The former township police officer fired for allegedly punching a Wawa clerk in the face last month is free on $25,000 unsecured bail after being officially charged today with assault.
Brian Decker, 33, was released from an undisclosed treatment facility Saturday morning and was transported to Ridley District Court by a relative. At 8:54 a.m., accompanied by his attorney S. Stanton Miller, Decker was arraigned on misdemeanor charges of simple assault and terroristic threats, and harassment, a summary offense.
The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by detectives from the Delaware County District Attorney’s Special Prosecution Unit.
Magisterial District Judge Anthony D. Scanlon set bail and Decker was released to the unnamed relative pending a preliminary hearing before Scanlon Jan. 14 in Springfield District Court.
Decker was off-duty at 4:33 p.m. Dec. 15 when he allegedly assaulted Monique Bronson, an assistant manager at the Wawa Food Market at 213 Morton Ave. in Folsom. The former police officer allegedly became enraged when Bronson asked him for identification during a chewing tobacco purchase.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, Decker refused to show identification or leave the store. Bronson told investigators she offered to go into the storeroom with Decker and another employee to discuss the situation. While there, Decker struck her in the head and face several times with a closed fist, the affidavit states. Bronson and a customer called 911.
Bronson was treated at Riddle Memorial Hospital for a black eye and contusions.
Shortly after the incident, Bronson gave police a statement saying that Decker had threatened her, saying, “You better watch your back,” according to the affidavit. When she asked if he was threatening her, Decker allegedly replied, “Take it any way you want it. You will be out of here soon, you and your family better watch your back”
Bronson told investigators she had two previous run-ins with Decker when she asked for identification — one in June and another in late November/early December, according to the affidavit. Both times, she alleged, Decker yelled and became agitated when asked for identification.
Hours after the incident, Decker’s gun and badge were confiscated. The married father of two was fired from the force days later.
Ridley Police Capt. Charles Howley Decker’s alleged behavior would not be tolerated, adding that it was “a sad day for Ridley Township police.”
Howley added that Decker had some personal problems, but declined to elaborate.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Pierce County Corrections Officer Arrested for Pointing Weapon During Domestic Assault
A Pierce County corrections officer is expected to make his first appearance in court today after being arrested for allegedly pointing a gun at his domestic partner.
Puyallup police arrested the 48-year-old man Sunday night at his home in the western part of the city, Lt. Scott Engle said Monday. He was booked into the Puyallup city jail for investigation of second-degree domestic-violence assault, according to corrections records. That charge is a felony.
Pierce County Jail chief Martha Karr said the officer was placed on paid administrative leave Monday, which is routine when a corrections officer is accused of a crime.
Engle said a detective is assigned to the case.
Deputy prosecutor Grant Blinn, who supervises the special-assault unit, said a charging decision had not been made late Monday.
The News Tribune is not naming the officer because he’s not been charged.
Patrol officers were dispatched to the officer’s house about 10:15 p.m. to investigate a domestic-violence complaint after the officer’s 51-year-old partner called 911 to report he’d been threatened, Engle said. The lieutenant declined to release more details until the corrections officer appears in court.
The partner sought and received a temporary protection order against the officer Monday, according to Superior Court records.
The victim wrote in his petition that the officer “pulled a 9 mm Glock weapon on me. I am in harm’s way. I don’t feel protected.”
He went on to write that he has endured “15 years of violence, threats but never gun assault.”
The man did not say what motivated his partner to allegedly pull a gun on him.
Puyallup police arrested the 48-year-old man Sunday night at his home in the western part of the city, Lt. Scott Engle said Monday. He was booked into the Puyallup city jail for investigation of second-degree domestic-violence assault, according to corrections records. That charge is a felony.
Pierce County Jail chief Martha Karr said the officer was placed on paid administrative leave Monday, which is routine when a corrections officer is accused of a crime.
Engle said a detective is assigned to the case.
Deputy prosecutor Grant Blinn, who supervises the special-assault unit, said a charging decision had not been made late Monday.
The News Tribune is not naming the officer because he’s not been charged.
Patrol officers were dispatched to the officer’s house about 10:15 p.m. to investigate a domestic-violence complaint after the officer’s 51-year-old partner called 911 to report he’d been threatened, Engle said. The lieutenant declined to release more details until the corrections officer appears in court.
The partner sought and received a temporary protection order against the officer Monday, according to Superior Court records.
The victim wrote in his petition that the officer “pulled a 9 mm Glock weapon on me. I am in harm’s way. I don’t feel protected.”
He went on to write that he has endured “15 years of violence, threats but never gun assault.”
The man did not say what motivated his partner to allegedly pull a gun on him.
Corrections Officer Michael Laveau Charged with DWI
Cloquet resident Michael John Laveau, 29, faces charges of gross misdemeanor criminal vehicular operation, misdemeanor fourth degree driving while intoxicated and misdemeanor fourth degree driving while intoxicated - .08 or more within two hours.
The criminal complaint and summons was filed in Carlton County Court on Jan. 11 by an assistant Pine County attorney, who received the case after Carlton County Attorney Thomas Pertler cited conflict of interest concerns. It was unclear Monday when Laveau would make an initial appearance and whether he would appear in Carlton County Court or Pine County Court in the case.
According to court documents, at 1:25 a.m. Oct. 18, Laveau was driving a full-size Dodge pickup truck north on Highway 45 near the Scanlon Park and Ride by Interstate 35 when he swerved to miss “some type of animal,” that had run out in front of him. Laveau then lost control of the truck and it rolled, coming to a stop on the shoulder of the road on the driver’s side.
Laveau and passenger Kaira Lee Wedin, 28, were not reportedly wearing seat belts and she was thrown from the vehicle.
Wedin was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital with injuries to her neck and head. Officers reportedly smelled alcohol coming from Wedin and they observed lacerations and redness on her face and dried blood in her hair. She was treated and released. Officers at the scene also reported a strong odor of alcohol coming from Laveau and that his eyes were watery and glazed over.
Laveau was taken by ambulance to Community Memorial Hospital in Cloquet where he was also treated for non-life threatening injuries and a blood alcohol test was administered. Laveau’s blood alcohol concentration was found to be .12 more than an hour after the accident, according to a toxicology report from the State Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Minnesota law states the legal limit for driving while intoxicated is .08.
Carlton County Sheriff Kelly Lake said Laveau has been a Carlton County Sheriff’s Office employee since June 2004. Although hired as a corrections officer, Laveau is a licensed deputy and was on patrol for the county from March 2006 until July 2008 while another deputy was on military deployment, she said.
After taking sick leave due to injuries, Lake said in November that Laveau has been back to work in the jail.
Corrections Officer Byron Lee Thornton Charged with Molesting Child
He was booked into the Escambia County jail Friday. Thornton was last employed at the Santa Rosa Correctional Institution.
If convicted, Thornton could face life in prison.
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Judge Refuses to Reduce Bond for Former Officer Marcus Jackson
A Mecklenburg judge today again refused to reduce the bond keeping former Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer Marucs Jackson behind bars.
Jackson, 25, has been held under a $423,000 bond since his Dec. 30 arrest on charges he sexually assaulted at least three women during recent traffic stops.
The ex-cop's attorney told Judge Hugh Lewis that Jackson couldn't afford to pay such a high amount, nor did he know anyone who could help him make bail.
Some of Jackson's alleged victims were in court today to oppose bond reduction. One woman said she experienced nightmares as a result of the alleged attack, and the arrest of her boyfriend when he tried to stop Jackson.
Jackson's friends and relatives were also in court, describing him as a good friend and protector.
At least five women have come forward and accused Jackson of assault. Detectives said Friday they were still checking out additional reports from alleged victims.
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Jackson, 25, has been held under a $423,000 bond since his Dec. 30 arrest on charges he sexually assaulted at least three women during recent traffic stops.
The ex-cop's attorney told Judge Hugh Lewis that Jackson couldn't afford to pay such a high amount, nor did he know anyone who could help him make bail.
Some of Jackson's alleged victims were in court today to oppose bond reduction. One woman said she experienced nightmares as a result of the alleged attack, and the arrest of her boyfriend when he tried to stop Jackson.
Jackson's friends and relatives were also in court, describing him as a good friend and protector.
At least five women have come forward and accused Jackson of assault. Detectives said Friday they were still checking out additional reports from alleged victims.
