Volume 8, Issue 3: Winter Issue

Dear Sheriff,

Misuse of Identification Section This is to commend your Misuse of By Lieutenant Robin Osborn, Administration and Support Bureau Identification Section, and in particular The Travis County Sheriff ’s Office (TCSO) Misuse Criminal Justice Information Services of Identity Section was created 10 years ago after the Security Coordinator Dawn Teague. I brag on it all the time and it finally 83rd Legislative session enacted new laws in the Gov- occurred to me that I should brag to you. ernment Code. TCSO was one of the first counties in Just the concept is a wonderful service the state of Texas to implement the required steps. The to the public. In an era when many see Sheriff ’s Office serves as an example to other counties. the government as the enemy, it is so TCSO’s best practice model is based on interaction and refreshing to see an example of a gov- cooperation with other local criminal justice agencies ernment service that helps people who that streamline the process making it more efficient for have been wronged. We are so fortunate all, especially the victim. Lawmakers realized the need in this country to have such a service. to protect innocent people who had their identity mis- used by another person during the course of an arrest. Sincerely, Criminal Justice Information Services Security Coor- Evelyn P. McKee dinator Dawn Teague did the vast majority of the work in setting-up the entire section. She quickly became an expert in her field and has gained recognition for it. At the request of the District and County Attorney Offices, Dawn has traveled around the state and attended con- ferences to train prosecutorial staff. She has also trained in, as well as other crimes that are generated from the several other criminal justice agencies and employees. original charge. The most typical scenario occurs when a person A common way a person learns someone has misused arrested is issued a citation or summons and gives a their name is upon renewal of their driver’s license. The peace officer the name and birthday of someone they victim learns their driver’s license was suspended because know. The innocent victim who had their name used someone used their information subsequent to a driving without their consent or knowledge most often ends up while intoxicated, reckless driving or other similar arrest being the person wanted for the crime which can have or traffic offense. The majority of these cases involve a devastating effects on the victim. Misuse of identifica- person known to the victim. Occasionally, persons with tion has caused people to lose their job, become unable the same name, race, sex, and date of birth will errone- to secure employment, lose their eligibility for housing ously have warrants or information attributed to them and be arrested for the actual crime their name was used Continue pg. 8

A publication for the employees of the Travis County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff’s Spotlight Happy New Year and I know as in years past many of you FIVE POINT have made resolutions for 2014. It may be to save more money, purchase a home or car, take an exotic vacation or maybe the usual, become healthier and/or lose weight. Some of you have PRESS started on these resolutions and some are just waiting for the right time (wink-wink). Well, if we don’t take care of our health January 2014 VOL.8, ISSUE 3 nothing else really matters. The weather is getting warmer, those pants are fitting tighter EDITOR and the blood pressure gauge keeps rising higher at every Kelly Page check-up. Maybe now is the time to stop talking about getting some exercise and really do it. MANAGING EDITOR Jeannie Maldonado However, we must realize that good health includes both physical and mental well-being and the two go hand-in-hand. GRAPHIC DESIGNER A healthy mind contributes to a healthy body. The mind, like Tiffany Taylor the body benefits from low blood pressure, low cholesterol, nourishing food, a healthy weight and physical activity. Many Thank you to the following employees of the same things we do to keep our bodies fit contribute to and guests for your contributions: healthy minds. Over the past year, TCSO has had numerous staff mem- Phyllis Clair Jeannie Maldonado bers that have been diagnosed to have a stress related illness Bucky Eacret Robin Osborn (whether from a spouse, significant other, rush hour traffic, Oscar Gonzalez Marcelo Pocaressi finances, work or a combination of these). Stress can wear our Mark Hardin Mark Sawa Kasben Harris Alesia Turner-Cale bodies down and increase blood pressure and the risk of heart Dennie Hedlund Roger Wade disease, it can also affect the way we think, our moods and abil- Jerry Kovar James Williamson ity to remember. Stress has also been known to cause depression and anxiety. Regular exercise can help improve your mood and help you better manage stress. Just remember, everyone can gain the health benefits of physical activity-age, ethnicity, shape or size do not matter. So, in order to lead a successful life, nothing can be more INSIDE THIS ISSUE... important than maintaining good emotional health. And just as importantly, keep in mind that, despite your work, there are other things in life which are obligatory, which is your leisure Our Life as a Foster Family time. 4 To sum up, becoming healthier both physically and mentally depends on you. Sure this life can be hard, but Team Building you need to make it worth living. So 5 give your best everyday of your exis- tence. Start thinking of yourself as Cupcake Challenge someone who exercises and eventu- 7 ally, that will become your identity. Let’s get moving in 2014 as TCSO becomes a healthier agency. World Police Games Good luck and let’s get 12 moving.

Travis County Sheriff www.tcsheriff.org 2 Employee Profile ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT SENIOR OFFICE SPECIALIST Leigh Stubbs 1. How I got started in this field... My mom has worked for the Sheriff ’s Office since I was six years old. I saw her enjoy her job and the envi- ronment that she worked in and I wanted that too.

2. What I do – my career highlights and education... I started in 2006 as a security coordinator in Building 8. Book, magazine or newspaper article I’ve read 3 and worked there for four months before my oldest recently that really influenced my thinking... daughter was born. After maternity leave, I worked in The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Central Booking for almost two-years before becom- Skloot. ing a corrections captain’s assistant. I then worked for Captains Lisa Brown and Bennie Cureton before join- 9. My best day on the job... ing the Building 12 transition team. When Building 12 Probably the day Building 12 opened. To get to be a opened, I went back to being Captain Brown’s assistant small part of something that big felt really cool. and stayed there until January 2013, when I moved to the Training Academy. 10. How I think I make a difference...

