearon was transported to the Broward County Main Jail and is currently being held without bond.

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A man was arrested after police said he was found sleeping on the Broward College Coconut Creek campus with a knife in his possession while classes were in session.

Johnathan Daniel Bautista, 30, of Pompano Beach, was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon on school property. 

According to a probable cause affidavit, a Coconut Creek Police detective was conducting routine work at Broward College, located at 1000 Coconut Creek Boulevard, when he was alerted to a man sleeping in a breezeway near Building 41 on the north side of campus.

The incident occurred on August 8 at approximately 10:18 a.m. while the campus was open and classes were actively in session. Records show Baustista was recently relocated after failing to appear in court.

Police say Bautista was found asleep in a doorway and smelled like marijuana. During a search, officers located a four-inch black-handled knife that was not foldable and featured a dagger-style hooked blade.

Records show that Broward College classes were not interrupted and that no injuries or incidents were reported. 

Bautista was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. 

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A Coconut Creek man was arrested Monday and charged with aggravated battery, causing bodily harm, and disability after investigators alleged he purposely closed a garage door on his mother, causing significant injuries. 

Coconut Creek Police Department records show Donald Francis Esposito, 32, was taken into custody on January 26 following an incident reported at a residence in the 1400 block of Northwest 48th Avenue, court documents show. 

CCPD officers responded to the scene following a 911 call shortly before noon. According to a probable cause affidavit, Esposito’s mother suffered a significant head injury when she fell due to the garage door slamming her to the ground, resulting in a deep laceration to the lower rear portion of her head that was bleeding heavily. She was transported to North Broward Hospital, where she received eight staples to close the wound. 

The report also notes she sustained a separate laceration to her right ankle when the garage door closed on her foot, which was also bleeding extensively

Esposito was arrested at the scene and transported to the Broward County Main Jail. Records show he is held without bond pending his first court appearance.

The report does not indicate what led to Esposito’s alleged actions, only that he purposefully used the garage door to injure his mother.

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Jamarcus Ballard {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man was arrested after police say he shot a family member in the abdomen during a domestic dispute.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department report, officers were called to the residence near the 4800 block of Northwest 19th Street on January 23 after reports of a domestic-related shooting. Police learned that the home was occupied by a couple and their two adult sons, one of whom, later identified as Jamarcus Ballard, 37, was found to be in possession of a firearm.

During a physical altercation between the brothers, the father attempted to intervene by stepping between them. Moments later, he heard what he described as a “pop” and realized one of his sons had been shot.

The victim was transported to North Broward Medical Center with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound just below the waistline. When interviewed by detectives, the victim confirmed he had been involved in a physical altercation with Ballard and identified him as the shooter. The victim told police he believed the shooting was accidental.

Investigators said Ballard, an assistant coach at Northeast High School, was taken to a police interview room, where he admitted to firing one round from his gun, claiming he acted in self-defense. The firearm was recovered at the scene and collected as evidence.

Following the investigation, detectives determined Jamarcus intentionally and knowingly fired his weapon. He was arrested and charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, domestic-related. 

Jail records show he is being held at the Broward County Main Jail without bond pending a first appearance before a judge.

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Coconut Creek High School {Aiden Palmer}

Coconut Creek High School and Creek Technical Academy have earned national recognition after being named a 2026 Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America.

The prestigious honor marks the first time the school has placed among the top magnet programs in the country. The recognition was announced by Broward County Public Schools as part of a districtwide achievement that saw BCPS earn 37 National Merit Awards this year, including Magnet Schools of Excellence and Magnet Schools of Distinction honors across elementary, middle, high, and technical schools.

“We congratulate our magnet schools and programs for reaching this level of success,” BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn said in a statement. “These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, administrators, and community partners – and highlight our District’s continued focus on offering dynamic and enriching educational options for families.”

Coconut Creek High School was recognized for its Technical Academies magnet program, which emphasizes career-ready skills, hands-on learning, and real-world applications while maintaining strong academic standards. 

School officials credited the achievement to the collective efforts of students, faculty, and staff, as well as the leadership of Magnet Coordinator Dr. Marlene D. Bodine-Landis, calling the award a reflection of the school’s belief in excellence and continuous growth.

