A Boynton Beach police officer acquitted of punching his wife and nearly strangling her after a night of drinking at a strip club last year was fired Wednesday.
Officer Thomas Jones was acquitted of strangulation and domestic battery charges stemming from the Jan. 31, 2009, incident in April.
In Jones' termination letter, City Manager Kurt Bressner said that although Jones was acquitted of the charges, "the legal standard of proof for a criminal case is different from the standard of proof for a disciplinary action as in this matter."
According to an internal affairs report, Jones became annoyed with his wife's continued questioning about where he had been, who brought him home and where the vehicle or the keys were, so he punched her in the face, knocked her to the floor and repeatedly kicked her.
The report said Jones then called her names, cursed at her and told her how much he hated her before placing her in a chokehold as she tried to get up from the floor.
Bressner wrote in his termination letter that he was concerned about Jones' insistence that his wife had been unfaithful. Bressner wrote that Jones stated he found out about the infidelity from his mother after being released from jail.
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Former Officer Marcus Tafoya Testifies in Excessive Force Case
A former Fresno police officer accused of using excessive force testified this morning in his trial that fear prompted him to use his police baton on rowdy partygoers for a Marine returning from Iraq in March 2005.
“I’m scared to death,” Marcus Tafoya said in his criminal trial in Fresno County Superior Court.
Tafoya said partygoers were punching and kicking him, cursing him, calling him “pig,” and resisting arrest. Because the attackers came at him from all directions, Tafoya said he deployed a police baton for protection.
Tafoya testified he hit two men with his police baton several times, but the blows didn’t stop the attacks.
A baton blow to the head finally caused one man to quit his attack, Tafoya said. The other attacker gave up after being struck in the leg with the baton, he said.
For the first time, Tafoya, 39, is publicly revealing his account of what happened at the disturbance that led to his firing from the Fresno Police Department. He also criticized some officers who stood around and did nothing while he needed help.
Tafoya faces eight felony counts of using excessive force and one count of burglary involving four incidents. He has pleaded not guilty.
His testimony will resume after the lunch break.
“I’m scared to death,” Marcus Tafoya said in his criminal trial in Fresno County Superior Court.
Tafoya said partygoers were punching and kicking him, cursing him, calling him “pig,” and resisting arrest. Because the attackers came at him from all directions, Tafoya said he deployed a police baton for protection.
Tafoya testified he hit two men with his police baton several times, but the blows didn’t stop the attacks.
A baton blow to the head finally caused one man to quit his attack, Tafoya said. The other attacker gave up after being struck in the leg with the baton, he said.
For the first time, Tafoya, 39, is publicly revealing his account of what happened at the disturbance that led to his firing from the Fresno Police Department. He also criticized some officers who stood around and did nothing while he needed help.
Tafoya faces eight felony counts of using excessive force and one count of burglary involving four incidents. He has pleaded not guilty.
His testimony will resume after the lunch break.
Corrections Officer Charles Walker Accused of Sexually Assaulting Female Inmate
A correctional officer at the Allegheny County Jail has been accused of sexually assaulting a female inmate.
Police said Charles Walker was arrested and is facing several charges including sexual assault and indecent assault.
The alleged incident occurred on Dec. 27 and Walker was awaiting arraignment Thursday at the Allegheny County Jail.
Police said Charles Walker was arrested and is facing several charges including sexual assault and indecent assault.
The alleged incident occurred on Dec. 27 and Walker was awaiting arraignment Thursday at the Allegheny County Jail.
Officer Valerie McFarlane Attended Festival Without Paying Admission
A local attorney is questioning the credibility of an Aspen police officer who wore her uniform while off duty and attended the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day festival in September without paying for admission.
Attorney Lauren Maytin contends that Aspen police officer Valerie McFarlane’s “misconduct … is relevant, exculpatory and probative of truthfulness or the lack thereof” as it pertains to a drunken-driving arrest McFarlane made. Maytin, who represents the DUI defendant, filed a motion last week in that case requesting officer McFarlane’s personnel file.
“It is believed that the documents [in the file] will show that on or about Sept. 4 and Sept. 5 [2009], Officer McFarlane while off duty dressed in her Aspen Police Department uniform, trespassed onto the 2009 Jazz Aspen Labor Day Festival grounds by deceitfully ‘badging’ her way into the concert and failing to pay for admission,” according to Maytin’s motion. “This occurred two days in a row but on the second day, Officer McFarlane, again off duty but dressed in her APD uniform, returned to the festival with her boyfriend and children and flashed her badge to gain access for her group. Not only did she gain access to the festival on this second day by use of her badge but she also trespassed into the VIP section of the festival where she was able to obtain free food and libations for her group.”
In an interview Wednesday morning, McFarlane admitted to attending the Labor Day festival on two separate nights while wearing a uniform off duty and not paying, but she said the first night she went there after her shift ended to scout it out for her 14-year-old daughter who planned to attend the following evening. “I knew my daughter would be attending the concert,” she said. “I came, I looked, I left.” The second night she said she again entered the festival off duty and in uniform without paying for admission but that she was there to watch over her daughter and daughter’s boyfriend — both of whom McFarlane claims paid for admission.
“I stayed off to the side and waited for the concert to end,” she said. “I was there really to protect her. … I couldn’t even tell you who the headliners were.”
McFarlane confirmed that she moved her daughter and daughter’s boyfriend from the general admission section of the concert to the VIP area, but she said none of them ate or drank from the free banquets and bars available to only the festival’s highest-paying customers.
“I cannot tell you how deeply sorry I am,” McFarlane said, adding that she feels she hurt the department and the community. She added that her supervisors and fellow officers have been extremely supportive of her.
Aspen Police Chief Richard Pryor declined to discuss details of the incident or any disciplinary action that was taken, saying his “hands are tied” because it is a human resources/personnel issue. But he did say that another officer reported McFarlane’s misconduct. He also confirmed that unless they are commuting to and from work, officers are not allowed to wear uniforms off duty.
Maytin contends the incident casts serious doubt on McFarlane’s credibility as a police officer.
“Officer McFarlane did not pay for any of these admissions or for any of the services she received in the VIP section of the concert,” her motion states. “The total amount stolen from the Jazz Aspen Labor Day Festival is not known at this time but a rough estimate would be at least $2,000. It is believed Officer McFarlane was officially sanctioned by her superiors at the Aspen Police Department.”
Jazz Aspen Snowmass staff said they were unaware McFarlane appears to have illegally attended the show.
A motions hearing over whether Maytin can obtain access to McFarlane’s personnel file is scheduled for next week, but a ruling may not come until later.
Attorney Lauren Maytin contends that Aspen police officer Valerie McFarlane’s “misconduct … is relevant, exculpatory and probative of truthfulness or the lack thereof” as it pertains to a drunken-driving arrest McFarlane made. Maytin, who represents the DUI defendant, filed a motion last week in that case requesting officer McFarlane’s personnel file.
“It is believed that the documents [in the file] will show that on or about Sept. 4 and Sept. 5 [2009], Officer McFarlane while off duty dressed in her Aspen Police Department uniform, trespassed onto the 2009 Jazz Aspen Labor Day Festival grounds by deceitfully ‘badging’ her way into the concert and failing to pay for admission,” according to Maytin’s motion. “This occurred two days in a row but on the second day, Officer McFarlane, again off duty but dressed in her APD uniform, returned to the festival with her boyfriend and children and flashed her badge to gain access for her group. Not only did she gain access to the festival on this second day by use of her badge but she also trespassed into the VIP section of the festival where she was able to obtain free food and libations for her group.”
In an interview Wednesday morning, McFarlane admitted to attending the Labor Day festival on two separate nights while wearing a uniform off duty and not paying, but she said the first night she went there after her shift ended to scout it out for her 14-year-old daughter who planned to attend the following evening. “I knew my daughter would be attending the concert,” she said. “I came, I looked, I left.” The second night she said she again entered the festival off duty and in uniform without paying for admission but that she was there to watch over her daughter and daughter’s boyfriend — both of whom McFarlane claims paid for admission.
“I stayed off to the side and waited for the concert to end,” she said. “I was there really to protect her. … I couldn’t even tell you who the headliners were.”
McFarlane confirmed that she moved her daughter and daughter’s boyfriend from the general admission section of the concert to the VIP area, but she said none of them ate or drank from the free banquets and bars available to only the festival’s highest-paying customers.
“I cannot tell you how deeply sorry I am,” McFarlane said, adding that she feels she hurt the department and the community. She added that her supervisors and fellow officers have been extremely supportive of her.
Aspen Police Chief Richard Pryor declined to discuss details of the incident or any disciplinary action that was taken, saying his “hands are tied” because it is a human resources/personnel issue. But he did say that another officer reported McFarlane’s misconduct. He also confirmed that unless they are commuting to and from work, officers are not allowed to wear uniforms off duty.
Maytin contends the incident casts serious doubt on McFarlane’s credibility as a police officer.
