A Beaufort County sheriff's deputy was fired Friday following an internal affairs investigation into allegations he beat his girlfriend, making him the second officer dismissed for misconduct in the past two weeks.
Cpl. Shane Clevenger was relieved of his duties after being on paid suspension for about a week during the probe. He faces a charge of criminal domestic violence.
The incident occurred Aug. 26 in the parking lot of Walmart in Beaufort. Clevenger, 42, turned himself in at the Beaufort Police Department two days later, when police obtained a warrant for his arrest, said Beaufort Police Chief Matt Clancy.
He was booked at the Beaufort County Detention Center and released hours later on his own recognizance.
Clancy doesn't think the victim required medical treatment.
Clevenger, a patrol deputy working the northern part of the county, served three stints at the Sheriff's Office -- from September 1999 to December 2000; from March 2003 to September 2007; and from April 2009 until Friday.
He was one of two sheriff's deputies under investigation for criminal domestic violence.
On Tuesday, Cpl. Tony Serrato resigned amid an internal affairs inquiry and a criminal investigation.
According to a sheriff's report, police were called to a Jib Sail Court home in Yacht Cove on Hilton Head Island on Aug. 27.The victim, a girlfriend with whom Serrato had previously lived, told dispatchers and responding officers that Serrato had assaulted her and pinned her against a refrigerator.
When a detective interviewed her, the woman recanted many of her previous statements and described the incident as an argument fueled by alcohol, the report stated. She declined to press charges.
Serrato began work with the Sheriff's Office as a reserve deputy in 1992. He was hired full-time in 2001 and worked as a patrol deputy in the southern part of the county.
A third deputy is being investigated by the State Law Enforcement Division for allegedly having "improper contact" with a Bluffton woman he had arrested and was taking to jail Aug. 15.
Lance Cpl. David Singleterry was fired last week after an internal affairs investigation concluded he engaged in "conduct unbecoming of an officer," said Sheriff P.J. Tanner.
SLED is expected to report its findings to 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone, who will then decide whether criminal charges are warranted in that case.
A SLED investigation can take months to complete.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Minneapolis Police Accused of Police Brutality
New video released Thursday shows a man surrendering only to be beaten by Minneapolis Police—the second video of alleged police brutality in a month.
The last video of alleged police misconduct released two weeks ago led Minneapolis Police Chief Tim Dolan to order all of his 800 officers to watch a video in which six officers punched and kicked Derryl Jenkins, 42, during a traffic stop.
In this new video—which is now at the center of a lawsuit and internal affairs investigation—a veteran Minneapolis officer is seen kicking a man suspected of breaking into cars in a downtown parking ramp.
It starts when a car driven by Brian McCarthy rams a squad car trying to block his escape. McCarthy flees but his passenger, Nicolas Kastner, gets out and lays down—apparently giving up after being shot by police.
Officer Sherry Appledorn, a 16-year department veteran, thought her rookie partner was dead, according to people who know her. The video shows Appledorn standing over Kastner. She then begins to stomp on him approximately four times before kicking him about nine times.
Officer Joe Will, with 14 years on the force, sits on Kastner and six seconds later, Appledorn kicks him again.
"That wild movement of [Kastner's] legs is the result of getting shocked with 50,000 volts," said Kastern's attorney Fred Goetz.
Appledorn is seen in the video tasering him twice.
"The tasing, like the kicks, were nothing but torture. Nothing but gratuitous acts of violence," Goetz said.
He says they've filed a federal lawsuit alleging police brutality, excessive force, and a cover-up - especially by Appledorn.
"What happened is just an unjustified, unprovoked, unreasonable police beating," Goetz said.
"The passenger failed to get on the ground. I grabbed him and threw him on the ground face first. [He] started crawling under the squad in an attempt to get away. The suspect refused to place his arms behind his back," Appledorn said in a video statement three days later.
"She deliberately and blatantly lied to justify her unreasonable use of force," said Goetz.
Chief Dolan says his department referred this case to the St. Paul City Attorney for possible prosecution.
Both Officers Appledorn and Wills were not charged. Both McCarthy and Kaster have prior criminal theft and damage to property convictions. McCarthy had a warrant out for his arrest for violating his probation at the time of the incident.
Dolan says he takes any allegations of misconduct "extremely seriously" and says as chief, he has raised the bar for expectations around officer conduct and accountability.
The department says the officers cannot comment.
------------------------------
http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/Minneapolis_Police_Chief_Dolan_Interview_Sept_4_2009
The last video of alleged police misconduct released two weeks ago led Minneapolis Police Chief Tim Dolan to order all of his 800 officers to watch a video in which six officers punched and kicked Derryl Jenkins, 42, during a traffic stop.
In this new video—which is now at the center of a lawsuit and internal affairs investigation—a veteran Minneapolis officer is seen kicking a man suspected of breaking into cars in a downtown parking ramp.
It starts when a car driven by Brian McCarthy rams a squad car trying to block his escape. McCarthy flees but his passenger, Nicolas Kastner, gets out and lays down—apparently giving up after being shot by police.
Officer Sherry Appledorn, a 16-year department veteran, thought her rookie partner was dead, according to people who know her. The video shows Appledorn standing over Kastner. She then begins to stomp on him approximately four times before kicking him about nine times.
Officer Joe Will, with 14 years on the force, sits on Kastner and six seconds later, Appledorn kicks him again.
"That wild movement of [Kastner's] legs is the result of getting shocked with 50,000 volts," said Kastern's attorney Fred Goetz.
Appledorn is seen in the video tasering him twice.
"The tasing, like the kicks, were nothing but torture. Nothing but gratuitous acts of violence," Goetz said.
He says they've filed a federal lawsuit alleging police brutality, excessive force, and a cover-up - especially by Appledorn.
"What happened is just an unjustified, unprovoked, unreasonable police beating," Goetz said.
"The passenger failed to get on the ground. I grabbed him and threw him on the ground face first. [He] started crawling under the squad in an attempt to get away. The suspect refused to place his arms behind his back," Appledorn said in a video statement three days later.
"She deliberately and blatantly lied to justify her unreasonable use of force," said Goetz.
Chief Dolan says his department referred this case to the St. Paul City Attorney for possible prosecution.
Both Officers Appledorn and Wills were not charged. Both McCarthy and Kaster have prior criminal theft and damage to property convictions. McCarthy had a warrant out for his arrest for violating his probation at the time of the incident.
Dolan says he takes any allegations of misconduct "extremely seriously" and says as chief, he has raised the bar for expectations around officer conduct and accountability.
The department says the officers cannot comment.
------------------------------
http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/Minneapolis_Police_Chief_Dolan_Interview_Sept_4_2009
Officer Chad Bradley Charged with Rape
Chattanooga police have arrested and charged one of their own for allegedly having sex with a Meigs County girl.
Officer Chad E. Bradley, 35, has been charged with aggravated statutory rape, statutory rape by an authority figure and tampering with evidence, said Lt. Kim Noorbergen, police spokeswoman.
The investigation was initiated on Wednesday. Since then, investigators have determined that Officer Bradley had consensual sexual encounters with an underaged girl from Meigs County, she said.
Chattanooga police and Meigs County sheriff’s investigators located the victim today and interviewed her. The victim is a 17-year-old white female, police said.
She confirmed several consensual sexual encounters with the officer, police said. Two of those were while he was on duty, Lt. Noorbergen reported. The relationship began in July and the pair reportedly had engaged in sex four days ago in Meigs County, police said.