Magnet Schools of America honors schools nationwide each year for outstanding academic performance, innovative curriculum, leadership, and community engagement. 

In addition to Coconut Creek High School, other Broward schools receiving Magnet School of Distinction recognition include Margate Middle School for STEM, Miramar High School for its Aviation and International Baccalaureate programs, Northeast High School for programs including Biotechnology and Alternative Energy, Pompano Beach High School for International Affairs with Information Technology, and William T. McFatter Technical College and Technical High School for its Technical Academies.

The honored schools will be formally recognized during a Magnet Schools of America awards ceremony scheduled for April.

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Jayda Washington {courtesy}

Jayda Washington, a senior at Coconut Creek High School and a dual-enrolled student at Atlantic Technical College, has been named a 2025–26 National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) Cybersecurity Scholarship winner.

The scholarship honors Washington’s academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to STEM education.

“I truly thank God for this award. I am honored to represent BCPS, Coconut Creek High, and Atlantic Technical College as the recipient of this award,” Washington told Coconut Creek Talk, adding thanks to those who supported her journey along the way,  “I would like to thank my CTA Magnet Coordinator, Dr. Marlene Bodine-Landis, and my CTACE instructors, Mr. Steiner and Mr. Wiggins at CCHS, and Mr. Melendez and Mr. Rao, for pushing me to earn over 20 industry certifications in Applied Information Technology, networking, and cybersecurity.”

Beyond the classroom, Washington shares that she is deeply involved in service and leadership initiatives throughout Broward County and beyond. She serves as Youth Consultant and Marketing Director for Dare to Care STEM Camp, where she has helped mobilize elementary and middle-school students to participate in hands-on STEM activities. 

A former TED-Ed Talk speaker and NASA Space Camp Hall of Fame Scholarship recipient, Washington has advocated nationally and internationally for increased youth participation in STEM fields.

Her leadership roles extend to serving as President of HIP (Health Information Project), Secretary and Senior Mentor for Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders (MTL), Treasurer of M.O.S.S. (Make Our Schools Safe), and as a Broward County Chess Queen Ambassador.

Washington also excels in athletics, competing in track and field events at the local, regional, and national levels. She is the 2024 South Florida Speed Capital MVP and earned second place in the long jump at the 2025 USATF National Youth Outdoor Championship in New York City.

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Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders. {courtesy}

Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders, a peer-to-peer mentoring and student leadership program, recently inducted a new class of students at Coconut Creek High School, ushering in a new generation of leaders and difference makers.

The honorary ceremony, held on November 19, marked the next step in the program’s mission to promote academic success, mentorship, and community involvement among middle and high school students.

During the ceremony, incoming students were inducted as official members of MTL and assigned leadership roles based on grade level and GPA. Each inductee took an oath tied to their role, a moment that organizers say captures the heart of the program.

“The induction ceremony is when everything becomes real for the students,” Nichole Monteiro, a Life Sciences teacher at Coconut Creek High and co-sponsor of MTL, told Coconut Creek Talk.  “They’re committing to leadership, accountability, and supporting one another in a meaningful way.”

The ceremony followed guidelines set by Mentoring Across Broward, which oversees MTL chapters throughout the county. In keeping with those standards, the event was entirely run by student officers.

“Mentoring Across Broward is very specific about how MTL induction ceremonies need to go,” Monteiro said. “Our club officers plan and operate the entire ceremony, and the oaths the students take are written by MAB. That structure helps students understand exactly what is expected of them.”

Students also heard from guest speakers Dr. Tony Dixon and nurse practitioner Tiffany Wilson of Mother Daughter Primary Care, who discussed the importance of education and perseverance in the face of challenges.

“They talked about persevering through adversity and why education matters, even when the path isn’t easy,” Monteiro said. “Those messages really resonated with our students.”

As part of the organization’s commitment to the community, students participated in the 2025 Dare 2 Care Thanksgiving Food Distribution after being invited by Annjeanette Washington-Carter and the Faith Center.

“An important part of Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders is community involvement,” Monteiro said. “This opportunity was completely in alignment with that initiative.”