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Officer Sean Heyenga Arrested for Choking His Wife
Sean Heyenga waived his preliminary hearing Monday.
Police reports say a drunk Heyenga strangled his wife Nicole until she became unconscious. When she came to, she reportedly ran to neighbors to call 9-1-1. Reports also say he attacked her so fiercely he left marks on her neck.
The incident allegedly happened in December at their home near 63rd and Blondo. Court documents say Heyenga has been violent with her before, but she has been afraid to come forward and tell police because he's an officer.
Heyenga is on administrative leave with the Omaha Police Department.
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Former Officer Monte Montalvo Sentenced to One Year in Prison
A U.S. District judge sentenced a fired Buffalo police officer to one year in prison today for his conviction on unlawful possession of a firearm while subject to an order of protection involving his former spouse.
Monte R. Montalvo, 39, of Cheektowaga, also is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday in state court for his guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of attempting to commit a criminal sexual act involving sodomy.
That reduced charge stemmed from allegations that he tried to molest a 19-year-old college student on Dec. 2, 2007. He was fired a year ago from the police department.
Federal Judge William M. Skretny sentenced Montalvo today.
Under federal statutes, law enforcement personnel cannot possess a weapon outside of their work shift if they are subject to a court order involving a domestic situation, authorities explained.
Meanwhile, State Supreme Court Justice John L. Michalski is scheduled to sentence Montalvo on the state charge. Montalvo's plea in that case forced him to register with the state as a convicted sex offender.
Michalski could sentence Montalvo to up to a year in jail.
Montalvo, a decorated former police officer, has been living on a state disability pension due to knee injuries suffered on the job.
The investigation into the weapons charge involved local FBI and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents, with assistance from city police.
Monte R. Montalvo, 39, of Cheektowaga, also is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday in state court for his guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of attempting to commit a criminal sexual act involving sodomy.
That reduced charge stemmed from allegations that he tried to molest a 19-year-old college student on Dec. 2, 2007. He was fired a year ago from the police department.
Federal Judge William M. Skretny sentenced Montalvo today.
Under federal statutes, law enforcement personnel cannot possess a weapon outside of their work shift if they are subject to a court order involving a domestic situation, authorities explained.
Meanwhile, State Supreme Court Justice John L. Michalski is scheduled to sentence Montalvo on the state charge. Montalvo's plea in that case forced him to register with the state as a convicted sex offender.
Michalski could sentence Montalvo to up to a year in jail.
Montalvo, a decorated former police officer, has been living on a state disability pension due to knee injuries suffered on the job.
The investigation into the weapons charge involved local FBI and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents, with assistance from city police.
Former Officer Mark McCombs Sentenced for Stealing SWAT Weapons
A former suburban Cleveland police officer convicted of stealing machine guns, night-vision goggles and a silencer has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and now faces more time behind bars.
Parma police officer Mark McCombs apologized in Cuyhaoga County Common Pleas court before the sentencing for tampering with evidence and theft in office.
McCombs is awaiting sentencing in federal court where he faces at least 41 months in prison for having two machine guns and a silencer that were stolen from the police department's SWAT team.
McCombs was a member of the SWAT unit until he was fired in 2007.
He was fired after being accused of forcing a woman to have sex in a patrol car. A jury later found him not guilty of rape, kidnapping and gross sexual imposition.
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Parma police officer Mark McCombs apologized in Cuyhaoga County Common Pleas court before the sentencing for tampering with evidence and theft in office.
McCombs is awaiting sentencing in federal court where he faces at least 41 months in prison for having two machine guns and a silencer that were stolen from the police department's SWAT team.
McCombs was a member of the SWAT unit until he was fired in 2007.
He was fired after being accused of forcing a woman to have sex in a patrol car. A jury later found him not guilty of rape, kidnapping and gross sexual imposition.
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Sgt. Jay Malispina Charged with Stealing from His Mother
Salinas police Sgt. Jay Malispina will be arraigned this afternoon on felony elder financial abuse charges.
Salinas police detective Lalo Villegas confirmed this morning that Malispina is on paid administrative leave, and that he is charged with theft from an elderly person.
Prosecutors filed the charges Dec. 29 with an order for Malispina to appear today for arraignment. According to the Monterey County Superior Court Web site, the case was investigated by Salinas police.
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Salinas police detective Lalo Villegas confirmed this morning that Malispina is on paid administrative leave, and that he is charged with theft from an elderly person.
Prosecutors filed the charges Dec. 29 with an order for Malispina to appear today for arraignment. According to the Monterey County Superior Court Web site, the case was investigated by Salinas police.
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Wrong Man Shot by Officer
A police involved shooting is under investigation after an officer wounded a man who turned out to be uninvolved in the crime in question.
"This was a very unfortunate incident," Suffolk County Police Chief Dominic Varrone said.
Police announced the surprising turn of events on Monday afternoon.
The suspect shot by an officer wasn't a suspect at all -- just the wrong guy, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
The shooting happened just three miles away from a Huntington Station Taco Bell, a mere minutes after three masked men robbed it at gunpoint and took off in a car.
The alert had just gone out over the radio when the 14-year old veteran cop found himself at a red light behind a car carrying three people.
"He commanded them to keep their hands up and commanded the person in the back seat to show his hands," Det. Lt. Gerard Pelkofsky said.
But police say the driver got out of the car and confronted the cop as the backseat passenger suddenly put his hands between his knees. The officer shot him right through the car window.
"It was clearly an emotionally charged situation. The officer clearly felt these may have been involved in the robbery," Varrone said.
The 31-year-old man was shot in the abdomen. The man was transported to Huntington Hospital where he was admitted and listed in stable condition.
Turned out the men in the car were unarmed and had nothing to do with the taco bell robbery.
The three violent men who did are still on the run.
Detectives worked that crime scene for hours on Monday, making impressions of tire tracks and footprints near the scene.
The names of the officer and the wounded man have not been released.
More Information
"This was a very unfortunate incident," Suffolk County Police Chief Dominic Varrone said.
Police announced the surprising turn of events on Monday afternoon.
The suspect shot by an officer wasn't a suspect at all -- just the wrong guy, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
The shooting happened just three miles away from a Huntington Station Taco Bell, a mere minutes after three masked men robbed it at gunpoint and took off in a car.
The alert had just gone out over the radio when the 14-year old veteran cop found himself at a red light behind a car carrying three people.
"He commanded them to keep their hands up and commanded the person in the back seat to show his hands," Det. Lt. Gerard Pelkofsky said.
But police say the driver got out of the car and confronted the cop as the backseat passenger suddenly put his hands between his knees. The officer shot him right through the car window.
"It was clearly an emotionally charged situation. The officer clearly felt these may have been involved in the robbery," Varrone said.
The 31-year-old man was shot in the abdomen. The man was transported to Huntington Hospital where he was admitted and listed in stable condition.
Turned out the men in the car were unarmed and had nothing to do with the taco bell robbery.
The three violent men who did are still on the run.
Detectives worked that crime scene for hours on Monday, making impressions of tire tracks and footprints near the scene.
The names of the officer and the wounded man have not been released.
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More Problems for Former Officer Jerry Saldivar
There's been another twist in the story of the former Madera sheriff's deputy who had been accused of sexually molesting his own wife.
Months ago, former deputy Jerry Saldivar's wife accused him of sexually assaulting her.
But the Fresno County District Attorney's office eventually dropped the charges against Saldivar, after his wife allegedly smashed her way into the house where he was staying and assaulted him.
She was then charged with assault and residential burglary, allegations that could have put her behind bars for 18 months.
Now, she has agreed to plead no contest to lesser charges.
And instead of jail, she faces probation, and she'll have to attend anger management classes.
Jerry Saldivar no longer works for the Madera sheriff's department.
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Months ago, former deputy Jerry Saldivar's wife accused him of sexually assaulting her.
But the Fresno County District Attorney's office eventually dropped the charges against Saldivar, after his wife allegedly smashed her way into the house where he was staying and assaulted him.
She was then charged with assault and residential burglary, allegations that could have put her behind bars for 18 months.
Now, she has agreed to plead no contest to lesser charges.
And instead of jail, she faces probation, and she'll have to attend anger management classes.
Jerry Saldivar no longer works for the Madera sheriff's department.
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Officer Joe Zepeda Pleads Not Guilty to Drunk Driving
An off-duty police officer accused of DWI in White Plains, New York, pleaded not guilty to drunken driving in connection with a New Year's Eve accident.