He is being charged locally for an encounter that allegedly occurred on Pan Gap Road in August, Lt. Noorbergen said.
-------------------------------
Officer Chad E. Bradley, 35, has been charged with aggravated statutory rape, statutory rape by an authority figure and tampering with evidence, said Lt. Kim Noorbergen, police spokeswoman.
The investigation was initiated on Wednesday. Since then, investigators have determined that Officer Bradley had consensual sexual encounters with an underaged girl from Meigs County, she said.
Chattanooga police and Meigs County sheriff’s investigators located the victim today and interviewed her. The victim is a 17-year-old white female, police said.
She confirmed several consensual sexual encounters with the officer, police said. Two of those were while he was on duty, Lt. Noorbergen reported. The relationship began in July and the pair reportedly had engaged in sex four days ago in Meigs County, police said.
He is being charged locally for an encounter that allegedly occurred on Pan Gap Road in August, Lt. Noorbergen said.
-------------------------------
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Officer Michael Sylvester Arrested for Theft & Possession
The court documents just filed in the arrest of a Baltimore police officer accused of stealing money from a drug dealer (who turned out to be an undercover detective) provide a detailed account of the case.
Authorities say the officer was targeted because of complaints and moved from a drug task force working Pennsylvania Avenue to the Northwest Police District. There, he was put in charge of training a rookie cop (done, police tell me, to avoid tipping the officer that he was under suspicion). The rookie is not in any trouble.
Members of the department's Internal affairs Integrity Unit set up the sting for Thursday night in the 3900 block of Carlisle Ave., in an area normally devoid of drug dealers. At 9:45 p.m., an undercover officer parked a green Cadillac at Carlisle and Mt. Holley Street while another officer called 911 and described a suspicious green vehicle driving around the block, supposedly looking to buy drugs.
At 9:48 p.m., a dispatcher sent Officer Michael Sylvester (in picture) to the call and told him a person was sitting in the Cadillac for 15 minutes and "acting strange." At 9:50 p.m., court documents say Sylvester pulled up beside the vehicle and shouted, "What are you doing here?" The undercover officer answered, "I'm waiting for my home boy to come meet me."
The court documents say Sylvester ordered the driver to turn off his ignition, turn over his license, get out of the car and sit on the curb. The man gave Sylvester permission to search the car and he emptied his pockets onto the front seat of the car. The charging papers say Sylvester conducted the search alone. After the search, court documents say Sylvester told the driver he was free to go and drove off.
Police say that the uncover officer had $259 in marked bills in his pants pocket and an additional $135 in marked bills in the arm rest of the Cadillac. After Sylvester and the training officer left, the undercover says in court documents that $50 was missing from the money that was in his pocket and $20 was missing from the money that had been in the car.
Undercover police officers followed Sylvester through the remainder of his shift, which ended at 11 p.m. They stopped Sylvester in the parking lot of the Northwestern District after he had changed into civilian clothes and was about to get into his personal vehicle. A lieutenant escorted the officer to an office while detectives searched his locker and reported, according to the charging documents, finding three blue zip lock bags containing suspected cocaine in the breast pocket of his uniform.
Police say Sylvester, 29, is being charged with theft and drug possession.
-----------------------------
http://www.abc2news.com/news/local/story/Officer-Arrested-for-Theft-and-Drug-Charges/lRUMPY1yvUGSDMKYCHb2Cw.cspx
Authorities say the officer was targeted because of complaints and moved from a drug task force working Pennsylvania Avenue to the Northwest Police District. There, he was put in charge of training a rookie cop (done, police tell me, to avoid tipping the officer that he was under suspicion). The rookie is not in any trouble.
Members of the department's Internal affairs Integrity Unit set up the sting for Thursday night in the 3900 block of Carlisle Ave., in an area normally devoid of drug dealers. At 9:45 p.m., an undercover officer parked a green Cadillac at Carlisle and Mt. Holley Street while another officer called 911 and described a suspicious green vehicle driving around the block, supposedly looking to buy drugs.
At 9:48 p.m., a dispatcher sent Officer Michael Sylvester (in picture) to the call and told him a person was sitting in the Cadillac for 15 minutes and "acting strange." At 9:50 p.m., court documents say Sylvester pulled up beside the vehicle and shouted, "What are you doing here?" The undercover officer answered, "I'm waiting for my home boy to come meet me."
The court documents say Sylvester ordered the driver to turn off his ignition, turn over his license, get out of the car and sit on the curb. The man gave Sylvester permission to search the car and he emptied his pockets onto the front seat of the car. The charging papers say Sylvester conducted the search alone. After the search, court documents say Sylvester told the driver he was free to go and drove off.
Police say that the uncover officer had $259 in marked bills in his pants pocket and an additional $135 in marked bills in the arm rest of the Cadillac. After Sylvester and the training officer left, the undercover says in court documents that $50 was missing from the money that was in his pocket and $20 was missing from the money that had been in the car.
Undercover police officers followed Sylvester through the remainder of his shift, which ended at 11 p.m. They stopped Sylvester in the parking lot of the Northwestern District after he had changed into civilian clothes and was about to get into his personal vehicle. A lieutenant escorted the officer to an office while detectives searched his locker and reported, according to the charging documents, finding three blue zip lock bags containing suspected cocaine in the breast pocket of his uniform.
Police say Sylvester, 29, is being charged with theft and drug possession.
-----------------------------
http://www.abc2news.com/news/local/story/Officer-Arrested-for-Theft-and-Drug-Charges/lRUMPY1yvUGSDMKYCHb2Cw.cspx
Officer Juan Delgado Arrested for Hitting His 9-year-old Son
A San Antonio police officer has found himself on the other side of the law.
Wednesday 31-year-old Juan Delgado was indicted, accused of striking his 9-year-old son. Delgado and his attorney appeared in court Thursday morning to face the misdemeanor assault charge.
SAPD said Delgado has been placed on administrative duty.
If convicted, he could face up to a year in jail.
-------------------------
http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/56786132.html
Wednesday 31-year-old Juan Delgado was indicted, accused of striking his 9-year-old son. Delgado and his attorney appeared in court Thursday morning to face the misdemeanor assault charge.
SAPD said Delgado has been placed on administrative duty.
If convicted, he could face up to a year in jail.
-------------------------
http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/56786132.html
Former Officer Calvin Schaffer Pleads Guilty to Sending Nude Photos
A former southern Kansas police officer accused of sending nude pictures of himself to a woman he arrested pleaded guilty Wednesday to federal wire fraud for defrauding the city of his honest services.
Calvin Schaffer, formerly with the Goddard Police Department, faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when he is sentenced Nov. 16, though he is likely to get far less under federal sentencing guidelines. The government has recommended a sentence at the low end of the guidelines, with additional reductions for his acceptance of responsibility.
Prosecutors say Schaffer, 44, offered to seek the dismissal of drunken driving charges against a Wichita woman he arrested on Feb. 27 in exchange for a sexual relationship.
In his plea agreement, Schaffer admitted using a police department computer while on duty to send e-mails and naked photos of himself to the woman. Under the deal, he would not be allowed to withdraw his guilty plea even if the judge rejects the prosecution’s sentencing recommendations.
Schaffer and defense attorney Roger Falk declined to speak to reporters as they left the courtroom following the brief hearing.
