Damn boys we are in a tight spot! Officers are leaving the department at an unprecedented rate. The grand jury report is released and contains some good recommendations but also many negative remarks about the department. It does not appear that the pay raise will be approved this year, but who knows with the confusing political games being played. If CNN and the Fox News Network combined their recourses, they would not be able to make sense of, or explain that debacle. The department must answer to a police chief who is routinely out of town and unavailable, which perhaps is just as well, because he is astonishingly incompetent! The majority of the upper command staff, which incredibly is only partially in place, has no idea how to run a large police department and is dysfunctional at best. And lastly the most disturbing fact of all is the crime rate in DeKalb County. Sadly, we are experiencing property crime rates and violent crime rates that have never been seen in the history of DeKalb County!
It is quite clear that if you consider the above circumstances and many other factors, you must conclude that Dekalb County police officers are indeed in a tight spot. The truth is there are many outstanding police officers in this department, including many good sergeants, lieutenants, captains and even a couple of majors. I know the next few months will be tough but I urge all of my fellow officers to hang in there and continue to work hard and be as professional as possible.Do everything you can do to keep each other safe.
If we get the 4% raise, which you all deserve, then I am sure that would be great news. But speaking just for myself now, I will eat rice and water before I will beg the BOC / Vernon Jones for a 4% raise. And I DO NOT need the money bad enough to hold hands with Terrell Bolton in order to get it. Much of the county government is void of ethics because Vernon Jones is void of ethics. The command staff of the police department is void of ethics because Terrell Bolton, who was appointed by Vernon Jones, is void of ethics. It is a horrible situation but it is really not that complicated.
If things do not change, the crime rate will continue to spiral out of control. There are hundreds of good police officers in this department but there is very little leadership. I have painted a bleak (but accurate) picture of our circumstances but now for the good news. We have had to tolerate Vernon Jones for 87 months but we have only 9 more months to go! We will soon have a new CEO, who will hopefully appoint a decent and professional police chief. We can return this department to the proud and professional organization it once was. We can then address this ridiculous crime rate and serve the citizens of this county as they deserve!
Monday, March 31, 2008
PendingCall Comments on "ICP=Increase In Calls Pending"
The mismanagement of ICP has to stop! All of our citizens are complaining about the same thing, CRIME! They dont care about officers attending career days and easter egg hunts. They are concerned with crime! ICP is a 'problem solving unit!' Then at least make an attempt to solve our biggest problem - CRIME! After we reduce crime, then we can branch off and start doing the community stuff. We have 10 ICP officers at every precinct who dont assist with handling 911 calls. Some precincts are still running Net Teams too. Lets do the math. Evening Watch runs 10 officers. ICP has 5 officers working from 2pm - 10pm. NET team has 5 officers working evening hours. Thats a total of 20 officers on the streets, and 10 of them (50%) are on special assignment, not assisting with 911 calls. How can we justify this mismanagement of manpower?
Enough To Make You Sick!
The political maneuvering by Vernon Jones and the rest of the DeKalb County commissioners is enough to make you physically ill. And it is sinful how they are using the police department as their football.
It is well known the BOC cannot agree on how much money should be spent on public safety; including the type of pay raise, if any. When they did agree, Vernon vetoed it!
Vernon has now devised a scheme to screw the fine officers of DeKalb County, the citizens of DeKalb and the citizens of Dunwoody. He now wants a bond referendum to fund the police department’s needs.
By putting the bond referendum out there, he is relaying on the uneducated believing this is “free money”. He doesn’t have to cut budgets and wasteful spending in other departments. A select number of contractors with the county can still line their pockets $49,000.00 at a time. Homeowners will be happy because their property taxes will not be raised. And he sticks it to the residents of Dunwoody. When they become a city, they are stuck with a share of the tab. If they fight the referendum, then they will be labeled as anti-police, anti-public safety.
Sadly, a very large number of police officers including Chief Bolton will hold hands with Vernon. Please don’t be fooled by this demagogue. If the referendum passes, there will not be a pay raise; the computer system will still be broken; there still will not be enough cars; you will not be furnished with rifles.
But you will be fooled.
It is well known the BOC cannot agree on how much money should be spent on public safety; including the type of pay raise, if any. When they did agree, Vernon vetoed it!
Vernon has now devised a scheme to screw the fine officers of DeKalb County, the citizens of DeKalb and the citizens of Dunwoody. He now wants a bond referendum to fund the police department’s needs.
By putting the bond referendum out there, he is relaying on the uneducated believing this is “free money”. He doesn’t have to cut budgets and wasteful spending in other departments. A select number of contractors with the county can still line their pockets $49,000.00 at a time. Homeowners will be happy because their property taxes will not be raised. And he sticks it to the residents of Dunwoody. When they become a city, they are stuck with a share of the tab. If they fight the referendum, then they will be labeled as anti-police, anti-public safety.
Sadly, a very large number of police officers including Chief Bolton will hold hands with Vernon. Please don’t be fooled by this demagogue. If the referendum passes, there will not be a pay raise; the computer system will still be broken; there still will not be enough cars; you will not be furnished with rifles.
But you will be fooled.
Anonymous Comments on the Pay Raise
Don't be fooled by the way this is being presented. The 4% merit raise everyone keeps talking about is what we've had forever. It's nothing new. You're not giving us a raise if you're leaving things the way they have been! It's also not a 4% raise. You only get a 4% raise if your supervisors give you an outstanding review AND the people who don't know you in downtown Decatur decide not to give your eval back to your supervisor to lower! Most people get a 3%. Before Jones was elected, police officers got a 5% raise each year. Vernon promised the police better raises to get their support. Once in office, he cut the raises to their current pathetic level. Last time he ran, he promised not to take a huge raise for himself. Once reelected, he took the raise.
This "bonus" they are giving to MPO's is a joke. $2600 spread out over 18 months after taxes comes out to about $50 per paycheck. (Don't spend it all in one place!) After the 18 months, your pay goes back to what it was.
This "bonus" they are giving to MPO's is a joke. $2600 spread out over 18 months after taxes comes out to about $50 per paycheck. (Don't spend it all in one place!) After the 18 months, your pay goes back to what it was.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Concerned Citizien Responds to OU812
OU812, you are correct.
Some of us are trying to get the info out to other citizens. The BOC with their politics are sidestepping the information, trying to divert the attention to other mismanaged isses (that are important but separate.)
As I understand, the plan that will get you all the most will again be brought back to the next BOC. I will be interested to see the parliamentary shennanigans that will take place.
Representative Jacobs has indicated that those of us who support a tax increase for you all must be from another planet.
It is obivous that for many reasons I'm unaware do not agree wtih the Chief but I'll tell you from a citizens perspective, more than any chief I've been exposed to, he is really working a grass roots effort to get the community working WITH you all. To some the CP may seem a little elementary but from a citizens perspective, the visibility of the police, a famiiarity with officers along with increased neighborhood associations may actully take care of some of the smaller issues so that other officers can focus on other more serious crimes.
Praise Jesus that it's an election year...that's all I can say.
Some of us are trying to get the info out to other citizens. The BOC with their politics are sidestepping the information, trying to divert the attention to other mismanaged isses (that are important but separate.)
As I understand, the plan that will get you all the most will again be brought back to the next BOC. I will be interested to see the parliamentary shennanigans that will take place.
Representative Jacobs has indicated that those of us who support a tax increase for you all must be from another planet.
It is obivous that for many reasons I'm unaware do not agree wtih the Chief but I'll tell you from a citizens perspective, more than any chief I've been exposed to, he is really working a grass roots effort to get the community working WITH you all. To some the CP may seem a little elementary but from a citizens perspective, the visibility of the police, a famiiarity with officers along with increased neighborhood associations may actully take care of some of the smaller issues so that other officers can focus on other more serious crimes.
Praise Jesus that it's an election year...that's all I can say.
OU812 Responds
You are right Notcar1. A 4% to the MPO's ONLY. The other 4% they are talking about is the 4% that is currently built in the "Pay for Performance" evaluation, meaning IF you max out your evaluation, you CAN get UP TO 4%. Don't let them fool you or the public.
There is no additional 4%. The BOC is being deceitful. Oh and for the good part: if you are topped out, meaning sergeant and above, you get NOTHING! There will be no step increase.
Why is Bolton not bringing this to everyone's attention?
There is no additional 4%. The BOC is being deceitful. Oh and for the good part: if you are topped out, meaning sergeant and above, you get NOTHING! There will be no step increase.
Why is Bolton not bringing this to everyone's attention?
Notcar1 Comments:
Increase for MPO's? You sure?
My reading of the news reports gave me the impression that it was not a raise but a one time retention bonus paid out over the ridiculously long period of EIGHTTEEN LONG MONTHS.
Now money is money, but after that time period, its gone. I'm back to paying for the increases in the pension contribution and the increases in benefits with the old pay.
Dunwoody is gonna take a lot more away from Dekalb than just taxes.
My reading of the news reports gave me the impression that it was not a raise but a one time retention bonus paid out over the ridiculously long period of EIGHTTEEN LONG MONTHS.
Now money is money, but after that time period, its gone. I'm back to paying for the increases in the pension contribution and the increases in benefits with the old pay.
Dunwoody is gonna take a lot more away from Dekalb than just taxes.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
From The Desk of Dekalb Officers
Leaving Comments:
Participation by all is welcomed here at Dekalb Officers blog. Agreements and disagreements alike will be posted.
It is fine to leave your comments as “Anonymous”, but it can become confusing during a dialogue. We ask that you set up an account at Google.com so that each person has an “identity” of their choosing, i.e. DKPD ANON, WeFiveCampers, Eric, Fly on the Wall and others. This will make it simple for you.
If you are not comfortable with setting up an account, please sign your comments with some type of identifying name.
Again, all comments will be posted, signed with an identifier or not.
The webmaster can be contacted at dekalbofficers@gmail.com
And remember; the cloudy vision continues down Bolton's pothole filled road to obscurity.
Participation by all is welcomed here at Dekalb Officers blog. Agreements and disagreements alike will be posted.
It is fine to leave your comments as “Anonymous”, but it can become confusing during a dialogue. We ask that you set up an account at Google.com so that each person has an “identity” of their choosing, i.e. DKPD ANON, WeFiveCampers, Eric, Fly on the Wall and others. This will make it simple for you.
If you are not comfortable with setting up an account, please sign your comments with some type of identifying name.
Again, all comments will be posted, signed with an identifier or not.
The webmaster can be contacted at dekalbofficers@gmail.com
And remember; the cloudy vision continues down Bolton's pothole filled road to obscurity.
Anonymous Answers Tony The Tard's Question
Hi Tony, thanks for asking this question. Unless you are familiar with the entire situation it can be confusing at best. Ty Tagami covers the BOC, their meetings and issues and he gets it right about 60%.
At any rate, CEO has to submit a budget by a certain date, by law to the BOC. They are allowed to ammend it but then have to vote to accept the budget.
The initial budget, submitted by CEO and accepted by BOC included an increace for MPO'S in order to stop attrition.
The fun got started when Commissioner JOhnson submitted a millage increase to get the entire PD and FD 4% cost of living and 4% merits, not just for MPO's. Then Ellis wanted to "one up", since it's an election year and proposed his plan that cuts programs in the budget (seniors, rape crisis, other things)but gave a 4% MERIT only to all sworn offials (sherrif, coroner, etc.)
Ellis' motion over rode Johnsons motion and the board voted for Ellis' plan. The CEO vetoed that motion in order to allow JOhnsons plan to be voted on. The plan that I believe gets you all more.
Ellis has continually maneuvered the parliamentary rules in order to avoid a vote on Johnson's plan. I believe he is doing this because even if he did want to support the plan, because he is running for CEO a tax increase would hurt him in some parts of the county.
Sorry to be so long but the gist of it is as of last Tuesday, you all are not getting raises. I believe Johnsons motion will be up at the next meeting a week from Tuesday. We will be out, send your families and friends out.
We're pulling for you!
At any rate, CEO has to submit a budget by a certain date, by law to the BOC. They are allowed to ammend it but then have to vote to accept the budget.
The initial budget, submitted by CEO and accepted by BOC included an increace for MPO'S in order to stop attrition.
The fun got started when Commissioner JOhnson submitted a millage increase to get the entire PD and FD 4% cost of living and 4% merits, not just for MPO's. Then Ellis wanted to "one up", since it's an election year and proposed his plan that cuts programs in the budget (seniors, rape crisis, other things)but gave a 4% MERIT only to all sworn offials (sherrif, coroner, etc.)
Ellis' motion over rode Johnsons motion and the board voted for Ellis' plan. The CEO vetoed that motion in order to allow JOhnsons plan to be voted on. The plan that I believe gets you all more.
Ellis has continually maneuvered the parliamentary rules in order to avoid a vote on Johnson's plan. I believe he is doing this because even if he did want to support the plan, because he is running for CEO a tax increase would hurt him in some parts of the county.
Sorry to be so long but the gist of it is as of last Tuesday, you all are not getting raises. I believe Johnsons motion will be up at the next meeting a week from Tuesday. We will be out, send your families and friends out.
We're pulling for you!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Tony The Tard Ask:
Can some one help me?
As I understand it, the BOC did not reach an agreement on the 25th of March about any pay raise for anybody. The matter is still to be debated.
But then you read the misleading AJC article by Ty Tagami saying all are getting up to a 4% raise (pay for performance, just like now) and $2,672 "longevity incentive" for 277 master police officers,
And today I was approached by a civilian congratulating me on our raise…… Huh?