The accident occurred around 5AM Dec 31 when Officer Joe Zepeda was traveling on I-287 near Exit 6 in White Plains. He collided with a tractor trailer. A passenger in the officer's car suffered a broken ankle. The truck driver was taken to a local medical center for treatment of neck and back pain. Zepeda suffered minor injuries that did not require treatment.
The 37-year-old officer refused a blood sample following the wreck. He entered a not guilty plea to the DWI charge, but a separate hearing will be held to determine the consequence of his blood test refusal. This is not a criminal hearing. It is what is called an administrative hearing, taking place at a DMV and carrying only civil punishments.
Zepeda has been suspended without pay from a job he held since 2007. He will appear in court on the charge on Jan. 26. The main reason for public attention to this issue is the fact four police officers total have been arrested for drunk driving related charges in just a few weeks in Westchester County.
The arrests come within a few months of now infamous New York police officer DWI charges involving deaths. In one case, Officer Andrew Kelley is charged with taking the life of a young woman as she left a wedding in Brooklyn. In that incident, Kelly's passengers, including another police officer, fled the scene. This incident drew national press.
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The accident occurred around 5AM Dec 31 when Officer Joe Zepeda was traveling on I-287 near Exit 6 in White Plains. He collided with a tractor trailer. A passenger in the officer's car suffered a broken ankle. The truck driver was taken to a local medical center for treatment of neck and back pain. Zepeda suffered minor injuries that did not require treatment.
The 37-year-old officer refused a blood sample following the wreck. He entered a not guilty plea to the DWI charge, but a separate hearing will be held to determine the consequence of his blood test refusal. This is not a criminal hearing. It is what is called an administrative hearing, taking place at a DMV and carrying only civil punishments.
Zepeda has been suspended without pay from a job he held since 2007. He will appear in court on the charge on Jan. 26. The main reason for public attention to this issue is the fact four police officers total have been arrested for drunk driving related charges in just a few weeks in Westchester County.
The arrests come within a few months of now infamous New York police officer DWI charges involving deaths. In one case, Officer Andrew Kelley is charged with taking the life of a young woman as she left a wedding in Brooklyn. In that incident, Kelly's passengers, including another police officer, fled the scene. This incident drew national press.
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Sunday, January 10, 2010
Former Deputy Daniel Rowan Illegally Purchased Police Car
A former Plymouth County Sheriff's Department Deputy has become the second Sheriff's employee in Massachusetts to find himself in hot water this week.
The State Ethics Commission revealed allegations yesterday that deputy sheriff and vehicle mechanic Daniel Rowan had used his position to get a free car and influence equipment purchases in the department.
Rowan allegedly agreed to buy a used police car from a department vendor, Municipal Headquarters Inc., for $800, but then took the Crown Victoria and never paid for it.
He is also accused of influencing the department into buying equipment from M.H. Inc.
These allegations come just a day after the Ethics Commission fined a Norfolk County jail guard 6 thousand dollars for buying a house from an inmate.
The Commission will schedule a hearing on Rowan within 90 days.
The State Ethics Commission revealed allegations yesterday that deputy sheriff and vehicle mechanic Daniel Rowan had used his position to get a free car and influence equipment purchases in the department.
Rowan allegedly agreed to buy a used police car from a department vendor, Municipal Headquarters Inc., for $800, but then took the Crown Victoria and never paid for it.
He is also accused of influencing the department into buying equipment from M.H. Inc.
These allegations come just a day after the Ethics Commission fined a Norfolk County jail guard 6 thousand dollars for buying a house from an inmate.
The Commission will schedule a hearing on Rowan within 90 days.
Officer Herman Peterson Arrested for Stealing Dog
He was supposed to be protecting and serving, however Evangeline Parish authorities arrested one Opelousas Police officer for stealing.
Ville Platte resident Britney Richard says Officer Herman Peterson came into her home and took her dog.
Through word of mouth, Richard says she found out another resident had the dog. That person told Richard he got the dog from Officer Peterson.
Peterson was booked on theft charges and posted bond. He has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
The police department is conducting an internal investigation on the matter.
Ville Platte resident Britney Richard says Officer Herman Peterson came into her home and took her dog.
Through word of mouth, Richard says she found out another resident had the dog. That person told Richard he got the dog from Officer Peterson.
Peterson was booked on theft charges and posted bond. He has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
The police department is conducting an internal investigation on the matter.
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Lt. Ronald Netter Has Service Weapon Stolen for the Third Time
Authorities are searching for a D.C. police lieutenant’s service weapon that went missing after a carjacking in Prince George’s County, multiple police sources said.
Veteran police officer Lt. Ronald Netter told investigators that his weapon was stolen while his vehicle was stopped late Wednesday near Temple Hills, law enforcement sources told The Examiner.
Police used K-9 units Wednesday night and Thursday to try sniff out the missing gun.
A teenage boy has been taken into custody in the case, police said. The teenager denied stealing the gun and said he knew Netter personally, said police sources familiar with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of his gun could be a problem for Netter because this is the third time he has lost his service weapon, according to two sources within the Metropolitan Police Department.
Around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Netter called Prince George’s County police from a 7-Eleven convenience store on the 5400 block of Silver Hill Road in Temple Hills to say that he had been carjacked by a black male, according to Prince George’s police Officer Henry Tippett. Netter said the suspect took off with his 1995 gold Lexus and was armed with a handgun. Police sent out a K-9 unit and found the suspect but had not found the car as of late Thursday, Tippett said.
Police officers are responsible for their service weapons and can be terminated for losing them through improper safekeeping or making poor personal choices.
The teenager was going to be charged in the carjacking, police said.
Netter had recently been transferred from a top manager in the 6th District in Southeast Washington, where he was lauded by Hillcrest residents . He now heads up the central cellblock, the jail in the basement at downtown police headquarters.
Before working on the other side of the Anacostia, he had been a sergeant in the 5th District in Northeast Washington.
Veteran police officer Lt. Ronald Netter told investigators that his weapon was stolen while his vehicle was stopped late Wednesday near Temple Hills, law enforcement sources told The Examiner.
Police used K-9 units Wednesday night and Thursday to try sniff out the missing gun.
A teenage boy has been taken into custody in the case, police said. The teenager denied stealing the gun and said he knew Netter personally, said police sources familiar with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of his gun could be a problem for Netter because this is the third time he has lost his service weapon, according to two sources within the Metropolitan Police Department.
Around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Netter called Prince George’s County police from a 7-Eleven convenience store on the 5400 block of Silver Hill Road in Temple Hills to say that he had been carjacked by a black male, according to Prince George’s police Officer Henry Tippett. Netter said the suspect took off with his 1995 gold Lexus and was armed with a handgun. Police sent out a K-9 unit and found the suspect but had not found the car as of late Thursday, Tippett said.
Police officers are responsible for their service weapons and can be terminated for losing them through improper safekeeping or making poor personal choices.
The teenager was going to be charged in the carjacking, police said.
Netter had recently been transferred from a top manager in the 6th District in Southeast Washington, where he was lauded by Hillcrest residents . He now heads up the central cellblock, the jail in the basement at downtown police headquarters.
Before working on the other side of the Anacostia, he had been a sergeant in the 5th District in Northeast Washington.
Officer Misty Chandler Terminated After Drug Investigation
Termination processes have been started for Catoosa Police Officer Misty Chandler in the wake of a federal drug investigation.
The Catoosa Police Department and Catoosa City Hall have been in the spotlight after seven arrest warrants were issued Thursday following a five-month long drug investigation.
The News On 6 has learned Chandler was also a target in that investigation. Her court case is to be scheduled within the next 72 days.
Catoosa Assistant Police Chief Paul Whitmire, who's been on paid suspension since shortly after the investigation began, arrived at the police station Thursday after receiving a phone call informing him he'd been indicted for obtaining prescription painkillers illegally. U.S. Marshals were waiting for him.
The Catoosa Police Department and Catoosa City Hall have been in the spotlight after seven arrest warrants were issued Thursday following a five-month long drug investigation.
The News On 6 has learned Chandler was also a target in that investigation. Her court case is to be scheduled within the next 72 days.
Catoosa Assistant Police Chief Paul Whitmire, who's been on paid suspension since shortly after the investigation began, arrived at the police station Thursday after receiving a phone call informing him he'd been indicted for obtaining prescription painkillers illegally. U.S. Marshals were waiting for him.