“Officer McFarlane did not pay for any of these admissions or for any of the services she received in the VIP section of the concert,” her motion states. “The total amount stolen from the Jazz Aspen Labor Day Festival is not known at this time but a rough estimate would be at least $2,000. It is believed Officer McFarlane was officially sanctioned by her superiors at the Aspen Police Department.”
Jazz Aspen Snowmass staff said they were unaware McFarlane appears to have illegally attended the show.
A motions hearing over whether Maytin can obtain access to McFarlane’s personnel file is scheduled for next week, but a ruling may not come until later.
Officer Stacy Conway Arrested for Trying to Hire Someone to Commit Burglary
A rookie Hereford police officer was behind bars Wednesday evening accused of trying to hire an undercover Amarillo police officer to burglarize then burn down the home of two employees of the Randall County Sheriff's Office.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, of Hereford, was arrested Tuesday evening outside an Amarillo business where, police allege, she was meeting the undercover officer to arrange the deal. She was arrested and charged with second-degree felony solicitation to commit burglary to commit another felony, said Randall County Criminal District Attorney James Farren. She remains in the Randall County jail on $50,000 bond.
Farren said police launched an investigation into Conway about two weeks ago. The undercover police officer was "playing the part of a bad guy," who posed as an experienced criminal, Farren said. Conway reportedly offered the officer an undisclosed amount of money to burglarize and torch the residence in Randall County.
"Obviously she's unhappy with the folks that live there, but I can't reveal why," Farren said.
A Randall County Sheriff's official identified the two intended victims listed in the criminal complaint as a female dispatcher and a female deputy jailer.
"For a police officer to solicit someone to commit an offense is very rare," Farren said. "Obviously it is very disturbing. No group of people are more concerned and upset about this than police officers and prosecutors. But at this point it is an accusation, and nothing has been proven."
Amarillo police spokesman Cpl. Jerry Neufeld deferred questions about the arrest to Hereford officials.
"They've asked to pretty much handle any media request," he said. "It is their incident. We're respecting their request to be able to give out information on their employees."
The city of Hereford has suspended Conway indefinitely without pay, said Hereford City Manager Rick Hanna .
Hanna said Conway started with the Police Department on Sept. 4, just days after she graduated from the Panhandle Regional Law Enforcement Academy.
Hanna said Conway had not faced any disciplinary action for her work with the city.
"Actually she was doing a pretty good job," he said.
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education , which regulates peace officers in the state, issued a peace officer license to Conway on Sept. 9 , according to state records. Conway has been a peace officer for four months, and her only law enforcement job was with Hereford.
If convicted, Conway faces two to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, of Hereford, was arrested Tuesday evening outside an Amarillo business where, police allege, she was meeting the undercover officer to arrange the deal. She was arrested and charged with second-degree felony solicitation to commit burglary to commit another felony, said Randall County Criminal District Attorney James Farren. She remains in the Randall County jail on $50,000 bond.
Farren said police launched an investigation into Conway about two weeks ago. The undercover police officer was "playing the part of a bad guy," who posed as an experienced criminal, Farren said. Conway reportedly offered the officer an undisclosed amount of money to burglarize and torch the residence in Randall County.
"Obviously she's unhappy with the folks that live there, but I can't reveal why," Farren said.
A Randall County Sheriff's official identified the two intended victims listed in the criminal complaint as a female dispatcher and a female deputy jailer.
"For a police officer to solicit someone to commit an offense is very rare," Farren said. "Obviously it is very disturbing. No group of people are more concerned and upset about this than police officers and prosecutors. But at this point it is an accusation, and nothing has been proven."
Amarillo police spokesman Cpl. Jerry Neufeld deferred questions about the arrest to Hereford officials.
"They've asked to pretty much handle any media request," he said. "It is their incident. We're respecting their request to be able to give out information on their employees."
The city of Hereford has suspended Conway indefinitely without pay, said Hereford City Manager Rick Hanna .
Hanna said Conway started with the Police Department on Sept. 4, just days after she graduated from the Panhandle Regional Law Enforcement Academy.
Hanna said Conway had not faced any disciplinary action for her work with the city.
"Actually she was doing a pretty good job," he said.
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education , which regulates peace officers in the state, issued a peace officer license to Conway on Sept. 9 , according to state records. Conway has been a peace officer for four months, and her only law enforcement job was with Hereford.
If convicted, Conway faces two to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
Animal Control Officer Alonzo Esco Fired for Shooting Dog and Cats
An animal control officer for Canton and Madison County has been fired amid accusations he shot numerous dogs and cats and dumped their carcasses in a creek in Canton.
Canton Police Chief Vickie McNeill would not confirm the number of carcasses and suspected manner of death.
"I will not discuss any specifics, but we have some animals that are dead," McNeill said Wednesday.
Alonzo Esco has been accused of mishandling animals, McNeill said. Esco served as a shared animal control officer for Canton and the county for three years. His salary was not immediately available.
Esco could not be reached for comment.
The Canton Police Department investigation is complete, and the findings have been turned over to the Madison/Rankin district attorney's office, McNeill said. Officials there would not discuss the case other than to say Esco has not been indicted.
McNeill said a citizen's complaint made with the Madison County Sheriff's Department led to the firing, which the Board of Aldermen approved Tuesday.
A woman filed the complaint after a pet she wanted to adopt never turned up at the Mississippi Animal Rescue League. The Sheriff's Department then forwarded the complaint to Canton police, McNeill said.
"That led us to conduct an investigation when the animal wasn't there," she said.
Debra Boswell, director of MARL, said if the allegations against Esco are true, "I'm extremely disappointed and certainly saddened for the animals that their end was met this way."
Boswell said Esco was doing a good job when he started out bringing the Rescue League animals.
If he was doing what he's accused of, Boswell said, "It's a blemish on the animal control officers who have worked so hard to professionalize what they do."
"I don't know why he would select that method of disposal," she said.
"Healthy animals are put down in shelters every day," Boswell said. "While the results may be the same (as killing them outside a shelter), it's how you get there."
Robbie Wilbur, spokesman for the state Department of Environmental Quality, said the agency has received no complaints about the dumping of carcasses in Canton and has no investigation pending.
Wilbur would not address the allegations against Esco. But he said dumping animal remains into the water could cause "public health issues."
The creek has since been cleaned up, McNeill said.
Canton Police Chief Vickie McNeill would not confirm the number of carcasses and suspected manner of death.
"I will not discuss any specifics, but we have some animals that are dead," McNeill said Wednesday.
Alonzo Esco has been accused of mishandling animals, McNeill said. Esco served as a shared animal control officer for Canton and the county for three years. His salary was not immediately available.
Esco could not be reached for comment.
The Canton Police Department investigation is complete, and the findings have been turned over to the Madison/Rankin district attorney's office, McNeill said. Officials there would not discuss the case other than to say Esco has not been indicted.
McNeill said a citizen's complaint made with the Madison County Sheriff's Department led to the firing, which the Board of Aldermen approved Tuesday.
A woman filed the complaint after a pet she wanted to adopt never turned up at the Mississippi Animal Rescue League. The Sheriff's Department then forwarded the complaint to Canton police, McNeill said.
"That led us to conduct an investigation when the animal wasn't there," she said.
Debra Boswell, director of MARL, said if the allegations against Esco are true, "I'm extremely disappointed and certainly saddened for the animals that their end was met this way."
Boswell said Esco was doing a good job when he started out bringing the Rescue League animals.
If he was doing what he's accused of, Boswell said, "It's a blemish on the animal control officers who have worked so hard to professionalize what they do."
"I don't know why he would select that method of disposal," she said.
"Healthy animals are put down in shelters every day," Boswell said. "While the results may be the same (as killing them outside a shelter), it's how you get there."
Robbie Wilbur, spokesman for the state Department of Environmental Quality, said the agency has received no complaints about the dumping of carcasses in Canton and has no investigation pending.
Wilbur would not address the allegations against Esco. But he said dumping animal remains into the water could cause "public health issues."
The creek has since been cleaned up, McNeill said.
Officer Reginald Jones Changes His Story
An on-duty D.C. police officer charged with murder in a street robbery gone wrong initially told supervisors that he was at police headquarters writing search warrants the night of the Dec. 1 shooting, a homicide detective told a D.C. Superior Court judge Tuesday.
But, the detective testified, Officer Reginald Jones changed his story after a suspect in the case said Jones was involved in the crime. Jones then told police that he was at the scene of the shooting, sitting in his marked patrol car. But Jones told them that he was alone, investigating a tip about illegal guns. He has denied involvement in the shooting and robbery.
Prosecutors have charged Jones, 40, a six-year member of the department, with felony murder in the shooting death of Arvel S. Alston, 40, during the robbery in the 4200 block of Fourth Street SE. One of the co-defendants, Rashun M. Parker, 27, of Temple Hills, the first of five suspects arrested in the case, identified Jones as being involved in planning to rob a suspected drug dealer. Parker has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and conspiracy.
Jones, his ankles and wrists shackled, sat next to his attorney during the three-hour hearing.
