A longtime LSU police officer was charged Wednesday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for possession of child pornography.
Former Lt. Thomas Eugene Fife, 62, worked for 21 years at the LSU Police Department before FBI agents seized his work computer in July. He immediately was placed on paid administrative leave, but resigned four days later.
Possession of child pornography is a felony offense that carries a possible prison term of 10 years. Any prison sentence imposed in such cases also requires a minimum of five years of supervision once a felon completes his or her term of incarceration, according to U.S. Attorney David Dugas.
The discovery of alleged pornographic images was made by LSU officers monitoring departmental computers with surveillance software, according to FBI officials.
After that discovery, LSU reported the matter to the FBI, which obtained a warrant to seize Fife’s computer, cell phone and other electronic devices from his office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rich Bourgeois is the prosecutor assigned to the case.
More Information: http://www.wafb.com/Global/story.asp?S=9299428&nav=0aWU
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Two Highway Patrol Troopers Fired Have been Reinstated?
COLUMBUS, OHIO
Two Ohio Highway Patrol troopers fired for taking part in a KKK-type costume prank have been ordered reinstated to their jobs.
An arbitrator ruled Tuesday that the May 2 firing violated the union's contract with the state.
The Ohio State Troopers Association had fought the dismissal of Craig Franklin and Eric Wlodarsky of the Sandusky post.
Franklin and Wlodarsky are to be reinstated with back pay and benefits, and the state cannot appeal the ruling.
Gov. Ted Strickland had asked that the men be fired after a patrol investigation found that on the day before Martin Luther King Day in January, Franklin put on a white cone, mask and cloth, and Wlodarsky took a photo with his cell phone and sent it to a colleague.
Strickland's spokesman said Wednesday that the governor is disappointed by the ruling but the administration will comply with it.
Two Ohio Highway Patrol troopers fired for taking part in a KKK-type costume prank have been ordered reinstated to their jobs.
An arbitrator ruled Tuesday that the May 2 firing violated the union's contract with the state.
The Ohio State Troopers Association had fought the dismissal of Craig Franklin and Eric Wlodarsky of the Sandusky post.
Franklin and Wlodarsky are to be reinstated with back pay and benefits, and the state cannot appeal the ruling.
Gov. Ted Strickland had asked that the men be fired after a patrol investigation found that on the day before Martin Luther King Day in January, Franklin put on a white cone, mask and cloth, and Wlodarsky took a photo with his cell phone and sent it to a colleague.
Strickland's spokesman said Wednesday that the governor is disappointed by the ruling but the administration will comply with it.
More Information:
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WTF??? I don't know if they should lose their jobs, but they do need some serious discipline.
More Information on Deputy who Accused Sheriff of Assault
A Defiance County sheriff's deputy who says he was assaulted by his boss, the sheriff, believes his days with the department are numbered.
In an interview, Deputy Austin Cape accused Sheriff Dave Westrick of assaulting him because Cape failed to write a ticket to a critic of the sheriff's for illegal burning.
In an interview that aired Oct. 31, 2008, the sheriff denied the allegations saying, "The absolute most I would do is put my hand on his shoulder". But Cape's lawyer, Terry Lodge says that is an assault.
"When I saw the segment, I thought that's remarkable.", Lodge says, "You have a law enforcement officer saying they just put hands on an employee."
According to the Ohio Revised Code section 2903.13 "No person shall knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to another." and "If the victim of the offense is a peace officer... assault is a felony of the fourth degree".
Lodge says, that means the sheriff could be charged with felony assault.
Cape, meanwhile, was suspended today until a pre-disciplinary hearing November 14th.
The notice he was given says he can offer an explanation, but does not say what he's being disciplined for. Cape also hand delivered a letter to the county prosecutor today requesting a state investigation into his claims. The prosecutor and the sheriff have not returned our calls for comment.
Cape's attorney now plans to ask the governor's office to step in and request a state investigation.
In an interview, Deputy Austin Cape accused Sheriff Dave Westrick of assaulting him because Cape failed to write a ticket to a critic of the sheriff's for illegal burning.
In an interview that aired Oct. 31, 2008, the sheriff denied the allegations saying, "The absolute most I would do is put my hand on his shoulder". But Cape's lawyer, Terry Lodge says that is an assault.
"When I saw the segment, I thought that's remarkable.", Lodge says, "You have a law enforcement officer saying they just put hands on an employee."
According to the Ohio Revised Code section 2903.13 "No person shall knowingly cause or attempt to cause physical harm to another." and "If the victim of the offense is a peace officer... assault is a felony of the fourth degree".
Lodge says, that means the sheriff could be charged with felony assault.
Cape, meanwhile, was suspended today until a pre-disciplinary hearing November 14th.
The notice he was given says he can offer an explanation, but does not say what he's being disciplined for. Cape also hand delivered a letter to the county prosecutor today requesting a state investigation into his claims. The prosecutor and the sheriff have not returned our calls for comment.
Cape's attorney now plans to ask the governor's office to step in and request a state investigation.
Sergeant Arrested for Murder
South Africa
A KwaZulu-Natal police officer was arrested on Wednesday morning in connection with the killing of three people in Shongweni near Hillcrest in Durban, police said.
Police spokesperson Superintendent Vincent Mdunge said the police officer was arrested in Pinetown by the National Intervention Unit at the offices of his attorney.
The officer, who holds the rank of sergeant, is expected to appear in the Pinetown magistrates court shortly.
It is alleged that the officer in his forties, went to a house in Shongweni and called a person to come outside around 4.15pm on Saturday.
The rest of the family became suspicious and also went outside.
He allegedly pulled out his firearm and shot at the family - four men and a woman. Three people - Sibonelo Ngcongo, Bonginkosi Ngcongo and Muzi Ngcongo - died on the scene while two were admitted to hospital.
It was initially reported that one of the two admitted to hospital had died on Sunday, however Mdunge said the person was still in a critical condition.
The Mercury newspaper reported on Wednesday that a shop owned by the police officer was burnt down.
Mdunge was quoted as saying: "It is believed the police officer's truck shop was set alight on Sunday night by angry community members who had heard about the shootings.
"Three adjoining rooms that the officer rents to people were also burnt.
"No one was injured in the fire and no arrests have been made."
Mdunge said police wanted to discourage the community from engaging in acts of this nature.
"The situation cannot be resolved by people committing more crimes."
The police officer faces three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=15&art_id=vn20081106061520591C260701
A KwaZulu-Natal police officer was arrested on Wednesday morning in connection with the killing of three people in Shongweni near Hillcrest in Durban, police said.
Police spokesperson Superintendent Vincent Mdunge said the police officer was arrested in Pinetown by the National Intervention Unit at the offices of his attorney.
The officer, who holds the rank of sergeant, is expected to appear in the Pinetown magistrates court shortly.
It is alleged that the officer in his forties, went to a house in Shongweni and called a person to come outside around 4.15pm on Saturday.
The rest of the family became suspicious and also went outside.
He allegedly pulled out his firearm and shot at the family - four men and a woman. Three people - Sibonelo Ngcongo, Bonginkosi Ngcongo and Muzi Ngcongo - died on the scene while two were admitted to hospital.
It was initially reported that one of the two admitted to hospital had died on Sunday, however Mdunge said the person was still in a critical condition.
The Mercury newspaper reported on Wednesday that a shop owned by the police officer was burnt down.
Mdunge was quoted as saying: "It is believed the police officer's truck shop was set alight on Sunday night by angry community members who had heard about the shootings.
"Three adjoining rooms that the officer rents to people were also burnt.
"No one was injured in the fire and no arrests have been made."
Mdunge said police wanted to discourage the community from engaging in acts of this nature.
"The situation cannot be resolved by people committing more crimes."
The police officer faces three counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=15&art_id=vn20081106061520591C260701
Two Officers Arrested for Stealing From Wal-Mart
Town of Newburgh
Pictures of Others.... http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081105/NEWS/81105026/-1/NEWS&Template=photos
Police officers from the Town of Montgomery and the Village of Tuxedo Park were among four people arrested Tuesday and Wednesday, after an investigation by the Orange County District Attorney’s office, Wal-Mart security and the State Dept. of Taxation and Finance uncovered an alleged theft scam at two local Wal-Marts.
Clifford M. Barber III, 41, of Walden, and Kevin Burchell, 26, of Montgomery were both arrested Tuesday, along with a Wal-mart employee, Bryan Dunn, 36, of Maybrook. Those arrests followed the execution of seven search warrants, with state and local police fanning out across the towns of Montgomery, Newburgh and New Windsor, as well as locations in Ulster County.
Barber is a part-time Town of Montgomery police officer. Burchell is a Tuxedo Park police officer. A fourth suspect, Laquionus “Q” Pressley, 29 of Newburgh, surrendered to police Wednesday morning.
All four are accused of participating in the thefts of hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchandise from the Wal-Mart on Union Avenue in the Town of Newburgh and Route 211E in the Town of Wallkill between April 2006 and April 2008. Some of the alleged thefts were captured on Wal-Mart’s internal store cameras, according to a complaint against Barber.
