Gilbert Police Chief Tim Dorn has demoted a police officer who was off duty when he shot an alleged accomplice to a shoplifting suspect during a scuffle.
Gilbert Police Officer Andrew "Chad" Biggs said he feared for his life after being physically attacked by a Sacaton woman he suspected of shoplifting from a Walmart late Aug. 9.
As Veronica Rodriguez, 25, continued threw punches and slaps upon the off-duty officer, her boyfriend, Therin Castillo, 28, advanced on him, recently released police reports state.
Biggs, the son of state Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Gilbert, pulled his handgun tucked in a cargo pant pocket and fired, hitting Castillo in the groin.
While a Maricopa County Attorney's Office shooting review panel last month cleared Biggs of criminal wrongdoing, an internal investigation approved by Dorn found differently.
On Dec. 16, an internal affairs panel ruled Biggs broke four policies and recommended the officer of more than two years be fired. In a Dec. 29 memo to Biggs, Dorn opted to demote the officer to a 911 dispatcher.
"Based on your actions and decisions, continued assignment as a police officer exposes you, your family, your fellow officers and the public to unacceptable risk," Dorn wrote.
Biggs began his position as a dispatcher Jan. 4, but is contesting the chief's decision.
"It's very sad to see a chief do this type of action," said Biggs' attorney, Kathryn Baillie. "What he's telling his officers is that they don't have a right to defend themselves."
The internal affairs panel found Biggs violated four policies including: use of force, wearing a uniform in public view, wearing a uniform while off duty, and taking action while off duty.
Criminal charges are pending against Castillo and Rodriguez, who recently went before a grand jury, said Sgt. Mark Marino, a police spokesman. Castillo has convictions for shoplifting in December 2006 and June 2009, and failure to appear in June 2009 on the latter shoplifting charge, records show.
After the shooting, Biggs was treated at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center for a contusion to his head and abrasions suffered from Rodriguez's alleged assault.
But therein lies the problem, Dorn writes.
"You utilized deadly force on the male suspect who had made no verbal threats and had not committed any physical assault on you," Dorn states. "She was obviously the aggressor in this incident."
Biggs told internal investigators his wife and their two young children picked him up from the department's San Tan District office after he finished his shift just after 9 a.m. Aug. 9.
He and his family were on their way home about 11 p.m. when they decided to stop at the Walmart at 2501 S. Market Street.
Biggs told investigators his wife advised him against going into the store in his partial uniform, which is against department policy. However, Biggs "reasoned" with her and the family went inside the store, the report states.
As Biggs walked into the store, he saw Rodriguez giggling as she allegedly placed an object under her shirt and proceed out the door.
"Officer Biggs then advised Rodriguez, 'Gilbert Police, you need to come back in the store,'" internal police documents state.
He reached for the woman's arm, and she then turned around and "began flailing" punches and slaps at him. Biggs then yelled for someone to call 911 as Rodriguez continued walking to the parking lot with Biggs and Castillo following.
"I knew there was nobody else there that'd be able to stop them," Biggs told investigators. "Initially I was going to stop her for the property and then, you know, then I have a fleeing suspect who's now assaulted a police officer. It's, you know, it's my duty to protect life and property."
In an interview with police, Rodriguez said she didn't recall anything that happened "due to the amount of alcohol she consumed."
While in the parking lot, Castillo walked between 15 to 30 feet of Biggs, who ordered him to "get on the ground." Castillo refused, Biggs said, and Rodriguez came at him punching again.
Biggs' cell phone and eye glasses were knocked away from him and he drew his gun "because I thought they were going to hurt me."
Biggs managed to knock Rodriguez to the ground, but let her up when Castillo advanced on him. The officer then backed up to near the entrance to the store, as Rodriguez and Castillo followed.
Castillo continued to advance on Biggs and the officer pulled his handgun again.
"I don't know if backup's coming and (Castillo) was now coming at me," Biggs stated. "He was coming to beat me up and I thought that he was going to kill me . . . he continued to come at me and that's at the point I shot."
"I didn't want to shoot him at the time either, but I kind of felt - I just felt I had to stop him. I felt sick to my stomach."
The bullet hit Castillo in the scrotum. Rodriguez then advanced and began hitting the officer again.
Biggs holstered his gun and "punched her right in the face and she completely collapsed right in front of me," he stated. Seconds later additional officers arrived and Rodriguez was handcuffed and dragged to a nearby police car.
Castillo was transported to a local hospital.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Lt. Gregory Melvin Accused of Belittling Officers
A rift in the Police Department has resulted in an investigation into a police lieutenant whose behavior, in a letter from 20 fellow officers to city leaders, was described as belittling and unprofessional.
The investigation into Lt. Gregory Melvin was prompted by the allegations officers made in their complaint, Orange City Police Chief Jeffrey Baskoff said.
Melvin is not on suspension or under any disciplinary action while the investigation is conducted, City Attorney Gary Glassman said.
The Daytona Beach News-Journal obtained a copy of the complaint, written on Police Department letterhead, sent to Baskoff. It is signed by 20 officers who wrote down their badge numbers next to their signatures. The only officers excluded are the chief, Melvin, a commander and a sergeant. The officers who signed the complaint said they no longer have confidence in Melvin's leadership.
In the letter, the officers accuse Melvin of belittling them in public time and time again, ignoring the chain of command and being unprofessional on the road, "so much so, that every one of us would prefer that he not respond to our calls."
Melvin has an "unharnessed and unpredictable temper and escalates every scene he responds to," the officers also said in the letter.
The complaint states that many officers are on the verge of resignation because of Melvin's behavior and that morale in the department has reached an all-time low, and "nothing short of the lieutenant's resignation/termination will rectify the irreparable damage he caused."
Melvin could not be reached for comment Wednesday, and Baskoff said neither he nor Melvin will speak on the matter.
"We will not discuss anything whatsoever that has to do with that complaint," Baskoff said.
Information in the complaint is all the information about Melvin that could be obtained by The News-Journal as the chief and city officials are keeping his records secret.
Baskoff ignored a written public records request from the newspaper for documents regarding Melvin. The request asked for Melvin's personnel, disciplinary, performance and evaluation files. The newspaper also asked for Melvin's job specifications, records of suspension, commendations and completed internal affairs reports.
Baskoff responded to the newspaper's request after nine days, only after The News-Journal made repeated calls to the city attorney, Glassman, and after a visit to the police station and City Hall. Glassman promised the records would be available for inspection Wednesday morning but by late Wednesday, Baskoff had not granted access to the files.
"We are not official record-keepers," Baskoff said. "We don't hold the records. You sent me the request and I sent it to the city clerk."
City Clerk Debbie Renner said Wednesday staff members are working on the request.
Barbara Petersen, attorney and president of the First Amendment Foundation in Tallahassee, said the "jerking around" by officials goes against the requirement of the public records law.
"There is a requirement under public records law that requires an agency to respond promptly and in good faith, and produce records within a reasonable time," Petersen said. "For it to take eight days to get a copy of a personnel file is not prompt and reasonable. There is a violation of the prompt-response requirement."
"You are asking for something for which you have the constitutional right to have access to."
Orange City Mayor Harley Strickland also declined to comment, stating the city attorney directed him not to say anything about the complaint.
But the mayor's brother James Hugh Strickland, a lifelong resident who maintains a blog about city affairs called "Birds Sleep With One Eye Open," said there is concern in the community about how the chief and city manager are handling the situation.
James Strickland said when officers "are willing to put their names and badge numbers in a complaint, it's an indication that the problem has been going on for a long time."
The investigation into Lt. Gregory Melvin was prompted by the allegations officers made in their complaint, Orange City Police Chief Jeffrey Baskoff said.
Melvin is not on suspension or under any disciplinary action while the investigation is conducted, City Attorney Gary Glassman said.
The Daytona Beach News-Journal obtained a copy of the complaint, written on Police Department letterhead, sent to Baskoff. It is signed by 20 officers who wrote down their badge numbers next to their signatures. The only officers excluded are the chief, Melvin, a commander and a sergeant. The officers who signed the complaint said they no longer have confidence in Melvin's leadership.
In the letter, the officers accuse Melvin of belittling them in public time and time again, ignoring the chain of command and being unprofessional on the road, "so much so, that every one of us would prefer that he not respond to our calls."
Melvin has an "unharnessed and unpredictable temper and escalates every scene he responds to," the officers also said in the letter.
The complaint states that many officers are on the verge of resignation because of Melvin's behavior and that morale in the department has reached an all-time low, and "nothing short of the lieutenant's resignation/termination will rectify the irreparable damage he caused."
Melvin could not be reached for comment Wednesday, and Baskoff said neither he nor Melvin will speak on the matter.
"We will not discuss anything whatsoever that has to do with that complaint," Baskoff said.
Information in the complaint is all the information about Melvin that could be obtained by The News-Journal as the chief and city officials are keeping his records secret.
Baskoff ignored a written public records request from the newspaper for documents regarding Melvin. The request asked for Melvin's personnel, disciplinary, performance and evaluation files. The newspaper also asked for Melvin's job specifications, records of suspension, commendations and completed internal affairs reports.
Baskoff responded to the newspaper's request after nine days, only after The News-Journal made repeated calls to the city attorney, Glassman, and after a visit to the police station and City Hall. Glassman promised the records would be available for inspection Wednesday morning but by late Wednesday, Baskoff had not granted access to the files.
"We are not official record-keepers," Baskoff said. "We don't hold the records. You sent me the request and I sent it to the city clerk."
City Clerk Debbie Renner said Wednesday staff members are working on the request.
Barbara Petersen, attorney and president of the First Amendment Foundation in Tallahassee, said the "jerking around" by officials goes against the requirement of the public records law.
"There is a requirement under public records law that requires an agency to respond promptly and in good faith, and produce records within a reasonable time," Petersen said. "For it to take eight days to get a copy of a personnel file is not prompt and reasonable. There is a violation of the prompt-response requirement."
"You are asking for something for which you have the constitutional right to have access to."
Orange City Mayor Harley Strickland also declined to comment, stating the city attorney directed him not to say anything about the complaint.
But the mayor's brother James Hugh Strickland, a lifelong resident who maintains a blog about city affairs called "Birds Sleep With One Eye Open," said there is concern in the community about how the chief and city manager are handling the situation.
James Strickland said when officers "are willing to put their names and badge numbers in a complaint, it's an indication that the problem has been going on for a long time."
Chief Matthew Nestor Charged with Obstructing Justice
A police chief charged with obstructing justice in the fatal beating of a Mexican immigrant by white teenagers in northeastern Pennsylvania can be released from jail until his trial.
A federal judge granted bail to Shenandoah police Chief Matthew Nestor on Thursday. Nestor and two other officers are accused of orchestrating a cover-up as the FBI investigated the fatal attack on Luis Ramirez in July 2008.
Two teens were convicted of assault in Ramirez's death. They also face federal hate crime charges.
Nestor is also awaiting trial in another case. Prosecutors charged him and another officer in December with extorting cash payoffs from illegal gambling operations and a local businessman.
The other officers charged have been released on home confinement.
A federal judge granted bail to Shenandoah police Chief Matthew Nestor on Thursday. Nestor and two other officers are accused of orchestrating a cover-up as the FBI investigated the fatal attack on Luis Ramirez in July 2008.
Two teens were convicted of assault in Ramirez's death. They also face federal hate crime charges.
Nestor is also awaiting trial in another case. Prosecutors charged him and another officer in December with extorting cash payoffs from illegal gambling operations and a local businessman.
The other officers charged have been released on home confinement.
Former Officer Frank Suprenard Trying to Clear His Name
A former police officer accused of doctoring his time sheets is trying to clear his name.
A court found Frank Suprenard guilty of stealing from the town of Freedom, N.H., while he worked for the Police Department. The Carroll County Attorney’s Office said Suprenard now wants a jury to reconsider that conviction.
Suprenard’s appeal is scheduled for later this month.
Suprenard is free because the court decided not to sentence him to jail time for the conviction.
A court found Frank Suprenard guilty of stealing from the town of Freedom, N.H., while he worked for the Police Department. The Carroll County Attorney’s Office said Suprenard now wants a jury to reconsider that conviction.
Suprenard’s appeal is scheduled for later this month.
Suprenard is free because the court decided not to sentence him to jail time for the conviction.
Officer Daniel Shafranek Charged with OWI
Ottumwa Police Chief Jim Clark confirmed Tuesday that one of his officers is on administrative leave after a weekend arrest.
Officer Daniel Shafranek, 33, was charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated by an Iowa State Patrol trooper on Sunday. The charge is a serious misdemeanor but could have a major impact on Shafranek’s career with the OPD.
Clark said his department is conducting an internal investigation into the arrest.
Shafranek is a relatively new hire for the department. He started work in Ottumwa last February.
This appears to be Shafranek’s first OWI charge. Aggravated misdemeanors can carry up to two years in prison upon conviction, but such a stiff penalty would be very unusual for a first-time offense.
Officer Daniel Shafranek, 33, was charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated by an Iowa State Patrol trooper on Sunday. The charge is a serious misdemeanor but could have a major impact on Shafranek’s career with the OPD.
Clark said his department is conducting an internal investigation into the arrest.
Shafranek is a relatively new hire for the department. He started work in Ottumwa last February.
This appears to be Shafranek’s first OWI charge. Aggravated misdemeanors can carry up to two years in prison upon conviction, but such a stiff penalty would be very unusual for a first-time offense.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Officer Jesus Sanchez in Court for Sexual Assault
A Salinas police officer charged arrested in July on suspicion of three counts of sexual assault was in court Tuesday. Prosecutors opted to charge Jesus Sanchez with two counts of sexual battery instead.
Tuesday Sanchez waived his right to a preliminary hearing and will go directly to trial.
The alleged assualt dates back to May of 2002 through May of 2005.
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Tuesday Sanchez waived his right to a preliminary hearing and will go directly to trial.
The alleged assualt dates back to May of 2002 through May of 2005.
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Previous Post
Officer Angelo Passanisi Accused of Staging Hit-and-Run
The city police officer accused of staging a hit-and-run to cover-up his own accident applied for accelerated rehabilitation in Middletown Superior Court Tuesday.
Angelo Passanisi, along with his attorney, John Kelly, filed the necessary paperwork for the program with Judge Elpedio Vitale and now must wait until Feb. 17 to find out if the program will be granted.
Accelerated rehabilitation, also called AR, is a program that gives persons charged with a crime or motor vehicle violation for the first time a second chance. The person is placed on probation for up to two years. If probation is completed satisfactorily, the charges are dismissed.
Before Passanisi’s next court date Feb. 17, lawyers for the state will contact the alleged victim in the case to see if they object to the program being granted. In this case, the victim would be Passanisi’s car insurance company, whom he is accused of defrauding.
The company that insured Passanisi’s Jetta, Massachusetts-based Hanover Insurance Co., paid out $4,400 for work to repair the vehicle, with more money requested, and paid for a rental car for Passanisi to use while his car was being fixed.
Passanisi, who is free on $2,500 bond, is charged with tampering and fabricating evidence, insurance fraud and falsely reporting an accident in the second-degree.
After a night spent with friends at a local bar Sept. 23, Passanisi, 25, of Middletown, allegedly crashed his 2001 Volkswagen Jetta into a telephone pole while driving too fast and then made it look as though the damage had been done to his parked car by a vehicle that then fled.