Also seated at the defense table was Arvel Crawford, 19, Alston's son. Parker has said Crawford accidentally killed Alston during a scuffle with the intended robbery victim. Police said Alston had about $4,200 in cash stuffed in his pockets.
The courtroom was filled with family members of the victim and the suspects, as well as uniformed police officers and detectives. Jones, of Upper Marlboro, was assigned to the department's narcotics and gun recovery unit.
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Also charged in the case are Jarvis Clark, 19, of Temple Hills and Lynn Daniel Wilkerson, 33, of Hyattsville.
Detective Anthony Greene testified Tuesday that police recovered from Wilkerson's home two police-issued bulletproof vests, one of which had "property of R. Jones" written inside, portable flashing red lights and a home-invasion battering ram that was marked "gun recovery unit."
Greene said the suspects discussed the plan to rob Tyrone Herring, 45, while hanging out at an auto detailing shop in Suitland owned by Wilkerson and frequented by Jones. Greene testified that detectives recovered surveillance video from the auto shop that showed Jones there, sitting at a computer, while the other men were discussing the robbery and distributing guns.
After his arrest in the shooting, Parker accompanied a detective in a stakeout of the auto shop and saw Jones drive up. Parker then identified Jones as the officer involved in the robbery's planning.
Herring, who was also shot during the robbery but suffered injuries that were not life-threatening, was charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute after police said they found 31.4 grams of crack in his pants while he was being treated for the gunshot wound at a hospital. Investigators said Herring told them that he was robbed of nearly $5,000.
According to charging documents, Parker told detectives that Jones drove his cruiser on the night of the shooting through the courtyard of the housing complex in Washington Highlands to shoo away loiterers who might see the planned robbery. He then parked his car at the end of the driveway near the complex and sat on the driver's side, the documents state.
Greene testified that the other men approached Herring at the apartment complex, struck him over the head and tried to push him into a car with Alston in the driver's seat. Herring tried to wrestle away from his attackers. During the struggle, Crawford's gun accidentally went off, striking his father in the upper right chest, according to the documents and Greene's testimony.
Attorneys for Jones and Crawford urged Judge Michael L. Rankin to release their clients, saying Parker had a criminal history and was biased because he was cooperating with prosecutors after pleading guilty. The attorneys also argued that Herring, another witness, was a known drug dealer.
Rankin said the evidence presented at the hearing was "strong" and ordered Jones and Crawford to remain held in the D.C. jail until trial. Another judge signed an order allowing Jones to be separated from other inmates.
Jones is on paid indefinite suspension, said Assistant Police Chief Michael Anzallo. Department policy is to suspend an officer's pay 30 days after felony charges are filed, Anzallo said. Jones was arrested and charged in the fatal shooting Dec. 15.
But, the detective testified, Officer Reginald Jones changed his story after a suspect in the case said Jones was involved in the crime. Jones then told police that he was at the scene of the shooting, sitting in his marked patrol car. But Jones told them that he was alone, investigating a tip about illegal guns. He has denied involvement in the shooting and robbery.
Prosecutors have charged Jones, 40, a six-year member of the department, with felony murder in the shooting death of Arvel S. Alston, 40, during the robbery in the 4200 block of Fourth Street SE. One of the co-defendants, Rashun M. Parker, 27, of Temple Hills, the first of five suspects arrested in the case, identified Jones as being involved in planning to rob a suspected drug dealer. Parker has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and conspiracy.
Jones, his ankles and wrists shackled, sat next to his attorney during the three-hour hearing.
Also seated at the defense table was Arvel Crawford, 19, Alston's son. Parker has said Crawford accidentally killed Alston during a scuffle with the intended robbery victim. Police said Alston had about $4,200 in cash stuffed in his pockets.
The courtroom was filled with family members of the victim and the suspects, as well as uniformed police officers and detectives. Jones, of Upper Marlboro, was assigned to the department's narcotics and gun recovery unit.
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Also charged in the case are Jarvis Clark, 19, of Temple Hills and Lynn Daniel Wilkerson, 33, of Hyattsville.
Detective Anthony Greene testified Tuesday that police recovered from Wilkerson's home two police-issued bulletproof vests, one of which had "property of R. Jones" written inside, portable flashing red lights and a home-invasion battering ram that was marked "gun recovery unit."
Greene said the suspects discussed the plan to rob Tyrone Herring, 45, while hanging out at an auto detailing shop in Suitland owned by Wilkerson and frequented by Jones. Greene testified that detectives recovered surveillance video from the auto shop that showed Jones there, sitting at a computer, while the other men were discussing the robbery and distributing guns.
After his arrest in the shooting, Parker accompanied a detective in a stakeout of the auto shop and saw Jones drive up. Parker then identified Jones as the officer involved in the robbery's planning.
Herring, who was also shot during the robbery but suffered injuries that were not life-threatening, was charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute after police said they found 31.4 grams of crack in his pants while he was being treated for the gunshot wound at a hospital. Investigators said Herring told them that he was robbed of nearly $5,000.
According to charging documents, Parker told detectives that Jones drove his cruiser on the night of the shooting through the courtyard of the housing complex in Washington Highlands to shoo away loiterers who might see the planned robbery. He then parked his car at the end of the driveway near the complex and sat on the driver's side, the documents state.
Greene testified that the other men approached Herring at the apartment complex, struck him over the head and tried to push him into a car with Alston in the driver's seat. Herring tried to wrestle away from his attackers. During the struggle, Crawford's gun accidentally went off, striking his father in the upper right chest, according to the documents and Greene's testimony.
Attorneys for Jones and Crawford urged Judge Michael L. Rankin to release their clients, saying Parker had a criminal history and was biased because he was cooperating with prosecutors after pleading guilty. The attorneys also argued that Herring, another witness, was a known drug dealer.
Rankin said the evidence presented at the hearing was "strong" and ordered Jones and Crawford to remain held in the D.C. jail until trial. Another judge signed an order allowing Jones to be separated from other inmates.
Jones is on paid indefinite suspension, said Assistant Police Chief Michael Anzallo. Department policy is to suspend an officer's pay 30 days after felony charges are filed, Anzallo said. Jones was arrested and charged in the fatal shooting Dec. 15.
Female Officer In Trouble for Posting Photo of Dead Body on Facebook Page
A possible scandal is brewing in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The police department has suspended an unnamed female officer while they investigate whether she posted a photo of a dead body on her Facebook page.
The image in question appears to show a dead body, face down in what looks like a crime scene. The police department says they will do thorough investigation.
If the photo is verified, the officer could be fired. It is against department policy to post crime scene photos on the Internet.
http://www1.whdh.com/news/articles/local/BO132995/
The image in question appears to show a dead body, face down in what looks like a crime scene. The police department says they will do thorough investigation.
If the photo is verified, the officer could be fired. It is against department policy to post crime scene photos on the Internet.
http://www1.whdh.com/news/articles/local/BO132995/
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Former Officer Victor Goad Accused of Soliciting Bribe
The former Richmond County Sheriff deputy accused of soliciting a bribe was indicted this week.
The Richmond County grand jury issued the indictment against Victor J. Goad, accusing him of theft by extortion and violation of the oath of a public officer. Mr. Goad, who was fired after the allegation arose, allegedly threatened to arrest and jail a man unless he was paid $200.
Mr. Goad, who is free on bond, should be arraigned later this month.
The Richmond County grand jury issued the indictment against Victor J. Goad, accusing him of theft by extortion and violation of the oath of a public officer. Mr. Goad, who was fired after the allegation arose, allegedly threatened to arrest and jail a man unless he was paid $200.
Mr. Goad, who is free on bond, should be arraigned later this month.
Officer Kinley Jong Charged with Filing Fraudulent Tax Return
A California Highway Patrol officer has been arrested on charges of filing fraudulent state income tax returns, the California Franchise Tax Board said Tuesday.
Kinley L. Jong, 48, was originally charged in November with one felony count of possessing an assault weapon, which was found by special agents who were executing a search warrant on his home, the FTB said.
The FTB said it received information that Jong was allegedly depositing substantial amounts of cash into his bank accounts that exceeded the amount of income reported on his 2005 to 2007 state income tax returns.
Officials said he owes more than $26,400 in unpaid taxes to the state.
Jong was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail and was released on a $15,000 bail, according to the FTB.
He is expected in court on Wednesday.
Kinley L. Jong, 48, was originally charged in November with one felony count of possessing an assault weapon, which was found by special agents who were executing a search warrant on his home, the FTB said.
The FTB said it received information that Jong was allegedly depositing substantial amounts of cash into his bank accounts that exceeded the amount of income reported on his 2005 to 2007 state income tax returns.
Officials said he owes more than $26,400 in unpaid taxes to the state.
Jong was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail and was released on a $15,000 bail, according to the FTB.
He is expected in court on Wednesday.
Former Officer Dale Dodson Accused of Interfering with Murder Investigation
Former Sparta police officer Dale Dodson turned himself in to authorities at White County Justice Center, on Jan. 6, at approximately 9:30 a.m., after a sealed indictment was returned from the White County Grand Jury for his arrest.
