View Full Version : James Robertson, 15, Missing, [FOUND SAFE] Tampa, FL
Faith
04-24-2008, 02:03 AM
Teen missing after being turned away by police
Last Edited: Wednesday, 23 Apr 2008, 5:56 PM EDT
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll116/helpfindthemissing/James.jpg
James Robertson, 15, hasn't been seen since last week.
TAMPA - Fifteen-year-old James Robertson is in danger, and he's on the run because the system let him down.
Last week's 911 call to Tampa police from the Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC) explains it pretty well:
"We have a kid here in our lobby, says he wants to turn himself in because he says he stole his brother's girlfriend's car this morning."
But despite two calls to Tampa police, the cops never came. And James Robertson, without a driver's license, left in a stolen truck. He hasn't been seen since.
Why wouldn't police send a unit to pick up James?
"I'm not showing a warrant on this guy. They won't pick him up without a warrant," the 911 dispatcher told the JAC, as heard in the recorded 911 call.
James' father told FOX 13 he was "flabbergasted" by the way his son's case is being handled.
"I think it was a cry for help. He realized what he did and went to them, tried to do the right thing, but they turned him away," Mike Robertson said.
"I think it's pretty horrible that there's a lot of kids like James out there that need help and they're not getting it. They're just turning them loose back on the streets," added James' mother Maria.
The Tampa Police Department has admitted their mistake.
"We should have dispatched an officer to the JAC center to take custody of this kid," conceded spokeswoman Laura McElroy. "At this point, we're now conducting an internal investigation to get to the bottom of it."
The JAC center blames TPD, saying they have no arrest powers.
FOX 13's Warren Elly asked a JAC spokeswoman if they should have called the Sheriff's Office after Tampa police declined to become involved.
"I suppose that's true. My information, I don't think the juvenile stayed there long enough for that to happen," Julie Reynolds replied.
But James' family doesn't buy that. They say they've been struggling with the Department of Juvenile Justice for a year trying to get their son help.
A year ago, they say, James discovered drugs in middle school, and started running away.
"James is a good kid" his mom insisted. "He just hooked up with the wrong people at school".
James' brother Shawn told FOX 13 that his biggest fear is that he "might never see him again."
The family is desperate for help from the public. They say James is driving a black 2002 Toyota Tacoma Pickup with tinted windows, chrome running boards, and an expired Florida tag of W79DQA.
If you can help, call Tampa police at 813-231-6130.
"The only thing we care about is finding this 15-year-old boy," McElroy added.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com (http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6377661&version=3&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1)
Roamer
04-24-2008, 07:18 AM
Another system failure. I hope it doesn't cost this boy his life.
TigressPen
04-24-2008, 09:08 AM
My God. This child was screaming for help and was turned away. He knew his wrong. I'm wondering why they didn't take the keys from him. Although I doubt if that would have stopped him from leaving, at least he'd have been on foot and maybe easier to find.
I pray they find him alive and safe.
KittyMom
04-24-2008, 11:48 AM
OMGosh!!!! How often to they have a child turn himself in to a jac???? HELLO!!!! This kid is in trouble and wants help. Someone should loose a job over this. The care of children are not top priority apparently.
This one is just unbelievable.
:mad:
Faith
04-24-2008, 02:31 PM
Teen missing after being turned away by police
http://youtube.com/watch?v=PCe04lqTGMU
Faith
04-25-2008, 05:21 PM
Parents' concern: In their own words
A 15-year-old boy with a drug problem tried to turn himself in for stealing a truck [full story from Warren Elly]. But he was turned away, along with the very truck he said he stole. Now, James Robertson hasn't been seen since last Tuesday, and his parents just want their son home safe.
Here is some of what they had to say to FOX 13:
Mike Robertson, father:
"I'm real disappointed with the system…we're just flabbergasted with what happened."
"The public is not really safe with a 15-year-old out there driving around in a vehicle with no driver's license."
"My first concern is for his safety. What happens if an officer sees him in the truck -- which has expired tags, by the way -- will he try to run? Will he do the right thing and pull over? And if he does run, will he get hurt will he hurt somebody else? That's a major concern
Maria Robertson, mother:
"I think it's pretty horrible that there's a lot of kids like James out there that need help and they're not getting it. They're just turning them loose back on the streets…no help whatsoever, and it happens every day. I know it happens every day"
"James is a good kid, he just hooked up with the wrong people at school and that's where he was introduced to drugs."
"Because the state of Florida didn't do its job, my son is out there. I don't know if he's alive or if he's hurt or where he's at because somebody didn't do their job right."
"Something needs to be done because I don't want another kid like James to walk in that place and they do the same that they did to my son. Something needs to be done about the juvenile system."
Shawn Robertson, brother:
"Maybe he had remorse and tried to do the right thing, and they sent him on his way. And now it's tearing my family apart."
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com (http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6377124&version=4&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1)
Faith
04-25-2008, 05:28 PM
http://i286.photobucket.com/albums/ll116/helpfindthemissing/photo_servlet-1.jpg (http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6377661&version=4&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.2.1)
James Robertson tried to turn himself in at this JAC. He hasn't been seen since.
ShawnRobertson
04-26-2008, 02:54 AM
I would like to thank you all for your prayers and someone posting this story on this message forum.
I would like to add give everyone an update that James has still not been found.
