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Police: East Naples man who shot Fort Myers officer vowed to 'go out Miami-style'

By STEVEN BEARDSLEY (Contact)
Originally published 6:21 a.m., Friday, July 18, 2008
Updated 8:16 p.m., Friday, July 18, 2008

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Fort Myers police officer Andrew Widman, 30

Courtesy Fort Myers Police Department

Fort Myers police officer Andrew Widman, 30

Abel Arango

Abel Arango

FORT MYERS — A 30-year-old former missionary who began his career as a Fort Myers police officer a year ago was gunned down Friday by an East Naples man who has a lengthy criminal record and had bragged to bystanders that he would shoot a police officer, authorities said.

The 26-year-old East Naples man with a history of committing crimes in Collier and Lee counties was shot to death by police early Friday after he killed the officer.

In an emotional press conference at City Hall, Fort Myers police and city officials identified Andrew Widman as the slain officer.

They also suggested that the suspect, Abel Arango, vowed to take out an officer.

“He was going to go out Miami-style, and he was going to take an officer with him,” is how Fort Myers police Major Doug Baker characterized the remarks.

If true, the boast prefaced a spurt of violence that claimed two lives and has clearly shaken a tight-knit group of police officers.

Arango’s last known address was 4060 Ice Castle Way, No. 7, which is located in the Winter Park neighborhood in East Naples. In the 12-unit building, several people answered their doors Friday, but none had heard of or spoke to Arango.

Baker gave this account of the shooting:

Widman, working the night shift, was patrolling the downtown streets just before 2 a.m. when he came upon an argument between Arango and his girlfriend at the intersection of Main Street and Patio De Leon, a small pedestrian alley near the EnVie Lounge.

Arango became enraged when Widman showed up, and started to threaten the officer, authorities said.

“That’s when the fatal shot occurred,” Baker said.

Moments after Widman arrived, Arango pulled a 9mm handgun from his pocket and shot him in the face, at close range. The officer didn’t have time to draw his gun, Baker said.

Arango fled as other officers arrived at the scene. As he ran, he opened fire on his pursuers, and they fired back, trading .40-caliber shots for the suspect’s 9mm rounds.

The chase moved from the spot where Widman died to a Wachovia parking on the south side of Main Street, and finally back north to the intersection of Broadway and Main Street.

That’s where a bullet found the suspect’s neck, killing him on the spot, authorities said.

Baker’s account matches what witnesses at the scene reported. Nearly all said they heard one to three initial shots, followed by a lull and then a barrage of gunfire — more than a dozen total shots, most said.

Baker said police took the man’s girlfriend into custody, although charges have not been filed against her. He believes the man acted alone.

Friday afternoon’s press conference appeared difficult for Baker. His badge wore a black strap across its middle, a reminder of the lost officer.

One reporter asked about other Fort Myers officers who had been killed in the line of duty.

“I really don’t want to go past the one today,” Baker responded.

Fort Myers Mayor Jim Humphrey called Friday one of the worst days he could remember.

Police Chief Hilton C. Daniels is out of town, but making arrangements to return, Baker said.

Baker remembered Widman as a kind, respectful man who had once served as an overseas missionary before joining the police force.

He said fellow officers would playfully tease Widman, asking if he prayed for the men he was arresting as he placed them in handcuffs.

Widman leaves behind a wife and three young children — an infant, a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old, Baker said. The city and the police department are comforting the family, he added.

Widman’s death sent shock waves throughout the state, with many elected officials offering their sympathies and prayers for the officer and his family, including Gov. Charlie Crist.

“I join the Fort Myers community and all Floridians in expressing my deepest sympathy and prayers for Officer Widman’s wife and three children.” Crist said in a prepared statement. “Officer Widman will be remembered as a hero who cared deeply about keeping his community safe.”

Officers from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement assisted at the scene, and the Sheriff’s Office handled many of the incoming calls to the Fort Myers police while officers worked the scene.

Arango, who Collier County sheriff’s deputies have said was a known gang member, has a lengthy criminal record dating back to when he was a juvenile, records show.

From 1999 to 2004, he served time in prison for a holdup and after his release on March 1, 2004, he began serving 15 years of supervised probation. But records show he stopped reporting to his probation officer and became a fugitive from justice.

An arrest warrant for violation of probation was issued earlier this month.

State Department of Corrections records show he’s used the aliases Abel Arrango, Abel Arranto, and Javier Ricardo Rez-Tapia, and at least two birth dates.

Prison records list his age as 27 and his name as Arrango, although his earliest arrests in Collier County list that name and birth date as aliases. Prison records show his body is covered in tattoos — a panther on his back, Tommy gun (a machine gun) on his stomach, Joker on his left arm and Cuban for Life/Abel on his right arm.

The crime that sent him away until 2004 involved a violent holdup at an East Naples pawn shop in 1998.

