CT LUENOW Volume 1 ~ Issue 2
Connecticut’s Independent Voice of Law Enforcement
www.CTbluenow.com
Bristol Police Department train for ”Active Shooter Response” feature story SHERIFF JOE ARPAIO America’s Toughest Sheriff
HARTFORD Police
Scan to Subscribe
™
™
ITALIAN officers Association
PAPd ems nypd fdny fbi nysco usss
of Remembrance & Tribute Walk
The Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance 1904 Surf Ave., MCU Park Coney Island Brooklyn, NY 11224 Mr. Sol Moglen-Founder
www.thebrooklynwall.org
Spend a day in the company of Heroes
All pics are courtesy of Stephen “Butch” Moran
Diverse Uncensored Opinionated
INTERNET TALK RADIO www.ddvradio.com
Uniting New York, New Jersey and Connecticut Law Enforcement Officers on Internet Talk Radio!
Call In Number
973-925-4559
Join Us and Listen in
www.ddvradio.com
CT LUENOW
™
Team
contents
Publishers Rocco Franco Daniel Del Valle
11
Editor-in-Chief Daniel Del Valle Managing Editor Donna Roman-Hernandez
30
Design Editor Dari Izhaky
22
Copy Editor Nicole C. Richardson Advertising Director John Welsh writers Lt. Edward Spyros E. Molina-NJDOC Fasil Khan, Life Strategist Jay Martinez Lt. Joseph Pangaro (ret.) Daniel Del Valle Capt. Donna Roman Hernandez (ret.) Joe Sanchez
16 Editor’s point of view
Bristol PD
6
15 Bristol Police Department
Daniel Del Valle
leadership
8 6 Benefits of Being an
Effective Law Enforcement Supervisor
health
10 Protecting Health and Wellness
WEBSITE/SUBSCRIPTIONS www.ctbluenow.com EMAIL ctbluenow@gmail.com ADVERTISING 201-881-5100
preparation
11 The Art of Maneuver training
12 Ethics: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Layout & design by Dari Izhaky, email: dzeek@optonline.net God Bless Our Troops!
4
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
Please share and recycle this magazine.
Cover story
16 Hartford Police Italian Officers Association
feature story
22 Sheriff Joe Arpaio
America’s Toughest Sheriff
around New jersey
26 Trooper Brian Malast
New Jersey State Police an Example of Courage
around New york
30 NYPD Officer Joe Sanchez:
The opinions and information provided in this magazine are the sole opinions of the editor and contributors and not their employers. CTBlueNow is published 4 times a year. ©Copyright 2013 CT BLUE NOW, LLC. All rights reserved. While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate as of publication date, CT BLUE NOW, LLC and its employees, agents, clients and distributors shall not be liable for any damages arising from the use of or reliance on the information contained in this publication or from omissions to this publication. The www.CTBlueNow.com Website is powered by ENVISAGE PRODUCTIONS, LLC.
Train for”Active Shooter Response”
Indicted, Convicted & Exonerated
EP Envisage Productions
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
www.wiseguysddv.com
WE TOLD YOU WE WERE UNCENSORED. LISTEN TO THE BEST INTERNET RADIO NETWORK JOHNNY SALAMI, CARLO AND HIS FELLOW COMEDIANS… LIVE EVERY WEDNESDAY 8 PM TO 10 PM AND RE-RUN EVERY SATURDAY 9 pm to 11 pm
IT’S A CRIME NOT TO LISTEN! PAST SHOWS’ CALLERS: • ARTIE LANG • BIG ANG FROM THE MOB WIVES • REV. BOB LEVY
Diverse Uncensored Opinionated
• ANGEL SALAZAR FROM SCARFACE AKA CHI CHI • GABE CONTE BOXING PROMOTOR and MORE TO COMe… CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
5
editor’s POINt of VIEW CT LUENOW
I
™
want to thank everyone who contributed to putting this issue together. It was a true pleasure and honor to work as a team. As a new publication, we encourage all of you to contact us if you would like to publish any articles, promotions, events and more. We also encourage you to use this publication as a way to network with each other. CT Blue Now magazine caters to all of you, the voice of law enforcement and our profession. As the warm weather comes and the temperatures increase, unfortunately, so does criminal activity. Recently, we lost a brother in blue from the NYPD, Officer Dennis Guerra, to a senseless criminal act allegedly perpetrated by a bored teenager. Officer Guerra and his partner, Officer Rosa Rodriguez, rushed into a Coney Island high-rise apartment building fire, ready to alert and rescue its occupants, when they were trapped and overcome by dense smoke. These two heroes did what they did because they knew people were in danger. This type of incident could happen to any one of us at anytime; therefore, let this serve as a reminder to stay alert at all times. We mourn our fallen brother, Officer Dennis Guerra, who made the ultimate sacrifice. Our prayers go out to his family, especially his four children, and others affected by this loss, as well as to Officer Rosa Rodriguez, as she recovers from her near-fatal injuries. On the cover of this CT Blue Now issue, we have the Italian Officers Association from the Hartford Police Department led by Sergeant Paul Cicero. Thank you for this opportunity to feature this social, fraternal and benevolent organization comprised of Italian-American law enforcement officers. Till next time! Stay Healthy, Stay Strong, Stay Blue!
If you would like to honor a brother or sister in BLUE who lost their life on the job or retired, please submit your story to: ctbluenow@gmail.com
Daniel Del Valle Editor ctbluenow@aol.com
If you would like to submit stories, pictures, or suggestions send us an email at: ctbluenow@gmail.com
6
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Uniting Law Enforcement One State at a Time. Creators of
CT LUENOW Connecticut’s Independent Voice of Law Enforcement
FALL 2013
WWW.CTBLUENOW.COM
Premiere Issue This issue can be viewed online at:
www.ctbluenow.com
IN REMEMBRANCE
The Victims of Sandy Hook Elementary School
TROOPER SGT. ROBERT BOROSKI
CONNECTICUT STATE POLICE EMERALD SOCIETY
www.njbluenow.com
www.nybluenow.com
Scan to Subscribe
www.ctbluenow.com
Thank You For Your Service www.envisageproductions.com CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
7
™
™
leadership
6 Benefits
of Being an Effective Law Enforcement Supervisor By E. Molina- NJDOC
Being a supervisor may mean you have to get officers to reach a minimum standard. This could easily be far from a subordinate’s full potential but, in this case, it doesn’t matter because the supervisor may only want to reach a certain level; the minimum standard. The minimum standard is doing the least amount of work necessary to reach a goal and avoid getting into trouble.
They know you’ll take the feedback and apply any necessary changes, and at the end of the day, you’ll thank them for their input. Otherwise, if you’re just an average supervisor, they’ll only tell you what you want to hear and be “yes men” (or women). That doesn’t do anyone any good.
A funny thing about most people is that we are willing to put in far more effort to avoid negative experiences than we would to pursue positive ones. This is an important aspect every supervisor should understand. Do you want everyone to just meet the minimum requirements, or do you want everyone to exceed them? Of course, you want everyone to exceed them because that will reflect on your unit’s production, reputation and overall effectiveness as a department.
4
In order to foster an environment that produces high standards, you, as the supervisor, need to be an effective leader. People work harder for good, effective leaders and, thus, produce more. If you just want to be an average supervisor you’ll require a minimum standard from your officers. But then you will be missing out on added benefits that effective leadership provides. (Of course, just demanding more production won’t do it. Log onto www.Leadlikeahero.com to learn how to become an effective leader.) Learning how to be an effective leader, and not just a minimum driving supervisor, you will receive added benefits that you would otherwise not experience.
5
Here are 6 examples: If you are an effective leader… …your officers will trust you even if they don’t fully understand why. If they see you as an effective leader that does everything a great leader should, they will still follow you even if they don’t completely understand your plans or intentions. This is important in times of an emergency (a common law enforcement concern) because you may not have enough time or capabilities to explain the details. A phrase from an officer would sound like, “This plan doesn’t make much sense, but since it’s coming from her… it must be right.”
1
2
…your officers will back you up. Effective leaders put in any extra effort that a subordinate requires, like staying after the shift to help a subordinate with something, for example. Then when an assignment comes along that seems overwhelming or impossible, your subordinates will get behind you and put in the extra effort to get it done. If you’re just an average supervisor, people may work harder, but only to avoid getting in trouble or fired. But that’s not what effective leaders want; they want people to want to work hard for them.
3
…your officers will give you honest feedback, criticism and advice. This means they are comfortable with the work environment you created. They don’t fear retribution or unnecessary discipline.
8
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
…your officers will stop you when you’re about to screw something up. Leaders are human and they make mistakes too. If your officers see you as an effective leader, they will tell you when you are about to make a mistake. For example, a supervisor who is distracted by a phone call and grabs the wrong file for an important meeting will get interrupted and corrected, if they are an effective leader. If not, the subordinates may let you go into the meeting to watch you fail.
…your officers will make decisions in your absence. Effective leaders empower their subordinates to make decisions without fear of backlash. As long as your subordinates’ decisions are properly calculated, well-intended and follow policy, then you must support it, even if it ends up being incorrect. We all know that not all policies provide enough information, and we have to make decisions based off circumstances and common sense. Otherwise, if you insist on making all the decisions, opportunities will be missed and your officers will feel underused, underutilized and morale will suffer.
6
…your officers will continue to work hard in your absence just as they would in your presence. We all know a supervisor that when he or she walks into a room, everyone tries to look busy and productive, straightens out their uniforms and work space, or just leave the area entirely. Okay, those supervisors are effective when they are around, but the moment they leave the area, it’s back to playing solitaire, joking around or going back on Facebook. An effective leader gets the officers to be productive at all times because the officers respect, trust and value their supervisor. If you still insist on becoming just an average supervisor, that’s fine. You can still enjoy a good experience and continue to grow professionally in your career, but understand there are added benefits to effective leadership that will most certainly help you in your quest for greatness. And you’ll never hear from a department that suffers from great leadership; only from the poor ones. Molina is a State Corrections Officer with the NJDOC and has a Masters Degree in Public Administration. Molina is a military reservist and officer with the Army National Guard. He is a blogger @ http://www. leadlikeahero.com.
