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HPOU
Strength
Through
Unity
BADGE GUN
&
Texas’ Largest Police Union The Publication of the Houston Police Officer s’ Union
www.HPOU.org
Vo l . X X X V I N o . 7 - 8 July/August 2010
Here are the HPOU scholarship winners present in the June 24 awards ceremony. Their college choice is in parenthesis: Katie Hartman (Texas A&M), Erica Tello (Ole Miss),
Lauren Morales (Sam Houston State), Carolina Varela (UT-San Antonio), Ryan Jennings (Ole Miss), Christopher Calvillo (Oklahoma), Kaylen Runyan (Abilene Christian), Tiffany
Moore (Baylor), Kaitlyn Galligan (North Texas), Hannah MacNaul (TSU), Nicholas Niedzielski (TSU), Richard Reyna (Texas Tech), Nicole Defee (Blinn), Kaitlyn Lester (Baylor),
Taylor Romoser-Odis (TWU), Megan Booth (UT-San Antonio), Erika Chance (East Texas Baptist University), Christina Young (Lone Star Community College), Issac Jefferson
(UT-San Antonio), Robert Waterwall (Sam Houston State), Tayna Bukowski (Baylor), Erica Barron (Lon Morris College), Chanda Macintosh-Beatson (UT-San Antonio), Katherine
Smith (Texas), Clayton Terry (UH), Jolan Pyland (HCC) and Demetrich F. Gilliam (Midwestern State). PHOTO BY MARY PYLAND
Announcing: This Year’s Scholarship Winners!
By TOM KENNEDY “This year we broke the money down so that everybody receives some
For the first time in history, the Houston Police Officers Union’s amount of scholarship money,” Young said.
Education Committee awarded college scholarships to each and every
entrant in the Union’s annual essay contest. Each essay was judged accordingly by Al Vera, a retired teacher from Jeff
Davis High School. Vera was provided this year’s essays on Taser use
Mary Young, Education Committee chairwoman, was delighted to without the names of the essay writers.
explain that all 36 of this year’s entrants – the sons and daughters of
police officers – were awarded at least a $500 scholarship to help them Based on his scoring system, the Education Committee awarded
in their first year of higher education. five $1,000 scholarships, 10 for $750 each and the remaining 21 for
$500 apiece.
Houston Police Officers’ Union NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. Postage
1600 State Street PAID The best essay among all entrants was written by Melanie Guzman,
Houston, Texas 77007 Houston, Texas
Permit No. 7227
daughter of Antonio Guzman. Melanie is a Harvard University student
whose winning essay appears in this issue of the Badge & Gun.
A total of $23,000 in scholarships was awarded this year.
Young also took some extra steps never before taken in the presentation
of the scholarships, which were awarded in special ceremony at the Breck
Porter Building on June 24.
She presented each award winner with a college “survival kit” that
included Alka Setlzer, a computer jump drive and a flash light “so you
can always find your way back from where you started.”
Non-profit Statement: Badge & Gun is published monthly at no subscription charge.
Send Correspondence and Address Changes (include mailing label) All but nine of the 36 scholarship recipients were able to attend the
To: BADGE & GUN 1600 State Street Houston, TX 77007. Telephone: 713-237-0282.
Continues on Page 10
Page 1 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 1 7/28/10 1:51:07 AM
HPOU Board of Directors
Executive Board
Gary Blankinship J.J. Berry Ray Hunt Joseph Castaneda
President 1st Vice-President 2nd Vice-President Secretary
(281) 924-3631 (281) 924-3002 (281) 701-5428 (281) 798-5051
president@hpou.org first_vp@hpou.org second_vp@hpou.org secretary@hpou.org
Board Members
J. G. Garza Michael Navarro F. Joe Pyland Robert Breiding Jim Tippy Terry Wolfe George Shaw Bubba Caldwell
Director 1 Director 2 Director 3 Director 4 Director 5 Director 6 Director 7 Director 8
(832) 875-1377 (281) 541-2881 (281) 924-3004 (713) 854-6391 (832) 347-2503 (832) 341-0165 (281) 924-3007 (281) 924-4498
position1@hpou.org position2@hpou.org position3@hpou.org position4@hpou.org position5@hpou.org position6@hpou.org position7@hpou.org position8@hpou.org
Brad Piel Steve Turner Doug Griffith Mike Hamby J.S. Miller Paul Ogden O.J. Latin Tom Hayes
Director 9 Director 10 Director 11 Director 12 Director 13 Director 14 Director 15 Director 16
(832) 731-9351 (832) 341-0234 (713) 501-4991 (281) 924-8859 (281) 924-3586 (281) 546-3295 (281) 726-1599 (281) 924-3015
position9@hpou.org position10@hpou.org position11@hpou.org position12@hpou.org position13@hpou.org position14@hpou.org position15@hpou.org position16@hpou.org
HPOU
Appointed
Officers
Bill Booth Robert Sandoval John Yencha Tim Butler Joslyn Johnson Carol Trautwein Cole Lester
Director 17 Director 18 Director 19 Treasurer Parliamentarian Sergeant at Arms Assistant Secretary
(281) 924-3016 (281) 924-6369 (832) 731-9361 (713) 204-4372 (832) 642-9899 (713) 376-3454 (281)924-3003
position17@hpou.org position18@hpou.org position19@hpou.org tbutler@hpou.org parliamentarian@hpou.org sergeant_atarms@hpou.org assistant_secretary@hpou.org
Mark Clark
Executive Director
(832) 200-3434
executive_director@hpou.org
Page 2 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 2 7/28/10 1:51:11 AM
Editorial Page
BADGE GUN HPOU’s Police Labor Conference
&
Voice of the Houston Police Officers’ Union
Published monthly at no subscription charge
and Aug. 10 College Fair Serve
by the:
Houston Police Officers’ Union
as Answers to Crucial Needs
AS TO BE EXPECTED, HPOU IS SHOWING ITS DEEP BLUE colors with two recently
1600 State Street, Houston, TX 77007
Ph: 832-200-3400 • Toll free: 1-800-846-1167
scheduled programs.
Fax: 832-200-3470
E-mail: thayes@policetrust.com Realizing the importance of communications between all Houston area law enforcement agencies and
Website address: www.HPOU.org especially their union representatives, HPOU President Gary Blankinship hosted a special unprecedent-
ed meeting on Friday afternoon, June 25.
Legal Department: 832-200-3420
Legal Dept Fax: 832-200-3426
Insurance: 832-200-3410 Blankinship invited union/association representatives from law enforcement agencies from Conroe to
Alvin and many places in between and beyond for a session on such current policing issues, technology
Badge & Gun is the official publication of the updates and legislative efforts.
Houston Police Officers’ Union. Badge & Gun is
published monthly under the supervision of its
Board of Directors. However, opinions expressed
Then, scheduled for Aug. 10 at the Breck Porter Building, HPOU will host its first-ever HPOU College
by individual Board members or any other writer Education Fair. The fair comes in response to the recent high demand by HPD officers for information
in this publication do not necessarily reflect the about obtaining degrees from a variety of different colleges and universities. Included at the fair will be
opinion of the entire Board of Directors. Editorial not only those schools requiring traditional on-site classroom activities but also those offering online
submissions are welcomed and encouraged. curriculums.
All submissions must be received by the 7th of
the month.
Under the direction of the HPOU Education Committee, the fair has drawn old reliables such as
ADVERTISEMENT IN THE BADGE & the University of Houston – Clear Lake, Mountain State University, Midwestern University and the
GUN DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, University of Phoenix but also has attracted UH-Downtown, Prairie View A&M, Texas Southern, Devry
A WARRANTY OR A GUARANTEE BY University, Northwestern University (Chicago), Saint Leo University (Florida), Houston Community
THE UNION.
College and George Washington University in Washington, DC. What a variety of schools, each offering
a plan that enables officers to earn a degree at a reasonable pace and, hopefully, affordable price.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to Officers in attendance will be able to college shop and ask questions about the minutest detail, posing
Badge & Gun them to in-person college represetatives. Currently, more than 51 percent of HPD officers have degrees
1600 State Street
Houston, TX 77007
ranging from Associate Arts to law degrees and PhDs. If Houston doesn’t have the best educated
Fax: 832-200-3470 police department in Texas and the Southwest, it’s coming mighty close. College fairs like this one
undoubtedly should solidify the “Most Educated” title in concrete for HPD.
President Blankinship’s conference for Greater Houston Area law enforcement labor leaders got these
dedicated individuals updated about such issues as traffic intersection safety cameras, the ongoing
attacks on police pensions and benefits, immigration policies and police-related legal issues in general.
And those were just a few of the subjects covered. The program also emphasized the importance of
HPOU forming a Political Action Committee and keeping track of every police-related item on the Texas
Legislature’s agenda.
Strength Unity
Through
Blankinship led by example in many ways. They included the Union’s dedication and deep commitment
to family assistance when an officer is seriously injured or killed in the line of duty. He said HPOU stands
available to help its brothers and sisters throughout this part of Texas and urged the police representatives
to be forthright in their requests for help if needed. He also provided representatives from both sides of
Important Numbers the news media – a reporter and an opinion maker – to share attitudes about gathering police news. Both
Andy Cerota, a reporter for Channel 13, and Michael Berry, host of his popular KTRH talk show, shared
their observations of ways the media can often be a mechanism to express the positive side of policing.
ATO: 713-223-4ATO
Badge & Gun: 832-200-3400 Programs like these are in response to needs expressed by police officers and serve as examples of how
HPOU Offices: 832-200-3400 the HPOU answers the call and takes the lead in every issue related to better conditions for police
officers – especially those wearing the Houston blue.
1-800-846-1167
Insurance Fax: 832-200-3470
Legal Services: 832-200-3420
Legal Fax: 832-200-3426
email: info@hpou.org
www.hpou.org
Page 3 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 3 7/28/10 1:51:12 AM
“
P riority One Response to
All Your Real Estate Needs”
Michael Bedner
Realtor
Southwest Patrol
KELLER WILLIAMS
M E T R O P O L I T A N R E A LT Y
550 Post Oak Blvd. Suite 350
Houston, Texas 77027
Off: (713) 621-8001
Cell: (713) 628-6086
Email: michaelbedner@aol.com
Interested in Buying Real Estate for a Profit?
Call for Wealth Building Techniques.
Page 4 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 4 7/28/10 1:51:14 AM
President’s Message suspects” had seen the video; others speculate
they were given details by persons who had
criminal defense bar to ban the continued use
of camera technology in Texas.
seen the tapes.
Former Houston City Council Member and
We will never know. now radio talk show star, Michael Berry, spoke
about the importance of law enforcement
The Department assigned a squad of organizations becoming involved with the
IAD investigators to look into the media to tell their side of the story.
allegations. The investigation moved forward
very quickly. During this time the officers Mr. Berry has been a long-time friend of
involved answered the questions presented by
HPD officers and is always the first
IAD and also testified before a grand jury.
person to come to the defense of officers when
Within weeks of the allegations surfacing,
eight officers were terminated and four were attempts to demonize them by self appointed
Gary Blankinship indicted for Official Oppression. community spokespersons pull stunts to
advance their baseless claims against working
First, Let’s What is troubling is that the Department not
turning over a copy of the video to the officers
police officers.
Sort Out to review with their attorneys in their office.
This is in stark contrast with the Department’s
As always, Michael is a highly skilled speaker
who is probably one of the quickest studies of
The Facts pattern and practice for years of providing
such video and audio recordings that form
complex issues we have ever known. He was
very informative and his message was very
In Westside
the basis of the questions presented in the much on point and well received.
IAD investigation.
Case
Additionally, KTRK TV’s Andy Cerota
Here at the Union, we are mindful that also spoke about how important it is for
accusations leveled against officers are not reporters like himself to have access to area law
always necessarily accurate. In fact, unlike enforcement organizations in order to insure
Over the past few months, a large amount of some who rush to judgment in their public
attention has been focused on the allegations that reporting related to police issues is
declarations against the officers, we would tell balanced. Cerota commented that his as well
leveled at officers assigned to a gang squad everyone to wait until both sides of the story
at Westside. as other reporters effectiveness related to
have been heard and then make a decision.
detailed reporting is greatly enhanced by law
The issue first surfaced when a local storage enforcement officers input.
The administrative review of the termination
business sent Chief McClelland and Harris and the criminal court proceedings will sort
County District Attorney, Judge Pat Lykos, out the facts and the facts will then be applied Other speakers at the event were various
a video captured by their security cameras of to the law and the departmental rules. Until HPOU staff members who gave overviews
an arrest of suspects who had just committed that time, let’s keep an open mind about the of the roles of the various departments of
a burglary in the Westside area. The video actions of the officers in the arrest of a group of the HPOU.
showed them throwing stolen merchandise burglary suspects.
from the vehicle as the police approached and All in all, it was a very informative inaugural
they then fled on foot. Each of these officers is a member of our meeting. We appreciated the willingness of our
Union and they deserve better treatment than friends both inside and outside of HPD being
The allegations against the officers were what has been hurled at them so far. We are a part of the meeting.
serious. In response, our legal department acted confident that our legal team will be able to
rapidly to insure that each officer was properly properly and effectively represent these officers It is our goal to have more group meetings
represented. In addition to our in-house staff and justice will be served. in the future in order to continue our efforts
of top-shelf legal counselors, we contracted
to build support within the law enforcement
with a contingent of superb attorneys to Police Labor Leaders
represent the legal interests of each officer being organizational world.
investigated by HPD and the DA’s office. The HPOU hosted a meeting of law
enforcement organizations from around
To date, the video has not been released to the Harris County as part of our effort to build
public nor has it been released to the officers or relationships with them and exchange
their attorneys. The Department, in breaking information.
with years of practice, decided not to furnish
the officers the video recording during the
IAD process. The officers and their attorneys In addition to the numerous organization
were allowed to view the recording in a room representatives in attendance, we also invited
with an IAD investigator present. But they several special guests who spoke to the group.
were not given a copy for review.
Mr. George Hittner, who is vice president and
This case took on a very high profile from general counsel for American Traffic Solutions,
the start. Even without seeing the tape, the gave a report on the utilization of camera
“usual suspects” garnered a great deal of face technology related to traffic enforcement
time with the media talking about what the in Texas. In his comments, Hittner also
tape contained. Some speculated these “usual mentioned efforts from representatives of the
Page 5 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 5 7/28/10 1:51:14 AM
SERVING THE ALARM NEEDS
OF LAW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS
Page 6 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 6 7/28/10 1:51:15 AM
Five-Day Suspension is
Legal Department Victories and dedicated a supervisor as the sergeant was, some there was a recommendation that no cites be
tasks had to take a back seat to higher priorities. sustained against the sergeant. The ADC agreed
Reduced To Reprimand in and recommended that no cites be sustained.
Channel 13 Case Following the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator However, Chief Hurtt disagreed and issued the
REPRESENTATION agreed with the Union’s position and reduced the sergeant a 15-day suspension.
By Aaron J. Suder, Staff Counsel five-day suspension to a Written Reprimand. The
A May 10 arbitration appeal of a five-day suspension one cite that was not overturned, which related to An appeal hearing was held over two days in front
of a sergeant in the Traffic Enforcement Division cell phone usage, was not contested by the sergeant of Hearing Examiner Maretta Toedt. The sergeant
was held in connection with an Aug. 7, 2009 at the hearing. argued that he did not hear the comment by the
sound judgment, attention to duty and cellular officer and thus could not be held liable for failing
telecommunications citation.