I have launched a website to help try and find him, We already are posting flyer's all over the Tampa Bay Area, And Pasco County (Land O' Lakes Area)
I have not slept in 4 days just working away trying everything within my power to bring my little brother home safe. Here is the website I designed and put up to help get his face out there and hope if someone sees or knows his whereabouts this will do the right this and help bring him home.
http://bringjameshome.com/
I also have gone as far as posting all the news clips that have aired on Fox 13 News.
I have posted the news reports that was aired on Fox 13 news on the 6pm featured story that aired on 4/23/2008. You can view the full video report by clicking here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCe04lqTGMU). (Posted via YouTube.com)
There is also a follow up story that took place on 4/24/2008 that you can view by clicking here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojkw4nqFmEw). (Also posted on YouTube.com)
I have done everything I can think of at this point, I have emailed every news station from Tampa Bay To Miami, Back up to Orlando. I also emailed our Governor, and many other high elected officials with no response.
Thank you again everyone, If anyone has any info.. Please contact me at anytime, any hour.
Shawn Robertson
(813) 277-8108
spacer005@gmail.com
http://bringjameshome.com/images/1_09.jpg
Battnt
04-26-2008, 03:07 AM
Welcome Shawn!...I'm so sorry about your brother....:girl_sad:
Here is a link to a thread, there might be some things there you havent thought of, or that can help in some way...
http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=23
God bless you and your family...I'll keep y'all in my prayers....:1222423:
Roamer
04-26-2008, 05:17 AM
Welcome, Shawn. The system failed your brother in this case, and you're doing exactly the right thing by keeping his name and story in the news.
My prayers and best thoughts are with your James and your family, and I hope he comes home safely and soon.
Roamer
04-26-2008, 07:20 AM
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail?contentId=6389082&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=1.1.1
Reward for info on missing boy
TAMPA - The family of a missing teen has offered a $500 reward for information leading to his whereabouts, while Tampa Police step up the search for a boy they let get away when he tried to turn himself in.
James Robertson's family says the 15-year-old boy is very good at hiding out, and he desperately needs help for a crack addiction.
They worry that if police find him, he will try to run away again.
Robertson went to the Juvenile Assessment Center and tried to turn himself in, saying he stole a car. But when JAC employees called for a Tampa Police car to come get him, no one was sent.
So Robertson drove away.
"Will he do the right thing and pull over? And if he does run will he get hurt, will he hurt somebody else? That's a major concern," said Mike Robertson, James' father.
Now Tampa Police officers are being told to watch out for the boy.
At the Tampa Police District headquarters near James' home, officers filed in for roll call Thursday morning. They were briefed on the case, and given flyers to show in their patrol zones. Veteran Captain John Newman is their shift commander, "we reach out, and we push it down to our police officers at their level and say, this guy hangs out in your area, he's going to come back, look for him," said Captain John Newman, the shift commander.
Some, like officer Dave Michelson, have had contact with James through his many arrests since they say the boy started doing crack cocaine at school.
"When I've had conversations with him, he starts off real hard, ends up being a really nice kid in the end, just caught up in the drugs," Michelson said.
Thursday, officers hit known drug holes, looking for the 2002 black Toyota Tacoma that the teen stole from his brother's girlfriend.
"The number one thing is get this kid's face out there, so that anybody that comes into contact with him is going to recognize him," said TPD Detective Robert Baxter
Meanwhile, James' brother has launched a one-man internet campaign.
"The internet is a very powerful tool, and the more exposure of his face out there is a better chance of him being home safe," said Shawn Robertson.
Faith
04-26-2008, 01:21 PM
Le Should Offer A Much Larger Reward As It Is Their Fault This Child Is Not In Custody.
Nut44x4
04-26-2008, 02:54 PM
mmmm...something went wrong, let me try again...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCe04lqTGMU
Nut44x4
04-26-2008, 02:57 PM
http://bringjameshome.com/
Faith
04-26-2008, 03:05 PM
http://bringjameshome.com/
Thanks Nut.
http://bringjameshome.com/images/1_09.jpg
Faith
04-27-2008, 04:44 PM
I would like to thank you all for your prayers and someone posting this story on this message forum.
I would like to add give everyone an update that James has still not been found.
I have launched a website to help try and find him, We already are posting flyer's all over the Tampa Bay Area, And Pasco County (Land O' Lakes Area)
I have not slept in 4 days just working away trying everything within my power to bring my little brother home safe. Here is the website I designed and put up to help get his face out there and hope if someone sees or knows his whereabouts this will do the right this and help bring him home.
http://bringjameshome.com/
I also have gone as far as posting all the news clips that have aired on Fox 13 News.
I have posted the news reports that was aired on Fox 13 news on the 6pm featured story that aired on 4/23/2008. You can view the full video report by clicking here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCe04lqTGMU). (Posted via YouTube.com)
There is also a follow up story that took place on 4/24/2008 that you can view by clicking here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojkw4nqFmEw). (Also posted on YouTube.com)
I have done everything I can think of at this point, I have emailed every news station from Tampa Bay To Miami, Back up to Orlando. I also emailed our Governor, and many other high elected officials with no response.
Thank you again everyone, If anyone has any info.. Please contact me at anytime, any hour.
Shawn Robertson
(813) 277-8108
spacer005@gmail.com
http://bringjameshome.com/images/1_09.jpg
God Bless you Shawn and your family. You all are in my prayers. I pray James is safe. Thank you for the information.
ShawnRobertson
04-28-2008, 11:29 PM
At this point, we have not heard anything :(
I have been posting flyers everywhere, I have contacted every media news station possible.