CLick Here To Read Ty Tagamis' Article
As I understand it, the BOC did not reach an agreement on the 25th of March about any pay raise for anybody. The matter is still to be debated.
But then you read the misleading AJC article by Ty Tagami saying all are getting up to a 4% raise (pay for performance, just like now) and $2,672 "longevity incentive" for 277 master police officers,
And today I was approached by a civilian congratulating me on our raise…… Huh?
CLick Here To Read Ty Tagamis' Article
OU812 Responds:
And how much money did Bolton spend on campers? $1.5 million? How many taser can that buy?
Anonymous Responds
Well just wait for the over reaction by Bolton on the Grand Jury report. We have the best supervisors working Major Felony and they do a great job. Internal Affairs calls it like they are suppose to do. We will probably have a Non-Confrontational policy coming out next.
He says we will need the money to correct the problems, well Vernon Jones took the Tasers away, 2 chiefs ago. The command staff is what keeps the police department from advancing.
He says we will need the money to correct the problems, well Vernon Jones took the Tasers away, 2 chiefs ago. The command staff is what keeps the police department from advancing.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Anonymous Responds To Grand Jury Findings
I wanted to weigh in on the Grand Jury finding today. The most important thing I will comment on is that M.P.O. Dennis Stepnowski did not break Dekalb County foot chase policy. Dennis had probable cause and a secondary Officer with him when he ran down a armed drug suspect who was wanted for Murder out of New Orleans. Officer Stepnowski should be remembered as a true servant of Dekalb County Citizens, He gave his life for you. I worked with him for over 10 years and can honestly say he was responsible for taking more felons off the street than 98 percent of us officers out here. To the family of Dennis I appologize for this trash printed in the paper today. Citizens please try to understand the job a Police Officer tries to accomplish on a daily basis, the last thing we want to have to do is shoot or let alone kill your son or daughter. Read the paper when they print out the daily murders, shotings, rapes, robberies and other forcible felonys going on in dekalb. I have been here quite a few years and this is the worse I have ever seen crime in Dekalb. I tell you what keep your raise and give us back the dignity Dekalb County Police once had. Money ain't everything. God bless you Dennis, you are missed!
Anonymous Comments: Why does Dekalb have a CEO?
Why does Dekalb even have a CEO's position???with his salary of 145K a year we could have several officers salary or even more patrol cars or even tasers!!!...why yes...it is a worthless position..he has obtained EVERYTHING he wanted from Dekalb with 2 terms in office including a full retirement...Thanks to the fine citizens of deklab for re-electing him. We need to notify the govenor and ask him to do away with the position like several other counties have.
Yes...the buck stops here!! of course..he's on the way out...easy to take the blame...what are they going to do??? cut his hair and make him work southside morning watch?? If Dunwoody become seperate and its own city...that will be close to 35 to 38% of Dekalb's tax base.(rather a large chunk of change)..does that mean we will have to write more tickets??? or get demoted or poop detail if we don't??? I'm glad of the small raise for the senior MPO's,..but what about the rest of us little folks??..bottom line..look through the smoke screen people...12 have already committed to the S.O. and are on the way out!!!...then people ask me why I step out of the car on a violent call with a shotgun in hand??? cause there's not back up...god knows ICP folks are in a community meeting or asking for a screened unit...the only place that I know of that when you call 911...they put you on hold!!!..Vernon...I'm glad your on the way out....cause we need all the help we can get after your gone.
Yes...the buck stops here!! of course..he's on the way out...easy to take the blame...what are they going to do??? cut his hair and make him work southside morning watch?? If Dunwoody become seperate and its own city...that will be close to 35 to 38% of Dekalb's tax base.(rather a large chunk of change)..does that mean we will have to write more tickets??? or get demoted or poop detail if we don't??? I'm glad of the small raise for the senior MPO's,..but what about the rest of us little folks??..bottom line..look through the smoke screen people...12 have already committed to the S.O. and are on the way out!!!...then people ask me why I step out of the car on a violent call with a shotgun in hand??? cause there's not back up...god knows ICP folks are in a community meeting or asking for a screened unit...the only place that I know of that when you call 911...they put you on hold!!!..Vernon...I'm glad your on the way out....cause we need all the help we can get after your gone.
OU812 Responds to Grand Jury Finding
Hey Terrell: Have you read the Grand Jury report yet? Did you see this? "Tasers might might have helped prevent some suspect deaths. The panel recommended giving all officers one of the stun guns."
Do you think you could have bought tasers with all that money you spent on those stupid looking campers?
Do you think you could have bought tasers with all that money you spent on those stupid looking campers?
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Still No Raise
We would like to thank the good citizens of DeKalb County for your support. We do appreciate the the long hours you spent at the BOC meeting. We thank you for the many calls to the BOC.
Will they ever agree? A raise alone will not solve the problem. The truth needs to be exposed.
Read about the BOC meeting at GoDekalb.com
Will they ever agree? A raise alone will not solve the problem. The truth needs to be exposed.
Read about the BOC meeting at GoDekalb.com
WeFiveCampers
While I was camping, I missed the BOC meeting. What happened? Is it a dead issue? Do they try again next week?
To DKPD Anon: In response to-
"you need to call Burrell directly 770-469-5948 and ask him to explain this to you if you aren't going to believe me."
Perhaps you should call Burrell Ellis and ask him to explain why he cowardly left the meeting, to intentionally avoid the vote, up or down, with blatant disregard for the CITIZENS that were there for 9= hours!
Perhaps you should call Burrell Ellis and ask him to explain why he cowardly left the meeting, to intentionally avoid the vote, up or down, with blatant disregard for the CITIZENS that were there for 9= hours!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Anonymously Spoken
Jacobs is a hypocritical hack! Let him take care of his duties at the gold dome and leave the county business to the county...
Speaking of, all you Ellis supporters, be sure to watch DCTV to see what a jackass he was today and you'll know the reason you still don't have your raise.
Worry not, there are still people out there working on your behalf.
Speaking of, all you Ellis supporters, be sure to watch DCTV to see what a jackass he was today and you'll know the reason you still don't have your raise.
Worry not, there are still people out there working on your behalf.
Anonymous Says:
Mike Jacobs does a great job here at the capitol. I second his recommendation that you get the phones working to let these commissioners know you mean business on the pay raise. Taxes dont have to be raised at all to cover what you deserve. The bloated, top heavy government of DeKalb County needs some sort of diet anyway.
A Email by State Representative Mike Jacobs
It's All About Priorities
DeKalb County's police force is woefully understaffed and underpaid. Currently, DeKalb has 1.4 officers per 1,000 residents. The national average is 2.7 officers per 1,000 residents.
As a result of DeKalb's comparatively low police staffing, wait times for an officer to arrive at the scene of an incident that is not a dire emergency often can exceed 30 minutes.
Commissioners Burrell Ellis, Elaine Boyer, Jeff Rader, and Kathie Gannon recently sponsored a sensible proposal to increase pay for sworn officers by 8% and add 127 new officers to the DeKalb County Police Department. Their proposal would be funded by trimming non-public safety functions of the county government by 1.25%.
Commissioners Larry Johnson, Lee May, and Connie Stokes voted against that proposal, saying they favored a property tax increase by way of hiking the millage rate in order to fund the police positions and pay raises.
The Ellis-Boyer-Rader-Gannon proposal prevailed on a 4-3 vote. However, CEO Vernon Jones vetoed it, saying that he was carrying out "the will of the people" in supporting the Johnson-May-Stokes proposal for a property tax increase.
The will of the people??? On what planet?
As Commissioner Boyer points out: "Since Jones became CEO, the county's budget has grown more than 54 percent while the county's population has grown about 29 percent." Moreover, a recent audit of county contracting practices uncovered a troubling pattern of creatively structuring no-bid contracts in amounts just below the competitive bidding threshold to the same vendors for the same services over and over and over again. As a result, our county government has paid millions of dollars to vendors in violation of competitive bidding safeguards.
An attempt to override the CEO's veto could occur as early as this Tuesday's county commission meeting. In order to override the CEO's veto, five votes are required. To reach five votes, one additional vote is needed from among Commissioners Johnson, May, and Stokes.
Please call or e-mail these commissioners today. Their contact information is as follows:
Commissioner Larry Johnson, District 3
larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-2425
Commissioner Lee May, District 5
lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-4745
Commissioner Connie Stokes, District 7
conniestokes@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-3053
County spending has grown in excess of the rate of inflation and population growth. Meanwhile, important areas such as public safety have not kept pace. The Ellis-Boyer-Rader-Gannon plan would rein in the county budget while setting the right priorities for our community.
DeKalb County's police force is woefully understaffed and underpaid. Currently, DeKalb has 1.4 officers per 1,000 residents. The national average is 2.7 officers per 1,000 residents.
As a result of DeKalb's comparatively low police staffing, wait times for an officer to arrive at the scene of an incident that is not a dire emergency often can exceed 30 minutes.
Commissioners Burrell Ellis, Elaine Boyer, Jeff Rader, and Kathie Gannon recently sponsored a sensible proposal to increase pay for sworn officers by 8% and add 127 new officers to the DeKalb County Police Department. Their proposal would be funded by trimming non-public safety functions of the county government by 1.25%.
Commissioners Larry Johnson, Lee May, and Connie Stokes voted against that proposal, saying they favored a property tax increase by way of hiking the millage rate in order to fund the police positions and pay raises.
The Ellis-Boyer-Rader-Gannon proposal prevailed on a 4-3 vote. However, CEO Vernon Jones vetoed it, saying that he was carrying out "the will of the people" in supporting the Johnson-May-Stokes proposal for a property tax increase.
The will of the people??? On what planet?
As Commissioner Boyer points out: "Since Jones became CEO, the county's budget has grown more than 54 percent while the county's population has grown about 29 percent." Moreover, a recent audit of county contracting practices uncovered a troubling pattern of creatively structuring no-bid contracts in amounts just below the competitive bidding threshold to the same vendors for the same services over and over and over again. As a result, our county government has paid millions of dollars to vendors in violation of competitive bidding safeguards.
An attempt to override the CEO's veto could occur as early as this Tuesday's county commission meeting. In order to override the CEO's veto, five votes are required. To reach five votes, one additional vote is needed from among Commissioners Johnson, May, and Stokes.
Please call or e-mail these commissioners today. Their contact information is as follows:
Commissioner Larry Johnson, District 3
larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-2425
Commissioner Lee May, District 5
lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-4745
Commissioner Connie Stokes, District 7
conniestokes@co.dekalb.ga.us, 404-371-3053
County spending has grown in excess of the rate of inflation and population growth. Meanwhile, important areas such as public safety have not kept pace. The Ellis-Boyer-Rader-Gannon plan would rein in the county budget while setting the right priorities for our community.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Anonymous Says:
In reference to the Range Rover Stanely said, "Given this command staff's incredible lack of ethics and huge egos, does this action really surprise anyone?"
Not really. What's amazing is the total lack of respect they have for their detectives and uniform officers.
The grunts doing the work sit and quietly watch as a late model Expedition gets replaced by brand a new Tahoe, then replaced by a Range Rover.
Do they really think a police force trained to observe the little things doesn't take notice?
There are questions that remain to be answered:
1) How many tactical rifles could be purchased with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
2) How many tasers could be purchased with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
3) How many officers could be trained in drug interdiction with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
4) How many plain Jane CID cars could be be purchased to replace aging CID cars with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
5) How many new patrol cars could be purchased or how many old patrol cars could fixed with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
6) How does this impact the growing number of officers who might be considering other law enforcement jobs?
Not really. What's amazing is the total lack of respect they have for their detectives and uniform officers.
The grunts doing the work sit and quietly watch as a late model Expedition gets replaced by brand a new Tahoe, then replaced by a Range Rover.
Do they really think a police force trained to observe the little things doesn't take notice?
There are questions that remain to be answered:
1) How many tactical rifles could be purchased with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
2) How many tasers could be purchased with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
3) How many officers could be trained in drug interdiction with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
4) How many plain Jane CID cars could be be purchased to replace aging CID cars with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
5) How many new patrol cars could be purchased or how many old patrol cars could fixed with proceeds raised by selling a siezed Range Rover?
6) How does this impact the growing number of officers who might be considering other law enforcement jobs?
Stanley Says
The Range Rover in question is a seized vehicle that was assigned to the Narcotics Unit until last week. The Narcotics Unit seized the vehicle as part of a drug case. I suppose Chief Bolton will add it to the large fleet of vehicles assigned to his office. I hear the Uniform Division does not have enough cars for officers who answer 911 calls. Given this command staff's incredible lack of ethics and huge egos, does this action really surprise anyone???
Anonymous Responds To DKPD ANON
DKPD Anon's post is WRONG!
Ellis' proposal WILL NOT be enforced because the veto WILL NOT be over ridden.
Encourage BOYER, GANNON, ELLIS or RADER to suport Jonson's motion. It is THE ONLY WAY for you to get your raises!! THe other three will not budge to support a veto override. VJ only vetoed Ellis' plan to get Johnson's the table.
Ellis' proposal WILL NOT be enforced because the veto WILL NOT be over ridden.
Encourage BOYER, GANNON, ELLIS or RADER to suport Jonson's motion. It is THE ONLY WAY for you to get your raises!! THe other three will not budge to support a veto override. VJ only vetoed Ellis' plan to get Johnson's the table.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING (Comments by DKPD ANON)
Commissioner Johnson's pay increase proposal is on the agenda for Tuesday's (3/25) BOC Hearing. It is listed as the first item on the "H" group of items which will be heard beginning at 1000.
