As firefighters battled three fires early Tuesday morning in the area of Wolters Industrial Park, a Mineral Wells police officer was taken into custody and later charged with three counts of arson.
Patrolman John Clifford Gore, who marked his third anniversary with the Mineral Wells Police Department on Monday, was taken into custody around 2 a.m. Tuesday after he was stopped by an on-duty police officer on Ellis White Road.
Gore was not on duty at the time, Mineral Wells Police Chief Mike McAllester said.
McAllester said Gore was stopped because his silver Ford pickup matched the description of a truck reported speeding in the area of Corrections Corporation of America’s prison minutes after the fires were reported.
The officer who stopped Gore observed a gas can in the bed of the pickup and noticed Gore smelled of gasoline and smoke so he was detained and transported to the police station for questioning, according to McAllester.
Around 4:30 a.m., Gore was arrested and charged with three counts of arson, including one charge of arson with injury because a volunteer firefighter reportedly sustained a minor injury while fighting the fire on Lee Road.
An empty former barracks building on Van Story Road belonging to New-Tronics Antenna Corp. was reported on fire around 1:30 a.m. about the same time as a fire at a building in the 400 block of Lee Road belonging to Evair Associates.
A fire at a fireworks stand at Ellis White Road and Farm-to-Market Road 1821 was called in minutes later.
Police officers who responded began looking for vehicles in the area “because of recent arson fires that had plagued that area,”
“We’re still investigating whether this page person may or may not have been involved with other arson fires,” McAllester said.
McAllester said the motive for the intentionally set fires is also under investigation.
The 26-year-old patrol officer has been with the Mineral Wells Police Department three years as of Monday.
“There’s never been any discipline involving this officer at all,” McAllester said. “Up until this point he’s been a model employee.”
“This case we handled as any other case would be,” McAllester said.
Another suspect has been questioned after the police department received information on a subject believed to be involved in a prior incident, according to McAllester.
An additional arrest is possible, McAllester said.
The Texas Rangers, arson investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Parker County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Palo Pinto County Fire Marshal’s Office are assisting in the investigation, according to McAllester.
The Mineral Wells Fire Department and volunteers from Mineral Wells, Millsap and Cool-Garner responded to the structure fires.
There was minor damage to the fireworks stand on Ellis White Road.
Mineral Wells Volunteer Fire Chief Steve Perdue said the former barracks building on Van Story Road was fully involved when firefighters arrived. It burned to the ground.
Tina Chipps, plant manager at New-Tronics, said the building was empty and had been stripped.
It was the company’s second building burned in a suspected arson since a former barracks building used for storage was destroyed in mid-December in a string of four intentionally set fires across the city.
The fire at the brick building in the 400 block of Lee Road owned by Evair Associates was contained to the office portion, according to Perdue.
Monte Parker, a 19-year veteran of the MWVFD, sustained a minor back injury and was transported by ambulance to Palo Pinto General Hospital. He was later released, according to his wife, Connie Parker.
The building was used for storage. The main business office in the 200 block was not hurt.
Neil Evans said he lost most of the items he hoped to use as exhibits in a flight museum for the area.
For the last 12 years, the building has housed aviation artifacts, including old parts, fixtures and hundreds of large pictures, according to the family.
“You can’t get this stuff,” Neil Evans said.
“We’ve been collecting that stuff for years,” Sharlet Evans, office manager at the family-owned business, described as “the AutoZone for F-16s.”
About 1,000 brand new keyboards and computer mice to be donated to schools in Mineral Wells and Weatherford were also destroyed, according to Neil Evans.
In all, the Evans estimated their loss at between $500,000 and $1 million. They said the building was insured, though the contents were not.
Sharlet Evans said they found out about the fire when Jerry VanNatta with the Mineral Wells Volunteer Fire Department called the office first thing Tuesday morning.
They were making arrangements to have somebody patrol the business during the nighttime hours when they were informed of the arrest.
“I’m shocked, I’ve known John Gore since he was a little boy,” Sharlet Evans said.
A Myspace page purportedly belonging to Gore and last updated on Monday displayed a quote from the fictional Gotham City district attorney Harvey Dent in the movie “Dark Knight” saying “You either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.”
The page sports a black background with a picture of orange flames and several pictures of the character The Joker from the same movie.
A 2001 graduate of Mineral Wells High School, Gore was in the Palo Pinto County jail on $95,000 bond as of Tuesday morning.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Detective Thomas Garrett Arrested for Assaulting the Mother of his Child
Detective Thomas E. Garrett was arrested by Clackamas County sheriff's deputies Tuesday at the Milwaukie Police Station.
Garrett, 36, of Southeast Portland, is a six-year Milwaukie police veteran. If convicted of the charge, a Class C felony, he would be barred from possessing a firearm, which would make it impossible for him to continue as a police officer.
He was placed on immediate paid administrative leave.
Detective Jim Strovink, Clackamas County sheriff's spokesman, said a 30-year-old woman acknowledged to be the mother of Garrett's 1-year-old child visited the sheriff's Clackamas-area headquarters at 8 a.m. Tuesday to report that Garrett assaulted her with one or more of her three other children present. The woman, whose name was not released, said the assault occurred at her home in an unincorporated area outside Milwaukie.
The woman did not require medical care, Strovink said. Garrett and the woman are not married.
After conducting interviews, the sheriff's Domestic Violence Enhanced Response Team, with cooperation from Milwaukie police, arrested Garrett at work without incident.
Oregon's domestic-violence laws require police to arrest a suspect accused of assault by someone who claims to be a victim. Physical evidence of an assault is not required.
Garrett was hired by Milwaukie police in April 2004. He began as a patrol officer and then worked as a school resource officer, mostly at Milwaukie High School, before most recently joining detectives.
"As far as our experience with him, he's always done a commendable job as an investigator," said Officer Ulli Neitch, Milwaukie police spokeswoman.
Police Chief Bob Jordan said Garrett was recognized for his work investigating the case of Christopher John Klitgord, a Milwaukie High math teacher convicted last year of second-degree sexual abuse for his relationship with a 16-year-old student.
Garrett also was recognized for instituting a truancy court at Milwaukie High to deal with chronically absent students.
He has no disciplinary actions on file.
Garrett was booked into the Clackamas County Jail on accusation of fourth-degree assault. He posted bond against $15,000 bail and was released. He is scheduled to be arraigned March 15 in Clackamas County Circuit Court.
Officer Nick McKinley Faces Suspension for Hitting Fleeing Suspect with Patrol Car
A city police officer faces a 30-day suspension after he allegedly hit a fleeing suspect with his patrol car.
Patrolman Nick McKinley is accused of running his car into 54-year-old Donnie Neely of South Bend just after 1 a.m. Nov. 5 after Neely allegedly dragged a different officer with his car and then tried to flee on foot.
Those allegations were presented to the Board of Public Safety today in a letter written by Police Chief Darryl Boykins.
In the letter, Boykins stated that McKinley was backing up Patrolman Kyle Dombrowski as he was conducting a vehicle stop.
But Dombrowski’s arm and shoulder were injured in the incident, after Neely sped off, dragging him down the street and around the corner until he fell free from the car.
Then, "McKinley got into his police mechanical and started pursuing the suspect vehicle," Boykins stated. "The suspect stopped his vehicle and fled on foot. Patrolman McKinley struck the suspect, who was fleeing on foot, with his patrol car."
That story is different than the initial reports of the incident told to The Tribune the day of the incident.
According to a Nov. 6, 2009, crime brief, police initially reported that Neely tripped getting out of his car and fell on the ground, breaking his knee cap in the process and also cutting himself, later requiring four stitches.
Capt. Phil Trent, reading the report today, said there was no mention of Neely being struck by the police car in the report, but it did say he fractured a knee cap and required four stitches.
Trent said that a later internal investigation into the incident led police to discover that Neely had actually been struck by the bumper of a patrol car.
Dombrowski, the officer dragged by the car, suffered only minor injuries.
Boykins’ told the board that McKinley’s actions violated four different sections of the department’s duty manual, including improper use of a police car and unnecessary force.
The chief recommended that McKinley be suspended for 30 days without pay.
McKinley can request a hearing to dispute the charges, and no final decision about the suspension has been made by the board.
According to Tribune archives, McKinley is a 2008 graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.
Patrolman Nick McKinley is accused of running his car into 54-year-old Donnie Neely of South Bend just after 1 a.m. Nov. 5 after Neely allegedly dragged a different officer with his car and then tried to flee on foot.
Those allegations were presented to the Board of Public Safety today in a letter written by Police Chief Darryl Boykins.
In the letter, Boykins stated that McKinley was backing up Patrolman Kyle Dombrowski as he was conducting a vehicle stop.
But Dombrowski’s arm and shoulder were injured in the incident, after Neely sped off, dragging him down the street and around the corner until he fell free from the car.
Then, "McKinley got into his police mechanical and started pursuing the suspect vehicle," Boykins stated. "The suspect stopped his vehicle and fled on foot. Patrolman McKinley struck the suspect, who was fleeing on foot, with his patrol car."
That story is different than the initial reports of the incident told to The Tribune the day of the incident.
According to a Nov. 6, 2009, crime brief, police initially reported that Neely tripped getting out of his car and fell on the ground, breaking his knee cap in the process and also cutting himself, later requiring four stitches.
Capt. Phil Trent, reading the report today, said there was no mention of Neely being struck by the police car in the report, but it did say he fractured a knee cap and required four stitches.
Trent said that a later internal investigation into the incident led police to discover that Neely had actually been struck by the bumper of a patrol car.
Dombrowski, the officer dragged by the car, suffered only minor injuries.
Boykins’ told the board that McKinley’s actions violated four different sections of the department’s duty manual, including improper use of a police car and unnecessary force.
The chief recommended that McKinley be suspended for 30 days without pay.
McKinley can request a hearing to dispute the charges, and no final decision about the suspension has been made by the board.
According to Tribune archives, McKinley is a 2008 graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.
Officer David Reilly Accused of Using Internet to Extort Money
A Naugatuck police officer accused of extortion has resigned from the police department.
David Reilly is accused of using the Internet to extort money from a Wallingford woman in order to pay gambling debts.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Reilly threatened to send humiliating information about the woman's sex life to her employer and parents.
The mayor's office confirmed Tuesday that the 40-year-old Reilly, who joined the police force in 1996, had resigned.
Reilly has pleaded not guilty to charges of extortion, coercion and computer crimes and is due back in Meriden Superior Court on March 8. He is free after posting a $25,000 bond.
David Reilly is accused of using the Internet to extort money from a Wallingford woman in order to pay gambling debts.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Reilly threatened to send humiliating information about the woman's sex life to her employer and parents.
The mayor's office confirmed Tuesday that the 40-year-old Reilly, who joined the police force in 1996, had resigned.
