docSeptember/October 2009
download 
Report Transcription
September/October 2009
President Vice President Tpr. Michael Moorman Tpr. Nate Johnson 1st District Representative Lansing Tpr. Rob Schwalm Brighton Tpr. Michael Sura Ithaca Tpr. Michael Zeilinger Corunna Tpr. Tim Murphy Jackson Tpr. Larry Rothman Adrian Tpr. Bill Strouse Jonesville Tpr. Keith Pillar Collins Ctr. D/Sgt. Bill Eberhardt Training/Lab S/Sgt. Jan Johnson Tpr. Ray Pechman 2nd District North Representative Metro North Tpr. Mike Zarate Richmond Tpr. Jay Morningstar Ypsilanti Tpr. Joseph Brodeur Groveland Tpr. Trevor Radke Tpr. Tim Permoda 5th District Representative Paw Paw Tpr. Michael McDonald White Pigeon Tpr. Tim Wagner Niles Tpr. Tim Thompson Bridgman Tpr. Steve Vrablic South Haven Tpr. Carey Casperson Saugatuck Tpr. Taylor Bonovetz Wayland Tpr. Kellie Summerhays Battle Creek Tpr. Adam Starkweather Hastings Tpr. Kelly Linebaugh Coldwater Tpr. Todd Price Tpr. Scott Wilber 6th District Representative Rockford Sgt. Tom Draves Reed City Tpr. Paul Stone Mt. Pleasant Tpr. James Ciochetto Grand Haven Sgt. John Tillman Newaygo Tpr. Paul Campbell Hart Tpr. Sammy Seymour Lakeview Tpr. Norma Makl Ionia Tpr. James Yeager Lab S/Sgt. Shawn Baker Region 1 (Representing Districts 1, 5, and 6) Sgt. Rep: Sgt. Dennis Harris D/Sgt. Rep: D/Sgt. Duane Hickok Region 2 (Representing Districts 2, 3, 7, and 8) Sgt. Rep: Sgt. Dale Garrow D/Sgt. Rep: D/Sgt. Mitchell Stevens Associate Membership (Retiree Committee) Gordon Gotts (Ret.)* John Boggs (Ret.) Diane Garrison (Ret.) Alan Shaw (Ret.) Roger Warner (Ret.) Dale Garrow Dennis Harris Chris Luty Constitution & Bylaws Tpr. Scott Wilber* D/Sgt. Duane Hickok Tpr. Ray Pechman Tpr. Bill Strouse Tpr. Eric Wilber Contract Bargaining Team Tpr. Michael Moorman* Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh Sgt. Dick Hale D/Sgt. Duane Hickok D/Sgt. Chris Luty Tpr. Jerry Mazurek Tpr. Scott Wilber Secretary/Treasurer D/Sgt. Christopher Luty Discipline Advocates D/Sgt. Chris Luty* Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh Sgt. Dennis Harris Tpr. Michael Moorman Tpr. Tim Permoda D/Sgt. Mitchell Stevens Tpr. Mark Tamlyn Tpr. Scott Wilber Drug & Alcohol Testing D/Sgt. Mitchell Stevens* Tpr. Nate Johnson Mr. Larry Schneider, Esq. Elections Tpr. Ray Pechman, Co-Chair Tpr. Mark Tamlyn, Co-Chair Sgt. Dennis Harris Tpr. Steve Skrbec D/Sgt. Mitchell Stevens Tpr. Scott Wilber Emergency Telephone Service Committee D/Sgt. Chris Luty Sgt. Richard Hale Tpr. Craig MacDonald 2nd District South Representative Metro South Tpr. Jake Liss Monroe Tpr. Herman Brown Detroit (d) Tpr. Craig Tuer Detroit (a) Tpr. Rich Fell Detroit (m) Tpr. Gary Melvin Gaming D/Tpr. Scott Singleton Lab S/Sgt. Tim Ketvirtis SECID D/Sgt. Bill Terry SECID D/Sgt. Ken Dilg Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh 3rd District Representative Bay City Tpr. Jay Kurowski East Tawas Tpr. Gregg Kopkau Bad Axe Tpr. Brian McComb Sandusky Tpr. Dale Brywig Flint Tpr. Dave Stokes West Branch Tpr. Paul Frechette Bridgeport Tpr. Joshua Coulter Lapeer Tpr. Eric Hofmeister Caro Tpr. Amy Hofmeister Gladwin Tpr. Everett Renauld Lab S/Sgt. Ryan Larrison Tpr. Mark Tamlyn 7th District Representative Traverse City Tpr. Bert Richards Cheboygan Tpr. Ron Beckett Gaylord Tpr. Chris Belt Alpena Tpr. Michael Lorenz Houghton Lake Tpr. Michael Harger Cadillac Tpr. Rick Pearson Manistee Tpr. Wes Smith Petoskey Tpr. James Armstrong Kalkaska Tpr. Stephen Porter Rogers City Tpr. Steven Bullock Lab S/Sgt. Joe Stoddard Tpr. Jerry Mazurek 8th District Representative Negaunee Tpr. Jonah Bonovetz Newberry Tpr. Eric Johnson St. Ignace Tpr. Emmet Blake Manistique Tpr. Eric Gravelle Gladstone Tpr. Pat Madden Iron Mountain Tpr. Doug Cole Wakefield Tpr. Glenn Gauthier L’Anse Tpr. Steve Lanctot Stephenson Tpr. Joseph Racicot Calumet Tpr. Steve Lanctot Munising Tpr. Rich Cole Iron River Tpr. Doug Weesner Sault Ste. Marie Sgt. Frank Keck Lab S/Sgt. Jay Peterson Know your rights . . . protect your rights! Finance Sgt. Richard Hale* Tpr. John Grimshaw Sgt. Dennis Harris D/Sgt. Duane Hickok Tpr. Craig MacDonald D/Sgt. Mitchell Stevens Tpr. Mark Tamlyn Grievance Tpr. Michael Moorman* S/Sgt. Allan Avery Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh D/Sgt. Bill Eberhardt Tpr. Mike Fink Sgt. Dennis Harris Tpr. Amy Hofmeister Tpr. Heather Johnston Tpr. Jay Kurowski Tpr. Jim McRae Tpr. Scott Nichols D/Sgt. Jay Poupard Tpr. Trevor Radke Tpr. Kellie Summerhays Tpr. Mike Sura D/Tpr. Bob Tomassi D/Sgt. Sally Wolter Erika Barraza, Association Staff MCOLES Tpr. Michael Moorman Publications Sgt. John Faccio, Editor In Chief Tpr. Yvonne Brantley Tpr. Eric Byerly Tpr. Joe Donovan Tpr. Carissa Horan Tpr. Scott Nichols Tpr. Lisa Lucio Tpr. Steve Vrablic Pat Strzalkowski, Association Staff Sergeants-At-Arms Sgt. Lorne Hartwig* Sgt. Dale Goodrich Safety Tpr. Jerry Mazurek* Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh Sgt. Dale Garrow Transfer Review Board D/Sgt. Duane Hickok, Alternating Chair Tpr. Tim Permoda Tpr. Scott Wilber Uniform Equipment Tpr. Craig MacDonald* Tpr. Rick Doehring Tpr. John Grimshaw COMMITTEES * Chairman or Lead Member State Police Retirement Board Sgt. Richard Hale Office Manager – Ms. Patricia Strzalkowski Administrative Assistant – Ms. Erika Barraza Labor Counsel Ms. Kathleen Boyle, Esq. White, Schneider, Young & Chiodini, P.C. General Counsel Mr. Larry Schneider, Esq. Knaggs, Harter, Brake & Schneider, P.C. MICHIGAN TROOPER 1715 Abbey Road • Suite B East Lansing, MI 48823 Telephone: (517) 336-7782 Facsimile: (517) 336-8997 Website: www.mspta.net MAGAZINE Vol. 45, No. 5 Published by the Michigan State Police Troopers Association September/October 2009 On the Cover MSP’s Central Route Team for the 2009 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics included (from left to right): Tpr. Liz Hunt (Bay City Post), Sgt. Gerald Badgett (HST - Lansing HQ), Tpr. Jim Yeager (Ionia Post), F/Lt. John Card (Bay City Post), Tpr. Jeremy Brewer (Lansing Post), D/F/Lt. John Porter (6th District HQ), and D/Tpr. Amy Dehner (Mt. Pleasant Post/BAYANET). In this Issue Facing “Fiery” Times with our MSP Family.......................5 BAYANET Discovers Grow Op...........................................6 Response: The Thin “GREEN” Line..............................................9 4 Cheboygan Resident Recognized as Retiree of the Year......................................................10 6 10 Response: Yes I Qualified, But Let’s Be Fair................................ 11 Bridgeport Post Reunion – 2009!........................................12 Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Academy...................14 5 2009 Torch Run......................................................................17 Detective Mike Scott Gets Award.......................................22 6th Annual MSTAF Charitable Golf Outing....................34 14 Editor-in-Chief ..................................John Faccio Layout/Typesetting...........................Pat Strzalkowski Cover Design......................................Cherie Morehouse Submission E-mail.............................troopereditor@gmail.com Departments President’s Point....................................................................... 2 Vice President’s View.............................................................. 3 Register of Deeds................................................................... 10 Board of Awards.................................................................... 21 Making the News................................................................... 23 Good Job Troops!.................................................................. 26 In Memory of Our Retirees................................................. 36 Final Call................................................................................. 36 Final Word..................................................Inside Back Cover Editorial Policy The Michigan Trooper is the official publication of the Michigan State Police Troopers Association. Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent those of the MSPTA. Articles represent the opinions of the author. Any similarity between the people and places in the fiction and semi-fiction of articles printed, and real people and places is purely coincidental. All rights in letters to the Michigan Trooper will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes; and as subject to the Michigan Trooper’s unrestricted right to edit and to comment editorially. No responsibilities can be assumed for unsolicited materials. Letters or articles must be accompanied by the writer’s true name and address. Due to legal requirements and the potential financial liability for libel imposed upon the Michigan State Police Troopers Association, the Editor of the Michigan Trooper reserves the absolute right to select, edit, and reject all articles for publication. When an article is selected for publication, writers are assured of freedom of expression within necessary limits of good taste, available space, and legal requirements. The Michigan Trooper is published bi-monthly by the Michigan State Police Troopers Association. For information about securing permission to reprint Michigan Trooper articles, please address inquiries to the Editor. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ President’s Point Tpr. Michael Moorman I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations. – James Madison 4th President of the United States The last few months have been quite a whirlwind for everyone. Much work and effort has taken place that has resulted in a budget for FY-10 that will start the recall process for at least 55 of our laid off troopers. The Association’s public relations and media blitz, along with our direct lobbying efforts, were instrumental in this accomplishment. While 55 recalled troopers are a start, our ultimate goal is to get all 100 of our laid off troopers back in MSP blue and restored to their previous positions. While all this has been taking place, bargaining continues at a slow but steady pace. The parties have come to tentative agreements on the majority of the issues before them; however, there are still significant issues that are unresolved. Non-economically, these issues are layoff and recall, transfers and patrol car staffing. Economically, every issue is open. By design, having all economic articles open and on the table leaves the Association with a variety of options should a ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ negotiated agreement be reached that can be taken to the membership for review and ratification. Similarly, in the event a negotiated agreement cannot be reached, it leaves the same variety of options open for Act 312 arbitration. One item that the employer has identified for talks is our health insurance. This should come as no surprise to anyone. Our health insurance benefits are top of the line and we do not pay a premium toward them. I have spoken at many Quarterlies and District Meetings explaining that not paying a premium for health insurance is extremely rare among public safety agencies nationally. Our bargaining surveys identified preservation of our health insurance benefits as a top economic issue among the membership. While it will not be an easy challenge, your bargaining team will work diligently in an effort to keep this critical benefit intact. Please see page 4 for a detailed bargaining update by contract article. On September 10, 2009, a memo randum was published on the depart ment’s intranet titled Employee Conduct. Intended for both enlisted and civilian employees alike, I suspect that the real target audience is members of the bargaining unit. Civilians rarely commit alleged misconduct, and command officers have a separate standard of conduct. I have been told, in the past, that command does not commit misconduct; they merely make mistakes in judgment. I believe that this memorandum is an ill-conceived attempt to retro actively justify the overly-harsh and unreasonable disciplinary action that has come forth upon our members in the last several months. While I think that anyone would agree that blatant and egregious misconduct is not acceptable, I be lieve we can also agree that we are a department made up of humans and humans are imperfect. Sometimes they make mistakes. When a mistake is made it needs to be looked at on its own individual merits. Rarely does one size fit all; disciplinary action is certainly no different. Please see page 16 for a summary of all the Association’s recent arbitration de cisions. Finally, I attended the Fall 2009 NTC Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. NTC Chairman Mike Edes (Maine State Troopers Association) announced that beginning in 2010, the NTC is commissioning an award to be given, each year, to the member organization that best exemplifies the bonds of brotherhood through service to its members. This annual award is being named after Officer Floyd J. “Skip” Fink, Jr., of the Arizona Highway Patrol. Skip Fink served as the Recording Secretary for the NTC, as well as president of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association. On February 18, 2000, Skip was tragically killed on duty when a drugged driver struck the rear of his Crown Victoria while he was on a traffic stop. The impact caused the fuel tank to explode and trapped Skip in his cruiser. Although several citizens were able to pull Skip from his burning cruiser, he ultimately died from his injuries. Each of the four NTC regions will submit one member organization from their region for consideration by a five member selection panel. We have been nominated from the North Region. The fact that we were considered by our peers is a direct testimony and credit to the membership of this Association, your Executive Board and Association staff. All of us should be proud of our nomination. I will keep you updated on the progress of the selection panel. May all your patrols be safe. ■ Vice President’s View These last few months have cer tainly been some of the most difficult in the history of the MSPTA. Job losses, soaring unemployment, and the decline of the auto industry have been major factors in the lack of revenue for state government in Michigan. Consequently, 100 troopers joined the ranks of the unemployed last June. Efforts to try and keep those 100 troopers working began well before their last scheduled work day. The association enlisted the help of marketing and lobbying professionals to develop a plan to transform public support for troopers into public pressure on our lawmakers and governor to keep our ranks intact. We started by appearing before editorial boards in most major media markets in Michigan. I met with news editors from radio, television, and newspapers throughout the state, armed with ideas on how to keep our ranks intact. I have to admit that I was a bit overwhelmed at how difficult it is to get any message heard throughout the state. The next phase of the plan was to create a website, www.mitroopers. com, where supporters could contact all legislators with a click of a button and pledge their support for troopers. A billboard campaign followed. Billboards were purchased at 19 locations throughout Michigan. The billboards also directed viewers to the website. Shortly after the billboards were in place, the Detroit News released a poll that showed nearly 70% of registered voters felt that the state police should be held harmless from budget cuts, even in these difficult economic times. The troopers association made sure that our lawmakers had a copy of that poll. For the first time, the Troopers Association embarked on a radio cam paign to bring public awareness to the efforts of our troopers. With the help and advice from a professional marketing firm, two radio ads were produced that highlighted some of the outstanding services that troopers have performed for their communi ties. In addition, the radio ads directed listeners to www.mitroopers.com to offer support for our troopers. The feedback I received from legislators, their staff, other lobbyists, and others who have business around the Capitol was very positive. If you have not heard these radio ads, they are posted at the website. What followed was a poll by Marketing Research Group that confirmed that MSP holds the highest voter confidence of all law enforcement agencies in Michigan. More importantly, the poll also pointed out that voters were almost six times less likely to vote for a politician who supported reducing the number of troopers. In addition to the countless hours spent at the Capitol, the Troopers Association employed a video lobbying tactic to add