There is a good possibility the Commissioners will have the option/opportunity to vote to override Mr. CEO's veto of Commissioner Ellis' proposal earlier in the Hearing than that.
It is imperative that we e-mail and call the three Commissioners who voted against the Ellis proposal and ask them to support it ... TODAY! Scroll down for an earlier post of mine that lists the contact information for them.
Folks - the Johnson proposal WILL NOT FLY! The only chance to get the proposed pay increases is with the Ellis proposal.
There is a good possibility the Commissioners will have the option/opportunity to vote to override Mr. CEO's veto of Commissioner Ellis' proposal earlier in the Hearing than that.
It is imperative that we e-mail and call the three Commissioners who voted against the Ellis proposal and ask them to support it ... TODAY! Scroll down for an earlier post of mine that lists the contact information for them.
Folks - the Johnson proposal WILL NOT FLY! The only chance to get the proposed pay increases is with the Ellis proposal.
WeFiveCampers Responds:
The Range Rover is Grey. It is being transformed into the typical "Executive Command Staff" pimp ride, illegal tint windows, probably a bench front seat, blue lights, etc, etc. Once it is pimped out, I'm sure a picture will emerge. No markings, and be sure the tag will be that of a civilian with the appearance of being issued from some northwest Georgia county.
And no, the media probably doesn't find it news worthy.........yet.
And no, the media probably doesn't find it news worthy.........yet.
Anonymous Ask:
A Range Rover! If that proves to be true, a picture is a must post.
Would the local media follow up on something like that?
Is this Range Rover 10-7 or on order? Plain black or with the Dekalb logo? Will it have tags?
So many questions surround this post.
Would the local media follow up on something like that?
Is this Range Rover 10-7 or on order? Plain black or with the Dekalb logo? Will it have tags?
So many questions surround this post.
GeorgiaValues Says:
Mr. Jones simply cannot be trusted. He continues to abuse the public trust, vested in him by the citizens of DeKalb County. He is bad for the county, and would be even worse for the State should he (God forbid) be elected to the U.S. Senate.
Let's send Saxby back to Washington!
Let's send Saxby back to Washington!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
WeFiveCampers Says;
Word around the campground is Terrell wasn't satisfied with his Chevrolet Suburban. So he traded up to a Range Rover! I guess soon he will not be satisfied with the American Eagle ICP Campers and move up to a Prevost.
If Bolton gets the other 2 campers he wants, do I have to change my name to WeSevenCampers?
We miss you at the mountain TeBo!
If Bolton gets the other 2 campers he wants, do I have to change my name to WeSevenCampers?
We miss you at the mountain TeBo!
A Current Vet Responds to Retired Anonymous Vet:
Hey Retired Anonymous Vet, not everyone is getting raises. I’ve been around awhile myself and hit the lottery with the Price Waterhouse Study. But that was when Liane Levitan was CEO. That has been almost 8 years now. And that my friend is when I got my last substantial raise.
No, not the same folks are getting raises. You have Terrell’s “Acting Command Staff” working in higher positions without the pay. You have Captains doing a Majors duty without the pay; you have Majors doing an Assistant Chiefs duty without the pay.
Just another way for Bolton to have his little lap dogs jumping around at his feet, just begging to get promoted. Enough to make you sick! Some of those men used to have dignity.
No, not the same folks are getting raises. You have Terrell’s “Acting Command Staff” working in higher positions without the pay. You have Captains doing a Majors duty without the pay; you have Majors doing an Assistant Chiefs duty without the pay.
Just another way for Bolton to have his little lap dogs jumping around at his feet, just begging to get promoted. Enough to make you sick! Some of those men used to have dignity.
A Retired Anonymous Veteran Comments:
I'm retired but I was one of the "winners" that got all the raises after the Price Waterhouse study. I cannot believe that they were giving the same people raises over and over.I started to feel guilty. From my perspective, DKPD started it's downhill slide after Dick Hand left. One of the main reasons I took an early retirement was all the interference from Decatur and the higher command staff didn't have the gut's to draw the line. DKPD lost a lot of good experience with guy's that retired early because of interference from Decatur and all the unnecessary crap that went on...Get some supervisors with gonads and smarts and start backing the officers instead of all the PR junk ....start policing with gusto again...It's a war out there! Will the new CEO have a big security detail like Jones too?
Get Those Phones Ringing and Those Emails Written March 24, 2008!
Here are the telephone listings and email addresses for all the commissioners. Be sure you, your family and friends call and/or write to voice support for an across the board raise for all DeKalb County police officers. Be sure to show your support in uniform Tuesday March 25, 2008 at the Maloof Building beginning at 9:00 AM.
You can still show your support if you do not live in Dekalb County. Don't feel alone, only 2 people within the "Executive Command Staff" live inside DeKalb County. Even the Chief of Police lives in Dallas Texas!
• Elaine Boyer District 1: 404-371-2844 or njmcbrid@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Jeff Rader District 2: 404- 371-2863 or jrrader@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Larry Johnson District 3: 404- 371-2425 or larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Burrell Ellis District 4: 404-371-4749 or Burrell@BurrellEllis.com
• Lee May: District 5: 404-371-4745 or lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Kathie Gannon Super District 6: 404-371-4909 or kgannon@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Connie Stokes Super District 7: 404-371-3053 or conniestokes@co.dekalb.ga.us
You can still show your support if you do not live in Dekalb County. Don't feel alone, only 2 people within the "Executive Command Staff" live inside DeKalb County. Even the Chief of Police lives in Dallas Texas!
• Elaine Boyer District 1: 404-371-2844 or njmcbrid@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Jeff Rader District 2: 404- 371-2863 or jrrader@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Larry Johnson District 3: 404- 371-2425 or larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Burrell Ellis District 4: 404-371-4749 or Burrell@BurrellEllis.com
• Lee May: District 5: 404-371-4745 or lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Kathie Gannon Super District 6: 404-371-4909 or kgannon@co.dekalb.ga.us
• Connie Stokes Super District 7: 404-371-3053 or conniestokes@co.dekalb.ga.us
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Anonymous Comments on Fun Run In Rockdale County:
Great job to every officer that ran in the fun run that Rockdale put on for Barker and Bryant. It was great to see law enforcement get together for a great cause!
But where were the majority of Dekalb officers and command staff? where was Bolton?
But where were the majority of Dekalb officers and command staff? where was Bolton?
What's Wrong With Terrell?
The first 1 minute of the video is just an audible of the breaking news of Bolton being fired in Dallas. At 1 minute, the video begins with Bolton addressing the city counsel.
SHOW THEM WE MEAN IT!
The Board of Commissioners meet Tuesday March 25, 2008. During this meeting they will address a pay raise for the police department, either for the MPO’s and/or an across the board.
BE THERE IN UNIFORM! Or at least have your friends and families call your commissioner and
Anonymous Says:
I am so disappointed with our leadership. This new chief we have has to be the worst we ever had. What is even sadder is I have lost respect for all of the Chief's administration. All they do is kiss butt and fail to understand why officers are leaving. You have three Sergeants who are in the property room because the chief doesn't like them. 2 of 3 captains in communications because the chief doesn't like them. Two sergeants in Code enforcement for the same above reasons. WHY????? TEE BO, I HOPE YOU AND YOUR A#$ KISSERS READ THIS " YOU SUCK AS A CHIEF!! AND YOUR THE WORST KIND OF HUMAN BEING BY SAYING YOU WOULD HAVE TAKEN THOSE BULLETS FOR BARKER AND BRYANT. WE ALL KNOW YOUR A COWARD!!!
Sgt. Friendly Says:
DeKalb will remain as it is until the officers decide that NO AMOUNT OF MONEY IS ADEQUATE PAY FOR ENDURING THE FOOLISHNESS AND DANGER THAT GOES ALONG WITH THAT JOB IN THAT PLACE. The politicians, that micromanage the department to death, need to leave policing to the police, and stop being there for their personal enrichment and start being there for public service. And the public finally needs to get fed up with being victims of these politicians and criminals and vote some competence into office. The root core of the problem with the department does not lie within the department. The fox is watching the hen house in DeKalb! Do you have an answer to my question?
Friday, March 21, 2008
Vernon Still Takes Us for Suckers and Still Knowingly Makes False Statements
In March of 2004, Vernon Jones decided that he would decline a raise that he wasn’t even guaranteed of getting, he called a press conference in his office and said he was demonstrating “leadership and sacrifice” by not accepting the pay increase.
Jones would only get the raise if he won reelection, which he did in the August 2004 Primary (he faced no opposition in the November General Election) In April 2005, Jones decided to accept his raise from $99,274 to $144,491 and requested back pay since January, when the raise was to take affect.
Dunwoody resident Bob Lundsten said then, "I am not really surprised. Because Mr. Jones has a knack for doing things that always seems to upset the public,". "What bothers me is that this reversal of decision and his announcement to take the money is exactly the reason people across the country do not trust politicians. First, he says back during the election season that he would not take the raise, removing it from the politics of re-election. A couple months after during the budget battles and budget public hearing in Dunwoody, (the CEO's assistant) Mr. (Richard) Stogner was asked again whether the CEO will be taking the pay increase and again the answer is no, once again diffusing a potential political battle."
Lundsten said his argument is not against the salary increase, but the manner and timing in which Jones took it.
"As an elected public official, there is a level of trust that Mr. Jones has with the citizens of DeKalb that he must maintain. He broke that trust," Lundsten said. "He knew his economic situation and responsibilities when he first refused the raise. He took advantage of the political benefits of publicly declining the raise and waited till the season changed. He played us all for suckers."
Mr. Lundsten went on to say; "I really have no issue with the pay involved since that is what was decided as compensation for the position," Wright said. "It is not appropriate for me to comment specifically regarding CEO Jones on this issue but I do not think politicians should ever make knowingly false statements to the public. I believe it is paramount that politicians be forthright and honest to their respective shareholders, the constituents."
Jones would only get the raise if he won reelection, which he did in the August 2004 Primary (he faced no opposition in the November General Election) In April 2005, Jones decided to accept his raise from $99,274 to $144,491 and requested back pay since January, when the raise was to take affect.
Dunwoody resident Bob Lundsten said then, "I am not really surprised. Because Mr. Jones has a knack for doing things that always seems to upset the public,". "What bothers me is that this reversal of decision and his announcement to take the money is exactly the reason people across the country do not trust politicians. First, he says back during the election season that he would not take the raise, removing it from the politics of re-election. A couple months after during the budget battles and budget public hearing in Dunwoody, (the CEO's assistant) Mr. (Richard) Stogner was asked again whether the CEO will be taking the pay increase and again the answer is no, once again diffusing a potential political battle."
Lundsten said his argument is not against the salary increase, but the manner and timing in which Jones took it.
"As an elected public official, there is a level of trust that Mr. Jones has with the citizens of DeKalb that he must maintain. He broke that trust," Lundsten said. "He knew his economic situation and responsibilities when he first refused the raise. He took advantage of the political benefits of publicly declining the raise and waited till the season changed. He played us all for suckers."
Mr. Lundsten went on to say; "I really have no issue with the pay involved since that is what was decided as compensation for the position," Wright said. "It is not appropriate for me to comment specifically regarding CEO Jones on this issue but I do not think politicians should ever make knowingly false statements to the public. I believe it is paramount that politicians be forthright and honest to their respective shareholders, the constituents."
Anonymous Says:
you want to be like the old days??? number #1 next to CHP????..Remember the perps even told you..don't go to dekalb they will f%@# you up or you'll be in grady!!!..lets quit being warm kind and fuzzy...cut the lead off the dogs and lets get back to policing the way it needs to be...granted we are short...lack of officers....let the supervisiors handle the complaints at a "common sense" level and let the officers do thier job....and let training put better quality grunts through the academy instead of holding a mirror under thier nose to see if they make fog on the glass!!!..Basic police 101....you want answers??? talk to a veteran officer...they'll tell you were we need to start!!! before they leave.
Veteran Officer Says:
J.T,
Congrats on the new assignment with John's Creek.
Congrats to John's Creek.... You've obviously recognized quality that Dekalb has not. I'm sure J.T. is not coming alone.
I hope Dunwoody is taking notes.
Like I've said before....Dekalb has become a training ground for the feds and the local departments around us. Your relatively high badge number bears that out.
When will Dekalb realize they're letting a good department leave one officer at a time?
Officers are putting in their required year and a half to two years and leaving.
Please, give us the leadership and resources that were once the norm.
Congrats on the new assignment with John's Creek.
Congrats to John's Creek.... You've obviously recognized quality that Dekalb has not. I'm sure J.T. is not coming alone.
I hope Dunwoody is taking notes.
Like I've said before....Dekalb has become a training ground for the feds and the local departments around us. Your relatively high badge number bears that out.
When will Dekalb realize they're letting a good department leave one officer at a time?
Officers are putting in their required year and a half to two years and leaving.
Please, give us the leadership and resources that were once the norm.
Anonymous Says:
I wish the department could return to that time of greatness. What a wonderful place to work. If people will wake up and realized it's not the pay but the leadership that we have in place for the leaving and demised. Like that Officer who is leaving, you can tell it was a hard choice for him to make. He probably was one of the best we had working here. I hope 2009 will make this place a turn around department. We need new non-political leadership.
Sgt. Friendly Says:
A question was raised many years ago about the conditions within the DeKalb County Police Department and no one had a decent answer. Maybe now is the time for this question to be answered fully. As posed several years ago, the question was:
"How do you take the number one (1) department on the entire east coast, and the number two (2) department in the entire nation (second only to LAPD) and, in a matter of just a very few years, bring it to the point where it is today?"