A year later, after a series of crimes, a Collier circuit judge sentenced him to a 6-year state prison term for the armed robbery and four 5-year terms for carrying a concealed firearm, two grand theft convictions, and burglary.

The 6-year term involved an April 3, 1998, holdup when he and three other members of a street gang stole 10 weapons, cash and $28,000 in jewelry from The Pawn Shop at 2400 Davis Blvd. in East Naples. He was 17 at the time and an investigator said all of them had extensive records, indicating Arango also had a juvenile record.

Two of the four came into the pawn shop early that evening, pretending to want to pawn a piece of jewelry. Two others then walked in, one armed with a Tech 9 semiautomatic handgun, and forced the pawn shop owner and his wife at gunpoint into a back room, where they bound their hands. Then the four smashed glass cases in the store and stole the jewelry and guns.

During a five-month investigation by Collier deputies in the Sheriff’s Office street gang unit, four of the stolen weapons were found, in addition to a stolen handgun that was used in the holdup. That weapon was linked to another robbery.

That robbery involved gang members trying to steal $30,000 in electronics from Rex TV & Appliance, 4436 U.S. 41 E., in East Naples.

Deputies said at the time that the four entered the business at 4:38 a.m. and took $30,000 in electronics. Deputies were tipped off that they were unloading electronic equipment from a vehicle into a shopping cart and then taking the items to one teen gang member’s home, where most of it was recovered.

Before he went to prison, Collier court records show he was arrested numerous times since 1997 for armed robbery, carrying a concealed weapon, grand theft and other charges. The armed robbery and several other charges were dropped, while a judge withheld an adjudication of guilt in several other cases.

Along with his trouble in Collier, Arango also faced criminal charges in Lee County.

In mid-May, Arango bonded out of jail about 26 hours after being arrested on several drug charges, Lee County Sheriff’s Office records show.

Arango was arrested May 16 on Fort Myers Beach after undercover deputies and at least one confidential informant purchased drugs several times beginning April 1, records show.

He was charged with two counts each of possession of and selling cocaine and one count of trafficking cocaine. He was released the next day after posting bond.

An informant introduced an undercover detective to Arango, who then sold the detective 3.8 grams of suspected cocaine for $150 during the first transaction on April 1, records show. On May 6, detectives again bought suspected cocaine from Arango for $650. This time, the suspected cocaine weighed 22 grams.

On May 16, detectives purchased 57.6 grams of cocaine from Arango, records show. Deputies stopped the vehicle and arrested the driver, Arango. While searching Arango’s vehicle, deputies found three additional plastic baggies with suspected cocaine in them. Each weighed 14.5 grams.

The operation netted 101.2 grams of cocaine total, records show.

Staff writers Aisling Swift, Matt Clark, Katherine Lewis and Jay Schlichter contributed to this report.

---

How to Help

Two memorial funds have been set up for Andrew Widman.

• The Fort Myers Police Department set up the Andrew Widman Memorial Fund at Fifth Third Bank. The fund’s account number is 7432124563.

• The law firm of Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz set up the Andrew Widman Family Fund at Preferred Community Bank. Donations can be sent to the firm or bank.

---

Update:1:40 p.m.

Fort Myers police officer killed in gun battle

FORT MYERS (AP) -- A former missionary turned police officer was shot and killed along with a suspect after police were called to a disturbance outside a downtown nightclub early Friday.

Rookie officer Andrew Widman, 30, was shot in the face at close range after he stepped in to break up a dispute between a man and a woman at about 2 a.m., police Maj. Doug Baker said.

The suspect, who has not yet been named, ran from the scene while firing at other officers, Baker said. Four officers returned fire, killing the suspect.

Witnesses told police that before Widman arrived at the scene, the suspect said “he was going to go out Miami-style, and he was going to take one of our officers with him,” Baker said at a news conference.

Baker said the suspect had addresses in the Fort Myers area and in Naples to the south, but he didn’t know where the man had been living.

Widman, who had previously done missionary work, had been with the police department since April 2007, Baker said. He was married, with three children between the ages of 2 and 5. Details of his missionary work weren’t immediately available.

“He was a good guy,” Baker said. “He’ll be missed by his peers.”

Mayor Jim Humphrey said it was “one of the saddest days in the life of this city.”

Several downtown streets were blocked off as detectives investigated throughout the morning.

Update: 1:30 p.m.

Fort Myers Police Department officials released the name of the officer shot to death in downtown Fort Myers early this morning.

Andrew Widman, 30, was killed while patrolling downtown as nightclubs were closing around 2 a.m.

Widman witnessed a domestic disturbance between a man and his girlfriend. Witnesses on the scene said the man became enraged and began to threaten responding officers, according to a release from the Fort Myers Police Department.

The man then shot Widman in the face at close range. Widman never drew this weapon.