a personal touch for our lawmakers. Several laid off troopers allowed us to video record some of their thoughts regarding their work as troopers, and these videos were sent to their individual lawmakers, as well as posted on You Tube. This plan did not take place without some setbacks and sleepless D/Sgt. Christopher Luty nights. The continued decline in state revenue was overwhelming. The politics involved with a statewide reduction in law enforcement, often seemed to overshadow the very fact that troopers were laid off. Also, the internal MSPTA vote against furlough time to keep our ranks intact nearly eliminated any chance we had at restoring troopers’ jobs through the legislature. In the end, while faced with a 2.8 billion dollar budget deficit for 2010, several in the legislature fought hard on our behalf to find the money to restore 55 of our laid off troopers. When that happens, we will be nowhere near done. As of this writing, the Senate still has not released the state police budget to the governor due to concerns that she will use her veto power to alter the budget that has been agreed upon by the House and the Senate. We are anxiously anticipating the governor’s signature on the MSP budget bill. If she does sign it, as passed by the House and the Senate, none of us can afford to rest, as we will still have 45 troopers standing in the unemployment line. ■ ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ Bargaining Update State Fair 2009 While the majority of the articles for the 2009-2011 collective bargaining agreement have been settled in negotiations, the following articles remain open and unresolved: Article 12 Layoff and Recall.................... Non-economic Article 13 Transfers................................... Non-economic Article 18 Shift Information.................... Non-economic Article 19 Scheduling, Overtime and Compensatory Time................Economic Article 21 Court Attendance, Recall/On-Call and Availability of Personnel.................Economic Article 24 Special Employment Matters...................................... Non-economic Article 29 Uniforms and Clothing Allowance..........................................Economic Article 30 Annual Leave, General Emergency Conditions, Allowance for Unclassified and Military Leave................... Non-economic Tpr. Jim Lang (Bay City Post), with one of the Clydesdales. Article 31 Sick Leave..........................................Economic Article 32 Insurances..........................................Economic Article 33 Holidays.................................... Non-economic Tpr. Kim Lawton (Metro South Post), escorting two young ladies at the Fair, Elizabeth (93) and Margaret (88). Article 34 Longevity...........................................Economic Article 35 Pension Plan......................................Economic Article 36 Salary..................................................Economic Article 39 Termination and Modification and Copies of Agreement............. Non-economic Tpr. Britt Owen (Jonesville Post) A MSP Sergeant on a traffic stop with Budweiser Clydesdale driver, Pete Petersen. Numerous open containers were seized. The driver was released at the scene. Appendix I State Health Plan PPO Benefit Chart...........................Economic Appendix J Rules of Network Use.....................Economic Appendix L Drug Quantity Management Program.....................Economic ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ Photos courtesy of Sgt. Mindi Logan (Brighton Post). Facing “Fiery” Times with our MSP Family Tpr. Joseph McMillan (Laid Off) Bridgeport Post #37 121st Recruit School Greetings from the laid off post ... It goes without saying that when my wife, Joy, and I found out many of my brothers and sisters in blue would soon be laid off, we were devastated. When we received the news, Joy was seven months pregnant with our second child, and I was working my dream job. I realize I run the risk of sounding a bit ridiculous, but being a Michigan State Trooper really is my dream job. As we approached the layoff date, one of the major issues for us, in addition to the loss of income, was the loss of insurance. That is, loss of insurance, unless we were able to pay almost $600.00 per month to cover my family. This was not something we could afford because Joy was unable to work. Two weeks before our son was due, we received the news that our COBRA health insurance premium would be reimbursed by the MSPTA through September. When my wife and I heard the news, it was an enormous weight lifted off of our shoulders. We were in the process of applying for Medicaid and exploring other state/federal assistance pro grams at the time, and there was a chance we would have had to change doctors. Not all doctors accept Medi caid patients. Changing doctors the week my wife was due was not an option … if you know what I mean. If mama ain’t happy … We had decided to name our son Aiden, which is Irish, and means “fiery one”. Little did we know, he would be born during this fiery time, and would begin blazing a trail for himself even before we laid eyes on him. He was born a whopping 10 lbs., 7 oz. While the birth itself went seamlessly, Aiden’s size and being “sunny side up” caused complications for Joy, resulting in emergency surgery shortly afterwards. Just two weeks later, during what we thought was a simple doctor’s visit for overly anxious “parentitus”, we discovered – after being rushed to the ER and then to the ICU – that our “fiery one” had a serious heart condition called SVT (Supraventricu lar Tachycardia). We almost lost the little guy. His heart had been beating at nearly 300 beats per minute for three days, and had practically beaten itself to death. The doctors reported that his heart was functioning at a non life-sustaining 12%. Thankfully, after five days in the Pediatric Inten sive Care Unit, our little trooper pulled out of it all and is adjusting well to the heart medication, which he will be on for the next year. The reason I share some of the details of this story with all of you is, I want to express my gratitude to the MSPTA Executive Board for approving coverage of our health insurance premium. I don’t believe this story would have had as hopeful of an ending had it not been for your support. Thank you so very much. In addition, I want to say thank you to many of the troopers of the 121st, their families, and my family at the Bridgeport Post, for being there for us each step of the way. I hope to be working with all of you again soon. ■ From the McMillan’s: Thank you MSPTA family for your support during this hard time. We are grateful to the MSPTA Executive Board for extending our health coverage through September, and are forever affected by your kindness. Both mom and baby are doing exceptionally well. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ BAYANET Discovers Grow Op Tpr. Bill Arndt Bridgeport Post #37 112th Recruit School In September of 2008, members of BAYANET discovered one of the largest outdoor grow operations in Michigan. The grow operation was contained within the State Game Area in Northeast Gladwin County and consisted of over 4200 marijuana plants. In the past, we have dealt with individuals, usually from the local community, or occasionally small groups of two or three. This situation was different; these Drug Trafficking Organizations, or DTO’s, are highly organized and are supported by a significant organizational infra structure. Their operations are larger (plant counts numbering in the thousands), much more organized, and more dangerous. In 2008, seven DTO grow sites were located in Wisconsin and Michigan. Mexican drug cartels (DTO’s) began establishing these large grow operations on public lands after 9/11. In the wake of 9/11, U.S. border security was increased and this made it more difficult to smuggle their product into the country. To counter this, the DTO’s began establishing these growing operations on American soil, closer to their client base and with reduced ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ risk of detection at the border. These types of operations have been a significant problem in Western states for many years. However, increased enforcement, and other factors, have pushed some of these groups East ... to our area. The grow operation in Gladwin was approximately one mile from the nearest road or two track and was not accessible by vehicle. It consisted of two major plots. Each plot contained approximately 1000-1500 plants, along with several smaller plots containing another 200-500 plants each. The plants were well maintained and concealed by two work crews consisting of seven illegal aliens. The plants were not observed during a Domestic Cannabis Eradication/ Suppression Program (HEMP) flight approximately two weeks earlier. The work crews each contained a “foreman” and 2-3 workers. The workers (illegal aliens who spoke little or no English) were picked up in Chicago or Detroit and told they were going to do “day labor” on a farm for two weeks. They were paid from $250-$500 a week. They had no idea were they were going or where they were once they got there. The workers were enticed by the money and escape, for them, was impossible because they did not know where they were, they had no food or water beyond their encampment, and they didn’t speak English. The “driver” purchased all their food and supplies on the way to the grow operation and escorted the workers to the site and back. The work crews worked two week rotations with new work crews and supplies coming every other week. They stayed in two different locations, within the grow site, in makeshift tents and tarps. The encampments contained sleeping bags, food, batteries (to charge their cellular phones), propane cylinders, and other needs for outdoor living. The plants were tended for 10-15 weeks, and were from 3' to 16' high with stalks of 4" in diameter. The grow operation was cleverly concealed from the air. The plants were located in individual plots, which were strung together by smaller plots, instead of one large plot, which could be easily seen. The crews were careful not to eliminate all the undergrowth and left small trees 15-20' tall growing amongst the plants to help conceal them. The crews piled brush and even marijuana plants onto their tents and equipment to help conceal them. They even painted their pots, pans, boots, and other items with camouflage. The subsequent investigation re vealed that this large scale operation was actually controlled by the Mexican National Cartel and had ties through Chicago, Detroit, and Mexico. The suspects were charged and recently received sentences from 5-10 years in federal prison. In April 2009, I was able to attend the National Conference of the U.S. Department of Drug Enforcement Agency Domestic Cannabis Eradi cation/Suppression Program in St. Louis, Missouri. While there, I learned that these types of grow operations are common in the western and southwestern states, and usually consist of more than 5,000 to 10,000 plants. The larger type operations are usually controlled by Mexican Cartels because of their financing. They are becoming more and more common and, in the last several years, have been found in Wisconsin, Illinois, and both Upper and Lower Michigan. California has been dealing with these types of grow operations for years. Their grow operations are very well planned, concealed, funded, and staffed. They usually have armed guards and booby traps preventing thefts and/or movement of the workers. This type of grow operation consistently provides thousands of pounds of marijuana and are relatively cheap to fund. They are very profitable and sought after by the large producers of marijuana such as the cartels. Michigan is an ideal location due to the many thousand acres of State and Federal land, as well as large tracts of mining or timber company land holdings, which have easy access to water and relatively little or no vehicle or foot traffic access. Some things to be aware of are: roadside markings that would indicate drop points for supplies. The workers living in the site need to be re-supplied regularly with food, water, cultivation supplies, etc. Drop points away from the grow site are often used and must be marked in some way so the re-supply person can locate the site. Some typical markings include man made rock cairns, flagging or bags tied to trees, saplings bent in unnatural positions, etc. Other indicators that a grow operation is nearby are occupied or unoccupied vehicles carrying food supplies, irrigation lines, machetes, generators or pumps, fertilizer, un marked duffle bags or plastic bags, camping equipment (but not near camping areas), etc. User created trails leading into the wood line that appear to be newly created could also be an indicator, along with vehicle tracks in areas that are not normally frequented by vehicles. This is especially true if it appears the vehicle has made several trips and various maneuvers in an effort to leave the area. California law enforcement, U.S., Federal Forest Service, and the DEA have designated major resources and equipment including specific air craft, surveillance equipment, special arrest teams, and a variety of special equipment, to combat these large grow operations. BAYANET also has many resources and equipment, probably unknown to many of you, which is available to use in these types of grow operations. Troopers, deputies, and conservations officers, at smaller posts with large tracts of lands, are invaluable resources in detecting this type of grow operation. However, you should not attempt to go into these grow operations alone, or in small numbers. Exercise caution based on the intelligence that the cartels are telling their people to shoot it out with law enforcement. For more information and/or the use of equipment and resources available, contact D/F/Lt. Dave Peltomaa, Commander, Investigative Support Section. Dave is the DCE/SP State Coordinator for the State of Michigan. He can be reached at (517) 336-6671, (517) 336-6211 fax, or (517) 719-2621 cell. ■ ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ Response The Thin “GREEN” Line Tpr. Alan Burke Alpena Post #74 101st Recruit School I just read the latest Trooper issue and Sgt. Lewis’ letter, “The Thin Green Line”. I will be straight up front. I did not vote to take furlough days. I did not do this for the money or greed as some may think. I did it out of principle and because it was wrong. To those effected by layoffs, I am sorry that the leaders of this state do not view your jobs as important. First and foremost, troopers did not vote to layoff troopers. This decision was made by the governor of this state and its law makers. Both of which seem to either lack the understanding of what the role of the Michigan State Police is or do not view us as a priority in state government. Maybe even both. By their lack of having the courage to protect the citizens of this state, they shifted the blame of the state police budget from themselves, right onto the backs of the men and women of this department. Furlough days do not balance bud gets. Reducing government spending balances budgets. Placing a priority on what is in the best interest of the citizens should come first, and the best interest of the citizens is public safety. One of the many problems with forcing “troopers to save troopers” is that it takes any responsibility off of the true responsible party, and shifts it to another who is then placed in a losing situation. I find it very ironic that out of a business of some fifty thousand workers (state government), a lion’s share of the layoffs came from not only one of the smallest state departments, but the very department that is the safety net of the citizens of the state of Michigan. Does this strike anyone else as peculiar? Let me add, a department that has spent millions to train these individuals. How many other state department workers have this training? Are you going to lay THEM off? Maybe others can afford a pay cut. I can tell you that for a lot of younger troopers I work with, this “little furlough” was not so little. It was a mortgage payment, payments on a child’s braces, a car payment and the list goes on. I was told by many that they could not afford it. Greed? They may as well cut a check back to the state of Michigan for $1,300.00. I do not know many single family incomes that can afford it. This layoff was about using the MSP in a political circus. Or did the governor misread us? Or even worse, did government use the Michigan State Police in a political stunt to force a tax increase on its citizens? Either way, the entire situation is a very sad commentary, not on the MSP, but on the elected officials that we voted into office. In closing, let me say this, if the state did not have the money to fund 100 troopers on the state payroll, they never should have hired them. If they were so quick to bail out the incompetence of the Detroit Crime Lab, they should have found an alternative way to fund it, without giving walking papers to troopers. ■ Michigan Trooper Magazine Deadlines: November/December 2009 issue................... November 15, 2009 January/February 2010 issue..........................December 15, 2009 March/April 2010 issue...................................... February 15, 2010 May/June 2010 issue.................................................. April 15, 2010 ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ Cheboygan Resident Recognized as Retiree of the Year FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 20, 2009 LANSING. During the annual Retirees’ Banquet in Lansing, Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. Peter C. Munoz presented Tpr. Wayne Precord (Ret.) with the Ernest W. Banning Retiree of the Year Award, recognizing his contribution to serving his community. Precord enlisted in the MSP in 1965, graduating as a member of the 60th Trooper Recruit School. He served at the Flat Rock, Grand Haven and Cheboygan Posts. Precord was one of the first DARE officers in Michigan and the first MSP DARE officer. Fo l l o w i n g his retirement from the MSP in 1991, Pre cord became Director of the Cheboygan Tpr. Precord (Ret.) with County Project MSP Director, Col. Munoz DARE. He is an honorary life member of the Michigan DARE Officer’s Association and is known as “Mr. DARE” in Cheboygan County. Precord serves on the Board of Directors of the Northern Care Clinic and on the Community Relations Committee at Cheboygan Memorial Hospital. