A Jackson Police officer is suspended with pay as authorities investigate claims that he stole money from customers at a South Jackson nightclub.
JPD has launched an internal and criminal investigation into one of its own.
The officer is accused of presenting himself as an on-duty police officer when he was actually off-duty at the time.
According to the owner of El Jardin De Las Aves, the officer stopped undocumented immigrants and checked them or their cars. The owner said the officer would then take money from their wallet.
The officer's name is pending the outcome of the investigation.
"If allegations against officers prove to be true, then I'm going to take the appropriate action" said JPD Chief Malcolm McMillin.
Patricia Ice works with the Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance, and said that undocumented workers make for easy prey.
"Immigrants often cannot get bank accounts because they don't have a social security number," said Ice.
Because of that, they often carry large amounts of cash on them. But Ice said these types of crimes aren't simply limited to undocumented people.
"Basically what they're doing is racial profiling," said Ice.
That's because Ice said that she's had similar complaints from people in the state legally.
As for the officer accused, if he's found guilty, Ice said she wants the officer to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law so that it can serve as a learning lesson for others in the same position.
The outcome of the criminal and civil investigations is expected by the end of the week.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Police Brutality Lawsuit
EAST BREWTON, Ala.
An East Brewton couple has filed a police brutality lawsuit that claims harassment by an officer cause the woman to give birth prematurely.
The civil complaint filed in federal court in Mobile by Michael Palmer and Amber Ballard accuses Officer Jason Crawford, Police Chief B.C. Cooper and unnamed officers with 13 violations of state and federal law.
Neither Cooper nor Crawford, who has left the Police Department, could be reached for comment.
The suit, reported Wednesday by the Press-Register, claims Crawford repeatedly stopped and harassed Palmer at work and other locations in East Brewton. It states that Crawford grabbed Ballard's hand during a 2006 traffic stop and pushed her into the car, pressing against her stomach. The suit says that, later that month, Ballard gave birth about five weeks before her due date.
An East Brewton couple has filed a police brutality lawsuit that claims harassment by an officer cause the woman to give birth prematurely.
The civil complaint filed in federal court in Mobile by Michael Palmer and Amber Ballard accuses Officer Jason Crawford, Police Chief B.C. Cooper and unnamed officers with 13 violations of state and federal law.
Neither Cooper nor Crawford, who has left the Police Department, could be reached for comment.
The suit, reported Wednesday by the Press-Register, claims Crawford repeatedly stopped and harassed Palmer at work and other locations in East Brewton. It states that Crawford grabbed Ballard's hand during a 2006 traffic stop and pushed her into the car, pressing against her stomach. The suit says that, later that month, Ballard gave birth about five weeks before her due date.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Officer Accused of Beating Suspect
Harrisburg,PA
A Harrisburg police officer is off the street and relieved of duty after he is accused of beating up a suspect.
It all started with a traffic stop and DUI arrest back in May, but while waiting to see the judge the suspect says as many as three officers attacked him.
Now the judge who spotted the injuries is speaking out.
“When he was brought in it was rather noticeable he had severe injuries to his face,” says District Judge Joseph Solomon, Dauphin County.
Ryan Westover stood before District Judge Joseph Solomon the night of May 18th with crusted blood on his face and clothes, marks on his neck and a swollen nose and lips. Westover claims the injures happened at the hands of Harrisburg City Police. Images were made public after Westover’s attorney provided them to The Patriot News.
It was at Forster and Front Streets that city police stopped Westover for running a red light. He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, aggravated harassment and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Judge Solomon set his bail, but it wasn't until later, after closely reviewing Westover’s file, that he realized the suspect’s injuries didn't match the report. "I saw no mention of an auto accident and became inquisitive as to how somebody would sustain this level of injury," says Solomon. "I then went over to the booking room and asked Mr. Westover if he had been involved in an auto accident to which he responded, ‘I did not look like this when I came in and I did not have any blood on my clothes when I came in.’"
According to Westover’s attorney, when his client was waiting to see the judge, police entered the cell. Westover stood and one of the officers punched him in the face. He fell to the ground and was punched, kicked, chocked and stomped by as many as three officers.
"Obviously I'm concerned. I don't know what led up to the incident in the cell or booking room but obviously it makes the entire Harrisburg police look bad because of the actions of one or two people," adds Solomon.
Westover identified officer Justin Wells as one of several officers that he says beat him that night.
The mayor's office released a statement Wednesday. It says in part:
“The Harrisburg Bureau of Police's internal affairs unit is currently investigating allegations of abuse by a police officer against Ryan Westover. The officer has been temporarily relieved of his duties during the investigation period, which is standard protocol for any such allegation.”
Westover's attorney said his primary concern was to get Officer Wells off the streets. He says there has been no indication by the mayor's office or Harrisburg City Police as to who those other officers are.
Officer charged with restraining, sexually assaulting woman
A north suburban police officer is in Lake County Jail on Tuesday after he was charged with restraining a woman and forcing her to perform sexual acts against her will in January.
Delatwon A. Haynes, 32, of Waukegan, was order held on $2 million bond Monday, according to a release from the Lake County Sheriff’s office. Haynes, who resigned from the Waukegan Police Dept. on Jan. 11, was charged with four counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, one count of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated sexual abuse and eight counts of official misconduct on Monday.
The charges were filed as a result of an investigation prompted by a complaint filed on Jan. 7 by a woman reporting that an officer restrained her against her will and forced her to perform sexual acts, the release said.
The woman said that in the early morning hours of Jan. 6, an officer confronted her as she was walking in the 900 block of North Lewis Avenue in Waukegan, according to the release. The officer and the woman had a short conversation and he told her to go home.
About 30 minutes later, the officer confronted the woman again and ordered her into the back of his squad car, the release said. She got in and the officer drove her to the rear of an abandoned vehicle in the 1700 block of North Lewis. He then told the woman she was "required" to perform sexual acts with him, after which he released her near her residence.
Waukegan police and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s office began investigating immediately after the complaint was filed, the release said. Haynes was stripped of his police powers and placed on leave.
Haynes resigned from the department about four days later when faced with an administrative investigation, the release said. He was a member of the department since 2001 and served in the patrol division.
In February, Haynes was named in a lawsuit filed by Denise Swinney, who claimed the officer falsely arrested and raped her about 1 a.m. Jan. 6, 2005.
The suit claims Haynes fondled her chest, forced her to engage in oral sex, then had sex with her for more than 30 minutes.
Swinney claimsed in the suit she was never charged with a crime and was released by Haynes after being raped.
Delatwon A. Haynes, 32, of Waukegan, was order held on $2 million bond Monday, according to a release from the Lake County Sheriff’s office. Haynes, who resigned from the Waukegan Police Dept. on Jan. 11, was charged with four counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, one count of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated sexual abuse and eight counts of official misconduct on Monday.
The charges were filed as a result of an investigation prompted by a complaint filed on Jan. 7 by a woman reporting that an officer restrained her against her will and forced her to perform sexual acts, the release said.
The woman said that in the early morning hours of Jan. 6, an officer confronted her as she was walking in the 900 block of North Lewis Avenue in Waukegan, according to the release. The officer and the woman had a short conversation and he told her to go home.
About 30 minutes later, the officer confronted the woman again and ordered her into the back of his squad car, the release said. She got in and the officer drove her to the rear of an abandoned vehicle in the 1700 block of North Lewis. He then told the woman she was "required" to perform sexual acts with him, after which he released her near her residence.
