Peoria police Officer Joseph A. Gray pleaded guilty Friday to driving under the influence of alcohol and causing criminal damage to government property for breaking the window of a Metamora Police Department cruiser.
A separate charge of failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident was dropped.
By pleading guilty, Gray, who appeared before Woodford County Circuit Judge John Huschen, waived his right to a jury trial.
Gray, 33, who has been with the Peoria Police Department since September 1999, has been on unpaid leave since March, after the charges were filed. On Friday, Doug Burgess, the spokesman for Peoria police, said Gray's status remains unchanged.
"Until we see the court ruling and receive all the paperwork, he is still on unpaid leave." Burgess said. "We'll address it after that."
Gray, a Metamora resident, was arrested in March for driving under the influence after a single-vehicle rollover accident on Hickory Point Road near Santa Fe Trail in Metamora.
In a statement after the incident, Woodford County State's Attorney Mike Stroh said police found Gray alone in his car after the crash and arrested him for DUI based on their observations.
While being transported to the county jail, Gray apparently began hitting and kicking the rear passenger-side window of the Metamora squad car, which resulted in a broken window and trim.
Kicking out the window of a Metamora squad car, which is government-supported property, is a Class 4 felony, which carries maximum penalties of three years in prison and a $25,000 fine. A convicted felon cannot legally carry a weapon. Gray is scheduled for sentencing on Sept. 28.
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Previous Post: http://whathappenedtoprotectandserve.blogspot.com/2009/03/officer-joseph-gray-charged-with-dui.html
Friday, August 14, 2009
Vancouver Officer Charged with Incest & Sexual Assault
A long-serving Vancouver police officer has been charged with incest and sexual assault after being arrested by Burnaby RCMP officers Thursday afternoon.
The male officer was arrested in south Burnaby after a tip led Mounties to investigate allegations of sexual assault, said Burnaby RCMP Sgt. Jane Baptista.
Mounties started investigating the officer last week, Baptista said. The alleged sexual assault occurred between July 31 and August 1.
Charges of one count of sexual assault and one count of incest were sworn against the man on Friday morning.
Baptista said incest was a rare charge and involves sexual relations with a blood-relative.
"According to Section 155 of the Criminal Code, everyone commits incest knowing another person is by blood relationship his or her parent, child, brother, sister, grandparent or grandchild, and as the case may be, has sexual intercourse with that person. Brother and sister, respectively, include half-brother and half-sister," Baptista said.
"As you can see from that, it does not pertain to any specific age group, sex or anything else," she said.
Baptista said she did not know if the officer had any previous run-ins with the law.
The Vancouver Police Department immediately suspended the officer with pay according to the Police Act. The department has the option of suspending pay after 30 days.
The department's professional standards section will be shadowing the RCMP's criminal investigation.
"The VPD considers the nature of the offense to be very serious and abhors the actions attributed to this member," said Insp. Mario Giardini from the Vancouver police department's professional standards section. Vancouver police department officials would not say how long the officer had been serving or which division he worked in.
The RCMP are not releasing any further details about the identities of anyone involved in the case due to a strict publication ban.
"At this point we are not allowed to say any names or give any information to do with the people involved," Baptista said. "That's quite common in many, many sexual assault cases. It's usually in order to protect the victims and any revictimization of anybody associated with [the case]."
The male will appear in Vancouver Provincial Court in September.
The male officer was arrested in south Burnaby after a tip led Mounties to investigate allegations of sexual assault, said Burnaby RCMP Sgt. Jane Baptista.
Mounties started investigating the officer last week, Baptista said. The alleged sexual assault occurred between July 31 and August 1.
Charges of one count of sexual assault and one count of incest were sworn against the man on Friday morning.
Baptista said incest was a rare charge and involves sexual relations with a blood-relative.
"According to Section 155 of the Criminal Code, everyone commits incest knowing another person is by blood relationship his or her parent, child, brother, sister, grandparent or grandchild, and as the case may be, has sexual intercourse with that person. Brother and sister, respectively, include half-brother and half-sister," Baptista said.
"As you can see from that, it does not pertain to any specific age group, sex or anything else," she said.
Baptista said she did not know if the officer had any previous run-ins with the law.
The Vancouver Police Department immediately suspended the officer with pay according to the Police Act. The department has the option of suspending pay after 30 days.
The department's professional standards section will be shadowing the RCMP's criminal investigation.
"The VPD considers the nature of the offense to be very serious and abhors the actions attributed to this member," said Insp. Mario Giardini from the Vancouver police department's professional standards section. Vancouver police department officials would not say how long the officer had been serving or which division he worked in.
The RCMP are not releasing any further details about the identities of anyone involved in the case due to a strict publication ban.
"At this point we are not allowed to say any names or give any information to do with the people involved," Baptista said. "That's quite common in many, many sexual assault cases. It's usually in order to protect the victims and any revictimization of anybody associated with [the case]."
The male will appear in Vancouver Provincial Court in September.
Deputy Accused of Sexual Assault
A Bexar County deputy is accused of sexually assaulting a woman on the South Side on Tuesday morning while he was on duty, authorities said Wednesday.
A San Antonio police officer was called to a home for a disturbance around 11 a.m. and found the deputy naked on the woman's couch, with his uniform and gear nearby, according to an incident report.
The deputy, a 23-year veteran whose name has not been released, has not been arrested, officials said.
He has been removed from the Judicial Service Division Civil Warrants section and placed on administrative leave pending the criminal investigation, said Deputy Ino Badillo, a Sheriff's Office spokesman.
The woman told police she was walking home around 9:15 a.m. when the deputy stopped her in his patrol car. She said the deputy has approached her in the past and checked her for outstanding warrants, which he did Tuesday, the report states. He told her she had warrants and asked where she lives. The woman, thinking she was being arrested, got into the patrol car, but the deputy drove her home, according to the report.
As she was unlocking the door, the report states he moved her out of the way to get inside. He told her that he likes Hispanic women and said, “You know, we can take care of these warrants,” the report states, and she alleges he then grabbed her by the neck and sexually assaulted her.
He left the home soon after, and she then called a man for help.
According to the report, which does not identify the man the victim called, she was on the phone with that man when the deputy returned.
At that time, the deputy allegedly showed the woman a piece of paper that he claimed was her warrant. She stayed on the phone and told the deputy she was talking to a girlfriend, and according to the report, the deputy suggested that she tell her friend to come over for a threesome.
The man on the phone said the woman “sounded distraught and wouldn't make sense at times,” and he realized the alleged assailant had returned, so he called police to report the disturbance.
That's when the officer found the deputy naked on the couch, the report states.
A Police Department spokeswoman said no arrests had been made in connection with the alleged assault. Badillo said police contacted the Sheriff's Office around 5 p.m. Tuesday afternoon to inform them of the allegations. He declined to further discuss the details of the incident — specifically, why it took deputies so long to learn of the investigation.
San Antonio police will continue to investigate the alleged assault, a spokeswoman said. Badillo said once police complete the criminal investigation, the Sheriff's Office will review the incident further.
A San Antonio police officer was called to a home for a disturbance around 11 a.m. and found the deputy naked on the woman's couch, with his uniform and gear nearby, according to an incident report.
The deputy, a 23-year veteran whose name has not been released, has not been arrested, officials said.
He has been removed from the Judicial Service Division Civil Warrants section and placed on administrative leave pending the criminal investigation, said Deputy Ino Badillo, a Sheriff's Office spokesman.
The woman told police she was walking home around 9:15 a.m. when the deputy stopped her in his patrol car. She said the deputy has approached her in the past and checked her for outstanding warrants, which he did Tuesday, the report states. He told her she had warrants and asked where she lives. The woman, thinking she was being arrested, got into the patrol car, but the deputy drove her home, according to the report.
As she was unlocking the door, the report states he moved her out of the way to get inside. He told her that he likes Hispanic women and said, “You know, we can take care of these warrants,” the report states, and she alleges he then grabbed her by the neck and sexually assaulted her.
He left the home soon after, and she then called a man for help.
According to the report, which does not identify the man the victim called, she was on the phone with that man when the deputy returned.