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
American Correctional Officer Intelligence Network Brian Dawe Executive Director
PO BOX 1175, Thayne, WY 83127
Phone: 307-883-9707 • Fax: 307-883-9708 email: ACOIN1@aol.com
WE LIVE AND BURN BLUE www.sunlitcandles.com A portion of the profit of each candle sale will be donated to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Clean, Creative, Affordable Website Design
201-873-0104
www.DesignSoftMedia.com CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
9
health
Protecting Health and Wellness By Fasil Khan, Life Strategist
T
he high stress nature of law enforcement means that your health is affected far more rapidly than the average person. Due to this fact, it’s imperative that you properly care for your mind, body, and emotions so you can feel better and function at your highest potential. It’s too easy to get caught up in the pace of our careers as law enforcement officers (LEO) and, because of this, so many officers are not giving the attention that is needed to protecting their personal health and wellness. Did you know that police officers live on average 15 years less than the average person, or that we are eight times more at risk of suicide? These statistics come from a 5-year University of Buffalo study of Law Enforcement Officers. With those statistics in our faces, it’s time to make some changes! What are some of the challenges we face when it comes to protecting our health and wellness? One of the first things that may come to mind is our hectic, changing shifts. In a study done by the University of Buffalo on officers over the course of five years, it reports that about half of the officers worked the night shift, and that this shift work led to increased metabolic issues. What does that mean in plain English? It means we are more likely to be overweight, suffer from high blood pressure, and have higher blood sugar levels. It’s hard to get the needed amount of sleep on these swing shifts, eat or exercise properly, or allow our bodies to follow the natural rhythm they may have been accustomed to before our careers. Does that mean we quit? Hell no, it doesn’t! What it means is we have to make adjustments to better care for ourselves. One of the biggest things I can stress to you is be sure to get adequate rest. It allows your body time to recoup, along with your brain. You may not be able to do this all in one shot, because of personal/family needs during daylight hours, but you can always split it up. Rest doesn’t always mean sleep 10
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
either! Allow your body time to relax every day. A rested body is a healthy body. Always remember that! Time to address the elephant in the room - our diet. Come on, let’s be honest. We are on the go, a lot. We have to be ready at a moment’s notice for anything, and sometimes it’s just too easy to go with the quickest option. “I’m hungry… there’s a drive-thru” or “I don’t have long before work to cook… TV dinner again.” One can easily see the convenience, but when you take a moment and realize how much stress a law enforcement career puts on our bodies every day, it’s sad that we are not paying attention to one of the largest things that could protect us throughout that career. How many times a week do you check your equipment to be sure it’s functional and prepared for use when needed? Why? Because your safety and the safety of your community depend on it, right? Give your diet that same check! No one says you have to become a vegan (unless, of course, you wanted to) or become a health nut - but it’s as simple as making new and better choices. One place you can start is by drinking more water and less sugary drinks. We all know the benefits of drinking water, but did you know that it can even help you build muscle? Water carries oxygen to your muscles, allowing them to work harder and become stronger. Are you a sweets craver? Try replacing at least one snack every other day with fruit or a muffin. Pick a salad instead of the burger when on the beat. Pick one habit to change per week, and keep up the momentum. Here’s a little trick to it: Your diet switch can still be enjoyable. Find healthy alternatives that you actually like! It will make following the routine a lot easier. By far, the largest hurdle we face in protecting our health and wellness as officers are the stresses and pressures that we face, not just physically, but mentally as well. No one can pretend that a career in
law enforcement is easy. The studies and the statistics prove that. We can sit around and continually discuss the existence of the need of protecting our mental health, or we can actually take steps to protect it. Make sure you have a reboot program–some kind of routine that allows your mind to separate from the job in your off time. You can look into joining a club or a program, take up yoga or meditation, or pick up a new hobby. The most important thing you can do for your own wellness is learn to acknowledge the stress you face daily, and find ways to cope with it. Now, you are an officer all day, every day, true. But one must remember that you also have a life outside of your career as well. Find ways to enjoy yourself, and allow that stress to lighten from time to time. Be sure to have a buddy system in place for the times it does become too much (this could be a co-worker, a friend, a spouse, or anyone else that you are comfortable with). Most importantly, don’t forget the resources that we do have. If you are dealing with depression or any signs of PTSD, there is help out there, and it is not weakness to reach for it. Quite the opposite - it proves you had the inner strength to be proactive and fix a problem before it got out of hand! We can’t change the nature of our careers, but we can change our own personal habits so that it doesn’t have the negative effects on us. Here are some pointers to keep you healthy, happy, and functioning at your highest potential possible as a law enforcement officer. When you come home from work, take a few moments to unwind.Sit down and allow yourself a few moments of quiet time to decompress. Your body and mind need a few minutes to get back into comfort mode; allow that time. Watch your diet! With the hectic pace of (Continued on page 14) To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
preparation By Jay Martinez in quickly, forestalling the enemy… attack with a feeling of constantly crushing the enemy, from first to last.” Of course, as peacekeepers and enforcers of the law, we are not in the business of attacking or crushing the enemy. But if you put on your analytical and tactical cap, you are able to comprehend what the Michael Jordan of the Samurai era was referring to.
The Art of Maneuver MOVE, ADAPT AND WIN
This month’s text brings me closer to the essence and the philosophy of pure combat. Philosophers, Sun Tzu (The Art of War) and Clausewitz (On War) both have independently written that the two basic principles of combat are fire and maneuver. Furthermore, in the book, Warfighting, the U.S. Marine Corps’ book of strategy, it additionally states that attrition and maneuver are the two basic styles of warfare. Now that my table is set for this month’s article, I want to impress upon you the monumental importance of implementing movement into your ‘tactical toolbox.’ The following bacteria can be found in aquatic habitats, specifically ponds: leptospirosis and blue-green algae. Ponds possess many other forms of bacteria that are potentially hazardous to humans and animals due to its stagnant and suspended state. These forms of bacteria are allowed to thrive in a pond as a result of its lack of evolution. On the other hand, now, I want you to imagine a cold refreshing beer as in, Coors Light, more specifically, the white, breaking rapids of the Colorado River. The ferocious tempo and perpetual movement of this type of water constantly repels and thwarts inner attacks that may adversely affect the state of the river. Now, based upon my analogy of pond scum and beer, was I able to convince you of the significance of movement in a tactical capacity? I sure hope so. The importance of movement within a tactical setting is as urgent as the steering wheel that guides your vehicle. The Japanese warrior, philosopher, tactician and strategist Miyamoto Musashi, author of the book of five rings stated, “When you decide to attack, keep calm and dash
Musashi’s belief of movement made him the undisputed king of ancient mortal combat. Plus, his prowess, unconformity and preparation have impacted millions of individuals in a plethora of areas. Business tycoons, athletic coaches, politicians and military commanders have always sought the way of the Samurai. This article is not based upon the way of the Samurai, but it does subscribe to the doctrine that was applied by the greatest Samurai of all time. These lessons can teach us, as police officers and corrections officers, who are under attack, that we must move, adapt and ultimately win a deadly force confrontation. The term “fog of war” expresses a feeling of uncertainty, confusion, violence and chaos. In order to succeed under these tumultuous conditions, we must promote an intrinsic adaptation to our calculated and conditioned response when we are under attack. That adaptation begins with us fostering the sensation to move off of our proverbial X. I have always believed that an Officer who is under attack and refuses to move, will perish upon their X. To create confusion should be part of our conditioned response. Most attacks we witness on Police dash cams possess a linear alignment, meaning, “you see me and I see you” theory. At some point, the attack is initiated by the threat attempting to stab or shooting the Officer. From a psychological and physiological perspective, we must understand that we are now in prey mode with the attacker assuming the role of the predator. This is not the evolutionary arms race at work here. This is man versus man with one
assuming the primal role as hunter. The decision has been made. The human mind is under siege by millions of neurons. How do we disrupt the predator’s attack mode decision? At the point of attack, our movement changes everything. The attacker must now internally call an audible and alter their initial attack plan. Now as they press forward, they must make a conscious decision to counter your movement. But how is a conscious decision so possible when the predator is acting on impulses brought upon by their subconscious mind? The result is a justified lag and an interval purposely formulated to create a position of advantage for the Officer. OODA (observe, orient, decide and act) loop is a military fighter pilot doctrine that was invented by Col. John Boyd in the 1950’s. OODA loop is all about analyzing and altering the decision making cycle of your opposition. That is exactly what the Denver Bronco QB does to the opposing defense every Sunday. Before Peyton Manning snaps the ball, he will audible to another play. The alternate play will now create an advantage because he has utilized the opposing team’s decision against them. Situational and threat awareness are officer safety principles that allow us to analyze a potential imminent threat before it takes root. Once it does unveil and rear its ugly head, our nervous system can react like a champion. Remember, action will beat reaction every time; but regardless, we should always stay alert and be prepared to act decisively and with a calculated plan. The key to the success of that plan is thorough training that has been compiled through tireless repetitions. The key is muscle memory. I’ll close by reminding you that movement is a principle that works and becomes more effective when it is apparent that the severity of the attack is life threatening. But, nevertheless, the key is to train and implement this valuable tool in your “tactical toolbox.” Like always, stay safe and Ooo-rah! Please go to Warning Order.net and learn more about this type of officer safety training that is now available to you and your organization. CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
11
training
Ethics:
the good, the bad, and the ugly By Lt. Joseph Pangaro (ret.)
T
he concept of proper ethics in law enforcement, or in any area of endeavor, has attached to it certain understandings that we all believe to be true. Take theft for instance. Is it ever okay for someone to steal or shoplift? I believe most people, across our society, would agree that stealing is not OK. Taking that which does not belong to you is wrong. As cops, we would arrest the thief and take him to HQ for processing, get the complaints signed, and maybe get some bail set. The entire scenario is black and white, simple; we deal with a thousand of these scenarios in the course of our shifts. These are things we believe and are taught. We do our job and let the courts decide who is guilty and who is not. Fair enough, that is what we are here for. One thing I have found to be true in almost every part of life is this: words mean things. The terms, phrases and the individual words we use have meanings. Understanding what is being said is vital to being effective in anything we do; in some cases, it can be life altering. When we discuss ethics in law enforcement, I believe we must first define the term. From an online source, dictionary.com, I found a good definition: 1. A system of moral principles: the ethics of a culture. 2. The rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class of human actions or a particular group, culture, etc.: medical ethics; Christian ethics. 3. Moral principles, as of an individual: His ethics forbade betrayal of a confidence. 4. That branch of philosophy dealing with values relating to human conduct, with respect to the rightness and wrongness of certain actions and to the goodness and badness of the motives and ends of such actions. 12
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
When it comes to ethics, we all get the same basic training in the academy. We are given some guidelines to think about and we are told how we should behave personally, as well as, professionally. We are told, as law enforcement officers, we are held to a higher standard than the average citizens, who we are sworn to protect and as such, we must comport ourselves accordingly. For most police personnel, we take this lesson in stride; we put it in the back of our minds, where we store all that sacred police knowledge we accrue. We also take it as fact that we are the good guys and girls and we would never do anything unethical. In an effort to ensure we have the best people on the job, most cops are screened very rigorously during the hiring process. We are interviewed and background investigations are done; our references are checked and any area of “suspect” activity in our history is addressed. The purpose of this is to weed out the potential candidates that might more easily succumb to stepping outside the ethical boundaries set up for police people. When it’s all done we hire the best people, the ones we feel are solid morally and ethically and will be able to wear the badge. We are all expected to perform courageously, honestly and become the epitome of the police term of respect: The Finest; at least that’s the stated goal and for the most part that is how it works out. Why then are our ranks occasionally besmirched by acts of criminality on the part of our brother and sister officers? Why is it that we find cops getting caught stealing from burglary scenes, using and/or selling drugs, rolling drunks or committing other horrendous acts that provide the public with too many examples of negative stereo types of police officers?