Dodson, a 16-year veteran law enforcement officer, was fired Sept. 14, 2009, based on allegations of official misconduct for reportedly interfering with the murder investigation of Terry Sullivan, who was found dead in his home on Jan. 16, 2009. Dodson had secured subpoenas for at least two Web sites to obtain the identities of individuals who were posting negative comments about him in connection with the Sullivan case.
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was requested, by the district attorney general’s office, on Sept. 15, 2009, to open an investigation about the case.
As of press time, on Wednesday, White County authorities were not able to release information about the sealed indictment. However, The Expositor contacted Dodson who said he was charged with three counts of official misconduct.
He was held on a $25,000 bond but later released after posting bail.
Dodson, a 16-year veteran law enforcement officer, was fired Sept. 14, 2009, based on allegations of official misconduct for reportedly interfering with the murder investigation of Terry Sullivan, who was found dead in his home on Jan. 16, 2009. Dodson had secured subpoenas for at least two Web sites to obtain the identities of individuals who were posting negative comments about him in connection with the Sullivan case.
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was requested, by the district attorney general’s office, on Sept. 15, 2009, to open an investigation about the case.
As of press time, on Wednesday, White County authorities were not able to release information about the sealed indictment. However, The Expositor contacted Dodson who said he was charged with three counts of official misconduct.
He was held on a $25,000 bond but later released after posting bail.
Officer Robert John Lewis Charged with Shooting Death of His Son
Camp Lejeune civilian law enforcement officer has been charged in the November 2009 accidental shooting death of his young son.
Robert John Lewis, 27, of Jacksonville, N.C., was charged Wednesday morning with involuntary manslaughter, possession of a weapon of mass destruction, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile and failing to secure a firearm from a minor, according to an Onslow County Sheriff’s Office release.
The charges come nearly two months after Lewis’ 3-year-old son, Tyler, shot himself in the forehead Nov. 16 with a .40-caliber pistol he found on a table in the family’s home, according to authorities. He died shortly after the gun fired.
Lewis was working on the base when the shooting occurred. His wife was at home with their son at the time.
He has been placed in Onslow County Jail on $55,000 bond.
Robert John Lewis, 27, of Jacksonville, N.C., was charged Wednesday morning with involuntary manslaughter, possession of a weapon of mass destruction, contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile and failing to secure a firearm from a minor, according to an Onslow County Sheriff’s Office release.
The charges come nearly two months after Lewis’ 3-year-old son, Tyler, shot himself in the forehead Nov. 16 with a .40-caliber pistol he found on a table in the family’s home, according to authorities. He died shortly after the gun fired.
Lewis was working on the base when the shooting occurred. His wife was at home with their son at the time.
He has been placed in Onslow County Jail on $55,000 bond.
Officer Christian Mitchell Charged with Having Sex with Child
A St. Louis police officer has resigned after being charged with having sex with a child.
44-year-old Christian Mitchell resigned on Monday after 11 years in the department's 9th District.
Mitchell was charged in St. Louis County Circuit Court with two counts of second-degree statutory rape and two other felonies.
The Department said that after learning of the criminal allegations against Mitchell, it launched an Internal Affairs Investigation.
44-year-old Christian Mitchell resigned on Monday after 11 years in the department's 9th District.
Mitchell was charged in St. Louis County Circuit Court with two counts of second-degree statutory rape and two other felonies.
The Department said that after learning of the criminal allegations against Mitchell, it launched an Internal Affairs Investigation.
Officer Brandon Lavertie Accused of Battery
Another Orlando police officer is in trouble with the law. Orlando officer Brandon Lavertie was working off-duty when a woman accused him of battery and false imprisonment outside a downtown concert club.
Crowd control is a challenge at Orlando's downtown clubs and many hire off-duty officers, but sometimes they get themselves into trouble. That's what happened outside Firestone Live on Orange Avenue on the night of December 14.
Orlando police confirm one of its officers, who was working there off duty that night, has been suspended and is under investigation. The police department won’t say who he is or anything else about what happened.
But sources tell Eyewitness News there's a felony warrant out for the officer's arrest, because he's been accused of inappropriately touching a woman after she had left the club. The owner of Firestone Live says someone in her group had spilled a drink and all of them were asked to leave.
Neither the Firestone Live security camera, nor the city-owned camera at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Concord Street, captured the incident, but there is reportedly video of the officer with the alleged victim.
Eyewitness News has learned the incident happened off club property, possibly at a nearby parking area. Firestone Live's owner says the off-duty Orlando officer had left his post and went off with the woman.
Orlando police will wait until after the criminal investigation is done before it does its own investigation into whether the officer violated department policy.
Orlando police say the officer was suspended three days after the alleged incident, but won't say whether that was with or without pay.
Crowd control is a challenge at Orlando's downtown clubs and many hire off-duty officers, but sometimes they get themselves into trouble. That's what happened outside Firestone Live on Orange Avenue on the night of December 14.
Orlando police confirm one of its officers, who was working there off duty that night, has been suspended and is under investigation. The police department won’t say who he is or anything else about what happened.
But sources tell Eyewitness News there's a felony warrant out for the officer's arrest, because he's been accused of inappropriately touching a woman after she had left the club. The owner of Firestone Live says someone in her group had spilled a drink and all of them were asked to leave.
Neither the Firestone Live security camera, nor the city-owned camera at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Concord Street, captured the incident, but there is reportedly video of the officer with the alleged victim.
Eyewitness News has learned the incident happened off club property, possibly at a nearby parking area. Firestone Live's owner says the off-duty Orlando officer had left his post and went off with the woman.
Orlando police will wait until after the criminal investigation is done before it does its own investigation into whether the officer violated department policy.
Orlando police say the officer was suspended three days after the alleged incident, but won't say whether that was with or without pay.
Officer Derrick Shannon Under Investigation for Neglect of Duty
A Baltimore police officer is being investigated for possible neglect of duty after the family of a shooting victim said he failed to take a report about a missing person.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that the family of Marcal Walton, 33, had called police Monday morning to report him missing, but were told by a Central District officer that he would not take a report because Walton was "locked up."
The officer apparently was unaware that Walton had been found Sunday afternoon in an alley in the 2300 block of Ocala Ave., dead of gunshot wounds.
Officer Derrick Shannon, a four-year veteran, has not been suspended while he is under investigation for possible neglect of duty, said Guglielmi, who noted that the missing person call had been placed after Walton's body had been found.
Police also disclosed new details about Walton's killing. They first received a report around 2:40 p.m. Sunday that Walton had been abducted from a home in the 1700 block of Hollins Ave. near the county line, and 20 minutes later responded to the shooting, not far from Mondawmin Mall in West Baltimore, where they found his body, Guglielmi said.
Walton, who had a long record of drug arrests and a handgun arrest in Baltimore County, pleaded guilty in 1997 to a charge of drug distribution.
In 2000, Walton received a phone call from a man offering to sell stolen jewelry that helped police track down one of the killers of Baltimore County police Sgt. Bruce A. Prothero, who was moonlighting as a security guard at a jewelry store.
According to news reports, county police were able to track a call from Troy Wilson, who had offered to sell Walton jewelry stolen during a February 2000 robbery in which Prothero was shot. Wilson is serving a life sentence.
As of Tuesday evening, Walton was the city's only homicide victim so far this year. Baltimore recorded nine killings in the first five days of 2009.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that the family of Marcal Walton, 33, had called police Monday morning to report him missing, but were told by a Central District officer that he would not take a report because Walton was "locked up."
The officer apparently was unaware that Walton had been found Sunday afternoon in an alley in the 2300 block of Ocala Ave., dead of gunshot wounds.
Officer Derrick Shannon, a four-year veteran, has not been suspended while he is under investigation for possible neglect of duty, said Guglielmi, who noted that the missing person call had been placed after Walton's body had been found.
Police also disclosed new details about Walton's killing. They first received a report around 2:40 p.m. Sunday that Walton had been abducted from a home in the 1700 block of Hollins Ave. near the county line, and 20 minutes later responded to the shooting, not far from Mondawmin Mall in West Baltimore, where they found his body, Guglielmi said.
Walton, who had a long record of drug arrests and a handgun arrest in Baltimore County, pleaded guilty in 1997 to a charge of drug distribution.
In 2000, Walton received a phone call from a man offering to sell stolen jewelry that helped police track down one of the killers of Baltimore County police Sgt. Bruce A. Prothero, who was moonlighting as a security guard at a jewelry store.
According to news reports, county police were able to track a call from Troy Wilson, who had offered to sell Walton jewelry stolen during a February 2000 robbery in which Prothero was shot. Wilson is serving a life sentence.
As of Tuesday evening, Walton was the city's only homicide victim so far this year. Baltimore recorded nine killings in the first five days of 2009.
Former Officer Alhinde Weems Pleads Guilty to Dealing Drugs
A former Philadelphia police officer pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court to dealing drugs and planning to rob a supposed drug stash. Alhinde Weems, 34, faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison - and a maximum of life - when sentenced in May.