Now don't tell me that the DeKalb County Police Department is better than it was a few years ago. I know better. I was there. High pay, high morale, top of the line equipment, knowledgeable and supportive supervisors (all the way up the line), officers who relied on their abilities as a Police Officer..........not entirely on technology to make good cases, and a spirit of camaraderie unequaled in any department in the southeast. All these things left the DeKalb County Police Department several years ago and they will not return under these conditions. Now answer me................why?
"How do you take the number one (1) department on the entire east coast, and the number two (2) department in the entire nation (second only to LAPD) and, in a matter of just a very few years, bring it to the point where it is today?"
Now don't tell me that the DeKalb County Police Department is better than it was a few years ago. I know better. I was there. High pay, high morale, top of the line equipment, knowledgeable and supportive supervisors (all the way up the line), officers who relied on their abilities as a Police Officer..........not entirely on technology to make good cases, and a spirit of camaraderie unequaled in any department in the southeast. All these things left the DeKalb County Police Department several years ago and they will not return under these conditions. Now answer me................why?
Thursday, March 20, 2008
DeKalb audit find firms got paid far more than contracts allowed (Link)
Somebody needs to go to prison! Our computer and radio system are in shambles. Instead of stepping forward with technology, we are leaping backwards. We need an investigation on the ground within the police department. Shouldn't take long before the indictments and pleas bargains come forth.
Of course Bolton would never allow an independent audit or even an federal investigation into the handling our computer systems. Why are self taught master police officers running the show? We can have preachers and lawyers on the payroll, but why not professional I.T. people?
Of course Bolton would never allow an independent audit or even an federal investigation into the handling our computer systems. Why are self taught master police officers running the show? We can have preachers and lawyers on the payroll, but why not professional I.T. people?
Excerpt from "Dallas' Chief Problem" by Thomas Korosec
"The major concern I hear most about the chief is his command positions. There are people there who just don't have a clue. They just don't," says Glenn White, a senior corporal and president of the department's largest union, the Dallas Police Association. "You look around some of the patrol stations and some of the different bureaus and wonder...they just don't get it."
Sound familiar?
Sound familiar?
Anonymous has left a comment on "PatsQB Respnds to "ICP = Increase in Calls Pending...":
Shut up!!?? PatsQB is JT Ware or was that a fake posting??
***From The Desk of DeKalb Officers: Yes, It is confirmed PatsQB is J.T. Ware. Wish him luck at John's Creek. Word has it there is at least one additional officer going is to John's Creek, plus 8 have just been hired by the DeKalb County Sheriff's Dept.
***From The Desk of DeKalb Officers: Yes, It is confirmed PatsQB is J.T. Ware. Wish him luck at John's Creek. Word has it there is at least one additional officer going is to John's Creek, plus 8 have just been hired by the DeKalb County Sheriff's Dept.
DKPD ANON Says:
ANONYMOUS POSTER IS WRONG!
Come on guys! Y'all are reading stuff into Johnson's resolution that simply isn't there.
Here is the bottom line ... either plan provides a pay increase this year. It will take only one more commissioner vote to override the CEO's veto, and BAM! pay raise is immediately effective. It will take God only knows how many more political bs commissioners' meetings to even consider holding a vote on Johnson's plan.
Even if they DO decide to vote on it, those four commissioners who voted for Ellis' plan aren't going to change their vote if it means a tax increase. They simply are NOT!
Y'all need to decide whether you want a bird in the hand or a hand full of nothing.
Anonymous Poster --- you need to call Burrell directly 770-469-5948 and ask him to explain this to you if you aren't going to believe me.
You are killing me with your negativism!
Come on guys! Y'all are reading stuff into Johnson's resolution that simply isn't there.
Here is the bottom line ... either plan provides a pay increase this year. It will take only one more commissioner vote to override the CEO's veto, and BAM! pay raise is immediately effective. It will take God only knows how many more political bs commissioners' meetings to even consider holding a vote on Johnson's plan.
Even if they DO decide to vote on it, those four commissioners who voted for Ellis' plan aren't going to change their vote if it means a tax increase. They simply are NOT!
Y'all need to decide whether you want a bird in the hand or a hand full of nothing.
Anonymous Poster --- you need to call Burrell directly 770-469-5948 and ask him to explain this to you if you aren't going to believe me.
You are killing me with your negativism!
PatsQB Respnds to "ICP = Increase in Calls Pending
ICP = I Can't Police. Just Kidding, don't be surprised that they are doing soft police work. Setting and attending community meetings along with other family friendy functions.
They are not a stat driven unit, they are not a call driven unit even though they will generate both. ICP is what each officer makes it. I do quite a few that are busting their ass. ICP guys at my precinct helped nab 7 burglarly suspects. It is what it is, try not to get so worked up, the unit won't last long either.
I hate this place. I've accepted my offer. There are so many people here I will miss and I hope I have the opportunity to thank them personally for what they mean to me. Leaving is bittersweet but Tom Brady's moving on in free agency.
Much Love,
JT Ware #2465
72nd Academy
DKPD 10-41 1-5-04
10-42 4-4-08
They are not a stat driven unit, they are not a call driven unit even though they will generate both. ICP is what each officer makes it. I do quite a few that are busting their ass. ICP guys at my precinct helped nab 7 burglarly suspects. It is what it is, try not to get so worked up, the unit won't last long either.
I hate this place. I've accepted my offer. There are so many people here I will miss and I hope I have the opportunity to thank them personally for what they mean to me. Leaving is bittersweet but Tom Brady's moving on in free agency.
Much Love,
JT Ware #2465
72nd Academy
DKPD 10-41 1-5-04
10-42 4-4-08
Anonymous Comments:
Dear Sgt.
I hate to think of all of the experienced, dedicated officers we are losing because of money.
I agree that the entire pay structure should be overhauled as you can't compartmentalize it every few years without it starting to look like a quilt.
With that being said, for the FD and PD, Commissioner Johnsons plan is the most comprehensive to get more for these two departments. It does put an increased burden on the citizens, but as one, I'm willing to pay...and would pay even more than the $20 they're asking for.
I hate to think of all of the experienced, dedicated officers we are losing because of money.
I agree that the entire pay structure should be overhauled as you can't compartmentalize it every few years without it starting to look like a quilt.
With that being said, for the FD and PD, Commissioner Johnsons plan is the most comprehensive to get more for these two departments. It does put an increased burden on the citizens, but as one, I'm willing to pay...and would pay even more than the $20 they're asking for.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Anonymous Responds To "Peter Cotton Tail"
$250,000 of county taypayer money down the drain, which could have been sent elsewhere!
http://dunwoodynorth.blogspot.com/2008/03/dekalb-parks-200000-wasted-and-lawsuit.html
http://www.dunwoodynorth.org/images/DeKalb_Park_MP_workinprocess.pdf
http://www.dunwoodynorth.org/images/DeKalb_Park_MP_canceled.pdf
****From The Desk of DeKalb Officers: Please See "Our Favorite Links"
http://dunwoodynorth.blogspot.com/2008/03/dekalb-parks-200000-wasted-and-lawsuit.html
http://www.dunwoodynorth.org/images/DeKalb_Park_MP_workinprocess.pdf
http://www.dunwoodynorth.org/images/DeKalb_Park_MP_canceled.pdf
****From The Desk of DeKalb Officers: Please See "Our Favorite Links"
Anonymous has left a new comment for"Dear DKPD ANON:"
I would seriously consider giving up the rank of Sgt. in this department if the powers to be once again give a raise only to the MPO's. I have already been @#$%ed over once with the last raise they issued after the Price Waterhouse study. What is the purpose of taking on more responsibility for less pay?
Anonymous Says, "Here Come's Peter Cotton Tail"
We have the highest crime rate ever in the history of this county. And what were the ICP officers doing last Saturday? On a bleep bleep Easter Egg HUNT! Unbelievable! 3 highly trained officers on an Easter Egg Hunt with 15 calls pending! SAD!
Anonymous Says:
Morale takes a hit just seeing Darth Bolton's picture hanging in the lobby of headquarters.
WeFiveCampers Says: ICP Is An Embarrassment
Has anyone seen more than one of the ICP officers in the same room together? What is going on? A group of them were seen together and not one of them had the same color or type shirt on. There was a gray polo type, a black polo type, some grayish blue type, some wearing BDU’s and some wearing regular uniform pants. Baseball type hats with logos of other units. They looked like a rag tag ball club. How embarrassing. And Bolton puts these officers out there for the public to see? At least wear a regular uniform…….like the work reads: uniform.
PatsQB Says:
HERE HERE! Amen amen and amen. I think you have hit the nail on the head. I still love most of the people, I just can't stand political grandstanding by CEOs, Commissioners, or Chiefs. There is such a real, large disconnect from the politicians and the fourth floor at HQ to the officer on the street. The lack of understanding & perspective is overwhelming.
I hate this place.
I hate this place.
Dear DKPD ANON:
Sweets, the raise for the MPO's will still stay in the budget. MPO's are getting a 4% REGARDLESS of if Johnson's or Ellis plan or if both were vetoed. That's a fact.
The difference then becomes: do ALL sworn officers get a MERIT raise, and no tax increase cost 425K (Ellis' plan)
OR
DKPD & DKFD get 4% Cost of Living and 4% Merit with a millage rate increase additionally funding the rape crisis, sidewalk, senior and other cuts made when the budget (including the MPO raise) was voted positively.(Johnson's Plan)
And yes, folks you should call your commissioners. But you should call the commissioners who are trying keep the department down...Boyer, Rader, Gannon and Ellis. 3 of the 4 of them are in an election year. You should really check into how they have voted in the past.
DKPD-I'd be happy to take this to another forum if you're interested in finding out more about the differences. I've taken too much space here.
The difference then becomes: do ALL sworn officers get a MERIT raise, and no tax increase cost 425K (Ellis' plan)
OR
DKPD & DKFD get 4% Cost of Living and 4% Merit with a millage rate increase additionally funding the rape crisis, sidewalk, senior and other cuts made when the budget (including the MPO raise) was voted positively.(Johnson's Plan)
And yes, folks you should call your commissioners. But you should call the commissioners who are trying keep the department down...Boyer, Rader, Gannon and Ellis. 3 of the 4 of them are in an election year. You should really check into how they have voted in the past.
DKPD-I'd be happy to take this to another forum if you're interested in finding out more about the differences. I've taken too much space here.
Notcar1 Says:
A great place to Police......
That was then and this is now. Morale has taken a big hit because we've gotten away from policing.
Money is important because we need to provide for our families, but we all came here to do a job. We didn't expect to become rich. We did expect to be somewhat taken care of.
We expected a good retirement and affordable benefits. We expected raises that would keep up with inflation, increases in pension contributions, and increases in health insurance.
Morale takes a hit everytime the computers are down and Uniform Officers can't get their assigned calls, run suspects or run tags.
Morale takes a hit everytime Uniform Officers stand out in the parking lot waiting for patrol cars to come off the street.
Morale takes a hit everytime a Detective is assigned a number of cases to go with the huge backlog he or she is already working on.
Morale takes a hit everytime a special group of people get a new special perk.
Morale takes a hit everytime a "made man or woman" gets special treatment when they break the rules (or even breaks the law!).
Morale takes a hit everytime Detectives and Uniform Officers go to headquarters and are forced to look at the ridiculous number of reserved parking spaces.
Morale takes a hit everytime Officers and Detectives see money wasted on Tahoes and Expeditions....knowing full well that they don't have enough cars to go out on patrol or the cars they do have are high mileage cars that dont't work or have broken computers.
Morale takes a hit everytime a Uniform Officer is taken off patrol to babysit a useless RV.
Yes, Virginia, it is all about money....and a whole lot more.
That was then and this is now. Morale has taken a big hit because we've gotten away from policing.
Money is important because we need to provide for our families, but we all came here to do a job. We didn't expect to become rich. We did expect to be somewhat taken care of.
We expected a good retirement and affordable benefits. We expected raises that would keep up with inflation, increases in pension contributions, and increases in health insurance.
Morale takes a hit everytime the computers are down and Uniform Officers can't get their assigned calls, run suspects or run tags.
Morale takes a hit everytime Uniform Officers stand out in the parking lot waiting for patrol cars to come off the street.
Morale takes a hit everytime a Detective is assigned a number of cases to go with the huge backlog he or she is already working on.
Morale takes a hit everytime a special group of people get a new special perk.
Morale takes a hit everytime a "made man or woman" gets special treatment when they break the rules (or even breaks the law!).
Morale takes a hit everytime Detectives and Uniform Officers go to headquarters and are forced to look at the ridiculous number of reserved parking spaces.
Morale takes a hit everytime Officers and Detectives see money wasted on Tahoes and Expeditions....knowing full well that they don't have enough cars to go out on patrol or the cars they do have are high mileage cars that dont't work or have broken computers.
Morale takes a hit everytime a Uniform Officer is taken off patrol to babysit a useless RV.
Yes, Virginia, it is all about money....and a whole lot more.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Anonymous Says:
15 years ago DeKalb was a great place to police. It had a stellar reputation, and quality people were knocking down the doors to get over here. Over those 15 years I have watched my police department transition from a great place to police into a great place to receive excellent police training before continuing your career elsewhere. It's disappointing to watch this take place when I know there is not really much I can do about it. I can stay and hope to make rank, maybe then in 5-8 years I can make a difference, or I can leave and take a substantial pay cut initially and hope the green grass that drew me away stays green long enough for me to see a benefit. It's a sad, sad time in my life when I come to work everyday and continue to put my life on the line for a county whose ruling body does not have my best interest at heart. I stay because I hope it will get better, it just has to. But I speak for many who will tell you that you can no longer expect us to sit around and watch you make financial and political decisions that benefit your future with play station like quickness, while voting on mine with all the speed of old men playing chess! That just plain crazy. if you need assistance fixing this mess you have yourselves in...you have us all in....dial 911, when you come off hold, tell the nice overworked operator you have a problem you can't solve, she will start you a unit. WE ARE DEKALB COUNTY POLICE OFFICERS. problem solving is what we do.