Schaffer worked as a Goddard police officer from Nov. 19, 2007, until March 26, the day after the FBI interviewed him about his relationship with Angelique Mason.
According to an FBI affidavit, Mason went to the FBI in March to file a complaint. She gave the FBI secret recordings that she and two private investigators had made of a telephone call and a meeting between her and the officer.
Mason told the FBI she initially “played along” with the officer’s sexual innuendo while en route to jail after her arrest in hopes of getting help with her criminal case, court records show.
According to the affidavit, Schaffer told FBI agents during an interview that Mason had e-mailed him nude photos of herself before he ever sent her photos of himself. He showed the photos of her to the agents, who then seized his BlackBerry.
After hearing the audio recording of one of his conversations with the woman recorded at the hair salon where she worked, Schaffer admitted that he hoped to have a sexual relationship with her, the affidavit said. He reportedly said he wanted to give Mason the impression that he could help her with her drunken driving case.
Although he acknowledged telling Mason he intentionally made mistakes while investigating her case, Schaffer told the FBI that his mistakes were actually unintentional. The mistakes included failing to report that she had prior arrests for drunken driving, the affidavit said.
It alleges that Schaffer had asked Goddard city prosecutors twice to dismiss the case against Mason, telling them mistakes he made during his investigation would embarrass him should the case be brought to trial.
In support of the federal wire fraud charge, U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch told the court that the e-mails and photos Schaffer sent while on duty affected interstate commerce because they traveled through servers in California and Virginia.
--------------------------------
http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/09/cop-cops-plea-for-e-mailing-nude-pics-to-woman-he-arrested.ars
Calvin Schaffer, formerly with the Goddard Police Department, faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when he is sentenced Nov. 16, though he is likely to get far less under federal sentencing guidelines. The government has recommended a sentence at the low end of the guidelines, with additional reductions for his acceptance of responsibility.
Prosecutors say Schaffer, 44, offered to seek the dismissal of drunken driving charges against a Wichita woman he arrested on Feb. 27 in exchange for a sexual relationship.
In his plea agreement, Schaffer admitted using a police department computer while on duty to send e-mails and naked photos of himself to the woman. Under the deal, he would not be allowed to withdraw his guilty plea even if the judge rejects the prosecution’s sentencing recommendations.
Schaffer and defense attorney Roger Falk declined to speak to reporters as they left the courtroom following the brief hearing.
Schaffer worked as a Goddard police officer from Nov. 19, 2007, until March 26, the day after the FBI interviewed him about his relationship with Angelique Mason.
According to an FBI affidavit, Mason went to the FBI in March to file a complaint. She gave the FBI secret recordings that she and two private investigators had made of a telephone call and a meeting between her and the officer.
Mason told the FBI she initially “played along” with the officer’s sexual innuendo while en route to jail after her arrest in hopes of getting help with her criminal case, court records show.
According to the affidavit, Schaffer told FBI agents during an interview that Mason had e-mailed him nude photos of herself before he ever sent her photos of himself. He showed the photos of her to the agents, who then seized his BlackBerry.
After hearing the audio recording of one of his conversations with the woman recorded at the hair salon where she worked, Schaffer admitted that he hoped to have a sexual relationship with her, the affidavit said. He reportedly said he wanted to give Mason the impression that he could help her with her drunken driving case.
Although he acknowledged telling Mason he intentionally made mistakes while investigating her case, Schaffer told the FBI that his mistakes were actually unintentional. The mistakes included failing to report that she had prior arrests for drunken driving, the affidavit said.
It alleges that Schaffer had asked Goddard city prosecutors twice to dismiss the case against Mason, telling them mistakes he made during his investigation would embarrass him should the case be brought to trial.
In support of the federal wire fraud charge, U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch told the court that the e-mails and photos Schaffer sent while on duty affected interstate commerce because they traveled through servers in California and Virginia.
--------------------------------
http://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/news/2009/09/cop-cops-plea-for-e-mailing-nude-pics-to-woman-he-arrested.ars
Officer James Owens Suspended After Giving Teen Girls Alcohol
Jonesville Police Officer James Owens has been suspended after a teenage girl accused him of giving her and her friends alcohol at a party at the home of council member Steve Thompson.
According to an incident report, the 17-year old girl claims after she got drunk at the party on Saturday, she was raped by two teenage boys at the same home. She reported the incident on Monday when she went to a hospital to be examined. Union County investigators responded and took the report, then informed Jonesville Police Chief Jimmy Wilkins of the alcohol accusation.
Wilkins says he showed the girl a photo lineup and she identified Owens as the man who gave her alcohol. Owens was off-duty on Saturday night. He says he called Owens to his office and asked him if he was at the party.
“He said he was there and said there was alcohol there,“ said Wilkins. “I then informed him that he was suspended without pay and I called SLED (State Law Enforcement Division) to investigate as to whether or not he did provide alcohol to minors.“
Owens has not returned calls seeking comment.
Councilman Steve Thompson says Owens did bring “about six beers” to his house, but says to his knowledge, Owens did not give anyone alcohol.
“Why would he do that? He’s a police officer,“ said Thompson.
He said Owens was there for about an hour but he admits he was not always in Owens’ presence. He believes Owens is innocent and thinks the accusations are politically motivated.
Thompson says there were teenage girls at his home because he was hosting a going-away cookout for his son who has joined the National Guard. He says he was not aware of the sexual assault accusations but is “looking into the matter”. He said SLED agents have not questioned him yet but Wilkins says he thinks they will.
Owens was fire chief at the Arkwright Volunteer Fire Department in Spartanburg County, but Captain Jerry Yarbrough says he took a leave of absence about six weeks ago “for personal reasons” and is no longer the acting chief.
As for the sexual assault allegations against the two teenage boys, no charges have been filed at this time. Union County Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
____________________
http://www.wyff4.com/news/20685789/detail.html
According to an incident report, the 17-year old girl claims after she got drunk at the party on Saturday, she was raped by two teenage boys at the same home. She reported the incident on Monday when she went to a hospital to be examined. Union County investigators responded and took the report, then informed Jonesville Police Chief Jimmy Wilkins of the alcohol accusation.
Wilkins says he showed the girl a photo lineup and she identified Owens as the man who gave her alcohol. Owens was off-duty on Saturday night. He says he called Owens to his office and asked him if he was at the party.
“He said he was there and said there was alcohol there,“ said Wilkins. “I then informed him that he was suspended without pay and I called SLED (State Law Enforcement Division) to investigate as to whether or not he did provide alcohol to minors.“
Owens has not returned calls seeking comment.
Councilman Steve Thompson says Owens did bring “about six beers” to his house, but says to his knowledge, Owens did not give anyone alcohol.
“Why would he do that? He’s a police officer,“ said Thompson.
He said Owens was there for about an hour but he admits he was not always in Owens’ presence. He believes Owens is innocent and thinks the accusations are politically motivated.
Thompson says there were teenage girls at his home because he was hosting a going-away cookout for his son who has joined the National Guard. He says he was not aware of the sexual assault accusations but is “looking into the matter”. He said SLED agents have not questioned him yet but Wilkins says he thinks they will.
Owens was fire chief at the Arkwright Volunteer Fire Department in Spartanburg County, but Captain Jerry Yarbrough says he took a leave of absence about six weeks ago “for personal reasons” and is no longer the acting chief.
