A man who allegedly failed to obey police commands died after officers shot him with a Taser gun in Moreno Valley, authorities said today.
The man became unruly after he was confronted Sunday morning by officers from the Moreno Valley Police Department in the middle of a residential street, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, which is investigating the incident. The officers had responded to reports of a man who was banging on doors.
After the man was Tasered, he was handcuffed, then began suffering from a seizure, the department said. Officers began giving the man first aid until an ambulance arrived. He was taken to Riverside County Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
His name was not released pending notification of relatives.
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http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_webtaze10.15f825c.html
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Ranger Dorian Curry Arrested for Sexual Assault
Both victims in a pair of Glacier Bay National Park sexual assault cases were coworkers with their alleged attacker and had both passed out drunk before being violated, according to court documents fleshing out the charges.
Seasonal law enforcement ranger Dorian B. Curry, 31, was arrested Monday by the Alaska State Troopers on two felony counts of sexual assault. The District Attorney's office is expected to present the case to a grand jury on Friday. The state alleges Curry had sex with the two women on separate occasions near Gustavus.
One victim told investigators that she had drank alcohol on July 4 until she blacked out, according to court documents. She told investigators that she woke up on the floor next to Curry on July 5 and said her groin hurt like she had had "rough sex."
Curry admitted to her that they had sex, and obtained a morning after pill for her, according to court documents. The victim told investigators she was not aware that Curry was having sex with her after she passed out.
Court documents allege that another incident occurred in 2008 under similar circumstances. Two witnesses said they watched Curry carry a passed out woman into his bedroom.
The National Park Service contacted the state troopers in mid-July after conducting an internal investigation into the sexual assault of the two park employees.
"Once it became apparent that there was some kind of potential illegal behavior actually taking place, that's when they contacted us," state trooper spokeswoman Megan Peters said.
Investigators looked into the 2008 case after the July case came to light. That victim alleged Curry had intercourse with her while she was passed out after a party at the park lodge in Bartlett Cove on Sept. 1, 2008. She said she went to Curry's house with several other park employees and woke up the next day in bed with Curry with no pants or underwear on and a used condom on the bed, according to court documents. She confronted Curry, who denied having sex with her.
Troopers interviewed the defendant's former roommate, who said he witnessed Curry pick up the victim while she was passed out and take her into his bedroom, according to court documents. A second witness said the victim had been drinking a lot and passed out on the floor before Curry picked her up and dragged her into his room to have sex with her.
Curry later admitted to troopers that he had sex with both alleged victims, according to court documents.
As the investigation proceeded, Curry was put on administrative leave with the park service and his law enforcement commission was suspended, according to a press release. The federal agency is taking steps to terminate his employment.
A seasonal law enforcement ranger has a variety of duties at Glacier Bay National Park, from monitoring possible fishing violations to backcountry patrols. Seasonal rangers are required to go through a special National Park Service law enforcement academy.
Curry is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn.
This is not the first law enforcement official in Alaska to be arrested this summer on charges of sexual assault. Anchorage Police Department officer Anthony Rollins was arrested last month for allegedly sexually assaulting six women over the past three years.
"In the public's eye (law enforcement officials) are certainly held to a higher standard and when something like this does happen it seems to catch everyone's attention and they are appalled by it, rightfully so," Peters said.
Peters stressed that at this point Curry has been accused of committing sexual assault.
"Whether or not he is found guilty is to be determined," she said.
The felony charges are each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. Curry, who has been living in Washington when not working in Alaska, is being held in the Lemon Creek Correctional Center on $20,000 bail.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Officer Brian Kenneth Sawicki Arrested for Indecnet Exposure
A Santa Barbara Police Officer is facing several charges including indecent exposure.
On Monday afternoon, two young girls were walking down a trail at Refugio Beach when they saw a man lying down and masturbating. The girls alerted a State Park Ranger who then chased after the suspect and arrested him.
The state park ranger arrested 33-year-old Brian Kenneth Sawicki. Turns out, Sawicki is a sworn officer of the Santa Barbara Police Department. He faces charges of indecent exposure, annoying a child under 18 and resisting a peace officer.
His bail has been set at $2,500.
On Monday afternoon, two young girls were walking down a trail at Refugio Beach when they saw a man lying down and masturbating. The girls alerted a State Park Ranger who then chased after the suspect and arrested him.
The state park ranger arrested 33-year-old Brian Kenneth Sawicki. Turns out, Sawicki is a sworn officer of the Santa Barbara Police Department. He faces charges of indecent exposure, annoying a child under 18 and resisting a peace officer.
His bail has been set at $2,500.
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Officer Zsolt Dornay Arrested for DUI
Grays Harbor County, WA
Sometimes irony is not lost even on somebody who has the audacity to shoot an unarmed man in a dark alley and then try to sue the shooting victim. Seattle Police Officer Zsolt Dornay was arrested last month for DUI while driving his motorcycle in Ocean Shores, Washington. The arrest was made by the Washington State Patrol.