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and Fraternal Order of Police, and has held multiple positions in both organizations. Known for lending a helping hand wherever it is needed, Precord often works during blood drives, helps load and unload equipment for the Cheboygan Opera House, and assists the elderly with in-home care needs. He is Co-chair of the Welcome Committee at his church 10 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ Register of Deeds Say hello to Caiden Andrew Kratt, DOB 1/20/2009. Caiden is the first grandson of Tpr. Steve Hartwig (Ret.), 95th Recruit School. His father, Andrew Kratt, husband of Megan Hartwig Kratt, is holding Caiden. and serves as a Eucharist Minister, providing communion at the church and at a local nursing home every Sunday. During his busy retirement life, Precord has never forgotten the MSP. He has kept in close contact with Cheboygan Post personnel and has participated in various post activities. Precord also coordinates a monthly retirees’ breakfast and attends breakfasts sponsored by other posts. The Ernest W. Banning Retiree of the Year Award was created in 2008, to honor the legacy of MSP civilian employee Ernie Banning who was known for his community service efforts. Upon his retirement in 1975, following nearly 50 years in the department, Banning became the longest-serving MSP employee. His son, Roger, is currently an employee in the MSP Management Services Division. Banning died in 2004 at the age of 99. ■ Response Yes I Qualified, But Let’s Be Fair Sgt. Michael VanHorn Kalkaska Post #79 101st Recruit School This is my first letter to the Michigan Trooper magazine after serving over 22 years. What sparked my desire to take some time and respond was Sgt. David Stokes’ letter. I understand everyone has an opinion and I want to add mine. It is true that this is a dangerous occupation and a college education could allow you to perform or gain other employment. I am in favor of education, but not at the exclusion or minimizing other life experiences, i.e. military service. Sgt. Stokes states “in many instances, they (seeking college credits) worked harder because after they took off their uniform, they picked up a book bag and sat in a class for an additional three to four hours a day.” I can state that us military veterans worked very hard in our term of service. Notice I did not make a ‘blanket’ statement of college over the military because I do not believe that one works harder than the other. It depends on the individual. I take offense to Sgt. Stokes’ state ment, many worked harder when it seems readily apparent that he did only one (college) and did not serve in the U.S. military. Therefore, he apparently has no idea how hard our military works. I could go on about hours, training, uprooting families, danger, etc. I won’t because my military brethren understand and some who haven’t served won’t. MOS (military occupational spe cialty) training is on par with any college courses that exist. This is not just my opinion, it is backed by strong informational studies. Sgt. Stokes is correct that “in some cases, the educational pursuit is at least twice as long.” My opinion is that the military veteran does not have the luxury of taking twice as long as the pursuit of college education. Military training is accelerated to a great degree, I feel, which greatly benefits the MSP! Why you may ask? Time management is a trait required to be successful. Some of the longest military training takes just over a year. I am unaware of any one year degrees, and I will let you form your own opinions as to why time management is important. There is also other required military training throughout a military career that makes a military veteran work hard. Sgt. Stokes states that “military experience provides the option to retire early, even though the department has no basic affinity to the military.” I don’t know what history he was taught, but I really disagree with his opinion, along with the question “what makes military experience before enlisting in the department so special that the typical troop has to serve twenty-five years.” My experience is that the typical Recruit School Commander is a military veteran! Sgt. Stokes again makes, in my opinion, a ‘blanket statement’: “is there really that much difference between how a troop from one post handles a C.S.C. complaint compared to another troop from a different post? Absolutely not! ” Well, I strong ly disagree. I see big differences in how criminal complaints are handled from post to post. I do not want to make any egregious statements on traffic post versus complaint posts, but experience in the task at hand makes a great difference. If I misunderstood the intended meaning of his letter, then I apolo gize. It is my opinion that Sgt. Stokes minimizes military service even after making the statement that he has no intent of doing so. I hope that I didn’t make any ‘blanket statements’ minimizing college education. I feel that military service should be absolutely equal to any college education, and have direct knowl edge of at least one aspect – military service. I also offer the opinion of my son who has a Bachelor’s degree. He is currently serving, and states, “Dad, I can tell you the Army is a lot harder than college!” This is just one opinion. I realize that I have strong feelings toward military service and this has caused me to take umbrage to Sgt. Stokes’ letter. Stay safe and I wish all the troops the best the career life has to offer. ■ ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 11 Bridgeport Post Reunion – 2009! D/Lt. Mike Larsen (Ret.) 96th Recruit School The Bridgeport Post had its first reunion on August 1, 2009. Lab Specialist Gary Ginther, aka retired D/Sgt. Gary Ginther, came up with the idea. Gary was a trooper at the Bridgeport Post, who left and went to work across the parking lot at the Bridgeport Crime Lab. When Gary retired from the Lab as a latent print examiner, he was rehired to the same position as a civilian. Gary and his lovely wife, Terri, were gracious enough to host the reunion at their home in Birch Run, Michigan. Their home, which includes several acres of well-manicured land, made a great location for the reunion. Even a light steady rain, later in the after noon, could not dampen the spirits of all the current and former Bridgeport Post personnel who attended. There were approximately 120 people who took the time to get together, reminisce and tell old stories. Not only were there former Bridgeport Post personnel from around the state in attendance, former Troopers Wally Fish and Mo Brown traveled quite a distance to join us. They both currently reside in Arizona. There also were a number of officers from local police departments, DNR officers, and wrecker drivers. 12 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ The most senior MSP person in attendance was Orville Rouse. He arrived with his son, MSP retiree – Terry Rouse. Orville told us that he enlisted in the department in 1948, and both he and his son, Terry, had been stationed at the Bridgeport Post in the past. Two other attendees, former Post Commander Ken Ruo navaara and former Assistant Post Commander Duane Gerstenberger, came reasonably close to Orville’s time in the department. They both enlisted in 1957, a mere 9 years after Orville Rouse! Admittedly, most of us were a few pounds over our former “fighting weight”, a little thinner and grayer up top, and not quite as quick in the memory department. Nonetheless, in speaking with many of those who high character people, during our time at the Bridgeport Post. For many in attendance, their time at the Bridgeport Post was some of the best times of their careers. All of us from the Bridgeport Post, past and present, feel a special kin to one another because Bridgeport was, and continues to be, a very special place to work. If any of you have worked at a similar place that gave you great memories during your time there, I would urge you to put on a reunion similar to this one. This was a great event for all. Again, we wish to thank Gary and Terri Ginther for all their hard work, which helped make this a very special day. We would like to acknowledge Al and Colleen Swearengin for all their help as well. To those who were in Reunion hosts Terri & Gary Ginther. were there, everyone was thrilled to be able to attend this event. When we looked around, there was a special feeling of “being privileged” because we had the honor of working and sharing friendships with so many attendance, it was great to see you and share stories with you. To those who could not make the reunion, there is good news. Gary and Terri said that they would be willing to host another reunion in a few years. ■ Retirees Pat Darrow and Gary Ginther. Retirees Orville and Terry Rouse. Retirees Duane Gerstenberger and Gordon Gotts. Retirees (left to right) Mike Larsen, Gary Ginther and Bob Mowatt. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 13 Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Academy Tpr. Mary Bannon Gaylord Post #73 106th Recruit School Sixty-eight young men and women came together in Alpena, Michigan, as a group of strangers with a similar goal. When they left, they were a group of tight-knit friends and teammates, well on the way to their goal of becoming police officers. They had just completed the Michigan Law Enforcement Youth Academy Camp (MLEYAC), which took place from July 4 - July 11, 2009. The MLEYAC has been building future police officers for over 30 years. The camp, better known as Explorer Camp, is run by police officers from across Michigan. These officers are selected by the executive board to train youth who are interested in a career as a police officer. The participants range from age 14 to 20 years old, and belong to an Explorer program within a police agency. Explorer Camp is similar to the Kiwanis Camp held at the Michigan State Police Training Academy. The big difference is that explorers may return until they are 21 years of age. 14 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ The Explorer Camp is split into platoons by using the number of years the explorer has participated. First year explorers learn drill and ceremony (how to march and act in a military manner), patrol techniques, criminal investigations, building searches, and firearms. Second year explorers are offered additional classes, which include defensive tactics, accident investigation, report writing, and criminal law. Explorers that return for their third year are placed in 1st Platoon. 1st Platoon quickly becomes its own police department. They patrol the streets of Phelps Collins Air Base, make traffic stops, and investigate complaints of domestic assaults, break-ins, drug deals, stolen cars, and anything else we can throw at them. They arrest bad guys who are played by police officers, take them to jail, and write reports. They might even end up in court at the end of the week as a result of their investigations. 1st Platoon also has a more in-depth experience on the range. They are afforded the opportunity of firing long guns and using the FATS program, which includes the M-60. Explorer Camp has produced a lot of talented police officers over the years. In fact, Troopers Carlos Fossati, Adam Henderson, and Matt Nobliski can all testify to the benefits of Explorer Camp, as they all participated prior to joining the department. In addition, many officers return to the camp as drill instructors. In the past, Michigan State Police Troopers were a big part of Explorer Camp. However, over the years, the numbers have dwindled and are almost non-existent. Although participation is down, Tpr. Jim Volant was the senior drill instructor for 1st Platoon this year. He previously served as the Academy Commander for the past two years, and has taught at Explorer Camp for over 15 years. Sgt. Greg Gendregeske was the range master this year. He was in charge of all those kids pointing guns down range, and getting them qualified in the MCOLES firearms course. Talk about stress! This was my 12th year being a drill instructor for 1st Platoon. It is time to get MSP back among the ranks at Explorer Camp! If you are interested in being a drill instructor or serving on the range staff, please give me a call. I will provide you with information for 2010. ■ ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 15 Recent Arbitration Awards and Decisions GRIEVANCE ISSUE Contractual Violation DESCRIPTION Discipline – Termination 10-day Suspension Arbitrator found that the grievant violated the department’s sexual harassment policy by having a nude photograph in his locker. Arbitrator also found that MSP compromised and violated the just cause standard for discipline when both the investigator and the hearing officer were material witnesses to the misconduct. Did MSP violate Article 24 Part A of the agreement when it issued reprimands to the grievants for unacceptable per formance before identifying what is acceptable? Grievance Granted Arbitrator found that MSP cannot discipline members for unaccept able performance without first identifying what is acceptable and allowing member reasonable time to meet the expectations. Member Discipline ARBITRATOR’S DECISION Member Discipline Discipline – Termination 5-day Suspension Did the department have just cause to terminate the grievant for allegedly using excessive force and violating Official Orders? The arbitrator found that while grievant may have committed minor Official Order violations, these violations do not rise to termination, but rather a short suspension. Further, the force used was not excessive and the grievant should be afforded greater understanding and latitude in making difficult decisions within a period of seconds to control an uncooperative and combative subject. Member Discipline Discipline – Termination 30-day Suspension Did the Department have just cause to terminate the grievant for allegedly attempting to interfere with the adjudication of a traffic summons issued by another member as well as the allegation that the grievant was less than truthful when interviewed? The arbitrator found that the grievant did not attempt to have the summons dismissed however, gave the perception that it would be dismissed. Although this does not warrant termination, the arbitrator did find that the grievant was untruthful, hence the issuance of the most severe discipline short of termination. 