Other officers chased the shooter. During the chase, the shooter, fired several shots at officers, who were forced to take cover and return fire. They hit the perpetrator, who died on the scene. His name has not been released.

Fort Myers police are investigating the incident. Four officers have been placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation, as is the policy of the police department.

Widman was hired by the Fort Myers Police Department on April 12, 2007. He is survived by his wife and three children.

From earlier reports

A Fort Myers police officer is dead in a downtown gun battle that also claimed the life of the offender, police are reporting.

The officer, whose name has not been given to the press, was a husband and a father of three children, and he had been with the agency one year, said Maj. Doug Baker of the Fort Myers Police Department. Baker said the officer was in his early 30s, and had a background as a missionary.

The shooting happened after 2:03 a.m. today when the officer was called to a "disturbance" near the intersection of Main and Hendry streets, Baker said. When the offender pulled a gun, the officer responded, and shots were fired. It remains unclear who fired first.

Other officers arrived on the scene, the spokesman said, but it's unclear whether any of them fired shots. A total of five officers responded, Baker said.

The name of the offender has not been released, and Baker said he believes the man acted alone.

While details are still vague, several witnesses gave similar accounts of what happened.

Nearly all said they heard a few initial shots, followed by a lull and then a barrage of gunfire--more than a dozen, most said. The witnesses, employees and customers from nearby bars, declined to give their names.

Officers from the Lee County Sheriff's Office and agents from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement later responded to the scene.

The sheriff's office handled some incoming calls to the Fort Myers Police while officers were at the crime scene, said Sgt. Larry King, a spokesman for the office.

Due to the crime scene, police have closed both Main and Second streets between Broadway and Hendry Street.

---

Statement from Gov. Charlie Crist on Widman’s death:

“Today I share the sorrow of Florida’s law enforcement family as we mourn the loss of Officer Andrew Widman who was tragically killed in the line of duty this morning. I join the Fort Myers community and all Floridians in expressing my deepest sympathy and prayers for Officer Widman’s wife and three children.” Crist said in a prepared statement. “Officer Widman will be remembered as a hero who cared deeply about keeping his community safe. His life will long symbolize the outstanding work Florida’s law enforcement officers perform every day and I thank every officer for protecting and keeping Floridian’s safe.”

Statement from Congressman Connie Mack:

Congressman Connie Mack, R-Fla., expressed his deepest sorrow today on the death of Fort Myers Police Officer Andrew Widman, who was fatally wounded in the line of duty early this morning.

“Every day, police officers take great risks to keep our communities safe,” Mack said in a prepared statement. “Officer Widman’s tragic death is an all too stark reminder of those risks, and of the personal sacrifices made by police officers and their families.

“Officer Widman represented what is good and right about our law enforcement personnel. My heart, and Mary’s, goes out to Officer Widman’s family and to the men and women of the Fort Myers Police Department. They are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult and tragic time.”

Comments

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Rest in Peace.

#1 Posted by FishingForFreedom on July 18, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So very sad for this officer and his young family.

#2 Posted by Typeone on July 18, 2008 at 7:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As a retired police officer, I pray for this officer and his family. You will not be forgotten. RIP brother.

#3 Posted by efbeck on July 18, 2008 at 7:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How tragic. My condolences to the officer's family.

#4 Posted by beachykeen on July 18, 2008 at 7:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow, how sad! A lot of people don't realize that emergency personel put their lives on the line for us everyday.

#5 Posted by youreallcrazy on July 18, 2008 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A young officer gone,three children without a father. Do these clubs not have security? The wands that are able to detect any weapons? This is very sad. My condolences to the family.

#6 Posted by itownres on July 18, 2008 at 8:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Glad the perp is dead. No judge, no jury, no insantiy plea. Just go meet your maker.

My condolences to the officier's family.

#7 Posted by RXT on July 18, 2008 at 8:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Holy father in the name of Jesus I pray for this courageous young deputy who so boldly put his life on the line to protect citizens like me. May we all come together to pray for this wonderful young man and his family. May we celebrate his life and the monumental achievements especially his last acheivement. That of removing another dangerous demon of Satan from our streets and keeping us safe. Oh souverign Lord in the name of Jesus bless this young man's soul as he sits with you in Heaven and bless his surviving family.

O Lord, grant those who have died the joy of Your Presence, and us who are living the happiness of knowing this.

#8 Posted by EddieEstero on July 18, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Peace be with his family. My deepest condolences.

#9 Posted by Jetaime on July 18, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My Dad is a retired road seargent with the Collier County Sheriff's Dept., and my heart is breaking for this young family.
Their pain is felt by many!!!

#10 Posted by Cupcake1 on July 18, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i think all of the policemen should have to wear bullet proof vests, at all times.
this is just so sad! only been on the force for 1 year? three children and a wife are now missing a daddy and a husband because of some bottomhole loser who thinks hes a big bad thug with something to prove. (dont know this for sure, just speculation)

God bless his family, and give them strength to move on without him.