Weems, a 51/2-year veteran when he was arrested in March, was a drug dealer before he became an officer and continued his dealings while on the force, according to authorities. He was arrested at an area hotel as he was about to rob a man he believed was a drug dealer, but who was really a federal undercover agent.
"He appeared to be motivated by greed," Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carrillo said yesterday.
Weems, whose last assignment was in West Philadelphia's 18th Police District, admitted to selling crack cocaine, buying and transporting what he believed to be genuine cocaine in 2008-09, and planning, and attempting to commit, a gunpoint home-invasion robbery of a drug dealer.
Weems, a 51/2-year veteran when he was arrested in March, was a drug dealer before he became an officer and continued his dealings while on the force, according to authorities. He was arrested at an area hotel as he was about to rob a man he believed was a drug dealer, but who was really a federal undercover agent.
"He appeared to be motivated by greed," Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carrillo said yesterday.
Weems, whose last assignment was in West Philadelphia's 18th Police District, admitted to selling crack cocaine, buying and transporting what he believed to be genuine cocaine in 2008-09, and planning, and attempting to commit, a gunpoint home-invasion robbery of a drug dealer.
Officer David Dass Guilty of Online Enticement of Child
An Omaha police officer has been convicted of using the Internet to lure what he believed was a 14-year-old girl into having sex.
A Sarpy County jury found 25-year-old David Kass guilty of online enticement on Wednesday.
Kass was arrested at his Omaha home in July. La Vista police detectives said Kass initiated an online conversation with an undercover investigator posing as a 14-year-old girl. Detectives say the conversation was of a graphic, sexual nature.
Kass had argued that he thought he was talking to an adult during the explicit online chat.
Kass has been with the Omaha Police Department since 2006.
He is scheduled to be sentenced in March. Kass faces a maximum of 5 years in prison.
Information from: KETV-TV, http://www.ketv.com
A Sarpy County jury found 25-year-old David Kass guilty of online enticement on Wednesday.
Kass was arrested at his Omaha home in July. La Vista police detectives said Kass initiated an online conversation with an undercover investigator posing as a 14-year-old girl. Detectives say the conversation was of a graphic, sexual nature.
Kass had argued that he thought he was talking to an adult during the explicit online chat.
Kass has been with the Omaha Police Department since 2006.
He is scheduled to be sentenced in March. Kass faces a maximum of 5 years in prison.
Information from: KETV-TV, http://www.ketv.com
Officer Carlos Alvarez Fired for Not Responding to Call
Last week, Police Chief David Kunkle fired a 13-year-veteran after he failed to respond to a police call and instead went to conduct personal business at a bank.
At the time, we didn't have much detail about the circumstances that led to the firing of police Officer Carlos Alvarez. Today, I obtained a copy of the internal affairs investigation through an open records request.
In my experience covering DPD, this particular case would not typically result in termination. Senior commanders say what set Alvarez apart was his extensive history of discipline for missing work.
At 12:02 p.m. on Aug. 20, Alvarez was dispatched to a shoplifting call in the 2400 block of West Ledbetter Drive. Two minutes later, another officer who was driving by stopped at the location of the incident and put out a call for help.
A police sergeant noticed that Alvarez had not yet arrived at the call. At 12:09 p.m., Alvarez told her that he was on his way to the call. At 12:19 p.m., Alvarez left the bank where he had gone to take care of an overdraft on his bank account.
He arrived at the call at 12:24 p.m. - 22 minutes after first being dispatched.
Alvarez later told investigators that he didn't think it would take long at the bank. He said he did not initially hear the dispatcher give him the call.
He said did not leave the bank immediately after finding out about the call because the bank teller still had his license and bank card in the manager's office. Once he retrieved them, he immediately went to the call. He said he did not hear the other officer request help.
"I made a mistake and it will not happen again," Alvarez wrote in his statement to internal investigators.
A supervisor who initially counseled him over the incident spoke highly of Alvarez in his written statement.
"Officer Alvarez is an excellent officer, handles a high number of calls and often interprets for other officers," Sgt. Marc Hearn wrote. "He is an asset to the watch."
In 1998 and 2000, Alvarez received minor discipline for missing court. In 2002, he received a five-day suspension for missing work and giving misleading statements. In 2002 and 2003, he received minor discipline for missing court. In 2005, he got a 10-day suspension for missing work.
In 2006, he was given a 20-day suspension for missing work and making misleading statements. In 2007, he was given a documented counseling for not going to court.
Alvarez's sergeant and lieutenant both recommended a 10-day suspension over the August 2009 incident. Deputy Chief Rick Watson, commander of southwest patrol, and Assistant Chief Floyd Simpson, who oversees all the patrol stations, both recommended termination.
Kunkle made the final decision.
At the time, we didn't have much detail about the circumstances that led to the firing of police Officer Carlos Alvarez. Today, I obtained a copy of the internal affairs investigation through an open records request.
In my experience covering DPD, this particular case would not typically result in termination. Senior commanders say what set Alvarez apart was his extensive history of discipline for missing work.
At 12:02 p.m. on Aug. 20, Alvarez was dispatched to a shoplifting call in the 2400 block of West Ledbetter Drive. Two minutes later, another officer who was driving by stopped at the location of the incident and put out a call for help.
A police sergeant noticed that Alvarez had not yet arrived at the call. At 12:09 p.m., Alvarez told her that he was on his way to the call. At 12:19 p.m., Alvarez left the bank where he had gone to take care of an overdraft on his bank account.
He arrived at the call at 12:24 p.m. - 22 minutes after first being dispatched.
Alvarez later told investigators that he didn't think it would take long at the bank. He said he did not initially hear the dispatcher give him the call.
He said did not leave the bank immediately after finding out about the call because the bank teller still had his license and bank card in the manager's office. Once he retrieved them, he immediately went to the call. He said he did not hear the other officer request help.
"I made a mistake and it will not happen again," Alvarez wrote in his statement to internal investigators.
A supervisor who initially counseled him over the incident spoke highly of Alvarez in his written statement.
"Officer Alvarez is an excellent officer, handles a high number of calls and often interprets for other officers," Sgt. Marc Hearn wrote. "He is an asset to the watch."
In 1998 and 2000, Alvarez received minor discipline for missing court. In 2002, he received a five-day suspension for missing work and giving misleading statements. In 2002 and 2003, he received minor discipline for missing court. In 2005, he got a 10-day suspension for missing work.
In 2006, he was given a 20-day suspension for missing work and making misleading statements. In 2007, he was given a documented counseling for not going to court.
Alvarez's sergeant and lieutenant both recommended a 10-day suspension over the August 2009 incident. Deputy Chief Rick Watson, commander of southwest patrol, and Assistant Chief Floyd Simpson, who oversees all the patrol stations, both recommended termination.
Kunkle made the final decision.
Officer Edward Krawetz in Court for Kicking Woman
A suspended Lincoln police officer accused of kicking a woman in the face while she was handcuffed, pleaded not guilty Wednesday morning in Providence County Superior Court.
Officer Edward Krawetz, 40, of 429 River Rd., Lincoln, was arraigned on a felony charge of assault with a dangerous weapon — his foot.
Judge Kristin Rodgers released him pending a pretrial hearing April 6.
A spokesman for the attorney general’s office, Michael J. Healey, said last month that Donna Levesque, 45, a Massachusetts resident, was sitting on a curb with her hands cuffed behind her back at the Twin River slot parlor when Krawetz allegedly kicked her on May 31.
Krawetz and Officer Russell Enos were working in uniform and off-duty on a security detail at Twin River when Levesque began acting in a disorderly manner and was escorted outside by the two officers, according to Healey. The officers took Levesque into custody on a disorderly conduct charge in a bar at the slot parlor, he said.
Healey said Levesque has no memory of the incident and did not seek treatment for any injury. He said she later pleaded no contest to the disorderly conduct charge.
Rodgers ordered Krawetz not to have any contact with Levesque. He remains suspended from the force without pay.
Enos was not accused of any wrongdoing.
State police became involved on July 21 after the Lincoln police chief asked them to investigate the alleged assault, state police Capt. David Neill said Wednesday. Lincoln Police Lt. Chris Tuffy worked with state police detectives, Neill said.
The evidence against Krawetz includes a videotape obtained from Twin River security, Neill said. He said the state police will not release the videotape because it is evidence in the ongoing case.
“The videotape corroborates the fact that the officer did strike the female with his foot,” Neill said. “The video corroborates the alleged assault.”
It was not known who brought the alleged assault to the attention of the Lincoln police.
Neill said he could not comment on when or why the Lincoln police began investigating the incident, but he believes that investigation began shortly after the incident.
Lincoln Police Chief Brian Sullivan said that the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights prevents him from talking about the case. He said the department is referring all questions to Providence lawyer Vincent Ragosta Jr. who is representing the Lincoln police. Ragosta also cited the Bill of Rights and would not comment on the case.
Six years ago, the town settled out of court on a claim filed by a teenager that Krawetz had struck him and damaged his teeth during an arrest. The teenager was later cleared of charges of assault and resisting arrest. The amount of the settlement was not disclosed.
