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Guardian TThhee VOLUME 40, Issue 9 September 2009 SPOG Endorses Joe Mallahan for Mayor In Loving Memory The Seattle Police Officer’s Guild is pleased to announce our endorsement of Joe Mallahan for Mayor of Seattle. Mr. Mallahan has continued to impress the Seattle Police Officers Guild with his vision for the city and his stance on public safety. He brings with him the leadership experience that is needed to right this city and bring the focus back to basic core responsibilities, including providing quality public safety for the citizens of Seattle. Deputy Mike Gallagher Sergeant Rich O’Neill, President of the Seattle Police Officers Guild Lewis County Sheriff’s Office said, “It was obvious to us that Mr. Mallahan is the only candidate that has the leadership to handle any crisis and any situation that would EOW 8-18-09 arise in our city.” Gone But Never Forgotten IN THIS ISSUE... Nonprofit Organization US POSTAGE PAID SEATTLE POLICE OFFICERS’ GUILD Seattle, WA 2949 Fourth Avenue South Permit No. 130 4 Seattle, WA 98134 Defensive Driving 11 Change Service Requested History Corner 12 Comic You’ll Also Find: President’s Message.......................2 Mistakes.........................................7 Retired Officers Banquet................3 Officer of the Month.......................8 Mackenzie Peters Update.............4 Retired News................................14 Chaplain’s Corner..........................5 Editors Notes................................16 Page 2 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 President’s Message By Sergeant Rich O’Neill, SPOG President I just returned from vacation and there no relief squads and SPIDER are at the top of the list. is a running joke in the SPOG office We need to get back to basics. Citizens want to see that every time I take some time off, officers in their neighborhoods. They want to know that something big happens. Not always a when they dial 911, an officer will be arriving shortly. good thing but usually a big thing. This Citizens want pro-active officers and the vast majority of past month the “big happening” was of citizens don’t even know (or care) what OPA stands for. course the primary election results in The next Mayor needs to inject the expectation that the City of Seattle. All of the “common sense” should rule disciplinary decisions. Official publication of the Seattle Police Officers’ Guild candidates that we endorsed will move Citizens want officers who focus on getting “bad guys” 2949 4th Avenue S. on to the primary. This is a credit to out of their neighborhoods instead of worrying about Seattle, Washington 98134 the SPOG Political Action Committee some frivolous complaint. I will also urge the new Phone (206) 767-1150 E-mail: [email protected] who took the time to review candidate questionnaires and to Mayor to adopt one of the recommendations from the conduct in-depth interviews. The committee made previous Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Panel which has thus far thoughtful and insightful recommendations to the SPOG been ignored: OPA should focus its investigative GUILD OFFICERS board. We had a better “endorsement record” than many resources on SERIOUS acts of misconduct. The OPA President civic and political groups as well as our local papers. The should identify complaints of a less serious nature as Rich O’Neill, Operations work is really just starting. We need to spread the word on early as possible and encourage resolution of these the candidates that we’d like to see elected in November. I complaints through mediation. Serious acts of Vice President Ty Elster, North Precinct recognize that many of us do not live in the city and we are misconduct should be a pretty small category of the barred from engaging in political activities while on duty, but complaints received. But yet it is ignored and we have Secretary/Treasurer there are still many ways to help out. If you can spare a few full blown investigations over rudeness and squabbles Mike Severance, North Precinct hours we are always needing off-duty officers to show up at over terry stops. A new tone definitely needs to be set campaign events with our candidates. We also need from the top down. As I wrote several months ago, a BOARD OF DIRECTORS volunteers to help the campaigns with phone banks and shakeup is in order. Sergeant-at-Arms doorbelling. Lastly, just word of mouth. Let family and John Abraham, Traffic friends who vote in Seattle know who we’d like to see The Mayoral election also reminded me of some wise elected. The endorsement from police officers carries a lot advice that I received as a young officer. A wily veteran Position 1 Anthony Baily, Southwest Precinct of weight. Here is a pitch to retired officers: We can use once told me to “relax.” He said that we are here for the you too! If you have a few hours to help out, give us a call long haul. The job is not a “sprint” but rather a Position 2 at the SPOG office and we will put you on our list to call “marathon.” We outlast bad supervisors, Chiefs and Tom McLaughlin, West Precinct when an event pops up. Remember folks, these are the Mayors. It is definitely so true. I mention it to the new Position 3 people who negotiate and approve your contract! They also hires in orientation when I pass on that advice and tell Ron Smith, Pawn Shop Squad vote on police budgets, so they have a direct influence on them that one of the great things about SPD is our size. Position 4 your training, equipment, and working conditions. I’d rather If you encounter “a jerk” for a supervisor, you can Kevin Stuckey, North Precinct be dealing with friends in city hall than enemies. transfer or simply wait until they are moved. In a small department you would not enjoy that luxury. So my point Position 5 The big news in the primary was of course the 3rd place is that the rank and file remains the constant when Johney Stevens, West