Suspect Shoots Himself to take supervisory action, nor was he untruthful
when he denied hearing the comments.
The City was represented at the hearing by Assistant In Clear Lake Incident
City Attorney Jonathan Michaels. The case was REPRESENTATION
The Hearing Examiner found that the City had
heard by Independent Arbitrator Maretta Toedt. By Aaron J. Suder, Staff Counsel
not met its burden and failed to prove by a
A SWAT/suicide incident unfurled at approximately
preponderance of the evidence that the sergeant
The investigation that led to the suspension was 1:15 a.m. June 21 in Clear Lake Division involving
heard the comments. The Hearing Examiner found
initiated in January 2009 after Wayne Dolcefino a standoff with an armed, barricaded suspect that
there was no just cause for the discipline and
of Channel 13 aired an expose into the activi- had started about 5:50 p.m. the previous evening.
ordered it to be overturned in its entirety.
ties of the newly formed MRT Unit. The expose
portrayed MRT service officers in a bad light, The officer who was one of the first patrol
showing purported evidence of the officers slacking officers to respond to the residence where the Examiner Overturns
off, failing to perform their basic duties and displaying incident occurred initially considered this a “home Temporary 5-Day Suspension
overall incompetence. The expose served as a major invasion in progress.” When this officer arrived, it was in Uniform Case
embarrassment to then-Mayor Bill White and determined that a male suspect with a gun was REPRESENTATION
certain members of HPD’s command staff, who had inside the residence, along with a woman and a By Robert A. Armbruster, Staff Counsel
been touting the MRT as a successful program. baby. The garage door of the residence was open An officer received a five-day temporary suspension
and the officer stood at the corner of the garage for violating the extra job employment rules. He
After the expose was aired, the Department attempting to get information from a neighbor was operating under a restriction which prohibited
initiated an IAD investigation into the allegations, before determining how to proceed. him from working uniform extra jobs.
questioning both the MRT officers and their
supervisors. Following the investigation, Chief While the officer was standing at the corner of the The officer applied for a permit to work a
Hurtt and other high-ranking members of HPD’s garage, the interior door connecting the garage location to safeguard a number of burned out condos/
command staff took a play straight out of HPD to the rest of the residence opened. The officer townhomes. The location was still accessible to
management’s playbook in trying to deflect briefly observed a dark-skinned male standing in the owners and the construction company wanted
public criticism following an embarrassing news the doorway but did not see a gun in the male’s officers on site to control access.
story: discipline everyone in sight, regardless of possession and did not know whether or not he was
culpability, and take public credit for “fixing” a the suspect. Due to the rubble and ruin at the site, the officer
problem of their own creation. wore boots with heavy rubber soles, black utility/
The officer yelled at the male to come out BDU type pants and a black, collared polo-type
This tactic seemed to work successfully for the City of the house, but the male went back inside shirt with POLICE in white letters. Nowhere was
in the botched K-Mart Raid and other notoriously and shut the door. Moments later, the officer there a mention of HPD.
embarrassing news events. heard the sound of a single, muffled gunshot
coming from inside the residence. A few seconds Late one night the officer was sitting in his vehicle
The sergeant, who had been with the MRT Unit later, a woman holding a baby came out of the waiting for his relief to arrive. A male approached
since its inception, seemed to take the brunt of the residence. SWAT was called to the scene and took the driver’s side and pulled on the door handle
Department’s misplaced criticism. He was cited for over control of the incident. several times. When the door did not open the
a number of ticky-tack alleged infractions, which suspect displayed a firearm. The officer leaned over
took place over a period of several months. The Although it was not initially known at the in his seat to make himself less of a target.
Department claimed that this was evidence of the time, the male had shot himself in the head
sergeant failing to fulfill his supervisory duties after going back into the house and was The suspect fled on foot. The officer exited his
which, it argued, must have played some part in the already dead. vehicle and observed the suspect enter a getaway
failures of the MRT Unit as a whole. vehicle. As the suspect turned toward the officer, he
Entire 15-Day fired one shot. It is unknown if the suspect knew
At the arbitration hearing, the Union presented Suspension Overturned the individual in the truck was an officer or if he was
compelling evidence from a number of different REPRESENTATION just firing a shot to ensure no one pursued them.
witnesses, establishing that the sergeant did not By Sally Ring, Staff Counsel
fail in any of his duties. To the contrary, due to The Department alleged that on June 2 an officer The officer called patrol units and a supervisor.
the high level of supervisor turnover in the MRT made a threatening comment to another officer After the units arrived, the officer was relieved and
Unit, as well as the appalling lack of planning and during roll call. The Department further alleged he was released to go home. Later the officer was
commitment of proper resources from HPD’s that a sergeant was present during the above summoned back to the scene by Homicide as they
upper-management, the sergeant was performing incident, overheard the officer’s threat and failed to had responded to the scene.
his job (as well as several other people’s jobs) as take supervisory action in response to the threat.
well as humanly possible. Given the sheer volume As a result of the incident a significant incident
of tasks and assignments that were constantly Further, the Department alleged that the sergeant report was generated and a supervisor in the
falling in the sergeant’s lap, it should not have been a was untruthful when he denied hearing the officer’s officer’s chain of command initiated a complaint for
surprise to the Department that, even as capable comment in his administrative letter. Divisionally, Continues on Page 8
Page 7 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 7 7/28/10 1:51:15 AM
Continues from Page 7 motorcycles run two stop signs. One of the officers shoot. He did not appear to know where he was and
the officer working the extra job in a BDU uniform. made a u-turn and activated his overhead lights and was talking about people who were not there.
At the conclusion of the investigation, the officer the motorcycles began evading.
was issued a five-day temporary suspension for At one point the man lurched toward the officer
wearing an outfit that closely resembled a Special After several turns, the motorcycles headed north and she decided that she needed assistance as the
Assignment Uniform. The officer filed an appeal on Homestead in the southbound lanes until man was quite large and incoherent. Several officers
and a hearing was held on June 15 before Professor the officers lost sight of them. When the officers responded and helped to put the man in the back
Richard Dole. reached Langley, they turned west and eventually seat of a patrol car. The man’s head butted one of
observed the motorcycles several blocks down. the officers and kicked and collapsed as officers
In disciplinary actions where an officer is As they proceeded west on Langley, one of the tried to get him into the back seat.
suspended, the Department has the burden of motorcycles u-turned and headed back east on
proof. Each side called witnesses, evidence was An ambulance was called because it appeared from
Langley. The officers also turned to follow the
introduced and testimony was presented. his behavior that he needed some medical attention.
single motorcycle. Additionally, officers noticed that his legs appeared
Professor Dole pointed out in his award that to be rotting.
As the motorcycle approached the intersection at
the officer’s extra employment application for a Homestead, he had a red light. The driver did not
plain clothes extra job had been approved by his While the man was in the back of the patrol car,
slow down and it appeared that he attempted to time he kicked violently and kicked at the windows.
supervisor. He also pointed out that no one had
his crossing of Homestead to avoid the traffic, but Officers decided that it was immediately necessary
even seen a picture of what the officer had worn the
he instead T-boned a vehicle with four passengers. to restrain the man further so that he would not
night of the incident.
harm himself.
Based on the information presented at the The vehicle passengers were transported with minor
hearing, Professor Dole found that the Department injuries, the motorcycle driver perished. Accident They were able to put on leg restraints and
had “failed to prove by a preponderance of the Division carried the accident as evading and failing place the man in the back of the patrol car on
evidence that his attire closely resembled a Special to yield at a stoplight. his side with assistance. Once HFD arrived, the
Assignment Uniform.” As a result of this finding, man was placed on his side on a back board
Professor Dole reversed the five-day suspension. and placed in the ambulance. Because of the
Irrational Man Arrested man’s behavior, HFD requested the assistance of
Police Pursuit Results But Dies in the Hospital officers during the ride to the hospital.
REPRESENTATION
In One Dead Suspect By Nicole Deborde, HPOU Shoot Team The first officer rode along with the man and
REPRESENTATION On the afternoon of May 29 a death in custody HFD in the ambulance. The man was yelling
By Chad Hoffman, Staff Counsel incoherently for part of the way, but as the
event took place in the 11000 block of Kinghurst.
On the afternoon of June 11 a police pursuit fatality ambulance neared the hospital, he became silent
took place at the intersection of Langley at Homestead. and unresponsive. Medical personnel took him from
Officers had responded to a welfare check call
the ambulance and into the hospital, where he was
Here’s what happened at approximately 4 p.m: concerning an individual at this location. Once pronounced dead.
The officers had just cleared another call and the first officer arrived, it appeared that a man was
were a few blocks away from that scene when the delusional and behaving bizarrely. He would tell the The Department treated the incident as a death
driver officer observed in his rearview mirror three officer to get out her gun that “they” were going to in custody.
HPOU Sponsoring First-Ever
College Fair for HPD Officers
By TOM KENNEDY it convenient for officers on every shift. The fair But now there are others who want to make their
HPD officers’ increasing demand for college opens at 11 a.m. and runs through until 4 p.m. pitches.
degree information has prompted the HPOU
Education Committee to set up an unprecedented “This is the first HPOU College Fair in history,” That group includes Boston College,
College Education Fair for Aug. 10 in the Breck she said. “Officers will be able to visit each school at UH-Downtown, Prairie View A&M University,
Porter Building. their individual tables set up in the room. They can Texas Southern University, Devry University,
see if there is a pitch that fits their needs. Northwestern University, Saint Leo University
Education Committee Chairperson Mary Young in Florida, George Washington University in
said colleges from the Houston area and all over “I can tell you that there’s been an overwhelming Washington, DC, University of Phoenix and
the nation will provide representatives at the fair number of officers who have inquired about going Houston Community College.
to answer officers’ questions about degree plans in back to school.
both traditional campus settings as well as online. “The representatives will be speaking on the behalf
“Our goal is to make HPD the most educated of their own schools,” Young explained, “providing
“Officers want to go back to school,” Young said. department in the state and the nation. We have no information based on the degree that officers want
“They have been calling and calling and calling and excuse. If educational opportunities are out there, to obtain. Some of them are traditional classroom
inquiring and inquiring and inquiring. we have no excuse not to take advantage of them.” settings and some offer both traditional and online
degree plans. And some are strictly online.”
“This fair is the answer to this growing need. The She said there will be door prizes and a “backyard
officers want information from schools other than hamburger and hot dog cookout” with chips, cook- She described the degrees that would likely be
the four we have partnerships with. We have been ies and drinks. discussed as “Business, Criminal Justice, Management,
able to get almost 25 schools to jump on board to Technology, Education, Communications, Psychology
form partnerships with HPD. Four institutions of higher education have always and many, many more!”
been strong working partners with HPOU
“At the fair we will be learning what incentives they and HPD. They are University of Houston at Young also praised the Education Committee for its
have to offer.” Clear Lake, Mountain State University, and work and the commitment to excellence along with
Midwestern University the positive mentoring from HPOU President Gary
Young said the hours of the fair are meant to make Blankinship and Vice President Ray Hunt.
Page 8 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 8 7/28/10 1:51:15 AM
FALLEN HEROES OF THE BAYOU CITY
HOUSTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
1860-2006
This 265 page publication was written by Retired Homicide Lieutenant Nelson
Zoch It details the lives and deaths of the 106 Houston Police Officers who
were KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY from the years 1860-2006.
FALLEN HEROES has been available since 2007. It was self-published and
financed by the Nelson Zoch family. This type of publication is not financially
feasible to reproduce. Therefore, when supplies of this book are exhausted,
THERE WILL BE NO MORE BOOKS PRINTED.
This book has been described by readers as a vital piece of HPD history. This
8 and one-half inch by 11 inch hardback book is printed on glossy paper stock
and contains over 150 photos of Officers and their families. It would make
an appropriate Christmas gift for family members of both current and retired
Officers. The price is $39.95 plus $3.30 sales tax. It can be mailed for an extra
$7.25 for a total of $50.50.
For more details, contact the author at 281-543-6256
or visit the website, callofdutypublications.com
Page 9 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 9 7/28/10 1:51:17 AM
Winning Essay
Taser Use: Proceed with Caution
and Remember Spark Tests
(Editor’s Note: This year’s highest-graded essay A more effective strategy in determining the Officers also should avoid using Tasers on
on Taser use was written by Melanie Guzman, use of Tasers would first aim to protect the children who appear to be under the age of
daughter of Antonio Guzman. Melanie, a $1,000 safety of citizens and avoid any more alleged eighteen. Most of these children are smaller
scholarship winner, is a Harvard University Taser-related deaths. Officers should not use than other officers, and their actions often
student. Here is her winning essay.) Tasers on impulse as a swift means to subdue an do not normally warrant the use of Tasers.
offender. The operation of Tasers should result Similarly, officers should take caution when
By MELANIE GUZMAN after a well thought out, calculated process. innocent bystanders are in the line of fire, lest
Tasers are a useful tool available to police they accidentally harm the wrong person.
officers. They help protect the officer while An officer should be required to ask himself a
also serving as an alternative to deadly force series of questions before he resorts to a Taser: As the chief of a law enforcement agency, I
in circumstances where the officer’s safety 1) Is suspect clearly not cooperating and pos- would ensure that my officers complied with
is at issue. But despite their positive impact ing a threat to myself and others? 2) Have I all these safety precautions. I would require
on law enforcement, the use of Tasers is not tried everything in my power to otherwise officers to provide detailed information
without controversy. suppress the offender? 3) Do I have a legal and on their use of a Taser each time it was
deliberate basis for the action? 4) Am I willing used. I would require the officer to provide
In a recent case in California, Officer Brian to deal with repercussions that may come from information that would enable me to assess the
McPherson has just pulled over a man for any injury that might result? officer’s use of the Taser balanced against the
failing to wear his seat belt while driving. threat posed to the officer.
The man, Carl Bryan, exits his car and takes Only after thinking through these questions
a step toward McPherson when he feels a should the officer use the Taser. Although Officers also would be required to check
burst of extreme pain as an electrical charge these questions may seem time-consuming, the out the Tasers with a designated person who
courses though his body and his muscles answers are designed to be processed within ensures that each Taser is fully charged. After
paralyze. Bryan falls face-first onto the asphalt, 30 seconds. If one or more of the questions the officer performs a “spark test” in front of
fracturing his teeth. requires more time, then the weapon most the person in charge of the Tasers, he may then
likely should not be used. sign off to carrying one.
Officer McPherson has just used a Taser
on Bryan. Many times, when people see the red dot of While there is no empirical way of ensuring
the Taser pointing on their stance, they will each officer uses good judgment, the monthly
According to the federal appeals court, accede to the officer’s commands. In situations training can be a way for supervisors to see
McPherson and other officers can be held that allow, the officer should simply point the where each officer stands and allot extra time
liable for injuries their targets suffer after being red dot out at the opponent, and then use the for policemen who need extra training.