At that time, the deputy allegedly showed the woman a piece of paper that he claimed was her warrant. She stayed on the phone and told the deputy she was talking to a girlfriend, and according to the report, the deputy suggested that she tell her friend to come over for a threesome.
The man on the phone said the woman “sounded distraught and wouldn't make sense at times,” and he realized the alleged assailant had returned, so he called police to report the disturbance.
That's when the officer found the deputy naked on the couch, the report states.
A Police Department spokeswoman said no arrests had been made in connection with the alleged assault. Badillo said police contacted the Sheriff's Office around 5 p.m. Tuesday afternoon to inform them of the allegations. He declined to further discuss the details of the incident — specifically, why it took deputies so long to learn of the investigation.
San Antonio police will continue to investigate the alleged assault, a spokeswoman said. Badillo said once police complete the criminal investigation, the Sheriff's Office will review the incident further.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Felony Cases Under Review Following Arrest of Jonathan Bleiweiss
The slayings of Broward sheriff's deputies Paul Rein and Brian Tephford are among the dozens of felony cases under review following last week's arrest of Deputy Jonathan Bleiweiss.
Prosecutors Wednesday released a list of 118 cases in which Bleiweiss' name is listed as either a witness or an arresting officer.
Of those cases, 56 were felonies, including first-degree murder, sexual assault and felony fraud, according to the list provided by the Broward State Attorney's Office.
Bleiweiss, 29, is accused of performing sexual acts on at least eight undocumented migrants he picked up during traffic stops in Oakland Park.
His role in each of the pending criminal cases was not immediately available. Prosecutors and defense attorneys say his involvement could be as mundane as being the deputy directing traffic at a crime scene or as significant as being the lead officer in an arrest.
Prosecutors have been reviewing each case to determine whether they would be able to move forward without Bleiweiss' testimony, said State Attorney's Office spokesman Ron Ishoy. At least one felony case has already been dismissed.
Late Tuesday, prosecutors announced to Broward Circuit Judge Dale Cohen that they were no longer seeking charges against Michael King, 53, arrested in March and charged with battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.
Ishoy said Bleiweiss was the alleged victim in the case and the only witness.
The two deputy slayings are the highest-profile cases on the list. Tephford was killed in November 2006 while conducting a traffic stop in Tamarac. There are three defendants.
Michael Mazza is accused of killing Rein on Nov. 7, 2007, while en route to trial on a bank-robbery charge. He could be sentenced to death.
Among the other cases under review are two unrelated first-degree murders, two DUIs with injuries, several robberies and stalking. The rest of the cases are misdemeanors.
Bleiweiss is being held in protective custody without bail. A bond hearing is scheduled for Friday. His attorney, Eric Schwartzreich, wants to question Bleiweiss' alleged victims, whose names have not been released.
``My client has been sitting in a jail cell for weeks now based on their accusations. We want the ability to debunk and cross-examine these undocumented immigrants,'' Schwartzreich told the judge.
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Previous Post: http://whathappenedtoprotectandserve.blogspot.com/2009/08/jonathan-bleiweiss-arrested-for-sexual.html
Prosecutors Wednesday released a list of 118 cases in which Bleiweiss' name is listed as either a witness or an arresting officer.
Of those cases, 56 were felonies, including first-degree murder, sexual assault and felony fraud, according to the list provided by the Broward State Attorney's Office.
Bleiweiss, 29, is accused of performing sexual acts on at least eight undocumented migrants he picked up during traffic stops in Oakland Park.
His role in each of the pending criminal cases was not immediately available. Prosecutors and defense attorneys say his involvement could be as mundane as being the deputy directing traffic at a crime scene or as significant as being the lead officer in an arrest.
Prosecutors have been reviewing each case to determine whether they would be able to move forward without Bleiweiss' testimony, said State Attorney's Office spokesman Ron Ishoy. At least one felony case has already been dismissed.
Late Tuesday, prosecutors announced to Broward Circuit Judge Dale Cohen that they were no longer seeking charges against Michael King, 53, arrested in March and charged with battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest.
Ishoy said Bleiweiss was the alleged victim in the case and the only witness.
The two deputy slayings are the highest-profile cases on the list. Tephford was killed in November 2006 while conducting a traffic stop in Tamarac. There are three defendants.
Michael Mazza is accused of killing Rein on Nov. 7, 2007, while en route to trial on a bank-robbery charge. He could be sentenced to death.
Among the other cases under review are two unrelated first-degree murders, two DUIs with injuries, several robberies and stalking. The rest of the cases are misdemeanors.
Bleiweiss is being held in protective custody without bail. A bond hearing is scheduled for Friday. His attorney, Eric Schwartzreich, wants to question Bleiweiss' alleged victims, whose names have not been released.
``My client has been sitting in a jail cell for weeks now based on their accusations. We want the ability to debunk and cross-examine these undocumented immigrants,'' Schwartzreich told the judge.
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Previous Post: http://whathappenedtoprotectandserve.blogspot.com/2009/08/jonathan-bleiweiss-arrested-for-sexual.html
Anthony Rollins Accused of Sexual Assault Gets Free Attorney
Prosecutors are unhappy with a judge's decision to provide a court-appointed attorney to an Anchorage police officer accused of sexually assaulting women while on duty.
Assistant District Attorney Brittany Dunlop filed a motion asking for a hearing to review Superior Court Judge Philip Volland's decision. She said suspended officer Anthony Rollins and his wife own housing and land valued at more than $1.1 million.
Besides the property, the motion noted that Rollins was making at least $35 an hour, with about $70 an hour for overtime. Rollins' wife, Denise Rollins, is also an officer with the Anchorage Police Department.
To qualify for a free lawyer in Alaska, the accused has to be an "indigent person" with few assets and little income, according to state law.
Rollins, 41, was indicted by a grand jury last month on multiple charges of sexual assault and other offenses. He pleaded not guilty to 14 felonies and six misdemeanors. The authorities allege he assaulted six women over a span of three years.
The lawyer Rollins initially hired dropped out after realizing how much work was involved and how unlikely it would be for the officer to pay him. Rollins would be paying attorney's fees at $250 to $500 an hour, plus money for experts, independent investigators and voluminous court documents and evidence.
"At this point, I think the case is large and complex enough that Mr. Rollins is going to need appointed counsel," the lawyer, Steve Wells, told the Anchorage Daily News.
Rollins and his wife own their Anchorage home and two rental properties, a four-unit building in Fairview and another four-unit building in Muldoon. They also own a tract of land worth about $140,000, according to a database of public records.
David Weber, the officer's court-appointed lawyer, told the court that Rollins owes more on the houses than they are worth.
No date has been set for a review of whether a free lawyer in justified. Rollins remains in the city jail pending a bail hearing Friday. The prosecution wants the judge to keep bail set at $100,000.
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http://www.adn.com/news/alaska/crime/story/896661.html
Assistant District Attorney Brittany Dunlop filed a motion asking for a hearing to review Superior Court Judge Philip Volland's decision. She said suspended officer Anthony Rollins and his wife own housing and land valued at more than $1.1 million.
Besides the property, the motion noted that Rollins was making at least $35 an hour, with about $70 an hour for overtime. Rollins' wife, Denise Rollins, is also an officer with the Anchorage Police Department.
To qualify for a free lawyer in Alaska, the accused has to be an "indigent person" with few assets and little income, according to state law.
Rollins, 41, was indicted by a grand jury last month on multiple charges of sexual assault and other offenses. He pleaded not guilty to 14 felonies and six misdemeanors. The authorities allege he assaulted six women over a span of three years.
The lawyer Rollins initially hired dropped out after realizing how much work was involved and how unlikely it would be for the officer to pay him. Rollins would be paying attorney's fees at $250 to $500 an hour, plus money for experts, independent investigators and voluminous court documents and evidence.
"At this point, I think the case is large and complex enough that Mr. Rollins is going to need appointed counsel," the lawyer, Steve Wells, told the Anchorage Daily News.
Rollins and his wife own their Anchorage home and two rental properties, a four-unit building in Fairview and another four-unit building in Muldoon. They also own a tract of land worth about $140,000, according to a database of public records.