Barber was arraigned Tuesday night before Newburgh Town Justice Richard Clarino and released on his own recognizance pending an appearance in Town Court on Nov. 17. He’s charged with third-degree grand larceny, first degree offering a false instrument for filing, and filing a false personal income tax return, all felonies. He was also suspended from the Town of Montgomery police dept, where he has worked since 2003, said Police Chief Arnold Amthor.
Dunn and Burchell, also were released on their own recognizance. Pressley arraignment is pending Wednesday morning.
Amthor said town police assisted in the investigation, and that the department was "both disturbed and saddened" by the allegations against Barber.
"We are confident in the investigation that was conducted, and confident, as well, that justice will be served in this case," Amthor said in a prepared statement.
Burchell has worked full-time in Tuxedo Park since May of this year.
More details will appear in tomorrow’s edition of the Times Herald-Record.
Clifford M. Barber III, 41, of Walden, and Kevin Burchell, 26, of Montgomery were both arrested Tuesday, along with a Wal-mart employee, Bryan Dunn, 36, of Maybrook. Those arrests followed the execution of seven search warrants, with state and local police fanning out across the towns of Montgomery, Newburgh and New Windsor, as well as locations in Ulster County.
Barber is a part-time Town of Montgomery police officer. Burchell is a Tuxedo Park police officer. A fourth suspect, Laquionus “Q” Pressley, 29 of Newburgh, surrendered to police Wednesday morning.
All four are accused of participating in the thefts of hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchandise from the Wal-Mart on Union Avenue in the Town of Newburgh and Route 211E in the Town of Wallkill between April 2006 and April 2008. Some of the alleged thefts were captured on Wal-Mart’s internal store cameras, according to a complaint against Barber.
Barber was arraigned Tuesday night before Newburgh Town Justice Richard Clarino and released on his own recognizance pending an appearance in Town Court on Nov. 17. He’s charged with third-degree grand larceny, first degree offering a false instrument for filing, and filing a false personal income tax return, all felonies. He was also suspended from the Town of Montgomery police dept, where he has worked since 2003, said Police Chief Arnold Amthor.
Dunn and Burchell, also were released on their own recognizance. Pressley arraignment is pending Wednesday morning.
Amthor said town police assisted in the investigation, and that the department was "both disturbed and saddened" by the allegations against Barber.
"We are confident in the investigation that was conducted, and confident, as well, that justice will be served in this case," Amthor said in a prepared statement.
Burchell has worked full-time in Tuxedo Park since May of this year.
More details will appear in tomorrow’s edition of the Times Herald-Record.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Four Brooklyn Officers Under Investigation on Modified Duty
The NYPD yesterday took away the guns and badges of the four Brooklyn police officers under investigation for allegedly beating and sodomizing a marijuana suspect on a subway platform near Prospect Park, police said yesterday.
Their assignment to modified duty that includes desk jobs is considered significant because the department had kept the officers, all from the 71st Precinct, on full duty since the suspect, Michael Mineo, 24, made his claim nearly three weeks ago.
Police had said two civilian witnesses told Internal Affairs investigators they did not see anyone violate Mineo.
In recent days, however, a fifth officer, who works in transit and is considered a witness in the case, has moved toward entering into a cooperation agreement with the Brooklyn attorney's office as it continues presenting evidence to an investigative grand jury.
Law enforcement sources briefed on the grand jury investigation say that officer, if he cooperates, will implicate the four others in at least a physical assault. The sources say that development prompted the NYPD to take action against the four.
Mineo, sources say, has identified Officer Alex Cruz as the one who sodomized him with a police radio, though DNA tests are being performed on Cruz's radio and baton.
Lawyers for Cruz and the other officers either couldn't be reached for comment, or said they had no comment.
Kevin Mosly, one of Mineo's lawyers, said yesterday the department's move is a sign it realizes the officers committed wrongdoing. "We felt that Michael had presented an extremely compelling case of a heinous crime," he said.
Mineo's lawyers had said the NYPD was sending the wrong message by not placing the officers on modified duty.
Their assignment to modified duty that includes desk jobs is considered significant because the department had kept the officers, all from the 71st Precinct, on full duty since the suspect, Michael Mineo, 24, made his claim nearly three weeks ago.
Police had said two civilian witnesses told Internal Affairs investigators they did not see anyone violate Mineo.
In recent days, however, a fifth officer, who works in transit and is considered a witness in the case, has moved toward entering into a cooperation agreement with the Brooklyn attorney's office as it continues presenting evidence to an investigative grand jury.
Law enforcement sources briefed on the grand jury investigation say that officer, if he cooperates, will implicate the four others in at least a physical assault. The sources say that development prompted the NYPD to take action against the four.
Mineo, sources say, has identified Officer Alex Cruz as the one who sodomized him with a police radio, though DNA tests are being performed on Cruz's radio and baton.
Lawyers for Cruz and the other officers either couldn't be reached for comment, or said they had no comment.
Kevin Mosly, one of Mineo's lawyers, said yesterday the department's move is a sign it realizes the officers committed wrongdoing. "We felt that Michael had presented an extremely compelling case of a heinous crime," he said.
Mineo's lawyers had said the NYPD was sending the wrong message by not placing the officers on modified duty.
Former Officer Justin Bowman Faces Multiple Sex Charges
The wife of a former Mesa police officer called Maricopa police on her husband, who now faces multiple charges that he allegedly had sexual contact with a child.
Police arrested Justin Bowman on Oct. 29, after his wife contacted authorities saying Bowman was threatening to swallow a "bunch" of pills, said Sgt. Steve Judd, a police spokesman.
After arriving, officers determined Bowman "was involved in crimes against children that live at the residence," Judd said.
Bowman served as a Mesa police officer until September. Mesa police would not immediately comment about Bowman's time with the department or why he left.
While at the home, Bowman's wife told police he had sexual photos involving children on his cell phone.
"She was the one that told us that there were additional crimes occurring at the residence," Judd said.
Police later returned with a search warrant and took Bowman's cell phone, a computer and other items from the home.
Bowman was booked into the Pinal County jail on suspicion of eight counts of sexual conduct with a minor, each class 2 felonies.
State law defines the charge as a person who intentionally or knowingly engages in sexual contact with any person 18 years of age. For a class 2 felony, the victim must be at least 15 years old.
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/local/articles/2008/11/05/20081105evbriefs1105.html
Chief of Police Richard Kellar charged with Assault
SOUTH NEW BERLIN
The Town of New Berlin’s Chief of Police has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest Thursday morning over allegations that he assaulted a 42-year-old man.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office said Friday its deputies had arrested New Berlin’s police chief, Richard P. Kellar, 43, of Norwich, at around 1:30 a.m. Oct. 30 in the hamlet of South New Berlin. Kellar was charged with third degree assault, a class A misdemeanor, after he allegedly caused physical injury to another person.
Investigators said Kellar was not on duty at the time and have only identified the victim as a 42-year-old male.
Detective Sgt. Richard Cobb said the Sheriff’s Office could not comment on an ongoing investigation and directed questions to the District Attorney’s Office.
District Attorney Joseph McBride confirmed he had asked Chenango County Court Judge W. Howard Sullivan to appoint a special prosecutor and asked for a change of venue.
The Town of New Berlin’s Chief of Police has been placed on administrative leave following his arrest Thursday morning over allegations that he assaulted a 42-year-old man.
The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office said Friday its deputies had arrested New Berlin’s police chief, Richard P. Kellar, 43, of Norwich, at around 1:30 a.m. Oct. 30 in the hamlet of South New Berlin. Kellar was charged with third degree assault, a class A misdemeanor, after he allegedly caused physical injury to another person.
Investigators said Kellar was not on duty at the time and have only identified the victim as a 42-year-old male.
Detective Sgt. Richard Cobb said the Sheriff’s Office could not comment on an ongoing investigation and directed questions to the District Attorney’s Office.
District Attorney Joseph McBride confirmed he had asked Chenango County Court Judge W. Howard Sullivan to appoint a special prosecutor and asked for a change of venue.
Deputy Austin Cape says he was Assaulted by Sheriff David Westrick
A Defiance County Sheriff's Deputy says he was assaulted---by the Sheriff himself.
Deputy Austin Cape says he responded to a call at the home of a critic of Sheriff David Westrick last April. While investigating an illegal burning charge, Cape says the homeowner began ripping the Sheriff about his son's addiction to pain killers.
Cape left without issuing a ticket.
When he returned to the office, he says, the sheriff flew into a rage. "I was sitting there and I heard the sheriff call me a (expletive) at least a half dozen times," Deputy Cape says. "He just kept saying Cape's a (expletive) and he won't defend my family and won't defend the office."
So, Deputy Cape says, he took off his gun, planning to quit--and that's when the sheriff attacked. "He kinda grabbed me by the shirt collar and at the same time I leaned up against the wall and he just kinda followed me in with his hands on my shirt collar and the whole time, just screaming at me", Cape says.
The sheriff later went to Cape's parents house to apologize, but didn't realize they were secretly taping the conversation. In it, Westrick can be heard apologizing for his actions--although he never admits to assaulting Cape.
We confronted the sheriff, and he says, he never attacked the deputy. "The absolute most I would do is put my hand on his shoulder.", Westrick says, "But I did not push. I did not shove. That's not me".
Deputy Austin Cape says he responded to a call at the home of a critic of Sheriff David Westrick last April. While investigating an illegal burning charge, Cape says the homeowner began ripping the Sheriff about his son's addiction to pain killers.
