As most readers know by now, last Wednesday morning Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva, who has now been in office for almost exactly two months, held a “State of the Department” press conference, at which he told members of the LA media and everyone else who watched the event via the LASD Facebook page, that LA County’s jails are far, far more dangerous today than they were five years ago, before his predecessor Jim McDonnell arrived on the scene.
To strengthen his claim, the sheriff referred to a series of large, dramatic charts.
According to Villanueva, in 2013, force inside the jails was at a reasonable level, and the numbers for deputy force and inmate force were in close correlation. When inmates used force, deputies used force back. All was in balance.
But after 2013, said the sheriff, force began to rise, and kept rising stratospherically due to what he said were a series of ill-thought-out jail reforms.
He pointed to the fact that 2013 was the year when former sheriff Lee Baca hired Terri McDonald to take over the department’s custody division, and McDonnell, he said, put into place a grand “social experiment,” after which time “no one paid attention to the outcomes” that all this experimenting wrought.
As Villanueva explained it, the “social experiment,” along with additional policy changes he said were instituted in 2015 by then newly elected sheriff Jim McDonnell, caused violence to skyrocket, precipitating a 99 percent rise in force by deputies on inmates, between the years of 2013 and 2018, and a staggering 204 percent increase of violence by inmates on deputies during that same period—with inmate on inmate violence, also on the rise.
“Someone literally thought it was a good idea to tell the deputies to put their hands in their pockets,” said Villanueva. “And it backfired massively.”
Meanwhile, the department wasn’t “measuring what’s important,” said Villanueva, “which is the safety of the jails.”
Villanueva also told the audience that, under his predecessor’s administration, “staff weren’t allowed to defend themselves.” And if they did defend themselves, “it would be at the cost of their careers.”
He said that a certain kind of force by inmates against staff known as “gassing,” was not even being counted by the department at all anymore, a statement that the Office of the Inspector General and others disputed.
“Gassing” is the term used to describe an unpleasant form of assault used increasingly by some inmates (most particularly those who are mentally ill), which consists of throwing liquid and the like, often urine, on deputies or other jail staff.
The sheriff’s statements and his charts illustrating the rise in violence in the jails were unquestionably dramatic and provocative.
But did they accurately reflect the facts of the matter?
According to various sources WitnessLA spoke with, a number of the things Sheriff Villanueva said last Wednesday about violence in the county’s jail system were curiously off base.
Yet, to understand why those most familiar with jail violence reform in Los Angeles County were so baffled by the new sheriff’s statements, it helps to take a quick look back at some of the bad old days at the LA County jail system.
A brief historical review
In the fall of 2011, a difficult to ignore report from the ACLU, plus a string of investigative news stories (including those by WitnessLA), plus some other factors, like the December 2010 brawl between factions of deputies who worked at Men’s Central Jail, finally persuaded the powers that be in Los Angeles County, along with much of the public, to conceded that there might be a problematic “culture of violence” inside the nation’s largest jail system.
This admission resulted in the appointment of a blue ribbon Citizens Commissions on Jail Violence (CCJV), which—as its name suggested—was created to examine the issue of violence in LA County’s jails.
After months of hearings, in September 2012 the CCJV released a long and scathing report, which described a “persistent pattern of unnecessary and excessive use of force,” in the jails, particularly in Men’s Central Jail.
“Multiple witnesses,” the CCJV commissioners wrote, “both inmates and non-inmates, described numerous instances in which LASD personnel used force when no threat was present, used force disproportionate to the threat posed, used force after the threat had ended, or enabled inmates to assault other inmates.”
Furthermore, the commissioners wrote, most of the force used by deputies in the five years previous to their report was “Significant Force.”
In the year 2011 alone, 81% of all force incidents at Men’s Central Jail were categorized as “Significant Force,” which often meant broken bones or other injuries in the inmates on the receiving end.
Yet, despite the troubling force stats, the commission also made it clear that force incidents in custody were alarmingly under-reported by the department, that inmates were frequently threatened or put into isolation, to keep them from filing complaints, and that force incidents that were written up, were often stashed unread on shelves and in drawers until it was too late for an investigation.
At the end of their 194-page report, the CCJV made a series of recommendations, which included the strong suggestion that the county’s board of Supervisors create an “independent Inspector General’s Office” to provide “comprehensive oversight and monitoring of the department and its jails.”
But, although the members of the county’s board of supervisors were able to institute a few of the recommendations of the CCJV—including the appointment of Inspector General Max Huntsman, who began work on January 2, 2014–none of commissioners’ suggestions were compulsory.
At least that was the case until April 2015, when the settlement of a massive federal class action lawsuit, Rosas v. Baca, resulted in a list of legally mandated reforms and oversight having to do with force and violence inside the jails.
Then a few months later, in August 2015, the LASD and the County of Los Angeles were collectively shoved into a second settlement, this time with the Department of Justice, which alleged that LA County “deprived” inmates in its jails of “rights, privileges or immunities” protected “by the Constitution of the United States.”
The DOJ settlement mandated a significant list of additional reforms that the sheriff’s department had to institute.
To make sure the department complied, the DOJ folks also required the appointment of a monitor to help keep an eye on the required reform.
Attorney Richard Drooyan was named as the federal monitor, and his team has been doing the job ever since.
(Drooyan was the former head of the Los Angeles police commission, a former chief assistant U.S. attorney and—most relevantly—the general counsel for the CCJV.)
The mandated reforms, “were developed in close consultation with national experts,” said Assistant Inspector General Cathleen Beltz. They are also “evidence-based and based on national best practices in corrections. Tremendous progress has been made in the five years we have been monitoring the Department,” Beltz added.
Thus, with all of the above and more in mind, it was unsettling to hear the new sheriff describe the evolving jail reform as an arbitrarily instituted “social experiment” put into place by executives of previous administrations at the expense of deputies.
Even more mystifying was Villanueva’s contention that no one among those monitoring LA County jail reform was measuring what was “important” to him—aka “jail safety.”
Apples and artichokes
Peter Eliasberg, chief counsel of the ACLU of Southern California, was one of those who was startled by the sheriff’s press conference claims.
According to Eliasberg, there are a couple of reasons why the stats the sheriff put on display on Wednesday might be viewed, he said, as “grossly misleading or wrong .”
For one thing, said Eliasberg, Villanueva charted increases in jail force based statistics from a period of time when it was quite well established that “the sheriff’s department was doing a very bad job of reporting force, and tracking uses of force.”
Thus, comparing data from today, said Eliasberg, “when the sheriff’s department is doing a pretty good job of tracking force,” to 2013 stats, when the department was notoriously lax, “will not create a true picture.”
The sheriff, Eliasberg said, “isn’t comparing apples to apples” because, among other reasons, “as a matter of policy the department wasn’t tracking certain kinds of minor incidents of force back in 2013. But those minor kinds of force “are tracked now,” he said, thus pushing up force numbers.
For instance, said Eliasberg, there is a weirdly-named category of minor force now tracked called “wiggle force,” which can be something as harmless as grabbing an inmate’s arm if he or she trips.
Eliasberg also took issue with Villanueva’s statement that deputies aren’t allowed to defend themselves.
“If this is what the sheriff is saying it’s extraordinarily troubling,” he said. “I know the Rosas decree very well, and there’s not a single thing in there that suggests deputies can’t defend themselves. In fact it’s made very clear that they can.”
What deputies can’t do, and they used to do, he added, “is to take an inmate who is immobilized and on the ground, and just wail on him, then lie about it, and try to put a case on the inmate.”
There used to be a lot of those incidents, he said, “a lot—some of which provided the basis for members of the sheriff’s department going to federal prison,.
But, the idea that either consent decree—Rosas or that of the DOJ—prevents deputies from doing good policing in custody “is just ridiculous,” Eliasberg said.
Other experts on the topic of LA County jail reform were similarly perplexed by many of the sheriff’s statements—and by his numbers.
“The types of problematic, serious uses of force and physical abuse that characterized the jails in the past, have reduced significantly,” said Cathleen Beltz of the IG’s Office.
And while most conceded that there is definitely evidence of incorrect and inconsistent data gathering by the department when it comes to measuring all three types of force, (inmate on inmate, inmate on staff, and staff on inmate), this is hardly news, as the issue was documented in detail in the Inspector General’s 2017 report on the matter.
Founded allegations and otherwise
Although certainly Sheriff Villanueva talked about other less inflammatory topics at the press conference last Wednesday—such as the costly effect on staffing shortages and deputy morale of too many relieved-of-duty personnel, and the measurable public safety reasons behind his policy of not allowing sheriff’s deputies to become an extension of ICE—it was his discussion of violence in the jails, and a new set of statements about the controversial rehiring of Deputy Carl Mandoyan, that drew the most fire from critics.
Then it was time to talk about Mandoyan, the sheriff invited Steve Gross, Chief of the LASD’s South Patrol Division, to the podium.
Gross told the crowd that he and others reviewed all the facts of Mandoyan’s case, and “analyzed the civil service findings.”
An “ad hoc committee” then determined that some the findings in the case were “founded,” said Gross, and “we upheld those findings.” Whereas, some of the other findings the group “found to be ‘unresolved.”
Interestingly, Chief Gross did not say that the “ad-hoc” group determined any of the civil service findings against Mandoyan to be “unfounded.”
The group simply concluded, said Gross, that the “allegations” against Mandoyan, “did not rise to termination in our opinion.”
As WitnessLA reported last week, Deputy Mandoyan will not wave his rights to privacy in order that the board of supervisors can examine the files of his case.
Sheriff Villanueva blamed the members of the board of supervisors and what he called their “grandstanding,” for Deputy Mandoyan’s decision not to cooperate.
Yet, the controversy around Mandoyan shows no signs of abating.
