Commander Torres, one of Corpus Christi's Finest
Local
Commander files suit against city
Torres alleges hostile working environment
By David Kassabian (Contact), Dan Kelley (Contact)
Originally published 03:38 a.m., May 20, 2008
Updated 03:38 a.m., May 20, 2008
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Torres was never formally disciplined in regard to the impound lot.
Torres was never formally disciplined in regard to the impound lot.
A police commander has sued the city, saying he was subjected to a hostile work environment after officials questioned his knowledge of officers improperly buying and selling impounded vehicles.
Cmdr. David Torres, a veteran of the criminal investigation and patrol divisions, filed the lawsuit late Thursday in a county court through his attorney René Rodriguez.
The lawsuit and Rodriguez said senior police officials retaliated against Torres by accusing him of having prior knowledge of officer misconduct at the city's impound lot.
According to the suit, Torres questioned the lack of minority candidates for job postings and his supervisors' refusal to investigate criminal complaints against Mauricio Celis, an indicted law firm operator.
Chief Bryan Smith declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
City Manager Skip Noe said he could not respond to the lawsuit's individual allegations, but information from the filing has been forwarded to the FBI and police internal affairs. The heart of the issue, Noe said, is that Torres was never formally disciplined.
Torres has denied all wrongdoing, Rodriguez said.
According to the 16-page filing, tension between Torres and the department mounted after Torres was accused of mishandling an investigation at the impound lot.
Capt. Jay Vesely, a 21-year veteran of the force, and 22-year veteran Senior Officer Martin Jasso were fired in November; both were accused in May of abusing their position as officers to buy seized vehicles for less than the vehicle's true value.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced in January that it would not pursue the case, and Smith rehired Jasso in February. A third officer, Lt. Weldon L. Weber Jr., received a letter of reprimand in connection with the investigation.
Torres was named a suspect sometime during the investigation, according to the lawsuit, and he was interviewed by internal affairs in August. He was given a polygraph test in April, despite saying eight months earlier that he had no knowledge of misconduct until May 2007 when an assistant district attorney came forward with the case.
After registering "deception indicated" on three questions of the polygraph, the department initiated disciplinary action against Torres. He asked for another polygraph but was denied, and Smith began considering disciplinary action, the suit said.
According to an April 23 letter of contemplated disciplinary action signed by Smith and addressed to Torres, Vesely and Weber reported that Torres had full knowledge that officers had been purchasing vehicles from the lot and that Torres never indicated he felt the practice was inappropriate.
"The fact that you were untruthful including, but not limited to, two sworn statements and subsequently indicated deception on a polygraph regarding said untruthfulness indicates that this was a deliberate and premeditated act and can in no way be interpreted as an accident or failure of memory," the letter said. "Honesty and integrity are paramount in the law enforcement profession. Untruthfulness in a sworn statement taken in an official investigation will not be tolerated by the Corpus Christi Police Department."
The letter recommends the firing of Torres, however, a letter of reprimand drafted the same day and signed by both Smith and Torres only mentions what Smith described as a substandard investigation into the lot. That letter does not mention firing.
The department is trying to force Torres to quit, Rodriguez said, and the two letters make little sense.
The filing makes reference to the case of Celis. Celis was indicted in November on charges of impersonating a police officer, impersonating an attorney, money laundering and perjury.
The perjury charge was later thrown out because it occurred in Zapata County. The investigation continued, and prosecutors obtained additional charges against Celis, including additional counts of money laundering and impersonating an attorney, according to a grand jury indictment filed in April.
Torres claims Smith and Assistant Chief Ken Bung ordered him to halt a sexual assault investigation because the matter was going to be handled by a "high powered" civil attorney. That attorney was Celis, who at the time claimed to be licensed to practice law in Mexico.
Celis' claim, according to the Nueces County District Attorney's Office, was false and is part of a multi-count indictment against Celis for impersonating an attorney and money laundering.
Torres also takes the department to task for failing to investigate incidents in 2004 in which Celis is accused of impersonating a police officer. Torres claims a detective initiated an investigation into Celis in 2004. Celis was stopped in 2004 and, according to police reports, flashed a Duval County sheriff's badge at the officer. When police asked if he commuted regularly to Duval County from his Kings Crossing home, Celis reportedly said "Yes, and I'm also an attorney."
The lawsuit also references two times when command staff outside Torres' department forwarded lists of officers for hiring recommendations. When Torres questioned why no minorities were on the lists, he was subjected to hostile working conditions, according to the filing.
Before filing the lawsuit, Rodriguez sent a notice to the city, offering to settle Torres' claim for $250,000 -- the maximum allowed by state law, Rodriguez added.
Contact David Kassabian at 886-3778 or kassabiand@caller.com. Contact Dan Kelley at 886-4316 or kelleyd@caller.com
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(82) User Comments:
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 449976 on May 20, 2008 at 4:15 a.m.
Oh boy..here we go again..more corruption!! First the council.. now the police departemnt!! When will it end!!!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 427774 on May 20, 2008 at 5:13 a.m.
" After registering "deception indicated" on three questions of the polygraph, the department initiated disciplinary action against Torres. He asked for another polygraph but was denied, and Smith began considering disciplinary action, the suit said. "
Case Closed - Pay the man! lol!
Really - subjected to a polygraph that showed questionable results, what harm would there have been to enabling another one - the supposed 'liar' willing too.
" The letter recommends the firing of Torres, however, a letter of reprimand drafted the same day and signed by both Smith and Torres only mentions what Smith described as a substandard investigation into the lot. That letter does not mention firing. "
Kind of like the difference between a 'whooping' and a 'spanking' with both "drafted" and signed the same day.
But this ***
" Torres claims Smith and Assistant Chief Ken Bung ordered him to halt a sexual assault investigation because the matter was going to be handled by a "high powered" civil attorney. That attorney was Celis, who at the time claimed to be licensed to practice law in Mexico. "
Priceless! " Honesty and integrity are paramount ... "
Even makes Celis look almost good.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 5:20 a.m.
I hold a lot of respect for Cmdr. Torres. I don't think he would glibly file a lawsuit such as this one without great cause...and intergrity.
This is not going to be an easy task. I wish him the very best as his world as he knows it now will change...but it probably already had changed due to prior ill treatment.
My prayers are with him.
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related links Posted by 702652 on May 20, 2008 at 6:09 a.m.
Torres might not glibly file a lawsuit - but Rene Rodriquez would.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 275094 on May 20, 2008 at 6:17 a.m.
This article brings a lot of meaning to the phrase "What a tangled web we weave"
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 703885 on May 20, 2008 at 6:18 a.m.
in response to 449976
This is what happens when people don't vote.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 6:34 a.m.
Torres, get another attorney for God's sake. Rene Rodriguez?!?!? Come on............
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 449075 on May 20, 2008 at 6:49 a.m.
Chief Bryan Smith has a very short memory, if I were him, I wouid not be stirring the pot too much. He got away with drunk and disorderly and rape. What was he saying, the lady is a mental case.
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related links Posted by 712601 on May 20, 2008 at 6:51 a.m.
Rene Rodriguez is nothing but a parasite. Always craving for money. Last time we heard about this turd he was involved in a RICO investigation. And Commander Torres SHOULD be reprimanded, if he knew about Capt Jasso and Lt. Vissely buying illegal vehicles, then deal with it. YOU MAKE TOO MUCH MONEY. THE CITY NEEDS A PAY FREEZE ON THIS OFFICERS, THEN YOU SAVE ALOT OF MONEY.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 240803 on May 20, 2008 at 7:15 a.m.
Yes Commander Torres knew of the illegal car sales within the department. He tried to do right by it and look where it got him. Looks like the tables were tuned on him by the chief.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 353782 on May 20, 2008 at 7:19 a.m.
Well, I believe the guy is guilty. Come on he knew about the scam and wanted in on it. The entire police force is a farce, and nothing but criminals with badges. So much professionalism and ethics in their job performance, just like the idiot police officer that cheated on his wife 3 times and then pursued my wife for number 4. She gave in and i found out now everyone is divorced, goes to show that the Corpus Christi's finest is not so fine after all. Like i said the police force in corpus christi are a bunch of criminals with badges, who believe they are above the law.