Cape left without issuing a ticket.
When he returned to the office, he says, the sheriff flew into a rage. "I was sitting there and I heard the sheriff call me a (expletive) at least a half dozen times," Deputy Cape says. "He just kept saying Cape's a (expletive) and he won't defend my family and won't defend the office."
So, Deputy Cape says, he took off his gun, planning to quit--and that's when the sheriff attacked. "He kinda grabbed me by the shirt collar and at the same time I leaned up against the wall and he just kinda followed me in with his hands on my shirt collar and the whole time, just screaming at me", Cape says.
The sheriff later went to Cape's parents house to apologize, but didn't realize they were secretly taping the conversation. In it, Westrick can be heard apologizing for his actions--although he never admits to assaulting Cape.
We confronted the sheriff, and he says, he never attacked the deputy. "The absolute most I would do is put my hand on his shoulder.", Westrick says, "But I did not push. I did not shove. That's not me".
Monday, November 03, 2008
State Trooper Christopher Stanton Arrested for Sodomy on 12 year old
A former state trooper was arrested Monday following a grand jury indictment on sexual abuse charges.
Christopher Lee Stanton, 36, of Troy, has been charged with two counts of sodomy after a Pike County Grand Jury indicted him last week.
According to Pike County District Attorney Gary McAliley, Stanton was charged with sodomy first degree for an incident that occurred when the victim was under 12 years old and sodomy second degree for one that occurred when she was older than 12.
Stanton resigned from the Alabama Department of Public Safety in August while under investigation by the Troy Police Department for the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. He was arrested by the TPD on Aug. 13.
Stanton had been a state trooper since 1997 where he was assigned to the Highway Patrol Division in Montgomery.
Christopher Lee Stanton, 36, of Troy, has been charged with two counts of sodomy after a Pike County Grand Jury indicted him last week.
According to Pike County District Attorney Gary McAliley, Stanton was charged with sodomy first degree for an incident that occurred when the victim was under 12 years old and sodomy second degree for one that occurred when she was older than 12.
Stanton resigned from the Alabama Department of Public Safety in August while under investigation by the Troy Police Department for the alleged sexual abuse of a minor. He was arrested by the TPD on Aug. 13.
Stanton had been a state trooper since 1997 where he was assigned to the Highway Patrol Division in Montgomery.
Officer Natiq Shah Accused of Raping Woman
RAWALPINDI
Regional Police Officer (RPO) Nasir Khan Durrani on Monday suspended a sub-inspector (SI) for raping a woman and ordered registration of a case against him, said a police handout.
Raheena Bibi, wife of Muhammad Anwar, a resident of Shakrial, submitted an application to the RPO, complaining that Sub-Inspector Natiq Shah detained her at Nasirabad police post on the charge of helping the accused involved in some case and subjected her to physical torture.
She was produced before SP who after verifying the facts ordered the SI to release her immediately. After her release, Shah started visiting her house and criminally assaulted her a number of times.
According to Raheena, 35, the officer threatened that he will kill her husband in a police encounter if she did not “cooperate” with him.
Durrani directed DSP, Legal, Khalid Farooq Paracha to hold an inquiry and submit a report to him. After detailed investigations, the inquiry officer confirmed the allegations.
The RPO suspended Shah and ordered registration of a case against him.
Remand of terror suspect extended: Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) No II on Monday extended till November 13 judicial remand of a suspected terrorist facing charges of involvement in Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) attack case.
Having extended the remand of Hameedullah Mehsood of South Waziristan Agency, Judge Sakhi Muhammad Kahoot adjourned the hearing.
Wah Cantonment police arrested the accused for his alleged involvement in POF attack on August 21 that claimed more than 75 lives and injured over 100. The police have kept him in custody for 27 days for investigation.
Regional Police Officer (RPO) Nasir Khan Durrani on Monday suspended a sub-inspector (SI) for raping a woman and ordered registration of a case against him, said a police handout.
Raheena Bibi, wife of Muhammad Anwar, a resident of Shakrial, submitted an application to the RPO, complaining that Sub-Inspector Natiq Shah detained her at Nasirabad police post on the charge of helping the accused involved in some case and subjected her to physical torture.
She was produced before SP who after verifying the facts ordered the SI to release her immediately. After her release, Shah started visiting her house and criminally assaulted her a number of times.
According to Raheena, 35, the officer threatened that he will kill her husband in a police encounter if she did not “cooperate” with him.
Durrani directed DSP, Legal, Khalid Farooq Paracha to hold an inquiry and submit a report to him. After detailed investigations, the inquiry officer confirmed the allegations.
The RPO suspended Shah and ordered registration of a case against him.
Remand of terror suspect extended: Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) No II on Monday extended till November 13 judicial remand of a suspected terrorist facing charges of involvement in Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) attack case.
Having extended the remand of Hameedullah Mehsood of South Waziristan Agency, Judge Sakhi Muhammad Kahoot adjourned the hearing.
Wah Cantonment police arrested the accused for his alleged involvement in POF attack on August 21 that claimed more than 75 lives and injured over 100. The police have kept him in custody for 27 days for investigation.
Trial for Officer Matthew Romano to Begin Wednesday
JOHNSON CITY, N.Y.
The trial for Johnson City police officer Matthew Romano, who is accused of lying about getting injured on duty will begin on Wednesday. He is charged with two counts of filing a false police report.
On Monday, Romano waived his right for a jury trial. The six year veteran of the Johnson City police force was found with stab wounds at Calvary cemetery in December 2006. Investigators say
The trial for Johnson City police officer Matthew Romano, who is accused of lying about getting injured on duty will begin on Wednesday.
Romano told them he was attacked by a black man with dreads. This triggered a manhunt. Investigators determined later that his wounds were self-inflicted.
http://www.newschannel34.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=fffaa8f8-7e5d-4319-884e-f53b68e3c950
The trial for Johnson City police officer Matthew Romano, who is accused of lying about getting injured on duty will begin on Wednesday. He is charged with two counts of filing a false police report.
On Monday, Romano waived his right for a jury trial. The six year veteran of the Johnson City police force was found with stab wounds at Calvary cemetery in December 2006. Investigators say
The trial for Johnson City police officer Matthew Romano, who is accused of lying about getting injured on duty will begin on Wednesday.
Romano told them he was attacked by a black man with dreads. This triggered a manhunt. Investigators determined later that his wounds were self-inflicted.
http://www.newschannel34.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=fffaa8f8-7e5d-4319-884e-f53b68e3c950
Officer Jose Vela says Sex was Consensual
EDINBURG, Texas
A former South Texas police chief accused of sexually assaulting one of his officers testified Monday that the encounter was consensual and his attorney suggested the chief was the victim of a conspiracy.
Jose Luis Vela, 44, is accused of assaulting the officer after the man passed out drunk at a party at Vela's home in August 2006.
Vela threw more than 100 parties at his home during his decade-long reign as chief. The parties were often attended by his employees.
The former chief said Monday that the officer was a willing participant and the August 2006 incident was not their first sexual encounter. The Associated Press does not identify people who are victims of alleged sexual assaults.
When Vela's attorney Luis Singleterry asked if it had been sex between two consenting adults, Vela answered: "That's exactly what it was."
Asked if the officer had been passed out or unable to resist, Vela said the officer was "wide awake and doing the same thing."
Vela also countered two other former employees who testified last week that Vela has sexually assaulted them. In one case, Vela said it was also a consensual encounter and denied using any sort of device and in the other, he denied the employee's account entirely.
"I'm not a bad person," Vela said. "I don't consider myself to be a bad person."
Instead, Singleterry suggested that three of Vela's former employees had been brought together by Hidalgo County Sheriff's investigator Raul Cantu, who was retaliating against Vela. A week earlier Vela had suspended the investigator's wife, who worked for the Alton Police Department. Cantu testified last week that the incident with his ex-wife had no bearing on his investigation.
Each of Vela's alleged victims have said that they were approached about the investigation and none of them had reported the incidents to authorities. Singleterry also pointed out that each of the men had joined in a civil lawsuit against Vela and the city.
But prosecutor Hope Palacios painted Vela as an inexperienced chief running a department with such unqualified officers that they could not quit their jobs even after the alleged sexual assaults because they had little hope of finding new ones.
Asked if having a romantic relationship with one of his officers was unprofessional, Vela said that since it happened outside the workplace it was all right.
Vela's cross-examination is scheduled to resume Tuesday morning.
Accusations of bad record keeping and stealing confiscated alcohol ultimately cost Vela his job in September 2007. Vela testified Monday that he never instructed his employees to bring alcohol from the department's evidence locker to his parties.
Alton is a town of about 4,400 residents located 10 miles north of the Mexican border in the Rio Grande Valley.
A former South Texas police chief accused of sexually assaulting one of his officers testified Monday that the encounter was consensual and his attorney suggested the chief was the victim of a conspiracy.
Jose Luis Vela, 44, is accused of assaulting the officer after the man passed out drunk at a party at Vela's home in August 2006.
Vela threw more than 100 parties at his home during his decade-long reign as chief. The parties were often attended by his employees.