As for the sexual assault allegations against the two teenage boys, no charges have been filed at this time. Union County Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
____________________
http://www.wyff4.com/news/20685789/detail.html
Officer James Roberts III Charged with Numerous Felonies
James Roberts III is to be charged with numerous felonies in the physical abuse of his wife and girlfriend, the Orange County district attorney's office says.
A Huntington Beach police officer was arrested on suspicion of physically abusing his wife and girlfriend, the Orange County district attorney's office said Wednesday.
According to the district attorney's office, James Roberts III, 33, will be charged with eight counts of false imprisonment by violence or deceit, three counts of criminal threats, two counts of domestic battery with corporal injury, two counts of aggravated assault, one count of dissuading a witness by force or threat and one count of vandalism causing $400 or more in damage, all felony charges. Roberts is expected to be arraigned Friday.
A Huntington Beach police officer was arrested on suspicion of physically abusing his wife and girlfriend, the Orange County district attorney's office said Wednesday.
According to the district attorney's office, James Roberts III, 33, will be charged with eight counts of false imprisonment by violence or deceit, three counts of criminal threats, two counts of domestic battery with corporal injury, two counts of aggravated assault, one count of dissuading a witness by force or threat and one count of vandalism causing $400 or more in damage, all felony charges. Roberts is expected to be arraigned Friday.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Michael Jacobs Dies After Being Tasered
The family of a Texas man who died after being repeatedly tasered by Fort Worth police are demanding an investigation into his death.
The Tarrant county medical examiner ruled on Thursday that the death of 24-year-old Michael Jacobs was a homicide.
Police responded to Jacob's home on April 18 after a call from his family.
Jacobs, suffering from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, had become erratic after going off his medication.
Family members say that he yelled at the police as they attempted to calm him down, but had raised his hands as a sign of surrender before an officer shocked him repeatedly with a taser.
The case will now be handed over to a grand jury.
The Tarrant county medical examiner ruled on Thursday that the death of 24-year-old Michael Jacobs was a homicide.
Police responded to Jacob's home on April 18 after a call from his family.
Jacobs, suffering from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, had become erratic after going off his medication.
Family members say that he yelled at the police as they attempted to calm him down, but had raised his hands as a sign of surrender before an officer shocked him repeatedly with a taser.
The case will now be handed over to a grand jury.
Former Officer Robert Miller Arrested for Impersonating Officer
Former South Charleston Police Officer Robert Miller is in trouble for pretending to still be on the job -- a scheme authorities said he repeatedly has used to make money.
Charleston Police said Miller has an extensive history of pulling the same scam -- often telling people that he's a police officer in a bind. His stories usually involve a forgotten wallet, a tow truck and that he's an off-duty police officer.
Miller served as an officer in South Charleston for a couple of years in the early 90s and is the son of former South Charleston Police Chief J.C. Miller. The man who used to put people behind bars, however, is in jail again, having been arrested for similar schemes in the past.
In 2000, Miller was arrested for using schemes to feed a drug addiction. During his most recent scheme, Miller has only been charged with a misdemeanor, so police fear he'll get out of jail and then be right back at it.
Police said any officer who's legitimate would never ask for money. They also recommend to see a badge if there is a question about an officer being valid or not. If you have additional concerns, call 911.
Charleston Police said Miller has an extensive history of pulling the same scam -- often telling people that he's a police officer in a bind. His stories usually involve a forgotten wallet, a tow truck and that he's an off-duty police officer.
Miller served as an officer in South Charleston for a couple of years in the early 90s and is the son of former South Charleston Police Chief J.C. Miller. The man who used to put people behind bars, however, is in jail again, having been arrested for similar schemes in the past.
In 2000, Miller was arrested for using schemes to feed a drug addiction. During his most recent scheme, Miller has only been charged with a misdemeanor, so police fear he'll get out of jail and then be right back at it.
Police said any officer who's legitimate would never ask for money. They also recommend to see a badge if there is a question about an officer being valid or not. If you have additional concerns, call 911.
Former Officer Christian Torres Pleads Guilty to Bank Robbery
A former New York City police officer pleaded guilty on Tuesday to robbing a Sovereign Bank branch in the East Village twice in 2007, with the help of his companion, who was a teller there.
The former officer, Christian A. Torres, 23, of Queens, was arrested in April 2008 after robbing another Sovereign Bank branch, near Reading, Pa. The revelation that Mr. Torres, who joined the Police Department in 2007, had a second career as a serial bank robber stunned his friends and colleagues. In May, Mr. Torres was sentenced in Philadelphia to 10 years in prison for the Pennsylvania robbery.
On Tuesday, Mr. Torres pleaded guilty to armed bank robbery, bank larceny and conspiracy to defraud a bank. He admitted robbing the Sovereign branch at 57 Avenue A, at East Fourth Street, on June 8 and Nov. 16, 2007.
In the first robbery, the authorities said, Mr. Torres entered the bank and handed his companion, Christina Dasrath, a teller at the branch who was on duty, a note ordering her to “empty both drawers” or else he would “start shooting.” She handed him $16,305 from her teller drawer.
Five months later, Mr. Torres returned to rob the same bank branch, the authorities said. As employees were opening the branch, he approached them and ordered them to open the door. When one of them refused, he threatened to kill that employee and pulled back the side of his jacket to reveal the black handle of a gun tucked into his waistband. Once inside the bank, Mr. Torres ordered the employees to look away from him, to leave their cellphones on a table and to open the vault. He also tied up the legs of another employee.
He took latex gloves out of a duffel bag, put on a ski mask and told an employee to put money in the bag. Then he ordered the employees into the vault, took their keys and told them to stay inside for 10 minutes, threatening that he might return. He took off with about $102,000.
Mr. Torres faces up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud conspiracy, 25 years in prison for bank robbery and 10 years in prison for bank larceny. Judge Laura Taylor Swain of Federal District Court in Manhattan will impose sentence on Nov. 6.
Ms. Dasrath pleaded guilty to bank fraud, bank larceny and false statements on Sept. 5. Judge Swain sentenced her to 30 months in prison on Jan. 9.
Paul S. Missan, a lawyer in Reading, Pa., who represented Mr. Torres in the robbery cases, said in a phone interview that Mr. Torres cooperated with the authorities and regretted his crimes.
The former officer, Christian A. Torres, 23, of Queens, was arrested in April 2008 after robbing another Sovereign Bank branch, near Reading, Pa. The revelation that Mr. Torres, who joined the Police Department in 2007, had a second career as a serial bank robber stunned his friends and colleagues. In May, Mr. Torres was sentenced in Philadelphia to 10 years in prison for the Pennsylvania robbery.
On Tuesday, Mr. Torres pleaded guilty to armed bank robbery, bank larceny and conspiracy to defraud a bank. He admitted robbing the Sovereign branch at 57 Avenue A, at East Fourth Street, on June 8 and Nov. 16, 2007.
In the first robbery, the authorities said, Mr. Torres entered the bank and handed his companion, Christina Dasrath, a teller at the branch who was on duty, a note ordering her to “empty both drawers” or else he would “start shooting.” She handed him $16,305 from her teller drawer.
Five months later, Mr. Torres returned to rob the same bank branch, the authorities said. As employees were opening the branch, he approached them and ordered them to open the door. When one of them refused, he threatened to kill that employee and pulled back the side of his jacket to reveal the black handle of a gun tucked into his waistband. Once inside the bank, Mr. Torres ordered the employees to look away from him, to leave their cellphones on a table and to open the vault. He also tied up the legs of another employee.