David Weber, the officer's court-appointed lawyer, told the court that Rollins owes more on the houses than they are worth.
No date has been set for a review of whether a free lawyer in justified. Rollins remains in the city jail pending a bail hearing Friday. The prosecution wants the judge to keep bail set at $100,000.
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http://www.adn.com/news/alaska/crime/story/896661.html
Officer Devin Staten Accused of Molesting 14-year-old
An LAX police officer is out on bail after being accused of molesting a 14-year-old foster child under the care of his mother.
Police were called to the Inglewood home after a report of a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
A teenager at the home accused Officer Devin Staten of touching her in an "inappropriate way" Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten's mother.
The 31-year old officer also lives at the house in a converted garage.
Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services has been notified.
Investigators say two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said.
Police were called to the Inglewood home after a report of a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
A teenager at the home accused Officer Devin Staten of touching her in an "inappropriate way" Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten's mother.
The 31-year old officer also lives at the house in a converted garage.
Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services has been notified.
Investigators say two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said.
Deputy Donald Harder Charged with Forcing Woman into Sex Act
A Saratoga County sheriff's deputy is charged with a felony tonight, accused of forcing a woman into a sex act while he was on duty in his patrol car.
According to Sheriff James Bowen, 28-year-old Donald Harder had just finished helping someone move a trailer in Edinburgh, when he struck up a conversation with a 27-year-old woman who happened to be there.
The sheriff says those two wound up in the front seat of the patrol car around 8:00 last night.
Bowen would not discuss evidence, nor would he say exactly how the woman was forced. He says the State Police crime lab was part of the investigation.
According to Sheriff James Bowen, 28-year-old Donald Harder had just finished helping someone move a trailer in Edinburgh, when he struck up a conversation with a 27-year-old woman who happened to be there.
The sheriff says those two wound up in the front seat of the patrol car around 8:00 last night.
Bowen would not discuss evidence, nor would he say exactly how the woman was forced. He says the State Police crime lab was part of the investigation.
Sgt Jeff Vanderwiere Accused of Assaulting Teen
A Kalamazoo Public Safety officer was recently suspended, accused of assaulting a teenage suspect.
Sergeant Jeff Vanderwiere was suspended for ten days for hitting a handcuffed teen, an incident that was caught on tape.
The teenager was approached by police around 1:45 on the morning of April 5th, in the 1300 block of Cobb Avenue. Sergeant Vanderwiere and another officer were investigating a report of shots fired. They approached a group of three people, when the 16 year old became belligerent, yelling profanities at police.
There was a scuffle, and Sergeant Vanderwiere took the already handcuffed teen to the ground. An internal report says that Vanderwiere put his knee on the teens chest to keep him on the ground.
On the video which captured the event, it appears that the teen spits at the officer, to which Vanderwiere responds with three quick punches to the head of the teen.
Officers took the screaming 16 year old to the patrol call, and on the ride to the county jail, he continued kicking the car, yelling out profanities and threats.
An internal investigation found that Sergeant Vanderwiere was over the line when he punched the teen, that it was not reasonable force. It also says the Sergeant failed to photograph any injuries, and that he failed to have his microphone on.
A report submitted by Assistant Chief Lynn Wetmore says that Vanderwiere gave no verbal warning, didn't consider using other techniques to get the teen to stop spitting, and didn't request assistance from the other nearby officer.
The report also concludes that the strikes were delivered out of frustration that the teen wasn't compliant.
When interviewed about the incident, Vanderwiere told investigators that the teen had spit directly into his face, and that the spit went into his eyes.
The reports states that Vanderwiere says it was an assault on his person, and he didn't want to get spit on again, so he delivered the jabs.
The Kalamazoo Police Supervisors Association has reportedly filed a grievance on the suspension.
Sergeant Jeff Vanderwiere was suspended for ten days for hitting a handcuffed teen, an incident that was caught on tape.
The teenager was approached by police around 1:45 on the morning of April 5th, in the 1300 block of Cobb Avenue. Sergeant Vanderwiere and another officer were investigating a report of shots fired. They approached a group of three people, when the 16 year old became belligerent, yelling profanities at police.
There was a scuffle, and Sergeant Vanderwiere took the already handcuffed teen to the ground. An internal report says that Vanderwiere put his knee on the teens chest to keep him on the ground.
On the video which captured the event, it appears that the teen spits at the officer, to which Vanderwiere responds with three quick punches to the head of the teen.
Officers took the screaming 16 year old to the patrol call, and on the ride to the county jail, he continued kicking the car, yelling out profanities and threats.
An internal investigation found that Sergeant Vanderwiere was over the line when he punched the teen, that it was not reasonable force. It also says the Sergeant failed to photograph any injuries, and that he failed to have his microphone on.
A report submitted by Assistant Chief Lynn Wetmore says that Vanderwiere gave no verbal warning, didn't consider using other techniques to get the teen to stop spitting, and didn't request assistance from the other nearby officer.
The report also concludes that the strikes were delivered out of frustration that the teen wasn't compliant.
When interviewed about the incident, Vanderwiere told investigators that the teen had spit directly into his face, and that the spit went into his eyes.
The reports states that Vanderwiere says it was an assault on his person, and he didn't want to get spit on again, so he delivered the jabs.
The Kalamazoo Police Supervisors Association has reportedly filed a grievance on the suspension.
Officer Ronald Montgomery Arrested for Domestic Violence
A Tulsa police officer is on the other side of the law. Bixby police arrested Tulsa officer Ronald Montgomery Friday.
Montgomery was charged Tuesday in Tulsa County District Court with domestic assault and battery in the presence of a child, pointing a weapon and interfering with an emergency telephone call.
Bixby Police say he got into an argument with his wife and she told them Montgomery pulled his service weapon on her.
Records show she later showed up at a Tulsa hospital with bruising and swelling and that Montgomery told officers there had been an argument, but it wasn't physical.
In a news release, Tulsa Police say Montgomery has been on administrative leave without pay since last Friday.
Man Dies After Being Tasered
A man who allegedly failed to obey police commands died after officers shot him with a Taser gun in Moreno Valley, authorities said today.
The man became unruly after he was confronted Sunday morning by officers from the Moreno Valley Police Department in the middle of a residential street, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, which is investigating the incident. The officers had responded to reports of a man who was banging on doors.
After the man was Tasered, he was handcuffed, then began suffering from a seizure, the department said. Officers began giving the man first aid until an ambulance arrived. He was taken to Riverside County Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
His name was not released pending notification of relatives.
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http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_webtaze10.15f825c.html
The man became unruly after he was confronted Sunday morning by officers from the Moreno Valley Police Department in the middle of a residential street, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, which is investigating the incident. The officers had responded to reports of a man who was banging on doors.
After the man was Tasered, he was handcuffed, then began suffering from a seizure, the department said. Officers began giving the man first aid until an ambulance arrived. He was taken to Riverside County Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
His name was not released pending notification of relatives.
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http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_S_webtaze10.15f825c.html
Ranger Dorian Curry Arrested for Sexual Assault
Both victims in a pair of Glacier Bay National Park sexual assault cases were coworkers with their alleged attacker and had both passed out drunk before being violated, according to court documents fleshing out the charges.
Seasonal law enforcement ranger Dorian B. Curry, 31, was arrested Monday by the Alaska State Troopers on two felony counts of sexual assault. The District Attorney's office is expected to present the case to a grand jury on Friday. The state alleges Curry had sex with the two women on separate occasions near Gustavus.
One victim told investigators that she had drank alcohol on July 4 until she blacked out, according to court documents. She told investigators that she woke up on the floor next to Curry on July 5 and said her groin hurt like she had had "rough sex."
Curry admitted to her that they had sex, and obtained a morning after pill for her, according to court documents. The victim told investigators she was not aware that Curry was having sex with her after she passed out.
Court documents allege that another incident occurred in 2008 under similar circumstances. Two witnesses said they watched Curry carry a passed out woman into his bedroom.
The National Park Service contacted the state troopers in mid-July after conducting an internal investigation into the sexual assault of the two park employees.