DKPD ANON Says:
E-MAIL THESE COMMISSIONERS!
Tbe raise for MPO's may be in the 2008 budget, but both the Johnson and Ellis resolutions supersede and modify that budget!
Don't y'all get it?? The Ellis motion was approved and actually went into effect -- until Mr. CEO vetoed it! It didn't limit raises to MPOs only -- read it carefully -- it says "across-the-board".
I can't believe y'all have wasted a whole week on this distinction -- and that you haven't been calling and e-mailing the three dissenting commissioners every day!
The next time the commissioners convene (it doesn't have to be next Tuesday -- it could be much sooner), there will be an opportunity for them to override Mr. CEO's veto -- and get these raises approved!
Dist 3 Larry Johnson 404-371-2425
larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us
Dist 5 Lee May 404-371-4745
lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us
Dist 7 Connie Stokes 770-593-3999
cstokes@co.dekalb.ga.us
Do y'all want these increases or not? If you do, pass the word to your family, friends and supporters in the community, and get them to write and call, too!
Tbe raise for MPO's may be in the 2008 budget, but both the Johnson and Ellis resolutions supersede and modify that budget!
Don't y'all get it?? The Ellis motion was approved and actually went into effect -- until Mr. CEO vetoed it! It didn't limit raises to MPOs only -- read it carefully -- it says "across-the-board".
I can't believe y'all have wasted a whole week on this distinction -- and that you haven't been calling and e-mailing the three dissenting commissioners every day!
The next time the commissioners convene (it doesn't have to be next Tuesday -- it could be much sooner), there will be an opportunity for them to override Mr. CEO's veto -- and get these raises approved!
Dist 3 Larry Johnson 404-371-2425
larryjohnson@co.dekalb.ga.us
Dist 5 Lee May 404-371-4745
lmay@co.dekalb.ga.us
Dist 7 Connie Stokes 770-593-3999
cstokes@co.dekalb.ga.us
Do y'all want these increases or not? If you do, pass the word to your family, friends and supporters in the community, and get them to write and call, too!
Anonymous Says:
"We've seen a lot of political grandstanding lately about public safety"
I find this comment by Burrell Ellis hysterical!! He is running for CEO and most of the GRANDSTANDING around this issue for the last month has been him.
Don't be fooled- be aware of the county higher ups that really support public safety.
I find this comment by Burrell Ellis hysterical!! He is running for CEO and most of the GRANDSTANDING around this issue for the last month has been him.
Don't be fooled- be aware of the county higher ups that really support public safety.
Anonymous Responds To DKPD ANON:
The raise only for MPO's is in the 2008 Budget, created by VJ, approved by the BOC at the end of Feb. They are trying to stop attrition and that's why the MPO's were singled out to get the raise.
Enter Johnson and Ellis-
Enter Johnson and Ellis-
DKPD ANON MANS UP
I made a mistake.
My facts aren't wrong, but I gave you guys a bad link, as one of you has pointed out. My post of 16:18 on Sunday the 16th provided a link to Kathie Gannon's "editorial" on GoDeKalb. The link should have been as follows:
http://www.broadcastatlanta.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8067&Itemid=2780
Cut and paste this link into your browser address bar to read the article written by Burrell Ellis. He lays out the specifics directly from his substitute motion.
Where do you see that his proposed pay increases are limited to MPOs?
Why do some of y'all continue to insist on this being in there?
I will restate: Ellis' proposal gives DKPD everything Johnson's does --- and more!
My facts aren't wrong, but I gave you guys a bad link, as one of you has pointed out. My post of 16:18 on Sunday the 16th provided a link to Kathie Gannon's "editorial" on GoDeKalb. The link should have been as follows:
http://www.broadcastatlanta.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8067&Itemid=2780
Cut and paste this link into your browser address bar to read the article written by Burrell Ellis. He lays out the specifics directly from his substitute motion.
Where do you see that his proposed pay increases are limited to MPOs?
Why do some of y'all continue to insist on this being in there?
I will restate: Ellis' proposal gives DKPD everything Johnson's does --- and more!
Monday, March 17, 2008
P.D. Veteran Comments:
A pay raise would be nice but, is that going to improve moral? Shouldn't the commissioners fix the current pay structure before implementing a raise? Throughout the department there are rookies making as much or more than veterans. The county spent millions on a study several years ago that messed up the entire pay structure. Example... Two officers graduate from the same academy. Ofc. #1 stays in trouble and doesn't get promoted. Ofc. #2 exceeds standards and gets promoted twice. The pay increase was implemented as recommended by the multi-million dollar study. Now Ofc. #1 makes $12,000 more a year than Ofc. #2. Over the years the county has increased the starting salary of new officers. They never increased the salary of the existing officers. With just a little time and a couple raises, the new officer has passed the veteran in pay. So if you are any good at math, you can see that another across the board raise is just going to increase the salary gap between the rookies and the veterans, which in turn is going to kill moral and you have more veterans leaving the department.
Anonymous Says:
"and while we are at it how about that training staff. they continue to produce quality training despite their 3rd world training environment. i mean really,a pee trough in the mens room are you kidding me? A PEE TROUGH? I am a grown man.... i heard they were short staffed yet expected to produce more and more officers thru the academy, calling all felons.....
DKPD ANON SAYS ALL CAPS IS RIGHT
ALL CAPS makes an accurate assessment of the situation, except the four Commissioners who voted FOR the increase voted for one that parallels Commissioner Johnson's resolution so far as the amounts and who gets paid. DeKalb County has not yet posted Burrell Ellis' substitute motion on their web site, and I cannot find a copy of it through a google search ---but it DOES give the same pay increases that Larry Johnson requested ... and to more people!
Anonymous Responds To "Point Being Missed"
According to Kathie Gannon..,
"In the seven weeks that your Board of Commissioners held weekly budget review meetings, the CEO/Police Chief/Commissioner Johnson did not present a plan to fund across the board pay raises for sworn police offices or for a tax increase. A “plan” was talked about at the 2/26 public meeting but not presented for a vote. It was presented at the 3/11 meeting following a “get out the community” campaign. The main difference from the adopted budget was an additional 4% pay increase for some sworn officers and an increase to YOUR taxes."
THE TRUTH IS VJ WAS LOOKING TO COMMISSIONERS TO CUT THE BUDGET IN ORDER TO BALANCE IT, WHICH HE HAS TO DO BY LAW. THE COMMISSIONERS MADE CUTS AND THAT IS WHEN JOHNSON'S PLAN WAS FIRST INTRODUCED. IT INCLUDED A TAX INCREASE BUT AVOIDED BUDGET CUTS AND GOT MORE FOR FD AND PD.
THE CHIEF DID NOT NEED TO SUBMIT A "PLAN" AS HE HAD ALREADY DONE SO WITH THE ICP. HE HAS ALREADY ASKED FOR 8% INCREASES.
THE FACT IS, IT WAS GANNON, BOYER,ELLIS & RADER WHO VOTED FORE THE LIMITED INCREASE. THEIR INTENT IS TO PROTECT CITIZENS FROM A TAX INCREASE WHILE THE ECONOMY IS BAD. NEVERMIND THAT YOU ALL SUFFER THROUGH THE SAME ECONOMY.
SORRY FOR THE ALL CAPS-WAS NOT MEANT AS SCREAMING.
"In the seven weeks that your Board of Commissioners held weekly budget review meetings, the CEO/Police Chief/Commissioner Johnson did not present a plan to fund across the board pay raises for sworn police offices or for a tax increase. A “plan” was talked about at the 2/26 public meeting but not presented for a vote. It was presented at the 3/11 meeting following a “get out the community” campaign. The main difference from the adopted budget was an additional 4% pay increase for some sworn officers and an increase to YOUR taxes."
THE TRUTH IS VJ WAS LOOKING TO COMMISSIONERS TO CUT THE BUDGET IN ORDER TO BALANCE IT, WHICH HE HAS TO DO BY LAW. THE COMMISSIONERS MADE CUTS AND THAT IS WHEN JOHNSON'S PLAN WAS FIRST INTRODUCED. IT INCLUDED A TAX INCREASE BUT AVOIDED BUDGET CUTS AND GOT MORE FOR FD AND PD.
THE CHIEF DID NOT NEED TO SUBMIT A "PLAN" AS HE HAD ALREADY DONE SO WITH THE ICP. HE HAS ALREADY ASKED FOR 8% INCREASES.
THE FACT IS, IT WAS GANNON, BOYER,ELLIS & RADER WHO VOTED FORE THE LIMITED INCREASE. THEIR INTENT IS TO PROTECT CITIZENS FROM A TAX INCREASE WHILE THE ECONOMY IS BAD. NEVERMIND THAT YOU ALL SUFFER THROUGH THE SAME ECONOMY.
SORRY FOR THE ALL CAPS-WAS NOT MEANT AS SCREAMING.
PatsQB Responds:
It is not his job to decide where the money comes from, that belongs to the CEO and the commissioners. He doesn't control the monies, they do.
Anonymous Says:
Those kids deserve a couple of days off. Their academy was extended for a week because the chief was on vacation, the original graduation date was supposed to be 03/07/08.
Retirement
Sergeant R.D. (Bob/Pappy) Peterson of Center Precinct is retiring after 22 years of service. His last working day is Tuesday, March 18, 2008. There will be a send off for Sgt. Peterson Friday March 28, 2008 at Center Precinct in the roll call room.
Contact any Center Precinct supervisor if you would like to contribute.
Contact any Center Precinct supervisor if you would like to contribute.
The Point Being Missed Is........
“the Police Chief did not present a plan to fund across the board pay raises for sworn police officers!”
Anonymous Responds:
How are you wrong...let me count the ways...
The link to the agenda item is only a brief summary of proposals. If you read the document closely there are 7 more pages related to that proposal that you don't get. The commissioners get it, outlining the specifics.
The link that you cite referencing Commissioner Ellis' plan is an article on Go Dekalb written by Kathie Gannon.
If you read it closely it says the adopted budget, which had 4% merit raise for MPO's ONLY, and if you add Ellis' plan for 4% across the board for ALL sworn officers, with no tax increase and budget cuts for all departments except for PS of .125%.
So tell me how Johnsons plan, with only Police and Fire, with a millage increase can be in the 3 million range and Ellis can get all sworn officers an 8% for $425K???
I read it on this blog that DKC salaries are comprable to local counties and that may be true as far as dollars and cents but not in benefits such as take home cars, tax breaks for living in your community, etc.
I do agree with you that it shouldn't matter where it comes from as long as it comes but it ain't comin' with Ellis' plan.
The link to the agenda item is only a brief summary of proposals. If you read the document closely there are 7 more pages related to that proposal that you don't get. The commissioners get it, outlining the specifics.
The link that you cite referencing Commissioner Ellis' plan is an article on Go Dekalb written by Kathie Gannon.
If you read it closely it says the adopted budget, which had 4% merit raise for MPO's ONLY, and if you add Ellis' plan for 4% across the board for ALL sworn officers, with no tax increase and budget cuts for all departments except for PS of .125%.
So tell me how Johnsons plan, with only Police and Fire, with a millage increase can be in the 3 million range and Ellis can get all sworn officers an 8% for $425K???
I read it on this blog that DKC salaries are comprable to local counties and that may be true as far as dollars and cents but not in benefits such as take home cars, tax breaks for living in your community, etc.
I do agree with you that it shouldn't matter where it comes from as long as it comes but it ain't comin' with Ellis' plan.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Johnson’s Proposal, Ellis Proposal, Vernon’s Proposal......
.........the most important proposal is Bolton’s! And what did Bolton ask for? According to Commissioner Gannon’s open letter, “the CEO/Police Chief/Commissioner Johnson did not present a plan to fund across the board pay raises for sworn police officers”. Read that again, “the Police Chief did not present a plan to fund across the board pay raises for sworn police officers!”
Bolton’s redundant “New Start, New Beginning” proposed an 8% across the board for all police for the next 3 years.
So what does this make Bolton?
Bolton’s redundant “New Start, New Beginning” proposed an 8% across the board for all police for the next 3 years.
So what does this make Bolton?
DKPD Anon Says.......
I am NOT wrong!
Cut and paste this link to go to the actual agenda and read Commissioner Johnson’s proposal:
http://agenda.co.dekalb.ga.us/cache/00002/463/2008-03-11_ITEMH17.PDF
Cut and paste this link to go to GoDeKalb and read Commissioner Ellis’ proposal.
http://www.broadcastatlanta.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8068&Itemid=2781
Johnson’s proposal says:
“Approve providing an across-the-board raise of 4% in addition to the merit increment for Police Officers and Fire and Rescue sworn personnel with benefits as a pay enhancement for public safety personnel. A .21 millage rate increase would be required.”
Ellis’ proposal request says:
“provides for an across-the-board 4% merit increase for all sworn officers, including Police, Fire, the Sheriff's Department, Marshall's office, District Attorney's office, Solicitor General's office, State Court Probation officers, and Medical Examiners Office;
provides an additional across-the-board salary adjustment increase of 4% for all sworn officers, including Police, Fire, the Sheriff's Department, Marshall's office, District Attorney's office, the Solicitor General's office, State Court Probation officers, and Medical Examiners Office;
improves retention by increasing the pay of all sworn officers;”
The bold type (for emphasis) is mine --- but those are their words!