Officer Anthony McFadden Accused of Inappropriate Convesations with Teen
State police at Hazleton arrested a Weatherly police officer Friday and charged him with unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors.
Full-time Weatherly police Officer Anthony James McFadden, 49, of Main Street, Weatherly, engaged in inappropriate telephone conversations with a 15-year-old girl for more than a month, according to troopers.
State police in Hazleton said they received a complaint on Oct. 30 that McFadden took part in phone calls described Friday in arrest papers as "phone sex" with the girl.
McFadden's cell phone log listed 171 calls with the juvenile's home telephone number between Sept. 24 and Nov. 2, according to arrest papers. One call lasted 144 minutes, state police said.
The calls were sexually explicit, and the girl understood her and McFadden to be "boyfriend and girlfriend," arrest papers said.
The state police investigation into the allegations began about two months ago, and McFadden has been on suspension with pay since then.
Charges were filed Friday with District Judge Bruce Appleton in Palmerton. McFadden was arraigned before Appleton and bail was set at $20,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Weatherly Mayor Tom Connors called the charges "disgusting."
"It's just a shame," he said.
Connors said the borough will take a closer look at its police department to make sure something like this doesn't happen again. He also cautioned the public not to hold the actions of one officer against the entire force.
Weatherly Borough Council began hearing complaints about some members of the department last year, including those involved in an alleged drug raid of a home based on statements made by a 7-year-old at his school. Then-police Chief Gary Veasie resigned after that incident and moved out of state to take another police job.
Council appointed Brian Markovchick as the new chief in November. Since then, council has praised his work in trying to regain the confidence of borough residents.
Markovchick said he could not comment on the allegations against McFadden while the officer was under investigation.
Full-time Weatherly police Officer Anthony James McFadden, 49, of Main Street, Weatherly, engaged in inappropriate telephone conversations with a 15-year-old girl for more than a month, according to troopers.
State police in Hazleton said they received a complaint on Oct. 30 that McFadden took part in phone calls described Friday in arrest papers as "phone sex" with the girl.
McFadden's cell phone log listed 171 calls with the juvenile's home telephone number between Sept. 24 and Nov. 2, according to arrest papers. One call lasted 144 minutes, state police said.
The calls were sexually explicit, and the girl understood her and McFadden to be "boyfriend and girlfriend," arrest papers said.
The state police investigation into the allegations began about two months ago, and McFadden has been on suspension with pay since then.
Charges were filed Friday with District Judge Bruce Appleton in Palmerton. McFadden was arraigned before Appleton and bail was set at $20,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Weatherly Mayor Tom Connors called the charges "disgusting."
"It's just a shame," he said.
Connors said the borough will take a closer look at its police department to make sure something like this doesn't happen again. He also cautioned the public not to hold the actions of one officer against the entire force.
Weatherly Borough Council began hearing complaints about some members of the department last year, including those involved in an alleged drug raid of a home based on statements made by a 7-year-old at his school. Then-police Chief Gary Veasie resigned after that incident and moved out of state to take another police job.
Council appointed Brian Markovchick as the new chief in November. Since then, council has praised his work in trying to regain the confidence of borough residents.
Markovchick said he could not comment on the allegations against McFadden while the officer was under investigation.
Rookie Officer Stacy Lavon Moved to Different Jail for Safety Reasons
A rookie Hereford police officer accused of trying to hire someone to burglarize and burn down a Randall County home has been moved to another jail.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, remained in custody Friday at the Potter County jail on a $50,000 bond, charged with the second-degree felony criminal solicitation. She is accused of attempting to hire an undercover Amarillo police officer, who was posing as a criminal, to burglarize and then torch the home where two Randall County Sheriff's Office employees live.
Conway had been housed at the Randall County jail.
Randall County Chief Deputy David Thurman said the decision was made to move Conway because some of the people involved in the matter work for Randall County.
"Just for everybody's safety and security, we felt it prudent to house her somewhere else," he said.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, remained in custody Friday at the Potter County jail on a $50,000 bond, charged with the second-degree felony criminal solicitation. She is accused of attempting to hire an undercover Amarillo police officer, who was posing as a criminal, to burglarize and then torch the home where two Randall County Sheriff's Office employees live.
Conway had been housed at the Randall County jail.
Randall County Chief Deputy David Thurman said the decision was made to move Conway because some of the people involved in the matter work for Randall County.
"Just for everybody's safety and security, we felt it prudent to house her somewhere else," he said.
Former Corrections Officer Robert Fuentes Sentenced to ONE Year for Accident that Killed Motorcyclist
A former corrections officer who ran a red light and killed a motorcyclist in Albuquerque has been sentenced to a year in prison.
A judge imposed the sentence on 39-year-old Robert Fuentes for one count of leaving the scene of an accident under a plea bargain prosecutors offered because they would have a difficult time proving Fuentes was driving.
The former jail corrections officers reportedly ran several red lights at speeds up to 90 mph before hitting a motorcycle driven by 48-year-old Paul Souther on April 20, 2008. Souther died at the scene, and Fuentes didn't turn himself in until the next day.
Souther's family objected to the deal, asking Judge Neil Candelaria to reject it at Friday's sentencing. Candelaria ordered Fuentes to serve the year sentence in full.
Information from: KRQE-TV, http://www.krqe.com
A judge imposed the sentence on 39-year-old Robert Fuentes for one count of leaving the scene of an accident under a plea bargain prosecutors offered because they would have a difficult time proving Fuentes was driving.
The former jail corrections officers reportedly ran several red lights at speeds up to 90 mph before hitting a motorcycle driven by 48-year-old Paul Souther on April 20, 2008. Souther died at the scene, and Fuentes didn't turn himself in until the next day.
Souther's family objected to the deal, asking Judge Neil Candelaria to reject it at Friday's sentencing. Candelaria ordered Fuentes to serve the year sentence in full.
Information from: KRQE-TV, http://www.krqe.com
Officer Charles Cooper Charged With Taking Money Instead of Making Arrest
Delhi police officer Charles Cooper, 32, was arrested Friday, charged with taking money and sexual favors in lieu of making arrests.
Cooper was booked at the Richland Parish Detention Center on Friday with no bond set.
The arrest followed a three-month investigation by Louisiana State Police and the Richland Parish Sheriff's Office. In a prepared statement, state police said Richland Sheriff Charles McDonald had requested their assistance in the case after receiving complaints and hearing of allegations about the officer.
State police said the investigation was continuing.
Neither Delhi's mayor nor state police immediately returned phone calls about the investigation or the arrest.
Delhi's police department has had a troubled recent history.
Last April, an administrative assistant was arrested in connection with a charge related to prescription drugs.
In 2006, former Delhi Police Chief Gregg McKinney was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to malfeasance in office, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of simple arson. He had been accused of intentionally burning part of the police station to hide what prosecutors said was evidence of his own crimes.
Cooper was booked at the Richland Parish Detention Center on Friday with no bond set.
The arrest followed a three-month investigation by Louisiana State Police and the Richland Parish Sheriff's Office. In a prepared statement, state police said Richland Sheriff Charles McDonald had requested their assistance in the case after receiving complaints and hearing of allegations about the officer.
State police said the investigation was continuing.
Neither Delhi's mayor nor state police immediately returned phone calls about the investigation or the arrest.
Delhi's police department has had a troubled recent history.
Last April, an administrative assistant was arrested in connection with a charge related to prescription drugs.
In 2006, former Delhi Police Chief Gregg McKinney was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to malfeasance in office, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of simple arson. He had been accused of intentionally burning part of the police station to hide what prosecutors said was evidence of his own crimes.
Former Officer David Reveille Sentenced to 2 Years for Forcing Prostitute to Have Sex While on Duty
Former Gainesville police officer David Reveille was sentenced Friday to two years in prison on charges related to sexual activity with prostitutes while he was on duty.
The sentence by Circuit Judge Ysleta McDonald follows the terms of an agreement in which Reveille pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault with intent to commit the felony of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Reveille was arrested last year on charges that included multiple counts of sexual battery.
Credit for 324 days Reveille has served in the Alachua County jail will reduce his time in prison.
"No one is above the law," Police Chief Tony Jones said of the sentencing when contacted by The Sun. "He went through the system and got his just desserts for his action."