Dornay, somewhat infamous for shooting Seattle DUI Attorney James Walker in Seattle's Post Alley in 2006, faces DUI charges in Grays Harbor District Court.
Dornay has been placed on administrative reassignment while an internal investigation at the Seattle police department is conducted.
According to police reports, Dornay, and his younger brother, were stopped for going 49 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone. Both men admitted to drinking and agreed to perform field sobriety tests.
Zsolt Dornay's breath alcohol level registered 0.149 and 0.172 percent. While both results exceed Washington State's legal limit of 0.08 percent, the difference in the two results illustrates how fickle DUI breath testing can be. To Dornay's credit, he could have refused to take the test.
Sometimes irony is not lost even on somebody who has the audacity to shoot an unarmed man in a dark alley and then try to sue the shooting victim. Seattle Police Officer Zsolt Dornay was arrested last month for DUI while driving his motorcycle in Ocean Shores, Washington. The arrest was made by the Washington State Patrol.
Dornay, somewhat infamous for shooting Seattle DUI Attorney James Walker in Seattle's Post Alley in 2006, faces DUI charges in Grays Harbor District Court.
Dornay has been placed on administrative reassignment while an internal investigation at the Seattle police department is conducted.
According to police reports, Dornay, and his younger brother, were stopped for going 49 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone. Both men admitted to drinking and agreed to perform field sobriety tests.
Zsolt Dornay's breath alcohol level registered 0.149 and 0.172 percent. While both results exceed Washington State's legal limit of 0.08 percent, the difference in the two results illustrates how fickle DUI breath testing can be. To Dornay's credit, he could have refused to take the test.
Officer Gregory Renggli Arrested for Domestic Violence
East Wenatchee police officer Gregory W. Renggli was arrested Tuesday at his East Wenatchee home on suspicion of fourth-degree assault, domestic violence. He was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Facility but later posted $10,000 bail and was released.
Police Chief Randy Harrison said Renggli, 46, is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the charge. East Wenatchee officers initially responded to a call of a domestic disturbance at the Renggli residence at 9:52 a.m. but later turned the case over to Wenatchee police to avoid a conflict of interest, Harrison said.
Wenatchee police said no weapon was involved and Renggli was not on duty at the time of the alleged assault. They referred further questions to Harrison, who said the initial phone call made to the RiverCom dispatch center indicated that a father had struck his 17-year-old son in the chest. No one was taken to the hospital in connection with the incident.
Police Chief Randy Harrison said Renggli, 46, is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the charge. East Wenatchee officers initially responded to a call of a domestic disturbance at the Renggli residence at 9:52 a.m. but later turned the case over to Wenatchee police to avoid a conflict of interest, Harrison said.
Wenatchee police said no weapon was involved and Renggli was not on duty at the time of the alleged assault. They referred further questions to Harrison, who said the initial phone call made to the RiverCom dispatch center indicated that a father had struck his 17-year-old son in the chest. No one was taken to the hospital in connection with the incident.
Officer Michael Williams Arrested for Stealing iPhone
An Athens-Clarke County police officer was fired after he was accused of stealing a University student's iPhone after investigating an incident in her apartment.
On Tuesday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation charged ACC officer Michael R. Williams with felony theft by taking and violation of oath of office. Williams, 45, was a recruit police officer in training when he answered the July 19 call for service at the student's apartment. Williams was fired from the police department Tuesday.
The student reported theft of the iPhone on July 24 and the ACCPD requested the GBI to conduct a criminal investigation of the matter.
Williams was released from the Clarke County Jail uesday after posting $10,000 bond.
On Tuesday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation charged ACC officer Michael R. Williams with felony theft by taking and violation of oath of office. Williams, 45, was a recruit police officer in training when he answered the July 19 call for service at the student's apartment. Williams was fired from the police department Tuesday.
The student reported theft of the iPhone on July 24 and the ACCPD requested the GBI to conduct a criminal investigation of the matter.
Williams was released from the Clarke County Jail uesday after posting $10,000 bond.
Former Trooper Paul Galietti Pleads Guilty to Unauthorized Use of Database
A former state trooper whose cousin was a top salesman in James Galante's garbage empire was spared jail time Wednesday in U.S. District Court at his sentencing for illegally checking the license plate of a competing trash hauler on a law enforcement database.
Paul Galietti, 41, pleaded guilty in October before Judge Ellen Bree Burns to intentionally exceeding his authorized access to a government computer, a crime punishable by up to a year in prison.
But a plea agreement between federal prosecutors and his lawyer, Gary A. Mastronardi, called for a maximum jail sentence of six months, which Burns spared him altogether Wednesday by imposing a $1,000 fine during sentencing proceedings that lasted about 10 minutes.
When Galietti pleaded guilty, Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond Miller said in court that federal agents overheard Galietti talking to his cousin, Richard Galietti, who at the time was sales manager for Galante-controlled Automated Waste Disposal, on a call in September 2004.
During the call, Miller said, Richard Galietti asked his cousin to run a check on a Connecticut license plate. Minutes later federal agents heard Paul Galietti giving Richard Galietti the name of the person the car was registered to.
