A police officer's 3-year-old son shot his cousin of the same age to death in what the county sheriff is calling a "tragic accident."
The New Year's Eve shooting happened in Rayville, in northeastern Louisiana.
The 3-year-old victim was the officer's niece. He had gone to visit another off-duty officer, according to thenewsstar.com.
Sheriff Charles McDonald says the two children were playing in the front yard.
The police officer reached inside his vehicle to get something and turned away, the paper said.
While his back was turned, the little boy reached inside the driver's side door and grabbed the officer's sidearm, pulling the trigger.
The bullet accidentally struck the girl, killing her instantly.
The names of the officers and children involved were not released.
Friday, January 01, 2010
Officer Kevin McCann Charged with Abusing Children with Taser-Like Weapon
A part-time police officer has reportedly been charged for allegedly abusing his girlfriend's young children with a Taser-like weapon.
Kevin McCann, 47, of Lawrence Township, Ohio, has been charged with two counts of felonious assault and two counts of felony child endangering. McCann allegedly used a Taser-like weapon this on Christina Robinson's 3-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son, the Canton Repository reports.
Authorities do not believe McCann shocked the children and they do not believe the weapon he allegedly used in this incident was given to him as part of his official duties, according to the newspaper.
Robinson, 22, also of Lawrence Township, is charged with four counts of felony child endangering.
Both suspects were arraigned Wednesday and denied all charges. They remain in the Stark County Jail with bond set at $500,000.
The two children in question and a younger sibling have been placed with a relative with supervision provided by the Stark County Department of Job and Family Services, the newspaper reports.
Kevin McCann, 47, of Lawrence Township, Ohio, has been charged with two counts of felonious assault and two counts of felony child endangering. McCann allegedly used a Taser-like weapon this on Christina Robinson's 3-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son, the Canton Repository reports.
Authorities do not believe McCann shocked the children and they do not believe the weapon he allegedly used in this incident was given to him as part of his official duties, according to the newspaper.
Robinson, 22, also of Lawrence Township, is charged with four counts of felony child endangering.
Both suspects were arraigned Wednesday and denied all charges. They remain in the Stark County Jail with bond set at $500,000.
The two children in question and a younger sibling have been placed with a relative with supervision provided by the Stark County Department of Job and Family Services, the newspaper reports.
Former Officer Jared Rohrig Faces New Charge of Illegally Hunting Deer
The ex-Orange police officer accused of posing as his identical twin to lure a woman to his bedroom and then raping her after she realized she was with the wrong man now also faces a charge that he was illegally hunting deer.
During Jared S. Rohrig’s brief court appearance Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Eddie Rodriguez Jr. said he would preside over pretrial proceedings involving the misdemeanor charge of violating deer hunting regulations, and the felony charges of first-degree sexual assault and criminal impersonation.
Rohrig, 25, of 7 Flax Mill Lane, was arrested Oct. 17 after a Department of Environmental Protection conservation officer came upon Rohrig perched in a tree stand with a hunting bow, but no hunting license, said DEP spokesman Dennis Schain.
Rohrig was allegedly hunting on Beard Sand and Gravel Co. property. It was deer hunting season, but failure to have a hunting license carries a $200 to $400 fine and up to 60 days in prison.
Rohrig was free on $50,000 bail from his August sexual assault arrest when he was arrested in connection with the hunting incident.
Rohrig is accused of pretending to be his twin brother, Joseph, to have sex with a woman who came to the Flax Mill Lane home to see Joseph in July. In statements to police, the alleged victim said after she realized she was with the wrong Rohrig, she was forced back onto the bed, and Jared Rohrig continued the sexual encounter against her will.
Jared Rohrig has pleaded innocent to charges stemming from the alleged sexual assault, but has yet to enter a plea to the illegal hunting charge.
Bridgeport defense attorney Ed Gavin said he received Tuesday a computer disc from State’s Attorney Kevin D. Lawlor containing information about the alleged sexual assault. The case was continued to Feb. 23 to give both sides time to review the evidence in the case.
“Hopefully, we’ll be able to have substantive discussions before the next court date,” Rodriguez said.
Four motions Gavin previously filed, including a motion to dismiss the case, were not heard or ruled on Tuesday.
“It was only a status conference,” Gavin said outside the courtroom.
Gavin said the motions to dismiss the charges, suppress certain evidence, have other evidence preserved and to be notified of any misconduct that Rohrig will not be charged with, but may still be used at trial, are routine and filed in almost every criminal case. A hearing date for those motions has not been set.
During Jared S. Rohrig’s brief court appearance Tuesday, Superior Court Judge Eddie Rodriguez Jr. said he would preside over pretrial proceedings involving the misdemeanor charge of violating deer hunting regulations, and the felony charges of first-degree sexual assault and criminal impersonation.
Rohrig, 25, of 7 Flax Mill Lane, was arrested Oct. 17 after a Department of Environmental Protection conservation officer came upon Rohrig perched in a tree stand with a hunting bow, but no hunting license, said DEP spokesman Dennis Schain.
Rohrig was allegedly hunting on Beard Sand and Gravel Co. property. It was deer hunting season, but failure to have a hunting license carries a $200 to $400 fine and up to 60 days in prison.
Rohrig was free on $50,000 bail from his August sexual assault arrest when he was arrested in connection with the hunting incident.
Rohrig is accused of pretending to be his twin brother, Joseph, to have sex with a woman who came to the Flax Mill Lane home to see Joseph in July. In statements to police, the alleged victim said after she realized she was with the wrong Rohrig, she was forced back onto the bed, and Jared Rohrig continued the sexual encounter against her will.
Jared Rohrig has pleaded innocent to charges stemming from the alleged sexual assault, but has yet to enter a plea to the illegal hunting charge.
Bridgeport defense attorney Ed Gavin said he received Tuesday a computer disc from State’s Attorney Kevin D. Lawlor containing information about the alleged sexual assault. The case was continued to Feb. 23 to give both sides time to review the evidence in the case.