3. What I like best about my job is... By being helpful and pleasant, whenever possible; I think that makes a difference because people know that My coworkers; I work with the best group of guys any- I’m available to them when they need answers about one could ask for. It’s really like a family at the Training their training. I try to smile at everyone every time I Academy and I enjoy it immensely. see them, which can improve my mood and hopefully, 4. The best advice I’ve received for my current job is... improve someone else’s too. Be everyone’s friend, but no one’s best friend, simply QUESTION FOR MAJOR MARK SAWA... meaning be nice to everyone, you never know when Why was this employee nominated to be in the Five you’re going to need someone’s help. Point Press?

5. Advice I would give a new hire at TCSO is... If I chose who would be the face and voice of the Administration and Support Bureau it would Leah Have fun. Get to know your coworkers. Enjoy what Stubbs. Leah brings her best every day she comes to you do. Don’t be afraid to try something new. I’ve work and brings her best to every customer contact she worked in four places in seven years, which can seem like makes. She works seamlessly into the mind-set of the a lot, but I’ve gone after positions I wanted, positions Training Academy and carries the same “can do attitude” that I thought would make me a better employee and as do the academy instructors. Don’t let Leah’s soft voice, teach me something I didn’t know. always present smile and diminutive size fool you. She is 6. If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be as tough as any of the officers around the complex and is found... one of the Cross Fit crazies that you can see working out around the Training Academy in the scorching heat of a At a bookstore. Del Valle summer. One phone call to the Training Acad- 7. People would be surprised to know that I... emy (hence the voice of the Administration and Support Bureau) and you’ll see what I mean about Leigh and I’m Cross stitch. sure that you’ll agree!! 3 www.tcsheriff.org Our Life as a Foster Family By Administrative Assistant Alesia Turner-Cale, Corrections Bureau

A little over a week ago, I said goodbye to my babies. I handed them off to strangers and watched as they carried them in their arms into the Austin Bergstrom International Airport. All the while knowing I would never see my babies again. No, I did not carry them for nine months, but from the moment they came into my home I was their mommy. I did the late night bottler duty. I answered every cry. I was there for the first smiles, first time to rollover and first beautiful giggles. I held them for days when they were sick and I was there when some said their first word. But on that day, that horrible, gut-wrenching Alesia and Jackson Turner-Cale day, I had to say “goodbye” I cried and cried and cried, because I knew that I would never see them again. I wouldn’t be able to kiss any more boo-boos or walk them into their first day of kindergarten. I would never be their “mommy” again. The reality is they won’t even girls. Smedley said that he wanted our first child to be remember me. They will never know about the tons of a boy and he only wanted one. We declined our first pictures I have of them. They will never know that we placement and the voice on the other end of the phone pray for them every night. That day was the worst day said, “Not a problem we want this to be a good fit for of all, the day we said goodbye. I heard one foster mom both sides.” The calls kept coming in, but they were all refer to it as the “dark day” which seems fitting. for baby girls and or sibling groups. Finally, in November Six times I have had to endure a “dark day,” running of 2008, we received the call we had been waiting for. It into my husband’s arms and holding on for dear life; was a baby boy and he was being released from the hos- every time feeling my heart break into a million pieces. pital that day. We screamed YES! We’ll take him. What Yet, every time I find myself praying to God to take my they didn’t tell us was that he had been on Methadone “dark day” and he turns it into a beautiful story. I pray for for the past three weeks, which were also the first three the babies, the biological parents and for us to become a weeks of his life. We would be helping him through story of hope, rescue and redemption. This prayer helps withdrawal for the next several months, but it didn’t me welcome the next baby, knowing the pain will be matter, we had accepted the placement and we fell head nothing compared to the beautiful story God will tell over heels in love with him the minute he came through through my foster baby’s lives. That hope in God’s power our door. Jackson immediately became a part of our fam- to transform the worst situations brings light into those ily, he was our son! Thirteen months later we adopted “dark days.” That hope gives us the strength to say “yes” him, making it official. to the next foster baby who needs us. The reality is we need more people who are willing Our family’s foster journey started with a phone call to endure the “dark days.” We need more people who and a ton of questions. Our placement agency has always are willing to open-up their lives and turn them upside been honest with us about the harsh realities of fostering down for the sake of a foster child and be able to surren- and the foster care system. I remember during one of our der them back even though it is painful. We need more classes my husband Smedley became so overwhelmed who are willing to find the beauty in a broken system that he leaned over and said, “I am not sure about all of and willing to love and care for overworked and under- this.” I told him it would be O.K, to just be quite. Then paid state employees. We need more people who look at the next break Smedley suggested that we just slip out past the struggles of the biological parents and not judge the door and not come back, needless to say we stayed. them. We need more moms who are willing to rock-a- We were certified on May 30, 2008, and we received baby all night long and dads who are willing to become our first placement call that night! It was for two little the only father figure these children may ever know. We Continue pg. 17 www.tcsheriff.org 4 Team Building: Slaying the Dragons! By Lieutenant Bucky Eacret, Corrections Bureau This year one goal of the Corrections Bureau was for pelling their boats down Ladybird Lake. The race began all supervisors to have at least eight hours of team build- with choreographed rhythms while good techniques ing and/or cross-training. Captains Mike Gottner and were utilized, resulting in wonderful collaboration. Bennie Cureton led two team building events at Lady- After a good morning practice, it was time for a great bird Lake on September 17 and October 8 for a total lunch. Participants spent time together eating, talking of 61 supervisors, from security and support. Attendees and laughing; all bonded together as a team of supervi- joined together to learn about, as well as race the dragon sors regardless of which boat they had been assigned to, boats. Great meals were provided hmmm that sounds familiar too. by Sergeant Mark Maxwell, After lunch, supervisors participated Senior Corrections Officers in on-land team building activities Mike Sargent and Greg Coo- involving super heroes, a helium stick per, the on-land team building and teamwork quotes. The winning activities were led by Lieutenant teamwork quotes were: Bucky Eacret. September 17 – “Teamwork: when Both events started at the crack we all paddle to the beat of the same of dawn with breakfast, followed drum!” by instruction from Captain October 8 – “Teamwork makes the Gottner on how to properly dream work!” paddle the dragon boats. The supervisors then hit the water Afternoons were all set for the races! to practice in the boats. In the Participants put their newly acquired beginning, it was very noticeable skills to work and raced the dragon that coordination and teamwork boats down Ladybird Lake. On was needed to maneuver the September 17th, Captain Cureton’s large wooden boats, this learning boat won by a dragon head. However experience would be a challenge. Captain Gottner got his revenge on In order to be successful, it was October 8th, winning by a whole boat going to take preparation, listen- length. But, as we all know, supervi- ing, collaboration, guidance, encouragement and leader- sion and teamwork is not about winning or losing, it is ship. Wait, that sounds a lot like supervision! about everyone working together, cooperating, seeing the In no time, individuals who had never paddled big picture and moving in the same direction to achieve together were synchronized in harmony and were pro- success. Together we did and will, slay the dragons!