"Once it became apparent that there was some kind of potential illegal behavior actually taking place, that's when they contacted us," state trooper spokeswoman Megan Peters said.
Investigators looked into the 2008 case after the July case came to light. That victim alleged Curry had intercourse with her while she was passed out after a party at the park lodge in Bartlett Cove on Sept. 1, 2008. She said she went to Curry's house with several other park employees and woke up the next day in bed with Curry with no pants or underwear on and a used condom on the bed, according to court documents. She confronted Curry, who denied having sex with her.
Troopers interviewed the defendant's former roommate, who said he witnessed Curry pick up the victim while she was passed out and take her into his bedroom, according to court documents. A second witness said the victim had been drinking a lot and passed out on the floor before Curry picked her up and dragged her into his room to have sex with her.
Curry later admitted to troopers that he had sex with both alleged victims, according to court documents.
As the investigation proceeded, Curry was put on administrative leave with the park service and his law enforcement commission was suspended, according to a press release. The federal agency is taking steps to terminate his employment.
A seasonal law enforcement ranger has a variety of duties at Glacier Bay National Park, from monitoring possible fishing violations to backcountry patrols. Seasonal rangers are required to go through a special National Park Service law enforcement academy.
Curry is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Conn.
This is not the first law enforcement official in Alaska to be arrested this summer on charges of sexual assault. Anchorage Police Department officer Anthony Rollins was arrested last month for allegedly sexually assaulting six women over the past three years.
"In the public's eye (law enforcement officials) are certainly held to a higher standard and when something like this does happen it seems to catch everyone's attention and they are appalled by it, rightfully so," Peters said.
Peters stressed that at this point Curry has been accused of committing sexual assault.
"Whether or not he is found guilty is to be determined," she said.
The felony charges are each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. Curry, who has been living in Washington when not working in Alaska, is being held in the Lemon Creek Correctional Center on $20,000 bail.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Officer Brian Kenneth Sawicki Arrested for Indecnet Exposure
A Santa Barbara Police Officer is facing several charges including indecent exposure.
On Monday afternoon, two young girls were walking down a trail at Refugio Beach when they saw a man lying down and masturbating. The girls alerted a State Park Ranger who then chased after the suspect and arrested him.
The state park ranger arrested 33-year-old Brian Kenneth Sawicki. Turns out, Sawicki is a sworn officer of the Santa Barbara Police Department. He faces charges of indecent exposure, annoying a child under 18 and resisting a peace officer.
His bail has been set at $2,500.
On Monday afternoon, two young girls were walking down a trail at Refugio Beach when they saw a man lying down and masturbating. The girls alerted a State Park Ranger who then chased after the suspect and arrested him.
The state park ranger arrested 33-year-old Brian Kenneth Sawicki. Turns out, Sawicki is a sworn officer of the Santa Barbara Police Department. He faces charges of indecent exposure, annoying a child under 18 and resisting a peace officer.
His bail has been set at $2,500.
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Officer Zsolt Dornay Arrested for DUI
Grays Harbor County, WA
Sometimes irony is not lost even on somebody who has the audacity to shoot an unarmed man in a dark alley and then try to sue the shooting victim. Seattle Police Officer Zsolt Dornay was arrested last month for DUI while driving his motorcycle in Ocean Shores, Washington. The arrest was made by the Washington State Patrol.
Dornay, somewhat infamous for shooting Seattle DUI Attorney James Walker in Seattle's Post Alley in 2006, faces DUI charges in Grays Harbor District Court.
Dornay has been placed on administrative reassignment while an internal investigation at the Seattle police department is conducted.
According to police reports, Dornay, and his younger brother, were stopped for going 49 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone. Both men admitted to drinking and agreed to perform field sobriety tests.
Zsolt Dornay's breath alcohol level registered 0.149 and 0.172 percent. While both results exceed Washington State's legal limit of 0.08 percent, the difference in the two results illustrates how fickle DUI breath testing can be. To Dornay's credit, he could have refused to take the test.
Sometimes irony is not lost even on somebody who has the audacity to shoot an unarmed man in a dark alley and then try to sue the shooting victim. Seattle Police Officer Zsolt Dornay was arrested last month for DUI while driving his motorcycle in Ocean Shores, Washington. The arrest was made by the Washington State Patrol.
Dornay, somewhat infamous for shooting Seattle DUI Attorney James Walker in Seattle's Post Alley in 2006, faces DUI charges in Grays Harbor District Court.
Dornay has been placed on administrative reassignment while an internal investigation at the Seattle police department is conducted.
According to police reports, Dornay, and his younger brother, were stopped for going 49 miles per hour in a 25 mph zone. Both men admitted to drinking and agreed to perform field sobriety tests.
Zsolt Dornay's breath alcohol level registered 0.149 and 0.172 percent. While both results exceed Washington State's legal limit of 0.08 percent, the difference in the two results illustrates how fickle DUI breath testing can be. To Dornay's credit, he could have refused to take the test.
Officer Gregory Renggli Arrested for Domestic Violence
East Wenatchee police officer Gregory W. Renggli was arrested Tuesday at his East Wenatchee home on suspicion of fourth-degree assault, domestic violence. He was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Facility but later posted $10,000 bail and was released.
Police Chief Randy Harrison said Renggli, 46, is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the charge. East Wenatchee officers initially responded to a call of a domestic disturbance at the Renggli residence at 9:52 a.m. but later turned the case over to Wenatchee police to avoid a conflict of interest, Harrison said.
Wenatchee police said no weapon was involved and Renggli was not on duty at the time of the alleged assault. They referred further questions to Harrison, who said the initial phone call made to the RiverCom dispatch center indicated that a father had struck his 17-year-old son in the chest. No one was taken to the hospital in connection with the incident.
Police Chief Randy Harrison said Renggli, 46, is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the charge. East Wenatchee officers initially responded to a call of a domestic disturbance at the Renggli residence at 9:52 a.m. but later turned the case over to Wenatchee police to avoid a conflict of interest, Harrison said.
Wenatchee police said no weapon was involved and Renggli was not on duty at the time of the alleged assault. They referred further questions to Harrison, who said the initial phone call made to the RiverCom dispatch center indicated that a father had struck his 17-year-old son in the chest. No one was taken to the hospital in connection with the incident.
Officer Michael Williams Arrested for Stealing iPhone
An Athens-Clarke County police officer was fired after he was accused of stealing a University student's iPhone after investigating an incident in her apartment.
On Tuesday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation charged ACC officer Michael R. Williams with felony theft by taking and violation of oath of office. Williams, 45, was a recruit police officer in training when he answered the July 19 call for service at the student's apartment. Williams was fired from the police department Tuesday.
The student reported theft of the iPhone on July 24 and the ACCPD requested the GBI to conduct a criminal investigation of the matter.
Williams was released from the Clarke County Jail uesday after posting $10,000 bond.
On Tuesday, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation charged ACC officer Michael R. Williams with felony theft by taking and violation of oath of office. Williams, 45, was a recruit police officer in training when he answered the July 19 call for service at the student's apartment. Williams was fired from the police department Tuesday.
The student reported theft of the iPhone on July 24 and the ACCPD requested the GBI to conduct a criminal investigation of the matter.
Williams was released from the Clarke County Jail uesday after posting $10,000 bond.
Former Trooper Paul Galietti Pleads Guilty to Unauthorized Use of Database
A former state trooper whose cousin was a top salesman in James Galante's garbage empire was spared jail time Wednesday in U.S. District Court at his sentencing for illegally checking the license plate of a competing trash hauler on a law enforcement database.
Paul Galietti, 41, pleaded guilty in October before Judge Ellen Bree Burns to intentionally exceeding his authorized access to a government computer, a crime punishable by up to a year in prison.
But a plea agreement between federal prosecutors and his lawyer, Gary A. Mastronardi, called for a maximum jail sentence of six months, which Burns spared him altogether Wednesday by imposing a $1,000 fine during sentencing proceedings that lasted about 10 minutes.
When Galietti pleaded guilty, Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond Miller said in court that federal agents overheard Galietti talking to his cousin, Richard Galietti, who at the time was sales manager for Galante-controlled Automated Waste Disposal, on a call in September 2004.