Through the food distribution, MTL students helped serve approximately 2,500 families across Broward and Miami-Dade counties.

While the induction ceremony took place in the auditorium, another service effort was happening behind the scenes. Coconut Creek High’s men’s basketball team spent the week sorting and packing food donations for the school’s annual Harvest Drive, a Thanksgiving food drive operated out of the campus.

“The Harvest Drive is a joint effort between Coach Wade Edmond and our social worker, Roger Edouard,” Monteiro said. “Every year, we serve between 150 and 200 families.”

Donations for the drive were collected by Mrs. Casanova and Latinos in Action, with the basketball team handling the packing throughout the week. Once distributions began, MTL students assisted with loading the packed food bags into family vehicles.

Monteiro said the induction ceremony and service efforts reflect the broader culture at Coconut Creek High, where multiple clubs emphasize leadership and outreach.

“Our ultimate goal with MTL is to lift up students who are at risk of not graduating on time,” she said. “At the same time, we want to give our higher-achieving students the opportunity to mentor those who need extra academic or social-emotional support.”

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Coconut Creek resident Shahen Guiragossian, 88,  has released a deeply personal memoir titled The Hawk: My Memoir, a project he says took decades to complete and was inspired by an urgency to preserve the stories that shaped his life before they were lost forever.

Guiragossian’s story spans generational trauma tied to the Armenian genocide, immigration, cultural identity, and the resilience required to rebuild one’s life in a new country. 

He tells Coconut Creek Talk that the book is meant to serve as a bridge between the past and the future, written with the hope that younger generations will understand the history that shaped their families.

“These stories have lived with me my entire life,” Guiragossian said. “They’ve stayed in my memory and in my heart for decades, and I always felt a pull to share them, even if I didn’t know exactly how to begin.”  

Guiragossian shares that it was only after moving to Florida that he finally felt ready to begin writing. “When I moved to Florida, I reached a place where I felt ready to put everything on paper,” he said, crediting a friend, Melissa, for helping him organize his memories and shape them into the book.

Revisiting difficult moments from his past brought a wave of emotions back to the surface. 

“Writing them down brought the emotions closer,” he explained. “These stories tug at my heart. Not just because of the hardships I lived through, but because they remind me of the people who were part of my journey.” 

Guiragossian hopes his memoir inspires young people in Coconut Creek and beyond. “I want young people to know that every one of us is born with talent and potential,” he said. “No matter where you come from or what challenges you face, you can shape your own life and make an impact on the world. You can be anything you want to be.”

Since the release of his memoir, community response has been heartfelt and encouraging. One moment that surprised him was hearing directly from a former mayor who reached out to say how inspired she was by his story. 

He has also reconnected with friends and family who told him how meaningful the book was to them. “I don’t try to persuade anyone to read the book,” he said. “I simply enjoy meeting people, sharing a conversation, and being myself. And often, after connecting, they want to read it on their own.”

Guiragossian has chosen to donate all proceeds from the book to causes that hold deep personal meaning. One of the beneficiaries is the Armenian Relief Society, an organization tied closely to the cultural roots that shaped him. 

The other is the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, which he supports in honor of his nephew who was killed on September 11. “I’m not taking a single penny for myself,” he said. “Giving back felt like the right thing to do.”

Guiragossian says that, since arriving in Coconut Creek four years ago, the welcome he has received from the community has helped him gain the confidence to share his story. 

“It’s been a wonderful place to call home,” he said. “The community is warm, the people are kind, and I’ve felt welcomed here from the beginning.”

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Coconut Creek High School Drone Cougars {courtesy}

The Coconut Creek High School Drone Cougars are celebrating an impressive second-place finish at the recent Drone Jamboree.

Held November 15, 2025, at Pines Collegiate Academy 6-12, the Cougars Drone Team was led by students Dentzley Estime, Smith Christianh Mathieu, Rose Valery, and Israel Chery, who represented Coconut Creek High School in a competition that demonstrated precision, teamwork, and remarkable calm under pressure as they navigated a series of demanding aerial challenges.

Math teacher and Drone Cougar Club Coach Almoneva Mahilum said the event pushes students far beyond simply flying drones.