Reilly has pleaded not guilty to charges of extortion, coercion and computer crimes and is due back in Meriden Superior Court on March 8. He is free after posting a $25,000 bond.
Former Detention Officer Denita Shaw Pleads Guilty to Beating Handcuffed Inmate
A former Fulton County Sheriff’s Detention Officer pleaded guilty on Wednesday to a civil rights violation at the Fulton County Jail for beating a handcuffed inmate with a milk crate.
Denita Renae Shaw, 41, of Smyrna, Ga., was a detention officer at the Fulton County Jail. On Jan. 26, 2009, she used excessive force against the inmate and was fired because of the incident.
The felony charge brings a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is set for May 4.
“The inhumane treatment of persons in custody must cease,” Fulton County Sheriff Ted Jackson said in a prepared statement. “This case continues to show that excessive force and the disregard of policies and procedures at the Fulton County Jail will not be tolerated. When the civil rights of inmates are violated, we will pursue criminal charges and coordinate with federal authorities to prosecute the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.”
Denita Renae Shaw, 41, of Smyrna, Ga., was a detention officer at the Fulton County Jail. On Jan. 26, 2009, she used excessive force against the inmate and was fired because of the incident.
The felony charge brings a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is set for May 4.
“The inhumane treatment of persons in custody must cease,” Fulton County Sheriff Ted Jackson said in a prepared statement. “This case continues to show that excessive force and the disregard of policies and procedures at the Fulton County Jail will not be tolerated. When the civil rights of inmates are violated, we will pursue criminal charges and coordinate with federal authorities to prosecute the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.”
Former Officer Anthony Bickerton Sentenced for Making False Statements to FBI
A former Stoughton police officer pleaded guilty yesterday to federal charges of obstruction of justice and making false statements to FBI investigators in a 2008 police corruption probe.
Federal prosecutors will recommend that Anthony Bickerton, 60, of Stoughton spend 12 to 18 months in prison as part of a plea deal for lying about his role in a fake, FBI-arranged, stolen goods ring with two other Stoughton officers who have resigned from the force.
In conversations secretly taped in 2008 by a convicted criminal turned cooperating witness, the former detective arranged for discounted high-definition televisions for his daughter and other police officers and a power washer for himself. He thought the goods were stolen, but they were provided as part of the FBI’s probe. Prosecutors said he tried to hide the power washer at a fellow officer’s house after the FBI questioned him.
“Mr. Bickerton’s actions are an affront to the many honest men and women in the law enforcement community who serve the public with dedication and integrity,’’ US Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz said in a statement. “Today’s plea should be a reminder to the public that we will continue to aggressively pursue all investigations and prosecutions of corrupt and dishonest public officials.’’
Prosecutors had also alleged that Bickerton illegally obtained Registry of Motor Vehicles records for the informant, but as part of the plea, he will not have to admit to that.
Appearing before Judge Richard Stearns, Bickerton displayed much different behavior yesterday afternoon than he did in January, when he was escorted into the John Joseph Moakley US Courthouse in jeans and handcuffs. In the January proceedings, Bickerton broke down and cried while addressing Magistrate Judge Marianne B. Bowler. Yesterday, he appeared relaxed, calm, and even smiled at Stearns while the judge questioned him.
His wife, Rose, wiped away tears as the 45-minute proceeding drew to a close. No other friends or family of Bickerton, a father of three who was raised in Mattapan, were in court yesterday. No one from the Stoughton Police Department attended.
If the case had gone to trial, Assistant US Attorney Brian T. Kelly said, two other former police officers would have been called to testify against Bickerton. He would have faced a maximum of five years in prison for giving false statements and 10 years for obstruction of justice.
Bickerton was released on his existing bond, and he will be back in court May 11 for sentencing. He left the courthouse with his wife, and declined to comment. His lawyer, Kevin Reddington, called the process fair and said his client was looking forward to resolving the case.
Federal prosecutors will recommend that Anthony Bickerton, 60, of Stoughton spend 12 to 18 months in prison as part of a plea deal for lying about his role in a fake, FBI-arranged, stolen goods ring with two other Stoughton officers who have resigned from the force.
In conversations secretly taped in 2008 by a convicted criminal turned cooperating witness, the former detective arranged for discounted high-definition televisions for his daughter and other police officers and a power washer for himself. He thought the goods were stolen, but they were provided as part of the FBI’s probe. Prosecutors said he tried to hide the power washer at a fellow officer’s house after the FBI questioned him.
“Mr. Bickerton’s actions are an affront to the many honest men and women in the law enforcement community who serve the public with dedication and integrity,’’ US Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz said in a statement. “Today’s plea should be a reminder to the public that we will continue to aggressively pursue all investigations and prosecutions of corrupt and dishonest public officials.’’
Prosecutors had also alleged that Bickerton illegally obtained Registry of Motor Vehicles records for the informant, but as part of the plea, he will not have to admit to that.
Appearing before Judge Richard Stearns, Bickerton displayed much different behavior yesterday afternoon than he did in January, when he was escorted into the John Joseph Moakley US Courthouse in jeans and handcuffs. In the January proceedings, Bickerton broke down and cried while addressing Magistrate Judge Marianne B. Bowler. Yesterday, he appeared relaxed, calm, and even smiled at Stearns while the judge questioned him.
His wife, Rose, wiped away tears as the 45-minute proceeding drew to a close. No other friends or family of Bickerton, a father of three who was raised in Mattapan, were in court yesterday. No one from the Stoughton Police Department attended.
If the case had gone to trial, Assistant US Attorney Brian T. Kelly said, two other former police officers would have been called to testify against Bickerton. He would have faced a maximum of five years in prison for giving false statements and 10 years for obstruction of justice.
Bickerton was released on his existing bond, and he will be back in court May 11 for sentencing. He left the courthouse with his wife, and declined to comment. His lawyer, Kevin Reddington, called the process fair and said his client was looking forward to resolving the case.
Former Officer Alfredo Palacios Arrested for Indecency with Child
A former Pharr police officer was arrested in Port Isabel Tuesday afternoon on an outstanding warrant charging him with indecency with a child, court records show.
Alfredo Palacios turned himself in to Cameron County Precinct 1 Constable Horacio Zamora and was then taken to Justice of the Peace Benny Ochoa, who set his bond at $15,000.
Details of the case were not immediately available, but Zamora said it involves a female teenager and the offense took place in July of last year at Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island.
Palacios was terminated from his job with the Pharr Police Department last week after he was charged with indecency with a child in another case, that is, with the same female but in Hidalgo County, court records show.
Palacios was free on bond in the Hidalgo County case before being taken into custody on the new charge.
Rick Salinas, the attorney representing Palacios, said there are a number of facts in the case, in conjunction with his background as a former police officer, that will clear his client’s name.
Salinas asked Ochoa to grant Palacios a personal recognizance bond; however, the request was denied.
Alfredo Palacios turned himself in to Cameron County Precinct 1 Constable Horacio Zamora and was then taken to Justice of the Peace Benny Ochoa, who set his bond at $15,000.
Details of the case were not immediately available, but Zamora said it involves a female teenager and the offense took place in July of last year at Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island.
Palacios was terminated from his job with the Pharr Police Department last week after he was charged with indecency with a child in another case, that is, with the same female but in Hidalgo County, court records show.
Palacios was free on bond in the Hidalgo County case before being taken into custody on the new charge.
Rick Salinas, the attorney representing Palacios, said there are a number of facts in the case, in conjunction with his background as a former police officer, that will clear his client’s name.
Salinas asked Ochoa to grant Palacios a personal recognizance bond; however, the request was denied.
Officer Andrew Cohen Resigns from Department
A San Francisco police officer who produced videos parodying life on the force that were denounced as racist, sexist and homophobic is resigning.
Andrew Cohen said Tuesday he'll leave the department in July.
The 44-year-old Cohen was the department videographer when he filmed controversial skits in 2005. One video showed an officer running over a homeless woman, one showed a male officer ogling a female motorist, and another showed officers heading into a massage parlor.
The department's internal affairs division launched an investigation after the videos were discovered on a Web site. Then-Police Chief Heather Fong later suspended two dozen officers.
Cohen, who is out on disability, says he is tired of fighting the numerous disciplinary cases against him and wants to move on with his life.
The police department declined to comment on his resignation.
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More Information
Andrew Cohen said Tuesday he'll leave the department in July.
The 44-year-old Cohen was the department videographer when he filmed controversial skits in 2005. One video showed an officer running over a homeless woman, one showed a male officer ogling a female motorist, and another showed officers heading into a massage parlor.
The department's internal affairs division launched an investigation after the videos were discovered on a Web site. Then-Police Chief Heather Fong later suspended two dozen officers.
Cohen, who is out on disability, says he is tired of fighting the numerous disciplinary cases against him and wants to move on with his life.
The police department declined to comment on his resignation.
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More Information
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Deputy Chuck Metcalf Will Spend 12 Weekends in Jail for Perjury
Richland County sheriff's deputy Chuck Metcalf will have to spend 12 weekends in jail as punishment for lying in support of the 2005 ill-fated Mansfield drug investigation involving DEA Agent Lee Lucas.
Lucas was acquitted earlier this month of 18 charges, including perjury and obstruction of justice, related to the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver, who presided over the Lucas trial, said he would have punished Metcalf to the fullest extent if not for his willingness to assist prosecutors, which included testifying at Lucas' trial. The misdemeanor conviction could have resulted in one year in prison.
"It's a sad case, your case, to me," Oliver told Metcalf, "because you were bound to uphold the law and we all count on law enforcement officials to do that."
Last year, Metcalf admitted lying during the 2006 trial of Dwayne Nabors, who was one of 17 people framed through a series of drug deals orchestrated by paid informant Jerrell Bray. Lucas supervised Bray during the investigation.
Metcalf testified during the Nabors' trial that police had not videotaped a portion of the purported drug deal, even though Metcalf knew a videotape had been made. Metcalf also claimed he and Lucas were in a position to identify Nabors knowing that also was not true.
In a memorandum filed with the court, Metcalf said he lied at the Nabors' trial to match his testimony with a report written by Lucas.
Lucas took the stand during his trial and denied making up testimony.
Prosecutors asked Oliver to show leniency because of Metcalf's cooperation. Richland County Sheriff Steve Sheldon and Richland County Prosecutor James Mayer spoke on behalf of Metcalf at his sentencing.
Metcalf asked for probation, citing a spotless record.
"His record in these investigations was perfect until he became involved with Special Agent Lee Lucas of the DEA," Metcalf's lawyer wrote in a memorandum filed with the court.
Metcalf argued that even though he lied Nabors trial, his testimony did not result in a drug trafficking conviction. Nabors was acquitted of a conspiracy charge while the jury was hung on a distribution charge. He was found guilty on a gun charge stemming from the search of his home.
Metcalf also argued that he is the only person facing punishment for the failures of the investigation, even though he was outranked on the team by both Lucas and Richland County Sheriff's Captain Larry Faith.