How does that happen? Were there good men and women that knew about some of these things and didn’t say anything or get involved? I think we all know the answer here is ‘yes.’ No one wants to be a rat. No one wants to go against a brother or sister cop and turn them in—that’s just a reality. But is it right? I wrote an article recently about the proper function of an Internal Affairs Unit and its necessary existence. The point of that article was that good cops everywhere should not fear a properly run and focused IA unit. Instead, they should welcome that IA unit as it roots out bad or corrupt actions so that the huge majority of us don’t get dragged down by the bad apples. Of course, that means the IA unit has to be run properly, fairly and with justice as the guiding force, not as a hammer of an administration to “get” those in disfavor. Enough said on that. Let’s get back to ethics; I am trying to paint on a large canvas here to make a point. Ethics and ethical behavior is not a mystery— it means doing the right thing all the time regardless of the consequences personally, professionally or in any other way. And it also means keeping true to the oaths we take and the purpose for our existence as police officers. It means accepting that we are held to a higher standard than society in general. To do less would be a disservice to every community we serve and to ourselves. We are the guardians and must be above reproach. This is a high burden but one that must exist for the service to call itself “The Finest”. The “good enough” or “the almost really excellent” is not a motto to live by or a way to conduct the people’s business. Being ethical is part and parcel of who we are as law enforcement personnel and it is our burden to carry.
Somewhere along the line the officers involved in these things lost their way and chose to take unethical actions that the vast majority of us would never consider. To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
WHAT IS ETHICAL POLICE BEHAVIOR AND WHAT CONSTITUTES UNETHICAL POLICE BEHAVIOR? This question comes up all the time: “What if a local restaurant owner wants to give a cop a free meal because they just really like the police.” That’s a fair question, and as we all know, most of our citizens do like and respect the police, and many of them want to show that by giving you a cup of coffee or a sandwich. They want to reach out to the local cops and create a sense of community. This behavior is a natural expression of human kindness and happens in the civilian world all the time. People buy you a drink, or give a gift, or bake a pie for the people they care about. Many of the people in our community do this or offer to do these things because they care about the people that protect them and it’s a way to say thank you. They don’t do these things because they expect you to get them out of a DWI or a domestic violence arrest, or to allow them to commit crimes while you look the other way. If that’s the truth, people don’t really expect anything in return for the coffee or the slice of pizza, we must ask ourselves why this type of a relationship is inappropriate. Why is giving a cop a cup of coffee or slice of pizza the beginning of the end of civilization and the corruption of our nation’s law enforcers everywhere? The problem is mostly in perception. To the public, a police officer in today’s market place is making a salary of over $80,000 dollars. Why should that cop get a free meal? Does the restaurant give the father making $35,000 a year with three kids to feed a free meal? The answer is no, they don’t. So when the public sees a police officer eating meals for free they see it as another benefit of the job, and not one that is right. They also suspect that the officer does things in return for it. This perception damages all of law enforcement and makes doing our job harder. Perception is reality for many people. Let’s look at another example and see if our own perceptions are in line with the topic at hand.
A man who lives in your town goes into the convenience store with theft on his mind. He walks up and down the aisle looking over the merchandise. The clerk sees him and thinks something is not right. The same clerk then calls the police. The man takes something off the shelf, puts it under his coat and exits the store as the clerk is yelling for him to stop. The man runs off but is quickly located by you, the police officer. You conduct a quick onscene investigation and find a small carton of whole milk and a loaf of bread in his jacket; the man admits he stole it.
Does it matter why he stole it? Theft is theft, right? The answer seems simple enough. Theft is theft and taking what does not belong to you is a crime. Let’s say though that you take a minute during your on-scene investigation and find that the man stole the items because he has two kids at home under the age of 5 and they haven’t had anything to eat in two days. The man took bread and milk to feed his children and for the sake of our exercise we confirm this is true. Do we care now? Does it make any difference why he stole the items? I believe that most of us in law enforcement would have to agree that it is wrong to steal, no matter what the reason. I also believe that most of us would view the man stealing bread and milk for his hungry kids a little differently than we would view the same man stealing a bottle of booze for his own consumption. I believe most people would view those two incidents differently, but are they? Is there anything in the statutes of the state that delineate between stealing for what might seem like a reasonable (good) reason and stealing for a bad reason? There is not. So what would we do with this man that stole milk and bread? Would you talk to the clerk on his behalf? Would you pay for the items out of your own pocket if the clerk didn’t want to sign complaints? Would you simply process him and go home? During my career I have seen this scenario in real life and it has been handled differently by each officer. My question
then is this: as you read the scenario what did you think was the right thing to do? Did you think that stealing to feed your kids might be wrong, but understandable, while stealing booze gets no such compassion? The point here is this: if you wrestled with the idea that stealing to feed kids had some legitimacy, or deserved more thought, then your ethical line was moved. I believe for most people, cops included, we would be able to put ourselves in the thief ’s shoes if we had to feed our kids. The fact that our line can move is the epiphany. What is right and wrong is often black and white; sometimes we have to look further and make decisions based on additional factors if we are to do the right ethical thing. What about that cup of coffee? Is it a bad thing to take it? Ask yourself that question. If we say it is not really a big deal and we can justify that, we must ask: would you accept a diamond ring from a local jewelry store owner because they appreciate the police in their community? For most people the answer is obvious, you could not take a diamond ring. But why? If we can take coffee or pizza, why can’t we take anything offered to us? Again, it’s obvious; a cup of coffee is a dollar and a diamond ring is hundreds or thousands of dollars and that wouldn’t be right; we can’t justify that. I submit that while there might not seem to be any harm in taking a cup of coffee, the two items offered to us are really one and the same and we shouldn’t accept either of them. If the deciding factor for you in this example was the value of the items, then you must ask yourself what your personal line in the sand is. Is there a number you can put on your integrity? If you found a wallet with $200 cash and no ID in it, would you keep it? I hope you said, “No,” you would turn it in. What if you found a bag of cash on the side of the road, and that bag of cash added up to a million dollars in 10’s and 20’s—confirmed as drug dealer money. Would you keep that? Would you have to think about it? We kid ourselves if we aren’t honest and say we might consider keeping a million CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
13
training dollars. I have asked this same question to many people, civilians too, and almost every person admits that they would at least consider keeping the million but they would return the $200. After all, a million dollars is a lot of money; once again, the line of right and wrong slides. When asked why they would consider keeping the million dollars but return the $200, they said, “Two hundred dollars isn’t worth my career.” We can only surmise then that the unspoken answer is that a million dollars might be worth the risk of losing your career. This is an ethical decision; one that can only be made by the individual. My job here is to get you to think about your own understanding of ethical behavior and define for yourself what is right and wrong and act accordingly. My hope is that every law enforcer would always make the right
choice and turn in both the $200 and the million dollars.
right way to live by making solid, ethical choices every day in every situation.
Being an ethical law enforcer requires us to constantly think about what we are doing, how our actions affect those around us and how we weigh the black and white guidelines against real life. Our job demands many things from us; our personal integrity should not be in question. If it is, you should not be among us.
Lt. Joseph Pangaro retired after serving 27 years in law enforcement in a police department in Monmouth County, New Jersey. Pangaro is a graduate of the Certified Public Managers Program (CPM) through Fairleigh-Dickenson University and served his department as the lead Training Officer. He also writes a weekly newspaper column dedicated to helping his readers understand the rigors and joys of a career in law enforcement. Joseph Pangaro is the CEO and President of Pangaro Management and Training and Management and Pangaro Global Training, an online training company. Contact Lt. Pangaro @jpangaro@yahoo.com.
Only you can decide if a cup of coffee or a million dollars is the price to buy your integrity. I believe that law enforcement is more than a job or a career path— it is a calling. Our work is noble and our mission is necessary for society to survive and thrive. Being ethical in our actions, thoughts, and deeds serves as a guide, as we steward the community we serve; we demonstrate the
IT PAYS CALL 973.881.5100 ADVERTISING DOESN’T COST,
Protecting Health and Wellness (Continued from page 10) our careers, this is one area where we suffer the greatest. Make a conscious choice every day to swap something unhealthy (burger) for something healthy (a salad). Drink more water, less sodas and coffees. It takes a little while to build a new habit, but I can assure you that you will see a difference physically and mentally. Get enough sleep! Sleep is one of the most important activities for your body, being necessary for your body and mind to function properly. Make sure that you allow 14
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
yourself enough time to rest properly, even if it means having to make adjustments to your personal schedule. Did you know that people that don’t get enough sleep are more likely to suffer from heart disease because of the amount of stress hormones in their bodies? We have enough to worry about from day-to-day that we cannot control. This is one area where we can completely take charge. Enjoy yourself! Don’t forget that there is a whole world outside of our careers. Go
out and enjoy it. Find something that you do that makes you happy, and commit to spending at least 30 minutes every couple of days doing it. It could be reading, playing sports, going to a movie… anything. Just remember that you deserve to enjoy life as much as anyone else! Khan Coaching “Command Your Life, Lead Your Life, Lead Your Life to Get the Results You Want Out of Life.” www.KhanCoaching.com To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Bristol pD Bristol PD officers training in rapid response techniques to be used during a critical incident like a school shooting.
Bristol Police Department
train for”Active Shooter Response” By Lt. Edward Spyros
D
uring the month of March, the Bristol Connecticut Police Department continued training all of their officers in “Active Shooter Response.” The instruction was provided by the department’s training division at the site of a former elementary school. According to the training division commander, Lieutenant Stephen Tavares, he stated that this continuing series is for training in rapid response methods for BPD officers. This specialized training is provided to keep law
enforcement personnel educated and prepared to respond to critical incidents. The training was dynamic with simunitions and gunfire. Role players assumed the parts of students, victims, hostages and suspects. In today’s society, police must be prepared to respond to these types of incidents. According to Tavares, the department’s hope is that the officers will never have to use these rapid response techniques; however, they are dedicated to prepare themselves to respond to this kind of situation.