Please tell me how I’m wrong. I still say it shouldn’t matter how these increases get funded --- so long as the money gets paid out.
Cut and paste this link to go to the actual agenda and read Commissioner Johnson’s proposal:
http://agenda.co.dekalb.ga.us/cache/00002/463/2008-03-11_ITEMH17.PDF
Cut and paste this link to go to GoDeKalb and read Commissioner Ellis’ proposal.
http://www.broadcastatlanta.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=8068&Itemid=2781
Johnson’s proposal says:
“Approve providing an across-the-board raise of 4% in addition to the merit increment for Police Officers and Fire and Rescue sworn personnel with benefits as a pay enhancement for public safety personnel. A .21 millage rate increase would be required.”
Ellis’ proposal request says:
“provides for an across-the-board 4% merit increase for all sworn officers, including Police, Fire, the Sheriff's Department, Marshall's office, District Attorney's office, Solicitor General's office, State Court Probation officers, and Medical Examiners Office;
provides an additional across-the-board salary adjustment increase of 4% for all sworn officers, including Police, Fire, the Sheriff's Department, Marshall's office, District Attorney's office, the Solicitor General's office, State Court Probation officers, and Medical Examiners Office;
improves retention by increasing the pay of all sworn officers;”
The bold type (for emphasis) is mine --- but those are their words!
Please tell me how I’m wrong. I still say it shouldn’t matter how these increases get funded --- so long as the money gets paid out.
Anonymous Responds To The Article "Dallas At The Tippig Point"
The article "Dallas at the Tipping Point" (the link is in the new section highlighting Bolton's past)
Two things really stood out when I read the article.
1) Low Morale due to Salary
increases met at the door by "sharply raised insurance deductibles and eliminated a service-longevity incentive"
2)And a report that showed "only 43 percent of sworn officers assigned to answer calls -- "the lowest among the peer cities,"
A lot sounds familiar. Does anyoe know how many of our sworn officers are answering 911 calls?
Two things really stood out when I read the article.
1) Low Morale due to Salary
increases met at the door by "sharply raised insurance deductibles and eliminated a service-longevity incentive"
2)And a report that showed "only 43 percent of sworn officers assigned to answer calls -- "the lowest among the peer cities,"
A lot sounds familiar. Does anyoe know how many of our sworn officers are answering 911 calls?
The Wasted Dollars Continue
Right in the middle of the budget fight, the entire 49 graduates of the 82nd Academy were given 2 days of paid administrative leave. Why give them paid administrative leave? Why were their off days not adjusted to balance their time worked?
That is 784 man hours. How much is this costing the citizens of DeKalb County?
The waste continues!
That is 784 man hours. How much is this costing the citizens of DeKalb County?
The waste continues!
Dawgs Win Says.......
Hey, my first entry on this site. I am not a cop and dont live in DeKalb, but I grew up there and graduated from high school there, as did my wife. I do have a position in state government that lets me have input on public safety policy and I try to use the vantage point of a street cop.
If we can make your lives easier and safer, thats my goal. I will be checking in regularly to read your bolgs and responses. I think this is a great way to get a true feel for what DeKalb and other cops are thinking.
If we can make your lives easier and safer, thats my goal. I will be checking in regularly to read your bolgs and responses. I think this is a great way to get a true feel for what DeKalb and other cops are thinking.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
In DeKalb, Bolton Has His "Road To Success". In Dallas, They Have Their "Road To Recovery".
The city of Dallas was forced to pay millions of dollars to command staff members Mr. Bolton improperly demoted after he was hired as police chief here in 1999; the 2001 fake-drug scandal, in which crooked narcotics detectives and their informants planted fake drugs on immigrants; the recycling of failed police academy recruits, some of whom had to be fired later for misconduct on the job; the allegations of cronyism after he promoted several of his close friends and allies to high-ranking command staff positions and allegations of “senior police officials” involvement in bribery involving strip club licenses.
Anonymous Claims DKDP ANON IS WRONG!
Here is the real deal.
The 2008 Budget was voted on at the end of Feb. It incuded 4% merit raises for MPO's ONLY!!!!! This was in an effort to stop attrition.
Then Johnson had a proposal 2 weeks ago that would have included a small millage rate increase that would cover Police and Fire for ALL to get an across the board 4% cost of living. It would also prevent some cuts for other programs in the budget. This motion was on the agenda last Tuesday to be voted up or down. It is my understanding that prior to the meeting the commissioners were voting favorably.
Then Ellis proposes his "Ellis" plan that has no tax increase but gives ALL sworn officers (marshalls, sherriff, etc) the 4%-and this is only MERIT- so not everyone will get 4% but a possible 4%.
In actuality, the only person who could possibly get an 8% would be an MPO with impeccable merit capabilities.
Johnsons plan also allows an opportunity to include other sworn officers later.
The CEO vetoed Ellis' plan so that Johnsons motion could be voted on. In parliamentary rules, that's the only way JOhnsons motion could get a vote. In fact, the CEO asked Commissioner Ellis to withdraw his motion, so they could vote on JOhnsons plan, and had it failed, they could have voted on the Ellis plan and he would not do that.
Just remember folks, this is an eleciton year. Some are trying to further their political careers and many county employees and many citizens are merely a pawn in this game.
I support an increase to get the PD the resources they need. This county is in a dire position.
"DKPD ANON RESPONDS
Y'all got it all wrong. Commissioner Ellis' substitute motion gives the full 8% to EVERYONE! Four Commissioners voted FOR this motion, so the raises were approved. It became effective immediately on Tuesday. Vernon vetoed the motion on Wednesday, so our beef is with Mr. CEO --- not the Commissioners.
Vernon's veto can be overridden with five Commissioner votes. The four who originally voted for the motion will vote for the override, so all we need to do is persuade one more Commissioner to vote FOR the override --- and the raises are back!"
The 2008 Budget was voted on at the end of Feb. It incuded 4% merit raises for MPO's ONLY!!!!! This was in an effort to stop attrition.
Then Johnson had a proposal 2 weeks ago that would have included a small millage rate increase that would cover Police and Fire for ALL to get an across the board 4% cost of living. It would also prevent some cuts for other programs in the budget. This motion was on the agenda last Tuesday to be voted up or down. It is my understanding that prior to the meeting the commissioners were voting favorably.
Then Ellis proposes his "Ellis" plan that has no tax increase but gives ALL sworn officers (marshalls, sherriff, etc) the 4%-and this is only MERIT- so not everyone will get 4% but a possible 4%.
In actuality, the only person who could possibly get an 8% would be an MPO with impeccable merit capabilities.
Johnsons plan also allows an opportunity to include other sworn officers later.
The CEO vetoed Ellis' plan so that Johnsons motion could be voted on. In parliamentary rules, that's the only way JOhnsons motion could get a vote. In fact, the CEO asked Commissioner Ellis to withdraw his motion, so they could vote on JOhnsons plan, and had it failed, they could have voted on the Ellis plan and he would not do that.
Just remember folks, this is an eleciton year. Some are trying to further their political careers and many county employees and many citizens are merely a pawn in this game.
I support an increase to get the PD the resources they need. This county is in a dire position.
"DKPD ANON RESPONDS
Y'all got it all wrong. Commissioner Ellis' substitute motion gives the full 8% to EVERYONE! Four Commissioners voted FOR this motion, so the raises were approved. It became effective immediately on Tuesday. Vernon vetoed the motion on Wednesday, so our beef is with Mr. CEO --- not the Commissioners.
Vernon's veto can be overridden with five Commissioner votes. The four who originally voted for the motion will vote for the override, so all we need to do is persuade one more Commissioner to vote FOR the override --- and the raises are back!"
comeonguys says:
I agree with you all. Things are bad. If you hate this job as much as you guys say, then why are you here? Go to Sandy Springs, Johns Creek or Gwinnett. The Grass Is Greener on The other Side. How can you spend the best years of your life miserable? Go on and take the leap if it is so bad here. You make this place what it is, not the Chief or the Command Staff.
PatsQB Comments:
Well they keep trying throw a religious tone to a POLICE GRADUATION. I guess they think it will save a few and make the community happy. Its something I will never understand. They make it a place for him (chief) to tell how great they and their friends ( CEO ) are, its all politics , they need all the praise they can get.The ones who really deserve the credit are never acknowledged. I heard it was packed with all the brass, who were ordered to attend in white shirts. They all worried that someone will noticed they did not attended and lose out on a chance to be a Major or above. We are in a sad state of affairs. I will give the Chief credit, I never imagine that we would have 5 fancy motor homes to cruise the county . With them on the street , think of the crime reduction that takes place, and the cost of gas to fuel them. They could be on the take home list soon too.
Friday, March 14, 2008
DKPD ANON RESPONDS
Y'all got it all wrong. Commissioner Ellis' substitute motion gives the full 8% to EVERYONE! Four Commissioners voted FOR this motion, so the raises were approved. It became effective immediately on Tuesday. Vernon vetoed the motion on Wednesday, so our beef is with Mr. CEO --- not the Commissioners.
Vernon's veto can be overridden with five Commissioner votes. The four who originally voted for the motion will vote for the override, so all we need to do is persuade one more Commissioner to vote FOR the override --- and the raises are back!
Vernon's veto can be overridden with five Commissioner votes. The four who originally voted for the motion will vote for the override, so all we need to do is persuade one more Commissioner to vote FOR the override --- and the raises are back!
PatsQB Comments: Who Is the Academy Graduation Really For?
I can't argue with you Sammichmuncher you are on target. Fly you are right too!
New subject for gripes....has anyone been to an academy graduation ceremony lately? You would not believe how it is about everything but what recruits have done to graduate and their journey. It does not properly recognize the instructors who put in so much time teaching, motivating, and PT'ing with you. I know not all instructors were the same but mine was bad ass. Now we have choral groups singing the same song over and over..."Seee-ee yourself in the future! YOoouu aaaarrreeeee royalty!".
I hate this place.
New subject for gripes....has anyone been to an academy graduation ceremony lately? You would not believe how it is about everything but what recruits have done to graduate and their journey. It does not properly recognize the instructors who put in so much time teaching, motivating, and PT'ing with you. I know not all instructors were the same but mine was bad ass. Now we have choral groups singing the same song over and over..."Seee-ee yourself in the future! YOoouu aaaarrreeeee royalty!".
I hate this place.
Anonymous Responds To "Send In the Clowns"
The Burrell Ellis plan should have been vetoed by the CEO. If you were watching, he stated he would allow a tax increase because that was the public will. He asked Mr. Ellis if he would withdraw his substitute proposal and allow Mr. Johnson's to come for a thumbs up or down vote but Mr. Ellis declined.
The politics here are being played, at our expense, by Mr.Ellis. You can also count on another substitute bill being introduced next time to again delay a vote on Mr. Johnson's recommendation.
Mr. Ellis stated in this time of a recession that we had to tighten our belts. I would agree but want to ask this: In the past 10 years of prosperity, what was the Public Safety Department given? I believe we have recieved a total of 3% across the board raise in the last 10 years. However, our pension has gone up double that our Merit increases have been reduced to 2 or 3% on average.
I don't know when the political games will end but it is almost too late to save this place now. We have veteran officers leaving to go to the Sheriff's Department and other smaller agencies. When did you ever think you would see that? We can thank ALL of the County Commissioners for that.
The politics here are being played, at our expense, by Mr.Ellis. You can also count on another substitute bill being introduced next time to again delay a vote on Mr. Johnson's recommendation.
Mr. Ellis stated in this time of a recession that we had to tighten our belts. I would agree but want to ask this: In the past 10 years of prosperity, what was the Public Safety Department given? I believe we have recieved a total of 3% across the board raise in the last 10 years. However, our pension has gone up double that our Merit increases have been reduced to 2 or 3% on average.
I don't know when the political games will end but it is almost too late to save this place now. We have veteran officers leaving to go to the Sheriff's Department and other smaller agencies. When did you ever think you would see that? We can thank ALL of the County Commissioners for that.
Sammichmuncher Comments:
Kudos for TeeBo.
You've got to give TeeBo credit. He was fired from his previous job and landed a chief's position in one of the largest counties in the state of Georgia. Not bad for being fired, huh?
And, consider VeeJo's motivation for hiring a new chief. He needed a "puppet" to do exactly as he said, no questions asked. Would a successful chief in another major metropolitan area consider having the strings attached, VeeJo's hand up your butt moving your lips, and obeying the puppetmaster without question? NO, HEKK NO!
So, VeeJo found a suitable puppet, TeeBo found him a good paying job, especially for a FIRED police chief.
My $0.02 worth is that TeeBo is playing the puppet game for all it's worth, seeing the writing on the wall that when VeeJo is gone, he will be too.
Get everything you can TeeBo, it isn't going to last too much longer!
Sammichmuncher
You've got to give TeeBo credit. He was fired from his previous job and landed a chief's position in one of the largest counties in the state of Georgia. Not bad for being fired, huh?
And, consider VeeJo's motivation for hiring a new chief. He needed a "puppet" to do exactly as he said, no questions asked. Would a successful chief in another major metropolitan area consider having the strings attached, VeeJo's hand up your butt moving your lips, and obeying the puppetmaster without question? NO, HEKK NO!
So, VeeJo found a suitable puppet, TeeBo found him a good paying job, especially for a FIRED police chief.
My $0.02 worth is that TeeBo is playing the puppet game for all it's worth, seeing the writing on the wall that when VeeJo is gone, he will be too.