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related links Posted by 700294 on May 20, 2008 at 7:42 a.m.
A Commander breaks the "code of silence", this is gonna' get good.
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related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 7:45 a.m.
Police Officers should be given polygraphs every year. I wouldn't have a problem taking a polygraph every year in my current position. I know I would be extra careful in everything I do... as it should be.... especially for police officers who hold so much power over regular people.
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 7:48 a.m.
Post 449075 -- You are wrong on al counts. The Chief was not drunk, was not disorderly, there was no rape and the woman was and still has a mental problem. Unlike this woman, David Torres accusations are in the open and he must PROVE them. David has worked to undermine this Chief ever since he was promoted. This time, I believe David's lies are going to come back and hurt him badly. The legal process will take a while but David Torres has bitten off way more than he can chew.
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 8:05 a.m.
I think Torres wanted to be Chief really badly and has been ticked ever since he didn't get it. Bottom line is, he has not been a square dealer and people in glass houses really shouldn't throw stones.
So, where is the harm here? He has not been disciplined and still has his job? What is the $250K compensation for? To make him stop whining?
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 420495 on May 20, 2008 at 8:09 a.m.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
I'm so sick of hearing about minority rights.
Here in Corpus Christi Texas Mexican Heritage is not a minority !
Torres is questioning the lack of minority candidates for job postings ........ get serious !
Go down to City Hall and pay your Water Bill, or go pay a parking ticket downtown, now look around and tell me about Minority Hiring in Corpus Christi !
Now let's talk about a Head Count of people living in the county. Oh, I'm not talking about Legal Americans. I'm talking about people living here in the City & the County !
I think we know who the Minorities are around here.
So Torres, if it getting to hot ? Maybe it's time to get out !
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
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related links Posted by 712634 on May 20, 2008 at 8:11 a.m.
he is GUILTY! thow them all in prison with the people they put in jail.
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related links Posted by 244414 on May 20, 2008 at 8:17 a.m.
This is not more corruption, this is ongoing corruption. The Chief was drunk and got away with it. This lawsuit will bring a lot more out into the open. The police department suffers from low morale and is looking more and more like the New Orleans police department.
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related links Posted by 409842 on May 20, 2008 at 8:21 a.m.
Wow...it's amazing to me how the Caller Times will only print what they want people to read...first of all Commander Torres names names, including the detective who sat in on the meeting where No. 2 and No. 1 told him to stop the criminal investigation against a rape suspect...there are names in the lawsuit...print them...it's public record. He's telling the truth....what the caller times also didn't tell you that the list of names that were provided for promotion are friends of No. 2. The corruption at the department is deep and for those of us who live it every day...thank you Commander for having the guts to come forward...there is hard core proof of the actions of No. 1. I know what Commander Torres did was not easy...but as the saying goes, sometimes the "the right thing" to do is the hardest thing to do...we know the kind of reporting the caller times will do...I suggest people go and get a copy of the lawsuit...go to the district clerk's office located on the third floor and ask for a copy...read it. And if I were in a fight with the city, I'd want Rene Rodriguez on my side...finally, an officer who comes forward to stop the corruption and he's attacked...priceless.
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 8:22 a.m.
in response to 244414
Baloney! Quit smoking that stuff... you're gonna get caught!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 8:23 a.m.
Discrimination!? If he was SO discriminated against then how the heck did HE become a commander in CCPD!? Just another whiner...they eventually show their cards...
But I gotta tell ya...Bryan Smith continues to be an IDIOT! As a matter of fact check the connection between him and Mauricio Celis!!!!!
CCPD under Bryan Smith continues to be a JOKE!
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related links Posted by 236373 on May 20, 2008 at 8:43 a.m.
You people do not get it, it all revolves around Bryan Smith.
The guy is bad news. When have we seen the police department in this kind of crisis before?
I am calling for his resignation!!!!!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 712634 on May 20, 2008 at 8:45 a.m.
im tired of cops doing what ever they want, they think they are special. give me a gun and i could do anything a cop can do. they are not my heroes. they act like they are doing us a favor when they could care less about anyone of us. if they dont put poeple in jail, they dont get paid. we are paying for them to put us in jail and we applaud them for it.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 8:51 a.m.
in response to 236373
DITTO!!! It's time for that punk Bryan Smith to GO!
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related links Posted by 709931 on May 20, 2008 at 8:52 a.m.
The bottom line is that in the public sector; government jobs, the public school districts, Del Mar Community College, etc., employees are hired for life. No matter what they do, when they actually show up for work, they can never be reprimanded or much less let go, otherwise, the lawsuits fly.
The only way this will ever change is if the citizens act by not awarding money in these lawsuits, demanding changes in the law to make those who file this type of lawsuit liable, and removing from office the politicians who support payment to settle the case in exchange for future votes.
There is a tremendous political leadership vacuum in our area. Those in office continue to be the subject of jokes all around the state.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 459079 on May 20, 2008 at 8:59 a.m.
Torres was one of Pete Alvarez's "LULAC Promotions" - promoted to his current rank over several contemporaries who had better records and education than him. As a Captain and Lieutenant was known for repeatedly playing the "race card" in dealing with others - senior and junior to him. Note that the lists of "Eligibles" presented to him by seniors for possible promotion is set , primarily,by scores on advancement examinations combined with points for advanced education, service awards & special qualifications. Race neutral, is the best way to describe the formal part of the process, but was routinely ignored by Alvarez & LULAC so they could put their favorites into command positions. Problem now is that Chief Smith sees it for what it is, and the professional racists like Torres don't like it one bit. Please note that he did NOT file a civil rights or discrimination complaint! Bottom line: Torres is a sleazeball who never should've been promoted in the first place......
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related links Posted by 253104 on May 20, 2008 at 9:03 a.m.
Poor Torres. Sees so much...knows so little. If he's can't see wrong in fellow officers.......how did he make commander? Internal affairs, Justice Dept,......Pete gone....Oh Boy!!!! What's done in the dark.......Always comes to light. Or something like that.
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related links Posted by 292564 on May 20, 2008 at 9:07 a.m.
Torres sounds like the little fat kid at school that nobody likes because he is a cry baby . . .so now he's going to the playground monitor whinning and sobbing. "Mr. Rene they are being mean to me!"
what a little bewitch . . . no wonder she has no respect, hispanic, black, or gringo
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related links Posted by 254647 on May 20, 2008 at 9:29 a.m.
lol. I'm speechless. All I can do is laugh in disgust. And there's a mystery as to why the department is hurting for qualified candidates to apply. No one wants to work in a place like that. Heck ,if officers can't respect officers, how can the public? The repurcussions of this lack of respect will inevitably seep (if it hasn't already) into the attitude of the public and CCPD will have chaos in their hands. Time to clean house and earn back respect.
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related links Posted by 702603 on May 20, 2008 at 9:40 a.m.
Give me a break! Does every lawsuit in Nueces County have to include a race card? This is getting very weary. Until we reconcile our differences and quit chasing demons (on both sides) we'll never move forward in Corpus Christi.
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related links Posted by 232416 on May 20, 2008 at 9:43 a.m.
I wonder if Chief Smith showed up at Torres' home late one night drunk.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 9:55 a.m.
Bryan Smith has to go...the CCPD department can't go one week without intrigue!
Bring back the Keystone Cops...wait a minute...Bryan Smith already has!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 10:15 a.m.
Chief Smith has taken another step in cleaning up the CCPD. David Torres is a part of the good ole hispanic boy network that has been corrupting this Dept for a long, long time. The Chief has uncovered illegal practices at the Court House, the impound lot scandal and other things we don't even know about. This clean up he has initiated will cause him to get lots of flack from people who either don't know any better or have an agenda of their own. He is doing a lot for the betterment of this city at a great personal cost to himself. The three Chief's who preceeded him wouldn't dare try to solve the problems this Chief is addressing. For all of our good, I hope he has sufficient time to clean up this town before some of you haters manage to run him off.
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related links Posted by 240803 on May 20, 2008 at 10:35 a.m.
The only way to ge to the bottem of this mess is let Commander Torres and Chief Smith duke it out in court. I dought it will get this far, because thats where it really counts. Juries hear documented facts, cooberated testimonies and sworn statements. No hearsay, rumors, and meaningless accusations, like most of these posts.