Waukegan police and the Lake County State’s Attorney’s office began investigating immediately after the complaint was filed, the release said. Haynes was stripped of his police powers and placed on leave.
Haynes resigned from the department about four days later when faced with an administrative investigation, the release said. He was a member of the department since 2001 and served in the patrol division.
In February, Haynes was named in a lawsuit filed by Denise Swinney, who claimed the officer falsely arrested and raped her about 1 a.m. Jan. 6, 2005.
The suit claims Haynes fondled her chest, forced her to engage in oral sex, then had sex with her for more than 30 minutes.
Swinney claimsed in the suit she was never charged with a crime and was released by Haynes after being raped.
Officer Christopher Van Meter Arrested for Drunk Driving
An off-duty Fort Collins police officer was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving about midnight Sunday by the Colorado State Patrol.
The officer, Christopher Van Meter, 38, remains on duty with no change in his work status, according to Fort Collins Police Services.
Van Meter was stopped on U.S. Highway 287 slightly north of Trilby, according to the Colorado State Patrol. He was initially stopped because he was driving 65 mph in a 55 mph zone, said CSP spokesman Master Trooper Ron Watkins.
“The trooper noticed indicators of possible intoxication on contact,” Watkins said.
Van Meter, a patrol officer who works the midnight shift, submitted to a blood test; the results won't be available for about two weeks. Watkins said Van Meter was released on a summons, and his vehicle towed from the scene. That's routine in such cases.
Watkins described Van Meter as “cooperative” during the stop.
City Manager Darin Atteberry said he and police Chief Dennis Harrison discussed the situation yesterday, and agreed to wait for the court process to finish before acting.
Van Meter, like anyone else, is innocent until proven guilty. FCPS will not take disciplinary action -- if any -- until his guilt or innocence is decided in court.
In Colorado, people convicted of driving drunk can lose their license, which would likely force the city to fire Van Meter. Atteberry said that's no different than if one of the city’s truck drivers lost his license.
“There’s a process and we’re waiting to see what happens,” Atteberry said today. “We’ll wait and see what the courts have to say, and after that, we’ll see where we go. We have to let the process take its course and (then) dealt with it at the department level.”
The Fort Collins police "Mission & Values" statement says police employees are "endowed with a special level of trust," and that "high ethical standards must prevail in all our interactions with citizens and with each other, and we must strive to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest or compromise of our standards."
The officer, Christopher Van Meter, 38, remains on duty with no change in his work status, according to Fort Collins Police Services.
Van Meter was stopped on U.S. Highway 287 slightly north of Trilby, according to the Colorado State Patrol. He was initially stopped because he was driving 65 mph in a 55 mph zone, said CSP spokesman Master Trooper Ron Watkins.
“The trooper noticed indicators of possible intoxication on contact,” Watkins said.
Van Meter, a patrol officer who works the midnight shift, submitted to a blood test; the results won't be available for about two weeks. Watkins said Van Meter was released on a summons, and his vehicle towed from the scene. That's routine in such cases.
Watkins described Van Meter as “cooperative” during the stop.
City Manager Darin Atteberry said he and police Chief Dennis Harrison discussed the situation yesterday, and agreed to wait for the court process to finish before acting.
Van Meter, like anyone else, is innocent until proven guilty. FCPS will not take disciplinary action -- if any -- until his guilt or innocence is decided in court.
In Colorado, people convicted of driving drunk can lose their license, which would likely force the city to fire Van Meter. Atteberry said that's no different than if one of the city’s truck drivers lost his license.
“There’s a process and we’re waiting to see what happens,” Atteberry said today. “We’ll wait and see what the courts have to say, and after that, we’ll see where we go. We have to let the process take its course and (then) dealt with it at the department level.”
The Fort Collins police "Mission & Values" statement says police employees are "endowed with a special level of trust," and that "high ethical standards must prevail in all our interactions with citizens and with each other, and we must strive to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest or compromise of our standards."
DARE Officer Ray Dudley Arrested at Sobriety Checkpoint
Muncie
A Delaware County sheriff deputy is in trouble after state police arrested him for drunk driving at a sobriety checkpoint.
Officer Ray Dudley, a 10-year veteran of the department, was among 11 people arrested for drunken driving at the police checkpoints. Dudley was driving his personal car early Sunday when he was arrested with a blood alcohol content of .10. The legal limit in Indiana is .08.
Ironically, Dudley is also a DARE officer for the department, who speaks in schools about the dangers of substance abuse.
The department said no one was available to comment on Dudley's arrest Tuesday. In addition to criminal charges, he could also face disciplinary action.
Tuesday, public reaction to the arrest - particularly given Dudley's role as a DARE officer - was swift.
"I'd say he needs to practice what he preaches," said Muncie resident Sandy Stewart.
"The law pertains to everybody and not just certain people. The law in Indiana says no drinking and driving. That pretty much covers itself," said retired deputy Rex McCoy.
"My child's not in school, he's four," said Amanda Harper. "Once he goes to school, I wouldn't want that kind of person saying, 'Don't do this', when they turn around and do it."
State Police say they'll continue drunk driving patrols and checkpoints through the summer. They conducted checkpoints Thursday and Saturday. Dudley was pulled over and arrested by a trooper working Saturday night.
He was released from jail on bond and has been placed on administrative duties in the department pending an investigation.
Florida Officer Fired for Lying
As expected, suspended Key West police officer Thomas Neary was fired Wednesday for telling people he was an undercover federal agent investigating corruption in the Police Department and looking into possible terrorist attacks.
The department put Neary on paid administrative leave Oct. 26 after FBI Special Agent Kevin White interviewed him about the complaints. Interim Police Chief Donie Lee recommended firing Neary in May, but Lee was waiting for consent from City Attorney Shawn Smith to draft a termination letter.
Wednesday, Lee sent the nine-page letter highlighting the department's allegations against Neary and his uncooperative behavior in an Internal Affairs investigation after his suspension.
On May 29, Capt. Frank Sauer wrote his finding of facts on the Neary case, stating "there is a preponderance of evidence that officer Thomas Neary did represent himself falsely as: an agent, associate, representative or operative of the federal government...."
Sauer's findings also stated that Neary, a Big Pine Key resident, convinced fellow and former officers and a supervisor that "this information was to be kept confidential between him and the witness officers."
For those reasons and others, Neary's behavior was deemed "unbecoming conduct" but not "unlawful conduct."
The letter also states that Neary's attorney, Michael Barnes, sent a list of "an additional 112 witnesses that he now wanted to be interviewed, including Officer Neary." Barnes has refused to discuss the case with the Keynoter.
The Neary investigation even involved bugging Lt. Kathleen Ream's office to record conversations she had with him. Transcripts from the bugging show some statements that indicate Neary told Ream he and his wife are federal agents. Barnes has questioned the validity of those transcripts, saying the department altered them.
Some of the alleged statements in the investigative summary have Neary talking about high-ranking law enforcement officers and city officials.
In a casual conversation before the investigation began, "Officer Neary told [detective Bradley Lariz] that he had [City Commissioner Mark Rossi's] plane and house bugged and that they were watching him. He also told Lariz that he was watching and doing an investigation on Sgt. Robert Allen."
