Somebody Always Screws the Pooch
Tim Dees
Editor-in-Chief
Officer.com
Police Week 2007 is over, and those that aren’t hanging in for some sightseeing are on their way home. Except for some events being delayed for one reason or another, most everything went well. The fallen were honored, the survivors were comforted, and the Brother(and Sister-)hood of the Badge was renewed. Unfortunately, somebody took the opportunity to use the observation of National Peace Officer Memorial Day as an excuse to party, and this will not end well.
The NBC affiliate in Washington, DC is reporting two nights of unruly street partying by officers who were allegedly in town for Police Week. A citizen videotaped officers wearing police logo shirts and driving a Segway transporter while they drank beer out of bottles and cups that were filled from the back of an SUV with New Jersey license plates. The citizen complained of shouting, racing motorcycle engines, and other conduct usually associated with teenage beer busts. The DC Metro Police were called several times, and officers responded, but they did nothing to end the disturbance, and the partyers saluted the passing officers with upraised beer bottles.
DC Metro Police Chief Cathy Lanier personally appeared at the doorstep of the complaining citizen to collect the video evidence and apologize for her officers’ failure to intervene. Citizens in the district have, at best, an uneasy relationship with their police, and she is doing what she can to make things right.
The National Fraternal Order of Police, which organizes many of the Police Week activities, mails out a letter every year to agencies around the country asking officers coming to DC to behave themselves and not dishonor the purpose of Police Week. Most of the cops do mind their manners, but there have been some notable exceptions. During one of the first observations of Police Week, some out-of-control officers used the stainless steel divider between the up and down escalators at the Hyatt Regency as a slide, and tested it in the nude. Two years ago, an officer was arrested for the sexual assault of a Virginia police recruit at a DC-area Best Western. In both instances, the involved officers belonged to a large police agency in close proximity to New Jersey. Maybe it won’t be them this time.
This kind of behavior underscores a difference between East Coast and West Coast police culture. East Coast police funerals are solemn occasions, but there is often a party afterward, usually at the FOP lodge or some other closed venue. The cops get profoundly liquored and practical jokes abound. Patrol car doors are removed and later displayed as trophies on the lodge wall. The victims go home with an open-air patrol car. Local drunks are picked up and encouraged to sleep it off in the cars of visiting officers. You haven’t lived until you’ve endured the fragrance of Eau du Wino all the way back to your jurisdiction.
My police experience was gained in the west, where the customs are different. Police funerals are still well-attended affairs, and it is not uncommon for the procession of patrol cars and motorcycles, emergency lights on but sirens silent, to be several miles long. Afterward, the wildest activity you are likely to see might be a potluck supper hosted by the fallen officer’s agency for all of the out-of-towners, as a “thank you” for coming and to send them home fed. John Barleycorn is not invited.
In previous years, a street adjacent to the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial was closed down for activities that reminded me of a county fair. There were vendors selling police memorabilia, holsters and leather gear, t-shirts, and, of course, beer. The partying went pretty much 24/7. I know I’ll get some hate mail for this (as well as for something I’m going to say later), but I always thought that to be kind of inappropriate. It’s like tapping a keg at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Party if you must, but don’t do it there. This year, the bazaar was confined to the DC FOP Lodge. I can’t tell you what went on there, because I didn’t go.
I did go to the main LE Memorial Ceremony on the steps of the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday. The crowd easily fit onto the Capitol grounds without spilling out onto the National Mall, but there were still a lot of us, mostly in dress uniforms. The survivor families were again bused in and escorted to seats of honor, Lee Greenwood sang “Wind Beneath My Wings,” and just about everyone at the top of the federal law enforcement hierarchy was introduced from the stage. The keynote speaker was the main man himself, President George Bush. I don’t remember much about his speech, but he did do something afterward that told me something about the man. I’ll preface this by saying that I am not a big fan of the Bush administration (there’s the other hate mail seed), but I get my one vote, like everyone else, and I’ll use it as I please. What impressed me today was that, following the ceremony, the President of the United States of America stepped down from the stage and personally greeted every survivor family member that wanted to meet him. This took over two and a half hours. Two and a half hours out of the president’s schedule is huge, and I am told this is not the first year he has done this. Whatever you think about George Bush, know that this was an act of incredible respect and kindness.
I’m glad I was able to be here.