16 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ 2009 Torch Run Tpr. Jeremy Brewer Lansing Post #11 119th Recruit School The 2009 Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run was an amazing week and experience. It started on Friday, September 11th and ran through Friday, September 18th. The Michigan State Police (MSP) has participated in this event for 25 years. We are the only team that has participated all 25 years. Although we have been doing this for so long, there may still be members of our agency who are not aware of what takes place throughout the torch run week. Three returning runners repre sented the MSP Central Route Team. They are F/Lt. John Card (Bay City Post), D/F/Lt. John Porter (6th District HQ) and Tpr. Liz Hunt (Bay City Post). The four new MSP team runners were Sgt. Gerald Badgett (Homeland Security Lansing HQ), Tpr. Jeremy Brewer (Lansing Post), Tpr. Jim Yeager (Ionia Post), and D/Tpr. Amy Dehner (Mt. Pleasant Post/BAYANET). We departed from the Lansing Post at 10:00 am on Friday, September 12th. The trip began with Tpr. Liz Hunt advising all team members of the “bus rules” before we even exited the Lansing Post parking lot. No one really listened to her, however the rules were quite humorous! After the rules, we drove straight to the Gaylord Post and participated in a local two-mile run event that was put together by Gaylord Area Regional Dispatch (GARD) Director Ann Vogel. This event rose over a $1,000. MSP members, local law enforcement and several Special Olympic Athletes joined the Central Route Team on this run. On a side note, Director Vogel raised $14,000 on a polar plunge earlier this year. After the run was complete, all runners met at the local F.O.P. Hall where Tpr. Jim Volant, Gaylord Post, put on his chef’s hat and grilled some delicious burgers and hot dogs. The Gaylord Post did an excellent job in hosting this event, however this was not the only assistance they provided during the week. I will get to that later. After leaving Gaylord, we drove straight to Mackinaw Island where we spent the night. The Spata Family, Tony and Loretta, parents of Tpr. Joe Brodeur of the Ypsilanti Post, once again opened up their beautiful home to us. They were very gracious hosts. We woke up early Saturday morning and all team members participated in the local eight-mile race around the island. This run was beautiful and the weather could not have been better. After the race was over, we quickly caught the noon ferry back to Mackinaw City and continued our ride north to Munising. On the way, we stopped and spent several hours at the home of Sonny and Sharon Putvan. Sharon is the sister of Central Route runner, F/Lt. Porter. The family cooked us dinner, and to say their house was incredible would be an understatement. Thank you to the Putvan family. On Sunday, we drove all day, making one stop in Marquette to jump off a 30' cliff into Lake Superior as ‘tradition’ dictates. We continued on to Copper Harbor where we connected with all Central Route members. The other teams consisted of members from the Michigan De partment of Corrections (MDOC) and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). This was our first contact with retired MSP D/F/Lt. Ken Bennett – Section Commander of BAYANET. If you have never met this proud MSP member, you need to make it a point to meet him. KGB is the Director of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and keeps everything running smoothly. Being part of the advance team, he coordinates all escort vehicles, meals, lodging and all the other behind the scene stuff that the runners take for granted. He loves our agency and even in his retirement, he represents us well. Thanks for everything Ken! The Torch Run officially kicked off on Monday. The three teams (MSP, MDOC, FOP) each ran 30 miles per leg in relay fashion. MDOC began their first leg in Copper Harbor. While they were kicking off the event, we were hitting the streets selling t-shirts and raffle tickets. Our first customer approached us on the streets of Copper Harbor. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that he is a retired MSP member. He retired in 1987 out of the Manistique Post. There was no hesitation for this retired member to support our team as he pulled out $10 to buy a t-shirt. We asked him if we could get a picture. After a slight hesitation, he agreed. Again, a retired MSP member who was proud of his agency and wanted to represent it well! Our first 30 mile leg began around Baraga on Monday evening, and we were eager to start running. Our second run brought us through the heart of downtown Marquette where I was able to speak live on the radio with a Marquette based radio station. see TORCH RUN, page 20 ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 17 The Lansing Midnight Madness Run participants, including Lt. Colonel Eddie Wa shington. MSP Central Route jumping off the 30 ft. cliff in Presque Isle. l ith a Specia w r te r o P F/Lt. John Athlete. Olympics’ 18 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ D/Sgt. Gerald Badgett with his father, Gerald Badgett, Sr., in Detroit, Michigan. F/Lt. John Card carrying the torch, which was passed on by the Special Olympics Athletes. MSP Central Route Team on Mackinaw Island. Retired MSP D/F/Lt. Ken Bennett and Special Olympics Law Enforcement Liaison, Andrea Rachko. Troopers J im Yeager and Amy D D/Sgt. Ger ehner, alon ald Badgett g with , showing o Olympics tff the Spec shirt design ial ed by Tpr. Liz Hunt. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 19 from TORCH RUN, page 17 We discussed the Torch Run teams and what we would be doing during the week. This proved to be a positive contact, considering the amount of support we received throughout Marquette County. After the central route running began, the week quickly became a blur. Each team member would run two five-mile runs per day. When we weren’t running, we were attempting to sleep, however, with Sgt. Badgett on the bus keeping things lively, that was quite difficult. If you are not familiar with Sgt. Badgett, he has quite a sense of humor, which left us with sore stomachs from laughing most of the week. Along the way, we managed to jump in the very cold Lake Superior several other times. The highlight was the 30 foot jump off the Presque Isle cliff. All members including the brave Gerald Badgett made the jump twice, and yes, he was ‘THAT GUY’ in recruit school. Congratulations Gerald for joining the rest of your team and making us proud. Now, getting back to the help from the Gaylord Post. On Wednesday night, our leg was running back south through the Gaylord Post area. Every time a runner is out, a trail vehicle that provides protection follows them. At approximately 2330 hours, we noticed a vehicle that would not pass the trail vehicle after being waved around it for several miles. We requested the Gaylord Troops to move this vehicle along. The car would not initially stop for the troops or their lights and siren. The driver eventually pulled over and was subsequently arrested for OWI. No surprise to us, she blew a pair of two’s. Bad night for her to roll up on a bunch of cops. Thanks to the Gaylord Troops. While running through Clare on Thursday, we made a stop at the “Cops & Doughnuts” Bakery. This bakery is owned by local FOP members. 20 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ F/Lt. Card was interviewed by several media outlets in the area and did a great job promoting Special Olympics and the Torch Run. The Bakery owners were also kind enough to give all the runners a free t-shirt. On Thursday night, we again led the midnight run from the Capitol steps. We were joined in this run by the regional Mid-Michigan Police Academy and several of their staff. Also participating in this run was MSP Lt. Colonel Eddie Washington, MSP Training Division Staff, several members from the ES Team, (thanks for coming up from the refresher boys) and several troopers and local law enforcement. Funny story, as soon as the run left the Capitol, we were joined by a local college student who spilled out of one of the bars and joined in the run. “James” ended up running the full five-mile leg and then joined Tpr. Amy Dehner as we handed off to her for the next leg. James ran an additional five miles for a total of 10, and was actually not even intoxicated to our surprise. He was familiar with Special Olympics, as he majored in Sign Language. He felt compelled to join the cause even though he has never run more than 2-3 miles. James ended up earning a free torch run shirt out of the deal! Former Torch Run member, Tpr. Craig Felix, was kind enough to give James a ride back to his residence after he finished the 10 miles. The highlight of the trip was when we made several stops at local schools. During the stops, we handed out t-shirts to the special needs children and athletes. It was very rewarding to see the smiles on the kid’s faces as we ran through the school parking lots and let them pass the torch. They presented us with special pins and did not want us to leave. I think we were all hugged about a hundred times. We were running for them and it made the lack of sleep and all the miles worth it to see how happy our efforts made them! We finished up the week in Sterling Heights on Friday evening and were graciously allowed to shower, and get cleaned up at the Hoffmann residence. Thanks Derek and Brenda, you guys are awesome! During the week, the team was blessed to be in the presence of such unique individuals. I must comment on our ‘useless trivia queen’ team member, Tpr. Amy Dehner (aka “Wiz”). “Wiz” provided us with no real helpful information throughout the course of the entire trip, but was fun to have along nonetheless. Tpr. Jim Yeager was training for a marathon. Somewhere during the drive north, he must have bumped his head because he never really stopped running the entire week. All central route runners ran 50 miles during the course of the week. Jim put in a few extra and totaled around 91 miles in seven days. F/Lt. John Porter, who is set to retire next fall, was a running stud as well and kept his sub 8 minute pace going all week. If the rest of us are in that kind of shape a year out from retirement – that would be awesome. F/Lt. Porter also represented MSP in the run across the Mackinaw Bridge and did a fine job. This event would not take place if not for the efforts of F/Lt. John Card who is the Director of all the Central Route Teams. Everywhere we went on the trip, F/Lt. Card was greeted with smiles, hugs, and donations. He has a great deal of respect across the state. Although this event is focused on the Special Olympics and raising money for that great foundation, F/Lt. Card does an incredible job promoting the MSP and our involvement with this event. He makes us all proud to be part of the MSP. In conclusion, the week was an unforgettable experience. The Cen tral Route Torch Run teams raised around $50,000 for Special Olympics. We are all proud to be part of such a noble cause. ■ Board of Awards The following citations were approved by the department’s District and Division Review Panels and the Board of Awards. The ranks of the officers are those held at the time of the request for citation. Lifesaving: Tpr. Jeremy Sloan Tpr. Matthew Djerf Tpr. Robert Carter Tpr. Jeremy Sloan is receiving the Lifesaving Award for administering first aid to save the life of another. On March 1, 2009, Trooper Sloan was flagged down by a motorist who advised Trooper Sloan that a car had just hit the median wall and the driver was unresponsive. Trooper Sloan went to the vehicle and found the driver slumped over the wheel, without a pulse and not breathing. With the assistance of the civilian, Trooper Sloan pulled the driver from the vehicle and began CPR and rescue breathing. An officer from the Bridgeport Township Police Department then arrived, bringing with him an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). A shock was administered to the victim and the victim’s pulse returned. Emergency medical personnel then arrived and the victim was transported to the hospital where he was admitted to intensive care. Tpr. Deiter Kochan Tpr. Matthew Djerf and Tpr. Dieter Kochan (currently laid off) are receiving the Lifesaving Award for administering first aid to save the life of another. On June 21, 2009, Troopers Djerf and Kochan responded to a medical emergency for a 61-year-old male who had suffered a possible heart attack. When the troopers arrived, they found CPR was being administered by the victim’s daughter and a second subject. Troopers took over CPR and used an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to administer a shock. The troopers then continued CPR, and eventually the victim regained his pulse and began breathing on his own. Emergency medical personnel transported the victim to the hospital for treatment. When the troopers left the hospital, the victim was in stable condition. Tpr. Robert Carter is receiving the Lifesaving Award for administering first aid to save the life of another. On July 18, 2009, Trooper Carter and an officer from the Baraga Police Department responded to a report of a subject suffering a possible heart attack. The Baraga Police Department officer was the first to arrive at the scene. When he detected no pulse on the 56-year-old victim, he began CPR. Moments later, Trooper Carter arrived, bringing with him an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Two shocks were administered, and on the third attempt, the victim regained a pulse. Emergency medical personnel then arrived and transported the victim to the hospital. ■ These three little raccoons eventually fell asleep on the window ledge in the front of the St. Ignace Post. (Photos taken by Tpr. Gary Demers.) ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 21 Detective Mike Scott Gets Award WLKM - FM – There’s something new on the scene in St. Joseph County in terms of recognition - and a Michigan State Police officer is very much a part of it. County Prosecutor John McDonough announced the award at the onset of the St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2009. McDonough said, “About six months ago, I talked with staff in my office and we decided that – for all that the police officers in the county give to us and give to the rest of the citizens of the county – that we were going to give a yearly award to the ‘Investigator of the Year,’ one officer that we felt went above and beyond the call of duty for St. Joseph County.” McDonough said the unanimous choice for the award was Detective Mike Scott of the Michigan State Police. McDonough noted Scott’s many years of service and his involve ment in numerous investigations and said, “He is a credit to the law enforcement community. He exem plifies what a police officer should be, and he does absolutely everything with the utmost grace and class.” McDonough said, “We have decided to name the award “The Mike Scott Investigator of the Year Award. We would like to thank him, from our office and from the citizens of St. Joseph County, for going above and beyond the call of duty.” The award consists of a large plaque that will hang in the prosecutor’s office and a smaller one to be presented to each year’s recipient. ■ Tpr. Michael Scott White Pigeon Post #52 96th Recruit School 2009 Buick Open (Left to right, all from the Flint Post unless otherwise noted): Tpr. Tino Oliveira, Tpr. Mike Roth, Tpr. Paul Frechette (West Branch Post), Tpr. Rob Mossing, Tiger Woods, Tpr. Bradley Ross, Tpr. Doug Gough (West Branch Post), Lt. Stephen Sipes, Sgt. Todd Mapes, Tpr. Steve Skrbec, Tpr. Rob Smith, and Sgt. Doug Rogers (Sandusky Post). (Photo submitted by Tpr. Rob Mossing.) 