Central Texas K-9 Foundation By Senior Deputy Oscar Gonzalez, East Command

The Central Texas K-9 Foundation is currently in the process of being developed as a non-profit organization. The mission is to support, educate and assist with police K-9 programs in the Central Texas area and beyond. Recently, the group received a donation from John Paul DeJoria to purchase stuffed police K-9s. The dogs are available to be purchased for $15.00 with the proceeds going to the foundation. If you are interested in purchasing a stuffed police K-9 or for more informa-informa- tion on the foundation, please contact Senior Deputy Oscar Gonzalez at [email protected].

5 www.tcsheriff.org Employee Profile LAW ENFORCEMENT SERGEANT Richard A. Hale 1. How I got started in this field... I began my career in law enforcement in 1978 when I joined the United States Air Force as a security police- man. I served from 1978-1982 with tours of duty involv- ing the Iranian Hostage Situation and Grenada. After separating from the Air Force I was hired by the United 4. The best advice I’ve received for my current job is... States Marshals Office. I worked one year in the Hous- The best advice I was ever given was to allow people ton Office and three years in the Austin Office. After to make mistakes and learn from them. I have adopted some budget cuts at the Federal Government, I decided the following principles to correct mistakes in any to apply with the local Sheriff ’s Office. area of life; whether it’s business life or home life or 2. What I do – my career highlights and education... personal life, the principles of apologizing remain the same. Good employees make a lot of mistakes, and truly I am currently assigned to the East Command as a great employees are those who have mastered the art of day shift supervisor. My previous positions with the apologizing for those mistakes: Great People Practice Travis County Sheriff ’s Office began in 1986, when I “The Six A’s” of a Proper Apology, Admit – I made a was hired as a jailer. I continued my employment with mistake. Apologize – I am sorry for making the mistake. Travis County and in 1988, I moved to the patrol divi- Acknowledge – I recognize where I went wrong that sion. I was an original member of the first SWAT team caused my mistake to occur. Attest – I plan to do the and patrol rifle class. My career expanded from patrol following to fix the mistake on this specific timeline. deputy to detective (prior to Civil Service), narcotics Assure – I will put the following protections in place officer, back to detective, working burglary, theft and to ensure that I do not make the same mistake again. major crimes. I promoted to sergeant in 1999 and have Abstain – Never repeat that same mistake twice. worked midnights, evening and day shifts. I also was the When I implement the Six A’s I find that the level of supervisor for the narcotics section for three years and trust and respect others have for them will grow tenfold. supervised the East Command Criminal Investigations People who implement the Six A’s will find that others Section for six years. I have recently decided to finish my will be quicker to forgive them and more likely to extend degree and look forward to obtaining my degree before I a second chance. It’s not the making of a mistake that is retire. generally the problem; it’s what you do with it afterward 3. What I like best about my job is... that really counts.