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related links Posted by 709746 on May 20, 2008 at 11 a.m.
Smith cleaning up CCPD? He could not even clean his room. He is setting up his good ole’ white boy network with his new commander Mosely who we now read had let Celis walk on several occasions. Dirty cop! No doughnut for you! Smith’s drinking buddy Celis has deeper hooks into CCPD than most realize. Smith has nothing on Torres that’s why after all the bluffing and threatening; he went from wanting to fire him to a reprimand after consulting city legal.
The PD polygraph operator should be used for criminal investigations only, that Alvariazian hack should not do internal investigations that is improper. Smith refuses to let outside independent polygraphs be conducted because he can’t control the result. Did Bung take one for is role in the imound lot incident? Wonder if Smith will take one himself to put to rest his little “affair” last year. Nope didn’t think so. Torres was his only real competition for chief, now Smith wants him gone.
Don’t forget Alvarez also promoted Smith to commander so that was also one of his boys…Torres has raised some real concerns, sadly his choice of attorney and the tossing in of "discrimination" as an after thought along with the real issues will hurt his credibility.
Fire all commanders and above and start fresh. All of these guys are from back in the Garrett and Alvarez eras and even before. They are all badly compromised.
Skip are you there? Anybody home…
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 11:03 a.m.
in response to 239291
291 - that's three "I hate Bryan Smith" posts on this article and one on another article today. What's up? did he steal your girlfriend? How about trying to be part of the solution instead of just a whiny-boy blamer and name caller.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 411404 on May 20, 2008 at 11:16 a.m.
in response to 258638
258638,
I think everyone is stating the only real solution. Cut out the cancer. Start fresh at the top with men and women of integrity. Our community and rank and file officers deserves as much. You advocate maintaining the corrupt status quo. The only reason for that would be that it some how benefits you. Right…
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 236373 on May 20, 2008 at 11:22 a.m.
in response to 258638
The solution is get rid of Bryan Smith.
Smith hasn't done anything for the police department but bring it shame.
Contrary to what you belive, this man is not the greatest thing since sliced bread. It's the day to day managers that get the job done, Smith shows up at the end, says good job and takes the credit.
Everybody loves a smooth talker. He throws out all of these statistics and impress naive people like you.
Get in the trenches, talk to the people on the front lines, I think you will be surprised to hear that the beat cops think Smith is useless.
Oh but he's a smooth talker, thats all some of us need.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 11:22 a.m.
in response to 258638
"Steal my girlfriend?" LOL...nope he obviously still has you as his best girl!?
And I've seen him operate up close...he's no leader...he more fits the mold of a Chicken Little like so many other CC appointees who have sold their soul to the devil he has no leadership skills.
And the recent vote of confidence given to the PD instead needs to go out to the general public. Your "boyfriend" would be out of a job. Anything else "girlfriend?"
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 11:24 a.m.
258638 aka "Bryan's girl" --- looks like you stepped in some real do-do eh!?
Like Chief Smith's "issues" I don't think its gonna wash off of your shoe no matter how hard you scrub!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 11:34 a.m.
in response to 709746
WOW!!!!!!!!!! So you have been in the Chief"s room. I am impressed.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 700294 on May 20, 2008 at 11:46 a.m.
"According to an April 23 letter of contemplated disciplinary action signed by Smith and addressed to Torres, Vesely and Weber reported that Torres had full knowledge that officers had been purchasing vehicles from the lot and that Torres never indicated he felt the practice was inappropriate."
If this case filed by Torres ever gets to court, we will most likely find out that not only Torres, but Bung, Smith, Moseley, Walsh, and numerous other administrators knew about the transactions at the impound yard and all of them were less than truthful about this during the lynching of Jasso, Veseley, and Weber.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 343021 on May 20, 2008 at 12:20 p.m.
Welcome to Mexico!!!!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 12:24 p.m.
in response to 239291
Ok that's 5 "I hate Bryan Smith" blogs and you still haven't said anything of substance. Name calling is all you have when you have no argument. Go back to junior high before you are missed by the basketball coach.
411404
"Cut out the cancer. Start fresh at the top with men and women of integrity. ...You advocate maintaining the corrupt status quo. The only reason for that would be that it some how benefits you."
That's what it looks to me like Chief Smith is trying to do and the CAncer and his buddies are screaming bloody murder. Sounds like you might be in his sights too...
As for that vote of confidence thing, it was a joke from the word go. A college freshman could have put together something more scientific and the response was so poor as to be nonrepresentative.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 262880 on May 20, 2008 at 12:30 p.m.
in response to 239291
You people don't have a clue. When SH*$ hits the fan, blame the guy on top. You people are nothing but Monday morning Quarterbacks.
Like the old say goes, "Coaches lose the game and players win them."
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:37 p.m.
in response to 258638
Whatever girlfriend!
As a matter of fact since you want something of "substance," why don't we go back a few months and first consider the Bryan Smith girlfriend/wife/rape/driving a city vehicle DRUNK affair that he was lucky enough to get swept under the rug!? That's when we all began to see through the haze that Bryan's drawers had actually fallen around his ankles.
Then the impound lot fiasco under his "Leadership!?"
And now the Torres issue that may cost the city $250,000.00? And then there are the obvious ties to his drinking/getting drunk buddy Mauricio Celis? The same guy indicted by Carlos Valdez?
Just what are you smoking with your rose colored glasses on as you lead cheers for what is obviously a Chief of Police with as many holes in his lackluster ability as a giant chunk of Swiss cheese!? Leadership my eye!
Now what girlfriend? You just got served again!
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:38 p.m.
in response to 262880
"Clue?" I'm more inside than you know....
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 425944 on May 20, 2008 at 12:43 p.m.
in response to 244414
The Chief was not drunk, and I am recommending your post be deleted.
Also, when Celis was being investigated the 1ST TIME, Chief Bryan Smith was not the Chief! Alvarez was!
Mauricio Celis has been lying and cheating his way through the system with the help of ex-Sheriff LARRY OLIVAREZ!!!
That's where this investigation needs to head. Straight to Larry's front porch. I'm sure you can find him with a sign over his porch stating "GOOD OLE' BOYS CLUB"!
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related links Posted by 409842 on May 20, 2008 at 12:47 p.m.
...so, will the caller times finally do a story on "the tractor" that was bought by a high administrator at the pd...he enjoyed the benefit of the "impound lot" fiasco...bryan smith can not hide behind this smooth talking anymore...but, who will report the truth...all of the truth? Will the caller times???? Doubt it...
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:58 p.m.
in response to 425944
"I am recommending your post be deleted!?" LOL
OOOOOooooooo...please don't...I'll be so disappointed if they delete my post. Who cares!? Like your taking away my birthday or sending me to Vietnam again? You are laughable.
One thing you can't delete is the entire public awareness in this area that under Bryan Smith the CCPD looks more like the Keystone Cops than a modern day police force! Not my fault...Skip Noe should have cut him when Smith was outed by himself in his first PUBLIC fisaco!
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related links Posted by 252944 on May 20, 2008 at 1:14 p.m.
in response to 239291
The CCAD employee!!! You started your comments at 8:23 and have had time to post 9 so far..WOW looks like your disappointing the tax payers with you wasting time and energy commeting so negative about anyone who gets on a story on the Callertimes. Your in every story commenting!
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related links Posted by 241339 on May 20, 2008 at 1:18 p.m.
Polygraph examinations are not admissable in courts because it is not 100% accurate. If Torres had requested a second exam after failing the first, they should have gave it to him. The two exams could have been compared for accurancy.
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related links Posted by 356013 on May 20, 2008 at 1:21 p.m.
Why is it that everytime something comes up that point to corruption everyone screams fire them all and start over?? One of these folks is telling the truth and one is not. Let a full investigation take place, present the evididence and let it speak for itself. If it is found Torres is untruthful, then fire him, if it turns out Smith is untruthful, fire him, but for goodness sake dont toss everyone out when its obvious someone is trying to clean up something.
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related links Posted by 246492 on May 20, 2008 at 1:39 p.m.