I had two news stations come out to my home today and do a report and one airs every hour on Bay News 9 at 9:35 on the hour reported my Emily Maza.
I also had Tampa Bays New 10 come out to my home this evening and they also did a report and will air at 11pm tonight and then again tomorrow am at 5am and then again at 7am. And then again at 12 noon.
After all the calls from he media, the Tampa Police Department has posted a link on their site with the 9-11 Call from the JAC center to TPD.
http://tampagov.net/pio/
Here is also a link to the story that will air tonight at 11pm EST on Tampa Bays News 10 reported by Melanie Brooks.
http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=79200
After it airs, I will post that video and the one done by Bay News 9 tomorrow to YouTube and keep everyone updated.
Thank you every one again..
Shawn Robertson
http://www.bringjameshome.com
(http://www.bringjameshome.com)
http://www.tampabays10.com/assetpool/images/08428183316_JamesRobertson.jpg
:missing:
packy
04-28-2008, 11:34 PM
Thank you for the updates, Shawn. My prayers going up for his safe return.
ShawnRobertson
04-28-2008, 11:44 PM
http://72.167.97.18/~james/images/bringjameshomeflyer.jpg
Faith
04-29-2008, 12:32 AM
Thank you Shawn for the updates.
Has James' friends been questioned?
ShawnRobertson
04-29-2008, 02:38 PM
I got Tampa Bay's News 10 to come out and report this, here is the website URL: http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=79200 (http://www.tampabays10.com/news/local/article.aspx?storyid=79200)
YouTube Full Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECAjyQZCOYg
I will be out again handing out flyer's, I have been trying everything and then some.
-Shawn Robertson
http://www.tampabays10.com/assetpool/images/08428183316_JamesRobertson.jpg
:missing:
:(
ShawnRobertson
04-29-2008, 03:10 PM
Here is from the interview with Bay News 9 yesterday morning (April 29th, 2008)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_zT7rly3ss
As of this time, we have only got one lead (weak) but it might be something. Someone was at a Walgreen on Ulmerton and 66th St. Which is located in Largo, FL (Not really far from my home in Palm Harbor, Perhaps 20 minutes) Saying they were picking up there RX around 9:30pm and then saw the news on Tampa Bay's 10 at 11pm and said they think it was him standing outside of the Walgreen's by a black Toyota Tacoma pickup truck.
(This was relayed to me by the Tampa Police Detective working on James case, I have tried to contact him to see if we could find out if the Walgreen's had any type of closet circuit video within the store, and also perhaps outside in the parking lot.)
I have not been able to reach him as of yet. :confused:
I will keep everyone post, and again.. Thank you everyone.
Shawn Robertson (James Robertson's Brother)
spacer005@gmail.com
813-277-8108
Roamer
04-29-2008, 03:14 PM
Shawn, thanks so much for the updates, and bless you for staying on top of the media and in touch with LE.
When James comes home, he's going to be very proud of you!
Faith
04-29-2008, 03:51 PM
Thank you Shawn. I hope all media picks up the case and stays on top of it.
Please keep speaking out. You have been such a positive force for James. Please know your actions will continue to resonate and are greatly valued by so many.
My best thoughts to you and your family.
Faith
ShawnRobertson
04-29-2008, 11:59 PM
Showing posts 1 - 20 of 20
marie
Tampa, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#1
Yesterday
i am not shocked at all by this.the police have been failing at doing their job for a long time.maybe now they will pay attention to our youth especially when they cry out for help.
Shawn Robertson
Dunedin, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#2
Yesterday
I would like to thank everyone for their support during this very hard time on me and my family.
Please if anyone has any information at all.. Please do the right thing and call the police or visit http://www.bringjameshome.com for my contact info.
-Shawn Robertson
(James Robertson's Brother)
ashley
AOL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#3
23 hrs ago
Shawn, you seem like a real stand up kid. Great job in being a great brother and looking for your brother. Although I believe that the cops and policemen/women in Florida are crap I have to wonder if in some part the parents are to blame for some of this kids behavior. Hes 15 years old and I just dont get it. I know there are outside influences for him but it still gets to me that there are so many 15year old boys getting in trouble like this.
vincent whitebear
Saint Petersburg, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#4
15 hrs ago
because they are lazy. that's why
wake up people
Joe
Tampa, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#5
15 hrs ago
Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,
Pasco Guy
Spring Hill, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#6
15 hrs ago
Shawn Robertson wrote:
I would like to thank everyone for their support during this very hard time on me and my family.
Please if anyone has any information at all.. Please do the right thing and call the police or visit http://www.bringjameshome.com for my contact info.
-Shawn Robertson
(James Robertson's Brother)
I would like to sincerely thank you for bringing this to our attention. I work in Tampa and will keep my eyes watching for your brother.
You have my respect and admiration. There are not many folks that would stick so close and be as diligent as you in your search for your brother.
I wish you well and God Speed in locating your brother so that he can get the help he so desperately needs. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
P.S., Don't count on the police on doing anything, unless you're not wearing your seat belt, or your wheel covers don't match your car's paint job.
Pasco Guy
Spring Hill, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#7
15 hrs ago
Joe wrote:
Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,Fire everyone at JAC and 911,
While I know that this is typical for you, ranting and raving like this, since you are pissed off with everyone and your life as a whole, or in your case, hole.... but if you have nothing CONSTRUCTIVE to offer, please refrain from adding to the boards.