He took latex gloves out of a duffel bag, put on a ski mask and told an employee to put money in the bag. Then he ordered the employees into the vault, took their keys and told them to stay inside for 10 minutes, threatening that he might return. He took off with about $102,000.
Mr. Torres faces up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud conspiracy, 25 years in prison for bank robbery and 10 years in prison for bank larceny. Judge Laura Taylor Swain of Federal District Court in Manhattan will impose sentence on Nov. 6.
Ms. Dasrath pleaded guilty to bank fraud, bank larceny and false statements on Sept. 5. Judge Swain sentenced her to 30 months in prison on Jan. 9.
Paul S. Missan, a lawyer in Reading, Pa., who represented Mr. Torres in the robbery cases, said in a phone interview that Mr. Torres cooperated with the authorities and regretted his crimes.
Mr. Missan said:
The judge had him personally tell the facts of the case, and he expressed remorse. He explained that he did it because he needed money to get through the Police Academy. He knows that’s no excuse. He regrets it. From the very first day, he began cooperating with the authorities. He went so far as to meet with the national head of security at Sovereign Bank to help them improve security in the future. This is very rare. He feels a horrible sense of disgrace. He takes full responsibility.
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Previous Post:
The judge had him personally tell the facts of the case, and he expressed remorse. He explained that he did it because he needed money to get through the Police Academy. He knows that’s no excuse. He regrets it. From the very first day, he began cooperating with the authorities. He went so far as to meet with the national head of security at Sovereign Bank to help them improve security in the future. This is very rare. He feels a horrible sense of disgrace. He takes full responsibility.
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Previous Post:
Monday, August 31, 2009
Former Officer David LaRose Sentenced for Possession of Child Porn
A former Prince George's County police officer was sentenced Monday to more than four years in prison for possession of child pornography, federal authorities said.
David J. LaRose, 35, of Lusby had acknowledged that he purchased child pornography from Web sites in 2006 and 2007, authorities said. LaRose, who was convicted in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, last worked as a patrol officer assigned to the Oxon Hill station.
LaRose, who had joined the Prince George's police in 1996, was suspended with pay in March 2008 pending the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Alexander Williams Jr. ordered LaRose to serve 51 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He also will be required to register as a sex offender.
David J. LaRose, 35, of Lusby had acknowledged that he purchased child pornography from Web sites in 2006 and 2007, authorities said. LaRose, who was convicted in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt, last worked as a patrol officer assigned to the Oxon Hill station.
LaRose, who had joined the Prince George's police in 1996, was suspended with pay in March 2008 pending the investigation.
U.S. District Judge Alexander Williams Jr. ordered LaRose to serve 51 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He also will be required to register as a sex offender.
Detective Bradley Hedrick Arrested for Domestic Violence
A detective with the Carmel Police Department has been punished following his arrest over the weekend.
Officers in Noblesville were called to Det. Bradley Hedrick's residence Saturday, where he was taken into custody for domestic battery. He has been with the Carmel Police Department for 18 years.
Det. Hedrick is on administrative leave pending an internal investigation by the department.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Man Dies After Being Tasered
An investigation is underway into the death of a man who was repeatedly tasered by an L.A. County Sheriff's deputy.
The man died after he was shocked three times by a deputy with an electric stun gun Wednesday night at the North Hollywood Red Line Subway.
Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore says the man, who was not immediately identified, was stopped by deputies and asked repeatedly if he had a ticket.
When the man didn't answer, a deputy grabbed the man's hands to stop and question him. A struggle ensued and the man broke free, Whitmore said. He then reportedly raised clenched fists and charged the deputy several times. He was tasered, then shocked two more times when he got up and charged at the deputy again.
Whitmore says deputies recovered a glass crack pipe that fell out of the man's pocket during the scuffle.
The man died after he was shocked three times by a deputy with an electric stun gun Wednesday night at the North Hollywood Red Line Subway.
Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore says the man, who was not immediately identified, was stopped by deputies and asked repeatedly if he had a ticket.
When the man didn't answer, a deputy grabbed the man's hands to stop and question him. A struggle ensued and the man broke free, Whitmore said. He then reportedly raised clenched fists and charged the deputy several times. He was tasered, then shocked two more times when he got up and charged at the deputy again.
Whitmore says deputies recovered a glass crack pipe that fell out of the man's pocket during the scuffle.
Former Sgt. Chris Doles Now Arrested for Domestic Assault
An altercation with his ex-wife has landed a former Waco police officer in jail for the second time in a week.
Former Sgt. Chris Doles bonded out of McLennan County Jail on Thursday, just six days after being arrested in connection with the Waco police double-dipping scandal.
Doles, 43, was among a list of several former officers who were accused of taking double pay from the department and from the Waco Housing Authority where they served as security guards.
Police say less than two hours after his release last Friday, Dole was involved in a dispute with his ex-wife that resulted in his arrest on a Class A misdemeanor assault-family violence charge.
An affidavit filed by Waco police Sgt. Patrick Swanton to support Doles' arrest stated Doles' ex-wife, Tamara Bott, told police the incident happened as she was attempting to get a child-support check from Doles in the parking lot at Gold's Gym parking on W. Waco Dr.
The assault resulted in injury to Bott's hand, according to the report.
Another person who was there at the time confirmed the assault had taken place.
Former Sgt. Chris Doles bonded out of McLennan County Jail on Thursday, just six days after being arrested in connection with the Waco police double-dipping scandal.
Doles, 43, was among a list of several former officers who were accused of taking double pay from the department and from the Waco Housing Authority where they served as security guards.
Police say less than two hours after his release last Friday, Dole was involved in a dispute with his ex-wife that resulted in his arrest on a Class A misdemeanor assault-family violence charge.
An affidavit filed by Waco police Sgt. Patrick Swanton to support Doles' arrest stated Doles' ex-wife, Tamara Bott, told police the incident happened as she was attempting to get a child-support check from Doles in the parking lot at Gold's Gym parking on W. Waco Dr.
The assault resulted in injury to Bott's hand, according to the report.
Another person who was there at the time confirmed the assault had taken place.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Officer Courtney Crooks Arrested for Harassment
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Department arrested a Grand Junction Police Department officer Friday afternoon on suspicion of misdemeanor harassment.
The Sheriff’s Department received an arrest warrant for police officer Courtney Crooks on Thursday, Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said.
Crooks was not booked into Mesa County Jail. He has been placed on unpaid administrative leave, according to the Police Department.
In addition to the Sheriff’s Department’s criminal investigation, the Police Department is conducting two internal investigations that involve Crooks, according to a police spokeswoman Kate Porras.
“This is something we take very seriously, and we will make sure each allegation is thoroughly investigated. Once the facts are known we will take the appropriate action,” Police Chief Bill Gardner said in a news release.
Crooks was born in Hartford, Conn., attended Pensacola Christian College in Florida, received his associate degree in law enforcement in May 2006 and became a police cadet in Grand Junction two years ago, according to a June 2007 Police Department newsletter. He is 24 years old, according to his MySpace.com page.
An arrest affidavit was not immediately available Friday evening from the Sheriff’s Department.
The Police Department was not able to elaborate on the internal investigations Friday because they are considered a “personnel matter,” the news release said.
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http://www.gjsentinel.com/hp/content/news/stories/2009/08/29/082909_1A_Crooks_arrested.html
The Sheriff’s Department received an arrest warrant for police officer Courtney Crooks on Thursday, Mesa County District Attorney Pete Hautzinger said.