The person was affiliated with a small trash hauling company in Danbury that was not participating in the so-called "property rights system" that artificially kept prices for trash collection in the area high, Miller said.
After he gave his cousin the information, agents overheard Paul Galietti warning of the risks of other people finding out about the check, Miller said.
"Never tell anybody I did that for you, because you'll get me fired," Miller quoted Galietti as saying. "It's a serious thing now, OK?"
According to Miller, when Richard Galietti then told his cousin that his brother, a sheriff in Florida, had gotten in trouble for the same reason, Paul Galietti said: "Yeah, no really, the federal government pinches you now. That's a real f---ing serious thing."
Later, Miller said, state police checked the law enforcement database Galietti accessed and found that a query of the plate had occurred during the wiretapped conversation, from the troop Galietti was assigned to.
Galietti resigned from the state police after being indicted as part of the Galante probe. As part of his plea agreement, he agreed never to seek any employment in law enforcement.
All 33 people arrested as a result of the federal investigation into trash hauling in the area have pleaded guilty.
Galante himself is serving an 87-month prison sentence on racketeering, wire fraud and tax evasion charges. He also forfeited ownership of 25 trash hauling companies, a Southbury residence, six race cars and nearly $450,000 in cash seized during the investigation.
Paul Galietti's day in court he pleaded guilty to exceeding his authorized access to a government computer in October 2008. n Plea agreement called for a jail sentence up to six months and a fine of up to $5,000. n U.S. District Judge Ellen Bree Burns sentenced Galietti on Wednesday to a $1,000 fine.
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http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-ap-ct-trashprobeaug12,0,3596851.story
Paul Galietti, 41, pleaded guilty in October before Judge Ellen Bree Burns to intentionally exceeding his authorized access to a government computer, a crime punishable by up to a year in prison.
But a plea agreement between federal prosecutors and his lawyer, Gary A. Mastronardi, called for a maximum jail sentence of six months, which Burns spared him altogether Wednesday by imposing a $1,000 fine during sentencing proceedings that lasted about 10 minutes.
When Galietti pleaded guilty, Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond Miller said in court that federal agents overheard Galietti talking to his cousin, Richard Galietti, who at the time was sales manager for Galante-controlled Automated Waste Disposal, on a call in September 2004.
During the call, Miller said, Richard Galietti asked his cousin to run a check on a Connecticut license plate. Minutes later federal agents heard Paul Galietti giving Richard Galietti the name of the person the car was registered to.
The person was affiliated with a small trash hauling company in Danbury that was not participating in the so-called "property rights system" that artificially kept prices for trash collection in the area high, Miller said.
After he gave his cousin the information, agents overheard Paul Galietti warning of the risks of other people finding out about the check, Miller said.
"Never tell anybody I did that for you, because you'll get me fired," Miller quoted Galietti as saying. "It's a serious thing now, OK?"
According to Miller, when Richard Galietti then told his cousin that his brother, a sheriff in Florida, had gotten in trouble for the same reason, Paul Galietti said: "Yeah, no really, the federal government pinches you now. That's a real f---ing serious thing."
Later, Miller said, state police checked the law enforcement database Galietti accessed and found that a query of the plate had occurred during the wiretapped conversation, from the troop Galietti was assigned to.
Galietti resigned from the state police after being indicted as part of the Galante probe. As part of his plea agreement, he agreed never to seek any employment in law enforcement.
All 33 people arrested as a result of the federal investigation into trash hauling in the area have pleaded guilty.
Galante himself is serving an 87-month prison sentence on racketeering, wire fraud and tax evasion charges. He also forfeited ownership of 25 trash hauling companies, a Southbury residence, six race cars and nearly $450,000 in cash seized during the investigation.
Paul Galietti's day in court he pleaded guilty to exceeding his authorized access to a government computer in October 2008. n Plea agreement called for a jail sentence up to six months and a fine of up to $5,000. n U.S. District Judge Ellen Bree Burns sentenced Galietti on Wednesday to a $1,000 fine.
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http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-ap-ct-trashprobeaug12,0,3596851.story
Airport Officer Arrested for Touching 14-year-old
A man employed as a Los Angeles airport police officer has been arrested for allegedly touching a 14-year-old girl inappropriately at a foster care home in Inglewood operated by his mother, authorities said today.
Police went to the home in the 9300 block of 11th Avenue near the Hollywood Park race track Tuesday afternoon to investigate a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
The teen alleged that Devin Staten had touched her in an “inappropriate way” late Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten’s mother. Two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said. There were no further reports of misconduct at the home aside from Tuesday’s alleged incident, he said.
Investigators say they have notified officials with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
Staten, 31, works for the Los Angeles Airport Police Department and lives at the house in a converted garage, McBride said. He was released from the Inglewood jail on $20,000 bail.
A spokesman for the airport police did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Police went to the home in the 9300 block of 11th Avenue near the Hollywood Park race track Tuesday afternoon to investigate a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
The teen alleged that Devin Staten had touched her in an “inappropriate way” late Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten’s mother. Two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said. There were no further reports of misconduct at the home aside from Tuesday’s alleged incident, he said.