You're rantings and ravings take up space and NOBODY cares about how "pissed off" you really are, ok?
Can you say, "Self Control"???? I knew you could!!
sunsetbeach
Palm Harbor, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#8
14 hrs ago
Crack is not like any other drug and there are few to no places you can get help for rehab, because I had a son who had the same problem. I called several agencies like PEM, PAR, and those places are outpatient clinics. I even called private agencies and they want $12,000 up front! I took him to St. Anthony's ER and they wouldn't admit either because he was evaluated and found he wasn't suicidal. I was beside myself and felt helpless. It's not easy to find help for this addiction only because even if you quit for awhile it's a drug there is no cure for, and unless you really want to quit, it is a vicious cycle. Thank God my son moved to North Carolina and is doing good. I spent many sleepless nights wondering what I was going to do. I hope you find your brother because these drug dealers will take your soul and everthing with it. God Bless and keep you & him safe.
Concern Citizen
Saint Petersburg, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#9
13 hrs ago
I stay in St. Petersburg and I will keep my eyes open for him. I know it's hard for you and your family, I lost my husband to the drugs in the street. I will pray for you and your family to stay strong and have faith that God will bring him home safe. There should be a place for our teens to go in the time of need, he went to the right place and they said no, he left now what ever happen it's on their hands, because he cried for help and no one listen a baby asked for help. They can find money for everything else, but not a place to help a teen that is on drugs. What they want him to do go out and hurt someone then they want to put him away for life or someone hurt him or kill him. Crack is a drug that make you do anything I just hope he come home safe and when he get their show him how much he is love and needed in your life. I just hope he gets over that mountain and enjoy life as a kid. God bless you and keep him safe.
WTF
Bluff City, TN
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#10
12 hrs ago
Number 1 you have 911 operators that have no right what so ever to make judgement calls. If someone calls for help it is your moral and legal obligation to dispatch help to the correct venue, if you can't do that get the hell out of your job and go to work at McDonalds or something where nobody gives a rats ass about you. They are not God even thought they would like to pretend they are, they do not have the power they think they have they are a bunch of police rejects that can not find jobs anywhere else and I think they should be charged with child endangerment and neglect when this child is found. Its bad enough the call was improperly handled through 911 but a child to be there in person requesting help and now missing, how sad. That is not only constructive but the hard truth.
Ex-Lovejoy
Tampa, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#11
10 hrs ago
Lets stop blaming other people and go to the source of the problem. Why is a 15yr old child hooked on crack in the 1st place. Where were the parents then???
It's easy to say other people failed but he is your son, look in the mirror its you who failed at parenting!
Xtreme Opinion
Joined: Mar 13, 2008
Comments: 253
New Port Richey, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#12
10 hrs ago
Ex-Lovejoy wrote:
Lets stop blaming other people and go to the source of the problem. Why is a 15yr old child hooked on crack in the 1st place. Where were the parents then???
It's easy to say other people failed but he is your son, look in the mirror its you who failed at parenting!
What did they fail at parenting just one child, and raised the other child to be caring and diligent?
Ex Lovejoy, you really should READ the story before commenting on it.
Drug addiction happens to many people, regardless of "upbringing".
WTF
Bluff City, TN
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#13
9 hrs ago
Ex-Lovejoy wrote:
Lets stop blaming other people and go to the source of the problem. Why is a 15yr old child hooked on crack in the 1st place. Where were the parents then???
It's easy to say other people failed but he is your son, look in the mirror its you who failed at parenting!
DUH!!! You obviously have no children. A child is taught at a very young age that when they need help and are in trouble they can trust the police, they are the good guys they will help you. So yes it is very easy to say others failed because they did. There is no logic to the stupid statemnet you made, the source of the problem is the system to begin with..... You do know what the system is right?????
Tess
Tampa, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#14
9 hrs ago
"They say they've been struggling with the Department of Juvenile Justice for a year trying to get their son help"
Why deal with the JAC if your son needed help? Why not get help on your own for him? If the JAC would not or could not help, then as parents it is your responsibility to get your child some help. I am sorry he is gone and I hope he returns safely, but stop blaming everyone else because your son did not get help.
stardog
Joined: Mon Apr 21
Comments: 306
United States
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#15
7 hrs ago
If your child has a drug/alcohol problem the last people you want to call is law enforcement.They are not the least bit interested in re-hab,they cannot make any money off it.Once you invite them in you can't get rid of them.They will start looking around trying to invent something else to stick their nose in.When that boy tried to "turn himself in",they can't/won't do anything because no law has been broken.The lawyer-court-prison industrial complex is left out in the cold and cannot make any money off it.
Xtreme Opinion
Joined: Mar 13, 2008
Comments: 253
New Port Richey, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#16
7 hrs ago
Tess wrote:
"They say they've been struggling with the Department of Juvenile Justice for a year trying to get their son help"
Why deal with the JAC if your son needed help? Why not get help on your own for him? If the JAC would not or could not help, then as parents it is your responsibility to get your child some help. I am sorry he is gone and I hope he returns safely, but stop blaming everyone else because your son did not get help.
Tess, instead of being part of the problem, and criticizing them for what they have or have not done, why don't you be part of the solution?
Where do you suppose they go to get help for their son?
TAMPA BAY 10 READER
United States
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#17
6 hrs ago
Ex-Lovejoy wrote:
Lets stop blaming other people and go to the source of the problem. Why is a 15yr old child hooked on crack in the 1st place. Where were the parents then???