After 35 years of being involved in law enforcement I 5. Advice I would give a new hire at TCSO is... can truly say that I still feel the need to help people. Not The advice I would give new hires is try to stay away everyone I come in contact with is a bad person. As I from the rumor mill. If you have a question about have grown older and wiser, I have come to the realiza- something you heard simply ask. You should feel that tion that people make mistakes. It’s what they learn from your supervisor has the intestinal fortitude to give you their mistakes that makes them a repeat offender or a forthright answer and quell the rumors. The second is, whether they choose to be a repeat offender. I often find be you. Do not try to impress others, simply do your best myself looking at calls in a completely different manner at all times and others will notice your actions. Lastly, than I would have in years past. The sense of finding that resolution to issues is a truly rewarding experience. Continue pg. 8 www.tcsheriff.org 6 Coconut Pecan Cheesecake with Orange Peel CUPCAKE CHALLENGE 1 box HEB vanilla cake mix 1 medium size orange 1 cup of HEB brand orange juice 2ND 1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese 1/2 cup of sugar PLACE 1 bag (8 oz.) of coconut 1 small bag of pecans Women in Partnership hosted their second annual cupcake 3 eggs challenge. All 13 entries were judged by five unbiased judges 1/4 cup of oil who scored the entries on a scale of 0-5. The scoring catego- 1/4 cup of milk ries were: 1 container of HEB brand vanilla frosting 1. Originality 2. Cake taste Heat the oven to 375°F. In a large bowl mix vanilla 3. Frosting taste cake mix with 1 cup of orange juice, 3 eggs and ¼ cup 4. Cake to frosting ratio of oil. Fold in grated orange peel from a medium size 5. Presentation orange. Save the rest of the orange to use later. Place mix in cupcake holder, should make 24-30 cupcakes. 1st Place: Deputy Allisia Gaskamp, West Command Bake for 18 minutes. Take out of the oven and let cool 2nd Place: Senior Office Specialist Cindi Leal, TCCC down. Records 3rd Place: Senior Corrections Officer Tekeisha Gordon, In a small bowl add sugar, cream cheese and use the Hospital Visitation Unit juice from the left over grated orange (2 tbsp.) and milk (2 tbsp.). Add 1/2 cup of coconut and 1 cup of chopped For more information about Women in Partnership contact: pecans to the creamy mix (set aside).

Captain Lisa Brown @ 512.854.5351 Take one of the cooled cupcakes and make a hole the Lieutenant Nelda “Sally” Pena @ 512.854.9207 size of a small bottle top and set aside the cake you just took out in another bowl. Place the rest of the set Lieutenant Maria Velasquez @ 512.854.5347 aside cake back into the cupcake (don’t worry if it does 1ST not fit). PLACE Frost the cupcake as best as you can and sprinkle the Strawberry-Almond Spaghetti Cupcakes left over cake on top of the frosting. 1/3 cup vegetable oil 3 eggs Continue pg. 11 1 tsp. almond extract – or more! 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract – or more! 1 1/4 cups milk (or water whichever) 1 1/2 cup sugar Dear Sheriff, 2 1/2 tsp. baking powder 2 1/2 cups cake flour On behalf of the Jewish Community Association of Austin, we extend our deepest appreciation and gratitude Whip all liquids together then add dry ingredients while for you and your agency’s participation in the security of the mixer is on low. Whip for at least 5 minutes. Bake the 2013 JCC Maccabi Games. Your assistance ensured 350°F. until slightly brown. the safety and security of the Games, and provided for an enriching experience for the international delegations, Use strawberry jam/preserves for filling and “spaghetti 1,200 young athletes, and 300 coaches, 2,500 visitors, sauce” and Ferrero Rocher® chocolates for “meatballs” and thousands of local spectators. Please allow this let- (roll in strawberry jam). ter to serve as commendation to Major Mark Sawa and Senior Deputy Wayne Samson. The icing is Italian Buttercream, but you can use your favorite icing and add almond extract to taste. To apply Greg Bourland icing, use #3 tip and squeeze piping bag evenly and Director of Security randomly to look like “spaghetti.” Jewish Communiy Association of Austin

*Optional - white chocolate shavings on top to resemble “parmesan cheese” (I opted not to use it).

7 www.tcsheriff.org Sergeant Richard A. Hale continued from pg. 6

I would say do not lose your own sense of self-respect. If you can answer yes to: “Am I doing this for the right reason, at the right time and for the right purpose?” then do it. Dear Sheriff, On behalf of the Sunshine Kids and their families, I 6. If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be would like to thank you and our friends from the found... Travis County Sheriff’s Office for your generous dona- No Response tion of youth program for the Kids in support of our annual Teen Lake Escape. Your contribution helped 7. People would be surprised to know that I... to make this year’s trip an unforgettable experience Am going back to college and teach classes off duty to for a very special group of courageous young cancer enhance my instructor skills. People would be surprised patients from across Texas. that I am taking dance lessons and I think I am a good The Kids are still talking about their trip to Lake dancer. People would be surprised to know that my Travis and the people who made it all possible! mother is Mexican and that I am half Mexican. I grew Thanks to your extraordinary gift, the kids had the up in Houston and learned to speak Spanish at an early opportunity to make friendships and memories that age; unfortunately, I did not retain much, but can get by. will last them a lifetime. It is our hope that they will be People would be surprised that I have traveled to Egypt, able to call upon these experiences and newfound Italy and Germany. I played baseball and was looked at friends to find additional strength and confidence to by the Phillies as a pitcher. help in their fight against cancer. Thank you once again for your continued support. 8. Book, magazine or newspaper article I’ve read We feel fortunate to have friends like you who help to recently that really influenced my thinking... make each day brighter and better for children with I am constantly reading articles on management and cancer. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s supervision techniques that apply to the current trends Teen Lake Escape! in law enforcement and how to manage today’s work- Sincerely yours, force. I subscribe to numerous articles and newsletters SUNSHINE KIDS that give me up to the minute law enforcement related safety and concerns and trends.