“Hopefully, we’ll be able to have substantive discussions before the next court date,” Rodriguez said.
Four motions Gavin previously filed, including a motion to dismiss the case, were not heard or ruled on Tuesday.
“It was only a status conference,” Gavin said outside the courtroom.
Gavin said the motions to dismiss the charges, suppress certain evidence, have other evidence preserved and to be notified of any misconduct that Rohrig will not be charged with, but may still be used at trial, are routine and filed in almost every criminal case. A hearing date for those motions has not been set.
Officers Getting Rich on DUI Scheme
Drunk driving is a real problem, with real victims. We assume that the police officers driving the streets of our city are out to protect us. We hope that each drunk driving charge -- each arrest -- is one less dangerous driver for us to worry about.
But what if the police officer is the real danger? What if drunk drivers are not the ones being charged? What if we're all simply open game in a get-rich-quick scheme?
We would be furious and, in Chicago, many citizens are.
When a police officer writes a DUI ticket, he faces the possibility of being called to testify in court if the charge is challenged. By appearing in court, the officer is able to claim overtime pay. If a crooked cop is charging innocent drivers, who will most likely contest the charge, you can imagine that he or she would be bringing in a lot of overtime pay.
Recent public outrage has been focused on Officer Richard Fiorito, a Chicago cop accused of, not only padding his DUI arrests, but of targeting gay and lesbian drivers.
A quick search online turns up multiple videos of Fiorito, recorded on his dashboard camera. Onscreen, the alleged drunk drivers complete every task he gives them, but are eventually taken into custody anyway, confused and scared.
As of late November, Officer Fiorito was still on the city payroll, despite a pile of evidence showing his misconduct and a growing number of lawsuits. Many wonder just exactly what it will take to make city officials take definitive action.
Officer Fiorito isn't the first Chicago officer accused of filing false and misleading DUI charges against innocent drivers. Earlier this year, Officer Joe Parker was accused of the same thing and, in 2008, another Chicago cop, John Haleas, was brought to trial over alleged indiscretions.
In Officer Haleas' case, a Cook County judge dismissed the indictment against him in early November -- hardly the justice his victims were hoping for.
Not only were these three officers engaging in extremely suspect actions, they were commended for it. Fiorito was personally honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his number of DUI arrests, and Parker had been widely acclaimed by DUI enforcers throughout Illinois. Haleas was about to be honored by the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists when allegations against him began to roll in.
The idea that someone would willfully abuse a system meant to protect innocent people in order to make money is extremely troubling.
While one will hope that such instances are isolated and that a few bad apples don't reflect on the entire system, who can say? One can imagine that, in the future, high-performing DUI officers will be watched more closely -- or so we can hope.
If you have been falsely accused of a DUI offense, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney with extensive DUI experience.
Article provided by Michael T. Norris, Ltd. and John W. Callahan, Ltd.
Visit them at www.chicagocriminallaw.com
But what if the police officer is the real danger? What if drunk drivers are not the ones being charged? What if we're all simply open game in a get-rich-quick scheme?
We would be furious and, in Chicago, many citizens are.
When a police officer writes a DUI ticket, he faces the possibility of being called to testify in court if the charge is challenged. By appearing in court, the officer is able to claim overtime pay. If a crooked cop is charging innocent drivers, who will most likely contest the charge, you can imagine that he or she would be bringing in a lot of overtime pay.
Recent public outrage has been focused on Officer Richard Fiorito, a Chicago cop accused of, not only padding his DUI arrests, but of targeting gay and lesbian drivers.
A quick search online turns up multiple videos of Fiorito, recorded on his dashboard camera. Onscreen, the alleged drunk drivers complete every task he gives them, but are eventually taken into custody anyway, confused and scared.
As of late November, Officer Fiorito was still on the city payroll, despite a pile of evidence showing his misconduct and a growing number of lawsuits. Many wonder just exactly what it will take to make city officials take definitive action.
Officer Fiorito isn't the first Chicago officer accused of filing false and misleading DUI charges against innocent drivers. Earlier this year, Officer Joe Parker was accused of the same thing and, in 2008, another Chicago cop, John Haleas, was brought to trial over alleged indiscretions.
In Officer Haleas' case, a Cook County judge dismissed the indictment against him in early November -- hardly the justice his victims were hoping for.
Not only were these three officers engaging in extremely suspect actions, they were commended for it. Fiorito was personally honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his number of DUI arrests, and Parker had been widely acclaimed by DUI enforcers throughout Illinois. Haleas was about to be honored by the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists when allegations against him began to roll in.
The idea that someone would willfully abuse a system meant to protect innocent people in order to make money is extremely troubling.
While one will hope that such instances are isolated and that a few bad apples don't reflect on the entire system, who can say? One can imagine that, in the future, high-performing DUI officers will be watched more closely -- or so we can hope.
If you have been falsely accused of a DUI offense, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney with extensive DUI experience.
Article provided by Michael T. Norris, Ltd. and John W. Callahan, Ltd.
Visit them at www.chicagocriminallaw.com
Const Kevin Gregson Charged with Killing Officer
An RCMP officer accused in the stabbing death of an Ottawa police officer was allegedly dressed like a detective, wearing a Kevlar vest, a holster and carrying a pellet gun, sources tell CTV Ottawa.
Const. Kevin Gregson, 43, is under suicide watch following a court appearance where he faced first-degree murder charges in connection with the death.
He held his head low during the appearance on Wednesday morning, and is remanded in protective custody until Jan. 7.
Gregson is charged with first-degree murder, robbery and using an imitation firearm.
The robbery charge is in relation to a vehicle that was found parked at the Civic Campus of the Ottawa Hospital, where Const. Eric Czapnik, 51, was killed.