Lucas was acquitted earlier this month of 18 charges, including perjury and obstruction of justice, related to the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver, who presided over the Lucas trial, said he would have punished Metcalf to the fullest extent if not for his willingness to assist prosecutors, which included testifying at Lucas' trial. The misdemeanor conviction could have resulted in one year in prison.
"It's a sad case, your case, to me," Oliver told Metcalf, "because you were bound to uphold the law and we all count on law enforcement officials to do that."
Last year, Metcalf admitted lying during the 2006 trial of Dwayne Nabors, who was one of 17 people framed through a series of drug deals orchestrated by paid informant Jerrell Bray. Lucas supervised Bray during the investigation.
Metcalf testified during the Nabors' trial that police had not videotaped a portion of the purported drug deal, even though Metcalf knew a videotape had been made. Metcalf also claimed he and Lucas were in a position to identify Nabors knowing that also was not true.
In a memorandum filed with the court, Metcalf said he lied at the Nabors' trial to match his testimony with a report written by Lucas.
Lucas took the stand during his trial and denied making up testimony.
Prosecutors asked Oliver to show leniency because of Metcalf's cooperation. Richland County Sheriff Steve Sheldon and Richland County Prosecutor James Mayer spoke on behalf of Metcalf at his sentencing.
Metcalf asked for probation, citing a spotless record.
"His record in these investigations was perfect until he became involved with Special Agent Lee Lucas of the DEA," Metcalf's lawyer wrote in a memorandum filed with the court.
Metcalf argued that even though he lied Nabors trial, his testimony did not result in a drug trafficking conviction. Nabors was acquitted of a conspiracy charge while the jury was hung on a distribution charge. He was found guilty on a gun charge stemming from the search of his home.
Metcalf also argued that he is the only person facing punishment for the failures of the investigation, even though he was outranked on the team by both Lucas and Richland County Sheriff's Captain Larry Faith.
Detective Jim MacNeil Found Guilty
A disgraced former Edmonton police detective found guilty of obstruction of justice for tampering in his son’s drunk-driving case has avoided being put behind bars.
Jim MacNeil, 51, was given a four-month conditional sentence to be served in the community on Tuesday.
Judge Doreen Sulyma told a packed courtroom MacNeil had “compromised the administration of justice” and said he had a “higher level of blameworthiness” as a result of being a senior officer.
“It was done for a family member. There was no need for this,” she said.
“He could have assisted his son legally. Instead, he chose to hold himself above the rule of law.”
Sulyma also criticized the former detective for trying to put the blame on another office.
She said the falsely blamed officer wrote in a victim impact statement that she her professional reputation had been negatively affected.
Sulyma said mitigating factors were that MacNeil had no prior criminal record; boasted a long, successful career with the Edmonton Police Service; and volunteered in the community.
MacNeil was ordered to take any courses directed by his probation officer and he must abide by a daily 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew for the first month of the sentence.
At the time of MacNeil’s Dec. 1 conviction, Sulyma said she didn’t believe his testimony and ruled he had used his position as a police officer to “improperly” access police information to try to “protect” his son.
“From the beginning, he was using his position for the sole goal of helping his son,” said Sulyma.
She also ruled the actions of the 26-year veteran, who had then been suspended without pay, marked a “serious and marked departure” from the standards of a public officer.
“The actions of the accused were indeed partial and he used his office for a purpose other than the public good.”
According to an agreed statement of facts in the case, Chad MacNeil was arrested for impaired driving by Const. Eleanor McEvoy and Const. Greg Kitura on Feb. 10, 2005.
After MacNeil tried to get a copy of his son’s file on Feb. 17, 2005, police began an internal investigation.
According to the agreed facts, MacNeil admitted he sent a fax to the Driver Fitness and Monitoring Branch on Feb. 22, 2005, requesting his son’s suspension be canceled.
MacNeil also admitted he sent a memo to the Edmonton Police Service's case management unit requesting the suspension be canceled; and accessed CPIC, the national police computer system, to run inquiries concerning his son.
On Nov. 19, MacNeil took the stand in his own defense and admitted to impersonating his son on the phone.
Jim MacNeil, 51, was given a four-month conditional sentence to be served in the community on Tuesday.
Judge Doreen Sulyma told a packed courtroom MacNeil had “compromised the administration of justice” and said he had a “higher level of blameworthiness” as a result of being a senior officer.
“It was done for a family member. There was no need for this,” she said.
“He could have assisted his son legally. Instead, he chose to hold himself above the rule of law.”
Sulyma also criticized the former detective for trying to put the blame on another office.
She said the falsely blamed officer wrote in a victim impact statement that she her professional reputation had been negatively affected.
Sulyma said mitigating factors were that MacNeil had no prior criminal record; boasted a long, successful career with the Edmonton Police Service; and volunteered in the community.
MacNeil was ordered to take any courses directed by his probation officer and he must abide by a daily 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. curfew for the first month of the sentence.
At the time of MacNeil’s Dec. 1 conviction, Sulyma said she didn’t believe his testimony and ruled he had used his position as a police officer to “improperly” access police information to try to “protect” his son.
“From the beginning, he was using his position for the sole goal of helping his son,” said Sulyma.
She also ruled the actions of the 26-year veteran, who had then been suspended without pay, marked a “serious and marked departure” from the standards of a public officer.
“The actions of the accused were indeed partial and he used his office for a purpose other than the public good.”
According to an agreed statement of facts in the case, Chad MacNeil was arrested for impaired driving by Const. Eleanor McEvoy and Const. Greg Kitura on Feb. 10, 2005.
After MacNeil tried to get a copy of his son’s file on Feb. 17, 2005, police began an internal investigation.
According to the agreed facts, MacNeil admitted he sent a fax to the Driver Fitness and Monitoring Branch on Feb. 22, 2005, requesting his son’s suspension be canceled.
MacNeil also admitted he sent a memo to the Edmonton Police Service's case management unit requesting the suspension be canceled; and accessed CPIC, the national police computer system, to run inquiries concerning his son.
On Nov. 19, MacNeil took the stand in his own defense and admitted to impersonating his son on the phone.
Sgt David Schauwecker Being Investigated for Child Porn
The Rutland police officer at the center of a Vermont State Police child pornography investigation is Sgt. David Schauwecker, according to a Rutland Herald report.
No one has been charged in the case. The Vermont State Police disclosed last week that they do not have sufficient evidence to prove the child pornography found on a laptop computer was downloaded intentionally by the officer involved.
The Herald said it determined Schauwecker was the officer based on a review of city payroll records that showed Schauwecker was the only Rutland police officer to receive administrative leave pay for the week ending Feb. 6.
Rutland Police Chief Anthony Bossi said last week that the officer who was the subject of the investigation was placed on administrative leave during that week. He was unavailable for comment Monday.
The name of the officer involved was redacted from a court affidavit connected to a search warrant; the documents were unsealed last week by Judge Thomas Zonay at the request of the Herald.
Zonay had intended to released unredacted versions of the paperwork Friday, but an attorney for the officer blocked the release by appealing Zonay's decision to the Vermont Supreme Court.
No one has been charged in the case. The Vermont State Police disclosed last week that they do not have sufficient evidence to prove the child pornography found on a laptop computer was downloaded intentionally by the officer involved.
The Herald said it determined Schauwecker was the officer based on a review of city payroll records that showed Schauwecker was the only Rutland police officer to receive administrative leave pay for the week ending Feb. 6.
Rutland Police Chief Anthony Bossi said last week that the officer who was the subject of the investigation was placed on administrative leave during that week. He was unavailable for comment Monday.
The name of the officer involved was redacted from a court affidavit connected to a search warrant; the documents were unsealed last week by Judge Thomas Zonay at the request of the Herald.
Zonay had intended to released unredacted versions of the paperwork Friday, but an attorney for the officer blocked the release by appealing Zonay's decision to the Vermont Supreme Court.
Corrections Officer Marco Villacris Arrested for Possession of Heroin
A city corrections officer found himself on the other side of the law when he was busted for driving around Queens with eight ounces of heroin, officials said today.
Cops spotted Marco Villacris, 46, running a red light at Junction Boulevard and 41st Avenue around 3:40 p.m. Monday, authorities said.
When he was pulled over a couple blocks later, the officer noticed an open plastic bag in the backseat and the strong odor of heroin in Villacris’ 2001 tan Chevy Minivan.
Narcotics test confirmed it was heroin, authorities said.
Villacris was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and two traffic infractions, a spokesman for Queens DA Richard Brown said.
Villacris joined the Department of Corrections in Aug. 2008 and was a guard at the Anna M. Kross center on Rikers Island and will be terminated, said a department spokesman.
Also arrested was Villacris’ passenger, Johnny Gonzalez, 42, who presented a drivers license with the name Luis Romero. Gonzalez also allegedly stashed seven other fake IDs in the car’s glove compartment.
Cops spotted Marco Villacris, 46, running a red light at Junction Boulevard and 41st Avenue around 3:40 p.m. Monday, authorities said.
When he was pulled over a couple blocks later, the officer noticed an open plastic bag in the backseat and the strong odor of heroin in Villacris’ 2001 tan Chevy Minivan.
Narcotics test confirmed it was heroin, authorities said.
Villacris was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and two traffic infractions, a spokesman for Queens DA Richard Brown said.
Villacris joined the Department of Corrections in Aug. 2008 and was a guard at the Anna M. Kross center on Rikers Island and will be terminated, said a department spokesman.
Also arrested was Villacris’ passenger, Johnny Gonzalez, 42, who presented a drivers license with the name Luis Romero. Gonzalez also allegedly stashed seven other fake IDs in the car’s glove compartment.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Gerald Amidon Recieves $150,000 After Officer Threatens to Sodomize Him With Taser
We previously followed the case of Gerald Amidon, who sued the Boise police department for allegedly threatening to sodomize him with a taser and using excessive force in his arrest, including tasering him on the buttocks. He has now settled for only $150,000 and, despite a highly disturbing tape of the incident, the police department is able to claim no fault as part of the settlement.
While against policy, the police insisted that the officer (who also threatened to shock his genitalia) merely failed to follow guidelines — the name of the officer has not been released despite the release of the audio tape below. The officer actually states on the tape that he had already sodomized Amidon with the taser when he threatened to deliver a second shock first to his anus and then to his genitalia.
Amidon stated that on February 14th he did not realize that the men forcing their way into his apartment were officers. He tried to block the door — resulting in three officers throwing him to the ground. After tasering him, the officer threatened to sodomize the man and deliver an anal shocking with his taser.
Here is the exchange:
Officer #3: Do you feel this?
Complainant: Yes, sir.
Officer #3: Do you feel that? That’s my -
Complainant: Okay
Officer #3: -Taser up your ass.
Complainant: Okay
Officer #3: So don’t move.
