They claim their hoax was not for profit, but Atlanta residents Matthew Whitton and Rick Dyer received $50,000 from a California Bigfoot tracker who now plans to sue to get the money back.
The two Georgia men’s tale of having found a Bigfoot carcass in the North Georgia woods really started to stink when California Bigfoot enthusiasts finally examined the body and found it was just a costume.
“There will be legal action” said Catherine Ortez, who works for Searching for Bigfoot, Inc. in in Menlo Park, Calif. The organization paid for rights to the men’s story and their find. “If this was a joke, it was very methodical and thought-out,” she said.
The Searching site was founded by Tom Biscardi, who authenticated and promoted the alleged Georgia Sasquatch. Biscardi, who did not return calls requesting comment, has his own credibility issues, according to a police officer in a nearby jurisdiction.
“He was involved in a similar hoax a few years back,” said Agent Dan Ryan with the Palo Alto (Calif.) Police Department.
In an interview with WSB-TV Wednesday night, Whitton and Dyer’s attorney, Steve Lister, blamed Biscardi for blowing his clients’ joke out of proportion.
“It started off as some YouTube videos and a Web site,” said Whitton, “We’re all about having fun.”
Whitton, 28, a Clayton County police officer for six years, was fired Tuesday after news of the hoax spread. Dyer, 31, is a former Clayton County corrections officer.
Though, according to their site, the pair are not averse to making money off their amusement. For $500, you can join them for a Bigfoot expedition. They also sell Sasquatch-related T-shirts and caps.
Repeated attempts to reach both men were unsuccessful, and Lister did not return calls seeking comment
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Officer Matthew Whitton Fired for BigFoot Hoax
Can you believe it? Georgia’s “Bigfoot” was just a big hoax.
The body of a supposed ape-man found in the North Georgia mountains was nothing but an empty rubber monkey suit embedded in ice, according to California Bigfoot enthusiasts who finally got a chance to examine it last weekend.
The two Atlanta men who stood up at a news conference in California last week and tried to convince the world they had found Bigfoot now apparently can’t be located — just like the real Bigfoot.
Calls to Matthew Whitton, a Clayton County police officer — make that former police officer — and his car salesman buddy Rick Dyer weren’t returned Tuesday.
The answering machine on a “tip line” connected to the pair’s Web site, which still advertises $499 Bigfoot “expeditions,” says they’re still out searching for Sasquatch — as well as leprechauns, dinosaurs, unicorns, Jimmy Hoffa and Elvis.
Searching for Bigfoot Inc., the California outfit that paid an undisclosed sum to Whitton and Dyer for rights to their story and their find, says the pair checked out of the hotel where they had been put up over the weekend.
According to a news release on Searching for Bigfoot’s Web site, the whole scam unraveled when a block of ice containing the “body” melted over the weekend. Whitton and Dyer later confessed that it was just a costume, according to the release.
Why the two Georgians contrived the cross-country con isn’t clear.
What is certain is that Whitton, 28, on medical leave after being shot in the wrist by a robbery suspect earlier this year, won’t be going back to work at the Clayton County Police Department.
As soon as he heard Whitton’s Bigfoot was a big fake, “I terminated him,” said Police Chief Jeffrey Turner said Tuesday.
“He’s disgraced himself, he’s an embarrassment to the Clayton County Police Department, his credibility and integrity as an officer is gone, and I have no use for him,” Turner said. “His behavior is unbecoming of that of a police officer.”
“This turn of events from hero to someone who defrauds a nation is just baffling. I don’t know how he got from one point to the other,” Turner said.
The chief said he wants to send Whitton his termination paperwork and get his uniforms back. However, he said, “We haven’t been able to get in touch with him.”
Kathy Jefcoats of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution contributed to this article.
The body of a supposed ape-man found in the North Georgia mountains was nothing but an empty rubber monkey suit embedded in ice, according to California Bigfoot enthusiasts who finally got a chance to examine it last weekend.
The two Atlanta men who stood up at a news conference in California last week and tried to convince the world they had found Bigfoot now apparently can’t be located — just like the real Bigfoot.
Calls to Matthew Whitton, a Clayton County police officer — make that former police officer — and his car salesman buddy Rick Dyer weren’t returned Tuesday.
The answering machine on a “tip line” connected to the pair’s Web site, which still advertises $499 Bigfoot “expeditions,” says they’re still out searching for Sasquatch — as well as leprechauns, dinosaurs, unicorns, Jimmy Hoffa and Elvis.
Searching for Bigfoot Inc., the California outfit that paid an undisclosed sum to Whitton and Dyer for rights to their story and their find, says the pair checked out of the hotel where they had been put up over the weekend.
According to a news release on Searching for Bigfoot’s Web site, the whole scam unraveled when a block of ice containing the “body” melted over the weekend. Whitton and Dyer later confessed that it was just a costume, according to the release.
Why the two Georgians contrived the cross-country con isn’t clear.
What is certain is that Whitton, 28, on medical leave after being shot in the wrist by a robbery suspect earlier this year, won’t be going back to work at the Clayton County Police Department.
As soon as he heard Whitton’s Bigfoot was a big fake, “I terminated him,” said Police Chief Jeffrey Turner said Tuesday.
“He’s disgraced himself, he’s an embarrassment to the Clayton County Police Department, his credibility and integrity as an officer is gone, and I have no use for him,” Turner said. “His behavior is unbecoming of that of a police officer.”
“This turn of events from hero to someone who defrauds a nation is just baffling. I don’t know how he got from one point to the other,” Turner said.
The chief said he wants to send Whitton his termination paperwork and get his uniforms back. However, he said, “We haven’t been able to get in touch with him.”
Kathy Jefcoats of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution contributed to this article.
Officer Kenneth Williams Sentenced for Soliciting Nude Photos of Girl
A former San Jose police officer has been sentenced to two years in state prison for soliciting nude photos of a 16-year-old Scotts Valley basketball player, according to the Santa Cruz County District Attorney's office.
Kenneth Williams was sentenced Monday morning in Santa Cruz County Superior Court, the district attorney's office reported.
He was convicted Aug. 5 of soliciting nude photos from the girl. He was facing up to four years in state prison but he gave up his right to appeal the conviction and was given a reduced sentence.
Williams had made contact with the girl through his wife, who assisted in coaching the basketball team, according to the district attorney's office.
He was arrested and charged for the crime in December 2005 after nude photos of the girl were found on two of Williams' computers.
In addition to his prison time, Williams will have to register as a sex offender.
Kenneth Williams was sentenced Monday morning in Santa Cruz County Superior Court, the district attorney's office reported.
He was convicted Aug. 5 of soliciting nude photos from the girl. He was facing up to four years in state prison but he gave up his right to appeal the conviction and was given a reduced sentence.
Williams had made contact with the girl through his wife, who assisted in coaching the basketball team, according to the district attorney's office.
He was arrested and charged for the crime in December 2005 after nude photos of the girl were found on two of Williams' computers.
In addition to his prison time, Williams will have to register as a sex offender.
Officer Kenneth Anderson Accused of Sexually Assaulting Two Boys
WINNIPEG
A veteran Winnipeg police officer who also worked for a government child welfare agency has been suspended following allegations of sexually assaulting two 11-year-old boys.
Kenneth Jack Anderson, 47, was formally charged by Manitoba RCMP Tuesday with two counts each of sexual assault, sexual interference and sexual exploitation.
Anderson has worked on the city police force for about 17 years.
As recently as last spring, Anderson was “briefly employed” by Manitoba Child and Family Services, police said.
A spokeswoman for the child welfare agency said the accused was placed on unpaid leave.
Citing privacy laws, she would not elaborate on how Anderson was employed and for how long, nor would she say whether the allegations involve clients of Child and Family Services.
Manitoba RCMP Sgt. Line Karpish said she does not have the details about Anderson’s employment with family services.
The charges date back to September 2006. Both of the alleged victims were 11 at the time, Karpish said, but she would not discuss the nature of the alleged incidents.
Police were made aware of the allegations last spring through the city police force, said Karpish.
“There were indications that this happened in our (jurisdiction),” she said.
Winnipeg police spokesman Const. Jason Michalyshen said Anderson was placed on administrative leave around the start of the investigation.
“His employment status is under review,” said Michalyshen.
But Michalyshen did not know if Anderson is getting paid while on leave.
Manitoba Justice has hired Robert Tapper, a Winnipeg defence lawyer, to act as a special prosecutor on the case. It’s department policy to avoid using its own Crown attorneys for cases involving police officers.
Tapper declined to discuss the details of the case.
“It’s just too premature,” he said. “I need to review the file in detail.”
Anderson is not in police custody. He’s due in court Oct. 20 in Teulon, a town about 60 kilometres north of Winnipeg.
A veteran Winnipeg police officer who also worked for a government child welfare agency has been suspended following allegations of sexually assaulting two 11-year-old boys.
Kenneth Jack Anderson, 47, was formally charged by Manitoba RCMP Tuesday with two counts each of sexual assault, sexual interference and sexual exploitation.
Anderson has worked on the city police force for about 17 years.
As recently as last spring, Anderson was “briefly employed” by Manitoba Child and Family Services, police said.
A spokeswoman for the child welfare agency said the accused was placed on unpaid leave.
Citing privacy laws, she would not elaborate on how Anderson was employed and for how long, nor would she say whether the allegations involve clients of Child and Family Services.
Manitoba RCMP Sgt. Line Karpish said she does not have the details about Anderson’s employment with family services.
The charges date back to September 2006. Both of the alleged victims were 11 at the time, Karpish said, but she would not discuss the nature of the alleged incidents.
Police were made aware of the allegations last spring through the city police force, said Karpish.
“There were indications that this happened in our (jurisdiction),” she said.
Winnipeg police spokesman Const. Jason Michalyshen said Anderson was placed on administrative leave around the start of the investigation.
“His employment status is under review,” said Michalyshen.
But Michalyshen did not know if Anderson is getting paid while on leave.
Manitoba Justice has hired Robert Tapper, a Winnipeg defence lawyer, to act as a special prosecutor on the case. It’s department policy to avoid using its own Crown attorneys for cases involving police officers.
Tapper declined to discuss the details of the case.
“It’s just too premature,” he said. “I need to review the file in detail.”
Anderson is not in police custody. He’s due in court Oct. 20 in Teulon, a town about 60 kilometres north of Winnipeg.
Officer Vernon Stevenson Arrested for Drunk Driving
For the third time this summer, an Austin police officer has been arrested for drinking and driving.
Vernon Stevenson was off-duty when he was arrested early Monday morning along U.S. in Northeast Austin. He was on his personal motorcycle when an officer headed in the other direction noticed the bike laying on its side and Stevenson trying to pick it up.
According to the arrest affidavit, before the other officer could turn around, Stevenson left the scene. That officer then saw him swerving between lanes.