“Drone competitions are fast-paced, hands-on STEM challenges where students navigate themed stations such as Search and Rescue, Package Delivery, and Emergency Response in Fire Situations,” Mahilum explained to Coconut Creek Talk. “Each station is timed at 10 minutes and requires students to overcome specific obstacles using precision, strategy, and quick decision-making.”

She added that the team’s composure was what truly set them apart.

“What stood out most was their composure under pressure. Even when they faced unexpected course changes, the team adapted quickly and supported each other throughout the event.”

Mahilum said the team prepared in small but meaningful increments, squeezing in practice wherever possible.

“Students practiced during their 30-minute lunch breaks twice a week. Their success came from consistent effort, mutual support, and a shared commitment to improving each run.”

According to Mahilum, the program teaches more than technical skills. It also helps shape character.

“It teaches leadership, resilience, and collaboration. Students learn to trust each other, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively. These are skills that carry into every part of life.”

Sub-coach Frantz Imbert shared in an announcement of the accomplishment his appreciation for the support the school continues to show the students, adding, “Thank you so much for always encouraging us to do our best to uphold the Cougar standard of excellence. Your support continues to inspire our students to aim high and grow through meaningful STEM experiences.”

With momentum from their strong Jamboree performance, the Drone Cougars are already planning their next steps.

“We’re preparing for the spring competition,” Mahilum said. “The students are excited to mentor peers and expand their skills into real-world applications.”

Both coaches encouraged new students to join the growing program.

“The Drone Cougars are always looking for curious, motivated students to join our team,” Mahilum said. “No experience required, just a passion for learning and a willingness to fly.”

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Joanel Beaucejour, Eroid Esperance, Nikell Etienne, and Adrion Hall. {BSO}

Four men were taken into custody after Coconut Creek Police said they carried out a coordinated robbery at a brand new Burlington store, fleeing with thousands of dollars in merchandise before officers captured them.

According to Coconut Creek Police Department arrest reports, the group,  later identified as Nikell Etienne, 22, of North Miami Beach, Eroid Esperance, 27, of Miami, Joanel Beaucejour, 20, of North Miami, and Adrion Hall, 22, of Miami, entered the Burlington at 4847 Coconut Creek Parkway on November 24 and selected a large amount of merchandise before dashing to an emergency exit, opening the door, and fleeing the store. 

Coconut Creek Talk covered the ribbon-cutting of this very store just a few weeks ago.

Police said surveillance footage and witness statements described the incident as a coordinated effort by multiple suspects working in tandem. According to arrest reports, the total value of merchandise taken was $3,563.72.

Officers responding to the store reportedly encountered the suspects running through the parking lot, dropping clothing and other items as they were ordered to stop.

The report says officers saw the group split up and run in different directions before a perimeter was established. Officers locked down the area, and eventually all four identified suspects were caught shortly afterward. A fifth male suspect was also detained at the scene, although that individual’s identity had not yet been confirmed.

All four men were arrested and charged with grand theft and resisting an officer without violence. They were transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Leonard Andrew Levy. {BSO}

A man was arrested after Coconut Creek police say he was found carrying a holstered handgun on the campus of Atlantic Technical College.

According to the Coconut Creek Police Department, Leonard Andrew Levy, 72, of Coconut Creek, was taken into custody near the school’s Building 11 after a school staff member noticed him walking on campus and alerted on-site school resource officers. 

The arrest report notes that the school, located at 4700 Coconut Creek Parkway, is marked with clear signage stating that firearms are prohibited.

An arrest affidavit shows a school administrator approached Levy to see if he needed assistance, then noticed what appeared to be a firearm on his waistband. The administrator flagged down officers, who detained Levy and removed the gun from his possession. 

Officers say Levy was carrying a fully loaded Glock handgun with a 17-round magazine.

Despite changes to Florida’s open-carry and concealed-carry laws, firearms remain strictly prohibited on school property under state statute.

According to the report, when officers asked Levy why he brought a gun onto the campus, he declined to answer. 

Levy was arrested and transported to the Broward Main Jail and faces a felony charge of possessing a firearm on school property. His bond was set at $25,000.

