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PUBLISHER Editor-In-Chief Daniel Del Valle George Beck, Ph.D. executive Editor chief DESIGN John Welsh EDITOR contents Dari Izhaky Associate Editor Joel E. Gordon creative design director Director of Media/ Dan Larco Business Relations Sandy Amin Web Designer Joe Lemire copy EDITOR 6 publisher’s point of view 44 Hear Me out J. Scott Wilson cover image Christian Bonilla Daniel Del Valle When Will Police Stop Beating writers Efren Almodovar Sgt. Dave Kryger Themselves Up? Chris Amos Kirk Lawless 8 national voice By Joel F. Shults, Ed.D Caroline Angel Julia Maki Catherine Angel John G. Malcolm Spirit-of-the-Law' vs. 'Letter- Christian Argudo Eva Malone 46 Operation Rebound Meredith Atwood Capt. Lori Mambelli (Ret.) of-the-Law': What It Means George Beck, Ph.D. Deniz Majagah for Alabama Guardianship Helping Our Heroes Robert (Bob) Bianchi, Esq. Michelle Malkin By Michael D. Boll Joseph Biasco Jay Martinez Legislation Michael D. Boll Brian Mast Rebecca Calhoun Nick Mauriello By Bernard Kerik 48 Ron Camacho Jimmy Meeks Training Eric Caron Sheriff Leo McGuire (Ret.) Shai Carr Anthony Mikitarian 12 national perspective Five to Survive Jonny Castro Eddie Molina By Eric J. Caron Joseph Celentano Everett Moody America's Media-Poisoned Well Lt. Robert Centkowski Lt. Joseph Pangaro (Ret.) By Michelle Malkin Anthony Ceravolo Timothy Parlatore, Esq. 50 RECOGNITION Lt. Patrick J. Ciser (Ret.) Kris “Tanto” Paronto Sgt. Kaluba Chipepo Dr. Demetrick Pennie Essex County 200 Club Awards Sheriff David A. Clarke Jr. William Peppard 14 INSIDE VIEW Lori Cooper Blake Percival Officer Willie Jones’ Valor Danielle Crosson Joseph Petrocelli President Biden’s By Robert Foreman Aimee Del Sordo Gary Przewoznik Daniel Del Valle Dr. Aaron Rapps Crime Commission Vincent D’Amico Geoffrey Rejent By Leonard Adam Sipes, Jr. 52 John J. Devoe Danny Reynoso STANDING TOGETHER Dr. Michael Doblin Rafael Rosa Maintaining Your Professional Det. Ed Dolan Chief Rich Rosell 18 cover story Bob Dvorchak Lt. James Rotundo Composure During These Ken Dye Stephanie Ruane Spineless Police Leaders Continue Andrew Einstein Joel F. Shults, Ed.D Troubling Times Sherif Elias Christoper Scilingo to Lick Cop Hater’s Boots By Chief Rich Rosell Sgt. Anthony Espino Cynthia Scott By David A. Clarke Jr., Sheriff (Ret.) Sgt. Thomas S. Fano, (Ret.) Thomas Shea Dawn Fantasia Barry Sheinkopf 56 Strategy Eric Feinberg Leonard Adam Sipes, Jr. 22 Outfront Dr. Jim F. Ford, Jr. Timothy Smith, Esq. It's Time to Sound the Charge Robert Foreman PO Valerie Stetz (Ret.) Police are Not the problem… Ted Freeman Sgt. Jeff Stewart By David Willoughby Scott Frezzo Lt. Randy Sutton (Ret.) Police are the solution. Michael Garcia Gregory Tamagnini By Joel E. Gordon Chris Gialanella Julia Torres 58 BEHIND THE BADGE Joel E. Gordon Leroy B. Vaughn Jon Greenawalt Eddie Vega Life After the Sheriff’s Beth C. Grossman, Esq. Frank Voce 28 PERCEPTIONS Christopher Halscheid Bradford Waudby Department Joe Hammond Ryan Weber In a World Gone Crazy By Tania Owen and Vickie Speed Tom Homan Brian Weitzman By Lt. Patrick J Ciser (Ret.) Deon Joseph John Welsh Fasil Khan David Willoughby 62 On the beat Dr. Brian P. Kelly J. Scott Wilson 30 Reflectiion Bernard Kerik Major Wesley R. Wise (Ret.) He violently Attacked Me in an Savoir the Years Photographers By Major Wesley R. Wise (Ret.) Attempt to End My Life! Vincent D’Amico Barry Morgenstein By Lexie Bell Michael Garcia Joshua Oliveri Willis Hulings Bobby Ortiz 32 Brotherhood WEBSITE/SUBSCRIPTIONS 64 Police Chaplains Perspective www.TheBlueMagazine.com The Blue Line Flag By Lt. Joseph Pangaro, CPM, CSO The Day to Choose a Side EMAIL [email protected] Has Come By Chris Amos ADVERTISING 34 Reaching Out 973-653-3446 An Open Letter to LeBron James OFFICE By Officer Deon Joseph 66 remembrance NJ, NY, FL & CT ph: 973-653-3446 | fax: 973-653-3447 Police Officer Jimmy Inn 36 Vantage Point Article & Artwork by Jonny Castro Are Their Wildest Dreams productions ENTERPRISE 68 Coming True? Blue PaWS The opinions and information provided in this By Kirk Lawless Law Enforcement Officers magazine are the sole opinions of the editor and contributors and not their employers. and Their Canines The Blue Magazine is published 9 times a year. (c) 38 Exclusive Interview By Joseph Celentano 2018 - The Blue Magazine/Envisage Productions LLC. All rights reserved. While every reasonable effort has Joaquin “Jack” Garcia been made to ensure that the information is accurate By Eddie Molina 69 blue classifieds as of the publication date, The Blue Magazine and its employees, agents, clients and distributors shall Local Merchants Serving not be liable for any damages arising from the use 42 Looking Back of or reliance on the information contained in this Our Community publication or from omissions to this publication. The A Pennsylvania State Police www.TheBlueMagazine.com website is powered by ENVISAGE PRODUCTIONS, enterprise. Memory Layout & design by Dari Izhaky: [email protected] By Dale Gabriel God Bless Our Troops! Please share and recycle this magazine.

publisher’s POINt of VIEW

elcome to another excellent issue of Blue Magazine. We have a tremendous W amount of information to share with you. 2021 is flying by! The summer is already here. Make sure you set time aside to spend with your family and friends. You will be glad you did! Let's address the 800-pound gorilla in the room. You shouldn't be shocked to see our magazine cover. Active and retired officers constantly reach out to us with a commonality of thought — they are tired of their spineless leaders firing good officers to appease the cop-hating crowds. They are tired of watching police leaders sell out their morals to virtue signal to the anti-police crowd. From the many communications, you literally can hear them screaming to start standing up for law enforcement! We know there are many excellent police executives out there. We've traveled near and far to speak with them and featured many in Blue Magazine. We've done so to offer stories of hope for the rank and file to see many courageous police executives who stand up for our profession. Also because these brave police leaders deserved the spotlight. Therefore, we appreciate all these fearless police leaders who aren't afraid of the cop-hating crowd and who support the men and women who work for them. We know it's much easier to take the road of appeasement. Yet, you risk your own career to do what's right. We need more of you! To every officer out there struggling with the anxiety of the constant anti-police rhetoric, hang in there. We are experiencing a challenging time where retirements are skyrocketing and recruitment is dismal. The continuous negativity excited against law enforcement will not last forever. Most people support the police. It's hard to see this reality in the storm, but it's true. We are needed. We serve for the greater good of the community. Our associate editor, Chief Joel Gordon (Ret.), does a great job exposing this reality on pages 22-24. Chief Rich Rosell offers an inspiring article on maintaining composure during these difficult times on pages 52-54. Many of our writers in this issue also address similar tactics. Be sure to read this magazine. Be safe and should you ever need us, reach out.

Daniel Del Valle, Publisher

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6 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446

What It Means for Alabama Guardianship Legislation

By Bernard Kerik

One early memory of my law enforcement career coming to a complete stop at a stop sign. was the day I learned the concept of the-letter-of-the- Sometimes, however, the enacted version of a law versus the-spirit-of-the-law. law does not quite hit the mark. The spirit is clear, but Simply put the-letter-of-the-law means the law the letter of the law leaves room for interpretation - a is applied exactly as written. For example - the speed loophole. We all know, just as water follows the path of limit on highways is 65 mph, any vehicle traveling at 66 least resistance, if there is a loophole in the letter of the mph or greater is in violation of traffic law and shall be law - there’s a lawyer who will take advantage. issued a speeding ticket. Terri LaPoint, an investigative journalist with Re- The spirit-of-the-law leaves room for officer dis- alNewsSpark, has written extensively on the exploita- cretion. This means I could consider other factors when tion and civil liberty destroying nature of Alabama’s deciding to issue a ticket, give a warning, or ignore a guardianship laws. violation all together. Following the spirit-of-the-law In early April of this year, LaPoint testified before allowed me to apply the law as the legislature intended, the Alabama House Judiciary Committee on the need especially in situations with extenuating circumstances for guardianship reform. or a warning was more appropriate. LaPoint gave a powerful speech in which she I think we would all agree, darting across the pointed out the guardianship and conservatorship sys- middle of a busy street can create a dangerous situation tem started out as a way to protect the most vulnerable for all and could be grounds for a jaywalking violation, among us - our elderly. However, LaPoint has seen the but casually walking across the middle of an empty system fail even though the 5th Amendment’s guaran- street would not warrant a ticket. Endangering others tees that no person shall be “deprived of life, liberty, or by driving under the influence is not the same as not property, without due process of law.”

8 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 She went on to say some who have been trusted Among the many improvements proposed in HB603: to look after our most vulnerable have used loopholes • “undue influence exerted on a person is not, personally benefit from the way the current laws are alone, adequate grounds for determining that written. In her reporting, LaPoint has also found a sys- person is incapacitated and in need of a guardian” tem, which uses fear tactics and a lack of accountabil- • bill would prohibit the appointment of a guardian ity to exploit seniors and drain their estates of assets or conservator when a valid power of attorney or meant for their families to inherit. health care directive exists and the person chosen She said so many seniors have been victimized is willing and able to perform needed functions. by the current system that something must be done. • HB603 would declare a guardianship void if the At this moment, violent criminals in Alabama prisons due process rights of the alleged incapacitated have more rights than a senior put under guardianship. person were determined to have been violated. LaPoint closed by saying this could not have been the intent of the legislature and called for reforming this The American Bar Association Rules of Profes- system. sional Conduct states, “The legal profession is largely I too do not believe Alabama’s guardian and con- self-governing” and the “legal profession's relative au- servatorship laws were intended to be abusive, but as tonomy carries with it special responsibilities of self- written, the letter-of-the-law permits exploitation. If a government.” loophole can be exploited for financial gain or billable hours, we all know there will be more than a few attor- When there is a loophole in a poorly worded neys who will take advantage. law, we expect people to do what is right, not what is In most situations, the spirit-of-the-law is sufficient what is allowed. Unfortunately, history has shown us, to protect most people, but as seen in Terri LaPoint’s especially in Birmingham, we cannot leave the fox to excellent reporting on Alabama seniors, Joann Bashin- guard the hen house and expect it to “self-govern.” sky, Marian Leonard, and Marguerite Trent Caddis - it Predatory attorneys across this country know isn’t always enough. exactly what they are doing… and it is disgusting. They This is why I support Alabama Representative Joe are pillaging the hard earned wealth away from their Lovvorn’s (R-District 79) House Bill 603. Rep. Lov- victims, sometimes leaving their heirs with pennies (as vorn’s bill will bring much needed reform to Alabama’s in the Marguerite Trent Caddis case – link). guardian, conservatorship, and probate court rules and I trust the Alabama legislature will do the right procedures. thing and pass Alabama HB603 into law. (Article courtesy of Newsmax)

As New York City’s 40th Police Commissioner, Bernard Kerik was in command of the NYPD on September 11, 2001, and responsible for the city’s response, rescue, recovery, and the investigative efforts of the most substantial terror attack in world history. His 35-year career has been recognized in more than 100 awards for meritorious and heroic service, including a presiden- tial commendation for heroism by President Ronald Reagan, two Distinguished Service Awards from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, The Ellis Island Medal of Honor, and an appointment as Honorary Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

national perspective

America's Media-Poisoned Well By Michelle Malkin

t's springtime in America. In halcyon days, we'd elected official in these hellish days, Gannon re- ring in the new season with fresh starts and fra- mained undeterred. Several officers were injured; grant flowers. But in 2021, the arrival of spring 40 demonstrators were arrested, and 20 businesses Inow ushers in yet another cycle of destructive were invaded and robbed. "The officers that were urban riots — stoked and coddled by toxic jour- putting themselves in harm's way were being pelted nalists downplaying left-wing violence and demon- with frozen cans of pop, they were being pelted izing all who dare call out the ruinous, race-based with concrete blocks. And yes, we had our helmets chaos for what it is. on and we had other protection and gear, but an of- As vandals and looters tore apart Minneapolis ficer was injured, hit in the head with a brick… so again in the wake of a cop-involved shooting, a sub- we had to make decisions. We had to disperse the urban police chief tried to report on the dangerous crowd because we cannot allow our officers to be conditions outside his station. harmed." "Just so that everybody's clear, I was front and Outraged journo-activists apparently disagree. center at the protest, at the riot," Brooklyn Center These same types of professional word massagers (Minn.) police chief Tim Gannon told the media. who bark at police not to call riots "riots" are the He was there. They were not. This did not, however, same types who've been calling the deadly confla- deter the know-it-alls from castigating Gannon for grations of every major American city since George using the word "riot." Cue the collective outrage Floyd's death last May "mostly peaceful protests." and the ululations of the aggrieved. Our airwaves and newspaper pages have been satu- "Don't do that!" one journalist exclaimed. rated with loaded language and warped narratives "There was no riot," another propagandist retorted. about every high-profile police encounter exploited "It was not a riot!" another indignant media wag by Black Lives Matter and antifa from George Floyd chimed in. to Ahmaud Arbery to Jacob Blake and now Daunte Gannon did what reporters are supposed to Wright. do: Report. In a rare show of public courage by an

12 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 "Not only are these "protests" immune from criticism about their violent criminal nature, but they are also miraculously immune from COVID-19."