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
15
Y R O T S VER
CO
HARTFORD Police
ITALIAN officers association By Daniel Del Valle
Interview with president of the Italian-American Officers Association in Hartford, Connecticut Sergeant Paul Cicero
S
erving 14 years in law enforcement, Sergeant Paul Cicero is the president of the Italian Officers Association in Hartford, Connecticut. With an active membership of over 240 members, the organization proudly attributes its success to its founding fathers. Existing now for about two decades, the association advocates brotherhood, community service and fellowship. In an interview with Sergeant Cicero, he opens up about community policing, the future of law enforcement and much more.
16
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
CT Blue Now: How long have you been in office? How have you progressed throughout your career? Sergeant Paul Cicero: I’ve been with the department for just over 14 years. I started with the Cadet program and then attended the police academy. After several years in patrol and the street crime unit, I went to the Major Crimes Division as a Detective. I spent the last few years there on detached assignment with the Connecticut Regional Auto Theft Task Force. In November 2010, I got promoted to Sergeant. What made you want to go into law enforcement? I always wanted to be a police officer; but more so, I wanted to be a police officer in Hartford. I was born and raised in Hartford. I always admired the Hartford Police Officers that were patrolling my neighborhood. I remember specifically two of them running through my front yard chasing after someone when I was about six or seven. It’s amazing how one small event can change your life forever. It was at that time that I convinced myself that I was going to be a Hartford Police Officer. How big is the police department in Hartford, Connecticut? We have about 425 sworn members. As far as policing, what would you say is your biggest issue? Cooperation with the city residents. We would like the residents to become more active with the police and be on the same page; it’s for everyone’s benefit. That isn’t just a Hartford problem; it appears to be a nationwide epidemic in inner cities.
Do you feel that programs like community policing work? There’s no secret recipe for success in regards to police work or else every city or town in the world would have implemented it by now. We have to address the issues that are most prevalent within the particular community, and community policing helps bridge the gap. There have been countless times that the residents have reached out to help us with providing information regarding crimes they have knowledge of or witnessed. I feel as though community policing is one of the most valuable programs available. We have a strong Community Oriented Policing Program in Hartford that consists of walkbeat officers, school resource officers, community service officers, business district officers and faith-based community officers. The police and the residents teamed together as a partner makes for a strong foundation. I feel as though it is an absolute necessity in city policing. Narcotics is a big problem with the youth of today. Do you have any insight to why that is? It seems like we hear more and more about new drugs that come out into the market like synthetic [drugs]. It has some different qualities to the ingredients, mostly chemical alterations—hallucinogenic substances that are infused with marijuana. They’ll sell it out on the streets, cigarette shops and local corner stores. Our narcotics unit has been working with the local community service officers to address those issues, seize all the
products, shut down the businesses and arrest people responsible for selling that stuff. When you have colorful cartoon-like images on packaging, it’s not difficult to see what age demographic they are targeting. It also seems as though in the last decade or so there has been a very noticeable increase in designer and prescription drug abuse.
You are the president of the Hartford Police Italian Officers Association. Tell me a little bit about your organization. The Hartford Police Italian Officers Association started in 1995 as a conversation in a hallway with a couple of officers. Over the years, it started with a simple meeting with five or six members, and here we are 19 years later with over 240 active members in the organization. I’m shocked and pleased to see how much it has grown throughout the last two decades. Why do you think an organization like yours is needed? CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
17
cover story
I wouldn’t say it is needed as much as it is wanted. A lot of people will go to the locker room at the end of their shift, hang up their uniform and go home. Our association brings officers together—both on and off-duty. An association such as ours brings everyone together in a nonwork environment setting. All the events are open to the member’s families as well. What kind of events does the Italian Officers Association host? We try to have an event every month. We host a Yankee/Red Sox bus trip every year. We load up two buses and take members down to New York to watch the game. We take a trip to NYC every Columbus Day in March to the annual Columbus Day Parade, which is one of the biggest parades in the country. The Columbus Day Parade has been organized by the Columbus Citizens Foundation in New York since 18
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
1929. Over 35,000 people participate in the Columbus Day Parade in New York City each year, including over 100 groups, with bands, floats and contingents. The parade attracts nearly one million spectators and is the largest celebration of Italian-American culture in the world. Marching in such a spectacular event is an honor. A familystyle lunch at the legendary Carmine’s in Times Square always follows after the parade. The parade is televised live and then reproduced on the Internet on streaming video. It’s always fun to go back and watch our organization representing the Hartford Police Department the following day. We also have a HPD family day that’s sponsored by our association, as well as several other associations within the department. The Hartford Police Union, Police Benevolent Association, Fraternal Order of Police, Guardians Association,
Hispanic Officers Association and Emerald Society all put in the effort for this event. It’s a great day at the beach that includes our friends and families. This past October we hosted our second seven-course wine dinner, which has proven to be a tremendous success. This year we had a gentleman that works with a local wine distributor come from Italy and give us an exceptional education regarding wines they were serving. It’s a great event which brings our spouses or significant others together. Softball games, family ice skating events, Christmas tree picking; the list goes on, and events get added and changed often. Our annual holiday party is our crown jewel, and this year we had a record 311 people in attendance. This particular event is planned by Vice President Vincenzo Marfella and Treasurer Phil Fuschino. They do a tremendous job with this particular event every year. I couldn’t be any happier To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
with the job they do. We also contribute time and money to several non-profit organizations throughout the state, as well as local schools and charities. One particular event that we are quite proud of occurs right before Thanksgiving every year. We purchase and deliver several dozen turkeys and donate them to families in need throughout the community. Local schools work with us to establish which families the donations would be more beneficial to. We also strongly support our membership when in need; whether it be injuries, sickness, or otherwise trying times. What are the requirements to join the association? To be a member, there is a simple application that stipulates that you have to be in good standing in the Hartford Police Department, and the executive board votes on the acceptance or refusal. There is a
small monthly fee attributed with becoming a member. I can’t recall a time where we did not accept an applicant. We also have been maintaining membership from retirees, which is fantastic. Inclusive to the membership is a monthly dinner meeting at a local Italian restaurant in Hartford’s south end, which is in the Italian district. The cannoli we serve for dessert from a local Italian pastry shop is enough reason alone to come down to the meetings. Are there different memberships available for those considering joining the organization? We have three different tiers. First, we have the five member executive board. To be on the executive board, you have to be a member of the HPD and at least 50% Italian as stipulated in the first order of our bilaws. We then have the core membership, which are the Hartford Police Officers and
retirees. The associate membership consists of the civilians and other law enforcement officers from other agencies. Any new developments for your organization? We have seen a rise in memberships by officers from neighboring police agencies. They wanted to have more involvement in the association. We are currently working on a liaison program for surrounding towns to represent the HPD IOA. If we have more members, then we have more community events, functions, donations and contributions. Basically, the stronger the membership numbers, the stronger the association will be. The end result will be more contributions for the community and for the membership alike. Tell me about your executive board. CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
19
cover story
The executive board interestingly enough right now is all 100% Italian, and they very much understand the strong family principles Italians have and the culture of Italy. Secretary Anthony Buccheri and I have actually lived in Italy at one point when we were younger; him much longer than I. Anthony handles the monthly meeting agenda documents, maintains record of activity within the association, and helps with most of the events. Vincenzo Marfella, our vice president, is involved considerably with all decisions relative to our operation. Our treasurer, Philip Fuschino, handles all the finances and is involved with most of the events. Our trustee, Officer Anthony Rinaldi, is our go-to guy that handles all the extra tasks, as well as business with our sister organizations. He also fills in the void when one of us is unavailable. Our chaplain, Father Frederick Anello, is an honorary member and donates his time and services to the membership. I’m proud of the fantastic board that currently exists, as well as the past executive boards that have brought the organization to where it is today. It’s getting stronger and stronger each year. Previous President Dave Marinelli and Vice President Theodore Sposito laid a fantastic foundation. The transition to the current board was smooth and effortless.
election meeting takes place. Past boards have held the title for several terms, and some have come and gone quickly. It’s a lot of work with a tremendous amount of your own personal time being used up for the sake of the association. In 20 years where do you see law enforcement? In the time I have been here I’ve seen tremendous change: guidelines by the state, policies and procedures—a change in mostly everything we had learned on day one. It seems as though things are getting more and more restrictive in regards to our critical functions. It’s a very litigious and liability conscious time we live in. Policing, in general, needs to stay one step ahead in regards to technology, and at the same time,
remain conscious of an individual’s rights and liberties. Lastly, what would you like to say to the Hartford Police Department? We are family. We all wear the same uniform. Behind our badge is our heart. We may have different words on our nametags; but at the end of the day, we are a family bound together by a common cause, and we need to continuously look out for each other. “Famiglia, Salute, Felicita” Sgt. Paul C. Cicero Hartford Police Department HPD Italian Officer’s Association P.O. Box 2484 Hartford, CT 06146 www.hartfordpoliceioa.org
How would someone who is interested in a title on the executive board get voted it? Every three years is the changing of the guard. On the third year, whoever runs for a specific position will be nominated by another member. The following month, the 20
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Global Life Rejuvenation
The The Leader Leader in in Anti-Aging Anti-Aging Medicine Medicine
Testosterone, Estrogen and Growth Hormone Therapy
Hormone Replacement Therapy -
HormoneTreating Replacement Therapy theof Signs and Symptoms of Aging the Signs and- Treating Symptoms Aging The essentials for optimal health and longevity are proper nutrition, exercise and bio-identical hormone replacement balance. Many adults over the age of 35 are experiencing symptoms of (AGHD) Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency. AGHD is a condition that occurs when the production of human growth hormone decreases. There can also be a decrease in testosterone production in aging adults some time after the age of 30. Andropause in men and Menopause in women are two medical conditions that are significant of low hormone levels. Goals of HGH Therapy • Reduction in Body Fat • Lower Cholesterol • Lower Blood Pressure • Remove Wrinkles • Eliminate Cellulite • Improve Kidney Function
Goals of Testosterone • Build Lean Muscle • Improve Sexual Performance • Enhance Sex Drive • Increase Energy • Improve Memory • Lower Cholesterol • Improve Mood • Protect Against Heart Disease
Introducing: Introducing: Global Global Nutraceuticals Nutraceuticals
Global Nutraceutical's are a comprehensive “ daily multivitamin pack that has been formulated especially for the needs of men and women based on the most recent advances in nutritional science. This product provides a complete, full potency formulation of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants to help provide essential nutrients to your body needs. The physicians at Global Nutraceuticals developed this product to support the body's nutritional needs in convenient AM/PM packets. Total Health Pack provides the vital nutritional support to help energize your life.