It's easy to say other people failed but he is your son, look in the mirror its you who failed at parenting!
I surely hope you never have to go thru this or any other path your child chooses that you do not like. It is very hard being a parent in today's world. You almost have to focus full time on nothing but keeping this ugly world out of your child's arm's reach. Some parent's have to work full time just to keep food on the table and can not be there 24 7 to make sure the right decision's are being made. How dare YOU judge these parents without knowing anything but what is being told. You do not know how this child was raised. I do not believe mom or dad has bought him crack or drugs or they would not care enough about him to reach out for help. The bottom line is he went to an outside source where he was thinking he would be helped and they failed him. He did not go to mom or dad or family for some reason. The person who was behind the desk at the time of this has no heart in my opinion. There was no care of a child standing there begging for help. That is sad. Shame on every hand in this pot for not helping this child. How are ya'll sleeping at night??
To the family; I have been watching this story since you have came out. I pray for you and your son and wish you the best, drugs is a very very tuff battle to beat. I am keeping my eye open for your son from Tampa to Riverview and back every day. My best wishes and regards to ya'll. God does not take you to it and not help you thru it.
Knowledgeable
Tampa, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#18
6 hrs ago
In the story Melanie Brooks, the reporter, asked, "But this also begs the question: Why didn't deputies at the JAC amend standard operating procedure and arrest the teenager as he stood in their lobby?" Individual deputies do not have the authority to amend standard operating procedures (SOPs). How long would Ms. Brooks continue to be employed at Channel 10 if she began "amending" the company policies whenver she felt it may be approporiate to do so.
If Ms. Brooks would take the time to gather pertinent information (which she certainly could have done since this story is already several days old and is not a breaking news situation) she would learn that there are only two deptuies assigned to the JAC. If one deputy leaves the lock-down area then who provides back-up/safety for the remaining deputy - who may be left behind with several other juveniles. Also, Ms. Brooks would learn that the deputies assigned to the JAC are Detention (Jail) deputies. Detention deputies do not have the statutory authority to make probable cause arrests, only law enforcement deputies (street patrol) have that authority. Thus, the detention deputies assigned to the JAC did not/do not have the legal authority to take Shawn Robertson into custody for what was an in-progress crime (a probable cause arrest).
It is truly a shame that Ms. Brooks and Channel 10 choose to broadcast a story lacking important information in an attempt to cast a less than favorable appearance on hard working public safety personnel.
Shawn Robertson
Dunedin, FL
Reply »
|
Report Abuse
|
#19
22 min ago
Thank you everyone for your comments, The fact is about the JAC center is this... You must be buzzed in and buzzed out (Just like a Jail) So with this being said, They gave him a paper and pen to go outside, write down the tag and let him back in. Then they made the call to TPD via 911, and then the TPD dispatcher made a legal call (which is not up to him). So at that point the JAC center front desk worker who knows nothing about law let a 15 year old out at 5am without a drivers license leave in a truck he just claimed to steal.(And buzzed him out to let him out)
So before anyone post what they think, You should know these facts.
Thank you everyone for your support, The search is ongoing.. But nothing as of yet.
-Shawn Robertson
(James Robertson's Brother)
Shawn Robertson
Join the community
Dunedin, FL
1 min ago
And just a follow up for people who are saying "where were the parents??"
Let me tell you something, James is a great kid. He got caught up with the wrong crowd and drugs.
My parents are the best people I know in this entire WORLD.
Here is some facts, My parents were foster parents for the state of Florida for 15 years (HRS, before it was called DCF). Who took in kids who had been beaten, drug babies, etc..
So before you speak, or give your two sense to something you know nothing of.. THINK.
My family is going through hell on earth at this point. All we want is James to come home SAFE.
We have tried for a YEAR to get him help via the STATE OF FLORIDA.. Which it just happens he was 3 hours away from being March Man added before they KICKED him out of the JAC center 3 months ago.. And then he ran away again.
I can tell you the judge who we went in front of was PISSED that the JAC center would do such a thing.
So please, don't judge me or my family for the state failing my brother time and time again.(I am sure this has happened to tons of other people going through this same problem with there child).
FACTS:
Any teacher, law enforcement officer, JAC center worker has a legal obligation and oath to protect children.-- And they FAILED.
Don't you find it odd the JAC center does not want to comment anymore on this???
Don't you find it odd the 911 dispatcher is now retiring??
A true veteran 911 dispatcher would know what do to do, And I hope he has a had time sleep at night knowing he dropped the ball on my brother situation.(Because me, and my entire family is.)
* Does anyone out there think going 3-4 days without sleeping due to this issue I would be up day and night trying to get this issue on the news, papers, and You Tube and including a website to try and bring him home??
-Shawn Robertson
(James Robertson's Brother)
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
http://www.youtube.com/watch...
http://www.bringjameshome.com
:0009:
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 12:00 AM
http://www.topix.net/forum/source/wtsp/TD065B545EUNHSROF#lastPost
Faith
04-30-2008, 12:26 AM
i am not shocked at all by this.the police have been failing at doing their job for a long time.maybe now they will pay attention to our youth especially when they cry out for help.
Shawn, what are the police doing to find James? The above post is scary.
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 12:41 AM
They claim to be doing everything within their power "Basically sit back and wait for a public tip"
I am not waiting, I will keep on till he comes home or god forbid I get bad news.
Until then, I will keep the fire under them by keeping the media and public informed just how flawed our system is.