Get everything you can TeeBo, it isn't going to last too much longer!
Sammichmuncher
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Fly On The Wall Ask:
Why are officers leaving Dekalb Police Department?
1. Look at the lack of leadership for the last 3 years.
2. We have lost any credibility with other departments.
3. We are a reactive department to a crisis with no real solution.
4. We are a political tool of the CEO.
5. The CEO controls the police department.
6. The department heads are in fear of losing their rank if they object to any proposal.
7. The computer system is flaw and the only recourse is to find another vendor. The system we have now in the police units have fewer resources than the ones they replaced. We went downward instead of advancing in police computers. Wonder who got paid for that adventure.
8. Its not the MONEY that officers work for, it’s the satisfaction of finding solutions to problems and finding criminals who commit crimes.
9. The officers have lost the spirit, mainly due to poor leadership. Officers will follow someone who can show dedication and real goals to accomplish.
10. Then you have a Chief who was fired from Dallas and come here and brings outsiders (with no qualifications) and appoints them as department heads. They then depend on the few real leaders in the department to help them function. He likes females that are obvious by their appointment.
11. Then we have the motor homes. Enough said draw your own conclusion to that.
12. Chief Bolton loyalty is with Vernon Jones who gave him a job; he needed someone who would take “THE SWORD “as it was put to Chief Moody.
1. Look at the lack of leadership for the last 3 years.
2. We have lost any credibility with other departments.
3. We are a reactive department to a crisis with no real solution.
4. We are a political tool of the CEO.
5. The CEO controls the police department.
6. The department heads are in fear of losing their rank if they object to any proposal.
7. The computer system is flaw and the only recourse is to find another vendor. The system we have now in the police units have fewer resources than the ones they replaced. We went downward instead of advancing in police computers. Wonder who got paid for that adventure.
8. Its not the MONEY that officers work for, it’s the satisfaction of finding solutions to problems and finding criminals who commit crimes.
9. The officers have lost the spirit, mainly due to poor leadership. Officers will follow someone who can show dedication and real goals to accomplish.
10. Then you have a Chief who was fired from Dallas and come here and brings outsiders (with no qualifications) and appoints them as department heads. They then depend on the few real leaders in the department to help them function. He likes females that are obvious by their appointment.
11. Then we have the motor homes. Enough said draw your own conclusion to that.
12. Chief Bolton loyalty is with Vernon Jones who gave him a job; he needed someone who would take “THE SWORD “as it was put to Chief Moody.
Anonymous Comments: Whose Job Is It Anyway?
I over heard someone within the higher ranks of the chain of command complaining the other day, he's tired of people passing him on the interstate and wanted to know who handles the interstates. The response I heard was...well the TAC unit handles speeding....he replies ...I want them out there stopping everything over 70 and be given a ticket. I have to admit...yes its a little crazy on 285 ...but 70??
I guess the ticket push is really on!!
I might as well stand on the exit ramp and hold a sign, "will work for food", cause with Vernon vetoing our raises...nothing else to look forward to!!
Other departments sure are look better...day by day!!
I guess the ticket push is really on!!
I might as well stand on the exit ramp and hold a sign, "will work for food", cause with Vernon vetoing our raises...nothing else to look forward to!!
Other departments sure are look better...day by day!!
PatsQB Answers "Who is the Attorney?"
Rupal Vaishnav was his name and he did work for the DeKalb County Law Department. I wanna say he worked for THE COUNTY for like five or so years.
If anything is ever gonna change we have got to stop being conspiracy theorists. Not everything going on up on the fourth floor is bad.
I hate this place.
If anything is ever gonna change we have got to stop being conspiracy theorists. Not everything going on up on the fourth floor is bad.
I hate this place.
WeFiveCampers Ask:
Who was the legal adviser that left? How many years of service did he spend with the county? Didn't know the county had a legal adviser. Isn't that what the county attorney's office does? If not, then why do they represent the department in all merit matters and more?
PatsQB responds To "Who's The Attorney?"
He's the new legal advisor...replacing the legal advisor that left after many years of service. It is not a new position created.
A Dallas Resident Responds:
Gentlemen, as a current Dallas resident who had the misfortune of watching the decline of our city under Chief Bolton's chaotic rule, I feel your pain.
Searching the archives of our local publications such as D Magazine ( www.dmagazine.com or its blog: frontburner.dmagazine.com ), the Dallas Observer ( www.dallasobserver.com or its blog: blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/ ) as well as the Dallas Morning News ( www.dallasnews.com ), you will find all sorts of interesting, crazy stories about Bolton during his time here.
Honestly, no one in Dallas ever thought he would manage to get a senior position in another major police department after everything that went down here; we were really left open-mouthed and slack-jawed when we saw the story about his new gig in Dekalb County.
Searching the archives of our local publications such as D Magazine ( www.dmagazine.com or its blog: frontburner.dmagazine.com ), the Dallas Observer ( www.dallasobserver.com or its blog: blogs.dallasobserver.com/unfairpark/ ) as well as the Dallas Morning News ( www.dallasnews.com ), you will find all sorts of interesting, crazy stories about Bolton during his time here.
Honestly, no one in Dallas ever thought he would manage to get a senior position in another major police department after everything that went down here; we were really left open-mouthed and slack-jawed when we saw the story about his new gig in Dekalb County.
Anonymus, Comments:
Its funny how they are addressing the needs of the police department to retain officers and one issue is raises. Now we have everyone jumping on the bandwagon, sheriff, fire, give me a break.
Anonymous, Comments
Actually, I misspoke. After receiving Ellis newsletter, sent out prior to yesterdays veto, it indeed states that it is a 4% MERIT for all Public Safety. So everyone will not get a 4% which is how it was suggested in the meeting.
Toney The Tard Responds to The Chiefs Attorney:
You left out his lap dogs following him around, jumping up and down with their tongues hanging out. "Yes Chief, oh Yes Chief,......can I be a Major this week? "You can leave me at Captains pay, Oh Please Chief, let me be a Major!
Anonymous Comment: Chief Bolton Now Has A Full TIme Attorney Assigned to Him?
Who is the new clown walking around with T.B.? Word is, he is a new defense lawyer hired to advise the Chief daily. Where did this new position and lawyer come from? So now he has "pastors and lawyers" following him around. Now we understand the need for the Chevy Tahoes. Lets air it all out.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Anonymous, Responds to Veto
The CEO did not veto a raise for PD. He vetoed the plan that would only get you all 4%. Ellis' plan only gets you 4%, across the board for ALL sworn officers. Then the original budget gets ONLY MPOs the additional 4% merit.
CEO vetoed Ellis plan so Commissioner JOhnson's plan could be voted on. It gives 4% to PD and FD and 4% merit to those same people. Not just MPO's.
CEO vetoed Ellis plan so Commissioner JOhnson's plan could be voted on. It gives 4% to PD and FD and 4% merit to those same people. Not just MPO's.
PatsQB Comments:
Don't remain uneducated on purpose. (See attached link). This is what was asked for and has been denied and vetoed. Chief is trying to get something. Is he doing everything right? Obviously not. Is he trying? Yes. Is the final say so out of his hands? Of course. The problem is the county.
And some white shirts are better than others..I am just not lucky enough to work for the 3-4 that are good.
http://dekalbpolice.com/pdf/Road%20To%20Success%20Action%20Plan.pdf
And some white shirts are better than others..I am just not lucky enough to work for the 3-4 that are good.
http://dekalbpolice.com/pdf/Road%20To%20Success%20Action%20Plan.pdf
Remarks from Anonymous
In my opinion, VJ vetoed Ellis' plan because it does not do for the PD what Johnsons plan does.
Johnsons plan includes a 4% across the board for PD and FD, in addition to 4% merit raises for a possible 8% and still leaves monies to incorporate more PS departments. Although Ellis' plan incorporates all sworn officers at 4%, the only people allocated in the budget to get the 4% merits are MPO's with PD. It is my understanding that the CEO would support the MINIMAL tax increase on the millage rate in order to get the PD and FD the pay incentives they need.
As a taxpaying citizen, I support an increase in order to provide the resources our county needs.
I do agree that there has been mismanagement and we need to fix that, but right now the situation is dire and with the uncertainty of our enconomy, I am certain crime will only increase.
Let's put the money where it is needed WHILE we are figuring out the other messes.
If we don't protect our comunities and our PS departments, there won't be anything left to worry about.
Johnsons plan includes a 4% across the board for PD and FD, in addition to 4% merit raises for a possible 8% and still leaves monies to incorporate more PS departments. Although Ellis' plan incorporates all sworn officers at 4%, the only people allocated in the budget to get the 4% merits are MPO's with PD. It is my understanding that the CEO would support the MINIMAL tax increase on the millage rate in order to get the PD and FD the pay incentives they need.
As a taxpaying citizen, I support an increase in order to provide the resources our county needs.
I do agree that there has been mismanagement and we need to fix that, but right now the situation is dire and with the uncertainty of our enconomy, I am certain crime will only increase.
Let's put the money where it is needed WHILE we are figuring out the other messes.
If we don't protect our comunities and our PS departments, there won't be anything left to worry about.
Send In The Clowns
Well its official now, Vernon vetoed the pay raise. Commissioner Ellis said he will ask Vernon to reconsider. Are kidding me? Vernon reconsider? Vernon already said in December he would not raise taxes. So the meeting in two (2) weeks is moot.
Vernon is showing his true colors now. He cares nothing about public safety or the citizens of DeKalb. He has taken one of the top police departments in the nation and driven it right into the ground.
But what about his Senate bid? That is a lost cause and he knows it. What does he have in his budget? Less than $250,000? The Democratic Party already said they are contributing a minimum about of funds to any Democratic Senate candidate in Georgia.
And why did Vernon have to make the veto such a big deal with cameras present?
Where is Bolton, on vacation?
The clowns have given the circus away!
Vernon is showing his true colors now. He cares nothing about public safety or the citizens of DeKalb. He has taken one of the top police departments in the nation and driven it right into the ground.
But what about his Senate bid? That is a lost cause and he knows it. What does he have in his budget? Less than $250,000? The Democratic Party already said they are contributing a minimum about of funds to any Democratic Senate candidate in Georgia.
And why did Vernon have to make the veto such a big deal with cameras present?
Where is Bolton, on vacation?
The clowns have given the circus away!
Anonymous, Comments:
As a DeKalb county resident, I wanted to thank each and every one of you for the hard work and service you provide the community. We couldn't live without you, and for as much as you do for us, we are all eternally grateful.
Lets get Bolton fired and get you guys some pay raises.
Lets get Bolton fired and get you guys some pay raises.
Anonymous, Comments:
8% across the board for three year? I heard that only on the first day!
8% for 3 years soon became an 8% raise for one year....then it morphed into 4% for one year.
The take home cars stopped at the RV's/Mobile Coffee Shops for the white shirted elite.
If Bolton wants to connect with his officers, he needs to get rid of the white shirts and start speaking up for what is really needed: Money, officers and take home cars.
8% for 3 years soon became an 8% raise for one year....then it morphed into 4% for one year.
The take home cars stopped at the RV's/Mobile Coffee Shops for the white shirted elite.
If Bolton wants to connect with his officers, he needs to get rid of the white shirts and start speaking up for what is really needed: Money, officers and take home cars.
Anonymous Comments:
I HEARD FLORIDA IS LOOKING FOR SOME QUALIFIED OFFICERS AND THE PAY IS INSANE!!!!! CHECK OUT TAMPA PDS' WEB SITE.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
WeFiveCampers Responds:
Word has it a mixture of 12-15 detectives and officers resigned just this week. And it's only Tuesday!
PatsQB Responds:
Hey WeFiveCampers,
I said I think he gets it..he asked for the right things.
1)8% across the board for three years
2)Take home cars for uniform
3)200 officers a year for 4 years.
I also didn't say that I was staying with the county....I've made these arguements no one listens..I've said Chief needs to connect with his officers instead of the supposed high and mighty. No one listens..now I try to stand up for him to other officers. My application is in elsewhere.
I got my conditional offer of employment. I just wanna know....who's comin' with me?
I said I think he gets it..he asked for the right things.
1)8% across the board for three years
2)Take home cars for uniform
3)200 officers a year for 4 years.
I also didn't say that I was staying with the county....I've made these arguements no one listens..I've said Chief needs to connect with his officers instead of the supposed high and mighty. No one listens..now I try to stand up for him to other officers. My application is in elsewhere.
I got my conditional offer of employment. I just wanna know....who's comin' with me?
Anonymous Responds:
Did you see on Channel 2 how Vernon "vetoed" several of the DeKalb audits??? We spent a 100k for a group to see how the county was spending funds and they found lots, even in small amounts so it would not draw attention. Commissioner Boyer is upset,saying that was $35,000 we could have spent on an officer's salary.
What about those nice Black Suburbans & Tahoes to the tune of 400k??? Stated so when dignitaries come to DeKalb they can be escorted in them. Thats cool...which means there are a bunch of black Crown Vic's just sitting out back of old 34.
Chief Bolton wanted a bench seat put in his Ford Expedition...it was sent back to Ford at an additional cost of 4000.00 because Ford had to custom make the bench seat for him. Another example of county waisting funds.
Did you know he has over 70 uniforms assigned to him. Guess the motor home he's been living in does not have a washer and dryer, or does he drive back to Texas to get it done? I understand he's in charge...but in the military don't they teach us to lead by example????No wonder we are circling the drain.
