Florida Sentinel Bulletin

The federal government unsealed an indictment last week, charging two Tampa people with income tax fraud. Both were taken into custody at the same time.

According to information released, Jermell C. Hickman and Ebonie Hampton are facing 1 count of conspiracy, 4 counts of wire fraud, 12 counts of filing false claims, 10 counts of theft of government property, and 10 counts of aggravated identity theft.

In addition to prison time, both will be responsible for repaying at least $288,607.25 in a money judgment. The government is also seeking to recover any property obtained purchased with the fraudulent funds.

According to the indictment, Hickman and Ms. Hampton conspired to file the false bogus income tax refunds. They allegedly began in January and continued through October 2012, using stolen personal identity information of others.

The government alleges that Ms. Hampton and Hickman received some of the money on debit cards and some on U. S. Treasury checks.

Tampa Police are investigating a shooting Friday night in the Highland Pines community that left one teenager dead and another wounded.

According to reports, officers responded to the area of 21^st Avenue and Hudson Street at 9:30 p. m. after a 9-1-1 call reported a disturbance/fight with gunshots being heard in the background.

When officers arrived, they found 18-year-old John Edward Brown, III, dead, and his best friend, Reginald Johnson, also 18, wounded.

John Brown, Jr. said he had been trying to keep his son in school, but it just didn’t work.

“We live in Town ‘N Country, and when he was living with us, he was always respectful and well behaved.

“But, he enjoyed hanging out with the wrong people on the streets, and out there, he was wide open. It was like he was living a double life.”

Mr. Brown said his son had lived in Grant Park, and out there, he more or less did what he wanted.

“But, when he came home, it was a different story, and he just didn’t want to abide by the rules. He wanted to come and go as he pleased.”

His grandmother, Georgia Brown, said her grandson was great at separating his double life.

“Whatever he did on the streets, he never brought that home. We thought by living in Town ‘N Country, the distance would make him not want to travel that far to hang out, but it didn’t help.

“When he was a student at Hillsborough High School, he was in the ROTC, but just wouldn’t stick with it.”

Mr. Brown said on Christmas break about two years ago, his son left and moved back in with his mom.

“Before that, he had been traveling back and forth since 1996, but when he turned 15, he wanted to spend all of his time in East Tampa.

“John was really into the gang life, and looked at gangs as being his real family.”

John’s stepmother, Suheill Vazquez, said he was baptized at New Hope M. B. Church, and enjoyed going to church.

“But as soon as church was over, he’d go right back into the streets, and we wouldn’t see him for a while.

“He actually maintained two residences, but spent most of his time in East Tampa.”

John, III was the oldest of 8 children, and has 6 sisters and a brother.

“I just wish he would have listened or at least talked to me about what he was doing on the streets,” said Mr. Brown.

“We knew it wasn’t good, because he kept getting into trouble.”

According to Reginald Johnson’s mother, Kimberly, her son is in a lot of pain, but even more important, he’s an emotional wreck.

“He and John were best friends, and I really hate this happened. I was told someone tried to steal their bicycles.

“Reginald hasn’t been able to sleep since this happened, and he’s very depressed. They had known each other since they were 5 or 6, and they did everything together. John would come over and stay sometimes for a couple of weeks.”

Ms. Johnson said her son hasn’t talked much about what happened, and she feels blessed to have him still with them.

Reginald is the youngest of four children.

The Brown family has contacted JGR Funeral Home to assist them with arrangements, and ask anyone who wants to help with funeral expenses, to contact the funeral home at (813) 932-5308; Mr. Brown at (813) 507-6683, or his grandmother, Ms. Georgia Brown, at (813) 416-0976.

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) is hosting the 7th Annual Black, Brown and College Bound Summit February 20-23, 2013.  The summit, “Rebuilding the ‘Village’ For African American and Latino Males in Higher Education” will be held at the Tampa Marriott Waterside. Registration is on Wednesday, Feb. 20th, 4-8 p. m.

“We strive to be a national leader in finding solutions that will get these young people out of high school and into institutions of higher learning,” states Dr. Ken Atwater (pictured), President of HCC and an advocate for the BBCB Summit.

Activities will be held throughout each day featuring nationally-known figures, as well as Mayor Bob Buckhorn.

Those who have been invited are: Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, an author and one of nation’s most influential public intellectuals; Dr. Jose Cruz, vice president for higher education policy and practice at The Education Trust; Dr. Khalil Gibran Muhammad, director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture; and Dr. Samuel Betances, Professor Emeritus, Harvard University and consultant.