Stevenson was pulled over and the officer smelled alcohol on his breath and noticed his eyes were bloodshot. He refused to a field sobriety test and was arrested for DWI.
No one in the police department would comment, but Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo has made it clear in the past that drunk driving enforcement is a top priority
Jim Currier of Mothers Against Drunk Driving said officers are not setting a good example.
“Sometimes people in professional roles make bad decisions,” he said.
This is the third Austin police officer arrested DWI this summer. Last month, an APD detective, Joe Lucas, was arrested in Bell County; and in early June, Lieutenant Robert Hernandez was arrested after failing a field sobriety test in Hays County.
Currier believes officers who break the law shouldn't get special treatment.
“It's absolutely a huge disappointment to us and we are thankful that the arresting officers did their job in this case,” he said.
Stevenson was released on a $3,000 bond. He is on restrictive duty while the department conducts an internal investigation.
Vernon Stevenson was off-duty when he was arrested early Monday morning along U.S. in Northeast Austin. He was on his personal motorcycle when an officer headed in the other direction noticed the bike laying on its side and Stevenson trying to pick it up.
According to the arrest affidavit, before the other officer could turn around, Stevenson left the scene. That officer then saw him swerving between lanes.
Stevenson was pulled over and the officer smelled alcohol on his breath and noticed his eyes were bloodshot. He refused to a field sobriety test and was arrested for DWI.
No one in the police department would comment, but Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo has made it clear in the past that drunk driving enforcement is a top priority
Jim Currier of Mothers Against Drunk Driving said officers are not setting a good example.
“Sometimes people in professional roles make bad decisions,” he said.
This is the third Austin police officer arrested DWI this summer. Last month, an APD detective, Joe Lucas, was arrested in Bell County; and in early June, Lieutenant Robert Hernandez was arrested after failing a field sobriety test in Hays County.
Currier believes officers who break the law shouldn't get special treatment.
“It's absolutely a huge disappointment to us and we are thankful that the arresting officers did their job in this case,” he said.
Stevenson was released on a $3,000 bond. He is on restrictive duty while the department conducts an internal investigation.
Three Officers From Same Department in Trouble
INDIANAPOLIS
More metro officers and a Marion County deputy are in trouble, some facing criminal charges. The metro police chief wants them all fired.
According to court documents, one of them lied during a hit and run investigation. Another threatened two teen girls if they didn't expose themselves. Another is accused of patronizing a prostitute while on duty.
Ten year veteran officer James Ingalls was assigned to the southwest district's late shift. An internal investigation found he may have broken the law instead of enforcing it.
"The accusation is that he did not do his job properly and he has been involved with a person
who has been identified as a prostitute and that has criminal implications," said Sgt Paul Thompson of the Indianapolis Metro Police Department.Detectives will present the findings to the prosecutor.
IMPD officer Christopher Poindexter is charged with false reporting. His fiancé, Kelli Ball, a former civilian IMPD employee, faces charges in a hit and run.
"Mr. Poindexter made the decision to let Miss Ball operate his IMPD issued vehicle which is prohibited," said Sgt. Thompson.
While driving the marked patrol car, Ball hit another vehicle and didn't stop. Court documents state Poindexter was in the passenger seat at the time, but lied to investigators about the damage to the car.Ingalls and Poindexter are suspended without pay.
Marion County Sheriff's Deputy Joey Smith Junior resigned Monday when officers arrested him for various felony charges including intimidation and contributing to the delinquency of a 13 and 14 year old girl.
According to court documents, the two teenage girls were walking along the sidewalk and Smith in an unmarked car pulled up next to them. He was wearing a uniform and he flashed a badge. He told them a story about how he was investigating two girls flashing in the neighborhood.
The court documents state Smith asked the two girls to pull up their shirts to see if he could identify them as the two suspects.
"I think this shows the community that the chief of police is taking a very aggressive stand on discipline. He's going to do what's necessary to get rid of the people that are causing the problems," said Sgt. Thompson.
Former Deputy Joey Smith Junior is out on bond. His trial is set for October 27. Christopher Poindexter is expected back in court on September 26. Kelli Ball has a pre-trial conference on the fourth of September. So far, no charges have been filed against James Ingalls.
Two Off-Duty Officers Charged With Gang Assault
NEW YORK
Two off-duty police officers were charged with gang assault after being accused of kicking, punching and pistol-whipping a man whose open car door was blocking their lane of traffic.
Kollen Robinson, 24, and Michelle Anglin, 37, have been stripped of their badges and guns and are being investigated by Internal Affairs, police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said Tuesday.
``If these allegations prove true, it's a horrendous case, a horrendous situation,'' Kelly said.
The officers, who have pleaded not guilty to gang assault and criminal possession of a weapon, were in Robinson's sport utility vehicle when they got stuck in traffic around 5 p.m. Friday. A motorist, Marlon Smith, was blocking their lane with his open car door.
One of the officers yelled at Smith to shut the door; he yelled back an insult, and a profanity-laced argument erupted.
According to a criminal complaint, the women got out of their SUV and walked over to Smith's car and he tried to slam the door but Anglin sprayed him in the face with Mace.
Then Smith got out of the car and tried to grab Anglin, according to the complaint, and Robinson started punching him, saying, ``Do you know who you are f---ing with? We are the police.''
Robinson is accused of smacking Smith with a baton, and Anglin is accused of pistol-whipping him with her gun. The motorist also had a gun pointed in his face, the complaint said. The officers eventually left the scene, but a witness got the license plate number for the SUV, which was tracked to Robinson, police said.
Attorneys for the two women had no comment.
Robinson has been on the force since 2006, Anglin since 2005. Robinson told internal affairs officials that she was at the scene with Anglin, according to the complaint.
The motorist was taken to a hospital, where he received 25 staples to his scalp to close three cuts. He also was suffering from blurry vision and bruises on his face.
Last month, an amateur video caught an officer body-checking a man off a bicycle and onto the street during a protest in Times Square. Other tapes of officers hitting men with batons recently have surfaced. Those officers were placed on modified duty but not charged criminally, and an internal investigation is under way.
In Yonkers on Tuesday, a policeman who body-slammed an unarmed woman onto a tile floor, breaking her jaw, was indicted on a civil rights charge.
Two off-duty police officers were charged with gang assault after being accused of kicking, punching and pistol-whipping a man whose open car door was blocking their lane of traffic.
Kollen Robinson, 24, and Michelle Anglin, 37, have been stripped of their badges and guns and are being investigated by Internal Affairs, police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said Tuesday.
``If these allegations prove true, it's a horrendous case, a horrendous situation,'' Kelly said.
The officers, who have pleaded not guilty to gang assault and criminal possession of a weapon, were in Robinson's sport utility vehicle when they got stuck in traffic around 5 p.m. Friday. A motorist, Marlon Smith, was blocking their lane with his open car door.
One of the officers yelled at Smith to shut the door; he yelled back an insult, and a profanity-laced argument erupted.
According to a criminal complaint, the women got out of their SUV and walked over to Smith's car and he tried to slam the door but Anglin sprayed him in the face with Mace.
Then Smith got out of the car and tried to grab Anglin, according to the complaint, and Robinson started punching him, saying, ``Do you know who you are f---ing with? We are the police.''
Robinson is accused of smacking Smith with a baton, and Anglin is accused of pistol-whipping him with her gun. The motorist also had a gun pointed in his face, the complaint said. The officers eventually left the scene, but a witness got the license plate number for the SUV, which was tracked to Robinson, police said.
Attorneys for the two women had no comment.
Robinson has been on the force since 2006, Anglin since 2005. Robinson told internal affairs officials that she was at the scene with Anglin, according to the complaint.
The motorist was taken to a hospital, where he received 25 staples to his scalp to close three cuts. He also was suffering from blurry vision and bruises on his face.
Last month, an amateur video caught an officer body-checking a man off a bicycle and onto the street during a protest in Times Square. Other tapes of officers hitting men with batons recently have surfaced. Those officers were placed on modified duty but not charged criminally, and an internal investigation is under way.
In Yonkers on Tuesday, a policeman who body-slammed an unarmed woman onto a tile floor, breaking her jaw, was indicted on a civil rights charge.
Officer Anthony Smith Suspended Indefinitely
INDIANAPOLIS
An IMPD officer has been suspended indefinitely following an internal investigation.
IMPD Chief Michael Spears has ordered 36-year-old Anthony Smith suspended without pay and has recommended his termination to the merit board.
A release from the department states that based on the findings of an internal investigation Chief Spears and Public Safety Director Scott Newman have determined that a criminal investigation is necessary. The prosecutor's office is apparently looking into the findings that apparently stem from a citizen complaint.
At a press conference Tuesday, Chief Spears said Smith violated a ride-along policy early last Friday morning on the east side. The chief declined to talk about the specific allegations but there was a rape investigation from the same morning in the same part of town. The victim's brother in the case said his sister was involved in a sexual assault with an officer, but said he could not comment further.
The chief only spoke generally about officer misconduct at the press conference.
"But when they consciously, intentionally step over the lines of our policies of good judgment and the law, I'm going to be the first person in the police department to do everything I can to separate them from that badge," said Spears.
Police said Smith has been with the department since April of '07. He was assigned to the northeast district late shift.
An IMPD officer has been suspended indefinitely following an internal investigation.
IMPD Chief Michael Spears has ordered 36-year-old Anthony Smith suspended without pay and has recommended his termination to the merit board.
A release from the department states that based on the findings of an internal investigation Chief Spears and Public Safety Director Scott Newman have determined that a criminal investigation is necessary. The prosecutor's office is apparently looking into the findings that apparently stem from a citizen complaint.
At a press conference Tuesday, Chief Spears said Smith violated a ride-along policy early last Friday morning on the east side. The chief declined to talk about the specific allegations but there was a rape investigation from the same morning in the same part of town. The victim's brother in the case said his sister was involved in a sexual assault with an officer, but said he could not comment further.
The chief only spoke generally about officer misconduct at the press conference.
"But when they consciously, intentionally step over the lines of our policies of good judgment and the law, I'm going to be the first person in the police department to do everything I can to separate them from that badge," said Spears.
Police said Smith has been with the department since April of '07. He was assigned to the northeast district late shift.
Lt Steven Ohlheiser Arrested for Drunk Driving
Anderson
An Anderson police officer was arrested for drunken driving over the weekend.
Lt. Steven Ohlheiser was arrested by a Noblesville police officer and charged with DUI on Saturday. The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department says Ohlheiser was stopped by a DUI enforcement detail working an area near the Kid Rock concert at Verizon Wireless Music Center.
Anderson Police spokesman Mitch Carroll says Ohlheiser is on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case.
Officer Vincent Cantu Robs Bank
LA HABRA
A man arrested for allegedly robbing a La Habra bank last week is a former Pasadena police officer.
The FBI said it is also investigating if the man, 44-year-old Vincent Cantu of Whittier, could be the apologetic "Polite Bandit" who hit three local banks in 2006.
