MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to several incidents across the county this week, including theft, road rage, drug possession and a residential burglary.
Here’s a rundown of the latest:
Deputy Bates responded to a reported theft at the Green Acres Store in the 25300 block of SE Highway 42. According to the sheriff’s office, an employee, Rajeev Saini, allegedly scanned $6,900 worth of Florida Lottery scratch-off tickets and discarded them without payment. During questioning, Saini reportedly told deputies he could not recall the incident due to having taken two Tylenol PMs and consuming alcohol earlier that day. Surveillance footage from the store reportedly captured the act. Saini was arrested and transported to the Marion County Jail.
Deputy Nixon investigated a reported road rage incident near the intersection of San Mateo Boulevard and St. Benedict Drive. According to officials, Beth Ryan allegedly followed another driver through the City of Dunnellon to the individual’s residence and attempted to strike the person with her vehicle. Authorities said Ryan claimed to be the sergeant with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, which was determined to be false. She was located and arrested on charges of aggravated assault and impersonating a law enforcement officer.
Deputies also conducted a felony traffic stop in the 6000 block of SE 92nd Loop in connection to a previous aggravated assault investigation. The driver, identified as Elvin Ojeda-Sanchez, allegedly made threats involving a firearm following a vehicle repossession dispute. The sheriff’s office stated that Ojeda-Sanchez, a convicted felon, was found in possession of two firearms, 579.5 grams of marijuana, nine grams of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He was taken into custody and transported to the jail.
Additionally, Deputy Qubaisy conducted a traffic stop for speeding in the 2800 block of NW 35th Street. The driver, identified as Michael Jernigan, was reportedly showing signs of impairment. Following a DUI investigation, he was arrested and transported to Marion County Jail, where he provided a breath sample of 0.173, more than twice the legal limit.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate several of these cases. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.