Crooks was not booked into Mesa County Jail. He has been placed on unpaid administrative leave, according to the Police Department.
In addition to the Sheriff’s Department’s criminal investigation, the Police Department is conducting two internal investigations that involve Crooks, according to a police spokeswoman Kate Porras.
“This is something we take very seriously, and we will make sure each allegation is thoroughly investigated. Once the facts are known we will take the appropriate action,” Police Chief Bill Gardner said in a news release.
Crooks was born in Hartford, Conn., attended Pensacola Christian College in Florida, received his associate degree in law enforcement in May 2006 and became a police cadet in Grand Junction two years ago, according to a June 2007 Police Department newsletter. He is 24 years old, according to his MySpace.com page.
An arrest affidavit was not immediately available Friday evening from the Sheriff’s Department.
The Police Department was not able to elaborate on the internal investigations Friday because they are considered a “personnel matter,” the news release said.
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http://www.gjsentinel.com/hp/content/news/stories/2009/08/29/082909_1A_Crooks_arrested.html
Deputy John Harvey Arrested for DUI After He Hit Police Car
A Volusia County, Florida, Sheriff's Office deputy was arrested for DUI after he struck a police car last night. The police car was a marked vehicle.
The Florida Highway Patrol arrested Deputy John Harvey for rear-ending a police car early Saturday morning. Immediately following the fender-bender, Harvey attempted to flee the scene.
Officers located his vehicle shortly after and pulled him over for suspicion of DUI. He was eventually booked with charges of DUI, reckless driving and leaving the scene of a crash. He was off-duty and in a personal vehicle at the time of the accident.
Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida is a misdemeanor in the second degree. This is the officer's first DUI offense, so he will additionally be charged with misdemeanor DUI. He will likely face a 6 to 12 month license suspension and fines.
Harvey works in the civil section of the sheriffs office. This typically means he would be responsible for filing and serving of papers that originate in the sheriff's office. This sections also executes court orders. There are both field jobs and administrative jobs within the civil section. There is no information as to whether Harvey works in the field or in an administrative capacity.
He has served the sheriff's office for 12 years. There has been no comment thus far regarding how long he will remain on administrative leave. Sheriff's employees typically face a criminal investigation and prosecution as well as one carried out by their employer.
The Internal Affairs investigation carried out by the employer will determine whether Harvey broke agency policies and how he should be held accountable.
The Florida Highway Patrol arrested Deputy John Harvey for rear-ending a police car early Saturday morning. Immediately following the fender-bender, Harvey attempted to flee the scene.
Officers located his vehicle shortly after and pulled him over for suspicion of DUI. He was eventually booked with charges of DUI, reckless driving and leaving the scene of a crash. He was off-duty and in a personal vehicle at the time of the accident.
Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida is a misdemeanor in the second degree. This is the officer's first DUI offense, so he will additionally be charged with misdemeanor DUI. He will likely face a 6 to 12 month license suspension and fines.
Harvey works in the civil section of the sheriffs office. This typically means he would be responsible for filing and serving of papers that originate in the sheriff's office. This sections also executes court orders. There are both field jobs and administrative jobs within the civil section. There is no information as to whether Harvey works in the field or in an administrative capacity.
He has served the sheriff's office for 12 years. There has been no comment thus far regarding how long he will remain on administrative leave. Sheriff's employees typically face a criminal investigation and prosecution as well as one carried out by their employer.
The Internal Affairs investigation carried out by the employer will determine whether Harvey broke agency policies and how he should be held accountable.
Joe Rocha Charged with Possession of Child Porn
The Travis County Sheriff's Office filed charges on one of its own Friday.
Joe Rocha, 44, was taken into custody by the sheriff's deputies and charged with Possession of Child Pornography.
Rocha was most recently a Corrections Officer for the county.
The Sheriff's Office was tipped off on Tuesday that an employee was involved in illegal activities. Search warrants revealed several images on Rocha's computer that appeared to depict child pornography.
According to the Sheriff's Office, Rocha has been fired.
Possession of Child Pornography is a 3rd Degree Felony, punishable by two to 10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institutional Division and up to $10,000.00 in fines.
The Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the case.
Officer Aaron Pepion Arrested for Having Sex with Young Girl
A Blackfeet police officer who resigned three weeks ago has been arrested on allegations that he had sex with a young girl.
The U.S. Attorney's Office says Aaron Pepion is being held without bail. Pepion was in court before a magistrate Wednesday in Missoula and will be in court again today on a bond hearing.
Prosecutors say Pepion had sex in April with a girl who was born in 1994. No age was listed for Pepion in his charging documents.
Blackfeet Tribal Department of Public Safety Director Henry Devereaux says the FBI investigated Pepion in July and he resigned three weeks ago. Devereaux says Pepion had been an officer for about a year when officials began investigating the allegations against him.
The U.S. Attorney's Office says Aaron Pepion is being held without bail. Pepion was in court before a magistrate Wednesday in Missoula and will be in court again today on a bond hearing.
Prosecutors say Pepion had sex in April with a girl who was born in 1994. No age was listed for Pepion in his charging documents.
Blackfeet Tribal Department of Public Safety Director Henry Devereaux says the FBI investigated Pepion in July and he resigned three weeks ago. Devereaux says Pepion had been an officer for about a year when officials began investigating the allegations against him.
Ex-Officer Frank Drummond Arrested for Molesting Two Teens
Authorities have arrested an ex-police officer for allegedly molesting two teenage girls at his Modesto home.
Modesto Police Department Sgt. Brian Findlen said Francisco "Frank" Drummond, 41, was arrested early Friday morning at Modesto Junior College where he's currently employed as an intructor. Drummond had recently resigned as a reserve police officer for the Ripon Police Department.
Findlen said he previously worked for the Patterson Police Department and the Modesto Police Department from 1994 to 2000.
Findlen said the two female victims were friends of Drummond's teenage daughter. The Modesto Police department was investigating Drummond after officers were dispatched to his home in the 900 block of Wellesley Drive on the evening of August 22.
The investigation suggests that the suspect touched each of the girls in a sexual nature while at his home, said Findlen. The investigation continued through the week and ended with Drummond's arrest Friday.
Drummond has been booked at the Stanislaus County Jail for felony charges of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under the age of 14 and with a 14 or 15-year-old minor. His bail was set at $75,000.
Findlen said Modesto Police Department detectives have alerted officials at Modesto Junior College and the Ripon Police Department of the circumstances surrounding this case.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Judge Patrick McKay Arrested for DUI
An Anchorage superior court judge has been arrested for driving under the influence.
Police say Judge Patrick McKay was pulled over on the Glenn Highway for a traffic stop Thursday around 9 p.m., and the officer found him to be under the influence.
He was released on a $500 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 14.
Police say Judge Patrick McKay was pulled over on the Glenn Highway for a traffic stop Thursday around 9 p.m., and the officer found him to be under the influence.
He was released on a $500 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 14.
Officer Jennifer Cackler & Dispatchers Fired for Egging House
A Dallas area police officer and three dispatchers have been fired over the egging of the house of a resident known to file complaints.
Carrollton Police Chief David James on Thursday said the May 9 incident led to the firing of Officer Jennifer Cackler, plus dispatchers Laura Anderson, Ashley Cackler and Laken Schifelbein.
James said the terminations happened following an internal investigation of the off-duty incident.