During the call, Miller said, Richard Galietti asked his cousin to run a check on a Connecticut license plate. Minutes later federal agents heard Paul Galietti giving Richard Galietti the name of the person the car was registered to.
The person was affiliated with a small trash hauling company in Danbury that was not participating in the so-called "property rights system" that artificially kept prices for trash collection in the area high, Miller said.
After he gave his cousin the information, agents overheard Paul Galietti warning of the risks of other people finding out about the check, Miller said.
"Never tell anybody I did that for you, because you'll get me fired," Miller quoted Galietti as saying. "It's a serious thing now, OK?"
According to Miller, when Richard Galietti then told his cousin that his brother, a sheriff in Florida, had gotten in trouble for the same reason, Paul Galietti said: "Yeah, no really, the federal government pinches you now. That's a real f---ing serious thing."
Later, Miller said, state police checked the law enforcement database Galietti accessed and found that a query of the plate had occurred during the wiretapped conversation, from the troop Galietti was assigned to.
Galietti resigned from the state police after being indicted as part of the Galante probe. As part of his plea agreement, he agreed never to seek any employment in law enforcement.
All 33 people arrested as a result of the federal investigation into trash hauling in the area have pleaded guilty.
Galante himself is serving an 87-month prison sentence on racketeering, wire fraud and tax evasion charges. He also forfeited ownership of 25 trash hauling companies, a Southbury residence, six race cars and nearly $450,000 in cash seized during the investigation.
Paul Galietti's day in court he pleaded guilty to exceeding his authorized access to a government computer in October 2008. n Plea agreement called for a jail sentence up to six months and a fine of up to $5,000. n U.S. District Judge Ellen Bree Burns sentenced Galietti on Wednesday to a $1,000 fine.
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http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-ap-ct-trashprobeaug12,0,3596851.story
Paul Galietti, 41, pleaded guilty in October before Judge Ellen Bree Burns to intentionally exceeding his authorized access to a government computer, a crime punishable by up to a year in prison.
But a plea agreement between federal prosecutors and his lawyer, Gary A. Mastronardi, called for a maximum jail sentence of six months, which Burns spared him altogether Wednesday by imposing a $1,000 fine during sentencing proceedings that lasted about 10 minutes.
When Galietti pleaded guilty, Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond Miller said in court that federal agents overheard Galietti talking to his cousin, Richard Galietti, who at the time was sales manager for Galante-controlled Automated Waste Disposal, on a call in September 2004.
During the call, Miller said, Richard Galietti asked his cousin to run a check on a Connecticut license plate. Minutes later federal agents heard Paul Galietti giving Richard Galietti the name of the person the car was registered to.
The person was affiliated with a small trash hauling company in Danbury that was not participating in the so-called "property rights system" that artificially kept prices for trash collection in the area high, Miller said.
After he gave his cousin the information, agents overheard Paul Galietti warning of the risks of other people finding out about the check, Miller said.
"Never tell anybody I did that for you, because you'll get me fired," Miller quoted Galietti as saying. "It's a serious thing now, OK?"
According to Miller, when Richard Galietti then told his cousin that his brother, a sheriff in Florida, had gotten in trouble for the same reason, Paul Galietti said: "Yeah, no really, the federal government pinches you now. That's a real f---ing serious thing."
Later, Miller said, state police checked the law enforcement database Galietti accessed and found that a query of the plate had occurred during the wiretapped conversation, from the troop Galietti was assigned to.
Galietti resigned from the state police after being indicted as part of the Galante probe. As part of his plea agreement, he agreed never to seek any employment in law enforcement.
All 33 people arrested as a result of the federal investigation into trash hauling in the area have pleaded guilty.
Galante himself is serving an 87-month prison sentence on racketeering, wire fraud and tax evasion charges. He also forfeited ownership of 25 trash hauling companies, a Southbury residence, six race cars and nearly $450,000 in cash seized during the investigation.
Paul Galietti's day in court he pleaded guilty to exceeding his authorized access to a government computer in October 2008. n Plea agreement called for a jail sentence up to six months and a fine of up to $5,000. n U.S. District Judge Ellen Bree Burns sentenced Galietti on Wednesday to a $1,000 fine.
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http://www.courant.com/news/local/statewire/hc-ap-ct-trashprobeaug12,0,3596851.story
Airport Officer Arrested for Touching 14-year-old
A man employed as a Los Angeles airport police officer has been arrested for allegedly touching a 14-year-old girl inappropriately at a foster care home in Inglewood operated by his mother, authorities said today.
Police went to the home in the 9300 block of 11th Avenue near the Hollywood Park race track Tuesday afternoon to investigate a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
The teen alleged that Devin Staten had touched her in an “inappropriate way” late Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten’s mother. Two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said. There were no further reports of misconduct at the home aside from Tuesday’s alleged incident, he said.
Investigators say they have notified officials with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
Staten, 31, works for the Los Angeles Airport Police Department and lives at the house in a converted garage, McBride said. He was released from the Inglewood jail on $20,000 bail.
A spokesman for the airport police did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Police went to the home in the 9300 block of 11th Avenue near the Hollywood Park race track Tuesday afternoon to investigate a possible sexual assault, said Mike McBride of the Inglewood Police Department.
The teen alleged that Devin Staten had touched her in an “inappropriate way” late Monday night, McBride said.
The foster care home is owned and operated by Staten’s mother. Two 18-year-old foster girls and a 10-year-old foster boy also live at the home, McBride said. There were no further reports of misconduct at the home aside from Tuesday’s alleged incident, he said.
Investigators say they have notified officials with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services.
Staten, 31, works for the Los Angeles Airport Police Department and lives at the house in a converted garage, McBride said. He was released from the Inglewood jail on $20,000 bail.
A spokesman for the airport police did not return phone calls seeking comment.
Officer Scott Gabbei Accused of Sexual Misconduct with Minor
A Pittsboro Police Officer is accused of arranging a meeting with a 14-year-old girl, taking her to a remote location in the Pittsboro City Park. The girl told a clergy member that the incident produced a hug and an open mouth kiss.
The Hendricks County Sheriff's Department arrested 33-year-old Scott Gabbei of Mooresville on a warrant charging him with sexual misconduct with a minor. He was released from the Hendricks County after posting bond of $25,000.
Investigators say Gabbei was in uniform and transported the girl in his police vehicle. He drove her home after the encounter.
Pittsboro Police Chief Christi Peterson is recommending that Gabbei be fired. He is suspended with pay pending a hearing August 24th before the Town Council.
The Hendricks County Sheriff's Department arrested 33-year-old Scott Gabbei of Mooresville on a warrant charging him with sexual misconduct with a minor. He was released from the Hendricks County after posting bond of $25,000.
Investigators say Gabbei was in uniform and transported the girl in his police vehicle. He drove her home after the encounter.
Pittsboro Police Chief Christi Peterson is recommending that Gabbei be fired. He is suspended with pay pending a hearing August 24th before the Town Council.
Deputy Dana Harrah Arrested for Domestic Violence
A Sarpy County Sheriff’s deputy was arrested Sunday on suspicion of domestic abuse.
The deputy, Dana Harrah, has been with the sheriff’s office for nine years.
She was booked into Cass County Jail and released Monday morning after posting bail.
Sarpy County Sheriff Jeff Davis said deputies from his office received a call about a possible domestic abuse situation Sunday. Upon arrival, deputies found out a sheriff’s office employee might be involved. Davis said Bellevue police, Papillion police and the Nebraska State Patrol were called to investigate.
Davis said in such situations, an employee is placed on paid administrative leave while the matter is investigated. An internal affairs investigation is underway, Davis said.
The deputy, Dana Harrah, has been with the sheriff’s office for nine years.
She was booked into Cass County Jail and released Monday morning after posting bail.
Sarpy County Sheriff Jeff Davis said deputies from his office received a call about a possible domestic abuse situation Sunday. Upon arrival, deputies found out a sheriff’s office employee might be involved. Davis said Bellevue police, Papillion police and the Nebraska State Patrol were called to investigate.
