Waukee police officers forgot to take a mug shot of an off-duty undercover police officer arrested last week, officials said Monday.
Officer Christopher Vesey, a Waukee resident and member of the West Des Moines narcotics task force, was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated at 2:20 a.m. July 2. Waukee police took his fingerprints and impounded his car.
Waukee Police Chief L.J. Phillips said that it is department policy to take a booking photo but that each of the two officers involved in Vesey's booking thought the other had taken one. It's not the first time it has happened, Phillips said: "It was not done deliberately."
Ben Stone, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Iowa, said the incident should be investigated. "Circumstances would certainly raise strong suspicions that there was favorable treatment," he said.
West Des Moines police have so far refused to release a photo of Vesey, 33, who joined the department in 1999. Authorities said because of his undercover work, releasing a photo of Vesey could jeopardize cases he has pending.
Waukee police found Vesey after another motorist spotted his car being driven in an irregular manner. Officers found Vesey in his car, stopped near the intersection of Hickman Road and North 10th Street. Vesey refused to take a breath analysis test.
Iowa law suspends the licenses of drivers who refuse to take a breath test.
Vesey is on paid administrative leave from the West Des Moines Police Department. The department said it will conduct an investigation to determine whether he violated department policy and whether any action will be taken on his employment.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Monday, July 07, 2008
Several Officers Arrested on Drug Charges
TORONTO
Two Toronto police officers and three correctional officers were among 20 people arrested in a sweep of area houses used to grow marijuana, police said.
Early Thursday, police executed 63 search warrants in the York region, north of the city and Peel region to the west, the Toronto Sun reported.
Professional Standards Superintendent Jim Ramer told reporters police seized three homes, five vehicles, $60,000 in cash, 16 pounds of marijuana, drug-making equipment and small amounts of ecstasy and steroids.
Police allege the group arrested used a real estate agent to buy and sell properties they converted to hydroponic marijuana farms known in Canada as "grow-ops," the Toronto Star said.
Police Chief Bill Blair was obviously upset about the two officers' arrests, saying at a news conference it was "more than merely a betrayal of their oath of office," but a slap in the face to every honest officer.
Asked about the officers' employment, Blair was terse, the Star said.
"They'll get full salary until we can deal with employment status," the chief said.
Two Toronto police officers and three correctional officers were among 20 people arrested in a sweep of area houses used to grow marijuana, police said.
Early Thursday, police executed 63 search warrants in the York region, north of the city and Peel region to the west, the Toronto Sun reported.
Professional Standards Superintendent Jim Ramer told reporters police seized three homes, five vehicles, $60,000 in cash, 16 pounds of marijuana, drug-making equipment and small amounts of ecstasy and steroids.
Police allege the group arrested used a real estate agent to buy and sell properties they converted to hydroponic marijuana farms known in Canada as "grow-ops," the Toronto Star said.
Police Chief Bill Blair was obviously upset about the two officers' arrests, saying at a news conference it was "more than merely a betrayal of their oath of office," but a slap in the face to every honest officer.
Asked about the officers' employment, Blair was terse, the Star said.
"They'll get full salary until we can deal with employment status," the chief said.
Former Fremont Officer Nick Maureer Charged with Assault
SAN FRANCISCO
A 26-year-old former Fremont police officer Nick Maurer, is expected to be arraigned today on seven misdemeanor counts stemming from an assault on a Richmond firefighter last month after a country music concert at AT&T Park.
Nick Maurer, who at the time of the June 8 incident was employed by the Fremont Police Department, was cited by BART police and released from custody after a fight with a 41-year-old firefighter at the Embarcadero BART station.
Maurer, who is out of custody, is expected to be arraigned on three counts of assault with force possibly causing great bodily injury, three counts of battery on a transportation passenger and a single count of public intoxication.
Prosecutors announced the charges Friday afternoon, nearly a month after the incident happened. Fremont authorities wouldn't comment on the case Friday, stating only that Maurer is no longer employed by the city.
"It's a personnel matter, and we cannot comment," said Fremont police Detective Bill Veteran. All he would say is that "(Maurer) is separated from service with the department."
The facts of the case have not been fully disclosed by police or prosecutors, but the incident apparently started on a MUNI train that took concertgoers from AT&T Park to the Embarcadero BART station.
According to BART Police Chief Gary Gee — who spoke briefly with The Argus about the case a few days after it happened but has since refused comment — the firefighter's wife warned Maurer's friend, Vince Bedolla, also a Fremont police officer attending the Kenny Chesney concert, about Maurer leaning against the door of the train.
At some point, someone hit Bedolla in the face, which apparently sparked a skirmish minutes later at the BART station, Gee said.
The altercation did not take place on the platform near any moving trains, the chief said.
No one was seriously hurt, although one published report indicated that Bedolla may have suffered a broken nose, and the firefighter suffered cuts and bruises to his face.
Maurer was placed under citizen's arrest at the station, but later was released with a citation to appear in court.
San Francisco prosecutors received the case from investigators about a week after the incident and said they had 30 days to make a decision about charges. Their intention to charge Maurer was not publicized until Friday afternoon.
Bedolla was questioned after the incident but not arrested. It remained unclear Thursday if he was still employed by the city of Fremont. Veteran said he could not comment on Bedolla's status. However, his name is no longer listed on the department's roster of employees.
A 26-year-old former Fremont police officer Nick Maurer, is expected to be arraigned today on seven misdemeanor counts stemming from an assault on a Richmond firefighter last month after a country music concert at AT&T Park.
Nick Maurer, who at the time of the June 8 incident was employed by the Fremont Police Department, was cited by BART police and released from custody after a fight with a 41-year-old firefighter at the Embarcadero BART station.
Maurer, who is out of custody, is expected to be arraigned on three counts of assault with force possibly causing great bodily injury, three counts of battery on a transportation passenger and a single count of public intoxication.
Prosecutors announced the charges Friday afternoon, nearly a month after the incident happened. Fremont authorities wouldn't comment on the case Friday, stating only that Maurer is no longer employed by the city.
"It's a personnel matter, and we cannot comment," said Fremont police Detective Bill Veteran. All he would say is that "(Maurer) is separated from service with the department."
The facts of the case have not been fully disclosed by police or prosecutors, but the incident apparently started on a MUNI train that took concertgoers from AT&T Park to the Embarcadero BART station.
According to BART Police Chief Gary Gee — who spoke briefly with The Argus about the case a few days after it happened but has since refused comment — the firefighter's wife warned Maurer's friend, Vince Bedolla, also a Fremont police officer attending the Kenny Chesney concert, about Maurer leaning against the door of the train.
At some point, someone hit Bedolla in the face, which apparently sparked a skirmish minutes later at the BART station, Gee said.
The altercation did not take place on the platform near any moving trains, the chief said.
No one was seriously hurt, although one published report indicated that Bedolla may have suffered a broken nose, and the firefighter suffered cuts and bruises to his face.
Maurer was placed under citizen's arrest at the station, but later was released with a citation to appear in court.
San Francisco prosecutors received the case from investigators about a week after the incident and said they had 30 days to make a decision about charges. Their intention to charge Maurer was not publicized until Friday afternoon.
Bedolla was questioned after the incident but not arrested. It remained unclear Thursday if he was still employed by the city of Fremont. Veteran said he could not comment on Bedolla's status. However, his name is no longer listed on the department's roster of employees.
Multiple Complaints Received Against Lieutenant Arnson
AZ
Buckeye Police Lieutenant Derek Arnson, favored by some Town Council members as the next police chief is on paid leave after the town received "multiple complaints" against him, documents show.
Lt. Arnson was notified June 5 of a formal investigation into complaints of intimidation and inappropriate comments.
The notice of investigation indicates the probe is exploring "multiple complaints of ongoing intimidation of employees coupled with threats of job loss; intimidation regarding hiring practices; inappropriate comments regarding an employee's sexual orientation, and inappropriate comments regarding employee employment status."
The document is a preliminary form to notify employees of an investigation. Details of the allegations were unavailable.
Arnson's attorney, Edmundo Robaina, said he was unable to comment because Arnson is prohibited from discussing the investigation.
Former mayoral candidate Michael Todd said Buckeye Vice Mayor Elaine May and Councilman David Hardesty advocated for Arnson to be picked as chief during talks around the time of the town's March 11 council primary.
May ran as an unopposed incumbent. Hardesty was not up for re-election.
"Arnson had two council members lobbying for him, telling me, 'We want this guy,' " Todd said, referring to May and Hardesty.
Arnson's promotion to commander "was a push by two council members to make Arnson chief," Todd added.
Arnson rose to the rank of sergeant during his 16-year tenure with the Arizona Department of Public Safety. He served last year as operational supervisor for DPS' Gang and Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission, the state gang task force, which received a 2007 Director's Unit Citation.
Arnson joined Buckeye as a lieutenant in December under then-Police Chief Dan Saban and briefly served as an acting commander under Assistant Town Manager Scott Rounds. Rounds later reassigned Arnson to lieutenant when he named Mark Mann interim chief.
Arnson has confirmed he applied for chief after Saban decided to retire to run for Maricopa County sheriff. A list of four finalists released last week did not include him or any other internal candidates.
"You don't go that low and pull people up and then bump them back down," Todd said. "It's part of a good ol' boy deal. I can't believe we would have council members so blind to say, 'This is the guy we need,' without ever seeing what's out there. I was a little troubled by that."
Because he was the subject of an active inquiry, May said she would decline to talk about claims that she favored Arnson. Buckeye Human Resources Director Nancy Love expects Arnson's investigation to be completed this week.
Todd lost his mayoral bid to Jackie Meck by 49 votes in the May 20 general election and remains closely involved in town politics.
Buckeye Police Lieutenant Derek Arnson, favored by some Town Council members as the next police chief is on paid leave after the town received "multiple complaints" against him, documents show.
Lt. Arnson was notified June 5 of a formal investigation into complaints of intimidation and inappropriate comments.
The notice of investigation indicates the probe is exploring "multiple complaints of ongoing intimidation of employees coupled with threats of job loss; intimidation regarding hiring practices; inappropriate comments regarding an employee's sexual orientation, and inappropriate comments regarding employee employment status."