Tasered. The court ruling also requires law Taser if the presence of the gun along does
enforcement agencies throughout the state not work. Although Tasers can be an effective way to
– and possibly the nation – to lighten their prevent crime and attempts to resist arrest and
policies on Taser use and sets a rigorous legal Also to help avoid Taser mishaps, officers a suitable substitute for a lethal weapon, their
precedent regarding the weapon. should take several precautions to make sure practice should be used sparingly and with
their Taser works before they go out on their caution. Tasers are useful tools but they
Since the employment of Taser has proliferated shift. In addition to charging the Taser, law are also dangerous weapons that should be
within the last decade, controversy over the enforcement should conduct a “spark test” exercised with as much caution as with a
weapon has burgeoned after several incidents before leaving, so that they can ensure that gun. Only then can law enforcement agencies
involving Tasers have ended in fatalities. While the weapon functions properly when they prevent Taser-related injuries and reinstitute
the court of appeals for the ninth circuit’s need it. Police agencies should also require the valuable reputation of the Taser gun and
ruling dictates that police must face an their officers to attend Taser training sessions continue to protect our safety.
“immediate threat” from an offender before four times a year so that each officer knows
using a Taser gun, the term “immediate threat” how to properly employ the use of a Taser and
allows for much interpretation over what can stay up-to-date on any modifications in
constitutes a pressing danger. Taser technology.
Continues from Page 1 $750 scholarship winners are Chanda Barron (Billy Barron), Isaac Jefferson (Tiffany
presentation ceremony. They appeared with Macintosh-Beatson (G. S. Macintosh-Beatson), Jefferson), Jolan Pyland (Fred Pyland), Jordan
their parents and had their family pictures Christina Young (Andrew Young), Dylan A. O’Neil (Michael O’Neil), Kaitlyn Galligan
taken afterwards by HPOU Photographer Nabors (B. W. Nabors), Hannah MacNaul (Timothy Galligan), Kaitlyn Lester (Cole
Mary Pyland. (Douglas MacNaul), Jessica Weaver (Leroy Lester), Katherine Smith (Murray Smith),
Weaver), Kaylen Runyan (Duane T. Runyan), Katie Hartman (Dewayne Hartman), Kevin
The complete list of scholarship winners with Kevin Hatrick (Edward Hatrick), Megan Booth J. Rodriguez (Mayra Lugo), Lauren Morales
their parent’s name in parenthesis: (Bill Booth), Nicole Defee (Darrell Defee) and (Alan Morales), Nicholas Niedzielski (Jospeh P.
Taylor Romoser-Odis (Rick Odis). Niedzielski), Richard Reyna (Richard Reyna),
$1,000 scholarship winners are Elizabeth Robert King (Robert King), Robert Waterwall
Scheibe (Gary Scheibe), Erica Tello (Armando $500 scholarship winners are Carolina (Michael Waterwall), Robin Scott (Michael
Tello), Erika Chance (Erol Chance), Melanie Varela (Carlos Varela), Christopher Calvillo Scott), Tanya Bukowski (Allan Bukowski) and
Guzman (Antonio Guzman) and Ryan Jennings (Javier Calvillo), Clayton Terry (Rose Terry), Tiffany Moore (Ceaser Moore).
(Thomas Jennings). Demetrich F. Gilliam (Averiest Gilliam), Erica
Page 10 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 10 7/28/10 1:51:17 AM
Support Assist The Officer!
Page 11 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 11 7/28/10 1:51:18 AM
OSSO Presents Record Number
of 2010 College Scholarships
By TOM KENNEDY The scholarship winners are:
The Organization of Spanish-Speaking Officers (OSSO) presented a
record number of $500 scholarships to 15 recipients at a special July 7 • Candice Raquel Alfred
ceremony at HPOU. daughter of Precinct 1 Constable Tammy Alfred
• Iris Cassandra Garcia, daughter of HPD Sgt. Hector Garcia
Scholarship Chairperson Dee Leal (HPD Retired) said the unique • Raquel Elaine Hernandez, daughter of Oscar and Elaine Gracia
OSSO scholarship program is open to any students wanting to continue • Dolores Ann Lozano,
their college education. daughter of Precinct 6 Constable Sgt. Lillian Lozano
• Joshua Jacob Mireles,
“Although our organization’s name is HPD Organization of Spanish son of HPD Officer David Mireles and Sylvia Mireles
Speaking Officers, the applicant does not have to belong to the law • Taylor J Munguia, daughter of HPD Officer Ruben Munguia
enforcement organization, does not have to speak Spanish and does • Gabriela Sorola Paz,
not even have to know or be related to any HPD or law enforcement granddaughter of HPD Sgt. John Pohlman and wife Lenora
member,” Leal explained. • Steven Patrick Patterson,
grandson of Retired HPD Officer Steve Benavides and wife Donna
“Of course, OSSO would like to have its members apply first and • Rudy Rene Puente,
foremost but the committee selects the applicants based on their GPA, nephew of HPD’s Joe Puente and Rick Rodriguez
a 500-word essay and financial need.” • Jolan Hans Pyland, son of HPD Officer Joe Pyland and wife Mary
• Sarah Rebecca Rivas,
This year’s essay topic was how best to combat the illegal drug problems girlfriend of HPD Homicide Officer David Gunther
in schools. • Monica Rivera
• Andrea Marisa Rodriguez,
“This was the first time in the history of HPD OSSO that we were able daughter of Jesse Rodriguez and Elaine Gracia
to present 15 scholarships,” Leal said. “Next year will be HPD OSSO’S • Jessica Haley Stavinoha, daughter of HPD Sgt. Paul Stavinoha
30th Anniversary and we will also be presenting as many scholarships
as possible.” The catered lunch was sponsored by Sebastian Catering, owners Sylvia
Mireles and HPD Officer David Mireles.
The Scholarship Committee chaired by Leal also included retired HPD
Officer Rebecca Flores (co-chair) and committee members OSSO Also present were former U. S. Marshal Art Contreras and his wife
past President Ismael “Iffy” Flores, Lt. Joe Barrera, Sgt. Paul Ogden, Alicia; Precinct 6 Justice of the Peace Richard Vara; Deputy Fire Chief
retired Sgt. Macario Sosa Jr., Officers Ernest Leal Jr. HPD and Frances Fernando Herrera; HPOU President Gary Blankenship; AAPOL
Dominguez, HCC Director Johnny Sessums and UH scholarship President Mitch Ruffin; Mexican American Sheriffs Organization
advisor Jeremy DaFaoe. President Alberto Rivera, 1st VP, Frank Garcia and 2nd VP Luis
Figueroa; Precinct 1 Capt. Cindy Leija Vara; HPD North Shepherd
About 140 persons attended the presentation ceremony, including Captain Victor Rodriguez; and Surviving Spouses Organization’s Cathy
Police Chief Charles McClelland and other members of the Command Hill and Cheryl Railsback.
Staff – Assistant Chiefs John Trevino, Danny Perales, John Chen, Tim
Oettmeier and Kirk Munden. Additional guests included Hispanic Women in Leadership President
Lucy Reyna and Vice President Gloria Guerra; National Hispanic
OSSO past presidents in attendance were led by Precinct 6 Constable Council on Aging Treasurer Nimia Tillman; PlazAmericas Marketing
Victor Trevino. They included retired HPD Officer Ismael “Iffy” Flores, Director, Voters Registration Expo, Jesse Rodriguez.
HPD Officer Jorge Gaytan and Retired HPD Sergeant Rico Garcia.
They were recognized and then presented a gavel to the first female Special Entertainment was provided by his Precinct 6 Cpl. Lee C.
OSSO president, Rosalinda Ybanez. Barnes, who sang “Stand by Me.”
Chief McClelland provided a short speech regarding the importance of
continuing to support our youth and helping them get into college.
Trevino announced that the HPD OSSO 30th Anniversary would be
celebrated next year. He asked those present for their continued support
of the scholarship program. Trevino gave a brief history of OSSO and
reminded those present that OSSO members continue to strive for a
better tomorrow.
Most of the OSSO $500 Scholarship winners pose with
Chief Charles McClelland at the July 7 presentation
ceremony at HPOU. PHOTO BY MARY PYLAND
Page 12 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 12 7/28/10 1:51:19 AM
Bike Relay Team Raises
$154,000 for Leukemia!
By TOM KENNEDY “He was from Hallettsville,” Houston explained, He said the team could always use some new blood.
The Houston Police Bicycle Relay Team is “and when they heard about our bike ride they Any officer interested in becoming a part of the
literally going “great guns,” having raised asked if they could be a part of it. relay should contact Houston at 281-799-1258
$154,000 to benefit the Leukemia & or Randy Upton at 281-352-2636.
Lymphoma Society. “They had a benefit barbecue just for us. They
raised $2,700.”
Not only did the bike team garner cash for the
Society through its 1,510-mile relay to Denver Zack Grafe was in his 30s, his young
but also got a great boost from the town of children all under five years of age at the time of
Hallettsville and the raffle of an AR-15. his death.
The raffle netted $6,240 with most of the The raffle tickets sold for $10 each or three
tickets purchased by HPD officers or retirees. for $20. Most officers opted for the three
The winning ticket was in the hands of Officer for $20. The relay team was careful to limit
Keith Mountain of Central Patrol. Team ticket purchases to officers or other law
member David Houston presented Mountain enforcement personnel.
with this great gun in a recent ceremony.
Houston said the relay team also got a great
Hallettsville is located south of Schulenburg fundraising boost from small businesses,
and was actually a bit off the beating path corporate sponsors, individual sponsors and the
for the bike relay team, which charted a route retailing of the team’s shirts and hats.
through West Texas and New Mexico and
Relay Team’s David Houston, right, presents brand new
north toward Denver. Already the relay team is preparing for next AR-15 to Officer Keith Mountain of Central Patrol.
year’s 30th anniversary plan to bike halfway
But Houston said the team had very strong across Canada to Niagara Falls, a distance of
reasoning behind the maneuver. 2,200 miles.
Zack Grafe, the son of HPD Sgt. Ronnie “We just figured Niagara Falls is the place to
Mascheck died from leukemia two years ago, go for anniversaries,” Houston said, “so that’s
leaving a wife and three young children. our plan for our 30th anniversary year.”
Members of the Houston Police Bike Relay Team are: (front row, left to right) Officer Mike Wisnoskie, Sgt. Peg Jewell, Officer Sharome Robinson, Sgt .Jesse Fite,
Officer Chris Dau, Lt . Jennifer Evans, Officer Jorge Gaytan, Lt. Randy Upton, Officer Jessica Sloman, Officer Jerry Alaniz, Officer Joe Shockley (ret), Sgt. David Houston and
Officer Rhonda Williams Back row: Officer Glen Mayo, Officer Mike Herb, Sgt. Earl Thrash (ret), Lt. Bruce Evans, Mr John Morton and Sgt. Ronnie Mascheck. Not pictured:
Officer Roy McDonald (ret).
Page 13 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 13 7/28/10 1:51:19 AM
RMS System
Get Ready! New System Does
Everything but Make Coffee
By WALTER SHIELDS called the RMS Project Site. So after you get Blotters will essentially be the first quarter
As some of you may or may not know there’s a finished apologizing to the disgruntled of a report and those can be sent electroni-
new sheriff in town to replace the current OLO drunkard who said you “mean-mugged” him, cally. Accidents are done electronically now so
system and hopefully make the regular street click on our link and it will provide you with all the that will continue. Charges will be filed with
officer’s job a little bit easier. information about what the project is and who the click of a button. Your work will be done
is working on it. It’s not just computer techs faster and you won’t have to carry around a file
It’s called the Records Management System, and lawyers. cabinet’s worth of forms anymore.
RMS for short, and it is designed by Tiburon,
Inc. It is currently being tweaked, poked and The RMS team is made up of regular street This system is Windows-based, so if you
prodded as you read this article, and will debut officers and investigators and you can see like doing your report in Word and then
in 2012. exactly who they are, where they’re from as cutting and pasting, that will be easier to.
well as the civilian members that round out the
In fact there will only be minimizing and
team. The website also gives you some screen
shots of the new system and previous articles maximizing screens when you need to instead
and presentations that explain what the system of toggling between environments like you
will do and why it is being implemented. do now between the report program and the
mobile program.
There is a FAQ page to peruse that will
alleviate your curiosity on many issues. If you This feature will be similar to going from hand
have more detailed questions about how the written reports to computer reports. Get ready,
system works that aren’t answered by the FAQ, it’s on the way and getting that report in won’t
articles or screen shots there is an email address feel like such a chore.
on the front page that can be used to shoot us
your questions. We want your input so we end up with a system
we can all be satisfied with. Now the RMS
We don’t mind answering and we want people system can’t make you coffee and it won’t give
to know what’s coming. you the location of that freshly stolen vehicle,
but it will make your job less hectic.
Send us questions or just give us information
about something that you are concerned about
in your daily routine that maybe we haven’t The project website is your path to
thought of so that we want to be sure that all enlightenment so that when the system goes
officers’ needs and concerns are addressed. live in 2012 you aren’t in roll call asking “What
RMS Team Member, Officer Walter Shields RMS system?” or “Where’s OLO?” Click
For those of you that don’t know it’s time With the new system anyone who writes reports the link, look over the sections, and drop us
to emerge from the cave you’ve been in and and or files charges is going to have a much an email.
get informed. easier time when the new system comes on
line. Reports will be written quicker with the You have to go through the Intranet to look
To that end, the HPD Intranet portal has auto-fill capabilities from CAD and for driver’s at your check anyway you might as well find
added a link to the right and directly under license and vehicle registration information out what’s coming to an MDT or desktop near
the Alternative Dispute Resolution link with interfaces from MVD and DPS. you. Intranet! Go! Faster! Look! Now!
Houston Police Retired Officers Association
Hill Country Reunion, Fredericksburg, Tx.
By D.A. MILLER, CHAIR, A list of possible motels is posted on the web Motel 6
ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE site. However for those who do not have access 705 S. Washington • 1-800-466-8356
The Hill Country Reunion will be held to the web, the list follows:
Saturday, October 23, 2010 at Lady Bird Super 8
Park Pavilion, 432 Lady Bird Drive in Peach Tree Inn & Suites 501 E. Main (US290) • 877-776-7283
Fredericksburg, Tx. This is located next to the 401 S. Washington St. • 800-843-4666 There are 10 - 2 queen beds non-smoking
airport on Highway 16 (South), same as last rooms @ $89.55 +tax down stairs reserved.
Best Western Motel
year. Doors will open at 9 a.m. and coffee will 314 Highway Street • 830-992-2929
be ready. The noon meal is complimentary for RV'ers desiring to stay at Lady Bird R.V. Park
members and spouses; others are asked to pay LaQuinta Inn should contact Julie at the park, 830-997-
$10 each. 14665 E. Main St. • 830-992-2888 4202, 8am - 5pm.
Another silent auction will be held, so please October is a busy month in the Hill Country,
bring donated items. so make reservations soon.
Page 14 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 14 7/28/10 1:51:19 AM
Area Law Enforcement Leaders
Hear Blankinship Unity Message
By TOM KENNEDY Other prime focuses included traffic intersection Cheryl Railsback, new president of Greater
For the first time in history, HPOU – under the safety cameras, attacks on pensions and benefits Houston Concerns of Police Survivors
leadership of its president, Gary Blankinship – and immigration and politics. (COPS) – Praised Blankinship’s staff for their
called together law enforcement organizational on-the-spot help when a member of the HPD
leaders from throughout the Greater Houston The meeting began with the appearance family experiences a line-of-duty death or
area to share mutual concerns and a vast and brief speeches from four special guests. serious injury. Railsback said that COPS stands
amount of updated information about current Those individuals and their message for the ready to help any area policing agency in any
policing issues. day included: way possible.