Judge Richard Sculthorpe granted a Crown request to put Gregson under suicide watch on Wednesday morning.
However, defence lawyer Israel Gencher said the move is precautionary.
"It's a precaution that the police are seeking. Something during the course of their interviews have caused them to have concerns; and in an abundance of caution, they've requested it from the court," said Gencher.
He said he could not comment on the state of his client's mind. However, he is considering asking for a psychiatric assessment for his client.
He also said it's common for police officers to be granted protective custody regardless of the situation because police have been known to be in danger when they are put behind bars.
Family shaken by charges
Gregson's parents, who were visibly shaken and upset, sat in the courtroom as their son appeared before the judge. They asked not to be questioned by the media.
"His parents are understandable quite upset. They are asking to please honour their privacy," said Gencher.
"They're elderly. This has rocked their world and they're really not in a position to give a statement at this time."
He said his next step is to take the case to a superior court judge to ask for bail for his client.
Suspect's past
Gregson -- who has two daughters and is originally from Ottawa -- worked for the RCMP in Saskatchewan. He was suspended with pay in 2006. However, he was recently suspended without pay.
Gencher could not say how long his client has been residing in Ottawa, or where he was living.
In 2006, Gregson was arrested for pulling a knife on a Mormon church official in Regina.
He received a conditional discharge after explaining to the court that he had recently undergone brain surgery for cysts on his brain.
Following the incident, a formal RCMP board reviewed the case in 2008 and ordered Gregson to either resign or be dismissed.
Gregson appealed the decision, which is currently being reviewed by an external review committee.
Murder charges
The charges were laid Tuesday night, more than 15 hours after Czapnik was killed.
Police say Czapnik was sitting in his cruiser outside the emergency room of the Ottawa Hospital taking notes on an unrelated case when he was attacked by a male suspect at about 4:30 a.m.
RCMP Commissioner William Elliott said late Tuesday that he was "shocked" to learn the suspect charged in the case was a member of the RCMP.
Love for others
Czapnik was a Polish immigrant who moved to Canada in 1990. He was a proud father of three sons and one daughter.
He joined the Ottawa police force late in life, after deciding to follow in his father's footsteps in 2007.
Those who knew Czapnik say it was his love for people and his determination that brought him to the ranks of the Ottawa police.
"His dream was to be a police officer," said friend Roger Furmanczyk, who sits on the parish council of the St-Hyacinth Polish Church, where Czapnik was a parishioner.
Others remembered him as a man who always had a smile on his face, and left a powerful impression on everyone he met.
"He will be missed certainly by everybody -- by his family, our community and the entire Ottawa community. It's a loss for all of us," said Wlodek Ciepala, who played soccer with Czapnik.
A memorial will be held at the St-Hyacinth Polish Church at 201 LeBreton St. N. on Monday.
Outpouring of support
People streamed in and out of Ottawa police headquarters on Wednesday to sign a book of condolences for the slain officer.
Many wiped away tears and tried to muffle sniffles as they wrote messages of support. The book at 474 Elgin St. is available to sign 24 hours a day.
Other books of condolences are also available at police stations across the city from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Those locations include:
* 4561 Bank St.,
* 211 Huntmar Dr.,
* 3343 St. Joseph Blvd.,
* and 245 Greenbank Rd.
Those who can't make it to the police station are invited to send email messages to info@ottawapolice.ca.
His funeral will be held at Lansdowne Park on Thursday, Jan. 7 at 1:30 p.m. Visitations will be at Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., on Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Donations to a trust fund for the children can be made at the Ottawa Police Credit Union at 274 Elgin Street.
Const. Kevin Gregson, 43, is under suicide watch following a court appearance where he faced first-degree murder charges in connection with the death.
He held his head low during the appearance on Wednesday morning, and is remanded in protective custody until Jan. 7.
Gregson is charged with first-degree murder, robbery and using an imitation firearm.
The robbery charge is in relation to a vehicle that was found parked at the Civic Campus of the Ottawa Hospital, where Const. Eric Czapnik, 51, was killed.
Judge Richard Sculthorpe granted a Crown request to put Gregson under suicide watch on Wednesday morning.
However, defence lawyer Israel Gencher said the move is precautionary.
"It's a precaution that the police are seeking. Something during the course of their interviews have caused them to have concerns; and in an abundance of caution, they've requested it from the court," said Gencher.
He said he could not comment on the state of his client's mind. However, he is considering asking for a psychiatric assessment for his client.
He also said it's common for police officers to be granted protective custody regardless of the situation because police have been known to be in danger when they are put behind bars.
Family shaken by charges
Gregson's parents, who were visibly shaken and upset, sat in the courtroom as their son appeared before the judge. They asked not to be questioned by the media.
"His parents are understandable quite upset. They are asking to please honour their privacy," said Gencher.
"They're elderly. This has rocked their world and they're really not in a position to give a statement at this time."
He said his next step is to take the case to a superior court judge to ask for bail for his client.
Suspect's past
Gregson -- who has two daughters and is originally from Ottawa -- worked for the RCMP in Saskatchewan. He was suspended with pay in 2006. However, he was recently suspended without pay.
Gencher could not say how long his client has been residing in Ottawa, or where he was living.
In 2006, Gregson was arrested for pulling a knife on a Mormon church official in Regina.
He received a conditional discharge after explaining to the court that he had recently undergone brain surgery for cysts on his brain.
Following the incident, a formal RCMP board reviewed the case in 2008 and ordered Gregson to either resign or be dismissed.
Gregson appealed the decision, which is currently being reviewed by an external review committee.
Murder charges
The charges were laid Tuesday night, more than 15 hours after Czapnik was killed.
Police say Czapnik was sitting in his cruiser outside the emergency room of the Ottawa Hospital taking notes on an unrelated case when he was attacked by a male suspect at about 4:30 a.m.
RCMP Commissioner William Elliott said late Tuesday that he was "shocked" to learn the suspect charged in the case was a member of the RCMP.