Man, ya'll are better than television. :)
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 1:47 p.m.
in response to 252944
Hey Bozo...you swallowed me being a CCAD employee hook line and sinker! LOL You really are a clown!
Get a grip. I actually work at Valero, Flint Hills, CCISD, OLPH, JC Penney's, Macy's, Del Mar, TAMUCC etc, etc. You goof...take your pick fool! LOL
This is cyberspace...and since you aren't a cybercop anyone in here can work anywhere they want. Matter of fact; I may even be retired. Have you thought of that Columbo? Get a grip junior.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 1:49 p.m.
in response to 252944
Hey Columbo,
How would you know who is in "every story commenting" unless you are reading EVERY blog? LOL ... yep...like I said, you truly are a clown.
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related links Posted by 235557 on May 20, 2008 at 1:52 p.m.
How/why are his alleged damages $250,000?
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 1:57 p.m.
in response to 239291
Maybe the reason you are so angry at the Chief is that you found out that 709746 was in the Chief's room and left it messy. Don't you just hate when that happens?
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 2:25 p.m.
in response to 704925
LOL...that was funny...I needed that.
In all honesty, I'm not even "angry at the chief." I'm just more disgusted and fed up like thousands of other citizens locally with the poor leadership rife in this backwater burg! And the chief keeps stepping in crap and spreading it on this cities worn carpet.
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related links Posted by 238212 on May 20, 2008 at 2:53 p.m.
Chuck Norris would run all the scum out of Corpus Christi and if the shoe fits wear it.
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related links Posted by 236331 on May 20, 2008 at 2:56 p.m.
Pay the man his money. Police in Corpus don't know what the hell they're doing and they are overpaid! Did you know they get paid more than Texas DPS troopers?
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 3:06 p.m.
in response to 239291
I am glad you enjoyed my little joke. Our subject, however, is quite serious. I am sorry to hear you feel that the Chief is somehow lacking in leadership when he is actually placing his butt on the line trying to clean up a mess that has be accumulating for years. Chief Smith knew what was expected of him when he accepted the position and has been addressing a multitude of issues that need correcting. He must proceed slowly and cover his butt as best he can because LOTS of folks don't want him to succeed and upset their own little playhouse. I don't think this will go to trial but if it does, put your money on the Chief---- the other guy is a real loser.
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related links Posted by 710826 on May 20, 2008 at 3:32 p.m.
in response to 420495
"I think we know who the Minorities are around here"
I am one of those that does not know, please tell us, what to you is a minority?
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related links Posted by 356013 on May 20, 2008 at 3:52 p.m.
I wish I could live long enough when there are no quota's, no race card, no minorities, when we are all simply the good citizens of Corpus Christi, the good citizens of the State of Texas and we are all just plain old Americans. The day will come, but I fear not in my lifetime. What does corruption in the police department have to do with race anyway? You are corrupt or you are not corrupt, black, white, pink, brown or yellow makes no difference, corrupt is corrupt plain and simply. Poor peformance is poor performance, plain and simple, to think almost 50 years will have passed since MLK had a dream, and we all keep waiting for that dream to come true. Not that it matters, but to avoid the speculation on somes part, I am a white christain male, 52 years of age. that is a registered indepentant that tends to vote more republican. Now make fun of me if you want, but I consider myself neither a minority or majority, just me.
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related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 4:31 p.m.
What the hell was this story about?!?!? I already forgot reading all these sidebars!!
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related links Posted by 710826 on May 20, 2008 at 4:34 p.m.
in response to 463342
My question was "how can you tell" who is a minority without asking and you are not supposed to do that?
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 5:05 p.m.
I am disappointed to see so many disgruntled CCPD officers. it is evident that there are two camps within the department. You all almost remind me of the Bloods and the Crips (sp?) the way you all appear to have it out for each other.
The minority and the majority...I don't know who you are but who cares? Your job is to protect all of us but if you are even fighting among yourselves, how do I know you will protect all of us?
All of you are whiners as far as I'm concerned. Get back to being professional. Listen more than talk. Support more than tear yourselves down. Be more rational rather than irrational in your thoughts.
Good luck to all of you. Remember why you joined this force in the first place and the brotherhood you developed. See what you can all do to be part of the solutions and not part of the problems.
Neither minority or majority...I'm right in the middle.
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related links Posted by 241339 on May 20, 2008 at 8:30 p.m.
If minorty promotion or opportunity was an issue. Why is he a commander? I suspect because he deserved it, That card should not have been presented. What is the motive on the impound lot deal? He did not have any gain. He asked for a second polygraph and should have been give it.
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related links Posted by 247374 on May 20, 2008 at 9:44 p.m.
listen I am an officer,not a ccpd officer but I do work for a large department. Since chief Smith has come on board there has been way too much scandal and it is embarrassing every man and woman on the department. CCPD is a good department and always has been. Bring someone in as chief from the outside,fresh ideas, no bias,no scores to settle. Someone who wants to come in and return the good name that this dept deserves.Good luck to you all and hopefully the city manager and council will think and look outside of the box when looking for a chief.
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related links Posted by 709952 on May 20, 2008 at 9:49 p.m.
This is great! There is nothing better than to watch attorneys and our Corpus Christi Keystone cops at each other's throats. It's just like watching two piranhas going at it! This ought to keep CCPD occupied for a while and keep them from concentrating their efforts on more important matters like crime, drugs, gangs, and graffitti. Although, they're not very good at it, at least they try. And as long as the attorneys stay occupied suing each other or CCPD, then maybe they'll stay out of everyone else's hair including the noble medical profession.
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related links Posted by 709952 on May 20, 2008 at 9:55 p.m.
in response to 247374
That was a great comment. CCPD needs officers like you.
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related links Posted by 459079 on May 20, 2008 at 10:15 p.m.
in response to 247374
Last couple of times this has been done, in my memory, the Union & their cronies on the Council drove the Chief out of town. If you are honest, proactive, firm, fair, consistant and well rounded educationally in Law Enforcement - stay away from Corpus Christi!
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related links Posted by 362421 on May 20, 2008 at 10:36 p.m.
in response to 353782
First of all I want to say I'm sorry about the situation with your wife. Second, how dare you lable the entire police force "a bunch of criminals with badges who believe they are above the law". I am a police officer and have been for a very long time. For you to put me or the many others that I would die for in a category where I have spent years to avoid is ignorant on your part. I can understand if you are upset with one particular officer but, for you to lable all of us is stupid.
-B
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 10:52 p.m.
in response to 459079
Yeah, I've been wondering where the union is in all of this. They always get in the middle of it. I guess they are deciding whether to bring in Susie Luna.
Seriously, once the union gets involved deeper lines will be drawn and more ugliness will erupt. I have never seen a union do anything positive.
Unfortunatley, Chief B. Smith will always have his past following him around. I would think it would behove him to do more than the law requires when dealing with his officers....like when Torres requested another lie detector test.
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related links Posted by 362421 on May 20, 2008 at 10:52 p.m.
in response to 712634
Hey Dummy! You are more than welcome to have my gun and work my 10 hour shift. In fact, we are taking applications. That's if you have the stomach for it. Ya, I am a police officer and damn proud of it! I'm not out there to do YOU a favor. I'm out there to protect the community as a whole. "if they dont put poeple in jail, they dont get paid". You must really live under a rock. I, along with all the other officer's out there, get paid regardless. If you read what's going on in the article you will see that this is all ADMINISTRATION not the officer's that come to YOUR house when YOU need them.
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 11:10 p.m.
in response to 712634
it is evident that you feel this way purely because you have been a person who has been picked up, put in jail, gotten a traffic ticket, are a gang member, etc. You have not had a positive experience with the police because they were protecting others from people like you.
I think you would feel differently if you would clean up your life and follow the rules that make our community safe. Plus, one of these days you WILL need a cop and your tune will change.
You just talk big...much like that Garcia fellow who will get sentenced tomorrow for killing Mr. Herrero at Denny's. You seem to have his same disposition and personality. tsk tsk
Commander files suit against city
Torres alleges hostile working environment
By David Kassabian (Contact), Dan Kelley (Contact)
Originally published 03:38 a.m., May 20, 2008
Updated 03:38 a.m., May 20, 2008
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Torres was never formally disciplined in regard to the impound lot.