Officer Edward Krawetz, 40, of 429 River Rd., Lincoln, was arraigned on a felony charge of assault with a dangerous weapon — his foot.
Judge Kristin Rodgers released him pending a pretrial hearing April 6.
A spokesman for the attorney general’s office, Michael J. Healey, said last month that Donna Levesque, 45, a Massachusetts resident, was sitting on a curb with her hands cuffed behind her back at the Twin River slot parlor when Krawetz allegedly kicked her on May 31.
Krawetz and Officer Russell Enos were working in uniform and off-duty on a security detail at Twin River when Levesque began acting in a disorderly manner and was escorted outside by the two officers, according to Healey. The officers took Levesque into custody on a disorderly conduct charge in a bar at the slot parlor, he said.
Healey said Levesque has no memory of the incident and did not seek treatment for any injury. He said she later pleaded no contest to the disorderly conduct charge.
Rodgers ordered Krawetz not to have any contact with Levesque. He remains suspended from the force without pay.
Enos was not accused of any wrongdoing.
State police became involved on July 21 after the Lincoln police chief asked them to investigate the alleged assault, state police Capt. David Neill said Wednesday. Lincoln Police Lt. Chris Tuffy worked with state police detectives, Neill said.
The evidence against Krawetz includes a videotape obtained from Twin River security, Neill said. He said the state police will not release the videotape because it is evidence in the ongoing case.
“The videotape corroborates the fact that the officer did strike the female with his foot,” Neill said. “The video corroborates the alleged assault.”
It was not known who brought the alleged assault to the attention of the Lincoln police.
Neill said he could not comment on when or why the Lincoln police began investigating the incident, but he believes that investigation began shortly after the incident.
Lincoln Police Chief Brian Sullivan said that the Law Enforcement Officers Bill of Rights prevents him from talking about the case. He said the department is referring all questions to Providence lawyer Vincent Ragosta Jr. who is representing the Lincoln police. Ragosta also cited the Bill of Rights and would not comment on the case.
Six years ago, the town settled out of court on a claim filed by a teenager that Krawetz had struck him and damaged his teeth during an arrest. The teenager was later cleared of charges of assault and resisting arrest. The amount of the settlement was not disclosed.
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Deputy Amanda Tyndall Accused of Giving 20-year-old Alcohol
The court case of a Pitt County deputy accused of giving a 20-year-old a drink has been continued until March 12.
The State Bureau of Investigated charged Deputy Amanda Raper Tyndall, 30, of N.C. 43 South on Sept. 23 after the Pitt County district attorney requested an investigation into the reported June 5 incident.
A complaint was filed against Tyndall on June 6 after an Alcohol Law Enforcement officer cited Elizabeth Daniel Dominique, 20, for underage drinking.
Dominique and a friend said that Tyndall gave the young woman the drink but walked away when the agent approached the table and wrote the citation.
Pitt County Sheriff Mac Manning has defended Tyndall, who joined the department in October 2005. Tyndall was Manning’s only full-time Drug Awareness and Resistance Education officer, and he suspended classes during the fall because of the investigation and public discussion about the matter.
Tyndall remains employed by the sheriff’s office.
When Tyndall was charged Manning gave reporters copies of statements made by Dominique, one of her friends and Alcohol Law Enforcement agent Rusty King.
King said he saw Dominique drink from a wine glass while a woman later identified as Tyndall had her back turned.
Manning said Tyndall knew Dominique because the young woman previously dated the deputy’s stepson.
“They were familiar with each other, but they were not together in the same party that night,” Manning said.
The State Bureau of Investigated charged Deputy Amanda Raper Tyndall, 30, of N.C. 43 South on Sept. 23 after the Pitt County district attorney requested an investigation into the reported June 5 incident.
A complaint was filed against Tyndall on June 6 after an Alcohol Law Enforcement officer cited Elizabeth Daniel Dominique, 20, for underage drinking.
Dominique and a friend said that Tyndall gave the young woman the drink but walked away when the agent approached the table and wrote the citation.
Pitt County Sheriff Mac Manning has defended Tyndall, who joined the department in October 2005. Tyndall was Manning’s only full-time Drug Awareness and Resistance Education officer, and he suspended classes during the fall because of the investigation and public discussion about the matter.
Tyndall remains employed by the sheriff’s office.
When Tyndall was charged Manning gave reporters copies of statements made by Dominique, one of her friends and Alcohol Law Enforcement agent Rusty King.
King said he saw Dominique drink from a wine glass while a woman later identified as Tyndall had her back turned.
Manning said Tyndall knew Dominique because the young woman previously dated the deputy’s stepson.
“They were familiar with each other, but they were not together in the same party that night,” Manning said.
Deputy Edwin Salinda Charged with Child Sexual Assault
A sheriff's deputy is behind bars Tuesday after he was charged with six counts of sexual assault on a child. According to court documents, the alleged incidents happened from 1992 to 1996.
A woman says that Edwin Salinda sexually assaulted her on at least 30 separate occasions when she was between the ages of six and eight.
Salinda was first arrested on November 9, 2009 but was released. At the time, he was put on leave without pay. He has subsequently been suspended.
Salinda has been with the sheriff's department for approximately 18 years. His bail has been set at $100,000.
A woman says that Edwin Salinda sexually assaulted her on at least 30 separate occasions when she was between the ages of six and eight.
Salinda was first arrested on November 9, 2009 but was released. At the time, he was put on leave without pay. He has subsequently been suspended.
Salinda has been with the sheriff's department for approximately 18 years. His bail has been set at $100,000.
School Security Officer Dean Banner Arrested for Hosting Teen Drinking Party
Police said a man who worked as a substitute security officer for the Highlands School District was arrested after he allegedly hosted a drinking party for teens.
According to district spokeswoman Misty Chybrzynski, Dean Banner worked on an on-call basis for the school system.
Chybrzynski said school administrators learned of Banner's Dec. 27 arrest the following day and permanently removed him from the substitute list.
Banner worked for the school district for 5 years and was not known to have had any previous problems, Chybrzynski said.
According to the criminal complaint, Harrison police were called to Banner's Natrona home to investigate a complaint of underage drinking.
When officers arrived, they found evidence that Banner was serving alcohol to minors, police said.
He is facing charges of giving alcohol to minors and disorderly conduct.
According to district spokeswoman Misty Chybrzynski, Dean Banner worked on an on-call basis for the school system.
Chybrzynski said school administrators learned of Banner's Dec. 27 arrest the following day and permanently removed him from the substitute list.
Banner worked for the school district for 5 years and was not known to have had any previous problems, Chybrzynski said.
According to the criminal complaint, Harrison police were called to Banner's Natrona home to investigate a complaint of underage drinking.
When officers arrived, they found evidence that Banner was serving alcohol to minors, police said.
He is facing charges of giving alcohol to minors and disorderly conduct.
Deputy Daniel Ward Arrested for Sexual Battery on Child
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has arrested a former Campbell County deputy after he was indicted by a grand jury on multiple charges of the sexual battery of a minor.
Daniel Ward, 36 and of Jacksboro, was indicted on 16 counts overall. The indictment includes 10 counts of aggravated sexual battery of a minor under the age of 13, two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery of a minor under the age of 13, two counts sexual battery by an authority figure, and two counts of sexual battery.
A Campbell County grand jury handed down the indictment on Monday.
The TBI began investigating the allegations against Ward in December, after a request by the district attorney.
Ward is accused of sexually molesting one victim numerous times between October 2003 and March 2009.
He's been booked into the Campbell County jail on $25,000 bond.
While employed with the sheriff's office, he worked as a corrections officer and a patrol deputy.
Daniel Ward, 36 and of Jacksboro, was indicted on 16 counts overall. The indictment includes 10 counts of aggravated sexual battery of a minor under the age of 13, two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery of a minor under the age of 13, two counts sexual battery by an authority figure, and two counts of sexual battery.
A Campbell County grand jury handed down the indictment on Monday.
The TBI began investigating the allegations against Ward in December, after a request by the district attorney.
Ward is accused of sexually molesting one victim numerous times between October 2003 and March 2009.
He's been booked into the Campbell County jail on $25,000 bond.
While employed with the sheriff's office, he worked as a corrections officer and a patrol deputy.
Officer Davita Glenn Arrested for DUI
A Polk County Sheriff's deputy was arrested and charged with driving under the influence. Deputy Davita Glenn was arrested by the Florida Highway Patrol on Monday night.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, her blood alcohol level measured a .201. The Polk County Sheriff's office confirmed Glenn was involved in a crash but there were no injuries reported.
Deputy Glenn is 37 years old. She was released from jail on a $500 bond, and shortly after she issued a letter of retirement to the sheriff's office. This is the second Polk County deputy arrested for DUI in a week.
According to the Florida Highway Patrol, her blood alcohol level measured a .201. The Polk County Sheriff's office confirmed Glenn was involved in a crash but there were no injuries reported.