On Saturday, Supervisor Sheila Kuehl’s weekly message to constituents included the observation that to let deputies such as Mandoyan back on the force “sends a horrific message to victims who have finally summoned the courage to file a report, as well as all the women serving in the department, women in the custody of the Sheriff in our jails, and the public as a whole…”
Post Script: shooting the messenger
In the days since the press conference, four separate sources have confirmed to WitnessLA that, in the last week, Sheriff Villanueva has caused two commanders in the custody division of the department to be relieved of duty at his request. At least one of the two commanders was reportedly ROD because he did not produce the kind of dramatic jail force data the new sheriff wanted for his recent press conference, much of which has been subsequently disputed
First, let’s not glance over or try to down play “gassing”, which is defined as “means intentionally placing or throwing, or causing to be placed or thrown, upon the person of another, any human excrement or other bodily fluids or bodily substances or any mixture containing human excrement or other bodily fluids or bodily substances that results in actual contact with the person’s skin or membranes.” This is one of the worst kinds of attacks against custody staff due to the infectious disease risk and indignity it brings.
There has been an increase in these types of attacks. In response, the Department went to re-writing force policies and using threats as a means to deter the staff from using force. These policies were zeously enforced by the last two regimes against the staff to reduce force at the expense of the staffs safety, well being and morale. The Department put in place such restrictive modifications to the force policy, and coupled with it’s over zealous interpretation by executives has left low level members unprotected and prone to punitive disciplinary action.
So, Sheriff AV is on the right track. It’s just that his view is a realistic one versus the narrative that DOJ, ACLU and anti-law enforcement types want you to believe. Why do you think recruitment is so difficult, especially in the jails?
C:
What “kind” of data was the sheriff looking for? Is there more than one “kind?” No one was ROD for not providing stats. We are debating two different kinds of issues re the jail use of force. One issue was Baca’s total indifference to the corruption of use of force by a number of violent and misled deputies. This had to be addressed as all those in charge, when Baca was in office, refused to enforce department policies. Please note that had it not been from A/S Bob Olmsted none of these abuses would have come to light. Second, has use of force risen against deputies? Since HOJJ was built in 1926 the Grand Jury would routinely condemn the jails. Why aren’t they fixed, we’ve had plenty of time. There are 1, 500 vacancies and would it help to fill these spots?
The first issue has been corrected as the old regimes have been put in jail, retired or voted out. Second issue, there’s a disconnect between the consent decree and the true polices that are in place. Perception V. Reality is the problem. We are debating two basic truths. Sheriff AV is correct that the use of force against deputies has gone up and this obviously made it dangerous for everyone. And second, the consent decree has not caused the rise in force. GET THIS IN YOUR HEADS!
True that the consent decree does not imply that deputies cannot defend themselves; so why do deputies feel that they cannot defend themselves or lose their jobs? This would be a great opportunity for those who set policy that what is set, in policy, is being carried out. We all want a safe jail environment but, once again, there’s a disconnect. Note: Mr. Eliasberg needs to put on a uniform and work inmate reception or with the mentally criminal violent and have fecal and urine thrown on him. It’s an experience that you don’t forget! Celeste, you failed to describe “gassing” in its true form. Does having urine and fecal thrown on you affect the deputies emotionally? Just part of the job? No, it’s not! It’s a hazard of the job and policies must be put in place to protect everyone. BTW: Who cleans up the crap? Who lives with this crap(literally) day in and night out? Why isn’t this counted in stats? Sounds like the commission is trying to fix the stats, doesn’t it?
Good that wta has accurately reported that Mandoyan will not forego his rights. We can guess as to the reason but have you spoken to him? This ad-hoc committee should help with making a decision. Once again giving people back their jobs is not new. Block gave a guy back his job that was DUI in a patrol car and Baca promoted him to Lieutenant. I could go on and on. We need to enforce consistent application of policy.
It will take six months to a year to determine how force is being used. If Sheriff AV is correct we will give a sigh of relief. If not we can always go back to the past administration’s misrepresentation of stats.
Here’s a suggestion for truth & transparency, let the suits and reporters work the jail for a few months while deputies watch and report.
Anyone else notice that Steve Gross was promoted from Commander to Chief around the time he brought Villanueva-campaign-supporter-and-driver Mandoyan back with over two years’ back pay?
Thank you Carl. Hope you’re having a blessed day as righteously persecuted Deps are still at home and you, the stalker, are on your way back. Maybe we should look into your donation gathering Carl.
Come on, bro, the hate is not going to help, let’s stick to the facts…
Who would you promote or bring back to help you if you were the sheriff? Your enemies, your critics, the deputy who would not show up to back you up when requesting back up? The guy who would routinely front you off challenging your plan of action? So, who would you promote?
When I read “UM’s” comments it is truly scary. This is Alex’s writer and this is how Alex thinks. What you see is union thug mentality and a complete lack of care for the citizens of Los Angeles including our inmates who are in our custody and care. No matter their crimes, they are not our adversaries. This is the same mentality of a former Undersheriff now in federal custody. I’m sure some deputies read your comments and look forward to policing with no oversight. We have all heard your new direction that the handcuffs are now off. But most deputies and the public see this as a serious problem and we fear what is to come next. Your attempt at trying to redirect the focus of the article shows your juvenile understanding of the real issues. This is a crisis and burying your head in the sand with political babble is not going to stop the inevitable. This administration is in big trouble if they don’t get some common sense real soon. Very well written article Celeste.
It is very interesting to see how all the people who were against Alex Villanueva for sheriff are still fighting him, along with the political class, aided by the corrupt, dishonest pseudo journalist, the type of LA Times. No wonder the LA Times has been losing ground and soon will be a distant memory.
Alex Villanueva was elected by the people, and he is widely supported by his deputes, who are now doing what it takes to support him. I routinely hear lots of deputies saying they are excited about the sheriff’s vision and want to support him by policing themselves to prevent another Jim McDonnell, Terry McDonald, or Diana Teran from ever coming to destroy their lives.
I really doubt you are a deputy working on the sheriff’s department, if you were you would understand, yet, you may be one of those who were riding the train and drinking McBuckles cool-aid. So now the bus crashed against Alex Villanueva fortress you are angry, that I can understand.
Who are the 2 Commanders?
The crooked media and pseudo journalist fail to mention gassing is a serious offense, an assault punishable by incarceration:
California Code, Penal Code – PEN § 243.9
(a) Every person confined in any local detention facility who commits a battery by gassing upon the person of any peace officer, as defined in Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 830 ) of Title 3 of Part 2, or employee of the local detention facility is guilty of aggravated battery and shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail or by imprisonment in the state prison for two, three, or four years.
(b) For purposes of this section, “gassing” means intentionally placing or throwing, or causing to be placed or thrown, upon the person of another, any human excrement or other bodily fluids or bodily substances or any mixture containing human excrement or other bodily fluids or bodily substances that results in actual contact with the person’s skin or membranes.
(c) The person in charge of the local detention facility shall use every available means to immediately investigate all reported or suspected violations of subdivision (a), including, but not limited to, the use of forensically acceptable means of preserving and testing the suspected gassing substance to confirm the presence of human excrement or other bodily fluids or bodily substances. If there is probable cause to believe that the inmate has violated subdivision (a), the chief medical officer of the local detention facility, or his or her designee, may, when he or she deems it medically necessary to protect the health of an officer or employee who may have been subject to a violation of this section, order the inmate to receive an examination or test for hepatitis or tuberculosis or both hepatitis and tuberculosis on either a voluntary or involuntary basis immediately after the event, and periodically thereafter as determined to be necessary by the medical officer in order to ensure that further hepatitis or tuberculosis transmission does not occur. These decisions shall be consistent with an occupational exposure as defined by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The results of any examination or test shall be provided to the officer or employee who has been subject to a reported or suspected violation of this section. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to otherwise supersede the operation of Title 8 (commencing with Section 7500 ). Any person performing tests, transmitting test results, or disclosing information pursuant to this section shall be immune from civil liability for any action taken in accordance with this section.
(d) The person in charge of the local detention facility shall refer all reports for which there is probable cause to believe that the inmate has violated subdivision (a) to the local district attorney for prosecution.
(e) Nothing in this section shall preclude prosecution under both this section and any other provision of law.
That’s Alex writing that
I know who you are 924, you cross the line with your personal attacks, stick to the facts that you know, than you can prove should you ever be called upon..
I believe one is Elihu Morejon
Celeste, please manage this blog and delete comments such @Bill Doug’s personal attacks as its obvious he’s got a personal issue with the individual. It’s not related to the article, work related or even constructive. His/her comments are strictly attacking and disperaging in nature and uncalled for.
These comments take away from the purpose of this blog.
Celeste doesn’t do the whole “unbiased reporting” thing very well, I guess in all fairness not too many do anymore, it seems to have gone out of fashion. At least you can see where she’s coming from a mile away, and it’s pretty obvious she doesn’t like the new Sheriff very much. Celeste is in tune with an old-timey kind of classic liberal ideology that she shares with the current Los Angeles establishment. This is a good indicator that the Sheriff can expect a lot of hostility from the likes of the BOS and LA media going forward.
I find myself rooting fore the new Sheriff as he kicks a few political insider snouts out of the public trough. Constitutional policing “experts”, compliance attorneys, and the like, it’s fun to watch them squeal when they get booted from their phoney-baloney jobs. Unfortunately they do tend to be well connected politically and will no doubt make as much trouble as possible for our new Sheriff.
The hypocrisy, the cherry picking when it suits this political hacks: “For instance, said Eliasberg, there is a weirdly-named category of minor force now tracked called “wiggle force,” which can be something as harmless as grabbing an inmate’s arm if he or she trips.”
This is an example of the disconnect this so-called justice warriors suffer from. Alex Villanueva has criticized this type of use force, which has had the negative effect of scaring deputies from touching an inmate as it will be considered use force, forcing deputies to put their hands in their pockets. A deputy with too many “wiggles” uses of force would be a detriment to himself and to the sheriff’s department, and when suitable, it would be used against a deputy, as being overly assaultive and aggressive.