Investigators say they have notified officials with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
Staten, 31, works for the Los Angeles Airport Police Department and lives at the house in a converted garage, McBride said. He was released from the Inglewood jail on $20,000 bail.
A spokesman for the airport police did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Officer Scott Gabbei Accused of Sexual Misconduct with Minor
A Pittsboro Police Officer is accused of arranging a meeting with a 14-year-old girl, taking her to a remote location in the Pittsboro City Park. The girl told a clergy member that the incident produced a hug and an open mouth kiss.
The Hendricks County Sheriff's Department arrested 33-year-old Scott Gabbei of Mooresville on a warrant charging him with sexual misconduct with a minor. He was released from the Hendricks County after posting bond of $25,000.
Investigators say Gabbei was in uniform and transported the girl in his police vehicle. He drove her home after the encounter.
Pittsboro Police Chief Christi Peterson is recommending that Gabbei be fired. He is suspended with pay pending a hearing August 24th before the Town Council.
The Hendricks County Sheriff's Department arrested 33-year-old Scott Gabbei of Mooresville on a warrant charging him with sexual misconduct with a minor. He was released from the Hendricks County after posting bond of $25,000.
Investigators say Gabbei was in uniform and transported the girl in his police vehicle. He drove her home after the encounter.
Pittsboro Police Chief Christi Peterson is recommending that Gabbei be fired. He is suspended with pay pending a hearing August 24th before the Town Council.
Deputy Dana Harrah Arrested for Domestic Violence
A Sarpy County Sheriff’s deputy was arrested Sunday on suspicion of domestic abuse.
The deputy, Dana Harrah, has been with the sheriff’s office for nine years.
She was booked into Cass County Jail and released Monday morning after posting bail.
Sarpy County Sheriff Jeff Davis said deputies from his office received a call about a possible domestic abuse situation Sunday. Upon arrival, deputies found out a sheriff’s office employee might be involved. Davis said Bellevue police, Papillion police and the Nebraska State Patrol were called to investigate.
Davis said in such situations, an employee is placed on paid administrative leave while the matter is investigated. An internal affairs investigation is underway, Davis said.
The deputy, Dana Harrah, has been with the sheriff’s office for nine years.
She was booked into Cass County Jail and released Monday morning after posting bail.
Sarpy County Sheriff Jeff Davis said deputies from his office received a call about a possible domestic abuse situation Sunday. Upon arrival, deputies found out a sheriff’s office employee might be involved. Davis said Bellevue police, Papillion police and the Nebraska State Patrol were called to investigate.
Davis said in such situations, an employee is placed on paid administrative leave while the matter is investigated. An internal affairs investigation is underway, Davis said.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Officer James Stackhouse Investigated for Relationship with 12-year-old
A Metro police officer has quit after 17 years following allegations that he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a child.
Officer James Stackhouse joined the Metro Police Department in September 1992. He was a field training officer with the Hermitage precinct until last Tuesday, but his career as a police officer began to unravel Sunday night.
"In the early morning of Aug. 3, Officer Stackhouse was called in and was presented with the allegations and was questioned or talked to about the allegations," said Metro police spokesman Don Aaron. "They were very serious, and a situation like this warranted his immediate decommissioning and the admonishment that disciplinary action would begin immediately."
Sources told Channel 4 News the child involved is a 12-year-old girl who lives in Wilson County but that the Clay County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation since the alleged incident happened on Dale Hollow Lake.
Metro police said they informed Stackhouse of the allegations on Monday morning and that he submitted a one-sentence, handwritten resignation Tuesday.
"He did not work in between the third and the fourth," Aaron said. "He was decommissioned or had no police power from the point that he was informed of the allegations."
Stackhouse's personnel file shows a number of commendations and that he won Officer of the Month in 2006, 2008 and 2009.
He has been disciplined twice, according to the documents, including a three-day suspension in 2006 for contacting a known felon that he met on duty to pursue a personal relationship.
No charges have been filed based on the investigation against Stackhouse.
Sources said the facts of the investigation will likely be sent to the grand jury.
Video: Officer Resigns After Alleged Relationship With Child
Officer James Stackhouse joined the Metro Police Department in September 1992. He was a field training officer with the Hermitage precinct until last Tuesday, but his career as a police officer began to unravel Sunday night.
"In the early morning of Aug. 3, Officer Stackhouse was called in and was presented with the allegations and was questioned or talked to about the allegations," said Metro police spokesman Don Aaron. "They were very serious, and a situation like this warranted his immediate decommissioning and the admonishment that disciplinary action would begin immediately."
Sources told Channel 4 News the child involved is a 12-year-old girl who lives in Wilson County but that the Clay County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation since the alleged incident happened on Dale Hollow Lake.
Metro police said they informed Stackhouse of the allegations on Monday morning and that he submitted a one-sentence, handwritten resignation Tuesday.