What about those nice Black Suburbans & Tahoes to the tune of 400k??? Stated so when dignitaries come to DeKalb they can be escorted in them. Thats cool...which means there are a bunch of black Crown Vic's just sitting out back of old 34.
Chief Bolton wanted a bench seat put in his Ford Expedition...it was sent back to Ford at an additional cost of 4000.00 because Ford had to custom make the bench seat for him. Another example of county waisting funds.
Did you know he has over 70 uniforms assigned to him. Guess the motor home he's been living in does not have a washer and dryer, or does he drive back to Texas to get it done? I understand he's in charge...but in the military don't they teach us to lead by example????No wonder we are circling the drain.
WeFiveCampers Responds:
No, Bolton does not get it. Read the AJC dated the morning of March 11, 2008 in the metro section. Of all the officers that have left over the past year only one (1) sited pay as the reason for leaving, One!
Sure, the pay could be better, but so could the working conditions. Bolton has turned every Captain and above into a lap dog. (Except Stathis and Lane). When they are around him or the people he brought in from the outside, they act like a dog when its master has a treat in its hand.
If Bolton got it, he would not have misled the commissioners into to believing he put an extra 50 units on line. They have been turned over to the ICP. Speaking of ICP, why are POII’s assigned take home cars, and a topped out MPO multi-year veteran paying $3.14 a gallon (and climbing) for gas everyday?
If Bolton got it, then way does he not have his command staff in place after 13 months?
Why did he not disagree with Vernon today? He has no trouble talking bad about the commissioners and the Sheriff in public, but what about Vernon? Vernon is holding up the raise. What is wrong with stream lining the budget?
Where are the tasers Bolton was talking about? Could he not have bought those with the money he spent on all those campers? Speaking of campers, why didn’t he have them all parked at the meeting for all the public to see? Would they see the waste of money?
Only one officer at a time can be on leave, but Bolton took seven (7) weeks off last year.
No, Bolton doesn’t get jack!
Sure, the pay could be better, but so could the working conditions. Bolton has turned every Captain and above into a lap dog. (Except Stathis and Lane). When they are around him or the people he brought in from the outside, they act like a dog when its master has a treat in its hand.
If Bolton got it, he would not have misled the commissioners into to believing he put an extra 50 units on line. They have been turned over to the ICP. Speaking of ICP, why are POII’s assigned take home cars, and a topped out MPO multi-year veteran paying $3.14 a gallon (and climbing) for gas everyday?
If Bolton got it, then way does he not have his command staff in place after 13 months?
Why did he not disagree with Vernon today? He has no trouble talking bad about the commissioners and the Sheriff in public, but what about Vernon? Vernon is holding up the raise. What is wrong with stream lining the budget?
Where are the tasers Bolton was talking about? Could he not have bought those with the money he spent on all those campers? Speaking of campers, why didn’t he have them all parked at the meeting for all the public to see? Would they see the waste of money?
Only one officer at a time can be on leave, but Bolton took seven (7) weeks off last year.
No, Bolton doesn’t get jack!
PatsQB Responds To "Where Do We Go From Here?"
I can't agree more. We don't have a voice here. I believe Chief Bolton gets it but is also powerless to effect any of the changes that are needed. The only way I feel a qualified decent officer can take a stand is to take a job elsewhere. Don't the politicians realize they need us. We had a scene the other night with 7! Seven! Seven people shot. I hate this county. But I love it's officers. The workers, head knockers, traffic nazis, even our slugs. I got love for all our men and women.
Anonymous Responds To "Where Do We Go From Here"?
We go to Sandy Springs, John's Creek, Dunwoody, Lawrenceville and Gwinnett. We follow those who left before us.
Anonymous Responds To "Where Do We Go From Here?"
I wonder if Chief Bolton will start a campaign against Vernon ( his best friend) about veto raises? Well the 4 commissioners he complained about, gave us a raise. The next community meeting Bolton should, but won't, tell citizens to call Vernon.
Where Do We Go From Here?
First of all we would like to thank the good citizens of Dekalb County for standing up for their public safety personnel, especially standing up for the police.
So Vernon is to veto the reached agreement between the commissioners. We don’t know of any other way of saying this but: It just pisses us off! Didn’t Venom Vernon just say two (2) weeks ago that he “heard the will of the people” and that he would not veto a raise? He is a liar!
Do you honestly believe he will not veto any agreement that is reached in two (2) weeks?
What can we do? Do we sit back and just take it? Our citizens have stood up for us yet Venom Vernon is not listening!
Vernon is taking us for fools!
Where do we go from here?
Please take part in the survey in the right hand column.
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/dekalb/stories/2008/02/26/budget_0227.html?cxntlid=inform
So Vernon is to veto the reached agreement between the commissioners. We don’t know of any other way of saying this but: It just pisses us off! Didn’t Venom Vernon just say two (2) weeks ago that he “heard the will of the people” and that he would not veto a raise? He is a liar!
Do you honestly believe he will not veto any agreement that is reached in two (2) weeks?
What can we do? Do we sit back and just take it? Our citizens have stood up for us yet Venom Vernon is not listening!
Vernon is taking us for fools!
Where do we go from here?
Please take part in the survey in the right hand column.
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/dekalb/stories/2008/02/26/budget_0227.html?cxntlid=inform
Monday, March 10, 2008
A Letter From Commissioner Lee May to The North Precinct
DeKalb County can no longer be described as a suburb of Atlanta. With a population of over seven hundred thousand (700,000) citizens, covering two hundred sixty-nine (269) square miles, DeKalb County should be considered a major urban community. With the continuous growth and demanding needs of citizens, as your representative to the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners I must support any measures that protect your public safety.
The staffing shortage within the DeKalb County Police Department is at a critical stage and must be addressed. The department is understaffed by more than eight hundred (800) officers’ according to the national average. The national average is 2.7 officers per 100 residents. DeKalb County currently has 1.4 officers per 1000 residents.
During the last five years 426 police officers have left the police department; 180 of these officers went to other police departments. During this same timeframe, 382 firefighters left the DeKalb Fire and Rescue Services Department. DeKalb public safety employees are the best trained in the metro area and are in high demand by other jurisdictions who offer great incentive and signing packages for our trained officers to join them.
The cost of a 4% increase would be $3,172,453 (9 months) for sworn public safety officers. A .21 millage rate increase would need to be effected in order to provide the much needed pay enhancements for public safety personnel. If no pay increase is provided to retain experienced personnel, the attrition rate within the police department will continue to rise and maintaining an adequate fire and rescue and police force will become problematic.
The estimated impact of a .21 millage rate increase on a house valued at the amounts below would be:
$150,000 home $8.39
$200,000 home $12.40
$300,000 home $20.39
On Tuesday, March 11, 2008, a Pay Incentive for Police Officers and Fire & Rescue Sworn Personnel will be on the Board of Commissioners agenda. However, if you want to keep DeKalb County as a safe place to live, work, and play for you and your family, come make your voice heard on Tuesday at 9:00am in the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, GA, 30030.
The staffing shortage within the DeKalb County Police Department is at a critical stage and must be addressed. The department is understaffed by more than eight hundred (800) officers’ according to the national average. The national average is 2.7 officers per 100 residents. DeKalb County currently has 1.4 officers per 1000 residents.
During the last five years 426 police officers have left the police department; 180 of these officers went to other police departments. During this same timeframe, 382 firefighters left the DeKalb Fire and Rescue Services Department. DeKalb public safety employees are the best trained in the metro area and are in high demand by other jurisdictions who offer great incentive and signing packages for our trained officers to join them.
The cost of a 4% increase would be $3,172,453 (9 months) for sworn public safety officers. A .21 millage rate increase would need to be effected in order to provide the much needed pay enhancements for public safety personnel. If no pay increase is provided to retain experienced personnel, the attrition rate within the police department will continue to rise and maintaining an adequate fire and rescue and police force will become problematic.
The estimated impact of a .21 millage rate increase on a house valued at the amounts below would be:
$150,000 home $8.39
$200,000 home $12.40
$300,000 home $20.39
On Tuesday, March 11, 2008, a Pay Incentive for Police Officers and Fire & Rescue Sworn Personnel will be on the Board of Commissioners agenda. However, if you want to keep DeKalb County as a safe place to live, work, and play for you and your family, come make your voice heard on Tuesday at 9:00am in the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, GA, 30030.
Anonymous Responds To "Dallas PD Drops ICP"
Does anyone have any idea what the ICP unit's mission is on a daily basis? All we've been told is - they are not a stat driven unit, they dont repond to 911 calls, and they'll call for a unit to transport any arrests they have, since they dont have screens in their cars.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
From The Desk Of Dekalb Officers/Referance Topics
If you would like to start your own topic, send it to dekalbofficers@gmail.com. Title your listing and sign it with the name you want used. Topics will be posted whether they are signed or not.
WeFiveCampers Responds To "Dallas Drops ICP"
You have to be fair to Bolton. He was only Chief of Police in Dallas from 1999 until he was FIRED! in 2003 (Assistant Chief 1991-1999). Leaving in his wake the highest crime rate in all of the USA (per capita) from 1998 -2004. In 2005 the crime rated started dropping.
I wonder if Bolton had the same vision in Dallas as he does in DeKalb? I would guess so. In 2007, Bolton's first year, DeKalb County had it's all time murder rate in history!
I wonder if Bolton had the same vision in Dallas as he does in DeKalb? I would guess so. In 2007, Bolton's first year, DeKalb County had it's all time murder rate in history!
Anonymous has left a new comment on "Dallas Police Department Drops ICP!":
Reading through the Dallas Council document, it looks like TeeBo hasn't learned anything from a failed term there! Everything he's brought to Dekalb County looks like a rehash of the programs that got him fired from Dallas:
Departmental Challenges
•Large city with highest overall Part I Crime Rate
•Response Time
•Community Confidence
Sound familiar?
Departmental Challenges
•Large city with highest overall Part I Crime Rate
•Response Time
•Community Confidence
Sound familiar?
Dallas Police Department Drops ICP!
From the Dallas Police Proposed 2007/2008 Budget:
"The current ICP program will be eliminated with those officers in the program becomng problem solving offices in the Beat Management Model".
(Found on Page 13 of the following document)
Dallas City Hall, Council Briefings
"The current ICP program will be eliminated with those officers in the program becomng problem solving offices in the Beat Management Model".
(Found on Page 13 of the following document)
Dallas City Hall, Council Briefings
Friday, March 7, 2008
DeKalb chief wants shorter response times
The AJC article can be found at http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/dekalb/stories/2008/02/06/dekpolice0207.html?cxntlid=inform
- “
Just to ask a few questions the reporter failed to ask:
What equipment is in the budget request? Newer model handguns?, Tasers? Long Rifles? More cars other than the ones assigned as take home cars for the ICP Unit? Improved computer system?
But Chief, don’t you often berate your “acting” command staff during “Comstat” that manpower is not an issue?
- Nonetheless,
So excited that you haven’t moved your family here after 13 months? So excited you took 7 weeks leave? So excited you have yet to have a command staff in place?
Just wondering.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Anonymous Responds to "Tribute To Officers Barker and Bryant, Jr."
Thank you Dunwoody Residents!
It's your support that will make Dunwoody Police Department the place to be in Dekalb County.
It's your support that will make Dunwoody Police Department the place to be in Dekalb County.
idriveablackexpedition responds to "No Tag For Terrell"
Too bad the bill didn't pass, now Terrell has to leave his camper in Texas.......with his family.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
No Tag For Terrell
The State Legislatures are considering doing away with the “Birthday Tax” on automobiles for
But wait, don’t you have to be a
Don't Hold Your Breath!
If we are lucky enough for the Commissioners to vote for an additional 125 officers, I wouldn’t hold my breath on seeing them on the street anytime soon. If you have forgotten,
How is he going to pay for the 7 Deputy Chief postions that he wants? This doesn’t include their aides, and the aide’s aide and the Expeditions and the reserved parking signs, etc. How is he going to pay for the 5 spiritual leaders in wants to put in each precinct?
All this will come out of the money marked for the additional 125 officers. Just like him telling the commissioners he needed 50 extra patrol units to put on the street and in fact they are assigned to the ICP Unit and sit 16 hours out of the day.
Oh, and one final thought:
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Tribute to Officers Barker and Bryant, Jr.
The attached video is a tribute put together by The Dunwoody North Civic Organization. This organization is a very strong supporter of Dekalb County Police. When you are patrolling their neighborhoods, please tip your hat.
Visit their website at: www.dunwoodynorth.org/
Monday, March 3, 2008
Commissioners Meeting March 11, 2008
The Board of Commissioners meets Tuesday March 11, 2008. During this meeting they will address a pay raise for the police department, either for the MPO’s and/or an across the board. Also on the agenda is the addition of even more police officers.
The word is Commissioner Johnson is making this latest push and is lacking one committed vote.
Be sure to have your friends and families call your commissioner and
| District 1 | Elaine Boyer | Nancy McBride | 404-371-2844 | |
| District 2 | Jeff Rader | Caroline Enloe | 404-371-2863 | |
| Debbie Schneider | ||||
| District 3 | Larry Johnson | Margaret Britton | 404-371-2425 | |
| Steffanie J. Wilson | ||||
| District 4 | Burrell Ellis | Sylvia Burley | 404-371-4907 | |
| Nina Hall | ||||
| District 5 | Lee May | Latrese Nunnally | 404-371-4745 | |
| | ||||
| Super | Kathie Gannon | Becky Arrington | 404-371-4909 | |
| Rita E. Morgan | ||||
| Super | Connie Stokes | Lannetta Somerville | 404-371-3053 | |
| |
And of course Venom Vernon: 404 371-2881
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