I just updated the site http://www.bringjameshome.com with some updates about my family, and a picture of the truck he was in.
I will keep everyone posted on anything I hear, or find out.
Thank you all again,
Shawn Robertson
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 12:49 AM
Here is the 911 Calls from the JAC center to TPD.
http://bringjameshome.com/apr%2017%20at%200514%20admin%20call%20at%20JAC.wav
http://bringjameshome.com/JAC%20Ctr%201.wav
http://bringjameshome.com/JAC%20Ctr%202.wav
Faith
04-30-2008, 02:21 AM
They claim to be doing everything within their power "Basically sit back and wait for a public tip"
I am not waiting, I will keep on till he comes home or god forbid I get bad news.
Until then, I will keep the fire under them by keeping the media and public informed just how flawed our system is.
I just updated the site http://www.bringjameshome.com with some updates about my family, and a picture of the truck he was in.
I will keep everyone posted on anything I hear, or find out.
Thank you all again,
Shawn Robertson
Thank you Shawn. I wanted to give you this information in case you don't have it.
Crime Victims Hotline
If you are a crime victim or someone who knows about an injustice or case that needs a spotlight, call "Nancy Grace" at 1-888-GRACE-01 or send information via e-mail to "Nancy Grace." Nancygrace@CNN.com
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 02:36 AM
Thank you very much, I just sent them a email that I had sent to the local media stations that covered the story.
Thank you.
Faith
04-30-2008, 02:37 AM
.
http://bringjameshome.com/apr%2017%20at%200514%20admin%20call%20at%20JAC.wav
He can't do anything until the truck has been reported stolen? Gosh--Shawn, did they call you or send someone by to speak with you?
http://bringjameshome.com/JAC%20Ctr%201.wav
James went to JAC- turned himself in- took the truck with him- they said they were sending someone there to talk with him--
http://bringjameshome.com/JAC%20Ctr%202.wav
The PD calls back, wants James to get the tag number-
They cannot do anything!!!!!!! Because the truck is not reported stolen-
OMG-- James is reporting it stolen!!!!!!
Faith
04-30-2008, 02:39 AM
Thank you very much, I just sent them a email that I had sent to the local media stations that covered the story.
Thank you.
Shawn, it wouldn't hurt if you call them tomorrow to follow up.
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 02:41 AM
I will, thank you again.
(About the audio links, I heard them for the first time tonight... Unreal is all I can say.
I will call them tomorrow AM and tell them I sent them an email and wanted to follow up.
Thanks again everyone for their support!
-Shawn
Faith
04-30-2008, 02:44 AM
Here are some more email addresses--
Larry King LarryKingLive@cnn.com
John Gibson BigStory@foxnews.com
Bill O'Reilly Oreilly@foxnews.com
Joe Scarborough joe@msnbc.com
Dan Abrams abramsreport@msnbc.com
Neil Cavuto cavuto@foxnews.com
E.D., Brian & Steve friends@foxnews.com
Shepard Smith FoxReport@foxnews.com
Geraldo Rivera AtLarge@foxnews.com
Sean Hannity Hannity@foxnews.com
Greta Van Susteran ontherecord@foxnews.com
Carol and Chad Daybreak@cnn.com
Nancy Grace NancyGrace@courttv.com
OPRAH http://www.oprah.com/email/reach/em...ach_fromu.jhtml
http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/showthread.php?t=6
Faith
04-30-2008, 02:45 AM
Shawn, I am sending out an email to all the media. I pray this gets their attention.
ShawnRobertson
04-30-2008, 03:57 AM
Thank you very much for helping out so much, as you see.. I am still up and can't sleep.
I just can't.. So many things running through my mind, I just can't sleep.. :(
-Shawn
Roamer
04-30-2008, 06:33 AM
Shawn, please disregard the hateful comments that were posted regarding your parents. Some people seem to live to find fault with others. Believe me when I say in every single case, there are people who are going to do this, so they aren't just targeting your family.
We'll continue to help you get the word out, and again, I admire you very much for all you're doing on your own. Please tell your parents we are praying for all of you, and wish you only the best in finding James safely and soon.
packy
04-30-2008, 01:14 PM
Yes, disregard those questioning comments, because it's apparent your family has been trying to get help for quite a while. You know the truth. Bottom line is he had something in him to go to the police, shows he wanted some help too. Takes strength and I'm praying that strength will lead him back to you safely.
Have you had feedback about any cameras at Walgreens? I may have missed it if you did share that.
Faith
04-30-2008, 01:16 PM
I will email the national media daily. We need to get this case on the news.
Shawn, did you call Nancy Grace?
Faith
04-30-2008, 05:29 PM
My prayers are with James today. :innocent0001:
Roamer
04-30-2008, 05:57 PM
And mine. That wherever he is, he's safe and will come home soon. :innocent0001:
ShawnRobertson
05-01-2008, 03:17 PM
Just wanted to keep everyone updated thus far that we have not heard or had any leads as of yet.
Nor have they found the truck either.
-Shawn
Roamer
05-01-2008, 03:54 PM
Thank you, Shawn. We'll be waiting for the day you can tell us James is home safe with his family.
Faith
05-01-2008, 10:08 PM
Just wanted to keep everyone updated thus far that we have not heard or had any leads as of yet.
Nor have they found the truck either.
-Shawn
Thanks Shawn. Hang in there.
ShawnRobertson
05-06-2008, 03:16 AM
Nothing as of yet, No return calls from the Tampa Police Department, No more media.. Just waiting..
