A traffic stop Thursday afternoon in Bonita Springs resulted in the arrest of three family members – one of whom is a former law enforcement officer from New Jersey.
Thomas Rush Jr., 65, a former New Jersey law enforcement officer; his wife, Donna Rush, 48; and son, Raymond Rush, 18, whose addresses were not released but live in South Lee County, were each charged with resisting a law enforcement officer without violence. They posted $1,000 bond and were released early Friday from Lee County Jail.
According to arrest reports:
Michael Rush, 20, was stopped by Lee deputies for an undisclosed reason and began using his cell phone to call family members.
Raymond Rush, driving a Ford Freestar minivan, arrived and asked why his brother was stopped. The deputies told him to leave, and he did, but he returned with their mother, Donna Rush, who was Tasered twice by deputies.
Thomas Rush, the boys’ father, arrived in a Mustang, parked his vehicle in a nearby parking lot and went toward deputies, even though he was told to stay away.
Thomas Rush told deputies: “He is not (expletive) going anywhere and he did not have to leave.” He armed himself with a black walking cane and refused to leave. He was arrested after a struggle.
Raymond Rush then returned with his mother, who began yelling expletives at the deputies, including: “get off my (expletive) husband.” She was told to leave, refused and a deputy deployed his Taser, but only one prong stuck.
She ran to one of the vehicles and jumped in, wrapping her arm around the steering wheel and locked her leg against the door. She was Tasered a second time, again unsuccessfully. After a struggle she was taken from the vehicle and arrested, as was her youngest son.
It was unclear whether Michael Rush received a traffic citation, but he was not arrested.
The parents were taken to Gulf Coast Hospital after complaining of injuries. They were treated and later released to be booked into jail.
A deputy received a cut under his eye during one of the struggles.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Former Officer Robert Forman Convicted of Forcing Woman to Perform Sex Act
A former Riverside police officer was convicted today of forcing a woman to perform a sex act on him so she could avoid being arrested.
A seven-man, five-woman jury, however, acquitted 39-year-old Robert A. Forman of sexually assaulting another woman and deadlocked on whether he had assaulted a third. The panel announced its findings after two and a half days of deliberations.
Forman, who was also convicted of a misdemeanor petty theft charge, faces up to eight years in prison when he is sentenced Jan. 11 by Riverside County Superior Court Judge John Molloy.
The defendant asked Molloy to permit him to remain out of custody, on $50,000 bail, until the sentencing hearing, but the judge was not inclined.
“The last thing on the planet that I want to do is take Mr. Forman into custody,” Molloy told the defendant’s attorney, Mark Johnson. “But these are very serious charges. Mr. Forman was in a position of trust.
“If it was anyone besides a police officer, I wouldn’t be taking him into custody today. I wouldn’t.”
Forman broke down in tears and asked again if he could remain free until sentencing.
“Sir, the jury has spoken,” Molloy replied.
Forman was handcuffed and allowed a few minutes to speak privately with his family before being led away.
“Our office wants people to know that we will speak for anyone, no matter who they are,” said Deputy District Attorney Elan Zekster outside the courtroom, following the verdicts.
Johnson said he was “disappointed” by the jury’s findings, but did not believe his client would face the maximum sentence.
“There are a lot of factors in mitigation,” the attorney said, adding that because Forman has no prior criminal history, he could be eligible for probation.
The ex-cop was charged with two counts of forced oral copulation and one count each of felony sexual battery and petty theft for three alleged assaults between February and April 2008.
The 11-year law enforcement veteran, who was fired from the police force shortly after his arrest in October 2008, testified in his own defense, denying all the allegations against him.
He testified last week that he had consensual sex with a woman while he was in uniform but not on duty. However, the woman, identified as Kathryn, testified she performed oral sex on Forman because she felt that was the only way to avoid arrest.
Kathryn said the April 18, 2008, encounter occurred a few hours after Forman and other officers searched her residence in response to a domestic disturbance complaint. According to trial testimony, the officers discovered drug paraphernalia, including bags of methamphetamine and used syringes, as well as evidence of check fraud.
Kathryn testified that she feared being booked for violating her probation, but Forman assured her she would not be taken into custody “as long as you cooperate.” She alleged that the defendant returned to her apartment after his shift and demanded sex.
The jury found him guilty of the offense.
A sometime-prostitute and drug user identified as Tessa testified that in February 2008 Forman gave her a ride to a bus station near Chicago and University avenues and, at the end of the encounter, told her he liked her, then thrust his hand down her pants and kissed her. The woman said she quickly got out of the car.
Forman testified that Tessa had wanted to report a rape but repeatedly drifted “off track” during their 30-minute conversation, failing to provide details about her alleged assailant. He said he gave her a ride to the bus station as a courtesy.
The jury hung 8-4 in favor of guilt, prompting Molloy to declare a mistrial. Zekster would not say whether the D.A.’s office intended to retry Forman on the sexual battery count. He was found guilty of petty theft for taking the victim’s money.
Nadia, a prostitute and admitted cocaine addict, testified that in March 2008, Forman drove her to a secluded location and ordered her to “give me some head.” She said she complied, believing she had no alternative.
According to Forman, his interaction with Nadia was limited to gathering information on drug suppliers, which the jury believed.
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Previous Post: http://whathappenedtoprotectandserve.blogspot.com/2008/10/officer-robert-forman-arrested-for.html
A seven-man, five-woman jury, however, acquitted 39-year-old Robert A. Forman of sexually assaulting another woman and deadlocked on whether he had assaulted a third. The panel announced its findings after two and a half days of deliberations.
Forman, who was also convicted of a misdemeanor petty theft charge, faces up to eight years in prison when he is sentenced Jan. 11 by Riverside County Superior Court Judge John Molloy.
The defendant asked Molloy to permit him to remain out of custody, on $50,000 bail, until the sentencing hearing, but the judge was not inclined.
“The last thing on the planet that I want to do is take Mr. Forman into custody,” Molloy told the defendant’s attorney, Mark Johnson. “But these are very serious charges. Mr. Forman was in a position of trust.
“If it was anyone besides a police officer, I wouldn’t be taking him into custody today. I wouldn’t.”
Forman broke down in tears and asked again if he could remain free until sentencing.
“Sir, the jury has spoken,” Molloy replied.
Forman was handcuffed and allowed a few minutes to speak privately with his family before being led away.
“Our office wants people to know that we will speak for anyone, no matter who they are,” said Deputy District Attorney Elan Zekster outside the courtroom, following the verdicts.
Johnson said he was “disappointed” by the jury’s findings, but did not believe his client would face the maximum sentence.
“There are a lot of factors in mitigation,” the attorney said, adding that because Forman has no prior criminal history, he could be eligible for probation.
The ex-cop was charged with two counts of forced oral copulation and one count each of felony sexual battery and petty theft for three alleged assaults between February and April 2008.
The 11-year law enforcement veteran, who was fired from the police force shortly after his arrest in October 2008, testified in his own defense, denying all the allegations against him.
He testified last week that he had consensual sex with a woman while he was in uniform but not on duty. However, the woman, identified as Kathryn, testified she performed oral sex on Forman because she felt that was the only way to avoid arrest.
Kathryn said the April 18, 2008, encounter occurred a few hours after Forman and other officers searched her residence in response to a domestic disturbance complaint. According to trial testimony, the officers discovered drug paraphernalia, including bags of methamphetamine and used syringes, as well as evidence of check fraud.
Kathryn testified that she feared being booked for violating her probation, but Forman assured her she would not be taken into custody “as long as you cooperate.” She alleged that the defendant returned to her apartment after his shift and demanded sex.
The jury found him guilty of the offense.
A sometime-prostitute and drug user identified as Tessa testified that in February 2008 Forman gave her a ride to a bus station near Chicago and University avenues and, at the end of the encounter, told her he liked her, then thrust his hand down her pants and kissed her. The woman said she quickly got out of the car.
Forman testified that Tessa had wanted to report a rape but repeatedly drifted “off track” during their 30-minute conversation, failing to provide details about her alleged assailant. He said he gave her a ride to the bus station as a courtesy.
The jury hung 8-4 in favor of guilt, prompting Molloy to declare a mistrial. Zekster would not say whether the D.A.’s office intended to retry Forman on the sexual battery count. He was found guilty of petty theft for taking the victim’s money.
Nadia, a prostitute and admitted cocaine addict, testified that in March 2008, Forman drove her to a secluded location and ordered her to “give me some head.” She said she complied, believing she had no alternative.
According to Forman, his interaction with Nadia was limited to gathering information on drug suppliers, which the jury believed.
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Previous Post: http://whathappenedtoprotectandserve.blogspot.com/2008/10/officer-robert-forman-arrested-for.html
Investigation Under Way Against Officer Jesus Cisneros
An investigation is under way after a woman was killed Friday in a collision involving an off-duty Fort Worth police officer in the 3800 block of Columbus Trail, police said.
At about 2:30 a.m. Officer Jesus Cisneros, 37, was driving westbound in an unmarked police vehicle when he collided with Sonia Baker's southbound Chrysler PT Cruiser as she attempted an eastbound turn in front of his vehicle, police said.
The 27-year-old woman died in the crash and Cisneros was transported to John Peter Smith Hospital in serious condition, police said.
Baker, a wife and mother of two boys ages 4 and 5, was on her way to pick up breakfast before heading into work, her family said.
Investigators said alcohol may have been involved on the part of the off-duty officer, but test results have not been returned.
Cisneros has been an officer with the Fort Worth Police Department since September 2001.
"This is a tragic incident and a very, very serious matter. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families," Lt. Paul Henderson said in a statement released Friday.
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http://www.star-telegram.com/local/story/1825458.html
At about 2:30 a.m. Officer Jesus Cisneros, 37, was driving westbound in an unmarked police vehicle when he collided with Sonia Baker's southbound Chrysler PT Cruiser as she attempted an eastbound turn in front of his vehicle, police said.
The 27-year-old woman died in the crash and Cisneros was transported to John Peter Smith Hospital in serious condition, police said.
Baker, a wife and mother of two boys ages 4 and 5, was on her way to pick up breakfast before heading into work, her family said.
Investigators said alcohol may have been involved on the part of the off-duty officer, but test results have not been returned.
Cisneros has been an officer with the Fort Worth Police Department since September 2001.
"This is a tragic incident and a very, very serious matter. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families," Lt. Paul Henderson said in a statement released Friday.