9. My best day on the job... See response to question #3. Misuse of Identification continued from cover 10. How I think I make a difference... I try to do the best that I can, on the job, for the based on another person with the same information agency and the people of Travis County. committing a criminal offense(s). This has resulted in a wrongful arrest, as well as other negative consequences. QUESTION FOR LIEUTENANT JAMES WILLIAMSON These are known as misuse by coincidence and the inno- Why was this employee nominated to be in the Five cent party is issued paperwork indicating they are not Point Press? the same person named in the warrant or other docu- ment. This information is shared by law enforcement and I have had the privilege of knowing and working with criminal justice agencies to help ensure the individual Sergeant Richard Hale for many years. He is a hard, sin- is not arrested for a warrant with their information that cere worker and believes in what he is doing and helping actually belongs to another person. people, including me. The Misuse of Identification Section only handles He has helped me in many areas of leadership and cases where there was an arrest or citation issued for a supervision. He is my “go to” person when I need to be criminal charge. It does not deal with misuse or theft of sure the job will get done correctly the first time. a person’s identity to commit any type of financial crime. I also think it was a good opportunity for everyone to In the 10 years that the section has existed, they have get to know Richard a little better. successfully investigated and helped over 765 victims. www.tcsheriff.org 8

Shining Example Of Giving By Executive Assistant Jeannie Maldonado, Executive Office

Pink Badge Project The Sheriff ’s Office Women In Partnership (WIP) launched the Pink Badge Project in the month of Octo- ber allowing employees to purchase a pink badge, caps, t-shirts, water bottles, mugs and lanyards to focus on breast cancer awareness. The amazing outpouring of support turned the entire Sheriff ’s Office pink while raising $12,378.87 for the Breast Cancer Resource Center of Central Texas and for the WIP Program. The WIP Program plans to use the funds towards education and development amongst female staff. Throughout the month, Pink Badge Project Awareness posters hung all over the office to remind us to take the necessary steps and focus on early detection of this devastating cancer. Employees also proudly wore their pink badges to honor their loved ones battling breast cancer, those that are survivors and those we have lost.

November Challenge In November, the men of the Sheriff ’s Office were challenged to grow beards or mustaches to help change the face of men’s health and support the national project on men’s health. Amazingly, the November Challenge created a team-building movement and boosted morale while supporting the Testicular Cancer Foundation (TCF). Over 360 male employees, and their support- ers, enthusiastically pledged to donate in support of the project which raised a total of $9,065.00. At the end of Dear Sheriff, the month, many selected the top beards in their sections to participate in a public shave off. The TCF will use the I wanted to let you know how much I really appre- funds to educate the public on early screening of testicu- ciated the assistance that I received from Senior lar cancer. Deputy Vincent Cain. I had some car trouble and was stranded at the intersection of 183A/Brushy Golfing for Youth Scholarships Creek Road in Cedar Park. Deputy Cain was not the In early December the Sheriff ’s Office hosted a charity first first responder that came up on me but he was golf tournament to raise funds for the Army Aviation the first to stop and see if I needed help even though Association of America Scholarship Fund, the National he was on his way home. I didn’t have my cell phone Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives with me and he was nice enough to offer me his so Central Texas Chapter Scholarships and the Sheriff ’s that I could call to get help. He was very nice and Memorial Benevolent Society of Travis County Inc. went out of his was to ease my embarrassment while we waited on Cedar Park Police Department and my With over 60 participants working together in this semi- rescuer. competitive tournament, the focus was on ensuring that monies were raised to support our local youth. In the My sincere thanks, end, the tournament raised a total of $10,470.60. Jennifer Mosteller Continue pg. 12