"There are similarities," said FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller. She said the "Polite Bandit" robbed Banco Popular branches and the La Habra robbery was at a Banco Popular.
The bandit was seen with a gun during the 2006 heists and told victims he was sorry.
La Habra police spokeswoman Cindy Knapp said the man who robbed the Banco Popular in La Habra on Friday had a handgun and was apologetic.
Police got a call at 11:14 a.m. Friday about a robbery at the bank located at 401 E. Whittier Blvd. Officers got a description of the suspect and a vehicle seen leaving the area.
Knapp said police pulled over a silver Toyota FJ Cruiser driven by Cantu at Las Lomas Drive, west of Euclid Street.
Cantu was arrested on suspicion of robbery and taken to an Orange County sheriff's jail. Sheriff's officials said he was released Saturday after posting bond. But the records don't say how much the bail was.
Prosecutors have a month to file charges, if any, against Cantu.
He couldn't be reached for comment on Monday. Public records show his current address as a P.O. box in Whittier.
Cantu worked as an officer for the Pasadena Police Department for eight years and retired in 1996, said police spokeswoman Janet Pope Givens.
West Covina police Chief Frank Wills, who also worked at the Pasadena Police Department at the time, remembered Cantu retired for medical reasons.
"I never saw anything from him that would indicate he would get involved in something like this," Wills said. "It's so unfortunate, certainly not the Vincent Cantu I remember from 15 years ago."
Pasadena Police Officers Association President Robert Mercado said, as far as he knew, Cantu was in good standing with the union and the department when he retired. He said Cantu retired because of a knee injury.
"I hope that it's not true that he was involved in something like that," Mercado said. "It is very surprising if he was involved in something like that."
Cantu has no criminal record in Los Angeles or Orange counties, according to court records. His only brush with the law was for a minor violation.
The San Bernardino County Superior Court showed a Vincent Cantu was convicted June 27, 2002 of not having a required vehicle registration.
The robber dubbed the "Polite Bandit" hit the Banco Popular at 12333 S. La Mirada Blvd. in La Mirada on May 25 and Aug. 28, 2006, then robbed the Banco Popular at 3160 Colima Road in Hacienda Heights on Nov. 23, 2006.
During the May heist, he told one teller:, "I'm sorry, but I have to feed my kids. I'm so sorry."
He also asked tellers if they were OK and thanked them.
The "Polite Bandit" was described as Latino, 30 to 40 years old, with a mustache and stocky build. He weighs about 200 pounds and stands 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall. He has also worn sunglasses and a black bandanna over part of his face.
Sgt. Jeff Brunswick Arrested for Stalking
A Cincinnati Police Sergeant is accused of being on the wrong side of the law.
Sgt. Jeff Brunswick was booked at the Hamilton County Justice Center around midnight Tuesday after being charged with menacing by stalking, which is a misdemeanor.
Brunswick is accused of stalking a female officer who is also on the Cincinnati force.
The incident in question happened in July when Brunswick allegedly harassed the female officer when he showed up at one of her investigation scenes.
She says Brunswick also sent her unwanted text messages, gave out her personal information to another person, approached her son and even harassed her roommate.
Brunswick is a longtime police veteran working out of District 5 on Ludlow Avenue.
He recently had been up for a promotion to the rank of Lieutenant.
Brunswick is out of jail on a $5,000 bond.
Lt. Shawn Murray Arrested for Choking Ex-girlfriend
CARLSBAD
An Oceanside police lieutenant accused of choking and dragging his ex-girlfriend through his Carlsbad home was free on $25,000 bail Tuesday, it was reported.
Oceanside police Lt. Shawn Murray was arrested early Monday morning at his home in the 3500 block of Flat Rock Street after Carlsbad police received a call for help from Murray's ex-girlfriend, according to a newspaper report.
She “stated that her neck was red and sore and she was pushed down and dragged around by her pants and left arm,” Carlsbad Lt. Marc Reno told the newspaper.
Murray, an 18-year veteran of the Oceanside Police Department, was booked into the Vista jail on suspicion of domestic violence and posted $25,000 bail about two hours later, the newspaper reported.
There were no prior reports of domestic violence at Murray's residence, Reno told the newspaper.
Oceanside police declined to comment on the incident, citing “personnel issues.”
An Oceanside police lieutenant accused of choking and dragging his ex-girlfriend through his Carlsbad home was free on $25,000 bail Tuesday, it was reported.
Oceanside police Lt. Shawn Murray was arrested early Monday morning at his home in the 3500 block of Flat Rock Street after Carlsbad police received a call for help from Murray's ex-girlfriend, according to a newspaper report.
She “stated that her neck was red and sore and she was pushed down and dragged around by her pants and left arm,” Carlsbad Lt. Marc Reno told the newspaper.
Murray, an 18-year veteran of the Oceanside Police Department, was booked into the Vista jail on suspicion of domestic violence and posted $25,000 bail about two hours later, the newspaper reported.
There were no prior reports of domestic violence at Murray's residence, Reno told the newspaper.
Oceanside police declined to comment on the incident, citing “personnel issues.”
Officers Rape Woman During Bachelor Party
AKRON
Akron police are investigating at least one of their own after a woman claims that an off-duty officer raped her during a bachelor party in downtown Akron.
The woman claims that she met the officers and others who were taking part in the party at a club near Canal Park Saturday night.
She told a 9-1-1 dispatcher that the men took her back to their room at the Radisson Hotel on West Mill Street where she claims she was raped just after 4 a.m. Sunday.
"Some guy just basically like raped me and came and got me and left me here," she told police about an hour later.
The woman didn't know the attacker's name and at one point told the dispatcher that all of the off-duty officers were named "Jim." She identified the men at the party and the attacker as being members of the Akron Police Department.
Investigators are now interviewing the off-duty officers and others who were at the bachelor party. The officer accused of rape was not the groom-to-be.
"It's under investigation," said Lt. Rick Edwards of the Akron Police Department. "At this point, the officer has been placed on paid administrative leave until the investigation has been completed."
The officer is 26 years old. The woman is 22 years old and lives in Wayne County.
Akron police are investigating at least one of their own after a woman claims that an off-duty officer raped her during a bachelor party in downtown Akron.
The woman claims that she met the officers and others who were taking part in the party at a club near Canal Park Saturday night.
She told a 9-1-1 dispatcher that the men took her back to their room at the Radisson Hotel on West Mill Street where she claims she was raped just after 4 a.m. Sunday.
"Some guy just basically like raped me and came and got me and left me here," she told police about an hour later.
The woman didn't know the attacker's name and at one point told the dispatcher that all of the off-duty officers were named "Jim." She identified the men at the party and the attacker as being members of the Akron Police Department.
Investigators are now interviewing the off-duty officers and others who were at the bachelor party. The officer accused of rape was not the groom-to-be.
"It's under investigation," said Lt. Rick Edwards of the Akron Police Department. "At this point, the officer has been placed on paid administrative leave until the investigation has been completed."
The officer is 26 years old. The woman is 22 years old and lives in Wayne County.
Officer Autumn Wheat Arrested for Drunk Driving
FORT WORTH, Texas — A police officer remains on restricted duty after being arrested for allegedly driving drunk while off duty, authorities said.
Autumn Wheat, a Fort Worth police officer for 16 years, was driving her own car in nearby Burleson late Friday night when an off-duty Tarrant County sheriff's deputy saw her run a red light and drive erratically, said Fort Worth police Lt. Ken Dean.
After Burleson police officers were contacted, they pulled Wheat over, conducted a preliminary investigation for suspicion of driving while intoxicated and arrested her, Dean said.
Wheat was released on bail, and it's unclear if she has an attorney, according to an officer at the Burleson jail.
The Fort Worth Police Department's Internal Affairs Division is conducting an administrative investigation.
Autumn Wheat, a Fort Worth police officer for 16 years, was driving her own car in nearby Burleson late Friday night when an off-duty Tarrant County sheriff's deputy saw her run a red light and drive erratically, said Fort Worth police Lt. Ken Dean.
After Burleson police officers were contacted, they pulled Wheat over, conducted a preliminary investigation for suspicion of driving while intoxicated and arrested her, Dean said.
Wheat was released on bail, and it's unclear if she has an attorney, according to an officer at the Burleson jail.
The Fort Worth Police Department's Internal Affairs Division is conducting an administrative investigation.
Officer Toby Wilson Caught Stealing Can of Soda
According to Philadelphia Police Chief Richard Sistrunk, a store surveillance tape showed one of his officers in the store for almost 30 minutes, apparently looking around, before leaving without paying for a can of soda.
Sistrunk said store officials later approached the police department the evidence.
"He actually never wanted to see the video," said Sistrunk. "I advised him that I did have a video and he elected not to view it, and admitted that he took the drink without paying for it."
Sistrunk says the officer was on duty. The officer who resigned is Toby Wilson. With about 20 years of law enforcement experience, he was just hired in Philadelphia in January. Prior to that he worked for the sheriff's department in Winston County.
Sistrunk said citizens should be reassured about the integrity of the department.
"They can feel assured that our officers are no better than anybody else. If their conduct becomes unbecoming that we as the chief of police, the mayor and the board, we won't tolerate this," Sistrunk said.
Sistrunk said the store did not wish to press charges, so the case is closed.
Sistrunk said store officials later approached the police department the evidence.
"He actually never wanted to see the video," said Sistrunk. "I advised him that I did have a video and he elected not to view it, and admitted that he took the drink without paying for it."
Sistrunk says the officer was on duty. The officer who resigned is Toby Wilson. With about 20 years of law enforcement experience, he was just hired in Philadelphia in January. Prior to that he worked for the sheriff's department in Winston County.
Sistrunk said citizens should be reassured about the integrity of the department.
"They can feel assured that our officers are no better than anybody else. If their conduct becomes unbecoming that we as the chief of police, the mayor and the board, we won't tolerate this," Sistrunk said.
Sistrunk said the store did not wish to press charges, so the case is closed.
Officer Harrison Largo Will Stand Trial for Murder
GALLUP, N.M.
San Juan County Magistrate Stacey Biel ruled Monday that a former Navajo police officer accused of shooting his live-in girlfriend will stand trial.
Harrison Largo faces charges of murder and tampering with evidence in the May shooting death of Frieda Smith, who was found at the couple's mobile home in Thoreau. She later died at an Albuquerque hospital.
According to court records, neighbors heard the couple arguing and saw Smith run from the home before three gunshots were fired.
Biel heard nearly four hours of testimony before deciding that Largo will stand trial. She also denied a defense motion to set bond for Largo, who remains in the Gallup-McKinley County jail.
Largo is expected to be arraigned in state district court within the next couple of weeks.
San Juan County Magistrate Stacey Biel ruled Monday that a former Navajo police officer accused of shooting his live-in girlfriend will stand trial.