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http://www.star-telegram.com/local/story/1825458.html
Friday, December 11, 2009
Former Detention Officer Denita Shaw Arraigned for Hitting Inmate with Milk Crate
A former Fulton County Sheriff’s detention officer from Smyrna, Ga., was arraigned Friday on civil rights violation charges for allegedly hitting a Fulton County Jail inmate with a milk crate.
Denita Renae Shaw, 41, also was released on non-monetary bond conditions set by the court. She faces up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
“This detention officer was fired and our office is cooperating fully in this prosecution,” Fulton County Sheriff Ted Jackson said in a statement. “We are continuing to work with the FBI to investigate any and all violations within the jail, and anyone with information about any other abuses should contact our office or the FBI.”
On Jan. 26, Shaw, working as a detention officer at the jail, allegedly used excessive force when she struck a handcuffed inmate with a milk crate at the Fulton County Jail. The indictment alleges the assault violated the inmate’s constitutional right not to be deprived of liberty without due process of law.
Shaw was indicted by a federal grand jury on the charge on Dec. 8, 2009.
Denita Renae Shaw, 41, also was released on non-monetary bond conditions set by the court. She faces up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.
“This detention officer was fired and our office is cooperating fully in this prosecution,” Fulton County Sheriff Ted Jackson said in a statement. “We are continuing to work with the FBI to investigate any and all violations within the jail, and anyone with information about any other abuses should contact our office or the FBI.”
On Jan. 26, Shaw, working as a detention officer at the jail, allegedly used excessive force when she struck a handcuffed inmate with a milk crate at the Fulton County Jail. The indictment alleges the assault violated the inmate’s constitutional right not to be deprived of liberty without due process of law.
Shaw was indicted by a federal grand jury on the charge on Dec. 8, 2009.
Sgt Michael Carter Charged with Drunk Driving
An Edison police sergeant has been suspended with pay after he crashed his pick-up truck into a utility pole in Carteret and was charged with drunken-driving, authorities said.
Michael Carter, an 10-year veteran of the Edison force, was driving east on Roosevelt Avenue near Pauline Street at 1:58 a.m.Thursday when his 2002 Ford truck hit a pole, Carteret police Chief John Pieczyski said.
Carter was taken to police headquarters and charged with driving while intoxicated after refusing to take a breath test, Pieczyski said.
Edison police were notified and Carter was released to Edison police Capt. Patrick Kelly, who is Carter's uncle, authorities said.
Carter was suspended with pay Thursday, pending the outcome of the charges and the outcome of an internal investigation ordered by Edison police Chief Thomas Bryan, said Deputy Chief Mark Anderko.
Carter receives a base salary of $101,284, according to township record
Michael Carter, an 10-year veteran of the Edison force, was driving east on Roosevelt Avenue near Pauline Street at 1:58 a.m.Thursday when his 2002 Ford truck hit a pole, Carteret police Chief John Pieczyski said.
Carter was taken to police headquarters and charged with driving while intoxicated after refusing to take a breath test, Pieczyski said.
Edison police were notified and Carter was released to Edison police Capt. Patrick Kelly, who is Carter's uncle, authorities said.
Carter was suspended with pay Thursday, pending the outcome of the charges and the outcome of an internal investigation ordered by Edison police Chief Thomas Bryan, said Deputy Chief Mark Anderko.
Carter receives a base salary of $101,284, according to township record
ICE Officer Richard Cramer Pleads Guilty to Helping Mexican Drug Traffickers
A retired high-ranking U.S. immigration officer pleaded guilty Thursday in a Miami federal court to conspiracy to obstruct justice for helping members of a Mexican drug-trafficking organization evade arrest.
Prosecutors said Richard Cramer, who at one time was in charge of the Nogales office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, supplied smugglers with confidential law-enforcement background checks.
Cramer, 56, of Sahuarita, had originally faced three counts of cocaine smuggling, which were dropped in exchange for his guilty plea.
Felony obstruction carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence, but under the plea deal prosecutors will recommend Cramer, who is in custody in Florida, serve two years when he is sentenced on Feb. 18.
In court Thursday, prosecutors outlined their case against Cramer: In 2006, he was stationed as an attaché in Guadalajara, Mexico.
A Mexican money launderer hiding in Miami needed assurance that he was not being sought by authorities before returning to Mexico.
Drug traffickers reached out to Cramer, who arranged for law-enforcement background checks. Those showed the money launderer was not wanted.
Federal agents later moved in on the traffickers and found they had paper copies of the background checks. Those led agents back to Cramer, who was arrested in September.
The case began with an investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency in Florida.
In the original criminal complaint, DEA agents accused Cramer of working with drug traffickers and investing up to $25,000 of his own money in a shipment of 300 kilograms of cocaine from Panama to Spain that was seized by agents.
Cramer's friends and relatives have remained stalwart in their defense of him, insisting he would never have intentionally broken the law.
Prosecutors said Richard Cramer, who at one time was in charge of the Nogales office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, supplied smugglers with confidential law-enforcement background checks.
Cramer, 56, of Sahuarita, had originally faced three counts of cocaine smuggling, which were dropped in exchange for his guilty plea.
Felony obstruction carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence, but under the plea deal prosecutors will recommend Cramer, who is in custody in Florida, serve two years when he is sentenced on Feb. 18.
In court Thursday, prosecutors outlined their case against Cramer: In 2006, he was stationed as an attaché in Guadalajara, Mexico.
A Mexican money launderer hiding in Miami needed assurance that he was not being sought by authorities before returning to Mexico.
Drug traffickers reached out to Cramer, who arranged for law-enforcement background checks. Those showed the money launderer was not wanted.
Federal agents later moved in on the traffickers and found they had paper copies of the background checks. Those led agents back to Cramer, who was arrested in September.
The case began with an investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency in Florida.
In the original criminal complaint, DEA agents accused Cramer of working with drug traffickers and investing up to $25,000 of his own money in a shipment of 300 kilograms of cocaine from Panama to Spain that was seized by agents.
Cramer's friends and relatives have remained stalwart in their defense of him, insisting he would never have intentionally broken the law.
Truancy Officer Harold Cornish Arrested for Beating Up Student
A Lancaster truancy officer is under arrest after a brawl on campus between him and a student at an alternative school.
The officer has had problems in the past and was even fired from the Dallas Police Department and his current job before.
Harold Cornish, 48, was processed at the Dallas County Jail Friday night. The officer, who also worked at DPD for 18 years, is on paid leave from the Lancaster Independent School District.
Zenas Dixon, 16, walked out of the hospital with an ice pack on his face, covering a cut to his eye. He also had a bruised neck and swelling to his lips from the alleged beating he took from the truancy officer.
"He had me in a choke," Dixon said. "He was holding the back of my head and the other arm was under my neck ... I couldn't even talk."
Dixon said Cornish punched him in the face and slammed his head against the ground following a dispute in the cafeteria at J.D Hall Learning Center. Dixon claimed he was attacked because he ate someone else's food.
"He was strangling me like he wanted to kill me," he said. "... He was like, 'You're going to sleep.' He was like, 'Call your daddy he, can get it too."
"He's lucky I didn't come when my son called me," said Spencer Dixon, Zenas' father. "We would both be in big trouble. I can't believe he did that to my son."
According to Dallas Morning News archives, Cornish has been fired four times from police jobs starting in 1988. Dallas police fired him for alleged sexual comments to a female jail employee. He won his appeal and got his job back and was then fired again in 1989 for insubordination. He won another appeal and was let go again by the DPD in 1998 for a physical altercation.
In 2003, Lancaster ISD hired and fired him. Finally, in 2005, the school district had to hire him again after Cornish won a legal settlement against the the district.
"They should have checked his background more thoroughly to find out why was this person fired three times from the same department," said Sonia Dixon, Zenas' mother. "There's something wrong there."
According to the newspaper archives, Cornish was cleared of all criminal charges stemming from his multiple allegations when he was with the DPD.
The student was at the school on a 30-day suspension.
The officer has had problems in the past and was even fired from the Dallas Police Department and his current job before.
Harold Cornish, 48, was processed at the Dallas County Jail Friday night. The officer, who also worked at DPD for 18 years, is on paid leave from the Lancaster Independent School District.
Zenas Dixon, 16, walked out of the hospital with an ice pack on his face, covering a cut to his eye. He also had a bruised neck and swelling to his lips from the alleged beating he took from the truancy officer.
"He had me in a choke," Dixon said. "He was holding the back of my head and the other arm was under my neck ... I couldn't even talk."
Dixon said Cornish punched him in the face and slammed his head against the ground following a dispute in the cafeteria at J.D Hall Learning Center. Dixon claimed he was attacked because he ate someone else's food.
"He was strangling me like he wanted to kill me," he said. "... He was like, 'You're going to sleep.' He was like, 'Call your daddy he, can get it too."
"He's lucky I didn't come when my son called me," said Spencer Dixon, Zenas' father. "We would both be in big trouble. I can't believe he did that to my son."
According to Dallas Morning News archives, Cornish has been fired four times from police jobs starting in 1988. Dallas police fired him for alleged sexual comments to a female jail employee. He won his appeal and got his job back and was then fired again in 1989 for insubordination. He won another appeal and was let go again by the DPD in 1998 for a physical altercation.
In 2003, Lancaster ISD hired and fired him. Finally, in 2005, the school district had to hire him again after Cornish won a legal settlement against the the district.
"They should have checked his background more thoroughly to find out why was this person fired three times from the same department," said Sonia Dixon, Zenas' mother. "There's something wrong there."
According to the newspaper archives, Cornish was cleared of all criminal charges stemming from his multiple allegations when he was with the DPD.
The student was at the school on a 30-day suspension.
Deputy Timothy Shaw Arrested for DUI Crash
A Collier County deputy was arrested Wednesday morning after Florida Highway Patrol officials say he crashed his SUV while driving drunk.
According to FHP reports, a trooper responded to a single-vehicle accident near Davis and Falling Waters boulevards shortly after midnight Wednesday.
In the report, the trooper said he was met by Collier County Sheriff's Deputy Timothy Shaw. Shaw identified the driver of the red Nissan SUV as Jose A. Lopez, 41, a deputy with the Sheriff's Office. Shaw told the trooper that Lopez was possibly under the influence.