Now this ACLU hack thinks that “wiggle” force should be discounted. Why don’t you make up your mind Mr. Elias Berg……?
Tattle much?
Right on Maj Kong…
Sheriff Villanueva is doing a great job! The local Media is saying he is reverting back to old ways, this completely false! Perhaps we should have News reporters work these jails for a day and see how the Mcdonnell restrictive policies hinder Deputies and custody assistants! I hope you reporters can come feel how disruptive inmates make our work alot harder and how dangerous it is to walk these tiers now! COME WORK THE JAILS!! SEE FOR YOURSELF
@Bill Dough
I’d respect you more if I thought you were man/women enough to tell the individual to their face as apose to writing demeaning comments about them behind several different screen names.
I would venture to guess and most likely be accurate to assume that you wouldn’t have the gumption or courage to do either. Therefor, your slanderous, demeaning and disrespectful childish comments are not warranted anywhere.
Remember, Karma is not a fun experience. Please have some consideration before demeaning anyone. I would defend you the same if the roles were reversed.
Hmm,
McDonnell = Anti Rank and File
Villanueva = Pro Rank and File
“Journalists “ praise McDonnell and vilifiy Villanueva. journalists do not exist anymore, it’s turned into who can create the most drama. It’s a shame that having someone support and actually believe his employees has turned into front page stories.
You were almost interesting!
Um—
You nailed it. The issue as it relates to the use of force in the jail concerns the proper use and analysis of data. AV gets what McDonnell, the BOS, the LA Times, and others fail to grasp. The attached link leads to a law enforcement article that expands on your points about data. Ironically, it was written by an LASD member and published during the McDonnell administration.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0032258X16678422?journalCode=pjxa
It would be nice to hear from the public citizens in addition to what the Board of Supervisors had to say.
Funny how the internal brouhaha in LASD reigns supreme on this blog with many of you who want to crucify the messengers, especially the local one’s, i..e L.A. Times and WLA.
The same whiners here condemned the messengers when Pandora’s Box was exposed instead of saying “thank you very much”.
This too, shall pass.
All Patrol, custody and court deputies on the front lines all support Sheriff Villanueva. The locker room talk is insane. So much positive feedback. Deputies are actually happy coming to work. The people putting AV down on this thread are either to high up in the chain of command that they are just bitter that he’s changing things. He’s going against them and the media. People who don’t actually know what we go through day in and day out on the line will never understand. People become out of touch and forget what it’s like to work and make split second decisions that can affect your entire career. Civilians writing policy and putting in their two cents about force. SMH. Let a K-10- Level 9, Level 8 inmate (repeat violent offenders) assault you and see what you would do. Walk a day in our shoes. We have families too and would like to go home to them at the end of shift. Thank you again AV for helping the custody line guys. AV has been Sheriff for 2 months and they want him to make a miracle. Give it time guys. The truth and all the evidence against the bad apples will come to light. Believe that! Continue to operate on FACTS Sir, not allegations and assumptions.
How presumptuous to think he (Mr. Eliasberg) should be endowed with the authority to decide what is and what is not force. Who died and appointed him the all knowing use of force expert and “decider in chief”.
Oh..if this “wiggle force” is in fact dismissed, I can see the lawsuits flowing against the Sheriff’s Department. Who can prove or disprove the inmate, aka client, did not in fact suffer at the hands of big bad deputies causing him to be emotionally and physically scarred for life? We all know, if it was not documented the law and county will err on the side of the inmate and issue a big fact tax-payer funded payout. Mr. Eliasberg and Mrs. Lim who are ACLU attorney’s must surely know all of their fact finding, exposure and finger pointing has led us to this point.
Ownership, the two commanders are Elier Morejon and Dan Dyer.
I agree, this is terrible. The Rams didn’t score one touchdown. Can’t believe it
“All patrol, custody and court deputies on the frontline all support Sheriff Villanueva”.
Wow! With all due respect to Alex, you covered every deputy on the department to approve the Sheriff, which is a first. You stated what ALADS could never do with a 100% deputy participation culminating in with ALL deputies humming “Oh Do Da Day”.
You Sir, get the trophy for due diligence in researching the opinion of EVERY frontline deputy in LASD. Amazing!
Clowns.
From the top all the way down to the bottom. Get hired by the LASD and get a job under the circus tent. How far such a proud organization has fallen.
All these super smart execs pandering to the next person who can further their career instead of just doing their job regardless of who has the fifth star. Embarrassing.
I would say Yes! But not the time you’re referring to. Take it back farther to the Block Days. A day when Deputy’s we’re protected by the liberal wolves, but also received consequences when they were wrong. You notice a lot of the stats talked about were post Block.
Si Senor,
Correctamundo!
Watched the video of the news conference. As a former Academy D.I., I could not get my eyes off the Sheriff’s collar. WTF happened to Spiffy Spring Collar Stays? His collar points looked like they would start flapping in the wind.
Not in my platoon Buster!
Found out they don’t make Spiffy’s any more (showing my age), but http://www.reliable-world-trade.com/product/uecs2201s-collar-stay-spring-type/
It’s funny, the times once a very well respected news paper has fallen to its lowest, they only report a 1/4 of the truth, for some of us who saw the video not only once but three times to pick apart all statements given by sheriff Villanueva, all I can say is that MCD command has been the worst ever, and what’s funny the times backed MCD so they will never report anything positive the sheriff has done, the LA times should not take sides, but they have no shame, they have been become an embarrassment.
I agree that circus show ended in dec. 2018. There is a new sheriff who is for the department and the people, great point
For a brief moment let’s get back to the article, “Perplexing Views.” And as independent journalists and writers go, most will concede that Ms. Fremon has a superb journalistic record. Which makes the “Perplexing Views” article a disappointment from a technical and substantive perspective.
For example, one plain way to detect tilt in writing is to look out for over-the-top verbs, adverbs, and adjectives in sentences. Ms. Fremon’s article detonated a number of them in characterizing Sheriff Villanueva’s approach to data in custody facilities, including: “dramatic… stratospherically…grand…skyrocket…staggering…off base…inflammatory…mystifying.” These were her terms, not the sheriff’s. Of course we all do this, but not all of us are journalists. I’m uncertain where in the mind the tilt originates, but it occurs in the Times’ reporting on the new sheriff as well. There is some kind of visceral, emotional reaction people are working up in themselves. It’s odd. Anyway, the effect of this writing is subtle on the eye but its cumulative effect is often to mischaracterize a person’s argument or perspective as extreme, outrageous, even shocking. It doesn’t treat the subject of journalistic reporting fairly and charitably. In some cases, it represents bad faith and carries water for other non-neutral interests.
Second, there are substantive issues around the “Perplexing Views” article. Ms. Fremon writes in relevant part,
“According to various sources we spoke with, a number of the things Sheriff Villanueva said last Wednesday about violence in the county’s jail system were curiously off base. Yet, to understand why those most familiar with jail violence reform in Los Angeles County were so baffled by the new sheriff’s statements, it helps to take a quick look back at some of the bad old days at the LA County jail system.”
First, the few sources she did cite obviously have a direct interest in continuing the data model they created, and appear to assume with utter ontological certainty that their position is not merely the politically and legally correct solution, it is morally superior to any competing position the new sheriff could be proposing. (That the sheriff might have some good ideas is absurd, regressive, and a non-starter.) Remember, the few sources cited from the article are among the citadels of professional rectitude in Los Angeles and, as Ms. Fremon concedes without challenge, no one is more familiar with these jail reform issues than her sources: Cathleen (“evidence-based”) Beltz, Peter (“wiggle force”) Eliasberg.
May I suggest that a problem here is having the discipline or energy to conduct a proper research investigation, like working a forensic case. This involves not taking very much for granted and going out to think through the flaws of the positions of the arguments being provided, not swallowing hook, line, and sinker the entirety of the data-driven philosophy (in fact, there has been a raging debate in this area). There was virtually no skepticism within the “Perplexing Views” article that one might expect from a seasoned, independent, gumshoe journalist of Celeste Fremon’s stature. No interviewing of LE agencies successfully employing Sheriff Villanueva’s constitutional policing equilibrium theory in custody situations. No interviewing the sheriff. No interviewing skeptical philosophers of social science or economists explaining how what the LASD is doing under Ms. Beltz and Mr. Eliasberg are creating a host of non-trivial alternative costs in productive activities, not least is health and safety. What is more astounding is that no deputies or citizen inmates were interviewed for first-person accounts of the (ahem) success of Ms. Beltz’ and Mr. Eliasberg’s data policy. Indeed, the notion of alternative costs imposed on law enforcement personnel and the public in tracking Mr. Eliasberg’s “wiggle force,” and other phenomena, was not even referenced probably because the assumption is that there are zero costs to Ms. Beltz’ and Mr. Eliasberg’s scheme, or they are trivial. They would not be alone in this view. But they are wrong in their assumption as several posts have already alluded. And any good economist would point that out. (btw, I am using the term ‘cost’ here in a technical sense that I won’t define here.)
A more thorough review and analysis could be provided of the article but piling on is not my gig. This is a friendly post. From my years of reading and analyzing her work, Ms. Fremon is a fine journalist. I think however in this case she allowed her independence and intellect to be influenced (maybe even captured) by establishment interests. Due diligence and journalistic fairness were not provided to Dr. Villanueva. But he is a big boy, and I suspect he and his team will just keep on advancing the reform agenda. As the people of Los Angeles elected him to do.
They were also told to retire ASAP so as not to be disciplined and damage their reputation. And I’m sure AV doesn’t want them fighting any discipline at Civil Service either.
It’s about time the sheriff R.O.D.s those 2 P.T. BOYS Commanders. They have always been in the middle of P.T.s request. They were promoted way above their abilities if it were not for their dirty deeds.
Karma is a bitch.
Editor’s Note:
Dear Bill Dough,
I’m so over this. Find a new topic, or I’m no longer going to delete your comments, I’m blocking you.
Your choice.
C.