Harrison Largo faces charges of murder and tampering with evidence in the May shooting death of Frieda Smith, who was found at the couple's mobile home in Thoreau. She later died at an Albuquerque hospital.
According to court records, neighbors heard the couple arguing and saw Smith run from the home before three gunshots were fired.
Biel heard nearly four hours of testimony before deciding that Largo will stand trial. She also denied a defense motion to set bond for Largo, who remains in the Gallup-McKinley County jail.
Largo is expected to be arraigned in state district court within the next couple of weeks.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Newly Weds Tasered and Arrested
The wedding was on a Michigan beach, the reception was in an art gallery -- but a former Chicago couple's wedding night was spent in separate jail cells after both bride and groom got shocked by a police Taser and arrested at their raucous reception.
Andy Somora and Anna Pastuszwska's July 19 wedding reception in tiny Lakeside, Mich., is still the talk of the town after officers from 14 police departments swarmed the art gallery to quell a melee. The groom's father, uncle, aunt and cousin -- several of whom hail from Villa Park and La Grange Park -- also got arrested.
"The short version of the story is they didn't want to quit their partying," said Mike Sepic, Berrien County, Mich., chief assistant prosecutor. "If you put this in the class of wedding receptions gone bad, I guess this would take the cake."
And the story didn't end after the reception. Two nights later, the bride and groom were again arrested in Michigan -- and again shocked by a stun gun -- after struggling with police investigating a noise complaint, Sepic said. The groom was charged with pushing his new wife down during that incident, but the charge was later dropped as part of a plea bargain, Sepic said.
It all played out across the Michigan border in Harbor Country, a sleepy summer vacation area known for its antiques, dune-filled beaches and sun-burned Chicagoans.
The wedding couple had moved to Colorado from Chicago in recent years, but they chose Lakeside for their wedding because of past times spent there, a friend said. It rained during their beachside ceremony, but the 100 or more guests huddled under umbrellas before heading to Burnison Galleries on the Red Arrow Highway for the reception.
Wedding photographer Kacper Skowron, a friend of the bride, said the party was "civilized" and "top-notch," with guests from around the country.
Gallery co-owner Tom Burnison, however, said that, fueled by alcohol, it got out of control and potentially dangerous, including when a guest heaved a metal lamp into a plate glass window. "Calling the police was a last resort," Burnison said.
When the only local police officer on duty that night arrived, Burnison and his wife asked him to help break up the party because it had gotten "out of hand," with booze, water and broken glass on the floor, Chikaming Township police said. One guest was seen drinking straight out of a vodka bottle, Sepic said.
The officer called for backup and told everyone the party was over. Many guests left, but some refused and began cursing at officers, police said.
"Andy got angry and started yelling, 'What are you doing? This is my wedding! You're making my wife cry!' " Skowron said.
"The crowd was trying to hold back the groom from mouthing off more, but finally he broke free, and they had to take him down," Sepic said of police. "He was heading for the officers. . . . Then the bride moved in and tried to interfere."
As the newlyweds struggled on the ground, a police officer used a Taser on Somora, 29, police said. Pastuszwska, 28, was holding her new husband tight, and was shocked as well, Skowron and authorities said.
"Imagine the kids and grandma seeing the bride and groom getting Tasered on the floor," said Skowron. "In my opinion, the police totally overreacted."
The couple ended up spending the night with strangers in separate holding cells about 50 feet apart.
The groom was hit with charges of resisting and obstructing police, a felony, and with disturbing the peace. He pleaded guilty to the felony July 30 and could face jail time when sentenced Sept. 15, Sepic said.
The bride was charged with resisting and obstructing, and she pleaded guilty to a reduced charge, Sepic said. She was fined $600.
Members of the groom's family were arrested on resisting and obstructing charges, but they pleaded guilty to lesser charges and were each fined $450. One person was ordered to pay $75 for the broken lamp.
Redemptor Acharon Charged with Murder
MANILA, Philippines
A junior police officer has been charged for the murder of broadcaster Dennis Cuesta, who died five days after he was shot in General Santos City on August 4.
Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman, said Inspector Redemptor Acharon was charged with murder before the Department of Justice Sunday for the death of Dennis Cuesta, program director of Radio Mindanao Network’s dxMD.
Bartolome said officers of the National Union of the Journalist of the Philippines (NUJP) met with Director General Avelino Razon Jr. about the case.
Razon has ordered the immediate transfer of Acharon from Central Mindanao (Region 12) to PNP headquarters in Camp Crame in Quezon City, Bartolome said.
Police said the charges against the police officer were filed after two eyewitnesses tagged him as the gunman. Investigators will also cross-match Acharon with the artist’s sketch earlier released by the police.
The NUJP sought the meeting with the PNP leadership and Task Force Usig, the special police unit tasked to probe media and political killings, after receiving reports there were efforts to whitewash Cuesta’s murder because one of the suspects is a policeman.
Cuesta, who anchored the public affairs program "Straight to the Point" and was known for hard-hitting commentaries on issues like illegal gambling, graft and corruption in government, and illegal drugs, slipped into a coma after he was shot in the head and hip, the NUJP said.
He died two days after another RMN broadcaster, Martin Roxas, was gunned down in Roxas City, Capiz. Roxas was also an officer of the NUJP chapter in Capiz and was the first member of the media organization to be killed.
The two broadcasters brought the total number of journalists murdered since 2001, when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo came to power, to 90, the highest death toll under any administration, including the 14-year Marcos dictatorship.
A junior police officer has been charged for the murder of broadcaster Dennis Cuesta, who died five days after he was shot in General Santos City on August 4.
Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesman, said Inspector Redemptor Acharon was charged with murder before the Department of Justice Sunday for the death of Dennis Cuesta, program director of Radio Mindanao Network’s dxMD.
Bartolome said officers of the National Union of the Journalist of the Philippines (NUJP) met with Director General Avelino Razon Jr. about the case.
Razon has ordered the immediate transfer of Acharon from Central Mindanao (Region 12) to PNP headquarters in Camp Crame in Quezon City, Bartolome said.
Police said the charges against the police officer were filed after two eyewitnesses tagged him as the gunman. Investigators will also cross-match Acharon with the artist’s sketch earlier released by the police.
The NUJP sought the meeting with the PNP leadership and Task Force Usig, the special police unit tasked to probe media and political killings, after receiving reports there were efforts to whitewash Cuesta’s murder because one of the suspects is a policeman.
Cuesta, who anchored the public affairs program "Straight to the Point" and was known for hard-hitting commentaries on issues like illegal gambling, graft and corruption in government, and illegal drugs, slipped into a coma after he was shot in the head and hip, the NUJP said.
He died two days after another RMN broadcaster, Martin Roxas, was gunned down in Roxas City, Capiz. Roxas was also an officer of the NUJP chapter in Capiz and was the first member of the media organization to be killed.
The two broadcasters brought the total number of journalists murdered since 2001, when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo came to power, to 90, the highest death toll under any administration, including the 14-year Marcos dictatorship.
Officer Dawn Hodge Arrested
NORTH RANDALL
A North Randall police officer ends up behind bars. Early Saturday morning, Highland Hills police noticed a limo driving erratically near the intersection of Harvard and Richmond Roads.
After the limo pulled over, police say the passenger, Dawn Hodge pulled out her badge and then began screaming and yelling.
Investigators say Hodge, who is a North Randall police officer, refused to tell them her department. Police say it took several officers to arrest her. Hodge was booked into jail but was later released.
Neighbors like Rod Johnstone say, "Being an officer of the law, you should carry yourself in a situation where you don't bring shame or dishonor to your department."
"Everybody's human. No matter what position you hold, you're still a human being," says Ralph Williams.
No word on whether the limo driver will be charged.
Police say the officer will most likely face charges of disorderly conduct and obstructing justice.
A North Randall police officer ends up behind bars. Early Saturday morning, Highland Hills police noticed a limo driving erratically near the intersection of Harvard and Richmond Roads.
After the limo pulled over, police say the passenger, Dawn Hodge pulled out her badge and then began screaming and yelling.
Investigators say Hodge, who is a North Randall police officer, refused to tell them her department. Police say it took several officers to arrest her. Hodge was booked into jail but was later released.
Neighbors like Rod Johnstone say, "Being an officer of the law, you should carry yourself in a situation where you don't bring shame or dishonor to your department."
"Everybody's human. No matter what position you hold, you're still a human being," says Ralph Williams.
No word on whether the limo driver will be charged.
Police say the officer will most likely face charges of disorderly conduct and obstructing justice.
Officers Don't Care if Someones Loved Pet Dies
San Marcos, Texas, police officer has been accused of inappropriate behavior during a traffic stop which may have lead to a dog's death.
Pet owners were stopped for speeding while rushing dying pet to vet. Officer Paul Stephens spotted driver Michael Gonzalez speeding down Interstate 35 and pulled him over for clocking 100 miles per hour. After a brief pursuit, Gonzalez pulled alongside the highway and emerged from his car, saying, "He's dying."
"Who's dying? Relax," Stephens said as his cruiser's dashboard camera captured the interaction.
"My dog," Gonzalez said during the Aug. 5 traffic stop.
Gonzalez and his girlfriend said they were speeding because they were rushing their choking teacup poodle Missy to an emergency veterinary clinic for treatment.
But on the video, Stephens sounded less than empathetic as he berated the driver for putting others' lives at risk as he sped down the highway.
"You're driving down the highway at 100 per hour," he said sternly. "It's a dog, it's OK. You can get another one. Relax."
For 15 minutes, Stephens kept Gonzalez on the roadside.
"He said, 'You need to chill out. It's just a dog.' And I said, 'It's not just a dog; it's my family,'" Gonzalez said.
Missy died as Gonzalez waited for the Stephens to issue a citation.
Though Stephens' supervisors found him not guilty of misconduct, they did agree he handled the situation poorly.
"His world was collapsing. And what the officer says to him, basically, is, 'I don't care,'" said San Marcos police department chief Howard Williams.
Pet owners were stopped for speeding while rushing dying pet to vet. Officer Paul Stephens spotted driver Michael Gonzalez speeding down Interstate 35 and pulled him over for clocking 100 miles per hour. After a brief pursuit, Gonzalez pulled alongside the highway and emerged from his car, saying, "He's dying."
"Who's dying? Relax," Stephens said as his cruiser's dashboard camera captured the interaction.
"My dog," Gonzalez said during the Aug. 5 traffic stop.
Gonzalez and his girlfriend said they were speeding because they were rushing their choking teacup poodle Missy to an emergency veterinary clinic for treatment.
But on the video, Stephens sounded less than empathetic as he berated the driver for putting others' lives at risk as he sped down the highway.
"You're driving down the highway at 100 per hour," he said sternly. "It's a dog, it's OK. You can get another one. Relax."
For 15 minutes, Stephens kept Gonzalez on the roadside.