After finishing at the scene of the accident, the trooper continued the investigation at NCH Downtown Naples Hospital, where Lopez was transported for treatment, reports said.
During an interview, the trooper noticed that Lopez's breath had a strong alcohol smell, his face was flush and his eyes were bloodshot, glassy and watery, according to the report.
He later refused to take a blood test and asked for a lawyer.
Lopez was arrested, charged with DUI and DUI property damage.
Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Karie Partington said Lopez has been assigned to administrative duty pending the outcome of his case.
When reached by phone, Lopez declined to comment.
According to FHP reports, a trooper responded to a single-vehicle accident near Davis and Falling Waters boulevards shortly after midnight Wednesday.
In the report, the trooper said he was met by Collier County Sheriff's Deputy Timothy Shaw. Shaw identified the driver of the red Nissan SUV as Jose A. Lopez, 41, a deputy with the Sheriff's Office. Shaw told the trooper that Lopez was possibly under the influence.
After finishing at the scene of the accident, the trooper continued the investigation at NCH Downtown Naples Hospital, where Lopez was transported for treatment, reports said.
During an interview, the trooper noticed that Lopez's breath had a strong alcohol smell, his face was flush and his eyes were bloodshot, glassy and watery, according to the report.
He later refused to take a blood test and asked for a lawyer.
Lopez was arrested, charged with DUI and DUI property damage.
Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Karie Partington said Lopez has been assigned to administrative duty pending the outcome of his case.
When reached by phone, Lopez declined to comment.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Detective Janet Hawkins Charged with Resisting Arrest
Veteran Daytona Beach police detective Janet Laverne Hawkins was formally charged with resisting arrest with violence — a felony — after allegedly scuffling with Holly Hill officers during a traffic stop.
A law-enforcement official from Daytona Beach was formally charged with a felony after being arrested in September, a newspaper is reporting.
Daytona Beach Police detective Janet Laverne Hawkins was formally charged with resisting arrest with violence — a felony — after allegedly scuffling with Holly Hill officers during a traffic stop, according to the Daytona Beach News-Journal.She will likely lose her job, the newspaper said.
Officer Ronald Cuen Charged with Drunk Driving
A veteran Calexico police officer faces a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence of alcohol after pulling into the police station in the company of his wife and 11-year-son with a blood-alcohol level of .23, Calexico Police Chief Jim Neujahr said Wednesday.
Officer Ronald Cuen, a 17-year member of the Calexico Police Department who already had been placed on paid administrative leave four weeks ago, was cited and released Dec. 1 for the DUI offense as his wife was available to drive him home safely, Neujahr said.
Cuen’s blood-alcohol level was nearly three times over the legal limit, which is .08, California Highway Patrol Officer Pablo Torrez said.
Imperial County Assistant District Attorney Joe Beard said that as a courtesy he’ll inform Neujahr that charges will be filed against Cuen.
Cuen had a prior DUI-related arrest 14 years ago in Imperial County but that he did not know what measures, if any, were taken to deal with Cuen, Neujahr said. Calexico Police Department is the only law enforcement agency for which Cuen has worked.
Questions about the arrest were referred to Neujahr who said Cuen pulled into the parking lot of the Calexico police station to use the restroom. Neujahr said he did not know why Cuen’s wife did not drive the vehicle they traveled in.
It was not known where Cuen was coming from when he arrived at the police station, but he was not involved in any DUI-related traffic accidents at the time of the latest arrest, Neujahr said.
Citing personnel issues, Neujahr declined to say why Cuen had been placed on administrative leave but said he’ll remain on it pending the outcome of his current case.
Asked why Cuen was not booked into county jail, Neujahr said all police departments generally release people suspected of misdemeanor DUI driving if there is someone available to drive them home safely. Torrez confirmed the policy is standard practice.
A report of the Dec. 1 incident has been sent to the Imperial County District Attorney’s Office for review and Cuen is expected to appear in court for this matter, Neujahr said.
Cuen’s arrest is the latest in a series of situations, or incidents, involving members of the Calexico Police Department.
In October, a five-year Calexico police officer and his wife were arrested on suspicion of allegedly beating up the officer’s former girlfriend. The officer, Juan Garcia, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of his case.
Also in October, an officer and a sergeant angrily claimed during a City Council meeting that Neujahr and other high-ranking Calexico police officers were “out of control” and failed to do their part in reducing crime.
Calexico police Sgt. Shaun Sundahl, who was on temporary disability for a knee injury he received while on duty, was one of the two officers who spoke out. He was fired last month, a dismissal for which Neujahr and city officials declined to discuss the specifics.
While he said it was not up to him to comment on another police department, Imperial Police Chief Miguel Colon, who chairs the Imperial Valley Police Chiefs Association, said law enforcement’s reputation suffers anytime an officer runs afoul of the law.
“Any time a peace officer gets arrested it reflects negatively on the profession to some extent,” Colon said.
Cuen will not receive any preferential treatment and matters involving anyone suspected of breaking the law will be handled fairly, Neujahr said.
“We have the highest ethical standards,” Neujahr said. “There’s no officer who is above the law, and we’re going to enforce the law equally.”
Officer Ronald Cuen, a 17-year member of the Calexico Police Department who already had been placed on paid administrative leave four weeks ago, was cited and released Dec. 1 for the DUI offense as his wife was available to drive him home safely, Neujahr said.
Cuen’s blood-alcohol level was nearly three times over the legal limit, which is .08, California Highway Patrol Officer Pablo Torrez said.
Imperial County Assistant District Attorney Joe Beard said that as a courtesy he’ll inform Neujahr that charges will be filed against Cuen.
Cuen had a prior DUI-related arrest 14 years ago in Imperial County but that he did not know what measures, if any, were taken to deal with Cuen, Neujahr said. Calexico Police Department is the only law enforcement agency for which Cuen has worked.
Questions about the arrest were referred to Neujahr who said Cuen pulled into the parking lot of the Calexico police station to use the restroom. Neujahr said he did not know why Cuen’s wife did not drive the vehicle they traveled in.
It was not known where Cuen was coming from when he arrived at the police station, but he was not involved in any DUI-related traffic accidents at the time of the latest arrest, Neujahr said.
Citing personnel issues, Neujahr declined to say why Cuen had been placed on administrative leave but said he’ll remain on it pending the outcome of his current case.
Asked why Cuen was not booked into county jail, Neujahr said all police departments generally release people suspected of misdemeanor DUI driving if there is someone available to drive them home safely. Torrez confirmed the policy is standard practice.
A report of the Dec. 1 incident has been sent to the Imperial County District Attorney’s Office for review and Cuen is expected to appear in court for this matter, Neujahr said.
Cuen’s arrest is the latest in a series of situations, or incidents, involving members of the Calexico Police Department.
In October, a five-year Calexico police officer and his wife were arrested on suspicion of allegedly beating up the officer’s former girlfriend. The officer, Juan Garcia, has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of his case.
Also in October, an officer and a sergeant angrily claimed during a City Council meeting that Neujahr and other high-ranking Calexico police officers were “out of control” and failed to do their part in reducing crime.
Calexico police Sgt. Shaun Sundahl, who was on temporary disability for a knee injury he received while on duty, was one of the two officers who spoke out. He was fired last month, a dismissal for which Neujahr and city officials declined to discuss the specifics.
While he said it was not up to him to comment on another police department, Imperial Police Chief Miguel Colon, who chairs the Imperial Valley Police Chiefs Association, said law enforcement’s reputation suffers anytime an officer runs afoul of the law.
“Any time a peace officer gets arrested it reflects negatively on the profession to some extent,” Colon said.
Cuen will not receive any preferential treatment and matters involving anyone suspected of breaking the law will be handled fairly, Neujahr said.
“We have the highest ethical standards,” Neujahr said. “There’s no officer who is above the law, and we’re going to enforce the law equally.”
Three Connecticut Officers Arrested
Three police officers in three Connecticut towns were arrested Wednesday and Thursday.
Police said officers from Naugatuck, Middletown and Hartford were all arrested and were not connected.
Hartford police Officer Rhashim Campbell was arrested on Thursday after an internal investigation into an assault in the city lockup.
Police said Campbell was arrested on Thursday.
Campbell was charged with assault and fabricating physical evidence.
Police said Campbell was released on a promise to appear.
In addition to the criminal charges, Campbell also faces administrative charges, according to police.
Campbell is suspended without pay from the Hartford Police Department.
Hartford Police Chief Daryl K. Roberts said, "We take the care of persons in our custody very seriously. The inappropriate acts of these officers are not representative of the dedicated and professional officers of the Hartford Police Department. The Hartford Police Department will continue to serve our community with the highest professional standards, always focusing on service, relationships and safety."
A New York man who said Hartford police assaulted him while he was in the city lockup stood before a judge on Thursday.
Michael Stewart appeared in court on his breach of peace arrest that occurred the morning after Halloween.
Peter Oldum, Stewart's attorney did all the talking.
The Long Island man was charged in connection with an arrest in the early morning the day after Halloween. Hartford police reports said Stewart had to be pepper sprayed twice.
It's what happened after Stewart's arrest, in the city lockup, that has generated the most attention.
Officers Kent Lee and Rhashim Campbell were suspended with pay after a confrontation between them and Stewart was caught on the city lockup's surveillance cameras.
In court on Thursday, Oldum asked the judge to make sure that the recording is preserved.
Judge Glen Woods granted the request.
Lee has since retired since the incident took place.
In Middletown, police Officer Angelo Passanisi surrendered to Capt. William McKenna at the Middletown Police Department.
Police said Passanisi was charged with insurance fraud, fabricating evidence and falsely reporting an incident.
Officials said the arrest followed a lengthy investigation conducted by McKenna.
In September, Passanisi filed a police report with the Middletown Police Department in which he reported that his parked car had been struck by another vehicle that then fled the scene.
In October, after receiving information that Passanisi crashed the vehicle himself and staged an accident scene to make it appear that the accident was a hit-and-run, he was placed on administrative leave.
After his arrest, Passanisi was processed and released on a $2,500 non-surety bond and was scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 23.
In Naugatuck, Officer David Reilly was arrested by Wallingford police and is facing felony charges involving larceny and computer crimes.
Police said they received a complaint from a resident in April.
Police would not elaborate on the actual crime but Wallingford police said Reilly was charged with larceny, computer crimes and coercion.
Police said officers from Naugatuck, Middletown and Hartford were all arrested and were not connected.