I was at personnel (Block Bldg) today as an old retired man and saw a young man reclaim his Badge/Identity again as a full status deputy, my thought was good for you partner! AV is helping Morale, I have heard more deputies are coming back. This is a truth.
Amén Charlie unit, right on…
Nice, does anyone know how AV is picking these cases.
Good for him and we wish him well and God speed.
Ok Charles, your dialogue tells us that your major and minor for college education was in English and Political Science, hooray.
Your format is awfully similar to someone else who contributed to this blog not so long ago presumably under another screen name, no biggie.
Just my humble suggestion by throwing this out there, which is by apppealing to Sheriff Villanueva, maybe he could use you as his Press Secretary and if you’re not connected, the Los Angeles Unified School District could use your assistance or perhaps Sandra Huckabee, Good luck.
@Charlie Unit, while I agree with your observation that Witness LA & Celeste have a slant, it’s hardly a revelation. I found your post wholly pendantic, I was exhausted after reading it, a primer for the next high school debate contest. Sheriff Villanueva could have offered a jail violence critique far short of his standard vilification of those from the past. Unfortunately he does this while ignoring substantial historical facts which make him look very awkward at the very least. Celeste’s written observations are neither overtly inflammatory or unfair, simply statements of history & context.
Agreed.
Agreed to @ The Past
Sounds like SMH’s comments could have been written by MCD. Now dont be ridiculous. The former sheriff made a true mess of things. Unfortunately, it now falls to the Sheriff to straighten it all out- all while protecting and caring for all. No longer will political correctness and virtue signaling take priority over the rule of law.
MCD was a fraud. His penchant for dishonesty and outright corruption completely undermines any legitimacy of the CCJV. First he identified a problem that didnt really exist, and then he sold the voters on the notion that he was the right man to fix the “problem”. Never mind that he committed serious violations of the law (many even criminal) solely for the purpose of fluffing his own ego and pretending to be a reformer in any true sense of the word.
Now Sheriff Villanueva has pulled back the curtain and revealed the truly dismal state of the department.
And I support Our SHERIFF!
Past, at least I got him/her to break it up in to a few paragraphs this time!
I call BS on your claims. Celeste’s article unfortunately lacked any effort to elicit a response or opinion from someone who supports the sheriff’s efforts. Predictably, those she interviewed have an enormous self interest in propping up the failed status quo and alternative “facts” peddled by the failed M & M crew (McDonald and McDonnell). Villanueva correctly diagnosed and identified the elephant in the room, and those who spent years pretending it didn’t exist are now aghast – no surprise here.
Since the history issue is raised, let me speak to it. Recently re-read the documents referred to in the article (Rosas, 85pp; CCJV 22pp; and IG 13pp). These are of course appropriate docs for the article, and two of them in particular document some of the troubling history during a period of time when the LASD was misled—had bad and corrupt leadership. The public needs only to review the heroic testimony of then commander Bob Olmsted to understand what was at stake in that era (e.g., see Rosas, pp. 59-63).
However, history has a Janus-like aspect. One aspect is what was presented in the article and in the testimony of Ms. Beltz and Mr. Eliasberg. They, and presumably Ms. Fremon, are offering us Santayana’s warning about history: those who cannot (or choose not to) remember the past are condemned to repeat it. It is a fair warning. But there is another aspect of history that some (Beltz, Eliasberg, the Times, and others) are failing to pay attention to: What people remember about the past can radically inhibit or warp their judgment about the present or future, cloud the imagination, prevent the ability to see new variables at work, paralyze them in non-productive ways (see the work of Tversky and Kahneman). In general terms, there is a model of production in the jails that may not fit the current circumstances or those in the near future. Yet when the sheriff makes this claim, when he wants more information, not less information around productive activities, in order to restore a plausible equilibrium, he is basically accused of operating outside of the normal curve of rationality. This is an error in thinking on the part of some of his present adversaries. I see nowhere where he is advocating for less accountability, the chief goal of Rosas. Were he or anyone else to somehow turn into a Baca, Tanaka, etc., then I would be arguing the other way.
Beltz, Eliasberg, and many others are to be commended for their original work. It was good and necessary work. But there comes a time, years later, when corrupt leaders have gone and serving time, and after an election such as this last one where the people of Los Angeles get a say. And resistance without concessions to new realities, new leaders, and the rising costs to deputies, staff, and the public born in the over-correction, at that point begins to look like rent-seeking behavior. Fed Up makes this observation below.
I had hoped for a better start for Sheriff Villanueva, so I am disappointed. The joy of having a home-grown running the organization after the complete internal failings of McDonnell was very uplifting. But in my opinion his missteps have been quite concerning. First, he promotes clearly unqualified people to executive positions. This is compounded by the fact that these people are his cronies. This is despite the fact that one of his main platforms was being against “cronyism.” I also thought it was unwise to dismiss 18 executives saying he was ridding the organization of the “corruption” that had previously existed. Sorry folks, I don’t believe all those folks were “corrupt” – he wanted to make a big splash and make room for all his pals. BUT what he did was loose a lot of institutional knowledge in the process. I think an incremental approach would have been wiser. Dump the real offenders (if you want to say you were ridding the corruption say it then) and then piecemeal out the individuals who he did not want as part of his “team” in favor of those who he did want. In the meantime he could have used the knowledge of the leftovers and incrementally promoted his “preferred” (I use the term in lieu of pals – although certainly not all of his promotees have fallen in to that category) and groomed them for further promotion.
But Sheriff Villanueva seems like the proverbial bull in a china shop – not unlike our president. He just charges in, apparently unaware or uncaring of the consequences of his actions. His initial actions with these promotions set the tone – full speed ahead, damn the torpedoes.
He followed the promotions up with the “meeting” with the lieutenants and above. That was certainly an attention getter for the organization but probably a good introduction to the notion that “There’s a new Sheriff in town.” Good or bad, and he lost a lot of folks that day who felt insulted (perhaps they needed a slap in the face), the bull was on the loose and if you were an unwanted piece of china you were going to get broken. The question still hangs though – did he follow-up with what he preached or is it business as usual????????
Then we have Mandoyan affair. The bull just knocked over a very fine piece of china. Good God, what was he thinking? He was thinking, like Lee Baca, “I’m the Sheriff, I can do anything I want.” and he did. He thought it was no big deal, no one will even know anyway. Well, people DO pay attention and someone blew the whistle. It IS a big deal! And just on the heels of the #MeToo movement! SMDH!
And then the Sheriff doubles down by going to the BOS and confronting them over the issue. Can’t he just leave well enough alone? Instead of helping his case in the issue, he blew it up bigger than it was before. And he later calls THEM grandstanding! The bull is on the run.
In looking at the video of his news conference, Sheriff Villanueva admits that in the FIRST WEEK of his administration he ordered that the wheels start rolling to bring Mandoyan back. Then in the next breath he says this was no sort of pay-back for him being a volunteer/driver/butt boy in his campaign. Oh wait, I’m confused because he said there is many more who have been fired, some much more egregiously. Maybe they should have had all their relatives contribute to his campaign.
I felt for Chief Gross, a dear in the headlights. He couldn’t wait to get away from that podium. How about a few questions from the reporters. Like: What part of the investigation did you find founded? Stalking ?(with the video of Mandoyan trying to climb in her window – maybe he was trying to fix her screen), Domestic violence? (with the photos of bruising). How about: At what point did your “committee” conduct your review? Before or after he was rehired? Before or after you and all the members were promoted? No wonder he exited stage right asap.
And now we have two Commanders ROD. Interesting from a number of perspectives. First I doubt as the article suggests that they were relieved because they did not come up with the stats the Sheriff wanted. More likely they had stats that they did not share or disregarded. In the news conference A/S Olmsted said he found some stats the day of the news conference that were somewhat contradictory to those cited. That may be at the root of the issue. However, it is odd that the Sheriff had just said that folks in the previous administration were too quick to pull the ROD trigger, and then he pulls it on two Commanders? Why relieve them if they screwed up, intentionally or otherwise? What does that accomplish? I don’t know them or their background, but this seems over the top. Perhaps trying to make a statement, but this is rather childish if that is the case. We should ROD for good cause, not political reasons. Reassign them to night duty as a roving eyes and ears like Harper used to do – something where the taxpayers get their money’s worth.
Finally, these threads have been dominated by folks backing Sheriff Villanueva’s actions, apparently blindly. I can’t do that even though I do want him to succeed. Like I hope for the President, I hope the Sheriff can change his ways and can/will succeed. Like both of them, they have many great ideas. Sheriff Villanueva is pro getting the job done. He is obviously pro Deputy, which is good – as long as both he and Deputies realize there are limits. And he understands the Department. All good. I just believe he needs to think twice about some of his decisions and listen not so much to his inner circle of helpers – most of who are yes men, but to those in his administration who are NOT his yes men. They are the one’s who will be giving him the most honest input.
Block him Celeste! He’ll pop up with another screen name. I commented about him on an earlier post which is up.
I’m loving how WitnessLA, ACLU and all of these other ‘guardians’ and ‘watch groups’ have been suckered, lied to and sold a bill of goods for a long time by the previous Sheriff(s). Now, when the new Sheriff gives them new information, he’s the bad guy. Nobody likes to be the dumbass, and it is quite clear that Witness LA, et.al., are not willing to admit that they are the doofs. “Not My Sheriff”, Trumpism and RESIST clearly exist and are alive – even in a Sheriff’s election. There are just some people who would rather see the world burn, the new Sheriff fail, and the people of LA County be short-changed than admit they’ve been taken for a ride and let the new Sheriff do the job he was elected to.
Thanks for the info.. the best part on these stupid articles was missing…
It was rigged..lol
Yes, especially South! Didn’t an inmate escape a couple days ago. Yes! blame the stupid person who thought having an open facility is a good idea for murderes. Oh wait let’s also give them school to pass dope!
NoMoreBrassBuckles. Just to be clear. I voted for Alex and encouraged many others to do the same. I agree, McDonnel made many mistakes, including too many ROD’s and unnecessary terminations. But most of all he wasn’t one of us.