Faith
05-06-2008, 03:20 AM
Nothing as of yet, No return calls from the Tampa Police Department, No more media.. Just waiting..
I am so sorry Shawn. Hopefully he will turn up soon.
ShawnRobertson
05-07-2008, 02:22 AM
Great news all,
James is alive, a "friend" told him that he had saw him on uTube.com of all places. So my brother turned himself in in Pacso County (Where I thought he was) He was staying with some older guy who was having him work for RX Drugs as pay.
(He was so out of wack on drugs, they had to rush him to a hospital)...
TPD did not arrest my brother for all the charges, and wanted to release him into my custody and I refused. I told the SGT. that the TPD Spoke's person said that her main concern was to get james home and get him the help he needed.
TPD Refused. - Another strike against them... Major. But on a good note, The Hopsital bakeracted him.
I will be on the media tomorrow explain to the public how they say one thing for show, and when it is time to act.. They fail time and time again.
So I will be on the media asking TPD why did they not get my brother the help he needed this time, as promised.
I want the public to know (And I am calling them out of this) That they will say anything to save face.
TPD even threated and was going to arrest me and my uncle because we would not take him from the hospital, But they did not because I had the media there (Fox 13) with a camera rolling..
Again, Thank you all for your help and prayers.
Now James will get the help he needs!
I will keep everyone posted on what turns out tomorrow when I get with the media about this issue of not wanting to help again.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail;jsessionid=B5B8BC975822D3BBA8A3BCE2698D140F ?contentId=6477816&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=1.1.1&sflg=1
Roamer
05-07-2008, 06:40 AM
I'm so happy James is safe and where he will get some help for his problem,
Thanks you, Shawn, and thanks for caring so much about your brother!
packy
05-07-2008, 06:56 AM
Glad to hear he is safe and going to get help. I wish him well, and it's good to know he has a family that will support him.
Faith
05-07-2008, 09:28 AM
Oh Shawn, this is wonderful news that James is safe. A sigh of relief.
Hang tough!! They (LE) deserve everything you throw at them.
:love0085:
LiveLaughLuv
05-07-2008, 09:56 AM
I'm glad he was found safe.
I just can't believe there are no inpatient rehabs in Florida.
I think Samaritan House, Odyssey House can do wonders for his problem if only you can find one like that.
Hoping for the best for James, hoping he realizes he doesn't need crack in his life.
Best of luck to you Shawn and your family!
ShawnRobertson
05-07-2008, 11:52 AM
Here is the photo of the guy Abe Valdez of Land O' Lakes, FL Who stays off of SR54 who has been harboring my brother and letting him work for his tree company cutting tree's only to pay him with RX medication. (Many uppers and downs..)
Abe Valdez
Abelardo Valdez
http://bringjameshome.com/images/IMG_0115.jpg
http://bringjameshome.com/images/IMG_0114.jpg
Roamer
05-07-2008, 12:32 PM
I hope your family will be pressing charges against him, Shawn.
LiveLaughLuv
05-07-2008, 03:25 PM
Wow, Land O' Lakes. That's where I'm going Friday. I think I'll try and find this guy just to razz him. J/K. I will be looking for him though, just because.
I do hope charges are pressed on him. He can't be giving presciption meds out without any repercussions.
I do hope you find a rehab for your brother Shawn, if one is serious about becoming sober, they really do help. They get to the crux of a problem, therapy being their main focus.
I did find this link for you. It's a drug rehab facility in Florida, they have many cities to choose from. Give them a call and see if they can help you in getting your brother admitted. Good luck!
http://www.drug-rehabs.org/Florida-Tampa-drug-rehab-treatment.htm
ShawnRobertson
05-08-2008, 02:07 PM
Thanks everyone again, for your help and support.
James will for sure get the help he needs now.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6486740&version=5&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.1.
(http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6486740&version=5&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.1.1)
There is also a good video clip on it on the right side.
Roamer
05-08-2008, 02:10 PM
We're all hoping for the best for James.
And thank you for keeping us updated. Please let us know of his progress.
Nut44x4
05-08-2008, 04:10 PM
I am so very glad he is safe!!!
Faith
05-08-2008, 06:19 PM
Thanks everyone again, for your help and support.
James will for sure get the help he needs now.
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6486740&version=5&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.1.
(http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/pages/News/Detail?contentId=6486740&version=5&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=3.1.1)
There is also a good video clip on it on the right side.
Shawn, I pray very hard James gets the help he needs. This will not be easy on him but he has made the first step TWICE which is remarkable.
Please keep us updated on his progress.
Faith
pssttt: you're a cutie. :22wink:
ShawnRobertson
05-08-2008, 09:22 PM
thanks! http://helpfindthemissing.org/forum/images/smilies/22wink.gif
ShawnRobertson
05-14-2008, 05:26 PM
http://www.dc.state.fl.us/InmatePhotos/5/505888.jpg
Inmate Release Information Detail
(This information was current as of 1/8/1999
DC Number: 505888
Name: VALDEZ, ABELARDO III
Race: WHITE
Sex: MALE
Hair Color: BROWN
Eye Color: BLUE
Height: 5'06''
Weight: 200 lbs.
Birth Date: 08/09/1968
Release Facility: HOLMES C.I.
