Check washing scam reported in Manatee County – WTSP
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
Sarasota Police Department
Sarasota Police officers have arrested Edward O’Neil, Jr., 67, of Sarasota for attempting to lure two girls, ages 12 and 13. O’Neil is facing two third-degree felony charges of attempting to lure or entice a child under the age of 14.
The two young girls were riding their bicycles on the sidewalk of Bay Road approaching the intersection of U.S. 41, at about 6 p.m. O’Neil was driving his black Dodge Ram truck in the left turn lane of Bay Road when he said to the girls that he could give them a free ride and they could put their bikes in the back of his truck. He opened the driver’s door but didn’t get out of the car.
When the light changed, O’Neil turned left on to U.S. 41 and drove back through the plaza parking lot. He again offered the girls a ride in his truck before two witnesses told officers they saw O’Neil say, “put your bikes in the back.” The witnesses told O’Neil they would call 911. O’Neil changes to the lane closest to the girls and opens his door again. As the light turns green, he drives north on U.S. 41 before stopping again across the street from the girls.
O’Neil was arrested during a traffic stop on Monday night, May 18, after an arrest warrant was issued for attempting to lure the girls. He’s currently being held at the Sarasota County Jail on no bond.
If you or someone you know may have any information regarding this case, you’re asked to call Sarasota Police Department Detective Angela Cox at Angela.Cox@SarasotaFL.gov or call 941-263-6075. You can also remain anonymous and call Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County at 941-366-TIPS (8477).