Not only are these "protests" son argued that the violent out- with Ted Bundy or Adolph Hitler. immune from criticism about breaks would be at the "forefront With the media acting as their violent criminal nature, but of the jury's mindset." relentless co-prosecutors and they are also miraculously im- Judge Peter Cahill, howev- character executioners, the well mune from COVID-19. When er, shrugged off the threats and of fair and impartial jurors who citizens in flyover country have ruled that the jury doesn't need can weigh evidence without fear gathered to resist lockdowns to be shut off from media and so- of retribution has been irrevers- and mask mandates, the national cial media exposure until closing ibly poisoned. Like Minneapolis, media pounces on these peace- arguments began. Never mind Brooklyn Center, Portland, Los ful protesters as selfish, reckless the barricades and barbed wire Angeles, Baltimore, Detroit, St. menaces to public safety. When outside the fortified courthouse. Louis, Ferguson and so many inner-city thugs burn down auto Never mind the half-billion dol- other cities before them, the Fifth repair shops, firebomb court- lars in damage already done by and Sixth Amendment rights to houses and police precinct of- George Floyd's vigilantes. Never an impartial jury, fair trial and fices, cart off diapers from Wal- mind the blaring, front-page sto- due process have all gone up in green's, and raid liquor store ries about shopkeepers prepar- choking flames. This is what the shelves in the name of social ing for bloody chaos if the jury twilight of a once great and free justice, pandemic paranoia and doesn't rule the "right" way. country looks and smells like. condemnatory headlines sud- Instead, Cahill nonchalantly Source: www.creators.com denly evaporate. advised the jury to simply avoid Rigged media coverage. Ri- the news during the trial. Sure, Michelle Malkin is oters run amok. The threat of just ignore the acrid smell of an- an American con- violence hanging overhead like archotyranny permeating the air. servative blogger, thick cumulonimbus clouds. Take no notice of wall-to-wall political commen- How is it possible for anyone coverage of Gannon's resignation tator, author, and accused in a riot-triggering in- After he pushed back against the businesswoman. cident from obtaining a fair media. Pay no attention to the Her weekly syndicated column trial? In a remarkable act of self- journalists raging at police offi- appears in a number of newspa- delusion, the presiding judge in cials calling out rioters. Tune out pers and websites. She was a Fox the ongoing trial of former Min- the black-clad militants scream- News contributor and has been a neapolis police officer Derek ing "All Cops Are Bastards" and guest on MSNBC, C-SPAN, and Chauvin rejected a defense re- "No Justice, No Peace." Pretend national radio programs. Malkin quest to immediately sequester away the pretrial publicity and has written several books. She the jury in the aftermath of this nightly news jeremiads from ra- founded the conservative websites week's new bumper crop of riots. cial demagogues Al Sharpton Twitchy and Hot Air. E-mail: Mi- Stating the gobsmackingly obvi- and Benjamin Crump painting chelle MalkinInvestigates@pro- ous, defense attorney Eric Nel- Chauvin as an evildoer on par tonmail.com

President Biden’s Crime Commission By Leonard Adam Sipes, Jr.

he White House is putting the evidence as to feasibility is limited promised to set up an oversight creation of a national police or doesn’t exist per the US Depart- commission last June, roughly one Toversight commission on hold. ment of Justice’s Crime Solutions. week after Floyd’s killing, calling I covered the President’s Com- Gov. for reforms to policing, including mission on Law Enforcement After spending decades in a national database of police mis- (under President Trump) but it the justice system, my biggest dis- conduct and a ban on the use of seemed to indicate a lack of defini- appointment is that crime and chokeholds, but refraining from tive research addressing crime and criminal justice practices have endorsing the biggest policy de- police practices. Nevertheless, it such limited research to guide us, mands from the Black Lives Mat- remains an interesting read. Presi- breaking the promise of previous ter movement on issues like police dent Obama’s and Vice President crime commissions that data and liability, and declining to embrace Biden’s police and crime commis- evidence-based programs could their call to “defund the police” and sion is entitled President’s Task and would partially solve our prob- reallocate funding to social pro- Force on 21st Century Policing. lems. grams and community priorities. Crime task forces go back to the Civil rights advocates were 1930s. From The Crime Report especially concerned that a The problem with crime con- The White House is putting commission would be used as an trol and/or police practices is that the creation of a national police excuse by lawmakers in the Senate it remains a guessing game, with oversight commission on hold, — both Republicans and skeptical advocates inserting their favorite nixing a campaign pledge made Democrats — to stall action on the philosophy without proof as to by President Joe Biden to estab- House-passed police reform bill. what works. lish one within his first 100 days, There was clear “commission fa- To my knowledge, proactive reports Politico. Before coming tigue” in all the meetings the (self-initiated) policing is the only to the decision, the White House White House held with civil rights crime control endeavor that works. said it consulted with national civil groups and police unions in the Proactive Policing Reduces Crime rights organizations and police wake of task forces established by per the National Academies of Sci- unions. both Obama and Trump that rec- ences, Engineering, and Medicine. Both entities made clear to the ommended and defended much, Advocates continue to pro- administration that they thought but resulted in no viable policy pose violence interrupters or so- a commission was not necessary changes. cial programs, but the available and likely redundant. Biden first

14 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 "My fear is that violent crime will continue to grow and that citizens living in high-crime communities will suffer the most."

Conclusions on the table for discussion and News. Law enforcement and crime examination, my fear is that vio- There are articles linking po- President Biden’s control practices are consistently lent crime will continue to grow lice defunding and lack of proac- in the news, yet the conclusions and that citizens living in high- tive policing to increased homi- of “experts” make it clear that crime communities will suffer cides and violence - Washington promising practices are little the most. Times. more than conjecture. Violent crime and fear of There were 722 more homi- Crime Commission Cities are throwing much crime are going through the roof cides in nine U.S. cities last year, against the wall in the hope that because people want officers to according to police data. More something sticks. Most focus on back off and not be aggressive than 85% of the increase was in social work endeavors. Where I (proactive). Firearm and security predominantly Black and His- believe that everything should be equipment sales are skyrocketing. panic neighborhoods - The Mar- People are moving shall Project. out of cities - US In my opinion, President Crime Rates. Biden’s decision not to proceed Have people with a national commission is an accepted a new level admission that we do not have a of violence? Seems clear, proven path to improved so. Thousands are police practices and crime con- dying or injured via trol measures. violent crime but it’s negative encounters Leonard Adam with cops that get Sipes, Jr.is a re- the bulk of the at- tired federal senior tention. It’s African spokesperson. A American commu- former Adjunct As- nities that are being sociate Professor of hurt the most, but Criminology and Public Affairs - again, no one seems University of Maryland. Former to care. advisor to the “McGruff-Take a News reports Bite Out of Crime” national media suggest that the cit- campaign. Past police officer. As- ies where protests piring drummer. Operator of Cri- and or riots have oc- meinAmerica.net. His book based curred are being hit on thirty-five years of criminal the hardest - Gov- justice public relations,” Success erning.Com. with the Media: Everything You It’s African Need to Survive Reporters and American com- Your Organization” is available at munities that are Amazon and additional booksell- bearing the brunt of ers. He can also be found @ leon- the violence - NBC ardsipes.com

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 15 16 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 cover story Spineless Police Leaders Continue to Lick Cop Hater’s Boots

By David A. Clarke Jr., Sheriff (Ret.) Milwaukee County

olice chiefs have reached and called them terrorists. Another stab another girl. James posted the a new low in being ac- officer from the same agency “liked” officer’s picture in the post with the complices in the War on the post and offered support for sentence, “You’re next, #Account- Cops with the revelation her colleague’s post. Even though ability.” He deleted the post from his that law enforcement of- the agency took no action, a town account that has fifty million follow- ficers all across the coun- committee fired one of the officers ers. The damage had been done and Ptry are being disciplined, up to and and demoted a sergeant for calling he knows it. including suspensions, demotion out local politicians who sided And in yet another incident, a and dismissal from the service, for with rioters. The chief did not back Norfolk, Virginia police lieutenant expressing on their own time and on the officers. The chief should have anonymously donated to a defense their own social media sites, posts exercised leadership here and refused fund for a man, who in an act of self- expressing a dislike for the cop hat- to carry out the town committee’s defense, shot and killed two suspects ing scumbags from Black Lives Mat- obviously retaliatory firing and and wounded another during a riot ter (BLM). I called them scumbags, offered his own resignation instead. in Kenosha, Wisconsin last summer. not the officers who posted. Now that would have been an act of The man was charged and is awaiting Here is a sample of what officers courage, but I digress. trial. The lieutenant did use a city have posted on social media about In another instance, an officer email address but did not identify Black Lives Matter according to a from the Bellevue, Idaho Marshals’ himself or the agency. He wrote Washington Times news story. Two Office was suspended for a week for that the rank and file were behind officers in New Jersey have been a posting calling out NBA basketball his claim of self-defense. After what fired or demoted for calling BLM, star LeBron James after he put out a the police union said was a cursory terrorists. In one post, one of New tweet regarding an Ohio officer who investigation, the officer was fired. Jersey’s finest was investigated by her used deadly force on a knife-wield- A Los Angeles Police Dept. of- agency for denouncing BLM tactics ing suspect who was attempting to ficer shared a meme on Valentine’s

18 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Day that had a picture of George with an officer’s lawful commands to sonal feelings, this defense lawyer Floyd with the caption, “You take take him into custody. Chief Moore needs to be reminded that five, count my breath away.” He didn’t create the using the career of one of his officers them five Dallas police officers were meme, he shared it. Should he have as cannon fodder is disgraceful. ambushed and killed with another used better judgment? Of course. One defense attorney was quot- nine wounded in 2016 while work- Should he be fired? Absolutely not, ed as saying, “You shouldn’t have ing to protect Black Lives Matter but LAPD Chief Michel Moore officers sounding off on political is- sympathizers at a protest. They were wants the officer fired. A reprimand sues.” He went on to say that, “Of- killed by a Black Lives Matter sniper. would be in order here but again, ficers, have to represent and protect How is that for protecting everyone Chief Moore’s moral preening and everyone in the community, and in the community? virtue signaling is more important how are you going to be able to do Two New York police officers to him than having his officers’ that effectively in a majority-black were assassinated in a New York City backs. George Floyd unfortunately city if you’re posting anti-Black Lives borough as they sat in their cruiser, has been elevated to icon status. Matter stuff?” He cites no example serving and protecting a very diverse This is the creep who held a loaded where police have refused to serve population. In Los Angeles, two LA gun to the stomach of a pregnant and protect. He also does not point sheriff’s deputies were ambushed woman in a home invasion robbery out that BLM is a Marxist movement and shot as they sat in their cruiser looking for drugs and money. He that advocates for the killing of po- serving and protecting a very diverse served eight years in prison. George lice officers. community in Los Angeles. They Floyd’s death has caused enough Now let me stop there for a mo- were rushed to an area hospital and damage and destruction all across ment to sound off on that claim by a were met by a group of BLM sympa- the United States. He was involved defense lawyer. As to whether or not thizers who blocked the emergency in a criminal act, geeked up on fatal officers will protect everyone in the entrance at the hospital not letting levels of fentanyl and not complying community regardless of their per- the ambulance through while shout

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 19 ing anti police slogans. protecting a diverse group of people be narrowly applied. I read all the There have been no reports or as they protest and even riot. posts referenced in the previously accusations that police are refusing There is obviously a need for mentioned cases. None of what was to serve minority communities in law enforcement executives to be posted in my view was over the top spite of this hateful BLM movement. able to set standards for off-duty nor did it discredit their agency. In Officers have been spit on, have conduct. In fact, there are court fact, I feel the same way about BLM that they do. If this was brought to my attention, I would not have ordered an “investigation.” This didn’t warrant an “investigation.” I would have called the officers in and told them to be careful what they post on social media. I would have ordered that a memo to go out to the entire agency reminding them of the good order of the service because the cop haters are on the prowl and looking to take them out through internal discipline. The end. A verbal warning would be appropriate. Suspension, firing and demotion for this is overkill and unnecessary. It is nothing more than virtue signaling trying to appease the cop-hating goons. It doesn’t work. Our officers are under tremendous stress. They are working long hours due to riots, defunding efforts and short staffing due to retirements and resignations. It is affecting their mental health and quality of life outside work. These are human beings, not drones. Don’t these spineless police chiefs realize that? Do they even care? Our cops need a release from time to time and some empathy from their top commanders. Maybe if law enforcement executives said some- had rocks and bottles thrown at cases allowing it. As a former elected thing that pushes back against the them along with urine- and feces- sheriff responsible for the good order cop haters of Black Lives Matter, rank filled balloons and shot at as they of the service, a balance needs to be and file cops would not feel a need to are ordered to “stand down” while struck on this, however. It should spout off in their own defense.

Sheriff David Clarke Jr. is former Sheriff of Milwau- kee Co, Wisconsin, President of AmericasSheriff LLC, Board member of the Crime Research Center, author of the book Cop Under Fire: Beyond Hashtags of Race Crime and Politics for a Better America. To learn more visit www.americassheriff.com

20 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 21 OUT FRONT

Police are not the problem… Police are the solution. By Joel E. Gordon

“The police are the public and have a seat at the table while non- seen in schizophrenia. While no the public are the police; the police experts work to “reimagine” polic- evidence exists that PCP can in- being only members of the public ing. While the untrained armchair crease strength per se, it does act as who are paid to give full time atten- police proffer tactical advice based a dissociative analgesic, producing tion to duties which are incumbent upon emotion their suggestions ac- a sense of non-connectedness neu- on every citizen in the interests of tually can further elevate risks. It is rologically and a general decrease community welfare and existence.” obvious who has never been actively in pain sensation peripherally. The - Robert Peel confronted by an enraged individual combination of properties -- with This is the message that we who is in a violent and often chemi- delusions, hallucinations and ag- MUST get out. cally altered state of mind impervi- gression -- can produce a physiolog- Why are the police paid? Train- ous to pain. ical state where it appears the per- ing, knowledge plus the fortitude to I am particularly reminded of son is capable of superhuman feats, deal with enraged, often chemically the time that I was confronted by whereas the reality is only that they altered individuals in life and death an enraged individual I was tasked are more capable of/willing to com- situations are a primary reason that to attempt to keep from harming mit self-harm and harm others. This paid professionals are necessary himself or others, later revealed particular individual was so power- to carry the burden of keeping the to be under the influence of PCP. fully violent in a hospital emergency peace, often under impossible cir- Phencyclidine works primarily as department that it took six offi- cumstances. an NMDA-receptor antagonist. Be- cers to control his violent physical As someone who has served as haviorally in humans, its effects are movements until he could be medi- an inner-city police officer, I can un- broad-spectrum and can induce cally “knocked out” to gain control. equivocally state that cops do more hostility, delusions and hallucina- Imagine the lone officer encounter- good for their communities than tions - psychotic effects somewhat ing this individual or someone like anyone else yet often don't even related to the positive symptoms him in an uncontrolled setting.