Michael Berry, former Houston City Council
member and current KTRH talk show host –
Said he regularly hears from numerous anti-law
enforcement callers, saying, “Those who love
you don’t call and tell you that you do a good
job.” He urged officers that “you can’t stand
back and let other people tell your story. You
have to step up and tell it.” He told the leaders
present to “find some friends in the media and
tell your story.” Berry is regularly recognized
by Blankinship and HPOU Executive Director
Mark Clark as a dedicated friend of HPD
in particular and law enforcement officers
in general.
Blankinship and other organizational leaders
in attendance favored traffic safety cameras
and heard from George Hittner of American
Traffic Solutions.
President Blankinship’s June 25 program drew police labor leaders from throughout the Greater Houston area.
PHOTO BY MARY PYLAND Hittner described red light cameras as “a
force multiplier in a tight budget period.”
The afternoon session took place on June 25 Andy Cerota of KTRK (Channel 13) – Discussed He said the proven technology has reduced
at the Breck Porter Building. Blankinship the importance of two-way relationships with rear-end collisions in Houston by 35 percent,
called on a variety of guest speakers as well sources such as Hans Marticiuc and Gary while 71 percent of voters believe they make
as experts in the fields of police-related legal Blankinship. Cerota said he likes positive stories Houston safer.
and legislative issues to provide updates on and straight shooters to balance out the “not
current conditions. always favorable” news accounts. He urged Political Outlook
those present to “shoot me an email” because
PACs are Helpful “we need to get those (positive) stories as well “Violations decrease when they are installed,”
to provide balanced coverage. he said, “then they level off.” Hittner
The HPOU president carried out a theme of promoted a group called Keep Houston Safe
unity throughout the session, stressing the State Rep. Alan Fletcher, a retired Houston that is serving as advocates of installing more
importance of neighboring policing agencies police officer – Said he wouldn’t trade his red light cameras.
staying together on important issues that affect policing experiences for anything and explained
the quality of life for all police officers. that as a state rep he “fixed it so officers do Clark, a seasoned HPOU lobbyist in Austin,
not pay red light fines when they’re doing said there likely will be a fight over the
“Working Together as a Team” was the their jobs.” He also said he changed the technology in the upcoming legislative session
common thread that ran through the racial profiling law to include nine additional in 2011.
afternoon, with Blankinship citing the need to questions that help police officers. Fletcher is
stay together to fight adverse legislative agendas the only retired law enforcement officer in the He said another big battle concerns defense
by forming strong Political Action Committees Legislature and ranks as the “go-to guy” who attorneys wanting to get “toe holds” on
(PACs) and making political endorsements. understands police-related issues for officers, changing the way police do photo spreads and
who shouldn’t hesitate to call him. set up lineups. The criminal defense bar is
He said police organization leaders in the arguing that police are arranging photo spreads
area should share publications and statistical Ryan Reichert, former HPD officer who is now with “four black and white photos and one
data, combine resources whenever possible and director of security for the Houston Texans color shot and the colored shot is of the suspect
especially work together to support – Said that police officials in the Houston they want.”
surviving families in police line-of-duty deaths area should never hesitate to contact him in
Clark said lobbyists also are gunning for
and in severe family assistance conditions, connection with any police-related matter. He
changes in state law that would require police
such as when an officer is critically wounded said he stands ready to support them in any
agencies to use video cameras from start to
while on duty. appropriate way. Continues on Page 16
Page 15 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 15 7/28/10 1:51:20 AM
Continues from Page 15 cut and furlough days. Police all over the country still processing that event. There is no way
finish in most criminal investigations. “They’re are giving up this and other benefits. We need to for an officer to comply to be able to make
trying to make it so nothing (evidentiary) work smarter and look at technology. We need to everything that would be important within an
stands up without a video camera. Every part work to find the best solutions so that changes hour after the shooting occurs. In videotaping
of the conversation (in suspect interviews) must don’t adversely affect police officers.” a walk-through, the DA (or any investigating
be filmed.” agency) is likely setting the stage for a plantiff
Blankinship singled out the latest technology attorney’s “field day.” When the officer later
Such tactics could “turn a lot of heavily that includes Tasers, the Carbon Motors Concept changes his story after he has processed more
investigated cases around” for the defense, he police vehicles, onboard AFIS systems, paperless information, he likely stands to be caught in
pointed out. reports and the Threat Management Units being a significant contradiction that may help the
used by the Los Angeles Police Department. plantiffs in a rival suit. Hoffman said, “So far if
“They gum up the whole works,” Clark said. they (the DA) asks for a videotape, we tell them
“We have to stick our necks out and fight it. Chad Hoffman, a member of HPOU’s dynamic no. I would encourage all of you to counsel the
There are a lot of things that can be resolved legal services team, took a turn at explaining same way.”
by local administration than ham-strung by to the audience the benefits of providing a
state law.” full-service team to help officers with off-duty Illegal Immigrants
as well as on-duty legal issues, including estate
Like Blankinship, Clark urged unity and planning and probate work. Finally, Blankinship alluded to the tragic Sept.
strongly advocated an effective PAC system 21, 2006 shooting death of Senior Police
like that being used by the HPOU. He said The bulk of legal work still lies in the on-duty
Officer Rodney Johnson by an illegal alien
HPOU’s PAC spends more than $200,000 a situations. Hoffman said two issues concern a
once deported for molesting a child.
TCLEOSE requirement that any officer facing
year to keep a full-time presence in Austin to
any criminal charge must notify the licensing
build positive relationships with lawmakers. “We have a real problem with criminal
organization within 30 days.
illegal aliens,” he said. “There are a lot more
He mentioned that the Union has “great “Often they forget and can be disciplined,” of them coming into this country for criminal
friends in both the House and Senate. It takes Hoffman said. “Normally they are only enterprise than for economic benefit through
building those relationships to help them disciplined if they see a criminal conviction. a better job.
remain in office,” he said. When an agency sends notification (of a charge),
it often looks very bad. “We’re going to have to take sides on
Turning to possible legislative threats to police this issue.”
pensions and benefits, Blankinship reminded “An officer can appeal to get that changed.”
the organizations’ leaders present that HPOU Blankinship said the political fires have not
stands ready to provide them with up-to-date Another issue is related to fair compensation for gotten hot enough yet to effectively deal with
“apples to apples” police salary comparisons officers, especially those working in specialty this issue. He predicted they will get much,
if they need them to make cases to their areas such as the canine division. Hoffman much hotter in the coming days and urged
city councils. cited a lawsuit filed in July 2009 concerning his police organization leader colleagues to be
inadequate compensation for an officer who ready for political battle never before seen.
Some Legal Issues exceeded the “flat fee compensation” relating
to the care and feeding of his dog.
The HPOU president said it seems quite
common in many smaller cities and towns for Other points made by Hoffman:
elected officials to mess with pension plans that
require police unions or associations to “sell The Texas Supreme Court in a case entitled
out your new hires.” Waco v Kelley ruled that an arbitrator exceeded
his authority by reinstating and demoting an
“Then you have to spend the next 10 years assistant police chief who was effectively fired
to get the have-nots back up even with the in connection with a DWI case. Hoffman
haves,” he pointed out. He also lamented the said the ruling ties the hands of arbitrators.
Houston effort to drastically increase the health “Does the arbitrator lose jurisdiction? No,” the
insurance costs for police retirees under 65 attorney contended. But the ruling could pose
because “that’s the biggest user group in health problems in future cases.
care – 80 percent of all the premium dollars.
On the subject of social networking websites,
“Most guys put things off until they retire. Hoffman said, “There is no such thing as a
This runs up the cost and causes the city to private site. If somebody can read it other
look and say this group is costing us a ton than you, it’s not private. An officer's quotes
of money. on Facebook on how she was possibly
“But you don’t want your entire pension check enforcing the law was recently aired on the
eaten up with health care.” news. Stay off websites if you are discussing
your police work.”
Again, he emphasized that this is one issue that
affects police officers in every city and town The HPOU legal position in any case in
and that police groups should “address these which the district attorney seeks to videotape a
issues as a group.” walk-through of an officer-involved shooting
scene. Hoffman said “an officer does not have
He said, “Mark is assisting with the Dallas all the information available to him” during
(police) contract. Dallas officers are facing a pay the first 24 to 72 hours after the event. “He’s
Page 16 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 16 7/28/10 1:51:20 AM
Page 17 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 17 7/28/10 1:51:21 AM
AN ‘AMIGO’ DEAL FOR YOUR SPORTS COLLECTIBLES!
Tom Kennedy is a long-time Houston
sports memorabilia dealer who doesn’t believe
in HPD Officers paying retail.
Here are some examples:
ITEM PRICE ‘AMIGO’ PRICE
Signed Biggio Ball $159 $125
Signed Bagwell Ball $149 $115
Signed Berkman Ball $119 $95
Signed Pence Ball $69 $55
Signed Oswalt Bal $119 $95
Signed Lee Ball $109 $85
ALL SIGNED ITEMS COME WITH PSA DNA AUTHENTICATION!
CALL TOM FOR SPECIAL REQUESTS FOR AUTOGRAPHED ITEMS 713-825-2273
Tom Kennedy’s Collectibles (Since 1972) at Carolyn Thompson’s Antique Center of Texas
Old Katy Road at West Loop Service Road (Across from Metro Transit Center)
Page 18 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 18 7/28/10 1:51:22 AM
Thank You!Thank You! Thank You!
Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!
Thank You! Thank You!
Dear President Blankinship Gary, HPOU,
and Board Members, Thank you so much for inviting me to the Kindness like yours makes a difference. Thank
I wanted to formally say Thank You for your HPOU luncheon. It was very helpful to You.
support of the 15th annual Leadership Command meet other individuals who all have the same C. J. Porter
College Alumni Association (LCCA A) agenda, which is to support all law enforcement
training conference held in Austin on June 16-18. and their families in any way we can. Officer Blankinship,
Your contributions allowed LCCAA to train I would like to thank you and the rest of the
nearly 100 police officers from all over the State Team working can only make each organiza- HPOU membership for the generous college
of Texas. tion stronger. Thanks for letting me be a part of scholarship.
this. Looking forward to working with you in
With your help, Lt. Col. Dave Grossman the future. The award and the recipient ceremony are
presented his “Bullet Proof Mind” seminar and Cheryl Railsback greatly appreciated!
he challenged each officer to be at the top of Greater Houston COPS
their game every day. It is my prayer that the God bless you and be careful.
information received will keep officers alive. HPOU, Tanya Bukowski
Your support also assisted in providing food Thank you very, very much for the beautiful
and drinks for the officers during breaks in plant you sent for Mom’s service! Dear HPOU Education Committee,
the instruction. Thank you so much for the honor of receiving
HPD was such a huge part of Mom and one of your scholarships.
The Houston Police Officers Union logo was Dad’s life.
proudly displayed both inside the conference With gratitude This helps me and my family greatly on my
room and directly outside the conference room Sherry Carter journey into college. I am truly grateful.
at the food and drink station. Conference (Daughter of Dottie Skearton) God bless.
attendees gave a round of applause for your Sincerely,
support and your logo, with a link to the Houston Police Officers Union, Lauren Morales
HPOU website, is displayed on the LCCAA Thank you for the beautiful plant.
website at http:///www.lccalumnionline.org/ HPD,
sponsors.html. The services were so honored and appreciated. We would like to extend a sincere thank you
from our family to yours for the tremendous
Our conference was successful because of the We will never forget dear ole O. A. He was kindness and generosity you have shown us
support we received from the Houston Police that honored and beautiful police officer for all during our time in your beautiful city.
Officers Unon. Thank you very much. 40 years.
David Rider We never imagined such a busy police force
Chief of Police, Fort Bend ISD Thank you. could take time away from its fork for us. We
Police Department Love, are so blessed to have met you and now know
LCCAA Immediate Past President Mildred Williams that all police officers and their families are a
HPOU, part of the same big family.
HPOU, Thank you for honoring Buddy’s memory with
The void in our hearts will one day heal an ivy we can enjoy for a long time. We are so grateful to have been put in contact
because I know Eydelmen is watching over us with you all.
in heaven. My brother, Johnie Vallert, my mother, Jo
Ella Schultz, and I truly appreciate your Sincere thanks.
My son and I sincerely thank you for your thoughtfulness. Officer Brian Tennant & Family
support during our darkest moments. Sincerely,
Monica Mani Debbie Campbell
After 33 years of honorable service with the
Houston Police Department, Officer Jimmy
Horton is retiring from the force on August
6th, 2010. He plans on enjoying retirement
with Marsha, his wife of 27 years, and his
daughters Heather, Elizabeth, and Jenny.
We love you, Dad! Thanks for everything!
Happy Retirement!
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NAPO’S Federal Legislative Scorecard
from 111th Congress, 2nd Session (June)
Editor’s note: Here is NAPO’s latest scorecard on police-related issues Education, Labor and Pensions. NAPO submits testimony. Currently
before Congress. Each issue is filed here under general topics by the Senate has the support of 224 cosponsors.
or House bill identifier number alongside NAPO’s position (support or
opposition) and the latest actions taken. • S. 1611 Support, (Judd Gregg, R-NH / Edward Kennedy, D-MA)
Introduced August 6, 2009. The “Public Safety Employer-Employee
The legislation under review, in order of issue, covers Budget & Cooperation Act of 2009.” Senate companion bill to H.R. 413;
Appropriations, Collective Bargaining, COPS Program and Department
of Justice Grant Funding, Criminal Justice, Federal Oversight, Firearms, Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Health, Education, Labor
Health Care, Homeland Security, Immigration, Law Enforcement Due and Pensions Committee. 4/13/2010 Majority Leader Harry Reid
Process & “Bill of Rights,” Pension and Social Security Reform, and reintroduced the legislation as S. 3194 to bypass committee action.
Public Safety Officer Survivor Assistance. Currently has the support of 25 cosponsors.
Budget & Appropriations COPS Program, Department of Justice Grant Funding
• H.R. 1 Support, PASSED (David Obey, D-WI) Introduced January • S. 167 Support, (Herb Kohl, D-WI) Introduced January 8, 2009.
26, 2009. The “American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.” The “COPS Improvements Act of 2009.” A bill to amend the Omnibus
A bill making supplemental appropriations for job preservation and Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to enhance the COPS ON
creation, infrastructure investment, energy efficiency and science, THE BEAT grant program, and for other purposes;
assistance to the unemployed, and State and local fiscal stabilization, for
fiscal year ending September 30, 2009; Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently
has the support of 17 cosponsors.
Recent Action: 1/28/2009 passed by the House by a vote of
244-188. 2/10/2009 passed by the Senate by a vote of 61-37. • H.R. 1139 Support, (Anthony Weiner, D-NY) Introduced February
2/12/2009 conference report filed. 2/13/2009 conference report 23, 2009. The “COPS Improvements Act of 2009.” House companion
agreed to by both the House and Senate. 2/17/2009 signed in law by bill to S. 167;
the President; became Public Law 111-005.
Recent Action: 3/25/2009 approved by the Judiciary Committee by a
• H.R. 2847 Support, PASSED (Alan B. Mollohan, D-WV) Introduced 17-7 vote. 4/23/2009 passed the House by a vote of 342-78. Has the
June 12, 2009. The “Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies support of 45 cosponsors.