Torres was never formally disciplined in regard to the impound lot.
A police commander has sued the city, saying he was subjected to a hostile work environment after officials questioned his knowledge of officers improperly buying and selling impounded vehicles.
Cmdr. David Torres, a veteran of the criminal investigation and patrol divisions, filed the lawsuit late Thursday in a county court through his attorney René Rodriguez.
The lawsuit and Rodriguez said senior police officials retaliated against Torres by accusing him of having prior knowledge of officer misconduct at the city's impound lot.
According to the suit, Torres questioned the lack of minority candidates for job postings and his supervisors' refusal to investigate criminal complaints against Mauricio Celis, an indicted law firm operator.
Chief Bryan Smith declined to comment, citing pending litigation.
City Manager Skip Noe said he could not respond to the lawsuit's individual allegations, but information from the filing has been forwarded to the FBI and police internal affairs. The heart of the issue, Noe said, is that Torres was never formally disciplined.
Torres has denied all wrongdoing, Rodriguez said.
According to the 16-page filing, tension between Torres and the department mounted after Torres was accused of mishandling an investigation at the impound lot.
Capt. Jay Vesely, a 21-year veteran of the force, and 22-year veteran Senior Officer Martin Jasso were fired in November; both were accused in May of abusing their position as officers to buy seized vehicles for less than the vehicle's true value.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced in January that it would not pursue the case, and Smith rehired Jasso in February. A third officer, Lt. Weldon L. Weber Jr., received a letter of reprimand in connection with the investigation.
Torres was named a suspect sometime during the investigation, according to the lawsuit, and he was interviewed by internal affairs in August. He was given a polygraph test in April, despite saying eight months earlier that he had no knowledge of misconduct until May 2007 when an assistant district attorney came forward with the case.
After registering "deception indicated" on three questions of the polygraph, the department initiated disciplinary action against Torres. He asked for another polygraph but was denied, and Smith began considering disciplinary action, the suit said.
According to an April 23 letter of contemplated disciplinary action signed by Smith and addressed to Torres, Vesely and Weber reported that Torres had full knowledge that officers had been purchasing vehicles from the lot and that Torres never indicated he felt the practice was inappropriate.
"The fact that you were untruthful including, but not limited to, two sworn statements and subsequently indicated deception on a polygraph regarding said untruthfulness indicates that this was a deliberate and premeditated act and can in no way be interpreted as an accident or failure of memory," the letter said. "Honesty and integrity are paramount in the law enforcement profession. Untruthfulness in a sworn statement taken in an official investigation will not be tolerated by the Corpus Christi Police Department."
The letter recommends the firing of Torres, however, a letter of reprimand drafted the same day and signed by both Smith and Torres only mentions what Smith described as a substandard investigation into the lot. That letter does not mention firing.
The department is trying to force Torres to quit, Rodriguez said, and the two letters make little sense.
The filing makes reference to the case of Celis. Celis was indicted in November on charges of impersonating a police officer, impersonating an attorney, money laundering and perjury.
The perjury charge was later thrown out because it occurred in Zapata County. The investigation continued, and prosecutors obtained additional charges against Celis, including additional counts of money laundering and impersonating an attorney, according to a grand jury indictment filed in April.
Torres claims Smith and Assistant Chief Ken Bung ordered him to halt a sexual assault investigation because the matter was going to be handled by a "high powered" civil attorney. That attorney was Celis, who at the time claimed to be licensed to practice law in Mexico.
Celis' claim, according to the Nueces County District Attorney's Office, was false and is part of a multi-count indictment against Celis for impersonating an attorney and money laundering.
Torres also takes the department to task for failing to investigate incidents in 2004 in which Celis is accused of impersonating a police officer. Torres claims a detective initiated an investigation into Celis in 2004. Celis was stopped in 2004 and, according to police reports, flashed a Duval County sheriff's badge at the officer. When police asked if he commuted regularly to Duval County from his Kings Crossing home, Celis reportedly said "Yes, and I'm also an attorney."
The lawsuit also references two times when command staff outside Torres' department forwarded lists of officers for hiring recommendations. When Torres questioned why no minorities were on the lists, he was subjected to hostile working conditions, according to the filing.
Before filing the lawsuit, Rodriguez sent a notice to the city, offering to settle Torres' claim for $250,000 -- the maximum allowed by state law, Rodriguez added.
Contact David Kassabian at 886-3778 or kassabiand@caller.com. Contact Dan Kelley at 886-4316 or kelleyd@caller.com
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(82) User Comments:
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 449976 on May 20, 2008 at 4:15 a.m.
Oh boy..here we go again..more corruption!! First the council.. now the police departemnt!! When will it end!!!
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related links Posted by 427774 on May 20, 2008 at 5:13 a.m.
" After registering "deception indicated" on three questions of the polygraph, the department initiated disciplinary action against Torres. He asked for another polygraph but was denied, and Smith began considering disciplinary action, the suit said. "
Case Closed - Pay the man! lol!
Really - subjected to a polygraph that showed questionable results, what harm would there have been to enabling another one - the supposed 'liar' willing too.
" The letter recommends the firing of Torres, however, a letter of reprimand drafted the same day and signed by both Smith and Torres only mentions what Smith described as a substandard investigation into the lot. That letter does not mention firing. "
Kind of like the difference between a 'whooping' and a 'spanking' with both "drafted" and signed the same day.
But this ***
" Torres claims Smith and Assistant Chief Ken Bung ordered him to halt a sexual assault investigation because the matter was going to be handled by a "high powered" civil attorney. That attorney was Celis, who at the time claimed to be licensed to practice law in Mexico. "
Priceless! " Honesty and integrity are paramount ... "
Even makes Celis look almost good.
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 5:20 a.m.
I hold a lot of respect for Cmdr. Torres. I don't think he would glibly file a lawsuit such as this one without great cause...and intergrity.
This is not going to be an easy task. I wish him the very best as his world as he knows it now will change...but it probably already had changed due to prior ill treatment.
My prayers are with him.
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related links Posted by 702652 on May 20, 2008 at 6:09 a.m.
Torres might not glibly file a lawsuit - but Rene Rodriquez would.
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related links Posted by 275094 on May 20, 2008 at 6:17 a.m.
This article brings a lot of meaning to the phrase "What a tangled web we weave"
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 703885 on May 20, 2008 at 6:18 a.m.
in response to 449976
This is what happens when people don't vote.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 6:34 a.m.
Torres, get another attorney for God's sake. Rene Rodriguez?!?!? Come on............
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 449075 on May 20, 2008 at 6:49 a.m.
Chief Bryan Smith has a very short memory, if I were him, I wouid not be stirring the pot too much. He got away with drunk and disorderly and rape. What was he saying, the lady is a mental case.
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related links Posted by 712601 on May 20, 2008 at 6:51 a.m.
Rene Rodriguez is nothing but a parasite. Always craving for money. Last time we heard about this turd he was involved in a RICO investigation. And Commander Torres SHOULD be reprimanded, if he knew about Capt Jasso and Lt. Vissely buying illegal vehicles, then deal with it. YOU MAKE TOO MUCH MONEY. THE CITY NEEDS A PAY FREEZE ON THIS OFFICERS, THEN YOU SAVE ALOT OF MONEY.
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 240803 on May 20, 2008 at 7:15 a.m.
Yes Commander Torres knew of the illegal car sales within the department. He tried to do right by it and look where it got him. Looks like the tables were tuned on him by the chief.
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related links Posted by 353782 on May 20, 2008 at 7:19 a.m.
Well, I believe the guy is guilty. Come on he knew about the scam and wanted in on it. The entire police force is a farce, and nothing but criminals with badges. So much professionalism and ethics in their job performance, just like the idiot police officer that cheated on his wife 3 times and then pursued my wife for number 4. She gave in and i found out now everyone is divorced, goes to show that the Corpus Christi's finest is not so fine after all. Like i said the police force in corpus christi are a bunch of criminals with badges, who believe they are above the law.
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related links Posted by 700294 on May 20, 2008 at 7:42 a.m.
A Commander breaks the "code of silence", this is gonna' get good.
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related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 7:45 a.m.