Complainant: I’m trying not to. I can’t breathe.
…
Officer #3: Now do you feel this in your balls?
Complainant: I do, sir. I’m not going to move. I’m not gonna move.
Officer #3 Now I’m gonna tase your balls if you move again.
A minute later, this exchange occurred:
Officer #3: Okay, I’m gonna take this Taser out of your asshole now. Are you going to fight with me?
Complainant: No, not at all, sir.
A supervisor later erased an audio recording of an interview with the man at the jail and did not write a report on the use of force in the arrest. While the officers have been “disciplined,” they were not removed from the force.
Boise Community Ombudsman Pierce Murphy found that the actions of the officer were not illegal but found abuse, here. You have an officer who says that he just sodomized a suspect and threatened to torture him. That is not unlawful in Boise?
In the internal investigation , here. Murphy found that there was no threat at the time of the incident:
“At the time that he was Tased on the buttocks, the Complainant was handcuffed and lying face-down on the floor. Officer #1 was holding the Complainant’s head and upper torso down with a knee across his shoulders. Officer #4 was positioned near the Complainant’s waist preparing to search the Complainant, and Officer #3 was situated near the Complainant’s legs and feet … Based on what he observed, Officer #2 saw no need to assist Officer #1, Officer #3, and Officer #4 in controlling the Complainant. According to Officer #1, the Complainant “mellowed out” after being handcuffed.”
He filed a complaint detailing the abuse and asked for $500,000 in punitive damages.
The reported settlement of $150,000 seems a bit low given the egregious conduct and lack of admission of fault. Of course, we are not the “boots on the ground” in the case and the legal team was probably discounting for the avoidance of trial costs and appeals. However, given the response of the Police Department, I was hoping to see a more punitive element to the liability to guarantee a greater deterrent effect. If it was not for this tape, this case would never have seen the light of day.
It was the result of mediation with the judge in the federal court. It also contained a reported confidentiality agreement barring public comment.
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You Tube Video
While against policy, the police insisted that the officer (who also threatened to shock his genitalia) merely failed to follow guidelines — the name of the officer has not been released despite the release of the audio tape below. The officer actually states on the tape that he had already sodomized Amidon with the taser when he threatened to deliver a second shock first to his anus and then to his genitalia.
Amidon stated that on February 14th he did not realize that the men forcing their way into his apartment were officers. He tried to block the door — resulting in three officers throwing him to the ground. After tasering him, the officer threatened to sodomize the man and deliver an anal shocking with his taser.
Here is the exchange:
Officer #3: Do you feel this?
Complainant: Yes, sir.
Officer #3: Do you feel that? That’s my -
Complainant: Okay
Officer #3: -Taser up your ass.
Complainant: Okay
Officer #3: So don’t move.
Complainant: I’m trying not to. I can’t breathe.
…
Officer #3: Now do you feel this in your balls?
Complainant: I do, sir. I’m not going to move. I’m not gonna move.
Officer #3 Now I’m gonna tase your balls if you move again.
A minute later, this exchange occurred:
Officer #3: Okay, I’m gonna take this Taser out of your asshole now. Are you going to fight with me?
Complainant: No, not at all, sir.
A supervisor later erased an audio recording of an interview with the man at the jail and did not write a report on the use of force in the arrest. While the officers have been “disciplined,” they were not removed from the force.
Boise Community Ombudsman Pierce Murphy found that the actions of the officer were not illegal but found abuse, here. You have an officer who says that he just sodomized a suspect and threatened to torture him. That is not unlawful in Boise?
In the internal investigation , here. Murphy found that there was no threat at the time of the incident:
“At the time that he was Tased on the buttocks, the Complainant was handcuffed and lying face-down on the floor. Officer #1 was holding the Complainant’s head and upper torso down with a knee across his shoulders. Officer #4 was positioned near the Complainant’s waist preparing to search the Complainant, and Officer #3 was situated near the Complainant’s legs and feet … Based on what he observed, Officer #2 saw no need to assist Officer #1, Officer #3, and Officer #4 in controlling the Complainant. According to Officer #1, the Complainant “mellowed out” after being handcuffed.”
He filed a complaint detailing the abuse and asked for $500,000 in punitive damages.
The reported settlement of $150,000 seems a bit low given the egregious conduct and lack of admission of fault. Of course, we are not the “boots on the ground” in the case and the legal team was probably discounting for the avoidance of trial costs and appeals. However, given the response of the Police Department, I was hoping to see a more punitive element to the liability to guarantee a greater deterrent effect. If it was not for this tape, this case would never have seen the light of day.
It was the result of mediation with the judge in the federal court. It also contained a reported confidentiality agreement barring public comment.
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You Tube Video
Sgt. Michael Mastick Will Not be Charged in Hit and Run Collision
A Torrance police sergeant will not be charged in an off-duty hit-and-run collision, although he admitted he fled because his "judgment was impaired by alcohol," according to prosecutors.
Redondo Beach City Prosecutor Brenda Wells said Tuesday that she declined to file a criminal case against Sgt. Michael Mastick for several reasons.
Among them, Wells said, was the fact that the alleged victim did not want the internal affairs investigator prosecuted. In addition, she said, the driver of the suspect vehicle was not identified by any witnesses at the time of Sept. 26 incident.
However, she noted: "Initially, Michael Mastick claimed that his wife was driving and she confirmed that information. Later, Michael Mastick submitted a statement claiming that he was the driver and he fled because his judgment was impaired by alcohol."
Anderson said Wednesday that there is an open personnel investigation into the matter, but declined to comment further.
Mastick's attorney did not return a telephone call seeking comment.
The Inglewood Police Department investigated the incident to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. A public records request for the police report is pending.
The 19-year department veteran was investigated for causing a collision around 9:45 p.m. on Pacific Coast Highway at Robert Road, near the Hollywood Riviera section of Torrance.
When officers responded to the scene, it was discovered that a department employee was involved, and a supervisor requested assistance from members of the South Bay DUI Task Force, police have said.
Neither police agency would discuss details of the collision, beyond characterizing it as "minor."
Inglewood handled the investigation and submitted the case to the district attorney's Justice System Integrity Division, which recommended it be referred to the city attorney.
Investigators brought the case to Redondo Beach rather than Torrance also to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
Redondo Beach City Prosecutor Brenda Wells said Tuesday that she declined to file a criminal case against Sgt. Michael Mastick for several reasons.
Among them, Wells said, was the fact that the alleged victim did not want the internal affairs investigator prosecuted. In addition, she said, the driver of the suspect vehicle was not identified by any witnesses at the time of Sept. 26 incident.
However, she noted: "Initially, Michael Mastick claimed that his wife was driving and she confirmed that information. Later, Michael Mastick submitted a statement claiming that he was the driver and he fled because his judgment was impaired by alcohol."
Anderson said Wednesday that there is an open personnel investigation into the matter, but declined to comment further.
Mastick's attorney did not return a telephone call seeking comment.
The Inglewood Police Department investigated the incident to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest. A public records request for the police report is pending.
The 19-year department veteran was investigated for causing a collision around 9:45 p.m. on Pacific Coast Highway at Robert Road, near the Hollywood Riviera section of Torrance.
When officers responded to the scene, it was discovered that a department employee was involved, and a supervisor requested assistance from members of the South Bay DUI Task Force, police have said.
Neither police agency would discuss details of the collision, beyond characterizing it as "minor."
Inglewood handled the investigation and submitted the case to the district attorney's Justice System Integrity Division, which recommended it be referred to the city attorney.
Investigators brought the case to Redondo Beach rather than Torrance also to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.
Officer Christopher Bowersox Charged with Possession of Child Porn
As the child pornography case against a former Bakersfield police officer moves forward, friends say they are shocked and in disbelief.
It's believed the case against Christopher Bowersox, 38, will be in federal court by midweek.
Bowersox was arrested Friday after the FBI filed a case alleging he knowingly possessed child pornography and engaged in the receipt of child porn. The documents filed in court so far have been extremely graphic.
Officials said Bowersox resigned from the Bakersfield Police Department on Wednesday of last week.
Eyewitness News spoke with a local attorney who said he has been contacted about representing Bowersox in this case. His name is being withheld, because he hasn't officially been assigned to the case.
One of Bowersox' neighbors, Melanie Smith, said Monday that she has known the officer for more than a year, and her boyfriend has known Bowersox for more than 10 years.
"He's a very good friend of mine," Smith said. "He'd always come over and helped me out. He's helped me fix my car (and) brought me cookies last week."
Police say the investigation into Bowersox started last fall. Bakersfield Police Chief Greg Williamson held a rare weekend news conference to address the investigation of his own officer.
"I, as well as the rest of my department, are thoroughly embarrassed and disappointed as to the allegations made against one of our officers," Williamson said Saturday.
Williamson and FBI officers said Bowersox had been removed from duty and put on administrative leave when the allegations were first discovered.
"This arrest was the result of a lengthy criminal investigation that was initiated by the Bakersfield Police Department and eventually referred to the FBI due to the type of criminal activity," reads a statement issued last week by FBI Special Agent Steve Dupre.
Investigators say the case started when Nicholas Beeman was arrested in Florida for possession of child porn. Beeman reportedly told officers he discussed violence against children in an Internet chat room, and investigators say they tracked that chat to Bowersox.
The report on the case includes excerpts that officers say went between Bowersox and the man in Florida.
"Every time I talk someone into rape, I always get a bit sad when they're not into this," the Florida man allegedly wrote in the online chats.
"Oh, I'm ... into it, big time," Bowersox allegedly responded, using the screen name "cbowersox."
Bowersox reportedly told investigators he had communicated with others in Internet chat rooms, and that he "shared fantasies" with others through chat rooms. According the the case report, Bowersox "reluctantly" described the fantasies as things between men and boys and violence between men and boys.
"Bowersox acknowledged the conversations and stated that the communication was all fantasy and that he had never carried out any of the described actions," the report reads.
According to the case file, police searched the computer at Bowersox' home and then turned the case over to the FBI.
Bowersox had headed up the Bakersfield police anti-graffiti unit for a while, and Williamson said the officer had arrested several youth as part of the detail. The department believes Bowersox had no inappropriate contact then with any under-aged people during his time on duty.
"The department has no indication the activity for which former officer Bowersox has been charged occurred while he was on duty in his capacity as a police officer," reads a statement from Williamson.
Williamson said the officer was well liked in the department and by the public.
"I think the allegations that have been brought against him have just floored most of the members of the Bakersfield Police Department," Williamson said.
The FBI report said when officers searched Bowersox' computer, they also found five digital images that appeared to be surveillance photographs of students on the Bakersfield High School campus.
According to the case report, Bowersox told investigators he did not recall taking any pictures of students at BHS.
Back in Bowersox' neighborhood, Smith said she is shocked by the case.