The former chief said Monday that the officer was a willing participant and the August 2006 incident was not their first sexual encounter. The Associated Press does not identify people who are victims of alleged sexual assaults.
When Vela's attorney Luis Singleterry asked if it had been sex between two consenting adults, Vela answered: "That's exactly what it was."
Asked if the officer had been passed out or unable to resist, Vela said the officer was "wide awake and doing the same thing."
Vela also countered two other former employees who testified last week that Vela has sexually assaulted them. In one case, Vela said it was also a consensual encounter and denied using any sort of device and in the other, he denied the employee's account entirely.
"I'm not a bad person," Vela said. "I don't consider myself to be a bad person."
Instead, Singleterry suggested that three of Vela's former employees had been brought together by Hidalgo County Sheriff's investigator Raul Cantu, who was retaliating against Vela. A week earlier Vela had suspended the investigator's wife, who worked for the Alton Police Department. Cantu testified last week that the incident with his ex-wife had no bearing on his investigation.
Each of Vela's alleged victims have said that they were approached about the investigation and none of them had reported the incidents to authorities. Singleterry also pointed out that each of the men had joined in a civil lawsuit against Vela and the city.
But prosecutor Hope Palacios painted Vela as an inexperienced chief running a department with such unqualified officers that they could not quit their jobs even after the alleged sexual assaults because they had little hope of finding new ones.
Asked if having a romantic relationship with one of his officers was unprofessional, Vela said that since it happened outside the workplace it was all right.
Vela's cross-examination is scheduled to resume Tuesday morning.
Accusations of bad record keeping and stealing confiscated alcohol ultimately cost Vela his job in September 2007. Vela testified Monday that he never instructed his employees to bring alcohol from the department's evidence locker to his parties.
Alton is a town of about 4,400 residents located 10 miles north of the Mexican border in the Rio Grande Valley.
Officer Wayne Simoes Appears in Federal Court
WHITE PLAINS, NY
Police Officer Wayne Simoes, indicted for using excessive force, allegedly violating the civil rights of Irma Marquez, appeared before White Plains Federal Court today.
The government was presented with additional evidence to refute the August 19, 2008 indictment against P.O. Simoes. The most pertinent among the evidence submitted are two video tapes which challenge the widely distributed video which shows P.O. Simoes lifting Ms. Marquez vertically into the air after grabbing her about her waist, turning her mid-air onto a vertical position, and thereafter slamming her body face down onto the floor in the bar from which the allegations are drawn.
P.O. Simoes' attorney, Andrew Quinn, Esq., said the video divulged to the public in August “doesn't tell the whole story.”
Quinn said, "The video the government handed over is significantly longer and shows a number of events."
P.O. Simoes is next expected to appear before the court on December 4, 2008, when a trial date could be set.
Detention Officer Jessie Baker Faces Bribery Charges
A detention officer who was dismissed from his job last week at the Nash County jail faces charges of taking bribes from an inmate.
Jessie M. Baker, 25, was sent home from work after admitting he had been smuggling cigarettes to an inmate for $30-a-pack. The jail is a non-smoking facility.
Sheriff Dick Jenkins said authorities were tipped off after other inmates complained the unidentified prisoner was getting cigarettes. Through investigation, officials learned Baker had been accepting $30 from an outside source for each pack of cigarettes he delivered to the inmate.
Baker was charged with two counts of accepting bribes from a prisoner, Jenkins said. Baker, who had worked for six months as a detention officer, was released from jail on a $30,000 bond.
“Of course you don’t want that to happen,” Jenkins said. “You have a detention officer bringing (cigarettes) in, what else could be brought in? That’s why he’s no longer with us.”
Jessie M. Baker, 25, was sent home from work after admitting he had been smuggling cigarettes to an inmate for $30-a-pack. The jail is a non-smoking facility.
Sheriff Dick Jenkins said authorities were tipped off after other inmates complained the unidentified prisoner was getting cigarettes. Through investigation, officials learned Baker had been accepting $30 from an outside source for each pack of cigarettes he delivered to the inmate.
Baker was charged with two counts of accepting bribes from a prisoner, Jenkins said. Baker, who had worked for six months as a detention officer, was released from jail on a $30,000 bond.
“Of course you don’t want that to happen,” Jenkins said. “You have a detention officer bringing (cigarettes) in, what else could be brought in? That’s why he’s no longer with us.”
More Information:
Probation Officer Sydnie Maglaughlin Arrested for Theft, Possession
An eastern Oregon probation officer was arrested Thursday during an investigation by the Malheur County Sheriff's Office and the High Desert Drug Task Force.
Sydnie Maglaughlin, 36, of Nyssa was accused of possession of a controlled substance, third-degree theft and third-degree official misconduct, said a sheriff's spokeswoman. She posted $1,500 bail and was released from jail.
Maglaughlin was hired in 2004 as a corrections technician for the Malheur County Work Release Center, the sheriff's office said. She transferred to the probation office in 2006.
Maglaughlin is on administrative leave pending results of the investigation.
http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/news-27/122578225442990.xml&storylist=orlocal
Sydnie Maglaughlin, 36, of Nyssa was accused of possession of a controlled substance, third-degree theft and third-degree official misconduct, said a sheriff's spokeswoman. She posted $1,500 bail and was released from jail.
Maglaughlin was hired in 2004 as a corrections technician for the Malheur County Work Release Center, the sheriff's office said. She transferred to the probation office in 2006.
Maglaughlin is on administrative leave pending results of the investigation.
http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/news-27/122578225442990.xml&storylist=orlocal
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Off-Duty Officer Accused of Killing 4 People
A policeman is being sought after he allegedly shot and killed four people in KwaZulu Natal.
Police Superintendent Vincent Mdunge on Sunday said the sergeant, who is in his 40s, had been off-duty at the time of the shooting.
"The man, who is based at Hillcrest police station, went to a residence at Shongweni, just outside Hillcrest, on Saturday.
"He called out an occupant of the house. Other people in the house became suspicious and went outside to see what the policeman wanted. The officer then opened fire on the group. All the occupants of the house were unarmed."
Three people died at the scene. A fourth person died in hospital on Sunday and a fifth has been treated and discharged.
Mdunge said the police were trying to establish the motive for the shootings.
"There is no indication of what led to the attack. Police are investigating four charges of murder and one charge of attempted murder."
Mdunge said investigators wanted the man to surrender to the police.
"We are calling for this officer to take responsibility and come forward."
He added that people who know of the officer's whereabouts should inform the police immediately.
This article was originally published on page 2 of The Star on November 02, 2008
Police Superintendent Vincent Mdunge on Sunday said the sergeant, who is in his 40s, had been off-duty at the time of the shooting.
"The man, who is based at Hillcrest police station, went to a residence at Shongweni, just outside Hillcrest, on Saturday.
"He called out an occupant of the house. Other people in the house became suspicious and went outside to see what the policeman wanted. The officer then opened fire on the group. All the occupants of the house were unarmed."
Three people died at the scene. A fourth person died in hospital on Sunday and a fifth has been treated and discharged.
Mdunge said the police were trying to establish the motive for the shootings.
"There is no indication of what led to the attack. Police are investigating four charges of murder and one charge of attempted murder."
Mdunge said investigators wanted the man to surrender to the police.
"We are calling for this officer to take responsibility and come forward."
He added that people who know of the officer's whereabouts should inform the police immediately.
This article was originally published on page 2 of The Star on November 02, 2008
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Officer Darrin White Charged with False Pretense
A former Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer was arrested and charged with false pretense Friday after other members of the department raised questions about the hours he worked.
The former officer – Darrin White, a 16-year veteran of the force who worked in the Hickory Grove division before resigning this May – turned himself in at Mecklenburg jail and was released on a written promise to appear in court.
A Police Department news release says the charge stems from allegations dealing with White's reported work hours and pay with the city. White's annual salary was $63,338, according to city records, but it's unclear how much money is in dispute. An internal investigation is also under way.
A police report, which would provide details about the alleged crime, wasn't immediately available. Internal Affairs Capt. Chuck Adkins said there is an internal investigation into White's actions, but that he couldn't release details because of employee confidentiality laws and because the internal investigation is ongoing.
“We always defer and allow the criminal case to be pleaded first,” Adkins said. “Then we conclude the internal investigation.”
White's number isn't listed, and he couldn't be reached for comment.
The results of both investigations will be turned over to the state and could affect White's certification as a law enforcement officer.
It's the third false pretenses case involving a CMPD officer that has become public in the past two years.
In October 2007, Jerome Whitlow, 35, was charged with obtaining property by false pretenses. Then-police Chief Darrel Stephens said Whitlow failed to report to an off-duty security job at a construction site, but filled out a time report reflecting that he was there.
In January 2007, Officer Alan McGraw was arrested on the same charge, accused of lying about security work he'd been hired to do at a county park.
The former officer – Darrin White, a 16-year veteran of the force who worked in the Hickory Grove division before resigning this May – turned himself in at Mecklenburg jail and was released on a written promise to appear in court.
A Police Department news release says the charge stems from allegations dealing with White's reported work hours and pay with the city. White's annual salary was $63,338, according to city records, but it's unclear how much money is in dispute. An internal investigation is also under way.