Deputy Glenn is 37 years old. She was released from jail on a $500 bond, and shortly after she issued a letter of retirement to the sheriff's office. This is the second Polk County deputy arrested for DUI in a week.
Deputy Jeff Edwin Baker Charged with Raping Teen
A Hamilton County school resource officer is accused of raping a teenaged girl.
In November, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office was notified by the East Ridge Police Department about allegations of improper contact between Deputy Jeff Edwin Baker and a juvenile female. That investigation resulted in the arrest of Deputy Jeff Edwin Baker who will be charged with two counts of Aggravated Statutory Rape.
Investigators say one incident allegedly happened at East Ridge Middle School where Deputy Baker was assigned as the School Resource Officer. The second incident reportedly occurred at an apartment complex.
Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond said, "Anytime a situation like this happens, it saddens all of us. We are committed, however, to provide a safe environment for all the citizens of Hamilton County. This incident in no way reflects on the integrity and dedication of any of the other law enforcement officers who serve and protect us daily."
photo & more information
In November, the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office was notified by the East Ridge Police Department about allegations of improper contact between Deputy Jeff Edwin Baker and a juvenile female. That investigation resulted in the arrest of Deputy Jeff Edwin Baker who will be charged with two counts of Aggravated Statutory Rape.
Investigators say one incident allegedly happened at East Ridge Middle School where Deputy Baker was assigned as the School Resource Officer. The second incident reportedly occurred at an apartment complex.
Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond said, "Anytime a situation like this happens, it saddens all of us. We are committed, however, to provide a safe environment for all the citizens of Hamilton County. This incident in no way reflects on the integrity and dedication of any of the other law enforcement officers who serve and protect us daily."
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Officer Michael Dawson Arrested for Public Intoxication
Oklahoma City police say an off-duty officer is on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into his arrest on New Year's Day.
Authorities say Logan County sheriff's deputies found Michael Dawson crawling out of a wooded ditch along a rural road while intoxicated and clothed only in a T-shirt, shorts and a single shoe.
Oklahoma City police Capt. Patrick Stewart alleged Monday that Dawson, an 11-year veteran patrol officer, was drunk and kicked out the back window of the patrol car during the incident.
Stewart says he was booked into the Logan County jail on a misdemeanor public intoxication complaint. He has not been formally charged.
A deputy at the Logan County jail said Dawson was released from custody on Friday. She didn't know if Dawson had a lawyer.
Information from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com
Authorities say Logan County sheriff's deputies found Michael Dawson crawling out of a wooded ditch along a rural road while intoxicated and clothed only in a T-shirt, shorts and a single shoe.
Oklahoma City police Capt. Patrick Stewart alleged Monday that Dawson, an 11-year veteran patrol officer, was drunk and kicked out the back window of the patrol car during the incident.
Stewart says he was booked into the Logan County jail on a misdemeanor public intoxication complaint. He has not been formally charged.
A deputy at the Logan County jail said Dawson was released from custody on Friday. She didn't know if Dawson had a lawyer.
Information from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com
Officer Frank Tepper Stripped of His Badge
The off-duty police officer who shot and killed an unarmed 21-year-old man in November during a street fight will be stripped of his badge, Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey announced yesterday.
Frank Tepper, 43, a 16-year veteran of the force, committed "numerous violations" of Police Department procedures when he opened fire on William Panas Jr. in the Port Richmond neighborhood where they both lived, according to an investigation by the department's Internal Affairs Division.
As of yesterday, Tepper was suspended for 30 days with the intent to dismiss him. He could not be reached for comment.
Panas' father, William Sr., said Ramsey called him to deliver the news.
"This is a great day," Panas said yesterday, his voice breaking. "This means he can't kill someone else's child while calling himself police."
A police cruiser was parked outside Tepper's home yesterday - police have guarded his house on Elkhart Street since the Nov. 21 shooting - and a memorial to Panas remained in place across the street.
Tepper has since moved to an undisclosed location.
Tepper also might face criminal charges. Last month, then-District Attorney Lynne M. Abraham announced a grand-jury probe into the case. That investigation is continuing and has no bearing on the decision to fire Tepper, Ramsey said in a news release.
District Attorney R. Seth Williams, who took office yesterday, said through a spokesman that he planned to review the case file today.
Said the elder Panas: "What we most want is for [Tepper] to be charged with murdering my son. We're very grateful he's been terminated, but the fact is he murdered my son for nothing. He should be punished for that."
The shooting of Panas, a well-known Port Richmond native who planned to open a corner barbershop, sparked outrage, particularly among neighbors of Tepper. Many have described Tepper as a hot-tempered bully often at war with the teenagers and young adults in his community.
Tepper also has a history of reaching for his gun to settle disputes.
Seven years before Panas' death, Tepper drew a firearm while arguing with a group of youths who had harassed Tepper's young son. As with Panas' shooting, Tepper was off duty at the time.
After that incident, Internal Affairs officers admonished Tepper, warning in a report that his actions "could have resulted in numerous injuries with the very real possibility of deadly force being used by him during this confrontation."
Tepper was assigned to the Civil Affairs Unit, whose duties include monitoring demonstrations and labor disputes. He was placed on desk duty after the shooting while the case was investigated, standard procedure in officer-involved shootings.
Panas' family and many in Port Richmond have been calling for action against Tepper since the night Tepper shot Panas during a large brawl that broke out in front of Tepper's Elkhart Street house. Some neighbors said the fight began in the house, at a family party, then spilled out into the street.
Police have said that Tepper tried to break up the fight and that he fired his gun after he was assaulted. Witnesses disputed that, saying that Tepper appeared drunk and that Panas never threatened him. No one in the crowd was armed.
By several accounts, Panas just happened to walk by with friends, and some witnesses said he tried to stop the fighting. Witnesses reported that when Tepper brandished a gun and chased off the brawlers, Panas said, "Come on, you're not going to shoot me."
Just before Tepper fired, witnesses said, his response was, essentially, "Oh, yeah?"
Panas was shot in the chest and died soon afterward.
Police have never commented on whether Tepper called 911 before getting involved in the fight, in accordance with the rules that govern off-duty officers, or whether he called 911 after the shooting.
The reaction from many Port Richmond residents was immediate and anguished. A memorial to Panas appeared at the scene of the shooting, with photographs and letters, and neighbors have held two marches in his honor.
"It was inevitable that he would kill someone," the elder Panas said of Tepper. "He should have been stopped a long time ago."
Frank Tepper, 43, a 16-year veteran of the force, committed "numerous violations" of Police Department procedures when he opened fire on William Panas Jr. in the Port Richmond neighborhood where they both lived, according to an investigation by the department's Internal Affairs Division.
As of yesterday, Tepper was suspended for 30 days with the intent to dismiss him. He could not be reached for comment.
Panas' father, William Sr., said Ramsey called him to deliver the news.
"This is a great day," Panas said yesterday, his voice breaking. "This means he can't kill someone else's child while calling himself police."
A police cruiser was parked outside Tepper's home yesterday - police have guarded his house on Elkhart Street since the Nov. 21 shooting - and a memorial to Panas remained in place across the street.
Tepper has since moved to an undisclosed location.
Tepper also might face criminal charges. Last month, then-District Attorney Lynne M. Abraham announced a grand-jury probe into the case. That investigation is continuing and has no bearing on the decision to fire Tepper, Ramsey said in a news release.
District Attorney R. Seth Williams, who took office yesterday, said through a spokesman that he planned to review the case file today.
Said the elder Panas: "What we most want is for [Tepper] to be charged with murdering my son. We're very grateful he's been terminated, but the fact is he murdered my son for nothing. He should be punished for that."
The shooting of Panas, a well-known Port Richmond native who planned to open a corner barbershop, sparked outrage, particularly among neighbors of Tepper. Many have described Tepper as a hot-tempered bully often at war with the teenagers and young adults in his community.
Tepper also has a history of reaching for his gun to settle disputes.
Seven years before Panas' death, Tepper drew a firearm while arguing with a group of youths who had harassed Tepper's young son. As with Panas' shooting, Tepper was off duty at the time.
After that incident, Internal Affairs officers admonished Tepper, warning in a report that his actions "could have resulted in numerous injuries with the very real possibility of deadly force being used by him during this confrontation."
Tepper was assigned to the Civil Affairs Unit, whose duties include monitoring demonstrations and labor disputes. He was placed on desk duty after the shooting while the case was investigated, standard procedure in officer-involved shootings.
Panas' family and many in Port Richmond have been calling for action against Tepper since the night Tepper shot Panas during a large brawl that broke out in front of Tepper's Elkhart Street house. Some neighbors said the fight began in the house, at a family party, then spilled out into the street.
Police have said that Tepper tried to break up the fight and that he fired his gun after he was assaulted. Witnesses disputed that, saying that Tepper appeared drunk and that Panas never threatened him. No one in the crowd was armed.
By several accounts, Panas just happened to walk by with friends, and some witnesses said he tried to stop the fighting. Witnesses reported that when Tepper brandished a gun and chased off the brawlers, Panas said, "Come on, you're not going to shoot me."