Call Today for a Global Life Physician inMcMahon Your Area: Photos Courtesy of Jim
1-866-793-9933
www.globalliferejuvenation.com
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
21
story e r u t a e f
F
irst elected into office in 1992, Sheriff Joseph M. Arpaio has been successfully reelected to an unprecedented sixth 4-year term as Sheriff of Maricopa County in the State of Arizona. Sheriff Arpaio is known as “America’s Toughest Sheriff,” a name given to him years ago by the media. He has built a reputation for fighting crime and drug trafficking in the world and is the head of our nation’s third largest Sheriff’s Office which employs over 3,400 people. As the top law enforcement officer in Maricopa County, Sheriff Arpaio is known for his ‘get tough’ policies and outspoken stance as an advocate for strong enforcement of immigration law.
SHERIFF JOE ARPAIO
America’s Toughest Sheriff By Daniel Del Valle
22
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
CT Blue Now: Sheriff, What made you initially go into law enforcement? Sheriff Joe Arpaio: When I was young I had always wanted to be an FBI agent. I joined the army when I turned 18 and graduated from high school. The Korean War broke out all about the same time. I went into the army for three years then pursued my dreams of being in law enforcement. Where did you first start your career? I joined the Washington, D.C. Police Department. Then when I was 21, the Metropolitan Police and then went to the Las Vegas Police Department for a short time. I was lucky enough to get the federal narcotic agent position. I spent 28 years fighting drugs around the world. When did you decide to become a sheriff? I decided in 1992 when I was 60 year old that I would run for sheriff. I’ve been sheriff for 21 years and have been working 50 years in law enforcement. So, what is known as the DEA today was known as the Bureau of Narcotics during that time? I was sworn in with the Federal Bureau of Narcotics Treasury Department. Then it became Bureau of Narcotics in Dangerous Drugs to the Drug Enforcement Administration. They kept reorganizing, so now it’s called the DEA. How old are you now? Eighty-one and proud of it. Most people who are 81 years old are enjoying retirement. Why aren’t you doing the same? That’s a good question. Let me put it this way. I don’t have any family problems or big issues to cause me to retire, so I do it. I just wish I ran for sheriff a little sooner than when I was 60. I meet sheriffs all the time, and they don’t have even 5 percent of the type of publicity or stress that you have. With all these lawsuits and controversies, does that take a toll on you? I don’t have any stress. I got the White House, the Department of Justice, ACLU,
politicians and everybody stirring in the pot, but you don’t see me worrying about it.
talks about it other than the controversial programs that we have, which is okay.
Sheriff, in your opinion, when inmate comes to your jail, what is the purpose? Do you want to rehabilitate or punish him? Well, both—punishment and we try and do give them an education.
Tell me about your jails. We have about eight to ten thousand inmates a day in a small jail, and we have about five jails. We have two new ones that we built.
In your state do sheriffs run the jails? Sheriffs were elected to run jails and now I run the jails. We have the largest jail system in the country. Being elected, I don’t worry about bureaucracy, governors or anybody else. I report directly to the four million people that live in this county. So consequently, I do what I feel is right and get by with it. Now you have a program where you house inmates in tents. What is that about? When I ran for office in ’92, I made a promise that I would put up tents in the desert--Korean War tents--and I made a big deal over that just to send a message out. We celebrated our 20-year anniversary this year since putting tents in the desert, but sometimes it gets to be 140 degrees in those tents. If our men and women fighting for our country live in tents, why shouldn’t they? Has an inmate ever died under those conditions? No, I haven’t had anybody die in the desert in the heat of exhaustion or cold. Do you feel you are violating the civil rights of these inmates? Where does it say in the Constitution that you have to have air conditioning or the food has to be steak? I mean, where do you see all that? I’m not violating anything and if they think I am, they can sue me. So what?
The pink underwear is something that everybody talks about. Is it your intention forcing inmates to wear pink underwear to humiliate them so they won’t come back to prison? Not really in that sense. The official reason of the underwear was because inmates were smuggling the white underwear out of the jail and it was hard to keep track of the pairs of underwear they were smuggling. I decided to dye them all pink because nobody wears pink underwear—everybody would know it was ours. The other reason is the fact they don’t like it. Why would we give them a color they like? Sheriff, the philosophy that you have is to give the inmate something they don’t like so they won’t come back? Yeah. Why would you give them things they like? Are you supposed to be punished when you go to jail? Everybody says don’t use the word punishment; you can’t say punishment. Why can’t you say it? I took away all their porno, movies and TV other than the weather channel. Isn’t that punishable? They only have the weather channel? I show them the weather channel, and I also show them C-SPAN so they can suffer watching the politicians. The other channel
What other programs does your jail facilitate? How I hate to ruin my reputation, but I feel we have the best drug prevention program in the United States. We also have a high school. We tour a high school with juveniles doing their time in jail versus prison, because they have been charged with serious adult-like crimes. I can go on and on with what we have, but nobody CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
23
feature story is the food channel so they can learn how to cook. Why do you have to show them cable? Where in the Constitution or anywhere that says you have to give them all the TV? I haven’t heard it. I’m the guy who runs the jail. I’m the TV guy and determine what they should watch.
Do you feel you are going too far with that? No. I know how far I can go. I’m going to do something that is going to be controversial next week, but I’ll stick by it. We have 300 veterans in our jails doing time, and I am going to put them in one space and segregate it and give them a special trade to try to find them a job when they get out. Now that you brought it up, let’s talk about veterans and inmates with mental health issues. Do you have any compassion for them at all or do you put them in the same category as a real criminal? Of course, I have compassion for them, but I am going to put them together and help them. We’ve been trying to do that for them anyway—trying to do that for all the inmates; but on the other hand, this is special to me. I’m a veteran. I put flags in every cell and those who mess with the flag I put them on bread and water. I have ten on bread and water now; I also make them sing God Bless America and our National Anthem. I hired 100 veterans. The president and everybody always talk about we have to take care of our veterans, and that’s all they do is talk. So, I actually hire them. All these politicians and bureaucrats--all they do is talk. As far as the jail system you have there, some critique you for grandstanding. Are there any thoughts on that? Yeah, they call me a publicity hound. I don’t run a CIA secret operation. I’m hoping that when people read this they will know what I am doing. Am I supposed to do everything in secret? So, I do grandstand. Sheriff, how do you keep meals so cheap? Obviously, you were disappointed with 40 cents a meal. Here it cost like 5 bucks a meal, if that. The reason it’s gone up is the economy. We go out and get a lot of donations, and we 24
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
send trucks to pick up the discarded fruits and vegetables. I don’t feed them steak. For example, I give them brunch, which is a peanut butter sandwich and an orange. Now that is a combination of a breakfast and a lunch. Then at night we give them a hot meal. It’s not steak. By the way, I took away all their meat so they can eat their vegetarian meals. So that is how I keep it down, but you feed them. Why should we give them three meals a day, when the poor people have to pay for their meals? In fact I’m going to start charging them a lunchbox for any of their meals. How do you look at sheriffs or wardens who cater to inmates? I am not going to criticize sheriffs. That’s their business what they do in their county. What I do in mine is all I care about. How many inmates do you have in your facility, Sheriff? Today I have 8,500. We used to have 10 thousand. The population has gone down a bit. Are you a racist? Of course not! I don’t get into my personal family ethnic backgrounds, so why would I even talk about it. The answer is no. Do you see Hispanics as being beneath you? Of course not. They are part of my family. Let’s leave it at that. I’ve never had any problems with foreign people. I always get along with them. So, they can call me anything they want. As a cop, they like to do that because they can’t get me any other way. I’m talking to all those activists including AL Sharpton who led 10 thousand people against me three or four years ago. You know what? I had him in my office to come and see me. We had a nice talk. Oh wow, how was that? It was good. I didn’t know he was a minister or reverend. I would have offered him a little beer or something. You’ve received a lot of criticism from the anti-illegal immigration bill (SB-1070). How do you think the residents in your county benefit from illegal immigrants having identification cards? Well, let’s put it this way. We are responsible
for 50 thousand on the streets or in the jails that may have been investigated here lately. It’s very interesting; crime has gone down just about the year we started our push of immigration, but this is something that has to be resolved one day. In the meantime, I took an oath of office, and when you take an oath, I presume you should follow that. I’m locking people up who violate the law. If you don’t like it, change the law. Do you have a problem with illegal immigrants in your county committing a lot of crimes? Two or three years ago, 18 percent of the people in the jail who committed all different types of crimes were here illegally. That’s gone down to about eight to 10 percent. Immigration has slowed a little, but we still don’t have any problems locking people up. How do you feel about illegal immigrants breaking the law? I’m against the Embassy. I don’t believe that they should be giving amnesty for those who broke the law and came here. I look at it as a fairness issue. There are many people around the world who want to come here and be U.S. citizens. They wait for years. They don’t break the law, and yet when someone comes into this country illegally and gets a free pass out of jail, that’s not fair. We know your reputation with your decisions regarding jail, inmates, civilians and criminals. What’s your relationship with your staff? I got good morale even though we are the lowest paid armed forces, and I keep fighting to get more money to pay them. I used to have 4,000 employees, but now it’s like 3,500; but that doesn’t bother me. My employees know the sheriff backs them up. That’s one thing they know. I don’t throw them under the bus. I back my employees. Why do you feel backing them up is the right thing to do? I’ll tell you a secret and they know it. They can’t con me. I’ve been through it all. I understand what they go through. It’s not easy. I’m not here to lock up my deputies or fire them. I am out here to defend them. If they do something wrong, I am going to have to take care of that, but I don’t go around trying to say they violated the To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
I put it out that I may do it and every four years the media shows up with a big press conference, and then at the last minute I say I’m staying as sheriff. I think they get tired of that (laughing).
badge. I have people who do that. I don’t run a tough ship in that regard. I want flexibility. If they do their job and they get in trouble, I am going to back them up no matter what people say. Are your officers at will employees? No, the only ones at will are those I make deputy chief. When it comes to union representation, do you have a good relationship with the police unions? I have no problems with unions. It’s not my union. I help them out. They go out and endorse people, too. In the last few years, boy, am I their friend because I help them get things passed through legislature. I take care of the cops. I think unions can somewhat be a little helpful, but they can be irritating, too if they try to run an organization. Nobody runs my organization except me. I’m very sensitive about that. Do you have abuse of power issues in your department? No—I mean we had a few shootings, but my deputies are pretty good. It doesn’t mean you should give them a medal for killing someone. You should give them a medal for not killing someone. I have great confidence in my deputies. How many more years do you plan on being in law enforcement, Sheriff? Well, I’ll be 82 in June. I already announced that I’m running again in 2016. Every four years people want me to run for governor.