Precinct finish of Mayor Nickels. I was not surprised by the Mayors and commanders and policies change. This too Position 6 outcome. I had told many on our PAC Committee that I was shall pass! Randy Robinson, Traffic not certain he would make it past the primary and I turned Position 7 out to be correct. I spoke with many other labor group Another big development was a recent ruling that came Ben Hughey, Gang Unit leaders who vented about the sad state of labor relations in out of the Public Safety Civil Service Commission. The this city. Some of them ended up endorsing the Mayor for Commission unanimously overturned an “honesty” finding Position 8 Ryan Bailey, Harbor fear of retaliation, but privately they commented that they against an officer. This allegation was added by OPA wanted a change at the top. The voters obviously agreed. I simply because they did not believe the “version” offered Position 9 am not one to kick someone when they are down and there by the officer. There were no witnesses or independent Deb Nicholson, Employment Services are plenty of talk shows discussing how an eight year evidence to support the added charge. I think this ruling is Position 10 incumbent failed to survive the primary. I will say this: You very important for every officer. It also comes on the Jim Brakebill, Traffic can’t keep ignoring the citizens and you can’t govern people heels of two other rulings, by separate arbitrators, who with fear and intimidation. I had many cordial and friendly came to the same conclusion. Dishonesty is NOT to be meetings with the Mayor and he was a pleasant enough guy. added by OPA without substantial evidence showing an GUARDIAN STAFF I also had interactions with several of his appointed staffers officer lied. Not believing “a version” will not hold up on Editor who had a very unpleasant way of doing business. The next appeal. So now with three separate and independent Ron Smith, Pawn Shop Squad Mayor will have to rebuild the trust of many community and rulings, all saying the same thing, I hope OPA gets the labor groups. They didn’t appreciate the “Chicago Style” of message. Editorial Board Randy Robinson, Traffic this mayor. It does no good to be all smiles and warm and Deb Nicholson, Employment Services fuzzy while your appointed department heads and your own Lastly, the Retired Officer’s banquet is set for September Jim Brakebill, Traffic mayoral staff have a pit-bull mentality. The public sees right 9th at 6pm at the range. It is open to all active and retired through that. My hope is that the next mayor will “listen.” officers. It is a great opportunity to see some former Advertising Manager Sarah Scott Listen to the community members and listen to city workers. supervisors and squad mates. It is also an opportunity for Don’t believe everything that comes out in briefings from new officers to hear some “incredible” stories about the Layout and Design Artist department heads. Check with the worker bees to get “the old days of police work. I think it is also an opportunity to Sarah Scott rest of the story!” I also hope the next mayor sets clear show our respect to the men and women who laid the Editors Emeritus expectations with his department heads on labor relations. foundation that we enjoy today. I hope to see you all Dick Rovig Departments that are the cause a lot of Unfair Labor there. Stay safe and back each other! Gordon Barnett Don MacMillan Practices to be filed against the city should be called to task. Joy Mundy I think the Mayor should set the tone that good labor relations are very important and The opinions expressed in The Guardian do strive to appoint supervisors who share that not necessarily reflect those of the Seattle Police opinion. This was sorely lacking in the Department. Nickels administration and it carried over into Responsibility for signed articles remains the way they addressed the concerns of solely with the author. The Guardian is the only official publication citizens. published monthly by and for the Seattle Police Officers’ Guild. A new mayor will also hopefully bring some NON-GUILD MEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONS: new ideas and expectations to the Call (206) 767-1150 for information department. Both Nickels and Kerlikowske are now gone, so I will urge the next mayor to revisit many of the decisions made by the duo. Neighborhood Policing, beat boundaries, Page 3 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 66th Annual Retired Officers Banquet The 2009 Retired Officers’ Banquet is Wednesday, September 9th at the SPD Range Pavilion. The banquet is not just for retired officers anymore! It’s a really great evening and an opportunity for active duty officers to interact with and show their appreciation for those who served before them. There will be great food and a fun time for all, so we hope you will be able to join us! Wednesday September 9th doors open at 6:00 PM Seattle Police Athletic Association Pavilion 11030 – East Marginal Way S TICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR EVERYONE The retired officer’s dinner is complimentary if your Retired Officers’ Association dues are current. Not sure if your dues are current? Call Nick Bulpin at 425/349-5373. Tickets are $15 per officer if your dues are not current. Guest tickets and active officer tickets are still $15 each. Please order $15 tickets via department mail SPRA attn: Lisa) or U.S. mail (SPRA, 2517 Eastlake Ave E #101, Seattle WA 98102) with check payabe to SPRA along with the names of those attending. Please feel free to enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope! If you do not need to pay (for yourself or for a guest), you may order your complimentary ticket via telephone (206) 726-9095 or email Lisa at ([email protected]). All tickets and nametags will be mailed to you. An invitation and order form will be mailed to you in a few days. David Duty, Vice President Seattle Police Relief Association