Immediately following the crash, Passanisi reportedly contacted a fellow officer and informed him of the accident. The officer and Passanisi had spent time together earlier in the evening at a city bar. Passanisi would not tell the officer where the accident occurred but informed him that he was alright, according to the arrest warrant.
According to court records, Passanisi later reported to Middletown police at 2:45 a.m. that a vehicle sideswiped his parked car on Prout Hill Road and then drove off. A Middletown police officer came to the scene and took an accident report, and two officers unsuccessfully canvassed the area in search of a suspect vehicle, according to court records.
Passanisi confided in a fellow officer the next day that he had created an accident scene by placing pieces of debris from his damaged car on a lawn, according to court records.
The officer, who told his supervisor about the conversation on Oct. 14 and made a written statement the next day, wrote in the statement that though he never spoke of the incident with Passanisi again after the initial phone call, he heard Passanisi retell the story of his parked car getting hit and saw him driving a new truck, according to court records.
Also according to court records, the officer said he eventually came forward because he did not want to risk losing his job for someone else’s mistake.
According to court records, there was no evidence of paint transfer, usually present on a car that has been sideswiped, on Passanisi’s Volkswagen.
Passanisi has been a member of the Middletown Police Department since February 2008, and is currently on paid administrative leave pending the results of an internal affairs investigation.
Angelo Passanisi, along with his attorney, John Kelly, filed the necessary paperwork for the program with Judge Elpedio Vitale and now must wait until Feb. 17 to find out if the program will be granted.
Accelerated rehabilitation, also called AR, is a program that gives persons charged with a crime or motor vehicle violation for the first time a second chance. The person is placed on probation for up to two years. If probation is completed satisfactorily, the charges are dismissed.
Before Passanisi’s next court date Feb. 17, lawyers for the state will contact the alleged victim in the case to see if they object to the program being granted. In this case, the victim would be Passanisi’s car insurance company, whom he is accused of defrauding.
The company that insured Passanisi’s Jetta, Massachusetts-based Hanover Insurance Co., paid out $4,400 for work to repair the vehicle, with more money requested, and paid for a rental car for Passanisi to use while his car was being fixed.
Passanisi, who is free on $2,500 bond, is charged with tampering and fabricating evidence, insurance fraud and falsely reporting an accident in the second-degree.
After a night spent with friends at a local bar Sept. 23, Passanisi, 25, of Middletown, allegedly crashed his 2001 Volkswagen Jetta into a telephone pole while driving too fast and then made it look as though the damage had been done to his parked car by a vehicle that then fled.
Immediately following the crash, Passanisi reportedly contacted a fellow officer and informed him of the accident. The officer and Passanisi had spent time together earlier in the evening at a city bar. Passanisi would not tell the officer where the accident occurred but informed him that he was alright, according to the arrest warrant.
According to court records, Passanisi later reported to Middletown police at 2:45 a.m. that a vehicle sideswiped his parked car on Prout Hill Road and then drove off. A Middletown police officer came to the scene and took an accident report, and two officers unsuccessfully canvassed the area in search of a suspect vehicle, according to court records.
Passanisi confided in a fellow officer the next day that he had created an accident scene by placing pieces of debris from his damaged car on a lawn, according to court records.
The officer, who told his supervisor about the conversation on Oct. 14 and made a written statement the next day, wrote in the statement that though he never spoke of the incident with Passanisi again after the initial phone call, he heard Passanisi retell the story of his parked car getting hit and saw him driving a new truck, according to court records.
Also according to court records, the officer said he eventually came forward because he did not want to risk losing his job for someone else’s mistake.
According to court records, there was no evidence of paint transfer, usually present on a car that has been sideswiped, on Passanisi’s Volkswagen.
Passanisi has been a member of the Middletown Police Department since February 2008, and is currently on paid administrative leave pending the results of an internal affairs investigation.
Trial Begins for Deputy Gregory Bowden Accused of Enticing Child
The trial of a former Bibb County deputy accused of enticing a child for sex began Tuesday.
Gregory Todd Bowden, 43, of Byron, is accused of making arrangements in an online chat room to meet a mother and her 7-year-old daughter in Sandy Springs for sex. Unknown to him, he was chatting with an undercover FBI agent assigned to the Innocent Images Task Force.
In opening statements Tuesday morning in federal court, Bowden’s attorney said Bowden never believed the child was real or that she would be waiting for him when he arrived in Sandy Springs in 2009.
Instead, Bowden was planning on role playing with the woman he’d been chatting with using an incestuous fantasy, Macon attorney Franklin J. Hogue.
“He’s not proud of that. He’s shamed by that,” Hogue said. “But that is legal to do.”
But prosecutor Robert McBurney said Bowden had the intent to have sex with the fictional 7-year-old girl.
Sandy Springs police detective Elizabeth Concepcion, an FBI agent, testified she was monitoring a chat room in October 2008 when Bowden sent her a message. In an effort to catch individuals exploiting children, she portrayed a 30-year-old woman with a 7-year-old daughter.
In testimony that spanned at least three hours, Concepcion walked jurors through the chat room discussions, e-mails and phone conversations she had with Bowden between October 2008 and his arrest Feb. 11, 2009.
Jurors followed along on electronic monitors as McBurney and Concepcion read portions of sexually explicit chats and e-mails. They also viewed photos exchanged by the FBI agent and Bowden, including photos of a man’s genitals, a photo of Bowden’s face and a photo Concepcion sent Bowden portraying a woman and a child.
The conversation began with Bowden asking if Concepcion’s online identity, Tiff, would join an online role-playing relationship with Bowden and another person, she testified.
She replied saying that she was only interested in real-world activity. Over several chats, the conversation evolved to Bowden planning to meet Tiff and her daughter in Sandy Springs for sex, she said.
In chats and phone conversations, Bowden discussed how the girl would handle the situation, “good touch, bad touch” lessons taught in schools and assurance that the girl wouldn’t talk about the sexual encounter. On the morning of the planned meeting, Bowden called “Tiff” and said he was excited and nervous, but he also expressed concern.
“I don’t want to go to jail,” he said.
Concepcion testified she was waiting in the parking lot of a J. Christopher’s restaurant in Sandy Springs when Bowden circled the parking lot without parking. She said it looked like he was looking for police.
Police and FBI agents arrested him when he parked.
Michael Yoder, the FBI coordinator for Atlanta’s Innocent Images Task Force in February 2009, testified that Bowden told agents he didn’t think the girl was real.
But at some point in the FBI interview, Yoder said Bowden said he traveled to Atlanta to meet with “a 30ish-year-old woman and her daughter.”
Yoder said agents didn’t know Bowden was a Bibb County deputy until he told them he was “a cop” while he was being arrested.
In the days after his arrest, authorities seized a laptop computer from Bowden’s home and found 307 images of suspected child pornography, Concepcion testified.
David Freyman, a member of the FBI’s computer analysis response team, testified he found “registry cleaners” on Bowden’s computer that are used to erase a user’s online history.
While he didn’t find files of Bowden’s chats with Concepcion on the computer, he said he found references to them on the laptop.
He also found copies of other chats. At least one appeared to be with a father who claimed to being sexually active with his 12-year-old daughter.
Sexually explicit photos sent by both the father and Bowden also were recovered.
Freyman said he also found records of multiple chats in which Bowden and other people set a scene for sexual role-play discussions.
The prosecution rested its case Tuesday, and the defense is expected to begin this morning. Jury deliberations are expected to begin this afternoon.
If convicted, Bowden faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years.
Information from The Telegraph’s archives was used in this report.
Previos Post
Gregory Todd Bowden, 43, of Byron, is accused of making arrangements in an online chat room to meet a mother and her 7-year-old daughter in Sandy Springs for sex. Unknown to him, he was chatting with an undercover FBI agent assigned to the Innocent Images Task Force.
In opening statements Tuesday morning in federal court, Bowden’s attorney said Bowden never believed the child was real or that she would be waiting for him when he arrived in Sandy Springs in 2009.
Instead, Bowden was planning on role playing with the woman he’d been chatting with using an incestuous fantasy, Macon attorney Franklin J. Hogue.
“He’s not proud of that. He’s shamed by that,” Hogue said. “But that is legal to do.”
But prosecutor Robert McBurney said Bowden had the intent to have sex with the fictional 7-year-old girl.
Sandy Springs police detective Elizabeth Concepcion, an FBI agent, testified she was monitoring a chat room in October 2008 when Bowden sent her a message. In an effort to catch individuals exploiting children, she portrayed a 30-year-old woman with a 7-year-old daughter.
In testimony that spanned at least three hours, Concepcion walked jurors through the chat room discussions, e-mails and phone conversations she had with Bowden between October 2008 and his arrest Feb. 11, 2009.
Jurors followed along on electronic monitors as McBurney and Concepcion read portions of sexually explicit chats and e-mails. They also viewed photos exchanged by the FBI agent and Bowden, including photos of a man’s genitals, a photo of Bowden’s face and a photo Concepcion sent Bowden portraying a woman and a child.
The conversation began with Bowden asking if Concepcion’s online identity, Tiff, would join an online role-playing relationship with Bowden and another person, she testified.
She replied saying that she was only interested in real-world activity. Over several chats, the conversation evolved to Bowden planning to meet Tiff and her daughter in Sandy Springs for sex, she said.
In chats and phone conversations, Bowden discussed how the girl would handle the situation, “good touch, bad touch” lessons taught in schools and assurance that the girl wouldn’t talk about the sexual encounter. On the morning of the planned meeting, Bowden called “Tiff” and said he was excited and nervous, but he also expressed concern.
“I don’t want to go to jail,” he said.
Concepcion testified she was waiting in the parking lot of a J. Christopher’s restaurant in Sandy Springs when Bowden circled the parking lot without parking. She said it looked like he was looking for police.
Police and FBI agents arrested him when he parked.
Michael Yoder, the FBI coordinator for Atlanta’s Innocent Images Task Force in February 2009, testified that Bowden told agents he didn’t think the girl was real.
But at some point in the FBI interview, Yoder said Bowden said he traveled to Atlanta to meet with “a 30ish-year-old woman and her daughter.”
Yoder said agents didn’t know Bowden was a Bibb County deputy until he told them he was “a cop” while he was being arrested.
In the days after his arrest, authorities seized a laptop computer from Bowden’s home and found 307 images of suspected child pornography, Concepcion testified.
David Freyman, a member of the FBI’s computer analysis response team, testified he found “registry cleaners” on Bowden’s computer that are used to erase a user’s online history.
While he didn’t find files of Bowden’s chats with Concepcion on the computer, he said he found references to them on the laptop.
He also found copies of other chats. At least one appeared to be with a father who claimed to being sexually active with his 12-year-old daughter.
Sexually explicit photos sent by both the father and Bowden also were recovered.
Freyman said he also found records of multiple chats in which Bowden and other people set a scene for sexual role-play discussions.
The prosecution rested its case Tuesday, and the defense is expected to begin this morning. Jury deliberations are expected to begin this afternoon.
If convicted, Bowden faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years.
Information from The Telegraph’s archives was used in this report.
Previos Post
Officer Bradley Jardis Called Unstable by Fellow Officers Returns to Work
A police officer who was called "unstable" by fellow officers and described by his chief as someone who "shouldn't wear the badge" of a law enforcement agency says he'll be back on the job tomorrow.
Officer Bradley Jardis is returning to work after passing a psychological evaluation ordered by selectmen who refused to fire him despite Police Chief Gregory Dodge's recommendation that he be terminated.
Jardis, 29, of Hooksett, is returning to the force after being suspended and placed on paid leave following an internal investigation. The probe resulted from a disagreement between him and then-Sgt. Sean Gallagher over the handling of a case last July.
In August, Dodge ordered that Jardis be suspended for insubordination and violating police procedures. Dodge recommended that Jardis be fired in October.
Jardis fought the suspension and demanded that a hearing on his appeal held on Nov. 30 be done in public.
Jardis has long claimed that he's been targeted by other officers who don't like him because of his political views and his affiliation with Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, a group pushing for the legalization of drugs.
Selectmen upheld the suspension, but decided against firing Jardis, who argued that the town had no grounds for termination.
During the public hearing, Dodge painted Jardis as a man who couldn't be trusted, has used poor judgment, and is a "liability to the town." Dodge also told selectmen that other officers voiced concern about Jardis' return, saying they feel he isn't stable and could exploit them by exposing personal and work-related issues. A statement of those concerns was signed by five officers.
Jardis has insisted that the chief brought up incidents from years ago during the November hearing that never resulted in any disciplinary action against him.
Dodge was unavailable for comment yesterday.
Selectmen agreed to reinstate Jardis depending on the results of a psychological evaluation. That test was completed on Jan. 5 with a doctor in Manchester at a cost of $5,775 to the town.
In his written report, Jardis said the doctor concluded that he was "fit for duty." Yesterday, Jardis said there was not a "single shred of evidence (submitted at the hearing) to prove anything to the contrary about my mental status, with the exception of a signed statement by five obviously disgruntled coworkers." Jardis also said it was "unfortunate that people were embarrassed by my choice to exercise my right to inform the public of everything, but embarrassment of other town employees does not make me 'mentally unstable,' nor does it make me unable to do my job effectively."
When asked whether he has concerns about returning, Jardis said, "I am a professional and will do my job appropriately. I would expect nothing but the same from my fellow co-workers."
Officer Bradley Jardis is returning to work after passing a psychological evaluation ordered by selectmen who refused to fire him despite Police Chief Gregory Dodge's recommendation that he be terminated.
Jardis, 29, of Hooksett, is returning to the force after being suspended and placed on paid leave following an internal investigation. The probe resulted from a disagreement between him and then-Sgt. Sean Gallagher over the handling of a case last July.
In August, Dodge ordered that Jardis be suspended for insubordination and violating police procedures. Dodge recommended that Jardis be fired in October.
Jardis fought the suspension and demanded that a hearing on his appeal held on Nov. 30 be done in public.
Jardis has long claimed that he's been targeted by other officers who don't like him because of his political views and his affiliation with Law Enforcement Against Prohibition, a group pushing for the legalization of drugs.
Selectmen upheld the suspension, but decided against firing Jardis, who argued that the town had no grounds for termination.
During the public hearing, Dodge painted Jardis as a man who couldn't be trusted, has used poor judgment, and is a "liability to the town." Dodge also told selectmen that other officers voiced concern about Jardis' return, saying they feel he isn't stable and could exploit them by exposing personal and work-related issues. A statement of those concerns was signed by five officers.
Jardis has insisted that the chief brought up incidents from years ago during the November hearing that never resulted in any disciplinary action against him.
Dodge was unavailable for comment yesterday.
Selectmen agreed to reinstate Jardis depending on the results of a psychological evaluation. That test was completed on Jan. 5 with a doctor in Manchester at a cost of $5,775 to the town.
In his written report, Jardis said the doctor concluded that he was "fit for duty." Yesterday, Jardis said there was not a "single shred of evidence (submitted at the hearing) to prove anything to the contrary about my mental status, with the exception of a signed statement by five obviously disgruntled coworkers." Jardis also said it was "unfortunate that people were embarrassed by my choice to exercise my right to inform the public of everything, but embarrassment of other town employees does not make me 'mentally unstable,' nor does it make me unable to do my job effectively."
When asked whether he has concerns about returning, Jardis said, "I am a professional and will do my job appropriately. I would expect nothing but the same from my fellow co-workers."