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The City of Coconut Creek invites the community for a night of throwback dancing fun at its upcoming “Disco in December” celebration.

The free all-ages community event takes place Friday, December 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the City Hall courtyard, located at 4800 West Copans Road. 

The evening kicks off with Melendrez Dance Studios leading disco dance lessons. At 7:00 p.m., the Studio 54 Band will take the stage as the night’s featured musical act, performing high-energy hits from the golden age of disco.

Food vendors will be on-site offering a variety of options for those who want to grab dinner or snacks during the festivities. 

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and coolers for comfort. Chairs are also recommended for seating in the courtyard.

City officials note that while the event is open to all ages, pets are not permitted.

Click here for more information about the “Disco in December” event.

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Coconut Creek High School Principal Dr. Nicole Nearor.

Coconut Creek High School Principal Dr. Nicole Nearor has been named a semifinalist for the 2026 Broward County Public Schools Caliber Awards Principal of the Year, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership and dedication across the district.

The annual Caliber Awards celebrate Broward’s top educators, administrators, and school leaders who exemplify excellence in education and inspire achievement within their schools. This year’s semifinalist list includes six principals from across the county, with Dr. Nearor representing Coconut Creek High among the distinguished nominees.

Dr. Nearor tells Coconut Creek Talk she takes pride in the collective effort that led to the recognition, particularly the collaboration and spirit within the Cougar community.

“This recognition is based on the dedication and commitment to excellence from my Cougar staff, scholars, and our community,” said Dr. Nearor. “Every day, I’m around and work with extraordinary young people who have the hope and the potential to make a positive impact on their communities. As the principal, it’s a privilege to lead the believing, building, and blooming of our Cougar standard of excellence.”

The 2026 Caliber Awards Ceremony will take place on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, where the Principal of the Year winner will be announced.

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Robert Edward Votto {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man was arrested after police say he chased a woman through a Publix parking lot with a knife after she refused to sell her blood to get money for drugs.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, officers received a 911 call from a witness who claimed a woman was being chased with a knife.

Upon arrival, officers were told by his girlfriend, the victim, that Robert Edward Votto, 44, who is homeless and living in a wooded encampment near West Creek Pineland, became enraged after she refused his demand to donate blood for cash to buy drugs. The woman told officers the argument escalated when Votto repeatedly poked her nose before she struck him in self-defense.

Votto then allegedly grabbed a knife from a nearby picnic table, pointed it toward her face, and threatened to kill her. Fearing for her life, the woman ran through the wooded area and into the Publix parking lot at 4760 West Hillsboro Boulevard, where she pleaded with a bystander to call 911.

Responding officers from the Coconut Creek Police Department located Votto nearby as he attempted to leave the area on a bicycle. 

The affidavit noted that the victim previously suffered a stab wound to her foot during a separate altercation with Votto earlier in the week, which she had not reported at the time. She declined medical treatment after Saturday’s attack but told police she feared for her life.

Votto was taken into custody and found to have an active warrant out of Columbia County for a probation violation related to burglary. 

Votto was arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

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Manuel Luciano Garcia {BSO}

A Coconut Creek man known by the nickname “Pikachu” was arrested after allegedly threatening to kill people with a pocket knife during a fight at a mobile home park.

According to a Coconut Creek Police Department arrest report, officers received emergency reports of a man attacking people, later identified as Manuel Luciano Garcia, 37.

Upon arrival, officers spoke to a witness who told police that “Pikachu” approached the victim, pulled out a pocket knife, pointed it toward him, and said he was going to “slice his throat.” Both the witness and the victim reported that Garcia appeared intoxicated at the time of the incident.

Records also list multiple tattoos referencing his nickname, including one that reads “PIKA” across his fingers and another depicting the Pokémon character Pikachu on his left hand. Officers note in the report that this identity has made him well-known in the Coconut Creek area.

When officers arrived at Garcia’s residence, he reportedly appeared drunk, resisted arrest, and tried to headbutt an officer.

Police noted Garcia has a history of disturbances and “a propensity for violence.” He was transported to Northwest Medical Center for medical clearance before being taken to the Broward County Main Jail. 

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