Love for others
Czapnik was a Polish immigrant who moved to Canada in 1990. He was a proud father of three sons and one daughter.
He joined the Ottawa police force late in life, after deciding to follow in his father's footsteps in 2007.
Those who knew Czapnik say it was his love for people and his determination that brought him to the ranks of the Ottawa police.
"His dream was to be a police officer," said friend Roger Furmanczyk, who sits on the parish council of the St-Hyacinth Polish Church, where Czapnik was a parishioner.
Others remembered him as a man who always had a smile on his face, and left a powerful impression on everyone he met.
"He will be missed certainly by everybody -- by his family, our community and the entire Ottawa community. It's a loss for all of us," said Wlodek Ciepala, who played soccer with Czapnik.
A memorial will be held at the St-Hyacinth Polish Church at 201 LeBreton St. N. on Monday.
Outpouring of support
People streamed in and out of Ottawa police headquarters on Wednesday to sign a book of condolences for the slain officer.
Many wiped away tears and tried to muffle sniffles as they wrote messages of support. The book at 474 Elgin St. is available to sign 24 hours a day.
Other books of condolences are also available at police stations across the city from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Those locations include:
* 4561 Bank St.,
* 211 Huntmar Dr.,
* 3343 St. Joseph Blvd.,
* and 245 Greenbank Rd.
Those who can't make it to the police station are invited to send email messages to info@ottawapolice.ca.
His funeral will be held at Lansdowne Park on Thursday, Jan. 7 at 1:30 p.m. Visitations will be at Beechwood Cemetery, 280 Beechwood Ave., on Tuesday and Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Donations to a trust fund for the children can be made at the Ottawa Police Credit Union at 274 Elgin Street.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Connecticut Man Dies After Being Tasered
Authorities say a man has died of unknown causes after struggling with Stamford police officers who were called to a city home to detain him.
The man, whose name was not released, was pronounced dead at Stamford Hospital after the incident Wednesday morning.
Connecticut State Police say Stamford officers were called to a Lafayette Street home on a report that the man was agitated and aggressive, and that officers had to use pepper spray and a Taser to subdue him.
They say he went into "medical distress" after being handcuffed, and was treated at the scene until an ambulance arrived to take him to the hospital.
State police officers are investigating the incident.
The man, whose name was not released, was pronounced dead at Stamford Hospital after the incident Wednesday morning.
Connecticut State Police say Stamford officers were called to a Lafayette Street home on a report that the man was agitated and aggressive, and that officers had to use pepper spray and a Taser to subdue him.
They say he went into "medical distress" after being handcuffed, and was treated at the scene until an ambulance arrived to take him to the hospital.
State police officers are investigating the incident.
Deputy Brian Weber Arrested for Domestic Violence
A Washoe County Sheriff’s Deputy has been arrested, accused of domestic battery. Brian Weber was booked into the jail Wednesday night.
There are not a lot of details regarding his arrest. The Sheriff’s department tells us that Weber has been with the department for the fast five years and was assigned to patrol.
Weber has been reassigned to other duties while the Reno Police Department investigates the allegations against him.
There are not a lot of details regarding his arrest. The Sheriff’s department tells us that Weber has been with the department for the fast five years and was assigned to patrol.
Weber has been reassigned to other duties while the Reno Police Department investigates the allegations against him.
Former Chief Knew Officer Michael Mabe was Accused of Touching Child
The Walnut Cove Police Department allegedly knew of allegations against an officer that he was accused of inappropriately touching a child, according to officials with the Stokes County Sheriff's Office.
Investigators say Michael Mabe, a former Walnut Cove police officer, was arrested in mid-December and charged with 15 counts of indecent liberties with a child. According to officials, the alleged incidents took place more than 20 years ago.
Mabe worked as a part-time deputy for the Stokes County Sheriff's office until the mid-1990's. Officials say he left the Stokes County department when allegations of his alleged contact with a child surfaced in the mid-1990's. Mabe left the department and began working in Walnut Cove.
According to Stokes County Sheriff's officials, former Walnut Cove Police Chief Barry Conaway was aware of the allegations against Mabe while he was employed with the department. Capt. Craig Carico with the Stokes County Sheriff's Office said their records indicate Stokes County Deputies were sent to Walnut Cove to inform and discuss the allegations against Mabe.
"The Walnut Cove Police Department was notified at the time the allegations were made available to us," said capt. Carico.
Former Walnut Cove Police Chief Barry Conaway served as chief in the mid-1990's but is no longer with the department.
"I've had a lot of people concerned with the fact that it was known about and nothing done about it. I had a lot of people ask, why... and I can't tell them why...because I wasn't here," said James Hill, the current Police Chief for the Walnut Cove Police Department. "I feel like that should have happened... I feel like it should have been taken care of."
Hill, the current Walnut Cove Police Chief, said Mabe was a good officer. "He was a good person. I never had any problems with him whatsoever," said Hill.
Stokes County officials said Michael Mabe's wife works in the Child Support division in the Department of Social Services where the allegations were initially filed.
Mabe resigned from his position in the police department the day he was arrest, Walnut Cove Town Manager Homer Dearmin said.
Mabe is currently out on bond. His court date is set for January 20.
Investigators say Michael Mabe, a former Walnut Cove police officer, was arrested in mid-December and charged with 15 counts of indecent liberties with a child. According to officials, the alleged incidents took place more than 20 years ago.
Mabe worked as a part-time deputy for the Stokes County Sheriff's office until the mid-1990's. Officials say he left the Stokes County department when allegations of his alleged contact with a child surfaced in the mid-1990's. Mabe left the department and began working in Walnut Cove.
According to Stokes County Sheriff's officials, former Walnut Cove Police Chief Barry Conaway was aware of the allegations against Mabe while he was employed with the department. Capt. Craig Carico with the Stokes County Sheriff's Office said their records indicate Stokes County Deputies were sent to Walnut Cove to inform and discuss the allegations against Mabe.