#11 Posted by patsprincess on July 18, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I beleive this sums it up......

http://youtube.com/watch?v=nB9hyoMa6WE

#12 Posted by semper2 on July 18, 2008 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am speechless thru the tears. Being retired off "the job" this is like losing a member of my family...senselessly taken from us.

My heart opens up and weeps for the remaining family. Thank you so much for giving us your beloved husband, son, father and friend.

There is no greater gift that one can offer than to lay down his life for another. Your hero is in Saint Mike's care now, finding his blessed sanctuary in God's green pastures. No more tears, no more pain, where the streets are paved with gold.

You all will remain in my prayers throughout the coming days.Blessed be those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Be strong, I know you can all do it; Your're the family of a hero!

#13 Posted by MarcoRobert on July 18, 2008 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

how sad...condolences to the family...

#14 Posted by coolkraft on July 18, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP

#15 Posted by mothernature on July 18, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My deepest condolences to the officer's family. I have family members in law enforcement and I can only imagine what this family is going through. May God bless you all!! Many thanks to this officer who gave his life for our community. May he rest in peace with the Lord.

#16 Posted by FLBUTTERFLY1026 on July 18, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen EddieEstero

#17 Posted by itownres on July 18, 2008 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My father was a police officer for 20 years in WV and I remember how worried my mother would be waiting for my dad to come home from his shift after hearing about things like this. It's very scary and sad to see this happen. Police Officers, firefighters and the like are the some of the bravest people on earth. My condolences to the family and also to the other officers who lost a brother. Rest in Peace.

#18 Posted by schadrak on July 18, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

bullet proof vest would have done no good I understand he was shot in the face according to WINK news reports.

#19 Posted by Typeone on July 18, 2008 at 11:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm sorry for your loss

#20 Posted by Biff on July 18, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Our children today worship as hero's players in the NBAA who can't even speak in a complete sentence, and many are criminals in their own right, yet the police protect and serve 24/7 for pay that is marginal as best. Many give up their lives for us who complain about them stopping us for speeding or other infractions. The true hero's today are the every day police, firemen, paramedics, and other civic servants, not some guy dribbling a ball for $20,000,000 a year. God bless you officer, and may your family have peace knowing you are watching over them. I wouldn't even bury the slime that shot him. Put him in the nearest dumpster where all garbage should go.

#21 Posted by cit10driver on July 18, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen comment #23! Let's not forget this.

#22 Posted by FishingForFreedom on July 18, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Our condolences to your family...God bless you...

#23 Posted by Analytical_Skeptic on July 18, 2008 at 11:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you for your service. RIP brother.

#24 Posted by FedUp on July 18, 2008 at 11:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Very sad indeed. In the coming days, think of the grieving family and give if you can...

#25 Posted by mattmaki on July 18, 2008 at 11:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

They are everyday heroes whom we sadly overlook or take for granted, until there is a tragedy. Every traffic stop, every time they step between two drunken hotheads bent on hurting each other, they put their lives at risk, for us. God bless them all, not only on this day when we all are aching, but on every day they draw that thin blue line to protect us from the storm.

#26 Posted by Percy on July 18, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There you go,did the offender have the right to own that gun that killed the officer?plus the right to have it in his car?if so,that make it easer for him to kill this officer.
Remember,guns are made for killing people,good and bad people.

#27 Posted by jagv0565 on July 18, 2008 at 11:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

An officer with only 8 months on the dept. was killed two weeks after taking over my beat, after I was transferred to another division. It's been almost 30 years, and I still feel guilt. The perp was lit up in the electric chair.
I'm sorry for the family's loss.
"10-7, out of service".

#28 Posted by 676 on July 18, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

May all the Gods and all the Lords bless all the men and women in all uniforms that put their lives on the line to protect the rest of us.

#29 Posted by bicoastal on July 18, 2008 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My sincerest condolences to this Officer's family, friends and brothers. Im also glad to hear the perp is dead, I agree, toss his body in a dumpster.

Jagv...If guns are outlawed, only outlaws will have guns.

#30 Posted by SandnSurf on July 18, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

God bless you brother! Condolences to the family and close friends of this brave man.

#31 Posted by theoryofdisaster on July 18, 2008 at 12:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

from NBC-2 website:

The officer killed is identified as Andrew Widman. He has been with the Fort Myers Police since April 2007.

Major Doug Baker says the officer died while responding to a call about a disturbance in front of the pizza shop on Hendry Street at 2:03 a.m.

Witnesses say that disturbance was a domestic dispute between a man and a woman, and the officer stepped in to break up the fight.

Authorities say the man pulled a gun and started shooting.

Widman was shot at close range in the face. Baker said he never had an opportunity to draw his weapon.