A police report, which would provide details about the alleged crime, wasn't immediately available. Internal Affairs Capt. Chuck Adkins said there is an internal investigation into White's actions, but that he couldn't release details because of employee confidentiality laws and because the internal investigation is ongoing.
“We always defer and allow the criminal case to be pleaded first,” Adkins said. “Then we conclude the internal investigation.”
White's number isn't listed, and he couldn't be reached for comment.
The results of both investigations will be turned over to the state and could affect White's certification as a law enforcement officer.
It's the third false pretenses case involving a CMPD officer that has become public in the past two years.
In October 2007, Jerome Whitlow, 35, was charged with obtaining property by false pretenses. Then-police Chief Darrel Stephens said Whitlow failed to report to an off-duty security job at a construction site, but filled out a time report reflecting that he was there.
In January 2007, Officer Alan McGraw was arrested on the same charge, accused of lying about security work he'd been hired to do at a county park.
More Information:
Three Vancouver Officers Arrested for Drunk Driving
VANCOUVER
Three police officers arrested for impaired driving in three separate incidents in British Columbia is distressing news for Bob Rorison of MADD's Greater Vancouver chapter.
But Rorison believes others will likely be more upset than him.
"You can bet next time any police officer stops someone for drinking and driving, they'll get a loudmouth drunk, screaming that police have no right to make arrests because they're worse than anyone," said Rorison.
"A few bad apples have destroyed the credibility of all police officers."
Rorison said it took a generation to get out the message that drinking and driving is not acceptable, arguing the arrests of the police officers have reversed all the advances of the past decade.
Late Friday, the RCMP announced a third B.C. police officer had been arrested within the past year for impaired driving.
Cpl. Darren Baker, of the North Vancouver RCMP, is to appear in court in January. He was arrested last December and charged when officers spotted him allegedly driving erratically.
Two weeks ago, a New Westminster police officer was arrested in North Vancouver after allegedly crashing an unmarked police car into a sign. New Westminster Const. Tomi Hamner is to appear in court next month. Like Baker, Hamner is a school liaison officer.
Their involvement with students makes the arrests even worse, said Rorison.
News of the police arrests this week coincided with the Mounties' announcement of the arrest on impaired charges last March of the North Vancouver school board chair, who is up for re-election this month.
The most serious arrest involved an RCMP officer from Richmond after a fatal crash last weekend in the suburb of Delta that claimed the life of 21-year-old motorcyclist Orion Hutchinson.
Delta police are recommending that RCMP Cpl. Benjamin Monty Robinson be charged with impaired driving causing death.
Although he has not been charged formally, Robinson was identified by RCMP as the officer involved.
Robinson was also identified as one of four officers who were called to Vancouver International Airport on Oct. 14, 2007, to confront a Polish would-be immigrant, Robert Dziekanski. Dziekanski died after being hit by a police Taser.
A report on that incident has been forwarded to Crown counsel, who will decide whether to lay charges.
Const. Annie Linteau, spokesperson for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, said the officers arrested for impaired driving also face code of conduct investigations.
Cpl. Baker, of North Vancouver RCMP, and Const. Hamner, with the force in New Westminster, are on administrative duties. Const. Robinson is suspended with pay.
"We are certainly concerned and certainly we take these seriously," said Linteau.
"We do have 6,000 members in the division and, as far as we can see, these are isolated incidents."
B.C. Solicitor General John van Dongen said police forces, like all employers, have a responsibility to ensure that assistance is available to their members who may have a substance abuse problem.
"The law will apply to everyone regardless," said van Dongen. "It's absolutely unacceptable that people will drink and drive on a public road."
Three police officers arrested for impaired driving in three separate incidents in British Columbia is distressing news for Bob Rorison of MADD's Greater Vancouver chapter.
But Rorison believes others will likely be more upset than him.
"You can bet next time any police officer stops someone for drinking and driving, they'll get a loudmouth drunk, screaming that police have no right to make arrests because they're worse than anyone," said Rorison.
"A few bad apples have destroyed the credibility of all police officers."
Rorison said it took a generation to get out the message that drinking and driving is not acceptable, arguing the arrests of the police officers have reversed all the advances of the past decade.
Late Friday, the RCMP announced a third B.C. police officer had been arrested within the past year for impaired driving.
Cpl. Darren Baker, of the North Vancouver RCMP, is to appear in court in January. He was arrested last December and charged when officers spotted him allegedly driving erratically.
Two weeks ago, a New Westminster police officer was arrested in North Vancouver after allegedly crashing an unmarked police car into a sign. New Westminster Const. Tomi Hamner is to appear in court next month. Like Baker, Hamner is a school liaison officer.
Their involvement with students makes the arrests even worse, said Rorison.
News of the police arrests this week coincided with the Mounties' announcement of the arrest on impaired charges last March of the North Vancouver school board chair, who is up for re-election this month.
The most serious arrest involved an RCMP officer from Richmond after a fatal crash last weekend in the suburb of Delta that claimed the life of 21-year-old motorcyclist Orion Hutchinson.
Delta police are recommending that RCMP Cpl. Benjamin Monty Robinson be charged with impaired driving causing death.
Although he has not been charged formally, Robinson was identified by RCMP as the officer involved.
Robinson was also identified as one of four officers who were called to Vancouver International Airport on Oct. 14, 2007, to confront a Polish would-be immigrant, Robert Dziekanski. Dziekanski died after being hit by a police Taser.
A report on that incident has been forwarded to Crown counsel, who will decide whether to lay charges.
Const. Annie Linteau, spokesperson for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, said the officers arrested for impaired driving also face code of conduct investigations.
Cpl. Baker, of North Vancouver RCMP, and Const. Hamner, with the force in New Westminster, are on administrative duties. Const. Robinson is suspended with pay.
"We are certainly concerned and certainly we take these seriously," said Linteau.
"We do have 6,000 members in the division and, as far as we can see, these are isolated incidents."
B.C. Solicitor General John van Dongen said police forces, like all employers, have a responsibility to ensure that assistance is available to their members who may have a substance abuse problem.
"The law will apply to everyone regardless," said van Dongen. "It's absolutely unacceptable that people will drink and drive on a public road."
Officer David Lebron Trial for Misconduct Begins
NEW CITY, N.Y.
A police officer accused of helping seamy bars evade police crackdowns has gone on trial in Rockland County.
A prosecutor said in an opening statement Friday that Spring Valley Officer David Lebron protected taverns rife with prostitution, drug dealing and violence by tipping them to police raids. Lebron's lawyer told jurors they would find "a dearth of credible evidence."
The 39-year-old Lebron faces charges including falsifiying business records and official misconduct. He has been suspended without pay since his arrest a year ago.
He has said authorities tried to frame him because he filed a civil rights lawsuit after not getting promoted.
Lebron has been on the Spring Valley force for 10 years, after about six with the New York Police Department.
___
Information from: The Journal News, http://www.thejournalnews.com
A police officer accused of helping seamy bars evade police crackdowns has gone on trial in Rockland County.
A prosecutor said in an opening statement Friday that Spring Valley Officer David Lebron protected taverns rife with prostitution, drug dealing and violence by tipping them to police raids. Lebron's lawyer told jurors they would find "a dearth of credible evidence."
The 39-year-old Lebron faces charges including falsifiying business records and official misconduct. He has been suspended without pay since his arrest a year ago.
He has said authorities tried to frame him because he filed a civil rights lawsuit after not getting promoted.
Lebron has been on the Spring Valley force for 10 years, after about six with the New York Police Department.
___
Information from: The Journal News, http://www.thejournalnews.com
Officer Charged with Taking Bribe
A Suffolk County police officer was in criminal court yesterday, only he was the one wearing handcuffs.
That's because Suffolk police arrested Bruce W. Blanco, 48, Friday on charges he extorted and accepted a bribe from a contractor in the form of a $15,000 brick patio he had the contractor build at his home.
In exchange, police said, Blanco, of Commack, on Friday gave "false testimony" in traffic court about a May 8 car stop, essentially "fixing" a speeding ticket for the contractor, police said.
The contractor, Adam McCabe, was allegedly driving 97 mph when Blanco pulled him over, police said.
Blanco, a 22-year police veteran, was released on his own recognizance yesterday morning after arraignment in Central Islip. He spent Friday night at the 7th Precinct lockup.
There is audio and videotape, not from the original traffic stop, of Blanco negotiating the terms of the patio construction in exchange for making the speeding ticket go away, said Spiros A. Moustakas, assistant district attorney with the Suffolk County DA's government corruption unit.
In court, Blanco stood handcuffed, with his attorney, Christopher S. Rothemich of Islandia, who entered a plea of not guilty on Blanco's behalf.
A representative of the Police Benevolent Association was also with Blanco. After he was released, Blanco said nothing, and Rothemich declined to comment.
At his Commack home, which features new, slate-gray brick outside the front door, members of Blanco's family refused to speak with a reporter.
Blanco's next Suffolk County Court appearance was scheduled for Dec. 15. He is suspended without pay.
Police charged Blanco with second-degree grand larceny for stealing McCabe's property by threatening that he would be imprisoned for speeding if McCade didn't build the patio, court records state.
He is also charged with second-degree bribery solicitation, for receiving the $15,000 worth of work to his home, court records state.
Blanco made statements to investigators that on the day he pulled McCabe over, the laser equipment used to measure vehicle speed wasn't properly calibrated, Moustakas said.