"The Walnut Cove Police Department was notified at the time the allegations were made available to us," said capt. Carico.
Former Walnut Cove Police Chief Barry Conaway served as chief in the mid-1990's but is no longer with the department.
"I've had a lot of people concerned with the fact that it was known about and nothing done about it. I had a lot of people ask, why... and I can't tell them why...because I wasn't here," said James Hill, the current Police Chief for the Walnut Cove Police Department. "I feel like that should have happened... I feel like it should have been taken care of."
Hill, the current Walnut Cove Police Chief, said Mabe was a good officer. "He was a good person. I never had any problems with him whatsoever," said Hill.
Stokes County officials said Michael Mabe's wife works in the Child Support division in the Department of Social Services where the allegations were initially filed.
Mabe resigned from his position in the police department the day he was arrest, Walnut Cove Town Manager Homer Dearmin said.
Mabe is currently out on bond. His court date is set for January 20.
Deputy James Pruitt Arrested for Drunk Driving
Polk County deputies arrested one of their own this morning after finding the officer passed out behind the steering wheel of his Jeep.
Sheriff's Deputy James Pruitt was charged with driving under the influence, the Polk County Sheriff's Office said.
Deputies found Pruitt, 37, passed out at the steering wheel of his 1997 Jeep about 7 a.m. The engine was running when deputies found the vehicle at the entrance of the Pier Place subdivision, the sheriff's office said.
Pruitt was taken to the Polk County Jail after deputies gave him field sobriety tests. He refused to submit to a breath test, the sheriff's office said.
The department hired Pruitt in April 1994 and he was assigned to the Southeast Division patrol. He is suspended without pay until the department finishes an internal investigation, the sheriff's office said.
Sheriff's Deputy James Pruitt was charged with driving under the influence, the Polk County Sheriff's Office said.
Deputies found Pruitt, 37, passed out at the steering wheel of his 1997 Jeep about 7 a.m. The engine was running when deputies found the vehicle at the entrance of the Pier Place subdivision, the sheriff's office said.
Pruitt was taken to the Polk County Jail after deputies gave him field sobriety tests. He refused to submit to a breath test, the sheriff's office said.
The department hired Pruitt in April 1994 and he was assigned to the Southeast Division patrol. He is suspended without pay until the department finishes an internal investigation, the sheriff's office said.
Lt William Scott Richard Accused of Stalking
A University of Florida police officer accused of stalking a woman the past two years was charged with aggravated stalking and obstructing justice, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
UF Police Department Lt. William Scott Richard, 38, was arrested and booked into the Alachua County Jail. He posted $250,000 bond and was released late Wednesday on several conditions, including that Richard surrender all firearms to the Alachua County Sheriff's Office and he be placed on electronic monitoring.
The arrest affidavit accuses Richard of sexually battering and stalking a woman in the fall of 2007 and winter of 2008. The crimes went unreported at the time, but the stalking started again over the summer when the woman moved back to Gainesville, according to court documents.
In July 2009, Richard was placed on administrative leave and ordered him to not have any contact with the victim. Authorities report that Richard was seen driving back and forth by the victim's home in November and December. The affidavit said he was arrested after he made contact with the woman on Tuesday.
UF Police Department Lt. William Scott Richard, 38, was arrested and booked into the Alachua County Jail. He posted $250,000 bond and was released late Wednesday on several conditions, including that Richard surrender all firearms to the Alachua County Sheriff's Office and he be placed on electronic monitoring.
The arrest affidavit accuses Richard of sexually battering and stalking a woman in the fall of 2007 and winter of 2008. The crimes went unreported at the time, but the stalking started again over the summer when the woman moved back to Gainesville, according to court documents.
In July 2009, Richard was placed on administrative leave and ordered him to not have any contact with the victim. Authorities report that Richard was seen driving back and forth by the victim's home in November and December. The affidavit said he was arrested after he made contact with the woman on Tuesday.
Officer Eric Boughton Accused of Drunk Driving
A Shreveport police officer is on paid administrative leave as a result of being accused of drunken driving in DeSoto, according to a Police Department news release.
Eric Boughton, 29, of the 800 block of Francine Drive in Shreveport, was booked into DeSoto Detention Center about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday on one count of first-offense driving while intoxicated. He was released on $1,088 bond at 11:30 a.m.
About the same time, Police Chief Henry Whitehorn received a call from the DeSoto sheriff's office informing him of the officer's arrest. Boughton, who was hired in 2007, immediately was placed on leave pending an internal investigation.
Eric Boughton, 29, of the 800 block of Francine Drive in Shreveport, was booked into DeSoto Detention Center about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday on one count of first-offense driving while intoxicated. He was released on $1,088 bond at 11:30 a.m.
About the same time, Police Chief Henry Whitehorn received a call from the DeSoto sheriff's office informing him of the officer's arrest. Boughton, who was hired in 2007, immediately was placed on leave pending an internal investigation.
Officer Jeff Redcross Accused of Theft
A Florence police officer who was terminated Monday was issued a summons Thursday to appear in Florence Municipal Court on a charge of theft of lost property, officials said.
Jeff Redcross, 38, is being represented by Florence attorney Tim Case. Case said the summons is not a warrant and Redcross was not arrested.
"It just summons him to appear in court on the allegations," Case said.
Florence Police Chief Rick Singleton said Redcross' termination had nothing to do with the summons. He said Redcross has filed an appeal with the city's civil service board and is on paid administrative leave while the appeals process continues.
The chief said his recommendation to terminate Redcross' employment was a result of an administrative hearing and was based on a violation of departmental rules not a violation of the law.
"My decision had nothing to do with the summons or what's going on with the court," Singleton said. "We have rules and they are to be followed."
According to the summons, which was issued by the municipal magistrate's office, Redcross is to appear at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, in Florence City Court.