22 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 You’ve heard some of the “recom- Rather than a theoretical hypoth- ceive extensive training on how to mendations” of those who have never ex- esis of what could stop a threat law en- use verbal commands most effec- perienced such an encounter in a variety forcement professionals use a force con- tively. of other situations: tinuum, a scale of force alternatives, to • Level 3 - Empty Hand Control: Warning Shots: Warning shots are pro- mediate the level of response used in a Some situations will arise where hibited in just about every jurisdiction given situation. This continuum has been words alone will not reduce the in the U.S. Any discharge of a firearm by professionally developed in collaboration aggression. This is the time police the police is typically classified as a use with those who possess real knowledge officers will need to get involved of deadly force incident. The officer is re- and expertise in a variety of disciplines physically. This is a level of control sponsible for where the bullet goes and including behavioral science, defense employed by police officers minus any damage it may cause. It should not be tactics, anatomy and physiology, ballis- the aid of equipment or weapons. too difficult to understand that a warn- tics, the law and real-world experience. There are two subcategories called, ing shot could easily result in an errant The force continuum is typically “soft empty hand techniques” and bullet lodging somewhere that it does broken down into six broad levels. Each “hard empty hand techniques.” not belong and at the very least, if shot in level is designed to be fluid as the need • Level 4 - Pepper Spray, Baton, an upward trajectory, what goes up must for force changes as the situation devel- Taser: When the suspect is violent come down. ops. For example, it is not uncommon for or threatening, more extreme, but the level of force to go from level two, to non-deadly measures must be used Shoot them in the leg: If struck in a low- level three, and back again in a matter of to bring the suspect under control er extremity this may not stop a threat in seconds. or affect an arrest. Before moving a timely manner but it is still a potential • Level 1 - Officer Presence: The to this level of force, it is assumed actual deadly force by severing a femoral mere presence of a police officer that less-physical measures have artery or other area causing a person to in uniform or in a marked vehicle already been tried. Pepper spray, ultimately "bleed out." If the bullet com- is often enough to stop a crime in once thought an effective street pletely transected the artery, the person progress or prevent most situations tool for police officers has lost would likely lose enough blood to be se- from escalating. Without saying a popularity over the years because verely compromised within a minute or word, the mere presence of a police of its ineffectiveness, especially on two, and they'd bleed out in under five officer can deter crime by the sim- intoxicated persons. A blow with a minutes without prompt treatment and ple use of body language and ges- baton can immobilize a combative transport to a hospital. tures. At this level, gestures should person, allowing officers to affect Shoot any weapon out of their hand: be non-threatening and profes- an arrest. The Taser discharges a Maybe on television or in a movie, but in sional. This "zero" level of force is high-voltage spark (50,000 volts) real-time real world scenarios even the the best way to resolve any situa- at very low amperage. The Taser best marksman could not be assured of tion, if possible. fires two small darts, connected a clean shot in a frantic uncontrolled en- • Level 2 - Verbal Commands: Used to wires, which drops a suspect at vironment except perhaps in the rarest of in combination with a visible pres- non-contact distance. They can circumstances. ence, the use of the voice can most be especially useful for control- often achieve the desired results. ling non-criminal violent behavior, Use of Chemical Irritant, Taser or Less The content of the message is as such as persons who are mentally Lethal Weapon: Level four or five on important as your demeanor. It’s impaired. the use of force continuum (below). De- always best to start out calm but • Level 5 - Less Lethal: This is a signed to temporarily incapacitate, con- firm and non-threatening. Your newer, acceptable and effective fuse, delay or restrain an adversary in a choice of words and intensity can level of force that numerous police variety of situations but are not necessar- be increased as necessary or used agencies have added to their use of ily reliable to stop an active threat in all in short commands in more seri- force continuum policy and pro- instances such as with an individual who ous situations. Police officers re- cedure. Less-lethal weapons were is “feeling no pain,” for example.

"Cops do more good for their communities than anyone else."

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 23 developed to provide law enforcement, military and correc- level of force selected to counter it. The level of force used must tions personnel with an alternative to lethal force. They were be tailored to the nature of the threat that prompted its use. designed to temporarily incapacitate, confuse, delay, or restrain In other words, a response is fully dictated by the actions and an adversary in a variety of situations. Less-lethal weapons can threat level of a perpetrator. be valuable when: lethal force is available as backup but it is Although central body mass is the most reliable and ac- determined that lesser force may subdue the aggressor or when cessible target proven to be likely to stop a threat, even a cen- lethal force is justified but its use could cause serious collateral ter body mass shot or shots does not necessarily guarantee an effects, such as injury to bystanders. immediate stop to aggression. Case in point: In February of • Level 6 - Deadly Force: If a police officer has probable this year a Montgomery County, Maryland, sheriff’s deputy cause to believe that a suspect poses a significant threat of was seen on a widely viewed internet video firing 12 rounds, imminent death or serious physical injury to the officer or striking an attacking individual at close range, after the deputy others, then the use of deadly force is justified. It is obvi- backed away, tried de-escalation, and attempted Taser deploy- ous from all of the news about misuse of power by police, ment before the subject finally stopped his forward aggression that this is easier said than done. and the attack ceased. A nearly identical situation, in the days By the very nature of law enforcement, officers can be con- before Tasers, was famously taught in the Baltimore City Police fronted with a potentially lethal threat at any given time. In Academy of the ‘80s where a hostile aggressor failed to cease many of these instances, officers may have no other reasonable attack quickly after being shot numerous times center mass. Po- option, given the totality of the circumstances, but to discharge lice are taught never to take anything for granted and always re- their firearm in order to protect their life or the lives of others. main flexible in their response because in real-world scenarios The use of force is an integral part of a law enforcement offi- there is no guarantee that any one technique will immediately cer's job, particularly when arresting criminal suspects. While stop an enraged aggressor. These life and death situations are most reasonable people believe that police should be permitted not taken lightly. to protect themselves and others from threats to safety, what Is it ever OK to use deadly force? is often disputed is an officer's assessment of a threat and the While there is always room for improvement, more tools and deployment training, it is not realistic to completely elimi- nate the use of deadly force by the police ... nor should it be in cases involving imminent danger in the maiming or death to innocent members of the public or to the police. There is no license for the police to kill, only a responsibility to stop a threat, to protect oneself and the people who need protection from those who are causing catastrophic harm to those around them. Who has their finger on the pulse of a community more than a front line community cop on the beat who has a sense of obligation toward the community in doing what is best for the overall safety and common good of the areas served? The answer lies within each dedicated and good-hearted law enforcement professional. May the protectors of our society always be the ones to prevail.

Joel E. Gordon is a former Field Training Officer with the Baltimore City Police Department and is a past Chief of Police for the city of Kingwood, West Virginia. He has also served as vice-chair of a multi-jurisdictional regional narcotics task force. An award winning journalist, he is author of the book Still Seeking Justice: One Officer's Story and founded the Facebook group Police Authors Seeking Justice. Look him up at stillseekingjustice.com

24 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 25 26 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 call elayne at 201.966.4812 for more info Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 27 PERCEPTIONS

By Lt. Patrick J. Ciser (Ret.)

In a World Gone Crazy By: Lt. Patrick J Ciser (Ret.)

When I was a younger man, 30-40 this position. Democrats seemed to be ocratic politicians doing everything in years ago, I saw division on many po- on the wrong side of so many impor- their power to assist criminals? Sounds litical issues. Sure, we had both extreme tant issues facing our nation, yet still extreme, right? But it is happening in left and right groups, but they were cer- won. Let’s take a look at a few of these all of our Democrat-run states coast tainly in the minority, and few people extreme positions one by one. to coast. We’re suffering from bail re- took them seriously. I remember a time, form on steroids! Even some violent believe it or not, when Democrats be- LAW ENFORCEMENT criminals are immediately let out so lieved in and supported law enforce- There was a day as I said when they can terrorize their victims again. ment and the rule of law. And for the ALL politicians wanted to protect our Witnesses are being threatened and are most part, I always saw some wiggle citizens from crime; especially vio- now scared to death of testifying, even room for reconciliation on both sides. lent crime. We all have loved ones we more so than before.Why do you think A few months ago, we saw a radi- wish to protect, and most of us have that half of the homicides in our inner calized party, against all odds, take the repeatedly supported victim advocacy cities aren’t solved? “Warn a Brother” White House, the House of Represen- groups over the years. We’ve seen the and “No Snitchin” are some serious shit tatives and the Senate, at the end of a strengthening of domestic violence to be sure! Victims learn quickly that very tumultuous year. I’m struck with laws and the increased prosecution of our feckless judicial system isn’t go- deep sadness that we find ourselves in sexual assaults. So why are many Dem- ing to save them or their kids any time

28 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 soon. Why do we parole cop killers have disdain for them to the extreme. I who should’ve gotten the death pen- always thought, even decades ago; who alty? Why do Democrats turn a blind are they hurting? Certainly not me. So eye to the destruction caused by BLM why don’t we simply wish them well and Antifa, and even support bailing and move on? But today, this “group” them out like Vice President Harris has has grown to be called the LGBTQ done? Why are Democrats not in favor community. Now I, like countless oth- of deporting criminal aliens and pass- ers, definitely have a problem. You see, "There was ing “Kate’s Law?” And there’s so much gay rights never infringed on other more! people’s rights, but transgender “rights” a day absolutely do! None of us want a man, ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION who believes that he’s a woman, to share when ALL At the DNC primary runoff last the same bathroom with our teenage year, all the candidates from Joe Biden daughters. No one wants to see their politicians to Kamala Harris were asked, raise your little girl dreaming while growing up, hand if you’re in favor of giving free of competing in the Olympics one day, wanted to health care to illegal immigrants. Every suddenly beaten by a transexual. When hand on that stage went up! There are your rights trample another’s rights, protect our an estimated 18-22 million illegals cur- that’s where we have a problem! We rently living in America. That admis- have “Special Olympics,” perhaps we citizens sion alone could entice a million more need “transgender” sports. to cross the border in the coming four from crime; years of the Biden administration. And FIRST and SECOND you know who gets hurt the most, even AMENDMENTS especially more than the taxpayers? The illegals Censorship; did you ever think that who are already here. If an illegal farm in America we would see such a thing? violent worker goes from $5 to $8 or $10 an The CCP, Russia, North Korea, among hour over a few years, he/she will now many others, have always had Govern- crime." lose their jobs to the new immigrant ment Controlled Media. For you old willing to take $5. Some Democrat gov- guys like me out there, remember dur- ernors curtailed interstate travel from ing Watergate, when we actually had certain states because of COVID, while investigative reporters who looked out the Biden administration is welcom- for the people? Today, we have liberal ing all immigrants regardless if they’re media that actually acts like an arm of bringing in any disease from COVID the DNC. Progressives have infiltrated to tuberculosis. He’s actually sending our media outlets and universities to out letters to illegals who were deported a point where they’re able to snuff out Pat Ciser is a retired lieu- by the Trump Administration to come free speech at every turn. Why is it for tenant from the Clifton Po- back for a new hearing. Many gang years now you can’t hear a conservative lice Department, and a 7th members, like MS-13, are no longer in lecture at our top universities? And now Degree Black Belt. He was jeopardy of deportation under Biden’s we actually have censorship on all social a member of 5 U.S. Karate rules. media platforms. Mao would’ve been Teams, winning gold med- proud. als in South America and Europe. He is the TRANSGENDER RIGHTS Biden and company also have BIG Author of BUDO and the BADGE; Exploits I never understood bias against plans for our Second Amendment; how of a Jersey Cop (BN.com/Amazon), and is gays/lesbians in America. Ultra-reli- do they win with this stuff!! a guest writer for Official Karate Magazine. gious groups, unfortunately, seem to

YearsBy Major Wesley R. Wise (Ret.)