It's not clear what he was inferring with Rossi, but with Allen, he allegedly accused the sergeant of transporting drugs to Cuba in a police boat.
"It's just incredible." Rossi said. "It's just incredible allegations."
Neary and Barnes didn't show up for Neary's predetermination hearing last week and refused to participate when they attended a scheduled interview for the Internal Affairs investigation in May.
The city's investigation followed one conducted by the FBI into the same claims. The FBI said the evidence against Neary didn't rise to the level of criminal.
The department put Neary on paid administrative leave Oct. 26 after FBI Special Agent Kevin White interviewed him about the complaints. Interim Police Chief Donie Lee recommended firing Neary in May, but Lee was waiting for consent from City Attorney Shawn Smith to draft a termination letter.
Wednesday, Lee sent the nine-page letter highlighting the department's allegations against Neary and his uncooperative behavior in an Internal Affairs investigation after his suspension.
On May 29, Capt. Frank Sauer wrote his finding of facts on the Neary case, stating "there is a preponderance of evidence that officer Thomas Neary did represent himself falsely as: an agent, associate, representative or operative of the federal government...."
Sauer's findings also stated that Neary, a Big Pine Key resident, convinced fellow and former officers and a supervisor that "this information was to be kept confidential between him and the witness officers."
For those reasons and others, Neary's behavior was deemed "unbecoming conduct" but not "unlawful conduct."
The letter also states that Neary's attorney, Michael Barnes, sent a list of "an additional 112 witnesses that he now wanted to be interviewed, including Officer Neary." Barnes has refused to discuss the case with the Keynoter.
The Neary investigation even involved bugging Lt. Kathleen Ream's office to record conversations she had with him. Transcripts from the bugging show some statements that indicate Neary told Ream he and his wife are federal agents. Barnes has questioned the validity of those transcripts, saying the department altered them.
Some of the alleged statements in the investigative summary have Neary talking about high-ranking law enforcement officers and city officials.
In a casual conversation before the investigation began, "Officer Neary told [detective Bradley Lariz] that he had [City Commissioner Mark Rossi's] plane and house bugged and that they were watching him. He also told Lariz that he was watching and doing an investigation on Sgt. Robert Allen."
It's not clear what he was inferring with Rossi, but with Allen, he allegedly accused the sergeant of transporting drugs to Cuba in a police boat.
"It's just incredible." Rossi said. "It's just incredible allegations."
Neary and Barnes didn't show up for Neary's predetermination hearing last week and refused to participate when they attended a scheduled interview for the Internal Affairs investigation in May.
The city's investigation followed one conducted by the FBI into the same claims. The FBI said the evidence against Neary didn't rise to the level of criminal.
Accused Jail Officers Plead Not Guilty
Four Fayette County Detention Center officers and one former officer pleaded not guilty in federal court Monday to charges they beat inmates and conspired to cover it up.
The FBI and the U.S. Justice Department have been investigating the jail at least since September 2006, when federal officers executed a search warrant at the jail.
Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry, who was elected after the investigation began, says the city has taken measures to provide a safe facility for employees and inmates. He says the employees with be suspended with pay, pending further investigation.
Indicted were Sgt. John McQueen, Cpl. Clarence McCoy, former Cpl. Scott Tyree, Sgt. Anthony Estep and Lt. Kristine Lafoe. Tyree no longer works at the jail, but the mayor's office says he will be suspended with pay from his job at the Town Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The indictment alleges the five conspired to assault inmates without justification and to cover it up by filing false reports and charges.
The FBI and the U.S. Justice Department have been investigating the jail at least since September 2006, when federal officers executed a search warrant at the jail.
Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry, who was elected after the investigation began, says the city has taken measures to provide a safe facility for employees and inmates. He says the employees with be suspended with pay, pending further investigation.
Indicted were Sgt. John McQueen, Cpl. Clarence McCoy, former Cpl. Scott Tyree, Sgt. Anthony Estep and Lt. Kristine Lafoe. Tyree no longer works at the jail, but the mayor's office says he will be suspended with pay from his job at the Town Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant.
The indictment alleges the five conspired to assault inmates without justification and to cover it up by filing false reports and charges.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Prison Officer Accused Of Having Sex With Inmate
ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C.
An Anderson County detention officer has been arrested and her position terminated after she was accused of having sexual intercourse with an inmate.
The Sheriff's Office said that Gina Loftis is charged with sexual misconduct with an inmate.
Investigators said that Loftis admitted in a written statement that she had sex with the inmate when she was on duty at the Anderson County Detention Center.
She was booked into the detention center Tuesday afternoon.
The sheriff's office said that Loftis' position with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office was terminated Tuesday.
She was being held pending a bond hearing.
Officer Victor Aguirre Accused Of Family Violence
EL PASO, Texas
A police officer who has been with the El Paso department for 15 years was arrested on charges of family violence.
Officer Victor Aguirre was arrested Friday for allegedly breaking into the home of his ex-common law wife, Teresa Ortega, 33, around 4 a.m.
The El Paso Police Department arrived at 3337 Wayside Drive to a burglary in progress call.
Ortega tried hiding from Aguirre by locking herself in a bedroom, but Aguirre was able to force himself in and assaulting Ortega, said police spokesman Christopher Mears.
Aguirre ran away before police officers arrived at the home.
Detectives arrested Aguirre on Tuesday and charged him with one count of burglary of habitation, a first-degree felony.
A police officer who has been with the El Paso department for 15 years was arrested on charges of family violence.
Officer Victor Aguirre was arrested Friday for allegedly breaking into the home of his ex-common law wife, Teresa Ortega, 33, around 4 a.m.
The El Paso Police Department arrived at 3337 Wayside Drive to a burglary in progress call.
Ortega tried hiding from Aguirre by locking herself in a bedroom, but Aguirre was able to force himself in and assaulting Ortega, said police spokesman Christopher Mears.
Aguirre ran away before police officers arrived at the home.
Detectives arrested Aguirre on Tuesday and charged him with one count of burglary of habitation, a first-degree felony.
Police Chief and Assistant Chief both Charged with Sexual Assault
CRESTON, Iowa
Creston Mayor Warren Woods announced Tuesday that Police Chief James Christensen has been fired following an investigation.
Woods said the termination was official as of 5 p.m. Monday.
Chief Christensen, 40, and former Assistant Police Chief John Sickels, 38, are both charged with second-degree sexual assault in a case involving a female bartender working at the Crestmoor Golf Club.
Investigators said the assault happened on April 18.
The bartender told the investigator that Sickels raped her behind the bar while Christensen "held her hand, stroked her hair and 'shushed' her."
Court documents show the incident happened around 2 a.m. when Christensen, Sickles and the bartender were the only people left in the bar.
If convicted, both men face the possibility of up to 25 years in prison.
Woods said city officials hope to name an interim chief in the next few days.
"I want everyone to know that I am very proud of our police force and the way that they have reacted to the difficult circumstances. My public thanks goes to each and every one of them," Woods said in a statement released Tuesday.
Creston Mayor Warren Woods announced Tuesday that Police Chief James Christensen has been fired following an investigation.
Woods said the termination was official as of 5 p.m. Monday.
Chief Christensen, 40, and former Assistant Police Chief John Sickels, 38, are both charged with second-degree sexual assault in a case involving a female bartender working at the Crestmoor Golf Club.