So are you planning to run for governor? The governor is leaving, and I’ve raised 3 million dollars already in the last nine months. What sheriff raises millions of dollars! Over the years what kept me from doing it is the minute I say I’m running for governor, I have to leave the sheriff ’s office. I don’t know if I want to give this job up to somebody else, so I still hang in there. Next year, I’ll put it out again and the media will go crazy and say I’m conning them; but if I were a betting guy, I would say I’m running for sheriff in 2016. That will be my 7th four-year term. After you leave office, what do you hope your predecessor will do after your departure? When I was at the DEA, every time I got transferred over to a new office or left the office, the philosophy was to never look back. So, the answer to that is “Hey, that couldn’t bother me. I did my thing. I’m famous. Like my favorite song by Frank Sinatra says: ‘I did it my way.’ I’m famous! So, if the new sheriff came in and let the ACLU take over, will you be a disappointed? No, what am I going to do, go home and get drunk or something? That’s their problem. Sheriff, when there are no more cameras and you are no longer the important guy, what would you like to be remembered for? You know you’ve asked some really good questions. First of all, just understand that when I’m gone, you’ll probably never call me. Once you’re gone, you’re dead and buried. So, how do I want to be remembered? This song I just mentioned that I sing or try to sing at fundraisers: “So I took the blows and did it my way. Traveled
each and every highway, and that’s the way it’s going to be.” Is there anything you would like to tell your wife? I would want to thank her for allowing me to do it ‘my way.’ Any words of wisdom for your kids? Dawn did a great job raising the kids. I wasn’t always home; I was working in law enforcement. The kids turned out okay, and I’m kind of fortunate in that regard. What would you tell an officer who is contemplating suicide who reads this interview? Don’t give up. You should never kill. I know you have problems, but fight back. You’ll be okay. Any advice for sheriffs or leaders in New Jersey trying to get tips on how to be a powerful leader like you? To those elected officials, remember you are elected. You don’t serve the governor or politicians--just serve the people. The sheriff is a very powerful position so just make sure that you utilize your power in the right way. Do you think our country is going to be a better America or are we going to have problems? Today is a little different when I grew up, and I don’t know if we are ever going to get back to the old days again. Are you scared of anything in this world, Sheriff? I’m not scared of anything. Who do you think was the best president we’ve had? Don’t know, quite frankly. I haven’t studied all the histories of all of our presidents. But, let me just say this. Even with sheriffs, everybody leaves something. They may criticize, but every president has done some good. Sheriff, it’s been a pleasure. Any last words you would like to say? I very seldom get someone to say a couple of good things about me. Thanks for what you do because of the power of the print. CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
25
around New jersey
NJ LUENOW Magazine www.njbluenow.com
Trooper Brian Malast New Jersey State Police
AN EXAMPLE OF COURAGE By Captain Donna Roman Hernandez (ret.)
Courage is looking fear right in the eye and saying “Get out of my way. I ’ve got things to do.” - Unknown
L
ife isn’t always fair and, at times, forces us to accept tough situations and to let go of what was, and to have faith in what will be.
Trooper Brian Malast graduated from the NJSP Trooper Academy 139th Recruit Class on April 29, 2005. He was living his dream job following in the footsteps of his father, NJSP Lt. Colonel William Malast, when suddenly, on October 23, 2005 at 10:30 p.m., Malast’s dream job took a nightmarish twist. While traveling on Route 68 in Mansfield responding to a suspicious person call, Trooper Malast’s patrol vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree.
26
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
™
Lt. Colonel Malast received a phone call at 11:04 p.m. from Troop “C”, Bordentown Station, that his son was helivaced by the NJSP Aviation Unit, South Star, to Cooper Trauma Center in Camden, New Jersey. Miraculously, Brian survived this near-fatal motor vehicle crash.
THE AFTERMATH
visited him at Kessler, and continues to visit him at home. Lt. Colonel Malast expressed his gratitude for Nestor’s assistance throughout Brian’s recovery and said, “Jim was there every week and his talks with Brian were a major contributor to the sanity of our family through every rough point. Jim is a class act. He gave all of himself and is still with him to this date.
“I knew it was serious. I headed to Cooper with my wife and William, my oldest son,” Lt. Colonel Malast said. Trooper Malast was in serious condition with injuries that included a spinal cord injury. At the age of 24, Brian was completely paralyzed. Trooper II Shawn Finney, Malast’s backup on the dispatched call, was the first Trooper to arrive on scene. “Brian and I were on the job for less than one year,” he said. “I knew if anyone could survive the crash, Brian would. I knew he had serious injuries but Brian was going to make it.” Trooper II James Baranyay and Malast have been friends for more than 20 years. He reminisced about the night of the crash, “I had a bunch of missed calls from my former classmates. Brian and I were stationed at the Bordentown Barracks. When I went into work the following morning, my Sergeant told me that Brian was in Cooper and assigned me for my 12-hour shift to his hospital room. I met Brian’s father there who briefed me on his condition. When I saw Brian, I knew he would never give up or ever quit fighting. I came to terms with what happened. I knew it was out of my control; that it was up to God and Brian. I had no doubt Brian was not going to throw the towel in. Brian is an outgoing person, easy to get along with and has a strong work ethic. His goal was to be a member of the NJSP TEAMS Unit.” Trooper Malast spent 40 days at Cooper in a medically induced coma. While in Cooper, accommodations were made for the Malast family and the visiting Troopers who held vigils for Brian; dignitaries frequently visited. James Nestor, the former Director of the NJSP Office of Employee and Organization Development and its Employee Assistance Program, has been visiting Brian since the crash. He stayed at Cooper with Brian for the first month to assist the family and
After 40 days at Cooper, Malast was transferred to the Kessler Rehabilitation Center in West Orange, New Jersey for rehabilitation. Lt. Colonel Malast took a leave of absence from the job to be at his son’s side. He recalled, “Throughout his life, Brian has been a battler; a tough, determined young man and a great athlete from pop warner football through college. Brian’s high school football coach, Doug Cover, watched Brian work physically hard and transform from a 5’5”, 120 freshman to a 5’11” football tailback. Brian was AllCounty and All-Shore in football and was on two All-State Football Teams, including the NJ Super 100 All State Team; he had a full athletic scholarship to the Virginia Military Institute. VMI was no easy road; it’s a tough
school. As an athlete, Brian was the kind of guy who always carried the ball with the same enthusiasm on his last carry as if it were the first time he carried it.” Brian remained at Kessler and underwent rehabilitation for more than one year and he was discharged in May of 2007. “Brian is an amazing guy,” Trooper Finney said. “Kessler rehabilitated Brian, but Brian pushed himself just like he did in the Academy. He is still the ‘same’ Brian I knew since 2004 when we were classmates at the State Police Academy. When he came home on the weekends, he did extra physical training. On the job, we were squad mates in the same platoon in Bordentown. We worked out together and knew a lot about each other’s backgrounds. Most times, he was smiling, laughing and always jovial; he took the seriousness out of everything.” Trooper Malast was born in Manchester Township, New Jersey. His father, William, served with the NJSP for 32 years and was the NJSP Field Operations Commanding Officer and retiring as the Deputy Superintendent of Homeland Security. His mother, Debra, has been an educator for 38 years. A talented athlete, Brian attended Manchester Township High School where he excelled in football, wrestling, baseball and indoor track. He is the middle sibling of two brothers, William and Kevin. William was a scholarship linebacker at New Hampshire and their younger brother, Kevin, was a Captain of the Rutgers Football Team and an NFL football player for the Chicago Bears and Tennessee Titans. Brian attended Virginia Military Institute on a full athletic scholarship where he played football for four years. Brian worked as an Agent in the Grand Jury Section of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office for six months prior to becoming a Trooper.
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
27
around New jersey COMING HOME
Brian with SP Commanders and his Dad and Uncle in back
Prior to Brian’s release from Kessler, his NJSP colleagues and friends added another room with special needs accommodations to his parent’s home where he lived before the crash. Lt. Colonel Malast remembered the day Brian came home and said, “The Toms River Police medics used their rig to bring Brian home. As we traveled south on the parkway from mile post 145 to 80, there were state and municipal police cars at every cut through, U-turn, and exit ramps with their lights on showing support for him. When we got to Toms River, all the local cops were out there with their lights on welcoming Brian home. The Toms River Police Department was very supportive of Brian when their police officer/paramedics took him out of their van. I was in the car behind Brian; there had to be about 70 to 80 James Nestor with Brian
local and state police departments that took a minute of their time to put their lights on for Brian throughout the trip. Lt. Colonel Malast said that Brian’s memory of the crash is limited and his recall is approximately a month before the crash
Brian honored by the Care to Share Program
28
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
and two months after the crash. Brian lives in his own home not far from his parents’ home. He retired with an accidental disability pension in April of 2008. Malast stays involved with the NJSP Academy making presentations to recruit classes.
from the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey; and the “Rutgers Stars Come Home” - Kevin Malast Comedy Fundraiser was held at Rutgers University benefiting the spinal cord injury projects at Rutgers University.
HONORING TROOPER BRIAN MALAST
The Manchester Township PBA sponsored a softball tournament in honor of Brian and his services to law enforcement.
In 2006, The State Troopers Fraternal Organization and Brian’s family held a “Going to Bat for Brian” benefit baseball game at the Blue Claws Stadium. Brian surprised all of those in attendance by going to the game. In 2010, Brian received the Person of the Year Award by the Care to Share Program and the Ocean County Board of Freeholders proclaimed December 20th as Brian Malast Day in Ocean County. In 2012, Brian and his father were recognized by the National Police Defense Foundation’s State Troopers Coalition with the Profile in Courage Award; Trooper Malast received the Humanitarian Award
Brian and his father William
In November of 2013, the NJSP Marine Station in Carteret, New Jersey was dedicated in honor of Trooper Brian Malast.
FINAL THOUGHTS
After spending several hours with Brian at his home, I was impressed with his desire to fight and get better. He remains passionate about the job and his relationship with the State Police. Brian doesn’t bemoan to himself or to anyone. It’s evident that early on, he chose to respond to his life situation by being optimistic; to take control of his life and to think about what matters and not the unfairness of things; and to deal
Brian accepting Care to Share Award
To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
with the struggles of life. Brian mentioned several times that he has nothing to complain about; everyone I interviewed told me that Brian tells them the same thing. Brian has a passion for stem cell research and believes that one day this research will lead to his recovery. It’s befitting to share the following thoughts expressed by those who admire and love Brian.