"I don't know what to say about what they're charging him with," Smith said. "But, I'm going to say innocent until proven guilty. I think he's a good man."
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Photo & Information
It's believed the case against Christopher Bowersox, 38, will be in federal court by midweek.
Bowersox was arrested Friday after the FBI filed a case alleging he knowingly possessed child pornography and engaged in the receipt of child porn. The documents filed in court so far have been extremely graphic.
Officials said Bowersox resigned from the Bakersfield Police Department on Wednesday of last week.
Eyewitness News spoke with a local attorney who said he has been contacted about representing Bowersox in this case. His name is being withheld, because he hasn't officially been assigned to the case.
One of Bowersox' neighbors, Melanie Smith, said Monday that she has known the officer for more than a year, and her boyfriend has known Bowersox for more than 10 years.
"He's a very good friend of mine," Smith said. "He'd always come over and helped me out. He's helped me fix my car (and) brought me cookies last week."
Police say the investigation into Bowersox started last fall. Bakersfield Police Chief Greg Williamson held a rare weekend news conference to address the investigation of his own officer.
"I, as well as the rest of my department, are thoroughly embarrassed and disappointed as to the allegations made against one of our officers," Williamson said Saturday.
Williamson and FBI officers said Bowersox had been removed from duty and put on administrative leave when the allegations were first discovered.
"This arrest was the result of a lengthy criminal investigation that was initiated by the Bakersfield Police Department and eventually referred to the FBI due to the type of criminal activity," reads a statement issued last week by FBI Special Agent Steve Dupre.
Investigators say the case started when Nicholas Beeman was arrested in Florida for possession of child porn. Beeman reportedly told officers he discussed violence against children in an Internet chat room, and investigators say they tracked that chat to Bowersox.
The report on the case includes excerpts that officers say went between Bowersox and the man in Florida.
"Every time I talk someone into rape, I always get a bit sad when they're not into this," the Florida man allegedly wrote in the online chats.
"Oh, I'm ... into it, big time," Bowersox allegedly responded, using the screen name "cbowersox."
Bowersox reportedly told investigators he had communicated with others in Internet chat rooms, and that he "shared fantasies" with others through chat rooms. According the the case report, Bowersox "reluctantly" described the fantasies as things between men and boys and violence between men and boys.
"Bowersox acknowledged the conversations and stated that the communication was all fantasy and that he had never carried out any of the described actions," the report reads.
According to the case file, police searched the computer at Bowersox' home and then turned the case over to the FBI.
Bowersox had headed up the Bakersfield police anti-graffiti unit for a while, and Williamson said the officer had arrested several youth as part of the detail. The department believes Bowersox had no inappropriate contact then with any under-aged people during his time on duty.
"The department has no indication the activity for which former officer Bowersox has been charged occurred while he was on duty in his capacity as a police officer," reads a statement from Williamson.
Williamson said the officer was well liked in the department and by the public.
"I think the allegations that have been brought against him have just floored most of the members of the Bakersfield Police Department," Williamson said.
The FBI report said when officers searched Bowersox' computer, they also found five digital images that appeared to be surveillance photographs of students on the Bakersfield High School campus.
According to the case report, Bowersox told investigators he did not recall taking any pictures of students at BHS.
Back in Bowersox' neighborhood, Smith said she is shocked by the case.
"I don't know what to say about what they're charging him with," Smith said. "But, I'm going to say innocent until proven guilty. I think he's a good man."
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Photo & Information
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Deputy Justin Oliver Accused of Misconduct
A Brown County deputy assigned to a regional drug task force is on leave pending a state investigation into allegations of misconduct with a woman who claims to be a confidential informant for him.
Bethany Selby, 19, of Mount Sterling said in an emergency order of protection filed Thursday in Brown County Circuit Court that she feared Deputy Justin Oliver might harm her or himself if she came forward about his actions.
Selby claims that during the five months she has been working as a confidential informant with the West Central Task Force, she and the deputy had a dating relationship and that they engaged in sexual acts in his police car and at his Mount Sterling residence. She also accused Oliver of pressuring her to set up a drug buy with a man she knew was not dealing drugs.
The order of protection was granted by Pike County Circuit Judge Michael Roseberry. Oliver was not present at the hearing.
Selby’s attorney, Jesse Gilsdorf, said that because there were no Brown County judges available Thursday they went to Pike County, which is the same judicial circuit.
Sheriff Tom Snowden said he learned of the allegations for the first time after they were presented in court. The sheriff placed Oliver on administrative leave with pay and the investigation was turned over to Illinois State Police. The state agency was closed Friday because of the state holiday.
Snowden declined to say whether Oliver denied the allegations when told he was being placed on administrative leave.
“I will say that these allegations are out of character for deputy Oliver,” Snowden said.
Oliver, who does not a have a listed telephone number, was unavailable Friday for comment.
Oliver will remain on paid leave “until we can validate or invalidate these allegations,” Snowden said.
Oliver has been employed with the sheriff’s department for four years and assigned for about two years to work full-time with the drug task force.
Emergency order of protections are civil proceedings, do not require proof the acts occurred and can be granted without both parties being present at the hearing.
In her request for the order, Selby contends Oliver “keeps a bullet in his car in his dashboard” and “has threatened to shoot himself with the bullet if I should ever tell anyone about our activities.”
Selby said she had a relationship with the deputy for about five months
“He has told me that if I told anyone about our relationship he would lose all of his cases and would lose his job,” she said in the court document. “This badly frightened me.”
The woman also accused Oliver of directing her to go to a man’s residence to try to buy drugs even though she told him the man was not dealing. Oliver “directed me to set up [the man] so that he could be arrested for drug dealing,” she said in court documents.
Both Snowden and Selby’s attorney declined to say how she became an informant. Gilsdorf declined to say what prompted her to seek the order of protection.
Selby has a driving under the influence case pending in Brown County and also has a previous arrest on a charge of possession of cannabis.
The temporary order could be made permanent at a hearing March 4 in Brown County Circuit Court.
Bethany Selby, 19, of Mount Sterling said in an emergency order of protection filed Thursday in Brown County Circuit Court that she feared Deputy Justin Oliver might harm her or himself if she came forward about his actions.
Selby claims that during the five months she has been working as a confidential informant with the West Central Task Force, she and the deputy had a dating relationship and that they engaged in sexual acts in his police car and at his Mount Sterling residence. She also accused Oliver of pressuring her to set up a drug buy with a man she knew was not dealing drugs.
The order of protection was granted by Pike County Circuit Judge Michael Roseberry. Oliver was not present at the hearing.
Selby’s attorney, Jesse Gilsdorf, said that because there were no Brown County judges available Thursday they went to Pike County, which is the same judicial circuit.
Sheriff Tom Snowden said he learned of the allegations for the first time after they were presented in court. The sheriff placed Oliver on administrative leave with pay and the investigation was turned over to Illinois State Police. The state agency was closed Friday because of the state holiday.
Snowden declined to say whether Oliver denied the allegations when told he was being placed on administrative leave.
“I will say that these allegations are out of character for deputy Oliver,” Snowden said.
Oliver, who does not a have a listed telephone number, was unavailable Friday for comment.
Oliver will remain on paid leave “until we can validate or invalidate these allegations,” Snowden said.
Oliver has been employed with the sheriff’s department for four years and assigned for about two years to work full-time with the drug task force.
Emergency order of protections are civil proceedings, do not require proof the acts occurred and can be granted without both parties being present at the hearing.
In her request for the order, Selby contends Oliver “keeps a bullet in his car in his dashboard” and “has threatened to shoot himself with the bullet if I should ever tell anyone about our activities.”
Selby said she had a relationship with the deputy for about five months
“He has told me that if I told anyone about our relationship he would lose all of his cases and would lose his job,” she said in the court document. “This badly frightened me.”
The woman also accused Oliver of directing her to go to a man’s residence to try to buy drugs even though she told him the man was not dealing. Oliver “directed me to set up [the man] so that he could be arrested for drug dealing,” she said in court documents.
Both Snowden and Selby’s attorney declined to say how she became an informant. Gilsdorf declined to say what prompted her to seek the order of protection.
Selby has a driving under the influence case pending in Brown County and also has a previous arrest on a charge of possession of cannabis.
The temporary order could be made permanent at a hearing March 4 in Brown County Circuit Court.
Deputy Lt Shane Fletcher Pleads Guilty to Placing Tracking Device on Coach's Car
A Terrebonne Parish detective pleaded guilty Friday to criminal mischief in connection with the illegal placement of a GPS tracking device on a high-school coach’s car.
The device was allegedly placed there on behalf of a local businessman by a state trooper, who faces a similar charge and is the subject of a State Police investigation.
Lt. Shane Fletcher, 42, the Terrebonne detective, entered the guilty plea in Lafourche Parish District Court. He was fined $100 and ordered to pay court costs. Officials at the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office said an internal investigation of the detective’s actions is under way.
The businessman, 60-year-old John Ledet Jr., is charged as a principal to criminal mischief. He is scheduled to appear in court March 12.
Senior Trooper Travis “Bucky” Colombel has not been charged with a crime, but has been notified by prosecutors that he is a potential grand-jury target.
“We have information to show that the trooper placed the device on the vehicle, Fletcher retrieved the device from Thibodaux Police, and the coach suspects Ledet to be involved,” Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre said.
Long-standing problems between Ledet and Shane Trosclair, 32, a baseball coach at E.D. White Catholic High, came to police attention Sept. 18, when Thibodaux officers were called to the school.
Trosclair told officers that Ledet was “stalking him because he refused to allow his son to play baseball for the school,” the police report says.
Ledet is owner of the Cajun Country Event Center on La. 182 in Raceland, a truck stop and restaurant. He formerly owned JB’s Coffee House in downtown Houma.
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The device was allegedly placed there on behalf of a local businessman by a state trooper, who faces a similar charge and is the subject of a State Police investigation.
Lt. Shane Fletcher, 42, the Terrebonne detective, entered the guilty plea in Lafourche Parish District Court. He was fined $100 and ordered to pay court costs. Officials at the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office said an internal investigation of the detective’s actions is under way.
The businessman, 60-year-old John Ledet Jr., is charged as a principal to criminal mischief. He is scheduled to appear in court March 12.
Senior Trooper Travis “Bucky” Colombel has not been charged with a crime, but has been notified by prosecutors that he is a potential grand-jury target.
“We have information to show that the trooper placed the device on the vehicle, Fletcher retrieved the device from Thibodaux Police, and the coach suspects Ledet to be involved,” Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre said.
Long-standing problems between Ledet and Shane Trosclair, 32, a baseball coach at E.D. White Catholic High, came to police attention Sept. 18, when Thibodaux officers were called to the school.
Trosclair told officers that Ledet was “stalking him because he refused to allow his son to play baseball for the school,” the police report says.
Ledet is owner of the Cajun Country Event Center on La. 182 in Raceland, a truck stop and restaurant. He formerly owned JB’s Coffee House in downtown Houma.