Investigators said the assault happened on April 18.
The bartender told the investigator that Sickels raped her behind the bar while Christensen "held her hand, stroked her hair and 'shushed' her."
Court documents show the incident happened around 2 a.m. when Christensen, Sickles and the bartender were the only people left in the bar.
If convicted, both men face the possibility of up to 25 years in prison.
Woods said city officials hope to name an interim chief in the next few days.
"I want everyone to know that I am very proud of our police force and the way that they have reacted to the difficult circumstances. My public thanks goes to each and every one of them," Woods said in a statement released Tuesday.
Corrections Officer Accused of Assaulting Inmate
OMAHA, Neb.
A Douglas County corrections officer has been cited for assault after being accused of attacking an inmate at the county jail.
The inmate, 23-year-old Michael Farrar, says he was in jail June 11 on suspicion of driving under the influence. He says the corrections officer beat him up as he was walking toward his cell.
Jail officials and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office confirm that the guard, Eric Fleming, was cited on suspicion of third-degree assault. He is on paid administrative leave during an internal investigation.
Two other officers who witnessed the incident were also placed on paid leave but have not been cited.
A Douglas County corrections officer has been cited for assault after being accused of attacking an inmate at the county jail.
The inmate, 23-year-old Michael Farrar, says he was in jail June 11 on suspicion of driving under the influence. He says the corrections officer beat him up as he was walking toward his cell.
Jail officials and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office confirm that the guard, Eric Fleming, was cited on suspicion of third-degree assault. He is on paid administrative leave during an internal investigation.
Two other officers who witnessed the incident were also placed on paid leave but have not been cited.
Monday, June 23, 2008
How Weapons Get in the Hands of Criminals
Authorities say two siblings arrested in Henrico Saturday on a traffic violation were in possession of a Richmond police officer's firearm.
According to a Richmond Police Department news release this afternoon, Faith Watkins, 24, and Sanders Watkins, 21, both of Richmond were arrested and charged with several offenses, including felony child neglect and a drug violation.
The release said the firearm in their possession belongs to an officer who knows Faith Watkins and that she has access to his home. The officer, according to the release, is away on two-week military duty in North Carolina. The officer was not named in the release.
The release said: "It is the policy of the Richmond Police Department that if an officer will be on leave for a long-term basis, the service weapon belonging to that officer is collected by his Department supervisor. If an officer is on leave for a short-term basis, it is the responsibility of the officer to secure the service weapon."
According to a Richmond Police Department news release this afternoon, Faith Watkins, 24, and Sanders Watkins, 21, both of Richmond were arrested and charged with several offenses, including felony child neglect and a drug violation.
The release said the firearm in their possession belongs to an officer who knows Faith Watkins and that she has access to his home. The officer, according to the release, is away on two-week military duty in North Carolina. The officer was not named in the release.
The release said: "It is the policy of the Richmond Police Department that if an officer will be on leave for a long-term basis, the service weapon belonging to that officer is collected by his Department supervisor. If an officer is on leave for a short-term basis, it is the responsibility of the officer to secure the service weapon."
Officer Tries to Steal 4 pairs of Panties
TX
A Sanger police officer resigned this morning after being arrested over allegations that she switched sale price stickers on clothing at a Wal-Mart to pay less for items that were not on sale, authorities said.
Officer Lisa Diane Kish, 33, of Sanger was arrested Sunday on a misdemeanor charge after employees at the Wal-Mart in Denton reported that they saw her and another woman switch tags on some underwear and pants, said Jim Bryan, a Denton police spokesman. Stephanie Grant also faces a misdemeanor charge.
According to the police report, four pairs of panties that were priced at $3 each were placed together on a hanger and a 75-cent price tag was placed on them to apply to all four items, Officer Bryan said.
Ms. Kish and Ms. Grant were both free on $500 bail Monday. Neither woman could be reached for comment.
Sanger Police Chief Curtis Amyx said Ms. Kish was waiting to hand him a resignation letter when he arrived at work Monday.
Indicted police officer resigns from department
Huntsville police officer Ryan Moore resigned today, just two days after appearing before a personnel board that would determine his fate with the agency.
A Madison County grand jury indicted Moore last month. He is charged with one count of first-degree possession of marijuana and two counts of attempting to possess a controlled substance.
According to the indictment, Moore allegedly offered marijuana to fellow officers at the north precinct on two occasions this year.
The department announced Moore's resignation in a statement issued earlier today.
A personnel board hearing for Moore and Huntsville police officer Wesley Little, also indicted last month, concluded Friday afternoon. The board has 10 days to present its "finding of facts" to Police Chief Henry Reyes, who will decide if the officers should be suspended without pay or dismissed.
Both officers have been suspended with pay since March, when allegations of "serious policy violations" surfaced. Moore had been with the department since May 2006.
To read Moore's and Little's indictments and the police department's statements, go to
A Madison County grand jury indicted Moore last month. He is charged with one count of first-degree possession of marijuana and two counts of attempting to possess a controlled substance.
According to the indictment, Moore allegedly offered marijuana to fellow officers at the north precinct on two occasions this year.
The department announced Moore's resignation in a statement issued earlier today.
A personnel board hearing for Moore and Huntsville police officer Wesley Little, also indicted last month, concluded Friday afternoon. The board has 10 days to present its "finding of facts" to Police Chief Henry Reyes, who will decide if the officers should be suspended without pay or dismissed.
Both officers have been suspended with pay since March, when allegations of "serious policy violations" surfaced. Moore had been with the department since May 2006.
To read Moore's and Little's indictments and the police department's statements, go to
http://blog.al.com/ht/crimetrack/
UPDATE: Kris Ledford Faces New Charges
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA
A Muskogee police officer faces new charges. Kris Ledford is already charged with stealing guns from the Muskogee Police Department's property room.
Ledford is now accused of taking a fellow officer's bullet proof vest and selling it to a deputy in Cherokee County. He also faces criminal charges in Tulsa.
Kris Ledford he's a husband and the father of a toddler girl. People are saying this is a bad deal, not just for him, but for the reputation of police officers all over Green Country.
Tulsa Police say it was a surveillance tape that started unraveling it all. They say it shows Muskogee Officer Kris Ledford and his friend, Shawn Busby, inside a Tulsa Radio Shack on May 1st, as Busby steals a police scanner.
Police believe the men were listening to the stolen scanner the next day when they heard a family call 911 and say they'd found a safe in a field while four-wheeling and requested a Tulsa Police officer to come and pick it up. Police say Ledford and Busby showed up instead, flashing a badge.
"They addressed the witnesses, the 911 callers by name and said they were Tulsa Police officers and were here to recover the safe," said Tulsa Police Detective Debra Glenn.
Officers tracked down Busby, served a warrant at his house and say they found a Muskogee duffle bag, handcuffs, drugs and a gun. And then, they say they got Ledford identified and were shocked.
"At the time I was first assigned the case, I assumed it was a couple of guys running around with a fake badge, acting kinda cool and hoping it was not an actual police officer involved in this," said Tulsa Police Detective Debra Glenn.
A search warrant at Ledford's house turned up a number of guns and police say at least 10 of them had been in the Muskogee Police Department's property room. He's accused of taking one gun from evidence and selling it to a doctor for $500.
Ledford currently faces three charges in Muskogee and two in Tulsa. That's something that is heartbreaking for other officers.
