Volume 12 Number 3 HAPPY EASTER APRIL 2012
Behind The BADGE DALLAS COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
FROM THE SHERIFF The Lancaster tornado in early April called upon our staff to help those affected by the storm. Many deputies put countless hours on the ground keeping order during difficult times in the affected communities. And, though some of our department personnel’s homes were directly affected by the storms across the region, the department never missed a beat. I am proud to say our officers were compassionate and patient as they did their job. I commend everyone for providing exceptional service to the citizens of Dallas County. - Sheriff Lupe Valdez
Inside this issue:
April 3, 2012 Lancaster Tornado
Scottish Rite Hospital
Bunny Hop County Commission-
ers Employee of the Month Recipients ―Fatal Encounters‖
Films at George Allen Jail DMU’s Criminal Jus-
tice Conference Cheers Chief Costa Farewell Capt. Bart
Terrell Sheriff’s Department
Cycling Team Administrative Profes-
sionals Day Honorees Announcements Shoppers’ Corner:
Benefiting the Dallas Sheriff’s Citizens Academy
North Texas made national news, partially because, miraculously, no fatalities were reported from the 21 tornados confirmed across North Texas on April 3. The Lancaster tornado, where we helped provide assistance, was officially classified as an EF-2, with estimated wind speeds of up to 130 mph. The funnel initially touched down in the northern part of the city and moved southeast for about 7 miles damaging hundreds of homes.
Top photo courtesy of: AP, Bottom photo courtesy of: NOAA/National Weather Service
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 2
Bunny Hop at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital
Top right photo: DSO Travis Widemon, Sheriff Lupe Valdez, DSO Tommy Aguilar/Easter Bunny, Deputy Janet Curry-Finn, Deputy Krystle Bennett. The Easter Bunny paid a visit to young patients at Texas Scottish Right Hospital on April 5. Sheriff Lupe Valdez, along with Deputy Janet Curry-Finn, Deputy Krystle Bennett and DSO Travis Widemon spent time with the children and their families. DSO Tommy Aguilar had the honor of being this year’s Easter Bunny. The patients received a pastel-colored stuffed bunny stitched with the message ―Some Bunny Loves Me.‖ The annual event is made possible through The Easter Bunny Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides Easter Bunny visits to children in hospitals across the United States and the United Kingdom. Representatives from Pepsi Co., event sponsors, also took part in the visit. Texas Scottish Rite Hospital is one of the nation’s leading pediatric centers for orthopedic and neurological disorder treatment.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 3
Employee of the Month Recognition at Commissioners Court The Dallas Sheriff’s Department nominated these three individuals to be recognized by the Dallas County Commissioners Court Employee Recognition Program on April 10. January Employee of the Month
February Employee of the Month
March Employee of the Month
Yolanda Lara
Diane Bronar-Skipworth
Lt. Kelvin Fowler
Director of Inmate Programs
Detention Support Services Director
West Tower Watch Commander
Yolanda Lara diligently works to provide re-entry programs for incarcerated individuals, giving them a second chance.
As the support services director, Diane Bronar-Skipworth manages the meals for all the jails, including the six juvenile facilities, as well as the laundry services.
Lieutenant Kelvin Fowler is a 30 year veteran of the Dallas Sheriff’s Department.
Several of her educational programs have been featured in the news and are often inquired about by other agencies looking for programming ideas. Most recently, the Dallas County Community College District education component, a partnership with El Centro College was featured in SMU’s Daily Campus and the Dallas South News. The feature is about a woman’s struggle with drugs who credits the computer courses she took while incarcerated, with helping shape who she is today; drug-free and with stable employment. Director Lara is a master at turning adversity into success stories like this one. She diligently measures each program’s performance and does a great job at establishing partnerships in the community.