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Officer Jeffrey Grahn Kills Wife, Shoots 2 Others, Then Kills Self
The Clackamas County sheriff's sergeant who shot and killed himself and his wife Friday night had filed for divorce last August, but neighbors said the couple were still living together and appeared to be on good terms.
Jeffrey A. Grahn killed his wife, shot and killed another woman, then wounded a third woman before shooting himself at a crowded Gresham restaurant Friday night, police said.
Grahn of Boring killed his wife, Charlotte Grahn, 47, and her friend Kathleen Hoffmeister, 53, of Gresham. The two women were socializing at the M&M Restaurant and Lounge with their friend Victoria Schulmerich, 53, of Gresham, whom Grahn also shot. Schulmerich was in critical condition Saturday night at OHSU Hospital.
Grahn, 46, opened fire about 9:30 p.m., police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene, as was Hoffmeister. Charlotte Grahn was taken to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, where she died Saturday afternoon.
The Grahns had four children, ages 13 to 23.
Police released few details about the shooting Saturday, saying only that it involved a domestic dispute between the Grahns. Officers from the Gresham Police Department, the agency investigating the incident, gave no motive for the shootings and did not say whether Grahn used his service weapon. They also didn't say how many shots Grahn fired.
Grahn, a 15-year veteran of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, joined the department in February 1995 and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2003. He served as the head of security of Clackamas County Courthouse but had been reassigned as a swing shift supervisor away from the courthouse a year ago, according to Jim Strovink, a spokesman for the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office. He had no criminal record.
In 2007, Clackamas County Sheriff Craig Roberts issued a commendation to Grahn and to another deputy for their work while the courthouse was being renovated. Both deputies suggested security upgrades to go with the remodel.
"Sgt. Grahn also supervises transportation to and from the courthouse, and he's worked miracles with a limited staff," Roberts said in a news release at the time. "He has enhanced communication between the sheriff's office and judicial and legal staffers. He expanded the use of plans, mission sheets and briefings to improve security. Once the courthouse was completed, it wasn't just an upgrade of a building -- it was an upgrade of an entire system."
The shooting was the second in downtown Gresham in the past two weeks.
Police and Gresham Mayor Shane Bemis held a news conference Saturday to assure the public that the city is still safe.
A replica of a chef stands at the door of the closed M&M Restaurant and Lounge on Saturday morning. The M&M was the scene of a shooting Friday night.Two men who had been smoking outside the restaurant Friday night said they heard a shot and saw a blonde woman drop to the pavement. Then a man ran back into the lounge and they heard two more shots. The men said they often visit the M&M, at 137 N. Main Ave., and described it as a low-key club. A jazz band was playing there Friday night.
Business owner Cissy Heitzman, who wasn't present when the shooting occurred, said the restaurant has been at that location for about 25 years. The area, just north of Powell Boulevard, has a variety of small businesses, including several eateries, a toy store, a furniture outlet and a skate/snowboard shop.
On Saturday afternoon, neighbors of the Grahns quietly discussed the tragedy.
Dean Phelps and Steve Bates, who live on either side of the Grahns, said the couple often had neighborhood barbecues.
"They weren't people who stayed to themselves," Phelps said. "They were good people. And they did a lot of things together as a family."
Phelps said he knew the Grahns had filed for divorce and that they had seen a marriage counselor. He said he didn't talk to the couple about that aspect of their life.
Just a week ago, he said, Grahn, his wife and their youngest son came over to Phelps' home after Colts quarterback Peyton Manning threw a pivotal fourth-quarter interception in the Super Bowl. "They both knew I was a big Colts fan," he said, and they brought over a box of tissues to console him after the Colts' loss.
Grahn was the type of person who would stop whatever he was doing to help a neighbor, Phelps said. One time, Grahn helped Phelps with a plumbing problem at his house.
Phelps said Grahn was once in the building industry and that he'd built the three-vehicle shop next to his four-bedroom, three-bath house at Southeast Sylvian Way near the center of Boring. The house is at the end of a cul-de-sac.
Charlotte Grahn often stopped by the Phelps home.
"We'd have a knock on the back door," he said, "and it'd be Charlotte seeing what we were up to."
The couple had planned a trip together to Las Vegas for their daughter's 21st birthday, Phelps said, which they'd done for their eldest son when he turned 21.
Phelps said he viewed the trip as an indication the couple would reconcile.
"We hoped they'd get through this," he said.
Jeffrey A. Grahn killed his wife, shot and killed another woman, then wounded a third woman before shooting himself at a crowded Gresham restaurant Friday night, police said.
Grahn of Boring killed his wife, Charlotte Grahn, 47, and her friend Kathleen Hoffmeister, 53, of Gresham. The two women were socializing at the M&M Restaurant and Lounge with their friend Victoria Schulmerich, 53, of Gresham, whom Grahn also shot. Schulmerich was in critical condition Saturday night at OHSU Hospital.
Grahn, 46, opened fire about 9:30 p.m., police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene, as was Hoffmeister. Charlotte Grahn was taken to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, where she died Saturday afternoon.
The Grahns had four children, ages 13 to 23.
Police released few details about the shooting Saturday, saying only that it involved a domestic dispute between the Grahns. Officers from the Gresham Police Department, the agency investigating the incident, gave no motive for the shootings and did not say whether Grahn used his service weapon. They also didn't say how many shots Grahn fired.
Grahn, a 15-year veteran of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, joined the department in February 1995 and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2003. He served as the head of security of Clackamas County Courthouse but had been reassigned as a swing shift supervisor away from the courthouse a year ago, according to Jim Strovink, a spokesman for the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office. He had no criminal record.
In 2007, Clackamas County Sheriff Craig Roberts issued a commendation to Grahn and to another deputy for their work while the courthouse was being renovated. Both deputies suggested security upgrades to go with the remodel.
"Sgt. Grahn also supervises transportation to and from the courthouse, and he's worked miracles with a limited staff," Roberts said in a news release at the time. "He has enhanced communication between the sheriff's office and judicial and legal staffers. He expanded the use of plans, mission sheets and briefings to improve security. Once the courthouse was completed, it wasn't just an upgrade of a building -- it was an upgrade of an entire system."
The shooting was the second in downtown Gresham in the past two weeks.
Police and Gresham Mayor Shane Bemis held a news conference Saturday to assure the public that the city is still safe.
A replica of a chef stands at the door of the closed M&M Restaurant and Lounge on Saturday morning. The M&M was the scene of a shooting Friday night.Two men who had been smoking outside the restaurant Friday night said they heard a shot and saw a blonde woman drop to the pavement. Then a man ran back into the lounge and they heard two more shots. The men said they often visit the M&M, at 137 N. Main Ave., and described it as a low-key club. A jazz band was playing there Friday night.
Business owner Cissy Heitzman, who wasn't present when the shooting occurred, said the restaurant has been at that location for about 25 years. The area, just north of Powell Boulevard, has a variety of small businesses, including several eateries, a toy store, a furniture outlet and a skate/snowboard shop.
On Saturday afternoon, neighbors of the Grahns quietly discussed the tragedy.
Dean Phelps and Steve Bates, who live on either side of the Grahns, said the couple often had neighborhood barbecues.
"They weren't people who stayed to themselves," Phelps said. "They were good people. And they did a lot of things together as a family."
Phelps said he knew the Grahns had filed for divorce and that they had seen a marriage counselor. He said he didn't talk to the couple about that aspect of their life.
Just a week ago, he said, Grahn, his wife and their youngest son came over to Phelps' home after Colts quarterback Peyton Manning threw a pivotal fourth-quarter interception in the Super Bowl. "They both knew I was a big Colts fan," he said, and they brought over a box of tissues to console him after the Colts' loss.
Grahn was the type of person who would stop whatever he was doing to help a neighbor, Phelps said. One time, Grahn helped Phelps with a plumbing problem at his house.
Phelps said Grahn was once in the building industry and that he'd built the three-vehicle shop next to his four-bedroom, three-bath house at Southeast Sylvian Way near the center of Boring. The house is at the end of a cul-de-sac.
Charlotte Grahn often stopped by the Phelps home.
"We'd have a knock on the back door," he said, "and it'd be Charlotte seeing what we were up to."
The couple had planned a trip together to Las Vegas for their daughter's 21st birthday, Phelps said, which they'd done for their eldest son when he turned 21.
Phelps said he viewed the trip as an indication the couple would reconcile.
"We hoped they'd get through this," he said.
Sherriff Joe Arpaio in Trouble for Destroying Evidence
A federal judge has imposed sanctions on the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for destroying evidence in a racial-profiling case, and Sheriff Joe Arpaio must answer questions regarding an immigration file he kept.
U.S. District Court Judge G. Murray Snow's order, released Friday, also calls on the Sheriff's Office to try to recover e-mails that were deleted and to swear under oath to steps it took to gather the records.
The racial-profiling lawsuit was filed in December 2007 following a sheriff's crime-suppression operation in Cave Creek that included the arrest of Manuel de Jesus Ortega Melendres.
Melendres is seeking to stop what he calls "illegal, discriminatory and unauthorized enforcement of federal immigration laws against Hispanics in Maricopa County." The case now includes five individuals who claim deputies have detained them because of the color of their skin, and their lawyers have sought records from the sheriff's crime-suppression operations.
The Sheriff's Office has denied it engages in racial profiling, but the office has acknowledged it destroyed records from those sweeps and deleted e-mails among employees regarding those operations.
Peter Kozinets, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said the ruling would give his clients access to e-mails if they are recovered, and the Sheriff's Office must describe in detail the measures it took to recover the electronic messages.
A key part of the order, Kozinets said, was the requirement that Arpaio answer questions about his 800-page immigration file that was turned over in late January.
"The judge clearly recognizes in the order the (Sheriff's Office) had an obligation to preserve other relevant evidence, and it destroyed the evidence," Kozinets said.
Arpaio on Friday evening said he and his office would comply with the judge's order.
"This is just another case. It's the nature of doing business," said Arpaio, who has faced numerous state and federal lawsuits.
Arpaio said he has won 12 straight federal cases filed against him, with most coming from county-jail inmates, and he expressed confidence his office would again prevail.
A hearing is set for March 19, when the judge will determine what additional information attorneys for the plaintiffs may seek from the sheriff based on new documents that may be produced.
U.S. District Court Judge G. Murray Snow's order, released Friday, also calls on the Sheriff's Office to try to recover e-mails that were deleted and to swear under oath to steps it took to gather the records.
The racial-profiling lawsuit was filed in December 2007 following a sheriff's crime-suppression operation in Cave Creek that included the arrest of Manuel de Jesus Ortega Melendres.
Melendres is seeking to stop what he calls "illegal, discriminatory and unauthorized enforcement of federal immigration laws against Hispanics in Maricopa County." The case now includes five individuals who claim deputies have detained them because of the color of their skin, and their lawyers have sought records from the sheriff's crime-suppression operations.