Six Hollywood Officres Fired for Doctoring Police Report
Hollywood police fired six of its own this week -- most of whom were accused of taking part in the doctoring of a police report after a car crash with an alleged drunken driver.
The employees received notices last Wednesday that Police Chief Chad Wagner intended to fire them. But they were given five days to appeal to Wagner and met with the chief and their attorneys Monday.
Tuesday, they were fired: Officers Joel Francisco and Dewey Pressley, Community Service Officer Karim Thomas, Sgt. Andrew Diaz and crime scene technician Andrea Tomassi. A criminal investigation remains open.
Officer Oscar Sola-Vega was terminated for a separate matter related to an accusation that he worked his off-duty detail during his police shift Sept. 25.
The terminations of the other five stem from how they handled the reporting of a car accident about midnight Feb. 16, when Francisco rear-ended Alexandra Torrens-Vilas' car.
In a recording taken while Torrens-Vilas sat in the back seat of a police cruiser, officers can be heard discussing how to distort the facts to shift blame from the officer.
In a copy of that recording posted on The Sun Sentinel, parts of the conversation are muddled but one officer says what sounds like: ``We are going to bend this a little bit because she is drunk, so it is what it is.''
Torrens-Vilas was arrested on a drunken driving charge, but the case was later dropped.
The fired employees are expected to file grievances with City Manager Cameron Benson and ultimately will likely go to arbitration.
Jeff Marano, a union leader for the Police Benevolent Association, said Wagner reacted to the negative nationwide publicity about the case. ``I think it was pressure from elected officials on both the manager and the chief and the PBA is in it for the long road,'' he said.
Does the union have proof elected officials exerted pressure? ``I am hoping we can develop that proof,'' he said.
The union recently submitted a public record request to the city for communications involving Mayor Peter Bober and other officials about the investigations.
Bober could not be reached Wednesday but last week defended the chief's decision.
Attorney Al Milian, representing Diaz, questioned why Wagner fired the workers before the outcome of the state attorney investigation.
``I don't understand why the city of Hollywood decided to terminate them without a criminal probe completed,'' Milian said. ``You don't throw away decades of procedure and due process unless it's been politically motivated.''
But the majority of the City Commission expressed support for Wagner's actions. ``I have absolute full confidence in Chief Wagner and how he has handled it,'' City Commissioner Heidi O'Sheehan said after Wagner announced his intent to fire the employees last week.
Wagner, who rose through the ranks and was named interim police chief in 2007, did not respond to an interview request Wednesday.
The employees received notices last Wednesday that Police Chief Chad Wagner intended to fire them. But they were given five days to appeal to Wagner and met with the chief and their attorneys Monday.
Tuesday, they were fired: Officers Joel Francisco and Dewey Pressley, Community Service Officer Karim Thomas, Sgt. Andrew Diaz and crime scene technician Andrea Tomassi. A criminal investigation remains open.
Officer Oscar Sola-Vega was terminated for a separate matter related to an accusation that he worked his off-duty detail during his police shift Sept. 25.
The terminations of the other five stem from how they handled the reporting of a car accident about midnight Feb. 16, when Francisco rear-ended Alexandra Torrens-Vilas' car.
In a recording taken while Torrens-Vilas sat in the back seat of a police cruiser, officers can be heard discussing how to distort the facts to shift blame from the officer.
In a copy of that recording posted on The Sun Sentinel, parts of the conversation are muddled but one officer says what sounds like: ``We are going to bend this a little bit because she is drunk, so it is what it is.''
Torrens-Vilas was arrested on a drunken driving charge, but the case was later dropped.
The fired employees are expected to file grievances with City Manager Cameron Benson and ultimately will likely go to arbitration.
Jeff Marano, a union leader for the Police Benevolent Association, said Wagner reacted to the negative nationwide publicity about the case. ``I think it was pressure from elected officials on both the manager and the chief and the PBA is in it for the long road,'' he said.
Does the union have proof elected officials exerted pressure? ``I am hoping we can develop that proof,'' he said.
The union recently submitted a public record request to the city for communications involving Mayor Peter Bober and other officials about the investigations.
Bober could not be reached Wednesday but last week defended the chief's decision.
Attorney Al Milian, representing Diaz, questioned why Wagner fired the workers before the outcome of the state attorney investigation.
``I don't understand why the city of Hollywood decided to terminate them without a criminal probe completed,'' Milian said. ``You don't throw away decades of procedure and due process unless it's been politically motivated.''
But the majority of the City Commission expressed support for Wagner's actions. ``I have absolute full confidence in Chief Wagner and how he has handled it,'' City Commissioner Heidi O'Sheehan said after Wagner announced his intent to fire the employees last week.
Wagner, who rose through the ranks and was named interim police chief in 2007, did not respond to an interview request Wednesday.
Officer Richard Evans Arrested for Domestic Violence
A Columbus police officer was arrested on domestic-violence charges after an incident Monday morning at his ex-wife's home in Delaware County.
Richard L. Evans, 41, of 250 East St. in Sunbury, is charged with aggravated menacing, menacing by stalking, domestic violence and two counts of violating a protection order.
A judge ordered the 17-year Police Division veteran to submit to continuous GPS monitoring, to not have any weapons, and to stay away from his ex-wife, Laura L. Evans, who also is a Columbus police officer.
Richard Evans pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanors in Delaware County Municipal Court yesterday. He was being held in the Delaware County jail in lieu of a $150,000 bond.
Columbus police supervisors were notified of Evans' arrest on Monday, said Sgt. Rich Weiner, police spokesman.
A report on the incident gave no details, other than to say that Evans threatened his ex-wife. Delaware County Sheriff Walter L. Davis III did not return a phone call requesting information.
Evans already was under duty restrictions and not allowed to carry a gun because of a protection order prohibiting him from contact with his ex-wife, said Sgt. Jim Gilbert, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge No. 9.
Delaware County court records show that Laura L. Evans obtained a protection order against her ex-husband on Nov. 23. The couple's marriage ended with a dissolution May 14, 2009, according to Franklin County court records.
After the criminal case is settled, the police internal affairs bureau will investigate Monday's incident, Weiner said.
Evans could face discipline depending on what the investigation finds and what supervisors decide.
The FOP will represent Evans in his administrative cases with the Columbus police, Gilbert said. But he said that Evans is responsible for his own legal representation in the criminal cases in Delaware County.
The couple attended the Columbus Police Academy in 1992, and supervisors then said they were the first husband and wife to go through the training together.
Before that, they both worked as correction officers in Delaware County, according to a 1993 story in The Dispatch.
Richard L. Evans, 41, of 250 East St. in Sunbury, is charged with aggravated menacing, menacing by stalking, domestic violence and two counts of violating a protection order.
A judge ordered the 17-year Police Division veteran to submit to continuous GPS monitoring, to not have any weapons, and to stay away from his ex-wife, Laura L. Evans, who also is a Columbus police officer.
Richard Evans pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanors in Delaware County Municipal Court yesterday. He was being held in the Delaware County jail in lieu of a $150,000 bond.
Columbus police supervisors were notified of Evans' arrest on Monday, said Sgt. Rich Weiner, police spokesman.
A report on the incident gave no details, other than to say that Evans threatened his ex-wife. Delaware County Sheriff Walter L. Davis III did not return a phone call requesting information.
Evans already was under duty restrictions and not allowed to carry a gun because of a protection order prohibiting him from contact with his ex-wife, said Sgt. Jim Gilbert, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge No. 9.
Delaware County court records show that Laura L. Evans obtained a protection order against her ex-husband on Nov. 23. The couple's marriage ended with a dissolution May 14, 2009, according to Franklin County court records.
After the criminal case is settled, the police internal affairs bureau will investigate Monday's incident, Weiner said.
Evans could face discipline depending on what the investigation finds and what supervisors decide.
The FOP will represent Evans in his administrative cases with the Columbus police, Gilbert said. But he said that Evans is responsible for his own legal representation in the criminal cases in Delaware County.
The couple attended the Columbus Police Academy in 1992, and supervisors then said they were the first husband and wife to go through the training together.
Before that, they both worked as correction officers in Delaware County, according to a 1993 story in The Dispatch.
Sgt. Craig Martin Arrested for Inhaling Substances
Police sergeant arrested 2nd time
An Austin police sergeant has been arrested twice in the past few weeks after Central Texas law enforcement agencies say he was inhaling substances.
Cedar Park police arrested and charged Sgt. Craig Martin early Tuesday with illegal use or inhaling glue or paint, sheriff's spokesman John Foster said. He was booked into the Williamson County Jail but has since been released on bail.
No other details were immediately available.
Martin also was arrested about 3 p.m. Dec. 16 by Kyle police, city spokesman Jerry Hendrix said. Hendrix said that officers were dispatched to a Lowe's parking lot after receiving a report that a man was ingesting a substance from an aerosol can. He was charged with illegal possession and use of glue or paint.
Martin is assigned to supervise detectives in South-Central Austin. He has been placed on restricted duty.
Austin police Chief Art Acevedo said he is disappointed by the arrests of Martin and officer Leonardo Quintana, who was charged with drunken driving early Tuesday in Williamson County.
Acevedo said the department has numerous services available for officers and that "there is really no excuse for that type of behavior."
An Austin police sergeant has been arrested twice in the past few weeks after Central Texas law enforcement agencies say he was inhaling substances.
Cedar Park police arrested and charged Sgt. Craig Martin early Tuesday with illegal use or inhaling glue or paint, sheriff's spokesman John Foster said. He was booked into the Williamson County Jail but has since been released on bail.
No other details were immediately available.
Martin also was arrested about 3 p.m. Dec. 16 by Kyle police, city spokesman Jerry Hendrix said. Hendrix said that officers were dispatched to a Lowe's parking lot after receiving a report that a man was ingesting a substance from an aerosol can. He was charged with illegal possession and use of glue or paint.
Martin is assigned to supervise detectives in South-Central Austin. He has been placed on restricted duty.
Austin police Chief Art Acevedo said he is disappointed by the arrests of Martin and officer Leonardo Quintana, who was charged with drunken driving early Tuesday in Williamson County.
Acevedo said the department has numerous services available for officers and that "there is really no excuse for that type of behavior."
Officer Jessica Phillips Charged with Harassment
A Saint Paul police officer is accused repeatedly texting, emailing and leaving voicemails for another woman about sleeping with that's woman's ex-husband.
Officer Jessica Phillips was charged with two gross misdemeanor counts of harassment and one gross misdemeanor count of unauthorized computer access.
According to the criminal complaint, Phillips left a voicemail message that said "We had sex probably 10 times this month and I have actual pictures... if you would like to see them."
Phillips allegedly contacted the woman over 100 times.
The Saint Paul City Attorney has asked the Minneapolis City Attorney's Office to review the case to avoid a conflict of interest.
Officer Phillips is on paid administrative leave.
Officer Jessica Phillips was charged with two gross misdemeanor counts of harassment and one gross misdemeanor count of unauthorized computer access.
According to the criminal complaint, Phillips left a voicemail message that said "We had sex probably 10 times this month and I have actual pictures... if you would like to see them."
Phillips allegedly contacted the woman over 100 times.
The Saint Paul City Attorney has asked the Minneapolis City Attorney's Office to review the case to avoid a conflict of interest.
Officer Phillips is on paid administrative leave.
Ex-Officer Cody Theriot Arrested for Impersonating a Police Officer
The St. Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a 27-year-old New Iberia man on a charge of impersonating a police officer.
According to a news release, patrol deputies spotted what appeared to be a law enforcement unit parked along La. 347 in Parks. The vehicle was described as a white Ford Explorer with license plate SLC462.
The vehicle was equipped with several decals commonly found on law enforcement units along with operable red and blue lights, an audible siren and a law enforcement push-style bumper.
At the time of his arrest, Cody Patrick Theriot allegedly was wearing tactical-style pants and a red and silver reflective “K-9 Search and Rescue Team” jacket. Deputies also discovered he was in possession of two official law enforcement badges, a semi-automatic handgun, riot baton, handcuffs, a police scanner and a K-9 tracking harness.
According to the release, Theriot is not a commissioned officer with any law enforcement agency.
He allegedly continued to give different names when officers asked for his real identity.
They later determined he had an active warrant for drug court with a $100,000 bond.
Anyone that may have encountered this vehicle or Theriot in this capacity is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Bureau at (337) 394-2670 or (337) 394-3071.
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More Information
According to a news release, patrol deputies spotted what appeared to be a law enforcement unit parked along La. 347 in Parks. The vehicle was described as a white Ford Explorer with license plate SLC462.
The vehicle was equipped with several decals commonly found on law enforcement units along with operable red and blue lights, an audible siren and a law enforcement push-style bumper.
At the time of his arrest, Cody Patrick Theriot allegedly was wearing tactical-style pants and a red and silver reflective “K-9 Search and Rescue Team” jacket. Deputies also discovered he was in possession of two official law enforcement badges, a semi-automatic handgun, riot baton, handcuffs, a police scanner and a K-9 tracking harness.
According to the release, Theriot is not a commissioned officer with any law enforcement agency.
He allegedly continued to give different names when officers asked for his real identity.
They later determined he had an active warrant for drug court with a $100,000 bond.
Anyone that may have encountered this vehicle or Theriot in this capacity is asked to contact the Criminal Investigations Bureau at (337) 394-2670 or (337) 394-3071.
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More Information
Rape Cases Handled by Officer Tyler Kennedy Will Be Re-Examined
A Los Angeles County prosecutor said Wednesday his office will re-examine rape cases investigated by a West Covina police officer in the wake of allegations of misconduct.
Deputy District Attorney Gary Hearnsberger, who leads criminal prosecutions in the Pomona branch of the District Attorney's Office, said rape cases worked by West Covina police Officer Tyler Kennedy would be scrutinized.
"My understanding is Kennedy is no longer working sexual assault cases, so it won't be a problem in the future," Hearnsberger said. "... we will have to look back ... at whether there have been cases in the interim that would cause a problem."
Kennedy could not be reached for comment at the West Covina Police Department. A cell phone assigned to him had been disconnected.
On Monday, officials suspended Kennedy for the second time in less than a year, according to department sources who spoke on condition of anonymity. The action came after a 49-year-old woman alleged Kennedy sexually harassed and propositioned her.
Kennedy was assigned to investigate an apparent spousal rape involving the alleged victim, documents show.
West Covina police Chief Frank Wills confirmed Wednesday his department is investigating Kennedy, but said the Police Officer's Bill of Rights prohibits him from commenting.
Kennedy's first suspension came late last year, sources said. The detective was demoted and returned to patrol after an internal affairs investigation, the sources said.
That investigation revealed Kennedy engaged in an intimate relationship with a 39-year-old woman who alleged she was sexually battered, harassed and secretly videotaped by her ex-husband in February, according to Hearnsberger and documents.
Kennedy opened an investigation into the woman's case and arrested her ex-husband, according court documents.
On March 20, Kennedy appeared in West Covina court and asked the ex-husband, who had been released on his own recognizance, be held without bail, court documents show.
Based on Kennedy's testimony, Judge Lesley Green increased the man's bail to $100,000, according to court documents.
The ex-husband was subsequently charged with three misdemeanors, but the case was thrown out in November when prosecutors learned of Kennedy's relationship with the alleged victim, Hearnsberger said.
"The relationship between Kennedy and the woman was ultimately reported to us" by internal affairs investigators, Hearnsberger said. "Because Kennedy was the investigating officer and (the relationship) calls his credibility into question ... there was a decision that it wouldn't be a viable case."