"He said, 'You need to chill out. It's just a dog.' And I said, 'It's not just a dog; it's my family,'" Gonzalez said.
Missy died as Gonzalez waited for the Stephens to issue a citation.
Though Stephens' supervisors found him not guilty of misconduct, they did agree he handled the situation poorly.
"His world was collapsing. And what the officer says to him, basically, is, 'I don't care,'" said San Marcos police department chief Howard Williams.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Officers Arrested on Drug Charges
A WEST Midlands police officer has been arrested on suspicion of theft and possession of Class A drugs.
The 47-year-old officer is currently on police bail and has been suspended on full pay while investigations continue.
He was arrested on June 4.
He could face up to seven years in prison if charged and found guilty - the maximun sentence for possession of Class A drugs, according to the Home Office.
The case follows the earlier imprisonment of a West Midlands Police officer for drugs offences.
A female officer was jailed for 12 months for being in possession of Class A drugs, misconduct in public office and wilful neglect of duties on November 25 2005.
Aged 31 at the time, she resigned the day after she was charged.
West Midlands Police revealed the details of the cases in response to a Freedom of Information request by the Sunday Mercury.
They said four officers had been arrested for drug offences over the last three years.
Another officer was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs, which include heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, LSD, crack magic mushrooms and amphetamines.
The fourth was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class C drugs, which include cannabis, tranquilisers and GHB.
A force spokesman said: “We can confirm a West Midlands Police officer aged 47 was arrested on June 4 2008 on suspicion of theft and possession of Class A drugs. He is currently on bail pending further inquires and suspended.
“He is on full pay. This will be stopped if he is sentenced to prison or is remanded in custody.
“We can also confirm a female officer, aged 31 at the time, was sentenced for 12 months custodial on November 25 2005.
“She was charge on 23 June 2005 with possession of Class A drugs, misconduct ina public office nad wilful neglect of duties.
“She resigned from the force the day after being charged.”
The force has refused to release any further details about the arrests.
The spokesman said officers who are arrested on suspicion of offences were not given any special treatment by fellow officers. “Their are no stipulated or mandatory guidelines in relation to this,” said the spokesman.
“The most important thing is the officer is treated exactly the same as any other member of the community, they will be taken to a police station.
“What happens then entirely depends on the circumstances.
“Relatively minor offences can be investigated internally, if it is a more serious offence then the Independent Police Complaints Commission might carry out the investigation.
“If the senior investigating officer deems the offence serious enough they can make a recommendation to the deputy chief constable.
“It is then up to the deputy chief constable to decide if they are going to suspend the officer involved.
The Home Office said it does not issue guidelines to forces on how to deal with officers who commit crimes.
The 47-year-old officer is currently on police bail and has been suspended on full pay while investigations continue.
He was arrested on June 4.
He could face up to seven years in prison if charged and found guilty - the maximun sentence for possession of Class A drugs, according to the Home Office.
The case follows the earlier imprisonment of a West Midlands Police officer for drugs offences.
A female officer was jailed for 12 months for being in possession of Class A drugs, misconduct in public office and wilful neglect of duties on November 25 2005.
Aged 31 at the time, she resigned the day after she was charged.
West Midlands Police revealed the details of the cases in response to a Freedom of Information request by the Sunday Mercury.
They said four officers had been arrested for drug offences over the last three years.
Another officer was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs, which include heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, LSD, crack magic mushrooms and amphetamines.
The fourth was arrested on suspicion of possessing Class C drugs, which include cannabis, tranquilisers and GHB.
A force spokesman said: “We can confirm a West Midlands Police officer aged 47 was arrested on June 4 2008 on suspicion of theft and possession of Class A drugs. He is currently on bail pending further inquires and suspended.
“He is on full pay. This will be stopped if he is sentenced to prison or is remanded in custody.
“We can also confirm a female officer, aged 31 at the time, was sentenced for 12 months custodial on November 25 2005.
“She was charge on 23 June 2005 with possession of Class A drugs, misconduct ina public office nad wilful neglect of duties.
“She resigned from the force the day after being charged.”
The force has refused to release any further details about the arrests.
The spokesman said officers who are arrested on suspicion of offences were not given any special treatment by fellow officers. “Their are no stipulated or mandatory guidelines in relation to this,” said the spokesman.
“The most important thing is the officer is treated exactly the same as any other member of the community, they will be taken to a police station.
“What happens then entirely depends on the circumstances.
“Relatively minor offences can be investigated internally, if it is a more serious offence then the Independent Police Complaints Commission might carry out the investigation.
“If the senior investigating officer deems the offence serious enough they can make a recommendation to the deputy chief constable.
“It is then up to the deputy chief constable to decide if they are going to suspend the officer involved.
The Home Office said it does not issue guidelines to forces on how to deal with officers who commit crimes.
Houston Officers NOT Disciplined for Misusing Tasers
The Houston Police Department has found no wrongdoing in some 1,700 incidents in which its officers intentionally fired a Taser, despite investigating about 70 complaints — including one officer who shocked his own stepson and another who discharged his stun gun on a 59-year-old woman during a dispute over laundry.
Over the last four years, only five officers have been disciplined for misusing their Tasers, although not one of the five actually shocked a suspect, according to records obtained by the Houston Chronicle. Instead, HPD reprimanded officers for threatening people with their stun guns, repeatedly discharging them while off duty and brandishing the weapon in a dispute in an elementary school carpool line.
"If that is how they deal with family problems, how are they dealing with the public?" asked Shirley Baker, whose grandson was shocked by his officer stepfather.
Use of Tasers, sold as an alternative to the deadly force of firearms, has been controversial since HPD first purchased hundreds of them late in 2004. The weapon quickly triggered public criticism with findings that officers often used them on unarmed people who committed no crime and that the vast majority were black.
Houston Mayor Bill White in November 2006 called for an independent analysis, overseen by Controller Annise Parker's office, which is expected to be made public Sept. 8. Parker has been publicly critical, saying last year that HPD's system for tracking Taser use is insufficient and despite claims that each deployment is reviewed, it "can't (be proven) with a paper trail."
Police officials maintain the Taser is a useful tool that has reduced injuries to both officers and suspects. Each incident, they say, is closely scrutinized.
"To have (69) complaints and only a few sustained — that is reflective of successful use," said Assistant Chief Brian Lumpkin, who oversees the HPD internal affairs division. "The numbers show that we have used Tasers responsibly."
HPD officers deployed their Tasers 1,724 times between December 2004 and May 2008, triggering 69 internal affairs investigations. More than half began after citizens filed complaints. Five probes remain open, but investigators found no wrongdoing in 56 others.
Among the people who filed complaints were Thoang Do, 59, a woman shocked during an altercation at her laundromat.
Do and her husband, Van Chau, 72, crossed paths with officer Troy Triplett on April 19, 2007, after a customer, attempting to pick up clothes without a ticket, summoned police. An effort to sort out the confusion escalated into a struggle between Triplett and the 5-foot-4-inch Chau, according to witness statements obtained by the family's attorney, Michael Nguyen.
No criminal charges
The store's glass door shattered. Chau lay on his stomach in jagged glass and blood. He would later require 28 stitches. Triplett, with a knee on Chau's back, attempted to restrain him.
"His wife ran outside screaming 'Nooo, Nooooo,' seeing her husband bleeding and rolling in the glass as the officer continued to manhandle him," a customer, Aaron Greenlee, said in a statement.
Triplett told Do to back away and, when she continued to reach out, he used his Taser.
Prosecutors charged Chau with felony assault of a public servant and Do with misdemeanor resisting arrest. A grand jury declined to indict Chau; Do's case was dismissed.
The couple filed a formal complaint with HPD's internal affairs division but no discipline has followed. Triplett directed questions to HPD's media relations officials, who did not comment.
"It makes me wonder whether they really looked at what happened," said the couple's daughter Linh Chau, 29. "If they had, how could they do nothing?"
It is not uncommon for people shocked with Tasers to face no criminal charges.
A Houston Chronicle analysis of the first 900 incidents in which officers deployed their Tasers, published in January 2007, found that more than one-third of the people whom officers shocked faced no charges. In about 50 other cases, charges were filed but dropped by prosecutors or dismissed by judges and juries.
The Chronicle found that the majority of Taser incidents escalated from common police calls including traffic stops, nuisance calls and reports of suspicious people.
HPD officials have said they do not track those criminal cases and that their outcomes do not affect whether officers' actions are ruled justified. None of the five Taser incidents in which Chief Harold Hurtt called for disciplinary action involve an officer shocking a suspect.
Hurtt suspended officer Douglas Randall Boyer for discharging five-second "spark tests" of his Taser 30 times while off-duty at home or while working an extra job. Internal affairs investigators found Boyer violated HPD protocols, which require officers to test their Tasers in front of a supervisor before each shift.
For that, Boyer received a one-day suspension. But, investigators found no problem with Boyer's actions in a December 2005 domestic dispute in which Boyer shocked his stepson.
Boyer, who has a long disciplinary history including a 10-day suspension after a domestic violence incident with his then-wife, was at home and off-duty when he got into an argument with his 17-year-old stepson. Tensions escalated and the 27-year veteran officer turned to his Taser and shocked the teen.
Officers from the Harris County Sheriff's Department and HPD came to his home, reported Boyer's action to internal affairs and took the boy to his grandmother's home, according to HPD documents.
"I can't believe that this is how they want officers to use their Taser," the grandmother, Shirley Baker said. "At home, on their kids?"
Boyer, who retired from HPD, declined to comment.
Hurtt also authorized discipline against officer Nichole P. Medrano, accused of threatening to use her Taser during a dispute in front of her children's elementary school.
Medrano was off-duty but wearing her uniform Jan. 26, 2006, waiting in her children's carpool line, when she confronted a woman who the officer said drove recklessly as she pulled up to the school.
According to police records, Medrano confronted the woman, who got angry.
"Officer Medrano took the woman's keys and returned to her (Medrano's) car," said Lumpkin, the assistant chief over internal affairs.
Medrano used her cell phone to call for police and, while waiting, the officer threatened the woman with her Taser and her firearm, Lumpkin said.
Several suspensions
Dispatch tapes captured Medrano warning the woman that "I will shoot your ass."
The officer received a written reprimand.
"At the time of the incident, (the woman) was unarmed, and you used unsound judgment by threatening to use deadly force without sufficient cause to believe you were in danger of serious bodily injury or death," reads the disciplinary letter.
Medrano did not respond to queries for a comment.
Three other officers have been suspended over Taser use.
Officer John B. Woods received a one-day suspension for mistakenly using his Taser while handcuffing a theft suspect in June 2007. Officer Song Kim received a five-day suspension for taunting a shoplifter with his Taser while working an off-duty job. A third officer, Dong Hoang, received a three-day suspension in 2005 for test-firing his Taser but not documenting the incidents.
Officer Gary Blankinship, president of the Houston Police Officers Union, defended HPD's investigations of Taser use.