P.S. If you make a reservation and find you cannot keep it, please let us know! The Keystone Program Direct Line: Mike Burns (425) 643-6111 S.P.D. Reserve (cid:105) CONV, VA, FHA, REFI, 0% DOWN, PURCHASE, HELOC’S, LINES OF CREDIT, CONSTRUCTION, REMODEL (cid:105) Over 150 Lenders to chose from, Guarantees you the Best Rate!! (cid:105) UNLIKE OTHER LENDERS, THE KEYSTONE PROGRAM WILL USE YOUR OVERTIME, OFF DUTY, COURT AND METRO TO APPROVE YOUR LOAN!!! (cid:105) Please visit www.seattlepoliceguild.org (at website click on “members”) for your FREEE pre-approval and credit report!! (cid:105) Police, Fire, City, County Employees, and their extended familes save over $1,000.00!!! Page 4 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Defensive Driving: MacKenzie Peters Update Fatigue and Stress Awareness By Mike Scott, SPD Retired By John Abraham, SPOG Sergeant-at-Arms and SPD Safety Coordinator Hi Gang: Another Seafair has come enough sleep you should not fall Fellow officers and friends, and gone and we are back to our asleep in a passive situation such as normal work routine. Not! With watching TV or reading a book. Lack My wife Shirley and I would like to start by saying thank you to all who sent Mariners, Sounders and Seahawks of adequate sleep can impair your donations and such wonderful and thoughtful well wishes for our granddaughter games, the Danskin Triathlon, Hemp attention span and reaction time. Now Mackenzie. Fest, rock concerts and all the other lets throw stress into the mix. When activities that are going on in our fair you decided to become a police Getting her a wheelchair van is still our highest priority. We still have a ways to city, there is a very real effect on officer you knew the dangers you go, but are very hopeful. Safety is our main concern and the type of van we each of us. The result of all the long might face, and you train to protect hours and lack of adequate sleep yourself against these situations that need is a rear-entry that also has a side seat so her nurse can sit next to her in create untold stress and fatigue. As a may occur during your shifts. But who case of an emergency. This type is very hard to find especially in our price result of this we get into more trained you to deal with the stressors range. The need to get her the van is even greater now that she has reached collisions during the months of July of the job? You are told about the high over 40-pounds and her nurses are no longer allowed to lift her, which means and August. Add to this the increase divorce rates, excessive alcohol my wife does most of the lifting. Shirley is only 5-feet tall so this is a little of traffic from all the sporting and consumption and about long term difficult. entertainment events, the visitors in physical illnesses from the years of town for these events who have police work. When you started did We know times are financially hard for everyone right now, and we hate to ask absolutely no idea where they are you believe them? I didn’t; I was ten again for your help, but if you can see your way, I promise it will go to a great going or how to get there and you feet tall and bullet proof. cause. have the makings of the “Perfect Collision”! Everyone told you what a great job Mackenzie is a beautiful 7 year old with lavender eyes and the most beautiful you were getting into. They couldn’t Webster defines stress as bodily or tell you what you were going to have curly hair. She can’t speak with words but her smiles say it all. Her disabilities mental tension resulting from factors to deal with within yourself after your never get her down; she just seems to know that she has to try just a little that tend to alter an existing shift is over. You equate driving as harder than other kids her age. She’s had 38 surgeries in her short time on this equilibrium; and fatigue as your body’s part of the work required but throw in earth, and another one next month. She’s always been a little fighter and reaction to prolonged physical or all the stress of the job and driving is refuses to give in to pain. I hope someday you can all meet her and I know mental activity. very high risk for injury. she’ll melt your hearts like she has ours. The effects of fatigue on driving Some of the common signs of stress Thank you all, performance can be very similar to are headaches, fatigue, low energy, the effects of alcohol or other drugs. muscle aches and stiffness, Michael and Shirley Scott (SPD Retired) backaches, insomnia, skin rashes, A fatigued driver is more likely to appetite change, cold extremities and 992 Gary Lane ignore or be unable to recognize indigestion. Camano Island, WA 98282 important signs and signals while on e-mail: [email protected] the road, which are vital to safe Over time stress can have a major toll Wells Fargo Bank Donation Fund for Mackenzie Peters driving. They may be more affected on the body. Physical disorders can Account #7166675053 by sunlight, headlights or other bright include coronary heart disease, heart light. They may misjudge speed and attack, diabetes, allergies, arthritis, distance of other vehicles. They may high blood pressure, hypertension, take more risks like passing on the ulcers, asthma, sinus problems and right instead of the left and making last but not least, sexual dysfunction. other unsafe driving maneuvers. They may also, not that this would ever Understanding ways to cope with happen, become irritable, discourteous stress and fatigue and the difficulties or overreact to minor irritations. of the profession may save your life or the life of another officer some With that said, get as much sleep as day. We drive over 5,000,000 miles a you can. Fatigue is responsible for year and we average 200 crashes. about 13% of all traffic fatalities So remember…..Your profession is nationally. 