Police Officers should be given polygraphs every year. I wouldn't have a problem taking a polygraph every year in my current position. I know I would be extra careful in everything I do... as it should be.... especially for police officers who hold so much power over regular people.
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 7:48 a.m.
Post 449075 -- You are wrong on al counts. The Chief was not drunk, was not disorderly, there was no rape and the woman was and still has a mental problem. Unlike this woman, David Torres accusations are in the open and he must PROVE them. David has worked to undermine this Chief ever since he was promoted. This time, I believe David's lies are going to come back and hurt him badly. The legal process will take a while but David Torres has bitten off way more than he can chew.
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 8:05 a.m.
I think Torres wanted to be Chief really badly and has been ticked ever since he didn't get it. Bottom line is, he has not been a square dealer and people in glass houses really shouldn't throw stones.
So, where is the harm here? He has not been disciplined and still has his job? What is the $250K compensation for? To make him stop whining?
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 420495 on May 20, 2008 at 8:09 a.m.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
I'm so sick of hearing about minority rights.
Here in Corpus Christi Texas Mexican Heritage is not a minority !
Torres is questioning the lack of minority candidates for job postings ........ get serious !
Go down to City Hall and pay your Water Bill, or go pay a parking ticket downtown, now look around and tell me about Minority Hiring in Corpus Christi !
Now let's talk about a Head Count of people living in the county. Oh, I'm not talking about Legal Americans. I'm talking about people living here in the City & the County !
I think we know who the Minorities are around here.
So Torres, if it getting to hot ? Maybe it's time to get out !
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
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related links Posted by 712634 on May 20, 2008 at 8:11 a.m.
he is GUILTY! thow them all in prison with the people they put in jail.
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related links Posted by 244414 on May 20, 2008 at 8:17 a.m.
This is not more corruption, this is ongoing corruption. The Chief was drunk and got away with it. This lawsuit will bring a lot more out into the open. The police department suffers from low morale and is looking more and more like the New Orleans police department.
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related links Posted by 409842 on May 20, 2008 at 8:21 a.m.
Wow...it's amazing to me how the Caller Times will only print what they want people to read...first of all Commander Torres names names, including the detective who sat in on the meeting where No. 2 and No. 1 told him to stop the criminal investigation against a rape suspect...there are names in the lawsuit...print them...it's public record. He's telling the truth....what the caller times also didn't tell you that the list of names that were provided for promotion are friends of No. 2. The corruption at the department is deep and for those of us who live it every day...thank you Commander for having the guts to come forward...there is hard core proof of the actions of No. 1. I know what Commander Torres did was not easy...but as the saying goes, sometimes the "the right thing" to do is the hardest thing to do...we know the kind of reporting the caller times will do...I suggest people go and get a copy of the lawsuit...go to the district clerk's office located on the third floor and ask for a copy...read it. And if I were in a fight with the city, I'd want Rene Rodriguez on my side...finally, an officer who comes forward to stop the corruption and he's attacked...priceless.
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 8:22 a.m.
in response to 244414
Baloney! Quit smoking that stuff... you're gonna get caught!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 8:23 a.m.
Discrimination!? If he was SO discriminated against then how the heck did HE become a commander in CCPD!? Just another whiner...they eventually show their cards...
But I gotta tell ya...Bryan Smith continues to be an IDIOT! As a matter of fact check the connection between him and Mauricio Celis!!!!!
CCPD under Bryan Smith continues to be a JOKE!
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related links Posted by 236373 on May 20, 2008 at 8:43 a.m.
You people do not get it, it all revolves around Bryan Smith.
The guy is bad news. When have we seen the police department in this kind of crisis before?
I am calling for his resignation!!!!!
Reply to this Post | Suggest removal
related links Posted by 712634 on May 20, 2008 at 8:45 a.m.
im tired of cops doing what ever they want, they think they are special. give me a gun and i could do anything a cop can do. they are not my heroes. they act like they are doing us a favor when they could care less about anyone of us. if they dont put poeple in jail, they dont get paid. we are paying for them to put us in jail and we applaud them for it.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 8:51 a.m.
in response to 236373
DITTO!!! It's time for that punk Bryan Smith to GO!
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related links Posted by 709931 on May 20, 2008 at 8:52 a.m.
The bottom line is that in the public sector; government jobs, the public school districts, Del Mar Community College, etc., employees are hired for life. No matter what they do, when they actually show up for work, they can never be reprimanded or much less let go, otherwise, the lawsuits fly.
The only way this will ever change is if the citizens act by not awarding money in these lawsuits, demanding changes in the law to make those who file this type of lawsuit liable, and removing from office the politicians who support payment to settle the case in exchange for future votes.
There is a tremendous political leadership vacuum in our area. Those in office continue to be the subject of jokes all around the state.
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related links Posted by 459079 on May 20, 2008 at 8:59 a.m.
Torres was one of Pete Alvarez's "LULAC Promotions" - promoted to his current rank over several contemporaries who had better records and education than him. As a Captain and Lieutenant was known for repeatedly playing the "race card" in dealing with others - senior and junior to him. Note that the lists of "Eligibles" presented to him by seniors for possible promotion is set , primarily,by scores on advancement examinations combined with points for advanced education, service awards & special qualifications. Race neutral, is the best way to describe the formal part of the process, but was routinely ignored by Alvarez & LULAC so they could put their favorites into command positions. Problem now is that Chief Smith sees it for what it is, and the professional racists like Torres don't like it one bit. Please note that he did NOT file a civil rights or discrimination complaint! Bottom line: Torres is a sleazeball who never should've been promoted in the first place......
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related links Posted by 253104 on May 20, 2008 at 9:03 a.m.
Poor Torres. Sees so much...knows so little. If he's can't see wrong in fellow officers.......how did he make commander? Internal affairs, Justice Dept,......Pete gone....Oh Boy!!!! What's done in the dark.......Always comes to light. Or something like that.
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related links Posted by 292564 on May 20, 2008 at 9:07 a.m.
Torres sounds like the little fat kid at school that nobody likes because he is a cry baby . . .so now he's going to the playground monitor whinning and sobbing. "Mr. Rene they are being mean to me!"
what a little bewitch . . . no wonder she has no respect, hispanic, black, or gringo
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related links Posted by 254647 on May 20, 2008 at 9:29 a.m.
lol. I'm speechless. All I can do is laugh in disgust. And there's a mystery as to why the department is hurting for qualified candidates to apply. No one wants to work in a place like that. Heck ,if officers can't respect officers, how can the public? The repurcussions of this lack of respect will inevitably seep (if it hasn't already) into the attitude of the public and CCPD will have chaos in their hands. Time to clean house and earn back respect.
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related links Posted by 702603 on May 20, 2008 at 9:40 a.m.
Give me a break! Does every lawsuit in Nueces County have to include a race card? This is getting very weary. Until we reconcile our differences and quit chasing demons (on both sides) we'll never move forward in Corpus Christi.
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related links Posted by 232416 on May 20, 2008 at 9:43 a.m.
I wonder if Chief Smith showed up at Torres' home late one night drunk.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 9:55 a.m.
Bryan Smith has to go...the CCPD department can't go one week without intrigue!
Bring back the Keystone Cops...wait a minute...Bryan Smith already has!
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 10:15 a.m.
Chief Smith has taken another step in cleaning up the CCPD. David Torres is a part of the good ole hispanic boy network that has been corrupting this Dept for a long, long time. The Chief has uncovered illegal practices at the Court House, the impound lot scandal and other things we don't even know about. This clean up he has initiated will cause him to get lots of flack from people who either don't know any better or have an agenda of their own. He is doing a lot for the betterment of this city at a great personal cost to himself. The three Chief's who preceeded him wouldn't dare try to solve the problems this Chief is addressing. For all of our good, I hope he has sufficient time to clean up this town before some of you haters manage to run him off.
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related links Posted by 240803 on May 20, 2008 at 10:35 a.m.
The only way to ge to the bottem of this mess is let Commander Torres and Chief Smith duke it out in court. I dought it will get this far, because thats where it really counts. Juries hear documented facts, cooberated testimonies and sworn statements. No hearsay, rumors, and meaningless accusations, like most of these posts.