ime has a way of moving quickly better being. don’t they speak louder so I can hear and catching you unaware of its Each day now, I find that just get- them? Tpassing. The years sail by un- ting a full night’s sleep is my target for So, if you're not living in your winter checked by time. It seems like only yes- the day. And taking daytime naps is not yet… let me remind you that it will be terday that I was young, embarking on a treat anymore… it’s mandatory, and here faster than you can imagine. And my dream job as a newly minted Balti- at the most inconvenient of times, I whatever you would like to accomplish more City police officer, a freshly married just fall asleep where I sit, no matter the in your life, do it now, sooner rather brand new homeowner looking forward time of day! than later! Don't put things off too long!! to starting a family. Yes, it seems like yes- And now… as I enter this new season Life goes by too quickly. So, do what you terday even though it was eons ago, and I of my life, ill-prepared for the aches and can TODAY, as you can never be sure can’t but wonder where all those decades pains of age, ill-equipped to deal with whether this is your true winter or not! went. my loss of vigor, youth and strength, and There is no promise that you will see all I remember savoring the years as without the ability to remember or to do the seasons of your life one more time ... they passed, and I know that I lived them things I used to do effortlessly and enjoy so, say all the things that you want your well. I have glimpses of how it was back immensely. loved ones to remember… and hope that then and of all my hopes and dreams as And I look at all the things that I they appreciate and love you for all the they flew by. And so it is that I sit here wish I had done differently over the years. things that you have done to, with, and now looking at the winter of my life, Some I regret immensely, and some I will for them in all the years past!! with many more years behind me than in never forget or feel bad about. But at least Remember, life was a GIFT to you, front of me, and it catches me by surprise. I know that though winter has come, and and the way you lived your life was your How did I get here so fast? Where did I'm not sure how long it will last ... this gift to those who came after. I hope you all the years go? Where did my youth – I do know – that when it's over on this made it a fantastic one, as I mostly did. and my health – go? I remember seeing earth… it's over. No getting it back. But Navigate the time you have left carefully old people and thinking that their time then a new adventure will begin! because whatever you yearn for in life, was years away, far into the future. I So yes, I have regrets; a few of them. I that’s all you have left. remember thinking that winter was so think about the many things I wish I had Just sayin’ far off that I could not fathom it or even done but didn’t… as well as some things imagine fully when it would get here or I should have done but didn’t, but there A thirty-six-year veteran what it would be like. are also many things I'm happy to have of the Baltimore Police De- But, here it is, the time has arrived. done. A lifetime of challenges faced and partment, Wes retired in Most of my friends and family – those met – and some unmet. But little regret 2006 as the Commander of that are still with us – are retired and other than having not taken better care the city’s 911 System. While getting gray – and surprisingly, so am of myself. recovering from a stroke in I. I see that old person in myself now. If you’re like me, some of the things 2014, he wrote two books about his experi- They move slower and more cautiously. you used to care to do, you no longer care ences as a Baltimore cop. Wes has also self- Some are in better shape than I am, and to do – or no longer can do. You sleep published fourteen books for other writers. some are clearly not. Like me, their age better, if at all, on a lounge chair with the Need publishing help? Contact Wes at wes- is showing, and we are all looking like TV blaring than in bed. What used to be [email protected]. A father of two and those old folks we used to see and never freckles are now liver spots. Everybody grandfather of ten, he and his wife of 49 thought we'd be. And of course, some – for some reason seems to be whispering, years live near Baltimore, Maryland. too many – have already passed on to a and I say “Huh?” way too often. Why

30 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 31 BROTHERHOOD

The Blue Line Flag By Lt. Joseph Pangaro, CPM, CSO

is the color of many things. Like all colors, cover how to use your reports, the tone of your voice, the way blue moves us, intrigues us, motivates us and you take the oath, where you look in the room, how to treat the Blue is imbued with meaning. “True Blue” is a judge and the lawyers and I talk about the clothes you wear to term and connection to the color that has stood the test of time. testify, because colors reflect feeling and emotions. True Blue means loyal, respectful, honorable, just, and sincere. I say if you are a witness in a multi-day trail, on day one These may not have been the intentions of nature when she cre- and on direct examination from the prosecutor, you as a law ated the colors of the rainbow, but they have been adopted by enforcement officer should wear a dark color suit or dress with people to describe a feeling or belief and how it is characterized a blue tie. This color combination expresses strength, control by the color. When we think of colors, we can see a connection and with the blue tie to accent it, integrity because blue gives to other feelings and concepts. that impression. Red is a powerful color and has a completely different On day two, or whatever day you will face cross examination, meaning than and represents different feelings than blue. Red is I suggest wearing a brown suit or dress and a light brown tie. fiery, sexy, aggressive and strong. We have the red power tie for Brown is a nice color, neutral, calm and does not scream control men to express this connotation of power. Yellow, on the other and power, instead it is softer and when the defense attorney hand, is a weaker color, yellow can say “caution,” slow down and is grilling you, you want to appear honest and calm, even a bit a host of other things, but we don’t think of yellow as powerful vulnerable to the jury so they will see you as a person they can or loyal, do we? connect to as the big bad lawyer attacks you. How about the little black dress or the pink bow, or These color examples make the point; we do see colors as a the dark blue suit, they all send messages that we humans way of defining something, expressing something and making a recognize, seemingly naturally. We don’t really think about it statement. So, did these implied characteristics come from me? until we have to. No, they have been with humanity for thousands of years for I teach a course on courtroom testimony. In that class I reasons we may never be able to definitively say why, but colors

32 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 "When you take the oath, you are part of the law enforcement family forever and you are committed to the ideals of justice for your entire life."

move us, they speak to us and they goals and complete our mission. been spilled by those represent- do have power. The Blue Line flag does not ed by the blue line flag that have That being said, and with represent hate directed toward made the ultimate sacrifice for some understanding now of how anyone, nor does it stand for op- others. That is what I see when I color defines a thing, let’s look pression, or stand for one group’s see that flag, because that is what at the Police blue line flag. First dominance over another. What it it represents because we, the men we have to define it. It is not an does stand for is duty, honor, fidel- and women who walk the blue American flag with different col- ity, service to community, cour- line, say that’s what it means. It is ors; it is a different flag altogether. age in the face of evil, dedication our creation, our expression and If it were the American flag, then to principles of the greater good, our representation of the essence it would represent our country, and brotherhood and sisterhood of the blue line and the profession and arguably the police blue line bonded in a belief that there is we belong to. flag does not represent the USA, it right and wrong, good and bad Others may disparage it, give represents the men and women of and that those who stand on that it false meaning and assign to it law enforcement. The stars, stripes Blue line are one. false expression or hidden mean- and configuration may look simi- A force for good in a free so- ing but none of that is true. Our lar to the American flag, but that is ciety; a force for peace in a time of Blue Line Flag is blue for a reason just on the surface. The police Blue chaos and a force of protection for and for all the things that the color Line Flag, its meaning and what it everyone. blue represents. We must not al- represents goes much deeper than Ours is a noble profession low anyone to define who we are just representing law enforce- and one deserving of our pride. or what our flag stands for. We are ment. It represents what law en- Law enforcement at any level is true blue. forcement means to the members built on a foundation of sacrifice of the service. and service to others with an un- Lt. Joseph Pangaro The colors of the Blue Line dertaking that starts when we are retired after serving Flag were chosen to highlight the young and makes demands of our 27 years at a police blue line which represents every time, our skills, our families, our department in Mon- man and women that has ever hearts and souls. It is a profes- mouth County, NJ, donned the uniform and walked a sion that demands our respect having served as the beat or patrolled the tiers. All of us and commitment to things greater Lead Training Officer. Pangaro is are that blue line. No matter where than ourselves and it is a respon- a graduate of Fairleigh Dickenson we work, what size of our agency sibility that cannot be disregarded University’s Certified Public Manag- or our mission, job title, assign- for one second even after the years ers Program (CPM). He’s a newspa- ment or the color of our skin, of active service are over. When per columnist who writes about the where we were born or who we you take the oath, you are part of rigors and joys in law enforcement. love we are all blue, and we walk the law enforcement family for- Joseph Pangaro is the CEO and the line of service to others. We ever and you are committed to the President of Pangaro Training and protect the weak and defend the ideals of justice for your entire life. Management, and Pangaro Global innocent; we chase the demons When I see the Blue Line Flag Training, an online training compa- and run toward danger at our own I see that pride, that nobility, that ny. E-mail at: JPangaro@TrueSecu- peril. We suffer and sacrifice to the commitment, that dedication, that rityDesign.com, www.TrueSecurity point of death to accomplish these honor, and I see the blood that has Design.com

An Open Letter to LeBron

ByJames Officer Deon Joseph

can have no hatred toward you. But I do feel I can help you understand the reality of the profession of policing, and that there is another side you need to hear. You are tired of Black folks dying? So am I. You hate racism and police brutality? So do I. But you cannot paint 800,000 men and women who are of all races, faiths, sexual orientations and are also mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, preachers, coaches, community members and just human with such a broad and destructive brush. Unlike some who have dug their heels in the belief that police are inherently evil, I think if you yourself actually sat down and had a real honest and open conversation with a cop, there is Dear LeBron: a strong chance you may discover we are not the monsters you I am not going to come at you from a place of hatred. There have come to believe we are, who deserve the hate and disdain will be no name calling. I was raised to see the whole of a human you have. being. Not to hyper focus on their flaws or make said flaws the And even if you come away feeling the same way, I could whole of who they are. I’m an honest man. respect it, because at least you gave the other side your ear What you do for children, and other acts of charity, shows instead of only hearing one narrative. a huge heart. You show to be a family man, and that’s to be The offer is on the table, LeBron. I know it’s a long shot. respected. You play for the team my family has cheered for But this division and hatred must stop. It’s clear based on since the 1960s, then myself since 1979. But… Your current rising crime in marginalized communities that cops and the stance on policing is so off base and extreme. Your tweet that community need to build bridges to save lives on all sides. That targeted a police officer in Ohio who saved a young woman’s cannot be done through the demonization of any group of life was irresponsible and disturbing. It showed a complete lack people. of understanding of the challenge of our job in the heat of a Just putting it out in the universe, brother. Even if not me, moment. You basically put a target on the back of a human please take the time to talk to a police officer instead of judging being who had to make a split-second decision to save a life them. No shade. Thanks for all the positive things you do. from a deadly attack. It was a decision I know he and many others wish they nev- Deon Joseph is a 25 year veteran of law enforce- er had to make. Especially when it involves someone so young. ment in Southern California - 21 of those years Instead of apologizing, you deflected. You said you took working in the homeless community to create an your tweet down because you did not want it to be used for hate, environment conducive to change for those in re- when the tweet itself was the embodiment of hatred, rooted in a covery, as a Lead Officer. He’s been recognized for lack of understanding of the danger of the situation. his work locally and nationally, and news stories I don’t know if this will ever reach you, but my hope is that and documentaries surrounding his work in crime fighting and one day I can sit down with you and talk. As a man of faith, I community relations, featured him. www.deonjoseph.org.

34 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 35 VANTAGE POINT Are Their Wildest Dreams Coming True? By Kirk Lawless

ecently has been nothing short had four cops murdered in one week. On April 30 the city’s 2nd Dis- of disastrous for cops across the We, the police are now officially the trict (its largest) was protected by five, United States. Police Memorial enemy. count ‘em five, cops. That left one cop Week will add 362 names to the Missouri U.S. Rep. Cori Bush (D), responsible for the area that includes wall of cops killed on the job. As Black Lives Matter supporter and ac- Forest Park and its 1,326 acres, so four Rof 05/12/2021 we have had 124 cops tivist appeared on the news here in St to cover the rest of the district. It’s dan- killed and 57 have committed suicide Louis on May 5. “Today’s decision to gerous for the cops, it’s dangerous for at only 133 days into the year. And yes, defund the St. Louis Metropolitan Po- the citizens, but the folks like Bush there are folks to blame. lice Department is historic. It marks a want less police. I’ve chased bandits all The embracing of terrorist orga- new future for our city.” What she said across this area and the last thing the nizations like Black Lives Matter, by is true, except the future is dismal be- folks of color trapped in low-income politicians and folks with messed up cause of her way of thinking. Within crime-infested neighborhoods need is moral compasses are adding fuel to the days of applauding the decision that less police protection. That’s fact. The fire, those who coddle criminals, and was made to not fill 200 vacancies in media barely touches on that during those who glorify criminals and their the SLMPD, 20 folks were shot and the nightly homicide montage. Not to behavior are to blame. “Influencers,” three killed in one night. Keep it un- worry, though, the 62 square miles of sports figures, Lebron James and Co- der your hat, but the police didn’t kill St. Louis City proper will be better off lin Kaepernick are two who come to them. Folks like Bush find it easier to with 200 less cops! mind as folks who can just screw right condemn the police in general when President Biden chose Police Me- off. I can’t get fired for exercising my it fits the Marxist agenda of BLM, but morial Week to get a dig in on us, by First Amendment Right to free speech. they’re not protesting the black on saying the police were the reason there I don’t work for anybody and I’ve al- black crime that plagues this town. is such distrust in this country, imply- ready been worked over by the cop- St. Louis is home to some 300,000 ing that police officers were randomly hating system, so I don’t care and I will people, who are protected by 1,343 killing folks of color. That is as unfor- not be quieted. cops soon to be 1,143. Yay! You’re get- givable as it is insulting. He literally The folks spoiling for a civil war ting what you wanted! Except, it’s more slapped every cop in America right in are to blame as well. The media “If it dead bodies, and sadly, most of them the face with his political double speak. bleeds it leads” mentality are getting will be people of color, and killed by They also gave Mrs. Obama more cops and civilians killed. We recently other people of color. facetime where she had to attack us

36 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 "Systemic racism. It always comes back to that, doesn’t it?"

again implying she is scared to death that the police getting more cops killed. You are directly making cities will target her girls and the outcome would be devas- like St. Louis more dangerous than we already were. tating. I think she’s upset that they had to have “the We’re number one in murders and again, it ain’t the talk” with their daughters. Here’s a clue, all parents cops doing the killing. Keep it up. Keep draining the should have “the talk” with their kids regarding pos- citizens of the only protection they have and need. sible interactions with the cops. It’s nothing new. All You’re just going to end up with a higher body count. the cool parents are doing it, even the white ones! I Your dreams may be coming true, but be careful what had “the talk” with my kids. My dad gave me and my you wish for. brother, “the talk.” My grandfather gave my dad and his five brothers, “the talk,” so singling out the notion that Kirk Lawless is a 28 year, decorated, vet- only people of color have “the talk” is such BS. Person- eran police officer from the St Louis area. ally, I’m sick of it. I won’t be shamed into feeling guilty He’s a former SWAT operator, narcotics for something I didn’t do. And I won’t get shamed or agent, homicide investigator, detective discounted for the color of my skin. Wait what’s that and Medal of Valor recipient. Off the job called? Oh yeah, racism, and it’s a two-way street. due to an up close and personal gunfight, Systemic racism. It always comes back to that, he now concentrates on writing. He’s a patriotic warrior, doesn’t it? The thing that shocks me is that those artist, poet, actor, musician, and man of peace. who hold some sway, or can create a media frenzy by weighing in on something they know little about, stops right there, by creating conflict and bitching that this should have been handled differently and then they disappear. They offer zero solutions. They stir the pot, then leave. These folks don’t volunteer their time to go into what they say is “their” neighborhoods and make a difference. Do they go into the schools and tell kids how they should act during a car stop? Do they preach the ills of drugs and gunplay on the streets? I did it every damned day. It’s not just a job for most of us; it’s a calling. I’m serious. I’m not sure how many parents neglect to tell their children how to cross the street without getting hit, let alone how to conduct themselves during an interaction with the police. So Colin, LeBron, Cori, Joe, and Michelle stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution. I will continue to do what I do. I have solutions; I have insight. I talk to many police recruits. Trust me, when we part ways they have a greater understanding of the difficulties of the job and what will be asked of them. And, I have never met one who said, “I can’t wait to hit the street and kill someone for absolutely no reason!” It’ll never happen. It doesn’t work that way. By leaps and bounds, you are changing things by defunding the police and demonizing us. You’re