No charges were immediately filed in the misdemeanor criminal mischief investigation.
The Carrollton home of Steven Benzer was pelted with eggs. Benzer said he believes a female neighbor, the target of some of his complaints, is friends with the officer.
No decision was immediately announced on whether the fired employees plan to appeal.
Carrollton Police Chief David James on Thursday said the May 9 incident led to the firing of Officer Jennifer Cackler, plus dispatchers Laura Anderson, Ashley Cackler and Laken Schifelbein.
James said the terminations happened following an internal investigation of the off-duty incident.
No charges were immediately filed in the misdemeanor criminal mischief investigation.
The Carrollton home of Steven Benzer was pelted with eggs. Benzer said he believes a female neighbor, the target of some of his complaints, is friends with the officer.
No decision was immediately announced on whether the fired employees plan to appeal.
Officer Lowell Duke Arrested on Drug Charges
Memphis Police say a tip during a routine traffic stop ended with Officer Lowell Duke being indicted on drug charges. Federal agents say Duke was part of a drug operation that worked the Lamar and Cherry area. Ten people including Duke are now facing charges.
Police would not give details about Duke's role in the operation, and would not say if other officers could be involved. Federal agents will say that the operation was sophisticated. Certain people worked security, others transported the drugs. Some were sellers and others were stashers.
Police say Duke has been under investigation for several months. During that time he was been off the streets on “desk duty.” Duke told Eyewitness News he would not comment on his arrest.
Police Director Larry Godwin says “There are good police officers out there. This is a guy that chose to go the wrong way.” Godwin admits this is a blemish on the department saying, “I know it doesn’t look good for the department, but on the other hand, we are taking care of our business.”
And Godwin points out this investigation was started by police officers, “ You’ve got good cops, locking up a bad cop.”
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http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/dpp/news/local/082809_Memphis_Police_Officer_Charged_in_Drug_Investigatio
Police would not give details about Duke's role in the operation, and would not say if other officers could be involved. Federal agents will say that the operation was sophisticated. Certain people worked security, others transported the drugs. Some were sellers and others were stashers.
Police say Duke has been under investigation for several months. During that time he was been off the streets on “desk duty.” Duke told Eyewitness News he would not comment on his arrest.
Police Director Larry Godwin says “There are good police officers out there. This is a guy that chose to go the wrong way.” Godwin admits this is a blemish on the department saying, “I know it doesn’t look good for the department, but on the other hand, we are taking care of our business.”
And Godwin points out this investigation was started by police officers, “ You’ve got good cops, locking up a bad cop.”
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http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/dpp/news/local/082809_Memphis_Police_Officer_Charged_in_Drug_Investigatio
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Two Deputies in Trouble for Stealing Lobsters
An Orange County sheriff's deputy has been charged with misdemeanor lobster poaching, while a former deputy is accused of trying to obstruct an investigation to protect his friend and colleague.
District attorney's officials say Deputy William Robb was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor count of having 13 undersized spiny lobsters during an off-duty fishing trip with two other deputies last November.
The law allows a maximum of seven lobsters per person, which must measure at least 3 1/4 inches.
Phillip Glenn Romero is charged with a misdemeanor count of obstructing an officer, a state Fish and Game warden who confronted the pair in Dana Point Harbor.
Prosecutors say Romero told the game warden that Robb was a confidential informant for the sheriff.
District attorney's officials say Deputy William Robb was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor count of having 13 undersized spiny lobsters during an off-duty fishing trip with two other deputies last November.
The law allows a maximum of seven lobsters per person, which must measure at least 3 1/4 inches.
Phillip Glenn Romero is charged with a misdemeanor count of obstructing an officer, a state Fish and Game warden who confronted the pair in Dana Point Harbor.
Prosecutors say Romero told the game warden that Robb was a confidential informant for the sheriff.
Former Officer Michael Burch Arrested for Making Meth
A former Bennington police officer is behind bars following an arrest for methamphetamine manufacture, authorities said this morning.
Michael Shane Burch, 34, Bennington, was booked into jail late Wednesday afternoon for suspicion of methamphetamine manufacture and possession of a firearm in commission of a felony.
Deputies said he was arrested at a residence east of Bennington and that he had items used in the manufacture of methamphetamine inside a diaper bag.
Another person, Jessica Kay Saddler, 21, Bennington, was arrested for endeavoring to manufacture methamphetamine, according to jail records.
Burch had been a Bennington police officer in the late 1990s, according to court records.
No one answered the telephone at the Bennington Police Department this morning.
The Bryan County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force was preparing an affidavit at press time on the arrests and additional details were not available.
In other crime news, a man stole a 30-pack of beer this morning after the store clerk told him he could not purchase it because it was after legal hours.
According to a report by Durant Police Patrolman Drew Hale, the man placed the beer on the front counter at EZ Mart on Washington Avenue. He grabbed the beer and ran after the clerk told him it was after 2 a.m.
The store has video surveillance that the clerk said would be available from the store’s manager.
Patrolman Scott Phelps arrested a man at Walmart Wednesday morning who was walking around the store eating a package of meat he had picked up at the deli. Police were dispatched to the store called about an intoxicated person. When Phelps arrived, he found a 33-year-old man and saw a half-empty bottle of vodka in a pants pocket.
Phelps also found a camera that the man had concealed, plus two mosquito repellent devices attached to his belt, according to the report.
A manager told Phelps that the man also took a package of sandwich meat and was eating it while walking around the store. He was booked into jail.
Also at Walmart on Wednesday, Patrolman Damon Lewis arrested a woman store personnel had seen put drill bits in her purse and drink a soda pop without paying for it.
Officer Sgt Eddie Webb Accused of Beating Teen With Flashlight
An Upstate officer accused of beating a teen with a flashlight has been fired and is now under investigation.
Veteran Sgt. Eddie Webb was fired from the Honea Path Police Department after the police chief saw the video of the incident.
In his report, Webb said several young people were driving an all-terrain vehicle without lights and wouldn't pull over, even when the officer turned on his siren.
From dashcam video, Webb can be seen using a flashlight to knock a teenage suspect off the ATV. The 16-year-old was hit two more times before Webb pulled out his handcuffs.
It was Aug. 15 when the teenagers were first spotted on Sanders Street at 3 a.m. When Webb's blue lights came on, dashcam video showed that the teenagers didn't stop, but they did pull over for a moment.
A chase lasted for about two minutes. Webb's report said the teenagers ran four stop signs and, when the driver pulled over, the report said the ATV was still running and in a position to "pull back off." That's when Webb said he pushed the teenager off the vehicle.
Webb's report said he hit the teenager in a "straight baton technique to gain compliance" and that he found a "BB pistol" on the driver.
Due to the ongoing investigation, the Honea Path police chief wasn't able to go on camera but gave a statement to News 4.
"We have dealt with this situation that occurred on Aug. 15," the chief said. "Sgt. Webb was relieved of duty from the town of Honea Path on Aug. 17. Our findings in this case were forwarded to SLED and Solicitor Chrissy Adams. Because we're dealing with a personnel issue, there's no further comment."
Webb had been with the department for six years but was in law enforcement for about 20, according to the town.
SLED is investigating to determine if Webb should face charges.
Legally, police could only release the name of one of the four suspects because the other three are underage.
Veteran Sgt. Eddie Webb was fired from the Honea Path Police Department after the police chief saw the video of the incident.