The charge of third-degree theft of lost property is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by a year in jail and a fine, if convicted.
A person with direct knowledge of the case said Tony Armstead is accusing Redcross of taking money that Armstead claims to have lost on the dance floor of a local nightclub.
According to an incident report filed at the Florence Police Department, the 38-year-old Florence man claimed $300 in $100 bills were taken from him at Side Pockets Billiards on Darby Drive between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Dec. 3-4. The report was filed Dec. 8.
Authorities said Redcross was off duty and was a customer at the business when the theft is supposed to have taken place.
"I've known Jeff Redcross for 17 years. He's enjoyed a good reputation as a UNA football standout, as a radio announcer and as a person in the community," said Case.
Case said this is the first time in his 17 years as a defense attorney that he has ever "defended or been confronted" with a charge like this.
"We look forward to defending this in court and based upon our initial investigations and interviewing the witnesses we have done so far, we feel like we should prevail and Jeff will and should be exonerated of these charges," Case said.
Case said he is also representing Redcross in the termination appeal process.
"We are anxious to present his case before the civil service board," Case said.
Redcross has been a member of the department for 17 years and has been a patrol sergeant for the past three years.
Jeff Redcross, 38, is being represented by Florence attorney Tim Case. Case said the summons is not a warrant and Redcross was not arrested.
"It just summons him to appear in court on the allegations," Case said.
Florence Police Chief Rick Singleton said Redcross' termination had nothing to do with the summons. He said Redcross has filed an appeal with the city's civil service board and is on paid administrative leave while the appeals process continues.
The chief said his recommendation to terminate Redcross' employment was a result of an administrative hearing and was based on a violation of departmental rules not a violation of the law.
"My decision had nothing to do with the summons or what's going on with the court," Singleton said. "We have rules and they are to be followed."
According to the summons, which was issued by the municipal magistrate's office, Redcross is to appear at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26, in Florence City Court.
The charge of third-degree theft of lost property is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by a year in jail and a fine, if convicted.
A person with direct knowledge of the case said Tony Armstead is accusing Redcross of taking money that Armstead claims to have lost on the dance floor of a local nightclub.
According to an incident report filed at the Florence Police Department, the 38-year-old Florence man claimed $300 in $100 bills were taken from him at Side Pockets Billiards on Darby Drive between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. Dec. 3-4. The report was filed Dec. 8.
Authorities said Redcross was off duty and was a customer at the business when the theft is supposed to have taken place.
"I've known Jeff Redcross for 17 years. He's enjoyed a good reputation as a UNA football standout, as a radio announcer and as a person in the community," said Case.
Case said this is the first time in his 17 years as a defense attorney that he has ever "defended or been confronted" with a charge like this.
"We look forward to defending this in court and based upon our initial investigations and interviewing the witnesses we have done so far, we feel like we should prevail and Jeff will and should be exonerated of these charges," Case said.
Case said he is also representing Redcross in the termination appeal process.
"We are anxious to present his case before the civil service board," Case said.
Redcross has been a member of the department for 17 years and has been a patrol sergeant for the past three years.
Four Officers Face Federal Charges for Trying to Cover up Beating Death
Four police officers who are facing federal charges are now officially off the force. The borough council in Shenandoah, Schuylkill County accepted the resignations of Chief Matthew Nestor and three of his fellow officers last night. Nestor and two others are accused of trying to cover up the beating death of illegal immigrant Luis Ramirez last summer.
Nestor and a fourth officer are charged with extortion and civil rights violations in a separate case. Now the police department has only three officers, so state police are stepping in to help patrol the town.
Nestor and a fourth officer are charged with extortion and civil rights violations in a separate case. Now the police department has only three officers, so state police are stepping in to help patrol the town.
Former Officer Marcus Tafoya Accused of Trying to Intimidate Witnesses
A former Fresno police officer on trial for accusations of using excessive force faces new allegations of witness tampering.
During a special hearing Thursday in Fresno County Superior Court called to investigate the allegations, prosecutor Blake Gunderson accused Marcus Tafoya of trying to intimidate witnesses.
A police officer called to testify at the hearing broke down on the stand and exercised his Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate himself. Judge John Vogt ordered a police cell phone be turned over to the District Attorney's Office before ending the surprising day in court. No jury was present.
Tafoya, 39, went on trial Nov. 17 on eight felony counts of excessive force at a welcome-home party for a soldier returning from Iraq in March 2005. Tafoya has pleaded not guilty. The trial is scheduled to resume Monday.
Gunderson alleges that Tafoya wanted a fellow police officer to appear in the courtroom audience when officer Steve Gonzales testified Dec. 17.
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Gonzales was back in court Thursday for the special hearing. He said that after he testified at Tafoya's trial, he returned to a police substation to go off duty.
Gonzales said while he was at the substation, Sgt. Cary Weigant pulled him aside and confided in him: Another officer, Sgt. Dave Madrigal, wanted Weigant to be in the courtroom during Tafoya's trial. Gonzales said he thought the purpose was to interfere with the trial.
"I had a nauseous feeling in my stomach," Gonzales said. "I didn't know if they were trying to intimidate by putting Weigant and Madrigal in the audience.
"I felt someone was trying to underhand the investigation."
Gonzales said he then contacted the District Attorney's Office.
Madrigal, who was subpoenaed to appear at Thursday's hearing, broke down in tears when Gunderson asked him whether he knew prosecutors had been trying to reach him since Dec. 18.
Superior Court Judge John Vogt called a recess to allow Madrigal to compose himself. When testimony resumed, Madrigal asserted his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, declining to answer Gunderson's questions. Vogt then excused him from the hearing.
Vogt ordered Madrigal's cell phone be turned over to the District Attorney's Office. Specifically, prosecutors want to examine calls and text messages between Madrigal and Tafoya and between Madrigal and Weigant. The cell phone was given to prosecutors Thursday.