"It is just sickening because it erodes the public trust in every other officer," said Tulsa Police Detective Debra Glenn.
The Muskogee Police Department had scheduled a hearing on Thursday to start the process of firing Ledford, but, his attorney, Chad Richardson got an injunction that postponed that hearing.
Richardson says Ledford is a hero, who served his country as a military sniper and was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star along with other commendations. He says Ledford shows classic signs of suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Police Officer Arrested in Crime Sweep
TIJUANA
At least one municipal police officer was among dozens of people arrested Saturday night in an organized crime sweep in this Mexican border town, Baja California police officials said Sunday.
Police prevention officers for the Mexican state of Baja California raided a baptism intending to arrest people connected to the Arrellano Felix drug cartel. Sixty-two people, including 10 who have ties to the cartel, were arrested, said Agustin Perez, a spokesman for the state prevention police.
Also confiscated were firearms, police radios and 460 grams of methamphetamine.
Police said they were tipped off that members of organized crime would be at the baptism at the banquet hall, El Pequeño Travieso in the colonia Herrera about 9 p.m. They stormed the celebration and found about 90 people at the hall. Some were armed, officials said.
State officers entered the hall with support from federal police who secured the building while the arrests were made. Federal police officers were there to ensure that no groups connected to organized crime attempted to free the people arrested, officials said.
Those taken into custody are natives of Sinaloa, Tijuana and Jalisco. One man is a municipal police officer in Tijuana, state police officers said. Four or five other men told state officers they also were on the force. But, state police officials said the men were no longer with the department because they had previously been suspended or fired.
Among the items seized were two black sports-utility vehicles, handguns, and Tijuana Municipal Police uniform patches.
No shots were fired and no injuries were reported, Perez said.
At least one municipal police officer was among dozens of people arrested Saturday night in an organized crime sweep in this Mexican border town, Baja California police officials said Sunday.
Police prevention officers for the Mexican state of Baja California raided a baptism intending to arrest people connected to the Arrellano Felix drug cartel. Sixty-two people, including 10 who have ties to the cartel, were arrested, said Agustin Perez, a spokesman for the state prevention police.
Also confiscated were firearms, police radios and 460 grams of methamphetamine.
Police said they were tipped off that members of organized crime would be at the baptism at the banquet hall, El Pequeño Travieso in the colonia Herrera about 9 p.m. They stormed the celebration and found about 90 people at the hall. Some were armed, officials said.
State officers entered the hall with support from federal police who secured the building while the arrests were made. Federal police officers were there to ensure that no groups connected to organized crime attempted to free the people arrested, officials said.
Those taken into custody are natives of Sinaloa, Tijuana and Jalisco. One man is a municipal police officer in Tijuana, state police officers said. Four or five other men told state officers they also were on the force. But, state police officials said the men were no longer with the department because they had previously been suspended or fired.
Among the items seized were two black sports-utility vehicles, handguns, and Tijuana Municipal Police uniform patches.
No shots were fired and no injuries were reported, Perez said.
Officer Arrested for Drunk Driving
Royal Oak, MI
An off-duty Royal Oak police officer was arraigned Wednesday on a drunken driving charge after police say he drove his car into a house located on Fifth Street, June 13.
Officer Timothy Wood pleaded not guilty before 44th District Court Judge Terrance Brennan on a charge of operating while intoxicated, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail. Wood posted a $100 personal bond.
According to Deputy Chief Christopher Jahnke, Wood's Toyota Tundra first hit a car parked on the driveway before crashing into the house at around 2:30 a.m. Royal Oak police officers responding to the incident arrested Wood at the scene.
Wood sustained minor injuries in the incident; nobody inside the house at the time was injured.
Jahnke said the department is conducting an internal investigation to determine what, if any, disciplinary action should be taken against the officer.
In the meantime, the two judges at the 44th District Court have recused themselves from hearing the case since it involves a city employee. Court Administrator Kevin Sutherland said he sent the case to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office to be heard by a court in another jurisdiction.
"People should expect a completely impartial judicial (process)," said Sutherland.
An off-duty Royal Oak police officer was arraigned Wednesday on a drunken driving charge after police say he drove his car into a house located on Fifth Street, June 13.
Officer Timothy Wood pleaded not guilty before 44th District Court Judge Terrance Brennan on a charge of operating while intoxicated, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail. Wood posted a $100 personal bond.
According to Deputy Chief Christopher Jahnke, Wood's Toyota Tundra first hit a car parked on the driveway before crashing into the house at around 2:30 a.m. Royal Oak police officers responding to the incident arrested Wood at the scene.
Wood sustained minor injuries in the incident; nobody inside the house at the time was injured.
Jahnke said the department is conducting an internal investigation to determine what, if any, disciplinary action should be taken against the officer.
In the meantime, the two judges at the 44th District Court have recused themselves from hearing the case since it involves a city employee. Court Administrator Kevin Sutherland said he sent the case to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office to be heard by a court in another jurisdiction.
"People should expect a completely impartial judicial (process)," said Sutherland.
Scottsdale Officer Resigns
A Scottsdale officer accused of illegally searching a 19-year-old woman who had called police has resigned.
Officer Chong Kim was accused of a similar crime in September of 2007.
Kim, an officer for two years, has been under investigation since Tuesday, when he was questioned about his response to a call Sunday about a possible break-in at the woman's apartment.
Scottsdale police spokesman David Pubins said the woman's mother alleged that when Kim arrived, he illegally searched her daughter.
According to Scottsdale police, investigators received an e-mail from the woman's mother detailing the alleged incident, which she claims happened about 3 a.m. at the 66th Place Apartments near 64th Street and Indian School.
In the e-mail, the mother said her daughter called police when three men were attempting to enter her apartment, according to police.
The woman told her mother that one of the officers harassed her and asked her if she had been drinking before taking her boyfriend outside, according to the e-mail.
The woman, an Arizona State University student, then said the officer came back inside and told her she would be arrested if a search could not be conducted, according to the e-mail.
The mother claimed the officer "strip-searched" her daughter.
According to police, the investigation into the September 2007 case was inconclusive as there was a lack of evidence at the time.
Scottsdale Police Chief Alan Rodbell said both cases will be forwarded to the FBI for investigation.
In a written statement, Rodbell said, "As the Chief, I expect that those employed by our department will abide by the same laws that they are entrusted to uphold."
He goes on to write, "Inappropriate or illegal behavior by my officers will not be tolerated and will be dealt with accordingly."
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Drunken Officers Fire Weapons at Party
Two Minneapolis police officers are now facing felony charges. A criminal complaint alleges that 34-year-old Scott Mars and 28-year-old William Thornbury fired their guns outside of a party in South Minneapolis last month while they were off duty.
On the night of May 28th, Minneapolis Police responded to a 911 call in a south Minneapolis neighborhood. When they arrived they never expected to be investigating two of their own.
According to the criminal complaint, earlier that evening a neighbor walked over to a nearby home where a party was taking place and asked some people standing outside to keep it down.
They apologized, but a little while later a black Chevy Tahoe left the party and pulled in front of the man's house. The men inside the SUV yelled a profanity and then fired several gunshots into the air through the vehicle's sunroof.
"This is a very dangerous situation. Individuals easily could have been seriously injured or killed," said Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom.
Police arrived and pulled the Tahoe over. Inside they found two guns and spent shell casings. They identified the driver as Officer Scott Mars and the passenger as Officer William Thornbury.
