Crime journal

By Times Staff Writer
Published January 3, 2008

TAMPA

REPUTED LEADER OF GANG GETS 7 1/2-YEAR TERM

A suspected leader of the Sur 13 gang received a 71/2-year federal prison sentence for armed drug trafficking Wednesday. Gilberto "Wito" Villanueva, 20, pleaded guilty in September to distribution of cocaine, armed drug trafficking, possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute and possession of an unregistered short-barrel shotgun. His arrest in June was one of dozens during a 10-month crackdown on illegal gang activity in eastern Hillsborough. Tampa was one of six areas in 2006 to receive a $2.5-million share of $15-million in federal funds, part of a nationwide initiative aimed at tackling the hottest gang zones. After arresting Villanueva, local authorities dubbed their investigation Operation Pura Tranza, which translates into "pure business." Villanueva had that mantra tattooed over his shaved eyebrows. He also will serve five years of supervised release.

Officials identify man found in pond

Hillsborough County deputies have identified the man found dead in a pond at the Mallory Square Apartments. Jevon Claudell Abbott, 26, of 11479 Mallory Square Drive was last seen on Christmas Day at a party in the apartment complex, deputies say. He was intoxicated, left the party and was supposed to be walking to his apartment, deputies say. On Dec. 26, his girlfriend, Darcelle Navarro, reported him missing. Deputies found Abbott's body floating in a pond at the complex on Dec. 30 at 9:48 a.m. The cause of death is still under investigation.

SAN ANTONIO

Teenager escapes from Boys Village

A 16-year-old inmate escaped Tuesday from the San Antonio Boys Village, authorities said. The teen was sent there by court order on Dec. 13. The Boys Village, off Curley Road south of State Road 52, is for moderate-risk teenage offenders.

LAND O'LAKES

Drugstores robbed 20 minutes apart

Pasco County authorities are investigating two drugstore robberies that happened 20 minutes and 2 miles apart Friday night. The first robber struck a Walgreens pharmacy on Collier Parkway, wearing jeans and a white T-shirt. The second turned up 20 minutes later at a nearby CVS, dressed in a black T-shirt and tan shorts.

[Last modified January 2, 2008, 23:12:52]