87% of crashes from law enforcement, but your job is to go fatigue or falling asleep are fatal. home at the end of your shift! The amount of sleep you require will vary with each of you. If you get SUPPORT THE GUARDIAN! ...by using our advertisers! Let them know you heard about them in The Guardian Page 5 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Chaplain’s Corner 220066 By Chaplain John Oas SYNAPSE “We proudly back and As many of us know the nation of thirsty?” “Get your act together Let’s determine to be more grateful support the men & women Israel made a significant move out of Moses!” And, I am sure it grew and a lot less prone to complain. of the Seattle Police Egypt very early in their history. In worse. Department” fact, they had to do this to become a PS: Special prayers and thoughts, as nation of their own. Much can be Yet, within a few steps of where they well, for Kris Goetz in the death of Tina Bueche said about these one million plus were, God was planning a feast of Mike... We love you! SPD Proprietor crossing the Red Sea and into the ‘manna’ that would carry Israel on & Friend Sinai Desert. through 40 years. They were May His very best be yours, grumbling and threatening now - not Fashion for women But, an interesting portion of this aware of what was ‘just around the Chaplain John K. Oas, D.D. from local artists and event lingers in my memory. There’s corner’. We haven’t changed much The Seattle Police Department interesting lines from the ‘dry land’, the ‘Egyptians’, the have we? Phone Number: 206.650.9399 (24/7) ‘weather and distance’; but little is Contact me on FACEBOOK: everywhere.... said about the fact that they reached Today we complain about heat, taxes, facebook.com/ChaplainJohn2000 the desert safely - only to be faced government, leadership, prices, Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/ 206 First Avenue South with no water. routines and chores... But, within a ChaplainJohn200 Seattle (206) 447-7731 few days things often get better. My schedule is open for public And, boy did the complaining begin to Within a few days, we realize that we viewing... http://calendar.yahoo.com/ rise. It was a ground swell that really are so blessed. Within a few chaplainjohn2000/ Hours: 10-6 M-Th, 10-7 Fri, Moses endured with much patience. days, we are overwhelmed by the 12-6 Sat, 12-4 Sun “How could you bring us so far and blessings we truly have. not think that we might become SEATTLE POLICE DEPARTMENT CHAPLAINS ASSOCIATION Did you know that the Chaplain is NOT a paid employee of the Seattle Police Department? Did you know that he receives NO MONEY or BENEFITS from the Seattle Police Department or the City of Seattle? Did you know that his ONLY COMPENSATION comes from the generous contributions by members of the Seattle Police Department? The Seattle Police Department Chaplains Association is a legitimate non-profit organization which has a Board of Directors made up of Department volunteers. The purpose of the Chaplains Association is to serve Seattle Police Department members, both sworn and civilian. We operate totally on donations from Department members through payroll deductions. Chaplain John Oas is the Chaplain for the Seattle Police Department. During a typical month, Chaplain Oas will have counseling contacts with Department employees and their families for career, discipline, death/illness, alcohol & substance abuse, or family problems. He is also available for and has participated in numerous emergency calls, hospital visits, weddings, baptisms and funerals. If you do not already donate and would like to, please fill out the Payroll Deduction Authorization Form below and return it to Detective Nathan Janes, Homicide Unit. If you already donate and would like to increase your donation, likewise fill out the form below with the increased amount. We appreciate any and all donations and wish to thank our many members who contribute regularly. A suggested TAX DEDUCTIBLE donation of $20.00 a month, ($10.00 a pay period) would be welcome, yet any and every donation is greatly appreciated. Thank you! The Chaplaincy Board of Directors. PAYROLL DEDUCTION AUTHORIZATION FORM (Please Print) Name_________________________________________________________Serial #__________________ Department: POLICE Unit_____________________________Date_____________________ TO: The City Comptroller and Officers of the Seattle Police Department This form authorizes you to deduct the following amount of money for the Seattle Police Chaplains Association. $__________________on the first pay period of the month $__________________on the second pay period of the month for a total of $__________________per month beginning the month of __________________. (date) This sum reflects my voluntary contribution to this non-profit association per Department of the Internal Revenue Service ID #91-1275776.) Date:____________________ Employee Signature ______________________________ Return this form to: Det. Nathan Janes, Homicide Unit Page 6 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Free Training Happy Anniversary Performance Under Stress- The Guardian Staff is pleased to Officer Survival announce the milestones achieved by the following SPOG members during the The co-author of Deadly Force Encounters, Dr. Alexis Artwohl, is coming to month of September 2009! the WSCJTC (main auditorium) on October 6 & 7, 2009 to present information on “Officer Survival—Physical, Psychological and Legal” (what she calls the 40 years of Service “survival triangle”). She comes highly recommended by a number of SPD Detective Dan Stokke, CIS officers who have heard her speak and/or read her book. 30 years of Service This is a free training for regional law enforcement officers paid for by the Seattle Police Department. Many of the topic areas have direct impact and Detective Al Lebar, STFY applicability for our spouses and significant others. To that end, the training will Officer Carolee Collins, SPOC also be open to those close to LE officers who might benefit in hearing about the topics from a clinical psychologist who has worked with police officers and their 25 years of Service families for many years. Dr. Artwohl is married to a retired Portland, OR police Offcier Dave Emery, Southwest Precinct officer, Asst. Chief Dave Butzer, and has presented all over the country and internationally. 