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Papers, yes, but not the type he wanted

By TIMES STAFF
Published April 9, 2007

DADE CITY

The first sign that Sgt. Tim Harrelson wasn't making a routine traffic stop on Magnolia Avenue Saturday evening happened when Esequiel Garcia Jimenez, 23, handed him cigarette rolling papers instead of his driver's license, according to reports from the Dade City Police Office.

Matters got worse when the officer spotted what he believed to be marijuana on the center console of the vehicle Jimenez was driving and then found a packet of what appeared to be cocaine in his right hand as Harrelson was cuffing him. The officer also found another packet in the car, according to the report.

Jimenez, a native of Mexico who has been living in Georgia and does not have a driver's license, denied knowledge of the marijuana or the cocaine in his hand. He was arrested on drug possession charges and driving without a valid driver's license.

Jimenez remains in Land O'Lakes jail in lieu of a $6,000 bond.

NEW PORT RICHEY

Stabbing victim picks suspect from lineup

A 44-year-old man was arrested on a charge of attempted murder after authorities say he stabbed another man in the stomach during a 1 a.m. fight Saturday, according to reports from the New Port Richey Police Department.

The victim lost a lot of blood before being transferred to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg, according to reports, but was well enough to identify a suspect from a photo lineup.

Juan Rivera, who is homeless, was arrested and remained jailed in lieu of a $100,000 bond.

HUDSON

Swinging a machete lands Ocala man in jail

A 41-year-old was arrested on a charge of aggravated assault Saturday after police say he swung an 18-inch machete at another man, according to reports from the Pasco County Sheriff's Office.

The other man protected himself by lifting up a bicycle to block the blade.

Jimmy Charles Rowan, of Ocala, also was arrested on a charge of battery on a law enforcement officer after he reportedly spat upon a deputy while in custody. He remains in Land O'Lakes jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.

ZEPHYRHILLS

Taste for steak proves costly to Tampa man

A man suspected of stealing about $880 worth of meat - mostly expensive cuts of steak - was arrested Saturday by the Pasco County Sheriff's Office.

Benito "Benny" Rodriquez, Jr., 59, 3149 W. Coredella St., Tampa, admitted to taking the items from three Sweetbay Markets.

He is jailed in Land O' Lakes on a $5,300 bond.

[Last modified April 9, 2007, 08:15:30]