Truly a sad situation. Condolences to the family.

I am glad the shooter is gone! It showed what a coward he was!

#32 Posted by ladybug on July 18, 2008 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My son is a Collier County Deputy, my condolences to the Officer's family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. May the Lord receive and bless his immortal soul and may his rewards abound in heaven.

To the officer and to his family: Thank you for your sacrifice for those of us you did not even know.

We are grateful and mourn the loss of a dedicated officer of the law.

#33 Posted by scuba5646 on July 18, 2008 at 1:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone's heartfelt condolences will be much appreciated by the slain officer's family. Think about this for a moment though. This young widow and mother still has three children to raise and put through college without the help of her slain husband. Put you warm thoughts into action and donate to the fund that will surely be created for the children of this hero.

#34 Posted by Jama on July 18, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This story makes me both sad and angry I can't believe our community is rapidly becoming. What's this scum bag stated that he wanted to "go out Miami Style" perhaps he should have moved there.

I'm soooooo sick of these wana be thug gang banger types ruining the life of someone else just because they think it's cool or whatever.

If you want to commit suicide that's fine just don't take the life of an innocent person as well.

I feel so badly for this poor officer's family.

My only comfort is knowing that there is a special place in Hell reserved for scum like this moron.

#35 Posted by TSOL on July 18, 2008 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Rest in peace, Brother.

May the good Lord bless and keep his family, and give them comfort from their sorrow. May his wife and children always be proud of their father and husband, who bravely chose a noble profession.

When the time comes, I will join the many who will give for the family, and I will be with my brothers and sisters in service at his memorial. The kind words from many of the people writing here will find their way to the family, and I hope they will bring some small comfort as well.

#36 Posted by Sayswho on July 18, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My condolences to his family.

#37 Posted by Jadip811 on July 18, 2008 at 2:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope , one day, there will be some comfort in knowing that Officer Widman is at peace with God. To his wife, children and family, my deepest condolences are with you at this terrible time. As you can read on this blog, your Officer was a Hero to this community.

#38 Posted by nordic154 on July 18, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So So SAD, Rest in peace. May God comfort his family during this time. Officer Widman is now with his Heavenly Father.

#39 Posted by Hendry on July 18, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

3:29 p.m. update

Naples man suspected of killing Fort Myers police officer

news-press.com • July 18, 2008

The man accused of shooting Fort Myers Police Officer Andrew Widman is a 26-year-old Naples man.

According to the sister of his girlfriend, Abel Arrango, 26, of 4060 Ice Castle Walk 7, was shot by police in downtown Fort Myers. Trisha Turcotte said her sister, Crystal, was upset and didn’t wish to speak to the media.

Arrango has one felony record in Lee County, according to the Lee County Clerk of Courts Web site. He is charged with five felony charges related to cocaine possession and sale, though the case hasn’t been resolved.

According to the Florida Department of Corrections, Arrango was sentenced to six years in prison after convictions in four cases in Collier County. He was released on March 1, 2004.

He was convicted in four cases on charges of burglary, grand theft and carrying a concealed firearm.

He was characterized as a “street level” cocaine dealer by the Lee County Sheriff’s office in May when he was arrested through a confidential informant and an undercover detective on Fort Myers Beach.

This afternoon, three vehicles were parked outside the San Carlos Park home Arrango shared with his girlfriend, Crystal Nicole Turcotte.

A statue of an angel stood in the front yard. A decorative wishing well flanked the driveway.

Crystal’s sister, Trisha Turcotte, came to the door and said her sister was extremely upset and didn’t want to talk.

The couple have a daughter together, Trisha said, indicating a framed photo in the hallway of a smiling young mother hoisting a blonde toddler into the air.

Crystal was planning to go to her attorney’s office today and the attorney would release a statement later.

Around the corner, Mitch Clark, 20, said he had moved in less than a week ago and had heard arguing a couple of nights ago at the house. But the voices were men’s, not a man and a woman’s, he said.

“That’s too bad,” Clark said of the shooting. “That’s insane.”

http://news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a...

#40 Posted by esprit on July 18, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Go to the dept of corrections website and see his pic, he is a young black male, looks just like a thug!! He destroyed an innocent life. He should have stayed in prison!!

#41 Posted by Hendry on July 18, 2008 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dave ( Rev. Preacher)

As we walk in the building there isn't a dry eye in the place. We can't believe this as we prepare to go back into the streets today. Your shift is devestated.We are in shock Dave. Please watch over all of us brother as we will take care of your family. We LOVE you and will miss you so much. Rest in peace you deserve it. FMPD 10-7 (out of service). We know you are 10-8 (Inservice)patrolling in heaven and smiling down on us. God bless you from all your brothers and sisters at FMPD. Relax preacher you did your time. 10-87(End of Watch)

#42 Posted by diamondgal on July 18, 2008 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP - Officer Widman. My condolences to your family and your colleagues. My heart goes out to you all.