The document is a preliminary form to notify employees of an investigation. Details of the allegations were unavailable.
Arnson's attorney, Edmundo Robaina, said he was unable to comment because Arnson is prohibited from discussing the investigation.
Former mayoral candidate Michael Todd said Buckeye Vice Mayor Elaine May and Councilman David Hardesty advocated for Arnson to be picked as chief during talks around the time of the town's March 11 council primary.
May ran as an unopposed incumbent. Hardesty was not up for re-election.
"Arnson had two council members lobbying for him, telling me, 'We want this guy,' " Todd said, referring to May and Hardesty.
Arnson's promotion to commander "was a push by two council members to make Arnson chief," Todd added.
Arnson rose to the rank of sergeant during his 16-year tenure with the Arizona Department of Public Safety. He served last year as operational supervisor for DPS' Gang and Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission, the state gang task force, which received a 2007 Director's Unit Citation.
Arnson joined Buckeye as a lieutenant in December under then-Police Chief Dan Saban and briefly served as an acting commander under Assistant Town Manager Scott Rounds. Rounds later reassigned Arnson to lieutenant when he named Mark Mann interim chief.
Arnson has confirmed he applied for chief after Saban decided to retire to run for Maricopa County sheriff. A list of four finalists released last week did not include him or any other internal candidates.
"You don't go that low and pull people up and then bump them back down," Todd said. "It's part of a good ol' boy deal. I can't believe we would have council members so blind to say, 'This is the guy we need,' without ever seeing what's out there. I was a little troubled by that."
Because he was the subject of an active inquiry, May said she would decline to talk about claims that she favored Arnson. Buckeye Human Resources Director Nancy Love expects Arnson's investigation to be completed this week.
Todd lost his mayoral bid to Jackie Meck by 49 votes in the May 20 general election and remains closely involved in town politics.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Officer Charged in Security Guard Shooting
MARIETTA, GA
After seven years on the force, Atlanta police officer John Freeman is being charged with murder.
Investigators say he shot and killed an unarmed security guard at the apartment complex where Freeman lives with his wife and two children. It happened at 4:28am Saturday at the Ivy Ridge Apartments on Bentley Road.
Cobb County police say 37-year-old Xavier Mallet of Marietta, Georgia, who provides security at the apartments, was banging on Freeman's front door. Freeman's wife answered the door and Mallet reportedly forced his way in. Authorities will not elaborate on what happened inside the home, but say Freeman's wife ran from the home followed by Mallet and Freeman. There was some sort of physical altercation and investigators say Freeman went back into his apartment, got his gun and shot and killed Mallet as he was leaving.
Freeman made his first court appearance Saturday night, but had his attorney, Bruce Harvey, represent him in front of the judge. Two of Freeman's fellow officers watched the appearance and afterward Harvey insisted that once all the facts the charges should be dropped against his client.
"You know Georgia has a 'stand your ground law' meaning that you can defend not just yourself, but your wife, your children, or even your property," said Harvey.
Harvey says Freeman has been placed on paid administrative leave and the Atlanta Police Department says it is cooperating fully with Cobb County investigators and, at the same time, is conducting it's own internal investigation.
Former Officer Jake Shirley Charged with Murder
LOVINGTON, N.M.
A former Lovington police officer has been charged with an open count of murder in the shooting death of his father.
State police say 23-year-old Jake Shirley is being held at the Lea County Detention Center on a $250,000 cash only bond.
State police say Lovington officers responded to the home of 48-year-old Jimmy Shirley last night after getting multiple 911 calls regarding a domestic violence incident.
Police found the elder Shirley with a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to Lea County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators say Jake Shirley allegedly shot his father after the elder Shirley struck his wife, Brenda, in the face. The couple had been arguing earlier at their son's home.
A former Lovington police officer has been charged with an open count of murder in the shooting death of his father.
State police say 23-year-old Jake Shirley is being held at the Lea County Detention Center on a $250,000 cash only bond.
State police say Lovington officers responded to the home of 48-year-old Jimmy Shirley last night after getting multiple 911 calls regarding a domestic violence incident.
Police found the elder Shirley with a gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to Lea County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators say Jake Shirley allegedly shot his father after the elder Shirley struck his wife, Brenda, in the face. The couple had been arguing earlier at their son's home.
Officer Jason Sandilands Charged with Theft
Canada
On the heels of the shocking news that Toronto Police had discovered two allegedly dirty cops in their ranks, Peel police admit one of their officers is also facing charges on an un related matter.
The officer was actually arrested May 16 following an investigation by their Internal Affairs Bureau, but Peel police only announced the arrest yesterday.
Const. Jason Sandilands, who has been on the force for four years, is charged with theft under $5,000 and breach of trust, Acting Staff-Sgt. Taufic Saliba said.
SUSPENDED WITH PAY
He said the charges stem from the accused's involvement in an investigation that took place while he was assigned to the Tactical and Rescue Unit.
"The property involved ... was money," Saliba said, refusing to elaborate.
Like Toronto Consts. Patrick Lee and Kevin Bourne, who are accused of operating dozens of mari juana grow-ops, Sandilands has been suspended with pay.
He is to appear in a Brampton court on July 9.
Sandilands was in the news in 2005 when he was the first officer to arrive at the scene of a stabbing and ended up in an altercation with two Mississauga men -- one of whom is in a wheelchair -- who were helping the stabbed man.
'ABHORRENT'
Stephen Miller, 20, and his pal Garrett Mannings, 24, who is paralyzed from the waist down, ended up charged with causing a disturbance. Both were found not guilty in 2006.
At their trial, Miller claimed he pleaded unsuccessfully with Sandilands to help him as he tried to stop his friend's bleeding.
Lawyer Jason Bogle, who defended the pair, said something should have alerted Peel police a long time ago. "They were asking him to assist a dying man and officer Sandilands would not," Bogle alleged. "That was abhorrent."
On the heels of the shocking news that Toronto Police had discovered two allegedly dirty cops in their ranks, Peel police admit one of their officers is also facing charges on an un related matter.
The officer was actually arrested May 16 following an investigation by their Internal Affairs Bureau, but Peel police only announced the arrest yesterday.
Const. Jason Sandilands, who has been on the force for four years, is charged with theft under $5,000 and breach of trust, Acting Staff-Sgt. Taufic Saliba said.
SUSPENDED WITH PAY
He said the charges stem from the accused's involvement in an investigation that took place while he was assigned to the Tactical and Rescue Unit.
"The property involved ... was money," Saliba said, refusing to elaborate.
Like Toronto Consts. Patrick Lee and Kevin Bourne, who are accused of operating dozens of mari juana grow-ops, Sandilands has been suspended with pay.
He is to appear in a Brampton court on July 9.
Sandilands was in the news in 2005 when he was the first officer to arrive at the scene of a stabbing and ended up in an altercation with two Mississauga men -- one of whom is in a wheelchair -- who were helping the stabbed man.
'ABHORRENT'
Stephen Miller, 20, and his pal Garrett Mannings, 24, who is paralyzed from the waist down, ended up charged with causing a disturbance. Both were found not guilty in 2006.
At their trial, Miller claimed he pleaded unsuccessfully with Sandilands to help him as he tried to stop his friend's bleeding.
Lawyer Jason Bogle, who defended the pair, said something should have alerted Peel police a long time ago. "They were asking him to assist a dying man and officer Sandilands would not," Bogle alleged. "That was abhorrent."
Demotion Recommended for Officer Chuck Johnson
CHARLOTTE, N.C.
An officer accused of making a questionable arrest during Speed Street in May has been recommended for demotion.
Major Chuck Johnson, a 26-year veteran, is being investigated for alleged misconduct.
On Thursday Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Chief Rodney Monroe has recommended that Johnson be demoted to captain and receive a 30-day suspension.
The matter must now go before the Civil Service Board.
An officer accused of making a questionable arrest during Speed Street in May has been recommended for demotion.
Major Chuck Johnson, a 26-year veteran, is being investigated for alleged misconduct.
On Thursday Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Chief Rodney Monroe has recommended that Johnson be demoted to captain and receive a 30-day suspension.
The matter must now go before the Civil Service Board.
Officer Fernando Trinidad Pushes Woman Down Stairs
ORLANDO, Fla.
An Orlando police officer seen on video apparently pushing a woman down some stairs for no apparent reason could face criminal charges, Chief Val Demings said.
Jessica Asprilla, 27, was seen on video apparently being pushed down some steps by Officer Fernando Trinidad, who was working off duty at the now-defunct Club Paris in downtown Orlando.
The incident resulted in a battery charge against the woman. However, when prosecutors saw the tape, they immediately dropped the charges.
Asprilla filed a complaint after the incident that led to an Orlando police investigation of Trinidad.
Now, the department has found enough evidence of possible criminal behavior to forward it to the state attorney's office for review.
"When one is accused of doing something that is totally outside of our rules and regulations then we have to deal with it," Demings said. "We've relieved Officer (Fernando) Trinidad of duty, which means we suspended his police powers."
While the state attorney's office decides if it will move forward with criminal charges against Trinidad, he will take on administrative duties.
"He's still getting to work and getting paid for it," Aspirlla said. "So, really there hasn't been a change as far as I'm concerned."
Demings did not speculate about Trinidad's future with the department.
"We will just have to deal with that once the state attorney has an opportunity to review the case," Demings said.
It is not known how long the state attorney's office will review the case.
An Orlando police officer seen on video apparently pushing a woman down some stairs for no apparent reason could face criminal charges, Chief Val Demings said.
Jessica Asprilla, 27, was seen on video apparently being pushed down some steps by Officer Fernando Trinidad, who was working off duty at the now-defunct Club Paris in downtown Orlando.
The incident resulted in a battery charge against the woman. However, when prosecutors saw the tape, they immediately dropped the charges.
Asprilla filed a complaint after the incident that led to an Orlando police investigation of Trinidad.
Now, the department has found enough evidence of possible criminal behavior to forward it to the state attorney's office for review.
"When one is accused of doing something that is totally outside of our rules and regulations then we have to deal with it," Demings said. "We've relieved Officer (Fernando) Trinidad of duty, which means we suspended his police powers."