Also, Reveille will serve 13 years' probation and will be prohibited from going into areas known for prostitution and from having pornographic material. He also must undergo a mental health/sexual deviance risk assessment.
Reveille, who has lost considerable weight since he was fired from GPD in late 2008, said nothing at the sentencing.
His wife, Sandi, said afterward, "It will be all right in the end."
GPD fired Reveille after an internal investigation concluded that he "used his official position as a law enforcement officer to obtain sexual favors."
One case involved a woman who police said Reveille handcuffed, took to a marked patrol car and threatened with arrest if she didn't perform a sex act.
Reveille was charged with eight counts of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney's Office, said the plea agreement meets the goals of having Reveille serve prison time and the loss of his career. Mann added it also saves the victims from having to testify.
"It accomplishes multiple things for us," Mann said. "He is going to get some prison time and long-term probation with sex offender sanctions. He loses his law enforcement certification."
Reveille's attorney, Gloria Fletcher, said afterward she believes the sentence was a good resolution to a difficult case.
"Law enforcement is no different than news reporters, lawyers, doctors - we all make mistakes and we all make choices that we'd like to redo. I'm not suggesting that he made a mistake. I am suggesting that he would choose not to be in this situation," Fletcher said.
Reveille recently suffered facial injuries in a scuffle with another inmate at the Alachua County jail. Fletcher expressed concern to McDonald over whether his treatment for those injuries had progressed enough to make it safe to turn him over to the state Department of Corrections.
A doctor on the case was summoned to court and after talking with her, McDonald said she felt comfortable proceeding with the sentencing.
Reveille's case was one of several involving city police officers in the past few years that created image problems for the agency and were termed an embarrassment by former Chief Norman Botsford.
Ex-Cpl. Bill Billings pleaded no contest to felony charges of scheme to defraud and official misconduct in June. He later admitted in court that he paid women for sex while on duty.
Meanwhile, two GPD officers admitted to the off-duty harassment of prostitutes in certain neighborhoods, including throwing eggs at them.
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The sentence by Circuit Judge Ysleta McDonald follows the terms of an agreement in which Reveille pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault with intent to commit the felony of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Reveille was arrested last year on charges that included multiple counts of sexual battery.
Credit for 324 days Reveille has served in the Alachua County jail will reduce his time in prison.
"No one is above the law," Police Chief Tony Jones said of the sentencing when contacted by The Sun. "He went through the system and got his just desserts for his action."
Also, Reveille will serve 13 years' probation and will be prohibited from going into areas known for prostitution and from having pornographic material. He also must undergo a mental health/sexual deviance risk assessment.
Reveille, who has lost considerable weight since he was fired from GPD in late 2008, said nothing at the sentencing.
His wife, Sandi, said afterward, "It will be all right in the end."
GPD fired Reveille after an internal investigation concluded that he "used his official position as a law enforcement officer to obtain sexual favors."
One case involved a woman who police said Reveille handcuffed, took to a marked patrol car and threatened with arrest if she didn't perform a sex act.
Reveille was charged with eight counts of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney's Office, said the plea agreement meets the goals of having Reveille serve prison time and the loss of his career. Mann added it also saves the victims from having to testify.
"It accomplishes multiple things for us," Mann said. "He is going to get some prison time and long-term probation with sex offender sanctions. He loses his law enforcement certification."
Reveille's attorney, Gloria Fletcher, said afterward she believes the sentence was a good resolution to a difficult case.
"Law enforcement is no different than news reporters, lawyers, doctors - we all make mistakes and we all make choices that we'd like to redo. I'm not suggesting that he made a mistake. I am suggesting that he would choose not to be in this situation," Fletcher said.
Reveille recently suffered facial injuries in a scuffle with another inmate at the Alachua County jail. Fletcher expressed concern to McDonald over whether his treatment for those injuries had progressed enough to make it safe to turn him over to the state Department of Corrections.
A doctor on the case was summoned to court and after talking with her, McDonald said she felt comfortable proceeding with the sentencing.
Reveille's case was one of several involving city police officers in the past few years that created image problems for the agency and were termed an embarrassment by former Chief Norman Botsford.
Ex-Cpl. Bill Billings pleaded no contest to felony charges of scheme to defraud and official misconduct in June. He later admitted in court that he paid women for sex while on duty.
Meanwhile, two GPD officers admitted to the off-duty harassment of prostitutes in certain neighborhoods, including throwing eggs at them.
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Former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle Charged with Murder Appears in Court
More than 100 protesters demanding justice for a Bay Area man shot to death by a BART police officer on New Year's Day last year converged on a downtown Los Angeles courthouse today for the first proceedings since the racially charged case was moved here from Alameda County.
Johannes Mehserle, who resigned from the Bay Area Rapid Transit police force a week after the shooting he admits to but contends was unintentional, will stand trial for murder before Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry in May, the judge said at his pretrial hearing.
Perry prolonged a gag order issued by an Alameda County judge prohibiting either side in the case from discussing it in public. He also rejected a request from Bay Area broadcasters to allow televised coverage of the trial in light of the intense public interest in the shooting death that provoked three days of rioting that damaged dozens of Oakland businesses.
Perry said his experience of high-profile trials is that allowing cameras in the courtroom "is detrimental to the search for truth and justice." The judge said he would prohibit cellphones, texting, the use of laptop computers and all other means of recording or transmitting the proceedings when the trial begins in mid-May.
Mehserle, 28, has received death threats, as have his family and attorneys, posing a risk to the safety of witnesses who might testify on his behalf, Perry said in denying broadcast coverage of the proceedings for the benefit of Bay Area residents unable to travel to Los Angeles for the trial.
Mehserle's attorney, Michael Rains, told the court that his client wasn't contesting the cause of death in the Jan. 1, 2009, slaying of Oscar J. Grant III at Oakland's Fruitvale station. What is at issue in the case, Rains said, is the former officer's "intent" in the incident. It is rare for a police officer to be charged with murder in an on-duty shooting due to the qualified immunity accorded law enforcement.
Many of the protesters who picketed the courthouse traveled from the Bay Area to hoist placards demanding justice for Grant, the 22-year-old Hayward man shot to death as BART officers were trying to subdue a trainload of unruly New Year's revelers.
Dozens of witnesses reported seeing the white officer shoot Grant, who is black, including some who captured the killing on cellphone cameras.
Mehserle told Alameda County authorities at preliminary court proceedings that he was reaching for his stun gun and accidentally drew his revolver instead.
"There are thousands of Oscar Grants everyday," Hannibal Shakur, a 23-year-old Oakland student making a documentary about the victim, said in front of the crowd outside the courthouse.
"It was a shame. It was a clear murder," Shakur said. "Young brothers get killed by the police everyday. I'm guessing (Mehserle) won't be held accountable. L.A. has a history. If they wanted to give us justice, they could have done that in Oakland."
The trial was moved to Southern California because of the high publicity surrounding the case in the Bay Area.
Johannes Mehserle, who resigned from the Bay Area Rapid Transit police force a week after the shooting he admits to but contends was unintentional, will stand trial for murder before Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry in May, the judge said at his pretrial hearing.
Perry prolonged a gag order issued by an Alameda County judge prohibiting either side in the case from discussing it in public. He also rejected a request from Bay Area broadcasters to allow televised coverage of the trial in light of the intense public interest in the shooting death that provoked three days of rioting that damaged dozens of Oakland businesses.
Perry said his experience of high-profile trials is that allowing cameras in the courtroom "is detrimental to the search for truth and justice." The judge said he would prohibit cellphones, texting, the use of laptop computers and all other means of recording or transmitting the proceedings when the trial begins in mid-May.
Mehserle, 28, has received death threats, as have his family and attorneys, posing a risk to the safety of witnesses who might testify on his behalf, Perry said in denying broadcast coverage of the proceedings for the benefit of Bay Area residents unable to travel to Los Angeles for the trial.
Mehserle's attorney, Michael Rains, told the court that his client wasn't contesting the cause of death in the Jan. 1, 2009, slaying of Oscar J. Grant III at Oakland's Fruitvale station. What is at issue in the case, Rains said, is the former officer's "intent" in the incident. It is rare for a police officer to be charged with murder in an on-duty shooting due to the qualified immunity accorded law enforcement.