Joaquin “Jack” Garcia By Eddie Molina

Gambino crime family- one of curred in the 2000’s--and a lot New York’s most vicious mob has changed. organizations and a pillar in La Jack tells Blue, “They know Cosa Nostra - or this thing of the FBI and law enforcement is ours. He made it as far as Joe Pis- after them and they’re trying to tone, aka Donnie Brasco, in half avoid getting caught. Leaving the time and was one step away bodies on the street is bad for from becoming a made guy. business. They have changed in Jack, retired FBI undercover Jack’s incredible undercover that they are more discreet and agent, tells the Blue Magazine operation inside the mafia was not as brazen as they were.” Jack about his experience infiltrating brilliantly recaptured in his best- continued, “They’re still in the the New York Mob selling book, Making Jack Fal- same business. As long as there’s What’s your mental im- cone: An Undercover FBI Agent sports betting… book making… age of a typical FBI undercover Takes Down a Mafia Family. loan sharking and you have agent? I’m thinking youthful but In an exclusive interview, people out there willing to buy experienced, maybe some thin- Blue Magazine sat down with things that fall off the back of a ning hair, great physical condi- Jack and talked about his har- truck, you’re going to have the tion- would you agree? rowing undercover journey with mafia.” That’s not the case for one the mob, what mob life is like, Another common miscon- unique and wildly successful re- and what sets them apart from ception is that they have boun- tired undercover FBI agent- Joa- average law-abiding citizens. ties on law enforcement. And quin “Jack” Garcia. But the mafia isn’t what you that’s definitely bad for business. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches might think it is. It has morphed “The mafia knows that taking out tall and at his most, weighed over the years compared to Hol- a law enforcement guy… that’s nearly 400 pounds during his il- lywood’s previous depiction of like the worst thing you could lustrious undercover career! His it. The 1990s produced multiple do. They know that the reign unique stature is part of what mafia related movies; Goodfel- of terror will fall upon them.” made him so effective. In fact, he las, Casino, Donnie Brasco and Jack continued, “In New York was so good, he posed as an Ital- others. All were set in 70s and they had the killing of a DEA ian gangster with roots in Sic- 80s. Because of those movies, I agent by this [mafia] guy named ily despite being a Cuban born thought the mob life was about Faracci, I think the agents name American! gunning down rivals in the wasHatcher. He’s an undercover His most notorious op- street. hero working with these guys eration involved infiltrating the But Jack’s operation oc- and he was found dead, slumped

38 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 www.amazon.com/Making-Jack-Falcone-Undercover-Family/dp/1439149917

over in his car. Well, we tore what he did best and went back up all of the gambling horns… to the strip club where I was we brought people in… there undercover and he reclaimed was constant heat. Wiretaps that club that was at one time indicated that they [mafia] under his umbrella. He hit the said ‘find this guy Faracci, kill ground running and he did it him and throw him outside the the same day he got picked up DEA’s office.’” from prison… that same day Part of reality for mobsters he started the shakedowns.” is they often end up in prison. Some of the gangsters But unlike some convicts that are intelligent and ambitious. manage to turn their lives There’s no doubt they have around and live an honest life, the capability of living a clean, mafia members don’t prescribe honest and successful life. to that ideology whatsoever. However, Jack feels that is sadly “This is the only life they unrealistic. know. When you take that Jack said, “As far as go- oath as a gangster in organized ing clean, some of these guys crime in the mafia, it’s for life.” would probably do quite well Jack said. out there but it’s in their DNA, And that’s how Jack found its inside them.” Greg Depalma- a Captain with Jack recalls a scenario the Gambino crime family where DePalma and him are Jack was able to sink his walking around a clothing undercover claws into Depal- store. ma shortly after he was released “He’s shoving ties down from prison. Using his verbal his jacket, socks… I’m like judo and hypnotic charm, Jack ‘what’re you doing… I’ll pay eventually formed a close bond for that.’ He says ‘what’re you with DePalma. But the secret crazy, this is what we are, this was more about money--and is who we are’. And it’s so true.” that’s what fueled DePalma. Jack said. “I would say to DePalma In total, Jack spent three ‘look, I’m going down to Mi- years undercover with the ami, I got to take care of some Gambino crime family. Over business for us’. So I would go that span, he more than earned down to Florida, do what I had the trust of DePalma. He was to do, come back then I give only a few short steps of be- them [mafia] a taste. Maybe an coming a made guy--quite an envelope with a couple grand, honor in the mafia that in- or watches from the forfeiture volves a heart-felt ceremony. unit. He [DePalma] saw me To become a made guy, then as an earner.” you must be Italian and spon- I wanted to dig deeper into sored by a made man. Then in DePalma’s mentality, persona an intimate ritual, often in a and general outlook on the basement or somewhere qui- lifestyle. Jack had no shortage et, mafioso heritage is recited, of stories explaining it. scripted questions are asked “When he [DePalma] and answered and a vow to re- came out [of prison] he did main loyal to the family for life

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 39 For reasons unknown, the case was closed just prior to Jack becoming a made guy. Jack disagreed with that decision and believes could have been the start of something enormous. “I thought that… eventually in time I would get straightened out giving me access to the inner workings of the mob but also be able to introduce other FBI agents into other places in the U.S. like Chicago, New York. But I’m just a soldier, not management. The way it works it’s safe, that’s what they wanted done.” He continued, "The assistant US attorney working the case, along with other agents working the case wanted it to remain open. There was no reason for this case to be closed because my life was not in danger in any way.” But Jack is a soldier and did what all true soldiers do, follow orders. The case ultimately took down 32 dangerous criminals and dismantled the Gambino crime family and their affiliates. He continued is confirmed. This is the oath every made guy takes and one of on to lead a brilliant career and accomplished the most celebrated, life-changing events there is for a mafia many other feats. After 26 years of service, he retired. He’s now member. enjoying the fruits of his labor, a goal many law enforcement And that’s how close Jack was. He had the trust and support officers are looking forward to. Jack left a standard that seems of DePalma and his crew. And as far as the mob knew, he was impossible to exceed. Only one question remains, can you do Italian too (that still amazes me that Jack pulled it off). better? But he didn’t quite get there.

You can pick up his book Making Jack Falcone: An Under- cover FBI Agent Takes Down a Mafia Family, just don’t forget to leave a review! www.amazon.com/Making-Jack-Falcone- Undercover-Family/dp/1439149917

Eddie Molina writes articles about law enforcement, first responder and military culture. He is also the author of A Beginner’s Guide to Leader- ship, available on Amazon and his website, www. eddiemolina.com.

40 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 41 LOOKING BACK

A Pennsylvania State Police Memory

By Dale Gabriel

Today's PSP Memory takes Firebird, kissed and hugged my hand-to-hand combat. Sometimes me back 33 years. March 18, 1988 girlfriend (now my wife for 33 you were lucky enough to get the -- A day I will NEVER forget; my years, and my parents goodbye, weak; others you WERE the weak. graduation from the Pennsylvania and headed east. I had no idea Range, working details, and much State Police Academy in Hershey. what I was getting myself into. more; this was NOTHING like It was a TOUGH five months for Other than being 20 miles college! NOTHING!! And then me, but seeing the huge smile on away at Saint Vincent College, and there were the constant inspec- my dad's face that day made it all coming home most weekends, I tions. They certainly were not my worthwhile. I was just a kid. Look had never even been away from friend, especially considering I did at this picture. I did not even know home. The next five long months not have my mom to make my bed how to wear the "big hat" correctly. seemed like a lifetime for this or do my clothes. I wondered ev- To those of you NOT in law college boy, about as anti-military ery day what I had gotten myself enforcement, it's much differ- as they come. I never DID learn into, and if I was going to be cut ent than you THINK. It's not like to march very well. The classroom out for it. what you see on TV. It's a calling, work was simple. Pool time was But after that long, hard, not a job. It's a way of life. It's what easy since I had swam nearly every seemingly IMPOSSIBLE five we ARE, not what we do. When day possible for the past 12 years months, and finally passing the re- others run for safety, we run TO- or so (although we did not have it quired tasks including the obstacle WARD danger. Yet, there is so long because of a problem with the course at the exact time I needed much hatred, So much disrespect. pool) Sure, the ONE thing I would (I still think they shaved a few sec- But we are still out there doing the be good at, and it was gone! The onds off my time), I would become job every day, much of the time for rest of the academy time was NOT a full-fledged Pennsylvania State people who do not appreciate it. easy. Trooper. And we were here on this Here is MY story My knees could NEVER take day celebrating. We had lost about Going back five months the morning run of up to 5 miles. a third of or original cadet class to earlier ... it actually all started on If you could not make it by a cer- grades, discipline, being unable to Oct. 19. 1987. That day, I embarked tain time, you were punished, complete necessary tasks or just on what would be perhaps the forced to do push-ups. I had be- plain giving up! Other than being most difficult, but also one of the come a push-up machine! Physi- a father, this was easily one of most most rewarding journeys in my cal training had its ups and downs. important accomplishments in my life. I packed up my canary-yellow There was fight class, actual live life.

42 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 I would spend the next 25 drinkers. Hard! Fair or not. people, telling them they had just years doing what I still considered Right or wrong. These were the lost a loved one, was very difficult, to be very important work, taking violations that I despised. completely draining you. You have me from Shippenville in Clarion I thoroughly enjoyed the to be direct and honest, yet com- County, to Greensburg, then Kiski hundreds of programs I put on passionate in giving them what is Valley. I was proud of the work I at schools, old folks homes, town likely the worst news of their lives. did. Proud to be a "Road Dawg" meetings, Scout troops, 4-H Over time, it hardens you. I saw for the entire time. I was punched, Clubs, PTA meetings and many people at their very worst, injured, kicked, bitten, spit on, run down more. I was extremely proud to hurt, and scared. Very often, how- by a car, dragged by a drunken incorporate, then put on for five ever, I was able to provide them driver, and even attacked off years, "Camp Clelian," a one- some kind words, some comfort, duty, resulting in a fractured day police camp for the students which I firmly believe helped them skull and severe facial injuries. at Clelian Heights, a school for deal with the situation. Not your routine 9-5! I kept persons with special needs. It was And I was blessed to work plugging away. Several times, I the first of its kind. EVER! Each with and become friends with so was among the top 10 in DUI year, it got bigger and better. After many great people along the way. arrests in my troop, receiving the the last one, I received a personal Unlike a "normal" job, your co- High DUI award. For about 18- phone call from Gov. Corbett and workers become more than just 20 of those years, I had the most our PSP Commissioner. What friends. They become your life DUIs at my various stations. I great memories! line. They are guys and girls you probably took part in taking a Unfortunately, though, as know you can count on when thousand drunken drivers off the many do not know or cannot un- the shit hits the fan. Brothers road, and I hammered underage derstand, the job eats at you. It and sisters that you know will takes so much out of you, changes have your back, just as you have you. My outlook on life changed. theirs. It's not just those in your We see a multitude of things own department, but many of the the average person neighboring police officers you does not see. I had work with. Unfortunately, some so many ups and of them were taken from us at the downs over the hands of murderers. May they all years, hundreds of rest in peace. dead bodies, most- All in all, it was a great career ly fatal accidents for me. I am proud of my body and suicides, a few of work. I am proud to have set drug overdoses, fa- an example in my neighborhood, tal fires, even a few someone people knew they could murders. I saw a man count on and someone the kids die screaming while could look up to. In addition, I trapped in his truck as was able to work midnight shift fire raged around him. for much of it, which allowed me I found my daughter's the time and ability to stay active best friend dead at a in my three daughters' lives, which crash site. I sat and held I think helped them turn into a woman's hand as she strong and successful adults. expired along the side of I just cannot believe it's been the road while awaiting an 33 years, and I have been retired ambulance, talking to her for almost nine. for what seemed like hours. Delivering death messages to

When Will Police Stop Beating Themselves

Up? By Joel F. Shults, Ed.D

here is nothing but regret in We like to ask angry and confused know an in-custody death would have the Chauvin case. Regret that citizens to wait for the system to work. been closely investigated. What we do the officer didn’t get George Now we question whether the system know is that the assumption that this Floyd medical attention worked. Many, if not most, police offi- kind of thing happens a lot and is gen- earlier. Regret that the looters cers were just as disturbed by the Floyd erally swept under the rug behind the Tand arsonists think they had a hand video as other citizens. But they have blue wall of silence is not our experi- in achieving justice. Regret that the all had to deal with arrestees scream- ence. Cops get in trouble. They get shadow of the threat of riots can never be ing bloody murder for the crowds. Of- sued. They get charged. They get fired. separated from the guilty verdict. Regret ficers watch these videos with vicari- They lose their careers. They get chas- that this event is represented as evidence ous adrenaline as they relive their own tised by their peers and admonished of routine abuse by police officers. struggles with drug-infused suspects by supervisors. The old days of attitude Regret that Floyd’s criminal activity was who don’t feel pain, can’t think straight adjustments in the alley have passed. disregarded as irrelevant and minor, enough to stop resisting, surrounded We’ve gotten so much better, but in the not even justifying an arrest. Regret by bystanders rooting for the arrestee era of community policing we some- that the science of forensic pathology while filming the event with the intent how plowed ground where adversaries is inexact enough to send someone to to post it with their own vile and false planted seeds of mistrust and separa- prison with conflicting assumptions narrative. We want to accept the jury tion. Maybe all the familiarity bred con- about a cause of death. Regret that the verdict, but we also know that perhaps, tempt. Maybe in making everyone Of- public fails to see the multiple millions but for the grace of God, there go I. ficer Friendly, we did a disservice to the of contacts and arrests by police officers Would Chauvin have been criminally public by masking the reality of being in unfathomably complex situations charged without the civilian video and an armed government agent confront- that are accomplished flawlessly. outrage? We want to think so, since we ing genuine evil and chaos.