"Short of deadly force, Tasers are the most scrutinized tool in the department," he said.
Over the last four years, only five officers have been disciplined for misusing their Tasers, although not one of the five actually shocked a suspect, according to records obtained by the Houston Chronicle. Instead, HPD reprimanded officers for threatening people with their stun guns, repeatedly discharging them while off duty and brandishing the weapon in a dispute in an elementary school carpool line.
"If that is how they deal with family problems, how are they dealing with the public?" asked Shirley Baker, whose grandson was shocked by his officer stepfather.
Use of Tasers, sold as an alternative to the deadly force of firearms, has been controversial since HPD first purchased hundreds of them late in 2004. The weapon quickly triggered public criticism with findings that officers often used them on unarmed people who committed no crime and that the vast majority were black.
Houston Mayor Bill White in November 2006 called for an independent analysis, overseen by Controller Annise Parker's office, which is expected to be made public Sept. 8. Parker has been publicly critical, saying last year that HPD's system for tracking Taser use is insufficient and despite claims that each deployment is reviewed, it "can't (be proven) with a paper trail."
Police officials maintain the Taser is a useful tool that has reduced injuries to both officers and suspects. Each incident, they say, is closely scrutinized.
"To have (69) complaints and only a few sustained — that is reflective of successful use," said Assistant Chief Brian Lumpkin, who oversees the HPD internal affairs division. "The numbers show that we have used Tasers responsibly."
HPD officers deployed their Tasers 1,724 times between December 2004 and May 2008, triggering 69 internal affairs investigations. More than half began after citizens filed complaints. Five probes remain open, but investigators found no wrongdoing in 56 others.
Among the people who filed complaints were Thoang Do, 59, a woman shocked during an altercation at her laundromat.
Do and her husband, Van Chau, 72, crossed paths with officer Troy Triplett on April 19, 2007, after a customer, attempting to pick up clothes without a ticket, summoned police. An effort to sort out the confusion escalated into a struggle between Triplett and the 5-foot-4-inch Chau, according to witness statements obtained by the family's attorney, Michael Nguyen.
No criminal charges
The store's glass door shattered. Chau lay on his stomach in jagged glass and blood. He would later require 28 stitches. Triplett, with a knee on Chau's back, attempted to restrain him.
"His wife ran outside screaming 'Nooo, Nooooo,' seeing her husband bleeding and rolling in the glass as the officer continued to manhandle him," a customer, Aaron Greenlee, said in a statement.
Triplett told Do to back away and, when she continued to reach out, he used his Taser.
Prosecutors charged Chau with felony assault of a public servant and Do with misdemeanor resisting arrest. A grand jury declined to indict Chau; Do's case was dismissed.
The couple filed a formal complaint with HPD's internal affairs division but no discipline has followed. Triplett directed questions to HPD's media relations officials, who did not comment.
"It makes me wonder whether they really looked at what happened," said the couple's daughter Linh Chau, 29. "If they had, how could they do nothing?"
It is not uncommon for people shocked with Tasers to face no criminal charges.
A Houston Chronicle analysis of the first 900 incidents in which officers deployed their Tasers, published in January 2007, found that more than one-third of the people whom officers shocked faced no charges. In about 50 other cases, charges were filed but dropped by prosecutors or dismissed by judges and juries.
The Chronicle found that the majority of Taser incidents escalated from common police calls including traffic stops, nuisance calls and reports of suspicious people.
HPD officials have said they do not track those criminal cases and that their outcomes do not affect whether officers' actions are ruled justified. None of the five Taser incidents in which Chief Harold Hurtt called for disciplinary action involve an officer shocking a suspect.
Hurtt suspended officer Douglas Randall Boyer for discharging five-second "spark tests" of his Taser 30 times while off-duty at home or while working an extra job. Internal affairs investigators found Boyer violated HPD protocols, which require officers to test their Tasers in front of a supervisor before each shift.
For that, Boyer received a one-day suspension. But, investigators found no problem with Boyer's actions in a December 2005 domestic dispute in which Boyer shocked his stepson.
Boyer, who has a long disciplinary history including a 10-day suspension after a domestic violence incident with his then-wife, was at home and off-duty when he got into an argument with his 17-year-old stepson. Tensions escalated and the 27-year veteran officer turned to his Taser and shocked the teen.
Officers from the Harris County Sheriff's Department and HPD came to his home, reported Boyer's action to internal affairs and took the boy to his grandmother's home, according to HPD documents.
"I can't believe that this is how they want officers to use their Taser," the grandmother, Shirley Baker said. "At home, on their kids?"
Boyer, who retired from HPD, declined to comment.
Hurtt also authorized discipline against officer Nichole P. Medrano, accused of threatening to use her Taser during a dispute in front of her children's elementary school.
Medrano was off-duty but wearing her uniform Jan. 26, 2006, waiting in her children's carpool line, when she confronted a woman who the officer said drove recklessly as she pulled up to the school.
According to police records, Medrano confronted the woman, who got angry.
"Officer Medrano took the woman's keys and returned to her (Medrano's) car," said Lumpkin, the assistant chief over internal affairs.
Medrano used her cell phone to call for police and, while waiting, the officer threatened the woman with her Taser and her firearm, Lumpkin said.
Several suspensions
Dispatch tapes captured Medrano warning the woman that "I will shoot your ass."
The officer received a written reprimand.
"At the time of the incident, (the woman) was unarmed, and you used unsound judgment by threatening to use deadly force without sufficient cause to believe you were in danger of serious bodily injury or death," reads the disciplinary letter.
Medrano did not respond to queries for a comment.
Three other officers have been suspended over Taser use.
Officer John B. Woods received a one-day suspension for mistakenly using his Taser while handcuffing a theft suspect in June 2007. Officer Song Kim received a five-day suspension for taunting a shoplifter with his Taser while working an off-duty job. A third officer, Dong Hoang, received a three-day suspension in 2005 for test-firing his Taser but not documenting the incidents.
Officer Gary Blankinship, president of the Houston Police Officers Union, defended HPD's investigations of Taser use.
"Short of deadly force, Tasers are the most scrutinized tool in the department," he said.
Officer Paul Hubka Charged with Killing His Canine Partner
SAN DIEGO
A San Diego police officer who was charged yesterday in the death of his canine partner is unlikely to lose his job but could face disciplinary action pending an internal investigation, San Diego police Chief William Lansdowne said.
The Police Department launched the investigation yesterday after the District Attorney's Office decided to charge Officer Paul Hubka with one misdemeanor count of animal endangerment. If convicted, he could face up to six months in jail, a fine and be ordered to pay restitution.
A necropsy performed on Forrest, a 5 year-old Belgian Malinois, found that the animal died of heatstroke on June 20 at the officer's home in Alpine.
Hubka, a 22-year veteran of the department, is accused of leaving the dog in the police cruiser with the windows rolled up on a day when temperatures in East County exceeded 100 degrees.
“There's no one who feels worse than he does,” Lansdowne said yesterday. “It's very clear that he lost a partner he was attached to, and he knows it was his fault, and he takes absolute responsibility.”
Michael Conger, an attorney who represented Hubka in an unrelated labor lawsuit but not in this case, said the officer had worked a double shift and was exhausted when he got home.
“He's a very solid, good person that made a very bad mistake,” Conger said.
The chief said he will decide on any discipline to administer in the case when the internal investigation is completed in two to three weeks. Hubka is assigned to administrative duties in the meantime.
“I do not see this as a termination case,” Lansdowne said. “I believe it was a mistake.”
In an effort to prevent similar tragedies in the future, the department announced yesterday that it plans to buy heat-alert systems for its fleet of 53 police dog cars similar to those used in other hot-temperature cities such as Dallas, Las Vegas and Phoenix.
When the back seat of the patrol car reaches a certain temperature, the system will automatically lower the car's windows, switch on the air conditioning and sound an alarm. The technology will cost about $36,000 total.
In 2006, a state law was enacted making it a misdemeanor for a person to leave a dog unattended in a vehicle causing great bodily injury or death. Only intentional animal cruelty is a felony.
Hubka's attorney could not be reached yesterday afternoon.
Carlsbad resident Janis Musante was one of several in the county who expressed outrage at Forrest's death.
“I think he needs to be held accountable and shouldn't be given any preferential treatment because he's a police officer,” said Musante, a retired San Francisco lawyer who is married to a retired police officer. “It was absolutely justified charging him.”
She also applauded City Attorney Michael Aguirre for filing a lawsuit against Hubka seeking to recover the cost of replacing the police dog.
Hubka is the third law enforcement officer in the county to be charged with a crime in the past three weeks.
San Diego police Officer Frank White faces two charges for his role in an off-duty shooting and road rage incident in Oceanside, and San Diego County sheriff's Detective Thomas Sadler faces five felony charges stemming from accusations that he molested a prostitute while on duty.
Sadler and Hubka are set to be arraigned Aug. 28 before the same judge.
Also yesterday, an officer whose police dog died after being left in a patrol car for 13 hours last summer in suburban Phoenix was acquitted of animal cruelty.
Chandler, Ariz., police Sgt. Tom Lovejoy was negligent, but prosecutors did not prove he acted recklessly, a justice of the peace ruled. Lovejoy could have been jailed for six months if he had been convicted of the misdemeanor count.
Lovejoy testified that on the morning of Aug. 11, 2007, after working an overnight shift, he parked his police SUV in his driveway and went inside. He said he was exhausted and forgot the Belgian Malinois was sleeping in the back.
A San Diego police officer who was charged yesterday in the death of his canine partner is unlikely to lose his job but could face disciplinary action pending an internal investigation, San Diego police Chief William Lansdowne said.
The Police Department launched the investigation yesterday after the District Attorney's Office decided to charge Officer Paul Hubka with one misdemeanor count of animal endangerment. If convicted, he could face up to six months in jail, a fine and be ordered to pay restitution.
A necropsy performed on Forrest, a 5 year-old Belgian Malinois, found that the animal died of heatstroke on June 20 at the officer's home in Alpine.
Hubka, a 22-year veteran of the department, is accused of leaving the dog in the police cruiser with the windows rolled up on a day when temperatures in East County exceeded 100 degrees.
“There's no one who feels worse than he does,” Lansdowne said yesterday. “It's very clear that he lost a partner he was attached to, and he knows it was his fault, and he takes absolute responsibility.”
Michael Conger, an attorney who represented Hubka in an unrelated labor lawsuit but not in this case, said the officer had worked a double shift and was exhausted when he got home.
“He's a very solid, good person that made a very bad mistake,” Conger said.
The chief said he will decide on any discipline to administer in the case when the internal investigation is completed in two to three weeks. Hubka is assigned to administrative duties in the meantime.
“I do not see this as a termination case,” Lansdowne said. “I believe it was a mistake.”