#43 Posted by Mo779 on July 18, 2008 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

esprit....The guy should still be in prison with all of the felony convictions. Thanks for the info. I would classify him as a career criminal. It is really sad it had to end taking an innocent life. The officer didn't have a chance against this thug.

#44 Posted by ladybug on July 18, 2008 at 4:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why does it seem that when there is a struggle between good v evil, evil seems to win most of the time?

#45 Posted by biomanogt on July 18, 2008 at 5:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

First of all no one can say anthing about color. Abel is not a black male he is Cuban, 2nd off it is horrible what happened and we do not know all the circumstances surronding this. Abel also left behind 2 small children. Little Lorenzo is missing a father. My condolences go out to them as well. I dont know how this came about and yes he has had a past with the law but the Abel i knew was loving, kind, caring. He helped me out of jams and was a true friend to me. I never saw the angry side or the "thug" side of Abel. I feel horrible for all of the people involved. Both sides!!!! Rest in Peace to both. Some people might not understand that but i dont care, Abel chose the wrong direction in life. He chose a direction that he was used to, one that took his life and the life of someone else!

#46 Posted by ashleybaileykids on July 18, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Diamondgal...I'm so sorry for your loss - it sounds like Rev. Preacher found his lot in life ; everytime you saw him you thought of God, or Jesus, or church or prayers...the list is endless but the meaning is the same. He has found his salvation, it's the rest of us left to live without him here on earth that have to find ours.

So his shift will report and go 10-8 and do their job and hopefully all of you will fufill the 1st Rule of Policework - Retire alive. God bless you and keep you all. Amen.

#47 Posted by MarcoRobert on July 18, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amazing! Just released and had a gun already.

The only good news is a worthless criminal is off the streets forever!

#48 Posted by TiredoftheBS on July 18, 2008 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

and why did the first statement say this?

"The shooting happened after 2:03 a.m. today when the officer was called to a "disturbance" near the intersection of Main and Hendry streets, Baker said. When the offender pulled a gun, the officer responded, and shots were fired. It remains unclear who fired first."

i guess they just realized that the police officer never fired any shots to begin with, i think people need to get all the facts in order before reporting anything,

#49 Posted by ashleybaileykids on July 18, 2008 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP - Officer Widman
May God Bless your soul and comfort your family.

#50 Posted by sukibenson on July 18, 2008 at 5:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP and condolences to the family, from a member of the NYPD.

#51 Posted by MrSubway1 on July 18, 2008 at 5:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Taken too soon. Taken too young. Taken from family, colleagues and friends. Taken from even strangers who care. Too soon, too young. True tragedy.

RIP

#52 Posted by BlueTonguedVole on July 18, 2008 at 6:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We mourn the loss of this fine man.
It's time to toughen sentencing guidelines, these people NEVER change...ever. Lock them up longer, utilize the death sentence more often.

#53 Posted by shwing on July 18, 2008 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why didn't he take OJ out with him Miami style? that would have been something to brag about...."Killers killing killers"...instead of good men like this officer.
Amen post #30

#54 Posted by pippin on July 18, 2008 at 6:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope the gutless killer's family suffers deeply,but who would miss this piece of crap. Deport them all.

#55 Posted by Paradise on July 18, 2008 at 6:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am not asking for sympathy for Abel, i am asking people to feel sympathy for his family for the kids he left behind for people who cared about him no matter what wrong choices he made. you know i could care less it was a cop he killed, it was still a person and it was wrong. no 1 life is worth more than another. people loved abel just as family and friends loved the victim.

#56 Posted by ashleybaileykids on July 18, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow!!. For those who don't beleave this is a true revelation of the power of God. A missionary who ends his mission. God Bless!. Rest in peace!.

#57 Posted by Naplesheart on July 18, 2008 at 7:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

ashleybaileykids...this guy is a cop killer plain and simple. Can I feel sorry for his family? Sure. Will I? No. I feel sympathy for Officer Widman's family. You made a negative posting about how the NDN initially reported the incident. That may have been what they were first told which is why they reported it that way. In the end it doesn't matter. You made a comment about people not being able to say anything about color because he is Cuban and not black. 1. There are black Hispanics. That is not racist-that is a fact. 2. When people write "thug" they are not referring to blacks. They are referring to the low life that you call your friend. You can continue making goodie goodie postings defending him however you will surely find yourself isolated on an island in doing so. Good luck with that though. You did say one thing that made sense...Abel "chose a direction he was used to."