While the state attorney's office decides if it will move forward with criminal charges against Trinidad, he will take on administrative duties.
"He's still getting to work and getting paid for it," Aspirlla said. "So, really there hasn't been a change as far as I'm concerned."
Demings did not speculate about Trinidad's future with the department.
"We will just have to deal with that once the state attorney has an opportunity to review the case," Demings said.
It is not known how long the state attorney's office will review the case.
Friday, July 04, 2008
Was Drunk Officer given Favorable Treatment?
More than three months after San Jose police failed to test a former cop for intoxication or cite her after a serious multi-car accident, the state Attorney General has charged Sandra Woodall with felony drunken driving.
Woodall, 39, now an investigator with the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office, is expected in court July 10.
The charge begs a larger and so far unanswered question: Did police officers at the scene of the March 25 nighttime accident intentionally do an incomplete job while trying to protect Woodall from criminal charges?
Soon after realizing one of their own was involved, both police and the district attorney's office agreed to ask the state prosecutor to look into the case, realizing there was a potential conflict of interest.
And there were private worries by officials about whether Woodall was given favorable treatment by fellow cops.
Woodall's husband, Jason, is a sergeant at the department; her father-in-law is Jack Woodall, a former lieutenant at the police department and also a district attorney's investigator.
Officers did not conduct either a field sobriety test or take Woodall's blood, although they had a statement from a witness who claimed to have overheard Woodall talking about drinking. In car crashes, it is common practice to ask for a blood sample if there is probable cause that the driver may be intoxicated.
When asked if state investigators had determined if there was any misconduct on the part of the police, Attorney General spokesman Abraham Arredondo said that he did not know and was not sure it was an issue that was investigated.
"We were asked by the DA's office to look at the DUI because this woman is an employee of the DAs' office and a former police officer," Arredondo said. "When they had that conflict they sent it to us."
"So our people looked at it, reviewed the police report and we decided to file felony DUI charges, there is nothing else that I know of."
A copy of the charges were unavailable today.
Police Sgt. Michael Sullivan said from the moment command staff learned of the case through a citizen complaint they have been "extremely concerned" that the incident may not have been handled properly.
"This why the police department immediately reached out the District Attorney's office and the Attorney General," said Sullivan.
Police confirmed they were investigating what happened that night to determine if the officers acted inappropriately.
Nick Muyo, a spokesman for the district attorney's office, declined comment, other than to say that Woodall has has been put on administrative leave.
On March 25, Woodall was driving a black 2006 Cadillac Escalade eastbound on Branham Lane, police said, when she rear-ended a 1987 Ford Escort driving in the same direction.
The Escalade drove over the median and hit an oncoming 1995 Volkswagen Jetta. The Jetta hit a parked car and the Escalade ended up partially on the sidewalk. All three drivers - including Woodall - complained of minor injuries and were eventually taken to a local hospital, police said.
The case might simply have disappeared had not an outraged victim called top police officials to complain that nothing was being done.
The officials then reviewed the case and recognized the name of the former officer.
They called the DA's office, which - fearing a conflict of interest - forwarded the matter to the state attorney general's office.
If the officers are found to have botched their response to the crash or to have attempted to cover up the Woodall's potential culpability, they could face discipline ranging from extra training to termination.
The officers who responded to the crash, who have not been identified publicly, remain on active duty.
Woodall, 39, now an investigator with the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office, is expected in court July 10.
The charge begs a larger and so far unanswered question: Did police officers at the scene of the March 25 nighttime accident intentionally do an incomplete job while trying to protect Woodall from criminal charges?
Soon after realizing one of their own was involved, both police and the district attorney's office agreed to ask the state prosecutor to look into the case, realizing there was a potential conflict of interest.
And there were private worries by officials about whether Woodall was given favorable treatment by fellow cops.
Woodall's husband, Jason, is a sergeant at the department; her father-in-law is Jack Woodall, a former lieutenant at the police department and also a district attorney's investigator.
Officers did not conduct either a field sobriety test or take Woodall's blood, although they had a statement from a witness who claimed to have overheard Woodall talking about drinking. In car crashes, it is common practice to ask for a blood sample if there is probable cause that the driver may be intoxicated.
When asked if state investigators had determined if there was any misconduct on the part of the police, Attorney General spokesman Abraham Arredondo said that he did not know and was not sure it was an issue that was investigated.
"We were asked by the DA's office to look at the DUI because this woman is an employee of the DAs' office and a former police officer," Arredondo said. "When they had that conflict they sent it to us."
"So our people looked at it, reviewed the police report and we decided to file felony DUI charges, there is nothing else that I know of."
A copy of the charges were unavailable today.
Police Sgt. Michael Sullivan said from the moment command staff learned of the case through a citizen complaint they have been "extremely concerned" that the incident may not have been handled properly.
"This why the police department immediately reached out the District Attorney's office and the Attorney General," said Sullivan.
Police confirmed they were investigating what happened that night to determine if the officers acted inappropriately.
Nick Muyo, a spokesman for the district attorney's office, declined comment, other than to say that Woodall has has been put on administrative leave.
On March 25, Woodall was driving a black 2006 Cadillac Escalade eastbound on Branham Lane, police said, when she rear-ended a 1987 Ford Escort driving in the same direction.
The Escalade drove over the median and hit an oncoming 1995 Volkswagen Jetta. The Jetta hit a parked car and the Escalade ended up partially on the sidewalk. All three drivers - including Woodall - complained of minor injuries and were eventually taken to a local hospital, police said.
The case might simply have disappeared had not an outraged victim called top police officials to complain that nothing was being done.
The officials then reviewed the case and recognized the name of the former officer.
They called the DA's office, which - fearing a conflict of interest - forwarded the matter to the state attorney general's office.
If the officers are found to have botched their response to the crash or to have attempted to cover up the Woodall's potential culpability, they could face discipline ranging from extra training to termination.
The officers who responded to the crash, who have not been identified publicly, remain on active duty.
UPDATE: More Details about Officer accused of Sexual Battery
A woman has claimed that a former Gainesville Police officer coerced and intimidated her into having sex with him.
Gainesville Police received the complaint on May 7, and John Robert Bostick, 34, resigned May 9 from the department at the start of the internal investigation.
The woman wrote in a “victim statement” that Bostick was making her have sex with him to keep him from “messing with” her family and allowing her to drive with an invalid driver’s license, according to the police supplement report.
The woman said that Bostick had called her multiple times, though she did not answer the phone.
The woman told police that she met Bostick at a downtown nightclub where she works.
While on patrol, he complimented her on her looks and asked for her personal information, the report stated.
Bostick also shared confidential police information with the woman regarding her father’s arrest.
In a separate incident, Bostick told the woman that her friend shouldn’t worry about his charges because Bostick forgot to write the citation, according to the report.
The alleged sexual battery occurred outside of Gainesville Police jurisdiction, and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
Spencer Mann, State Attorney’s Office spokesman, said the attorney’s office is still deciding whether Bostick could be prosecuted for a sexual battery charge.
Gainesville Police received the complaint on May 7, and John Robert Bostick, 34, resigned May 9 from the department at the start of the internal investigation.
The woman wrote in a “victim statement” that Bostick was making her have sex with him to keep him from “messing with” her family and allowing her to drive with an invalid driver’s license, according to the police supplement report.
The woman said that Bostick had called her multiple times, though she did not answer the phone.
The woman told police that she met Bostick at a downtown nightclub where she works.
While on patrol, he complimented her on her looks and asked for her personal information, the report stated.
Bostick also shared confidential police information with the woman regarding her father’s arrest.
In a separate incident, Bostick told the woman that her friend shouldn’t worry about his charges because Bostick forgot to write the citation, according to the report.
The alleged sexual battery occurred outside of Gainesville Police jurisdiction, and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
Spencer Mann, State Attorney’s Office spokesman, said the attorney’s office is still deciding whether Bostick could be prosecuted for a sexual battery charge.
UPDATE: Detective Jason Barber Free on Bond
INDIANAPOLIS
An Indianapolis narcotics detective facing charges of selling a handgun to a felon and official misconduct was released on bond today.
Detective Jason Barber was released after a Marion Superior Court judge reduced his bond from $100,000 to $5,000.
Barber is accused of knowingly selling a firearm to a convicted burglar during a police sting. He is the fourth Indianapolis police officer arrested in two weeks and the third narcotics detective. He has been suspended without pay.
Barber's attorney, Terrance Kinnard, says Barber denies the charges.
As a condition of his release, Judge William Young required Barber to report weekly, surrender his passport and be subject to random drug tests while awaiting his trial in September.
An Indianapolis narcotics detective facing charges of selling a handgun to a felon and official misconduct was released on bond today.
Detective Jason Barber was released after a Marion Superior Court judge reduced his bond from $100,000 to $5,000.
Barber is accused of knowingly selling a firearm to a convicted burglar during a police sting. He is the fourth Indianapolis police officer arrested in two weeks and the third narcotics detective. He has been suspended without pay.
Barber's attorney, Terrance Kinnard, says Barber denies the charges.
As a condition of his release, Judge William Young required Barber to report weekly, surrender his passport and be subject to random drug tests while awaiting his trial in September.
D.C. Officer Arrested for Assault, Abduction, and Rape
A Metropolitan Police Department officer is in jail facing charges of attempted rape, assault and abduction after police said they caught him going after his former girlfriend.
Officer Kelvin Barksdale, a tremendously popular patrol officer on Capitol Hill, is held without bond in the Prince William County jail. Many people expressed shock at the news of his arrest, while others who witnesses the attack, including a Virginia police officer who helped stop it, said it could have been worse.
"I had pulled up at that intersection, Williamstown Drive and Old Triangle and heard all the commotion, all the screaming and yelling." A woman was fighting for her life when Dumfries police detective Mark McCoy jumped out to help. He saw a man, allegedly Barksdale, who is accused of trying to abduct his former girlfriend at gunpoint, possibly using his service weapon.
"Take her to the wooded area over here where he made the threats to kill her and her family, her children." Neighbors credited detective McCoy and others for interrupting the attack and perhaps saving the woman's life. She reportedly had ended a personal relationship with Barksdale a few days earlier.