He serves as 2nd watch commander in the West Tower. Lt. Director Skipworth is always open to Fowler is responsible for the care and custody of 1,108 innew ideas. For example, the management of food expenses recently mates and supervises 134 dewas efficiently executed, while sav- tention officers. ing the county over $2 million. Lt. Fowler’s exemplary work ethic has contributed to the DalFor the 2011 fiscal year, her staff las County Jail’s successful anserved over 9.8 meals and laundry washed and dried over 730,000 tow- nual jail inspections. els for inmates. During the March inspectors visit, Texas State Jail CommisDirector Skipworth is a registered sion inspectors mentioned how and licensed dietitian, a registered the jail facilities, including the sanitarian, and a certified laundry and linen manager. Her expertise in West Tower, are cleaner than all these areas make her an invalua- ever and facility maintenance issues, as well as inmate comble asset that would otherwise replaints, are minimal. All these quire additional personnel. changes can be partly attributed She also works with the Department to Lt. Fowler’s dedication to the of Justice and Department of Home- department. His leadership style land Security as a subject matter motivates his team to do an outexpert in conducting assessments of standing job. He can always be environmental health and safety counted on for any assignment. conditions, as well as providing input for the nutritional adequacy of meal In addition, Lt. Folwer was recently featured in his hometown menus at other detention facilities. newspaper, The Natchitoches Director Skipworth assists during Times, a Louisiana publication, emergency crisis situations, both which recognized his 3 decades internally and externally. of service to the sheriff’s department.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 4
“Fatal Encounters” On Set at George Allen Jail
Pictured above: Various scenes with actors from the “Fatal Encounters” TV news series filmed at the George Allen Jail. Two scenes involved a pair of “prison guards” played by Capt. Don Pressnell and DTO Carl Brown.
Producers of the new television series, ―Fatal Encounters,‖ brought their cameras to Texas for the reenactment of a post-9/11 shooting spree which took place in Mesquite. You may recall the case of Mark Stroman, who was executed by the state of Texas in July 2011. Stroman was convicted for a shooting rampage that left two South Asian convenience store clerks dead and a third man, Rais Bhuiyan, seriously injured. By the time Stroman was executed, the once self-proclaimed ―Arab slayer‖ had altered his radical point of view; and Bhuiyan, a Muslim immigrant from Bangladesh, was fighting to try to spare Stroman’s life. An online petition was started in a failed attempt to try to commute Stroman's sentence to life in prison without parole. ―Fatal Encounters‖ chronicles the story of Stroman and Bhuiyan. It was filmed at various locations across Dallas County, including a restaurant in Deep Ellum. The episode is scheduled to air in early July, on the Investigation Discovery (ID) channel. Captain Don Pressnell and DTO Carl Brown make a cameo appearance as prison guards who are at Mark Stroman’s side in his final days. This isn’t the first on-camera appearance for Officer Brown, who was once dubbed ―Hollywood‖ by his colleagues when he served in the U.S. Army. Capt. Pressnell also has ties in the film industry. He has a talent for directing and filming, experience he gained as part of the media staff at his church. Most of the jail scenes were filmed on the 10th floor of the George Allen Jail. Another scene was filmed in the Super Courtroom of the George L. Allen, Sr. Courts Building.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 5
Data Management Unit Attends Criminal Justice Conference The ladies in DMU attended a criminal justice conference geared for women in Galveston. The April event was sponsored by the Correctional Management Institute of Texas. Selma Littles, Tamica Dunning, Theressa Smith, Diane Harris, Ida Hill and Regina Lowery got to hear from several law enforcement officials from across the country. Some of the participating agencies at the conference included: the Washington Department of Corrections, the Florida Parole Commission, Arizona Adult Probations Services, and representatives from the Harris County Juvenile Probation office. Ms. Diane Harris, DMU Coordinator Working in an environment that is predominately men, ―Women in Criminal Justice‖ let me know we have to stay motivated. The class that most inspired me was ―How to Keep Going Right When Life Goes Left‖. I learned your failures don’t define who you are. There is a difference between hearing and listening to others, and you must forgive and release.
Ms. Selma Littles, Intake-Lead Clerk VII My experience of the ―Women in Criminal Justice Conference‖ overall was more than I expected. First, Ms. Thecia Jenkins, who spoke on ―Smart Strategies to Prevent the Stress Chase‖-told us about stressors and stress in the workplace. Then, Ms. JoAnn Burbridge, spoke about ―Your Best Professional Image Begins in Your Head‖ – she told us about how your thoughts show up in your actions. Last, was Ms. Charlotte Stallings – ―How to Keep Going Right When Life Goes Left‖ basically she told us to keep going on our path even when we get a detour.