44 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Nothing should change solely tion, “Have you stopped beating your nation has vicariously suffered. But like because of George Floyd and Derek wife?” Were trainers’ eyes suddenly any other trauma, we cannot measure Chauvin. It was a case for a jury, and a opened to make them stop teaching all future encounters by the emotions jury spoke. We give it due solemn re- neck-knee techniques and to ignore stirred while in shock. We sort out the gard and take from it the lessons it of- signs of medical distress? No, because real threats, the real solutions, the real fers. The case should not be the center we’re already there. Agencies are well- perspective, then we stop living in our of the universe for whatever gets la- advised to state that their policies were trauma. beled as police reform. I was asked to reviewed, and to make those policies comment on what changes in training public. What the public needs to hear A retired police chief Joel should result from the verdict. My an- is the truthful statement that this highly Shults is an award win- swer is that this was a human perfor- publicized event was an anomaly, with ning writer, college pro- mance and decision error. It was not a statistics and documentation to af- fessor, trainer, and first training or policy failure. No one teach- firm this reality. We are much better responder chaplain. He is es prolonged neck compression, and no served by each agency doing their own the author of several law one teaches delaying medical care when research into their interactions with enforcement related books and numer- a person in custody is in distress. the public to assess their department’s ous articles. He serves as a municipal If an agency proclaims that it will training and culture and apply correc- judge and a coroner’s investigator in ru- be changing training and policy, it is tions where warranted. ral southern Colorado. He can be found tacitly admitting that what happened in This is not a call to disregard the on twitter @chiefshults, and online at the Floyd encounter was normal police verdict or the events that led up to it. joelshults.blogspot.com and streetsmart- behavior. It is like answering the ques- We acknowledge the trauma that the force.com.

Helping Our HeroesBy Michael D. Boll

emorial Day program. We believe by aggressively ers definitely is a medicine that will weekend is one seeking out veterans in need and make you become a better person, of the most contacting them before they are in and you’ll feel really good about it. challenging for crisis, we can really have some posi- New Jersey Veterans Network is the New Jersey tive results. Contacting a person in constantly keeping active thru our Veterans Network and its team of need first is a great way to build trust Operation Rebound Racing Team volunteers and mentors. This is a dif- and make it easier to begin a friend- which hosts numerous hikes, runs, ficult time for many veterans because ship. People will do better when they bike rides and all other types of physi- theyM reflect on their brothers and have human contact in their lives, too cally challenging events. However, we sisters who didn't make it home. Ev- many programs are automated and also focus on non-athletic events like ery day our nation loses 22 veterans lack the empathy and compassion hosting a BBQ, comedy show, tail- to suicide, and it seems that number needed to help someone in crisis. gate, camping trip and several other isn’t coming down. If you are a vet- We are not afraid to tell our vet- fun outings throughout the year. But eran, or a family member, who is feel- erans and first responders that they it doesn’t stop there, the team works ing alone, or are in need of assistance, are loved, and we strive to give them well with other charities and hosts we are here for you. Please reach out purpose. The team immediately em- numerous food drives and clothing to us. powers and gives its members a new events which normally take place at Our team focuses on helping our family unit to be part of again. Nearly our veteran hospitals and shelters. If veterans and first responders have a everyone who joins the team wants you would like to help, there is some- better way of life through our vol- to help others and make a difference thing for you to contribute. unteer mobile outreach mentoring in someone else's life. Helping oth-

46 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Most recently, in April, our out- work: We are a group of veterans and the resources that they require and reach director Frank “Doc” Schupp volunteers dedicated to helping our deserve. spearheaded our “Helping Heroes” veterans and their families live better program, and “Hero Day.” These two lives. Our team is raising awareness Michael D. Boll is a retired police ser- programs were responsible for proof our veterans’ needs by organizing geant in NJ. He previously served as viding over 3,000 veterans and Na- public speaking engagements, meet- a United States Marine and is a Gulf tional Guardsmen throughout the ing with business and political leaders War veteran. He is the founder of Op- state with food, PPE and personal items. In the last few years New Jersey Veterans Network has grown and has been able to save lives, provide cars, employment, housing, clothing, food, toiletries, and so much more to heroes. Soon we will be launching a statewide anti-suicide and PTSD awareness campaign. We have joined forces with the NJ VFW, NJ American Legion, NJSPBA, NJ FMBA, NJ FOP, NJ Veterans Affairs, State Legislators and numerous other groups and organizations.

HowFinancial you candonations help are great, but we mostly rely on volunteers and donated resources. Our charity allows donors the opportunity to choose where their funds go and the volunteers get to play an active role in changing someone’s life. If you are interested in joining the team as a volunteer, would like us to speak at your event, contribute to across the state and sponsoring fund- eration Rebound Rac- our mission or are a veteran in need raising events. Our mission is to iden- ing Team, a nonprofit of assistance or comradeship, please tify veterans and connect them with organization that helps contact us at [email protected] resources and programs designed wounded veterans and or [email protected]. or to meet their unique set of needs. first responders enjoy a call 973-332-1556. To learn more, To ensure that EVERY single one of better quality of life. visit njvn.org our veterans, who have sacrificed so About New Jersey Veterans Net- much for this great country, receives

SurviveBy Eric J. Caron

uring my 25-year career as a constant awareness and mindset. It can Don’t, and we could lose our lives during U.S. government agent inves- become part of our very DNA and act an active-shooter event. tigating terrorism, I became as a coat of armor that protects us from Think of your favorite athlete in all too familiar with the chaos all types of threats, in all aspects of life. whatever sport. They develop muscle and destruction that can be When it comes to an active-shooter situ- memory in executing a particular move Dcaused in attacks by terrorists and other ation, it can literally mean the difference or play by practicing and visualizing that criminals. One of the most deadly and between life and death. move or play hundreds of times before heinous types of attacks is the attack by Those who are Switched On have a you or I ever see them use it in their an active shooter. Because they have the high-functioning internal compass and sport. That repetition is what enables element of surprise on their side, they GPS system. They have emotional equi- them to make what they do look so easy. hit us when we’re unprepared and of- librium and dexterity. They recognize It is second nature to them. ten blindside us in public places where nuances in their complex environments, By training your most important we feel safe and our defenses are down. and are guided as to when to turn just a muscle — your mind — you will in- The cold reality is that active shooters few degrees to the left or right, go for- crease the likelihood of surviving an have become a daily occurrence in the ward full throttle, back up or come to a active-shooter event. So, take the time workplace, in entertainment venues, at dead stop. to prepare like an athlete. And remem- parades and even in places of worship. We’ve all seen news reports of people ber that the event you’re preparing for Sadly, anywhere people gather to play or innocently going to a concert or theater has much higher stakes than a sporting pray can become a target of a terrorist only to be ambushed and gunned down event — life and death! The following or other active shooter. The good news by some maniac with an AK-47. Sadly, five to survive tools can empower us all is that there are five very simple tools we some of us have narrowly escaped such so we can enjoy life as God intended us can use to make sure we are Switched situations, known someone who has or to. Train yourself to: On and ready for the bad guy. lost a loved one who wasn’t so lucky. 1. Engage your senses and trust Before we proceed, let me answer So, we must be in the habit of being your instincts. a question I am often asked: “So, what Switched On every time we are out in • The essence of being Switched On does it mean to be Switched On?” public. We must train our brains like stems from our minds. Our minds Being Switched On is a daily deci- a muscle, no different than our biceps. control our bodies, including sight, sion, a moment-by-moment choice, a Train the mind and the body will follow. hearing and smell, as well as our God-

48 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 “So, what does it mean to be Switched On?”

given instincts. When we are Switched On, we listen as acutely vides greater protection and safety. as an owl, see with Clark Kent vision and sniff out danger like 3. Train yourself to scan the crowd, read people a bloodhound. and identify potential threats such as a lone 2. Scan the environment and devise a worst- individual dressed inappropriately for an event. case scenario plan. And if you see something that doesn’t fit or seems off in • Keep in mind that, during stressful events, the mind some way, say something to authorities. Never be afraid of automatically scans the memory bank for a predetermined being wrong and embarrassing yourself. It’s better to be safe plan. If no plan was put into place then none will be retrieved than sorry. It could save your life and maybe even the lives of — and without preplanned instructions to follow, the body others. will freeze or make a fatal decision. The plan should be 4. Listen to and focus on your breath when threefold: 4 Identify a primary and secondary exit. It is good to make a you’re in close proximity to an active shooter or mental note of the locations of the exits but even better if any violence. we can physically walk our escape plan before we need it. As simplistic as that may seem, it has a major twofold effect: 4 In this way, we are like the elite athlete practicing a certain It breaches tunnel vision on the shooter and widens your move a thousand times so it becomes muscle memory; perspective and eyesight so you can see and identify other 4 Identify safe havens or places to which we can escape; and threats; and 4 4 Identify objects to use for cover and concealment. It’s im- Just as importantly, it helps you focus on your previously portant to know the difference between concealment (hid- identified exit-and-escape plan. ing under a table, for example) and cover-and-concealment 5. Memorize this fact, repeat it over and over, (hiding behind a refrigerator or thick metal object capable and make it your mantra: “My main focus is to of stopping a bullet, or in a locked room). Whenever pos- identify the threat, avoid the threat, and escape sible, cover-and-concealment is preferable because it pro- the threat. Period! Every time I am out in public, I will be Switched On.” Our instinct in times of crisis is to call loved ones or the police — but it’s not the time unless you’re out of harm’s way. As we escape the chaos, we must prepare to encounter police (their response time is typically two to four minutes) by putting our hands up in the air. When they arrive, they will be expecting us to give a description of the shooter or shooters. With active-shooter incidents confronting us on a regular ba- sis on the news, many people become scared and feel helpless. Some even avoid going out after dark or leaving the house at all. But we must not surrender to thoughts and fears of violence. Our minds can be put to much better use. In fact, they can become our best protection for avoiding active-shooter incidents and for protecting us if we should find ourselves facing an active shooter. Your mind is your best protection and your best weapon! Train it well. Practice often. Remain Switched On. And live your best life.

Eric Caron is a Special Agent (Ret) with 25 years of service. He is the author of "Switched On - The Heart & Mind of a Special Agent." His website is: Switchedonlife.com

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 49 RECOGNITION Essex County 200 Club Awards Officer Willie Jones’ Valor By Robert Foreman

On a daily ba- recipient of the Valor Award. sis, law enforce- Officer Jones, who was born in Essex County, New ment officers are Jersey, admitted that the incident still remains with him required to put nearly two years later. their lives on the “It was the first time that I had ever fired my gun in line to ‘protect and the line of duty,” said Officer Jones. “So, it definitely stays serve’ their com- w it h y ou .” munities. Often, While winning the Valor Award was an honor for their acts of valor Officer Jones, he was quick to acknowledge the actions go unnoticed. of the other officer who was with him. However, this was “First off, I want to thank Josh Anderson. He was my not the case with partner on the scene and he helped to secure the suspect. Orange Police Of- I don’t know why he didn’t get the award,” said Officer ficer Willie Jones. Jones. “But winning the award felt good. It was kind of On April 30, 2021, an ‘ah’ moment. I mean, I don’t do this for the awards. I Officer Jones was do it for the public, but it was nice to be acknowledged.” honored with the For more information on the The Essex County 200 Valor Award for Club check here: http://200clubessexcounty.org/ his bravery in the line of duty by The Robert Foreman has nearly 20 years of Essex County 200 journalism experience and he has worked Club. The ceremony was held at the City of Orange Po- for a variety of publications, including The lice Department. Herald News, The Daily Record and The On July 13, 2019, Officer Jones, 36, and Officer Passaic County Pulse. He obtained a B.A. Josh Anderson were called to 400 Oakwood Ave for a in Communications from William Paterson volatile domestic dispute. The initial 911 call indicated College, now University, in 1995. He has taken his life-long that a male suspect, Jamahl Smith, had stabbed his sister, passion for writing and parlayed it into writing news arti- Tanya Smith. After arriving on the scene the officers cles, features, press releases, marketing materials, ad copy, encountered the suspect in the 3rd floor hallway of the plays and screenplays. Never one to rest on his laurels, the building, brandishing a large kitchen knife. The officers former journalist is always seeking to challenge himself as ordered Smith to drop the knife, but he refused. Instead, a writer. Born and raised in Paterson, N.J., he currently the suspect began approaching Officer Jones, with the resides in North Carolina. knife in hand, forcing the officer to shoot Smith three times. While EMS was called Smith was later pronounced dead at the hospital. After an official review of the incident, it was determined that Officer Jones’ actions had not only saved the life of Smith’s sister, who had been stabbed several times, but the lives of multiple elderly residents in the building. It was because of his heroic actions that not only saved his life, but the lives of others, that Officer Jones became a natural

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CriminalJustice.SanDiego.edu (888) 832-0239 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 51 STANDING TOGETHER

Maintaining Your Professional Composure During These Troubling Times

By Chief Rich Rosell

A young cop I know re- enemies of law enforcement to In the 1960s, President cently lost his job last over some heart and was unable to accept Johnson created the President's unfortunate social media posts. them for what they are; nonsen- Commission on Law Enforce- Ten years ago, nobody would sical grandstanding by people ment and Administration of Jus- have cared, but today, his posts who just hate cops. None of us tice, which was meant to bring made him look like the devil. like being the brunt of constant about sweeping changes in po- Of course, it was self-inflicted, attacks. While the attacks on lice departments. Police officers and could have been easily our collective character over nationwide were painted with avoided. The problem was not the past year or so are as bad as the same brush, made to look the fact he made social media I have seen in the 39 years since as though we were all actively posts, rather it was his inability I took my oath, this certainly is involved in systemic police bru- to deal with the subject matter not the first time law enforce- tality. In the 1970s and 1980s, which prompted the posts. He ment has found themselves be- it was open hunting season on took the daily beatings by the ing attacked. cops. Groups such as the Black