Brian struggles every day but he’s such a fighter. My brother has such a positive attitude. I spend a lot of time with him when I am home. He believes he can get better.” ~ Kevin Malast Brian is my best friend. We grew up together and were classmates in the Academy. As young men, we always knew what we wanted to do; we laid the groundwork and worked very hard. We leaned on each other and counted on each other. There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t think about him. I often think about when Brian and I were together on the job and how we relied on each other. I may forget to call or text him every day, but he knows I am only a phone call away. My wife grew up two blocks from Brian and is close to Brian and his family. All of us are a tight knit group. His spirits are incredible; he always has a smile on his face and is sharp as a tack. He is an inspiration to me and all the Troopers.” ~ Trooper II James Baranyay The follow up is what matters; to be there for Brian when no one is around and he is home alone. We get together at least 7 times a year with my family. I tell him about what’s happening on the job and to be there for Brian. I will be forever grateful to Brian for responding as my backup on that suspicious person call in Wrightstown. Thank you, Brian, for being true to yourself. ~ Trooper II Shawn Finney Brian was one of my students. He graduated from FDU in 2011 with his Masters in Administrative Services. The Professors at FDU made a commitment that they would be available for Brian
O ne day I will come
out of this chair. I am hurt, but not dead. I won’t let my wheelchair decide what my life is. That’s how I live my life. ~ Brian Malast
on campus with his classes and in the home study program. His father also got his masters degree in the same program. Brian has a positive outlook about how he lives today. He always says he is doing fine with no complaints. He has an active social life with family and friends. Brian travels to VMI for reunions and his former classmates visit him. Brian enjoys visits from his Manchester high school friends, Trooper friends and with his former supervisor, Sgt. Gerry Cooney. Brian was delivered a curve ball in his life but if you want a shot of courage, visit Brian. ~ James Nestor Every day Brian wakes up, he fights the bear and beats it. He is the salt of the earth. He keeps me grounded. He is unimaginably tough and is an
inspiration to everyone he meets. Brian is a quadriplegic who got his masters degree, and Brian inspired me to get mine, too. If you want to put yourself in perspective and get away from whining and complaining--go and visit Brian. I’m so happy he is a part of my life. I am a lucky guy because every day I get to see my son, a real example of courage. ~ William Malast Captain Donna Roman Hernandez (ret.) is the Managing Editor of NJ Blue Now magazine and the host of Tough Justice live stream talk radio show at www.ddvradio.com and The Jersey Beat blog talk radio show at www.thejerseybeat. blogspot.com. Donna may be contacted by email at salsacop446@hotmail.com or www.blueforcefilms.com. CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
29
around New york
NY LUENOW
™
Magazine www.nybluenow.com
NYPD OFFICER
Joe Sanchez:
INDICTED, CONVICTED & EXONERATED By Joe Sanchez
Photo: When I worked in the 30 Precinct
Back in the 1980s, Joe Sanchez was just an ordinary NYPD police officer who loved his job until he found himself falsely accused of crimes he didn’t commit, after he sought to expose corruption among certain highranking NYPD officials. He was eventually exonerated. He has detailed his experiences in two novels that he coauthored with Mo Dhania; ‘Latin Blues,’ which is a work of fiction that is based on his rookie year and the killing of two NYPD officers. The other novel is ‘True Blue: A Tale of the Enemy Within,’ which is his autobiography. Currently, he is working on his third book. Now 65, Joe is retired and living happily in Florida with his wife, Lorraine, who he has been married to for 44 years. Following is Part 1 of Joe’s riveting two-part interview involving lies, corruption and betrayal.
I
am a former Port Authority police officer, a former NYPD police officer, a former letter carrier with the United States Postal Service and a former NY State corrections officer. These days, I’m retired and enjoying my life. I loved working in law enforcement, and I loved being an NYPD officer. Basically, I was a good cop who tried to do the right thing and was betrayed by the very people who should’ve had my back. Some people saw me as a rat for breaking the ‘blue wall of silence,’ but other people saw me as a hero for exposing corruption. At the end of the day, I was just a regular cop trying to do the right thing.
I was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and my family moved to Lower Manhattan in 1952. After graduating from Theodore Roosevelt High School in the Bronx, I decided I wanted to enlist in the military. I tried to enlist in the Marines, Navy, Army and Air Force, but with no luck. I did end up being drafted into the Army in 1965, and I was sent to Vietnam. During a firefight, one of the Vietcong threw a grenade and injured me and three other troops. It was my 20th 30
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
birthday. I came home after being wounded in 1967, and I worked numerous jobs to make ends meet, including driving a cab and an ambulance. One day, I was reading the newspaper, and I saw an advertisement for the NYPD exam. I took the test in 1968 and I passed, but it took five years before I became an NYPD officer. In the meantime, I took the Port Authority exam, passed and entered the Port Authority Police Academy in 1971. I worked at the Port Authority for three years, and then the NYPD finally called me. The fact that I was already a Port Authority cop and a Vietnam vet helped tremendously. I qualified in October of 1973; entered the NYPD Police Academy, and I graduated 6 months later. I was sent to the 90th Precinct in Brooklyn. As a rookie cop, I worked with my Cuban partner Louie Herrera. He and I had situations where we didn’t get along with other police officers. Louie was laid off, and it took him three years to come back on the job. I ended up being involved in a case where two officers from the 9th Precinct,
Andrew Glover and Frederick Reddy, were killed. Now, when I say I was involved in that case, I mean I had information that there was a gang in the Lower East Side who were committing robberies. I took it upon myself to investigate the case on my own. I went over to the 9th Precinct and spoke to my friend Andrew Glover. He told me to see his commanding officer. Unfortunately, that went nowhere. Now, a confidential informant told me that this gang was committing social club robberies, and it involved a man named Freddy Aviles. Back in the 60s, Freddy was into heroin, and he was working with the Mulberry Gangs. The Feds and the NYPD had collared Freddy, but they left him out on the street because he was able to feed them information on drugs and homicides. Still, Freddy was still committing crimes. He had a group of guys that he would send out to rob these social clubs. I knew that if something wasn’t done about Freddy and his gang, some cop was going to run into one of these guys and get hurt, especially after I learned that they were going to start robbing banks. To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Unfortunately, on September 16th, 1975, my prediction became a reality when my friend, Officer Andrew Glover, and Sgt. Frederick Reddy were shot and killed by one of the bank robbers, Luis Velez, during a traffic stop. Louie had just dropped one of his bank-robbing buddies off when he was stopped. He managed to distract the officers by pointing out someone on the street that he claimed knew him. When the officers turned their heads, Louie pulled out a gun and shot them. He had the gun hidden under his shirt, and he knew they would find it once they searched him. Louie would later tell me that both officers approached him from the driver’s side, instead of one officer watching him from the passenger seat as should have been done. So, I would tell all officers: Don’t make the same mistake that Glover and Reddy did. Don’t allow yourselves to be distracted and always make sure that you’re watching your back and your partner’s back because you never know what can happen. To this day, Louie is remorseful for taking the lives of those two officers. He was high on cocaine, and he knew that he was wanted for bank robberies, so he panicked. In my time as a cop, I was involved in seven shooting incidents where I had to shoot someone. I never once took my eyes off of a suspect, especially when a partner or someone else was talking to me until I knew all was secured. When I went over to the 9th Precinct to see if they had any word on Glover and Reddy’s shooter, I found out that they had a photo of him and four others robbing a bank. The bank robbers were all wearing bandanas to cover their faces. I couldn’t believe it! There in the photo was the shooter, Louie Velez. He was one of the guys that I had warned my captain and Andy’s captain about. My greatest fear had come true only two months after I warned people about what could happen. I grabbed the picture, and I went hunting for Louie with two of my friends. Louie was on the run for eight days before he was captured, but I wasn’t the one who apprehended him.
Louie pleaded guilty and received 25-years to life for murder, but he was sentenced to federal prison for robbing banks. When I became a corrections officer in 1989, I was working at Sing Sing Prison, and I found out that Louie was there after he finished serving his federal time. I’ll discuss that in Part 2 of my story.
the 24th. He called me a ‘spy’ and we almost came to blows. Naturally, I told him where he could go, and I wasn’t nice about it either. The Manhattan borough commander, who was heading into the station house at the time, intervened and kept us from having it out. Within hours, the cop and I were transferred out to other precincts.
I was transferred out of the 90th Precinct and sent to the 25th Precinct in 1976. When I got there, rumors spread from the 90th Precinct that I was a field associate working for Internal Affairs. At first, Officer Freddie Roman was the only one willing to work with me. (Actually, he approached me and said that he would work with me.) Freddie Roman had worked narcotics, and he was an honest cop. He and I teamed up until I was later transferred to the 24th Precinct. I had to go through the same routine there when calls from the 25th went out to the 24th saying that I was a field associate. A few months later, I got into a heated altercation in front of the station house with a cop from
I was sent to the 30th Precinct, and before I even walked in the door, the gossip spread from the 24th. They let everyone in the 30th know that a so-called field associate was taking up residence in their precinct. With that kind of an ‘introduction’ it’s no wonder that it took years for the cops in the 30th to realize that I wasn’t a field associate, but that didn’t stop many of them from going out of their way to avoid working with me. Of course, the fact that I was involved in seven shooting incidents while there, including one with Officer Susan Medicis (she was the first woman in NYPD history to win the Combat Cross) did take some heat off of me. However, some of the cops
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
31
around New york Cunningham by the way) claimed that I took $1200 dollars from him. That’s when my nightmare began. Since a complaint had been made, Internal Affairs had to get involved. The other drug dealers and Cunningham’s girlfriend were interviewed. None of them said that I took any money from them. So, that looked good for me.