This year’s theme will address topics relating to identity, masculinity, culture, community and education.

The Tracks for discussion are: Exploring and Redefining the Male Identity in the 21st Century; Navigating, Learning and Embracing Cultural Landscapes in the 21st Century; Rebuilding the Village for the 21st  Century; and 21st Century Success: Best Practices for Academic Achievement.

For additional information go to www.BlackBrownCollege Bound.com, summitregistration@hccfl.edu or call (813) 253-7153, 253-7075.

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

When Dr. Samuel Wright, Sr., USF Student Ombudsman, closes his office at the University today, (Friday), he will close a chapter in his life. The office will also close and its duties and responsibilities will be absorbed by others.

Dr. Wright is retiring after 27 years of employment.

Dr. Wright said, “I have decided to close this chapter of my life and begin another. I’m still too young to retire at 59½, but it’s time to do something else.

“I enjoy fishing, being around good people, traveling, and playing cards. Hopefully I will be able to do some of that,” he said.

Dr. Wright’s father, the late Samuel Louis Wright died recently and he also plans to spend more time with his 81-year-old mother, Mrs. Rovina Victoria Deal Wright, who lives in Boynton Beach.

A native of Boynton Beach, Dr. Wright said he never had any intentions of living in Tampa. However, his fiancé lived in Tampa so, at the time, he quit his job in Palm Beach County.

He was hired by the university in 1998, and worked in several capacities before his final position.

“During the time I was at USF, I worked full time recruiting students and earned my Doctor of Education Degree in the College of Education. Some of my major accomplishments include increasing the number of minority students from 3% to 12%; revamping the Multi-culture Week of Welcome; and I was an advocate to increase the number of scholarships for Black children.

Dr. Wright said there are several other areas that he was effective, but he is most proud of the Black Heritage Festival.

“I must say that the festival never would have been able to survive without the support of the University. They provided support since the beginning and have continued to provide it.”

Dr. Wright said he plans to remain active in the community in various capacities. He also plans to spend time with his son and daughter and attending religious activities.

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

A 30-year-old man who entered into a plea agreement on income tax fraud charges, has been sentenced to 65 months in federal prison. U. S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday sentenced Jermaine Lippett to 65 months on Thursday. He was arrested on a 16-count indictment last September.

Judge Merrday agreed with the defense that Lippett serve his sentence at a minimum security facility. However, the judge gave him a very strong lecture regarding the number of innocent lives that are being affected by the tax fraud activity.

According to the indictment, Jermaine Lippett conspired with Ms. Whitley Ann Glover to cash federal income tax checks in the names of other people.

The checks were made payable to people whose identity had been stolen.  Ms. Glover was a teller at a Lakeland based credit union at the time. She was allegedly paid $200 to deposit the checks by an unidentified acquaintance.

Lippett entered a plea on the charges of conspiracy, theft or conversion of government funds, and aggravated identity theft. He must also pay fines, restitution, and be on supervision upon his release.

Ms. Glover was arrested December 4^th in Polk County and charged with forgery.

Attorney Grady Irvin, Jr., who represented Lippett said, “He received 65 months in federal prison because he wasn’t charged with aggravated identity theft. He avoided an additional 20 years in prison because of that.

“The prosecutor who is involved in these tax fraud cases in sending a message that the government is going to prosecute anyone convicted of tax fraud.”

Attorney Irvin further stated that each count of aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory 2-year sentence that must run consecutive to other sentences.

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor 

Last month, a jury took less than less than an hour to find a man guilty of a double murder that took place in 2002. On Monday during the penalty phase of the trial, the jury recommended that the defendant receive the death sentence. The vote was 11-1 in favor of the death penalty.

This was the second jury to find Khalid Ali Pasha, guilty of killing his wife, Mrs. Robin Canady, 43, and his 20-year-old stepdaughter, Ms. Raneha Singleton, on August 23, 2002 murders.

According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, around 11 p.m. on August 23, 2002, Mrs. Canady, and her daughter, were sitting in a vehicle near their residence at 4502 Seedling Circle.

An unidentified suspect reportedly slit the throats of both women and then placed their bodies in a wooded area. Witnesses observed a suspect wearing a blood-covered jumpsuit enter a van and flee the scene.

The following day, on August 24^th, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Pasha and charged him with the double murder.

The Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office decided to seek the death penalty.

Pasha’s first trial took place in 2007. He had requested to represent himself, but was denied the opportunity.

After his conviction, Pasha filed an appeal and in 2010, the Florida Supreme Court reversed the conviction. During his trial at the end of January, Pasha represented himself in the double homicide case and was convicted again.