Davis said in such situations, an employee is placed on paid administrative leave while the matter is investigated. An internal affairs investigation is underway, Davis said.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Officer James Stackhouse Investigated for Relationship with 12-year-old
A Metro police officer has quit after 17 years following allegations that he had an inappropriate sexual relationship with a child.
Officer James Stackhouse joined the Metro Police Department in September 1992. He was a field training officer with the Hermitage precinct until last Tuesday, but his career as a police officer began to unravel Sunday night.
"In the early morning of Aug. 3, Officer Stackhouse was called in and was presented with the allegations and was questioned or talked to about the allegations," said Metro police spokesman Don Aaron. "They were very serious, and a situation like this warranted his immediate decommissioning and the admonishment that disciplinary action would begin immediately."
Sources told Channel 4 News the child involved is a 12-year-old girl who lives in Wilson County but that the Clay County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation since the alleged incident happened on Dale Hollow Lake.
Metro police said they informed Stackhouse of the allegations on Monday morning and that he submitted a one-sentence, handwritten resignation Tuesday.
"He did not work in between the third and the fourth," Aaron said. "He was decommissioned or had no police power from the point that he was informed of the allegations."
Stackhouse's personnel file shows a number of commendations and that he won Officer of the Month in 2006, 2008 and 2009.
He has been disciplined twice, according to the documents, including a three-day suspension in 2006 for contacting a known felon that he met on duty to pursue a personal relationship.
No charges have been filed based on the investigation against Stackhouse.
Sources said the facts of the investigation will likely be sent to the grand jury.
Video: Officer Resigns After Alleged Relationship With Child
Officer James Stackhouse joined the Metro Police Department in September 1992. He was a field training officer with the Hermitage precinct until last Tuesday, but his career as a police officer began to unravel Sunday night.
"In the early morning of Aug. 3, Officer Stackhouse was called in and was presented with the allegations and was questioned or talked to about the allegations," said Metro police spokesman Don Aaron. "They were very serious, and a situation like this warranted his immediate decommissioning and the admonishment that disciplinary action would begin immediately."
Sources told Channel 4 News the child involved is a 12-year-old girl who lives in Wilson County but that the Clay County Sheriff's Office is handling the investigation since the alleged incident happened on Dale Hollow Lake.
Metro police said they informed Stackhouse of the allegations on Monday morning and that he submitted a one-sentence, handwritten resignation Tuesday.
"He did not work in between the third and the fourth," Aaron said. "He was decommissioned or had no police power from the point that he was informed of the allegations."
Stackhouse's personnel file shows a number of commendations and that he won Officer of the Month in 2006, 2008 and 2009.
He has been disciplined twice, according to the documents, including a three-day suspension in 2006 for contacting a known felon that he met on duty to pursue a personal relationship.
No charges have been filed based on the investigation against Stackhouse.
Sources said the facts of the investigation will likely be sent to the grand jury.
Video: Officer Resigns After Alleged Relationship With Child
Trial Begins for Sgt Matthew Dougil
The trial of a Gig Harbor police sergeant accused of filing false police reports began Monday in Pierce County Superior Court.
Matthew Dougil is charged with two felony counts of perjury and one misdemeanor count of making a false or misleading statement to a public servant. He has pleaded not guilty and is on unpaid leave from his job until the criminal case against him is resolved.
Prosecutors allege the 11-year veteran of the Gig Harbor force lied in police reports he filed as part of a drug investigation that resulted in two people being convicted. The convictions since have been vacated, and the city paid $45,000 in damages to a third man who was ordered to attend drug court as part of the case.
Investigators contend in court documents that, among other things, Dougil wrote in an official report that police searched a confidential informant who was used to buy drugs from the men when in fact the informant was not searched before the transaction.
The supervisor of the prosecuting attorney’s office drug unit later told colleagues he would not have prosecuted the men had he known Dougil was alleged to have lied on the reports, according to documents filed in the case.
Dougil’s attorney, Brett Purtzer, has said his client is innocent and intends to present a vigorous defense.
Testimony before Superior Court Judge Rosanne Buckner is expected to last about a week.
Matthew Dougil is charged with two felony counts of perjury and one misdemeanor count of making a false or misleading statement to a public servant. He has pleaded not guilty and is on unpaid leave from his job until the criminal case against him is resolved.
Prosecutors allege the 11-year veteran of the Gig Harbor force lied in police reports he filed as part of a drug investigation that resulted in two people being convicted. The convictions since have been vacated, and the city paid $45,000 in damages to a third man who was ordered to attend drug court as part of the case.
Investigators contend in court documents that, among other things, Dougil wrote in an official report that police searched a confidential informant who was used to buy drugs from the men when in fact the informant was not searched before the transaction.
The supervisor of the prosecuting attorney’s office drug unit later told colleagues he would not have prosecuted the men had he known Dougil was alleged to have lied on the reports, according to documents filed in the case.
Dougil’s attorney, Brett Purtzer, has said his client is innocent and intends to present a vigorous defense.
Testimony before Superior Court Judge Rosanne Buckner is expected to last about a week.
Lt. John Sherman Charged with Battery
Authorities say a Martinsburg police lieutenant charged with battery apparently was upset about inappropriate online messages another man allegedly sent to his wife.
John Sherman is accused of striking Larry "Tike" Murphy Thursday night while Murphy was attending his daughter's cheerleading practice at the Martinsburg Church of Christ.
Murphy told police that the 45-year-old Sherman screamed profanities at him and accused him of sending inappropriate messages to Sherman's wife via the social networking sites MySpace and Facebook.
The content of the messages was unknown.
Sherman is on administrative leave with pay.
His attorney, Harley Wagner, urged the public to reserve judgment against the 19-year veteran.
John Sherman is accused of striking Larry "Tike" Murphy Thursday night while Murphy was attending his daughter's cheerleading practice at the Martinsburg Church of Christ.
Murphy told police that the 45-year-old Sherman screamed profanities at him and accused him of sending inappropriate messages to Sherman's wife via the social networking sites MySpace and Facebook.
The content of the messages was unknown.
Sherman is on administrative leave with pay.
His attorney, Harley Wagner, urged the public to reserve judgment against the 19-year veteran.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie Arrested for Pointing Gun at People
An Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputy has been arrested after he allegedly pointed a gun at two people in Pensacola.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie, a 15 year veteran with the Escambia Sheriff’s Office was involved in a incident within the city limits of Pensacola last Monday, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.
“After an investigation conducted by the Pensacola Police Department, a warrant was issued and served on Deputy Dejoie today, charging him with two counts of aggravated assault,” Ted Roy, spokesperson for the ECSO, said Tuesday afternoon. Bond was set at $500.
“The investigation determined Dejoie could not adequately justify to the satisfaction of the detective and the State Attorney’s Office his actions in pointing the firearm,” said Pensacola Assistant Chief Chip W. Simmons.
The incident began around 3:15 p.m. August 3 in the 800 block of Scenic Highway after Dejoie, who was driving an Infiniti G35, stopped suddenly in the middle of the road, causing the driver of a Jeep Cherokee to slam on its brakes, according to Pensacola Police.
The driver of the other vehicle – Dylan Johnson, 21, of Pensacola – honked his horn at Dejoie. This resulted in an exchange of profanities and insults between occupants of both vehicles, which continued westbound on Cervantes Street, according to police reports. Dejoie is accused of pointing a handgun at Johnson and a 15-year-old male passenger in his vehicle on East Cervantes Street and the Bayou Texar Bridge.
The victims told police they turned north on 19th Avenue to escape, and called 911 to report the incident. Dejoie also called 911 at about the same time.
Deputy Dejoie is currently on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the case, according to Roy.
Deputy Joseph Dejoie, a 15 year veteran with the Escambia Sheriff’s Office was involved in a incident within the city limits of Pensacola last Monday, according to a press release from the sheriff’s office.
“After an investigation conducted by the Pensacola Police Department, a warrant was issued and served on Deputy Dejoie today, charging him with two counts of aggravated assault,” Ted Roy, spokesperson for the ECSO, said Tuesday afternoon. Bond was set at $500.