I only express my opinions in the hope that Alex will eventually realize his mistakes and start to realize his responsibilities are multifaceted, not just with the deputies. Dont get me wrong, I love the deputies and admire their hard work in the worst conditions I can remember, which is quite a long time for this old man.
My point is Alex is heading down a path that will end poorly. Many of us are watching this incoming train wreck praying he will change course. Unfortunately, he appears to be surrounded by yes men that are telling him he is doing a great job and the press is wrong. I’m sorry to tell you, the press has been right on this one and the earlier you accept it the better chance Alex has of surviving two months of back to back missteps.
I have to add, which I’ve said before, shame on the executives not telling Alex the truth. We have seen this for several administrations now and I personally was hoping for better. SMH
Just to make it perfectly clear, I do know that there is a difference between a deer in the headlights and a dear in the headlights. I meant the former. I needed Sgt Bilko to go over my work, as he does for Charlie Unit.
Okay, coolaid drinkers, have at it.
The Tanaka boot lickers Alex has surrounded himself with will no more speak up to Alex than they ever would to Paul. These clowns have their own agenda and they are carrying it out right under Alex’s nose with manipulation, backslapping and a their “keep doing what you are doing boss, the troops love it,” encouragement. The sooner Alex wakes up and smells the coffee and dumps these charlatans, the sooner he will start “acting” like a Sheriff. So far with their “yes men” mentality, they have shoved him right into a meat grinder.
Who are the Tanaka bootlickers you’re referring to? Just curious.
Not Again – You are spot on. That is exactly what is happening. Again.
Don’t worry Mr. Not Again, Alex is a man of his own, he has never surrounded himself with the in crowd. He does not need validation or encouragement from anyone to do what he knows is right. Just remember how he was rediculed and attacked just a few short months ago right here on this blog. He knows very well who is fake and now licking his boots to get something in return. Just give him so time to get all the pieces together.
Alex will not change the world, because there are many people who just cannot be helped nor changed, but he will make a positive difference.
@ Just Say’n,
Your post in plain speak hit the nail on the head, unlike the eloquence of blah blah blah by Charlie Unit who parades as a blog primadonna, geez.
I agree with your assessment which includes the fact that you are in favor of Alex but against his methodology with questionable reasoning.
I’m also pro Alex, however the bun boys and yes men do or say whatever it takes to remain in the camp to oblige whomever the Sheriff is.
Interesting….
Speak for yourself.
He doesn’t have all of our support.
Like you know!!!
A close inspection of who our new sheriff has promoted and who he has turned down reveals a far more deliberate process then all the Lindsey cronies hating away on this thread care to admit. All those details reveals you to be an angry insider who doesn’t care about POBAR and are bent on making the sheriff look bad for your own personal gain, shame on you.
The simple fact that if we eliminate all the Tanaka clones, the Baca boys, and McDonnell’s sellout groupies, there would be no one left to run the department. Of course the lieutenants and above who resent being called to the carpet for a career spent kissing ass instead of serving the community will be unhappy. Villanueva said he was breaking up the empire building and the “batting order,” and it looks like he meant it.
Just Sayin’ every single ranking member of the department under McDonnell by definition is a yes man. They deliberately looked the other way while the LASD was destroyed, so exactly what value do they have for Villanueva? Any idea?
Those two should be demoted. They were promoted way above their abilities by the Tanaka Clan.
I laugh when I think of non LASD people who read the comments and opinions of the Sheriff Department. If nothing else, it’s pure entertainment and drama in one neverending episode.
Laterals and Law Enforcement applicants beware.
ANOTHER unforced error by AV. Sometimes being a politician and choosing your words carefully IS the best course of action. Accusing the DOJ of “cooking the books” in a press conference….NOT the best course of action:
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/investigations/Federal-Monitor-Wants-Proof-of-Jail-Violence-From-LA-County-Sheriff-505386031.html
One of three things is happening in this administration.
He’s NOT ASKING his advisors how his new clothes look.
His advisors are telling him he’s NAKED and he’s not listening.
His advisors are telling him his new clothes look GREAT.
Regarding your reference, unless an onslaught is inevitable, one must pick and choose their battles.
Time to fact-check a hater, LASD Apostle. I read through your link, I listened to the conference, and I can’t seem to find the part where the sheriff was “accusing the DOJ of cooking the books” in a press conference. He correctly stated that his predecessor concealed the information from the public. You are right, what you claim would not be the best course of action, but your problem is it didn’t happen.
One of three things is happening to LASD Apostle.
He can’t fathom how Villanueva won the election.
He received an email indicating his services were no longer needed.
He can’t fathom how his meal ticket lost the election.
Just: Coolaid is with a K. Kool-aid
Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Our custody A/S is going to have to come up with these new numbers. Does he cook the books to make Alex happy? Or does he tell the truth and get ROD like his Commanders who told the truth.
This is called Karma, he should have stuck up for the correct stats and his Commanders to begin with. Maybe he can get whistleblower protection…
Fed Up, he definitely said that….but now you have me questioning if it was the press conference or when he was before the board. Of course…it doesnt matter. When I get time, I’ll find it for you.
I love your comments about me (wrong though they are)!
I know why he won….Latino last name, lackluster McDonnell campaign, running as a Democrat, ICE promises and ignorant voters.
Still gainfully and happily employed. Unlike a lot of deps, I’ve loved every job I’ve ever had on this Department.
MEAL TICKET? My rank and work assignment prove I’ve NEVER had a meal ticket!
Fed Up – maybe I’m missing something but it appears to me that everyone who brings something to light concerning AV is automatically from the McDonnell administration.
My question to you is, can one point out discrepancies without hating said subject?
No Sheriff in LASD has been without fault or questionable acts, however you and several others look at AV as the LASD golden child whom we all know is not.
Alex is not everyone’s choice but the same was said about Baca when he was elected and look what happened.
Addressing moves in the wrong direction by someone does not make them the enemy and for anyone who feels infallible I remind you of this:
Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Read between the lines and totally grasp it relates to the post above mine by “Honored”.
Your response should be directed to him.
Apostle. Good for you. I loved every day of my career too and I am glad to see deputies loving the lords work. Just FYI, Alex has directed several people to blog for him. They probably dont even believe in what they write. It is their job to try and spin things as much as they can. Although we can all see through his failed attempts. He trys to discredit any sources that point out the obvious. And he claims he wants TRANSPARENCY! LMAO
The federal monitor’s request for clarification on the information presented by the Sheriff on jail violence is a reminder that statistical data is always subject to interpretation and manipulation. Poor reporting and data collection methods by Custody Division were well documented by the OIG in its 2017 report. The report was extremely critical of the Department and the variations in reporting jail violence information to different stakeholders. However, the blame was primarily directed at the Department’s IT structure used to collect and analyze that data and the variety of units/datasets contributing to the process.
In direct contradiction of the Sheriff’s statements of intentional misreporting by the prior administration, the OIG report stated, “The Department maintains that it has not intentionally misled stakeholders in releasing inaccurate data, and the OIG review did not reveal information to suggest otherwise.” As reported by NBC news, federal monitor Richard Drooyan agrees; “I do not believe that anyone in the Department has intentionally misled us,” wrote Richard E. Drooyan…
Mr. Drooyan also stated in a recent interview with LAIST that he believes data collected prior to the past two years is questionable and suggested its use may be problematic.
With the heads of the County and Federal oversight entities questioning his statements, it is now on the Sheriff and his staff to demonstrate with facts that the prior administration did intentionally mislead the stakeholders and that the alternative data that he presented was accurate and verifiable. In any event, the data collection methods and the accompanying analysis must be rectified immediately. There are important decisions that are being made about the current and prior administrations of the LASD and the future of the organization.
Mr. Huntsman and Mr. Drooyan’s resumes speak for themselves.
https://oig.lacounty.gov/
ttps://ccjv.lacounty.gov/richard-e-drooyan/
I think the Sheriff is doing a fine job
“As reported by NBC news, federal monitor Richard Drooyan agrees; “I do not believe that anyone in the Department has intentionally misled us,” wrote Richard E. Drooyan…”
It is obvious there are some people that it does not matter what the truth is they will pretend it does not exist. Many personnel on the department were the victims of malicious prosecutions, firings and heavy-handed discipline under McBuckles, by misleading, twisting facts, concealing evidence etc. to create stats to show a false reform.
So, whoever says McBuckles staff did not create false jail stats to pretend reform and change in the jails, must be in McBuckles’ camp. We all know firsthand or have learned from someone we know that McBuckles did all that, so pretending McBuckles was honest it is like saying the sun is pink.
Mr. TRUTH, to say Alex is telling me to blog it is a ludicrous preposition, but I would encourage anyone on the department, specially the line deputies to stand up and speak up for the sheriff. The sheriff is placing himself on the line to speak truth, while the entire establishment is trying to cover up the truth.
The McBuckles regime, the BOS, the OIG, the Civilian Oversight Panel, the media, all covered for McBuckles, and my friends, it is what scary.
Recently a member of the general public, who was the victim of a crime by a well politically connected citizen, explained how the sheriff department covered up the crime for “the politically connected” citizen. The entire justice system worked against the affected citizen, including BARGER, DA’s office, and Mr. OIG Huntsman. That is how the justice system works. I advised the affected citizen to contact Sheriff Villanueva, he may give it a new fresh look at her situation.
One should not remain in the kitchen if they can’t endure the heat.
Ad hominem attacks and conspiracy theories are not facts.
AV should be concerned with moving forward and not slamming the previous administration, even though McBuckles administration was screwed up. Be positive and move forward.
One of Sheriff’ Villanueva’s points that no one has touched on is the IOD stats. LASD loses a lot of hours ($$$) because Deputies can’t get treatment approved quick enough. They wait around at home with their condition getting worse because they don’t get the needed treatment in a timely manner. Therefore, it takes longer to heal. They don’t stay home because of bad morale. They stay home because they can’t get good and timely care.