On April 23, 2002, four months before the double murders occurred, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department responded to a domestic battery call in the 4500 block of Dolphin Drive. Pasha was the alleged victim. Mrs. Canady was charged with aggravated battery with great bodily harm, domestic battery.

According to the police report, Pasha told the investigating officers that Mrs. Canady struck him with a rock on his left jaw. “When deputies arrived, he had a minor contusion on his left jaw. She stated that he dumped a beer in her lap and tried to choke her. Deputies saw no marks on her to indicate that he had choked her,” the report said.

Four months and two days later, someone attacked Mrs. Canady and her daughter and cut their throats before placing their bodies in a wooded area.

Mark Cox, spokesman for the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office said Pasha will appear before Judge Kimberly Fernandez on March 28^th, for a Spencer Hearing.

During the hearing, the prosecution as well as the defense will have an opportunity to present additional information before Judge Fernandez rule in the case.

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

In a few days, the streets will be busy as florists rush to make deliveries for the Valentine’s Day holiday. However, are flowers and candy really what your significant other wants?

This year, Valentine’s Day is Thursday, February 12^th. The Sentinel posed the questions, ‘What do women prefer on Valentine’s Day?,’  and ‘What do men prefer on Valentine’s Day?,’ to both men and women and here are their responses.

Ms. Tonya Lewis said, “Women in general want to be appreciated, whether it’s with an ‘I Love You’ dinner, movies, flowers or just money to buy what she wants.

“Men on the other hand, want the warmth of his companion, clothing, or a fine dine-in dinner.”

Ms. Brenda L. Walker, Ph.D., J. D., said, “Women are naturally good care-givers and problem-solvers.  We tend to look out for those we love, and we do so fiercely. So Valentine’s Day is a day about showing us some love, but it symbolizes much more than that.

“It’s a dedicated time for a man to explicitly show respect and care for the woman who always has his back. For me, a nice quiet dinner, great conversation, and a pair of Christian Louboutins will seal the deal!”

Ms. Francia “Miss Peaches” Scott said, “Quality time, flowers and candy are nice, but a quite dinner and a movie will work for me.”

James Ransom said, “I believe that for Valentine’s Day, women would prefer having no worries, no stress, no pressure, no chores, no rushing, nice clothing, perfume, flowers, a simple but elegant gift, dinner with someone handsome (in their eyes) and charming to dine with, a sparkling refreshment, dessert and a moonlight embrace.

“I believe that a man prefers to cause no worries, no stress, no pressure, no chores, no rushing, wear nice clothing, cologne, give flowers and gifts, plan romantic dinners with a lovely (in his eyes) lady and enjoy a sparkling refreshment, dessert and a new day early morning embrace.”

Dr. Joan Holmes said, “I like a man who demonstrates that he planned to do something special for me on that day. The categories could be bouquet of flowers that were ordered; dinner reserved at a restaurant; planned dinner that he prepared; or a nice wrapped gift.

“Planned means he really thought about you much earlier than on Valentine’s Day and made an effort, which demonstrates he is really thinking about you.”

Ms. Stephanie Brazell said, “Let me start by saying that for me and most women I know, want to feel very special. The way he made you feel the very first time he said I love you or bought you, something you really wanted but you knew he didn’t have to. Most men I think truly want their girl to feel special.”

Dr. Brian Rivers said, “What do women really prefer on Valentine’s Day? To be reminded of how special and valuable they are to the men in their lives–whether through gifts or time shared, acts of affections should emanate from a deeper, abiding love, respect, and support that lasts forever.

He continued, “What do men really prefer on Valentine’s Day? Simple: expressions of love — a quiet and exquisite dinner at home accompanied by a romantic setting with candles and soft music.”

Ms. Acqualyn Kindred said, “Ladies I think we just like to be spoiled – flowers, candy, spa day, etc…. Men would probably wish the holiday not to exist commercially. It puts a lot of pressure on them to buy things and send flowers.”

Ms. Vivian Heyward said, “I would like to have a day of “pampering” with the day off from work, have some flowers delivered to me either on my job or at home, and be able to just kick back and relax.  I would also like to receive an out of country call from my son who lives in Australia to round off the day.”

Ms. Marlene McAffee said, “If they are not married… I think women prefer an engagement ring, roses are too cliché. I would look for a romantic candle light dinner (maybe one he has prepared). This will allow more intimacy instead of being among the crowd in a restaurant. Soft music, and maybe a piece of jewelry with sentimental value (bracelet/ring with date that you first met).