Dakota County is handling this case because of conflict of interest, but the case will still be tried in Hennepin County. Backstrom said the two officers put lives in danger and their careers in jeopardy.
"They are going to be treated exactly the same as anyone else who be doing a similar thing under these circumstances," said Backstrom.
Both officers are on paid administrative leave until the case is resolved. The men face two felony charges each, and Mars, the driver of the Tahoe, also faces a drunken driving charge. His blood alcohol level was 0.19 -- more than twice the legal limit.
If convicted of the felony charges, the men would lose their license as police officers. They could also face a year in jail and thousands of dollars in fines.
On the night of May 28th, Minneapolis Police responded to a 911 call in a south Minneapolis neighborhood. When they arrived they never expected to be investigating two of their own.
According to the criminal complaint, earlier that evening a neighbor walked over to a nearby home where a party was taking place and asked some people standing outside to keep it down.
They apologized, but a little while later a black Chevy Tahoe left the party and pulled in front of the man's house. The men inside the SUV yelled a profanity and then fired several gunshots into the air through the vehicle's sunroof.
"This is a very dangerous situation. Individuals easily could have been seriously injured or killed," said Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom.
Police arrived and pulled the Tahoe over. Inside they found two guns and spent shell casings. They identified the driver as Officer Scott Mars and the passenger as Officer William Thornbury.
Dakota County is handling this case because of conflict of interest, but the case will still be tried in Hennepin County. Backstrom said the two officers put lives in danger and their careers in jeopardy.
"They are going to be treated exactly the same as anyone else who be doing a similar thing under these circumstances," said Backstrom.
Both officers are on paid administrative leave until the case is resolved. The men face two felony charges each, and Mars, the driver of the Tahoe, also faces a drunken driving charge. His blood alcohol level was 0.19 -- more than twice the legal limit.
If convicted of the felony charges, the men would lose their license as police officers. They could also face a year in jail and thousands of dollars in fines.
Former Officer Arrested for Shoplifting and Possession
Shawnee, KS
A former Overland Park Police officer and Shawnee resident was arrested June 14 on charges of shoplifting and possession of illegal substances.
Donald Kevin Duncan, 37, was apprehended for shoplifting about 3 p.m. at a Costco store, 12221 Blue Valley Parkway, Overland Park. Police then discovered that Duncan was formerly an officer in their department, from 1995 to 2005, last assigned to the investigation division.
Duncan was originally charged with theft greater than $1,000 but less than $25,000, and when he was booked, police discovered methamphetamines on his person, leading to additional charges.
Overland Park Police said Duncan resigned from the police force to pursue other interests. Duncan posted a $3,500 bond Monday after his first court appearance, and his next hearing is scheduled later this month.
A former Overland Park Police officer and Shawnee resident was arrested June 14 on charges of shoplifting and possession of illegal substances.
Donald Kevin Duncan, 37, was apprehended for shoplifting about 3 p.m. at a Costco store, 12221 Blue Valley Parkway, Overland Park. Police then discovered that Duncan was formerly an officer in their department, from 1995 to 2005, last assigned to the investigation division.
Duncan was originally charged with theft greater than $1,000 but less than $25,000, and when he was booked, police discovered methamphetamines on his person, leading to additional charges.
Overland Park Police said Duncan resigned from the police force to pursue other interests. Duncan posted a $3,500 bond Monday after his first court appearance, and his next hearing is scheduled later this month.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Greenville Police Officer Charged In Crash
GREENVILLE, SC
A Greenville City Police officer is charged with driving too fast for conditions after deputies say he slammed into the back of an ambulance.
It happened Wednesday night on Interstate 85 southbound. The ambulance slowed down for traffic near the Laurens Road exit, when Officer Benjamin Cothran plowed into the back of it. Deputies say the ambulance was not carrying any passengers, but the driver and an emergency technician were on board.
Officer Cothran was cited for driving too fast for conditions. He's the second officer to receive this citation in one week. Cothran, and both people in the ambulance were transported to Greenville Memorial where they were treated and released.
A Greenville City Police officer is charged with driving too fast for conditions after deputies say he slammed into the back of an ambulance.
It happened Wednesday night on Interstate 85 southbound. The ambulance slowed down for traffic near the Laurens Road exit, when Officer Benjamin Cothran plowed into the back of it. Deputies say the ambulance was not carrying any passengers, but the driver and an emergency technician were on board.
Officer Cothran was cited for driving too fast for conditions. He's the second officer to receive this citation in one week. Cothran, and both people in the ambulance were transported to Greenville Memorial where they were treated and released.
Officer Ken Derrick Accused in Insurance Scam
BARTOW, FL
The ex-husband of a former State Attorney's Office employee who was charged earlier this year with insurance fraud now faces the same charge himself.
The charges against Ken Derrick, 37, are the fallout of his call to the Winter Haven Police Department about a fully clothed officer he found in the home he and his ex-wife shared.
Derrick, a former Lake Alfred police officer, was arrested Monday. He is accused of using health insurance in the name of his ex-wife, Kristie, to pay his medical bills.
Derrick was released from the Polk County Jail on Monday, after posting $1,000 bail.
Kristie Derrick, 34, was arrested in May on the same charge.
LISTED AS 'SPOUSE'
Kristie Derrick was fired from her job as a clerk in the State Attorney's Office last year after being accused of falsifying insurance records by telling her insurer that she was still married.
The couple had divorced in 2001. Kristie Derrick was hired by the State Attorney's Office in July 2006.
Kristie Derrick's insurance provider, United Healthcare, does not cover former spouses.
According to an arrest affidavit filed by the State Attorney's Office, Ken Derrick had last gone to Winter Haven Hospital complaining of chest pain on June 21, 2007.
His hospital admissions paperwork listed the United Healthcare insurance policy of Kristie Derrick and his relationship to her as "spouse."
Kristie Derrick is also listed as his spouse and emergency contact on multiple forms.
As a result of the hospital visit, United Healthcare paid $6,935 for his treatment, the affidavit stated.
COMMON LAW CLAIM
On July 24, 2007, State Attorney Executive Director Sam Cardinale questioned Kristie Derrick, asking whether she was married, the affidavit stated.
Initially, she said she was, and then immediately said she was divorced. She said that the listing Ken Derrick as her husband on her personnel records and employee health insurance was an oversight because they had lived together as husband and wife for several years, the affidavit said.
The day after her conversation with Cardinale, Derrick was fired.
In an Aug. 7, 2007, letter, Derrick protested her firing, and inquired about appeal rights.
In the letter, she said the office's requirement that she cooperate with a law enforcement agency's investigation invaded her privacy, and "invaded her common law marriage."
Eligibility for health care coverage includes the employee, spouse and children. Florida doesn't recognize common law marriages.
Investigation into allegations of insurance fraud began after Ken Derrick filed a complaint with Winter Haven police that he went to the home he still shared with Kristie Derrick and found police Sgt. David Keigan standing fully clothed and standing in the shower.
Keigan eventually was demoted to officer for ignoring his duties by leaving the city on June 6, 2007.
Police officials said he left his police vehicle in a parking lot at a branch courthouse where Kristie Derrick worked. They drove to her Auburndale home in her car.
This sparked an internal affairs investigation at the Police Department and at the State Attorney's Office.