"I mean, come on. He is a police officer. He should know better than that.," neighbor Dorothy Dye said.
44-year-old Barksdale is a much decorated, veteran officer based out of the First District Police Station. He's well-known and well-liked as a beat cop in Capitol Hill neighborhoods. It was his own department who helped Dumfries Police take him into custody. "They contacted him and at some point encouraged him to come down and turn himself in," McCoy said.
Witnesses said there was such rage involved in the assault, at first they thought the man was a stranger, not someone who could have ever cared about the person he was attacking. "There are crazy people out there in the world who don't have their head on straight. They're in law enforcement and politics and school and everywhere," neighbor Lakisha Ferguson said.
Officer Barksdale will stay behind bars until his hearing at the end of August. Meantime, he's on administrative leave from the Metropolitan Police Department.
Officer Kelvin Barksdale, a tremendously popular patrol officer on Capitol Hill, is held without bond in the Prince William County jail. Many people expressed shock at the news of his arrest, while others who witnesses the attack, including a Virginia police officer who helped stop it, said it could have been worse.
"I had pulled up at that intersection, Williamstown Drive and Old Triangle and heard all the commotion, all the screaming and yelling." A woman was fighting for her life when Dumfries police detective Mark McCoy jumped out to help. He saw a man, allegedly Barksdale, who is accused of trying to abduct his former girlfriend at gunpoint, possibly using his service weapon.
"Take her to the wooded area over here where he made the threats to kill her and her family, her children." Neighbors credited detective McCoy and others for interrupting the attack and perhaps saving the woman's life. She reportedly had ended a personal relationship with Barksdale a few days earlier.
"I mean, come on. He is a police officer. He should know better than that.," neighbor Dorothy Dye said.
44-year-old Barksdale is a much decorated, veteran officer based out of the First District Police Station. He's well-known and well-liked as a beat cop in Capitol Hill neighborhoods. It was his own department who helped Dumfries Police take him into custody. "They contacted him and at some point encouraged him to come down and turn himself in," McCoy said.
Witnesses said there was such rage involved in the assault, at first they thought the man was a stranger, not someone who could have ever cared about the person he was attacking. "There are crazy people out there in the world who don't have their head on straight. They're in law enforcement and politics and school and everywhere," neighbor Lakisha Ferguson said.
Officer Barksdale will stay behind bars until his hearing at the end of August. Meantime, he's on administrative leave from the Metropolitan Police Department.
Indianapolis Officer and his Wife accused Running Prostitution Ring
An Indianapolis police officer and his wife were accused Wednesday of running a prostitution ring out of their Greenwood home, and a former top criminal justice agency official was arrested and charged with patronizing a prostitute.
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Patrolman Jeremy Lee, 30, was fired after Johnson County prosecutors filed a felony charge against him of aiding in promoting prostitution. His wife, Lori Vernon-Lee, 36, faces five felony counts of promoting prostitution.
Jerry McCory, 56, who most recently served as a Marion County sheriff's liaison at Jail II and Liberty Hall, is charged with patronizing a prostitute, a misdemeanor.
McCory, former director of the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, a Merrillville police chief and a public safety adviser to Mayor Bart Peterson, resigned from the Sheriff's Department on June 25 without explanation.
Lee was a probationary officer who joined the department in October. His arrest marks the fifth of an IMPD officer in the past 16 days.
"We're disturbed by his conduct; we're ashamed of him," IMPD Chief Michael Spears said. "The thing the public needs to know is this investigation (was made) by the members of our own agency. . . . We're going to be a stronger agency for the removal of individuals like Mr. Lee."
Johnson County Prosecutor Lance Hamner said the charges followed an IMPD investigation submitted to his office early Wednesday. He said a prostitution case involving law enforcement is unprecedented in the community south of Indianapolis.
"That's unusual anywhere," Hamner said. "But we've never seen it here."
According to a probable cause affidavit, Lori Vernon-Lee solicited women to work for her escort service and advertised their services through a local weekly newspaper. Vernon-Lee would arrange for escorts to meet with clients at the escorts' homes or in hotels, where they would perform acts ranging from massage to sexual intercourse, according to interviews with clients and escorts cited in the affidavit. Vernon-Lee would take a portion of the fee for their services.
According to an affidavit, Jeremy Lee told police he answered phones for his wife's service, acted as a bodyguard for women while they were with clients and helped collect money from the escorts while wearing his police uniform.
He said he assisted his wife with her business as far back as 1998, when she ran an escort service in New Hampshire, the affidavit says.
As part of the IMPD investigation, detectives randomly selected six names of clients who patronized Vernon-Lee's service from her log books. Among the names was McCory, whose name was listed under April 24, according to the affidavit.
McCory is accused of hiring an escort to perform oral sex. He was hired by the Sheriff's Department in December to monitor oversight and compliance in the department's work with private-facilities operators. His salary was $69,866 a year. He was not subject to disciplinary action or investigation by the Marion County department during his tenure, said Julio Fernandez, a spokesman for the department.
Since Lee had not completed probation, Spears said he could fire Lee without going through formal procedures that could include a hearing before the department's merit board.
No other police officers or public officials are suspected in the case, said Capt. Chris Boomershine of the IMPD strategic investigations branch.
Lee joins four officers facing charges filed in the past three weeks. Narcotics officer Jason S. Barber, 32, was charged last week with selling a handgun to a felon and official misconduct. He was released from jail Wednesday after a judge granted his request for reduced bond.
The previous week, narcotics officers Robert B. Long and Jason P. Edwards and patrol officer James Davis were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of marijuana. They resigned June 19.
"It's not fair to indict any other part of the Police Department other than to indict the personal decisions to commit intentional actions, which were criminal on the part of these ex-officers," Spears said in reference to the recent police arrests.
McCory turned himself in Wednesday, Hamner said, but paid his bond, which was set at $2,000. He did not return phone calls Wednesday evening seeking comment.
Vernon-Lee was arrested Wednesday and was in Johnson County Jail on Wednesday night on $40,000 bond.
Lee, who was out of town on military training in Massachusetts, received the news of the charges and the warrant in a cell phone call Wednesday afternoon.
If convicted, the Lees each could face a maximum of eight years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 apiece, Hamner said. McCory could face up to a year and a maximum $5,000 fine.
Boston Officers were Previously Disciplined
A lawyer for David Woodman's family voiced outrage yesterday after learning that two of the nine officers who were with the 22-year-old Brookline man when he stopped breathing as he was being taken into custody during the Celtics championship celebration on June 18 had previously been disciplined, one for domestic violence and the other for a lack of judgment in dealing with a shooting suspect.
The prior complaints against the officers "could indicate they have anger management problems," said Howard Friedman, who represents the parents of Woodman, a former Emmanuel College student who died in the hospital 11 days after his encounter with the officers.
Friedman said there are unanswered questions about who started the encounter with Woodman.
"We're still in the dark," Friedman said. "But if one of these officers were involved or were the lead, that would be a sign of a more serious problem. That would shed new light on the entire incident."
Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis said that neither of the two officers initiated Woodman's arrest, and that one had no physical contact with him, while the other helped push Woodman's arm behind his back while he was resisting arrest.
"There was a violent resistance to an arrest, and the incident was over very, very quickly," Davis said in a telephone interview.
He said yesterday that he asked Donald K. Stern, the former US attorney and now a lawyer in private practice, to review the circumstances around Woodman's death.
The Woodmans have called on the FBI and US Attorney's office to investigate their son's death.
Stern - who now works at Cooley, Godward, Kronish - was head of a panel that reviewed the death of Victoria Snelgrove, a 21-year-old Emerson College student who died in 2004 during a Red Sox celebration after a police officer fired a pepper pellet that struck her in the eye.
"I've worked very closely with Don Stern in the past, and I think he's the perfect person to help with this situation," Davis said, adding that Stern would "really make sure people are satisfied we are being completely transparent on this."
Stern said last night that it is unlikely he would convene a commission as he did in the Snelgrove case, where the facts were more technical and complex. That case involved a review of department weapons and crowd control tactics.
"This seems to me more manageable to get my arms around without forming a commission," Stern said, adding that he will probably serve as an independent investigator and call on specialists to aid in the review.
Yesterday Boston police released the names of the eight officers and one sergeant involved in arresting Woodman, along with their department histories, in response to a request from the Globe under the Freedom of Information Act.
One of the officers, Henderson Parker, 41, a 14-year veteran of the force, was suspended for 30 days in 2002 following "a physical confrontation of a domestic nature that resulted in injuries," according to a police record. The record did not provide any more details, but Davis said the confrontation did not happen while Parker was at work.
Another officer, Dowayne Lewis, 34, who has been with the department for seven years, was suspended two days in October 2005 for acting unprofessionally during an arrest. In that case, a man who shot a gun outside Lewis's house was arrested and placed in the back of a cruiser. Lewis, who was not on duty, approached the cruiser to identify the suspect and opened the door, in violation of department rules. The suspect tried to hit Lewis, who shoved back, Davis said.
Lewis, who has not been disciplined since the incident, was the officer who pushed Woodman's arm while he was being arrested, Davis said. "That's the sum of the contact," he said.
Officer Steven Borne, a 24-year-old former emergency medical technician who joined the department last year, was the officer who administered CPR when Woodman stopped breathing, Davis said. Borne is the subject of a pending internal affairs investigation spurred by a motorist's complaint that he was disrespectful while issuing her a ticket last month, Davis said.
None of the other officers involved in Woodman's arrest have ever been disciplined, police said. The officers are Sergeant James Blake, 42, who joined the department in 2001; Steven Collette, 26, who joined the department in 2006; Michael Condon, 30, who joined in 2006; Carina Acosta, 31, who joined in 2005; and Michael McManus, 30, and Brian Morse, 28, who both joined last year. McManus, Morse, and Borne are all on probation because they are new officers.
Parker, Blake, and Morse had no physical contact with Woodman, Davis said.
The night of Woodman's arrest, he and four friends had left a Kenmore Square bar after the Celtics victory and were walking home when they passed the officers at the corner of the Fenway and Brookline Avenue.
According to one of Woodman's friends, Woodman said, "Wow, it seems like there's a lot of crime on this corner," prompting officers to confront Woodman, who was holding a plastic cup of beer.