This newspaper does not identify alleged victims of sexual assault.
An attorney for the woman's ex-husband said Kennedy worked the system to keep the man in custody so the detective could continue his relationship with the 39-year-old woman.
"He had the bail imposed because he was trying to foster a relationship with the alleged victim," said the man's civil attorney, Arnoldo Casillas.
In September, the man filed a civil rights claim against West Covina seeking unspecified damages for false imprisonment and a damaged reputation. The City Council rejected that claim in November.
"(Kennedy) almost ruined my life," the man said. "He called my employer and told my boss that I was going to jail for a very long time for rape. I got written up and I'll never be able to get promoted."
Council members Mike Touhey and Sherri Lane said City Attorney Arnold Alvarez-Glasman advised them not to comment.
Mayor Shelley Sanderson and council members Steve Herfert and Roger Hernandez did not return repeated requests for comment.
"They're not returning your calls because they're acting in the best interest of the city," Alvarez-Glasman said.
An attorney from Alvarez-Glasman's office represented the West Covina Police Department in a Nov. 9 court appearance regarding the man's criminal case, according to court documents.
Alvarez-Glasman declined to comment on that court appearance.
In a related but separate investigation, officials said the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is continuing its probe into allegations of misconduct by Baldwin Park police Chief Lili Hadsell. That probe was requested by Hadsell.
The 49-year-old woman accused Hadsell's brother of spousal rape in 2008. That investigation was overseen by Kennedy.
The alleged victim, who had been Hadsell's sister-in-law, said she went to Hadsell for help after the alleged rape.
"I asked Lili for help right after he raped me," the woman said. "She told me not to say anything because it could jeopardize her position."
The District Attorney's Office declined to file rape or any other charges.
Kennedy sent the woman several text messages she claimed referenced sexual acts.
In one photo message sent to the woman's cell phone, Kennedy posed in a tank top.
The woman said she believes Hadsell used her familiarity with Wills to influence the West Covina rape investigation.
"They worked together for years in the San Marino Police Department," the woman said.
Casillas said he believes Kennedy was assigned to the case in order to cover up the rape.
"You have two police chiefs in neighboring towns and one police officer with a history of inappropriate conduct," Casillas said. "This is a coverup, and I will ask the United States Attorney's Office and FBI to investigate it."
Deputy District Attorney Gary Hearnsberger, who leads criminal prosecutions in the Pomona branch of the District Attorney's Office, said rape cases worked by West Covina police Officer Tyler Kennedy would be scrutinized.
"My understanding is Kennedy is no longer working sexual assault cases, so it won't be a problem in the future," Hearnsberger said. "... we will have to look back ... at whether there have been cases in the interim that would cause a problem."
Kennedy could not be reached for comment at the West Covina Police Department. A cell phone assigned to him had been disconnected.
On Monday, officials suspended Kennedy for the second time in less than a year, according to department sources who spoke on condition of anonymity. The action came after a 49-year-old woman alleged Kennedy sexually harassed and propositioned her.
Kennedy was assigned to investigate an apparent spousal rape involving the alleged victim, documents show.
West Covina police Chief Frank Wills confirmed Wednesday his department is investigating Kennedy, but said the Police Officer's Bill of Rights prohibits him from commenting.
Kennedy's first suspension came late last year, sources said. The detective was demoted and returned to patrol after an internal affairs investigation, the sources said.
That investigation revealed Kennedy engaged in an intimate relationship with a 39-year-old woman who alleged she was sexually battered, harassed and secretly videotaped by her ex-husband in February, according to Hearnsberger and documents.
Kennedy opened an investigation into the woman's case and arrested her ex-husband, according court documents.
On March 20, Kennedy appeared in West Covina court and asked the ex-husband, who had been released on his own recognizance, be held without bail, court documents show.
Based on Kennedy's testimony, Judge Lesley Green increased the man's bail to $100,000, according to court documents.
The ex-husband was subsequently charged with three misdemeanors, but the case was thrown out in November when prosecutors learned of Kennedy's relationship with the alleged victim, Hearnsberger said.
"The relationship between Kennedy and the woman was ultimately reported to us" by internal affairs investigators, Hearnsberger said. "Because Kennedy was the investigating officer and (the relationship) calls his credibility into question ... there was a decision that it wouldn't be a viable case."
This newspaper does not identify alleged victims of sexual assault.
An attorney for the woman's ex-husband said Kennedy worked the system to keep the man in custody so the detective could continue his relationship with the 39-year-old woman.
"He had the bail imposed because he was trying to foster a relationship with the alleged victim," said the man's civil attorney, Arnoldo Casillas.
In September, the man filed a civil rights claim against West Covina seeking unspecified damages for false imprisonment and a damaged reputation. The City Council rejected that claim in November.
"(Kennedy) almost ruined my life," the man said. "He called my employer and told my boss that I was going to jail for a very long time for rape. I got written up and I'll never be able to get promoted."
Council members Mike Touhey and Sherri Lane said City Attorney Arnold Alvarez-Glasman advised them not to comment.
Mayor Shelley Sanderson and council members Steve Herfert and Roger Hernandez did not return repeated requests for comment.
"They're not returning your calls because they're acting in the best interest of the city," Alvarez-Glasman said.
An attorney from Alvarez-Glasman's office represented the West Covina Police Department in a Nov. 9 court appearance regarding the man's criminal case, according to court documents.
Alvarez-Glasman declined to comment on that court appearance.
In a related but separate investigation, officials said the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is continuing its probe into allegations of misconduct by Baldwin Park police Chief Lili Hadsell. That probe was requested by Hadsell.
The 49-year-old woman accused Hadsell's brother of spousal rape in 2008. That investigation was overseen by Kennedy.
The alleged victim, who had been Hadsell's sister-in-law, said she went to Hadsell for help after the alleged rape.
"I asked Lili for help right after he raped me," the woman said. "She told me not to say anything because it could jeopardize her position."
The District Attorney's Office declined to file rape or any other charges.
Kennedy sent the woman several text messages she claimed referenced sexual acts.
In one photo message sent to the woman's cell phone, Kennedy posed in a tank top.
The woman said she believes Hadsell used her familiarity with Wills to influence the West Covina rape investigation.
"They worked together for years in the San Marino Police Department," the woman said.
Casillas said he believes Kennedy was assigned to the case in order to cover up the rape.
"You have two police chiefs in neighboring towns and one police officer with a history of inappropriate conduct," Casillas said. "This is a coverup, and I will ask the United States Attorney's Office and FBI to investigate it."
Correctional Officer Alfonso Alanis Arrested for Embezzlement
A Fresno County correctional officer was arrested on embezzlement charges, it was announced on Wednesday.
Alfonso Alanis, 28, worked as a correctional officer for five years.
His duties include handling the release of inmates and their property from the jail.
He was arrrested after a two-week investigation that resulted in sheriff's detectives serving a search warrant at his Fresno home.
They were looking for stolen property reported missing by inmates who were being released from jail.
Authorities say Alanis was withholding cash and other property from the prisoners.
Alfonso Alanis, 28, worked as a correctional officer for five years.
His duties include handling the release of inmates and their property from the jail.
He was arrrested after a two-week investigation that resulted in sheriff's detectives serving a search warrant at his Fresno home.
They were looking for stolen property reported missing by inmates who were being released from jail.
Authorities say Alanis was withholding cash and other property from the prisoners.
Officer Steven Campbell Charged with Attempted Murder & Rape
A police officer has appeared in court charged with the attempted murder and rape of a woman.
Steven Campbell, 40, is accused of allegations which span more than 13 years. It is alleged that on various occasions between January 1995 and October 2008, he tried to kill the woman at a number of addresses in East Kilbride, Airdrie and the Asda supermarket in Hamilton.
The charge includes claims that the Strathclyde Police sergeant shout, swore and "uttered threats of violence". It is said he assaulted the woman in various ways such as throwing her against a tractor.
The woman is also alleged to have been thrown against walls, door and furniture and had her throat compressed which restricted her breathing.
Campbell, of Hamilton, Lanarkshire, is then accused of raping his alleged victim during the same dates.
The charge includes claims that he indecently assaulted her with a sex toy and also took indecent photographs of her. Campbell also faces two firearms charges dating between January 1 2000 and October 9, 2008.
It is alleged that at a farm in Shotts, Lanarkshire, he possessed bullets without holding a relevant firearms certificate or having the permission of the Scottish Ministers.
Mark Moir, defending, said Campbell denied all charges during a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Wednesday. Mr Moir and prosecutor Bruce Erroch said inquiries were ongoing and that a trial date could not yet be set.
Judge Lord Turnbull adjourned the case for a further hearing in March.
Steven Campbell, 40, is accused of allegations which span more than 13 years. It is alleged that on various occasions between January 1995 and October 2008, he tried to kill the woman at a number of addresses in East Kilbride, Airdrie and the Asda supermarket in Hamilton.
The charge includes claims that the Strathclyde Police sergeant shout, swore and "uttered threats of violence". It is said he assaulted the woman in various ways such as throwing her against a tractor.
The woman is also alleged to have been thrown against walls, door and furniture and had her throat compressed which restricted her breathing.
Campbell, of Hamilton, Lanarkshire, is then accused of raping his alleged victim during the same dates.
The charge includes claims that he indecently assaulted her with a sex toy and also took indecent photographs of her. Campbell also faces two firearms charges dating between January 1 2000 and October 9, 2008.
It is alleged that at a farm in Shotts, Lanarkshire, he possessed bullets without holding a relevant firearms certificate or having the permission of the Scottish Ministers.
Mark Moir, defending, said Campbell denied all charges during a hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Wednesday. Mr Moir and prosecutor Bruce Erroch said inquiries were ongoing and that a trial date could not yet be set.
Judge Lord Turnbull adjourned the case for a further hearing in March.
Sgt. Robert Martin Found Huffing Aerosol Computer Cleaner
Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo spoke out Wednesday after two officers were arrested within hours of each other in Williamson County.
On Monday, officers were called to an apartment complex on Colonial Parkway in Cedar Park, where they say they found Sgt. Robert Craig Martin surrounded by 36 cans of aerosol computer cleaner. Investigators say Martin was "huffing," or inhaling the canisters to get high.
This wasn't the first time Martin has been in trouble. He was also arrested by Kyle police on December 16 after someone claimed they saw him sniffing something from an aerosol can in a Lowes parking lot.
Wayne Vincent, president of the Austin Police Association, says constant stress and scrutiny can cause officers to fall prey to drugs and alcohol abuse. He also says that's no excuse for what Martin has been accused of doing.
"The problem is officers through their culture help people and very rarely no matter how hard you try, do they feel they need or deserve help themselves," Vincent said. "Make no mistake about it, it can be a career ending event."
Early Tuesday morning, just hours after Martin was arrested, APD Officer Lenny Quintana was arrested and accused of driving drunk, then crashing into a traffic circle at Saddle Blanket and Osage in Leander.
Quintana's arrest affidavit says he refused a breathalyzer and a blood draw.
The officer also says that Quintana's eyes were glassy and blood shot and that he failed a field sobriety test.
"It is an embarrassment; it's something we're not proud of," said Chief Acevedo. "But like I tell folks we're a reflection of the community that we serve; we're a reflection of society we don't grow officers in a little petri-dish and that sprout to be perfect humane beings."
APD has a psychologist on hand and numerous programs to help any officer who may face a substance abuse problem, and the chief says there's no excuse for officers to get out of control when it comes to drugs and alcohol.
In 2008, more than 200 officers took part in the employee assistance programs. In 2009, more than 600 turned to the program for help.
"We do care about our people, we care about our image, we care about our community," Acevedo said.
Chief Acevedo says in the past two and a half years, there have been approximately 10 officers cited for alcohol and drug abuse. He also says the department knew about Sgt. Martin's first arrest in December, and he's been off active duty ever since. Quintana is on restricted duty as well.
On Monday, officers were called to an apartment complex on Colonial Parkway in Cedar Park, where they say they found Sgt. Robert Craig Martin surrounded by 36 cans of aerosol computer cleaner. Investigators say Martin was "huffing," or inhaling the canisters to get high.
This wasn't the first time Martin has been in trouble. He was also arrested by Kyle police on December 16 after someone claimed they saw him sniffing something from an aerosol can in a Lowes parking lot.
Wayne Vincent, president of the Austin Police Association, says constant stress and scrutiny can cause officers to fall prey to drugs and alcohol abuse. He also says that's no excuse for what Martin has been accused of doing.
"The problem is officers through their culture help people and very rarely no matter how hard you try, do they feel they need or deserve help themselves," Vincent said. "Make no mistake about it, it can be a career ending event."
Early Tuesday morning, just hours after Martin was arrested, APD Officer Lenny Quintana was arrested and accused of driving drunk, then crashing into a traffic circle at Saddle Blanket and Osage in Leander.
Quintana's arrest affidavit says he refused a breathalyzer and a blood draw.
The officer also says that Quintana's eyes were glassy and blood shot and that he failed a field sobriety test.
"It is an embarrassment; it's something we're not proud of," said Chief Acevedo. "But like I tell folks we're a reflection of the community that we serve; we're a reflection of society we don't grow officers in a little petri-dish and that sprout to be perfect humane beings."
APD has a psychologist on hand and numerous programs to help any officer who may face a substance abuse problem, and the chief says there's no excuse for officers to get out of control when it comes to drugs and alcohol.
In 2008, more than 200 officers took part in the employee assistance programs. In 2009, more than 600 turned to the program for help.
"We do care about our people, we care about our image, we care about our community," Acevedo said.
Chief Acevedo says in the past two and a half years, there have been approximately 10 officers cited for alcohol and drug abuse. He also says the department knew about Sgt. Martin's first arrest in December, and he's been off active duty ever since. Quintana is on restricted duty as well.
Officers Daniel Rodriguez & Jorge Baca Accused of Police Brutality
Two police officers accused of police brutality are under investigation by state authorities and prosecutors, the agencies confirmed Wednesday.
Officers Daniel Rodriguez and Jorge Baca arrested teenager Ewan Rose on Nov. 18, more than a year after his acquittal in a sexual battery case. The officers charged Rose, 18, with loitering, battery on a police officer and resisting arrest with violence.
Prosecutors with the Broward State Attorney's Office declined to file charges against Rose in late November.
Since then, a prosecutor with the Special Prosecutions Unit has been looking into claims the officers arrested the teen on false charges, battered him and engaged in official misconduct, State Attorney's Office spokesman Ron Ishoy said in an e-mail Wednesday. Prosecutors are reviewing the case to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.
Tony Livoti, a union attorney who is representing the two officers, could not be reached Wednesday for comment.
On Nov. 27, nine days after Rose's arrest, Sunrise Police Chief John Brooks put Rodriguez, 30, on administrative leave with pay, forcing him to turn in his gun and badge. The same day, Baca, 38, was taken off road patrol and assigned to desk duty. He also had to turn in his gun and badge.
Both officers earn $59,000 a year and joined the department on the same day in October 2007.
Sunrise officers arrested Rose in August 2007 on charges of burglary and sexual battery. A Broward jury acquitted him in the fall of 2008.
His run-in with Rodriguez and Baca came a year later. Brooks and other officials declined to discuss details, citing the open investigation.
Reached at her Sunrise home, Valarie Rose, Ewan's mother, referred all questions to her son's attorney, Jeff Ivashuk, who declined to comment Wednesday.