Just before Tepper fired, witnesses said, his response was, essentially, "Oh, yeah?"
Panas was shot in the chest and died soon afterward.
Police have never commented on whether Tepper called 911 before getting involved in the fight, in accordance with the rules that govern off-duty officers, or whether he called 911 after the shooting.
The reaction from many Port Richmond residents was immediate and anguished. A memorial to Panas appeared at the scene of the shooting, with photographs and letters, and neighbors have held two marches in his honor.
"It was inevitable that he would kill someone," the elder Panas said of Tepper. "He should have been stopped a long time ago."
Monday, January 04, 2010
Deputy Robert Ayers Arrested for DUI
Orangeburg County deputies say one of their officers has resigned following his arrest on charges of driving under the influence.
The department said Monday that Robert Ayers had voluntarily left the agency. Previous Coverage: Orangeburg County Deputy Charged with DUI
Last Wednesday at about 10 p.m., state troopers found Ayers and his vehicle in a ditch next to Cattle Creek Road. Officers concluded that he had driven off the road, and found probable cause to charge him with DUI.
Ayers was driving his patrol vehicle, but was off-duty at the time of the incident.
In a statement Monday, Orangeburg County Sheriff Larry Williams said Ayers used poor judgment. He says the policy of the department is that officers are not allowed to use their patrol vehicles for personal use.
Ayers had been with the department for three years, and was the 2009 Field Services Top Cop.
Other Information
The department said Monday that Robert Ayers had voluntarily left the agency. Previous Coverage: Orangeburg County Deputy Charged with DUI
Last Wednesday at about 10 p.m., state troopers found Ayers and his vehicle in a ditch next to Cattle Creek Road. Officers concluded that he had driven off the road, and found probable cause to charge him with DUI.
Ayers was driving his patrol vehicle, but was off-duty at the time of the incident.
In a statement Monday, Orangeburg County Sheriff Larry Williams said Ayers used poor judgment. He says the policy of the department is that officers are not allowed to use their patrol vehicles for personal use.
Ayers had been with the department for three years, and was the 2009 Field Services Top Cop.
Other Information
Officer James Taylor Drives into Home with Expired Drivers License
Residents inside one North Toledo home got quite a scare Sunday morning after a Toledo police cruiser ended up on their front porch.
The happened around 1:30 a.m. Sunday at 2814 Mulberry St. in North Toledo. The officer reportedly lost control of his vehicle and slid off the road and into the home's front porch. Ice may have caused the officer to slide off the road, although that has not been confirmed.
One man inside the home at the time of the crash said he was surprised to discover a police cruiser on the front lawn, "We were upstairs watching movies and all of a sudden we hear (a) loud tire screech," said Trevis Coogler. "The porch (was) about to fall."
Toledo Police Officer James Taylor responding to a report of a stolen vehicle in the area at the time of the incident. Taylor's cruiser knocked down a utility pole and part of another home before crashing into the porch.
Toledo Police have confirmed that Officer Taylor was driving with an expired driver's license. His license expired in August 2009.
Neither the residents nor Taylor were injured.
Toledo Police say they will investigate the incident further. They tell NBC24 that Taylor did renew his driver's license on Monday.
The happened around 1:30 a.m. Sunday at 2814 Mulberry St. in North Toledo. The officer reportedly lost control of his vehicle and slid off the road and into the home's front porch. Ice may have caused the officer to slide off the road, although that has not been confirmed.
One man inside the home at the time of the crash said he was surprised to discover a police cruiser on the front lawn, "We were upstairs watching movies and all of a sudden we hear (a) loud tire screech," said Trevis Coogler. "The porch (was) about to fall."
Toledo Police Officer James Taylor responding to a report of a stolen vehicle in the area at the time of the incident. Taylor's cruiser knocked down a utility pole and part of another home before crashing into the porch.
Toledo Police have confirmed that Officer Taylor was driving with an expired driver's license. His license expired in August 2009.
Neither the residents nor Taylor were injured.
Toledo Police say they will investigate the incident further. They tell NBC24 that Taylor did renew his driver's license on Monday.
Officer Joe Zepeda Charged with Drunk Driving
A White Plains police officer has been suspended without pay after he was arrested on a drunk driving charge following an accident with a tractor-trailer on Interstate 287.
The incident happened shortly after 5 a.m. Thursday, when off-duty Officer Joe Zepeda, 37, hit the back of a tractor-trailer while driving his 2007 Nissan west near Exit 6 in White Plains.
State police Sgt. Kenneth Cano of the Tarrytown barracks said Zepeda suffered a minor head abrasion and was not taken to the hospital. A passenger in his car, White Plains Police Officer Kurt Maddux, was treated at Westchester Medical Center for a broken ankle and released. The truck driver, who was not identified, was released from the medical center after he was treated for neck and back pain.
Zepeda, 37, of Mahopac, refused to take a blood-alcohol test and was subsequently charged with driving while intoxicated, a misdemeanor. He was released without bail on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in White Plains City Court next Monday.
White Plains Police Chief James Bradley said Zepeda has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation .
"That investigation is underway," Bradley said. "Once it's completed, we'll take appropriate disciplinary action, depending on the outcome."
He said discipline could range from a suspension to dismissal.
Zepeda became a city cop in May 2007 and is assigned to the patrol division. Bradley said he has never faced disciplinary action since joining the department.
Cano declined to release Zepeda's mug shot, saying "I don't have one available, and we don't routinely do that for DWI arrests."
Zepeda's is the latest in a recent series of DWI arrests among local off-duty members of law enforcement.
Dobbs Ferry Officer Michael Huffman was charged with DWI and two traffic violations after a Dec. 11 rollover crash in Tarrytown and has been placed on paid administrative leave.
On Dec. 27, Westchester County Officer Joseph Kraus was charged with drunk driving after authorities said he ran a red light and crashed into a Scarsdale police car at East Parkway and Popham Road, injuring Scarsdale Officer Jessica Knatz. Kraus has been suspended with pay. Later that morning, Westchester County Corrections Officer Patricia Yancy-Johnson was charged with driving while intoxicated, accused of rear-ending an ambulance on Central Avenue in Greenburgh.
On Monday, in remarks made after being sworn in for a second term, Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore said her administration will increase its efforts in prosecuting DWI cases.
"For years there has been a culture around DWI crimes that has downplayed the seriousness and violence associated with them," she said after her inauguration. "We are working hard to change that culture through our prosecution effort and our prevention efforts. A person's willingness to drive drunk and risk injury not only to himself but to everyone else who is on the road is absolutely unacceptable. So we're focusing on redoubling efforts around DWI crimes."
She would not comment specifically on Zepeda's case.
The incident happened shortly after 5 a.m. Thursday, when off-duty Officer Joe Zepeda, 37, hit the back of a tractor-trailer while driving his 2007 Nissan west near Exit 6 in White Plains.
State police Sgt. Kenneth Cano of the Tarrytown barracks said Zepeda suffered a minor head abrasion and was not taken to the hospital. A passenger in his car, White Plains Police Officer Kurt Maddux, was treated at Westchester Medical Center for a broken ankle and released. The truck driver, who was not identified, was released from the medical center after he was treated for neck and back pain.
Zepeda, 37, of Mahopac, refused to take a blood-alcohol test and was subsequently charged with driving while intoxicated, a misdemeanor. He was released without bail on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in White Plains City Court next Monday.
White Plains Police Chief James Bradley said Zepeda has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation .
"That investigation is underway," Bradley said. "Once it's completed, we'll take appropriate disciplinary action, depending on the outcome."
He said discipline could range from a suspension to dismissal.
Zepeda became a city cop in May 2007 and is assigned to the patrol division. Bradley said he has never faced disciplinary action since joining the department.
Cano declined to release Zepeda's mug shot, saying "I don't have one available, and we don't routinely do that for DWI arrests."
Zepeda's is the latest in a recent series of DWI arrests among local off-duty members of law enforcement.
Dobbs Ferry Officer Michael Huffman was charged with DWI and two traffic violations after a Dec. 11 rollover crash in Tarrytown and has been placed on paid administrative leave.
On Dec. 27, Westchester County Officer Joseph Kraus was charged with drunk driving after authorities said he ran a red light and crashed into a Scarsdale police car at East Parkway and Popham Road, injuring Scarsdale Officer Jessica Knatz. Kraus has been suspended with pay. Later that morning, Westchester County Corrections Officer Patricia Yancy-Johnson was charged with driving while intoxicated, accused of rear-ending an ambulance on Central Avenue in Greenburgh.
On Monday, in remarks made after being sworn in for a second term, Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore said her administration will increase its efforts in prosecuting DWI cases.
"For years there has been a culture around DWI crimes that has downplayed the seriousness and violence associated with them," she said after her inauguration. "We are working hard to change that culture through our prosecution effort and our prevention efforts. A person's willingness to drive drunk and risk injury not only to himself but to everyone else who is on the road is absolutely unacceptable. So we're focusing on redoubling efforts around DWI crimes."
She would not comment specifically on Zepeda's case.
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