"He did not work in between the third and the fourth," Aaron said. "He was decommissioned or had no police power from the point that he was informed of the allegations."
Stackhouse's personnel file shows a number of commendations and that he won Officer of the Month in 2006, 2008 and 2009.
He has been disciplined twice, according to the documents, including a three-day suspension in 2006 for contacting a known felon that he met on duty to pursue a personal relationship.
No charges have been filed based on the investigation against Stackhouse.
Sources said the facts of the investigation will likely be sent to the grand jury.
Video: Officer Resigns After Alleged Relationship With Child
Trial Begins for Sgt Matthew Dougil
The trial of a Gig Harbor police sergeant accused of filing false police reports began Monday in Pierce County Superior Court.
Matthew Dougil is charged with two felony counts of perjury and one misdemeanor count of making a false or misleading statement to a public servant. He has pleaded not guilty and is on unpaid leave from his job until the criminal case against him is resolved.
Prosecutors allege the 11-year veteran of the Gig Harbor force lied in police reports he filed as part of a drug investigation that resulted in two people being convicted. The convictions since have been vacated, and the city paid $45,000 in damages to a third man who was ordered to attend drug court as part of the case.
Investigators contend in court documents that, among other things, Dougil wrote in an official report that police searched a confidential informant who was used to buy drugs from the men when in fact the informant was not searched before the transaction.
The supervisor of the prosecuting attorney’s office drug unit later told colleagues he would not have prosecuted the men had he known Dougil was alleged to have lied on the reports, according to documents filed in the case.
Dougil’s attorney, Brett Purtzer, has said his client is innocent and intends to present a vigorous defense.
Testimony before Superior Court Judge Rosanne Buckner is expected to last about a week.
Matthew Dougil is charged with two felony counts of perjury and one misdemeanor count of making a false or misleading statement to a public servant. He has pleaded not guilty and is on unpaid leave from his job until the criminal case against him is resolved.
Prosecutors allege the 11-year veteran of the Gig Harbor force lied in police reports he filed as part of a drug investigation that resulted in two people being convicted. The convictions since have been vacated, and the city paid $45,000 in damages to a third man who was ordered to attend drug court as part of the case.
Investigators contend in court documents that, among other things, Dougil wrote in an official report that police searched a confidential informant who was used to buy drugs from the men when in fact the informant was not searched before the transaction.
The supervisor of the prosecuting attorney’s office drug unit later told colleagues he would not have prosecuted the men had he known Dougil was alleged to have lied on the reports, according to documents filed in the case.
Dougil’s attorney, Brett Purtzer, has said his client is innocent and intends to present a vigorous defense.
Testimony before Superior Court Judge Rosanne Buckner is expected to last about a week.
Lt. John Sherman Charged with Battery
Authorities say a Martinsburg police lieutenant charged with battery apparently was upset about inappropriate online messages another man allegedly sent to his wife.
John Sherman is accused of striking Larry "Tike" Murphy Thursday night while Murphy was attending his daughter's cheerleading practice at the Martinsburg Church of Christ.
Murphy told police that the 45-year-old Sherman screamed profanities at him and accused him of sending inappropriate messages to Sherman's wife via the social networking sites MySpace and Facebook.
The content of the messages was unknown.
Sherman is on administrative leave with pay.
His attorney, Harley Wagner, urged the public to reserve judgment against the 19-year veteran.
John Sherman is accused of striking Larry "Tike" Murphy Thursday night while Murphy was attending his daughter's cheerleading practice at the Martinsburg Church of Christ.
Murphy told police that the 45-year-old Sherman screamed profanities at him and accused him of sending inappropriate messages to Sherman's wife via the social networking sites MySpace and Facebook.
The content of the messages was unknown.
Sherman is on administrative leave with pay.
His attorney, Harley Wagner, urged the public to reserve judgment against the 19-year veteran.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie Arrested for Pointing Gun at People
An Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been arrested after he allegedly pointed a gun at two people in Pensacola.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie, a 15 year veteran with the Escambia Sheriff’s Office was involved in a incident within the city limits of Pensacola last Monday, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.
“After an investigation conducted by the Pensacola Police Department, a warrant was issued and served on Deputy Dejoie today, charging him with two counts of aggravated assault,” Ted Roy, spokesperson for the ECSO, said Tuesday afternoon. Bond was set at $500.
“The investigation determined Dejoie could not adequately justify to the satisfaction of the detective and the State Attorney’s Office his actions in pointing the firearm,” said Pensacola Assistant Chief Chip W. Simmons.
The incident began around 3:15 p.m. August 3 in the 800 block of Scenic Highway after Dejoie, who was driving an Infiniti G35, stopped suddenly in the middle of the road, causing the driver of a Jeep Cherokee to slam on its brakes, according to Pensacola Police.
The driver of the other vehicle – Dylan Johnson, 21, of Pensacola – honked his horn at Dejoie. This resulted in an exchange of profanities and insults between occupants of both vehicles, which continued westbound on Cervantes Street, according to police reports. Dejoie is accused of pointing a handgun at Johnson and a 15-year-old male passenger in his vehicle on East Cervantes Street and the Bayou Texar Bridge.