The friend said police slammed Woodman to the ground, then ordered them to leave the scene or face arrest. Davis said Woodman tried to flee and resisted arrest. He was charged with public drinking and resisting arrest.
Woodman's parents, Cathy and Jeffrey Woodman of Southwick, have accused police of failing to get prompt medical attention for their son. They said doctors at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center told them their son suffered significant brain damage from a lack of oxygen. He died Sunday. Officials are awaiting final autopsy results to determine the cause of death. Woodman had a preexisting heart condition, but led an active life, his parents have said.
Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley, who is conducting an investigation with police homicide detectives into Woodman's death, yesterday defended his decision to allow city police to investigate the incident.
"The decision on whether anyone is criminally responsible for anything that may have occurred here is exclusively mine to make," Conley said. "The fact that I'm using Boston police homicide investigators really reflects the faith I have in their integrity and professionalism."
The prior complaints against the officers "could indicate they have anger management problems," said Howard Friedman, who represents the parents of Woodman, a former Emmanuel College student who died in the hospital 11 days after his encounter with the officers.
Friedman said there are unanswered questions about who started the encounter with Woodman.
"We're still in the dark," Friedman said. "But if one of these officers were involved or were the lead, that would be a sign of a more serious problem. That would shed new light on the entire incident."
Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis said that neither of the two officers initiated Woodman's arrest, and that one had no physical contact with him, while the other helped push Woodman's arm behind his back while he was resisting arrest.
"There was a violent resistance to an arrest, and the incident was over very, very quickly," Davis said in a telephone interview.
He said yesterday that he asked Donald K. Stern, the former US attorney and now a lawyer in private practice, to review the circumstances around Woodman's death.
The Woodmans have called on the FBI and US Attorney's office to investigate their son's death.
Stern - who now works at Cooley, Godward, Kronish - was head of a panel that reviewed the death of Victoria Snelgrove, a 21-year-old Emerson College student who died in 2004 during a Red Sox celebration after a police officer fired a pepper pellet that struck her in the eye.
"I've worked very closely with Don Stern in the past, and I think he's the perfect person to help with this situation," Davis said, adding that Stern would "really make sure people are satisfied we are being completely transparent on this."
Stern said last night that it is unlikely he would convene a commission as he did in the Snelgrove case, where the facts were more technical and complex. That case involved a review of department weapons and crowd control tactics.
"This seems to me more manageable to get my arms around without forming a commission," Stern said, adding that he will probably serve as an independent investigator and call on specialists to aid in the review.
Yesterday Boston police released the names of the eight officers and one sergeant involved in arresting Woodman, along with their department histories, in response to a request from the Globe under the Freedom of Information Act.
One of the officers, Henderson Parker, 41, a 14-year veteran of the force, was suspended for 30 days in 2002 following "a physical confrontation of a domestic nature that resulted in injuries," according to a police record. The record did not provide any more details, but Davis said the confrontation did not happen while Parker was at work.
Another officer, Dowayne Lewis, 34, who has been with the department for seven years, was suspended two days in October 2005 for acting unprofessionally during an arrest. In that case, a man who shot a gun outside Lewis's house was arrested and placed in the back of a cruiser. Lewis, who was not on duty, approached the cruiser to identify the suspect and opened the door, in violation of department rules. The suspect tried to hit Lewis, who shoved back, Davis said.
Lewis, who has not been disciplined since the incident, was the officer who pushed Woodman's arm while he was being arrested, Davis said. "That's the sum of the contact," he said.
Officer Steven Borne, a 24-year-old former emergency medical technician who joined the department last year, was the officer who administered CPR when Woodman stopped breathing, Davis said. Borne is the subject of a pending internal affairs investigation spurred by a motorist's complaint that he was disrespectful while issuing her a ticket last month, Davis said.
None of the other officers involved in Woodman's arrest have ever been disciplined, police said. The officers are Sergeant James Blake, 42, who joined the department in 2001; Steven Collette, 26, who joined the department in 2006; Michael Condon, 30, who joined in 2006; Carina Acosta, 31, who joined in 2005; and Michael McManus, 30, and Brian Morse, 28, who both joined last year. McManus, Morse, and Borne are all on probation because they are new officers.
Parker, Blake, and Morse had no physical contact with Woodman, Davis said.
The night of Woodman's arrest, he and four friends had left a Kenmore Square bar after the Celtics victory and were walking home when they passed the officers at the corner of the Fenway and Brookline Avenue.
According to one of Woodman's friends, Woodman said, "Wow, it seems like there's a lot of crime on this corner," prompting officers to confront Woodman, who was holding a plastic cup of beer.
The friend said police slammed Woodman to the ground, then ordered them to leave the scene or face arrest. Davis said Woodman tried to flee and resisted arrest. He was charged with public drinking and resisting arrest.
Woodman's parents, Cathy and Jeffrey Woodman of Southwick, have accused police of failing to get prompt medical attention for their son. They said doctors at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center told them their son suffered significant brain damage from a lack of oxygen. He died Sunday. Officials are awaiting final autopsy results to determine the cause of death. Woodman had a preexisting heart condition, but led an active life, his parents have said.
Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley, who is conducting an investigation with police homicide detectives into Woodman's death, yesterday defended his decision to allow city police to investigate the incident.
"The decision on whether anyone is criminally responsible for anything that may have occurred here is exclusively mine to make," Conley said. "The fact that I'm using Boston police homicide investigators really reflects the faith I have in their integrity and professionalism."
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Officer Monte Montalvo Accused of Sexual Assault Pleads Not Guilty
Buffalo police officer Monte Montalvo pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on Wednesday afternoon. His case moved from city court to state supreme court where he faces a single felony count of Criminal Sexual Act in the Third Degree.
Montalvo had no comment as he left court with his attorney.
Prosecutors allege that the 37-year-old officer was working as a security guard at a college fraternity party in December, when he met a 19-year-old female college student. The two apparently went to Montalvo's west side home, where the woman says Montalvo allegedly sexually assaulted her.
Montalvo is free on his own recognizance. He returns to court on July 23. He faces one and a third to four years in prison if convicted.
Lower Bond Denied for Officer Accused of Rape
WAUKEGAN
A Lake County judge denied a motion to lower the bond of the former Waukegan police officer accused of raping a woman while on duty.
Judge Raymond Collins said today he saw nothing in the defense’s motion to justify lowering Delatwon Haynes $2 million bond, despite arguments that his accuser is an admitted drug addict.
“I don’t find anything that would change my mind,” Collins told defense attorney Joel Brodsky and prosecutor Patricia Fix, as Haynes stood by quietly. Bail was set at $2 million by Judge Daniel Shanes last week.
Brodsky had argued that Haynes’ clean record should be enough to lower his bond to something more manageable.
“There is nothing (in his past) that would say he would not obey all court orders or he would not show up for court,” Brodsky said.
Fix countered that, saying that the charges against Haynes are serious, and testimony Shanes heard last week warranted a high bond amount. Fix also said that there is precedent for a police officer being held on high bond. Last month a judge rejected a motion to lower a $1.5 million bond on for Gurnee police officer Jay Simon, who has been jailed on charges that he sexually assaulted two young girls.
Haynes, 32, of Zion, is accused of sexually assaulting a woman in January while he worked the midnight shift. He resigned from the Waukegan Police Department a few days after allegations of rape were brought against him by the then-Waukegan resident.
Last week the State’s Attorneys Office approved charges for four counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault, one count of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of aggravated sexual abuse and eight counts of misconduct.
Brodsky argued Wednesday, and has said in the past, that the allegations are unreliable, because the accuser admitted to police that she was a heroin addict.
Fix dismissed Brodsky’s claims, saying the State wasn’t going to try Haynes in the press, or reveal information about the case before discovery was due. Fix did however reveal that a used condom gathered by Haynes’ accuser at the scene contained Haynes’ DNA.
“That’s pretty strong physical evidence your honor,” Fix told Collins.
Officer and His Wife Accused in Prostitution Ring
GREENWOOD, Ind.
A former police officer and his wife have been accused of running a prostitution ring out of their home, where he allegedly collected cash from the prostitutes while in uniform.
Former Indianapolis police officer Jeremy Lee faces a charge of aiding in promoting prostitution.
Lee was fired Wednesday after the charge was filed against him in Johnson County, just south of Indianapolis.
"We're disturbed by his conduct; we're ashamed of him," said Indianapolis Police Chief Michael Spears, who added that the investigation was started by his department.
Lee, 30, would collect money from prostitutes hired by his wife, Lori Vernon-Lee, while wearing his police uniform, according to court documents.
Arrest warrants were issued Wednesday for the couple and Jerry L. McCory, 56, a Marion County Sheriff's Department employee who faces a misdemeanor count of patronizing a prostitute.
Vernon-Lee, 36, is charged with five felony counts of promoting prostitution for allegedly operating the illegal escort service from home in the Indianapolis suburb of Greenwood, according to an affidavit.
Vernon-Lee was being held in Johnson County Jail late Wednesday night on $40,000 bond, said a jail officer. McCory was released earlier on $2,000 bond. Lee was not in custody, the officer said. WTHR TV reported that Lee was in Massachusetts and had been contacted and told to surrender to authorities there.
Vernon-Lee allegedly recruited women to serve as escorts and then advertised their services in a weekly Indianapolis newspaper.
When clients called Vernon-Lee's escort service, she allegedly would arrange for a meeting between client and one of the escorts during which money was exchanged for various sex acts.
Each escort would turn over part of the money she collected -- typically about half -- to Vernon-Lee, whose husband would collect the cash while in his police uniform, the affidavit states.
A former police officer and his wife have been accused of running a prostitution ring out of their home, where he allegedly collected cash from the prostitutes while in uniform.
Former Indianapolis police officer Jeremy Lee faces a charge of aiding in promoting prostitution.
Lee was fired Wednesday after the charge was filed against him in Johnson County, just south of Indianapolis.
"We're disturbed by his conduct; we're ashamed of him," said Indianapolis Police Chief Michael Spears, who added that the investigation was started by his department.