Many of the protesters who picketed the courthouse traveled from the Bay Area to hoist placards demanding justice for Grant, the 22-year-old Hayward man shot to death as BART officers were trying to subdue a trainload of unruly New Year's revelers.
Dozens of witnesses reported seeing the white officer shoot Grant, who is black, including some who captured the killing on cellphone cameras.
Mehserle told Alameda County authorities at preliminary court proceedings that he was reaching for his stun gun and accidentally drew his revolver instead.
"There are thousands of Oscar Grants everyday," Hannibal Shakur, a 23-year-old Oakland student making a documentary about the victim, said in front of the crowd outside the courthouse.
"It was a shame. It was a clear murder," Shakur said. "Young brothers get killed by the police everyday. I'm guessing (Mehserle) won't be held accountable. L.A. has a history. If they wanted to give us justice, they could have done that in Oakland."
The trial was moved to Southern California because of the high publicity surrounding the case in the Bay Area.
Officer Johnny Rodriguez Now Accused of Stealing Boots
A Dallas police officer once fired – and subsequently reinstated – over accusations that he stole tires from the police auto pound is in trouble again after being accused of pilfering the belongings of a fellow law enforcement officer.
Officer Johnny Rodriguez, 33, was placed on leave this week as the Dallas Police Department's public integrity unit investigates an allegation that he took a pair of boots owned by a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper this week.
"There has been a complaint referred to us," said Assistant Chief Ron Waldrop, who oversees the department's investigations bureau. "We're investigating it, and we haven't come to any conclusions."
Rodriguez was already working under a cloud. When he was hired in 2002, he had been accused of stealing at his previous job, as a campus officer at Mountain View College. He was eventually cleared.
Rodriguez declined to comment about the latest incident and referred all questions to his attorney, John Haring. Reached Friday, Haring also declined to comment.
According to police officials, in the latest incident, the trooper left new boots with a jail trusty to be shined. When the trooper returned, the boots were gone. The trusty told authorities that a Dallas officer, subsequently identified as Rodriguez, had come by, wanting his shoes shined.
The trusty told authorities that he indicated to the officer that he needed boots that looked like the ones he was shining because those boots look better polished. The officer then left with the trooper's boots, officials said.
Rodriguez has denied stealing the footwear, police said.
In June 2006, Police Chief David Kunkle fired Rodriguez after internal investigators concluded he had taken a set of tires from the auto pound.
According to court records, a thief took four tires and four rims worth about $4,000 from a stolen vehicle at the police auto pound in April 2005. The victim later saw what he thought were his tires offered for sale on eBay.
A civilian employee told detectives that she had seen Rodriguez leaving the pound with two tires and rims from the stolen vehicle. Police also obtained cellphone records showing that he was in daily contact with the woman who had the tires placed on eBay.
Rodriguez denied the allegations, and a grand jury twice declined to indict him.
About six months after his firing, an administrative law judge ordered the city to reinstate Rodriguez with full back pay and benefits.
The order included no explanation of the reasoning behind the decision, which still bothers Kunkle.
"There was no way in the world that all this stuff could have happened without him being involved in the theft," Kunkle said Friday. "Out of all the disciplinary appeals and all the decisions, this was the one that most surprised and disappointed me."
The Rodriguez decision was among the last of a string of controversial police officer reinstatements. Since then, administrative law judges have become far less likely to give officers their jobs back, in part because of intense media attention and a stiffening of the rules in the city charter.
His case may also be indicative of another previous problem: flawed hiring practices that brought in officers with questionable pasts.
Employment records show a co-worker at Mountain View accused Rodriguez of stealing a big-screen television and taking tests from the school's testing center in 2002, shortly before his hiring as a Dallas police officer. Mountain View investigators cleared him of the allegation, and his supervisors recommended that Dallas hire him.
Since his 2007 reinstatement, Dallas police commanders have kept Rodriguez off the streets, assigning him first to the communications unit and later to the jail. He has also been suspended from working off-duty jobs.
Rodriguez recently requested a transfer back to patrol, but supervisors denied the request because Dallas County prosecutors informed them that Rodriguez could not testify in court proceedings.
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Officer Johnny Rodriguez, 33, was placed on leave this week as the Dallas Police Department's public integrity unit investigates an allegation that he took a pair of boots owned by a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper this week.
"There has been a complaint referred to us," said Assistant Chief Ron Waldrop, who oversees the department's investigations bureau. "We're investigating it, and we haven't come to any conclusions."
Rodriguez was already working under a cloud. When he was hired in 2002, he had been accused of stealing at his previous job, as a campus officer at Mountain View College. He was eventually cleared.
Rodriguez declined to comment about the latest incident and referred all questions to his attorney, John Haring. Reached Friday, Haring also declined to comment.
According to police officials, in the latest incident, the trooper left new boots with a jail trusty to be shined. When the trooper returned, the boots were gone. The trusty told authorities that a Dallas officer, subsequently identified as Rodriguez, had come by, wanting his shoes shined.
The trusty told authorities that he indicated to the officer that he needed boots that looked like the ones he was shining because those boots look better polished. The officer then left with the trooper's boots, officials said.
Rodriguez has denied stealing the footwear, police said.
In June 2006, Police Chief David Kunkle fired Rodriguez after internal investigators concluded he had taken a set of tires from the auto pound.
According to court records, a thief took four tires and four rims worth about $4,000 from a stolen vehicle at the police auto pound in April 2005. The victim later saw what he thought were his tires offered for sale on eBay.
A civilian employee told detectives that she had seen Rodriguez leaving the pound with two tires and rims from the stolen vehicle. Police also obtained cellphone records showing that he was in daily contact with the woman who had the tires placed on eBay.
Rodriguez denied the allegations, and a grand jury twice declined to indict him.
About six months after his firing, an administrative law judge ordered the city to reinstate Rodriguez with full back pay and benefits.
The order included no explanation of the reasoning behind the decision, which still bothers Kunkle.
"There was no way in the world that all this stuff could have happened without him being involved in the theft," Kunkle said Friday. "Out of all the disciplinary appeals and all the decisions, this was the one that most surprised and disappointed me."
The Rodriguez decision was among the last of a string of controversial police officer reinstatements. Since then, administrative law judges have become far less likely to give officers their jobs back, in part because of intense media attention and a stiffening of the rules in the city charter.
His case may also be indicative of another previous problem: flawed hiring practices that brought in officers with questionable pasts.
Employment records show a co-worker at Mountain View accused Rodriguez of stealing a big-screen television and taking tests from the school's testing center in 2002, shortly before his hiring as a Dallas police officer. Mountain View investigators cleared him of the allegation, and his supervisors recommended that Dallas hire him.
Since his 2007 reinstatement, Dallas police commanders have kept Rodriguez off the streets, assigning him first to the communications unit and later to the jail. He has also been suspended from working off-duty jobs.
Rodriguez recently requested a transfer back to patrol, but supervisors denied the request because Dallas County prosecutors informed them that Rodriguez could not testify in court proceedings.
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Constable Kevin Gregson Charged with Murder
The man accused of stabbing Ottawa Police Constable Eric Czapnik to death last week showed up on the doorstep of the Ottawa-area home of RCMP Commissioner William Elliott last year, the Ottawa Citizen has learned.
The Citizen has also learned that RCMP Constable Kevin Gregson, now charged with first-degree murder, was later instructed at an Ottawa disciplinary hearing in November to quit the national police force within two weeks or be fired.
"The RCMP can confirm Const. Gregson did go to the commissioner's home to drop off some material, without incident. This was in violation of one of the conditions of his earlier suspension, which was to not attend the home of any employee of the RCMP without being specifically invited," Sergeant Pat Flood said in a statement to the Citizen. The force would not say when Const. Gregson went to the commissioner's home.
"A disciplinary hearing on violations of the conditions of his suspension was held in November 2009 in Ottawa under the RCMP code of conduct.
"The board directed Const. Gregson to resign from the force within 14 days or be dismissed. He appealed that ruling," Sgt. Flood said. The appeal has not been heard.
Const. Gregson, 43, told his parents about the visit he paid to the RCMP commissioner's home, the Citizen has also learned.
The Citizen has learned that Const. Gregson visited his parents, who live in Gloucester, an Ottawa suburb, in the hours before the stabbing.
Const. Czapnik, 51, was attacked at 4:30 a.m. on Dec. 29 as he wrote notes from his final call -- an alleged sex assault on a librarian -- in his cruiser outside the emergency department of the Ottawa Hospital's Civic campus.