According to arrest affidavits, the Derricks still share the same home in Auburndale.
If both Derricks are convicted, the State Attorney's Office will seek restitution on behalf of United Healthcare, said Chip Thullbery, administrative state attorney.
Deputy Helps Woman Flee
SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ
A Middlesex County sheriff's officer has been charged with interference with custody in connection with a case against a woman who allegedly fled to India with her two children in violation of a court order.
Officer Ryan Ramdass, 33, of Kendall Park was suspended without pay from his job following his arrest Thursday at the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office, authorities said. Ramdass has worked at the Middlesex County Courthouse since he began with the office three years ago.
Police said Ramdass, who shared a home with the woman, his girlfriend, helped her leave the country June 8.
The father of the children, a 4-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl, was called by staff at their pre-school when they failed to show up shortly after they left the country, said Brian Gillet, assistant Middlesex County prosecutor.
Authorities said the father attempted to find out where they were throughout that week and reported them missing to the police on Sunday, Gillet said.
The mother and father are divorced and have joint custody of the children, he said. Ramdass was also charged with hindering apprehension and false swearing. He faces up to 10 years in prison on the interference charge alone if he is convicted.
Authorities have not released the name of the woman or what charges she faces.
Ramdass was freed after posting 10 percent of $35,000 bail in cash, authorities said.
As a sheriff's officer, Ramdass made $54,781 in 2007, according to public records.
A Middlesex County sheriff's officer has been charged with interference with custody in connection with a case against a woman who allegedly fled to India with her two children in violation of a court order.
Officer Ryan Ramdass, 33, of Kendall Park was suspended without pay from his job following his arrest Thursday at the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office, authorities said. Ramdass has worked at the Middlesex County Courthouse since he began with the office three years ago.
Police said Ramdass, who shared a home with the woman, his girlfriend, helped her leave the country June 8.
The father of the children, a 4-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl, was called by staff at their pre-school when they failed to show up shortly after they left the country, said Brian Gillet, assistant Middlesex County prosecutor.
Authorities said the father attempted to find out where they were throughout that week and reported them missing to the police on Sunday, Gillet said.
The mother and father are divorced and have joint custody of the children, he said. Ramdass was also charged with hindering apprehension and false swearing. He faces up to 10 years in prison on the interference charge alone if he is convicted.
Authorities have not released the name of the woman or what charges she faces.
Ramdass was freed after posting 10 percent of $35,000 bail in cash, authorities said.
As a sheriff's officer, Ramdass made $54,781 in 2007, according to public records.
Officer Chong Kim Accused of Inappropriate Searching
A Scottsdale police officer has resigned after being accused in an e-mail of illegally searching a 19-year-old woman who had summoned police.
Officer Chong Kim, an officer for a little more than two years, has been under investigation since Tuesday, when he was questioned about a call at a Scottsdale apartment complex near 66th Place and Osborn Road.Kim was responding Sunday to a call about a possible break-in at the woman's apartment.
Officer David Pubins, a Scottsdale police spokesman, said the woman's mother sent e-mails to police and several news outlets, alleging that when Kim arrived he "illegally searched" her daughter.
Pubins said the case is still under investigation.
"We take all of these allegations seriously," Pubins said.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Officer Derek Nugent Suspended for Excessive Force
A handcuffed Kalamazoo teenager struggles with a Public Safety officer as he is led down a hallway toward a booking room when the officer shoves him into a wall, injuring his face, according to video of the incident released Tuesday.
The city of Kalamazoo released video of the May 22 incident after the Kalamazoo Gazette filed a Freedom of Information Act request.
The officer involved, Derek Nugent, has been placed on a 10-day, unpaid suspension, Acting Public Safety Chief Jim Mallery announced Monday.
The teenager, who is African-American, lost three teeth. In a complaint filed with the department, his family has alleged that Nugent, who is white, was harassing the youth because he is black.
The officer involved, Derek Nugent, has been placed on a 10-day, unpaid suspension, Acting Public Safety Chief Jim Mallery announced Monday.
The teenager, who is African-American, lost three teeth. In a complaint filed with the department, his family has alleged that Nugent, who is white, was harassing the youth because he is black.
The Gazette is not naming the teen because he is a minor and he has not been charged with a crime.
The video was taken from two security cameras inside Public Safety's Crosstown Parkway headquarters.
The view from the hallway camera shows the teen enter the hallway accompanied by two Public Safety officers. The video is shaky and much of the audio is unintelligible but it is clear the teen is yelling at the officers, one of whom repeatedly tells him to "face the wall."
The teen shouts profanity and is eventually turned toward a wall as an officer appears to hold him by the back of his neck.
About two minutes into the video, Nugent begins walking the teen down the hallway toward a booking room when a tussle occurs and the teenager appears to jerk away from Nugent.
Nugent then shoves him into the cinder-block wall.
The youth immediately falls to the floor, begins crying and moaning, and asks Nugent why the officer had broken out his teeth.
The other officer, who has not been identified, stood at the other end of the hallway.
Nugent drags the youth, whose knees are on the floor, into the adjacent booking room where a second camera continues to record the incident.
The video from that camera shows the teen continuing to writhe in pain on the floor. He repeatedly shouts, "You broke my teeth!"
Another officer briefly peers into the booking room and then leaves. After a few minutes, Nugent picks the teen up onto his feet and walks him back down the hallway as the youth remains doubled over at the waist.
Public Safety officials have said the teen was then transported to Bronson Methodist Hospital and later released to his legal guardian.
The teenager was originally arrested for allegedly violating rules at the Kalamazoo Transportation Center. Since 2005, 20 misdemeanor and felony charges have been brought against the teen, but he was not prosecuted for any of them because judges determined he was mentally incompetent to stand trial.
On Monday, Mallery said he believed Nugent did not intend to harm the teenager but said his actions "would not be condoned." Mallery publicly apologized to the teenager and his family.
Mallery said Nugent has been a Public Safety officer for nearly 10 year and this is his first excessive-force complaint.
The teen's legal guardian, who is related to his father, said Tuesday she is unsatisfied by the suspension and wants Nugent criminally prosecuted. Court records show the teen's mother is in prison but do not make clear where his father is.
A Detroit-area attorney has said he may represent the family in a civil action.
The city of Kalamazoo released video of the May 22 incident after the Kalamazoo Gazette filed a Freedom of Information Act request.
The officer involved, Derek Nugent, has been placed on a 10-day, unpaid suspension, Acting Public Safety Chief Jim Mallery announced Monday.
The teenager, who is African-American, lost three teeth. In a complaint filed with the department, his family has alleged that Nugent, who is white, was harassing the youth because he is black.
The officer involved, Derek Nugent, has been placed on a 10-day, unpaid suspension, Acting Public Safety Chief Jim Mallery announced Monday.
The teenager, who is African-American, lost three teeth. In a complaint filed with the department, his family has alleged that Nugent, who is white, was harassing the youth because he is black.
The Gazette is not naming the teen because he is a minor and he has not been charged with a crime.
The video was taken from two security cameras inside Public Safety's Crosstown Parkway headquarters.
The view from the hallway camera shows the teen enter the hallway accompanied by two Public Safety officers. The video is shaky and much of the audio is unintelligible but it is clear the teen is yelling at the officers, one of whom repeatedly tells him to "face the wall."