After learning of Rose's allegations of police brutaility, Brooks said, he referred the case to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the State Attorney's Office.
The FBI is keeping an eye on the case as well, according to officials. FBI spokeswoman Judy Orihuela said Tuesday she could not comment.
Officers Daniel Rodriguez and Jorge Baca arrested teenager Ewan Rose on Nov. 18, more than a year after his acquittal in a sexual battery case. The officers charged Rose, 18, with loitering, battery on a police officer and resisting arrest with violence.
Prosecutors with the Broward State Attorney's Office declined to file charges against Rose in late November.
Since then, a prosecutor with the Special Prosecutions Unit has been looking into claims the officers arrested the teen on false charges, battered him and engaged in official misconduct, State Attorney's Office spokesman Ron Ishoy said in an e-mail Wednesday. Prosecutors are reviewing the case to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.
Tony Livoti, a union attorney who is representing the two officers, could not be reached Wednesday for comment.
On Nov. 27, nine days after Rose's arrest, Sunrise Police Chief John Brooks put Rodriguez, 30, on administrative leave with pay, forcing him to turn in his gun and badge. The same day, Baca, 38, was taken off road patrol and assigned to desk duty. He also had to turn in his gun and badge.
Both officers earn $59,000 a year and joined the department on the same day in October 2007.
Sunrise officers arrested Rose in August 2007 on charges of burglary and sexual battery. A Broward jury acquitted him in the fall of 2008.
His run-in with Rodriguez and Baca came a year later. Brooks and other officials declined to discuss details, citing the open investigation.
Reached at her Sunrise home, Valarie Rose, Ewan's mother, referred all questions to her son's attorney, Jeff Ivashuk, who declined to comment Wednesday.
After learning of Rose's allegations of police brutaility, Brooks said, he referred the case to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the State Attorney's Office.
The FBI is keeping an eye on the case as well, according to officials. FBI spokeswoman Judy Orihuela said Tuesday she could not comment.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Trial Begins for Deputy Schene Accused of Beating 15-year-old
The assault trial began Tuesday in King County Superior Court for a man accused of beating a 15-year-old girl in a holding cell at the SeaTac City Hall.
She was a car theft suspect who was taken down violently in November 2008 after she kicked a shoe at Deputy Paul Schene. The incident was caught on video. Schene was fired last September.
Prosecutors played the tape in court and said Schene had failed to report slamming the girl into a wall, throwing her to the floor and striking her.
A defense lawyer says the girl provoked the attack with her behavior and yelling profanity.
Investigators believe that anger about the beating might have motivated Christopher Monfort who is accused of killing a Seattle police officer.
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She was a car theft suspect who was taken down violently in November 2008 after she kicked a shoe at Deputy Paul Schene. The incident was caught on video. Schene was fired last September.
Prosecutors played the tape in court and said Schene had failed to report slamming the girl into a wall, throwing her to the floor and striking her.
A defense lawyer says the girl provoked the attack with her behavior and yelling profanity.
Investigators believe that anger about the beating might have motivated Christopher Monfort who is accused of killing a Seattle police officer.
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Officer Jason Potteiger Fired After Investigation
A Leipsic police officer has been fired after an investigation indicated he was observed away from his assignment several times.
The Putnam County Sentinel reports Jason Potteiger's police cruiser was seen several times parked outside a residence during times when he was on patrol.
Police Chief Dennis Cupp says the infraction was observed for periods of as much as eight hours on six occasions during December.
Potteiger was originally placed on 90 days probation, but was terminated by mayor Kevin Benton after he received the report.
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The Putnam County Sentinel reports Jason Potteiger's police cruiser was seen several times parked outside a residence during times when he was on patrol.
Police Chief Dennis Cupp says the infraction was observed for periods of as much as eight hours on six occasions during December.
Potteiger was originally placed on 90 days probation, but was terminated by mayor Kevin Benton after he received the report.
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Officer Jerry Pendley Arrested for Lying on Job Application
An Oklahoma police officer was arrested for lying to the federal government after authorities say he falsified a job application. The allegations stem from when Luther police officer Jerry Pendley went to work as a security officer at a federal building.
"I guess they don't have anything better to do at Homeland Security now," Pendley's attorney Robert Manchester said. "They have to find somebody to show they're doing something."
According to Manchester, Pendley is that somebody; agents arrested him Monday night on two federal charges.
Court records show Pendley failed to mention previous criminal charges on his employment application when he applied for a security position at our state's federal building.
Records say he was arrested for assault and battery more than once and was charged with carrying a concealed weapon.
Authorities also say he lied about why he left his former places of employment; allegations his attorney says are blown out of proportion.
"It's foolishness. It is a tempest in the teapot," Manchester said. "They've taken a mole hill and tried to make it into a mountain and my client's the fall guy."
Manchester says Pendley got a phone call from an OHP trooper telling him he needed to meet him at a gas station.
That's when they informed Pendley of a warrant for his arrest and took him into custody.
"They didn't want to talk to him," Manchester said. "They wanted to arrest him."
Pendley has been an officer at the Luther Police Department for about three weeks and the chief says he passed their background check.
"The short time he was here he was an excellent officer," Chief C.O. Moore said.
Pendley was employed at the Federal Building from 2005 to 2009; four years his attorney says went unnoticed until now.
"Do they do background investigations?" Manchester said. "What have they been doing? Why is this suddenly a burning issue with them?"
Luther police say there will be a meeting Wednesday to decide how to handle Pendley's employment with the department.
Pendley has been released from jail on bond.
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"I guess they don't have anything better to do at Homeland Security now," Pendley's attorney Robert Manchester said. "They have to find somebody to show they're doing something."
According to Manchester, Pendley is that somebody; agents arrested him Monday night on two federal charges.
Court records show Pendley failed to mention previous criminal charges on his employment application when he applied for a security position at our state's federal building.
Records say he was arrested for assault and battery more than once and was charged with carrying a concealed weapon.
Authorities also say he lied about why he left his former places of employment; allegations his attorney says are blown out of proportion.
"It's foolishness. It is a tempest in the teapot," Manchester said. "They've taken a mole hill and tried to make it into a mountain and my client's the fall guy."
Manchester says Pendley got a phone call from an OHP trooper telling him he needed to meet him at a gas station.
That's when they informed Pendley of a warrant for his arrest and took him into custody.
"They didn't want to talk to him," Manchester said. "They wanted to arrest him."
Pendley has been an officer at the Luther Police Department for about three weeks and the chief says he passed their background check.
"The short time he was here he was an excellent officer," Chief C.O. Moore said.
Pendley was employed at the Federal Building from 2005 to 2009; four years his attorney says went unnoticed until now.
"Do they do background investigations?" Manchester said. "What have they been doing? Why is this suddenly a burning issue with them?"
Luther police say there will be a meeting Wednesday to decide how to handle Pendley's employment with the department.
Pendley has been released from jail on bond.
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Former Officer Timothy Radogna Sentenced for Grand Theft
A former Glendora police officer pleaded no contest today to grand theft and possessing methamphetamine.
Timothy Radogna, 34, was sentenced to 180 days in county jail and three years of probation and ordered to complete a 24-month drug rehabilitation program, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office.
He could have received a maximum term of nine years and eight months in state prison.
Radogna was arrested in May after he was accused of stealing hundreds of dollars from the Glendora Police Department and possessing drugs.
Radgona was also ordered to repay $500 to the department, authorities said.
Timothy Radogna, 34, was sentenced to 180 days in county jail and three years of probation and ordered to complete a 24-month drug rehabilitation program, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office.
He could have received a maximum term of nine years and eight months in state prison.
Radogna was arrested in May after he was accused of stealing hundreds of dollars from the Glendora Police Department and possessing drugs.
Radgona was also ordered to repay $500 to the department, authorities said.
Corrections Officer Thaddeus Boston Arrested for Choking Fiancee
A Charlotte County corrections officer was arrested in North Port today on domestic violence charges.
Thaddeus Boston, 32, faces domestic battery and false imprisonment charges after allegedly choking and hitting his 26-year-old fiancee in the 4000 block of Manila Avenue Tuesday.
The couple was reportedly quarrelling when Boston attacked her. She ran to a neighbor's house and called 911 shortly after 9:30 a.m.
Boston was booked and released from the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.
Thaddeus Boston, 32, faces domestic battery and false imprisonment charges after allegedly choking and hitting his 26-year-old fiancee in the 4000 block of Manila Avenue Tuesday.
The couple was reportedly quarrelling when Boston attacked her. She ran to a neighbor's house and called 911 shortly after 9:30 a.m.
Boston was booked and released from the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.
Deputy Charles Ray Mistric Charged with Malfeasance in Office
An employee with the St Landry Parish Sheriff's Department was arrested Monday after allegations that he mishandled an inmate.
TV 10 spoke with Sheriff Bobby Guidroz about the arrest, and what new safeguards will be put in place so this never happens again.
The Sheriff says that the man arrested was a corrections officer working in the St Landry Parish Jail. He was arrested after allegedly touching a female inmate inappropriately.
Sixty one year old Charles Ray Mistric, was arrested Monday and charged with malfeasance in office. Sheriff Guidroz says Mistric resigned from his deputy position before he was arrested.
A female inmate alleges that Mistric inappropriately touched her as he escorted her to use the phone. An investigation led to the correction officers arrest. The sheriff says safeguards will now be put in place to stop this from happening in the future.
"We have a new policy in place that if a female wants to make a call, she'll be escorted by a female, vice-versa. We've taken some steps to improve, that I thought were already in place, but were not" says Guidroz.
Mistric had only been an employee with the sheriff's department for about ten months. The alleged incident took place over the past weekend.
TV 10 spoke with Sheriff Bobby Guidroz about the arrest, and what new safeguards will be put in place so this never happens again.
The Sheriff says that the man arrested was a corrections officer working in the St Landry Parish Jail. He was arrested after allegedly touching a female inmate inappropriately.
Sixty one year old Charles Ray Mistric, was arrested Monday and charged with malfeasance in office. Sheriff Guidroz says Mistric resigned from his deputy position before he was arrested.
A female inmate alleges that Mistric inappropriately touched her as he escorted her to use the phone. An investigation led to the correction officers arrest. The sheriff says safeguards will now be put in place to stop this from happening in the future.
"We have a new policy in place that if a female wants to make a call, she'll be escorted by a female, vice-versa. We've taken some steps to improve, that I thought were already in place, but were not" says Guidroz.
Mistric had only been an employee with the sheriff's department for about ten months. The alleged incident took place over the past weekend.
Misdemeanor assault charges have been filed against an off-duty Chicago police officer who was arrested Tuesday after he became combative with officers who responded to a shooting inside his Southwest Side home.
Citing union contract restrictions, police declined to identify the officer, who has been freed on bail.
The shooting happened in the officer's home in the 10700 block of South Troy Street at about 4:45 a.m. Tuesday, according to a statement from Chicago police. The officer phoned 911 to report that a man had been shot in the head inside the home, police said.
The victim was taken to an area hospital in critical condition.
The officer's weapon was used in the shooting, said a law-enforcement source, who indicated the victim was a friend of the officer's.
Another source said the officer told police the victim had grabbed his gun and shot himself in the head.The department is continuing to investigate the shooting, and tests are pending, the source said.
Chicago detectives, the department's Internal Affairs Division and the Independent Police Review Authority are investigating the incident.
The officer, a veteran of six years on the force, has been stripped of his police powers.
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Citing union contract restrictions, police declined to identify the officer, who has been freed on bail.
The shooting happened in the officer's home in the 10700 block of South Troy Street at about 4:45 a.m. Tuesday, according to a statement from Chicago police. The officer phoned 911 to report that a man had been shot in the head inside the home, police said.
The victim was taken to an area hospital in critical condition.
The officer's weapon was used in the shooting, said a law-enforcement source, who indicated the victim was a friend of the officer's.
Another source said the officer told police the victim had grabbed his gun and shot himself in the head.The department is continuing to investigate the shooting, and tests are pending, the source said.
Chicago detectives, the department's Internal Affairs Division and the Independent Police Review Authority are investigating the incident.
The officer, a veteran of six years on the force, has been stripped of his police powers.
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Monday, January 11, 2010
Correctional Deputy Steven Crews Charged with Sexual Battery on Child
Bradford County authorities on Sunday arrested a Baker County correctional deputy on allegations that he had sexually abused a girl. Investigators said the abuse might have started when the girl was about 10 years old and continued for as long as six years.
Steven Kyle Crews, 35, was charged with sexual battery on a child age 12 or younger and possession of a photograph or recording of a sex performance by a child. Crews was being held at the Bradford County Jail late Monday awaiting his first court appearance. Baker County Sheriff Joey Dobson on Monday morning fired Crews from his job at the Baker County Jail.
Bradford County Sheriff's Maj. Brad Smith said the case against Crews began Sunday when someone related to him and to the girl through marriages delivered a DVD to the Sheriff's Office. Smith said the DVD contained images of the child performing a sex act. The person who delivered the DVD helped identify Crews as the person who made it, probably a few years earlier, the Bradford County Sheriff's Office reported.
Deputies picked up Crews at his home, found other pornographic material there and took him to the Sheriff's Office in Starke, where he was questioned.
"He gave several admissions to performing various sexual acts with the juvenile," Smith said. "He also divulged information that some incidents may have occurred in Baker County, where he used to live, and in Virginia, so we anticipate that there may be additional charges."
Investigators also are trying to determine whether Crews might have been involved with other children. Concerns were raised that there might have been other victims because investigators were not able to determine if the child pornography alleged to have been in his possession was produced using children he knew or if he downloaded it from the Internet.
"He told us he knew what he was doing was wrong and that he considered suicide but that he never took any action in that regard," Smith said.
During a joint Baker County and Bradford County sheriff's news conference Monday afternoon, Dobson said Crews had begun working for his agency in May.
According to Florida Department of Corrections records, Crews resigned as a sergeant at New River Correctional Institution a few days before taking the similar job at the Baker County Jail.
He also previously had worked at Baker Correctional Institution.
The victim is with family members and has left the area, officials said.
Steven Kyle Crews, 35, was charged with sexual battery on a child age 12 or younger and possession of a photograph or recording of a sex performance by a child. Crews was being held at the Bradford County Jail late Monday awaiting his first court appearance. Baker County Sheriff Joey Dobson on Monday morning fired Crews from his job at the Baker County Jail.
Bradford County Sheriff's Maj. Brad Smith said the case against Crews began Sunday when someone related to him and to the girl through marriages delivered a DVD to the Sheriff's Office. Smith said the DVD contained images of the child performing a sex act. The person who delivered the DVD helped identify Crews as the person who made it, probably a few years earlier, the Bradford County Sheriff's Office reported.
Deputies picked up Crews at his home, found other pornographic material there and took him to the Sheriff's Office in Starke, where he was questioned.
"He gave several admissions to performing various sexual acts with the juvenile," Smith said. "He also divulged information that some incidents may have occurred in Baker County, where he used to live, and in Virginia, so we anticipate that there may be additional charges."
Investigators also are trying to determine whether Crews might have been involved with other children. Concerns were raised that there might have been other victims because investigators were not able to determine if the child pornography alleged to have been in his possession was produced using children he knew or if he downloaded it from the Internet.
"He told us he knew what he was doing was wrong and that he considered suicide but that he never took any action in that regard," Smith said.