"I knew from the start the summons was going to be dumped anyway," Blanco said, according to Moustakas.
When confronted with evidence that he had paid McCabe $1,500 for $15,000 worth of work, Blanco said he had only paid $1,000, Moustakas said.
Blanco faces a maximum penalty of 5 to 15 years in prison on each charge, Moustakas said.
More Information:
http://www.timesofmiddlecountry.com/Articles-i-2008-10-30-76799.112114_Police_officer_charged_wtih_taking_bribe.html
That's because Suffolk police arrested Bruce W. Blanco, 48, Friday on charges he extorted and accepted a bribe from a contractor in the form of a $15,000 brick patio he had the contractor build at his home.
In exchange, police said, Blanco, of Commack, on Friday gave "false testimony" in traffic court about a May 8 car stop, essentially "fixing" a speeding ticket for the contractor, police said.
The contractor, Adam McCabe, was allegedly driving 97 mph when Blanco pulled him over, police said.
Blanco, a 22-year police veteran, was released on his own recognizance yesterday morning after arraignment in Central Islip. He spent Friday night at the 7th Precinct lockup.
There is audio and videotape, not from the original traffic stop, of Blanco negotiating the terms of the patio construction in exchange for making the speeding ticket go away, said Spiros A. Moustakas, assistant district attorney with the Suffolk County DA's government corruption unit.
In court, Blanco stood handcuffed, with his attorney, Christopher S. Rothemich of Islandia, who entered a plea of not guilty on Blanco's behalf.
A representative of the Police Benevolent Association was also with Blanco. After he was released, Blanco said nothing, and Rothemich declined to comment.
At his Commack home, which features new, slate-gray brick outside the front door, members of Blanco's family refused to speak with a reporter.
Blanco's next Suffolk County Court appearance was scheduled for Dec. 15. He is suspended without pay.
Police charged Blanco with second-degree grand larceny for stealing McCabe's property by threatening that he would be imprisoned for speeding if McCade didn't build the patio, court records state.
He is also charged with second-degree bribery solicitation, for receiving the $15,000 worth of work to his home, court records state.
Blanco made statements to investigators that on the day he pulled McCabe over, the laser equipment used to measure vehicle speed wasn't properly calibrated, Moustakas said.
"I knew from the start the summons was going to be dumped anyway," Blanco said, according to Moustakas.
When confronted with evidence that he had paid McCabe $1,500 for $15,000 worth of work, Blanco said he had only paid $1,000, Moustakas said.
Blanco faces a maximum penalty of 5 to 15 years in prison on each charge, Moustakas said.
More Information:
http://www.timesofmiddlecountry.com/Articles-i-2008-10-30-76799.112114_Police_officer_charged_wtih_taking_bribe.html
Friday, October 31, 2008
Following up on a violent New Year's Day arrest, Scott Gutierrez and
Levi Pulkkinen put together a piece on Marcel Richardson, a 23-year-old West Seattle man arrested at Seattle Center after a run-in with police. You can get the full story here.
Because of a settlement, obstruction of justice and resisting arrest charges against Richardson will be dropped so long as he stays out of trouble for the next six months. He hasn't yet decided whether he'll file a civil suit against Seattle police or the King County Sheriff's Office.
As it happened, a KOMO/TV crew was covering the Seattle Center New Year's celebration nearby when the altercation began and caught most it on tape. It was one of two videos of the incident, neither of which captures the initial confrontation between Richardson and King County deputies who pulled him from the door of a McDonald's restaurant at Fifth Avenue North and Broad Street.
Richardson had been asking to be allowed to rejoin his friends in the McDonald's, which had locked its doors at police request because of a gathering crowd outside. He'd stepped out to turn off his car alarm and found himself locked out.
According to Richardson, the deputies grabbed him, patted him down and told him to leave. When he demanded they tell him why he was pulled from the door, one of the deputies soaked him with pepper spray.
The video from KOMO – the P-I's news partner – picks up moments after the initial altercation, showing Richardson running half-blind toward a group of police and firefighters. The video from the scene starts about 25 seconds into the clip.
The second video, one shot by Richardson's cousin and shared with us by Richardson's attorney, shows Richardson moments before the incident. He appeared to be calmly talking to a McDonald's clerk, trying to be let back in to the resturaunt.
The video goes on to show an officer striking a friend of Richardson's with what looked like a long-handled flashlight as the young man walked toward Richardson, who was by then pinned to the ground by police. An officer also fired pepper spray at the cameraman.
After-action reports filed by Seattle police describe the scene somewhat differently from the videos, but most capture the chaotic turn that night had taken.
Compared with the video, several reports overstate Richardson's level of resistance moments before he was shot with a Taser. One officer claims Richardson was "still struggling violently" at a time when the video shows him on his hands and knees.
Explaining their reaction, several officers also note that, when they saw Richardson running toward them half-blind, they thought he'd assaulted an officer.
"As he ran towards me, I had to assume that since he was being chased by so many officers and deputies, he must have committed a crime," Officer Phillip Morrison said in a statement.
Richardson's attorney, Michael Schwartz, said the tapes of the incident likely saved his client from a conviction, and at least encouraged prosecutors to seek a settlement.
"I hate to think what would have happened if they hadn't existed," he said.
Video and Story: http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/seattle911/archives/153009.asp
Gang that Robbed Drug Dealers Included Real Police Officers
When federal prosecutors earlier this year accused a gang of robbers of abducting, torturing and stealing from dozens of drug dealers, they said some of the robbers posed as police officers. But on Friday, prosecutors said that a real police officer, in full uniform during at least one robbery, was among the group.
In an indictment unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn, the police officer, Jorge H. Arbaje-Diaz, 30, and two other men, Felix Rodriguez and Alfredo Antonio Acosta, were added as defendants to an indictment that charged that a “violent robbery crew” carried out more than 100 armed robberies of drug traffickers over a five-year period and took more than 750 kilograms of cocaine and $4 million.
The indictment adds the names of Officer Arbaje-Diaz and the two others to an indictment originally unsealed on May 6. With the indictment unsealed on Friday, 13 people have now been charged in the case. Eleven of those, including Officer Arbaje-Diaz, have been arraigned and have pleaded not guilty. Two will be arraigned next week.
The group operated between May 2003 and August 2008 in at least six states, including New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, prosecutors charged. They said the group used torture and death threats to get information from the drug dealers.
Officer Arbaje-Diaz used his position to gain access to the victims’ homes, where he and other defendants handcuffed them at gunpoint and threatened to arrest them if they did not say where their drugs and money were stored, according to a statement from the United States attorney’s office.
Officer Arbaje-Diaz, 30, took part in robberies that netted thousands of dollars and multiple kilograms of cocaine, heroin and marijuana valued at $200,000, the statement said.
On at least one occasion, the officer, a three-year veteran assigned to transit duties in the Bronx, wore his uniform and carried his badge, weapon and handcuffs, the statement said.
The new indictment charges Officer Arbaje-Diaz, Mr. Rodriguez and Mr. Acosta with conspiracy to violate the Hobbs Act, which outlaws the obstruction of commerce “by robbery or extortion”; possession of and conspiracy to distribute cocaine; and firearms charges. If convicted on all counts, they would face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
At his arraignment on Friday, Officer Arbaje-Diaz was ordered held without bail, and his next court appearance was set for Dec. 15, said Robert Nardoza, a spokesman for the United States attorney’s office. The officer’s lawyer, Gregory Cooper, was not immediately available for comment.
The police commissioner, Raymond W. Kelly, called Officer Arbaje-Diaz’s alleged actions “despicable” and “the highest form of betrayal.”
“It is a huge disappointment, to say the least, to the department,” Mr. Kelly said in a news conference. He said the department would examine the background checks that were done before Officer Arbaje-Diaz joined the force. He has been suspended without pay.
NYtimes.com
In an indictment unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn, the police officer, Jorge H. Arbaje-Diaz, 30, and two other men, Felix Rodriguez and Alfredo Antonio Acosta, were added as defendants to an indictment that charged that a “violent robbery crew” carried out more than 100 armed robberies of drug traffickers over a five-year period and took more than 750 kilograms of cocaine and $4 million.
The indictment adds the names of Officer Arbaje-Diaz and the two others to an indictment originally unsealed on May 6. With the indictment unsealed on Friday, 13 people have now been charged in the case. Eleven of those, including Officer Arbaje-Diaz, have been arraigned and have pleaded not guilty. Two will be arraigned next week.
The group operated between May 2003 and August 2008 in at least six states, including New York, North Carolina and Pennsylvania, prosecutors charged. They said the group used torture and death threats to get information from the drug dealers.
Officer Arbaje-Diaz used his position to gain access to the victims’ homes, where he and other defendants handcuffed them at gunpoint and threatened to arrest them if they did not say where their drugs and money were stored, according to a statement from the United States attorney’s office.
Officer Arbaje-Diaz, 30, took part in robberies that netted thousands of dollars and multiple kilograms of cocaine, heroin and marijuana valued at $200,000, the statement said.
On at least one occasion, the officer, a three-year veteran assigned to transit duties in the Bronx, wore his uniform and carried his badge, weapon and handcuffs, the statement said.