Ms. Ida Hill, Clerk IV I was privileged to attend the ―Women in Criminal Justice Conference‖ in Galveston, Texas. The conference was a great experience, learning life and work skills from great women in law enforcement. I personally enjoyed the class ―How to Keep Going Right When Life Goes Left‖ –the session gave great strategies on getting back on track when life gives you unexpected surprises.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 6
Good Luck On Your Next Adventure Chief Costa
Many of Chief Joseph Costa’s colleagues poured in one by one to thank him for being ―one of the most resourceful people‖ at the Dallas Sheriff’s Department. April 6, 2012 may have been his final day with the sheriff’s department, but Chief Costa will leave an everlasting impression. Because of his work, programs like the Prostitution Diversion Initiative and the Citizen’s Academy thrived in the community. Representatives from both organizations were among those paying tribute to Costa’s strong work ethic. Chief Costa was presented with an autographed football, from now retired NFL player Marion Barber. He also received tickets to watch his beloved Boston Red Sox when they are in town to play the Texas Rangers. Sheriff Lupe Valdez and the rest of her executive team reflected on their journey during the past seven years. They shared stories about how ―the east coast man that came to Texas talking funny‖ provided great leadership and helped make the department what it is today. ―It was sad when I got the call from DeSoto,‖ recalled Sheriff Valdez about Chief Costa, who was one of the first people who pledged to help execute her philosophy for the department— to provide more community involvement, embody professionalism, and provide humane treatment for all inmates. Chief Costa humbly thanked everyone and said he simply was a facilitator in assisting with the execution of many programs. He added: ―You always got a friend in me, my door is always open. I’m not going far away.‖
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 7
Pictured above: Capt. Bart Terrell, his wife A.J. and one of his two sons, West. Lower right photo: Capt. Terrell is presented a congratulatory proclamation sent on behalf of Governor Rick Perry The Internal Affairs Division prepared a big send-off celebration for Captain Bart Terrell, who retires his badge after 32 years of service to the Dallas Sheriff’s Department. Friends and family gathered to reflect on his extensive career which began when he was 21-years-old. Integrity and professionalism were two things echoed by many of Capt. Terrell’s colleagues. Capt. Terrell was presented with various tokens of appreciation, including a proclamation from Governor Rick Perry, as well as one from former President George W. Bush. He also received a piece of Dallas history when he was presented with Sheriff Bill Decker’s typewriter. On April 3, at Dallas County Commissioners Court, Judge Clay Jenkins also read a proclamation in honor of the captain. In response, Capt. Terrell said he hoped to be remembered as person who was a good steward wherever he was assigned. Sheriff Lupe Valdez commended Capt. Terrell: ―He’s always done well at whatever you put him in.‖ The man who, himself said he’d only taken a single vacation during his entire career, will now take time to spend on cruise ships with his wife. Happy travels and thank you for your service!
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 8
Kudos to Dr. Dianne Urey We would like to thank Dr. Dianne Urey for the dedicated physician care she offers her patients in the North Tower. Dr. Urey has been part of the Parkland medical staff in the Dallas jail since 2008. In 2010, she took a leave to serve a tour in Iraq. The detention staff appreciates your hard work. Thank you for your service to our country and Dallas County.
Wanted: Deputy Sheriffs and Constables Are you or someone you know interested in becoming a Dallas County Deputy Sheriff or Deputy Constable?
Sign up for the June 12, 2012 written examination between now and May 10th. You must register in person at Dallas County Human Resources, 509 Main St, Room 101, Dallas, TX 75202.
Don’t delay so you can pick up your study guide and have plenty of time to study! June 12 examination will take place at the Bill J. Priest Institute located at 1402 Corinth Street, Dallas, TX 75215.
Deputy testing eligibility requirements: Candidate must have completed 2 years as a detention service officer (DSO)
with the Dallas Sheriff’s Department OR Candidate must have completed 30 college hours from an accredited universi-
ty/college with a ―C‖ grade or better with no DSO experience (must provide official college transcript) OR Candidate must have an honorable discharge from the U.S. armed forces after
at least 24 months of active duty (must provide DD214) OR Candidate currently serves as a Texas Peace Officer with two years continu-
ous employment with an agency in the State of Texas as a peace officer and currently possesses a Basic Peace Officer Certificate issued by TCLEOSE (verification must be provided) Must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen, have a social security number
& valid driver’s license.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 9
Thank you for your service Mrs. Lillykutty Alexander After 18 years of service, the DMU team bids farewell to Mrs. Lillykutty Alexander, dispositions clerk. Sheriff Lupe Valdez and Chief Cheryl Wilson were among those present during the April 25 celebration to commend Mrs. Alexander for her hard work with the Dallas Sheriff’s Department. Good luck and happy retirement!