Lee, 30, would collect money from prostitutes hired by his wife, Lori Vernon-Lee, while wearing his police uniform, according to court documents.
Arrest warrants were issued Wednesday for the couple and Jerry L. McCory, 56, a Marion County Sheriff's Department employee who faces a misdemeanor count of patronizing a prostitute.
Vernon-Lee, 36, is charged with five felony counts of promoting prostitution for allegedly operating the illegal escort service from home in the Indianapolis suburb of Greenwood, according to an affidavit.
Vernon-Lee was being held in Johnson County Jail late Wednesday night on $40,000 bond, said a jail officer. McCory was released earlier on $2,000 bond. Lee was not in custody, the officer said. WTHR TV reported that Lee was in Massachusetts and had been contacted and told to surrender to authorities there.
Vernon-Lee allegedly recruited women to serve as escorts and then advertised their services in a weekly Indianapolis newspaper.
When clients called Vernon-Lee's escort service, she allegedly would arrange for a meeting between client and one of the escorts during which money was exchanged for various sex acts.
Each escort would turn over part of the money she collected -- typically about half -- to Vernon-Lee, whose husband would collect the cash while in his police uniform, the affidavit states.
Jail Officers Investigated for Inmate's Death
UPPER MARLBORO, Md.
A black man arrested in the hit-and-run death of a police officer was found strangled in his cell, and investigators focused Tuesday on guards at the suburban Maryland jail, which has a history of security lapses.
As state police took over the investigation, an attorney for inmate Ronnie L. White's family said the young man's attackers "took it upon themselves to be both the judge, the jury and the executioner."
White's death shocked and angered officials in Prince George's County, including County Executive Jack Johnson, who likened it to "vigilante justice."
Investigators from the FBI and state police joined the case Monday after the state medical examiner concluded that White had been strangled Sunday morning.
White, 19, was arrested early Saturday on charges of ramming a stolen pickup truck into police Cpl. Richard Findley. Findley had gotten out of his police cruiser Friday while trying to conduct a traffic stop on the truck. White allegedly struck him and dragged him for a short distance in the community of Laurel.
Johnson immediately moved to curb speculation that White's death was the result of police officers seeking revenge, saying the slaying was "unrelated to any act" by police.
Attorney Bobby G. Henry Jr., who represented White's family, urged the U.S. Department of Justice to join the investigation.
"Something is dreadfully wrong with our system," he said.
County State's Attorney Glenn Ivey said his office would convene a grand jury to review evidence in the case. He said investigators were scrutinizing seven correctional officers who had access to White, who was being held separately from other inmates. Ivey also said other workers at the county jail and inmates would be questioned.
"We'll follow the evidence wherever it leads," he said.
Rich Wolf, an FBI spokesman in Baltimore, confirmed that the agency had opened a civil rights case, but he would not comment on the investigation. Calls to state police were not immediately returned.
White's death is the latest in a series of security lapses at the jail, which is 20 miles outside Washington in one of Maryland's largest counties. Last month, the county's corrections director was fired after guns vanished from the armory. In February, a former police official convicted of second-degree murder was found with a handcuffs key.
A corrections officer suspected of being a gang member was charged in March with bringing cell phones to inmates who were members of the Bloods street gang. And earlier this year, two female officers were suspended for allegedly having sexual contact with inmates.
More than 450 guards work at the 20-year-old facility, which had an average daily population of 1,489 prisoners during the 2007 fiscal year. White was being held in a cell by himself, to protect him from other prisoners, because of the high profile of his alleged crime.
"This shouldn't happen," Johnson said Monday night. "Every citizen we bring into our custody should be protected."
Curtis Knowles, head of the county's correctional officers union, said Tuesday that union lawyers advised him not to comment on the case because of the investigation. On Monday, he urged people not to reach any conclusions before the investigation had run its course.
Corrections officials have said White had no visible signs of trauma on his body when guards bringing him a meal found him slumped on the floor next to his bed about 10:30 a.m. Sunday. He had been checked 15 minutes earlier and appeared to be well. A preliminary autopsy by the state medical examiner in Baltimore ruled the death a homicide and found two broken bones in his neck.
None of the seven guards or an unspecified number of supervisors who could have had contact with White have been suspended or placed on leave during the investigation, according to Vicki Duncan, spokeswoman for the corrections division.
White had a prior criminal record that included serving time for drug charges.
Members of his family did not attend a news conference Tuesday held by their attorney, and they could not be immediately reached.
Findley, 39, was a 10-year veteran of the county police force. A funeral was scheduled for Thursday, and Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley ordered state flags to be flown at half-staff until then.
Corrections Officer Arrested in Jail Sex Case
A corrections officer from the Saline County Sheriff's Office was arrested Monday in connection with a sex case involving three inmates at the Saline County Jail.
Sheriff Glen Kochanowski says that 27-year-old Eric Taylor was fired, and arrested, on Monday. He is accused of inappropriately touching three female inmates at the Saline County Jail on June 24th.
According to Kochanowski, Taylor was arrested following a simultaneous criminal and internal affairs investigation. Investigators believe that this was a one time event, and had not been on-going.
Taylor had been employed since June of 2006 as a corrections officer at the sheriff's office. He could face felony charges that include three counts of unlawful sexual relations by a law enforcement officer with an inmate over the age of sixteen.
Sheriff Glen Kochanowski says that 27-year-old Eric Taylor was fired, and arrested, on Monday. He is accused of inappropriately touching three female inmates at the Saline County Jail on June 24th.
According to Kochanowski, Taylor was arrested following a simultaneous criminal and internal affairs investigation. Investigators believe that this was a one time event, and had not been on-going.
Taylor had been employed since June of 2006 as a corrections officer at the sheriff's office. He could face felony charges that include three counts of unlawful sexual relations by a law enforcement officer with an inmate over the age of sixteen.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Officer accused of battery and leaking information
A Gainesville Police Department internal investigation found that a former officer violated GPD policies by sharing confidential police information with a woman he was having sex with.
In addition, the State Attorney’s Office is looking into the woman’s accusation that the officer committed sexual battery on her.
Bostick was found in violation of the following Gainesville Police Department policies:
"Immoral, unlawful, or improper conduct or indecency, whether on or off the job, which would tend to affect the employee's relationship to his/her job, fellow workers' reputations or goodwill in the community."This includes violation of these GPD general orders:
Conduct unbecoming
Criminal conduct
Association with known offenders / person of questionable reputation
Investigative information
"Productivity or workmanship not up to required standard of performance."This includes violation of these GPD general orders:
Department-owned property
In-car audio/Video system procedures
Property and evidence control
Bostick failed to turn in certain department items, such as a clip-on GPD ID and removable laptop floppy drive after his resignation with GPD. GPD also found evidence items in his assigned patrol vehicle that he had failed to turn in as evidence. He also failed to set the correct date for his in-car videotapes, according to the GPD Internal Affairs report.
John Robert Bostick voluntarily resigned May 9 from GPD while the investigation was ongoing.
On May 8, GPD received a complaint alleging that Bostick committed sexual battery on a woman with an extensive criminal history, according to a GPD Internal Affairs report dated June 18.
The woman recorded the sexual battery on her video recorder and had numerous voicemail messages from Bostick on her cell phone, the report stated.
The only audible phone message that was recovered by GPD’s Computer Forensics Unit was of Bostick saying, “All right, girl. That’s the last straw there. I am declaring war, and that will be it. It’s JB. Later.”
The complaint also alleged that Bostick provided confidential information to the woman regarding ongoing criminal investigations, the report stated.
The woman refused to have sex with Bostick until he agreed to “look the other way” if he observed any illegal activity involving the woman and another person, according to the report.
Because the alleged sexual battery occurred outside of GPD’s jurisdiction, the Criminal Investigations Division of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office was notified, according to the report.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney’s Office, said it will take about a week to decide whether Bostick will be prosecuted for the alleged sexual battery charge.
In addition, the State Attorney’s Office is looking into the woman’s accusation that the officer committed sexual battery on her.
Bostick was found in violation of the following Gainesville Police Department policies:
"Immoral, unlawful, or improper conduct or indecency, whether on or off the job, which would tend to affect the employee's relationship to his/her job, fellow workers' reputations or goodwill in the community."This includes violation of these GPD general orders:
Conduct unbecoming
Criminal conduct
Association with known offenders / person of questionable reputation
Investigative information
"Productivity or workmanship not up to required standard of performance."This includes violation of these GPD general orders:
Department-owned property
In-car audio/Video system procedures
Property and evidence control
Bostick failed to turn in certain department items, such as a clip-on GPD ID and removable laptop floppy drive after his resignation with GPD. GPD also found evidence items in his assigned patrol vehicle that he had failed to turn in as evidence. He also failed to set the correct date for his in-car videotapes, according to the GPD Internal Affairs report.
John Robert Bostick voluntarily resigned May 9 from GPD while the investigation was ongoing.
On May 8, GPD received a complaint alleging that Bostick committed sexual battery on a woman with an extensive criminal history, according to a GPD Internal Affairs report dated June 18.
The woman recorded the sexual battery on her video recorder and had numerous voicemail messages from Bostick on her cell phone, the report stated.
The only audible phone message that was recovered by GPD’s Computer Forensics Unit was of Bostick saying, “All right, girl. That’s the last straw there. I am declaring war, and that will be it. It’s JB. Later.”
The complaint also alleged that Bostick provided confidential information to the woman regarding ongoing criminal investigations, the report stated.
The woman refused to have sex with Bostick until he agreed to “look the other way” if he observed any illegal activity involving the woman and another person, according to the report.
Because the alleged sexual battery occurred outside of GPD’s jurisdiction, the Criminal Investigations Division of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office was notified, according to the report.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney’s Office, said it will take about a week to decide whether Bostick will be prosecuted for the alleged sexual battery charge.
Gay Riot Police Officer Accused of Sexual Assault
Lee Gye-deok, a riot policeman who recently asked for a transfer to the military over frustration against the police' s violent suppression of candlelit protests, has been accused of sexually harassing his fellows in the camp.
Yongsan Police Station recently filed for a warrant for his arrest after reports he tried to touch the body parts of 13 colleagues without their permission. The alleged victims include his seniors and juniors.