#58 Posted by Analytical_Skeptic on July 18, 2008 at 8:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

HE IS A KILLER BUT IT DOESNT MAKE A DIFFERENCE WHO HE KILLED. IT IS JUST THE FACT HE KILLED, COPS KNOW THE JOB THEY R TAKING HAVE RISKS BUT I HOPE IF I EVER GET KILLED PEOPLE TREAT THIS SITUATION THE SAME WAY AND NOT LIGHTER CAUSE I AM NOT A COP. I JUST THINK PEOPLE NEED TO THINK OF HIS FAMILY ALSO, THATS IT

#59 Posted by ashleybaileykids on July 18, 2008 at 8:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The judges and lawyers that allowed this lovely human being to walk should try wearing a badge and dealing with "repeat offenders" on a daily basis.
The system is flawed, and innocent people and law enforcement officers pay the price.
For punishment to work it must be SWIFT and SURE.
The .40 cal to Arango's neck was both, but unfortunately too late for officer Widman...

#60 Posted by whyknot on July 18, 2008 at 8:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He was a P.O.S. plain and simple. Ashley grow up you evidently like these THUG wana be P.O.S. and think there nice people that's fine but he took a life for no reason other than he "wanted to go out Miami Style". Too bad someone didn't end his life sooner before he had a chance to take another life. I'm sure hell has a special spot just for this P.O.S.

And as for his family and he kids he made his decision so no I don't feel sorry for them one bit as for his girlfriend she knew the type of trash he was and decided to have a kid with him. Perhaps if he thought of someone else other than himself this never would have happened.

I hope he burns in HELL!

#61 Posted by TSOL on July 18, 2008 at 8:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What'd Bob Grant say? "When a person serves notice upon society that they are its enemy, society places that person where they can do the least harm."

Over a decade ago the perp served his notice, yet for reasons unclear he was afforded mercies you and I would never receive.

Why? To be free to do as he did? Thugs from street to executive levels leave a trail of misery and death. They ruin lives without even trying.

Didn't Inspector Manzano well say it in "Man on Fire"? "Known for being corrupt, they are celebrated for being dead."

What can one add, but to know that there is no injustice, no loss that our Creator will not right in His own time.

Paul Vincent Zecchino
Manasota Key, Florida
18 July, 2008

#62 Posted by paul_vincent_zecchino on July 18, 2008 at 9:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen Dr.Z...

#63 Posted by BlueTonguedVole on July 18, 2008 at 9:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My question is simple. Why not have two officers is each car after midnight in high crime areas. Maybe with the odds against him, the lovely human being would have kept his mouth shut, and just walked away. I think budget issues killed both of these men.

#64 Posted by cit10driver on July 18, 2008 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gutta1

You should never try to reason with the back end of a donkey that chooses this occasion to show his ignorance.
Hang in there.

#65 Posted by ChiDem on July 18, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That piece of sh** Arrango will get whats coming to him when he's burning in hell for what he did.

#66 Posted by lite_n_up on July 18, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Andy is still 10-8, just from a different precinct. Thanks Andy

#67 Posted by ChiDem on July 18, 2008 at 10:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Such a sad story about such a courageous young man.

My thoughts and prayers are with his family/friends and fellow officers.

Post#49 (diamondgal) - I wanted to comment on your heartfelt post. I can tell by your post and the article that Andy was a well respected member of FMPD.

May he rest in peace and his family find comfort from others who loved him also.

#68 Posted by mdiscrabs on July 18, 2008 at 10:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ashleybailey,

GET LOST........WE don't care about your THUG friend ABEL. You are as ignorant as he was by making such stupid statements. No sympathy from us. He was a living piece of S###T. Look at his criminal record. DUH !! Thank God, with his past history it wasn't a Naples Police officer or a Collier Deputies family who is suffering tonight. If your so concerned about him now why didn't you try to help him or refer him for help. Save it lady we aren't interested in what you have to say........

#69 Posted by diamondgal on July 18, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Citizens,

The next time you see 3-4 officers on a traffic stop or out with someone that you think is being harassed think about Officer Andrew Widman. This is why officers take so many precautions, to protect themselves in order to return home safely. Try doing a ride along with your local law enforcement agency and I gurantee you will have more respect for the men and women behind the badge and a different attitude for the Police. It might make you think before you write a letter to the editor complaining about 4 patrol cars out with one subject. People are very desperate during these difficult times with our economy being like it is. Im very sorry to say we are going to see more officers killed in the line of duty like never before. At least say hello,thank you, or just smile when you see one of us. God bless all of our protectors and emergency personel.

#70 Posted by diamondgal on July 18, 2008 at 11:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen, JYD.

Diamondgal: Well said.

#71 Posted by indigodragonfly on July 18, 2008 at 11:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why was this animal cuban lowlife even walking the streets ? Violated probation ? Whats wrong with this system, and what does go out Miami Style mean ?

In Honduras all Mara 13 gang members are arrested and thrown in prison for life regardless if they commit a crime and they have no rights or attorneys. When will we adopt some of other countries Judicial policies like Bulgaria, Indonesia, North Korea. Bring back public stoning and castration its the only way to get rid of these skum bags.