Four paramedics -- three women and one man -- were busy filling out reports from their night's calls when they saw the struggle and intervened.
The attacker raised his bloody knife to slash a paramedic when a female paramedic grabbed his arm and kicked him, downing the attacker.
Const. Gregson is in an Ottawa jail awaiting trial.
The Citizen has also learned that RCMP Constable Kevin Gregson, now charged with first-degree murder, was later instructed at an Ottawa disciplinary hearing in November to quit the national police force within two weeks or be fired.
"The RCMP can confirm Const. Gregson did go to the commissioner's home to drop off some material, without incident. This was in violation of one of the conditions of his earlier suspension, which was to not attend the home of any employee of the RCMP without being specifically invited," Sergeant Pat Flood said in a statement to the Citizen. The force would not say when Const. Gregson went to the commissioner's home.
"A disciplinary hearing on violations of the conditions of his suspension was held in November 2009 in Ottawa under the RCMP code of conduct.
"The board directed Const. Gregson to resign from the force within 14 days or be dismissed. He appealed that ruling," Sgt. Flood said. The appeal has not been heard.
Const. Gregson, 43, told his parents about the visit he paid to the RCMP commissioner's home, the Citizen has also learned.
The Citizen has learned that Const. Gregson visited his parents, who live in Gloucester, an Ottawa suburb, in the hours before the stabbing.
Const. Czapnik, 51, was attacked at 4:30 a.m. on Dec. 29 as he wrote notes from his final call -- an alleged sex assault on a librarian -- in his cruiser outside the emergency department of the Ottawa Hospital's Civic campus.
Four paramedics -- three women and one man -- were busy filling out reports from their night's calls when they saw the struggle and intervened.
The attacker raised his bloody knife to slash a paramedic when a female paramedic grabbed his arm and kicked him, downing the attacker.
Const. Gregson is in an Ottawa jail awaiting trial.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Former Deputy Donna Sheain Charged with Sale of Meth
A former, long-time deputy at the Coweta County Sheriff's Office was arrested Dec. 31, 2009, and charged with selling methamphetamine.
Donna Rachelle Sheain, 37, is charged with two counts sale of meth, possession of meth, conspiracy to sell meth and possession of marijuana.
Sheain was a supervisor for the sheriff's office, where she was employed for over a decade. She was a certified CPR instructor, a general instructor and a field training officer.
She left her job, at the rank of corporal, in 2004 for a year-long tour as a defense contractor in Iraq, according to The Times-Herald news files.
She volunteered to be part of the effort to train the Iraqi police force.
Donna Rachelle Sheain, 37, is charged with two counts sale of meth, possession of meth, conspiracy to sell meth and possession of marijuana.
Sheain was a supervisor for the sheriff's office, where she was employed for over a decade. She was a certified CPR instructor, a general instructor and a field training officer.
She left her job, at the rank of corporal, in 2004 for a year-long tour as a defense contractor in Iraq, according to The Times-Herald news files.
She volunteered to be part of the effort to train the Iraqi police force.
Officers Donnell Patterson & Charles Battle Charged with Assault
Two Richmond police officers were arraigned in Richmond Circuit Court yesterday on charges that they assaulted a man while working an off-duty security job at a nightclub in Richmond's Fan District.
Donnell Patterson and Charles Battle each face one count of misdemeanor assault stemming from an incident June 26 outside Club 534 on North Harrison Street between West Broad and West Grace streets.
Patterson's attorney, John Rockecharlie, described the incident as a "chaotic crowd-control situation" early that morning after patrons left the club around closing time.
The club's owner, Nat Dance, said as many as 350 people leave the club at closing time on some mornings. He estimated that about that many people might have been outside the morning of the incident, but he said some of the people in the crowd had come from another club that had let out.
The club was paying the officers to work security that morning, Dance and Rockecharlie said.
Richmond police officials and city prosecutors declined to describe what happened outside the club or to provide either officer's employment status. A special prosecutor from outside Richmond will be assigned to the case.
Battle's attorney, Claire G. Cardwell, declined to comment. The officers' accuser, Sadaris Fitzgerald, could not be reached for comment yesterday.
Dance, who used to own the Cotton Club on Fifth Street in downtown Richmond, was fined $2,000 in 2006 after a judge found him guilty of maintaining a common nuisance at Club 534. The conviction later was thrown out.
According to testimony at the 2006 hearing, the Cotton Club and Club 534 could attract vast crowds that clogged streets and sidewalks.
Dance said yesterday that crowds outside Club 534 are not dangerous or a nuisance. He also said the June incident occurred around the corner from the club and not directly outside it.
Patterson and Battle each are free on a personal recognizance bond. A court hearing for both officers was set for Jan. 25.
Donnell Patterson and Charles Battle each face one count of misdemeanor assault stemming from an incident June 26 outside Club 534 on North Harrison Street between West Broad and West Grace streets.
Patterson's attorney, John Rockecharlie, described the incident as a "chaotic crowd-control situation" early that morning after patrons left the club around closing time.
The club's owner, Nat Dance, said as many as 350 people leave the club at closing time on some mornings. He estimated that about that many people might have been outside the morning of the incident, but he said some of the people in the crowd had come from another club that had let out.
The club was paying the officers to work security that morning, Dance and Rockecharlie said.
Richmond police officials and city prosecutors declined to describe what happened outside the club or to provide either officer's employment status. A special prosecutor from outside Richmond will be assigned to the case.
Battle's attorney, Claire G. Cardwell, declined to comment. The officers' accuser, Sadaris Fitzgerald, could not be reached for comment yesterday.
Dance, who used to own the Cotton Club on Fifth Street in downtown Richmond, was fined $2,000 in 2006 after a judge found him guilty of maintaining a common nuisance at Club 534. The conviction later was thrown out.
According to testimony at the 2006 hearing, the Cotton Club and Club 534 could attract vast crowds that clogged streets and sidewalks.
Dance said yesterday that crowds outside Club 534 are not dangerous or a nuisance. He also said the June incident occurred around the corner from the club and not directly outside it.
Patterson and Battle each are free on a personal recognizance bond. A court hearing for both officers was set for Jan. 25.
Former Officer Donald Bailey Pleads Not Guilty to Accepting Cash From Inmate
A former Baton Rouge police corporal accused of soliciting and accepting cash from a Parish Prison inmate told a state District Court judge Friday that he is innocent.
Donald Bailey, 49, pleaded not guilty in state District Judge Chip Moore’s court to one count each of bribery, corrupt influencing and malfeasance in office.
Bailey, a 14-year veteran of the police force who coordinated the Targeted Violent Offender Program, declined comment after the hearing.
Bailey’s attorney, Mike Walsh, said he would be in a better position to comment after he meets with Assistant Attorney General David Caldwell to review evidence in the case.
The state Attorney General’s Office is prosecuting Bailey because District Attorney Hillar Moore III is a key witness in the case, Caldwell has said.
Bailey approached Moore last year for help getting a Parish Prison inmate released, Caldwell has said. Moore immediately contacted the appropriate authorities.
State Police have said detectives arranged for the inmate to make a recorded telephone call to Bailey from Parish Prison. The inmate told Bailey he needed help getting out of jail.
Caldwell has said Bailey agreed on Sept. 15 to aid the inmate. Bailey allegedly told the inmate he would have the charges dismissed and the parole hold lifted in exchange for $12,000.
Bailey then contacted the District Attorney’s Office and the Office of Probation and Parole to request the dismissal of the charges and the lifting of the parole hold, State Police have said.
Both agencies, working with detectives, allowed the charges to be dropped and the parole hold lifted, State Police have said.
State Police detectives arranged for the inmate to meet with Bailey. During a meeting on Sept. 28, Bailey accepted $1,400 for his assistance, State Police have said.
State Police arrested Bailey that day at Police Department headquarters. The police officer resigned from the force Oct. 7 in lieu of termination.
Donald Bailey, 49, pleaded not guilty in state District Judge Chip Moore’s court to one count each of bribery, corrupt influencing and malfeasance in office.
Bailey, a 14-year veteran of the police force who coordinated the Targeted Violent Offender Program, declined comment after the hearing.
Bailey’s attorney, Mike Walsh, said he would be in a better position to comment after he meets with Assistant Attorney General David Caldwell to review evidence in the case.