9 www.tcsheriff.org Employee Profile CORRECTIONS SENIOR CORRECTIONS OFFICER Elizabeth Smith 1. How I got started in this field... After being laid off from my job as an overseer for an ethical review committee in human research for Phar- maceutical Product Development, Inc., the opportunity at the Travis County Sheriff ’s Office came open in 2009. I had received my undergraduate degree in 2008 and I coordinate the TCSO pink project and I am the newest was considering going forward with my master’s degree FTO at CBF. also in criminal justice. It seemed only logical that I should select a position where I would be utilizing my 3. What I like best about my job is... hard earned degree as I had worked and taken classes CBF is different every day. We work in a fluid and part-time for eight years. I applied, and was selected flexible ever changing environment which allows me to to begin Corrections Officers Basic Recruit Academy learn every day! (C.O.B.R.A.) Cadet Class 56 in April of 2010. 4. The best advice I’ve received for my current job is... 2. What I do – my career highlights and education... Set goals for yourself, both short term and long term, At the time I was hired, I was dually enrolled in and reach for them every day. The only unachieved goal Austin Community College’s Basic Peace Officer is one that is never set. Course (B.P.O.C.) and beginning my graduate stud- ies in criminal justice at Texas State University. During 5. Advice I would give a new hire at TCSO is... C.O.B.R.A., I was the class treasurer and a squad leader. Always be prepared. Come to work with an open mind My first work assignment was Building 3, C-shift. I and think about the big picture, because your decisions quickly learned the ropes, moved to A-shift, completed affect others. B.P.O.C., tested and became a peace officer. I received my intermediate jailer’s license and became a field train- 6. If I ever snuck out of work early, I could probably be ing officer (FTO) all during 2011. found... During 2012, I transferred to the Central Booking Playing softball or attending a family BBQ. Facility (CBF) in February, where I had the best FTO ever! I again quickly learned the ropes at booking, was 7. People would be surprised to know that I... deputized by the Sheriff ’s Office in June, graduated Speak fluent Spanish. with my Master’s in Criminal Justice in August, and gave birth to my amazing baby boy Ryan Christopher in 8. Book, magazine or newspaper article I’ve read September. recently that really influenced my thinking... In May of 2013, I attended the American Jail Associa- The Leadership Challenge by Jim Kouzes and Barry tion (AJA) conference in Michigan. While attending, I Posner. The central theme of this book is that leadership was enlightened to the fact that our training efforts at is for everyone and it can be learned. Prior to reading Travis County are on the cutting edge, not only in Texas, this, I always believed that leadership was something you but nationally. During my attendance I also learned were born with. After reading only a few chapters into about the Certified Jail Officer (CJO) program offered this book, I learned that leadership is something that can by AJA. I applied and tested for this certification and be learned, with hard work of course! have recently attained my CJO designation. I helped Continue pg. 11 www.tcsheriff.org 10 Cupcake Challenge continued from pg. 7 Elizabeth Smith continued from pg. 10 9. My best day on the job... 3RD Hummingbird Cupcakes PLACE Is any day that I achieve a goal I have set for myself. I 3 cups all-purpose flour can go home feeling fulfilled and accomplished. 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 10. How I think I make a difference... 2 cups sugar By being positive everyday no matter how I feel, 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 3 large eggs, beaten because I know that we all affect each other. 1 cup vegetable oil QUESTION FOR CAPTAIN JERRY KOVAR 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple, undrained Why was this employee nominated to be in the Five 1 cup chopped pecans Point Press? 2 cups chopped bananas Cream Cheese Frosting Officer Smith is our newest FTO for CBF. She has 1/2 cup chopped pecans participated with the Pink Project for Women in Partnership (WIP), presented to the Commissioner’s Preparation: Court and the community. She comes up with new Combine first five ingredients in a large bowl; add eggs and oil, stirring until dry ingredients are moistened. Do ideas, (such as new uniforms for Central Booking) and not beat. Stir in vanilla, pineapple, 1 cup pecans and seeks ways to implement them in proposals up the chain bananas. of command. She attended a 40 hour print certifica- tion class and is certified to train other staff for quality Pour batter into cupcake holders (a little more then prints that has a huge impact for securing convictions on half full, the batter rises) greased and floured. Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick criminals. She is in the process of revamping our finger- inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans. print procedures for updates and a step-by-step how to and is being currently trained in receiving and discharge, Cream Cheese Frosting one of the highly specialized areas of Central Booking. 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened This year, Officer Smith attended ROPES – a teamwork 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 1 (16 oz.) package powdered sugar, sifted course sponsored by WIP and attended the AJA Confer- 1 tsp. vanilla extract ence and “Winning Minds for Women” seminar. Officer Smith is dedicated to her career and is always looking Beat cream cheese and butter at medium speed with for ways to improve the Sheriff ’s Office, develop herself an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add pow- and promote to a supervisory rank. dered sugar, beating at low speed until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla. Spread Cream Cheese Frosting on each cupcake and sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Store in Know of a co-worker who should refrigerator. be profiled? Mention it to your supervisor!

Charity Golf Tournament to support the US Army Aviation Soldier TCSO presented a check to the Jack H. Dibrell Alamo Chapter of the Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA) Central Texas Chapter for $6,000 to members of AAAA for the Youth Schol- arship Award for Academic Excellence. Pictured left to right SSG Robert Maldonado, CW3 Scott Skogebo, Corrections Officer Pete Vargas, Sheriff Greg Hamilton, MAJ Christopher Spahn, Stepha- nie Webb of the 36th CAB Family Readiness Sup- port and MAJ Robert Guevara. 11 www.tcsheriff.org World Police Games By Administrative Assistant Kasben Harris, West Command West Command Detective Dave Tosh and his wife Senior Office Specialist Anne Tosh, recently returned from the World Police and Firefighter Games. The bian- nual games were hosted in Belfast, Northern Ireland, from August 1-10. There were over 6,700 competitors present from over 60 countries, competing in 56 events. Team USA led the games, with a total medal count of 346, with 148 gold medals awarded. Dave (with trainer/ manager Anne) traveled to the games to represent Team USA in Track & Field and Olympic Weightlifting events. Dave has represented the Sheriff ’s Office in the Track and Field events in the Texas Police Games over the past four years, winning consecutive gold medals in the Men’s 400M, as well as gold in the 4X400 relay. Team USA for the 2013 World Games consisted of runners from Las Vegas Metro Police, Department of Homeland Security (Virginia), the Lacey Fire District (Washington) and Detective Tosh from TCSO. The team placed fourth in the finals. Dave also competed in Olympic Weightlifting (Men’s Master-A division, 75KG class), earning a bronze medal in bench press and a silver medal in Push/Pull (combined bench press and deadlift). After some much needed rest, he says they plan to compete in the U.S. National Police Detective Dave Tosh pictured left. and Fire Championships next year, and possibly the 2017 World Games.