Appropriations Act, 2010.” A bill making appropriations for the
Departments of Commerce and Justice, and Science, and Related Criminal Justice
Agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010; • S. 132 Support, (Dianne Feinstein, D-CA) Introduced January 6,
2009. The “Gang Abatement and Prevention Act of 2009.” A bill
Recent Action: 6/18/2009 agreed to and passed by the House by a to increase and enhance law enforcement resources committed to
vote of 259-157. 6/25/2009 amended and reported out of the Senate investigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to deter and punish
Appropriations Committee. 12/13/2009 passed as part of the Fiscal violent gang crime, to protect law-abiding citizens and communities
2010 Omnibus Appropriations Act, H.R. 3288. from violent criminals, to revise and enhance criminal penalties for
violent crimes, to expand and improve gang prevention programs;
• H.R. 2892 Support, PASSED (David E. Price, D-NC) Introduced
June 16, 2009. The “Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently
Act, 2010.” A bill making appropriations for the Department of has the support of 16 cosponsors.
Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2010;
• H.R. 1022 Support, (Adam Schiff, D-CA/Mary Bono,
Recent Action: 10/15/2009 conference report passed by the House by a R-CA)) Introduced February 12, 2009. The “Gang Prevention,
vote of 307-114. 10/20/2009 conference report passed by the Senate by Intervention, and Suppression Act.” A bill to increase and enhance law
vote of 79-19. 10/28/2009 signed by the President and became Public enforcement resources committed to investigation and prosecution
Law 111-083. of violent gangs, to deter and punish violent gang crime, to protect
law-abiding citizens and communities from violent criminals, to revise and
• H.R. 2847 Support, (David Obey, D-WI) Introduced December enhance criminal penalties for violent crimes, to expand and improve gang
16, 2009. The “Jobs for Main Street Act of 2009.” A bill to prevention programs;
create or save jobs with targeted investments for highways and
transit, school restoration, hiring NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Committee and the
POLICE ORGANIZATIONS, INC. Representing America’s Finest House Education and Labor Committee. 3/16/2009 referred to the
teachers, police, and fire fighters, small business, job training and Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security.
affordable housing; Currently has the support of 3 cosponsors.
Recent Action: 12/16/2009 passed by the House by a vote of 228-201. • H.R. 970 Support, (Anthony Weiner, D-NY) Introduced February
10, 2009. The “Fugitive Information Networked Database (FIND) Act
Collective Bargaining of 2009.” A bill to encourage the entry of felony warrants into the NCIC
• H.R. 413 Support, (Dale Kildee, D-MI / John Duncan, R-TN) database by States and provide additional resources for extradition;
Introduced January 9, 2009. The “Public Safety Employer-Employee
Cooperation Act of 2009.” A bill to provide collective bargaining rights Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Committee. 3/16/2009
for public safety officers employed by States or their political subdivisions; referred to the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and
Recent Action: Referred to the House Education and Labor Committee. Homeland Security.
3/10/2010 hearing on bill held by the Subcommittee on Health, Continues on Page 23
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Continues from Page 22 • H.R. 448 Support, (Joe Sestak, D-PA) Introduced January 9, 2009.
• S. 3120 Support, (Alren Specter, D-PA) Introduced March 10, 2010. The “Elder Abuse Victims Act of 2009.” A bill to protect seniors in the
The “Fugitive Information Networked Database (FIND) Act of 2009.” United States from elder abuse by establishing specialized elder abuse
Senate companion bill to prosecution and research programs and activities to aid victims of elder
H.R. 970; abuse, to provide training to prosecutors and other law enforcement
related to elder abuse prevention and protection, to establish programs
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently that provide for emergency crisis response teams to combat elder abuse;
has the support of 1 cosponsor.
Recent Action: 2/11/2009 passed by the House by a vote of 397-25.
• S. 714 Support, (Jim Webb, D-VA) Introduced March 26, 2009. The Has the support of 5 cosponsors.
“National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2009.” A bill to establish
a National Criminal Justice Commission to undertake a comprehensive • S. 1821 Support, (Herb Kohl, D-WI) Introduced October 21, 2009.
review of the criminal justice system; The “Elder Abuse Victims Act of 2009.” Senate companion bill to
H.R. 448;
Recent Action: 6/11/2009 hearing on bill held by the Subcommittee
on Crime and Drugs. 1/21/2010 amended and approved by the Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently
Judiciary Committee. 5/6/2010 placed on the Senate legislative has the support of 4 cosponsors.
calendar. Currently has the support of 37 cosponsors.
Federal Oversight
• H.R. 3695 Support, (Christopher Murphy, D-CT/Ted Poe, R-TX) • H.R. 73 Oppose, (Sheila Jackson-Lee, D-TX) Introduced January
Introduced October 1, 2009. The “Help Find the Missing Act (Billy’s 6, 2007. The “Traffic Stops Along the Border Statistics Study Act of
Law).” A bill to authorize funding for, and increase accessibility to, the 2007.” A bill to provide for the collection of data on traffic stops;
National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, to facilitate data
sharing between such system and the National Crime Information Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on
Center database of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to provide Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.
incentive grants to help facilitate reporting to such systems;
• H.R. 5081 Support, (Peter King, D-NY) Introduced April 20, 2010.
Recent Action: 2/22/2010 amended and approved by the Judiciary The “Broadband for First Responders Act of 2010.” A bill to enhance
Committee. 2/23/2010 passed by the House. Has the support of public safety by making more spectrum available to public safety
30 cosponsors. agencies, to facilitate the development of a wireless public safety
broadband network, and to provide standards for the spectrum needs of
public safety agencies;
• S. 3019 Support, (Joseph I. Lieberman, I-CT) Introduced February
23, 2010. The “Help Find the Missing Act (Billy’s Law).” Senate Recent Action: Referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
companion bill to H.R. 3695; Currently has the support of 22 cosponsors.
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently Firearms
has the support of 5 cosponsors. • S. 1132 Support, (Patrick Leahy, D-VT) Introduced May 21, 2009. The
“Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements Act of 2009.” A bill
• H.R. 4104 Support, (Brad Ellsworth, D-IN) Introduced November to amend title 18, United States Code, to improve the provisions relating
11, 2009. The “Emergency Responders Highway Safety Act.” A bill to the carrying of concealed weapons by law enforcement officers;
to establish and carry out a highway emergency responders safety
grant program; Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. 3/4/2010
amended and approved by the Judiciary Committee. 5/13/2010 passed
Recent Action: Referred to the House Transportation and Infrastructure by the Senate by unanimous consent. Has the support of 3 cosponsors.
Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. Currently has the support of
6 cosponsors. • H.R. 3752 Support, (Randy Forbes, R-VA) Introduced October 7,
2009. The The “Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements
• S. 1789 Support, (Richard Durbin, D-IL) Introduced October 15, Act of 2009.” House companion bill to S. 1132;
2009. The “Fair Sentencing Act of 2009.” A bill to restore fairness to Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on
Federal cocaine sentencing. Specifically, creates an 18:1 crack cocaine Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security. Currently has the support of
sentencing ratio and mandates harsher penalties for drug offenses 14 cosponsors.
involving aggravating factors;
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. 3/15/2010
Health Care
• H.R. 847 Support, (Carolyn B. Maloney, D-NY) Introduced February
amended and approved by the Judiciary Committee. 3/17/2010 passed 4, 2009. The “James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of
the Senate by unanimous consent. Has the support of 23 cosponsors. 2009.” A bill to amend the Public Health Service Act to extend and
improve protections and services to individuals directly impacted by the
• H.R. 632 Support, (Lloyd Doggett, D-TX) Introduced January 22, terrorist attack in New York City on September 11, 2001;
2009. The “Silver Alert Act of 2009.” A bill to encourage, enhance, and
integrate Silver Alert plans throughout the United States, to authorize Recent Action: Referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee
grants for the assistance of organizations to find missing adults; and the Judiciary Committee. 7/29/2009 amended and approved
by the Judiciary Committee. 3/16/2010 markup held in Energy and
Recent Action: 2/10/2009 passed by the House. Has the support of Commerce Subcommittee on Health. Amended and forwarded to full
22 cosponsors. committee. Currently has the support of 113 cosponsors.
• S. 557 Support, (Mel Martinez, D-FL) Introduced March 10, 2009.
The “Silver Alert Act of 2009.” Senate companion bill to H.R. 632; • S. 1334 Support, (Kristen E. Gillibrand, D-NY) Introduced June
24, 2009. The “James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of
Recent Action: Referred to Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently has 2009.” Senate companion bill to H.R. 847;
the support of 11 cosponsors. Continues on Page 26
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Continues from Page 23 Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Security and Governmental Affairs. 7/15/2009 Committee hearings
Labor and Pensions. Currently has the support of 7 cosponsors. held. 7/29/2009 ordered to be reported with an amendment favorably.
Currently has the support of 8 cosponsors.
• H.R. 3590 Oppose, (Harry Reid, D-NV) Introduced October 13,
2009. The “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.” A bill to • H.R. 3308 Support, (Heath Shuler, D-NC) Introduced July 23,
reform health care. NAPO specifically opposes the 40 percent excise tax 2009. The “Secure America through Verification and Enforcement
the bill would imposed on high-cost insurance plans; (SAVE) Act of 2009.” A bill to provide immigration reform by securing
America’s borders, clarifying and enforcing existing laws, and enabling
Recent Action: 10/8/2009 passed by the House. 12/12/2010 passed a practical employer verification program;
by the Senate by a vote of 60-39. 3/21/2010 cleared for the White
House. 3/23/2010 became Public Law 111-148. Recent Action: Referred to the House Committees on the Judiciary,
Ways and Means, Education and Labor, Oversight and Government
Homeland Security Reform, Agriculture, Armed Services, and Natural Resources. Currently
• H.R. 791 Support, (Anthony Weiner, D-NY) Introduced February 2, has the support of 112 cosponsors.
2009. The “First Responder Funding Modernization Act of 2009.” A
bill to prohibit the Department of Homeland Security from limiting the • S. 1505 Support, (Mark Pryor, D-AR) Introduced July 23, 2009. The
amount of Urban Area Security Initiative or State Homeland Security “Secure America through Verification and Enforcement (SAVE) Act of
Grant Program grant funds that may be used to pay salaries or overtime 2009.” Senate companion bill to H.R. 3308;
pay of law enforcement officials engaged in antiterrorism activities;
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Finance Committee. Currently
Recent Action: Referred to the House Homeland Security has the support of 5 cosponsors.
Committee. 2/20/2009 referred to the Subcommittee on Emergency
Communications, Preparedness, and Response. Law Enforcement Due Process & “Bill of Rights”
• H.R. 1972 Support, (Bart Stupak, D-MI / Erik Paulsen, R-MN)
• S. 1692 Support, (Patrick Leahy, D-VT) Introduced September 22, Introduced April 2, 2009. The “Law Enforcement Officer’s Procedural
2009. The “USA PATRIOT Act Sunset Extension Act of 2009.” A bill Bill of Rights Act.” A bill to amend the Omnibus Crime Control
to extend the sunset of certain provisions of the USA PATRIOT Act and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide standards and procedures to
and the authority to issue national security letters; guide State and local law enforcement agencies and law enforcement
officers during internal investigations, interrogation of law enforcement
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. 10/13/2009 officers, and administrative disciplinary hearings, to ensure
amended and approved by the Judiciary Committee. Currently has the accountability of law enforcement officers, to guarantee the due process
support of 6 cosponsors. rights of law enforcement officers, and to require States to enact law
enforcement discipline, accountability, and due process laws;
• H.R. 3845 Monitoring, (John Conyers, D-MI) Introduced October
20, 2009. The “USA PATRIOT Amendments Act of 2009.” A bill to Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on
extend and modify authorities needed to combat terrorism and protect Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security. Currently has the support of
civil liberties; 9 cosponsors.
Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Committee, Intelligence Pension and Social Security Reform
Committee and Financial Services Committee. 11/5/2009 amended • S. 484 Support, (Dianne Feinstein, D-CA) Introduced February 25,
and passed by the Judiciary Committee. Currently has the support of 2009. The “Social Security Fairness Act of 2000” A bill to amend Title
11 cosponsors. II of the Social Security Act to repeal the Government pension offset
and Windfall Elimination Provisions;
• H.R. 3837 Support, (Mary Jo Kilroy, D-OH) Introduced October
15, 2009. The “Strengthening and Updating Resources and Equipment Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Finance Committee. Currently
(SURE) Act of 2009.” A bill to allow first responders to maintain the
has the support of 31 cosponsors.
capabilities necessary to prepare and protect their communities against
acts of terrorism and other emergencies;
• H.R. 235 Support, (Howard Berman, D-CA) Introduced January 7, 2009.
Recent Action: Referred to the House Homeland Security Subcommittee The “Social Security Fairness Act.” House companion bill to S. 484;
on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response.
11/17/2009 amended and passed by the Homeland Security Committee. Recent Action: Referred to the House Ways and Means Committee.
Currently has the support of 26 cosponsors. Currently has the support of 326 cosponsors.
• H.R. 673 Support, (Bob Filner, D-CA) Introduced January 26,
• S. 2793 Support, (Patrick Leahy, D-VT) Introduced November 18, 2009. The “Law Enforcement Officers Equity Act.” A bill to grant
2009. The “Strengthening and Updating Resources and Equipment law enforcement officer (LEO) status to approximately 30,000
(SURE) Act of 2009.” Senate companion bill to H.R. 3837; federal officers, making them eligible for federal law enforcement
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Homeland Security and retirement benefits;
Governmental Affairs Committee. Currently has the support of 2
cosponsors. Recent Action: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and
Government Reform. 5/4/2009 referred to the Subcommittee on the
Immigration Federal Workforce, Post Office and the District of Columbia. Currently
• S. 1261 Support, (Daniel K. Akaka, D-HI) Introduced June 15, has the support of 31 cosponsors.