The station said Lee has seven months to finish his term and they fear he will commit such offenses again. However, a court rejected the request for his arrest.
Lee drew public attention when he came out of the closet earlier this year. He recently filed for a transfer saying the environment did not fit his work and political ethics. The Ministry of Defense has reportedly turned down his request.
He was put behind bars late last month for neglecting his duty.
Some believe the allegations are a backlash due to his request, combined with homophobia in the society.
``This is how a smart man gets bullied for speaking the truth,'' one of Lee's friends said. ``If you really harassed a colleague during service you wouldn't be alive, especially if he is your senior!'' he added.
Yongsan Police Station recently filed for a warrant for his arrest after reports he tried to touch the body parts of 13 colleagues without their permission. The alleged victims include his seniors and juniors.
The station said Lee has seven months to finish his term and they fear he will commit such offenses again. However, a court rejected the request for his arrest.
Lee drew public attention when he came out of the closet earlier this year. He recently filed for a transfer saying the environment did not fit his work and political ethics. The Ministry of Defense has reportedly turned down his request.
He was put behind bars late last month for neglecting his duty.
Some believe the allegations are a backlash due to his request, combined with homophobia in the society.
``This is how a smart man gets bullied for speaking the truth,'' one of Lee's friends said. ``If you really harassed a colleague during service you wouldn't be alive, especially if he is your senior!'' he added.
Corrections officer accused of touching female inmates
KS
A corrections officer who worked in the Saline County Jail was fired and arrested Monday after he was accused of touching three female inmates.
Eric A. Taylor, 27, Bridgeport, had worked for the Sheriff’s Office for two years, but Sheriff Glen Kochanowski said he did not believe this had been a pattern of behavior.
“As far as we know, this was a one-time event,” he said. “It’s something that should never happen, but it happens.”
Kochanowski said the three inmates were housed together. Taylor allegedly touched them in a sexual way on June 24. When the sheriff’s office received information about the allegations, an internal affairs investigation and a sheriff’s office criminal investigation were launched simultaneously.
Taylor turned himself in and bonded out immediately, Kochanowski said.
A corrections officer who worked in the Saline County Jail was fired and arrested Monday after he was accused of touching three female inmates.
Eric A. Taylor, 27, Bridgeport, had worked for the Sheriff’s Office for two years, but Sheriff Glen Kochanowski said he did not believe this had been a pattern of behavior.
“As far as we know, this was a one-time event,” he said. “It’s something that should never happen, but it happens.”
Kochanowski said the three inmates were housed together. Taylor allegedly touched them in a sexual way on June 24. When the sheriff’s office received information about the allegations, an internal affairs investigation and a sheriff’s office criminal investigation were launched simultaneously.
Taylor turned himself in and bonded out immediately, Kochanowski said.
TBI investigating officer accused of choking man
MOUNT JULIET, Tenn.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating a traffic stop involving a Mt. Juliet police officer accused of performing "vascular restraint" on a man suspected of trying to swallow drugs.
Jason Holleman, a lawyer for the city, said Thursday the TBI is looking into the April 4 incident in which Cpl. William Cosby stopped a vehicle driven by James Lawrence Anders Jr.
Interim Mt. Juliet police chief James Hambrick said Cosby performed "vascular restraint" on Anders when he suspected he was going to swallow drugs, and that Anders temporarily blacked out.
WTVF-TV in Nashville reports the incident was caught on Cosby's patrol car video camera and shows him putting his hands around Anders' neck and applying pressure before he loses consciousness.
Anders was charged with possessing marijuana, resisting arrest and tampering with evidence. But his attorney said the charges were dropped last week by a local judge at the request of the state attorney general.
Hambrick said Cosby was still on the job and given a written reprimand for the incident.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is investigating a traffic stop involving a Mt. Juliet police officer accused of performing "vascular restraint" on a man suspected of trying to swallow drugs.
Jason Holleman, a lawyer for the city, said Thursday the TBI is looking into the April 4 incident in which Cpl. William Cosby stopped a vehicle driven by James Lawrence Anders Jr.
Interim Mt. Juliet police chief James Hambrick said Cosby performed "vascular restraint" on Anders when he suspected he was going to swallow drugs, and that Anders temporarily blacked out.
WTVF-TV in Nashville reports the incident was caught on Cosby's patrol car video camera and shows him putting his hands around Anders' neck and applying pressure before he loses consciousness.
Anders was charged with possessing marijuana, resisting arrest and tampering with evidence. But his attorney said the charges were dropped last week by a local judge at the request of the state attorney general.
Hambrick said Cosby was still on the job and given a written reprimand for the incident.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Second Mission police officer arrested for driving while intoxicated
A second city police officer was suspended Sunday after he was arrested for driving while intoxicated over the weekend.
Mission police Lt. Gabriel Zuniga was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on South Padre Island about 10 p.m. Saturday, said Trooper Johnny Hernandez, a local spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Zuniga was pulled over for a traffic violation along Texas Highway 100, north of the Island's main strip, Hernandez said.
The off-duty police officer failed a sobriety test at the scene and was transported to the Port Isabel Police Department, where he refused to give a breath sample, Hernandez said. Zuniga was then taken to the Cameron County Jail in Brownsville.
Zuniga's arrest marks the second intoxicated driving incident involving a Mission police officer this weekend.
Also Saturday, Officer Martin Flores Villarreal, 40, of Mission, was arrested at 2:30 a.m. on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in an unmarked Mission police vehicle. A DPS trooper arrested Flores along U.S. Expressway 83 in San Juan.
Both officers were indefinitely suspended without pay, said Mission police spokesman Lt. Martin Garza. The accused officers have the right to appeal the suspension, Garza said.
"We are embarrassed and certainly apologize to the public for their actions," he said of the accused officers.
"The acts of these couple of officers doesn't reflect on the actions of other officers from the police department."
Mission police Lt. Gabriel Zuniga was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on South Padre Island about 10 p.m. Saturday, said Trooper Johnny Hernandez, a local spokesman for the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Zuniga was pulled over for a traffic violation along Texas Highway 100, north of the Island's main strip, Hernandez said.
The off-duty police officer failed a sobriety test at the scene and was transported to the Port Isabel Police Department, where he refused to give a breath sample, Hernandez said. Zuniga was then taken to the Cameron County Jail in Brownsville.
Zuniga's arrest marks the second intoxicated driving incident involving a Mission police officer this weekend.
Also Saturday, Officer Martin Flores Villarreal, 40, of Mission, was arrested at 2:30 a.m. on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in an unmarked Mission police vehicle. A DPS trooper arrested Flores along U.S. Expressway 83 in San Juan.
Both officers were indefinitely suspended without pay, said Mission police spokesman Lt. Martin Garza. The accused officers have the right to appeal the suspension, Garza said.
"We are embarrassed and certainly apologize to the public for their actions," he said of the accused officers.
"The acts of these couple of officers doesn't reflect on the actions of other officers from the police department."
Officer Clay Blanchard Charged in Domestic Fight
A Des Moines senior police officer has been arrested after he allegedly assaulted his wife Friday evening.
Clay Blanchard, 56, of Des Moines, was arrested this morning, according to police.
He was charged with domestic assault causing injury, second-degree harassment and obstructing an emergency phone call and taken to the Polk County Jail. Blanchard’s wife, Angela, 40, was not seriously injured, police said.
Angela Blanchard came back to the couple’s residence Friday evening after having dinner with a man, and her husband reportedly began yelling at her and demanded her cell phone, a police report said.
When Angela refused, the two wrestled for the phone and she threatened to call police. Blanchard then took her cell phone and his wife called police from their home phone.
Angela Blanchard told officers she didn’t want to make a report about the incident, but one was made for documentation, police said.
Angela said the couple has an open marriage, the police report said. The man she had seen earlier the night of the assault was a relationship her husband knew about, she told police.
“We investigated this like we would with any other criminal case,” said Sgt. Vince Valdez. “As far as his employment, that is yet to be determined.”
Clay Blanchard, 56, of Des Moines, was arrested this morning, according to police.
He was charged with domestic assault causing injury, second-degree harassment and obstructing an emergency phone call and taken to the Polk County Jail. Blanchard’s wife, Angela, 40, was not seriously injured, police said.
Angela Blanchard came back to the couple’s residence Friday evening after having dinner with a man, and her husband reportedly began yelling at her and demanded her cell phone, a police report said.
When Angela refused, the two wrestled for the phone and she threatened to call police. Blanchard then took her cell phone and his wife called police from their home phone.
Angela Blanchard told officers she didn’t want to make a report about the incident, but one was made for documentation, police said.
Angela said the couple has an open marriage, the police report said. The man she had seen earlier the night of the assault was a relationship her husband knew about, she told police.
“We investigated this like we would with any other criminal case,” said Sgt. Vince Valdez. “As far as his employment, that is yet to be determined.”
Officer Andre Calhoun Arrested for Plotting to Commit Robbery
PELHAM, GA
A south Georgia police officer was arrested on the job after investigators say he plotted to steal.
Pelham police officer Andre Calhoun is out of jail on bond now, after he was taken into custody as he worked early Saturday morning.
Pelham investigators say while Calhoun was on the job, he plotted to commit robbery and burglary. Calhoun is charged with four felonies, two counts of conspiracy and one each of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and violation of his oath of office.
A south Georgia police officer was arrested on the job after investigators say he plotted to steal.
Pelham police officer Andre Calhoun is out of jail on bond now, after he was taken into custody as he worked early Saturday morning.
Pelham investigators say while Calhoun was on the job, he plotted to commit robbery and burglary. Calhoun is charged with four felonies, two counts of conspiracy and one each of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and violation of his oath of office.
Monday, June 30, 2008
David Woodman dies days after Arrest
A 22-year-old man who stopped breathing while in police custody after his arrest during the June 18 Boston Celtics NBA championship celebration died yesterday, prompting an investigation by Boston police and the Suffolk County District Attorney's office into his death.
The parents of David Woodman, a former Emmanuel College student who was living in Brookline, said their son did not receive prompt medical attention while lying unconscious, face down on Brookline Avenue with his hands cuffed behind his back. They also accused police of failing to give them a full account of what happened.