52 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 “It’s nothing but Liberation Army, the Weather Under- our day. I ad- ground and other radicals attacked mit throughout a game, so play law enforcement (and other targets) most of my ca- with impunity. I can remember asking reer it has been my father what lye was after I heard easy to shrug that someone threw it into the face off the day and the game until of a New York City cop. In the 1990s not take the job and early 2000s, national drug traf- home with me. fickers found sympathetic shoulders But now, the it’s done.” on which to cry, and, by leveling ac- attacks on my cusations of disparate treatment, shut brothers and down many major drug interdiction sisters are omni- and this you have the power to revoke initiatives throughout the country. In present. They seem to follow me wher- at any moment.” the past, we have weathered these at- ever I go. The multiple times per day What Aurelius is saying is let tacks, as we shall now in the future. people come to me and thank me for it go. The state of the world today, But unlike my friend, we need to take a my service are nice, but they also serve whether it is political strife or anti-law step back and decide when and where to remind me of why they are doing it. enforcement, is not our fault. Do not to pick our battles. They feel sorry for me; for all of us. I feel responsible for it. Cops have made This article is not about posting am not pitiable, and neither are you. errors and we are all taking the blame. something stupid on Facebook, rather, There is a book called Meditations, There is little you can do about that. it is about how an officer can avoid translated by George Long from the Let it go. finding him/herself on the brink of ru- writings of Marcus Aurelius. Aurelius Lesson 2: ining a perfectly good career by simply was a Roman emperor who reigned al- “You need to avoid certain things taking a step back before acting irra- most 2000 years ago. His writings are in your train of thought: Everything tionally. Had my friend had the ability philosophical, in the Stoic tradition, random, everything irrelevant…” and are grounded in morals and Bingo! Do you really care if ethics. It is basically a 2000-year- ANTIFA thinks All Cops are Bastards? old self-help book. Aurelius pro- Does it matter to you that Mayor “Don’t sweat the vides level-headed advice on how DeBlasio told his children to be afraid to deal with most of life’s prob- of the cops? It should not, because lems. I must admit that some of his none of it is part of your mission. It is small stuff" suggestions are just not actionable all irrelevant. to the hectic lives of contemporary police officers. It is arguably clear Lesson 3: that Aurelius had neither kids nor “Everything that happens either to handle his emotions, he still would a first wife. His mother-in-law never happens in such away as you are have a job. came to visit for a few days and stayed formed by nature to bear it, or as you Emotion can be difficult to han- for five years. He never worked rotat- are not formed by nature to bear it. If, dle. I would be lying if I said I have ing shifts. His favorite football team then, it happens to you in such way as never lost my temper. We all have. I hasn’t missed the playoffs for the last 10 you are formed by nature to bear it, do can remember some advice from se- years. But there are several lessons in not complain, but bear it accordingly. nior troopers on how to deal with this book which I think provide valu- But if it happens in such way as you stressors. “Don’t sweat the small stuff” able guidance, arguably more valuable are not formed by nature to bear it, was my favorite. Another saying I re- than “Shut up, stop whining, and do do not complain, for it will perish call was “It’s nothing but a game, so your job”. There are three lessons which after it has consumed you. Remember, play the game until it’s done.” The most I would like to share with you. however, that you are formed by nature predominant advice in the State Police to bear everything whose tolerability Lesson 1: depends on your own opinion to make was “Shut up, stop whining, and do “If you are distressed by anything your job.” But these days, we need more it so, by thinking that it is in your external, the pain is not due to the interest or duty to do so.” than just a saying to make it through thing itself, but to your estimate of it;

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 53 This lesson is a little deeper and a little less obvious Had he been equipped to handle the onslaught of attacks than the two previous. Aurelius postulates that nature forms on law enforcement, he would have met them with his head your being to be able to handle or not handle a particular held high and not allowed them to deter his evenhanded situation. Aurelius lived during a period of polytheism, and application of the law. But he was not equipped. Instead, he in his time, nature was blamed or credited with having ef- allowed these attacks to consume him. He dwelled on them; fect on mankind. Today, many of those effects are attributed tried to fight them as if they were an enemy with whom he to God, so if you feel more comfortable replacing the term could stand toe to toe. He allowed himself to be consumed nature with God, by all means, do so. For those of you who might be a slight bit offended by that suggestion, I would refer you to Lesson 1. So, when something occurs in your life that is trou- Shut up, bling or traumatic, and you are of the consistency to live with it, Aurelius recommends that you do not give it a second thought (complain) and drive on accord- stop whining, ingly. Accordingly is a key word in this lesson, because it implies that while the event might be traumatic, even life-changing, you can still live with it and accomplish and do your job.” the mission by keeping on task. Part two of this lesson suggests that should you not be of the consistency deal with a traumatic event, complaining is not an option. He opines that if you cannot with his angst. And in the end, just like Aurelius says, after handle the issue, your option is to allow it to ruin you, for losing his job, the mindless attacks by our enemies disap- once you are at your lowest that event will go away. peared for him, as he was no longer a cop and no longer Let’s apply this rational to my friend who lost his job. their target. The final part of this quote is a bit harsh, as it suggests that everyone has the ability to overcome anything if he/ she is of the proper mindset to do so. I do not necessarily disagree with this assertion. This third point renders the second point moot, for if he is correct, a proper attitude toward adversity will always enable one to deal with it accordingly. It would be senseless for me to recommend you stop letting these attacks bother you. I could never allow myself to accept them, therefore how could I expect that of anyone else? But I can tell you that you are stronger than you think, and you can bear these attacks on our character accordingly without succumbing to detrimental responses. You don’t have to be consumed by the words and actions of our enemies. Rise above them for the sake of the communities and people we protect. Always maintain your professionalism. Our enemies can’t take away that which we are unwilling to give them, especially our professionalism. And always remember, you are not alone. We outnumber those who would do us harm.

Chief Rosell is currently the Police Chief and Public Safety Director for the Town of Indian River Shores, Florida, the former Director of Public Safety for the Town of Dover, NJ and Township of Springfield, NJ, and a 27-year veteran of the New Jersey State Police, retiring at the rank of Captain. He has a very diverse skill set with vast operational, training, policymaking, homeland security, leadership, management and administrative experience.

54 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 55 STRATEGY It’s time to sound the charge By David Willoughby

“Policing in our country is inherently and in- Wright was met with aggression & violence. I am tentionally racist” - RashidaTlaib done with those who condone government funded Can you believe a U.S. congresswoman tweeted murder. No more policing, incarceration, and mili- this rubbish with all sincerity to her followers? She tarization. It can't be reformed.” actually believes that we are “violent” and “aggres- I want to know where you stand on Tlaib’s sive murderers”! This is a woman who can influence tweet. Please choose from the following: others to transform our profession. 1. I strongly agree with her. If her tweet doesn’t make your blood boil, 2. I agree with her. you should turn in your gun and badge and quit. 3. I somewhat agree/disagree with her. What’s pathetic is that her tweet is common think- 4. I disagree with her. ing among numerous politicians and others in posi- 5. I strongly disagree with her. tions of power. Our careers are under attack. I, for one, will not remain silent. I will not sit back and Please do not respond with a long, politically just take it. If you consider yourself to be a part of correct answer, just a number. the “Brotherhood,” then you need to rise up and fight too! Thank you. It’s time to sound the charge. (Sign your name and title) So, how, you ask? What can we do? Well, here is one simple task that ALL law enforcement officers Step 3: can do to counterattack these imbeciles. Email each one individually and wait for a response. Give them at least two weeks to respond Step 1: and tally all responses. Be ready for the usual Look up elected officials within your munici- politically correct crap that typically ensues when pality. It’s not difficult to find county supervisors, you’re trying to ask a politician a question. Stick to mayors, county executives, school board members your guns! Always be respectful and politely ask and others who have been put into positions of lead- them for an answer (1-5). If they beat around the ership/power. Go to the city/town/village/county bush and don’t give an answer, mark it down as a webpage and look for the “contacts,” or “emails” tab. “Refused to Answer”. Step 2: Step 4: Cut/paste this to each elected official: Once your deadline has passed and you have U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib, Democrat from collected/tallied responses, let the world know! Start Michigan, recently tweeted: with your local labor union. Send out the question- “It wasn't an accident. Policing in our coun- naire and results to every member of your union. try is inherently & intentionally racist. Daunte Expose the law enforcement-hating schmucks to

56 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 our own brethren and explain why it’s away with an astounding “5” and Dave Willoughby is a so important to vote them out. Send thank you for your service. Make sure Marine Veteran, former out mass emails to newspapers, radio to thank them for their support. Firefighter/EMT and is talk shows and blogs. Expose them, A warning for all who will fol- currently a Milwaukee expose them, and expose them. low my advice. Do all of this on your County Deputy after I’m not going to sugar-coat this. own time, and on your own personal serving as a Juvenile The Democrat party, liberal snow- email, and on your own personal Corrections Officer. He has earned flakes and American-hating com- computer. If you sign your name and degrees in Developmental Coaching and mies are our biggest threat. They can disclose your title, be prepared to Communications as well as Fire Science ignorantly shoot their mouths off and explain yourself within your Inter- and Emergency Medicine. He is married send whatever social media posts they nal Affairs Division. Some coward and is the proud dad to five daughters, the charge want to, but they better be ready for politician(s) won’t have the guts to six sponsor children, and two dogs. some payback from us when they do! respond to you directly, but they will You will notice almost immedi- anonymously send a complaint to UPDATE: On May 20, 2021, Deputy ately the uncomfortable responses your supervisor (happened to me). Willoughby received a call from a from many Democrats. Based upon I still believe that the overwhelm- Lieutenant in the Internal Affairs Of- my experience, several will refuse to ing majority of Americans love law fice of the Milwaukee County Sheriff's answer, or not even respond. Stick to enforcement and support their local Office. She informed him that he was your guns, continue to push and re- PD, or Sheriff’s Office. But, there is a going to be suspended. cord everything. growing, loud minority that wants to It will be obvious who defends see us de-funded, or abolished. If we and supports law enforcement. I have remain complacent, they will advance found that Republicans and conser- in their cause. If we unite and fight, vatives will typically respond right we will win. Your call.

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By Tania Owen and Vickie Speed

“Those who would disrespect our flag Department for being a leader in both his have never been handed a folded one” professional and personal life. Mitch and In 2016, LASD Sergeant Steve Owen Vickie have one adult son, Brodie. During was murdered in the line of duty when re- this time, Vickie spent 32 years working sponding to a burglary in progress call in construction accounting and project man- the 3200 block of West Avenue J-7 in Lan- agement. caster, CA. Sergeant Owen was 53, and a “Courage is not having the strength to 29-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department. move forward. Courage is moving forward Owen was the recipient of the Meritorious when you don’t have the strength.” Conduct Medal, Gold, and loved by the After the loss of both of their husbands, community he served where he was often Tania and Vickie formed a bond and involved in youth activities. At the time of sisterhood. Days and months went by while the incident, Steve’s wife Tania was an Arson they faced new struggles and often thought Explosives Detective. They have three adult about their marriages, raising kids and the SERGEANT STEVE OWEN children: Chadd, Branden and Shannon. hurdles that families of first responders face, Ten days before the murder, Detective including losing a spouse. Tania Owen met Vickie Speed at a fund- Tania and Vickie were both asked to raiser for Steve and Tania’s fellow officer discuss the trials and tribulations of their and friend, LASD Detective Mitch Speed. lives. During these discussions, a singular During his career with the Sheriff’s Depart- question kept being asked, “How did you ment, Mitch worked the jails and was later two make it work?” assigned to Lancaster Station, Patrol. He In January 2019, Tania and Vickie were later promoted to the Burglary Suppres- asked to share their story with a larger audi- sion Team, where the team was awarded ence. With a little reluctance and not know- the Medal of Valor for arrests, stolen prop- ing if 10 or 100 people would attend, they erty and auto thefts. Mitch was promoted to decided to go ahead hoping they could at detective working robbery and assaults at least help save one marriage. They agreed Lancaster Station and then had to step away that their talk would be completely trans- from work when he was diagnosed with parent. DETECTIVE MITCH SPEED Stage 4 cancer related to work exposure. In To their disbelief, the auditorium was March of 2018, Mitch was awarded a com- filled with 500+ people, who welcomed mendation for leadership by the Sheriff’s their stories and insight.

58 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 After that amazing evening, they continued to received Albuquerque Police Department Wives requests to speak at venues across the country, including: -Albuquerque, New Mexico The EPOCH Times – Truth and Tradition Rio Rancho Police Department Wives -Newspaper publication, New York -Rio Rancho, New Mexico TV Interview – Contending for the Faith Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department -Faith and Family Television, 7 Channels, 148 Stations -Recruit Training/Academy Classes Radio Interview–About Faith with Alec Klein “She” has something to Say – Online Media platform. -HLE Radio, Jennings, LA -Features women around the world who are making Albuquerque Police Department positive impacts - Albuquerque, New Mexico

Their speaking engagements led them to write a book, “After the Badge” in an effort to help the marriages of struggling first responders. “After the Badge” will be released in January 2021. Topics include:

- Sanctity of Marriage is Being Destroyed - Defined Marriage Roles of a Husband - Breakdown of Family Structure and a Wife - Male Role Models Lost in the Home - Financial Issue - Losing Faith in an Uncertain World - Paying the Ultimate Sacrifice - Infidelity - Losing Your Life in the Line of Duty

Tania and Vickie have made it a personal endeavor to meet with spouses in need, one on one. Along with that, they have taken their personal grief and put efforts into helping wives after loss and especially close to their hearts is helping spouses and families who are battling cancer.

Tania and Vickie Create the Owen Speed Foundation

Wanting to use their hardships to suicides reported na- help other law enforcement families, in tionwide. The founda- March of 2020 Tania and Vickie created tion recognizes that the Owen Speed Foundation 501(c)(3). spouses of first respond- The foundation works to: ers who commit suicide can be left behind with- • Give Financial Assistance to Families of out benefits and have First Responders the financial needs of LEO Suicide, LEO Cancer and illness funeral expenses, debt • Partner with Community Programs and children to provide LASD Explorers for. Through their foun- • Mentorship for Youth and Young Adults dation, Tania and Vickie Local High School Programs are hoping to begin to VICKIE SPEED Tania Owen • Marriage Retreats assist families immedi- Coming in Fall 2021 ately. Tania and Vickie are looking forward COVID-19 has thrown some hurdles to the foundation’s Marriage Retreat On Sept. 6, 2020, the foundation in front of Tania and Vickie. Due to being launched in 2021. launched its first donation campaign COVID-19 restrictions, the foundation’s For More information about the for First Responder Suicide Assistance Explorer and youth programs have been foundation, ordering the book or do- in recognition of National Suicide Pre- suspended. However, the foundation will nating, go to vickieandtania.com or ow- vention Week. As of the third quarter of launch the programs as soon restrictions enspeed.com 2020, there have been 110 first responder are lifted.