Shining Example of Giving continued from pg. 9 UBI Report Overall By Senior Public Information Officer Roger Wade, The accomplishments of these projects have been a Executive Office group effort by many caring employees that have the • There are 61 towns in the United States same desire to bring awareness to important health with the word turkey in their name. Examples issues and to aid youth in the community. The Sher- include Turkeytown, Alabama and Turkey iff ’s Office is a shining example of philanthropy by Foot, Florida. donating over $31,000 to charity in just the last few • Brazil is a land with a lot of big creatures months. The key to the success of each project was – it is home to the world’s largest snake great leadership. Sheriff Hamilton’s love of commu- (the anaconda, measuring up to 35 feet nity service and giving back serves as a great example in length), largest spider, largest rodent to follow. These are traits that are encouraged and (the capybara, a sort of guinea pig the size of a police dog) expected of all of our employees as part of our leader- and the world’s largest ant. ship roles in the community. TCSO employees go • Half the foods eaten throughout the world today were above and beyond the call of duty in their professional developed by farmers in the Andes Mountains. Potatoes, and personal lives…that’s just who TCSO is! maize, squash, beans, peanuts, pineapples, chocolate, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries and many others were first grown in the region. www.tcsheriff.org 12 C-TAC to Houston for Competition By Sergeant Mark Hardin, Corrections Bureau The Travis County Sheriff’s Office Correc- tions Tactical Unit (C-TAC) sent a six man team to Houston to compete in the 2013 Texas Tacti- cal Police Officers Association SWAT Competi- tion. The competition was hosted by the Hous- ton Police Department in October 24-27. A total of 24 teams including teams from Florida, Loui- siana and Arkansas; the Travis County Sheriff’s Office C-TAC was the only corrections team participating. The teams competed in seven events that covered numerous scenarios includ- ing pistol relay, officer down, tower scramble, sniper challenge, hostage rescue, super SWAT and obstacle course. These competitions tested firearms precision, team work and athleticism. The team trained six days for the competition Left to right: Senior Corrections Officers John Herrmann, William Montgomery, Luke and worked extremely hard to prepare the best Thormann, Jonathan Barrientes, Bryan Funderburgh, Orlando Deleon and Sergeant Mark they could. C-TAC placed seventeenth overall. Hardin.

My Dearest Members, I can’t thank you all enough for all of your hard work to help make the Over the Edge event in Austin a huge success! Your dedication to detail and willingness to go above and beyond is what really made this event such a success. I am receiving a ton of warm wishes and praise from everyone involved and it is because of you all that we could host the first Over the Edge of the Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) season at a new hotel and have everything run beauti- fully! Thank you for spending your Friday and Saturday with me in Austin. You all are truly the only reason we can host these wonder- fully successful fundraisers like no other! I can’t thank you enough for your support of not only SOTX but willingness to help me in whatever way is necessary. You all make Corrections Captain Wes Priddy my job easy and fun and I’m looking forward repelling with a great view! to working with each and every one of you again and continuing our success in 2013!

Melissa Matherne, Development Director Special Olympics Texas

13 www.tcsheriff.org “We Have The Watch” Urban Shield 2013 By Major Phyllis Clair, Law Enforcement Bureau

Kudos goes out to the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office for putting on such an amazing event. Col- laboration with their community appeared to be the key to their success. SWAT teams were given a driver and a van, and a schedule that keeps them moving from one scenario to another (35 total) for 48 hours with little time in-between venues. An invitation only event, Urban Shield is not designed pri- marily as a competition, however teams are scored and recognition is given to the top three teams at the final banquet. Left to right: Senior Deputies Mark Knight, Brett Hellerud, Joseph Zahn, Brian Harthausen, Jerry White, Aaron Marco, Sergeant Bryan Whoolery and Senior Deputy Anthony Hostetler. Travis County should be very For the second consecutive year the Sheriff’s Office proud of their SWAT team. This same team partici- SWAT participated in the Bay Area Urban Shield, hosted pated, last year and they ranked right in the middle of by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, in Oakland the pack of 35 teams. Not bad for first timers, certainly California, October 23-29, 2013. The team was com- well enough that they were invited back and that says prised of Senior Deputy Sheriffs Brett Hellerud, something! This year TCSO SWAT knew what they Brian Harthausen, Joseph Zahn, Mark Knight, Jerry were in for and came well prepared. Despite a little bout White, Anthony Hostetler, Aaron Marco and Ser- with a stomach bug, TCSO SWAT finished the grueling geant Bryan Whoolery. Logistics coordination for the obstacle course with the fastest time. One Urban Shield team was handled by Office Specialist Robert Pelly coordinator on the course turned to me and exclaimed, who also accompanied them to California. “They look like a bunch of spider monkeys!” Urban Shield began six years ago and continues to I truly hope TCSO SWAT is invited back next year and attract teams of first responders from across the United can’t imagine they won’t be. These guys made a name States and foreign countries. It has become a compre- for themselves as the epitome of class, representing hensive, full-scale regional preparedness exercise pri- TCSO with professionalism and the image of discipline. marily for the purpose of assessing the California Bay I learned that at many of the scenarios, actors com- Area Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Region’s mented on how polite they were treated by TCSO at the response capabilities in the area of SWAT, Fire and end of the scenarios, asking hostages and active shoot- Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This year some ers if they were O.K. and helping them to their feet. In scenarios incorporated all three disciplines which gave fact at the banquet, TCSO was the only team that arrived a new dimension to the planning and operations of dressed to the nines in suit and tie fashion, very impres- large scale critical events. Every scenario was designed sive. to be as lifelike as possible, placing teams in critical Oh yeah, wondering how they did in the competition, event situations. Many were designed to replicate real- err I mean ranking? At the final banquet, the top three world events such as the United States Embassy attack teams of each discipline were announced and TCSO in Benghazi, the terrorist takeover of the In Amenas SWAT was not among them. After a brief let down, the facility in Algeria, the 2012 Camp Liberty murders, the scoring sheets were made available and TCSO ranked Washington Navy Yard attack in September, the Boston in the top 10, (my personal prediction was for first, but Marathon bombing and the massacre at Sandy Hook surely under seventh). TCSO came in at #6, very excit- Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. ing! Congratulations to all! www.tcsheriff.org 14 “My wife’s aunt Bobbie wore my pink badge during the October Susan G. Komen Walk in Sheriff Greg Hamilton served as the celebrity Temecula, California. She had just beaten breast whistle blower for the Texas Rollergirls Championship cancer, so I bought her the survivor badge. She bout to promote the pink badge campaign. shared that she cried when she received it in the mail, because she was thankful for our love and support.”