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related links Posted by 709746 on May 20, 2008 at 11 a.m.
Smith cleaning up CCPD? He could not even clean his room. He is setting up his good ole’ white boy network with his new commander Mosely who we now read had let Celis walk on several occasions. Dirty cop! No doughnut for you! Smith’s drinking buddy Celis has deeper hooks into CCPD than most realize. Smith has nothing on Torres that’s why after all the bluffing and threatening; he went from wanting to fire him to a reprimand after consulting city legal.
The PD polygraph operator should be used for criminal investigations only, that Alvariazian hack should not do internal investigations that is improper. Smith refuses to let outside independent polygraphs be conducted because he can’t control the result. Did Bung take one for is role in the imound lot incident? Wonder if Smith will take one himself to put to rest his little “affair” last year. Nope didn’t think so. Torres was his only real competition for chief, now Smith wants him gone.
Don’t forget Alvarez also promoted Smith to commander so that was also one of his boys…Torres has raised some real concerns, sadly his choice of attorney and the tossing in of "discrimination" as an after thought along with the real issues will hurt his credibility.
Fire all commanders and above and start fresh. All of these guys are from back in the Garrett and Alvarez eras and even before. They are all badly compromised.
Skip are you there? Anybody home…
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 11:03 a.m.
in response to 239291
291 - that's three "I hate Bryan Smith" posts on this article and one on another article today. What's up? did he steal your girlfriend? How about trying to be part of the solution instead of just a whiny-boy blamer and name caller.
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related links Posted by 411404 on May 20, 2008 at 11:16 a.m.
in response to 258638
258638,
I think everyone is stating the only real solution. Cut out the cancer. Start fresh at the top with men and women of integrity. Our community and rank and file officers deserves as much. You advocate maintaining the corrupt status quo. The only reason for that would be that it some how benefits you. Right…
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related links Posted by 236373 on May 20, 2008 at 11:22 a.m.
in response to 258638
The solution is get rid of Bryan Smith.
Smith hasn't done anything for the police department but bring it shame.
Contrary to what you belive, this man is not the greatest thing since sliced bread. It's the day to day managers that get the job done, Smith shows up at the end, says good job and takes the credit.
Everybody loves a smooth talker. He throws out all of these statistics and impress naive people like you.
Get in the trenches, talk to the people on the front lines, I think you will be surprised to hear that the beat cops think Smith is useless.
Oh but he's a smooth talker, thats all some of us need.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 11:22 a.m.
in response to 258638
"Steal my girlfriend?" LOL...nope he obviously still has you as his best girl!?
And I've seen him operate up close...he's no leader...he more fits the mold of a Chicken Little
And the recent vote of confidence given to the PD instead needs to go out to the general public. Your "boyfriend" would be out of a job. Anything else "girlfriend?"
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 11:24 a.m.
258638 aka "Bryan's girl" --- looks like you stepped in some real do-do eh!?
Like Chief Smith's "issues" I don't think its gonna wash off of your shoe no matter how hard you scrub!
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 11:34 a.m.
in response to 709746
WOW!!!!!!!!!! So you have been in the Chief"s room. I am impressed.
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related links Posted by 700294 on May 20, 2008 at 11:46 a.m.
"According to an April 23 letter of contemplated disciplinary action signed by Smith and addressed to Torres, Vesely and Weber reported that Torres had full knowledge that officers had been purchasing vehicles from the lot and that Torres never indicated he felt the practice was inappropriate."
If this case filed by Torres ever gets to court, we will most likely find out that not only Torres, but Bung, Smith, Moseley, Walsh, and numerous other administrators knew about the transactions at the impound yard and all of them were less than truthful about this during the lynching of Jasso, Veseley, and Weber.
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related links Posted by 343021 on May 20, 2008 at 12:20 p.m.
Welcome to Mexico!!!!
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related links Posted by 258638 on May 20, 2008 at 12:24 p.m.
in response to 239291
Ok that's 5 "I hate Bryan Smith" blogs and you still haven't said anything of substance. Name calling is all you have when you have no argument. Go back to junior high before you are missed by the basketball coach.
411404
"Cut out the cancer. Start fresh at the top with men and women of integrity. ...You advocate maintaining the corrupt status quo. The only reason for that would be that it some how benefits you."
That's what it looks to me like Chief Smith is trying to do and the CAncer and his buddies are screaming bloody murder. Sounds like you might be in his sights too...
As for that vote of confidence thing, it was a joke from the word go. A college freshman could have put together something more scientific and the response was so poor as to be nonrepresentative.
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related links Posted by 262880 on May 20, 2008 at 12:30 p.m.
in response to 239291
You people don't have a clue. When SH*$ hits the fan, blame the guy on top. You people are nothing but Monday morning Quarterbacks.
Like the old say goes, "Coaches lose the game and players win them."
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:37 p.m.
in response to 258638
Whatever girlfriend!
As a matter of fact since you want something of "substance," why don't we go back a few months and first consider the Bryan Smith girlfriend/wife/rape/driving a city vehicle DRUNK affair that he was lucky enough to get swept under the rug!? That's when we all began to see through the haze that Bryan's drawers had actually fallen around his ankles.
Then the impound lot fiasco under his "Leadership!?"
And now the Torres issue that may cost the city $250,000.00? And then there are the obvious ties to his drinking/getting drunk buddy Mauricio Celis? The same guy indicted by Carlos Valdez?
Just what are you smoking with your rose colored glasses on as you lead cheers for what is obviously a Chief of Police with as many holes in his lackluster ability as a giant chunk of Swiss cheese!? Leadership my eye!
Now what girlfriend? You just got served again!
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:38 p.m.
in response to 262880
"Clue?" I'm more inside than you know....
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related links Posted by 425944 on May 20, 2008 at 12:43 p.m.
in response to 244414
The Chief was not drunk, and I am recommending your post be deleted.
Also, when Celis was being investigated the 1ST TIME, Chief Bryan Smith was not the Chief! Alvarez was!
Mauricio Celis has been lying and cheating his way through the system with the help of ex-Sheriff LARRY OLIVAREZ!!!
That's where this investigation needs to head. Straight to Larry's front porch. I'm sure you can find him with a sign over his porch stating "GOOD OLE' BOYS CLUB"!
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related links Posted by 409842 on May 20, 2008 at 12:47 p.m.
...so, will the caller times finally do a story on "the tractor" that was bought by a high administrator at the pd...he enjoyed the benefit of the "impound lot" fiasco...bryan smith can not hide behind this smooth talking anymore...but, who will report the truth...all of the truth? Will the caller times???? Doubt it...
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 12:58 p.m.
in response to 425944
"I am recommending your post be deleted!?" LOL
OOOOOooooooo...please don't...I'll be so disappointed if they delete my post. Who cares!? Like your taking away my birthday or sending me to Vietnam again? You are laughable.
One thing you can't delete is the entire public awareness in this area that under Bryan Smith the CCPD looks more like the Keystone Cops than a modern day police force! Not my fault...Skip Noe should have cut him when Smith was outed by himself in his first PUBLIC fisaco!
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related links Posted by 252944 on May 20, 2008 at 1:14 p.m.
in response to 239291
The CCAD employee!!! You started your comments at 8:23 and have had time to post 9 so far..WOW looks like your disappointing the tax payers with you wasting time and energy commeting so negative about anyone who gets on a story on the Callertimes. Your in every story commenting!
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related links Posted by 241339 on May 20, 2008 at 1:18 p.m.
Polygraph examinations are not admissable in courts because it is not 100% accurate. If Torres had requested a second exam after failing the first, they should have gave it to him. The two exams could have been compared for accurancy.
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related links Posted by 356013 on May 20, 2008 at 1:21 p.m.
Why is it that everytime something comes up that point to corruption everyone screams fire them all and start over?? One of these folks is telling the truth and one is not. Let a full investigation take place, present the evididence and let it speak for itself. If it is found Torres is untruthful, then fire him, if it turns out Smith is untruthful, fire him, but for goodness sake dont toss everyone out when its obvious someone is trying to clean up something.
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related links Posted by 246492 on May 20, 2008 at 1:39 p.m.
