Criminal Corner 22

‘I was thirsty.’ Bradenton man burglarizes Steak and Shake

A 35-year-old Bradenton man forced his way through the drive-thru window of the Steak and Shake located at 106 44th Ave. E. on Oct. 8 at around 11:30 p.m., according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies say James Bohlert told them the reason for the burglary is because, “I was thirsty.”

Patrons inside the store witnessed Bohlert crawling through the drive-thru window and notified store management, who saw Bohlert exiting the same window with a Steak and Shake drink in his hand, valued at $2.

Deputies made contact with Bohlert, who attempted to escape on foot, but was captured.

Bohlert was booked into the Manatee County jail on charges of burglary and resisting arrest without violence. He remains in custody on bonds totaling $2,000.

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14-year-old sought shelter from the storm. He tried to have sex with her

A 47-year-old Bradenton man is charged with attempting to solicit sex from a minor using an electronic device, according to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

A 14-year-old girl taking shelter from Hurricane Ian at a relative’s house was contacted by Kaya McDuffie on Sept. 27 via text message, according to the arrest report.

Deputies say McDuffie began to tell the child he wanted to have sex with her, but knew her relatives were watching her.

According to the report, the child had no idea what McDuffie was talking about until he sent sexually explicit messages to her, at which time she declared, “I’m 14!”

The child immediately notified relatives and law enforcement was contacted.

According to the report, McDuffie initially denied sending the messages and then tried to convince investigators he thought he was texting another woman. Deputies say he eventually admitted what he had done and that he knew it was wrong.

McDuffie was arrested Oct. 7 and booked into the Manatee County jail. He was released two days later after posting a $5,000 bond.