22 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ Making the News ... Bay City Trooper Takes Second in Toughest Competitor Event at World Games By LaNia Coleman The Bay City Times Jim Moore’s colors are blue and silver. Blue is the uniform he wears as a state police trooper at the Bay City Post. Silver is the second-place medal he earned in the Toughest Competitor Alive event at the recent World Police and Fire Games in Vancouver, British Columbia. “On my flight to Vancouver, there were a lot of people going to the games,” said Moore, 36, of the July 31 - August 9 games. “When I told people I was doing the TCA, they looked at me like I was nuts.” The Toughest Competitor Alive combines a 5K run, shot put, 100meter sprint, 100-meter swim, 20foot rope climb, bench press, pull ups and obstacle course. The day-long trials take about 12 hours to complete. “We’re told, from the time we leave the academy, that when we chose law enforcement, we lost our right to be unfit,” said F/Lt. John Card, Bay City Post Commander. “(Moore) has taken that to heart. He has always maintained optimum physical fitness and he has provided himself some goals to stay focused.” Moore, of Bay City, has partici pated in the biennial competition since 2001. In prior years, he com peted in Indianapolis; Barcelona, Spain; Quebec City, Quebec; and Adelaide, South Australia. “I have friends all over the world,” said Moore, a trooper since 1997. “It’s good camaraderie.” “I’m kind of competitive and I like to stay in shape. This is a way to test my fitness and it’s a good time.” This year, Moore achieved the highest score of his competitive career and personal bests in four events. Still, he’s not inclined to rest on his laurels. “For me, it’s to get the gold,” he said. “I go to win. I also go to challenge myself. It’s a two-pronged test.” Moore is already preparing for the 2011 games in New York. His weight training and cardiovascular regimen necessitates one to three hours a day, four days a week, in the gym. He trains year-round. Moore eats a high-protein diet that he supplements with fish oil, vitamin B, a lot of water and creatine, an amino acid essential for muscle energy. “About three months out I go real high-protein and cut back on carbo hydrates to start getting lean,” he said. The 2011 games likely will be Moore’s last chance at the gold. His son will be nearly 5 years old then, and the trooper said he’ll have too many other responsibilities after that. The games will honor the 10year anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attack at the World Trade Center where more than 400 police officers, firefighters and paramedics died. ■ This article was originally published September 1, 2009. It is reprinted with permission from The Bay City Times. Bay City resident Jim Moore, a state police trooper stationed at the Bay City Post, works out last week at Powerhouse Gym in Saginaw Township. (Photo courtesy The Bay City Times | Jeffrey LaMonde) ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 23 Making the News ... Cops Help Dream Up High-Tech Police Car By Jim Kavanagh ATLANTA, Georgia (CNN) – Imagine the Batmobile busting bad guys in Bismarck, North Dakota, or “Knight Rider’s” KITT corralling criminals on the Pennsylvania Turn pike. Carbon Motors Corp.’s new hightech cop car prototype might not be quite up to superhero specs, but some police say it could be a welcome addition to their arsenal. “I don’t see any downside to this car,” said Carl Latorre, a Pennsylvania State Police Dispatcher who served 35 years as a Philadelphia Police Officer. “I am so excited about this car. This car rates up there with cops carrying automatic weapons to combat what the criminals carry now. It’s about time that something like this came about.” OK, so it doesn’t have nanotech cloaking capability or rocket boosters, but every feature on the Carbon E7 concept vehicle draws on suggestions from more than 3,000 law enforcement professionals. The result is a futuristic prowler with a 300-horsepower clean diesel engine, flashing lights visible from all angles, an ergonomic cockpit, an onboard computer with voice command and instant license plate recognition, integrated shotgun mounts, and more. Weapons of mass destruction detectors are available as an option – seriously. “The E7 was designed by cops for cops, breaking the tradition of recruiting family sedans into the force,” Company Co-founder Stacy Dean Stephens said. 24 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ “The current vehicles that they (police departments) use were designed for driving around, going to the grocery store, taking kids to school – things like that,” Stephens said. “You don’t have an engineer sitting at one of the other automakers saying, ‘Y’know, I think what we need to do is we need to take this car, and run it into a curb at 50 miles an hour, and see how many times it takes before the wheels and the suspension fails on it.” The rear passenger compartment alone is enough to make experienced how the seat belts are anchored in the center of the seat and buckle near the door so the officer doesn’t have to lean across the prisoner. “When you put a prisoner in the back seat, you’re supposed to strap him in,” Latorre said. “Nowadays, you have to make sure your gun isn’t close to his hands, and how are you going to strap somebody in doing that?” Perhaps most popular among cops is the rear compartment, which is sealed off from the front and made entirely of seamless, washable plastic, with drain plugs in the floor. Carbon Motors Corp.’s E7 concept vehicle was on display recently near the US Capitol. (Photos courtesy CNN | Paul Courson) cops get teary-eyed. The rear-hinged “suicide doors” make it easier for handcuffed passengers to get in and out, and the seat is designed so “guests” can ride comfortably with their hands cuffed behind their backs. For officer safety, Latorre likes “Numerous times I’ve had less than pleasant experiences with prisoners vomiting or relieving them selves in the back seat,” said Stephens, a former Texas Police Officer. The seat innovations are up front, too, where the seats have recesses to ac commodate officers’ bulky gun belts. “The front seat – I couldn’t believe the front seat. They thought of everything,” Latorre said. “You don’t know how difficult it is to get out of a car. The first thing you’ve got to do is adjust your gun belt. The gun belt shouldn’t be a problem.” The E7 can go 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, has a top speed of 155 mph and can withstand a 75mph rear impact, according to the company’s website. It has bulletresistant panels in the doors and dash and has push bumpers incorporated into the aluminum frame. The upper flashing lights are integrated into the roof panel, eliminating the need for a bolted-on light bar that causes aerodynamic drag – reducing fuel economy – and can lead to rust. they don’t give you a price.” Company officials say the price – possibly around $50,000 per unit – will be “competitive” considering the cost of equipping a conventional car for police work and how long each vehicle lasts. “The Carbon E7 will be built to last 250,000 miles, compared with 75,000 to 120,000 miles for the typical patrol car,” Stephens said. “When it’s all said and done, it’s a matter of how much it costs per mile,” said Bismarck Deputy Chief Fred Wooten. “Regardless of how good it looks on paper, a state or big-city agency won’t be willing to take a chance on a vehicle with no track record,” said Detective Mary Wheat, spokesperson for the Portland Police Department The E7’s rear compartment is designed to keep prisoners and officers safe. Despite the technological “wow” factor and officer enthusiasm, the E7 could prove to be a tough sell. “The people are very intelligent and smart who are setting this up,” said Lt. Michael Arnold, Fleet Manager of the Bismarck Police Department in North Dakota. “What scares me is in Oregon. “If they do cost $50,000, nobody’s going to buy them,” Wheat said. “No! Police agencies can’t afford $50,000 cars. We have huge fleets of cars. We have hundreds of them; hundreds and hundreds of cars. We turn them over too. I mean, we ride them hard. Those cars are used on a 24-hour basis. That wouldn’t work.” “But municipalities don’t balk at paying large sums for other purposebuilt vehicles such as firetrucks and ambulances,” countered Latorre, the Pennsylvania Officer. “They don’t say, ‘Oh, here’s a box truck; go fight fires with it’ or ‘Here’s an E-250 cargo van; go pick up patients with it,’ do they?,” he said. “So I don’t see why the municipality wouldn’t say, ‘You know what? This [police car] is nothing but a plus for us.’” The company, based in Atlanta, Georgia, doesn’t have a factory yet, but has named five states where it could locate: Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina and South Carolina. “Production is scheduled to begin in 2012,” Stephens said. Carbon doesn’t expect to take over the market quickly, instead he is “counting on a few early adopters willing to take a risk on a few vehicles and work out the kinks to everyone else’s satisfaction,” Stephens said. Hundreds of agencies already have made online reservations for thousands of Carbon Motors vehicles, putting the company “very well on our way to selling out our first year,” he said. Wheat praised the Carbon team’s entrepreneurship and suggested the company market its car first in smaller towns with less red tape and simpler bidding processes. That works for Wooten, the Deputy Chief in Bismarck. “We’ll be more than happy to field test one,” he offered. “If it works as advertised, we’ll probably have a fleet of them someday.” ■ This article is reprinted with permission from CNN.com/technology. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 25 Good Job Troops! SPEEDING/FLEEING & ELUD ING: Sault City PD attempted to stop a vehicle on Easterday Ave., in the Soo, for speeding. The vehicle attempted to elude the officer by driving into oncoming traffic, then entering I-75 southbound. Sault City PD terminated the pursuit at the city limit. The vehicle was located by Troopers Daniel Browne and Joseph Leblanc minutes later, still traveling at a high rate of speed. The subject attempted to elude troopers in a lengthy pursuit, which continued on to M28 and M221, before backtracking to Sault Ste Marie. Tribal Unit 6109 was able to get in front of the pursuit and successfully deploy spike strips. The suspect continued to drive on the flattened tires until the vehicle became disabled. He then exited the vehicle, did a few pushups, got up and came at troopers, who deployed the Taser. The subject was lodged at Chippewa County Jail on OWI and Flee and Elude charges. AUTH: Sgt. Keck, Sault Ste. Marie Post ABDUCTION/ROBBERY: At noon, on 7/31/09, a 32-year-old man from Lansing was found in an alley in Grand Rapids, bound at the ankles, wrists, shoulders, and mouth. Witnesses reported seeing a man removing the victim from the trunk of a maroon Impala. The victim told officers he attended a party in Mt. Pleasant where he had been assaulted and held down with a knife to his throat by a “BIG GUY,” while another suspect bound him with duct tape. They took his phone, wallet, and identification, then put him into the trunk of their vehicle. After several hours, the victim was dumped off in Grand Rapids. Troopers from Mt. Pleasant Post identified the location of the incident, the suspects and several witnesses. Troopers also executed a search warrant on Isabella Road, recovering the victim’s property and other evidence. A 22-year-old Saginaw man at the residence was arrested on unrelated charges. A 26year-old female from Mt. Pleasant was arrested for Unlawful Imprisonment and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. A 27-year-old member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe was arrested at a motel in Alma where he was staying with 26 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ his girlfriend, without incident. He is charged with Armed Robbery, Unlawful Imprisonment, and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon. He faces up to life in prison. Thanks to the cooperation between state, local and federal agencies, the suspects were taken into custody within 48 hours of the initial report to Grand Rapids PD. Assisting agencies include Grand Rapids and Mt. Pleasant PDs, BAYANET, Saginaw-Chippewa Tribal PD, Gratiot SD, and the FBI. AUTH: Sgt. Kaiser, Mt. Pleasant Post SUICIDAL/B&E: Tpr. Everett Reneaud assisted Gladwin County Sheriff’s Deputies with a 64-year-old intoxicated suicidal subject. The subject originally threatened to harm himself with a knife, then threatened officers with a shovel. The subject was taken for a mental evaluation. On the same day, Tpr. Reneaud responded to a bar fight at the Wooden Shoe Bar, while attempting to locate the other party to a fight. A felony fugitive was identified and arrested. Later on, Tpr. Reneaud assisted deputies with a residential B&E in progress. The suspect, who was recently released from jail, broke into his neighbor’s house. The homeowner found the suspect hiding in the closet. The homeowner detained the suspect until the police arrived. The suspect was lodged for Home Invasion. AUTH: Sgt. Grove, Gladwin Post SUICIDAL SUBJECT: Tpr. Doug Gough was dispatched to back up West Branch PD at a residence where a subject was sitting in a car, in his daughter’s driveway, with a loaded handgun, threatening suicide. He advised that he would shoot at police when they arrived and force a “suicide by cop.” When officers arrived, he had fled, but was later located in the southbound rest area on I-75, in Arenac County. Officers set up a perimeter, diverted traffic, and waited for the ES Team to arrive. Stop sticks were deployed at the entrance ramp. The suspect did attempt to get back on I-75 and flattened three of his tires. He then abandoned the vehicle and went southbound on foot. He was covertly approached by two ES Team members in an unmarked vehicle and taken into custody. A loaded 357 revolver was retrieved from his vehicle. He was lodged in the Arenac County Jail. Trooper Gough was assisted by Ogemaw and Arenac Deputies, West Branch PD, and the Emergency Support Team. Great job of preserving life while ensuring the safety of innocent bystanders. AUTH: F/Lt. Anthony, West Branch Post BUD BASH 2009: Personnel from the Houghton Lake, Gaylord, and Cadillac Posts, along with officers from the Department of Natural Resources, Ros common County Sheriff’s Department, and Denton, Gerrish, and Richfield Township Police Departments, parti cipated in a cooperative enforcement effort during the 2009 Bud Bash, which occurs annually on Houghton Lake. Officers were assisted by four members of the Underwater Recovery Unit who were assigned to operate two MSP boats. Also assisting was the Michigan Department of Corrections who provided transport vans and personnel to assist with them. From 7/30/09 - 8/2/09, 175 arrests were made. This includes 11 OWI’s, 10 Fugitives, several Resisting and Obstructing charges, Assaulting a Corrections Officer (Felony), 75 other alcohol related arrests, and 40 arrests for Indecent Exposure, Urinating in Public, Lewd and Lascivious Behavior, and/or Disorderly Person. From 4:00 pm on Friday to 4:00 pm on Sunday, 40 subjects were lodged in the Roscommon Jail, and 58 charges were authorized. AUTH: Sgt. Green, Houghton Lake Post BUSINESS B&Es: Tpr. John Gooch began investigating B&E’s of a local A rby’s, Burger King, and Goodwill Store, where the safes at each business were smashed and cash taken. The A rby’s Manager’s boy friend became a suspect. Tpr. Gooch compared his evidence with evidence that the Shiawassee Sheriff Deptuty obtained in similar B&E’s, and met with their detectives numerous times. Recently, another female friend of the B&E suspect, arrested on another charge, implicated the main suspect for the safe jobs. He was confronted by Tpr. Gooch with the evidence and confessed to all of the above and more. The suspect has served prison time for a prior B&E safe job. The suspect also implicated his girlfriend, the ex-Arby’s Manager. AUTH: F/Lt. Wright, Corunna Post UDAA/JAIL ESCAPE/HOME INVASION: On 8/2/09, Sgt. C. Bradley of the Redford PD was requested by his agency to assist in the investigation of an R&C Motor Vehicle. He is currently assigned to Western Wayne Auto Theft. Sgt. Bradley interviewed two suspects who, in a very polite and cooperative manner, stated they had “rented” the car from a subject in Pontiac. Sgt. Bradley drove to Pontiac to verify the suspects’ story and discovered the two had committed multiple home invasions in their neighborhood, one of which was captured by a witness on cell phone video. Meanwhile, the two suspects lured a Redford officer to their jail cell, attacked the officer, grabbed the keys, and escaped from the jail. One tried to hide in a parked vehicle and the other broke into an occupied home nearby. Redford PD and local residents located both suspects and arrested them. Sgt. Bradley obtained felony warrants on the two for Home Invasion 1st Degree; R&C Stolen Vehicle; UDAA; Escape from Jail through Violence; and three counts of Resisting and Obstructing. Information obtained from Sgt. Bradley was turned over to Pontiac PD for charges stemming from the original home invasion. AUTH: D/Lt. Hayward, Western Wayne Auto Theft SUSPECTS DE-RAILED: D/Sgt. Jay Poupard and D/Spl. Bob Tomassi, of the Digital Evidence Section, received a call from CSX Rail Police regarding an internet investigation. Videos had been posted to YouTube showing juveniles attempting to derail freight and passenger trains moving through the Northville underpass area. The juveniles were seen throwing objects like bicycles, concrete and other objects at oncoming trains. They also placed items on the track having the potential to derail the train. In addition, a posted video shows a steel pry bar being used by one juvenile as