If Sheriff Villanueva wants to help his personnel, he needs to correct the problem with York.
@ SLB: Absolutely correct.
You can never focus on moving forward when more time is spent looking in the rear view mirror than the front windshield.
I agree it is time to move forward. We all despised Buckles and his merry band of misfits. Most of them are gone. Thank you AV. We realize there are Tanaka Clowns left to deal with please kick them out of your camp so we can move forward. There are many leadership positions available that need to be filled. The Captain vacancies in the patrol Stations need to be filled. There are some Captains IOD for serious reasons, while others are out doing their 924 thing and others that just suck when it comes to leading. The Department is looking for direction and most could care less about Custody let alone statistics. Make amends with the media and the BOS and lets kick start this Department back to the forefront of all Law Enforcement.
Damn that Bilko, he was suppose to proof read that. I think he was in the sauce again.
Can we focus on a real problem? Jail violence is terrible but the jails are the jungle’s that belong to the la deps. Can someone tell me why semen from deputies is being found in females immates body? I mean…let’s talk about a real problem.
AV looks a little irritated,,, Ray seems to listen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiPbqkrZ3O8
Super: Yeah and so what!!!
That was like a Wally George episode.
All of you are underestimating Sheriff AV. From knowing him first hand, there’s going to be a lot more information and data released that the old guard who is now freaking the f$ck out and doing what they can to throw smoke screens, have lied about and kept from the BOS and the public. Remember, the department is HIS now and he’s go the same access to the information the old guard had. Though the old guard was not transparent and they’re re the ones that “cooked” the books.
If I were them, meaning the fired Execs, attorney’s and those retiring soon, I’d be running for the hills. All I can say is, Stand by to Stand By.
I’m not even talking about the purgery under oath, wrongfull terminations, concocted investigations and compelling individuals to lie on the record incidents committed by those still in power and those hiding out. The day of reconinng is coming. Keep pushing the man and see what he delivers. If I was in their shoes, I’d be concerned… Juuuuuuuust sayin!
Finally, I’ve never been more excited to be wearing the tan and green uniform and am happy as a clam everyday I go to work.
My popcorn is set on a timer and I’m awaiting the next big move and announcment by OUR Sheriff. He’s got the support and the backing from every deputy from north to south.
Bring it sir… These old f$cks need a chin check. Also, please don’t let them off the hook because they’re retiring. Karma is a bitch!
Yeah…riddle me this, let’s talk about LGBTQxyz inmates who are identifying as females with intact male genitalia being housed at a female facility, and how their semen gets inside of female inmates? Let’s not forgot about female CO’s abusing female (and male) inmates either. It happens both ways too.
In this politically correct era of “they”, and gender “X”, anybody can feel, be or do anything they want I guess.
Haven’t posted in a while, but “Stand by” caught my attention. Alex made reference to it at his presser last week and he really raised my eyebrows. If he has the goods on executives lying, fabricating or directing the same against employees resulting in their discipline or discharge, that is worthy of a methodical press release and letter to the BOS, OIG, COC and Civil Service, laying it all out. But it has to be airtight! If this is all factual, this did not happen in a vacuum. Individuals of rank allowed it to happen or facilitated it, or both. Talk about injustice, this is exactly why Alex should proceed with his Truth and Reconciliation process, but do it the right way. Open, appropriate and unbiased review and recommendation process from inside/outside the Department, solid procedure. Start with terminations, then onto suspensions. NO employee, I don’t care who they are, should be victimized by their employer. Right the wrongs!
And The Truth Will Set You Free.
Only when exposed……
@Factoid that is exactly what needs to be done by all those who have been wronged. AV should have an open meeting for those who have been wrongfully accused and allow these criminals to be exposed. I know of a few that are tryna to scurry n hide, but be aware.
“The Truth Is Coming”………you need to feel what deputies are going through as they sit and wait. Start saving your money, because it’s a long ride and fortunately my ride is coming to an end.
AV next stack please. Deps need to get back to work.
Dan Dyer is an upstanding guy! I really mean that. He batted for me when no one else would. There is more than meets the eye on the case of the CMDR’s ROD. Maybe they did not want to play ball.
AS Olmstead embarrassed himself or was not listening to what the Sheriff was saying as the Sheriff had to think on his feet with revising the answer to the questions asked.
Either way, that would be a petty reason to relieve 2 commanders from their positions.
Dan promoted from LT to CMDR quickly but look at everyone else who is wearing bars and stars. Once you get passed LT it’s all about the politics. You can’t blame anyone for furthering their career. Look at AS Gutierrez. That will put it into perspective for you.
I have asked myself that question over and over how do they get to the top so fast and it boils down to who you know and who likes you and how well you play politics and maneuver the system.
@Calling It a Spade & @ Stand By, I am victim…yes VICTIM of a concocted investigation by McBuckles and his goons!! Some of them, from rank of Commander down to LT are still working, and working in key administrative capacities, I hope AV fine tooth combs some of the ROD cases SOON because he’ll able to see the BS! Plus the resources being COMPLETELY wasted.
I hope his realignment and moving of Captains & above happen REAL SOON.
What union are you with, ALADS or PPOA?
Did they assist you with legal representation?
I see no one has stepped up to say Morejon should not be ROD. He has always been self serving.
He was in the middle of the hide the inmate FBI informant operation but stepped back and let others go down for his doings.
@1029FD Agreed…..Stay Patient My Brutha. There’s a lot of us who are VICTIMS Of Political Infused Discharge….There Day Is Coming.
Calling a spade, you are right, Maya Lau in the LA Times pretended the sheriff did not say that because Maya Lau has hard evidence the former Sheriff McBuckles and Diana Teran caused some executives and some ICIB to fabricate cases against deputies. As in the Pandora caper, they obliged to do that and some.
The media is as crooked and rotten as the politicians, god bless google and the internet.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Drooyan. My transition team is working to find proof my press conference charts weren’t bogus. You’re absolutely right…I won’t make ANY policy changes without running it by you first, sir. I’ll send a message (see below) out to the troops pronto.”
How many hours were spent producing those charts and prepping for the press conference? How many hours will now be spent providing the Federal Court Monitor with proof to back up his claims? This is getting ridiculous….it reminds me of the Trump investigation into proving his inauguration crowds were bigger than Obama’s.
Many of you have said we should just move on, but it’s becoming clear AV CAN’T because he’s still bitter about not being promoted under McDonnell and wants to undo and destroy every last vestige of the man.
I WANT AV to look into any wrongfully terminated personnel (I know of at least one) and hold accountable anyone who screwed up…..but stop making this a media circus.
Sheriff Villanueva’s Statement Regarding Custody
Data and Standards
On January 30, 2019, I conducted a press conference to discuss the current state of the Department. During this press conference, I presented statistical data compiled by the previous administration related to violence within the Los Angeles County jail system. Statistics regarding jail violence were developed by Custody Division utilizing several data systems, some of which have been in use by the Department for decades. The transition team utilized the derived statistics to create charts in order to graphically display the information.
The Department is conducting an analysis of numerous facets within the organization’s operations. Concurrently, the Department is evaluating the impact of all current and proposed policies to ensure they are in compliance with all ethical and legal statutes. Any suggestions that existing policies have been rescinded, or modified in any way, is incorrect. The organization will continue to evaluate and augment Department policies, in order to address the threat of growing violence within the jail system.
I have reiterated to all employees that they have the right to defend themselves when they are attacked within our jail system, and they are expected to act within all legal, ethical and policy guidelines.
We will continue to work with federal monitors to ensure all mandates and provisions are implemented in a manner to ensure full compliance. The Department will continue to provide critical information to the public, which underscores my commitment to transparency.
Sheriff Alex Villanueva
This new directive from AV is clearly transparency, or is it???
“All information requests from outside agencies including other County Departments shall be forwarded to the Sheriff’s office who will route the request to the appropriate person’s, units, bureaus, etc…”
AV just promoted a lieutenant to chief over technical services so all the data is now controlled and manipulated by AV. Another LT gets a triple bump! Must have been well earned. Still no published org chart, I will be interested in seeing that.
There you go again, LASD Apostle. Last time you attributed comments to the sheriff you came up dry when Fed Up fact-checked you. At any rate, the bitterness motivation just doesn’t hold water. Justice and putting things back in equilibrium is a better explanation. You, and Facts Matter, and the rest of the McDonnell tribe keep pounding that table because that’s what people do when they don’t have the facts or rational arguments. And Joe Nobuckles, Stand By!, Calling it a Spade, and others will keep sending you fellas/gals back to the shop to learn why going back may be the fastest way to move forward. The costs of not doing so, of not clearing the air, would continue to negatively affect the Department for another 10-15 years, maybe longer. Let’s see where the administrative/criminal investigation leads. It’s the reasonable position.
Apostle: Love how you put fire to the feet for those still in La La Land.
Thanks for the reminder, Charlie Unit. I was visited by AVs Truth and Reconciliation team and I have some reconciliatin’ to do.
I was wrong. AV did NOT say the DOJ “cooked the books.” He suggested it at his press conference and it was Supervisor Barger who said he said that. It was during this interview with Conan Nolan. It’s hard to believe these comments are coming from the 5th Distict, traditionally very conservative and LASDs biggest supporter:
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/NewsConference-LA-Supervisors-Condemn-New-Sheriff_Los-Angeles-505276302.html
If you listen to AVs response when Nolan asks him directly about Mandoyan, you’ll see what the new tactic is. He won’t deny Mandoyan roughed up the female dep, broke into her place or stalked her. He just thinks it didn’t rise to the level of being fired:
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/NewsConference-LA-County-Sheriff-Responds-to-Criticism_Los-Angeles-505276942.html
And what is your issue Nancy Drew, are you hating because it was not you who got promoted to help him with the data?