20 years of Service Detective Karen Haverkate, FFFE Email Paula Wesson ([email protected]) to register for either or both Officer Bernie Patton, Harbor days. Current SPD officers should obtain approval from their Chain of Command before registering. 15 years of Service For more information you may view her website, http://alexisartwohl.com/ or Sergeant Eric Greening, Narcotics contact Lt. Jim Dermody ([email protected]) or Off. Christie-Lynne Detective Dori Davis, NETF Bonner ([email protected]). Detective Jennifer Spong, DV Detective Shane St. John, SW Detectives Officer Randy Shelhorse, East Precinct From the author that brought you Officer Holley Janson, North Precinct “Deadly Force Encounters” . . . 5 years of Service Officer Nicholas Evans, South Precinct Officer James Moran, West Precinct Officer John O’Neil, East Precinct . . . now learn these Officer Adam Thorp, South Precinct (cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:85)(cid:68)(cid:87)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:76)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:192)(cid:85)(cid:86)(cid:87)(cid:3) hand from Dr. Alexis Artwohl Serving the City of Seattle for over 75 Years Two Days, Two Free Training Events! OCTOBER 6 & 7, 2009 LECTURE EVENTS: October 6 - “It’s a Tough Job” October 7 - “Performance Under Extreme Stress” LOCATION: Auditorium of WSCJTC 206.398.5500 | www.smcu.com | 800.334.2489 19010 1st Avenue South, Burien WA 98148 Downtown Seattle | Seattle City Hall | Northgate | Lynnwood Kirkland | Rainier Avenue | Georgetown | Southcenter TIME: 0830-1630 hr This event is open to all LE agency personnel and their family members. Dr. Alexis Artwohl, You may attend one or both events. author of Deadly Force Encounters To register for this free training, Visit www.alexisartwohl.com Over Sixteen Years Experience for more information on content contact [email protected] Mark Hughes, L.M.P. 10508 Whitman Ave N. #D Sponsored by the Seattle Police Department Seattle, WA 98133 (425) 761-8321 [email protected] Lic.#MA00006415 AETNA: $5 co-pay — No prescription. GHC: out-of-network provider — Yes prescription. Page 7 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Mistakes By Sergeant Randy Woolery, OPA-IS One non-tactical area of complacency We have all made mistakes and we that I often get to see in OPA involves now, I think) won’t always fix it. The and clear. Rarely will an officer/ will all make more mistakes. report writing. Recently, I read amount of explanation needed far detective/supervisor be remembered Mistakes are a fact of life and can several interesting reports that to be outweighs the simplicity of doing it for a particularly well-written report be great learning tools for yourself honest I couldn’t believe were written right the first time. (other than the general positive and others so the same mistakes are and I couldn’t believe were approved. reputation that comes from doing not repeated. Repeating the same I also get to read a lot of use of force Clarity is equally important when your job well); a really bad report can mistake is a problem. Sometimes the statements and these too range from writing a report. Be factual and use follow them for their entire career. repeated mistake has a low the very, very good to the ones that words and terms that are easy to The approving supervisor is the consequence so repeating it has little leave you scratching your head in understand. Most people in the real quality control part of this process. I or no direct impact at the time. This disbelief and dismay. world don’t exit their patrol vehicle; can remember working third watch then becomes complacency. they get out of their car. Most people and the sergeant would announce Attitudes and work ethics centered Other than the on-the-spot actions you don’t understand slang or jargon so over the air that he was in the parking around complacency and the routine, take that save a life, prevent an injury don’t use it in a report unless it is a lot at such and such a location often stemming from low or stop a theft, the major and most quote. Paragraphs should be short approving reports. When you got consequence experiences, can have important job function we do on a daily and limited to one thought or action. there, there would be a small line of very negative results. basis is write reports. Patrol officers patrol vehicles with officers waiting write reports all shift long. Detectives Accuracy is even more important to hand their reports to their sergeant Every occupation has different write reports about the patrol officer’s than clarity. Minor errors can imply who would read them and approve mistakes employees can and do reports. Supervisors write reports too. incompetence or dishonesty in the them prior to the end of shift. In a make and these mistakes have mind of the reader. We live in a way, with the new queue system, different consequences. Take We have to remember that not all world where people are less trustful officers are again handing their electricians and loggers for example. reports are for prosecution purposes. of government and the police. We paperwork electronically to their These are dangerous jobs that They need to be complete, clear and also live in a world where lawyers get supervisor who reads and approves involve a lot of routine. The danger within policy. Grammar is still paid based on the number of cases them. The process might not be as comes from the fact that when important and text messaging they win in civil court or the simple as before but as professionals mistakes are made the consequences shorthand and terms are not reasonable doubt they can create in a we adjust. can be, and