he was attempting to move or dislodge part of the track as the train was passing. Search warrants were submitted for YouTube and subscriber records through an internet service provider. The search warrant return information provided a physical address from where the videos had been uploaded. Ironically, the residence was located just a few hundred yards from the railway crossing. After speaking with the juveniles involved, a full confession was obtained regarding the series of videotaped incidents. The efforts of CSX personnel and our investigators eliminated the possibility of serious loss of life to the suspects and surrounding community in the event of a train derailment. The Chief Prosecutor in Washtenaw County is interested in the case. Great work by MSP DES personnel. AUTH: D/F/Lt. Kish, Digital Evidence Section SUICIDAL VICTIM: Tpr. Tim Johnson and K9-12 “Rip” assisted Huron Clinton Metro Park PD and Green Oak Twp. PD in searching for a male subject who had possibly committed suicide. Officers located a vehicle in the park, after hours, with a suicide note and loose ammunition on the seat of the vehicle. A search from the vehicle toward the Huron River was initiated. Shortly after, Rip gave an indication of odor. After running a short distance, they located the deceased male at the base of a large oak tree. The scene was turned over to Metro Parks Officers. AUTH: Sgt. Logan, Brighton Post OPERATION TOY STORE: On 8/5/09, Special Agents from ATF Detroit Field Division were assisted by UPSET, MSP Tobacco Unit, Baraga PD, and all the troopers from the L’Anse Post, with serving four (4) sealed Federal Search Warrants and five sealed (5) Federal Arrest Warrants. They also assisted with serving a sealed Federal Seizure Warrant at a bank in Baraga. This enforcement activity was the result of an two year undercover operation charging a group of individuals who have been trafficking in contraband cigarettes. These individuals are responsible for the diversion of approximately 460,000 cartons of contraband cigarettes, resulting in an approximate tax loss of over $9,000,000.00 to the state of Michigan, as well as other states. Three of the four search warrants were served on the Keweenaw Bay Indian reservation. Seized pursuant to warrants was approximately $128,000, 40 fire arms, five cases of untaxed cigarettes, miscellaneous documents, numerous recreational vehicles, a front end loader/ tractor, 32' travel trailer, and 26' boat. In addition, a fully restored 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle, 2009 Dodge Challenger, 2009 Limited Edition Z 06 Corvette, 2009 Yukon Denali, 2005 Hummer H2, 2002 Ford F 350 Pick-up, and 2007 Yukon were seized as proceeds of their illegal cigarette diversion activities. Additional Federal Search and Seizure Warrants will be served on additional vehicles and bank accounts directly related to intelligence gathered during the course of the investigation. AUTH: F/Lt. Loyd, L’Anse Post MINOR GAMBLER: D/Spl. Art Williams was advised by Greektown Casino surveillance that a minor was playing Three Card Poker in Pit #7 with his mother. The minor entered the casino using his deceased brother’s iden tification. The minor had two warrants for his arrest – Larceny from Auto and Dangerous Drugs. The minor was held at the Detroit Post until picked up by Monroe County Sheriff’s Department. The case is pending Attorney General authorization on Minor in Casino charge. AUTH: D/Lt. Hendrix, ERSID, Gaming Section U.P. PURSUIT: On 8/6/09, at 4 pm, a DNR officer began a chase of two “crotch rockets” just east of Newberry on eastbound M-28. The “crotch rockets” were traveling over 100 mph. The chase continued on to south M-123. Just north of Trout Lake, a MSP #93 trooper stopped one of the motorcycles and the driver was arrested. The other cycle continued south on M-123 and a MSP #83 trooper began a pursuit north of Moran. The cycle was forced off the road by a Mackinac County Deputy at I-75 and M-123. After a short while in a swampy area, the rider was arrested. ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 27 He was lodged in Mackinac County Jail charged with PWID Marijuana, Flee & Elude and DWLS. The other rider, his brother, was also lodged for Flee & Elude. AUTH: Sgt. Dale Garrow, St. Ignace Post B&E SOLVED: At 11:15 am, on 8/6/09, Tpr. Wes Smith was dispatched to assist Manistee County Sheriff’s Deputies on a B&E complaint at a local high school where significant damage was found. While the local officers processed the scene, Tpr. Smith canvassed the area in an attempt to develop leads. Tpr. Smith eventually tracked down two males, ages 17 and 18, who confessed to the crime. The subjects were TOT Manistee County. AUTH: Sgt. Mark Miller, Manistee Post HEMP LOCATES 1500 PLANTS: On 8/5/09 and 8/6/09, CMET con ducted HEMP flights in Newaygo, Ionia, Montcalm and Mecosta Counties. Officer’s uncovered 1,564 marijuana plants being grown illegally in outdoor grow operations. Three search warrants for residences were obtained and executed, resulting in the seizure of four firearms and a large quantity of prescription pills. Arrests are pending on six suspects and possible charges on three to four more, pending further investigation. One suspect attempted to dismantle and hide his indoor grow operation while the helicopter was refueling and ground crews were attempting to get to the residence. Ground crews cut off the suspect between his residence and his hiding spot. The suspect fled on foot. Ground crews recovered everything the suspect was attempting to hide on a neighbor’s property. CMET recovered remnants of his grow operation at the residence subsequent to a search warrant. AUTH: D/Sgt. Joel Abendroth, CMET B&E: While enroute to Genesee County Jail with a drunk, Troopers Mike Troutt and Troy Bonadurer, overheard a Home Invasion in progress over the Flint City radio. Being just around the corner from the call, with the closest Flint City car some ways off, troopers responded with the drunk in tow. Upon arriving and exiting the patrol car, the troopers were out and running with the drunk yelling 28 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ “go get em guys!” One male, armed with a handgun, exited the back door of the residence. He was apprehended by Flint PD and the handgun was recovered. The troopers found two other males in the house. One was armed with a handgun and the other a knife. Both subjects were taken into custody without incident. Two pounds of marijuana was the target of the theft. The three were charged with Home Invasion, CCW, Felony Firearm, Felon in Possession. The victims were charged with PWID Marijuana. After the adventures above, the drunk was lodged in the Genesee County Jail. He told the correction officers he just saw “the coolest thing I’ve ever scene in my life!” AUTH: Acting Shift Supervisor Tpr. Fiebernitz, Flint Post RETAIL FRAUD: Tpr. Timothy Murphy was dispatched to a Retail Fraud complaint where the suspect stole $500.00 worth of merchandise from three different stores. The suspect dumped some of the merchandise behind one of the stores. Tpr. Murphy stopped the subject as she attempted to leave the area. A warrant was authorized and the suspect was arrested by Grand Blanc Township PD. The investigation continues on the suspect’s boyfriend, who was also involved. AUTH: Sgt. A White, Corunna Post STOLEN AUTO RECOVERY: Troopers Kevin Dolan and Mark Lesinski, of the Detroit Freeway Post, requested assistance from D/Tpr. Adam Henderson, of the Western Wayne Auto Theft Unit (WWATU) in investigating a possible chop shop in Detroit. The troopers came upon a stolen Buick Regal as it was being stripped of its parts. The parts were then being taken over to another car at the garage next door. D/Tpr. Henderson identified the vehicle, obtained the suspect information, and will be submitting a warrant request once the investigation is complete. AUTH: D/Lt. Darnell, WWATU MARIJUANA CAR HAULER: TriCounty Metro Narcotics (TCM) was contacted by a sheriff’s office in Arizona regarding a load of marijuana that a confidential informant stated was coming to Michigan. The marijuana was loaded in a Michigan plated vehicle that was being transported on a semi-truck car hauler. The driver was not involved. The car hauler was subsequently observed dropping off the suspect vehicle to two eagerly waiting individuals in Lansing. The suspects were stopped and 22 pounds of marijuana was recovered from the car hauler suspect vehicle. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident. Apparently, some people just don’t learn, as the suspect arrested for picking up the car was arrested by TCM two weeks prior for accepting a package from (you guessed it) Arizona that contained 16 pounds of marijuana. Assisting in the interdiction success was the First District Home Town Security Team, First District Fugitive Team, and MSP Brighton Canine Handler Tpr. Tim Johnson w/ Rip. This was a great cooperative effort by all involved. AUTH: D/Sgt. Willoughby, TCM TOBACCO BREAK SOLVES B&E: On 8/9/09, Trooper Dave Stuck went outside his residence during the night for a cigarette break. He observed a B&E in progress at a gas station down his street. Trooper Stuck contacted 911 and on-duty Troopers David Morikawa and Eric Farnsworth responded. The suspects, with a two year old child in the car, quickly left the scene and headed to Wisconsin where they committed another B&E. Troopers caught the suspects when they returned to Michigan. Property from the B&Es was recovered. Troopers obtained confessions to these B&Es and solved 15 more B&Es in Michigan and Wisconsin. Great work by all troopers! AUTH: Sgt. Grabowski, Iron River Post NO OPS HOMICIDE SUSPECT: While working traffic in Brighton Twp., Tpr. Michael Yenshaw stopped a vehicle for failing to stop leaving a private drive and defective equipment. The driver was no ops on person and was unable to remember his name. Tpr. Yenshaw brought the driver to the Brighton Post for a Live Scan. As the suspect was about to be printed, he gave his real name and said he was wanted in Detroit on a homicide warrant. A LEIN check confirmed a valid warrant for 1st Degree Murder. AUTH: Sgt. Wayne Smith, Brighton Post GROW OPERATION: At approx imately 4:30 pm, Troopers Mick Poliski and Gary Demers were dispatched to a missing person complaint. While en route, information was received from the victim’s family that an assault may have taken place. Upon arrival at the complainant/suspect’s residence, they found him to be highly intoxicated and covered in blood. Upon questioning, the suspect became abusive and combative requiring Tpr. Poliski to deploy the Taser. The suspect was taken into custody for the assault charge. Further noted in the residence was a large grow operation that was seized pursuant to a search warrant. The victim was found to have spent the night in her car and was taken to the hospital for treatment. AUTH: Sgt. Amy Pendergraff, St. Ignace Post SHOOTING: On 08/12/09, at 11:45 pm, Tpr. Brian Cribbs responded with Muskegon County Sheriff’s Department to investigate a shooting. A female called 911 to report a domestic. While she was on the line, dispatchers heard gunshots. The woman’s five-year-old son could be heard talking to her. Units responded and observed blood in a barn on the property. Tpr. Cribbs requested K9-61. Tpr. Dave Cardenas and Diesel arrived. The suspect’s bloody clothes were found in the barn’s loft. After tracking approximately 1 mile, in the woods, the suspect was located. The suspect had a large laceration to the head and would not move. When Tpr. Cribbs attempted to handcuff the suspect, he began to resist. Tpr. Cardenas deployed the Taser, which made the suspect compliant. EMS personnel carried the suspect, using a backboard, for approximately 1/4 mile and transported him to the hospital. The female is alive, but in critical condition. AUTH: Sgt. Derrick Carroll, Rockford Post FOILED SUICIDE ATTEMPT: Tpr. Kurt Ries of the L’Anse Post, went to the Houghton County Jail to pick up a subject for arraignment. The subject had a warrant out of the Calumet Post for making threats to kill several people using a telecommunications device. Upon opening the holding cell, the subject was discovered hanging from the telephone on a makeshift rope made from his jail jumpsuit. When discovered, the subject was not breathing. Tpr. Ries and Deputy Ray Soumis quickly unwrapped the subject. After a few chest compressions, he began breathing again. He was then transported to Portage Hospital for treatment. The arraignment will be held at a later date. AUTH: Sgt. Koljonen, Calumet Post PICTURE PERFECT: On 8/9/09, Tpr. Marie Nelson began an investi gation of a camp B&E. Suspects were developed and information was obtained that some of the property taken had been thrown into a local river. On 8/16/09, MSP Divers Craig Dorenbecker and Steve Bullock recovered two digital trail cameras from the river. The cameras had been smashed by the suspects, but the SD cards were intact. After the SD cards dried out, great photos of the suspects, taken during the B&E, were obtained. D/Sgt. Robin Sexton obtained confessions from both suspects. Warrants are being obtained for Breaking and Entering. AUTH: Sgt. Laninga, St. Ignace Post METRO NORTH POST: Troopers were dispatched to a rollover crash on the westbound I-696 ramp to Woodward Ave., in Royal Oak. The vehicle had been involved in a Hit & Run at the McDonald’s on Van Dyke, near 11 Mile Rd., in Warren. A witness observed the suspect crash into the victim’s car on the exit ramp to Woodward. The suspect vehicle then pushed the victim’s van, causing the van to roll over. One of the passengers was fatally injured. The driver and other passengers were seriously injured. They were transported to Beaumont Hospital. The suspect parked the vehicle just northeast of the scene and fled on foot. Royal Oak PD K-9 attempted a track. The U.S. Coast Guard assisted with an aerial search for the suspect, with Trooper James Bunk riding along. Royal Oak PD sat on the suspect vehicle, while Madison Heights PD sat on his residence. Several hours after the crash, the suspect was observed walking in the area and was taken into custody by ROPD. He was later TOT MSP. When arrested, the suspect appeared intoxicated. He is the registered owner of the suspect vehicle. AUTH: Sgt. Munoz, Metro North Post LAPEER NABS TWO HOMICIDE SUSPECTS: On Friday, 7/17/09, Sgt. Robin Walker received an anonymous tip from a subject claiming to have knowledge and whereabouts of two individuals wanted for a recent homicide in the city of Pontiac. Working with limited information from the informant, Sgt. Walker contacted Pontiac investi gators to confirm the homicide and develop additional identifiers and SOS images. It was believed the suspects were in the Imlay City area and were preparing to leave the state. D/Sgt. Mark Reaves, along with Troopers Jim Shaw and David Sosinski, diligently worked the tip information and arrested one of the suspects in the Imlay City area without incident. On Monday, 7/20/09, the other suspect (shooter) walked into the lobby of Pontiac PD and turned himself in after hearing the State Police had arrested his accomplice. He stated he knew it was just a matter of time before troopers would find him too. It was learned both suspects had been planning to flee to New York City. Excellent work by all! AUTH: F/Lt. McGreevy, Lapeer Post BUSY IN SAGINAW: On 7/21/09, Troopers Timothy Larrison and Ken Campbell received a call from a CI who advised he could buy a handgun from a subject. The CI was told to set up the buy at a liquor store parking lot. When the suspect vehicle was observed, a traffic stop was made and a .22 caliber handgun was seized. Tprs. Matt Korzek and Neal Somers later observed two subjects running through yards that matched the description of subjects Saginaw PD was looking for on a fight call. The troops caught one subject and located seven individually wrapped “dime” baggies of marijuana and $900. The money was seized for forfeiture. Troopers Jason Bledsoe and Randy Khan stopped a vehicle for defective equipment; the driver was suspended. A search of the driver produced $1,600 all wadded up in his front pants pockets; however he did not have a clue about how much money he had. A consent search was given for ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 29 the vehicle. A cell phone was located with pictures inside of large amounts of money and marijuana. A consent search was then obtained for the suspect’s residence. Over a pound of marijuana and an additional $4,472 was located. Troopers Paul Oster and Jeffrey Jerome assisted with the search of the