2009. The “Providing Additional Security in States’ Identification
(PASS ID) Act of 2009.” A bill to repeal title II of the REAL ID Act Public Safety Officer Survivor Assistance
of 2005 and amend title II of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to • S. 2885 Support, (Mary Landrieu, D-LA) Introduced December 16,
better protect the security, confidentiality, and integrity of personally 2009. The “First Responders Support Act of 2009.” A bill to amend
identifiable information collected by States when issuing driver’s licenses and the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to provide
identification documents; Continues on Page 31
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By NELSON ZOCH
July 13, 1982
Lest We Forget
Stalled Car Incident on Sweltering Summer Day
Prove Fatal to HPD Officer James Donald Harris
James Donald Harris was born in Syracuse, the Officer.” He also reported the shooting investigating the original scene, information
New York, on October 17, 1952. He of Armijo. His assistance was invaluable in surfaced that the suspects had fled to 4907
grew up in the Syracuse-Auburn area and preserving the scene from the growing crowd Rusk, just one block north of Walker. As a result,
graduated from Auburn High School in 1971. of neighborhood onlookers. detectives and numerous uniformed officers
He served his country honorably for three and surrounded this location. Yet this tactic produced
a half years in the United States Air Force as a nothing immediate.
military policeman. Harris joined the Houston
Police Department in Police Cadet Class No. The search then moved next door to 4911
74 on March 29, 1976 and graduated on July Rusk. While these police officials checked this
16 of that year. His first assignment was to the house from the front, Officers L. J. “Larry”
evening shift at the Park Place Substation. He Trepagnier, Antonio Palos, Martin Rodriguez
later transferred to the K-9 Corps. He wore and Michael R. Edwards went around to
Badge No. 2973. the back. Numerous other officers also were
nearby. As officers rounded the corner at the
On Tuesday night, July 13, 1982, Officer rear of the house, they were greeted by a hail of
Harris and his newly assigned canine partner, gunfire that erupted from an open garage-type
a German shepherd, were working the evening building detached from the house. Trepagnier,
shift out of Park Place. Even though nearing Palos and Rodriguez returned the gunfire.
the end of their shift, they were still on patrol Officer Edwards was unable to fire at the
in the east end of Houston in Officer Harris’ suspect since the other officers were in front
blue and white marked police unit. While of him, restricting his line of fire. Trepagnier
in the area of Dumble and Polk, a citizen was shot five times in the battle, suffering
flagged down the officer to report that he had serious wounds.
almost been run over by a recklessly driven
automobile. The citizen gave Officer Harris After the gunfire ceased, the suspect,
a description of the car. Harris searched the Roberto Carrasco Flores (Hispanic Male,
area and found a stalled vehicle fitting this 27), was dead at the scene from numerous
description at the intersection of Walker gunshot wounds caused by Officer Rodriguez’
and Edgewood. shotgun, Off icer Palos’ .45-caliber
Officer James Donald Harris automatic and Officer Trepagnier’s .357
Harris ordered two suspects to get out of
The Houston Fire Department ambulance revolver. An HFD ambulance took Trepagnier,
the stalled car. Both did so and came toward
the officer as ordered. He placed both of the paramedics assessed the officer’s condition and also twenty-nine years old, to a hospital. He
suspects up against his car in order to search immediately called for LifeFlight Helicopter. was soon listed in critical condition. Found
them, a procedure used for his own protection. Another HFD paramedic team treated the under Flores was a 9mm automatic later
As he was searching one, the other suspect wounds of Armijo as patrol units cleared a determined to be the weapon used to murder
pulled a 9mm pistol and fired at the officer nearby baseball field for LifeFlight. When the Officer Harris. Stuck in Carrasco’s beltline was
from close range, striking him three times medical helicopter landed, the doctor on board the slain officer’s .357 revolver.
in the head. These men then disarmed the declared J. D. Harris dead. He was twenty-nine
fallen officer. As they were leaving on foot, years old. Armijo died from his head wound a As other officers and Assistant DA Terry Wilson
a citizen, Jose Francisco Armijo (Hispanic week later on July 20, 1982. began yet another crime scene, Wilson observed
male, 33) was driving westbound on Walker. movement from under a horse trailer in this
Evening Shift Lieutenant R. D. Cain initiated garage. The officers then arrested Ricardo
Armijo was accompanied by his three-year-old an immediate Homicide response by assigning
daughter and ten-year-old son. For some Aldape Guerra (Hispanic Male, 20). Near his
Detectives Richard W. Holland, Greg T. Neely,
unknown reason, the suspect who shot J. Eugene T. Yanchak and Alfred T. Hermann hiding place was a .45-caliber automatic.
D. Harris fired a round Armijo’s vehicle, to the investigation. At this time, the Night
striking Armijo in the head. His daughter Shift was coming on duty to assist. In addition, Officer J. D. Harris was survived by his
received a wound from either flying glass or a Homicide Officer Shooting Team Detectives wife Pamela and two daughters, four-year-old
bullet fragment. Larry E. Webber, Vernon W. West and Douglas Rebecca Brooke Harris and twenty-month-
R. Bostock were called in for duty. old Megan Annette. Other survivors were
The suspects fled on foot north on Edgewood his father and stepmother, Nelson and Ruth
toward Rusk Avenue. HPD Sergeant E. The Homicide Division Chicano Squad, Harris of Auburn, New York, grandparents
Cavazos was off-duty visiting his parents in under the field leadership of Detective Jim Nelson and Gerry Harris and Robert and Carla
the 4900 block of Walker. Upon hearing Montero, provided their usual able assistance. Pierson of Syracuse, New York. There also were
the shots, Cavazos retrieved his weapon and Assistant District Attorney Terry Wilson, a sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and David
identification from his vehicle and ran west then head of the DA’s Civil Rights Section, Ruetsch, and nephews Jeff and Todd Ruetsch
on Walker to investigate. There, he found the also arrived on the scene. None of these of Marcellus, New York. He was predeceased
mortally wounded Harris and used the downed investigators could predict how much more by his mother, Beverly Jean Harris.
officer’s handheld radio, to call in an “Assist involved this tragic event would become. While Continues on Page 28
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Continues from Page 27 Hoyt in Houston. Working for Guerra aftermath of his injuries. While painful for
Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Friday, throughout the appeal process were not only him, he later recounted some details that were
July 16, 1982, at the Forest Park Lawndale the Mexican state department, the Roman not on the original police report.
Chapel with the Reverends Paul Carlin and Catholic Church, the American Civil Liberties
Brad Ottosen, a former police officer and friend, Union and several volunteer legal foundations Trepagnier recalled lying there on the ground
as well as Police Chaplin Harold Hannah, well known for their “bleeding heart” attitude, and after realizing how many times he was hit,
officiating. Interment was at Forest Park but also HPD Assistant Chief Art Contreras. thinking the logical thing: I am going to die
Lawndale Cemetery. Pallbearers were Tommy right here. Officer Palos said he and another
Olin and Officers Woody Phifer, Russel Judge Hoyt severely chastised the District officer were on the scene and found Trepagnier
Hoffard, Jack Holloway, Richard Puckett, Attorney’s Office and the Houston Police on the ground. Both officers were fond of
Ronnie Collingsworth and R. C. Smith. Department for their actions in the Vellamints. Not knowing what else to do while
initially successful prosecution of this capital awaiting the arrival of HFD and LifeFlight,
On the extremely hot summer night of the murderer. In some instances, the original used the cellophane wrappers from these
deadly shooting, blood had been shed at prosecution witnesses, after developing their candies to cover the “sucking” chest and
four different locations, only several blocks own problems in obeying the law, became abdomen wounds of their fellow officer
apart. A fine young officer was dead, another uncooperative. Also, some of them were and friend.
seriously wounded, an innocent citizen received harassed by the individuals involved in the
wounds from which he later died and an joint effort to free Guerra. Eventually, Guerra In 2002, Officer Trepagnier also shared
illegal Hispanic emigrant was dead as a direct was released and returned to his native country. something very likely unknown to most: As he
result of his own actions. Officer Trepagnier He was killed in an automobile accident a short was lying on the ground, he saw a familiar face
received gunshot wounds that damaged his time later. above him – that of Sergeant Walter J. Stewart,
diaphragm, liver, colon and arm. In addition, he who had been one of Larry’s training officers.
suffered the loss of a kidney. After undergoing There were numerous Homicide personnel Walter was telling him something like, “Boy, if
a number of major surgeries, his survival was a involved in the massive investigation that you are going to make it, you had better suck it
miracle in itself. covered four separate but connected crime up and get tough.”
scenes. Other officers made important
While it was quite evident that the deceased contributions but there simply were too many Stewart said he was called out on the
suspect Flores had shot Officer Trepagnier, to mention every name herewith. Two of the shooting of Officer Harris as part of his training
there was some initial concern as to whether primary scene detectives, Richard Holland assignment as a Northeast Patrol Division
Flores or the arrested suspect Guerra had shot and Greg Neely, became Homicide Captain Internal Affairs investigator, only to also find
Officer Harris. Diligent work by Homicide Holland and Homicide Lieutenant Neely. In one of his rookies down and possibly out. A
detectives produced witnesses who identified 2007, Holland had been commander of the veteran of many Narcotics shootings in the
Ricardo Aldape Guerra as the suspect who Homicide Division since 1994. Lieutenant 1970’s, Stewart knew that Larry’s wounds
shot the slain officer. The clothing description R. D. Cain was the long-time leader of the looked extremely serious. He had two gunshot
and different hair length of both suspects left HPD Hostage Negotiation Team and was is wounds to the stomach and chest and one to an
no doubt in the minds of the investigators and respected throughout the country for his arm. The wounded officer remembered being
prosecutors. The witnesses clearly described expertise in that area of police work. Detective given the last rites by well-meaning officer
the shooter of Officer Harris as having A. T. “Alfred” Hermann retired from Homicide friends and hearing the HFD and LifeFlight
collar-length hair and wearing a green in 2000. Detective E. T. “Gene” Yanchak was personnel speak of his diminishing vital signs,
military-type fatigue shirt. This fit Ricardo still investigating murders and officer-involved even when he was en route to the hospital.
Aldape Guerra’s description. The dead suspect, Incidents on a day shift murder squad in 2002.
Flores, had shorter hair and was dressed in Detectives Bostock, Webber, Montero and Pamela Harris remarried in 1990 and was a
maroon pants and shirt and white and maroon West retired from HPD while actively working fixture at court proceedings throughout the
athletic shoes. murder cases. West died in 2001. years. In 2002, she resided in East Texas.
Rebecca Brooke married and lived in Waco.
There was an absolute clear distinction in the Sergeant Eddie Cavazos, who worked out of Megan Annette was attending Mary Hardin
clothing of the two suspects. Even though North Shepherd Patrol Station at the time Baylor College in Belton in 2002. Nelson Harris,
Flores had the slain officer’s weapon in his of this tragic event, retired in 1999 after J. D.’s dad, died in the 1990s. Stepmother
possession as well as the 9mm automatic that more than twenty-eight years of service. He Ruth, grandmother Pierson, sister Beverly and
killed Officer Harris, the witnesses spoke for went to work in the private sector. In 2002, nephews Jeff and Todd resided in New York
themselves in this part of the investigation. Officer Antonio Palos was assigned to the State in 2002. The other three grandparents
Ricardo Aldape Guerra was charged with Recruiting Division after working a number are deceased.
capital murder in the death of Officer J. D. of years in SWAT. Officer Martin Rodriguez
Harris. Unfortunately, this was not the end of made sergeant in 1982 and worked out of Pam Harris later spoke of the identity of the
the story. the Northeast Patrol Division. Officer M. R. New York state trooper who attended J. D.’s
Edwards remained an ever-present steady street funeral. This stiff and starched trooper in full
Guerra was tried in the 248th Criminal officer assigned to Central Patrol. dress wool uniform appeared at the funeral, his
District Court in Harris County for this identity unknown to the HPD personnel. The
offense and on October 14, 1982, found guilty While many lives were altered on this hot, officer’s widow later explained that he was Jim
and assessed the death penalty. The usual sweltering July night in 1982, the life of Campbell, a childhood friend of Officer Harris
automatic appeal process began and what Officer L. J. “Larry” Trepagnier was severely who had encouraged him to enter law enforce-
followed was yet another bitter pill for police changed forever. After undergoing six surgeries, ment after his stint in the Air Force. Campbell
officers to swallow. amazingly enough, Officer Trepagnier remained stayed with the New York State Police and
a Houston police officer. He was assigned to was helpful and supportive of Pam Harris and
For whatever reason, Guerra became a cause South Central Patrol. As a result of his wounds, her daughters throughout the years since his
celebre. History shows it definitely was not Trepagnier suffered the loss of a kidney and friend’s death.
his lack of guilt. On May 11, 1992, his eight feet of intestines. Had he not been a
conviction was overturned. This case fell into the young, strapping, strong twenty-nine-year-old,
jurisdiction of U. S. District Judge Kenneth there is no way he would have endured the
Page 28 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 28 7/28/10 1:51:29 AM
By NELSON ZOCH
July 30, 1901
Lest We Forget
Officer Weiss, Father of Two, Shot to Death
by a Known Drunk having a Bad Police Day
In the summer of 1901, there resided in said it appeared to them that a conversation “Don’t step between us when I am talking to
Houston two brothers from Powder Springs, between Youngst, Weiss, Kahn and the Vaughn your brother or I will let you have it too,” Weiss
Georgia. These two young men were cocky, brothers went well. Officer Youngst said he had said. “If you are looking for trouble, I can whip
confident and seemingly of means beyond no idea what Vaughn was talking about and, you without my club.”
appearance. They were J.T. Vaughn and his further, that if J.T. Vaughn had any property
brother Newt. Their apartment/business was missing, he needed to go back to the police J.T. Vaughn then reached for his hip, pulling
at 1113½ Congress Avenue between Fannin station in the morning to claim it. out a pistol from his pants. He shot Weiss four
and San Jacinto. It was common knowledge times, causing the officer to fall to the street,
in the community that they were well supplied mortally wounded.
with money since they were in the money-
lending business. J.T. also was a law student at Officers J.C. James and Henry Lee were
the time. It was reported that their father and a sitting in front of the station on Caroline when
brother practiced medicine in their home state they heard the shots. They ran down to the
of Georgia. corner of San Jacinto and Congress, where they
found Officer Youngst standing near the body
Policing in the downtown area of Houston in of Officer Weiss, who was already dead at the
1901 involved the dedicated Houston officers scene. Youngst told them that “they” did it and
who were charged with keeping the peace and that “they” were inside the saloon.
at the same time provided some protection for
one other. Their jobs didn’t yet include the All three officers charged inside Yadon’s, where
convenience of radios or vehicles. Any “report” they were told that Vaughn “did it” and that he
came from the officers personally witnessing a had run out the back door. Officers Lee and
crime or from citizens’ word of mouth. James then pursued the suspect, who ran north
on San Jacinto and west on Franklin before
At 7 p.m. Monday, July 29, 1901, J.T. Vaughn, making the block by running back south on
later described as having a “propensity for Fannin and east on Congress.
strong drink and drinking sprees,” was arrested
by Officer Herman Youngst for discharging A gun battle between the two officers and
a pistol through a window in his apartment. Vaughn ensued around the block. Officer
Officer Youngst booked him in jail but Vaughn Rabouln and Special Officer Quinby followed,
was released about 11 p.m. that same night. ready to help their fellow officers.
Once he got this freedom J.T. Vaughn set out Officer William F. Weiss
to find the arresting officer, claiming that his Another witness, M. A. Grant, saw the
watch and $25 was missing from the effects Apparently, Kahn was satisfied at this point
but J.T. Vaughn was not ready to put this latter part of this event. Grant and his family
he reclaimed upon leaving the jailhouse. He occupied rooms upstairs in the building
returned to the area around Yadon’s Saloon matter to rest for the night. Officer Bill Weiss,
an acquaintance of Kahn’s from the Red Men’s adjoining the Vaughn brothers’ rooms. Grant
at the corner of Congress and San Jacinto.
organization, was standing nearby during the was a witness to the shooting earlier in the
Yadon’s was a popular place among locals who
conversation involving Vaughn and Youngst. evening that led to Officer Youngst’s arrest
had the means to buy themselves drinks.
It is whether J.T. Vaughn was intoxicated at of J.T. Vaughn. Grant heard the gunfire
J.T. found his brother Newt and told him about this point, but it is safe to say he was definitely that killed Weiss and started downstairs to
his missing cash and watch. At about the same agitated over the matter. Information from an investigate when J.T. Vaughn met him on the
time, their attorney, R. E. Kahn, with whom independent witness, Dick Miller, indicated stairway. Vaughn proceeded to push him aside,
the two brothers had transacted considerable the following chain of events leading up to causing Grant to go back upstairs to protect
the tragedy: his wife. Vaughn followed, running into their
business, was walking toward Yadon’s for a
nightcap. He had just left the nearby Red Men’s sitting room.