Tafoya was fired from the Fresno Police Department in July 2007.
During his trial, jurors heard from partygoers who said Tafoya struck them with a police baton for no reason. Several police officers have given testimony that supported Tafoya, including Sgt. Michael Manfredi, who last week said that Tafoya made the right call to order another officer to shoot partygoers with bean bags.
Manfredi rebutted another officer who testified that he was shocked to hear Tafoya tell him to start shooting defenseless partygoers with bean bags. The officer refused to do it.
And earlier in the trial, a former Fresno police officer who now works for the Santa Maria Police Department testified that Tafoya slugged a partygoer for no apparent reason.
The city of Fresno agreed in 2006 to pay $1.6 million to settle an excessive-force case stemming from the party. Tafoya, Manfredi, the city of Fresno and Police Chief Jerry Dyer are defendants in a related civil-rights trial pending in Fresno federal court.
During a special hearing Thursday in Fresno County Superior Court called to investigate the allegations, prosecutor Blake Gunderson accused Marcus Tafoya of trying to intimidate witnesses.
A police officer called to testify at the hearing broke down on the stand and exercised his Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate himself. Judge John Vogt ordered a police cell phone be turned over to the District Attorney's Office before ending the surprising day in court. No jury was present.
Tafoya, 39, went on trial Nov. 17 on eight felony counts of excessive force at a welcome-home party for a soldier returning from Iraq in March 2005. Tafoya has pleaded not guilty. The trial is scheduled to resume Monday.
Gunderson alleges that Tafoya wanted a fellow police officer to appear in the courtroom audience when officer Steve Gonzales testified Dec. 17.
* External Link Crime and courts coverage
Gonzales was back in court Thursday for the special hearing. He said that after he testified at Tafoya's trial, he returned to a police substation to go off duty.
Gonzales said while he was at the substation, Sgt. Cary Weigant pulled him aside and confided in him: Another officer, Sgt. Dave Madrigal, wanted Weigant to be in the courtroom during Tafoya's trial. Gonzales said he thought the purpose was to interfere with the trial.
"I had a nauseous feeling in my stomach," Gonzales said. "I didn't know if they were trying to intimidate by putting Weigant and Madrigal in the audience.
"I felt someone was trying to underhand the investigation."
Gonzales said he then contacted the District Attorney's Office.
Madrigal, who was subpoenaed to appear at Thursday's hearing, broke down in tears when Gunderson asked him whether he knew prosecutors had been trying to reach him since Dec. 18.
Superior Court Judge John Vogt called a recess to allow Madrigal to compose himself. When testimony resumed, Madrigal asserted his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, declining to answer Gunderson's questions. Vogt then excused him from the hearing.
Vogt ordered Madrigal's cell phone be turned over to the District Attorney's Office. Specifically, prosecutors want to examine calls and text messages between Madrigal and Tafoya and between Madrigal and Weigant. The cell phone was given to prosecutors Thursday.
Tafoya was fired from the Fresno Police Department in July 2007.
During his trial, jurors heard from partygoers who said Tafoya struck them with a police baton for no reason. Several police officers have given testimony that supported Tafoya, including Sgt. Michael Manfredi, who last week said that Tafoya made the right call to order another officer to shoot partygoers with bean bags.
Manfredi rebutted another officer who testified that he was shocked to hear Tafoya tell him to start shooting defenseless partygoers with bean bags. The officer refused to do it.
And earlier in the trial, a former Fresno police officer who now works for the Santa Maria Police Department testified that Tafoya slugged a partygoer for no apparent reason.
The city of Fresno agreed in 2006 to pay $1.6 million to settle an excessive-force case stemming from the party. Tafoya, Manfredi, the city of Fresno and Police Chief Jerry Dyer are defendants in a related civil-rights trial pending in Fresno federal court.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sgt. Laura Delgado Arrested for Shoplifting
A Bexar County Sheriff's Office sergeant is one of two women accused of shoplifting nearly $200 worth of clothing and jewelry from Macy's in South Park Mall on Tuesday evening, officials said.
San Antonio police arrested Sgt. Laura Delgado, 31, and Lori Marsden, 36, about 6 p.m. on one count each of theft from $50 to $500. They were held on $1,000 bail, with Delgado released after posting it early Wednesday.
An 11-year veteran most recently assigned to the detention unit, Delgado was placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the investigation, said Sheriff's Office spokesman Deputy Ino Badillo. Delgado was off duty Tuesday night, he said.
A police report says the women were seen going into dressing rooms with merchandise that was not in sight when they emerged. When a security guard detained them, Delgado tried to escape and was aggressive, the report says.
The women continued to be argumentative in the store's loss-prevention office, where police found two shirts, a pair of jeans, a watch, two pairs of earrings and a bracelet in their purses, the police report says.
Delgado told police she works for the Sheriff's Office and her duty weapon was in her personal car in the mall parking lot. A deputy picked up the gun.
San Antonio police arrested Sgt. Laura Delgado, 31, and Lori Marsden, 36, about 6 p.m. on one count each of theft from $50 to $500. They were held on $1,000 bail, with Delgado released after posting it early Wednesday.
An 11-year veteran most recently assigned to the detention unit, Delgado was placed on administrative duty pending the outcome of the investigation, said Sheriff's Office spokesman Deputy Ino Badillo. Delgado was off duty Tuesday night, he said.
A police report says the women were seen going into dressing rooms with merchandise that was not in sight when they emerged. When a security guard detained them, Delgado tried to escape and was aggressive, the report says.
The women continued to be argumentative in the store's loss-prevention office, where police found two shirts, a pair of jeans, a watch, two pairs of earrings and a bracelet in their purses, the police report says.
Delgado told police she works for the Sheriff's Office and her duty weapon was in her personal car in the mall parking lot. A deputy picked up the gun.