residence. AUTH: Sgt. Fowler, Bridgeport Post the subjects, Trooper Oleksyk, using his mouth, initiated LOUD DOG BARKS, and both subjects stopped running. They were taken into custody without incident. Both subjects, after being caught, stated the reason they stopped was because they didn’t want to get bitten by the dog. AUTH: Sgt. Robert L. Thornton, Lansing Post PARK & RIDE: Troopers Erik Darling and Carey Casperson stopped into the post for approximately 15 minutes. Upon exiting the post at 2:40 am, they observed a freshly parked vehicle on the grass with only its front tires on the pavement. Upon contacting the driver, a strong odor of intoxicants was smelled, and it was observed the driver had vomited on himself. The driver thought he was near his home in Comstock Park, northeast of Grand Rapids. He said he stopped to rest after vomiting on himself. He failed sobriety tests and had a PBT of .19. He refused a chemical test and a search warrant was obtained for blood. The 40-yearold suspect has had five driver license revocations, and six prior drinking & OUIL convictions. He was lodged in the Van Buren County Jail. AUTH: Sgt. Van Lopik, Paw Paw Post AUTO THEFT: Tpr. Jason Hartman stopped a vehicle for speeding 91/70 zone, on US 127, in Gratiot County. The driver and passenger both stated they did not have identification. The driver was asked to exit the vehicle. During a pat down, his wallet with Michigan identification, was found. The driver was suspended. Tpr. Hartman called for another car and Tpr. Jeff Hammond responded. A search of the vehicle revealed a duffle bag containing bolt cutters, other tools and two cut padlocks. The two occupants were separated and questioned. The passenger admitted to stealing the vehicle from Lansing just to drive to the casino in Mt Pleasant. He admitted to stealing numerous items in the city of Lansing to pawn, and committing B&E’s in Gratiot County. AUTH: F/Lt. Douglas Wright, Ithaca Post DOG BARK: Troopers responded to Billwood Hwy., near Creyts Road, in Dimondale to assist DNR Officer Nickols who had two subjects flee on him during an investigation. Troopers were informed both subjects fled west on foot. Tpr. David Yount and his K-9 Ergo arrived on the scene to run a track on the subjects. Troopers Brian Oleksyk and Nate Johnson checked the resident living at 6629 Galway Circle, and was allowed to search the premises. Troopers Oleksyk and Johnson learned that Trooper Yount and his K-9 were tracking westbound, along the river, in the direction of 6629 Galway Circle. Troopers decided to execute another search about the property. While doing so, they observed the two suspects running towards the woods. Trooper Yount and his K-9 were still a considerable distance from them. While giving chase, Trooper Johnson shouted at the subjects that a K-9 was present. After shouting this to QUICK CHANGE: Tpr. Dave Ser vice responded to a BOL out of Ionia County for suspects in three “quickchange” scams in the city of Ionia. Eaton County Central Dispatch for warded the BOL. The suspect vehicle was spotted and stopped heading EB I-96, near Lansing Road. The driver will be interviewed. The front passenger was arrested for Fraud and Indecent Exposure. The back seat female passenger was arrested on three Fugitive warrants out of Kent County. Tpr. Nate Johnson provided assistance with this investigation. AUTH: F/Lt. Hay, Lansing Post 30 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ ATTEMPTED MURDER: Troopers Jeff Werda, Randy Khan and Douglas Hunt assisted Bridgeport Twp. PD with a drive by shooting. The intended victim was involved in a fight earlier with a prior friend/gang member. The victim suspected he did the shooting, as the only room shot up was his bedroom, and the suspect knew where this was located. The troops located the suspect vehicle and suspects, and obtained confessions from them. One suspect directed the troops to the weapon, a .22 caliber rifle, which was hidden behind a house. The shooter did turn out to be the person who lost the fight earlier. He came back with a gun for retaliation. AUTH: Sgt. Fowler, Bridgeport Post HOMETOWN SECURITY: Sixth District HST stopped a mini van because the front passenger was not wearing their seatbelt. Several criminal indicators were observed and consent was obtained to search the vehicle. Located in the jack compartment was $23,000. Tpr. Chris Bush and K9-68 “Rock” made a positive hit on the cash. The money was forfeited and the subjects were released. AUTH: Sgt. Hancock, Rockford Post SEARCH WARRANT: On 7/30/09, the CID Gaming Section – Special Operations Team executed a search warrant for illegal gambling at a Detroit area Marathon gas station, where patrons were being paid for credits earned on video poker and video slot machines. One video poker machine and three video slot machines were seized, along with $3718.50. A second search warrant was served on the gas station after evidence of mortgage fraud and false pretenses over $20000 was found. DPD and Recon Management seized 126 pairs of counterfeit Nike and Fila brand tennis shoes and drug paraphernalia that were being sold out of the station. A consent search of a second gas station, owned by the suspect, netted one video poker machine and $50. Officers involved in this cooperative effort were D/Lt. Pam Benzing, D/Sgt. Robin Coppens, D/Spls. Scott Singleton, Theresa Maylone, and Derrick Jordan from the Gaming SPOT Team, D/Sgt. Paul DiPetro and Secret Service Special Agents Chuck Arborgast, Mike Howard, Diana Miller from the Mortgage Fraud Task Force, Ken Scroi from DIT, Charlene Warner from Computer Crimes, and Metro North Tpr. Brian Buchanan. AUTH: D/Lt. Benzing, Gaming Section REED CITY INVESTIGATION: This week, Reed City Troopers Thomas Nolan and Joseph Allen, along with other troopers, responded to a tip of stolen quads. After several interviews and lots of miles, they have recovered three quads, two motorcycles, large screen TV’s, hunting gear, and have solved seven break-ins in the Tustin/Leroy area. During their interviews, the suspects admitted to “sneaking” into a high fence deer ranch and “scaring” the deer, which resulted in five bucks being killed from running into the fence. One of the bucks, a “20 pointer” was stolen from the enclosed fence and later recovered by troopers and DNR at a suspect’s home. The stolen buck was hanging on a pole. AUTH: Sgt. Cairnduff, Reed City VIGILANTE ATTEMPTS TO END PURSUIT: On 8/30/09, Washtenaw County Deputies took over a pursuit from neighboring Van Buren Twp. PD. The vehicle was being driven by a suspect wanted for retail fraud of stereo equipment. The suspect continued to circle the same neighborhood in Ypsilanti for over 15 minutes. At one point, an intoxicated citizen heard the pursuit approaching, ran to the curb, and fired two rounds from a .357 cal. handgun in an attempt to disable the suspect vehicle. Ypsilanti PD units converged and took the armed citizen into custody. Shortly thereafter, the suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a wooded neighborhood. He was quickly caught by Tpr. Chris Harris of the Ypsilanti Post. AUTH: Sgt. Cuevas, Ypsilanti Post HOME INVASION: Arrests stem from a tip given to the Niles Post on 9/22/09, at approximately 9:00 am, by a citizen that lives in the Milton Twp., Cass County area. The citizen advised that two Hispanic males had been seen in the area knocking on doors and acting suspicious. Tpr. John Moore responded to the area from the post and overheard radio traffic from sheriff’s deputies calling out a chase of the suspect vehicle. Tpr. Moore set up near the area where the suspect vehicle was last seen, and within minutes, saw one of the suspects emerging from a wooded area. Tpr. Moore took the suspect into custody immediately and without incident. The second suspect was taken into custody a very short time later by Cass County Deputies. Both young suspects were from the South Bend, Indiana area. D/Sgt. Fabian Suarez and Tpr. Moore continued the investigation into Indiana where “knock and talks” were conducted at three different residences associated with the suspects. Stolen property was located and was identified as being associated with three different Home Invasions, which occurred during the last two days in Cass County. Both suspects, ages 16 and 17, confessed to being responsible for the Home Invasions. AUTH: D/Sgt. Fabian Suarez, Niles Post motorcyclists. The investigations were handled by Troopers Steve Temelko, Lee Victorian, and Chris Harris. AUTH: Sgt. Pascoe, Ypsilanti Post POACHING BROTHERS: On 10/3/09, Troopers Chris Ingalls and John Schneider made contact with a suspected drunk driver. It turned out the driver was not drunk, but crossed the fog line for an undetermined reason. However, he was in possession of a 6 point untagged buck in the rear of his pick-up, hidden under a pile of debris. The driver stated that he was only transporting the deer, and his brother was the one who actually shot it. A short time later, his brother stopped by the scene and admitted to his part in the poaching of the deer. Charges are being sought on both brothers. Troopers Ingalls and Schneider did a great job in looking beyond the original traffic stop. AUTH: F/Lt. Postma, Manistee Post SKETCH AND ARREST: On 9/25/09, troopers from the Newaygo Post handled an Armed Robbery with a knife at Gould’s Market. A sketch of the suspect, done by Tpr. Matthew Churchill of the Bridgman Post, was sent out to all local news agencies and police departments. On 10/4/09, a clerk at a local business stated the sketch looked just like the suspect. The clerk also advised the description of the suspect vehicle matched. The clerk then obtained a plate of the suspect vehicle. The suspect then committed two more Armed Robberies, minutes apart, in Montcalm County. Troopers from the Rockford, Newaygo, and Lakeview Posts all worked together to make the arrest. AUTH: D/Sgt. Rios, Newaygo Post COCAINE: On 10/5/09, Tpr. Jim Gillespie, of 5th District HTST, stop ped a vehicle on I-94 EB, in Van Buren County, for following too close. The driver had a felony warrant for possession with intent to deliver cocaine out of Indiana. K9-54 was called to assist in the search. During the search, three kilos of cocaine were located in a shoe box on the back seat. Investigation continues with SWET and ICE agents. AUTH: Sgt. Dragomer, 5th District HTST DOUBLE MOTORCYCLE OWI: Late in the evening of 9/27/09, in the west side of Washtenaw County, a motorcyclist left a bar, en route to another bar. He lost control of his motorcycle on a curve, went off the road and fell, with the motorcycle bursting into flames. A few minutes later, a second motorcyclist left the same bar and drove down the same road to meet with the first motorcyclist at the next bar. The second motorcyclist also lost control on the same corner and crashed in almost the exact same spot. Both were transported to University of Michigan Hospital for injuries. Upon arriving at the hospital, one of the motorcyclist attacked hospital personnel and needed to be restrained by troopers. This is the third OWI offense for both TASK FORCE SUCCESS: On Friday, 10/9/09, D/Sgt. Ken Walker was contacted by Huron Township PD regarding the suspected arson and murder of two children, a girl and boy, ages three and four. The Downriver Major Crimes Task Force and detectives from several agencies converged to assist within the hour. Trooper Investigator Robert Weimer, Metro South; D/Sgt. James Bundshuh, Ypsilanti; and D/ Sgt. Dave Meyer from Monroe joined the effort. The investigation quickly cleared the mother’s boyfriend, who had initially been accused, and focused on the children’s mother, a 29-year-old woman from Huron Township. As the case unfolded, it was determined that the two children (brother and sister) went ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 31 through unimaginable horror in their last few seconds of life. Witnesses could hear the screams of the children inside as an intentional fire swallowed the trailer they were in. Detectives were assisted by MIOC, 3rd District Fire Marshal D/Sgt. Lenny Jaskulka, the Downriver Arson Task Force, and the Northville Lab. Prosecutor Worthy announced charges against the mother on Tuesday including two counts of 1st and 2nd degree murder, along with arson. AUTH: Lt. Hughes, Metro South SAGINAW CITY DETAIL: On 10/9/09, Troopers George Bingham and Neal Somers observed a hand to hand drug purchase at a liquor store. The two males inside the vehicle admitted to purchasing marijuana from the suspect. Marijuana was seized from the driver and a loaded .22 caliber Derringer pistol was seized from the passenger. While the above incident was taking place, Troopers Kenneth Campbell and Timothy Larrison initiated a traffic stop for improper lane usage. The passenger exited and began to flee on foot. The suspect was tasered but it did not connect due to his large sweat shirt. Tpr. Campbell gave chase between the houses and tackled the suspect, however his arms slid down, taking the suspect’s pants down to his ankles. The suspect took off again without shoes, socks or pants. The Taser was used again, however, only one probe hit and it was ineffective. He was arrested a short distance away, hiding in the bushes. After retrieving the suspect’s pants, a loaded Ruger 9mm pistol was located inside a front pocket. AUTH: Sgt. Fowler, Bridgeport Post DETROIT POST: On 10/9/09, at 1:15 am, Troopers Andrew Osborne and Joel Kuhn initiated a traffic stop on a Dodge Magnum for speed and lane use violation on I-75. The three occupants were dressed as plain clothes police officers with badges and police shirts. All three suspects were wearing body armor, police style belts with handcuffs, pepper spray, and fake Glock style firearms. Two of the suspects had false identifications posing as U.S. Homeland Security Agents. Prior to the arrest, DPD put out a BOL about police impersonators conducting 32 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ armed robberies, home invasions, and other violent crimes in the Northwest Detroit area. Detroit Troopers, DPD NW, and US Homeland Security are working to present charges to federal and county prosecutors. AUTH: Lt. Bowers, Detroit Post MJ & STING: STING was contacted on Saturday, 10/10/09, by Tpr. Jan Watson of the Houghton Lake Post. She had been dispatched to a report of marijuana plants growing in Nester Twp., Roscommon County. Seized were 126 large, high quality plants. On Tuesday, a CRIME STOPPERS tip identified the grower and indicated there were 600 more plants. STING requested a DCE/SP flight, which was conducted Tuesday afternoon. Numerous plants were spotted across the street from the suspect’s home. STING officers then made contact with the occupants of the home and observed a large amount of packaged marijuana. A search warrant was served. Seized were 50 pounds of processed marijuana, 1161 plants, $1400 cash, eight firearms, and other grow op evidence. Three suspects were arrested. STING was assisted by the Houghton Lake Post, Roscommon Sheriff’s Office, and Richfield Twp. PD. AUTH: D/Lt. Keister, STING FUGITIVE STUNG: A 35-yearold resident of Cadillac was taken into custody at the Mall in Bay City after a six week investigation by the 7th and 3rd District Fugitive teams. The teams had been requested by Wexford and Osceola Sheriff Departments to locate and arrest the subject, who was wanted on six felony warrants including CCW, Possession of two stolen Autos, Felony Flee and Elude, and Assault. The suspect, who is known to carry a hand gun, had fled to Florida. MDOC ARU Agent Charles Levens made contact with the suspect via a My Space account. Over six weeks, the suspect was led to believe that he was meeting a friendly female in Bay City on 10-13-09. Working undercover, Tpr. Yvonne Brantley of the Bay City Post, and the suspect agreed to meet at the Bay City Mall food court area. Fugitive Team members observed him arrive at the mall parking lot in a vehicle that had been reported stolen from Florida. The suspect entered the mall and was first greeted by Tpr. Brantley, who kept him distracted until Fugitive Team members could take him into custody. He was turned over to the Wexford Sheriff Department, with holds for Osceola and Bay Counties. AUTH: D/Sgt. Lubelan, 7th District Fugitive Team MARIJUANA SEIZURE: Trooper Troy Meder was working traffic along US-10, near 9 Mile Road, in Bay County. He observed a vehicle speeding and initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle. Tpr. Meder contacted the driver and noticed a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed 14 pounds of marijuana in the trunk. The driver