“The investigation determined Dejoie could not adequately justify to the satisfaction of the detective and the State Attorney’s Office his actions in pointing the firearm,” said Pensacola Assistant Chief Chip W. Simmons.
The incident began around 3:15 p.m. August 3 in the 800 block of Scenic Highway after Dejoie, who was driving an Infiniti G35, stopped suddenly in the middle of the road, causing the driver of a Jeep Cherokee to slam on its brakes, according to Pensacola Police.
The driver of the other vehicle – Dylan Johnson, 21, of Pensacola – honked his horn at Dejoie. This resulted in an exchange of profanities and insults between occupants of both vehicles, which continued westbound on Cervantes Street, according to police reports. Dejoie is accused of pointing a handgun at Johnson and a 15-year-old male passenger in his vehicle on East Cervantes Street and the Bayou Texar Bridge.
The victims told police they turned north on 19th Avenue to escape, and called 911 to report the incident. Dejoie also called 911 at about the same time.
Deputy Dejoie is currently on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the case, according to Roy.
Ex-Sheriff Charlie Morris Sentenced to 6 Years
A former head of the Florida Sheriffs’ Association has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison in a money laundering and corruption case.
Ex-sheriff Charlie Morris apologized to his north Florida county and former employees before he was sentenced Tuesday to 71 months. The sentence was near the maximum allowed. U.S. District Judge Lacey Collier told Morris he had abused his office and betrayed the public’s trust.
FBI agents arrested Morris in February in Las Vegas. He had $30,000 cash in a hotel safe and $5,000 in his pockets at the time.
The government traced the money back to a scheme in which Morris and Adams deposited bonus checks in employees’ accounts and asked the workers to return a portion of the money in cash.
Ex-sheriff Charlie Morris apologized to his north Florida county and former employees before he was sentenced Tuesday to 71 months. The sentence was near the maximum allowed. U.S. District Judge Lacey Collier told Morris he had abused his office and betrayed the public’s trust.
FBI agents arrested Morris in February in Las Vegas. He had $30,000 cash in a hotel safe and $5,000 in his pockets at the time.
The government traced the money back to a scheme in which Morris and Adams deposited bonus checks in employees’ accounts and asked the workers to return a portion of the money in cash.
Byron Shane Burkhart Indicted for Indecency with Child
A 41-year-old former Seguin Police Department officer has been indicted on charges of indecency with a child.
District Attorney Heather Hollub said grand jurors handed up a three-count indictment of Byron Shane Burkhart for the alleged indecency with a child under age 17 by sexual contact.
If proved at trial, the allegation is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Since Burkhart has no prior criminal offenses, he could also get probation.
“It’s always troubling when those we entrust with protecting us commit criminal offenses,” Hollub said. “My office will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
The Seguin Police Department brought the allegations against Burkhart forward after being informed by school officials and members of an outside law enforcement agency of an alleged inappropriate relationship between Burkhart and the girl believed to have taken place back in February.
Police officials asked for independent investigations by the Texas Rangers and by Hollub’s investigator, Frank Allenger. Burkhart is one of two Seguin police officers who came under a cloud of sexual suspicion last spring in separate, unrelated incidents. He resigned his position in late May.
The second officer, who quit his job in June after being placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into an allegation involving an adult woman, has not been charged with a criminal offense.
Kelso informed Burkhart of the allegations in a May 29 letter telling the officer he was contemplating firing him. That letter was released by the city of Seguin in response to a request filed by the Seguin Gazette Enterprise under the Texas Public Information Act.
“I am considering termination of your employment for conduct unbecoming an officer of the Seguin Police Department,” Kelso wrote. “Specifically, it is alleged by two local educators that you have engaged in an improper relationship with a minor child and that you are responsible for inappropriate communications (text messages) with that child.”
Kelso informed Burkhart of his expected behavior as a city employee.
“You are a public servant and as such, you are held to the highest standard of ethical conduct,” Kelso said. “Consistent with that level of public trust, the behavior alleged certainly would not be considered to be in the best interest of the City of Seguin and therefore would subject you to discipline up to and including termination.”
The indicted charges suggest there was more involved in the relationship than texts or e-mails.
Under section 21.11 of the Texas Penal Code, Indecency with a child by sexual contact is defined as, “ ... any touching by a person, including touching through clothing, of the anus, breast or any part of the genitals of a child ... .”
Kelso and city officials declined to discuss the allegations against Burkhart on Monday.
The important thing, Kelso said, is that the community not regard allegations against one officer as a reflection on the behavior of the rest of the 65 members of the SPD. As soon as the allegations were made, they were investigated at the behest of the police department, with its cooperation, Kelso said.
“We’ve been proactive in this situation. Any time an allegation is made against any police officer it will be investigated and action will be taken that is appropriate to the outcome of that investigation. The department should be judged by the way the allegation or incident is handled as opposed to the improprieties of an employee. It is difficult to monitor every moment of each officer both on and off duty, but we expect them to abide by the rules governing their employment.”
Burkhart was an eight-year veteran of the SPD. No pre-trial hearing dates had been set Monday.
The Seguin Police Department has cooperated openly and completely in the investigations, Hollub said.
District Attorney Heather Hollub said grand jurors handed up a three-count indictment of Byron Shane Burkhart for the alleged indecency with a child under age 17 by sexual contact.
If proved at trial, the allegation is a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Since Burkhart has no prior criminal offenses, he could also get probation.
“It’s always troubling when those we entrust with protecting us commit criminal offenses,” Hollub said. “My office will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
The Seguin Police Department brought the allegations against Burkhart forward after being informed by school officials and members of an outside law enforcement agency of an alleged inappropriate relationship between Burkhart and the girl believed to have taken place back in February.
Police officials asked for independent investigations by the Texas Rangers and by Hollub’s investigator, Frank Allenger. Burkhart is one of two Seguin police officers who came under a cloud of sexual suspicion last spring in separate, unrelated incidents. He resigned his position in late May.
The second officer, who quit his job in June after being placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into an allegation involving an adult woman, has not been charged with a criminal offense.
Kelso informed Burkhart of the allegations in a May 29 letter telling the officer he was contemplating firing him. That letter was released by the city of Seguin in response to a request filed by the Seguin Gazette Enterprise under the Texas Public Information Act.
“I am considering termination of your employment for conduct unbecoming an officer of the Seguin Police Department,” Kelso wrote. “Specifically, it is alleged by two local educators that you have engaged in an improper relationship with a minor child and that you are responsible for inappropriate communications (text messages) with that child.”
Kelso informed Burkhart of his expected behavior as a city employee.
“You are a public servant and as such, you are held to the highest standard of ethical conduct,” Kelso said. “Consistent with that level of public trust, the behavior alleged certainly would not be considered to be in the best interest of the City of Seguin and therefore would subject you to discipline up to and including termination.”
The indicted charges suggest there was more involved in the relationship than texts or e-mails.
Under section 21.11 of the Texas Penal Code, Indecency with a child by sexual contact is defined as, “ ... any touching by a person, including touching through clothing, of the anus, breast or any part of the genitals of a child ... .”
Kelso and city officials declined to discuss the allegations against Burkhart on Monday.
The important thing, Kelso said, is that the community not regard allegations against one officer as a reflection on the behavior of the rest of the 65 members of the SPD. As soon as the allegations were made, they were investigated at the behest of the police department, with its cooperation, Kelso said.
“We’ve been proactive in this situation. Any time an allegation is made against any police officer it will be investigated and action will be taken that is appropriate to the outcome of that investigation. The department should be judged by the way the allegation or incident is handled as opposed to the improprieties of an employee. It is difficult to monitor every moment of each officer both on and off duty, but we expect them to abide by the rules governing their employment.”
Burkhart was an eight-year veteran of the SPD. No pre-trial hearing dates had been set Monday.
The Seguin Police Department has cooperated openly and completely in the investigations, Hollub said.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Anthony Votta Arrested for Beating Pregnant Wife
A Marion County corrections officer was arrested Sunday on suspicion of beating his pregnant wife.