Man, ya'll are better than television. :)
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 1:47 p.m.
in response to 252944
Hey Bozo...you swallowed me being a CCAD employee hook line and sinker! LOL You really are a clown!
Get a grip. I actually work at Valero, Flint Hills, CCISD, OLPH, JC Penney's, Macy's, Del Mar, TAMUCC etc, etc. You goof...take your pick fool! LOL
This is cyberspace...and since you aren't a cybercop anyone in here can work anywhere they want. Matter of fact; I may even be retired. Have you thought of that Columbo? Get a grip junior.
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 1:49 p.m.
in response to 252944
Hey Columbo,
How would you know who is in "every story commenting" unless you are reading EVERY blog? LOL ... yep...like I said, you truly are a clown.
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related links Posted by 235557 on May 20, 2008 at 1:52 p.m.
How/why are his alleged damages $250,000?
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 1:57 p.m.
in response to 239291
Maybe the reason you are so angry at the Chief is that you found out that 709746 was in the Chief's room and left it messy. Don't you just hate when that happens?
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related links Posted by 239291 on May 20, 2008 at 2:25 p.m.
in response to 704925
LOL...that was funny...I needed that.
In all honesty, I'm not even "angry at the chief." I'm just more disgusted and fed up like thousands of other citizens locally with the poor leadership rife in this backwater burg! And the chief keeps stepping in crap and spreading it on this cities worn carpet.
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related links Posted by 238212 on May 20, 2008 at 2:53 p.m.
Chuck Norris would run all the scum out of Corpus Christi and if the shoe fits wear it.
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related links Posted by 236331 on May 20, 2008 at 2:56 p.m.
Pay the man his money. Police in Corpus don't know what the hell they're doing and they are overpaid! Did you know they get paid more than Texas DPS troopers?
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related links Posted by 704925 on May 20, 2008 at 3:06 p.m.
in response to 239291
I am glad you enjoyed my little joke. Our subject, however, is quite serious. I am sorry to hear you feel that the Chief is somehow lacking in leadership when he is actually placing his butt on the line trying to clean up a mess that has be accumulating for years. Chief Smith knew what was expected of him when he accepted the position and has been addressing a multitude of issues that need correcting. He must proceed slowly and cover his butt as best he can because LOTS of folks don't want him to succeed and upset their own little playhouse. I don't think this will go to trial but if it does, put your money on the Chief---- the other guy is a real loser.
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related links Posted by 710826 on May 20, 2008 at 3:32 p.m.
in response to 420495
"I think we know who the Minorities are around here"
I am one of those that does not know, please tell us, what to you is a minority?
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related links Posted by 356013 on May 20, 2008 at 3:52 p.m.
I wish I could live long enough when there are no quota's, no race card, no minorities, when we are all simply the good citizens of Corpus Christi, the good citizens of the State of Texas and we are all just plain old Americans. The day will come, but I fear not in my lifetime. What does corruption in the police department have to do with race anyway? You are corrupt or you are not corrupt, black, white, pink, brown or yellow makes no difference, corrupt is corrupt plain and simply. Poor peformance is poor performance, plain and simple, to think almost 50 years will have passed since MLK had a dream, and we all keep waiting for that dream to come true. Not that it matters, but to avoid the speculation on somes part, I am a white christain male, 52 years of age. that is a registered indepentant that tends to vote more republican. Now make fun of me if you want, but I consider myself neither a minority or majority, just me.
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related links Posted by 259150 on May 20, 2008 at 4:31 p.m.
What the hell was this story about?!?!? I already forgot reading all these sidebars!!
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related links Posted by 710826 on May 20, 2008 at 4:34 p.m.
in response to 463342
My question was "how can you tell" who is a minority without asking and you are not supposed to do that?
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 5:05 p.m.
I am disappointed to see so many disgruntled CCPD officers. it is evident that there are two camps within the department. You all almost remind me of the Bloods and the Crips (sp?) the way you all appear to have it out for each other.
The minority and the majority...I don't know who you are but who cares? Your job is to protect all of us but if you are even fighting among yourselves, how do I know you will protect all of us?
All of you are whiners as far as I'm concerned. Get back to being professional. Listen more than talk. Support more than tear yourselves down. Be more rational rather than irrational in your thoughts.
Good luck to all of you. Remember why you joined this force in the first place and the brotherhood you developed. See what you can all do to be part of the solutions and not part of the problems.
Neither minority or majority...I'm right in the middle.
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related links Posted by 241339 on May 20, 2008 at 8:30 p.m.
If minorty promotion or opportunity was an issue. Why is he a commander? I suspect because he deserved it, That card should not have been presented. What is the motive on the impound lot deal? He did not have any gain. He asked for a second polygraph and should have been give it.
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related links Posted by 247374 on May 20, 2008 at 9:44 p.m.
listen I am an officer,not a ccpd officer but I do work for a large department. Since chief Smith has come on board there has been way too much scandal and it is embarrassing every man and woman on the department. CCPD is a good department and always has been. Bring someone in as chief from the outside,fresh ideas, no bias,no scores to settle. Someone who wants to come in and return the good name that this dept deserves.Good luck to you all and hopefully the city manager and council will think and look outside of the box when looking for a chief.
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related links Posted by 709952 on May 20, 2008 at 9:49 p.m.
This is great! There is nothing better than to watch attorneys and our Corpus Christi Keystone cops at each other's throats. It's just like watching two piranhas going at it! This ought to keep CCPD occupied for a while and keep them from concentrating their efforts on more important matters like crime, drugs, gangs, and graffitti. Although, they're not very good at it, at least they try. And as long as the attorneys stay occupied suing each other or CCPD, then maybe they'll stay out of everyone else's hair including the noble medical profession.
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related links Posted by 709952 on May 20, 2008 at 9:55 p.m.
in response to 247374
That was a great comment. CCPD needs officers like you.
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related links Posted by 459079 on May 20, 2008 at 10:15 p.m.
in response to 247374
Last couple of times this has been done, in my memory, the Union & their cronies on the Council drove the Chief out of town. If you are honest, proactive, firm, fair, consistant and well rounded educationally in Law Enforcement - stay away from Corpus Christi!
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related links Posted by 362421 on May 20, 2008 at 10:36 p.m.
in response to 353782
First of all I want to say I'm sorry about the situation with your wife. Second, how dare you lable the entire police force "a bunch of criminals with badges who believe they are above the law". I am a police officer and have been for a very long time. For you to put me or the many others that I would die for in a category where I have spent years to avoid is ignorant on your part. I can understand if you are upset with one particular officer but, for you to lable all of us is stupid.
-B
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 10:52 p.m.
in response to 459079
Yeah, I've been wondering where the union is in all of this. They always get in the middle of it. I guess they are deciding whether to bring in Susie Luna.
Seriously, once the union gets involved deeper lines will be drawn and more ugliness will erupt. I have never seen a union do anything positive.
Unfortunatley, Chief B. Smith will always have his past following him around. I would think it would behove him to do more than the law requires when dealing with his officers....like when Torres requested another lie detector test.
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related links Posted by 362421 on May 20, 2008 at 10:52 p.m.
in response to 712634
Hey Dummy! You are more than welcome to have my gun and work my 10 hour shift. In fact, we are taking applications. That's if you have the stomach for it. Ya, I am a police officer and damn proud of it! I'm not out there to do YOU a favor. I'm out there to protect the community as a whole. "if they dont put poeple in jail, they dont get paid". You must really live under a rock. I, along with all the other officer's out there, get paid regardless. If you read what's going on in the article you will see that this is all ADMINISTRATION not the officer's that come to YOUR house when YOU need them.
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related links Posted by 710237 on May 20, 2008 at 11:10 p.m.
in response to 712634
it is evident that you feel this way purely because you have been a person who has been picked up, put in jail, gotten a traffic ticket, are a gang member, etc. You have not had a positive experience with the police because they were protecting others from people like you.
I think you would feel differently if you would clean up your life and follow the rules that make our community safe. Plus, one of these days you WILL need a cop and your tune will change.
You just talk big...much like that Garcia fellow who will get sentenced tomorrow for killing Mr. Herrero at Denny's. You seem to have his same disposition and personality. tsk tsk
Labels: City of mine, it doesn't hurt to ask, law, nonacquiesence
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