Hartford police Officer Rhashim Campbell was arrested on Thursday after an internal investigation into an assault in the city lockup.
Police said Campbell was arrested on Thursday.
Campbell was charged with assault and fabricating physical evidence.
Police said Campbell was released on a promise to appear.
In addition to the criminal charges, Campbell also faces administrative charges, according to police.
Campbell is suspended without pay from the Hartford Police Department.
Hartford Police Chief Daryl K. Roberts said, "We take the care of persons in our custody very seriously. The inappropriate acts of these officers are not representative of the dedicated and professional officers of the Hartford Police Department. The Hartford Police Department will continue to serve our community with the highest professional standards, always focusing on service, relationships and safety."
A New York man who said Hartford police assaulted him while he was in the city lockup stood before a judge on Thursday.
Michael Stewart appeared in court on his breach of peace arrest that occurred the morning after Halloween.
Peter Oldum, Stewart's attorney did all the talking.
The Long Island man was charged in connection with an arrest in the early morning the day after Halloween. Hartford police reports said Stewart had to be pepper sprayed twice.
It's what happened after Stewart's arrest, in the city lockup, that has generated the most attention.
Officers Kent Lee and Rhashim Campbell were suspended with pay after a confrontation between them and Stewart was caught on the city lockup's surveillance cameras.
In court on Thursday, Oldum asked the judge to make sure that the recording is preserved.
Judge Glen Woods granted the request.
Lee has since retired since the incident took place.
In Middletown, police Officer Angelo Passanisi surrendered to Capt. William McKenna at the Middletown Police Department.
Police said Passanisi was charged with insurance fraud, fabricating evidence and falsely reporting an incident.
Officials said the arrest followed a lengthy investigation conducted by McKenna.
In September, Passanisi filed a police report with the Middletown Police Department in which he reported that his parked car had been struck by another vehicle that then fled the scene.
In October, after receiving information that Passanisi crashed the vehicle himself and staged an accident scene to make it appear that the accident was a hit-and-run, he was placed on administrative leave.
After his arrest, Passanisi was processed and released on a $2,500 non-surety bond and was scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 23.
In Naugatuck, Officer David Reilly was arrested by Wallingford police and is facing felony charges involving larceny and computer crimes.
Police said they received a complaint from a resident in April.
Police would not elaborate on the actual crime but Wallingford police said Reilly was charged with larceny, computer crimes and coercion.
Officer John Douglas Accused of Brutally Beating Teen
A Rhode Island police officer was arrested Thursday, accused of brutally beating a teenage boy and then encouraging fellow officers to lie about it to the FBI.
Woonsocket police Officer John H. Douglas pleaded not guilty in federal court to charges of violating a person’s civil rights and obstruction of justice. He was released on $10,000 unsecured bond.
He did not speak during his brief arraignment. But his lawyer defended him afterward, saying he was “a model policeman.“
In September, the FBI launched an investigation after the 16-year-old boy appeared in state juvenile court severely injured and said several police officers beat him up.
Chief Family Court Judge Jeremiah S. Jeremiah said at the time that the boy had a boot mark on his back and that one of his eyes was swollen shut. The boy’s lawyer, Robert Laren, said the boy suffered a broken eye socket, was shot by a stun gun and had been badly beaten in the police station.
“It shouldn’t have happened. I’m upset that it happened,“ Jeremiah told The Associated Press on Thursday.
The indictment, handed down Wednesday, said Douglas punched and struck a 16-year-old juvenile Sept. 15. It did not go into other detail, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office would not say if other officers would be indicted. The two counts together carry a maximum 30-year sentence.
The boy has not been identified because he is a juvenile.
Cliff Montiero, the Providence NAACP president who had called for the FBI investigation, said he was pleased with the charges and hoped other officers who may have been involved would be held accountable.
“If one person was charged, it’s better than what we’ve gotten historically” in other cases of alleged police abuse, Montiero said. “I’m happy that we have one, this is unusual - that a police officer is being charged by doing something that’s disrespectful to the uniform that he wears.“
Douglas, 34, of Blackstone, Mass., has been with the Woonsocket police department for five years and spent four years in the Marine Corps before being honorably discharged, his lawyer Peter DiBiase said.
“Excellent family man, excellent husband. I think that speaks for his version of facts,“ DiBiase told NBC 10.
Douglas remains on unpaid administrative leave, where he was placed after the allegations were made, said Woonsocket police spokesman Detective Lt. Eugene Jalette.
Jalette previously said the boy was acting suspiciously when the police stopped him. An officer recognized the boy as having escaped from a probation program. When officers tried to arrest him, the teenager threw one of them to the ground, splitting the officer’s lip, Jalette said in September.
He said there was a foot chase and a struggle, then the boy was taken to a hospital for injuries that officers described as minor. Afterward, the boy was taken to the police station and then turned over to the custody of the state agency that runs the probation program.
Montiero and Laren said the boy told them he was beaten by several officers during the arrest and then twice more at the police station.
The boy is black and Douglas is white. Montiero, a former Providence police officer, said he did not know if race played a role in the alleged beating, but said blacks historically have not been treated well by police in the state.
Woonsocket police Officer John H. Douglas pleaded not guilty in federal court to charges of violating a person’s civil rights and obstruction of justice. He was released on $10,000 unsecured bond.
He did not speak during his brief arraignment. But his lawyer defended him afterward, saying he was “a model policeman.“
In September, the FBI launched an investigation after the 16-year-old boy appeared in state juvenile court severely injured and said several police officers beat him up.
Chief Family Court Judge Jeremiah S. Jeremiah said at the time that the boy had a boot mark on his back and that one of his eyes was swollen shut. The boy’s lawyer, Robert Laren, said the boy suffered a broken eye socket, was shot by a stun gun and had been badly beaten in the police station.
“It shouldn’t have happened. I’m upset that it happened,“ Jeremiah told The Associated Press on Thursday.
The indictment, handed down Wednesday, said Douglas punched and struck a 16-year-old juvenile Sept. 15. It did not go into other detail, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office would not say if other officers would be indicted. The two counts together carry a maximum 30-year sentence.
The boy has not been identified because he is a juvenile.
Cliff Montiero, the Providence NAACP president who had called for the FBI investigation, said he was pleased with the charges and hoped other officers who may have been involved would be held accountable.
“If one person was charged, it’s better than what we’ve gotten historically” in other cases of alleged police abuse, Montiero said. “I’m happy that we have one, this is unusual - that a police officer is being charged by doing something that’s disrespectful to the uniform that he wears.“
Douglas, 34, of Blackstone, Mass., has been with the Woonsocket police department for five years and spent four years in the Marine Corps before being honorably discharged, his lawyer Peter DiBiase said.
“Excellent family man, excellent husband. I think that speaks for his version of facts,“ DiBiase told NBC 10.
Douglas remains on unpaid administrative leave, where he was placed after the allegations were made, said Woonsocket police spokesman Detective Lt. Eugene Jalette.
Jalette previously said the boy was acting suspiciously when the police stopped him. An officer recognized the boy as having escaped from a probation program. When officers tried to arrest him, the teenager threw one of them to the ground, splitting the officer’s lip, Jalette said in September.
He said there was a foot chase and a struggle, then the boy was taken to a hospital for injuries that officers described as minor. Afterward, the boy was taken to the police station and then turned over to the custody of the state agency that runs the probation program.
Montiero and Laren said the boy told them he was beaten by several officers during the arrest and then twice more at the police station.
The boy is black and Douglas is white. Montiero, a former Providence police officer, said he did not know if race played a role in the alleged beating, but said blacks historically have not been treated well by police in the state.
Deputy Eric Mayo Charged with Patronizing a Prostitute
A Monroe County reserve deputy who also worked for the Indiana University Police Department is now suspended after Bloomington Police say he patronized a prostitute.
A court document states that 30-year-old Eric Mayo must appear in court January 6 for the charge of patronizing a prostitute. The case was filed in court last week even though the document states Mayo was served the summons last month.
Bloomington Police would only say that they were investigating a report of a 19-year-old woman who claimed that a man, who said he was a photographer, offered her five dollars and a pack of cigarettes in exchange for sexual favors.
Police worked with the woman to set up a meeting with the photographer at a Big Lots store parking lot in Bloomington. Bloomington Police said that's when Eric Mayo showed up. Police said Mayo again asked for "the same deal" -- money and cigarettes for a sexual favor. That's when police served Mayo the summons to appear in court for the preliminary charge of patronizing a prostitute.
Mayo lives less than a block away from the Big Lots. He did not answer his door Tuesday but he did tell Lieutenant Craig Munroe at the IU Police Department about his court summons.
Mayo has worked for IU Police as a dispatcher and police officer for five years.
Lt. Munroe said, "(Mayo) called me up Friday and advised me of the charges had been filed against him. And so I was notified by Mr. Mayo."
Mayo is suspended with pay. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department also suspended Mayo. Both agencies said his employment status depends on the outcome of the case.
A court document states that 30-year-old Eric Mayo must appear in court January 6 for the charge of patronizing a prostitute. The case was filed in court last week even though the document states Mayo was served the summons last month.
Bloomington Police would only say that they were investigating a report of a 19-year-old woman who claimed that a man, who said he was a photographer, offered her five dollars and a pack of cigarettes in exchange for sexual favors.
Police worked with the woman to set up a meeting with the photographer at a Big Lots store parking lot in Bloomington. Bloomington Police said that's when Eric Mayo showed up. Police said Mayo again asked for "the same deal" -- money and cigarettes for a sexual favor. That's when police served Mayo the summons to appear in court for the preliminary charge of patronizing a prostitute.
Mayo lives less than a block away from the Big Lots. He did not answer his door Tuesday but he did tell Lieutenant Craig Munroe at the IU Police Department about his court summons.
Mayo has worked for IU Police as a dispatcher and police officer for five years.
Lt. Munroe said, "(Mayo) called me up Friday and advised me of the charges had been filed against him. And so I was notified by Mr. Mayo."
Mayo is suspended with pay. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department also suspended Mayo. Both agencies said his employment status depends on the outcome of the case.
Former Officer Troy Gee Sr Receives Suspended Sentence for Child Sexual Abuse
A former Baltimore police officer received a five-year suspended sentence this week and was ordered to refrain from unsupervised contact with children after pleading guilty in September to second-degree assault.