Anthony Votta, 31, was arrested at about 3 p.m. at his Marion County home on a charge of felony battery on a pregnant person.
Deputies said Votta admitted he battered his wife, who is four months pregnant, during an argument.
Votta's wife was not injured, and Votta has been placed on unpaid leave while an investigation is conducted into the allegations.
Votta has been with the Marion County Sheriff's Office since 2003.
Anthony Votta, 31, was arrested at about 3 p.m. at his Marion County home on a charge of felony battery on a pregnant person.
Deputies said Votta admitted he battered his wife, who is four months pregnant, during an argument.
Votta's wife was not injured, and Votta has been placed on unpaid leave while an investigation is conducted into the allegations.
Votta has been with the Marion County Sheriff's Office since 2003.
Dominic Boulter Accused of Soliciting Minor
A Canadian citizen employed with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office detention center has been accused of using the Internet to solicit minors for sex.
Dominic Boulter, 51, a six-year veteran of the sheriff's office, has been using the Web since January to seek out and chat with minors ages 13 to 17, investigators said in a Maricopa County court document.
Two girls admitted to chatting with Boulter and sending him naked pictures of themselves, which investigators found on his computer. In all, investigators have identified eight girls in different states across the country who communicated with Boulter.
Boulter, a married resident of Sun City, sent naked photos of himself as well as pornographic pictures and videos to the girls, investigators said.
Boulter told the girls he was 15, but also gave them the ages 27 and 32. He identified himself to the girls as a police officer.
Boulter in an initial interview with investigators admitted to sending harmful images to a minor and encouraging her to masturbate while they were chatting via text messages and using a web camera. He also admitted in the interview that he knew she was a minor.
It's behavior Boulter's Sun City neighbors said was way out of character.
"I'm shocked because we've talked a few times and he's always been very productive of everyone," said neighbor
Boulter did not make additional statements when investigators confronted him with evidence of communication with other girls, investigators said.
Charges against Boulter include four counts of obscene material and transmitting it to a minor; two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of unlawful age representation.
Boulter has been a detention officer with MCSO since May 2003.
He was being held on a $20,000 bond.
Dominic Boulter, 51, a six-year veteran of the sheriff's office, has been using the Web since January to seek out and chat with minors ages 13 to 17, investigators said in a Maricopa County court document.
Two girls admitted to chatting with Boulter and sending him naked pictures of themselves, which investigators found on his computer. In all, investigators have identified eight girls in different states across the country who communicated with Boulter.
Boulter, a married resident of Sun City, sent naked photos of himself as well as pornographic pictures and videos to the girls, investigators said.
Boulter told the girls he was 15, but also gave them the ages 27 and 32. He identified himself to the girls as a police officer.
Boulter in an initial interview with investigators admitted to sending harmful images to a minor and encouraging her to masturbate while they were chatting via text messages and using a web camera. He also admitted in the interview that he knew she was a minor.
It's behavior Boulter's Sun City neighbors said was way out of character.
"I'm shocked because we've talked a few times and he's always been very productive of everyone," said neighbor
Boulter did not make additional statements when investigators confronted him with evidence of communication with other girls, investigators said.
Charges against Boulter include four counts of obscene material and transmitting it to a minor; two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and two counts of unlawful age representation.
Boulter has been a detention officer with MCSO since May 2003.
He was being held on a $20,000 bond.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Officer Donald L Silcott Arrested for Sexual Battery on Minor
A veteran Jacksonville Sheriffs Officer has been arrested on charges of sexual battery and lewd and lascivious battery on a juvenile.
Sheriff John Rutherford's office announced the arrest of 47 year-old Donald L. Silcott. He was arrested at his Orange Park home.
The alleged victim is a female who was known to Silcott, but police are not elaborating on their relationship
Silcott is a 19 year veteran of the JSO, working as an evidence technician.
Silcott is being held in the Duval County Jail.
Any time an allegation or suspicion of criminal activity involving a JSO employee ccurs, the Integrity Unit investigates. They brought in our Sex Crimes Unit, and upon investigation (and working with the State Attorney's Office) determined that charges would be filed and an arrest made," said Sheriff John Rutherford.
Silcott's status with the JSO was not clear.
_________________________
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/crime/2009-08-08/story/jacksonville_officer_charged_with_sexual_battery_on_minor
Sheriff John Rutherford's office announced the arrest of 47 year-old Donald L. Silcott. He was arrested at his Orange Park home.
The alleged victim is a female who was known to Silcott, but police are not elaborating on their relationship
Silcott is a 19 year veteran of the JSO, working as an evidence technician.
Silcott is being held in the Duval County Jail.
Any time an allegation or suspicion of criminal activity involving a JSO employee ccurs, the Integrity Unit investigates. They brought in our Sex Crimes Unit, and upon investigation (and working with the State Attorney's Office) determined that charges would be filed and an arrest made," said Sheriff John Rutherford.
Silcott's status with the JSO was not clear.
_________________________
http://www.jacksonville.com/news/metro/crime/2009-08-08/story/jacksonville_officer_charged_with_sexual_battery_on_minor
Deputy Rich Lohbauer Arrested for Buying Prescription Narcotics
A Marion County Sheriff's deputy has been arrested for allegedly buying prescription narcotics.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement began investigating deputy Rich Lohbauer in May after the sheriff's office received a tip he may be buying pills.
On Friday, FDLE officers allegedly saw Lohbauer approach a woman's car and make an exchange. After being stopped, Lohbauer allegedly admitted buying 16 oxycodone pills for $100.
Chief of Staff Tim Wilder says Lohbauer was a good employee, and the arrest shocked him.
It was the second time in just over a week a Marion County deputy ended up in trouble. Earlier, Darius Harper was arrested for allegedly soliciting a prostitute.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement began investigating deputy Rich Lohbauer in May after the sheriff's office received a tip he may be buying pills.
On Friday, FDLE officers allegedly saw Lohbauer approach a woman's car and make an exchange. After being stopped, Lohbauer allegedly admitted buying 16 oxycodone pills for $100.
Chief of Staff Tim Wilder says Lohbauer was a good employee, and the arrest shocked him.
It was the second time in just over a week a Marion County deputy ended up in trouble. Earlier, Darius Harper was arrested for allegedly soliciting a prostitute.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Officer Joseph Harrison Arrested for Stealing Drugs from Neighbors
A Clatskanie police officer resigned Tuesday after being arrested on charges he stole drugs from his neighbors.
Joseph Harrison broke into two Clatskanie homes to steal Vicodin and oxycodone, according to probable cause documents. A timeline provided by the Attorney General's office claims the first burglary occurred in mid-April and the second burglary took place on April 28.
While being interviewed this week, Harrison told investigators that he was on duty and in uniform during the second burglary, according to the court documents.
"I am kind of sad that it's an officer in my community that got in trouble," said Joseph Maes, who lives in Clatskanie. "Really, it's a disgrace to this town. (I) know it doesn't make our town look good."
The victims in the case did not want to be identified Wednesday.
The Clatskanie Police Chief said the allegations were a "bombshell." Harrison, who was jailed on charges of burglary, theft and official misconduct, was a 9-year veteran of the Clatskanie Police Department.
"For me, to find out that he was really like this was a let down to me and I'm sure to a lot of the community around here," Maes said.
Joseph Harrison broke into two Clatskanie homes to steal Vicodin and oxycodone, according to probable cause documents. A timeline provided by the Attorney General's office claims the first burglary occurred in mid-April and the second burglary took place on April 28.
While being interviewed this week, Harrison told investigators that he was on duty and in uniform during the second burglary, according to the court documents.
"I am kind of sad that it's an officer in my community that got in trouble," said Joseph Maes, who lives in Clatskanie. "Really, it's a disgrace to this town. (I) know it doesn't make our town look good."
The victims in the case did not want to be identified Wednesday.
The Clatskanie Police Chief said the allegations were a "bombshell." Harrison, who was jailed on charges of burglary, theft and official misconduct, was a 9-year veteran of the Clatskanie Police Department.
"For me, to find out that he was really like this was a let down to me and I'm sure to a lot of the community around here," Maes said.
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