often are, fatal. The appropriate for police reports. juror’s mind. Accuracy is the best same is true in Law Enforcement, Paragraphs are still used in the English defense against this. Don’t let a poorly written, inaccurate, with one exception. Trees don’t language and they are a must in and unclear report come back and want to harm the logger; they are not reports and statements. The reports Always proofread your work. You bite you. Someday it might. Even if aware they are going to be cut down and statements you generate will live think faster than you can write and you have written a 1000 reports this and therefore actively avoid Joe on forever, especially in today’s your mind has the ability to know way in the past make it a practice lumberjack. Electricity does not electronic world. People outside of what you were trying to say so it is from this point forward to think about think and make plans to fry the the department will read them and if very hard to catch your own mistakes what you are writing and why you electrician as soon as he makes a they are not clear and easy to (trust me, I know. Thanks Leslie!). are writing it. Your professional mistake. understand, others might fill in the Proofreading your work gives you a reputation can be at stake. Your gaps or jump to the wrong chance to ask yourself if it makes ability to offer credible testimony as a In law enforcement and the military conclusions. The media gets these sense or if this was really what you witness (of a defendant in a civil (and maybe zoo keepers) your reports and often posts them as links were trying to say. It increases procedure) can depend on it. Lastly, mistakes can be taken advantage of that everyone can read. And of clarity and accuracy and might avoid poorly written, opinionated reports by someone who has your worst course, everyone has a right to the two hours of cross-examination open to the public can and do have a interests in mind. These types of majority of our reports because of the because you wrote, “did” when you negative effect on the reputation and mistakes have high value Open Public Records Act. meant to write, “did not.” If you credibility of the entire Department. consequences and are often the know the report or statement has a result of complacency. I’m not an Every time you write a report, please potential to become high profile, there Note: This continues to be my expert on tactical considerations; I’m take a few minutes to think about is no excuse for not having someone personal opinion and not really an expert in anything. I what you are writing and why you are else proofread it for you. recommendations and are not the just wanted to start off this article writing it. When you’re done with the stance of OPA or command staff. with a recognition that I understand, report, ask yourself what you would Supervisors need to take the time and hopefully you do too, that the think if your report, the exact report, before approving reports to ensure attitudes and approaches you take in was in the newspaper. Once the they are properly written, accurate your chosen career can have a direct report is written and submitted it can’t impact on your safety, the safety of be changed. There is only one chance other officers and the safety of the to get it write [sic] because follow-ups “We Proudly Support the Police and Family” public in general. (they are called supplemental reports Your Complete Auto Repair and Body Work. Best Price, Quality, Integrity, Honesty Tony Lee, Owner 30% Discount Morris K. Fortmann, Jr. One Stop Repair or Body GREENWOOD GREENWOOD Auto Body Attorney at law Tel: (206) 706-2778 Auto Repair and Paint Cell: (206) 713-7322 PERSONAL SERVICE & PROFESSIONAL RESULTS Fax: (206) 789-0894 8208 Greenwood Avenue N. Seattle, WA 98103 Come See Our New Office! More Than 20 Years Experience •For40years,BellevueENTClinichasofferedexceptional Divorce Parenting Plans Child Support hearinghealthcaretotheBellevuecommunity. •Weareproudtoannouncetheopeningofournewfacility, Child Relocation Act Child Custody Property Division SoundHearing. •JenniferDeCastro,board-certifiedDoctorofAudiology,has Modifications Paternity Wills over20yearsofexperiencetohelpyouhearbetter. Jennifer Pension Division (LEOFF) Maintenance (Alimony) Probate DeCastro LocatedonthemainflooroftheOverlakeMedicalTower 206-622-5191 1135116thAvenueNE•Suite165•Bellevue 425-278-1805 Page 8 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Officer of the Month MISSED THE DEADLINE TO JOIN THE RELIEF ASSOCIATION? By Officer Christopher Hall, West Precinct The SPRA staff receives many phone calls each year from sworn SPD officers who have been with the department for some years and want to join the Relief Association, but missed the enrollment deadline. In the past, those who missed enrolling on time and wanted to join had to pay The SPOG Officer of the Month for cars on each side as well as sidewalks August 2009 is Officer Eric Faust of that are busy with foot traffic at this back-dues to their original enrollment period. The Board has changed the the East Precinct, as nominated by time of day. At the bottom of the hill By-laws to make it easier for officers who have been with the department Detective Jim Britt for his response is a 5-way intersection that is known for awhile to join. to an officer involved shooting and for congestion and heavy traffic, as actions at the scene. well as a large amount of foot traffic Change to By-laws Article III, Membership, Section 2 due to the nearby business area. Any prospective member (sworn SPD officer) who fails to meet the ninety day On July 6, 2009 at about 6:45 PM deadline will be required to pay dues retroactively to the end of his/her ninety Officers Jonathan Chin and Gerry Seeing the vehicle rolling day eligibility period, or to pay a $250 initiation fee, whichever is less, with his/ House on-viewed a suspicious unoccupied downhill, Officer Faust her application for membership. vehicle