Troy Jaquan Gee Sr., 34, had been charged in Baltimore Circuit Court with child sexual abuse for allegedly fondling a 13-year-old relative in March 2008. The girl reported the incident to police, and Gee was suspended without pay from the Police Department upon his arrest.
He has since resigned.
Troy Jaquan Gee Sr., 34, had been charged in Baltimore Circuit Court with child sexual abuse for allegedly fondling a 13-year-old relative in March 2008. The girl reported the incident to police, and Gee was suspended without pay from the Police Department upon his arrest.
He has since resigned.
FBI Officer Charles Homemma Found Guilty of Watching Girls in Dressing Room
After a daylong bench trial Marion County Magistrate Hank Middlemas found FBI Police Officer Charles Homemma, of Buckhannon guilty of invasion of privacy and not guilty of conspiracy.
Middlemas sentenced Hommema to six months in prison, then suspended that sentence and placed Hommema on a year of probation.
Hommema will also have to pay a $250 fine plus arrest fees and court costs.
Hommema and another officer, Gary Sutton Jr., of New Milton, were arrested in April for using a security camera to watch girls in a dressing room, during the Cinderella Project event held at the Middletown Mall on April 4.
Between 9:34 a.m. and 11 a.m. they pointed the FBI security cameras used in the mall at one of five makeshift dressing rooms set up for the event, court documents say, and caught one of the young women topless.
Sutton pleaded guilty to conspiracy on Nov. 3, and was sentenced to six months on probation.
The Marion County Sheriff's Department arrested the men.
The FBI declined to comment on either man's employment status.
"I spoke to our attorneys and was advised that, until we get the official documentation from the court, we are precluded, by Department of Justice guidelines, from making any comment," said Stephen Fischer
However, an FBI Agent testified during the trial that Sutton resigned his position and Hommema has had his clearance pulled.
Middlemas sentenced Hommema to six months in prison, then suspended that sentence and placed Hommema on a year of probation.
Hommema will also have to pay a $250 fine plus arrest fees and court costs.
Hommema and another officer, Gary Sutton Jr., of New Milton, were arrested in April for using a security camera to watch girls in a dressing room, during the Cinderella Project event held at the Middletown Mall on April 4.
Between 9:34 a.m. and 11 a.m. they pointed the FBI security cameras used in the mall at one of five makeshift dressing rooms set up for the event, court documents say, and caught one of the young women topless.
Sutton pleaded guilty to conspiracy on Nov. 3, and was sentenced to six months on probation.
The Marion County Sheriff's Department arrested the men.
The FBI declined to comment on either man's employment status.
"I spoke to our attorneys and was advised that, until we get the official documentation from the court, we are precluded, by Department of Justice guidelines, from making any comment," said Stephen Fischer
However, an FBI Agent testified during the trial that Sutton resigned his position and Hommema has had his clearance pulled.
Officer John Douglas Accused of Beating 16-year-old
A Rhode Island police officer, accused of beating a 16-year-old boy, then encouraging fellow officers to lie about it to the FBI, maintains his innocence.
Woonsocket Officer John H. Douglas pleaded not guilty Thursday in Providence to charges of violating a person's civil rights and obstruction of justice.
The charges stem from an FBI investigation launched in September after the 16-year-old boy appeared in a juvenile court severely injured and said several police officers beat him up. The judge in that case said one of the teenager's eyes was swollen shut.
Woonsocket police say the boy was wanted for escape from a probation program and he suffered minor injuries during a struggle with arresting officers.
Woonsocket Officer John H. Douglas pleaded not guilty Thursday in Providence to charges of violating a person's civil rights and obstruction of justice.
The charges stem from an FBI investigation launched in September after the 16-year-old boy appeared in a juvenile court severely injured and said several police officers beat him up. The judge in that case said one of the teenager's eyes was swollen shut.
Woonsocket police say the boy was wanted for escape from a probation program and he suffered minor injuries during a struggle with arresting officers.
Former Officer Raymond Ramos is Subject of Lawsuit
A fired San Antonio police officer awaiting trial on the allegation he raped a woman while on duty is now the subject of a civil lawsuit.
The suit — which also names the city, the San Antonio Police Department and Chief William McManus — seeks compensation for emotional anguish, medical expenses and pain and suffering resulting from the alleged rape that then-Officer Raymond Ramos is charged with committing Nov. 11, 2007.
Ramos, 30, faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty. He is currently free on bail and is set to appear in court in January.
Ramos was arrested in December 2007 after an internal investigation was launched when a woman, 30, complained she was raped when the officer stopped her as she was walking along Somerset Road near Pitluck Avenue.
Upon dumping the contents of the woman's purse onto the hood of his patrol car, Ramos found cocaine, heroin and syringes, the woman said. She said he then took her to Golden Park and had her use some of the drugs to calm down before raping her, then let her go, according to court documents.
“The facts of this case are just horrendous,” attorney Neil Calfas said. “It's just an egregious case.”
The lawsuit alleges the city also is liable because the officer should have been better trained and supervised. A Police Department spokesperson deferred comment to the city attorney's office.
Winning such a lawsuit against a city is generally difficult unless the plaintiff can prove the actions were part of a custom or policy, City Attorney Michael Bernard said. That certainly wasn't the case here, he said.
“Obviously, we take immediate action when these types of things are brought forward,” Bernard said. “Any criminal act like that is beyond the scope of an officer.”
The suit was initially filed in state district court, but last week attorneys for the city filed documents in federal court asking that it be transferred there.
The suit — which also names the city, the San Antonio Police Department and Chief William McManus — seeks compensation for emotional anguish, medical expenses and pain and suffering resulting from the alleged rape that then-Officer Raymond Ramos is charged with committing Nov. 11, 2007.
Ramos, 30, faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty. He is currently free on bail and is set to appear in court in January.
Ramos was arrested in December 2007 after an internal investigation was launched when a woman, 30, complained she was raped when the officer stopped her as she was walking along Somerset Road near Pitluck Avenue.
Upon dumping the contents of the woman's purse onto the hood of his patrol car, Ramos found cocaine, heroin and syringes, the woman said. She said he then took her to Golden Park and had her use some of the drugs to calm down before raping her, then let her go, according to court documents.
“The facts of this case are just horrendous,” attorney Neil Calfas said. “It's just an egregious case.”
The lawsuit alleges the city also is liable because the officer should have been better trained and supervised. A Police Department spokesperson deferred comment to the city attorney's office.
Winning such a lawsuit against a city is generally difficult unless the plaintiff can prove the actions were part of a custom or policy, City Attorney Michael Bernard said. That certainly wasn't the case here, he said.
“Obviously, we take immediate action when these types of things are brought forward,” Bernard said. “Any criminal act like that is beyond the scope of an officer.”
The suit was initially filed in state district court, but last week attorneys for the city filed documents in federal court asking that it be transferred there.
Three Officers Indicted for Malfeasance in Office
Two former and one current Eunice police officers have been indicted for malfeasance in office in connection with charges of police brutality.
A St. Landry Parish Grand Jury this week indicted former Eunice Police Officer Micah Arceneaux on four counts of malfeasance in office.
Arceneaux had resigned from the Eunice force earlier this year after being placed on administrative leave pending the results of a State Police investigation into the police brutality charges.
Also indicted were current officer Jeremy Ivory and former officer and now St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Billy McCauley Jr., who were each charged with one count of malfeasance in office.
Jimmy Darbonne with the Sheriff’s office said McCauley has been placed on unpaid leave.
Eunice Police Chief Gary Fontenot declined to comment on the status of officer Ivory.
Warrants have been issued for the arrest of all three men.
The indictments do not mean the men are guilty. The true bills returned by the grand jury late Tuesday instead mean the jurors found there is sufficient evidence to bring the cases to trial where the question of guilt or innocence will be decided.
If found guilty, the men face up to five years imprisonment on each charge.
A St. Landry Parish Grand Jury this week indicted former Eunice Police Officer Micah Arceneaux on four counts of malfeasance in office.
Arceneaux had resigned from the Eunice force earlier this year after being placed on administrative leave pending the results of a State Police investigation into the police brutality charges.
Also indicted were current officer Jeremy Ivory and former officer and now St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Billy McCauley Jr., who were each charged with one count of malfeasance in office.
Jimmy Darbonne with the Sheriff’s office said McCauley has been placed on unpaid leave.
Eunice Police Chief Gary Fontenot declined to comment on the status of officer Ivory.
Warrants have been issued for the arrest of all three men.
The indictments do not mean the men are guilty. The true bills returned by the grand jury late Tuesday instead mean the jurors found there is sufficient evidence to bring the cases to trial where the question of guilt or innocence will be decided.
If found guilty, the men face up to five years imprisonment on each charge.
Judge Gary Donahoe Charged with Bribery
The Maricopa County judge who sent a detention officer to jail recently could end up in jail himself thanks to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday.
Superior Court Judge Gary Donahoe has been charged with a number of crimes, including bribery and obstructing a criminal investigation.
County Attorney Andrew Thomas insisted the charges against Donohoe are about justice and putting an end to corruption; they have nothing to do with any issues his office has had with the judge.
"We cannot allow the precedent to be set that if you are a powerful politician and have powerful friends in court you can avoid prosecution or investigation for crimes," Thomas said.
Thomas and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio held a joint news conference Wednesday to explain the charges against the judge.
They allege that Donahoe participated in a scheme to hinder an investigation into possible criminal conduct by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and to block an investigation into the judge himself.
The charges center on Donahoe's role in the new court tower under construction in downtown Phoenix and whether the judge received any benefits from the project.
The judge is also accused of failing to disclose an attorney-client relationship with two lawyers involved in the court tower's construction.
"I've worked corruption around the world and never seen this type of situation," Arpaio said. "It gets worse and worse as time goes on."
The sheriff and the county attorney said the charges against the judge have nothing to do with Donahoe holding a sheriff's detention officer in contempt and putting him in jail for looking through a defense attorney's papers.
They also insisted that the Sheriff's Office's dispute with Donahoe over transportation of prisoners is unrelated.
"The issues with transportation and the deputy incarcerated had nothing to do with it, other than the fact that it is simply interesting that the pattern of outrageous conduct by the judge involves these other matters," Thomas said.
CBS 5 News contacted Donahoe's office to get reaction to the criminal complaint, but the judge had no comment.
A preliminary hearing has been set for Jan. 11.