The new indictment charges Officer Arbaje-Diaz, Mr. Rodriguez and Mr. Acosta with conspiracy to violate the Hobbs Act, which outlaws the obstruction of commerce “by robbery or extortion”; possession of and conspiracy to distribute cocaine; and firearms charges. If convicted on all counts, they would face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
At his arraignment on Friday, Officer Arbaje-Diaz was ordered held without bail, and his next court appearance was set for Dec. 15, said Robert Nardoza, a spokesman for the United States attorney’s office. The officer’s lawyer, Gregory Cooper, was not immediately available for comment.
The police commissioner, Raymond W. Kelly, called Officer Arbaje-Diaz’s alleged actions “despicable” and “the highest form of betrayal.”
“It is a huge disappointment, to say the least, to the department,” Mr. Kelly said in a news conference. He said the department would examine the background checks that were done before Officer Arbaje-Diaz joined the force. He has been suspended without pay.
NYtimes.com
Video Shows Different Account of What Happened
PORTLAND, Ore.
The attorney for the family of a mentally ill man who died in police custody has released a jailhouse video that captures officers' earliest statements about what occurred and appears to contradict at least one Portland officer's account of what happened.
James Chasse died Sept. 17, 2006, after he was arrested following a foot chase in the Pearl District. Officers said they thought the 42-year-old man had urinated on the street and was on drugs.
Chasse, who suffered from schizophrenia, died after suffering 16 broken ribs, including some that punctured a lung and caused massive internal bleeding, according to autopsy results.
In an interview with investigators a few days after the incident, Officer Christopher Humphreys said he shoved Chasse down and then fell onto the sidewalk, past Chasse.
But the video of officers talking at the jail after they brought Chasse in captures Humphreys telling a sheriff's deputy that "we tackled him" and Chasse landed "hard." As Humphreys is heard telling jail staff that the officers tackled Chasse, his partner is seen showing a "bear-hug" stance.
The video, recently enhanced by professionals to make the dialogue intelligible, was released Thursday by Tom Steenson, the Chasse family attorney, and first made public by the Portland Tribune.
Hours after the video's public release, police Chief Rosie Sizer asked the internal affairs investigators who reviewed Chasse's death to re-examine it.
"Because the video contains enhanced audio that has not been previously available to investigators, I have asked the Internal Affairs Division to review all statements made by every member of the Police Bureau to determine if it would be appropriate to open a new investigation," Sizer said in a statement. "If appropriate, I will do so."
The 13-minute video ends with police and jail sheriff's deputies hauling Chasse out of jail. Chasse, who can be heard moaning, died while police were driving him to a hospital.
The Chasse family has filed a federal lawsuit against the city, police and county. A Multnomah County grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing in the case.
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Information from: The Oregonian, http://www.oregonlive.com
The attorney for the family of a mentally ill man who died in police custody has released a jailhouse video that captures officers' earliest statements about what occurred and appears to contradict at least one Portland officer's account of what happened.
James Chasse died Sept. 17, 2006, after he was arrested following a foot chase in the Pearl District. Officers said they thought the 42-year-old man had urinated on the street and was on drugs.
Chasse, who suffered from schizophrenia, died after suffering 16 broken ribs, including some that punctured a lung and caused massive internal bleeding, according to autopsy results.
In an interview with investigators a few days after the incident, Officer Christopher Humphreys said he shoved Chasse down and then fell onto the sidewalk, past Chasse.
But the video of officers talking at the jail after they brought Chasse in captures Humphreys telling a sheriff's deputy that "we tackled him" and Chasse landed "hard." As Humphreys is heard telling jail staff that the officers tackled Chasse, his partner is seen showing a "bear-hug" stance.
The video, recently enhanced by professionals to make the dialogue intelligible, was released Thursday by Tom Steenson, the Chasse family attorney, and first made public by the Portland Tribune.
Hours after the video's public release, police Chief Rosie Sizer asked the internal affairs investigators who reviewed Chasse's death to re-examine it.
"Because the video contains enhanced audio that has not been previously available to investigators, I have asked the Internal Affairs Division to review all statements made by every member of the Police Bureau to determine if it would be appropriate to open a new investigation," Sizer said in a statement. "If appropriate, I will do so."
The 13-minute video ends with police and jail sheriff's deputies hauling Chasse out of jail. Chasse, who can be heard moaning, died while police were driving him to a hospital.
The Chasse family has filed a federal lawsuit against the city, police and county. A Multnomah County grand jury found no criminal wrongdoing in the case.
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Information from: The Oregonian, http://www.oregonlive.com
Veteran Sgt. Michelle Wagner Charged with Theft
MANCHESTER
A veteran Manchester police officer accused of stealing money from what sources say was the department's Police Explorer fund was charged with theft Thursday.
Sgt. Michelle Wagner, 33, turned herself in Thursday in response to a warrant charging her with second-degree larceny, Deputy Chief Marc Montminy said in a press release. The charge stems from allegations of "inappropriate financial transactions from accounts that Sgt. Wagner managed," the release states.
Several sources said Wagner took the money from a fund used for Police Explorers. Wagner used to supervise the program for youths who want to learn about police work.
The investigation continues, the press release says; more charges may be filed against her.
Michelle Wagner, Manchester police sergeant Wagner remains on administrative leave with pay, Montminy said in a phone interview. She was placed on leave when the allegations surfaced Sept. 12, he said.
The chief state's attorney's office in Rocky Hill is overseeing the investigation, which Manchester detectives are conducting.
Wagner, a 10-year veteran of the department, was a community relations officer before her recent promotion to sergeant. She has received awards over the years, including a distinguished service medal in 2003 for her undercover work during an investigation of an escort service in Hartford.
Second-degree larceny is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as $10,000.
http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-31061334.apds.m0340.bc-ct--offioct31,0,6574120.story
Officer Wesley Birden Arrested for Child Cruelty
GRIFFIN, Ga.
The Griffin Police Department has fired a police officer arrested on child cruelty charges.
Investigators were called to Anne Street Elementary School Wednesday. The school reported that a student had excessive bruising. Investigators learned that a plastic coat hanger and a rolled up magazine caused the injuries, police said.
The student told officials Officer Wesley Birden caused the injuries.
Birden and the student reside at the same residence. Their relationship to each other has not been released.
“It was decided that the case would be conducted just as it would for anyone else,” said Cpl. Bryan Clanton with the Griffin Police Department. “Birden has been a police officer for just over a year and there have not been any past reports to my office of this kind of conduct. Our investigation was conducted with the Juvenile Division and the suspect was arrested. Birden was off-duty when the alleged incident occurred and was not acting in the capacity of a law enforcement officer.”
“When an adult disciplines a child, the action should not leave injuries,” said Lt. Mike Natale, Griffin Police Department Juvenile Division supervisor. “Birden exceeded the boundaries of child correction and crossed into suspected criminal behavior.”
Birden was transported to the Spalding County Jail and charged with Cruelty to Children in the First Degree. His employment with the City of Griffin ended with his arrest.
Corrections Officer Todd Robinson Accused of Giving Inmates Marijuana
A corrections officer at State Correctional Institution at Fayette is facing multiple charges after he allegedly supplied drugs to inmates inside the prison.
Todd Allen Robinson, 31, of Uniontown was charged Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge Dwight K. Shaner with possession with intent to deliver marijuana, possession of marijuana and criminal use of a communication facility.
Trooper Mark Yakicic of the state police Organized Crime Western Task Force said the charges were filed against Robinson after an informant inside the prison notified police that Robinson was supplying drugs to inmates for a fee.
In the criminal complaint filed in the case, Yakicic said that on Oct. 23 an undercover state police trooper called Robinson and arranged for him to bring marijuana to an inmate inside the prison.
Yakicic said that on Tuesday, the undercover trooper again called Robinson who said he was willing to deliver the ounce of marijuana to the inmate in exchange for the remainder of a pound of marijuana.
At 7:11 p.m., Robinson met with the undercover trooper at a parking lot in South Union Township and took a pound of marijuana from the trooper and agreed to deliver two ounces to an inmate at the prison, Yakicic said.
The conversation was recorded, Yakicic said.
After leaving the parking lot, Robinson was stopped by state police and taken into custody.
Yakicic said that Robinson allegedly admitted to taking the marijuana and planning to give it to an inmate.
"SCI-Fayette and the state Department of Corrections do not tolerate this type of activity," spokeswoman Rhonda House said Wednesday. "Whenever we are provided with information of this sort, we work with local law enforcement to prosecute these cases."
House said Robinson was placed under suspension Wednesday.
A preliminary hearing is set for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Joseph M. George Jr. Robinson is free on unsecured bond.
Todd Allen Robinson, 31, of Uniontown was charged Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge Dwight K. Shaner with possession with intent to deliver marijuana, possession of marijuana and criminal use of a communication facility.
Trooper Mark Yakicic of the state police Organized Crime Western Task Force said the charges were filed against Robinson after an informant inside the prison notified police that Robinson was supplying drugs to inmates for a fee.
In the criminal complaint filed in the case, Yakicic said that on Oct. 23 an undercover state police trooper called Robinson and arranged for him to bring marijuana to an inmate inside the prison.
Yakicic said that on Tuesday, the undercover trooper again called Robinson who said he was willing to deliver the ounce of marijuana to the inmate in exchange for the remainder of a pound of marijuana.