Senior Corrections Officer Dennis Hedlund

Dear Sheriff,

The Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC) is so excited about the Travis County Sheriff’s Office October fundraising campaign and we were so honored to be the beneficiary of the event. Special thanks to Officer Tracy Shumard and Senior Corrections Officer Elizabeth Smith for spearheading this herculean effort! We value this Pictured left to right (seated) Senior Corrections Officer wonderful collaboration and with your support, the BCRC Scotty Noble and Detective Charles Smith, (standing) Texas Rollergirl Christina Pocaressi and spouse of Senior will provide navigation, information and support to more Maintenance Worker Marcelo Pocaressi. than 2,600 women and their families in Central Texas. It has been wonderful to be included in the county com- missioner’s court, as well at the promotional ceremony where I got to see firsthand the dedication and com- mitment you all have to our community. I recognize it, because the 13 employees of the BCRC have it as well. It’s what drives us to meet our vision, that no one should face breast cancer alone.

Gratefully yours,

Ray Anne Evans Executive Director Breast Cancer Resource Center Members of Women in Partnership promote breast cancer www.bcrc.org awareness at the roller derby. 15 www.tcsheriff.org november challenge

Left to Right: Senior Correctiosn Officers Joseph Ferguson and Timothy Parrish.

The Sheriff ’s Office November Challenge was our month to raise awareness about men’s health issues and to promote the importance of early detection in cancer! We raised over $9,000 for the Testicular

Left to Right: Deputies Guy Lanford, Steven Jackley, Michael Orman, David Cancer Foundation to create educational materials! Ortiz, Sergeant John Loughran, Deputies James McFall and Bryan Gardner Thank you to everyone that donated!

Dear Sheriff,

Sure wish I could personally THANK each and every guy doing the November Challenge. My hus- band is battling Stage IV Prostate Cancer that has metastasized into his lymph nodes and bones – it has now begun to spread further, meaning his cur- rent treatment is no longer effective. Prayers are so appreciated. If nothing else, this should RAISE AWARENESS of Prostate and Testicular cancers that are both totally treatable and very often curable, if found early enough. Goodbye isn’t the saddest word anymore….the sad- dest words are “If Only”…. If only I had gone to the doctor – if only I had demanded my husband go to the doctor for yearly physicals…”IF ONLY” are words that can be totally avoided through the awareness. Could you send a special THANK YOU to all of the participants from a very thankful heart?

Thanks!

Senior Office Specialist Ellen Mueller Travis County Correctional Complex Senior Corrections Brandon Gamble gets a trim after Classifications/Records completing the November Challenge. www.tcsheriff.org 16 Our Life as a Foster Family continued from pg. 4

need more who are willing to love so deeply even when they feel that they won’t be able to face the “dark day.” Who’s Simply put, we need more who are willing to live and on the cover? love unconditionally, sacrificially and completely. Members of the Travis County Sheriff’s I pray that you will open your mind and heart to be Office Honor Guard. the family who has a new face in your yearly family Left to right: photo. Some may say you are crazy, you may at times, Kimberly Torres, Senior Deputy get funny looks and get asked lots of questions. But, you Brandie Sanchez, Corrections Officer will also be the special someone in a child’s life and will Maria Chandler, Senior Corrections Officer experience love in a way that you have never known. Karen Gillespie, Sergeant Corrections Lorri Rivers, Sergeant Corrections Smedley and I are inspired daily by the beautiful foster Debbie Galloway, Retired Lieutenant Corrections families that we have met on our journey; I hope that you too are inspired to become a foster parent.

Honor Guard

For the first time in the history of the Sheriff ’s Office Honor Guard’s inception, an all-female squad trav- eled to Dallas on November 22, 2013 to participate in a ceremony honoring fallen Dallas Officer J.D. Tippet. During the ceremony Dallas Police Chief David Brown presented Marie Frances Gasway, the 85 year old widow of Officer Tippet, with an Left to right: Sergeant Karen Gillespie, Senior Corrections Officer Maria Chandler, American flag. The gesture is tra- Corrections Officer Brandie Sanchez, Senior Deputy Kimberly Torres and Retired ditionally made to all fallen Dallas Lieutenant Debbie Galloway. officer’s families but was somehow overlooked when he died on Novem- ber 22, 1963 after President JFK’s assassination. Five of the six honor guard members are pictured next to a replica of the patrol car Officer Tippit was driving on the day he was mur- dered which is stationed outside the Dallas Police Association Hall and they also met and took a picture with Marie Frances Gasway while attend- ing the ceremony.

Left to right: Corrections Officer Brandie Sanchez, Senior Deputy Kimberly Torres, Senior Corrections Officer Maria Chandler, Marie Frances Gasway, Retired Lieuten- ant Debbie Galloway and Sergeant Karen Gillespie.

17 www.tcsheriff.org