Custody: MEDIUM
Release Date: 10/01/1998
Stated Residence Upon Release:
1514 NORTH FLORIDA
TAMPA,FL 33602 33602
Aliases:
JOSEPH VALTER ABELARDO JR ABE VALDES
ABELARDO VALDES ABELARDO VALDES III
ABELARDO JOSEPH VALDES JR ABELARDO VALDEZ
ABELARDO VALDEZ III
Current Prison Sentence History:
Offense Date Offense Sentence Date County Case No. Prison Sentence Length
08/20/1994 CARRYING CONCEALED FIREARM 10/06/1997 HILLSBOROUGH 9410679 1Y 9M 0D
08/20/1994 FELON W/GUN/CONC.WPN/AMMO. 10/06/1997 HILLSBOROUGH 9410679 1Y 9M 0D
Note: The offense descriptions are truncated and do not necessarily reflect the crime of conviction. Please refer to the court documents or the Florida Statutes for further information or definition.
Detainers: (Further information may be obtained by contacting the detaining agency)
Detainer Date Agency Type Date Canceled
06/30/1988 NTFY.P&P OFF HILLSBO DETAIN 12/09/1988
08/22/1989 MARION CO.SO. DETAIN 01/25/1991
09/18/1989 NTFY.P&P OFF MARION NTFY/P&P 05/05/1994
09/21/1988 HILLS. CO.SO. DETAIN 12/09/1988
Incarceration History:
Date In-Custody Date Out-of-Custody
09/19/1988 12/09/1988
08/02/1989 12/15/1992
11/23/1993 05/05/1994
10/24/1997 10/01/1998
Prior Prison History: (Note: Data reflected covers periods of incarceration with the Florida Dept.of Corrections since January of 1983)
Offense Date Offense Sentence Date County Case No. Prison Sentence Length
08/17/1986 L/L, INDEC.ASLT CHILD U/16 06/30/1988 HILLSBOROUGH 8616446 1Y 0M 1D
08/17/1986 L/L, INDEC.ASLT CHILD U/16 04/26/1989 HILLSBOROUGH 8616446 7Y 0M 0D
08/08/1987 GRAND THEFT,$300 LESS &20,000 06/30/1988 HILLSBOROUGH 8709838 1Y 0M 1D
03/01/1988 GRAND THEFT MOTOR VEHICLE 04/26/1989 HILLSBOROUGH 8811757 5Y 0M 0D
04/02/1988 BURG/DWELL/OCCUP.CONVEY 04/26/1989 HILLSBOROUGH 8808973 7Y 0M 0D
04/02/1988 PETIT THEFT/3RD CONVICTION 04/26/1989 HILLSBOROUGH 8808973 5Y 0M 0D
05/05/1988 BURG/DWELL/OCCUP.CONVEY 10/25/1993 MARION 8800976 2Y 6M 0D
05/05/1988 GRAND THEFT,$300 LESS &20,000 10/25/1993 MARION 8800976 2Y 6M 0D
Prior Community Supervision History: (Note: Data reflected covers periods of community supervision with the Florida Dept.of Corrections since January of 1983)
Offense Date Offense Sentence Date County Case No. Community Supervision Length
08/17/1986 L/L, INDEC.ASLT CHILD U/16 06/30/1988 HILLSBOROUGH 8616446 6Y 0M 0D
03/10/1987 L/L, INDEC.ASLT CHILD U/16 11/04/1987 HILLSBOROUGH 8709838 10Y 0M 0D
04/10/1988 BURGUNOCCSTRUC/CV OR ATT. 06/24/1988 MARION 8800976 2Y 0M 0D
04/10/1988 GRAND THEFT,$300 LESS &20,000 06/24/1988 MARION 8800976 4Y 0M 0D
05/05/1988 BURG/DWELL/OCCUP.CONVEY 09/18/1989 MARION 8800976 2Y 0M 0D
05/05/1988 BURG/DWELL/OCCUP.CONVEY 09/18/1989 MARION 8800976 4Y 0M 0D
05/05/1988 GRAND THEFT,$300 LESS &20,000 09/18/1989 MARION 8800976 4Y 0M 0D
08/20/1994 CARRYING CONCEALED FIREARM 04/25/1995 HILLSBOROUGH 9410679 2Y 0M 0D
08/20/1994 FELON W/GUN/CONC.WPN/AMMO. 04/25/1995 HILLSBOROUGH 9410679 2Y 0M 0D
Roamer
05-14-2008, 05:50 PM
I don't like those indecent assaults on a child charges. I hope James didn't go through anything like that while he was with him. What a waste of space this man is.
How's James doing in Rehab, Shawn? Is his family in touch, or do you have to wait awhile until he adjusts to being there?
ShawnRobertson
05-14-2008, 06:49 PM
His priors speak for enough, I am not sure to what degree James has gone through. But I know something did happen.
With that being said, I am going to see my brother tonight (James) show him these papers and hope he makes the right choice. (He will have to give a statement to a police officer, and it will go from there.)
People like this pray on troubled children in hopes no one ever finds out what they did together, or anything else (Child who is troubled has less creditability then someone with no problems).
He is doing well thus far, I will find out more tonight.
Well keep everyone advised..
Roamer
05-14-2008, 06:55 PM
If you would, tell him there were/are a lot of people concerned about him, and we wish him the very best. He did the right thing twice, so he wants to be well.
ShawnRobertson
05-14-2008, 06:57 PM
Will do, Trust me.
I will keep everyone posted later tonight.
Thank you all again for your help and support!
vBulletin® v3.8.2, Copyright ©2000-2009, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.