In his report, Webb said several young people were driving an all-terrain vehicle without lights and wouldn't pull over, even when the officer turned on his siren.
From dashcam video, Webb can be seen using a flashlight to knock a teenage suspect off the ATV. The 16-year-old was hit two more times before Webb pulled out his handcuffs.
It was Aug. 15 when the teenagers were first spotted on Sanders Street at 3 a.m. When Webb's blue lights came on, dashcam video showed that the teenagers didn't stop, but they did pull over for a moment.
A chase lasted for about two minutes. Webb's report said the teenagers ran four stop signs and, when the driver pulled over, the report said the ATV was still running and in a position to "pull back off." That's when Webb said he pushed the teenager off the vehicle.
Webb's report said he hit the teenager in a "straight baton technique to gain compliance" and that he found a "BB pistol" on the driver.
Due to the ongoing investigation, the Honea Path police chief wasn't able to go on camera but gave a statement to News 4.
"We have dealt with this situation that occurred on Aug. 15," the chief said. "Sgt. Webb was relieved of duty from the town of Honea Path on Aug. 17. Our findings in this case were forwarded to SLED and Solicitor Chrissy Adams. Because we're dealing with a personnel issue, there's no further comment."
Webb had been with the department for six years but was in law enforcement for about 20, according to the town.
SLED is investigating to determine if Webb should face charges.
Legally, police could only release the name of one of the four suspects because the other three are underage.
Former Officer Calvin Schaffer Accepts Plea Deal
A former Goddard police officer accused of sending naked pictures of himself from a police department computer to a woman he had arrested apparently will accept a plea deal.
U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch told a federal judge Thursday during a hearing that he anticipated the case against Calvin Schaffer would be resolved with a plea agreement.
A change of plea hearing was set for Sept. 2 before U.S. District Judge Wesley Brown.
Prosecutors say Schaffer offered to seek dismissal of drunken driving charges against a Wichita woman in exchange for a sexual relationship.
The 44-year-old former officer was charged with one count of wire fraud after the woman, Angelique Mason, went to investigators with secretly recorded tapes.
Defense attorney Roger Falk and Schaffer declined comment.
U.S. Attorney Lanny Welch told a federal judge Thursday during a hearing that he anticipated the case against Calvin Schaffer would be resolved with a plea agreement.
A change of plea hearing was set for Sept. 2 before U.S. District Judge Wesley Brown.
Prosecutors say Schaffer offered to seek dismissal of drunken driving charges against a Wichita woman in exchange for a sexual relationship.
The 44-year-old former officer was charged with one count of wire fraud after the woman, Angelique Mason, went to investigators with secretly recorded tapes.
Defense attorney Roger Falk and Schaffer declined comment.
Officer Jason Rozacky Broke into Woman's Home & Assault Her
A San Antonio police officer has been arrested and accused of burglary and assault.
Investigators say Officer Jason Rozacky broke into a woman's home back on August 20th and assaulted her.
According to the arrest warrant affidavit, the 36-year-old officer made harassing phone calls and sent text messages to the woman that afteroon after she told him she did not want to see him that night and had other plans. The calls and messages continued throughout the evening as the woman and a guest had dinner.
Investigators say Rozacky then showed up at the woman's home around 10 p.m. and began banging on the front door. Police say after the woman refused to answer the door, Rozacky searched the exterior of the home, found a hidden key, and used it to enter the woman's home. The woman told police Rozacky charged at her after she pulled a gun and ordered him out of her house. After a brief struggle over the gun, the woman said Rozacky let her go and left her home.
The woman suffered minor injuries.
Rozacky now faces "burglary with the intent to commit assault" charges.
Sgt. Diron Carter Accused of Shooting into Crowd of People
The attorney of a police officer accused of pulling the trigger in a drive-by shooting said her client is innocent regardless of what the District Attorney has said.
Pattye High is the attorney for Sergeant Diron Carter who is accused of firing a shot at a crowd of people outside of Night Trips Club on June 16.
High said her client did not fire a shot that night and that Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater's words are ruining her client. Prater was quoted calling Carter and Officer Michael McKethan, who has also been charged in the incident, "gangbangers"
She said that has unfairly labeled Carter as a criminal.
"I think it's unfortunate that people would go on TV and call someone who they charged but who has not been proving to do anything wrong a ‘gangbanger,'" High said.
But according to the probable cause affidavit, Carter admitted to firing a shot outside of Night Trips Club.
The report states Carter called the incident an "accidental shooting," something Carter's attorney said is by no means an admission of guilt.
"He categorically and unequivocally denies that he did what he is charged with," High said.
But while High said her client is innocent, she also said she has yet to get any of the documents about the case from the District Attorney's office.
"If they are so certain my client did these acts, why won't they provide the information to him and to me so we can start the process of evaluating this case?" High said.
High said she thinks the case has been a witch hunt to destroy her client.
"In this country we are presumed innocent until we're proving guilty regardless of what people say in press conferences," High said.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Officer Corey Yocum Arrested for Child Sexual Abuse
A former Olney police officer was arrested on a district court warrant alleging two counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact.
Corey J. Yocum was arrested by the Dallas Police Department on Friday and held on a $100,000 bond.
According to two indictments issued by a Young County grand jury in May, Yocum intentionally caused a child under the age of 17 to touch him and he allegedly touched the girl in sexual manners. At the time of the alleged offense, Oct. 24, 2008, Yocum was a police officer in Olney.
“We received the allegation and forwarded it to an impartial agency to investigate,” said Randall Davis, chief of the Olney Police Department. “That investigation led to him being indicted. It’s embarrassing that it happened to us. We have every intention of policing ourselves, as well as the community.”
Jim Reeves, the investigator for 90th Judicial District Attorney Brenda Gray, said when he learned Yocum was still at large and might be in the Dallas area, he asked for help in finding the man who police have been looking for since May.
“I saw the guy hadn’t been arrested, and he had been indicted in May,” Reeves said. “I picked up the phone and contacted a Texas Ranger, Sgt. Eric Casper. Casper put out the information to his contacts in Dallas. As a result, he was arrested by the Child Sex Exploitation Unit of the Dallas PD.”
Yocum was taken to the Dallas County Jail on Friday and was transported to Young County on Monday. He is currently being held in the Young County Jail
Corey J. Yocum was arrested by the Dallas Police Department on Friday and held on a $100,000 bond.
According to two indictments issued by a Young County grand jury in May, Yocum intentionally caused a child under the age of 17 to touch him and he allegedly touched the girl in sexual manners. At the time of the alleged offense, Oct. 24, 2008, Yocum was a police officer in Olney.
“We received the allegation and forwarded it to an impartial agency to investigate,” said Randall Davis, chief of the Olney Police Department. “That investigation led to him being indicted. It’s embarrassing that it happened to us. We have every intention of policing ourselves, as well as the community.”
Jim Reeves, the investigator for 90th Judicial District Attorney Brenda Gray, said when he learned Yocum was still at large and might be in the Dallas area, he asked for help in finding the man who police have been looking for since May.
“I saw the guy hadn’t been arrested, and he had been indicted in May,” Reeves said. “I picked up the phone and contacted a Texas Ranger, Sgt. Eric Casper. Casper put out the information to his contacts in Dallas. As a result, he was arrested by the Child Sex Exploitation Unit of the Dallas PD.”
Yocum was taken to the Dallas County Jail on Friday and was transported to Young County on Monday. He is currently being held in the Young County Jail
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