LASD Apostle is a bitter deputy himself, and he knows of at least one case where a deputy was wrongfully terminated, I know of more than one, and it is not the same deputy. I got the feeling LASD Apostle is a deputy who got fired on red Tuesday….So if you know one deputy was wrongfully terminated, one is too many, and the sheriff needs to continue digging to find all the evidence and some.
Just imagine what this new Chief of Data Systems will find, the emails of TERAN, telling ICIB how to manufacture cases, how to circumvent the UNINTED STATES CONSTITUTION, as she was supposedly an expert. All the deleted reports and memos that would show you conspiracy among themselves on the 8th floor.
Stand by, stand by….
Self-editing: “You, and Facts Matter, and the rest of the McDonnell tribe keep pounding that table because that’s what people do when they don’t have the facts or rational arguments.”
Meant to read: “You, and Facts Matter, and the McDonnell tribe keep pounding that table because that’s what people do when they don’t have the facts or rational arguments.”
Due apologies to LASD Apostle for linking him to McDonnell tribe. On to the next story, thread, and discussion!
Charlie Unit, having Alex as the sheriff is a true blessing, he has the fortitude and courage to face off the crooked and rotten establishment. Alex is not perfect, and I am sure he will do things some may disagree, however, his mind and heart are in the right place.
He is not like the coward previous sheriff McBuckles who hid behind the attorneys and the deputies with stars on their collars, to the point he would not sign off on questionable prosecutions, terminations, and heavy handed discipline. He would be busy and direct his under-sheriff to sign for him, to later excuse himself by plausible deniability.
So I thank you for questioning the haters here defending McBuckles and speaking up for those who were wronged by the previous crooked regime.
My pleasure, Joe.
Calling it a Spade, I will tell you the following, it did not happened in a vacuum, there are several outrageous cases, where deputies were framed, Rampart style, to get the stats and because Diana Teran thought it would really look great politically speaking.
The Sheriff, the DA, the BOS the OIG knew, but they did not care, they thought McBuckles was going to be in power for a few decades, so now they are panicking. Their shenanigans, their dirty laundry they were not able to wash is about to be exposed. They all conspired to hurt deputies to send a message, same as framing citizens in the street for crimes they did not commit to send a message to the criminals.
So yes, stand-by….
Joe Nobuckles and Charlie Unit, I know it doesn’t fit your narrative, but I had NO faith in McDonnell for a number of reasons.
Criticism of AV doesnt make someone a McDonnell-lover. As I’ve said before, I WANT him to succeed….not for him, but for the Department. But with so many mistakes and lapses in judgement, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to support him.
I’ve heard that he feels he’s always the smartest one in the room and doesn’t listen to his advisors. I hope it’s not true, but this also is becoming harder to deny.
LASD Apostle, don’t go by rumors, speculation, innuendos, and flat out gossip, have the courage and fortitude to go and talk to Alex personally, ranting against him, when he has not done evil to you, or anyone you know, is cheap.
I speak against McBuckles, Teran and CO because I have the evidence, and in due time, I will be glad to share it with you, so you understand why I say what I say.
No hard feelings at all, Apostle. I take nothing personally. I understand your position. It has been a terrific debate, enjoy immensely. Ms. Fremon is a civic hero for curating an environment such as this one, though I have expressed defendable concerns over her article. Obviously, a lot is at stake for a lot of people. What motivates me is not a narrative. But as I said earlier, I’m motivated when I see very powerful political, media interests, very sophisticated people (LA elites), directly or using proxies to mob a new guy who was elected by the people of Los Angeles county in what was a historic election. I don’t care for mobbings. However, the difference between a mobbing (which is unjust) and a throttling of some one or group whose conduct demands a public intervention (e.g., Baca, Tanaka, McDonnell, Teran), can be clear when we are operating in good faith. I happen to believe Sheriff Alex Villanueva is operating in good faith, which affords him some early benefit of the doubt when trying to get its sealegs. Others disagree. And disagreement is fine. Let’s hash it out.
You two need a room.
Well said Deputy Sheriff
Continue to stand your ground “Apostle” as you keep the administration of Wave Riders, Palace Guards and Eunuchs at bay
You made a altruistic point by stating that anyone noticing the loose strings on AV doesn’t automatically make them pro McDonnell.
I get it, Joe. If you can’t attack the message, attack the messenger. I have a GREAT life and owe it all to LASD. Unlike a lot of people, I don’t feel I should have promoted higher….heck, I’m surprised I survived the academy! I have a while before I’m “terminated” aka retired, so no, I wasn’t part of Red Tuesday.
Re-read my comment. I want these cases looked into. However, don’t you think it would be wise to review them, come up with irrefutable findings, THEN release it to the media? Are the campaign donations and promotions/assignments just coincidence? Do you really think it’s a GOOD idea to go to war with the BOS? Say it ain’t so, Joe….
Mr Deputy Sheriff, if being evil by spreading hate against Alex, doesn’t make you a pro McBuckles what are you?
Can you share here what evil act Alex has done to you, a deputy friend you know or your family??
Because just as Apostle knows of one deputy who was illegally fired by McBuckles, I know of many more. I am sure you know some as well.
The fact that Alex fired al McBuckles’ water carrying deputies, was not an evil act, we all agree it was needed and they had it earned.
Just curious….
Read Steve Lopez’ opinion piece on LA corruption in the LA Times (L.A. City Hall’s real rat problem: Corruption). On his list Lopez offers this beauty of a sentence: “And recently elected L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva is trying his best to roll back reforms instituted by his predecessor after Sheriff Lee Baca and others were convicted in a long-running corruption probe.”
The choice of “roll back” and not ‘correct’ is instructive. Notice that the unsaid implication he leaves is that Sheriff Villanueva is going back to Sheriff’ Baca’s policies. Lopez is not to be faulted for following the herd. The standards have changed. Many journalists these days seem to be involved in a descent of practice. He hears that the sheriff is moving a set of new reforms that, the sheriff and his team argue, counterbalance the extreme injustices brought about by the McDonnell-Teran administration, and of course this is necessary and sufficient for Sheriff Villanueva to make it on Lopez’ list of LA “rats”, a corrupt guy.
Apparently, Mr. Lopez doesn’t make an effort to understand the news reforms, why they are necessary, because his sentence implies that he never took the time to study why the McDonnell-Teran medicine was almost worse than the disorder it sought to cure (many deps, staff, and inmates would argue it was worse, and an investigation may give us a public airing). Mr. Lopez probably doesn’t need a refresher course in what constitutes corruption. He knows very well corruption is like rust: it decays, spoils, destroys; it is a ‘turning of the head’ of the decision-maker away from duty and virtue and toward self-interest. One explanation then is that Mr. Lopez is simply riding the McDonnell love train because that’s where his friends are. Preserving those McDonnell-Teran reforms is seen as vital to keeping the LASD in a state of functional disequilibrium. So much easier to control (through externalities) an organization not working well. Were Mr. Lopez a genuine journalist, opinion or otherwise, he would be an independent, provocative, energetic, iconoclastic, tough-as-nails, skeptical, Hitchens-like bastard, as the old-style journalists were before the unfortunate media consolidations. Instead, Mr. Lopez is a very conventional operator, a mere back-slapping conformist who likely fancies himself as a standard-bear of a noble tradition. Meanwhile, the sheriff and his folks will have to fight through the noise of lazy-minded corporate pseudo-journalists. You play the hand you are dealt. So far, on many things, the hand our new sheriff is playing is pretty good.
Hey Joe, first and foremost I personally know Alex and I admire his fight for reform which spoke volumes beginning in custody and as a former ALADS Representative calling them out on their bullshit.
I am for ALEX but I question among others, the rehire of Mondayan especially with other deputies being first in line and the constant blaming McDonnell for all of LASD woes, which is understandable to a point and after that point, it gets old, real fast.
Many bloggers automatically assume that to point out mistakes by Alex which needs improvement makes them a AV hater, which is not the case.
Let’s just agree that Alex is the person that voters chose without help from the Russians and those with constructive criticism should not be ostracized.
I agree with “Apostle” very much and would like to see LASD make an “about face” and return to being a premier law enforcement agency, externally & internally.
(Note: Readers of WitLA may recall that Santa had previously discovered a database at the Federal Building in which the FBI had recorded conversations with microphones placed during the “Pandora’s Box” investigation at the Block Headquarters Building and the HOJ (during the remodeling process). Santa had dutifully reported some of these conversations to WitLA readers but has not done so once Neal Tyler had retired to get his hair “styled” on his own time. However, recent developments within the LASD has caused Santa to quarry the Fed’s database to ascertain if certain microphones are still active, only to discover that indeed they are. He/She therefore feels it is his/her civic responsibility to pass along certain excerpts of conversations currently under review by our friendly Feds.)
Recorded in the office of Chief of Staff Larry Del Mese
Del Mese: So where did you take Alex this morning?
Deputy Mandoya : To some Viva La Immigration meeting in China Town.
Del Mese: China Town?
Mandoya: Those people like fucking Chinese food!
Del Mese: I’ve heard everything now.
Mandoya: For breakfast!!!!
Del Mese: (laughing) I can just see a bunch of Mexicans eating chop suey with chop sticks.
Mandoya: Alex wouldn’t think that is funny!
Mandoya: Well, maybe he’d think the chop sticks part is funny.
Chief Ely Vera: I can just see a bunch of Mexicans slurping noodles like a little kid does with spaghetti!
Mandoya: Actually they had some sort of wheat noodles. I was watching Alex and he tried to use chop sticks, then he switched to a spoon, then a fork. The noodles just kept slithering back in the bowl. Finally he just gave up. I started cracking up – it was so fucking funny I had to turn around so no would see me lauging. (laughter in the room) When I turned back around Alex was looking right at me with this look like “I’m going to beat your ass if you tell anyone!” (more laughter)
Vera: What the fuck did you eat? Those little white rolls with the pink faces on it?
Del Mese: Yeah, probably 30 or 40 of them…………(laughter)
Mandoya: Nothing! (angry) I stayed in the back. I was afraid someone would recognize me from being on tv and all that bullshit.