Corrections Officer Tonya Henderson Arrested for Stealing from Target
A state corrections officer clad in her uniform and with her 6-year-old son in tow allegedly stole items worth about $2,800 from a Target store in Victorville.
Tonya Henderson, 40, of Adelanto left the store on Palmdale Road about 9:45 a.m. Tuesday without paying for a big-screen television, steam cleaner and Xbox 360 video-game console, San Bernardino County sheriff's officials said.
Henderson works at the California Institution for Men in Chino. The state Department of Corrections on Wednesday placed Henderson on paid leave. Department officials are investigating the incident.
"We don't know how long (the investigation) could last," said Terry Thornton, spokeswoman for the California Department of Corrections.
A loss-prevention officer at the Target noticed Henderson loading the items into her vehicle and informed the Sheriff's Department. Deputies tracked Henderson's license-plate number to her home. She was arrested on suspicion of commercial burglary.
"If someone is found guilty of a felony, that would disqualify them from a peace officer position," Thornton said.
Henderson was released on bail Wednesday morning from West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.
Henderson was hired July 1, 2002, by the Department of Corrections.
She has worked full time as a relief corrections officer and has filled in for officers on vacation or furlough, Thornton said.
Tonya Henderson, 40, of Adelanto left the store on Palmdale Road about 9:45 a.m. Tuesday without paying for a big-screen television, steam cleaner and Xbox 360 video-game console, San Bernardino County sheriff's officials said.
Henderson works at the California Institution for Men in Chino. The state Department of Corrections on Wednesday placed Henderson on paid leave. Department officials are investigating the incident.
"We don't know how long (the investigation) could last," said Terry Thornton, spokeswoman for the California Department of Corrections.
A loss-prevention officer at the Target noticed Henderson loading the items into her vehicle and informed the Sheriff's Department. Deputies tracked Henderson's license-plate number to her home. She was arrested on suspicion of commercial burglary.
"If someone is found guilty of a felony, that would disqualify them from a peace officer position," Thornton said.
Henderson was released on bail Wednesday morning from West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.
Henderson was hired July 1, 2002, by the Department of Corrections.
She has worked full time as a relief corrections officer and has filled in for officers on vacation or furlough, Thornton said.
Lt Steven Hanners Charged with Theft
The Eufaula Police Department arrested and charged one of their own on Monday. According to EPD Chief Jim West, Lt. Steven Hanners, who joined the force in 1998, has been charged with a Class B felony for theft of property.
West said the investigation continues and additional charges could be filed. “We are currently examining all of Lt. Hanners’ case files and paperwork.”
According to West, Hanners has been the Eufaula Police Department supervisor over Special Operations and the SWAT team.
“The public trusts us and we are going to be worthy of that trust. We will be spotless” West said. “This must not taint the reputation of other officers or the department.”
Eufaula Mayor Jay Jaxon echoed those sentiments. “I hate that this has happened. I see that the chief was on top of this and has acted on his concerns.”
West said the investigation continues and additional charges could be filed. “We are currently examining all of Lt. Hanners’ case files and paperwork.”
According to West, Hanners has been the Eufaula Police Department supervisor over Special Operations and the SWAT team.
“The public trusts us and we are going to be worthy of that trust. We will be spotless” West said. “This must not taint the reputation of other officers or the department.”
Eufaula Mayor Jay Jaxon echoed those sentiments. “I hate that this has happened. I see that the chief was on top of this and has acted on his concerns.”
Two Officers Fired, One Arrested After Standoff
Two police officers in the small town of West Tawakoni have been fired amid an investigation into alleged misconduct, and one of them was arrested after a standoff.
West Tawakoni Police Chief Jack Schultz tells The Greenville Herald-Banner that the men violated department policy and are being investigated by the Texas Rangers.
One of the men, Perry Reed, remained jailed Wednesday on a charge of assault after his arrest in nearby Greenville following a standoff Tuesday night. Details regarding the assault and standoff weren't immediately available.
Reed and the other officer don't yet have attorneys who can comment on their behalf.
West Tawakoni is a town of about 1,000 residents located about 45 miles east of Dallas.
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Information from: Herald-Banner, http://www.heraldbanner.com
West Tawakoni Police Chief Jack Schultz tells The Greenville Herald-Banner that the men violated department policy and are being investigated by the Texas Rangers.
One of the men, Perry Reed, remained jailed Wednesday on a charge of assault after his arrest in nearby Greenville following a standoff Tuesday night. Details regarding the assault and standoff weren't immediately available.
Reed and the other officer don't yet have attorneys who can comment on their behalf.
West Tawakoni is a town of about 1,000 residents located about 45 miles east of Dallas.
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Information from: Herald-Banner, http://www.heraldbanner.com
Corrections Officer Mark Barber Accused of Extorting Sexual Favors From Inmates
A Long Island corrections officer is being accused of extorting sexual favors from female inmates.
Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice says 47-year-old Mark Barber, of Levittown, was arrested Wednesday and charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual abuse, and forcible touching.
Rice says Barber used his position as a grievance officer for the Nassau County Correctional Center to engage in various sexual activity with female inmates.
Rice says Barber, a corrections officer since 1987, would target inmates who had histories of drug abuse, prostitution, or mental health treatment.
Barber's lawyer, Frederick James Annibale Jr., told reporters that his client denies the charges.
Barber is due back in court Jan. 4. If convicted, he faces up to 16 years in prison.
Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice says 47-year-old Mark Barber, of Levittown, was arrested Wednesday and charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual abuse, and forcible touching.
Rice says Barber used his position as a grievance officer for the Nassau County Correctional Center to engage in various sexual activity with female inmates.
Rice says Barber, a corrections officer since 1987, would target inmates who had histories of drug abuse, prostitution, or mental health treatment.
Barber's lawyer, Frederick James Annibale Jr., told reporters that his client denies the charges.
Barber is due back in court Jan. 4. If convicted, he faces up to 16 years in prison.
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