was arrested and lodged at the Bay County Jail for PWID. AUTH: Sgt. Daryl Middleton, Bay City Post FLINT CITY DIRECTED PATROL: A week ago, Troopers David Stokes and Jim Swain investigated a vehicle in front of an abandoned house. Troopers contacted the occupants and searched the vehicle. A loaded .357 was found in the vehicle, along with marijuana packaged for sale. Three subjects were arrested on various charges including CCW and PWID Marijuana. Troopers Stokes and Mike Ross returned to the area tonight and found a vehicle in front of the same house. This time, four subjects were found in the vehicle including one subject arrested from a week earlier. The female driver was searched and a loaded .38 was found stuffed in her waistband. A second gun belonging to one of the occupants was found under the seat. In addition, just under 1/2 pound of marijuana was found in the vehicle. Three subjects were arrested on CCW and PWID Marijuana charges. AUTH: Sgt. Mapes, Flint Post SECOND DISTRICT HOMETOWN SECURITY TEAM: On 10/8/09, at 1:45 pm, the 2nd District HST stopped a vehicle for failing to signal a lane change and following too closely on I-75 SB, near Mile Marker 9, in Monroe County. The third party rental vehicle was occupied by two males from Ohio. Indicators of criminal activity were observed, along with marijuana shake on the passenger’s lap. A probable cause search was conducted. Located on the floor board of the back seat was a small bag of marijuana. A search of the engine compartment located 5147 pills of ecstasy in the air cleaner. OMNI Narcotics Team was called out to the scene to assist with the investigation. Both subjects were lodged. AUTH: Sgt. Mario Gonzales, 2nd District HST IONIA ARRESTS: Three subjects were arrested early Sunday after they were caught breaking into an Ionia area retail store. Two males and one female, all Greenville residents, used power tools to cut a hole in the wooden fence surrounding the outdoor section of the Menard’s store, then stealing merchan dise from inside. The trio was under surveillance by police at the time of the incident, due to information developed during an ongoing investigation into similar crimes in recent weeks. They were captured at 12:30 am as they were leaving the scene. They were arrested by officers of MSP’s Ionia and Lakeview Posts, the Ionia and Montcalm Sheriff’s Department, and Ionia Public Safety Department. Excellent job by all! AUTH: F/Lt. Richard, Ionia/Lakeview Post there was no evidence to link them. That was until a case in Ottawa County produced a break. Evidence from that case showed Tpr. Cribbs was right. D/ Sgt. Joe Gasper took the lead on the case and was joined by D/Sgt. Gary Miles. They worked with post troopers, detectives from Muskegon, Ottawa and Newaygo Counties, WMET, the 6th District HST, TSU and fugitive team to track the suspects and build a case. On Wednesday afternoon, while being kept under surveillance, the suspects were arrested committing yet another B&E. The 38 and 35 year old suspects, both with prior CCHs, were doing the B&Es to support a heroin habit. Excellent work by all. Relentless effort paid off. AUTH: F/Lt. Roesler, Grand Haven Post MURDER/CONFESSION: Troopers Kevin Amenson and Chad Gruenwald were dispatched to Parkway Motel, Groveland Twp, shortly after midnight, in response to a subject that phoned 911 confessing to a murder he committed in Columbus, Ohio. Troopers arrived and found the subject standing outside the motel. When taken into custody, the suspect provided the troopers with a full confession to the murder and other physical evidence, which was confiscated from his person. The victim in this case was found dead on Sunday morning in her Columbus, Ohio apartment with multiple stab wounds. She was the mother of the suspect’s children. It was reported that neighbors heard a fight between the two late Saturday night. The suspect is currently lodged at the Oakland County Jail for Homicide and Motor Vehicle Theft. Detectives from the Columbus Police Department are en route to interview him and await his extradition back to Ohio. AUTH: Sgt. Lynne Walker, Groveland Post ■ RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME: Tpr. Scott Ziesman stopped a vehicle for tinted windows on I-96, in Ionia County, and Tpr. David Yount and K9-02 “Ergo” stopped to assist. Tpr. Ziesman received consent for K9 to search the vehicle, resulting in a hit on a cigarette pack near the center console. Located in the cigarette pack was suspected psilocybin mushrooms and marijuana. Three double-edged knives were also located near the driver’s seat. The driver was arrested and lodged on three felony charges. A special thanks to Tpr. Yount for his assistance. Auth: F/Lt. Richard, Ionia Post SERIAL B&E SUSPECTS AR RESTED: Grand Haven Post Troopers and D/Sgts. arrested two suspects known to investigators as “Pillow Case Burglars” wanted for over 25 daytime B&Es since June. Suspects would enter homes, take a pillow case from the bed and steal money, jewelry and other precious metals such as silverware. No suspects were identified for several weeks until Tpr. Brian Cribbs, through knowledge of his patrol area and good old fashion police work, suspected a couple of people, but REMINDER: The Michigan Trooper is always looking for stories from the road (past or present), young pictures of current members for the “Guess Who” section, favorite quotes, wedding or new baby information for the “Register of Deeds”, or any article you would like to see published. Please send your submissions to: troopereditor@gmail.com ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 33 6th Annual MSTAF Charitable Golf Classic September 14, 2009 – Otsego Club and Resort, Gaylord On Monday, September 14, 2009, the Michigan State Troopers Assistance Fund held its Sixth Annual Charitable Golf Classic to support the efforts of the fund’s scholarship program. Returning to the Otsego Club and Resort in Gaylord, the staff did a great job, and we were graced with a wonderful day from Mother Nature! Twenty-seven teams participated this year, and we are very grateful for the support of our golfers. The first place team included Bryan Wieferich, Ryan Boge, Fred Stabley and Josh Henning, with a score of 57. A tie breaker had to decide second and third place, as both teams scored 59. Second place went to Greg Kilbourn, Bill Janego, Mike Larsen and Paul Cohen. Third place went to the team of Nathan Ellis, Jeff Decator, Trevor Radke and Chad Gruenwald. Prizes were also awarded for men’s and women’s longest drive and closest to the pin shots. Finally, we want to congratulate the many lucky winners of our raffle prizes! Our heartfelt gratitude is extended for the corporate sponsorships we received. To Health Alliance Plan and Mr. John McElligatt, and to Karoub Associates, MSTAF thanks you for your generosity and support. To the many individuals and business who sponsored MSTAF by MAJOR SPONSORS & PRIZE DONATIONS: Health Alliance Plan Karoub Associates Alpena, Alcona Area Credit Union Amway Grand Plaza Applebee’s Atheneum Suite Hotel Bavarian Inn Lodge Benzie County Sheriff Deptartment Blue Cross Blue Shield Camping World of Houghton Lake Carl V. Reck Jeweler Cheboygan Golf & Country Club Comfort Inn Plymouth Cruz Enterprises Darrow’s State Police Merchandise Detroit Lions Detroit Metro CVB Detroit Red Wings Eldorado Golf Course Grand Traverse Resort & Spa Heart Lake Resort Holiday Inn Hotel & Conference Center Hyatt Regency Dearborn 34 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ donating tee signs, hotel overnights, and an array of other prizes – the outing was a success because of your help. Not to be overlooked are those who helped to solicit and obtain these donations. It was expecially tough this year in light of the current economy. Your efforts are truly appreciated! Special thanks are also extended to Mr. Rick Harland and Feeny Chrysler of Gaylord who returned this year and sponsored all our “Hole-in-One” prizes. Feeny Chrysler brought a Jeep Wrangler to the course – adding much excitement to the challenge of the 13th hole. One very unique raffle this year was to win a tour to the top of the Mackinac Bridge, graciously donated by the Mackinac Bridge Auhority. We are proud to report raising over $7,000 for the Assistance Fund this year. Following is a list of prize sponsors, with tee sponsors on page 35. Please patronize our sponsors! Let them know that we appreciate their support of the Michigan State Troopers Assistance Fund! Plans are, once again, to hold next year’s MSTAF Golf Classic at the Otsego Club and Resort in Gaylord, Michigan. It will be on September 13, 2010, the first Monday after Labor Day. Mark your calendar now! Image Builders Unlimited Island House Hotel – Mackinac Island Katke Golf Course Lexington Lansing Hotel Mackinac Bridge Authority McCamly Plaza Hotel McGuire’s Michigan Association of Police MSTAF / MSPTA Mt. Pleasant Comfort Inn & Suites / Hotel and Conference Center Owosso Country Club Radisson Hotel Detroit-Livonia Rep. Tonya Schuitmaker Ritz-Carlton Hotel Saginaw County CVB Schultz’s Party Store, Inc. Senator Jason Allen Shanty Creek Resorts Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort Troy Marriott Verona Hills Golf Club White Deer Golf Course Yarrow Golf & Conference Resort Mike Herendeen, James Moore, Marty Bandemer, Phil Herman Mel Grieshaber, Andy Potter Mike McEwan, Zachary Hesse, Dale Wheatley, Keith Martin Beth Baesch, Nancy Moore, Angie Taylor, Sherry Coykendall Bill Peterson, Frank Belloli, Ken S., Bob Szuber Chris Luty, Jim Curran, John McElligatt, Les Begin Craig Therrian, Jason Marshall, Gary Demers, Justin Litzner TEE SPONSORS: Joe Cairnduff, Dave Dunbar, Eric Sumpter, Wayne Watts Mark Russell, Eric Gravelle, Tom Money, Grel Rousseau John Grimshaw, Steve Weichel, Kirk Sherwood, Tom Weichel Joe Johnson, Brandon McClaren, Robert Lozowski, Joe Bozek Jeff Decator, Trevor Radke Nathan Ellis, Chad Greunwald Jessica Janego, Mary Kay Larsen, Debbie Kilbourn, Janet Cohen Jeff Erickson, Shawn Reynolds, Dale Hongisto, Jason Sleeter Bill Redmond, John Walsh, Jason Nahs, Steve Nahs Ronald Palmquist, Jeff Davis, Ed Wertz, Jim Steffes Greg Tamlyn, Jon Langley, Daryl Massaway, Erik Tamlyn Mike Larsen, Paul Cohen, Bill Janego, Greg Kilbourn Andy Miller, Doug Read, Rick Doehring, Mark Tamlyn Fred Stabley, Ryan Boge, Josh Henning, Bryan Wieferich Michael Lalonde, Marty Andrews, Ben Rozek, George Pike In memory of Sgt. Paul Holbrook and Deb Harris / MSP Traverse City Post Lawrence P. Schneider Knaggs Harter Brake & Schneider, PC Mark Tamlyn / 7th District Rep. Joe Cavanaugh / 3rd District Rep. Grand Rapids Lab (Prints, Firearms, Bomb Squad) Senator Gretchen Whitmer Jane & Larry Schneider Theut, Theut & Theut, P.C. Richard LeBlanc / State Rep. Rep. Rashida Tlaib Village Lanes of Harrisville Conely Oil Change & Auto Wash – Brighton Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, P.C. The Brodeur Law Firm, PLLC Law Office of Kimberly Kramer Specializing in Bankruptcy We are a debt relief agency Discounted legal fees for Law Enforcement Senate Democratic Leader Mike Prusi Rep. Alma Wheeler Smith for Michigan www.almaformichigan.com Monroe State Police Post State Representative Mark Meadows / 69th District MSP Cadillac Post Beverly Pearson State Representative Roy Schmidt Plante & Moran, PLLC Senator Jim Barcia Lexington Lansing Hotel Matt Wesaw Hon. Robert John Butts Cheboygan County Probate and Family Court MSPTA Retiree Association Detroit Police Officers Association MSP Executive Council Tpr. Rick Carlson – In Memory of John P. Carlson Sr. John J. Gleanson / State Senator MSP Wayland & Coldwater Posts Dick Hale – MSPTA Secretary / Treasurer Tim Permoda / 5th District Representative Josh Permoda / Arizona Public Safety Garan Lucow Miller, PC Full service statewide law firm www.garanlucow.com Mike Moorman – MSPTA President Hanba & Lazar, P.C. Diane Garrison – Executive Director MSPCOA MSP Cheboygan Post Michael J. Ekdahl – Attorney at Law Aventric Technoligies – Lifepak Defibrilators Chris Luty – MSPTA Vice President Diebold Insurance Agency – Michael J. Ignat Michigan State Police Troopers Association Today’s Dental – Dr. Bradford Rowe, D.D.S. Maynes Insurance Services Tpr. Scott Wilber / 6th District Representative County Wide Towing Gildner Concrete see MSTAF GOLF CLASSIC, page 36 ▪ September/October, 2009 ▪ 35 from MSTAF Golf Classic, page 35 Fred Strich, Mark Sposito, Ed Lester, Bob Sweeney Delynn Rice, Norma Makl, Colleen Crawford, Lisa Werth Steve Martin, Todd Woods, Darby Darrow, Pat Wyman Phil Ackley, Scott Bates, Trent Mainville, Kevin Ackley Jim Hoffman, Dennis Garrow, Dale Garrow, Robert Merrick Tim Permoda, Scott Wilber, Mark Isserstedt, Nathan Groya In Memory of Our Retirees D/Sgt. Clarence Haranda (Ret.) 42nd Recruit School 7/24/1930 – 8/22/2009 D/Lt. Philip W. Nielsen (Ret.) 43rd Recruit School 3/14/1933 – 9/8/2009 Cpl. Richard W. Sweet (Ret.) 15th Recruit School 4/18/1910 – 8/27/2009 Tpr. George E. Marshall, Jr. (Ret.) 34th Recruit School 9/13/1927 – 9/13/2009 Final Call Lance Corporal Jonathan Nash – South Carolina Highway Patrol Age: 41 Tour of Duty: 15 years Cause of Death: Motorcycle Accident Date of Incident: Saturday, September 19, 2009 Corporal Jonathan Nash was killed in a motorcycle accident while escorting a memorial charity ride in memory of Trooper Hardy Godbold, when the driver of a vehicle pulled in front of Corporal Nash’s motorcycle, causing a collision. Trooper Godbold was killed on the same roadway during a vehicle pursuit on February 28, 1992. Corporal Nash was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and had served with the South Carolina Highway Patrol for 15 years. End of Watch: Sunday, June 7, 2009 36 ▪ Michigan Trooper ▪ The Final Word Ø “Do your duty – and never mind whether you are shivering or warm, sleeping on your feet or in your bed.” – Marcus Aurelius Ø “No life is a waste.” Ø “If there is anything that we wish to change in the child, we should first examine it and see whether it is not something that could better be changed in ourselves.” – Carl Jung – Mitch Albom Ø “The nation that will insist on drawing a broad line between the fighting man and the thinking man is liable to find its fighting done by fools and its thinking done by cowards.” – Sir William Francis Butler Ø “Guilt is a tireless horse. Grief ages into sorrow, and sorrow is an enduring rider.” – Dean Koontz From the novel The Darkest Evening of the Year – Chapter Two Ø “Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.” – Helen Keller Ø “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” – Thomas Jefferson Ø “Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.” – John F. Kennedy Ø “All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent.” – Thomas Jefferson Ø “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?” – Satchel Paige Ø “There’s just one thing I think you ought to know before you take on this job. And don’t you forget it. If you do well, you’ll get no thanks and if you get into trouble you’ll get no help. Does that suit you?” – W. Somerset Maugham, The British Agent Do you have a favorite quote? Share it with the rest of us by sending it to: The Michigan Trooper , 1715 Abbey Road • Suite B, East Lansing, MI 48823 E-mail: troopereditor@gmail.com or pat@mspta.net TROOPER Michigan State Police Troopers Association 1715 Abbey Road Suite B East Lansing MI 48823 Non Profit Org. US Postage PAID Lansing, MI Permit #121 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Sine The badge number on the cover of the Michigan Trooper is in honor of Tpr. Kevin M. Marshall, badge number 1529. On July 7, 2003, Tpr. Marshall was shot and killed by a barricaded gunman while engaged in an Emergency Support Team operation. Tpr. Marshall joined the Michigan State Police in January 1995 and was a member of the 111th Recruit School. He was assigned to the Newaygo Post. In 2002, he was selected for the Department’s Emergency Support Team. Tpr. Marshall was the 49th Michigan State Police officer killed in the line of duty, and the first to have been killed in an emergency services operation. Pari Call and make your reservation for the next Quarterly Meeting! (517) 336-7782 x101 Tuesday & Wednesday, January 12-13, 2010 Lexington Lansing Hotel • Lansing Registration Deadline is December 9, 2009 – Call the office and make your reservation today!!!
Similar documents
MT-July-August-2009-1
Sgt. Dale Goodrich
Safety
Tpr. Jerry Mazurek*
Tpr. Joe Cavanaugh
Sgt. Dale Garrow
michigan trooper
Tpr. Joseph Racicot
Calumet
Tpr. Steve Lanctot
Munising
Tpr. Rich Cole
Iron River
Tpr. Dave Stuck
Sault Ste. Marie Sgt. Frank Keck
Lab
S/Sgt. Jay Peterson