I’m a resident of DC who lives near the Police Memorial. I can tell you these events are nothing like a country fair. Every year off-duty police officers ride into town and create mayhem in my city streets. I live close to where this complaint was filed and this is not new behaviour. Last year I complained to the police about the noise and driking and nothing was done. What ever happened to monitoring your own? All these offices in town and not one thought of stopping this behaviour from fellow officers? It’s a complete disrepect to the people of the city that this is allowed to continue.
Tim,
You are so right on this one. There is a time for parties. And, there is a time for respect. Police Week is a time of honor, respect, and showing the survivors the kind of men and women who wear the uniform their loved one died wearing. This image should make them proud not make them bow their heads lower.
Keep telling it like it is.
I enjoy the website and appreciate your work, in reference to your article “Someone always screws the pooch”….Great article until you brought in your political preference! Your preface added NOTHING to this article, and made you seem very petty. You screwed the pooch on this one!
no hate mail from me, wish i coulda been there.
I was a security officer back in the 70’s for Black Det Agency in Atlantic City, NJ and the worst convention in thr state was the Police convention where we had our hands full with drunk cops who tried to use their badges to get out of trouble. I at the time worked K-9 and I told them that my partner, Black Baron wasn’t impressed by the badge. After I was a cop I made sure I didn’t act that way.
I am a very proud law enforcement supporter and I agree with the above article. This week is a time of reflection of those that were taken from us, not to party and be disrespectful to the hosting agency. How would you feel if your dept was hosting a event and the officials from all over arrived and acted the way the events stated were done? How would you feel?? I agree with the above. If you dont agree, then you must have been at the party.
Brother Tim,
You have written an articulate and touching article that, despite initial insults to “East Coast” law enforcement agencies, was very appropriate in its reference to the solemn ceremonies that are and will forever be a tribute to my lost brothers. For that I salute you.
That having been said, your self-admitted ignorance of the difference between Our “east-west” culture/customs comes across as offensive to those us that have been participants or otherwise involved in the “East Coast” style of ceremonies that are part of the celebration of Police Week at the NLEOM.
Please don’t tell me that WE shouldn’t drink too much and not wave at our on-duty brothers as they drive by in marked cars while you emplore us to stay out of trouble.
Please don’t chastise the bannister-sliding nudist or refer to me as someone that should be embarassed by his behavior. - His behavior is my responsibility because he is my brother and I am his keeper. I am his keeper. I am my brother’s keeper. Get it?
We drive our cars fast on emergencies - and slow during funerals (just like you). We also miss suppers and holidays with our families and friends.
Together, we enjoy our hot dogs, ball games, get-togethers and our beer. We work during the same holidays, anniversaries and birthdays too.
Then, once a year, we celebrate the lives of the brothers that we have loved and lost. For whatever reason, many of my brothers are criticized for having too much fun.
DC is close to New Jersey, New York and Philly. You should try to be too, because you may never really understand who we are.
Det. Wayne Davis, Jr.
Tim, Do I have your permission to run this article in our newsletter? Are you a FOP member and what department are you with. I thought it was a great article and take care. Mike Alvey, Immediate Past President Battlefield Lodge 43 Fraternal Order of Police Virginia.
Editor’s Note: I have never been a member of the FOP, as they were not active in the area (Northern Nevada) where I was a police officer. Officer.com routinely grants republication rights to non-profit, non-competing properties, such as association and department newsletters and magazines, although we do appreciate being asked. Yes, you may reprint the article in your newsletter.
Moises Lopez, you should police your Grammar when writing on public forums!
DET. Davis, you are correct, but keep in mind just because the author is a LEO does it make him your brother…Outside of the NE alot of these guys just dont get it!
I agree with the person who said that your continued support for president Duffus is completely irrelevent to this story and there was no sane reason to include it. If you REALLYwant to support this insane administration then send your family to Iraq to fight this crazy war. Then we wouyld not need to keep activating the same troops over and over again.
BWRZ
Tim,
First of all, congrats on a well written article. Anyone who has been a cop for more than 5 minutes knows that we are faced with tough decisions on a daily basis. With that said, the point is whether or not you enforce the law with ethics in mind. Whould we police everyone the same, with the exception of the police, or does everyone get treated equally? The answer is obvious, we treat everyone equally. At least, thats how ethical officers do their job.