Sheriff Lupe Valdez & the Dallas Sheriff’s Team cordially invite all Sheriff’s Employees-families, friends, churches, civic organizations to join us on May 12, 2012, Location: The Band Shell, Fair Park, Check-in time: 8:30 a.m. As we support NAMI Dallas in a 3 mile walk event to help raise funds & promote mental health awareness. There is no registration fee! However, all walkers who raise $100 or more will receive a T-shirt. To register visit http://www.nami.org/namiwalks12/DAL/sheriffsteam or contact Capt. Bass @ 214.653.2743.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 10
Dallas Sheriff’s Department Cycling Team
Pictured above: Todd Hagenbuch (Precinct 2 Deputy Constable), David Mitchell (Captain, West Tower), Hong Moore (DSO, Intake), David Mosman (Investigator, Fugitive), Charlie Greenlee (Deputy, Traffic), Joel Claterbaugh (Investigator, Fugitive) The cycling team participated in their first event of the season on April 14, which took place at the Greater Dallas Bicyclists Country Rally in Lancaster. The recent tornadic activity did not affect the race for the team of six. An estimated 1,000 participants took part in the scenic ride through the countryside. The team now prepares for their next event at the Cedar Hill Head for the Hills Rally coming up on May 12. After that, they will compete in the Mesquite Rotary Club Rally on May 26. The team expects to have their team uniform jerseys in time for the Memorial Day Weekend event.
Happy Administrative Professionals Day
The men in the Intelligence Section took time to honor administrative colleagues with a little special touch. The ladies were served pecan pancakes fresh off the skillet and a nice warm cup of coffee, with a side of orange juice. All this is a simple token of appreciation for your hard work year-round, thank you!
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 11
Announcements BIRTHS– April 4, 2012: Fiscal Section’s Natisha Fields gave birth to a healthy baby boy. Justin Selexman weighed 7 lbs. 2 oz. Congratulations!
Shoppers’ Corner Sheriff’s Department Throw
April 10, 2012: DSO Brad Fortner, Intake 3rd Watch, welcomes baby Ashley Michelle. She weighed 7 lbs. 13 oz. Congratulations! GET WELL WISHES– Ioma Dean, mother of Personnel Section Investigator Kenneth Dean underwent hip replacement surgery earlier this month. We wish her a speedy recovery. Executive Secretary Cozella Hill underwent surgery on April 9th for benign intracranial hypertension surgery. Please keep her in your prayers. DEATHS - April 6, 2012: Robert Taylor, father of DSO Johnny Taylor, laundry section, passed away. April 7, 2012: DSO Gary Dillard, South Tower, 3rd Watch passed away.
48’ X 68’ throw to keep you warm, $35.00 each
April 10, 2012: Retired Sergeant Henry Lewis ―Buddy‖ Munster passed away. He is the father of Retired Deputy Henry Lewis Munster, Jr. 95-year-old Latisha Logan, grandmother of DSO C. Prater, 2nd Watch, Support Services; and DSO Sandra Harden, 2nd Watch West Tower passed away. April 14, 2012: Mrs. Jeslin V. Murray-Burke, mother of Senior Sergeant Burke in the Vault Section, passed away. April 19, 2012: Thurman Smith, Jr., step father of Officer David Sims, Inmate Programs passed away. Mr. Smith was a veteran of the U.S. Marines Corps.
Sheriff’s one inch badge lapel pins $3.50 each or get 3 for $10 Contact: Semone Lilly (214) 653-3462
Mrs. Vernella Henry, 94-year-old grandmother of DSO Letha Dillard, 3rd Watch, West Tower passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with each family member during this difficult time. TEXAS POLICE GAMES 2012
www.texaspolicegames.org
Dallas County Sheriff’s Department 133 N. Riverfront Blvd. LB-31 Dallas, Texas 75207-4313
For submission of items to the newsletter—send to the Public Information Officer at Sheriffmedia@dallascounty.org
For the latest updates:
www.dallas-sheriff.com
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 12
Contributions Benefit the Dallas Sheriff’s Citizens Academy
Contact Ed Clark at 214-951-7467 The Sheriff’s Citizens Academy is not funded by the Sheriff’s Department and depends wholly on contributions for goods, services, monies or profits made from the sale items.
Volume 12 Number 3
Page 13
Support the Dallas Sheriff’s Citizens Academy
Contact Ed Clark at 214-951-7467 The Sheriff’s Citizens Academy is not funded by the Sheriff’s Department and depends wholly on contributions for goods, services, monies or profits made from the sale items.