The victims told police they turned north on 19th Avenue to escape, and called 911 to report the incident. Dejoie also called 911 at about the same time.
Deputy Dejoie is currently on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the case, according to Roy.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie, a 15 year veteran with the Escambia Sheriff’s Office was involved in a incident within the city limits of Pensacola last Monday, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.
“After an investigation conducted by the Pensacola Police Department, a warrant was issued and served on Deputy Dejoie today, charging him with two counts of aggravated assault,” Ted Roy, spokesperson for the ECSO, said Tuesday afternoon. Bond was set at $500.
“The investigation determined Dejoie could not adequately justify to the satisfaction of the detective and the State Attorney’s Office his actions in pointing the firearm,” said Pensacola Assistant Chief Chip W. Simmons.
The incident began around 3:15 p.m. August 3 in the 800 block of Scenic Highway after Dejoie, who was driving an Infiniti G35, stopped suddenly in the middle of the road, causing the driver of a Jeep Cherokee to slam on its brakes, according to Pensacola Police.
The driver of the other vehicle – Dylan Johnson, 21, of Pensacola – honked his horn at Dejoie. This resulted in an exchange of profanities and insults between occupants of both vehicles, which continued westbound on Cervantes Street, according to police reports. Dejoie is accused of pointing a handgun at Johnson and a 15-year-old male passenger in his vehicle on East Cervantes Street and the Bayou Texar Bridge.
The victims told police they turned north on 19th Avenue to escape, and called 911 to report the incident. Dejoie also called 911 at about the same time.
Deputy Dejoie is currently on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the case, according to Roy.
Ex-Sheriff Charlie Morris Sentenced to 6 Years
A former head of the Florida Sheriffs’ Association has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison in a money laundering and corruption case.
Ex-sheriff Charlie Morris apologized to his north Florida county and former employees before he was sentenced Tuesday to 71 months. The sentence was near the maximum allowed. U.S. District Judge Lacey Collier told Morris he had abused his office and betrayed the public’s trust.
FBI agents arrested Morris in February in Las Vegas. He had $30,000 cash in a hotel safe and $5,000 in his pockets at the time.
The government traced the money back to a scheme in which Morris and Adams deposited bonus checks in employees’ accounts and asked the workers to return a portion of the money in cash.
Ex-sheriff Charlie Morris apologized to his north Florida county and former employees before he was sentenced Tuesday to 71 months. The sentence was near the maximum allowed. U.S. District Judge Lacey Collier told Morris he had abused his office and betrayed the public’s trust.
FBI agents arrested Morris in February in Las Vegas. He had $30,000 cash in a hotel safe and $5,000 in his pockets at the time.
The government traced the money back to a scheme in which Morris and Adams deposited bonus checks in employees’ accounts and asked the workers to return a portion of the money in cash.
Byron Shane Burkhart Indicted for Indecency with Child
A 41-year-old former Seguin Police Department officer has been indicted on charges of indecency with a child.
District Attorney Heather Hollub said grand jurors handed up a three-count indictment of Byron Shane Burkhart for the alleged indecency with a child under age 17 by sexual contact.
If proved at trial, the allegation is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Since Burkhart has no prior criminal offenses, he could also get probation.
“It’s always troubling when those we entrust with protecting us commit criminal offenses,” Hollub said. “My office will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
The Seguin Police Department brought the allegations against Burkhart forward after being informed by school officials and members of an outside law enforcement agency of an alleged inappropriate relationship between Burkhart and the girl believed to have taken place back in February.
Police officials asked for independent investigations by the Texas Rangers and by Hollub’s investigator, Frank Allenger. Burkhart is one of two Seguin police officers who came under a cloud of sexual suspicion last spring in separate, unrelated incidents. He resigned his position in late May.
The second officer, who quit his job in June after being placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into an allegation involving an adult woman, has not been charged with a criminal offense.
Kelso informed Burkhart of the allegations in a May 29 letter telling the officer he was contemplating firing him. That letter was released by the city of Seguin in response to a request filed by the Seguin Gazette Enterprise under the Texas Public Information Act.
“I am considering termination of your employment for conduct unbecoming an officer of the Seguin Police Department,” Kelso wrote. “Specifically, it is alleged by two local educators that you have engaged in an improper relationship with a minor child and that you are responsible for inappropriate communications (text messages) with that child.”
Kelso informed Burkhart of his expected behavior as a city employee.
“You are a public servant and as such, you are held to the highest standard of ethical conduct,” Kelso said. “Consistent with that level of public trust, the behavior alleged certainly would not be considered to be in the best interest of the City of Seguin and therefore would subject you to discipline up to and including termination.”
The indicted charges suggest there was more involved in the relationship than texts or e-mails.
Under section 21.11 of the Texas Penal Code, Indecency with a child by sexual contact is defined as, “ ... any touching by a person, including touching through clothing, of the anus, breast or any part of the genitals of a child ... .”