occupied by four males at made a split second decision and, 20th Avenue South and South putting his car back in gear, moved If you are interested in joining the Relief Association, please contact Lisa Jackson Street. When the officers his patrol car into the path of the at (206) 726-9095 or email [email protected]. approached the vehicle, the driver rolling vehicle. The vehicle struck backed up and attempted to flee. Officer Faust’s vehicle at a speed SPRA Benefits As the vehicle moved to get out of of about 20 MPH. Officer Faust Condos – Maui, Whistler, Sunriver, Phoenix the parking lot, Officer Chin found was exiting his patrol vehicle at the himself located in front of the time of the collision in order to Emergency Loans vehicle. One occupant of the chase the fleeing suspects. The Education & Training vehicle was heard yelling, “Run him collision threw Officer Faust from Death Benefits – Member and Spouse over!” The vehicle accelerated the vehicle and to the ground. towards Officer Chin, who was Without hesitation, Officer Faust got Emergency Grants forced to fire upon the vehicle. back to his feet and chased down Supplemental Medical Officer House broadcast, “Shots the two fleeing suspects, holding fired” over the air. Officer House them on the ground at gunpoint until added that subjects were running backup arrived and placed the from him and Officer Chin. suspects in handcuffs. The in-car video recording from Officer At the time of the broadcast, Faust’s vehicle clearly show his Officer Faust was only 4 blocks decision process and the heroism of TTiimmootthhyy LLeeaarryy away, at 18th Avenue and East his actions. Yesler Way. Officer Faust responded to the scene, traveling Officer Faust’s actions would be CCrriimmiinnaall DDeeffeennssee AAttttoorrnneeyy southbound on 18th Avenue South to brave in perfect circumstances. But South Jackson Street and turning acting in the manner he did while eastbound onto South Jackson rolling into an officer involved “shots Street. When he turned onto South fired” and having the clear-headed Jackson Street, Officer Faust saw ability to recognize the looming two subjects running westbound on danger to the public was heroic. South Jackson Street, away from Officer Faust’s actions not only led to Officers House and Chin. Officer the capture of 2 of the 4 fleeing Faust initially stopped his vehicle in suspects, but also saved certain Sherman & Leary, PLLC the eastbound lane and began to exit property damage and quite probably to give chase to the fleeing the lives and safety of the public he is AANN EEXXPPEERRIIEENNCCEEDD,, PPEERRSSUUAASSIIVVEE VVOOIICCEE suspects. Then Officer Faust saw sworn to protect. the vehicle from which the suspects Your friends and family look to you for intelligent, informed guidance. Should had fled. It was rolling, unoccupied, As the Officer of the Month, Officer they need serious criminal defense assistance, refer them to someone who will provide them with the highest quality representation: Timothy Leary. westbound in the westbound lane Faust has selected the Help the and picking up speed as it continued Officer Fund as the recipient of the Tim has successfully tried numerous high-profile cases as a Senior Deputy downhill. $250 SMCU donation. in the King County Prosecutor’s Office. He is now in private practice and accepting referrals. West of this location is about 4 long Please remember, e-mail nominations blocks of downhill grade with parked to [email protected] or they shermanleary.com | 206-382-2401 can be sent to me through Department mail at the West Precinct. Stay safe. E xperience Matters Experts in Repair, Maintenace and Preservation of Low Slope Roofing Needs **The Board of Directors of the Seattle Police Athletic Association endorses BRD Roofing and offer our thanks for their commitment and generosity** Thank You to Seattle Metropolitan Credit Union for their generous Commercial & Industrial Call today for a donation of $250 to the Help the Officer Fund in the name of Officer Roofing Services FREE of the Month, Officer Eric Faust. Your contribution is greatly Serving the Entire Puget Sound Area appreciated! ROOF EXAMINATION 206-767-2995 With over 95 combined years in the commercial roofing industry, BRD Roofing has the knowledge and experience to provide you with cost- effective solutions to all your roofing needs. BRD Roofing 309 S Cloverdale St. Suite C-40 Seattle, WA 98108 Contractors License #- BRDROR1954BQ Page 9 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Versadex Software Inventor in Deep Thought Important Date SPOG Membership Meeting Wednesday, September 30th at 2000 hours Complimentary Dinner All Members Welcome L ... IFE IS NOT SIMPLE and neither is planning for your future. You already trust us to defend you in on-duty employment related matters, but we can also help with proactive planning for other important events in your life. Stafford Frey Cooper is a full service law fi rm that can assist with your comprehensive Estate Planning needs. Stafford Frey Cooper offers SPD offi cers discounted rates for estate planning packages that include Wills, Domestic Partnership Agreements, Trusts, Medical and Financial Durable Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives. Don’t put it off another day. Contact us for details. Stafford Frey Cooper can also assist you with other legal matters such as: Business Organization and Planning | Personal Injury Probate Administration | Real Estate Matters PHIL THOM KAREN COBB BILL NEAL STAFFORD FREY COOPER 601 Union Street, Suite 3100 Phone: (206) 623-9900 A Professional Corporation Seattle, WA. 98101-1374 Fax: (206) 624-6885 Page 10 THE GUARDIAN September 2009 Those Legendary Texas Rangers What is Legendary? today’s Texas Rangers actually carry, Having just started this column on organization. And like Texas, the The following five years are part of but he’s still fiction. The Texas Legendary Lawmen a few months history and culture of the