Superior Court Judge Gary Donahoe has been charged with a number of crimes, including bribery and obstructing a criminal investigation.
County Attorney Andrew Thomas insisted the charges against Donohoe are about justice and putting an end to corruption; they have nothing to do with any issues his office has had with the judge.
"We cannot allow the precedent to be set that if you are a powerful politician and have powerful friends in court you can avoid prosecution or investigation for crimes," Thomas said.
Thomas and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio held a joint news conference Wednesday to explain the charges against the judge.
They allege that Donahoe participated in a scheme to hinder an investigation into possible criminal conduct by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and to block an investigation into the judge himself.
The charges center on Donahoe's role in the new court tower under construction in downtown Phoenix and whether the judge received any benefits from the project.
The judge is also accused of failing to disclose an attorney-client relationship with two lawyers involved in the court tower's construction.
"I've worked corruption around the world and never seen this type of situation," Arpaio said. "It gets worse and worse as time goes on."
The sheriff and the county attorney said the charges against the judge have nothing to do with Donahoe holding a sheriff's detention officer in contempt and putting him in jail for looking through a defense attorney's papers.
They also insisted that the Sheriff's Office's dispute with Donahoe over transportation of prisoners is unrelated.
"The issues with transportation and the deputy incarcerated had nothing to do with it, other than the fact that it is simply interesting that the pattern of outrageous conduct by the judge involves these other matters," Thomas said.
CBS 5 News contacted Donahoe's office to get reaction to the criminal complaint, but the judge had no comment.
A preliminary hearing has been set for Jan. 11.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Teen Says Officer Dustin Cox Assaulted Him
A school resource officer in Rutherford County who helps keep at-risk youth on the right track is accused of assaulting one of the troubled teens.
The alleged assault happened at Central Middle School over the weekend at Rutherford County Operation Integrity boot camp, where the 14-year-old boy was one of 15 juveniles taking part.
The teen claims school resource Officer Dustin Cox pushed him Saturday, causing him to fall on the ground and land on his elbows. He also alleges Cox dragged him by his pants down the hallway of the school.
Murfreesboro police were called to Middle Tennessee Medical Center on Sunday by the boy's mother and stepfather. That’s where the assault allegations were made. Pictures were taken of the boy's knees and elbows.
The teen said there were several people present but they were standing with their noses touching lockers and he isn’t sure if anyone saw what happened.
Cox serves at Smyrna High School and remains on duty pending investigation results.
This is the first time since Operation Integrity started five years ago that someone has made an allegation against a deputy. According to Rutherford County officials, more than 200 at-risk young people have completed the program. It is an intervention program targeting teens that have behavioral problems at school and or at home or have shown signs of drug use.
The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office made a request to the district attorney’s office to ask the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to conduct an investigation. It will be up to TBI to help decide if the allegations against the officer are true or not.
Operation Integrity’s boot camp is held one Saturday a month for 12 hours.
There are follow-up sessions the youths also have to complete.
Parents or guardians also must attend a mandatory parent component session.
The alleged assault happened at Central Middle School over the weekend at Rutherford County Operation Integrity boot camp, where the 14-year-old boy was one of 15 juveniles taking part.
The teen claims school resource Officer Dustin Cox pushed him Saturday, causing him to fall on the ground and land on his elbows. He also alleges Cox dragged him by his pants down the hallway of the school.
Murfreesboro police were called to Middle Tennessee Medical Center on Sunday by the boy's mother and stepfather. That’s where the assault allegations were made. Pictures were taken of the boy's knees and elbows.
The teen said there were several people present but they were standing with their noses touching lockers and he isn’t sure if anyone saw what happened.
Cox serves at Smyrna High School and remains on duty pending investigation results.
This is the first time since Operation Integrity started five years ago that someone has made an allegation against a deputy. According to Rutherford County officials, more than 200 at-risk young people have completed the program. It is an intervention program targeting teens that have behavioral problems at school and or at home or have shown signs of drug use.
The Rutherford County Sheriff's Office made a request to the district attorney’s office to ask the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to conduct an investigation. It will be up to TBI to help decide if the allegations against the officer are true or not.
Operation Integrity’s boot camp is held one Saturday a month for 12 hours.
There are follow-up sessions the youths also have to complete.
Parents or guardians also must attend a mandatory parent component session.
Officer Adrian Makuch Charged with Soliciting Minor
A veteran police officer is free on bail after being charged with soliciting sex from minors.
Officer Adrian Makuch, 49, a crime scene investigator, is accused of making contact with a 15-year-old boy in the Northeast last summer and trying to lure him into his vehicle. The boy refused, but allegedly saw the officer several more times and filed a complaint last December.
Police then launched a sting operation, including coordination with other agencies and surveillance of Makuch, which revealed an “alarming and disturbing pattern,” according to Internal Affairs Chief Inspector Anthony DiLacqua.
DiLacqua said that Makuch, a 21-year veteran, also made contact with an undercover officer who he thought was a 17-year-old. He allegedly exchanged text messages and solicited the officer for sex.
Police said they are unsure how Makuch found the 15-year-old, and that he may have had contact with other minors.
“I don’t know of a relationship between Makuch and the 15-year-old, other than Makuch soliciting him,” DiLacqua said.
Makuch had a preliminary hearing yesterday and bail was set at $20,000. He posted 10 percent bail and was released, but has been suspended for 30 days with the intent to dismiss.
Makuch could not be reached for comment.
Officer Kenneth Aragon Drinking Before Accident
A Los Angeles police officer killed in a motorcycle accident last week had been drinking at a bar on the department's training academy campus the night he died and had a blood-alcohol level "well over" the legal limit, a police official said Wednesday.
After the early-morning crash Dec. 3, department officials launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Officer Kenneth Aragon's death in an effort to determine whether he was plied with too much alcohol by academy bartenders or got drunk at another location, said LAPD Cmdr. David Doan, who is overseeing the inquiry.
Department officials are also taking a broader look at the long-running tradition of officers drinking at the academy. They have ordered bar staff to undergo retraining on laws on serving alcohol, and put them on notice that undercover officers would be performing compliance checks in the future, Doan said.
Aragon, a 19-year veteran of the department and father of five, spent several hours drinking and singing karaoke with other officers and guests in a banquet room outfitted with a bar on the upper floor of the academy's main building, Doan said. They had gathered for 'payday Wednesday,' an unofficial but regular event held every other week at the idyllic Elysian Park campus to celebrate their latest paycheck.
The 47-year-old officer left the academy about 12:30 a.mAbout 90 minutes later, about 2:15 a.m., he crashed his motorcycle while driving north on Fletcher Drive, less than three miles from the academy. Investigators, Doan said, have not yet learned where Aragon went during the unaccounted time, and he left open the possibility that the officer had gone to another bar before the crash.
Regardless, police are working to determine how much Aragon drank at the academy. Investigators are reviewing video footage from a security camera in the bar and questioning the two bartenders working that night and officers who were drinking with Aragon, Doan said. It is a misdemeanor crime in California to serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated.
When Aragon crashed, Doan said, he was "certainly under the influence" and "well over the legal limit." He declined to provide the results of blood-alcohol tests performed at the hospital where Aragon was pronounced dead.
The bar -- like most of the academy facilities -- is run by the Los Angeles Revolver and Athletic Club, a tax-exempt organization that is separate from the department and accepts only LAPD employees as members. Except for the payday parties, the bar is typically open only for officer retirement parties and similar catered events.
Calls to members of the club's management were not returned.
Beyond the details of Aragon's death, Doan said investigators are examining whether bartenders at the academy are properly licensed. Department officials are also "looking at whether there is adequate oversight" of the Wednesday-night gatherings.
Payday Wednesdays hold a particularly infamous spot in LAPD lore. Older officers tell sordid stories of wild, booze-fueled gatherings in the 1970s and '80s, at which officers and female guests had sex in the academy's garden. One well-known legend holds that a guardrail in front of a home set on a sharp turn in the road leading out of the academy was installed after several drunk officers failed to navigate the bend. Several officers say academy gatherings are much more staid today.
After the early-morning crash Dec. 3, department officials launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Officer Kenneth Aragon's death in an effort to determine whether he was plied with too much alcohol by academy bartenders or got drunk at another location, said LAPD Cmdr. David Doan, who is overseeing the inquiry.
Department officials are also taking a broader look at the long-running tradition of officers drinking at the academy. They have ordered bar staff to undergo retraining on laws on serving alcohol, and put them on notice that undercover officers would be performing compliance checks in the future, Doan said.
Aragon, a 19-year veteran of the department and father of five, spent several hours drinking and singing karaoke with other officers and guests in a banquet room outfitted with a bar on the upper floor of the academy's main building, Doan said. They had gathered for 'payday Wednesday,' an unofficial but regular event held every other week at the idyllic Elysian Park campus to celebrate their latest paycheck.
The 47-year-old officer left the academy about 12:30 a.mAbout 90 minutes later, about 2:15 a.m., he crashed his motorcycle while driving north on Fletcher Drive, less than three miles from the academy. Investigators, Doan said, have not yet learned where Aragon went during the unaccounted time, and he left open the possibility that the officer had gone to another bar before the crash.
Regardless, police are working to determine how much Aragon drank at the academy. Investigators are reviewing video footage from a security camera in the bar and questioning the two bartenders working that night and officers who were drinking with Aragon, Doan said. It is a misdemeanor crime in California to serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated.
When Aragon crashed, Doan said, he was "certainly under the influence" and "well over the legal limit." He declined to provide the results of blood-alcohol tests performed at the hospital where Aragon was pronounced dead.
The bar -- like most of the academy facilities -- is run by the Los Angeles Revolver and Athletic Club, a tax-exempt organization that is separate from the department and accepts only LAPD employees as members. Except for the payday parties, the bar is typically open only for officer retirement parties and similar catered events.
Calls to members of the club's management were not returned.
Beyond the details of Aragon's death, Doan said investigators are examining whether bartenders at the academy are properly licensed. Department officials are also "looking at whether there is adequate oversight" of the Wednesday-night gatherings.
Payday Wednesdays hold a particularly infamous spot in LAPD lore. Older officers tell sordid stories of wild, booze-fueled gatherings in the 1970s and '80s, at which officers and female guests had sex in the academy's garden. One well-known legend holds that a guardrail in front of a home set on a sharp turn in the road leading out of the academy was installed after several drunk officers failed to navigate the bend. Several officers say academy gatherings are much more staid today.