In an effort to prevent similar tragedies in the future, the department announced yesterday that it plans to buy heat-alert systems for its fleet of 53 police dog cars similar to those used in other hot-temperature cities such as Dallas, Las Vegas and Phoenix.
When the back seat of the patrol car reaches a certain temperature, the system will automatically lower the car's windows, switch on the air conditioning and sound an alarm. The technology will cost about $36,000 total.
In 2006, a state law was enacted making it a misdemeanor for a person to leave a dog unattended in a vehicle causing great bodily injury or death. Only intentional animal cruelty is a felony.
Hubka's attorney could not be reached yesterday afternoon.
Carlsbad resident Janis Musante was one of several in the county who expressed outrage at Forrest's death.
“I think he needs to be held accountable and shouldn't be given any preferential treatment because he's a police officer,” said Musante, a retired San Francisco lawyer who is married to a retired police officer. “It was absolutely justified charging him.”
She also applauded City Attorney Michael Aguirre for filing a lawsuit against Hubka seeking to recover the cost of replacing the police dog.
Hubka is the third law enforcement officer in the county to be charged with a crime in the past three weeks.
San Diego police Officer Frank White faces two charges for his role in an off-duty shooting and road rage incident in Oceanside, and San Diego County sheriff's Detective Thomas Sadler faces five felony charges stemming from accusations that he molested a prostitute while on duty.
Sadler and Hubka are set to be arraigned Aug. 28 before the same judge.
Also yesterday, an officer whose police dog died after being left in a patrol car for 13 hours last summer in suburban Phoenix was acquitted of animal cruelty.
Chandler, Ariz., police Sgt. Tom Lovejoy was negligent, but prosecutors did not prove he acted recklessly, a justice of the peace ruled. Lovejoy could have been jailed for six months if he had been convicted of the misdemeanor count.
Lovejoy testified that on the morning of Aug. 11, 2007, after working an overnight shift, he parked his police SUV in his driveway and went inside. He said he was exhausted and forgot the Belgian Malinois was sleeping in the back.
Officer Accused of Possessing Child Porn was Turned by Wife
It turns out, a local law enforcement officer, accused of possessing child porn...was turned in to police by his wife.
36-year-old Paul Kistner posted a $5,000 bail Thursday, releasing him from an undisclosed holding facility.
The longtime Washoe County Sheriff's Deputy is charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, for viewing and collecting over 400 lude and sexually explicit images of young children.
Sparks Police detectives are investigating the case, as to curb any conflicts of interest.
According to court documents, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office was contacted by Kistner's wife, Monique on August 7th. She brought detectives a computer tower and hard drive, claiming her husband had been accessing porn and child erotica. A friend of hers used computer "spy ware" in order to uncover the accessed porn websites.
After detectives obtained a search warrant, they did a forensic exam of Kistner's home computer, and searched his home, confirming his wife's claims.
Reports show that detectives located three portable "thumb" hard drives, containing the child porn images...all which Kistner kept in the front pocket of his deputy uniform.
Detectives say Kistner later admitted to masturbating to the pictures...and says he started looking at them over a year ago, because he was quote: "curious." Court documents allege Kistner was able to keep the child porn files hidden by giving them titles like "Christmas 2005."
His wife told detectives she became suspicious when her husband began spending hours on the Internet behind closed doors...and then deleting his Internet history after using the computer.
Kistner is scheduled to appear in court for his preliminary hearing on August 26th.
36-year-old Paul Kistner posted a $5,000 bail Thursday, releasing him from an undisclosed holding facility.
The longtime Washoe County Sheriff's Deputy is charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, for viewing and collecting over 400 lude and sexually explicit images of young children.
Sparks Police detectives are investigating the case, as to curb any conflicts of interest.
According to court documents, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office was contacted by Kistner's wife, Monique on August 7th. She brought detectives a computer tower and hard drive, claiming her husband had been accessing porn and child erotica. A friend of hers used computer "spy ware" in order to uncover the accessed porn websites.
After detectives obtained a search warrant, they did a forensic exam of Kistner's home computer, and searched his home, confirming his wife's claims.
Reports show that detectives located three portable "thumb" hard drives, containing the child porn images...all which Kistner kept in the front pocket of his deputy uniform.
Detectives say Kistner later admitted to masturbating to the pictures...and says he started looking at them over a year ago, because he was quote: "curious." Court documents allege Kistner was able to keep the child porn files hidden by giving them titles like "Christmas 2005."
His wife told detectives she became suspicious when her husband began spending hours on the Internet behind closed doors...and then deleting his Internet history after using the computer.
Kistner is scheduled to appear in court for his preliminary hearing on August 26th.
Two Officer Accused of Using Excessive Force
COLUMBIA, SC
Two City of Columbia police officers have been indicted after being accused of using excessive force against a USC football player.
Offensive lineman Kevin Young was arrested in March 2007. Young claims the officers punched him several times after he was in a fight in a Five Points bar.
Young's Attorney Neal Lourie confirmed that the indictments were issued.
Babs Lindsay from the South Carolina solicitor's office said the indictments were given out around 4:30pm Friday.
The indictments say officers Roger Gilland and David Beddingfield Jr. did "act in a manor that is corrupt and are fraudulent and are oppressive."
Each officer faces a count of misconduct in office according to the indictments. The counts stem from a SLED investigation that lasted almost three months.
If convicted, each officer at most could spend a year in prison and pay a $1,000 fine.
Both officers are expected to have a bond hearing next Tuesday at 11am
Two City of Columbia police officers have been indicted after being accused of using excessive force against a USC football player.
Offensive lineman Kevin Young was arrested in March 2007. Young claims the officers punched him several times after he was in a fight in a Five Points bar.
Young's Attorney Neal Lourie confirmed that the indictments were issued.
Babs Lindsay from the South Carolina solicitor's office said the indictments were given out around 4:30pm Friday.
The indictments say officers Roger Gilland and David Beddingfield Jr. did "act in a manor that is corrupt and are fraudulent and are oppressive."
Each officer faces a count of misconduct in office according to the indictments. The counts stem from a SLED investigation that lasted almost three months.
If convicted, each officer at most could spend a year in prison and pay a $1,000 fine.
Both officers are expected to have a bond hearing next Tuesday at 11am
Officer Accused of Smuggling in Mexico Returns to Work
A police officer who was arrested in Mexico, accused of smuggling ammunition and guns into the country earlier this month, is back in Monterey County at his post, his defense attorney said.
Presidio of Monterey police Sgt. Jorge Matos was released from jail last week after a Mexican judge reduced charges from smuggling weapons and ammunition into the country to possession of a weapon — a lesser offense in Mexico similar to a misdemeanor in the United States, his defense attorney, Andrew Liu said.
Lui said Matos is not expected to pay a fine, but he will not serve time in jail.
Hermogenes Llanes, the Soledad officer arrested along with Matos, has also returned and is in Soledad. He is under paid administrative leave while the Soledad police department conducts an internal investigation, said Soledad Police Chief Richard Cox.
Presidio of Monterey police Sgt. Jorge Matos was released from jail last week after a Mexican judge reduced charges from smuggling weapons and ammunition into the country to possession of a weapon — a lesser offense in Mexico similar to a misdemeanor in the United States, his defense attorney, Andrew Liu said.
Lui said Matos is not expected to pay a fine, but he will not serve time in jail.
Hermogenes Llanes, the Soledad officer arrested along with Matos, has also returned and is in Soledad. He is under paid administrative leave while the Soledad police department conducts an internal investigation, said Soledad Police Chief Richard Cox.
Biker shot by officer leaves intensive care
The Hells Angels member who was shot and wounded by an off-duty Seattle police detective at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota was taken out of intensive care Tuesday as he recovers from two gunshot wounds, one to the stomach and the second to the leg, his younger brother said.
The 33-year-old man was shot Saturday during a confrontation with the officer at the Loud American Roadhouse, a packed bar in Sturgis. One bullet tore open his bowels, and the other shattered his femur, said his brother, a restaurant manager in the San Diego area. He asked that his name not be used.
The officer, a 43-year-old detective, and four other Seattle officers were vacationing at the rally. The officer has said he was jumped and beaten and feared for his life, so he fired in self-defense. The detective belongs to the Iron Pigs motorcycle club, which is geared toward police officers and firefighters.
A Meade County, S.D., grand jury is examining the evidence for possible charges.
The San Diego-area biker's brother said he hasn't tried to pry too much into the details, given his brother's health.
"We want him to focus on healing up and getting healthy," he said, adding that they hope to have him home in a week.
The biker was shot on his first trip to the weeklong rally in South Dakota. He rode out with friends and first visited his sister in Missoula, Mont., staying for a few days there before heading to Sturgis, his brother said.
"He'd been looking forward to it for quite a while. He's been working and saving money to go for months," he said.
Security camera video of the incident was taken into evidence to be presented to the grand jury, Meade County State's Attorney Jesse Sondreal said. Seattle police guild officials have said the video would show that the shooting was justified.
The biker is a roofer and has belonged to the Hells Angels for about 10 years. His brother said he doesn't know much about the events before the shooting, though his brother is usually mellow and not the type "to get in someone's face."
He said he spoke with his brother's friends who were at Sturgis. They told him that his brother had gotten separated from his group in the bar. He said his brother's friends didn't immediately know he had been shot.
His brother has no history of violent crimes, he said. His San Diego court records confirm that, though they show he was due for a hearing Aug. 20 on pending marijuana charges from a police raid in January 2007.
The Hells Angels member was arrested as part of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the San Diego Police Department. Police served warrants on two San Diego-area homes that belonged to the president of the Hells Angels local chapter, according to the District Attorney's Office.
He and the chapter treasurer were arrested at one of the homes in Pacific Beach afterward. Police seized a pound and a half of marijuana, in addition to hydrocodone and oxycodone pills and $5,000 in cash.
The 33-year-old man was shot Saturday during a confrontation with the officer at the Loud American Roadhouse, a packed bar in Sturgis. One bullet tore open his bowels, and the other shattered his femur, said his brother, a restaurant manager in the San Diego area. He asked that his name not be used.
The officer, a 43-year-old detective, and four other Seattle officers were vacationing at the rally. The officer has said he was jumped and beaten and feared for his life, so he fired in self-defense. The detective belongs to the Iron Pigs motorcycle club, which is geared toward police officers and firefighters.
A Meade County, S.D., grand jury is examining the evidence for possible charges.
The San Diego-area biker's brother said he hasn't tried to pry too much into the details, given his brother's health.
"We want him to focus on healing up and getting healthy," he said, adding that they hope to have him home in a week.
The biker was shot on his first trip to the weeklong rally in South Dakota. He rode out with friends and first visited his sister in Missoula, Mont., staying for a few days there before heading to Sturgis, his brother said.
"He'd been looking forward to it for quite a while. He's been working and saving money to go for months," he said.
Security camera video of the incident was taken into evidence to be presented to the grand jury, Meade County State's Attorney Jesse Sondreal said. Seattle police guild officials have said the video would show that the shooting was justified.