J.T. Vaughn pointed toward Officer Weiss
Hall, where he was a respected member. and said, “Maybe he got it.” Whereupon Grant had personal experience with Vaughn
Weiss responded, “I don’t know anything
The Vaughn brothers advised Kahn of the and was well aware of his propensity for strong
about it.” As the officer turned to walk away,
situation and he went in search of the arresting Vaughn continued with the words, “Maybe you drink. Thinking he was under the influence of
officer, Herman Youngst. While en route, they would, too.” liquor, he pushed Vaughn out into the hallway.
met Officer William F. Weiss, to whom Kahn In doing so, Vaughn was silhouetted, gun in
explained the details of the missing money and Weiss grew somewhat agitated. With authority, hand. Officers Lee and James began firing at
watch. Officer Weiss, also a member of the Red he stated to Vaughn, “Don’t you accuse me of Vaughn, wounding him and causing him to
Men’s Lodge, was apparently a welcome ear to anything like that” and raised his club. Newt stagger down the stairs. He fell down, not fifty
Kahn and J.T. Vaughn, his disgruntled client. Vaughn stepped in between his brother and the feet from where the slain Officer Weiss lay.
Several citizens later identified as witnesses officer, provoking Weiss to push him back. Continues on Page 37
Page 29 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 29 7/28/10 1:51:29 AM
Obituaries
Bird McNutt
Amber Nicole Bird died July 4. She is the daughter of retired Lt. Ronald Retired Officer Joe Y. McNutt, who retired from HPD on Jan. 19,
Bird, who retired from HPD Jan. 19, 1988 out of the Major Offenders 1979 after serving more than 27 years, died June 19. At the time of his
Division. Services were held July 8. retirement he was assigned to Central Patrol. He joined the department
Jan. 7, 1952, entering Academy Class No. 4. He is survived by his wife
Calderon Edna of Franklin.
Mrs. Oralia Calderon died May 26. She is the mother of Sgt. Roberto
Calderon Jr. of the Auto Theft Division, Sgt. Ricardo Calderon of the Massey
Major Offenders Division, Senior Police Officer Raul J. Calderon of Edith Massey died June 25. She is the grandmother of Officer Dawayne
the Kingwood Division, Senior Police Officer Ruben Calderon of the D. Bloodsaw of the Northeast Division. Services were held July 3 with
Kingwood Division, Senior Police Officer Raynaldo Calderon assigned burial in Paradise North Cemetery.
to DCO, Senior Police Officer Rene Calderon of the North Division
and Officer Christopher R. Reyes of the North Division. Milie
Thomas L. Milie died June 26. He is the father of Officer David
Carroll Michael Lopez of the Training Academy Division. Services were held
Janice Repsdorph Carroll died June 26. She is the aunt of Sgt. Robert P. June 30 with burial in Houston National Cemetery.
Steffern of the Central Division and cousin of Senior Assistant Attorney
Donna Edmunson of the City of Houston Legal Department. Services Mitchell
were held July 1. Mrs. Johnnie Mae Mitchell died June 8. She is the mother of retired
Officer Charles Mitchell, who retired Aug. 22, 2009 after serving in
Cavazos the Juvenile Division at the time of his retirement. Services were held
Beatrice O. Cavazos died June 1. She is the grandmother of Officer June 12.
Carrie L. Cunningham of the Eastside Division. A funeral mass was held
June 7 with burial in Corpus Christi. Moser
Lucretia Cargile Moser died June 22. She is the mother-in-law of Lt.
DeLuke Michael P. Kelly of the Juvenile Division. A memorial service was held
World War II Navy veteran Tony DeLuke, 89, died July 5. He is the July 5.
father of Lt. Joseph P. DeLuke of the Airport/Hobby Division. Services
were held July 8 with burial in Klein Memorial Park in Spring. Pennamon
Mrs. Clarise Pennamon died May 24. She is the grandmother of Senior
Dodson Police Officer Craig Pennamon of the Gang Division. Services were held
Kimberly Lee Dodson died May 30. She is the sister of Senior Police June 2 with burial in Golden Gate Cemetery.
Officer Charles H. Dodson Jr. of the Tactical Operations Division. A
service was held June 4. Richards
Retired Assistant Chief Dennis N. Richards died May 31. Chief Richards
Driver joined Academy Class No. 40 on Jan. 13, 1969. During his career he
Clarence M. Driver died June 7. He is the uncle of Officer George was assigned to the Central Division, Jail Division, Northeast Division,
Jimerson III of the Special Operations Division. Services were held June Community Services, Employment Services, Vice, Auto Theft, South
12 with burial in Paradise North Cemetery. Central Division, Management Services Administration, Information
Services Command and Professional Development Command. He
Giraldo retired after servicing more than 35 years on May 8, 2004.
Grace O. Giraldo died July 5. She is the mother of Senior Police Officer
Jaime Giraldo of the Special Operations Division and retired Sgt. Spjut
Hernan Giraldo, who retired from Eastside on June 27, 2009. She also is Dr. Harlan J. Spjut, MD, died June 26. He is the father of Lt. Thomas
the mother of Sgt. Nelson Giraldo of the Major Offenders Division, Lt. M. Spjut of the Internal Affairs Division. He also is the father of retired
Alfonso Giraldo Sr. of the South Central Division and Houston Federal Senior Police Officer John H. Spjut, who retired June 16, 2007 from
Aviation Administration Agent Javier Giraldo. She is the grandmother Legal Services, and retired Lt. Dan J. Spjut, who retired April 17, 2010
of Officer Suzan E. Giraldo of Eastside. Services were held July 10 with from the Alternate Dispute Resolution Division. A mass was held July
burial in Forest Park East Cemetery in Webster. 3.
Goodson Tuttle
Retired Solo Motorcycle Officer Bobby E. Goodson, who retired on Retired Senior Police Officer Leroy Tuttle, who retired on May 8m,
July 31, 2000 after 39 years of service, died June 18. At the time of his 2004 after 27 years of service, died June 23. At the time of his retire-
retirement he was assigned to the traffic Accident Division, Motorcycle ment he was assigned to the Homicide Division. He joined HPD Sept.
Unit. He joined HPD on Oct. 17, 1960, entering Academy Class No. 13, 1976, entering Academy Class No. 75. He is survived by his daugh-
24. He is survived by his wife Johnnye, a daughter and a son. Services ter, Tracey Tuttle, and a son, Travoi Tuttle of Houston.
were held June 22 with burial in Goodson Cemetery in Pinehurst.
Williams
Hargrove Retired Officer Orville A. Williams, who retired from HPD on March
Iris Moore Hargrove died June 4. She is the sister of Senior Police Officer 29, 1991 aftrer serving 32 years, died June 9. At the time of his retire-
Larry D. Moore of the Vice Division and cousin of Administrative ment, Williams was assigned to the Southwest Division. He joined the
Assistant Karlinda J. Kirkwood of the Office of Inspector General. department Dec. 29, 1958 in Academy Class No. 23. He was survived
Services were held June 12 with burial in Paradise North Cemetery. by his wife Mildred of Sugar Land, a daughter and a son. Services were
held June 12 with burial in Rosenberg.
Page 30 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 30 7/28/10 1:51:29 AM
Continues from Page 26
adequate benefits for public safety officers injured or killed in the line
of duty;
Recent Action: Referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee. Currently
has the support of 5 cosponsors.
• H.R. 4338 Support, (Charlie Melancon, D-LA) Introduced December
16, 2009. The “First Responders Support Act of 2009.” House
companion bill to S. 2885;
Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
3/10/2010 referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and
Homeland Security.
• H.R. 248 Support, (Gene Green, D-TX) Introduced January 7, 2009.
The “Law Enforcement Officers Flag Memorial Act.” A bill to provide
Capitol-flown flags to the families of deceased law enforcement officers;
Recent Action: Referred to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on
Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security.
Page 31 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 31 7/28/10 1:51:30 AM
In Respectful Memory
July - Houston Police Officers
Slain in the Line of Duty
William F. Weiss 07-30-1901 James F. Willis 07-01-1964
James D. Harris 07-16-1982 Elston M. Howard 07-19-1988
Let us Never Forget...
If anyone knows of friends or family members who might have photographs that we are missing, please call The Badge & Gun at 713-223-4286.
Page 32 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 32 7/28/10 1:51:31 AM
In Respectful Memory
August - Houston Police Officers
Slain in the Line of Duty
John M. Cain 08-03-1911 Rufus H. Daniels 08-23-1917 Horace Moody 08-23-1917 Ira D. Raney 08-23-1917
J. Clark Etheridge 08-23-1924 Robert Schultea 08-25-1956 John W. Suttle 08-23-1959 Charles R. McDaniel 08-04-1963
Herbert N. Planer 08-18-1965 F. E. Wright 08-02-1975 Charles Baker 08-16-1979 Kathleen C. Schaefer 08-18-1982
City Marshal
Henry Williams 08-08-1886
E. G. Meinke 08-23-1917
Ross Patton 08-23-1917
H. B. Hammond 08-18-1946
Let us Never Forget...
If anyone knows of friends or family members who might have photographs that we are missing, please call The Badge & Gun at 713-223-4286.
Page 33 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 33 7/28/10 1:51:32 AM
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Page 34 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 34 7/28/10 1:51:32 AM
Psych Services
Worry Time: Don’t Feed the Monsters!
By LISA GARMEZY makes no sense!” We teach anxious kids to picture little monsters on
Your bills, your relationship, your blood pressure – this paper couldn’t their shoulders and knock them off, yelling “Get lost – I’m not listening
hold all the worries that HPD employees face. to you anymore!”
Supposedly, worry is handled by a simple decision tree. You ask yourself A kids’ book makes it clear: “When you check a tomato plant every day,
if you can do anything about the problem. and water it, and look at the leaves to see if there are little bugs to pick
off, you are taking good care of it and helping it grow. When you think
If the answer is yes, decide on an action and do it, or decide when to about worries a lot and talk about them over and over again, you are
act and schedule it. helping the worries grow.”
If the answer is no, let the worry go. We see a lot of troubled husbands and wives fertilizing their worries
by checking and snooping on each other, analyzing phone histories
Ahhh, easier said than done. and odometers and such. They don’t realize that the moment of relief
they get when nothing horrible turns up motivates them to keep
The Roots of Worry spying, again and again. Don’t feed the monsters. Go cold turkey on the
checking behavior, which never brings happiness.
We cling to some worry because it’s genuinely helpful. It might be a
form of mental rehearsal, well known to athletes and people trying If you’re asking a partner to pay a lot of attention to your worries, look
to get a date. Running through scenarios can help people accomplish for a nicer way to get his or her time. It’s not your partner’s job to
complex tasks. constantly reassure you. Carry your own emotional baggage. And
it’s obvious, but when you live your values, you have lots less to
Usually, though, worry just makes you miserable. A Newsweek worry about.
study found only eight percent of worry is about something you can
legitimately change. Most worry concerns farfetched scenarios, or Caging the Monsters
situations in the past that can’t be changed.
Surprisingly, people can learn to confine worry to a scheduled “Worry
The habit of negative thinking creates a lot of senseless worry. Which Time.” Remember the “tunnel vision” you develop in an emergency?
ones are your style? Cops are good at tuning out the world when they have to. Hone that
skill to put worry in its place.
Do you jump to conclusions? We see a lot of spouses concerned about
infidelity. The thought, “She’s dressing up more, so she must be having Find about 15 minutes in your day to do your worrying. Don’t try to
an affair,” just doesn’t make sense. do it within two hours of going to bed, and don’t try to do it in your
patrol car, at your desk, or in your bedroom. Let worries run wild
Do you “supersize” trivial events? A cough is not pneumonia, a bad day during Worry Time – that may weaken their hold. Put your troubles in
is not a suicidal depression, and a pissed-off look doesn’t mean a divorce a journal, if you like – it’s a proven stress management technique.
or bad evaluation.
But when Worry Time is over, that’s it. Say to yourself, “I’m done!”
Do people call you a “control freak?” Resign as General Manager of the Tell the worries they need to move along. Picture them locked in the
universe. As an example, my husband and I are proud – and concerned strongest safe you can imagine. Focus harder on what you’re doing, or
– as we wait with our son for med school admissions test results. A high distract yourself with happy thoughts.
score gets him into a competitive Texas school, but a lower score means
sky-high out-of-state tuition. He could retake the exam… but it’s not You already cut your worries off, every day, when the phone rings or the
our decision, or our debt. We’re trying to let him handle things that radio squawks. With practice you’ll get even better. Success comes from
are his. using Worry Time on a daily basis for at least a month.
Many people embrace the idea, “Let go and let God.” Some problems Make a deliberate effort to engage in healthy activity and break down
just aren’t ours to solve. bad habits. Consider Proverbs 12:25, “Care in the heart of a man weighs
it down, but a good word makes it glad.” There’s more to think about
The Tomato Plant Problem at www.psychologytoday.com/blog/anxiety-files.
We can change harmful mental habits by learning to argue with your And call us with any feedback. You won’t be interrupting. Don’t worry
worries. Tell your worries, “I can’t do anything about that” or “That about that.
Support pAC, It pAyS BIg returnS
Page 35 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 35 7/28/10 1:51:32 AM
The Shotgun Corner
Big Game Rifles and Half-Pound Bullets
By M. D. BEALE JR. generally put an elephant out for something
Continuing our journey visiting the “dark like half an hour.
side” of shooting – we come to rifles.
Tale of the Tail
I think the African “stopping” rifles are the
most interesting. The large caliber hammerless Once down, a second “insurance” shot is
side-by-side double barrel with double trig- always a good idea. There’s probably nothing
gers and extractors – not ejectors – is generally quite as exciting as resting on a “dead” 12,000-
considered the best choice because of its extreme pound elephant and a half hour later have him
reliability, high quality, fine balance, smooth suddenly “resurrected” in a perfect rage right
handling, quick aiming and its unmatched under your fanny.
speed in getting off the second shot. A very
close second choice is the big bolt action. Taylor tells of killing three elephants over his
long career who had previously had their tails
Game Hunter ‘Darling’ cut off, one of which still had an old .600 NE
bullet in its head. The tail of each one downed
Sir Samuel Baker, the famous mid-1800s African Fuchs & Szecsei Double Barrel Bolt Action Over/Under was taken and kept as a tally so that each
explorer and hunter, had an 18 pound 4 bore and Side-by-Side Repeating Rifles” will work for the two animal could be accounted for, especially
black powder muzzle-loading single-shot rifle guns together when they were downed in the tall grass and
he used named “Baby.” “Baby” always spun The .600 NE hit the market in 1903 as deep brush.
him around, often gave him a bloody nose a smokeless cartridge for Jeffery rifles. It
and/or black eye, and on occasion rendered was designed from the ground up as the
him unconscious when he fired the half-pound ultimate “stopping” rif le for dangerous
bullet (making it arguably a 2 bore). game. Its relatively flat-nosed 900-grain
bullets at about 1,900 feet per second delivers
about 7,000 foot pounds of muzzle energy,
edging above the .577 NE by about 1,000
foot pounds.
The sole purpose for this much power was to
prevent or stop an elephant or rhino charge,
especially in the heavy brush where a lot of Szecsei .700 NE Bolt Action Side-by-Side Repeating
encounters occur at distances of only a few feet Rifle will work for the other one with the two big shells
much of the time. laying in it.
