Spray paint sketches cause a sawbuck setback

Sunday, Jan. 15

Unwelcome guests

2:46 p.m. 4300 block of North Tamiami Trail

Dispute: The manager of a motor lodge with an ongoing problem with a guest asked police to help evict the man. The manager said the man violated motel policy with pets and multiple other people staying with him. The charity that paid for the man's room agreed with the eviction plan, but the man would not go. 

An officer tried to speak with the man, but he initially wouldn't open the door. Once it was opened slightly, the officer used an old door-to-door sales trick and put his foot in the way of it being closed. 

The man inside was told he had to leave, and removed a car battery, large bag and blanket with which he barricaded the door closed. Police waited until the man packed up and left, which he did. 

Sunday, Jan. 15

Sofa surfers not trespassing

5:17 a.m., 500 block of North Tarpon Avenue

Property damage: Officers responded to a report of a man throwing rocks at a house. The resident said he was asleep when he heard yelling outside followed by rocks thrown through his bedroom window. The victim pointed out two broken windows and identified two likely suspects who he said also lived there. The two suspects first denied they ever lived there, then later stated they did but moved out in September. Finally, they admitted they live at the home but are only allowed to sleep outside.

The men’s story changed again, claiming they lived there for two years and have property inside the house, and in exchange for $100  week are allowed to sleep on a couch. With residency confirmed, the officer was not able to issue a trespassing warning as the home owner, who declined to press charges, had requested. 

Tuesday, Jan. 17

Lobby posse squabble

5:24 p.m., 800 block of North Lemon Avenue

Dispute: Two bickering groups of women in a community prompted one resident to call police to complain of being bullied and harassed by another woman who is not a resident. 

The accused, who does not live in the building but frequently hangs out there with a group of women, told police the caller has made negative remarks about her husband. The caller said she has never “talked about her directly” and that she “talks generally,” and if someone is offended, that is not her problem.''

 All parties were advised to contact community management and inform them of the ongoing dispute.

Thursday, Jan. 19

Garbage grafitti

11:12 a.m., 100 block of South Tuttle Avenue

Criminal mischief: A business’ two garbage dumpsters victimized by graffiti brought police to investigate what amounts to approximately $20 in damage for street art spray painted on two city of Sarasota trash receptacles. The victim stated there is a camera located on the side of the building where the dumpsters are located, but is not functional. There are no witnesses or suspect information, and the victim said he does not wish to file charges at this time. Nothing further pending investigation of a suspect.