The Sheriff's Office has denied it engages in racial profiling, but the office has acknowledged it destroyed records from those sweeps and deleted e-mails among employees regarding those operations.
Peter Kozinets, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said the ruling would give his clients access to e-mails if they are recovered, and the Sheriff's Office must describe in detail the measures it took to recover the electronic messages.
A key part of the order, Kozinets said, was the requirement that Arpaio answer questions about his 800-page immigration file that was turned over in late January.
"The judge clearly recognizes in the order the (Sheriff's Office) had an obligation to preserve other relevant evidence, and it destroyed the evidence," Kozinets said.
Arpaio on Friday evening said he and his office would comply with the judge's order.
"This is just another case. It's the nature of doing business," said Arpaio, who has faced numerous state and federal lawsuits.
Arpaio said he has won 12 straight federal cases filed against him, with most coming from county-jail inmates, and he expressed confidence his office would again prevail.
A hearing is set for March 19, when the judge will determine what additional information attorneys for the plaintiffs may seek from the sheriff based on new documents that may be produced.
Former Officer Donald Carr Arrested for Theft
Authorities say the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested a former Madison County investigator on charges of theft by taking, tampering with evidence and violation of his oath of office.
Madison County Chief Deputy Shawn Burns says Donald Glenn Carr is suspected of taking evidence from an evidence locker. Burns says Carr was booked into the Madison County Jail on Monday and released on $10,000 bond.
The Athens Banner-Herald reports that Burns says Carr resigned from sheriff’s office at the end of September, citing personal problems. He says that after Carr left, investigators discovered that evidence from Carr’s cases was missing.
Burns would not say what kind of evidence Carr is suspected of taking.
Madison County Chief Deputy Shawn Burns says Donald Glenn Carr is suspected of taking evidence from an evidence locker. Burns says Carr was booked into the Madison County Jail on Monday and released on $10,000 bond.
The Athens Banner-Herald reports that Burns says Carr resigned from sheriff’s office at the end of September, citing personal problems. He says that after Carr left, investigators discovered that evidence from Carr’s cases was missing.
Burns would not say what kind of evidence Carr is suspected of taking.
Officer Raphael Ospina Charged with Drunk Driving
An off-duty police officer was charged with drunken driving after his car hit a garbage truck and flipped onto the sidewalk in Midtown Manhattan early Saturday, knocking down a tree and scratching the marble-and-granite facade of Tiffany & Company’s flagship Fifth Avenue store, according to the police.
The officer, identified as Raphael Ospina, 27, was not seriously injured, the police said. The accident occurred about 3 a.m. at 57th Street and Fifth Avenue.
According to police reports, the officer was heading east on 57th Street in a black Chrysler 300 sedan with two male passengers when his vehicle struck the private sanitation truck, which was westbound and turning south on Fifth Avenue. The sedan spun and turned over in front of Tiffany’s, littering the pavement with shattered glass and blood.
The driver was pinned inside the sedan, and emergency workers had to cut through the roof to get him out, according to a Fire Department spokesman. A passenger was taken to Bellevue Hospital Center, and the other two occupants were taken to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
All three were treated for cuts and bruises, and one passenger had a broken arm, the police said. The driver of the garbage truck was not hurt, the police added.
The officer is assigned to the 25th Precinct in East Harlem, according to officials. He was charged with driving while intoxicated, the police said. Under department protocol, his arrest would result in an automatic 30-day suspension without pay.
Nearly all traces of the crash had been removed by the time Tiffany’s opened at 10 a.m. on the eve of Valentine’s Day. White scrapes and black scuff marks lined part of the store’s wall, and the wall was slightly chipped near a display window stocked with red mailboxes filled with letters and sparkly heart-shaped jewelry. In a statement, a spokesman for Tiffany’s described the damage as “negligible.”
The officer, identified as Raphael Ospina, 27, was not seriously injured, the police said. The accident occurred about 3 a.m. at 57th Street and Fifth Avenue.
According to police reports, the officer was heading east on 57th Street in a black Chrysler 300 sedan with two male passengers when his vehicle struck the private sanitation truck, which was westbound and turning south on Fifth Avenue. The sedan spun and turned over in front of Tiffany’s, littering the pavement with shattered glass and blood.
The driver was pinned inside the sedan, and emergency workers had to cut through the roof to get him out, according to a Fire Department spokesman. A passenger was taken to Bellevue Hospital Center, and the other two occupants were taken to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
All three were treated for cuts and bruises, and one passenger had a broken arm, the police said. The driver of the garbage truck was not hurt, the police added.
The officer is assigned to the 25th Precinct in East Harlem, according to officials. He was charged with driving while intoxicated, the police said. Under department protocol, his arrest would result in an automatic 30-day suspension without pay.
Nearly all traces of the crash had been removed by the time Tiffany’s opened at 10 a.m. on the eve of Valentine’s Day. White scrapes and black scuff marks lined part of the store’s wall, and the wall was slightly chipped near a display window stocked with red mailboxes filled with letters and sparkly heart-shaped jewelry. In a statement, a spokesman for Tiffany’s described the damage as “negligible.”
Friday, February 12, 2010
Chief E.O. Shelton Investigated for Road Rage
The Columbia Daily Herald is reporting that Ethridge police chief E.O. Shelton is being investigated for a possible case of road rage that allegedly happened in Columbia earlier this week.
According to the report, the incident happened on Highway 43 Wednesday at five. The report said Columbia resident Thomas Jagger told them he was “cut off” by man driving a red Ford Explorer with Lawrence County tags.
He told the paper he then rolled down his window to speak with the man and they got into an argument. He said the man then pulled a gun on him. After telling the man he was a policeman, he showed his badge and drove north on 43.
Columbia police said they will let the alleged victim decide if he wants to press charges or turn the matter over to District Attorney General Mike Bottoms for review.
Bishop said the agency will let the victim decide whether to press charges.
According to the report, the incident happened on Highway 43 Wednesday at five. The report said Columbia resident Thomas Jagger told them he was “cut off” by man driving a red Ford Explorer with Lawrence County tags.
He told the paper he then rolled down his window to speak with the man and they got into an argument. He said the man then pulled a gun on him. After telling the man he was a policeman, he showed his badge and drove north on 43.
Columbia police said they will let the alleged victim decide if he wants to press charges or turn the matter over to District Attorney General Mike Bottoms for review.
Bishop said the agency will let the victim decide whether to press charges.
Police Brutality Book Written About New Orleans
With its French, Spanish and Creole influences, New Orleans has the oldest black urban community of any city in the country. It also has a shocking history of police brutality that is told in “Black Rage in New Orleans: Police Brutality and African American Activism from World War II to Hurricane Katrina,” a new book by Dr. Leonard N. Moore, associate professor of history and assistant vice president for the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement.
Moore’s book, which will be released by LSU Press in April, recounts the history of police brutality in the Crescent City along with the energetic opposition waged by blacks.
Although incidents of police brutality were recorded more than 50 years before WWII, Moore chose to begin his study with the war because it was a time when many African Americans moved to the city to get jobs.
Drawing on police records, records from civil rights organizations, oral histories and newspaper accounts, Moore details the problems with an underpaid, understaffed, undereducated police force that had an unwritten mandate to “keep black folks in line.”
In the early 1950s, New Orleans began hiring more African American policemen. However, Moore said these men weren’t allowed to wear uniforms or arrest white people. If an incident arose, they would have to borrow a phone and telephone a white officer to come and deal with whatever situation was at hand.
By the 1970s enough black officers had been hired that the Black Organization of Police in New Orleans was formed to begin addressing the aggressive policing tactics and to make sure black officers were treated fairly.
Dr. Leonard N. Moore“There was little the organization could do,” Moore said. “If officers in the organization were perceived as being radical, their career would stall.” He explained that corruption was woven into the culture from the top ranks.
Often black officers have been involved in the corruption and have brutalized black residents of New Orleans. “In many ways it was easier for them — they couldn’t be accused of racism,” Moore said.
Through the years, the black newspaper, The Louisiana Weekly, steadfastly reported incidents of brutality. The Times Picayune did not report a single incident of brutality until the 1970s, according to Moore.
What amazed Moore was the number of ordinary citizens who have protested and voiced their outrage throughout the years. From 1945-2000 he estimates that more than 30 organizations were established to deal with police brutality. Citizen groups such as the Police Brutality Committee, Committee for Accountable Police, the Liberation League and Community Action Now mobilized and managed to hold police anti-brutality meetings where 4,000 or more people would show up.
Corruption and brutality continued unabated until the late-1980s to mid-1990s. In 1994, Washington, D.C., Assistant Chief of Police Richard Pennington was hired to head up the New Orleans Police Department, and he began a series of reforms including community policing practices, increased training, better pay, as well as other reforms. During his tenure more than 350 police officers were indicted, fired or disciplined for misconduct. He left for Atlanta in 2002 after running for mayor and losing to Ray Nagin.
The effects of Pennington’s reform effort were not lasting, however, as Moore discusses in the book’s epilogue, Policing Katrina.
“Although the majority of the police officers served heroically during Katrina and its aftermath, there was thuggery as well,” Moore said. The incidents post-Katrina would include several high-profile incidents such as the Danziger Bridge incident in which two civilians were shot and four more injured.
Even in the past year, the Louisiana Weekly and the Times Picayune reported a coalition of community leaders, civil rights activists and ministers gathered to demand justice and answers after a fatal shooting involving plain-clothes police officers that left a 22-year-old New Orleans man dead, shot 12 times.
Moore’s goal for the book: “I’m hoping that when people pick up the book, they will see how brutality has been persistent. It is an everyday fact of life for many American people.”
Moore’s book, which will be released by LSU Press in April, recounts the history of police brutality in the Crescent City along with the energetic opposition waged by blacks.
Although incidents of police brutality were recorded more than 50 years before WWII, Moore chose to begin his study with the war because it was a time when many African Americans moved to the city to get jobs.
Drawing on police records, records from civil rights organizations, oral histories and newspaper accounts, Moore details the problems with an underpaid, understaffed, undereducated police force that had an unwritten mandate to “keep black folks in line.”
In the early 1950s, New Orleans began hiring more African American policemen. However, Moore said these men weren’t allowed to wear uniforms or arrest white people. If an incident arose, they would have to borrow a phone and telephone a white officer to come and deal with whatever situation was at hand.
By the 1970s enough black officers had been hired that the Black Organization of Police in New Orleans was formed to begin addressing the aggressive policing tactics and to make sure black officers were treated fairly.
Dr. Leonard N. Moore“There was little the organization could do,” Moore said. “If officers in the organization were perceived as being radical, their career would stall.” He explained that corruption was woven into the culture from the top ranks.