Last photo before going to trial
in the 30th were still leery of me. I can honestly say that the average cop working in the 30th was honorable and hardworking. After Suzie transferred out, I teamed up with my partner Herman Velez, who I had worked with prior to Suzie. Herman and I were very active in the Washington Heights section and one particular collar that we made on April 13, 1982, changed my life forever. Herman and I got involved in a drug bust after we followed a tall, black male wearing a cowboy hat into a particular tenement building. I notified Central, but I told them that we didn’t need backup because we didn’t know what we were dealing with. After Herman and I noticed that the guy doing security for the apartment had a gun, that’s when we bolted for the door. We secured the guy with the gun and arrested everyone in the apartment. I called it in and backup arrived. Just as we were about to take everyone down to the precinct, the guy with the cowboy hat claimed that somebody took his money. I told him to make a complaint at the station. We also ended up arresting his girlfriend, who was waiting in the car, because we found cocaine on her when we went to ask her for identification. When we arrived at the precinct, the guy with the cowboy hat (his name was Bertino 32
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
(Cunningham would later claim that I took $1600 from him. His girlfriend would claim that I took over $250 from her. I later found out that all of the drug dealers that Herman and I arrested that day were told that if they testified in front of the grand jury that I took their money, not just Cunningham and his girlfriend’s money, that they would get immunity and have their charges dropped. I mean, think about it. What would you do if you were facing time in prison and your only way out was to say that the cop who arrested you took your money? So, all six testified that I took their money. Even though Herman made the arrest with me, they didn’t mention him. He was the invisible man. It was like he didn’t even exist. Thankfully, Herman would end up being my best witness when I went to trial). A few days after the drug bust, I told my story to the assistant district attorney at the time. His father was my commanding officer back in the 90th Precinct when Glover and
Reddy were killed. I told him that Internal Affairs was investigating me because of Cunningham’s allegations. Now, under New York State law, any witness who testifies before a grand jury will immediately receive complete immunity for whatever he said or did, unless he waives his immunity. This means that the ADA should’ve waived my immunity before I went into the grand jury, but he never did. Meanwhile, I had a different set of problems to deal with. I had reported corruption within our department which involved a lieutenant at the 30th Precinct, plus my captain. He claimed that I was trying to set him up on bogus charges, so I was brought up on charges for trying to ‘set him up.’ Later, I would end up wearing a wire and working with Internal Affairs to gather information on him. One day, I got a call at the precinct from a guy who is looking for the ‘bad lieutenant’ who had already signed out for the day. The caller tells me that he owns a supermarket and starts giving me all of this information on the ‘bad lieutenant.’ I called Internal Affairs, and they told me to report it, which is how I got deeper and deeper involved with this. I ended up wearing a wire and meeting with the guy from the supermarket. Ironically, the same Internal Affairs guys who wired me up to get information on the ‘bad lieutenant’ locked me up a year later. Eventually, I gathered up enough
Joe with the famous NYPD whistleblower, Frank Serpico, in 2008. To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Blue classifieds HARTFORD Police
WE LIVE AND BURN BLUE
Italian Officers Association
www.sunlitcandles.com
Global Life Rejuvenation
Clean, Creative, Affordable Website Design
The The Leader Leader in in Anti-Aging Medicine Anti-Aging Medicine Donna Roman Hernandez
Testosterone, Estrogen and Growth Hormone Therapy
201-873-0104
973-979-9207 salsacop446@hotmail.com Hormone Replacement Therapy - Treating the Signse: and Symptoms of Aging
www.DesignSoftMedia.com
The essentials for optimal health and longevity are proper nutrition, exercise and bio-identical hormone replacement balance. Many adults over the age of 35 are experiencing symptoms of (AGHD) Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency. AGHD is a condition that occurs when the production of human growth hormone decreases. There can also be a decrease in testosterone production in aging adults some time after the age of 30. Andropause in men and Menopause in women are two medical conditions that are significant of low hormone levels. Goals of HGH Therapy
Dello Russo LaserVision
Goals of Testosterone
• Reduction in Body Fat • Lower Cholesterol • Lower Blood Pressure • Remove Wrinkles • Eliminate Cellulite • Improve Kidney Function
• Build Lean Muscle • Improve Sexual Performance • Enhance Sex Drive • Increase Energy • Improve Memory • Lower Cholesterol • Improve Mood • Protect Against Heart Disease
www.dellorussolaservision.com
Introducing: Introducing: Global Global Nutraceuticals Nutraceuticals
Global Nutraceutical's are a comprehensive “ daily multivitamin pack that has been formulated especially for the needs of men and women based on the most recent advances in nutritional science. This product provides a complete, full potency formulation of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants to help provide essential nutrients to your body needs. The physicians at Global Nutraceuticals developed this product to support the body's nutritional needs in convenient AM/PM packets. Total Health Pack provides the vital nutritional support to help energize your life.
CONNECTICUT STATE POLICE
INTERNET TALK RADIO
www.globalliferejuvenation.com
Magazine
www.nybluenow.com
™
NJ LUENOW
c saf li e b
y t
NY LUENOW
www.ddvradio.com
Pu
1-866-793-9933
Diverse Uncensored Opinionated
emerald society
Call Today for a Global Life Physician in Your Area:
™
Magazine
www.njbluenow.com
u
nited
www.publicsafetyunited.com
your ad here for $150
your ad here www.envisageproductions.com
for $150 CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
33
around New york
information for the department to arrest the ‘bad lieutenant.’ Unfortunately, it leaked out and he learned that I was wearing a wire. So, the ‘bad lieutenant’ claimed that I was trying to set up my captain. Afterwards, I got transferred to the 34th Precinct. Then on October 28, 1983, I found out from the sergeant that I used to wear the wire for that I had been indicted on October 25th. I asked him, “Is this where the hunter becomes the hunted?” He said, “Yeah.” He reminded me of the case about the drug dealers I had busted, and then he said that the tables had now been turned on me.
I had to turn in my badge, guns and ID since I was being arrested. I couldn’t believe this was happening to me! That’s when I found out that I was being arrested for burglary in the first degree, seven counts of grand larceny and assault in the third degree. I had nine charges against me. My partner Herman wasn’t arrested. In fact, Herman was on vacation in South America and had no idea what was going on. They charged me with burglary because they said that I forced my way into the apartment with a pistol. I said I was in uniform, but they said that didn’t matter. I went through the entire booking process of having my prints and photo taken. It was embarrassing. While I was waiting to get arraigned, my union lawyer arrived. He told me that he was the best they had. When he told me that, I knew I was in trouble. They decided to arraign me along with a narcotics detective, who had been collared for taking some money. He came with his own lawyer because he didn’t want a union attorney. The judge sent us both home on our own recognizance with no bail. The next day, it was all over the newspapers and radio that two NYPD police officers were arrested. They made it look as if I was working with him. Since I wasn’t working, I needed to find a job. Thankfully, my former partner Susan was able to help me get a job as a night supervisor doing home security. I stayed with home security for three years until 1986 when I was called to be a mailman up in Rockland County. I wanted to go to trial right away because I knew I could prove my innocence, but it took over a year before the trial started. The special State prosecutor, back in 1983 when I got arrested, prosecuted me knowing that I had never waived my immunity. That’s what they did to me. 34
CT Blue now | Issue 2~2014
During my trial, three of the drug dealers who had received immunity never showed up to testify against me. The dealers knew that they had lied and when the special State prosecutor couldn’t find them, the State was embarrassed. So, the State was just left with Cunningham, his girlfriend and the guy that Herman and I caught opening the apartment door with the gun. According to them, I had ripped off all of these drug dealers in front of my partner Herman. It made no sense. Talk about a nightmare!
Anyway, I was found not guilty on the burglary and grand larceny charges, but I was found guilty on the assault charge because Cunningham said that I beat him up. A week later, one of the jurors began writing letters on my behalf from the jury stating that they had made a mistake with the assault charge. Then I found out that there was a new special prosecutor. Charlie Joe Hynes who became the new Special State Prosecutor in 1985 was the one who dismissed my indictment. He then went on to become Brooklyn’s DA. Hynes just lost the election after being in office for 23-years. It was as if my case never happened. Since my indictment had been wiped away, I was hoping to get my job back. But there was a law on the books that said that it was up to the commissioner to reinstate a member of the service, and he chose not to do that. That law is no longer on the books. Now, they have to give you a departmental hearing. I was exonerated in 1985, but I still couldn’t get my job back. I went through the Appellate Court for an Article 78 proceedings hearing to try and get my job back. In the end, the “cabal” had succeeded on two fronts. They made sure that I didn’t get my job back and that I was unable to sue anybody. Since my NYPD career was yanked out from under me, I took the test for the Department of Corrections, and I got called three or four years later. I became a corrections officer in 1989, at the age of 42, six years after I got indicted. In fact, the New York State Department of Corrections was the only law enforcement entity that went to bat for me after I was exonerated. After reviewing my case, they helped me remove the stigma of the indictment by getting me back into law enforcement. But, I only worked as a corrections officer for two years because I ended up getting
injured while saving an inmate’s life. At that point, I went on compensation and moved to Florida. I later found out that I was lucky to still be alive because there was a contract out on me. I know some people are probably wondering how I feel about the ‘code of silence,’ considering everything that I experienced. Bottom line, if I’m working with a partner and I see him doing something that will put me, another officer or the public in danger, then I’m going to rat his ass out. Now, let me make it clear that everything that I have mentioned in this article is the truth. I know some of it may seem unbelievable, but it really happened. The justice system failed me in a major way. God only knows how many other good cops and citizens out there have similar stories to mine. I’d like to thank Daily News Staff Writer John Marzulli, who wrote an article about me in 1987 entitled, ‘Injustice System KO’s Super Cop,’ which can been seen on the first NYPD page of my website. I thank my wife Lorraine for standing by me, and I’m sorry for putting her through so much during the trial. Behind every good man is a good wife. I have to thank my kids for being by my side and for loving me as much as I love them. They make me proud. I have a son, Joey Sanchez, who is a narcotics cop here in Florida and he’s a better cop than I ever was. His wife is also a detective. To NY Blue Now Publisher Daniel Del Valle, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me the opportunity to tell my story. For those interested in reading Part 2 of my story, I will go into more detail about how, as a former cop turned corrections officer, I had to work around the same criminals that I had arrested. You’ll read what I had to deal with on a daily basis in the belly of the beast. I thank all of the people who have supported me. For those who may want to contact me after reading the story, but are worried that they don’t know me, just email me at Bluewall@mpinet.net or call me at 386-789-2660. My doors are open. I know what it feels like to have people misjudge you. Finally, I pray that God continues to bless our troops and all of the members of the law enforcement family. To Advertise Call: 201.881.5100
Why should you join Public Safety United?
Let’s just say we mean BUSINESS! Join Public Safety United Today! c saf li e b
y t
Pu
One lucky dues paying member of Public Safety United will be given a motor vehicle at its December 2014 Christmas party.
www.publicsafetyunited.com u
nited
(Vehicle value not to exceed $25,000. Taxes, registration and fees to be paid by theCTwinner) Blue now | Issue 2~2014
35
DISTRACTED DRIVERS THREATEN YOUR LIFE! USE FLARES TO GET YOU HOME SAFELY. The “Move Over” law helps, but Orion Flares help much more. Independent research* has proven that deploying flares in conjunction with a police cruiser light bar creates the largest safety zone – protecting officers, equipment and civilians on scene.
89% REDUCTION IN RIGHT LANE VOLUME » Gets passing traffic well away from emergency scene.
Orion Flares Create:
85% INCREASE IN DISTANCE WITHIN LANE CLOSEST TO SCENE » Adds critical distance between passing traffic and emergency scene when lane change is not possible.
15% REDUCTION IN SPEED
» Slows traffic to allow lane changes and withdrawal from emergency scene.
4x BRIGHTER SIGNAL THAN ELECTRONIC SUBSTITUTES » Earlier danger recognition improves reaction time. *Independent study conducted by Pennsylvania Transportation Institute
Share your flare story and enter to
Win
$1,000 Visa Gift Card
Enter Today orionsignals.com/win8 ©2014 ORION SAFETY PRODUCTS
800-637-7807
www.orionsignals.com