Vera: You’re lucky to have a fucking job.
Del Mese: If Alex had listened to fucking Leyva and Olmsted you’d be driving for Uber instead of driving for Alex.
Vera: Those fuckers are a pain in our ass.
Del Mese: And then they almost screwed up our decoy plan.
Mandoya: What do you mean.
Del Mese: Decoy. You know like in those submarine movies when the bad guys are shooting torpedoes at the good guys, the good guys drop these decoys to confuse the incoming torpedoes.
Mandoya: I haven’t seen any submarine movies.
Vera: You’ve never seen a submarine movie? You know, like the Hunt for Red October or something like that?
Mandoya: Well I saw 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, I think maybe they used decoys in that movie.
Del Mese: JEEEESSSSUUUUUSSSSS! What a dope!
Vera: Carl! Decoys! Like we wanted to have the incoming “torpedoes” chasing after something else – rather than you. So we relieved Dyer and Morejon over the jail shit. THEY are the decoys and the press is the torpedoes! We wanted the press to be wondering what them being ROD is all about and then asking questions about what THEY did. That way they aren’t chasing after YOU – we call the plan “Red October.”
Mandoya: Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Like in the movie when Nemo is playing the organ at the end and he says “Enough is enough” – it fools everybody in to thinking he dies but he doesn’t. Got it.
Vera: Uh,…..yeah. Fuck! I give up.
Del Mese: Carl, don’t you get it?
Mandoyan: Yeah, you mean Dyer and Morejon take the fall and I’m home free. They die and I don’t.
Del Mese: Well, they don’t really take a real “fall” – they still have civil service protection so we actually have to have some sort of a case against them. BUT some humbug is enough to relieve them of duty. AND that, Grasshopper, is enough smoke to draw the press – and maybe the Board – away from you until this all blows over.
Mandoyan: Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, like a dog barking up the wrong tree?
Vera: Well I guess. Maybe we should’a boiled it down to the basics for you. Look, we need you to understand Leyva and Olmsted were bending Alex’s ear against that plan. And they just about got through to him.
Del Mese: So Carl, just remember those guys are NOT your friend. They tried to fuck you over by fighting Alex when he first started to hire you back and then again when we wanted to spring “Red October”.
Vera: He means when we wanted to have the press like dogs barking up the wrong tree.
Mandoya: Got ya’. But they seem like such nice guys.
Vera: Don’t trust them. If Alex listens to them, he’s not listening to us. It’s them or us and so far we’re winning the battle but that could always change.
Del Mese: So Carl, you spend more time with Alex than anyone, we want you to keep an eye on him for us. Let us know if Leyva or Olmsted get to him when we aren’t around and especially if they are talking shit to him.
Vera: And reinforce anything we say to him. Kind’a like “You know boss, those guys make sense. Those guys have a good idea. That kind of shit.
Mandoya: I got it. I know whose side I’m on, don’t worry guys. I need to get going. I’m taking the boss out in the Valley in a little while and need to figure out how to get there.
Del Mese: Look it up? Don’t you know the address?
Mandoya: Well, yeah but I need to figure out the route in my Thomas Guide.
Vera and Del Mese: THOMAS GUIDE????
Vera: No one uses a Thomas Guide any more. Do they still make them?
Mandoya: Yep, I have the newest one at my desk and one in the car.
Del Mese: Don’t you have a GPS in your phone?
Mandoya: Uh,…. no.
Vera: Why not? Everyone uses the one in their fucking phone!
Mandoya: I have a flip phone but…….
Vera and Del Mese: A FLIP PHONE!!!
Mandoya: Uh…… I can’t figure out how to use an iPhone
Del Mese: Get the hell out of here!
(sound of door opening and closing)
(laughter)
Santa, welcome back! I thought I’d piss my pants I was laughing so hard. Keep reviewing those tapes
Oh crap. There is no competing with that. I tap out for now.
Lol
Have to admit this is one of the funniest posts I’ve read in a while.
On the serious note, this sounds like friends of Dyer and Morjon trying to shed light on their friends being ROD.
As much as I think it’s funny, you pretty much just stuck a fork in your friends.
It’s all fun and games until people and families get hurt. I’ve always been against naming people and laying out anyone on any blog. After all, they are our partners and have families.
I come in peace and am not soliciting rebutle or a counter. Just asking you folks, my partners to be considered to what you say.
I read a quote sometime back, and I think it was attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt: Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.
Good obs, Santa!
Hopefully all those who are in denial can laugh at the truth.
if you think the department is bad now, wait a few years. The Sheriff is trying to keep his campaign promise to hire more deputies, but to fill that promise, he is allowing a lot of people to get hired that have no business being a Deputy. We have returned to the Tanaka and Baca years where if you know someone, you’re going to get hired. All he cares about is hiring 1000 deputies and doesn’t care what type of recruit he is hiring. You’ll see in a few years when deputies are getting ROD or will be in the news for getting hired with very questionable pasts.
Welcome back Santa, it has been a long time!
I love reading Wit. LA ’cause the humor is never ending. When I need a good laugh, I just read on.
One thing that never changes (unlike Sheriff ….in-out personnel) is the ‘comedy writing’ ………..
carry on, been a bit depressed today
So dramatic. Obviously a newbie to the dept.
Lol!!!
“…he is allowing a lot of people to get hired that have no business being a Deputy.” You are making a pretty bold claim, do you have any facts to back it up? I try to keep up with all the changes, but I can’t seem to find any policy lowering standards. I did find one, however, RAISING standards. It seems the new guy wants to raise entry level educational standards to a minimum of an AA degree versus the old HS diploma. I call that a good move forward, not backwards.
Yes, I do have facts and info. However, this isn’t really the place to be airing confidential info. Like I said, there is going to be people hired on that somehow get through that would have been disqualified from every other agency in so cal and most likely this department, before the new Sheriff. The Sheriff needs to get better data, do you know what percentage of applicants that have AA degrees? So he wants to hire a bunch of deputies, but he’s going to disqualify more than half of the candidate pool because they don’t have a degree… yeah, that’s a real smart move.
@TsBs
“Yes, I do have facts and info. However, this isn’t really the place to be airing confidential info. ” Hahahaha GTFOH!!!
That’s the problem, when you work at a place where you have nothing better to do other than think of conspiracy theories and self developed paranoias, people like you are the ones who despise the Sheriff’s direction of getting lazy slugs like yourself being held accountable and made to work.
Time to earn your keep buddy!
I wish AV would be legally allowed to post arrest stats per deputy publicly on the department website. Now that’s transparency for all you haters.
Good job making assumptions. You added nothing to this conversation. By the way, I never worked TSB and that is not what my screen name means. However, let me take a guess. You’re a deputy who thinks they are better than everyone else because you worked a fast station, right? Stats are available, all you have to do is go on the intranet and run arrests per deputy. I’m satisfied with what I did in patrol and I know I have arrested more people than many Deps from region 2.
If you’re going to blindly support the sheriff, that’s your perogative. Just be ready when sh*t hits the fan and LASD is in the news again for the wrong reasons.
Hiring more qualified personnel by raising the standard is fine but keep in mind that applicants having a minimum A.A. Degree doesn’t guarantee anything.
Let’s not rule out Veterans whom are high school graduates, wise beyond their years along with training & responsibilities accrued while in the military.
@TSBs
” I know I have arrested more people than many Deps from region 2.” Hahahaha GTFOH Nerd!
You keep proving yourself how idiotic you are. Go ahead and hide behind your BS screen name you coward.
Go ahead and hate on our Sheriff… You must be one of the slugs who don’t meet the criterias of promoting because your lack of patrol time and experience. You’re also frustrated because your gravy train coat tail you rode on got fired in November. Hahaha… You’re a complete ass clown.
This is why I can’t wait until I retire. 10 more years and I won’t have to deal with idiots like you. So if I’m a coward, what does that make you? I don’t see your name either.
Again, you make a lot of assumptions which makes you come off as kind of a douche. I’m sure you get that a lot, right? I have plenty of time on, I just have no desire to promote. I know you or your buddies were probably done wrong by McDonnell at some point, but why this blind allegiance to Villanueva?
@SMH…re: post on 02/24/19, 0939 Hrs. Not sure of your affiliation, whether LASD or not. Nonetheless, if you have not worked a custody facility or patrol, you are clueless as to what we go through. Evidently, you are scared by someone’s comments? Can I venture to state that you are a SJW and prefer to have a “touchy feely” environment where, “can’t we all just get along” is the focus? It is not union thug mentality or a lack of care for the citizens of L.A., nor a way of “policing with no oversight.” It is however, trying to establish a path for Deputy personnel to work within the SOP’s, while also being given the latitude to defend /perform their duties, against assaultive inmates, whether they are our adversaries or not. The previous administration created a hostile, non-conducive, “walking on egg shells” environment. Further, the necessary tools and or support system was anemic at best. Furthermore, a divide & conquer (Art of War), approach was initiated (i.e., removal of station insignia). While also promoting a harsh disciplinary system for line personnel, while executives (i.e., stating falsehoods) were immune from the aforementioned. Moreover, the fiscal management was atrocious. For example, $300k to replace the silver keepers / belt buckles to brass and the justification was “to provide a command presence.” Moreover, bypassing the procurement process to purchase an SUV etc., etc. I can continue, however I am sure you get the picture SMH.
This is sad news. I wish them the best and hope it all works out!
Time, not so sure I agree with your second comment. As for the first the short time I knew him I saw exactly the opposite.
Pandoras Box was deeply, and I mean deeply investigated and if the DOJ had a rope to hang around someone’s neck they did so. (Not saying it was right, just saying that’s what they did. )
Was he supposed to run into federal court and say it was his doing?
I did that at my Skelly, said it was my responsibility but not necessarily my fault, but accepted responsibility. Saved a few folks. They know who they are. They lost their memories.
I don’t hate, but do believe in Karma.
+1