Often black officers have been involved in the corruption and have brutalized black residents of New Orleans. “In many ways it was easier for them — they couldn’t be accused of racism,” Moore said.
Through the years, the black newspaper, The Louisiana Weekly, steadfastly reported incidents of brutality. The Times Picayune did not report a single incident of brutality until the 1970s, according to Moore.
What amazed Moore was the number of ordinary citizens who have protested and voiced their outrage throughout the years. From 1945-2000 he estimates that more than 30 organizations were established to deal with police brutality. Citizen groups such as the Police Brutality Committee, Committee for Accountable Police, the Liberation League and Community Action Now mobilized and managed to hold police anti-brutality meetings where 4,000 or more people would show up.
Corruption and brutality continued unabated until the late-1980s to mid-1990s. In 1994, Washington, D.C., Assistant Chief of Police Richard Pennington was hired to head up the New Orleans Police Department, and he began a series of reforms including community policing practices, increased training, better pay, as well as other reforms. During his tenure more than 350 police officers were indicted, fired or disciplined for misconduct. He left for Atlanta in 2002 after running for mayor and losing to Ray Nagin.
The effects of Pennington’s reform effort were not lasting, however, as Moore discusses in the book’s epilogue, Policing Katrina.
“Although the majority of the police officers served heroically during Katrina and its aftermath, there was thuggery as well,” Moore said. The incidents post-Katrina would include several high-profile incidents such as the Danziger Bridge incident in which two civilians were shot and four more injured.
Even in the past year, the Louisiana Weekly and the Times Picayune reported a coalition of community leaders, civil rights activists and ministers gathered to demand justice and answers after a fatal shooting involving plain-clothes police officers that left a 22-year-old New Orleans man dead, shot 12 times.
Moore’s goal for the book: “I’m hoping that when people pick up the book, they will see how brutality has been persistent. It is an everyday fact of life for many American people.”
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Chief Russ Leach Being Investigated for Hit and Run
Riverside Police Chief Russ Leach is being investigated after a hit-and-run crash in his city-issued car at 3 a.m. on Monday morning.
Leach, who was hired in 2000, has been placed on medical leave. The case has been handed over from Riverside Police to the California Highway Patrol to avoid conflicts.
According to the Press-Enterprise, CHP Inland Division Chief Jeff Talbott said that the CHP is probing separate allegations that Leach was driving while impaired and that responding Riverside police officers omitted that suspicion from their initial report.
"At this point, the physical evidence is gone," Talbott told the newspaper. "If there's any impairment, our investigation will be based solely on the interviews of witnesses, which will be Riverside police.
You can read more on this story, by visiting the
Press Enterprise Web Site
Leach, who was hired in 2000, has been placed on medical leave. The case has been handed over from Riverside Police to the California Highway Patrol to avoid conflicts.
According to the Press-Enterprise, CHP Inland Division Chief Jeff Talbott said that the CHP is probing separate allegations that Leach was driving while impaired and that responding Riverside police officers omitted that suspicion from their initial report.
"At this point, the physical evidence is gone," Talbott told the newspaper. "If there's any impairment, our investigation will be based solely on the interviews of witnesses, which will be Riverside police.
You can read more on this story, by visiting the
Press Enterprise Web Site
Officer Jamey Woods Arrested for Assault
A second deputy with the Chesapeake sheriff's department is out of a job after being arrested.
Jamey Ray Woods, 35, resigned from the Chesapeake Sheriff's Office on Wednesday morning, said Sgt. David Rosado, a spokesman for the office.
Woods, a deputy since August 1997, was arrested Saturday night at the Oceanfront after a confrontation with his girlfriend, said Officer Adam Bernstein, a Beach police spokesman. The incident occurred at 11 p.m., at the Quality Inn & Suites on Atlantic Avenue, the site of the Polar Plunge Festival Center earlier that afternoon. Woods was not involved with the event, which raises money every year for Special Olympics Virginia, event spokeswoman Holly Claytor said.
Woods was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault and public intoxication. He has been released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in General District Court on March 22.
Jamey Ray Woods, 35, resigned from the Chesapeake Sheriff's Office on Wednesday morning, said Sgt. David Rosado, a spokesman for the office.
Woods, a deputy since August 1997, was arrested Saturday night at the Oceanfront after a confrontation with his girlfriend, said Officer Adam Bernstein, a Beach police spokesman. The incident occurred at 11 p.m., at the Quality Inn & Suites on Atlantic Avenue, the site of the Polar Plunge Festival Center earlier that afternoon. Woods was not involved with the event, which raises money every year for Special Olympics Virginia, event spokeswoman Holly Claytor said.
Woods was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault and public intoxication. He has been released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in General District Court on March 22.
Corrections Officer Candy McGuire Accused of Shooting Husband
A Russell County corrections officer has been charged with first-degree assault after police say a domestic dispute ended with her husband shot in the abdomen Monday.Thirty-four-year-old Candy McGuire is accused of shooting her 42-year-old husband at their home.
Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones says deputies responded to the home at 7:17 a.m. and found the unidentified victim suffering at least one gunshot wound.
Police say the man was responsive when he was transported to The Medical Center in Columbus, Ga.
McGuire turned herself in at the sheriff's office around noon. Russell County Sheriff Tommy Boswell says McGuire has been a corrections officer with his department for seven months.
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More Information
Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones says deputies responded to the home at 7:17 a.m. and found the unidentified victim suffering at least one gunshot wound.
Police say the man was responsive when he was transported to The Medical Center in Columbus, Ga.
McGuire turned herself in at the sheriff's office around noon. Russell County Sheriff Tommy Boswell says McGuire has been a corrections officer with his department for seven months.
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More Information
Officer Paul Barkyoumb Charged with Harassment
The Connecticut Victim Advocate accuses a Holyoke, Massachusetts Police officer of sending her threatening text messages.
Paul Barkyoumb has now been charged with 2 counts of second degree harassment.
Connecticut State Police Trooper Karen O'Connor says the Holyoke man turned himself in to Connecticut State Police today.
"After a lengthy investigation into the allegations, detectives from the State Police Major Crime Squad secured an arrest warrant for Mr. Barkyoumb," O'Connor said.
Barkyoumb's attorney says he is adamant that his client is innocent.
Connecticut Victim Advocate Michele Cruz identified herself as the victim of harassment in a recent article in the Hartford Advocate newspaper.
She said she had been dating Barkyoumb, and he started sending threatening text messages after they broke up.
Barkyoumb is scheduled to appear in court February 16.
Paul Barkyoumb has now been charged with 2 counts of second degree harassment.
Connecticut State Police Trooper Karen O'Connor says the Holyoke man turned himself in to Connecticut State Police today.
"After a lengthy investigation into the allegations, detectives from the State Police Major Crime Squad secured an arrest warrant for Mr. Barkyoumb," O'Connor said.
Barkyoumb's attorney says he is adamant that his client is innocent.
Connecticut Victim Advocate Michele Cruz identified herself as the victim of harassment in a recent article in the Hartford Advocate newspaper.
She said she had been dating Barkyoumb, and he started sending threatening text messages after they broke up.
Barkyoumb is scheduled to appear in court February 16.
Sherriff Department's Volunteer Bruce Tuck Charged with Multiple Sexual Assault
The Grand Jury returned three separate indictments against Bruce Tuck, 36, on multiple felony charges including aggravated rape, aggravated robbery, and aggravated burglary.
In the first indictment, Tuck is charged with five counts of aggravated rape, especially aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated burglary, employing a firearm during a felony, and burglary of a motor vehicle. The indictment states the alleged offenses occurred between June 26 and June 28, 2009. This case was investigated by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
In the second indictment, Tuck is charged with five counts of aggravated rape, aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated sexual battery, two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated burglary, and employing a firearm during a felony. The indictment states the alleged offenses occurred between August 4 and August 6, 2009. This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department.
In the final indictment, Tuck is charged with six counts of aggravated rape, attempted aggravated rape, two counts of especially aggravated kidnapping, aggravated robbery, two counts of aggravated burglary, and employing a firearm during a felony.
The indictment states the alleged offenses occurred between August 22 and August 25, 2009. This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department.
The District Attorney’s office does not release the names of victims of sexual assault. No other information on the cases is available at this time.
Tuck is currently serving a 60 year sentence with the Tennessee Department of Corrections. Tuck pleaded guilty last December in a Weakley County Criminal Court to multiple felony charges including aggravated rape, especially aggravated kidnapping and sexual battery. He will be transported from the Hardeman County Correctional Facility to the Shelby County Jail where he will be held without bond on these most recent indictments. An arraignment date in Shelby County has not yet been scheduled.
“These reported crimes are especially heinous,” said District Attorney Gibbons. “Although Mr. Tuck is already serving a very long prison sentence for crimes committed elsewhere, we intend to hold him accountable here in Shelby County as well,” Gibbons stressed.
Aggravated rape carries a sentence of up to 60 years without parole. Aggravated rape and aggravated robbery are charges covered by the D.A.’s “No Deals” policy on violent crimes. Exceptions are made to the policy for legal or ethical reasons.
Assistant District Attorneys Abby Wallace and Alanda Dwyer are prosecuting this case. Both prosecutors are assigned to Criminal Court Division 8 which is designated a special prosecution court for cases involving repeat offenders.
Officer Mark Taylor Arrested for Child Sexual Assault
The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force and Arkansas State Police arrested a former West Memphis police officer Thursday.
According to an affidavit, 37-year-old Mark Taylor inappropriately touched and sexually assaulted a young child. Taylor was an officer with the West Memphis Police Department from March 1999 until he resigned in June 2000. He is currently being held in the Crittenden County Jail.
According to an affidavit, 37-year-old Mark Taylor inappropriately touched and sexually assaulted a young child. Taylor was an officer with the West Memphis Police Department from March 1999 until he resigned in June 2000. He is currently being held in the Crittenden County Jail.
Officer Jacques Mackenson Arrested for Child Rape
An off-duty police officer has been arrested and charged with sexually assaulting a child.
Police say Jacques Mackenson, 29, of Brooklyn was arrested this morning by the Internal Affairs Bureau.
The Brooklyn District Attorney's Office says he is facing several charges including sexual conduct against a child and second-degree rape.
Sources say the victim is a 15-year-old female who is related to the officer. NY1 has been told the abuse started three years ago when she was 12.
Mackenson became an officer about a year ago and is assigned to the Housing Bureau's Anti-Crime team in Brooklyn.
Police say Jacques Mackenson, 29, of Brooklyn was arrested this morning by the Internal Affairs Bureau.
The Brooklyn District Attorney's Office says he is facing several charges including sexual conduct against a child and second-degree rape.
Sources say the victim is a 15-year-old female who is related to the officer. NY1 has been told the abuse started three years ago when she was 12.
Mackenson became an officer about a year ago and is assigned to the Housing Bureau's Anti-Crime team in Brooklyn.
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