The moral of the story is that power is
Very few .600 NE rifles were ever made – six important at times, but bullet placement is
by Holland and Holland, six by Purdey, three paramount, no matter how big the cartridge.
by Westley Richards, nine by John Wilkes, 32
by Jeffery – that’s 56 double rifles total and Holland and Holland was probably last of the
Marco Scaiola’s .750 Nitro Express will work for the guy with another 24 single-shot rifles by Jeffery custom gun makers that would make a .600
holding that shoulder cannon. we have a grand total of only 80 rifles by the NE on order for anything like a reasonable
About 1870 he developed the .577 Black top makers. Add the odd one here and there price. By 1980 the demand for new .600 NE
Powder Express self-contained cartridge for by other makers over the years and a total of rifles was non-existent. The “last” H&H .600
African hunting. The .577 BPE’s relatively about 125-plus or minus is a best guess by NE was commissioned for a substantial sum for
small case was filled with black powder under a Cal Pappas, www.calpappas.com, author of a a client with the understanding that it would
750 grain jacketed bullet. This much “lighter, history book on the .600 NE. be the very last .600 NE H&H would build
high velocity small bore” (than the 10, 8, 6, and certificates were issued to that effect.
4 & 2 bores) killed much more effectively
John “Pondoro” Taylor, in his 1948 African
with less recoil (which is still substantial by So in 1988, Bill Feldstein designed and
today’s standards). Rifles & Cartridges, Small Arms Technical
Publishing Company, writes a lot about the developed, along with Jim Bell, the .700 NE
.600 NE and the .577 NE since he used both, round after trying unsuccessfully to get H&H
It soon became the darling of dangerous
game hunters. It made the transition to eventually preferring the .600. to build him a .600 NE. H&H built him the
smokeless powder (which increased its power first .700 NE side by side. The .700 NE now
tremendously) as the .577 NE and became the Keep in mind that Taylor – like all of those has a certain following of its own.
most used of the “stopping” rifles ever. It’s still in his profession – was first, last and always
in production and still very popular today. a professional ivory hunter. It was a business. Always expensive, first or second hand, the
Efficiency was the name of the game. The fact that the .600 NE was the most powerful
By 1890 the development of smokeless .600 NE was a specialized tool of the trade commercial rifle produced for years, its history,
powder had sparked the development of all intended for very close work. Its forte was its its mystique, its rarity, its effectiveness and the
kinds of new “high powered” or “Express” potential to literally knock an elephant out general high quality of the guns all contribute
cartridges for pistols, rifles and shotguns all over with a head shot – fatal or not. While not an to the current collector and hunter demand.
the world. absolutely “sure thing,” in Taylor’s experience it Continues from Page 37
Page 36 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 36 7/28/10 1:51:33 AM
Continues from Page 36 delivers in the neighborhood of eight times the to and including the .700 NE! These guns are
The aftermath of all of this controversy has knockdown power of the .600 NE. Gun Digest masterpieces of craftsmanship and engraving.
evidently led to a renewed demand for the .600 2010 has an article on this gun and it’s well Check http://www.fuchs-fine-guns.com/ and
NE. It’s my understanding that H&H resumed worth the read. http://www.szecseidoubleboltrepeater.ca/ to
offering the .600 NE after working out the see them for yourself.
legal problems but stamps them in a new serial But there’s more! Now there’s side-by-side as
number range. well as over/under bolt action repeating rifles! The most practical, in my humble opinion,
The best of both worlds – instant second shot of the newer rifle designs is by Krieghoff.
Onward and upward! Marco Scaiola of Italy and fast reload! It’s their Semprio, described as an “in-line
spent eight years developing and having repeating” rifle, a reverse pump – you push
Luchinni in Brescia build him a beautiful Blaser made a beautiful side-by-side bolt action forward first, then pull back – and it’s
26-pound side by side in .750 NE. repeating rifle for Sheik Hamed of Abu-Dhabi. chambered in a bunch of calibers including
The caliber isn’t stated but the .375 H&H is soon the .416 Ruger, which is big enough for
The current “granddaddy of them all” is the largest listed on their website. They offer anything living today. You can check it out on
a true two-bore cartridge single-shot rifle the rifle now as the R93 Hamed. the Krieghoff site.
weighing 26 pounds built by Giles Whittome
for his own use. This gun shoots lead bullets Fuchs and Szecsei makes both over and under I’ll have more on this subject next month.
weighing up to 3,500 grains (one-half pound) and as well as side-by-side bolt action repeaters up
Continues from Page 29 No. 94, Improved Order of the Red Men and His marker reads:
Newt Vaughn was allowed to go to his brother the Maccabees, both organizations who were
and, along with the other officers, heard his proud to have Willie Weiss as a member. William A. Weiss,
brother’s last words: “I died game.” March 7, 1870-July 30, 1901.
In addition to the members of these
Then he breathed his last breath, leaving his fraternities, the entire night police force “There was an angel choir in heaven
.41-caliber pistol in the stairway. attended as active and honorary that was not quite complete,
pallbearers. The night police force met at so God took our darling Willie
After Sergeant Busey arrived, Yadon’s Saloon police headquarters at 3 p.m. and marched to to fill the vacant seat.”
was shut down for the night. Justice of the the residence. Active pallbearers were Deputy
Peace Malsch arrived and held an inquest into Chief Henry Thompson, SergeantsJ.C. Busey With the wonderful cooperation of Mr. and
the deaths of Officer Weiss and his deceased and Charles Williford and Chief Clerk William Mrs. Richard Ambrus at Glenwood Cemetery,
assailant, J.T. Vaughn. On orders from Justice Kessler. Serving as honorary pallbearers were an additional marker was placed at the foot of
Malsch, an autopsy was performed on the Officers Lee, James, Bernner, Lahey, Gossett, Officer Weiss’s grave in 2004. This marker is
body of Weiss, who had been taken to the Patrick, Whittington, Youngst, Newhoff, the LINE OF DUTY foot marker provided by
Westheimer undertaking establishment. There Higgins, Proctor, Howard, Charlton, Cahill, the 100 Club of Houston and Harris County.
the judge continued his inquest as the autopsy and Night Clerk Krum. Burial followed at Mr. and Mrs. Ambrus and Glenwood Cemetery
was performed. Glenwood Cemetery on Washington Avenue. donated the installation costs.
Two .41-caliber slugs were found in Officer A newspaper account about the effects Officer There is one other HPD Officer killed in the
Weiss, one that had passed through his heart Weiss’ death had on the community included Line of Duty interred at Glenwood. That is
and another very near it. Both were determined this passage: Officer Rufus Daniels, one of five Houston
to be sufficient to cause his death. The judge police officers killed in 1917 during the
also ruled that the wounds were inflicted from “Officer Weiss, very popular as an officer and Camp Logan riot. His gravesite has never had
very close range – Weiss’ clothing contained as a citizen. The lawyer at the bar, the clerk a marker.
powder burns. behind the counter, the blacksmith as he shod
a refractory colt chewing an unaccustomed
J.T. Vaughn was removed to the undertaking bit, the street car motorman as he turned on
establishment of Ross and Wright. While no and off the mysterious currents that propel
autopsy was ordered on him, Justice Malsch the cars. All who knew the dead officer joined
determined his cause of death was from one in some kind of tribute to him. At the police
bullet wound to his abdomen. His brother Newt station the customary show of solemn bleak
was taken into custody for questioning and was made, and the crepe by the door was but
investigators released him after concluding he the trappings and suits of woe which was felt by
had no part in the death of Officer Weiss. Newt every member of the department with whom
was allowed to send messages to his brother and this reporter talked.”
parents in Dallas and Powder Springs, Georgia.
Officer Weiss was the fifth known HPD
William A. “Willie” Weiss was born in Houston officer to give his life in the line of duty, the
on March 7, 1870. His parents were Mr. first in ten years and the first in the 20th
and Mrs. J. F. Weiss. Besides his mother and century. What followed just four short months
father, he left a wife and two small children. later continued a sad trend for the entire
Funeral services for the beloved officer were century. Weiss’s gravesite was located at
held at his residence at 215 LaBranch at 4 Glenwood Cemetery. From the handsome
p.m. Wednesday, July 31, 1901. The services marker placed on his family plot, it appears his
were under the auspices of the Little Elk Tribe survivors were people of means.
Page 37 Badge & Gun • July/August 2010
BadgeGun JulyAug 2010 Issue.indd 37 7/28/10 1:51:33 AM
Transportation Time Share with Silverleaf Resorts for sale
Classifieds
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windshield, detachable backrest, saddle bags, tooled and personalized, $1.50 each (including Wall Pedestal & Shoulder Mount; (ret. Lt.)
alarm system, trickle battery charger, lots of Townhouse For Lease near Bingle/Tidwell. shipping). Limit 5 letters, chain included. Wizinsky’s son-in-law.
chrome. Call for additional questions, Ruben $1100/month recently redone! Other products available. For more info or to
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25 ft 2009 Springdale Travel Trailer
sleeps 6 in good condition I owe around What an amazing deal! Charming three Services Police discount on prom dresses & tuxedos
13,400 at the credit union see if some one bedroom two bath patio home located in a Send your kids! Starlit Soiree, Hwy. 3 @ Bay
will just take up the payments. Jay Daniel great gated community at 3123 Lavender Gold Rush Tax Service 281-399-3188 Area Blvd. 281.332.7555, www.starlitsoiree.com.
home 713-517-8220 and cell 281-961-3275 Candle Dr. Spring, TX. Property includes a Same Day Refund Special Police Officer
two car attached garage, master suite, cozy RatesBrenda Webb (retired officer’s wife) Mini Storage Police officer discount.
2003 Harley Davidson Road KW6 fire place and much more for only $1,300.00 brenda@goldrushtax.com 290 area. Call Dave for details 713-460-4611
Police Commerative Edition, very well kept month. Price is negotiable. Please contact Miriam Aurioles – Se Habla Espanol
asking $9,999.00 Call 832-944-9620 Officer Edith Maldonado at 832-434-4266 Need help in forgiving or forgetting.
or edi2m@aol.com. Tax Preparation Call Linda McKenzie for more info on Christ
91 Lexus SC400 Has been running, needs new From Home Office 40% - 50% Lower Fees. centered counseling services 282-261-2952
battery & oil gasket, $ best offer. 713-443-9170 Summer Rental Galveston Beach House. 3br Contact for estimate L. Dexter Price, CPA or 832-250-6016 where everyone is given
2 bath. Sleeps 8-10. Great Gulf view just steps ldexterprice@comcast.net 832.243.1477 the opportunity for a fresh start
Kubota Diesel Tractor with 4 foot Kubota from the beach. Newly renovated/updated.
finisher mower, runs great no mechanical H.L. Richter HPD (ret) 936-329-1456 Main Street Builders Residential and Your Travel, Tax, Health, & Nutritional
problems $2800.00 call Scott 832-260-2819 Commercial Construction Licensed and Insured. needs. We can get you where you want to go,
1 acre property, cleared land, next to main Hwy David Webber (owner) Rt HPD 832-618-2009 and keep you healthy doing it. Contact Greg &
2001 Salem Travel Trailer 27 foot sleeps 21, about 1 mile West of downtown, barbed Cathy Lewis 832-969-0502 or 832 969 0503
9, good condition, new tires. Would make wire fenced, no trespass signs, utility hook ups Hunting Weekend Expedition Affordable
excellant deer camp. $4500.00 call Scott for to city w/lease contract. John Jr 281-835-3336 prices, private property. Whitetails, exotics & Why rent when you can own while keeping
details 832-260-2819 pigs. Call for details Officer Mike Gonzalez your monthly payments about the same. For
1 Bedroom Unit For Rent Village Wood 713-702-5838 or email gmiguel@att.net more information call 281-914-7351
88 Donzi Ragazza boat Good running Town homes 1529 Wirt Rd/Spring Branch.
condition, <170 hours on new engine, new Utilities paid. Basic cable. Excellent Location. Houston’s Wedding People Wedding “Photos to Albums”. Your memories creatively
starter, batteries. 99 Aluminum trailer w/disc Joe Scott 713-935-9137 Services, Wedding cakes, Decorations, designed in an album. Any occasion, celebration,
brakes, LEDs. $5,900 OBO. (936) 890-4121 Chair covers, Favors Call today for free taste family trips. Call Theresa Arlen at 832-229-6292.
Lake Livingston Furnished Town home testing and consultation 281-881-5027
2003 HD Police motorcycle 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths Call for Details www.houstonsweddingpeople.com Piano Lessons: 30 minutes for $15.00.
Commemorative Edition. Just over 50k miles 832-876-5511 or 713-459-8111 Student Recitals. Call Daniel Jones at
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Asking $10,250 832-444-9620 House for Rent: Bear Creek Area. 3 off their pride of you being one of Houston’s finest.
Bedroom/Game room. Cy-Fair School I will personalize items with machine-embroidered Calling All Mothers of Houston Police
2006 40’ PJ Trailer goose neck, electric District. Swimming Pool. $1095.00/month. replicas of your badge including your badge Officers. As a proud mother of a Houston
brakes, storage cabinet, car ramps cost Call 832-282-5216. number (Sgt, Lt, Capt replica badges also available) Police Officer, I am interested in starting a
$6200.00 OBO 281-387-6643. Items that are available are t-shirts, Koozies, support group of Mothers of Houston Police
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$200.00 and up. Call 713 -825-6883 (retired officer’s wife) www.freewebs.com/sibylscott
2007 Harley-Limited Production Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers
Screaming Eagle Road King. Black with Two cemetery lots. Grand view Memorial Discount on Moonwalk Rentals A place for Christians to come together and
factory custom flame paint. Less than 5K Park 8500 Spencer highway in Pasadena. Rent a moonwalk for your special encourage one another. For information about
miles. Bike has $20,000 in factory extra The Cemetery sells the lots for $4495 each. occasion. We deliver and pick up so other activities visit our website at www.
asking $35,000. J.T. Templeton We are asking $8000.00 for both. you don’t have to! Please call Officer Chris fcpohouston.org.
817-480-1543 or 817-321-8645 Call Charlie Everts 409 9359199 DeAlejandro at 713-922-8166
or Carla DeAlejandro at 713-384-5361. Wanted
For Rent/Lease Trophy Deer Mounts Please let us know that you’re Law
2 - Colorado Mule $500.00 each Enforcement Personal. Wanted Beretta 9MM FS “Police Special”
Wooded Interior Lot in Westwood Shores 1 - Axis $500.00 • 1 - Whitetail $150.00 (Black or Stainless) Please call Zach (832)
on Lake Livingston, golf, camping, tennis, Or make best offer. Photos available upon Gone Fishing wantafishtx.com 457-0647.
swimming, and boating $1200, Please call request. Widow of retired Sgt. George David Jim Hobson-retired 936-615-2777
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$250,000.00 Phone 936-635-9326 Country and surrounding areas with prices texashousemouse@yahoo.com Colt .45 HPD Commemorative Pistol
starting at $458 an acre. Call Retired Sgt Call Paul 713-240-4672
One Acre Lot in Elgin, Tx. Off Hwy.95, H.A. Stevens at 877-522-4455 Want to do TSR Country Properties
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Two Five Acre Lots in Rosharon, Texas,
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713-213-7651 281-548-3131 or www.2cashback.org 281-370-6803.
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