“I think men are almost just like women if not worst. Who says a man doesn’t like flowers… flowers are nice, bubble bath, and maybe a plush male robe with a nice pair of house slippers. Or schedule a couple’s massage.”

Michael Reid said for the woman, “A Victoria’s Secret Gift Card!” For the man, “Her dressed in nothing but what she used the gift card on!”

U. S. Congresswoman Kathy Castor announced the addition of new staff members to work in the areas of Constituent Services, Outreach, Communications and Legislative Services.  Six new employees have been added to the Congresswoman’s staff. The new employees are:

Ms. Rita Cotter will work in the Tampa Bay area as a constituent services representative to directly assist District 14 residents on matters relating to veterans benefits, immigration and other federal services.

Ms. Cotter served two stints as an intern with Rep. Castor’s office, most recently as a social work intern while completing her degree in the same area from the University of South Florida. She has also worked with several community organizations and was named the 2012 Volunteer of the Year by the Family Justice Center of Hillsborough County. Ms. Cotter is a Tampa native and graduated from Chamberlain High School.

Ms. Victoria Kirby is the new outreach director and will work directly with local organizations to address community concerns. Ms. Kirby most recently worked on the National Day of Service for the Presidential Inaugural Committee and as the regional field director for President Obama’s campaign in Pinellas County.

After graduating from Blake High School, she received her bachelor’s degree in communications and master’s degree in public affairs from Howard University.

With more than 10 years of government communications experience, Ms. Marcia Mejia has joined Rep. Castor’s office as press secretary.

She previously worked at Hillsborough Area Regional Transit, Hillsborough County government and Hillsborough County Aviation Authority. Ms. Mejia graduated from the University of Central Florida with degrees in journalism and political science.

She is also a Tampa native and graduated from Leto High School.

Javier Gamboa and Kevin Karpay have been hired as legislative assistants in Rep. Castor’s Washington, D. C., office and will focus on a variety of federal legislative issues, including energy, environment, immigration, budget, housing, transportation and Veteran’s Affairs.

Gamboa previously worked on the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and served as an intern for Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Cali). He received his degree in political science from California State University, Fullerton.

Karpay previously served as a junior legislative assistant and staff assistant for Rep. Castor, and also has campaign experience in Tampa, and Ohio.

He graduated from Tampa Preparatory School and Sewanee The University of the South, with majors in political science and Spanish.

On Friday, a Brandon woman pleaded guilty in federal court to defrauding her employer and being involved in a tax fraud conspiracy. She is facing a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison for both offenses.

Ms. Alesia Ann Spivey, 46, entered a plea to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud against her former employer, Jabil Circuit, Inc. (“Jabil Circuit”), and one count of conspiracy to defraud the Internal Revenue Service and theft of government funds.

According to the plea agreement, in 2010 and 2011, Ms. Spivey was employed in Jabil Circuit’s Global Mobility Group as a Global Mobility Coordinator and a Regional Relocation Program Administrator, in their St. Petersburg corporate offices.  Her job responsibilities in these positions included working with Jabil Circuit’s relocation manager, Weichert Relocation Resources, Inc. (“Weichert”), to assist Jabil Circuit’s employees with work-related changes in residence.

Beginning around August 2010, and continuing through October 2011, she conspired with various individuals to defraud Jabil Circuit by requesting relocation benefits for non-existent employees.  Ms. Spivey recruited various co-conspirators to pose as Jabil Circuit employees.

The conspirators, opened, maintained, and otherwise made their bank accounts available to receive fraudulently obtained relocation benefits.

Once a lump sum payment was made, the conspirators divided the fraud proceeds between themselves.  Ultimately, the conspirators defrauded Jabil Circuit out of $318,764.98 in relocation benefits and fees paid to furnish those benefits.

Pleads To Tax Fraud Conspiracy

Investigators said in a completely separate fraud scheme, between January and August 2012, Ms. Spivey engaged in a scheme with other individuals to file false income tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service in order to obtain fraudulent refunds. She and others reportedly conspired and carried out tax fraud by obtaining the means of identification of various persons, including the names, dates of birth, and social security numbers of such persons.

The identification was then used to prepare and electronically file approximately 217 false and fraudulent federal income tax returns.

In many cases, the individuals whose identities appeared on these fraudulent returns did not know Ms. Spivey and the others filing tax returns on their behalf.

The 217 fraudulent returns claimed were worth $1,554,493.00 in bogus tax refunds.  Ultimately, the IRS paid out $551,472.90 in refunds to the conspirators.