#72 Posted by Johnywalker on July 19, 2008 at 12:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The next time the news reports on a cop that got a "little aggressive" with a suspect or tazed a guy who didn't comply with his orders, REMEMBER THIS INCIDENT. People are always so quick to judge the police and scream about police brutality. These are the incidents that cause the police to jump into action. These are the incidents that cause the police to "over react". If this officer had jumped out of his car and immediately tazed this jerk....he would have been crucified by the public...but then again, he would still be with us.
RIP OFFICER WIDMAN

one more thing...we should also keep the 4 other officers that tracked this suspect down and ended his spree of terror in our prayers. They all have a long road ahead of them.

#73 Posted by semper2 on July 19, 2008 at 12:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There is no reason, circumstances, or logic, for why this animal was on the streets.

Florida should decide, as a whole, do we want to build more schools or more jails?

#74 Posted by volochine on July 19, 2008 at 1:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Bid deal, the officer (I hope was intelligent enough) knew the consequences of his position. Just because this situation is not an every day occurance in 'paradise,' he was carrying out his 'sworn duty.' Enough said.

#75 Posted by sancho on July 19, 2008 at 1:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

RIP Officer Widman - your family, friends & co-workers are in my prayers. I'd encourage everyone to also pray for the men & women in the dispatch center. Having been thru a similar situation I know the pain they are going thru. They spend their entire shift doing their best to take care of the officers & losing one is devastating. FMPD Dispatch my thoughts are with you - you are the hidden heroes.

God's Peace

#76 Posted by DCoop on July 19, 2008 at 1:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sancho ( #106 ) You are such an rear.
Yes I am sure he new the danger he faced from the moment he signed on as an officer.
I am also sure he thought about the same danger everyday he went to work.
But to have someone ambush an officer when they are summoned to help is a coward.
Leave Officer Widman and his brother and sisters alone during this unfortunate event and go mess with someone else.
ENOUGH SAID.

#77 Posted by icdumbpeople on July 19, 2008 at 2:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

WHAT A DISGUSTING PIG/"HUMAN BEING" THIS THING WAS THAT DECIDED TO KILL THIS OFFICER.

R.I.P. Officer Andrew Widman.

Gutta1: I hope someone out there has mercy on your soul because I don't think it will be anyone here. It is great to hear that you do not think this officer's job was "noble." It is also great to know that people like you can sleep peacefully saying thing like this and playing the race card.

ashleybaileykids: Beyond disgraceful. Do you have any more excuses for Abel????

#78 Posted by jim09091 on July 19, 2008 at 4:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank You icdumbpeople!!!!!! Enough said. God bless the family of officer Widman. Another beautiful star in the night sky. He sits beside his God.

#79 Posted by antdoy2003 on July 19, 2008 at 5:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

our heartfelt condolences to the widman family and law enforcement community. the world is a safer place thanks to the selfless acts of bravery and heroism of these officers.

#80 Posted by islandman4now on July 19, 2008 at 5:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

gutta1, Why do you want to appear like you described yourself? Do you also carry a gun?

#81 Posted by bossman1 on July 19, 2008 at 6:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"An arrest warrant for violation of probation was issued earlier this month."

#82 Posted by rickyb2001 on July 19, 2008 at 6:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This clown from Cuban should have still been in jail and this would have never happened. I hope those liberal judges that let him skate early and often are aware of this incident. Another example of how mandatory minimums should be in place for all types of violent crimes, therefore, taking the lefty judges out of play.

#83 Posted by dougstl on July 19, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My condolences to the family of this officer.
God's peace.

#84 Posted by hereim on July 19, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

if there judges and DA's would do there job, this wouldn't be happening as much in this country. I blame liberal judges.
Rest In peace Mr. Widman
Rot in hell Arango

#85 Posted by grouper25 on July 19, 2008 at 8:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

ashleybaileykids...Yes, it does matter it was a cop. A person that was here to protect and serve the community against people like that. If you read the story on NBC-2 from the girlfriend, the officer saved her life. He would have killed her. The thug pulled a gun and shot the officer in cold blood. The officer did not have his gun drawn. Anyone who shots someone is a THUG; white, black, asian, etc.

Gutta1: If it was a black officer, it would not have made any difference and you know that! Talk about being a racist.

#86 Posted by ladybug on July 19, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)

sancho: you are coldhearted! Enough said

#87 Posted by ladybug on July 19, 2008 at 8:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

On another forum, Gutta1 states:

I live right there by shadowlawn and I was wondering why I saw the helicopter in the air. By the sound of the location I think I know who it is they're looking for. And I got two guns just for fun. The people that say they have it for protection from criminals are lying(we live in Naples). They know that they got guns because it makes them feel powerful. I just have them because I like weapons