Boston police say they immediately administered cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, flagged an ambulance after noticing Woodman was in distress, and did everything they could to help him before he was taken to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. But Jeffrey and Cathy Woodman of Southwick say their son must have been deprived of oxygen for at least four minutes because he suffered significant brain damage.
"We don't know what happened," said Jeffrey Woodman, contending that police have left them with more questions than answers. "We are left to surmise that something occurred while he was in police custody that stopped his heart."
Woodman said his son had a preexisting heart condition, but he led an active life and had been playing basketball earlier that day. He said doctors told him his son's heart was functioning normally.
Thomas J. Nee, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association, said he understands the family's anguish, "but nothing those officers did that night caused his death."
He said that the officers, who have not been identified publicly, have cooperated with the investigation, and that the family's questions will be answered.
David Woodman, who was charged with drinking in public and resisting arrest, remained hospitalized after the incident and awoke June 23 from a medically induced coma. His parents said he recognized them but had difficulty communicating and whispered, "What happened?"
He smiled at a Globe reporter during a brief visit Thursday, spoke softly to his parents, and appeared confused. A large scrape was visible near his right eye. On Saturday, he was asking to go home, according to his parents, who believed he would survive and face lengthy rehabilitation.
At 2:30 a.m. yesterday he died at the hospital. The family is awaiting autopsy results.
Jake Wark, spokesman for Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley, said Conley "pledged a thorough and impartial review of the facts."
The Boston Police Department launched an internal investigation shortly after the incident into how the officers handled Woodman and will join the district attorney's office in investigating his death, Elaine Driscoll, a spokeswoman for the Boston police, said yesterday. Several officers were treated for stress and have returned to work, she said.
The parents of David Woodman, a former Emmanuel College student who was living in Brookline, said their son did not receive prompt medical attention while lying unconscious, face down on Brookline Avenue with his hands cuffed behind his back. They also accused police of failing to give them a full account of what happened.
Boston police say they immediately administered cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, flagged an ambulance after noticing Woodman was in distress, and did everything they could to help him before he was taken to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. But Jeffrey and Cathy Woodman of Southwick say their son must have been deprived of oxygen for at least four minutes because he suffered significant brain damage.
"We don't know what happened," said Jeffrey Woodman, contending that police have left them with more questions than answers. "We are left to surmise that something occurred while he was in police custody that stopped his heart."
Woodman said his son had a preexisting heart condition, but he led an active life and had been playing basketball earlier that day. He said doctors told him his son's heart was functioning normally.
Thomas J. Nee, president of the Boston Police Patrolmen's Association, said he understands the family's anguish, "but nothing those officers did that night caused his death."
He said that the officers, who have not been identified publicly, have cooperated with the investigation, and that the family's questions will be answered.
David Woodman, who was charged with drinking in public and resisting arrest, remained hospitalized after the incident and awoke June 23 from a medically induced coma. His parents said he recognized them but had difficulty communicating and whispered, "What happened?"
He smiled at a Globe reporter during a brief visit Thursday, spoke softly to his parents, and appeared confused. A large scrape was visible near his right eye. On Saturday, he was asking to go home, according to his parents, who believed he would survive and face lengthy rehabilitation.
At 2:30 a.m. yesterday he died at the hospital. The family is awaiting autopsy results.
Jake Wark, spokesman for Suffolk District Attorney Daniel F. Conley, said Conley "pledged a thorough and impartial review of the facts."
The Boston Police Department launched an internal investigation shortly after the incident into how the officers handled Woodman and will join the district attorney's office in investigating his death, Elaine Driscoll, a spokeswoman for the Boston police, said yesterday. Several officers were treated for stress and have returned to work, she said.
MCI-Concord officer charged with drug trafficking
A Massachusetts correctional officer faces arraignment today on drug charges after the Middlesex district attorney's office said he attempted to sell eight pounds of marijuana to a State Police trooper working undercover in Lowell.
The case against Robert Sweeney, 48, of Dracut, who works at MCI-Concord, is not related to the arrest of another correctional officer on Thursday in Winthrop, said Corey Welford, spokesman for District Attorney Gerard T. Leone Jr.
Investigators were led to Sweeney in June, when they first learned he was allegedly dealing marijuana, the DA's office stated. About 3:15 p.m. Saturday, he attempted to sell the marijuana to the trooper for $10,000, according to the office.
Police executed a search warrant at his address after the arrest and seized two pounds of marijuana, 100 bottles of steroids, and six tablets of ecstasy, Leone's office said.
Investigators do not believe Sweeney sold drugs while on the job or used his position for criminal activity, the office stated.
Sweeney was suspended with pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation by the state Department of Correction, said Diane Wiffin, a department spokeswoman.
On Thursday, Scott Sears, 36, of Winthrop, a correctional officer with the Middlesex Sheriff's Office, was charged with transporting drugs to inmates at Billerica House of Correction, where he works, authorities said.
An undercover agent met with Sears at a doughnut shop in Winthrop and gave him drugs in a coffee cup. As payment, Sears allegedly received $150 in cash and 3 grams of cocaine. He has been suspended without pay from his job.
Sears was charged with two counts of possession, one with intent to distribute; committing a drug violation near a school or park; and delivering drugs to a prisoner.
Sweeney was being held on $20,000 cash bail on four counts of possession, two with intent to distribute; one count of distribution; and one count of conspiracy to violate the narcotics laws.
He is to be arraigned today in Lowell District Court.
The case against Robert Sweeney, 48, of Dracut, who works at MCI-Concord, is not related to the arrest of another correctional officer on Thursday in Winthrop, said Corey Welford, spokesman for District Attorney Gerard T. Leone Jr.
Investigators were led to Sweeney in June, when they first learned he was allegedly dealing marijuana, the DA's office stated. About 3:15 p.m. Saturday, he attempted to sell the marijuana to the trooper for $10,000, according to the office.
Police executed a search warrant at his address after the arrest and seized two pounds of marijuana, 100 bottles of steroids, and six tablets of ecstasy, Leone's office said.
Investigators do not believe Sweeney sold drugs while on the job or used his position for criminal activity, the office stated.
Sweeney was suspended with pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation by the state Department of Correction, said Diane Wiffin, a department spokeswoman.
On Thursday, Scott Sears, 36, of Winthrop, a correctional officer with the Middlesex Sheriff's Office, was charged with transporting drugs to inmates at Billerica House of Correction, where he works, authorities said.
An undercover agent met with Sears at a doughnut shop in Winthrop and gave him drugs in a coffee cup. As payment, Sears allegedly received $150 in cash and 3 grams of cocaine. He has been suspended without pay from his job.
Sears was charged with two counts of possession, one with intent to distribute; committing a drug violation near a school or park; and delivering drugs to a prisoner.
Sweeney was being held on $20,000 cash bail on four counts of possession, two with intent to distribute; one count of distribution; and one count of conspiracy to violate the narcotics laws.
He is to be arraigned today in Lowell District Court.
Accused officers' drugs cases at risk
After an Indianapolis police officer appeared in court this morning on charges he knowingly sold a firearm to a convicted burglar, the Marion County prosecutor admitted he’s worried about the fate of the investigator’s pending drug cases.
Jason Barber, 32, appeared in Marion Superior Court on charges of selling a handgun to a felon and official misconduct. Barber, a narcotics detective, was arrested at his home Friday. He is the fourth police officer to be arrested in the last two weeks.
“These officers were in this court several weeks ago testifying against defendants,” Prosecutor Carl Brizzi said after the hearing. “Now they are defendants.”
Barber is the third narcotics officer to be arrested, although police say Barber’s alleged crime had nothing to do with the federal investigation that landed his colleagues, former officers Jason Edwards and Robert Long, in jail.
The arrests have damaged more than a dozen other pending cases and could lead to successful appeals for convicted drugs dealers who may have been sent to prison based on testimony from one of the tainted officers, Brizzi said.
“Every other man and woman on the force is tarnished by this,” Brizzi said. “Every single case these officers were on becomes less strong.”
Long, Edwards and former patrol officer James Davis are accused of stealing marijuana and cash from drug dealers. They are being held in the Marion County Jail while awaiting trial in U.S. District Court.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Indiana State Police Officer Donna Elam, assigned to the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, used a confidential informant to catch Barber illegally selling the handgun.
The informant, who was not identified, gave $110 in marked cash to Barber in exchange for a .25-caliber Sundance handgun on March 16. The informant wore a hidden recording device during the transaction, which took place inside Barber’s car in the parking lot of the Walgreen’s at 711 E. 38th St., according to the document.
Barber was held Monday in the Marion County jail with bond set at $100,000. He will appear in court on Wednesday to seek to have his bond reduced.
Jason Barber, 32, appeared in Marion Superior Court on charges of selling a handgun to a felon and official misconduct. Barber, a narcotics detective, was arrested at his home Friday. He is the fourth police officer to be arrested in the last two weeks.
“These officers were in this court several weeks ago testifying against defendants,” Prosecutor Carl Brizzi said after the hearing. “Now they are defendants.”
Barber is the third narcotics officer to be arrested, although police say Barber’s alleged crime had nothing to do with the federal investigation that landed his colleagues, former officers Jason Edwards and Robert Long, in jail.
The arrests have damaged more than a dozen other pending cases and could lead to successful appeals for convicted drugs dealers who may have been sent to prison based on testimony from one of the tainted officers, Brizzi said.
“Every other man and woman on the force is tarnished by this,” Brizzi said. “Every single case these officers were on becomes less strong.”
Long, Edwards and former patrol officer James Davis are accused of stealing marijuana and cash from drug dealers. They are being held in the Marion County Jail while awaiting trial in U.S. District Court.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Indiana State Police Officer Donna Elam, assigned to the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, used a confidential informant to catch Barber illegally selling the handgun.
The informant, who was not identified, gave $110 in marked cash to Barber in exchange for a .25-caliber Sundance handgun on March 16. The informant wore a hidden recording device during the transaction, which took place inside Barber’s car in the parking lot of the Walgreen’s at 711 E. 38th St., according to the document.
Barber was held Monday in the Marion County jail with bond set at $100,000. He will appear in court on Wednesday to seek to have his bond reduced.
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