The teen shouts profanity and is eventually turned toward a wall as an officer appears to hold him by the back of his neck.
About two minutes into the video, Nugent begins walking the teen down the hallway toward a booking room when a tussle occurs and the teenager appears to jerk away from Nugent.
Nugent then shoves him into the cinder-block wall.
The youth immediately falls to the floor, begins crying and moaning, and asks Nugent why the officer had broken out his teeth.
The other officer, who has not been identified, stood at the other end of the hallway.
Nugent drags the youth, whose knees are on the floor, into the adjacent booking room where a second camera continues to record the incident.
The video from that camera shows the teen continuing to writhe in pain on the floor. He repeatedly shouts, "You broke my teeth!"
Another officer briefly peers into the booking room and then leaves. After a few minutes, Nugent picks the teen up onto his feet and walks him back down the hallway as the youth remains doubled over at the waist.
Public Safety officials have said the teen was then transported to Bronson Methodist Hospital and later released to his legal guardian.
The teenager was originally arrested for allegedly violating rules at the Kalamazoo Transportation Center. Since 2005, 20 misdemeanor and felony charges have been brought against the teen, but he was not prosecuted for any of them because judges determined he was mentally incompetent to stand trial.
On Monday, Mallery said he believed Nugent did not intend to harm the teenager but said his actions "would not be condoned." Mallery publicly apologized to the teenager and his family.
Mallery said Nugent has been a Public Safety officer for nearly 10 year and this is his first excessive-force complaint.
The teen's legal guardian, who is related to his father, said Tuesday she is unsatisfied by the suspension and wants Nugent criminally prosecuted. Court records show the teen's mother is in prison but do not make clear where his father is.
A Detroit-area attorney has said he may represent the family in a civil action.
Officer Helps Man Impersonating a Gynecologist
A prominent Hasidic businessman from Rockland County was arrested and charged with impersonating a gynecologist to allegedly sexually assault women.
To make matters worse, the already stunning allegation grew even more shocking when it was learned that a Rockland County police officer is accused of helping him.
The alleged incidents took place inside a building on Park Avenue between 34th and 35th streets, where women told detectives they'd been molested during what they thought was a gynecological examination.
When Manhattan sex crime detectives who work out of the same building investigated, the man they arrested turned out to be Zalman Silber, a Hasidic businessman and philanthropist who moved to Rockland County from Boro Park in Brooklyn about a year ago.
Silber's lawyer is the former Rockland County District Attorney, Kenneth Gribetz, who claims that two of the four women did not pick Silber out of a lineup.
"It was a lineup conducted with numerous Hasidic people. Mr. Silber was not identified by two of the victims. Two of the victims did do it," Gribetz said.
The Ramapo Police Department is now also buzzing because a ten-year veteran has been suspended without pay after one of the women told investigators the officer pretended to be a doctor conducting an exam while Silber allegedly watched.
Though no one would talk about this story on the record, there are hearings underway at the Ramapo Town Hall that will determine the future of the police officer.
Gribetz said there is more going on than meets the eye.
"I think the facts will come out that this was an offshoot of a very upsetting divorce that transpired in Mr. Silber's life. And what is taking place is really a disgrace, and society and law enforcement owes him an apology when all the facts come out," he said.
Postponements have caused the hearing involving the Ramapo police officer accused of posing as a fake doctor to drag on for at least four weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for tomorrow.
Officer Having Sex with Inmate
PORTAGE, Wis.
A corrections officer at the Columbia Correctional Institution is accused of having sex with an inmate and giving him snacks and magazines.
The Columbia County Sheriff's Department says the 45-year-old Portage woman is likely to be charged with multiple felony counts of second-degree sexual assault of an inmate, delivery of articles to inmates and misconduct in public office.
Detective Sgt. Daniel Garrigan says the accusations came to light after the department did an internal investigation on the woman last fall for a policy violation.
He says the investigation showed she had sexual contact with an inmate at CCI and at Waupun Correctional Institution.
The Department of Corrections says the woman is on administrative leave. Online court records show formal charges have not yet been filed.
A corrections officer at the Columbia Correctional Institution is accused of having sex with an inmate and giving him snacks and magazines.
The Columbia County Sheriff's Department says the 45-year-old Portage woman is likely to be charged with multiple felony counts of second-degree sexual assault of an inmate, delivery of articles to inmates and misconduct in public office.
Detective Sgt. Daniel Garrigan says the accusations came to light after the department did an internal investigation on the woman last fall for a policy violation.
He says the investigation showed she had sexual contact with an inmate at CCI and at Waupun Correctional Institution.
The Department of Corrections says the woman is on administrative leave. Online court records show formal charges have not yet been filed.
Chief Information Officer Pete Collins Accused of Misconduct
Austin's chief information officer has been accused of misconduct.
During a news conference Wednesday afternoon, city officials said a city employee called the legal department last week alleging the city's chief information officer, Pete Collins, was using city resources for a personal project.
City Spokesman Gene Acuna said Collins was immediately placed on paid administrative leave. The case was then passed on to City Manager Marc Ott and APD who is investigating.
"The city manager takes these allegation seriously and wants them investigated fully and impartially," Acuna said.
Collins has been a city employee since 1993. He started out as an Austin Police Officer. He's overseen the city's Information Technology Department since 2004.
During a news conference Wednesday afternoon, city officials said a city employee called the legal department last week alleging the city's chief information officer, Pete Collins, was using city resources for a personal project.
City Spokesman Gene Acuna said Collins was immediately placed on paid administrative leave. The case was then passed on to City Manager Marc Ott and APD who is investigating.
"The city manager takes these allegation seriously and wants them investigated fully and impartially," Acuna said.
Collins has been a city employee since 1993. He started out as an Austin Police Officer. He's overseen the city's Information Technology Department since 2004.
Officer Accused of Beating Transexual
MEMPHIS, TN
A Memphis police officer is accused of beating up someone under arrest. The person seen being attacked on the tape is a transexual. She says the attack is a hate crime.
Now the FBI is investigating. One officer is off the job, and another is on desk duty.
Duanna Johnson says the officer beat her up after calling her all sorts of names and making fun of her sexuality.
On the videotape you see Johnson being attacked. One officer is holding Johnson back, while another throws punches.
Johnson says before the beating began the officer called her a "he/she" and a "faggot."
On the videotape you see employees standing around, but no one intervenes.
A statement from the Memphis Police Department says no details can be released because of the internal investigation.
Officer J Swain was on probation with the department and lost his job. Officer B McRae has been taken off the streets until a hearing.
Johnson does plan on filing a $1.3 million lawsuit against the City of Memphis.
A Memphis police officer is accused of beating up someone under arrest. The person seen being attacked on the tape is a transexual. She says the attack is a hate crime.
Now the FBI is investigating. One officer is off the job, and another is on desk duty.
Duanna Johnson says the officer beat her up after calling her all sorts of names and making fun of her sexuality.
On the videotape you see Johnson being attacked. One officer is holding Johnson back, while another throws punches.
Johnson says before the beating began the officer called her a "he/she" and a "faggot."
On the videotape you see employees standing around, but no one intervenes.
A statement from the Memphis Police Department says no details can be released because of the internal investigation.
Officer J Swain was on probation with the department and lost his job. Officer B McRae has been taken off the streets until a hearing.
Johnson does plan on filing a $1.3 million lawsuit against the City of Memphis.
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