Sgt. Gene Tomatani Charged with Embezzling From Union
A former Redondo Beach police sergeant has been charged with embezzling more than $72,000 from his police union.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's office says 40-year-old Gene Tomatani was charged Tuesday with felony grand theft.
Prosecutors say Tomatani stole from the Redondo Beach Police Officer's Association while serving as treasurer and then president of the group from 2004 to 2008.
Tomatani will be arraigned Jan. 8. If convicted, he faces up to four years in state prison.
Tomatani resigned from the department in October.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's office says 40-year-old Gene Tomatani was charged Tuesday with felony grand theft.
Prosecutors say Tomatani stole from the Redondo Beach Police Officer's Association while serving as treasurer and then president of the group from 2004 to 2008.
Tomatani will be arraigned Jan. 8. If convicted, he faces up to four years in state prison.
Tomatani resigned from the department in October.
Pensacola Police Change Pursuit Police
The Pensacola Police Department has changed its pursuit policy as a result of a chase that left a bicyclist dead Oct. 3.
Victor Steen, 17, tried to elude Pensacola police Officer Jerald Ard, who spotted the teen on a bicycle at a construction site at Cervantes and T streets. Ard fired a Taser stun gun from the window of his moving car while chasing Steen.
Steen fell into the path of the cruiser and was hit by the car.
The change announced Tuesday prohibits officers from chasing vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians through apartment complexes and other heavily populated areas — like mall parking lots — parks and school grounds, in police cars.
Officers should attempt to make arrests by setting up perimeters using adjacent roadways, Pensacola Assistant Police Chip Simmons said.
When pursuing bicyclists and pedestrians on roadways, officers should try to keep at a safe distance from the fleeing suspect in an effort to prevent the suspect from being hurt, Simmons said.
"We wouldn't expect an officer to stop pursuing a dangerous felon," Simmons said. "If the guy is shooting a gun, the officer has do whatever he has to do stop him. He can deviate from the policy as long as he has a justifiable reason."
In October, the Police Department announced a revision to its Taser policy as a result of the fatal incident. Simmons sent a memo saying officers are not allowed to fire stun guns out of or into moving vehicles.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement continues to investigating Steen's death.
Ard was placed on administrative leave with pay immediately after the incident. He returned to work Oct. 13 and was assigned administrative work for the patrol division.
"It's unfortunate for everyone that this process takes a long time, but we all want a thorough review," Police Chief John Mathis said.
Victor Steen, 17, tried to elude Pensacola police Officer Jerald Ard, who spotted the teen on a bicycle at a construction site at Cervantes and T streets. Ard fired a Taser stun gun from the window of his moving car while chasing Steen.
Steen fell into the path of the cruiser and was hit by the car.
The change announced Tuesday prohibits officers from chasing vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians through apartment complexes and other heavily populated areas — like mall parking lots — parks and school grounds, in police cars.
Officers should attempt to make arrests by setting up perimeters using adjacent roadways, Pensacola Assistant Police Chip Simmons said.
When pursuing bicyclists and pedestrians on roadways, officers should try to keep at a safe distance from the fleeing suspect in an effort to prevent the suspect from being hurt, Simmons said.
"We wouldn't expect an officer to stop pursuing a dangerous felon," Simmons said. "If the guy is shooting a gun, the officer has do whatever he has to do stop him. He can deviate from the policy as long as he has a justifiable reason."
In October, the Police Department announced a revision to its Taser policy as a result of the fatal incident. Simmons sent a memo saying officers are not allowed to fire stun guns out of or into moving vehicles.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement continues to investigating Steen's death.
Ard was placed on administrative leave with pay immediately after the incident. He returned to work Oct. 13 and was assigned administrative work for the patrol division.
"It's unfortunate for everyone that this process takes a long time, but we all want a thorough review," Police Chief John Mathis said.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Officer Arrested After Allegedly Offering Bribe to Another Officer
A POLICE officer was arrested during a sting operation yesterday after he allegedly offered a bribe to another officer, in an attempt to persuade the officer to forgo criminal charges against four of six people. The suspects were arrested during a raid between Sunday night and Monday morning in La Horquetta on gun charges.
The police constable, who is attached to a station in the Northern Division, reportedly approached the other officer on Monday night and offered to pay him $11,000 to not lay the charge of possession of arms and ammunition against the suspects, a senior officer told the Express.
The officer after being approached contacted Senior Superintendent Joseph Edwards, the head of the division, and told him of what had occurred, police investigators said.
A sting operation was set up, and a meeting was organized between the two officers outside the Arima Magistrate’s Court.
As the two met for the exchange of money outside the court yesterday, officers of the Northern Division Task Force (NDTF) arrested the officer, police said.
He was taken to the Arima Police Station where up to late yesterday evening, he was assisting officers with their investigations.
On Sunday night, the divisional task force officers raided a house in Manuel Congo Village, La Horquetta, and found a shotgun, a pistol and 625 rounds of assorted ammunition. The six people-three men and three women who were reportedly in the house at the time, including a 42-year-old businessman and his 23-year-old girlfriend, were arrested. The officers later went to the home of the businessman, who operates a poultry shop at Second Street, San Juan, where they reportedly found two revolvers, $542,000, and US$19,000.
All six remained in police custody last night.
Charges are expected to be laid soon, police said.
The police constable, who is attached to a station in the Northern Division, reportedly approached the other officer on Monday night and offered to pay him $11,000 to not lay the charge of possession of arms and ammunition against the suspects, a senior officer told the Express.
The officer after being approached contacted Senior Superintendent Joseph Edwards, the head of the division, and told him of what had occurred, police investigators said.
A sting operation was set up, and a meeting was organized between the two officers outside the Arima Magistrate’s Court.
As the two met for the exchange of money outside the court yesterday, officers of the Northern Division Task Force (NDTF) arrested the officer, police said.
He was taken to the Arima Police Station where up to late yesterday evening, he was assisting officers with their investigations.
On Sunday night, the divisional task force officers raided a house in Manuel Congo Village, La Horquetta, and found a shotgun, a pistol and 625 rounds of assorted ammunition. The six people-three men and three women who were reportedly in the house at the time, including a 42-year-old businessman and his 23-year-old girlfriend, were arrested. The officers later went to the home of the businessman, who operates a poultry shop at Second Street, San Juan, where they reportedly found two revolvers, $542,000, and US$19,000.
All six remained in police custody last night.
Charges are expected to be laid soon, police said.
Corrections Sgt. Salvator Nostrame Arrested for Road Rage
A Hudson County Department of Corrections sergeant was arrested today after an apparent road rage incident in which he is accused of assaulting the victim and then threatening him with his gun, reports said.
Sgt. Salvatore Nostrame, 40, of Cambridge Avenue, was charged with aggravated assault in connection to the road rage incident at 1:29 p.m. at Webster Avenue and South Street in the Jersey City Heights, police spokesman Stan H. Eason said.
Nostrame has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the criminal investigation, said Hudson County Corrections Department Director Oscar Aviles.
Nostrame allegedly assaulted the other driver, took out his gun and threatened the victim with it, and then fled the scene, Eason said.
A witness got the license plate number of the fleeing vehicle and police traced it to Nostrame's home, reports said.
Police Emergency Services Unit officers responded to Nostrame's home and he was arrested when he came out about 20 minutes later, Eason said.
Nostrame has been a corrections officer for roughly 15 years and earns about $85,000 annually, officials said.
He is expected to make his first appearance on the charges in Central Judicial Processing court in Jersey City tomorrow.
Sgt. Salvatore Nostrame, 40, of Cambridge Avenue, was charged with aggravated assault in connection to the road rage incident at 1:29 p.m. at Webster Avenue and South Street in the Jersey City Heights, police spokesman Stan H. Eason said.
Nostrame has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the criminal investigation, said Hudson County Corrections Department Director Oscar Aviles.
Nostrame allegedly assaulted the other driver, took out his gun and threatened the victim with it, and then fled the scene, Eason said.
A witness got the license plate number of the fleeing vehicle and police traced it to Nostrame's home, reports said.
Police Emergency Services Unit officers responded to Nostrame's home and he was arrested when he came out about 20 minutes later, Eason said.
Nostrame has been a corrections officer for roughly 15 years and earns about $85,000 annually, officials said.
He is expected to make his first appearance on the charges in Central Judicial Processing court in Jersey City tomorrow.
Former Federal Agent William Ferrell III Pleads Guilty to Theft
A former federal law enforcement agent has pleaded guilty to a theft charge as part of a plea deal.
Forty-1-year-old William Ferrell III, of Gulfport, Miss., entered the plea Monday before Chief U.S. District Judge Ralph E. Tyson.
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Baton Rouge says Ferrell was a manager and part owner of Double F Logistics LLC, a company that transported goods across the country as a common carrier. According to authorities, Ferrell was responsible for overseeing the use of fuel and debit cards available to Double F. He was accused of withdrawing about $98,235 from the company's account to pay for expenses not related to the company.
Ferrell also worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security but resigned as a result of the investigation. A sentencing date has not been set.
Forty-1-year-old William Ferrell III, of Gulfport, Miss., entered the plea Monday before Chief U.S. District Judge Ralph E. Tyson.
The U.S. Attorney's Office in Baton Rouge says Ferrell was a manager and part owner of Double F Logistics LLC, a company that transported goods across the country as a common carrier. According to authorities, Ferrell was responsible for overseeing the use of fuel and debit cards available to Double F. He was accused of withdrawing about $98,235 from the company's account to pay for expenses not related to the company.
Ferrell also worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security but resigned as a result of the investigation. A sentencing date has not been set.
Toledo Officers Test Positive for Marijuana
The professional fate of four Toledo police officers who have been charged internally for misconduct related to drugs and alcohol will be decided at departmental hearings Monday, Chief Mike Navarre said Monday.
Officers Curtis Jewell and Karon Gallup, both uniformed patrol officers, face charges related to their failure of a random drug test, which indicated marijuana in their systems.
Officers Donald Mitchell and James W. Breier face criminal and departmental charges related to operating patrol vehicles while intoxicated.
The officers have been placed on restricted duty pending the outcome of the hearing, Chief Navarre said.