During a joint Baker County and Bradford County sheriff's news conference Monday afternoon, Dobson said Crews had begun working for his agency in May.
According to Florida Department of Corrections records, Crews resigned as a sergeant at New River Correctional Institution a few days before taking the similar job at the Baker County Jail.
He also previously had worked at Baker Correctional Institution.
The victim is with family members and has left the area, officials said.
Detentions Deputy Margarita Young Accused of Having Sex with Murderer
A Kern County Sheriff's Office detentions deputy is accused of having sex with an infamous murderer.
Deputy Margarita Young, an 11-year veteran of the department, was arrested Monday afternoon and booked into the central receiving facility. She was being held on $10,000 bail.
She allegedly had a consensual sexual relationship with Timothy Titus Rodriguez at the Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility. Rodriguez was sentenced to death last week for killing 90-year-old Thelma Long and beating her 59-year-old daughter, Cathryn Reeves, in 2007 over a dispute about the amount of money he was paid to do odd jobs around their house.
The investigation into Young's alleged actions began in November, the same month Rodriguez was convicted. Young has been on administrative leave since then.
Rodriguez has been transferred to San Quentin's death row.
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Deputy Margarita Young, an 11-year veteran of the department, was arrested Monday afternoon and booked into the central receiving facility. She was being held on $10,000 bail.
She allegedly had a consensual sexual relationship with Timothy Titus Rodriguez at the Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility. Rodriguez was sentenced to death last week for killing 90-year-old Thelma Long and beating her 59-year-old daughter, Cathryn Reeves, in 2007 over a dispute about the amount of money he was paid to do odd jobs around their house.
The investigation into Young's alleged actions began in November, the same month Rodriguez was convicted. Young has been on administrative leave since then.
Rodriguez has been transferred to San Quentin's death row.
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Officer Brian Decker Fired for Punching Clerk
The former township police officer fired for allegedly punching a Wawa clerk in the face last month is free on $25,000 unsecured bail after being officially charged today with assault.
Brian Decker, 33, was released from an undisclosed treatment facility Saturday morning and was transported to Ridley District Court by a relative. At 8:54 a.m., accompanied by his attorney S. Stanton Miller, Decker was arraigned on misdemeanor charges of simple assault and terroristic threats, and harassment, a summary offense.
The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by detectives from the Delaware County District Attorney’s Special Prosecution Unit.
Magisterial District Judge Anthony D. Scanlon set bail and Decker was released to the unnamed relative pending a preliminary hearing before Scanlon Jan. 14 in Springfield District Court.
Decker was off-duty at 4:33 p.m. Dec. 15 when he allegedly assaulted Monique Bronson, an assistant manager at the Wawa Food Market at 213 Morton Ave. in Folsom. The former police officer allegedly became enraged when Bronson asked him for identification during a chewing tobacco purchase.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, Decker refused to show identification or leave the store. Bronson told investigators she offered to go into the storeroom with Decker and another employee to discuss the situation. While there, Decker struck her in the head and face several times with a closed fist, the affidavit states. Bronson and a customer called 911.
Bronson was treated at Riddle Memorial Hospital for a black eye and contusions.
Shortly after the incident, Bronson gave police a statement saying that Decker had threatened her, saying, “You better watch your back,” according to the affidavit. When she asked if he was threatening her, Decker allegedly replied, “Take it any way you want it. You will be out of here soon, you and your family better watch your back”
Bronson told investigators she had two previous run-ins with Decker when she asked for identification — one in June and another in late November/early December, according to the affidavit. Both times, she alleged, Decker yelled and became agitated when asked for identification.
Hours after the incident, Decker’s gun and badge were confiscated. The married father of two was fired from the force days later.
Ridley Police Capt. Charles Howley Decker’s alleged behavior would not be tolerated, adding that it was “a sad day for Ridley Township police.”
Howley added that Decker had some personal problems, but declined to elaborate.
Brian Decker, 33, was released from an undisclosed treatment facility Saturday morning and was transported to Ridley District Court by a relative. At 8:54 a.m., accompanied by his attorney S. Stanton Miller, Decker was arraigned on misdemeanor charges of simple assault and terroristic threats, and harassment, a summary offense.
The charges were the result of an investigation conducted by detectives from the Delaware County District Attorney’s Special Prosecution Unit.
Magisterial District Judge Anthony D. Scanlon set bail and Decker was released to the unnamed relative pending a preliminary hearing before Scanlon Jan. 14 in Springfield District Court.
Decker was off-duty at 4:33 p.m. Dec. 15 when he allegedly assaulted Monique Bronson, an assistant manager at the Wawa Food Market at 213 Morton Ave. in Folsom. The former police officer allegedly became enraged when Bronson asked him for identification during a chewing tobacco purchase.
According to the affidavit of probable cause, Decker refused to show identification or leave the store. Bronson told investigators she offered to go into the storeroom with Decker and another employee to discuss the situation. While there, Decker struck her in the head and face several times with a closed fist, the affidavit states. Bronson and a customer called 911.
Bronson was treated at Riddle Memorial Hospital for a black eye and contusions.
Shortly after the incident, Bronson gave police a statement saying that Decker had threatened her, saying, “You better watch your back,” according to the affidavit. When she asked if he was threatening her, Decker allegedly replied, “Take it any way you want it. You will be out of here soon, you and your family better watch your back”
Bronson told investigators she had two previous run-ins with Decker when she asked for identification — one in June and another in late November/early December, according to the affidavit. Both times, she alleged, Decker yelled and became agitated when asked for identification.
Hours after the incident, Decker’s gun and badge were confiscated. The married father of two was fired from the force days later.
Ridley Police Capt. Charles Howley Decker’s alleged behavior would not be tolerated, adding that it was “a sad day for Ridley Township police.”
Howley added that Decker had some personal problems, but declined to elaborate.
Pierce County Corrections Officer Arrested for Pointing Weapon During Domestic Assault
A Pierce County corrections officer is expected to make his first appearance in court today after being arrested for allegedly pointing a gun at his domestic partner.
Puyallup police arrested the 48-year-old man Sunday night at his home in the western part of the city, Lt. Scott Engle said Monday. He was booked into the Puyallup city jail for investigation of second-degree domestic-violence assault, according to corrections records. That charge is a felony.
Pierce County Jail chief Martha Karr said the officer was placed on paid administrative leave Monday, which is routine when a corrections officer is accused of a crime.
Engle said a detective is assigned to the case.
Deputy prosecutor Grant Blinn, who supervises the special-assault unit, said a charging decision had not been made late Monday.
The News Tribune is not naming the officer because he’s not been charged.
Patrol officers were dispatched to the officer’s house about 10:15 p.m. to investigate a domestic-violence complaint after the officer’s 51-year-old partner called 911 to report he’d been threatened, Engle said. The lieutenant declined to release more details until the corrections officer appears in court.
The partner sought and received a temporary protection order against the officer Monday, according to Superior Court records.
The victim wrote in his petition that the officer “pulled a 9 mm Glock weapon on me. I am in harm’s way. I don’t feel protected.”
He went on to write that he has endured “15 years of violence, threats but never gun assault.”
The man did not say what motivated his partner to allegedly pull a gun on him.
Puyallup police arrested the 48-year-old man Sunday night at his home in the western part of the city, Lt. Scott Engle said Monday. He was booked into the Puyallup city jail for investigation of second-degree domestic-violence assault, according to corrections records. That charge is a felony.
Pierce County Jail chief Martha Karr said the officer was placed on paid administrative leave Monday, which is routine when a corrections officer is accused of a crime.
Engle said a detective is assigned to the case.
Deputy prosecutor Grant Blinn, who supervises the special-assault unit, said a charging decision had not been made late Monday.
The News Tribune is not naming the officer because he’s not been charged.
Patrol officers were dispatched to the officer’s house about 10:15 p.m. to investigate a domestic-violence complaint after the officer’s 51-year-old partner called 911 to report he’d been threatened, Engle said. The lieutenant declined to release more details until the corrections officer appears in court.
The partner sought and received a temporary protection order against the officer Monday, according to Superior Court records.
The victim wrote in his petition that the officer “pulled a 9 mm Glock weapon on me. I am in harm’s way. I don’t feel protected.”
He went on to write that he has endured “15 years of violence, threats but never gun assault.”
The man did not say what motivated his partner to allegedly pull a gun on him.
Corrections Officer Michael Laveau Charged with DWI
Cloquet resident Michael John Laveau, 29, faces charges of gross misdemeanor criminal vehicular operation, misdemeanor fourth degree driving while intoxicated and misdemeanor fourth degree driving while intoxicated - .08 or more within two hours.
The criminal complaint and summons was filed in Carlton County Court on Jan. 11 by an assistant Pine County attorney, who received the case after Carlton County Attorney Thomas Pertler cited conflict of interest concerns. It was unclear Monday when Laveau would make an initial appearance and whether he would appear in Carlton County Court or Pine County Court in the case.
According to court documents, at 1:25 a.m. Oct. 18, Laveau was driving a full-size Dodge pickup truck north on Highway 45 near the Scanlon Park and Ride by Interstate 35 when he swerved to miss “some type of animal,” that had run out in front of him. Laveau then lost control of the truck and it rolled, coming to a stop on the shoulder of the road on the driver’s side.
Laveau and passenger Kaira Lee Wedin, 28, were not reportedly wearing seat belts and she was thrown from the vehicle.
Wedin was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital with injuries to her neck and head. Officers reportedly smelled alcohol coming from Wedin and they observed lacerations and redness on her face and dried blood in her hair. She was treated and released. Officers at the scene also reported a strong odor of alcohol coming from Laveau and that his eyes were watery and glazed over.
Laveau was taken by ambulance to Community Memorial Hospital in Cloquet where he was also treated for non-life threatening injuries and a blood alcohol test was administered. Laveau’s blood alcohol concentration was found to be .12 more than an hour after the accident, according to a toxicology report from the State Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Minnesota law states the legal limit for driving while intoxicated is .08.
Carlton County Sheriff Kelly Lake said Laveau has been a Carlton County Sheriff’s Office employee since June 2004. Although hired as a corrections officer, Laveau is a licensed deputy and was on patrol for the county from March 2006 until July 2008 while another deputy was on military deployment, she said.
After taking sick leave due to injuries, Lake said in November that Laveau has been back to work in the jail.
Corrections Officer Byron Lee Thornton Charged with Molesting Child
He was booked into the Escambia County jail Friday. Thornton was last employed at the Santa Rosa Correctional Institution.
If convicted, Thornton could face life in prison.
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Judge Refuses to Reduce Bond for Former Officer Marcus Jackson
A Mecklenburg judge today again refused to reduce the bond keeping former Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer Marucs Jackson behind bars.
Jackson, 25, has been held under a $423,000 bond since his Dec. 30 arrest on charges he sexually assaulted at least three women during recent traffic stops.
The ex-cop's attorney told Judge Hugh Lewis that Jackson couldn't afford to pay such a high amount, nor did he know anyone who could help him make bail.
Some of Jackson's alleged victims were in court today to oppose bond reduction. One woman said she experienced nightmares as a result of the alleged attack, and the arrest of her boyfriend when he tried to stop Jackson.
Jackson's friends and relatives were also in court, describing him as a good friend and protector.
At least five women have come forward and accused Jackson of assault. Detectives said Friday they were still checking out additional reports from alleged victims.
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Jackson, 25, has been held under a $423,000 bond since his Dec. 30 arrest on charges he sexually assaulted at least three women during recent traffic stops.
The ex-cop's attorney told Judge Hugh Lewis that Jackson couldn't afford to pay such a high amount, nor did he know anyone who could help him make bail.
Some of Jackson's alleged victims were in court today to oppose bond reduction. One woman said she experienced nightmares as a result of the alleged attack, and the arrest of her boyfriend when he tried to stop Jackson.
Jackson's friends and relatives were also in court, describing him as a good friend and protector.
At least five women have come forward and accused Jackson of assault. Detectives said Friday they were still checking out additional reports from alleged victims.
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Officer Sean Heyenga Arrested for Choking His Wife
Sean Heyenga waived his preliminary hearing Monday.
Police reports say a drunk Heyenga strangled his wife Nicole until she became unconscious. When she came to, she reportedly ran to neighbors to call 9-1-1. Reports also say he attacked her so fiercely he left marks on her neck.
The incident allegedly happened in December at their home near 63rd and Blondo. Court documents say Heyenga has been violent with her before, but she has been afraid to come forward and tell police because he's an officer.
Heyenga is on administrative leave with the Omaha Police Department.
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Former Officer Monte Montalvo Sentenced to One Year in Prison
A U.S. District judge sentenced a fired Buffalo police officer to one year in prison today for his conviction on unlawful possession of a firearm while subject to an order of protection involving his former spouse.
Monte R. Montalvo, 39, of Cheektowaga, also is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday in state court for his guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of attempting to commit a criminal sexual act involving sodomy.
That reduced charge stemmed from allegations that he tried to molest a 19-year-old college student on Dec. 2, 2007. He was fired a year ago from the police department.
Federal Judge William M. Skretny sentenced Montalvo today.
Under federal statutes, law enforcement personnel cannot possess a weapon outside of their work shift if they are subject to a court order involving a domestic situation, authorities explained.
Meanwhile, State Supreme Court Justice John L. Michalski is scheduled to sentence Montalvo on the state charge. Montalvo's plea in that case forced him to register with the state as a convicted sex offender.
Michalski could sentence Montalvo to up to a year in jail.
Montalvo, a decorated former police officer, has been living on a state disability pension due to knee injuries suffered on the job.
The investigation into the weapons charge involved local FBI and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents, with assistance from city police.
Monte R. Montalvo, 39, of Cheektowaga, also is scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday in state court for his guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of attempting to commit a criminal sexual act involving sodomy.
That reduced charge stemmed from allegations that he tried to molest a 19-year-old college student on Dec. 2, 2007. He was fired a year ago from the police department.
Federal Judge William M. Skretny sentenced Montalvo today.
Under federal statutes, law enforcement personnel cannot possess a weapon outside of their work shift if they are subject to a court order involving a domestic situation, authorities explained.
Meanwhile, State Supreme Court Justice John L. Michalski is scheduled to sentence Montalvo on the state charge. Montalvo's plea in that case forced him to register with the state as a convicted sex offender.
Michalski could sentence Montalvo to up to a year in jail.
Montalvo, a decorated former police officer, has been living on a state disability pension due to knee injuries suffered on the job.
The investigation into the weapons charge involved local FBI and Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms agents, with assistance from city police.
Former Officer Mark McCombs Sentenced for Stealing SWAT Weapons
A former suburban Cleveland police officer convicted of stealing machine guns, night-vision goggles and a silencer has been sentenced to 18 months in prison and now faces more time behind bars.
Parma police officer Mark McCombs apologized in Cuyhaoga County Common Pleas court before the sentencing for tampering with evidence and theft in office.
McCombs is awaiting sentencing in federal court where he faces at least 41 months in prison for having two machine guns and a silencer that were stolen from the police department's SWAT team.
McCombs was a member of the SWAT unit until he was fired in 2007.
He was fired after being accused of forcing a woman to have sex in a patrol car. A jury later found him not guilty of rape, kidnapping and gross sexual imposition.
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Parma police officer Mark McCombs apologized in Cuyhaoga County Common Pleas court before the sentencing for tampering with evidence and theft in office.