Kelso and city officials declined to discuss the allegations against Burkhart on Monday.
The important thing, Kelso said, is that the community not regard allegations against one officer as a reflection on the behavior of the rest of the 65 members of the SPD. As soon as the allegations were made, they were investigated at the behest of the police department, with its cooperation, Kelso said.
“We’ve been proactive in this situation. Any time an allegation is made against any police officer it will be investigated and action will be taken that is appropriate to the outcome of that investigation. The department should be judged by the way the allegation or incident is handled as opposed to the improprieties of an employee. It is difficult to monitor every moment of each officer both on and off duty, but we expect them to abide by the rules governing their employment.”
Burkhart was an eight-year veteran of the SPD. No pre-trial hearing dates had been set Monday.
The Seguin Police Department has cooperated openly and completely in the investigations, Hollub said.
District Attorney Heather Hollub said grand jurors handed up a three-count indictment of Byron Shane Burkhart for the alleged indecency with a child under age 17 by sexual contact.
If proved at trial, the allegation is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Since Burkhart has no prior criminal offenses, he could also get probation.
“It’s always troubling when those we entrust with protecting us commit criminal offenses,” Hollub said. “My office will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
The Seguin Police Department brought the allegations against Burkhart forward after being informed by school officials and members of an outside law enforcement agency of an alleged inappropriate relationship between Burkhart and the girl believed to have taken place back in February.
Police officials asked for independent investigations by the Texas Rangers and by Hollub’s investigator, Frank Allenger. Burkhart is one of two Seguin police officers who came under a cloud of sexual suspicion last spring in separate, unrelated incidents. He resigned his position in late May.
The second officer, who quit his job in June after being placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into an allegation involving an adult woman, has not been charged with a criminal offense.
Kelso informed Burkhart of the allegations in a May 29 letter telling the officer he was contemplating firing him. That letter was released by the city of Seguin in response to a request filed by the Seguin Gazette Enterprise under the Texas Public Information Act.
“I am considering termination of your employment for conduct unbecoming an officer of the Seguin Police Department,” Kelso wrote. “Specifically, it is alleged by two local educators that you have engaged in an improper relationship with a minor child and that you are responsible for inappropriate communications (text messages) with that child.”
Kelso informed Burkhart of his expected behavior as a city employee.
“You are a public servant and as such, you are held to the highest standard of ethical conduct,” Kelso said. “Consistent with that level of public trust, the behavior alleged certainly would not be considered to be in the best interest of the City of Seguin and therefore would subject you to discipline up to and including termination.”
The indicted charges suggest there was more involved in the relationship than texts or e-mails.
Under section 21.11 of the Texas Penal Code, Indecency with a child by sexual contact is defined as, “ ... any touching by a person, including touching through clothing, of the anus, breast or any part of the genitals of a child ... .”
Kelso and city officials declined to discuss the allegations against Burkhart on Monday.
The important thing, Kelso said, is that the community not regard allegations against one officer as a reflection on the behavior of the rest of the 65 members of the SPD. As soon as the allegations were made, they were investigated at the behest of the police department, with its cooperation, Kelso said.
“We’ve been proactive in this situation. Any time an allegation is made against any police officer it will be investigated and action will be taken that is appropriate to the outcome of that investigation. The department should be judged by the way the allegation or incident is handled as opposed to the improprieties of an employee. It is difficult to monitor every moment of each officer both on and off duty, but we expect them to abide by the rules governing their employment.”
Burkhart was an eight-year veteran of the SPD. No pre-trial hearing dates had been set Monday.
The Seguin Police Department has cooperated openly and completely in the investigations, Hollub said.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Anthony Votta Arrested for Beating Pregnant Wife
A Marion County corrections officer was arrested Sunday on suspicion of beating his pregnant wife.
Anthony Votta, 31, was arrested at about 3 p.m. at his Marion County home on a charge of felony battery on a pregnant person.
Deputies said Votta admitted he battered his wife, who is four months pregnant, during an argument.
Votta's wife was not injured, and Votta has been placed on unpaid leave while an investigation is conducted into the allegations.
Votta has been with the Marion County Sheriff's Office since 2003.
Anthony Votta, 31, was arrested at about 3 p.m. at his Marion County home on a charge of felony battery on a pregnant person.
Deputies said Votta admitted he battered his wife, who is four months pregnant, during an argument.
Votta's wife was not injured, and Votta has been placed on unpaid leave while an investigation is conducted into the allegations.
Votta has been with the Marion County Sheriff's Office since 2003.
Dominic Boulter Accused of Soliciting Minor
A Canadian citizen employed with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office detention center has been accused of using the Internet to solicit minors for sex.
Dominic Boulter, 51, a six-year veteran of the sheriff's office, has been using the Web since January to seek out and chat with minors ages 13 to 17, investigators said in a Maricopa County court document.
Two girls admitted to chatting with Boulter and sending him naked pictures of themselves, which investigators found on his computer. In all, investigators have identified eight girls in different states across the country who communicated with Boulter.