"I think the public will look very closely at what we do with these cases," the chief said, adding that members of the department should also pay close attention to the cases. He would not comment on possible outcomes, only stating termination is a possibility.
Officer Jewell, 52, a 26-year veteran, and Officer Gallup, 42, who has worked for the department for the past 14 years, were internally charged Friday with illegal use or abuse of marijuana, willful violation, and conduct unbecoming an officer.
The officers were among 48 who were selected randomly Nov. 19 to submit to drug screens.
The testing marks the first time that rank-and-file officers have been subjected to random drug screening. Before the practice was allowed in the latest union contract with the Toledo Police Patrolman's Association in July, patrol officers only could be tested when there was "reasonable suspicion," Chief Navarre said.
He added that random drug testing will continue.
"We'll do it again," he said. "I'm not going to say when or what frequency."
Dan Wagner, president of the Toledo Police Patrolman's Association, said the union agreed to the random drug testing as part of contract negotiations but questioned whether the department had the right to release the names of officers who failed the test. He said the officers signed medical release forms so results could be given to the department, but he believed the results were not public per laws protecting medical records.
"I believe the officers involved are poised to take action civilly against the city for releasing that information," he said, adding that the union may file a grievance.
Because the recent test was the first time the department randomly screened its officers for drugs, there is no precedent on disciplinary measures. Chief Navarre said that before the recent agreement, only command officers and officers assigned to the property room and vice narcotics could be randomly screened.
The chief added that he knew of no command officers who failed the test and of only one member of vice who failed nearly two decades ago.
That officer was terminated but was reinstated, after arbitration, without back pay and with certain conditions, he said. The officer, whom he declined to name, has since retired.
Officers Gallup and Jewell do not face criminal charges because the test was a condition of their employment and so it cannot be used in a criminal case, the chief said.
"We can't mandate someone give us evidence and then use it against them," he said.
Also facing internal charges are two officers who were arrested after it was determined they were drinking while on patrol duty.
Officer Mitchell, 45, is accused of showing up intoxicated for work Oct. 31. He was arrested after being called back from patrolling the streets after command was notified that something appeared to be wrong.
The month before, Officer Breier, 54, was arrested and accused of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol when he responded to a traffic crash and appeared to be intoxicated.
Both men face internal charges of use of intoxicants, willful violation, and conduct unbecoming a police officer. They also face misdemeanor criminal charges in Toledo Municipal Court, where both have pretrials on Thursday.
A third officer, Shawn Parra, 35, was off-duty and in his personal vehicle when he was involved in what reports allege was a drunken-driving crash in which he fled the scene. Officer Parra has been on vacation since the Thanksgiving-morning crash and likely will face departmental charges, the chief said.
Mr. Wagner said there is concern about the unusual number of incidents lately. He said the union is asking counselors with the Employee Assistance Program to speak to officers during training sessions.
"There may be some underlying factor. Is it because of the low manpower that our guys are experiencing stress and instead of going to a counselor, they are turning to other means?" he said.
---------------------------------
Even the cops are doing marijuana! Time to legalize the shit and let it help the country recover from these bad times.
Officers Curtis Jewell and Karon Gallup, both uniformed patrol officers, face charges related to their failure of a random drug test, which indicated marijuana in their systems.
Officers Donald Mitchell and James W. Breier face criminal and departmental charges related to operating patrol vehicles while intoxicated.
The officers have been placed on restricted duty pending the outcome of the hearing, Chief Navarre said.
"I think the public will look very closely at what we do with these cases," the chief said, adding that members of the department should also pay close attention to the cases. He would not comment on possible outcomes, only stating termination is a possibility.
Officer Jewell, 52, a 26-year veteran, and Officer Gallup, 42, who has worked for the department for the past 14 years, were internally charged Friday with illegal use or abuse of marijuana, willful violation, and conduct unbecoming an officer.
The officers were among 48 who were selected randomly Nov. 19 to submit to drug screens.
The testing marks the first time that rank-and-file officers have been subjected to random drug screening. Before the practice was allowed in the latest union contract with the Toledo Police Patrolman's Association in July, patrol officers only could be tested when there was "reasonable suspicion," Chief Navarre said.
He added that random drug testing will continue.
"We'll do it again," he said. "I'm not going to say when or what frequency."
Dan Wagner, president of the Toledo Police Patrolman's Association, said the union agreed to the random drug testing as part of contract negotiations but questioned whether the department had the right to release the names of officers who failed the test. He said the officers signed medical release forms so results could be given to the department, but he believed the results were not public per laws protecting medical records.
"I believe the officers involved are poised to take action civilly against the city for releasing that information," he said, adding that the union may file a grievance.
Because the recent test was the first time the department randomly screened its officers for drugs, there is no precedent on disciplinary measures. Chief Navarre said that before the recent agreement, only command officers and officers assigned to the property room and vice narcotics could be randomly screened.
The chief added that he knew of no command officers who failed the test and of only one member of vice who failed nearly two decades ago.
That officer was terminated but was reinstated, after arbitration, without back pay and with certain conditions, he said. The officer, whom he declined to name, has since retired.
Officers Gallup and Jewell do not face criminal charges because the test was a condition of their employment and so it cannot be used in a criminal case, the chief said.
"We can't mandate someone give us evidence and then use it against them," he said.
Also facing internal charges are two officers who were arrested after it was determined they were drinking while on patrol duty.
Officer Mitchell, 45, is accused of showing up intoxicated for work Oct. 31. He was arrested after being called back from patrolling the streets after command was notified that something appeared to be wrong.
The month before, Officer Breier, 54, was arrested and accused of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol when he responded to a traffic crash and appeared to be intoxicated.
Both men face internal charges of use of intoxicants, willful violation, and conduct unbecoming a police officer. They also face misdemeanor criminal charges in Toledo Municipal Court, where both have pretrials on Thursday.
A third officer, Shawn Parra, 35, was off-duty and in his personal vehicle when he was involved in what reports allege was a drunken-driving crash in which he fled the scene. Officer Parra has been on vacation since the Thanksgiving-morning crash and likely will face departmental charges, the chief said.
Mr. Wagner said there is concern about the unusual number of incidents lately. He said the union is asking counselors with the Employee Assistance Program to speak to officers during training sessions.
"There may be some underlying factor. Is it because of the low manpower that our guys are experiencing stress and instead of going to a counselor, they are turning to other means?" he said.
---------------------------------
Even the cops are doing marijuana! Time to legalize the shit and let it help the country recover from these bad times.
New Trial Likely for Former Officer Brian Quilici
Prosecutors likely will pursue a second trial for the former Richmond police officer accused of kicking a handcuffed man in the face.
McHenry County officials are reviewing their options after the Illinois Supreme Court declined to hear arguments surrounding Brian Quilici’s first trial. That means that the appellate court decision to overturn Quilici’s felony convictions stands.
“We’re going to review it and make a determination and most likely go to trial,” McHenry County State’s Attorney Lou Bianchi said.
A McHenry County jury convicted Quilici of mob action, official misconduct and obstructing justice in the February 2005 beating of Ryan Hallett outside a Fox Lake bar. Quilici has said he was defending himself and a woman Hallett took hostage in the parking lot.
Quilici already has served a two-year prison sentence, so he will not receive any new punishment if convicted at a second trial. But Bianchi said he wanted a felony conviction to go on Quilici’s record so he won’t be eligible to serve as a police officer again.
Quilici’s attorney, Vincent Solano, did not return a call for comment Monday.
The appellate court tossed Quilici’s conviction largely because McHenry County Judge Sharon Prather told jurors that Quilici, as an off-duty police officer, did not have any arrest authority beyond making a citizen’s arrest. But, the appellate court found, Quilici did have full arrest powers because the incident happened in the same county as Quilici’s jurisdiction.
In a separate case, felony convictions against two other one-time police officers involved in Hallett’s beating were overturned. Ronald Pilati and Jerome Volstad later accepted plea bargains for misdemeanor attempted unlawful restraint. The misdemeanor convictions will not prevent them from serving again as police officers.
McHenry County officials are reviewing their options after the Illinois Supreme Court declined to hear arguments surrounding Brian Quilici’s first trial. That means that the appellate court decision to overturn Quilici’s felony convictions stands.
“We’re going to review it and make a determination and most likely go to trial,” McHenry County State’s Attorney Lou Bianchi said.
A McHenry County jury convicted Quilici of mob action, official misconduct and obstructing justice in the February 2005 beating of Ryan Hallett outside a Fox Lake bar. Quilici has said he was defending himself and a woman Hallett took hostage in the parking lot.
Quilici already has served a two-year prison sentence, so he will not receive any new punishment if convicted at a second trial. But Bianchi said he wanted a felony conviction to go on Quilici’s record so he won’t be eligible to serve as a police officer again.
Quilici’s attorney, Vincent Solano, did not return a call for comment Monday.
The appellate court tossed Quilici’s conviction largely because McHenry County Judge Sharon Prather told jurors that Quilici, as an off-duty police officer, did not have any arrest authority beyond making a citizen’s arrest. But, the appellate court found, Quilici did have full arrest powers because the incident happened in the same county as Quilici’s jurisdiction.
In a separate case, felony convictions against two other one-time police officers involved in Hallett’s beating were overturned. Ronald Pilati and Jerome Volstad later accepted plea bargains for misdemeanor attempted unlawful restraint. The misdemeanor convictions will not prevent them from serving again as police officers.
Detective Leonard Ash Accused of Stealing Money from Evidence Locker
A Scranton police officer is under arrest, accused of stealing money from an evidence locker.
The officer has been identified as Detective Leonard Ash. According to the police department's website, he works in the criminal investigation division.
State police Ashtook the money, $8,000, in 2003 and replaced it with blank sheets of paper. The theft was discovered about two months ago.
Ash has been suspended without pay by the Scranton Police Department.
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http://www.thetimes-tribune.com/news/scranton-cop-busted-for-allegedly-stealing-8k-from-evidence-room-safe-deposit-box-1.471171
The officer has been identified as Detective Leonard Ash. According to the police department's website, he works in the criminal investigation division.
State police Ashtook the money, $8,000, in 2003 and replaced it with blank sheets of paper. The theft was discovered about two months ago.
Ash has been suspended without pay by the Scranton Police Department.
------------------------
http://www.thetimes-tribune.com/news/scranton-cop-busted-for-allegedly-stealing-8k-from-evidence-room-safe-deposit-box-1.471171
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