The biker is a roofer and has belonged to the Hells Angels for about 10 years. His brother said he doesn't know much about the events before the shooting, though his brother is usually mellow and not the type "to get in someone's face."
He said he spoke with his brother's friends who were at Sturgis. They told him that his brother had gotten separated from his group in the bar. He said his brother's friends didn't immediately know he had been shot.
His brother has no history of violent crimes, he said. His San Diego court records confirm that, though they show he was due for a hearing Aug. 20 on pending marijuana charges from a police raid in January 2007.
The Hells Angels member was arrested as part of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the San Diego Police Department. Police served warrants on two San Diego-area homes that belonged to the president of the Hells Angels local chapter, according to the District Attorney's Office.
He and the chapter treasurer were arrested at one of the homes in Pacific Beach afterward. Police seized a pound and a half of marijuana, in addition to hydrocodone and oxycodone pills and $5,000 in cash.
Officer Scott Nugent Indicted on Taser Death
WINNFIELD, LA
A grand jury indicts former police officer on manslaughter charge in Taser death of central Louisiana man.
Former Winnfield police officer Scott Nugent was indicted in the death of 21-year-old Baron Pikes.
Pikes was shocked nine times with a 50,000-volt Taser as he was arrested on a drug possession warrant in January.
Nugent was fired but is appealing his dismissal. Nugent's lawyer says his client followed department protocols and didn't use excessive force.
A coroner has ruled that Pikes' death was a homicide.
A grand jury indicts former police officer on manslaughter charge in Taser death of central Louisiana man.
Former Winnfield police officer Scott Nugent was indicted in the death of 21-year-old Baron Pikes.
Pikes was shocked nine times with a 50,000-volt Taser as he was arrested on a drug possession warrant in January.
Nugent was fired but is appealing his dismissal. Nugent's lawyer says his client followed department protocols and didn't use excessive force.
A coroner has ruled that Pikes' death was a homicide.
Officer Andrew Dale Fired for Sexually Abusing Woman
RAMAPO
The Town Board fired a police officer last night who is accused by the town Police Department of sexually abusing a Monsey woman.
The dismissal of Andrew Dale, 34, came a day after an indictment accused him of felony and misdemeanor crimes related to administering gynecological examinations, but was based only on the Police Department's disciplinary charges.
A resolution unanimously approved by the board declared that Dale, a member of the department for 10 years, "is no longer qualified to serve as a Police Officer and is immediately discharged."
The decision was made after board members were provided with a 1,641-page transcript of the six-day hearing, as well as the hearing officer's report.
Hearing Officer John Carey reported finding sufficient evidence to uphold 16 disciplinary charges, including Dale's failure to report the woman's accusations, his lying to the Police Department about the accusations and his participation in the alleged abuse.
Ramapo Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence said last night that he thought it was significant that Carey found "proof well beyond the substantial-evidence test in determining that Dale committed the crime of sexual abuse."
Police Chief Peter Brower and relatives of Dale's declined to comment as they left last night's meeting.
Dale's dismissal was not recommended by Carey, who suggested a one-year unpaid suspension. The officer's annual salary was about $95,000.
Carey, a former Westchester County judge, reported that he took "into account AD's unblemished record in the RPD, his national service as a US Marine, his current service in the US Army Reserve, and his overall performance as a Community Police Officer."
It seemed to Carey that "more good can be done by sending him back to work," with an admonition to use better judgment in the future.
Dale and Zalman Silber were released without bail Tuesday after separate arraignments before Judge Catherine Bartlett in Rockland County Court in New City.
Silber, 41, had already posted $10,000 bail in Manhattan after he was accused last month of misdemeanor charges of sex abuse and a felony charge of practicing a profession without a license. The charges stemmed from accusations that Silber examined several women while posing as a gynecologist.
In the Rockland indictment, Silber and Dale were accused of 34 charges, including the felony of performing medical examinations without a license between 2005 and 2006. They also were accused of four counts of fourth-degree aggravated sex abuse, a felony, and 24 counts of third-degree sex abuse, a misdemeanor. All the charges related to the alleged contact with the Monsey woman.
They pleaded not guilty, and their attorneys predicted they would prevail at trial.
One of the lawyers, William Aronwald of White Plains, said the woman was "mentally unbalanced" and had ulterior motives for her accusations.
In a footnote of the hearing officer's report, it was stated the woman wrote that she was withdrawing her claims against either Dale or Silber or both.
"I am not in good mental health and approached the DA's office with an unstable mind when I submitted my claim," the woman was said to have written on Dec. 10, 2007.
That was the same day she taped three conversations with Dale for the Police Department, and the day when Dale later met with Silber.
The hearing officer determined that the woman's testimony against Dale at the hearing "was more credible" than the letter.
Carey wrote that Dale implicated himself beyond what was recorded on tape.
While the woman, in the conversations, accused Dale only of sexual abuse, he later gave police details that he could not have known, "except for (his) personal participation," Carey wrote.
The Town Board fired a police officer last night who is accused by the town Police Department of sexually abusing a Monsey woman.
The dismissal of Andrew Dale, 34, came a day after an indictment accused him of felony and misdemeanor crimes related to administering gynecological examinations, but was based only on the Police Department's disciplinary charges.
A resolution unanimously approved by the board declared that Dale, a member of the department for 10 years, "is no longer qualified to serve as a Police Officer and is immediately discharged."
The decision was made after board members were provided with a 1,641-page transcript of the six-day hearing, as well as the hearing officer's report.
Hearing Officer John Carey reported finding sufficient evidence to uphold 16 disciplinary charges, including Dale's failure to report the woman's accusations, his lying to the Police Department about the accusations and his participation in the alleged abuse.
Ramapo Supervisor Christopher St. Lawrence said last night that he thought it was significant that Carey found "proof well beyond the substantial-evidence test in determining that Dale committed the crime of sexual abuse."
Police Chief Peter Brower and relatives of Dale's declined to comment as they left last night's meeting.
Dale's dismissal was not recommended by Carey, who suggested a one-year unpaid suspension. The officer's annual salary was about $95,000.
Carey, a former Westchester County judge, reported that he took "into account AD's unblemished record in the RPD, his national service as a US Marine, his current service in the US Army Reserve, and his overall performance as a Community Police Officer."
It seemed to Carey that "more good can be done by sending him back to work," with an admonition to use better judgment in the future.
Dale and Zalman Silber were released without bail Tuesday after separate arraignments before Judge Catherine Bartlett in Rockland County Court in New City.
Silber, 41, had already posted $10,000 bail in Manhattan after he was accused last month of misdemeanor charges of sex abuse and a felony charge of practicing a profession without a license. The charges stemmed from accusations that Silber examined several women while posing as a gynecologist.
In the Rockland indictment, Silber and Dale were accused of 34 charges, including the felony of performing medical examinations without a license between 2005 and 2006. They also were accused of four counts of fourth-degree aggravated sex abuse, a felony, and 24 counts of third-degree sex abuse, a misdemeanor. All the charges related to the alleged contact with the Monsey woman.
They pleaded not guilty, and their attorneys predicted they would prevail at trial.
One of the lawyers, William Aronwald of White Plains, said the woman was "mentally unbalanced" and had ulterior motives for her accusations.
In a footnote of the hearing officer's report, it was stated the woman wrote that she was withdrawing her claims against either Dale or Silber or both.
"I am not in good mental health and approached the DA's office with an unstable mind when I submitted my claim," the woman was said to have written on Dec. 10, 2007.
That was the same day she taped three conversations with Dale for the Police Department, and the day when Dale later met with Silber.
The hearing officer determined that the woman's testimony against Dale at the hearing "was more credible" than the letter.
Carey wrote that Dale implicated himself beyond what was recorded on tape.
While the woman, in the conversations, accused Dale only of sexual abuse, he later gave police details that he could not have known, "except for (his) personal participation," Carey wrote.
Accused Pedophile was Janitor at High School
A Concord man accused of soliciting sex from a 14-year-old girl and later an undercover police officer once worked for a Concord high school, school officials said Thursday.
Danny Wrenn Cochran worked as a custodian at Jay M. Robinson High School from May 2001 to January 2006, Cabarrus County Schools spokeswoman Jeanette Trexler said.
School officials could not release why he left or under what circumstances.
Police officials said earlier this week they do not believe he was involved in any other alleged incidents. At the time of his arrest, Cochran was unemployed and receiving disability payments, police officials said.
According to a search warrant affidavit, Cochran told the 14-year-old girl, who had misdialed his phone, that he had previously worked as a custodian at the school. Police worked with the 14-year-girl, whose name is not being released, to set up a sting operation by using an undercover police officer to act as the teen’s cousin, the report stated.
Police arrested Cochran at the Terrymore Apartments in Concord, which was a predetermined meeting place between the undercover officer and Cochran, documents stated.
Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Sgt. D.J. DeGrace said the management of Terrymore Apartments worked with police and allowed them to use the facility for the sting but stressed the complex and its tenants had no involvement with the case.
The location was a neutral meeting place where police could control the situation and not give up the actual address of anyone involved, DeGrace said.
Cochran, 51, of 4800 Roberta Church Road, appeared in court Thursday morning.
Cabarrus County District Attorney Roxanne Vaneekhoven now has to decide when to place Cochran’s case before a grand jury.
Cochran’s next scheduled court hearing is Sept. 4 but he could be called before the grand jury as early as Monday, Cabarrus County Clerk of Courts officials said.
Danny Wrenn Cochran worked as a custodian at Jay M. Robinson High School from May 2001 to January 2006, Cabarrus County Schools spokeswoman Jeanette Trexler said.
School officials could not release why he left or under what circumstances.
Police officials said earlier this week they do not believe he was involved in any other alleged incidents. At the time of his arrest, Cochran was unemployed and receiving disability payments, police officials said.
According to a search warrant affidavit, Cochran told the 14-year-old girl, who had misdialed his phone, that he had previously worked as a custodian at the school. Police worked with the 14-year-girl, whose name is not being released, to set up a sting operation by using an undercover police officer to act as the teen’s cousin, the report stated.
Police arrested Cochran at the Terrymore Apartments in Concord, which was a predetermined meeting place between the undercover officer and Cochran, documents stated.
Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Sgt. D.J. DeGrace said the management of Terrymore Apartments worked with police and allowed them to use the facility for the sting but stressed the complex and its tenants had no involvement with the case.
The location was a neutral meeting place where police could control the situation and not give up the actual address of anyone involved, DeGrace said.
Cochran, 51, of 4800 Roberta Church Road, appeared in court Thursday morning.
Cabarrus County District Attorney Roxanne Vaneekhoven now has to decide when to place Cochran’s case before a grand jury.
Cochran’s next scheduled court hearing is Sept. 4 but he could be called before the grand jury as early as Monday, Cabarrus County Clerk of Courts officials said.
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