The state Attorney General’s Office is prosecuting Bailey because District Attorney Hillar Moore III is a key witness in the case, Caldwell has said.
Bailey approached Moore last year for help getting a Parish Prison inmate released, Caldwell has said. Moore immediately contacted the appropriate authorities.
State Police have said detectives arranged for the inmate to make a recorded telephone call to Bailey from Parish Prison. The inmate told Bailey he needed help getting out of jail.
Caldwell has said Bailey agreed on Sept. 15 to aid the inmate. Bailey allegedly told the inmate he would have the charges dismissed and the parole hold lifted in exchange for $12,000.
Bailey then contacted the District Attorney’s Office and the Office of Probation and Parole to request the dismissal of the charges and the lifting of the parole hold, State Police have said.
Both agencies, working with detectives, allowed the charges to be dropped and the parole hold lifted, State Police have said.
State Police detectives arranged for the inmate to meet with Bailey. During a meeting on Sept. 28, Bailey accepted $1,400 for his assistance, State Police have said.
State Police arrested Bailey that day at Police Department headquarters. The police officer resigned from the force Oct. 7 in lieu of termination.
Detention Officer Larry Martinez & Wife Accused of Stealing Prescription Drugs
Roosevelt County Sheriff Darren Hooker says a county detention center officer was fired Friday after being accused of stealing prescription drugs from the jail to sell on the street.
Hooker said Larry Martinez, 36, and his wife, Jesseka Martinez, 35, are facing assorted felony drug charges.
Larry Martinez, 36, was arrested for stealing Xanax from the detention center and giving it to his wife.
“He was charged with trafficking a controlled substance... Xanax,” Deputy Nathan Kinnison said.
Detention Center Administrator David Casanova said he doesn’t know how Martinez was able to get access to the drugs because the thefts happened before he was hired to run the jail.
According to police:
• On New Years’ eve, sheriff’s officers and members of Region V Drug Task Force contacted Jesseka Martinez at her home in the 1700 block of U.S. 236.
• Undercover agents had been purchasing marijuana from her since October as part of an undercover operation.
• During the investigation, Jesseka Martinez told officers her husband was a guard at the detention center and was stealing drugs from the center.
• “She allowed us to search the house,” Kinnison said. “We found marijuana, drug paraphernalia and prescription drugs in the house. So that is a misdemeanor and fourth degree felony.”
• During interrogation, Larry Martinez admitted stealing Xanax from the center and giving it to his wife, said Kinnison. He was charged with felony drug trafficking.
• Larry Martinez was behind bars at the center Friday in lieu of $20,000 cash-only bond. His wife was jailed in lieu of $7,000 cash-only bond.
Hooker said Larry Martinez, 36, and his wife, Jesseka Martinez, 35, are facing assorted felony drug charges.
Larry Martinez, 36, was arrested for stealing Xanax from the detention center and giving it to his wife.
“He was charged with trafficking a controlled substance... Xanax,” Deputy Nathan Kinnison said.
Detention Center Administrator David Casanova said he doesn’t know how Martinez was able to get access to the drugs because the thefts happened before he was hired to run the jail.
According to police:
• On New Years’ eve, sheriff’s officers and members of Region V Drug Task Force contacted Jesseka Martinez at her home in the 1700 block of U.S. 236.
• Undercover agents had been purchasing marijuana from her since October as part of an undercover operation.
• During the investigation, Jesseka Martinez told officers her husband was a guard at the detention center and was stealing drugs from the center.
• “She allowed us to search the house,” Kinnison said. “We found marijuana, drug paraphernalia and prescription drugs in the house. So that is a misdemeanor and fourth degree felony.”
• During interrogation, Larry Martinez admitted stealing Xanax from the center and giving it to his wife, said Kinnison. He was charged with felony drug trafficking.
• Larry Martinez was behind bars at the center Friday in lieu of $20,000 cash-only bond. His wife was jailed in lieu of $7,000 cash-only bond.
Officer Christopher Sundheim Charged with Having Sex with Minor
A Jupiter Island Police officer is facing felony charges after he had sexual relationship with a minor, according to warrant affidavit from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
On Friday, deputies charged Christopher J. Sundheim, 31, with sexual activity with a minor. Later on Friday, he was released from jail on $25,000 bond.
Sundheim is on administrative leave from the department, according to a news release from Jupiter Island Public Safety Department.
In September, the girl, with her parents and a family friend, reported the incident to police officials. The girl said she and Sundheim became friends after meeting at Hobe Sound Beach. The two would often flirt with each other until, “one thing lead to another,” the girl said in the affidavit. Detectives interviewed several people who saw the girl and Sundheim together. However, none of the people said they ever saw inappropriate behavior, the affidavit states.
The girl, now 18, said she and Sundheim had sex numerous occasions when she was 17, from October 2008 to January 2009, including one instance at a vacant cottage, which neither of them owned, the report states.
On Friday, deputies charged Christopher J. Sundheim, 31, with sexual activity with a minor. Later on Friday, he was released from jail on $25,000 bond.
Sundheim is on administrative leave from the department, according to a news release from Jupiter Island Public Safety Department.
In September, the girl, with her parents and a family friend, reported the incident to police officials. The girl said she and Sundheim became friends after meeting at Hobe Sound Beach. The two would often flirt with each other until, “one thing lead to another,” the girl said in the affidavit. Detectives interviewed several people who saw the girl and Sundheim together. However, none of the people said they ever saw inappropriate behavior, the affidavit states.
The girl, now 18, said she and Sundheim had sex numerous occasions when she was 17, from October 2008 to January 2009, including one instance at a vacant cottage, which neither of them owned, the report states.
Officer Darryl Russell Failed to Yield Causing the Death of Man on Bicycle
An accident reconstruction by the Mississippi Highway Patrol shows that a Waveland police officer failed to yield the right-of-way in an accident that caused the death of a Bay St. Louis bicyclist last year.
Cpl. Johnny Poulos released the results on Friday.
Francisco Jesus Mendoza Suarez, 33, died in the Sept. 21 accident.
Patrolman Darryl Russell pulled out of an eastbound turn lane and attempted to cross U.S. 90 toward the far-right emergency lane.
At the time, Suarez was riding a bicycle in the righthand emergency lane.
As the police car crossed the highway, it was struck by a Cadillac Escalade that was also headed east, Poulos told the Sun Herald in September.
The collision caused the Escalade to veer out of control into the emergency lane, striking Suarez.
Poulos said Russell reported he had attempted to cross the road because Suarez resembled the description of a criminal suspect that had been broadcast to police units in the area.
Russell told investigators that his patrol car’s blue emergency lights had been on when he attempted to cross U.S. 90.
Bay St. Louis police said Suarez was not the suspect.
Waveland Police Chief James Varnell said he could not comment on the case because a lawsuit has been filed by Suarez’s family against the city of Waveland, the police department and Russell.
Immediately after the accident, Russell was placed on administrative leave with pay for four weeks but currently is on duty, Varnell said.
The accident occurred just inside the Bay St. Louis city limits.
Russell was in Bay St. Louis because officers must make a U-turn when westbound on U.S. 90 to return to Waveland.
Cpl. Johnny Poulos released the results on Friday.
Francisco Jesus Mendoza Suarez, 33, died in the Sept. 21 accident.
Patrolman Darryl Russell pulled out of an eastbound turn lane and attempted to cross U.S. 90 toward the far-right emergency lane.
At the time, Suarez was riding a bicycle in the righthand emergency lane.
As the police car crossed the highway, it was struck by a Cadillac Escalade that was also headed east, Poulos told the Sun Herald in September.
The collision caused the Escalade to veer out of control into the emergency lane, striking Suarez.
Poulos said Russell reported he had attempted to cross the road because Suarez resembled the description of a criminal suspect that had been broadcast to police units in the area.
Russell told investigators that his patrol car’s blue emergency lights had been on when he attempted to cross U.S. 90.
Bay St. Louis police said Suarez was not the suspect.
Waveland Police Chief James Varnell said he could not comment on the case because a lawsuit has been filed by Suarez’s family against the city of Waveland, the police department and Russell.
Immediately after the accident, Russell was placed on administrative leave with pay for four weeks but currently is on duty, Varnell said.
The accident occurred just inside the Bay St. Louis city limits.
Russell was in Bay St. Louis because officers must make a U-turn when westbound on U.S. 90 to return to Waveland.
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