At 7:11 p.m., Robinson met with the undercover trooper at a parking lot in South Union Township and took a pound of marijuana from the trooper and agreed to deliver two ounces to an inmate at the prison, Yakicic said.
The conversation was recorded, Yakicic said.
After leaving the parking lot, Robinson was stopped by state police and taken into custody.
Yakicic said that Robinson allegedly admitted to taking the marijuana and planning to give it to an inmate.
"SCI-Fayette and the state Department of Corrections do not tolerate this type of activity," spokeswoman Rhonda House said Wednesday. "Whenever we are provided with information of this sort, we work with local law enforcement to prosecute these cases."
House said Robinson was placed under suspension Wednesday.
A preliminary hearing is set for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday before Magisterial District Judge Joseph M. George Jr. Robinson is free on unsecured bond.
Officer Bruce Blanco Arrested for Fixing Ticket
A veteran Suffolk police officer was arrested Friday on charges that he fixed a ticket in exchange for work on his house, the Suffolk police commissioner said.
Bruce Blanco, 48, of Commack, who has 22 years on the force was to be arraigned Saturday in First District Court, Central Islip, on one count of second-degree grand larceny and one count of second-degree bribe receiving.
"The officer is accused of two very serious crimes, both felonies," Police Commissioner Richard Dormer said in a statement. "We have substantial evidence that he fixed a traffic summons in exchange for thousands of dollars worth of work on his house."
Blanco, who is assigned to the Fourth Precinct in Hauppauge, was suspended without pay, Dormer said.
Bruce Blanco, 48, was to be arraigned Saturday in First District Court in Central Islip on one count of second-degree grand larceny and one count of second-degree bribe receiving.
Blanco was arrested at Suffolk police headquarters in Yaphank at 2:45 p.m. and was to be held in custody overnight at the Seventh Precinct in Shirley, police said.
Bruce Blanco, 48, of Commack, who has 22 years on the force was to be arraigned Saturday in First District Court, Central Islip, on one count of second-degree grand larceny and one count of second-degree bribe receiving.
"The officer is accused of two very serious crimes, both felonies," Police Commissioner Richard Dormer said in a statement. "We have substantial evidence that he fixed a traffic summons in exchange for thousands of dollars worth of work on his house."
Blanco, who is assigned to the Fourth Precinct in Hauppauge, was suspended without pay, Dormer said.
Bruce Blanco, 48, was to be arraigned Saturday in First District Court in Central Islip on one count of second-degree grand larceny and one count of second-degree bribe receiving.
Blanco was arrested at Suffolk police headquarters in Yaphank at 2:45 p.m. and was to be held in custody overnight at the Seventh Precinct in Shirley, police said.
Former Police Sergeant Frank Holder Arrested for Bank Robberies
A former Pomona police sergeant has been arrested in connection with a series of bank robberies in Escondido, Glendora and Rancho Cucamonga.
Frank Holder, 61, was arrested Wednesday afternoon in Rancho Cucamonga after he allegedly robbed a bank, FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said.
Witnesses inside the bank were able to describe the suspect to deputies at the scene, Eimiller said.
San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies then stopped a vehicle nearby with Holder in it. The suspect description matched Holder.
Holder, a Phelan resident, was identified and booked into Central Detention Center in San Bernardino on suspicion of bank robbery, Eimiller said.
FBI investigators dubbed Holder the "Grandpa Bandit."
Holder got his nickname because witnesses would say, "He appeared to be a grandfatherly figure," Eimiller said.
Holder is set to appear at 2p.m. today in U.S. District Court in Santa Ana.
Pomona Police Chief Joe Romero confirmed Thursday that Holder is a former employee.
Holder transferred in 1974 from the Montclair Police Department to the Pomona Police Department.
He was promoted to senior police officer in 1987 and became a sergeant in 1991, Romero said.
Holder retired from duty in 2004 under honorable circumstances.
"He worked a variety of assignments," Romero said.
News of Holder's arrest came as a shock to people who worked with him, Romero said.
"It is totally out of his character," he said.
http://www.mercurynews.com/breakingnews/ci_10864333
http://cbs2.com/local/Grandpa.Bandit.Holder.2.853486.html
Officer Jorge Arbaje-Diaz Charged with Robbery
NEW YORK
A New York City police officer was charged Friday with being a member of a robbery crew that specialized in impersonating police and torturing rival East Coast drug dealers until they gave up stashes of cocaine and cash.
Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn accused Jorge Arbaje-Diaz of committing of a least one robbery while on duty and in his New York Police Department uniform. They also claimed in court papers that the officer made "post-arrest admissions," but didn't elaborate.
Arbaje-Diaz pleaded not guilty Friday at his arraignment.
The arrest "brings dishonor to the proud reputation of the thousands of law enforcement officers in New York who put their lives on the line every day to protect their residents and communities," U.S. Attorney Benton Campbell said in a statement.
Arbaje-Diaz, 30, was arrested and suspended from the force shortly after midnight Friday following a tour as a transit officer in the Bronx. In court, the officer's lawyer asked prosecutors for details of his client's statements and results of a search of his home. But he didn't comment on the case.
The officer was among three men arrested Friday in an ongoing investigation by the NYPD, the Drug Enforcement Administration and New York State Police. Ten other suspects were charged earlier this year in what officials described as one of the more brazen and lucrative robbery operations in recent memory. All 13 are from the Dominican Republic.
The spree netted more than 1,650 pounds of cocaine worth $20 million and $4 million in cash since 2003. At least 100 people were injured.
Investigators say the gang paid informants to provide the names and whereabouts of traffickers around New York City, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Florida. After that, it conducted surveillance for days or even weeks, sometimes using satellite tracking devices.
Once the crew had a fix on its targets' daily routines, it would use fake squad cars equipped with lights and sirens to trick their victims into stopping. They would invade homes the same way, then handcuff the inhabitants and haul them away at gunpoint.
Arbaje-Diaz — "a vital and active member" of the gang — once "left patrol still wearing his NYPD uniform and carrying his official firearm, badge and handcuffs to meet members of the crew and carry out a robbery," court papers said. "He used his status as a police officer ... to illegally demand access to the homes of his victims."
During interrogations at dingy hideouts, the bandits allegedly bound their victims with duct tape, beat them and held guns to their heads to get them to reveal information. Using bathtubs, they simulated drownings by repeatedly submerging victims' heads, court papers said.
One victim told investigators that during a 2005 abduction, two gang members "applied a pair of pliers to the victim's testicles and threatened to squeeze the pliers if the victim did not talk," the papers said.
Arbaje-Diaz was ordered held without bail. If convicted of robbery, drug dealing, firearms possession and other charges, he faces a minimum of 45 years in prison.
A New York City police officer was charged Friday with being a member of a robbery crew that specialized in impersonating police and torturing rival East Coast drug dealers until they gave up stashes of cocaine and cash.
Federal prosecutors in Brooklyn accused Jorge Arbaje-Diaz of committing of a least one robbery while on duty and in his New York Police Department uniform. They also claimed in court papers that the officer made "post-arrest admissions," but didn't elaborate.
Arbaje-Diaz pleaded not guilty Friday at his arraignment.
The arrest "brings dishonor to the proud reputation of the thousands of law enforcement officers in New York who put their lives on the line every day to protect their residents and communities," U.S. Attorney Benton Campbell said in a statement.
Arbaje-Diaz, 30, was arrested and suspended from the force shortly after midnight Friday following a tour as a transit officer in the Bronx. In court, the officer's lawyer asked prosecutors for details of his client's statements and results of a search of his home. But he didn't comment on the case.
The officer was among three men arrested Friday in an ongoing investigation by the NYPD, the Drug Enforcement Administration and New York State Police. Ten other suspects were charged earlier this year in what officials described as one of the more brazen and lucrative robbery operations in recent memory. All 13 are from the Dominican Republic.
The spree netted more than 1,650 pounds of cocaine worth $20 million and $4 million in cash since 2003. At least 100 people were injured.
Investigators say the gang paid informants to provide the names and whereabouts of traffickers around New York City, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Florida. After that, it conducted surveillance for days or even weeks, sometimes using satellite tracking devices.
Once the crew had a fix on its targets' daily routines, it would use fake squad cars equipped with lights and sirens to trick their victims into stopping. They would invade homes the same way, then handcuff the inhabitants and haul them away at gunpoint.
Arbaje-Diaz — "a vital and active member" of the gang — once "left patrol still wearing his NYPD uniform and carrying his official firearm, badge and handcuffs to meet members of the crew and carry out a robbery," court papers said. "He used his status as a police officer ... to illegally demand access to the homes of his victims."
During interrogations at dingy hideouts, the bandits allegedly bound their victims with duct tape, beat them and held guns to their heads to get them to reveal information. Using bathtubs, they simulated drownings by repeatedly submerging victims' heads, court papers said.
One victim told investigators that during a 2005 abduction, two gang members "applied a pair of pliers to the victim's testicles and threatened to squeeze the pliers if the victim did not talk," the papers said.
Arbaje-Diaz was ordered held without bail. If convicted of robbery, drug dealing, firearms possession and other charges, he faces a minimum of 45 years in prison.
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