McCombs is awaiting sentencing in federal court where he faces at least 41 months in prison for having two machine guns and a silencer that were stolen from the police department's SWAT team.
McCombs was a member of the SWAT unit until he was fired in 2007.
He was fired after being accused of forcing a woman to have sex in a patrol car. A jury later found him not guilty of rape, kidnapping and gross sexual imposition.
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Sgt. Jay Malispina Charged with Stealing from His Mother
Salinas police Sgt. Jay Malispina will be arraigned this afternoon on felony elder financial abuse charges.
Salinas police detective Lalo Villegas confirmed this morning that Malispina is on paid administrative leave, and that he is charged with theft from an elderly person.
Prosecutors filed the charges Dec. 29 with an order for Malispina to appear today for arraignment. According to the Monterey County Superior Court Web site, the case was investigated by Salinas police.
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Salinas police detective Lalo Villegas confirmed this morning that Malispina is on paid administrative leave, and that he is charged with theft from an elderly person.
Prosecutors filed the charges Dec. 29 with an order for Malispina to appear today for arraignment. According to the Monterey County Superior Court Web site, the case was investigated by Salinas police.
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Wrong Man Shot by Officer
A police involved shooting is under investigation after an officer wounded a man who turned out to be uninvolved in the crime in question.
"This was a very unfortunate incident," Suffolk County Police Chief Dominic Varrone said.
Police announced the surprising turn of events on Monday afternoon.
The suspect shot by an officer wasn't a suspect at all -- just the wrong guy, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
The shooting happened just three miles away from a Huntington Station Taco Bell, a mere minutes after three masked men robbed it at gunpoint and took off in a car.
The alert had just gone out over the radio when the 14-year old veteran cop found himself at a red light behind a car carrying three people.
"He commanded them to keep their hands up and commanded the person in the back seat to show his hands," Det. Lt. Gerard Pelkofsky said.
But police say the driver got out of the car and confronted the cop as the backseat passenger suddenly put his hands between his knees. The officer shot him right through the car window.
"It was clearly an emotionally charged situation. The officer clearly felt these may have been involved in the robbery," Varrone said.
The 31-year-old man was shot in the abdomen. The man was transported to Huntington Hospital where he was admitted and listed in stable condition.
Turned out the men in the car were unarmed and had nothing to do with the taco bell robbery.
The three violent men who did are still on the run.
Detectives worked that crime scene for hours on Monday, making impressions of tire tracks and footprints near the scene.
The names of the officer and the wounded man have not been released.
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"This was a very unfortunate incident," Suffolk County Police Chief Dominic Varrone said.
Police announced the surprising turn of events on Monday afternoon.
The suspect shot by an officer wasn't a suspect at all -- just the wrong guy, in the wrong place, at the wrong time.
The shooting happened just three miles away from a Huntington Station Taco Bell, a mere minutes after three masked men robbed it at gunpoint and took off in a car.
The alert had just gone out over the radio when the 14-year old veteran cop found himself at a red light behind a car carrying three people.
"He commanded them to keep their hands up and commanded the person in the back seat to show his hands," Det. Lt. Gerard Pelkofsky said.
But police say the driver got out of the car and confronted the cop as the backseat passenger suddenly put his hands between his knees. The officer shot him right through the car window.
"It was clearly an emotionally charged situation. The officer clearly felt these may have been involved in the robbery," Varrone said.
The 31-year-old man was shot in the abdomen. The man was transported to Huntington Hospital where he was admitted and listed in stable condition.
Turned out the men in the car were unarmed and had nothing to do with the taco bell robbery.
The three violent men who did are still on the run.
Detectives worked that crime scene for hours on Monday, making impressions of tire tracks and footprints near the scene.
The names of the officer and the wounded man have not been released.
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More Problems for Former Officer Jerry Saldivar
There's been another twist in the story of the former Madera sheriff's deputy who had been accused of sexually molesting his own wife.
Months ago, former deputy Jerry Saldivar's wife accused him of sexually assaulting her.
But the Fresno County District Attorney's office eventually dropped the charges against Saldivar, after his wife allegedly smashed her way into the house where he was staying and assaulted him.
She was then charged with assault and residential burglary, allegations that could have put her behind bars for 18 months.
Now, she has agreed to plead no contest to lesser charges.
And instead of jail, she faces probation, and she'll have to attend anger management classes.
Jerry Saldivar no longer works for the Madera sheriff's department.
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Months ago, former deputy Jerry Saldivar's wife accused him of sexually assaulting her.
But the Fresno County District Attorney's office eventually dropped the charges against Saldivar, after his wife allegedly smashed her way into the house where he was staying and assaulted him.
She was then charged with assault and residential burglary, allegations that could have put her behind bars for 18 months.
Now, she has agreed to plead no contest to lesser charges.
And instead of jail, she faces probation, and she'll have to attend anger management classes.
Jerry Saldivar no longer works for the Madera sheriff's department.
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Officer Joe Zepeda Pleads Not Guilty to Drunk Driving
An off-duty police officer accused of DWI in White Plains, New York, pleaded not guilty to drunken driving in connection with a New Year's Eve accident.
The accident occurred around 5AM Dec 31 when Officer Joe Zepeda was traveling on I-287 near Exit 6 in White Plains. He collided with a tractor trailer. A passenger in the officer's car suffered a broken ankle. The truck driver was taken to a local medical center for treatment of neck and back pain. Zepeda suffered minor injuries that did not require treatment.
The 37-year-old officer refused a blood sample following the wreck. He entered a not guilty plea to the DWI charge, but a separate hearing will be held to determine the consequence of his blood test refusal. This is not a criminal hearing. It is what is called an administrative hearing, taking place at a DMV and carrying only civil punishments.
Zepeda has been suspended without pay from a job he held since 2007. He will appear in court on the charge on Jan. 26. The main reason for public attention to this issue is the fact four police officers total have been arrested for drunk driving related charges in just a few weeks in Westchester County.
The arrests come within a few months of now infamous New York police officer DWI charges involving deaths. In one case, Officer Andrew Kelley is charged with taking the life of a young woman as she left a wedding in Brooklyn. In that incident, Kelly's passengers, including another police officer, fled the scene. This incident drew national press.
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The accident occurred around 5AM Dec 31 when Officer Joe Zepeda was traveling on I-287 near Exit 6 in White Plains. He collided with a tractor trailer. A passenger in the officer's car suffered a broken ankle. The truck driver was taken to a local medical center for treatment of neck and back pain. Zepeda suffered minor injuries that did not require treatment.
The 37-year-old officer refused a blood sample following the wreck. He entered a not guilty plea to the DWI charge, but a separate hearing will be held to determine the consequence of his blood test refusal. This is not a criminal hearing. It is what is called an administrative hearing, taking place at a DMV and carrying only civil punishments.
Zepeda has been suspended without pay from a job he held since 2007. He will appear in court on the charge on Jan. 26. The main reason for public attention to this issue is the fact four police officers total have been arrested for drunk driving related charges in just a few weeks in Westchester County.
The arrests come within a few months of now infamous New York police officer DWI charges involving deaths. In one case, Officer Andrew Kelley is charged with taking the life of a young woman as she left a wedding in Brooklyn. In that incident, Kelly's passengers, including another police officer, fled the scene. This incident drew national press.
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Sunday, January 10, 2010
Former Deputy Daniel Rowan Illegally Purchased Police Car
A former Plymouth County Sheriff's Department Deputy has become the second Sheriff's employee in Massachusetts to find himself in hot water this week.
The State Ethics Commission revealed allegations yesterday that deputy sheriff and vehicle mechanic Daniel Rowan had used his position to get a free car and influence equipment purchases in the department.
Rowan allegedly agreed to buy a used police car from a department vendor, Municipal Headquarters Inc., for $800, but then took the Crown Victoria and never paid for it.
He is also accused of influencing the department into buying equipment from M.H. Inc.
These allegations come just a day after the Ethics Commission fined a Norfolk County jail guard 6 thousand dollars for buying a house from an inmate.
The Commission will schedule a hearing on Rowan within 90 days.
The State Ethics Commission revealed allegations yesterday that deputy sheriff and vehicle mechanic Daniel Rowan had used his position to get a free car and influence equipment purchases in the department.
Rowan allegedly agreed to buy a used police car from a department vendor, Municipal Headquarters Inc., for $800, but then took the Crown Victoria and never paid for it.
He is also accused of influencing the department into buying equipment from M.H. Inc.
These allegations come just a day after the Ethics Commission fined a Norfolk County jail guard 6 thousand dollars for buying a house from an inmate.
The Commission will schedule a hearing on Rowan within 90 days.
Officer Herman Peterson Arrested for Stealing Dog
He was supposed to be protecting and serving, however Evangeline Parish authorities arrested one Opelousas Police officer for stealing.
Ville Platte resident Britney Richard says Officer Herman Peterson came into her home and took her dog.
Through word of mouth, Richard says she found out another resident had the dog. That person told Richard he got the dog from Officer Peterson.
Peterson was booked on theft charges and posted bond. He has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
The police department is conducting an internal investigation on the matter.
Ville Platte resident Britney Richard says Officer Herman Peterson came into her home and took her dog.
Through word of mouth, Richard says she found out another resident had the dog. That person told Richard he got the dog from Officer Peterson.
Peterson was booked on theft charges and posted bond. He has been placed on administrative leave with pay.
The police department is conducting an internal investigation on the matter.
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Lt. Ronald Netter Has Service Weapon Stolen for the Third Time
Authorities are searching for a D.C. police lieutenant’s service weapon that went missing after a carjacking in Prince George’s County, multiple police sources said.
Veteran police officer Lt. Ronald Netter told investigators that his weapon was stolen while his vehicle was stopped late Wednesday near Temple Hills, law enforcement sources told The Examiner.
Police used K-9 units Wednesday night and Thursday to try sniff out the missing gun.
A teenage boy has been taken into custody in the case, police said. The teenager denied stealing the gun and said he knew Netter personally, said police sources familiar with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of his gun could be a problem for Netter because this is the third time he has lost his service weapon, according to two sources within the Metropolitan Police Department.
Around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Netter called Prince George’s County police from a 7-Eleven convenience store on the 5400 block of Silver Hill Road in Temple Hills to say that he had been carjacked by a black male, according to Prince George’s police Officer Henry Tippett. Netter said the suspect took off with his 1995 gold Lexus and was armed with a handgun. Police sent out a K-9 unit and found the suspect but had not found the car as of late Thursday, Tippett said.
Police officers are responsible for their service weapons and can be terminated for losing them through improper safekeeping or making poor personal choices.
The teenager was going to be charged in the carjacking, police said.
Netter had recently been transferred from a top manager in the 6th District in Southeast Washington, where he was lauded by Hillcrest residents . He now heads up the central cellblock, the jail in the basement at downtown police headquarters.
Before working on the other side of the Anacostia, he had been a sergeant in the 5th District in Northeast Washington.
Veteran police officer Lt. Ronald Netter told investigators that his weapon was stolen while his vehicle was stopped late Wednesday near Temple Hills, law enforcement sources told The Examiner.
Police used K-9 units Wednesday night and Thursday to try sniff out the missing gun.
A teenage boy has been taken into custody in the case, police said. The teenager denied stealing the gun and said he knew Netter personally, said police sources familiar with the ongoing investigation.
The loss of his gun could be a problem for Netter because this is the third time he has lost his service weapon, according to two sources within the Metropolitan Police Department.
Around 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Netter called Prince George’s County police from a 7-Eleven convenience store on the 5400 block of Silver Hill Road in Temple Hills to say that he had been carjacked by a black male, according to Prince George’s police Officer Henry Tippett. Netter said the suspect took off with his 1995 gold Lexus and was armed with a handgun. Police sent out a K-9 unit and found the suspect but had not found the car as of late Thursday, Tippett said.
Police officers are responsible for their service weapons and can be terminated for losing them through improper safekeeping or making poor personal choices.
The teenager was going to be charged in the carjacking, police said.
Netter had recently been transferred from a top manager in the 6th District in Southeast Washington, where he was lauded by Hillcrest residents . He now heads up the central cellblock, the jail in the basement at downtown police headquarters.
Before working on the other side of the Anacostia, he had been a sergeant in the 5th District in Northeast Washington.
Officer Misty Chandler Terminated After Drug Investigation
Termination processes have been started for Catoosa Police Officer Misty Chandler in the wake of a federal drug investigation.
The Catoosa Police Department and Catoosa City Hall have been in the spotlight after seven arrest warrants were issued Thursday following a five-month long drug investigation.
The News On 6 has learned Chandler was also a target in that investigation. Her court case is to be scheduled within the next 72 days.
Catoosa Assistant Police Chief Paul Whitmire, who's been on paid suspension since shortly after the investigation began, arrived at the police station Thursday after receiving a phone call informing him he'd been indicted for obtaining prescription painkillers illegally. U.S. Marshals were waiting for him.
The Catoosa Police Department and Catoosa City Hall have been in the spotlight after seven arrest warrants were issued Thursday following a five-month long drug investigation.
The News On 6 has learned Chandler was also a target in that investigation. Her court case is to be scheduled within the next 72 days.
Catoosa Assistant Police Chief Paul Whitmire, who's been on paid suspension since shortly after the investigation began, arrived at the police station Thursday after receiving a phone call informing him he'd been indicted for obtaining prescription painkillers illegally. U.S. Marshals were waiting for him.
Officer Anthony McFadden Accused of Inappropriate Convesations with Teen
State police at Hazleton arrested a Weatherly police officer Friday and charged him with unlawful contact with a minor and corruption of minors.
Full-time Weatherly police Officer Anthony James McFadden, 49, of Main Street, Weatherly, engaged in inappropriate telephone conversations with a 15-year-old girl for more than a month, according to troopers.
State police in Hazleton said they received a complaint on Oct. 30 that McFadden took part in phone calls described Friday in arrest papers as "phone sex" with the girl.
McFadden's cell phone log listed 171 calls with the juvenile's home telephone number between Sept. 24 and Nov. 2, according to arrest papers. One call lasted 144 minutes, state police said.
The calls were sexually explicit, and the girl understood her and McFadden to be "boyfriend and girlfriend," arrest papers said.
The state police investigation into the allegations began about two months ago, and McFadden has been on suspension with pay since then.
Charges were filed Friday with District Judge Bruce Appleton in Palmerton. McFadden was arraigned before Appleton and bail was set at $20,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Weatherly Mayor Tom Connors called the charges "disgusting."
"It's just a shame," he said.
Connors said the borough will take a closer look at its police department to make sure something like this doesn't happen again. He also cautioned the public not to hold the actions of one officer against the entire force.
Weatherly Borough Council began hearing complaints about some members of the department last year, including those involved in an alleged drug raid of a home based on statements made by a 7-year-old at his school. Then-police Chief Gary Veasie resigned after that incident and moved out of state to take another police job.
Council appointed Brian Markovchick as the new chief in November. Since then, council has praised his work in trying to regain the confidence of borough residents.
Markovchick said he could not comment on the allegations against McFadden while the officer was under investigation.
Full-time Weatherly police Officer Anthony James McFadden, 49, of Main Street, Weatherly, engaged in inappropriate telephone conversations with a 15-year-old girl for more than a month, according to troopers.
State police in Hazleton said they received a complaint on Oct. 30 that McFadden took part in phone calls described Friday in arrest papers as "phone sex" with the girl.