Boulter, a married resident of Sun City, sent naked photos of himself as well as pornographic pictures and videos to the girls, investigators said.
Boulter told the girls he was 15, but also gave them the ages 27 and 32. He identified himself to the girls as a police officer.
Boulter in an initial interview with investigators admitted to sending harmful images to a minor and encouraging her to masturbate while they were chatting via text messages and using a web camera. He also admitted in the interview that he knew she was a minor.
It's behavior Boulter's Sun City neighbors said was way out of character.
"I'm shocked because we've talked a few times and he's always been very productive of everyone," said neighbor
Boulter did not make additional statements when investigators confronted him with evidence of communication with other girls, investigators said.
Charges against Boulter include four counts of obscene material and transmitting it to a minor; two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of unlawful age representation.
Boulter has been a detention officer with MCSO since May 2003.
He was being held on a $20,000 bond.
Dominic Boulter, 51, a six-year veteran of the sheriff's office, has been using the Web since January to seek out and chat with minors ages 13 to 17, investigators said in a Maricopa County court document.
Two girls admitted to chatting with Boulter and sending him naked pictures of themselves, which investigators found on his computer. In all, investigators have identified eight girls in different states across the country who communicated with Boulter.
Boulter, a married resident of Sun City, sent naked photos of himself as well as pornographic pictures and videos to the girls, investigators said.
Boulter told the girls he was 15, but also gave them the ages 27 and 32. He identified himself to the girls as a police officer.
Boulter in an initial interview with investigators admitted to sending harmful images to a minor and encouraging her to masturbate while they were chatting via text messages and using a web camera. He also admitted in the interview that he knew she was a minor.
It's behavior Boulter's Sun City neighbors said was way out of character.
"I'm shocked because we've talked a few times and he's always been very productive of everyone," said neighbor
Boulter did not make additional statements when investigators confronted him with evidence of communication with other girls, investigators said.
Charges against Boulter include four counts of obscene material and transmitting it to a minor; two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of unlawful age representation.
Boulter has been a detention officer with MCSO since May 2003.
He was being held on a $20,000 bond.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Officer Donald L Silcott Arrested for Sexual Battery on Minor
A veteran Jacksonville Sheriffs Officer has been arrested on charges of sexual battery and lewd and lascivious battery on a juvenile.
Sheriff John Rutherford's office announced the arrest of 47 year-old Donald L. Silcott. He was arrested at his Orange Park home.
The alleged victim is a female who was known to Silcott, but police are not elaborating on their relationship
Silcott is a 19 year veteran of the JSO, working as an evidence technician.
Silcott is being held in the Duval County Jail.
Any time an allegation or suspicion of criminal activity involving a JSO employee ccurs, the Integrity Unit investigates. They brought in our Sex Crimes Unit, and upon investigation (and working with the State Attorney's Office) determined that charges would be filed and an arrest made," said Sheriff John Rutherford.
Silcott's status with the JSO was not clear.
_________________________
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/crime/2009-08-08/story/jacksonville_officer_charged_with_sexual_battery_on_minor
Sheriff John Rutherford's office announced the arrest of 47 year-old Donald L. Silcott. He was arrested at his Orange Park home.
The alleged victim is a female who was known to Silcott, but police are not elaborating on their relationship
Silcott is a 19 year veteran of the JSO, working as an evidence technician.
Silcott is being held in the Duval County Jail.
Any time an allegation or suspicion of criminal activity involving a JSO employee ccurs, the Integrity Unit investigates. They brought in our Sex Crimes Unit, and upon investigation (and working with the State Attorney's Office) determined that charges would be filed and an arrest made," said Sheriff John Rutherford.
Silcott's status with the JSO was not clear.
_________________________
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/crime/2009-08-08/story/jacksonville_officer_charged_with_sexual_battery_on_minor
Deputy Rich Lohbauer Arrested for Buying Prescription Narcotics
A Marion County Sheriff's deputy has been arrested for allegedly buying prescription narcotics.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement began investigating deputy Rich Lohbauer in May after the sheriff's office received a tip he may be buying pills.
On Friday, FDLE officers allegedly saw Lohbauer approach a woman's car and make an exchange. After being stopped, Lohbauer allegedly admitted buying 16 oxycodone pills for $100.
Chief of Staff Tim Wilder says Lohbauer was a good employee, and the arrest shocked him.
It was the second time in just over a week a Marion County deputy ended up in trouble. Earlier, Darius Harper was arrested for allegedly soliciting a prostitute.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement began investigating deputy Rich Lohbauer in May after the sheriff's office received a tip he may be buying pills.
On Friday, FDLE officers allegedly saw Lohbauer approach a woman's car and make an exchange. After being stopped, Lohbauer allegedly admitted buying 16 oxycodone pills for $100.
Chief of Staff Tim Wilder says Lohbauer was a good employee, and the arrest shocked him.
It was the second time in just over a week a Marion County deputy ended up in trouble. Earlier, Darius Harper was arrested for allegedly soliciting a prostitute.
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