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 59 Tania Owen Vickie Speed partment Sergeant Steve Owen, murdered Author, speaker and Author, speaker and execution-style in October 2016 when he law enforcement family law enforcement family answered a burglary-in-progress call. advocate. advocate. Vickie Speed is the spouse of Los Ange- Tania was born in El Vickie grew up in les County Sheriff's Department Detective Salvador, coming to the a desert community in Mitch Speed, who died from cancer in July US in 1974. She became Southern California. 2018 as a result of exposure while on duty. an officer in March of Raised in a home with Though the two women hadn't known 1986, starting at the Santa Monica Police her mom, stepdad, sister and brother (also each other prior to their husbands' deaths, Department, then transferring to the Los a retired LASD Deputy). God supernaturally brought them together Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in She spent 30 years working in con- and then drew them into a relationship October 1987. Since then, her career in struction accounting and project manage- often described like that of the Bible's Ruth law enforcement has spanned over three ment. and Naomi. decades. She has had assignments in patrol, Her husband, Los Angeles County Drawing strength from their shared gangs, child abuse, crisis negotiations, Sheriff’s Department Detective Mitch faith in God, Tania and Vickie now pro- Mounted Enforcement Detail and Bomb Speed died July 7, 2018 from cancer re- vide wisdom and encouragement to Squad where she was also a K9 Handler to lated to work exposure. other law enforcement officers and their “Tank” an explosives detection K9. Vickie is also serving as the CFO of families. In their inspiring book, After the She is the wife of slain Los Angeles the Owen Speed Foundation. Badge, they reveal the difficulties of being County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant When “happily ever after" doesn’t in law enforcement, including how both Steve Owen, who was murdered in the line turn out like you planned… there’s still of their marriages were once almost de- of duty on Oct. 5, 2016. hope! stroyed – until each couple found the heal- She now serves as the CEO of the Owen Retired Los Angeles County Sheriff's ing, forgiveness and restoration that came Speed Foundation. Department Detective Tania Owen is the only from the hand of our loving heavenly spouse of Los Angeles County Sheriff's De- Father.

60 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 61 ON THE BEAT He violently attacked me in an attempt to end my life! By Lexie Bell

are being unfairly treated by the media. given a book to read that suggested he go He went on to say how terrible Pugnea's off his medications, and so he did. The actions were that day and even called combination of him being off his meds him out several times when he tried to and him starting to drink again is also "I'm going to fucking kill you, bitch." make excuses for what he did because of why he did what he did and that some- These were the words said to me by substance abuse and a history of mental how mitigates his responsibility. At the John Pugna on Aug. 18, 2019. He then health issues. end of the day, HE made the decision to proceeded to punch me in the face and Let me address that for a minute. The go off his meds and HE made the deci- head over a dozen times. He threw me defense for him is that he had a work- sion to drink, therefore HE is solely re- on the ground and tried to gouge out place accident that caused him to suffer sponsible for his horrific actions. my eyes. He violently attacked me in an severe chemical poisoning in 1993 that Judge Daniel Gaul seemed to attempt to end my life. All of this was put him in a coma and has thus ruined agree with the prosecution, given his captured on my body camera. His wife his life. OK, fine. But how about the fact nice speeches and apparent disgust for threw herself on top of me to get him to that he tried to kill another North Roy- Pugnea. However, in a shock to everyone stop hitting me and while she was there, alton police officer back in 1982? What's in the courtroom on sentencing day, this he said, "This is my wife, and she's the his excuse for that? Judge Gaul brought judge gave him the MINIMUM sentence only reason you're still alive." I thought that up in court and Pugnea got defensive for the felonious assault. 4 to 6 years in I was going to die that day. However, I saying that should have been expunged prison. Time served for the aggravated fought like hell, I was able to get up, hold and was not relevant. Judge Gaul was ap- menacing since he had been in the coun- him at gunpoint, and he was arrested. parently upset by this and called him out. ty jail for about 10 months. I was floored He was indicted for attempted mur- This proves that he has a violent history and extremely upset. He basically got der, felonious assault, assault and three prior to this accident. His history prior four years for the attempted murder of a counts of aggravated menacing. to the accident, to me, completely invali- police officer. The judge pulled me aside In typical Cuyahoga County fashion, dates his argument that the accident is after his ruling and told me that Pugnea they let him plead to felonious assault what caused his problems. Plus, everyone would serve his whole sentence and that and aggravated menacing, even though that I have ever met that knew Pugnea, if I ever needed anything, to call him. he legitimately tried to kill me. I argued going back to his high-school days, has What I needed was for him to give him against it but I knew I wouldn't win that. said that he was always violent and ag- a fair sentence, but obviously I wasn't go- At the sentencing, Judge Daniel Gaul gressive and nobody was surprised by ing to get that. I left court that day com- said some wonderful things about the what he did. pletely dejected but at least relieved that police, how he supports us and how we Another argument is that he was it was over.

62 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 "Everyone that I have ever met that knew Pugnea, going back to his high-school days, has said that he was always violent and aggressive and nobody was surprised by what he did. "

That is until I got a phone call He dropped the ball and never called by not notifying me of the hearing. from a prosecutor saying that John me as I'm sure has happened many Also, the judge did not give proper Pugnea was just granted a judicial times, which is why they have the findings at the release hearing. Judge release by Judge Daniel Gaul after "fail-safes.” Why wasn't the original Gaul had to justify his reasons for serving just nine months in prison. I prosecutor assigned? I fully believe judicial release under ORC 2929.20, was hysterical. I couldn't even talk. the judge tried to do this in silence so part of which is by him justifying The judicial release hearing was I would never find out. The only rea- that "a sanction other than a prison never put on the docket, so nobody son I did was because the prosecutor term would not demean the serious- other than the judge, defense, and called me and admitted his mistake ness of the offense." I'd really like to prosecutor knew about it. Because in not notifying me. A lot of people hear his justification on that one. it wasn't on the docket, the fail-safes never own up to their mistakes, and I I don't know the reason. What I they have at county where the vic- thank him greatly for that. do know is that this whole thing is tims would be notified completely As of now, they put a hold on absolutely disgusting. This is a slap failed. The prosecutor, who is actual- Pugnea's release because a lot of peo- in the face to all police officers. Nine ly a nice guy, is another overworked ple are angry and have been putting months in prison for the attempted prosecutor at county and he was pressure where they can. There has murder of a police officer. Seems fair. given this case with no knowledge been a motion for reconsideration and failed to realize its significance. filed. The county violated the law

Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 63 Police Chaplains Perspective The Day to Choose a Side Has Come By Chris Amos

s the sun was setting on the life of Joshua their families and communities. he delivered an impassioned message to The mainstream media, at the urging of their the Children of God. He concluded with handlers, have made it their life’s pursuit to indict anA ultimatum: “Choose you this day who you will and ultimately undermine policing as we know it. serve. Either the gods of your fathers or the idols They obsess over the occasional misuse of force, of the land in which you now dwell. But as for even attempting to paint legal and necessary uses me and my house we will serve The Lord.” Jesus of force by officers with the wide brush of racism, nailed home the point even further. “You cannot intolerance and hate. The countless stories of serve two masters…” This reminds me of a story personal sacrifice, compassion, heroism and from during the Civil War. A man lived in one of selflessness by men and women serving as law the border states between the North and South. enforcement officers rarely sees the light of day. He was not sure which side to support. One day During my own, almost 27-year career, I fired he came up with a brilliant idea. He would wear my weapon three times, in one incident, while in a Confederate military shirt and Union military the line of duty. And this was only after being pants. Inevitably, the war came to his small town. shot twice while trying to make an arrest. Off the The Union soldiers shot him above the waist and top of my head, I can think of over half a dozen the Confederates, below. The moral of all of these times when I felt in fear for my life or the lives points, we all must choose a side. of others and yet did not fire my weapon. This I choose the side of Jesus Christ and His is not unique to me. If you ask any police officer claim to be the one and only way to God the who has served over two or three years, they will Father. I choose to believe law enforcement tell you the same thing. The point being 99% of officers are called by God, most do not realize those serving in this most noble and honorable this, to maintain law and order. To protect those profession demonstrate tremendous self-control unable to protect themselves. To stand in the under the most stressful of circumstances. The gap between the sheep and the wolves that seek attempt to paint police officers as a bunch of to prey on them. I do not believe police officers racist, trigger-happy, disrespectful bullies just is are infallible, far from it. No, they are men and not true. women, mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, Imagine if every interaction of our politi- just like the rest of us who have chosen to pursue cians, schoolteachers, doctors, lawyers, salesmen, an impossible job, not for fame or fortune, or nurses, construction workers, ministers, fill-in- certainly the applause of the masses, but because the-blank, was recorded. Imagine if those record- they simply want to make life better and safer for ings where then put on social media, at times

64 the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 out of context with the omission of particularly important facts. Imagine the field day that we would have. The truth is that at times we do see these kinds of interactions, but usually it is done by anonymous sources and “leaks.” Not so with police officers. Their actions are recorded and released, giving no thought to the context, the stress, the very reason that led to the officers being present in the first place. And often, important facts are intentionally and completely omitted. Facts like the individual shot was armed with a knife or gun and after being told repeatedly to drop the weapon chose rather to turn toward the officer or another person in an aggressive manner. Do officers make mistakes? Absolutely. At times, those mistakes are in fact crimes so egregious those officers should be in jail if not under the jail. At other times, their mistakes est critics against the police, those serving in the are just that: mistakes. Tragic though they may public sector demanding the defunding of police, be, they were still mistakes. Mistakes that do also demand and often receive, law enforcement elicit consequences. Consequences that must be details to protect them. experienced by the individuals involved. And The real change is that of choosing this day yet Jesus reminds us that he who is without sin, whom you will serve. The Lord Jesus Christ or aka having never made a mistake, should throw Satan, the Prince of this world, and the worldly the first stone of accusation and condemnation. system he is seeking to establish by any means Unfortunately, we are living in a time of such necessary. The United States of America, while by unrighteousness and self-righteousness that there no means perfect, is the greatest obstacle standing is little room for the true righteousness found in in the way of his desire and design for this world. Jesus Christ. As a result, the stones are flying from America may be damaged beyond repair, only every direction and law enforcement officers are a time will tell. But until the fate of America plays popular target. out it is imperative for those of us blessed to And so where do we go from here? The be born in the greatest country in the world to band-aid to our problems is to support the men choose this day whom we will serve. “Either the and women of law enforcement. Tell them when gods of your fathers or the social idols of the land you see them. Tell your local police chiefs, city in which you now dwell. But as for me and my council members, city managers and mayors that house we will serve The Lord.” you support your police officers, deputies, state See you at the finish line! It is closer than it troopers ... Tell your representatives at the state has ever been. and federal level that you support law enforcement, and while recognizing the few bad apples Chris Amos is a retired officer and you stand in solidarity with the vast majority of former spokesperson for the Norfolk officers who do the right thing, the right way, for Virginia Police Department. He is the right reason. Voice your strong disapproval of currently the pastor at Chr1st Fel- politicians attempting to strip law enforcement lowship Church in Norfolk. He is officers of the very tools they need to do their jobs married for over 30 years and is the safely and effectively. Police officers are being as- proud father of three children, two of whom are po- saulted and killed at an alarming rate. This must lice officers. He serves as the volunteer Chaplain for not be allowed to continue. Ironically, the great- Norfolk Police Dept. and Norfolk Sheriff’s Office.

Article & Artwork On May 11th, Stockton by Jonny Castro Police Officer Jimmy Inn re- sponded to a residence for a report of a domestic dis- turbance. Jimmy walked up, knocked and stepped to the side. A voice on the other side could be heard saying “Hey, police.” In a cold and calculated act, the man opened the door and shot the officer numerous times at point-blank range. A backup unit pulled up just as the gunman was standing over the fallen officer. The suspect raised his weapon and began shooting at the patrol car, which prompted that officer to return fire from the front Police Officer seat of his vehicle. The suspect went back in the house, Jimmy Inn emerged moments later with his 8-year-old son and started to violently strangle the boy. A civilian bystander he- roically tackled the suspect, which allowed the boy to free himself from harm’s way. The officer then shot and killed the male, ending his ram- page. Jimmy was rushed to the hospital where he suc- cumbed to his wounds. Officer Jimmy Inn was a 6-year veteran of the Stock- ton Police Department and leaves behind three children, including a 7-month-old son. Officer Inn was assigned to the Field Operations Divi- sion and was also a proud member of the department’s honor guard. The well-liked and highly respected officer was remembered for having a heart of gold and was the very definition of what a police officer should be. Jimmy was 30 years old.

66 the66 Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 To Advertise Call: 973-653-3446 Follow Us on the Bluemagazine | Vol. 12 - Issue 3 2021 67 aw enforcement officers and canines are a natural pairing, providing loyalty Land pleasure to each other, forming close relationships and companionship. Send us a favorite photo of you and your ‘best friend’ to be displayed in Blue Paws!

“Zero” "Jellybean” “Zoey” Sgt. Jaime Ricciardiello Ana Bedoya Moe Stewart (ret.) Passaic County Englewood Police Department Nassau County, NY Sheriff's Department

“Gus” “Belle” and “Coco Puffs” Officer Robert Cobb Stefanie Hirschhorn-Mount Officer Rob Moore Nutley Police Department NYPD (ret.) on the set of “FBI”. Montclair State They play NY State Police K-9 Police Department

If you and your dog would like to be featured in Blue Paws, Let's go Rangers!! please email your photo to Joseph Celentano at: “Sadie” [email protected] Officer Ken Porino Fort Lee Joseph Celentano, Police Department Host of the Blue Paws Podcast on DDV Radio follow me on: Facebook @BLUE PAWS USA & instagram @bluepawsusa

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