McFadden's cell phone log listed 171 calls with the juvenile's home telephone number between Sept. 24 and Nov. 2, according to arrest papers. One call lasted 144 minutes, state police said.
The calls were sexually explicit, and the girl understood her and McFadden to be "boyfriend and girlfriend," arrest papers said.
The state police investigation into the allegations began about two months ago, and McFadden has been on suspension with pay since then.
Charges were filed Friday with District Judge Bruce Appleton in Palmerton. McFadden was arraigned before Appleton and bail was set at $20,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday.
Weatherly Mayor Tom Connors called the charges "disgusting."
"It's just a shame," he said.
Connors said the borough will take a closer look at its police department to make sure something like this doesn't happen again. He also cautioned the public not to hold the actions of one officer against the entire force.
Weatherly Borough Council began hearing complaints about some members of the department last year, including those involved in an alleged drug raid of a home based on statements made by a 7-year-old at his school. Then-police Chief Gary Veasie resigned after that incident and moved out of state to take another police job.
Council appointed Brian Markovchick as the new chief in November. Since then, council has praised his work in trying to regain the confidence of borough residents.
Markovchick said he could not comment on the allegations against McFadden while the officer was under investigation.
Rookie Officer Stacy Lavon Moved to Different Jail for Safety Reasons
A rookie Hereford police officer accused of trying to hire someone to burglarize and burn down a Randall County home has been moved to another jail.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, remained in custody Friday at the Potter County jail on a $50,000 bond, charged with the second-degree felony criminal solicitation. She is accused of attempting to hire an undercover Amarillo police officer, who was posing as a criminal, to burglarize and then torch the home where two Randall County Sheriff's Office employees live.
Conway had been housed at the Randall County jail.
Randall County Chief Deputy David Thurman said the decision was made to move Conway because some of the people involved in the matter work for Randall County.
"Just for everybody's safety and security, we felt it prudent to house her somewhere else," he said.
Stacy Lavon Conway, 24, remained in custody Friday at the Potter County jail on a $50,000 bond, charged with the second-degree felony criminal solicitation. She is accused of attempting to hire an undercover Amarillo police officer, who was posing as a criminal, to burglarize and then torch the home where two Randall County Sheriff's Office employees live.
Conway had been housed at the Randall County jail.
Randall County Chief Deputy David Thurman said the decision was made to move Conway because some of the people involved in the matter work for Randall County.
"Just for everybody's safety and security, we felt it prudent to house her somewhere else," he said.
Former Corrections Officer Robert Fuentes Sentenced to ONE Year for Accident that Killed Motorcyclist
A former corrections officer who ran a red light and killed a motorcyclist in Albuquerque has been sentenced to a year in prison.
A judge imposed the sentence on 39-year-old Robert Fuentes for one count of leaving the scene of an accident under a plea bargain prosecutors offered because they would have a difficult time proving Fuentes was driving.
The former jail corrections officers reportedly ran several red lights at speeds up to 90 mph before hitting a motorcycle driven by 48-year-old Paul Souther on April 20, 2008. Souther died at the scene, and Fuentes didn't turn himself in until the next day.
Souther's family objected to the deal, asking Judge Neil Candelaria to reject it at Friday's sentencing. Candelaria ordered Fuentes to serve the year sentence in full.
Information from: KRQE-TV, http://www.krqe.com
A judge imposed the sentence on 39-year-old Robert Fuentes for one count of leaving the scene of an accident under a plea bargain prosecutors offered because they would have a difficult time proving Fuentes was driving.
The former jail corrections officers reportedly ran several red lights at speeds up to 90 mph before hitting a motorcycle driven by 48-year-old Paul Souther on April 20, 2008. Souther died at the scene, and Fuentes didn't turn himself in until the next day.
Souther's family objected to the deal, asking Judge Neil Candelaria to reject it at Friday's sentencing. Candelaria ordered Fuentes to serve the year sentence in full.
Information from: KRQE-TV, http://www.krqe.com
Officer Charles Cooper Charged With Taking Money Instead of Making Arrest
Delhi police officer Charles Cooper, 32, was arrested Friday, charged with taking money and sexual favors in lieu of making arrests.
Cooper was booked at the Richland Parish Detention Center on Friday with no bond set.
The arrest followed a three-month investigation by Louisiana State Police and the Richland Parish Sheriff's Office. In a prepared statement, state police said Richland Sheriff Charles McDonald had requested their assistance in the case after receiving complaints and hearing of allegations about the officer.
State police said the investigation was continuing.
Neither Delhi's mayor nor state police immediately returned phone calls about the investigation or the arrest.
Delhi's police department has had a troubled recent history.
Last April, an administrative assistant was arrested in connection with a charge related to prescription drugs.
In 2006, former Delhi Police Chief Gregg McKinney was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to malfeasance in office, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of simple arson. He had been accused of intentionally burning part of the police station to hide what prosecutors said was evidence of his own crimes.
Cooper was booked at the Richland Parish Detention Center on Friday with no bond set.
The arrest followed a three-month investigation by Louisiana State Police and the Richland Parish Sheriff's Office. In a prepared statement, state police said Richland Sheriff Charles McDonald had requested their assistance in the case after receiving complaints and hearing of allegations about the officer.
State police said the investigation was continuing.
Neither Delhi's mayor nor state police immediately returned phone calls about the investigation or the arrest.
Delhi's police department has had a troubled recent history.
Last April, an administrative assistant was arrested in connection with a charge related to prescription drugs.
In 2006, former Delhi Police Chief Gregg McKinney was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to malfeasance in office, one count of obstruction of justice and one count of simple arson. He had been accused of intentionally burning part of the police station to hide what prosecutors said was evidence of his own crimes.
Former Officer David Reveille Sentenced to 2 Years for Forcing Prostitute to Have Sex While on Duty
Former Gainesville police officer David Reveille was sentenced Friday to two years in prison on charges related to sexual activity with prostitutes while he was on duty.
The sentence by Circuit Judge Ysleta McDonald follows the terms of an agreement in which Reveille pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault with intent to commit the felony of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Reveille was arrested last year on charges that included multiple counts of sexual battery.
Credit for 324 days Reveille has served in the Alachua County jail will reduce his time in prison.
"No one is above the law," Police Chief Tony Jones said of the sentencing when contacted by The Sun. "He went through the system and got his just desserts for his action."
Also, Reveille will serve 13 years' probation and will be prohibited from going into areas known for prostitution and from having pornographic material. He also must undergo a mental health/sexual deviance risk assessment.
Reveille, who has lost considerable weight since he was fired from GPD in late 2008, said nothing at the sentencing.
His wife, Sandi, said afterward, "It will be all right in the end."
GPD fired Reveille after an internal investigation concluded that he "used his official position as a law enforcement officer to obtain sexual favors."
One case involved a woman who police said Reveille handcuffed, took to a marked patrol car and threatened with arrest if she didn't perform a sex act.
Reveille was charged with eight counts of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney's Office, said the plea agreement meets the goals of having Reveille serve prison time and the loss of his career. Mann added it also saves the victims from having to testify.
"It accomplishes multiple things for us," Mann said. "He is going to get some prison time and long-term probation with sex offender sanctions. He loses his law enforcement certification."
Reveille's attorney, Gloria Fletcher, said afterward she believes the sentence was a good resolution to a difficult case.
"Law enforcement is no different than news reporters, lawyers, doctors - we all make mistakes and we all make choices that we'd like to redo. I'm not suggesting that he made a mistake. I am suggesting that he would choose not to be in this situation," Fletcher said.
Reveille recently suffered facial injuries in a scuffle with another inmate at the Alachua County jail. Fletcher expressed concern to McDonald over whether his treatment for those injuries had progressed enough to make it safe to turn him over to the state Department of Corrections.
A doctor on the case was summoned to court and after talking with her, McDonald said she felt comfortable proceeding with the sentencing.
Reveille's case was one of several involving city police officers in the past few years that created image problems for the agency and were termed an embarrassment by former Chief Norman Botsford.
Ex-Cpl. Bill Billings pleaded no contest to felony charges of scheme to defraud and official misconduct in June. He later admitted in court that he paid women for sex while on duty.
Meanwhile, two GPD officers admitted to the off-duty harassment of prostitutes in certain neighborhoods, including throwing eggs at them.
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The sentence by Circuit Judge Ysleta McDonald follows the terms of an agreement in which Reveille pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault with intent to commit the felony of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Reveille was arrested last year on charges that included multiple counts of sexual battery.
Credit for 324 days Reveille has served in the Alachua County jail will reduce his time in prison.
"No one is above the law," Police Chief Tony Jones said of the sentencing when contacted by The Sun. "He went through the system and got his just desserts for his action."
Also, Reveille will serve 13 years' probation and will be prohibited from going into areas known for prostitution and from having pornographic material. He also must undergo a mental health/sexual deviance risk assessment.
Reveille, who has lost considerable weight since he was fired from GPD in late 2008, said nothing at the sentencing.
His wife, Sandi, said afterward, "It will be all right in the end."
GPD fired Reveille after an internal investigation concluded that he "used his official position as a law enforcement officer to obtain sexual favors."
One case involved a woman who police said Reveille handcuffed, took to a marked patrol car and threatened with arrest if she didn't perform a sex act.
Reveille was charged with eight counts of sexual battery, one count of false imprisonment, one count of official misconduct and two counts of battery.
Spencer Mann, spokesman for the State Attorney's Office, said the plea agreement meets the goals of having Reveille serve prison time and the loss of his career. Mann added it also saves the victims from having to testify.
"It accomplishes multiple things for us," Mann said. "He is going to get some prison time and long-term probation with sex offender sanctions. He loses his law enforcement certification."
Reveille's attorney, Gloria Fletcher, said afterward she believes the sentence was a good resolution to a difficult case.
"Law enforcement is no different than news reporters, lawyers, doctors - we all make mistakes and we all make choices that we'd like to redo. I'm not suggesting that he made a mistake. I am suggesting that he would choose not to be in this situation," Fletcher said.
Reveille recently suffered facial injuries in a scuffle with another inmate at the Alachua County jail. Fletcher expressed concern to McDonald over whether his treatment for those injuries had progressed enough to make it safe to turn him over to the state Department of Corrections.
A doctor on the case was summoned to court and after talking with her, McDonald said she felt comfortable proceeding with the sentencing.
Reveille's case was one of several involving city police officers in the past few years that created image problems for the agency and were termed an embarrassment by former Chief Norman Botsford.
Ex-Cpl. Bill Billings pleaded no contest to felony charges of scheme to defraud and official misconduct in June. He later admitted in court that he paid women for sex while on duty.
Meanwhile, two GPD officers admitted to the off-duty harassment of prostitutes in certain neighborhoods, including throwing eggs at them.
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Other Information
Former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle Charged with Murder Appears in Court
More than 100 protesters demanding justice for a Bay Area man shot to death by a BART police officer on New Year's Day last year converged on a downtown Los Angeles courthouse today for the first proceedings since the racially charged case was moved here from Alameda County.
Johannes Mehserle, who resigned from the Bay Area Rapid Transit police force a week after the shooting he admits to but contends was unintentional, will stand trial for murder before Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry in May, the judge said at his pretrial hearing.
Perry prolonged a gag order issued by an Alameda County judge prohibiting either side in the case from discussing it in public. He also rejected a request from Bay Area broadcasters to allow televised coverage of the trial in light of the intense public interest in the shooting death that provoked three days of rioting that damaged dozens of Oakland businesses.
Perry said his experience of high-profile trials is that allowing cameras in the courtroom "is detrimental to the search for truth and justice." The judge said he would prohibit cellphones, texting, the use of laptop computers and all other means of recording or transmitting the proceedings when the trial begins in mid-May.
Mehserle, 28, has received death threats, as have his family and attorneys, posing a risk to the safety of witnesses who might testify on his behalf, Perry said in denying broadcast coverage of the proceedings for the benefit of Bay Area residents unable to travel to Los Angeles for the trial.
Mehserle's attorney, Michael Rains, told the court that his client wasn't contesting the cause of death in the Jan. 1, 2009, slaying of Oscar J. Grant III at Oakland's Fruitvale station. What is at issue in the case, Rains said, is the former officer's "intent" in the incident. It is rare for a police officer to be charged with murder in an on-duty shooting due to the qualified immunity accorded law enforcement.
Many of the protesters who picketed the courthouse traveled from the Bay Area to hoist placards demanding justice for Grant, the 22-year-old Hayward man shot to death as BART officers were trying to subdue a trainload of unruly New Year's revelers.
Dozens of witnesses reported seeing the white officer shoot Grant, who is black, including some who captured the killing on cellphone cameras.
Mehserle told Alameda County authorities at preliminary court proceedings that he was reaching for his stun gun and accidentally drew his revolver instead.
"There are thousands of Oscar Grants everyday," Hannibal Shakur, a 23-year-old Oakland student making a documentary about the victim, said in front of the crowd outside the courthouse.
"It was a shame. It was a clear murder," Shakur said. "Young brothers get killed by the police everyday. I'm guessing (Mehserle) won't be held accountable. L.A. has a history. If they wanted to give us justice, they could have done that in Oakland."
The trial was moved to Southern California because of the high publicity surrounding the case in the Bay Area.
Johannes Mehserle, who resigned from the Bay Area Rapid Transit police force a week after the shooting he admits to but contends was unintentional, will stand trial for murder before Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Perry in May, the judge said at his pretrial hearing.
Perry prolonged a gag order issued by an Alameda County judge prohibiting either side in the case from discussing it in public. He also rejected a request from Bay Area broadcasters to allow televised coverage of the trial in light of the intense public interest in the shooting death that provoked three days of rioting that damaged dozens of Oakland businesses.
Perry said his experience of high-profile trials is that allowing cameras in the courtroom "is detrimental to the search for truth and justice." The judge said he would prohibit cellphones, texting, the use of laptop computers and all other means of recording or transmitting the proceedings when the trial begins in mid-May.
Mehserle, 28, has received death threats, as have his family and attorneys, posing a risk to the safety of witnesses who might testify on his behalf, Perry said in denying broadcast coverage of the proceedings for the benefit of Bay Area residents unable to travel to Los Angeles for the trial.
Mehserle's attorney, Michael Rains, told the court that his client wasn't contesting the cause of death in the Jan. 1, 2009, slaying of Oscar J. Grant III at Oakland's Fruitvale station. What is at issue in the case, Rains said, is the former officer's "intent" in the incident. It is rare for a police officer to be charged with murder in an on-duty shooting due to the qualified immunity accorded law enforcement.
Many of the protesters who picketed the courthouse traveled from the Bay Area to hoist placards demanding justice for Grant, the 22-year-old Hayward man shot to death as BART officers were trying to subdue a trainload of unruly New Year's revelers.
Dozens of witnesses reported seeing the white officer shoot Grant, who is black, including some who captured the killing on cellphone cameras.
Mehserle told Alameda County authorities at preliminary court proceedings that he was reaching for his stun gun and accidentally drew his revolver instead.
"There are thousands of Oscar Grants everyday," Hannibal Shakur, a 23-year-old Oakland student making a documentary about the victim, said in front of the crowd outside the courthouse.
"It was a shame. It was a clear murder," Shakur said. "Young brothers get killed by the police everyday. I'm guessing (Mehserle) won't be held accountable. L.A. has a history. If they wanted to give us justice, they could have done that in Oakland."
The trial was moved to Southern California because of the high publicity surrounding the case in the Bay Area.
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