Texas Ranger history with fact being Rangers, both past and present are back it occurred to me that there are Rangers is mixed. Caucasians, intermixed with legend to an almost real. And they tend, in this author’s a few characteristics the men we’ve Hispanics and American Indians are inseperable degree. opinion, to represent the better parts covered so far all seem to have in all documented in the records of the of Wild West law enforcement. I will common. Many of the legends come Rangers serving at every rank as high The career of Ranger Cpt. Bill look to their ranks for future columns. from the “old west” and I thought it as Captain. Early Rangers provided McDonald is credited with having might be appropriate to take a look at all of their own equipment and the spawned two sayings that reflect the Reprinted by permission of the author, (potentially) why... assortment often followed them from spirit and outlook of Texas Rangers: Charles Bennett. Originally posted at their roots: Spanish pistols, Kentucky “One Riot, One Ranger” and “No www.officer.com First I suppose we have to recognize rifles, English Bowie knives and man in the wrong can stand up that movies made for the past several Mexican ponies. against a fellow that’s in the right and Charles Bennett was born in our decades have presented the wild west keeps on a-comin’.” Nation’s Capital and grew up in the as exactly that: wild - out of control. The existence of the Texas Rangers Now when we look at that amount of Maryland suburbs. Mr. Bennett has As such it took serious, skilled and certainly didn’t wait on legislation. In history - bearing in mind that we been working in all aspects of the dedicated men to stand up to the 1835, as the debate over Texas’ haven’t even gotten to the year 1900 publishing industry since the late 1980s lawlessness. Many places in our independence was raging, a group of yet - it’s easy to see where the primarily in the fields of commercial country today are the same way - colonial Texas representatives legendary lawmen of the old west can photography and magazine production. perhaps not as lawless as the movies created a “Corps of Rangers”. That be found in the Texas Rangers. It’s Moving to California in 1992 to attend made the old west appear - but Corps was actually paid and was able easy to see where some of the college resulted in B.F.A and Masters haunted by bad people willing to do to elect their own officers. The legends and myths were spawned degrees. California also supplied Mr. bad things and protected by skilled, Corps’ first commander was R. M. while the Rangers’ reputation was Bennett with his wife. The two of serious, dedicated men who know the Williamson nicknamed “three-legged” earned and is still respected today. them are avid sports persons and dangers of what they’re doing. They Williamson because of the wooden This month - since this article is being participate in shooting, scuba diving, do it anyway. They are often miles leg he used to support a crippled leg. released on April Fool’s Day - I was surfing, running and bicycling. As a from their nearest back up / support, going to write a spoof about Texas long time hobby Mr. Bennett has and they don’t hesitate to face their John Coffee “Jack” Hays, previously Ranger Cordell Walker, the fictional studied the legends of American law job head on. the subject of this column, arrived in character played by Chuck Norris in enforcement which led to his writing San Antonio in 1837 and was a Walker Texas Ranger. After doing these columns. That spirit; that strength of character; Ranger captain within three years. some research into the real Texas that sense of duty if you will, seems Hays, nicknamed by an Indian Rangers I thought this would be to often be portrayed in books and compatriot “brave too much” is better. The fictional Cordell Walker movies by marshals, sheriffs, and credited with starting the Ranger may embody the character traits rangers - all men of the law in that old tradition of toughness mixed with / wild west. As such I thought it reliance on available technology. would be interesting to take a look at Colt revolvers, manufactured by the history of the one organization Samuel Colt, were often used by that seems to keep coming up: the Hays and his men to fight with deadly Texas Rangers. accuracy on the Texas frontier. One of Hays’ men, Samuel H. Walker, The history of the Texas Rangers offered a suggestion to improve the doesn’t actually start in the state of Colt revolver that was adopted by Texas; it starts in Mexico way back in Colt before the Mexican War. It’s a 1821 - before Texas was a state. At revolver history now records as being that time Mexico still claimed Texas the “Walker Colt”. and one Stephen F. Austin assumed control of his father’s contracts to In the late 1870s the Texas State develop settlements in the Mexican legislature realized that lawless province of Tejas. Austin built a militia citizens were a larger problem that to fend off attacks from various would need to be dealt with. Having groups of Indians. In 1823 as the created two Ranger groups in 1874, militia grew Austin referred to them the state legislature then directed as “rangers”. those Rangers to deal with the It wasn’t until more than fifty years lawless. The Frontier Battalion under later in 1874 that the term “Texas the command of Major John B. Jones Ranger” appeared in the state’s legal and the Special Forces led by Cpt. documentation or legislation. Even Leander McNelly did their jobs well. then it wasn’t the official name of the Healing & Helping Police Officers and Their Families for 27 Years! ABRAMS CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Help relieve the physical & emotional stress of your work. Call 206-789-5704 today for your check-up. Abrams Chiropractic Clinic 206-789-5704 7815 Greenwood Ave N AbramsChiropractic.com Seattle, WA 98103 Insurance Accepted

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