The point was raised that unless you’re from the northeast, you just don’t get it. Get what? That acting like a bunch of drunken fools is only acceptable if you are a cop? Newsflash to all you guys who think that’s Ok, it is not 1975 anymore. We are supposed to be professionals and responsible members of society. If we don’t act like we are, then we have several problems, i.e. We are acting just like the people we arrest, and we allow the reputation of this job to be tarnished, not to mention the memory of our “brothers and sisters”. The old line about being each others keepers… it is nothing more than an excuse to allow the select few “bad apples” in this profession to continue to make us all look like a bunch of idiots. Those guys aren’t showing respect for the fallen officer’s, they are using the tragic deaths of those officers as an excuse to “party”. You guys in the northeast, if that’s what the rest of us don’t get, great because I personally wouldn’t want to ever get that.
Finally, you guys who slammed Tim on his reference to President Bush, most of you accused him of making political references. Don’t any of you find it comforting to know that George W. Bush, the man, who WE elected to the Office of President of the United States, took time out of his schedule to speak with the suvivors of those officers? Politics aside, that shows compassion on his part, and I know I would want my family to feel peoples compassion, and damn their political ties or parties. We can all Monday morning quarterback, but in the end what we should all do is honor those that paid the ultimate price and their families, and act accordingly. Tim, good for you for pointing out those that don’t have enough respect for this profession to act like humans.
Is this guy insane? Labeling all east-coast police officers as drunks! We make the same sacrifices! Sorry mister “west-coast” Professional Police Officer but I for one don’t see see other officers as east/west, black/white or whatever!!! I see other officers as brothers/sisters no matter where they served! Maybe I learned this this with the military. Maybe you should check yourself before you write this crap.
The behavior of the drunks brings up one of the obstacles to good relations of the police with the general public. Not only actions of the drunks, but the actions, or inaction, of the Metro police go a long way to show that police will cover for bad cops. That has been one of my biggest complaints for years. In my mind, and I am not alone in this thought, that also makes them bad cops. The ability of police to ignore the law is a very sore point whether it be running a red light or throwing down drugs at a drug bust.
I am also familiar with socially abnormal behavior to deal with events that most people will never have to deal with, but that should be kept out of public places, since, at best, it is misunderstood. That brings up another thought. Were you really criticizing the cops for having too much fun or how and where they were having it? Evidently, some do not take any criticism of a cop as justified.
I don’t know what the normal action is for Metro cops dealing with drunks is, but if they normally ignore rowdy groups of drunks, then I apologize. If not…
You are right “Officer whosavesurarse”. I should have been more careful of my grammar and spelling with my initial post. But regardless, it doesn’t change the gist of my complaint. This is my city and the disrespect displayed by some of your fellow officers to my cities laws is unacceptable. I don’t think any of you would find it acceptable for me to walk up to your front yards and act in the same way some of your fellow officers acted in front of my home. Yes I live in the heart of the city. And yes I’ve accepted that living in a large city I am going to have to accept some of the things that go with it. But nothing can justify the behavior displayed by people who should know better. You haven’t saved me from anything. The name you chose to post with says a lot about the attitude that was displayed by some of you this week. What you are saying is that your career choice justifies all behavior.
First I would like to echo the comments of Sergeant Michael Ihnken, good writing Sarge! It IS Officers like the ones that Tim wrote about who make the rest of us look bad. Our profession has long been under scrutiny by the public and the media for inappropriate or “crooked” behavior. As a “Brotherhood”, if ONE of us looks bad, we ALL look bad. Had any of my Officers been present at the “party” and proved to have had an immediate roll in the disturbance, they would be in my office signing paperwork. We have a duty to maintain ourselves the same out of uniform that we do in uniform. We are held to a higher standard in society because we are the ones who ENFORCE the laws of this land. How can we morally enforce what we willingly break? We are Police Officers 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, wether on or off duty. We are legally bound to act if we see a crime being comitted. Can we do that while we are in public drunk as hell and comitting the crime ourselves. There is nothing to say we cannot drink and have fun just like any other citizen, but come on guys, lets keep our integrity and honor a step ahead of our stupidity. Lets not tarnish the memories of our fallen brothers and sisters by acting like perps or partying frat guys. Tim, great article. I wish I could have attended but duty kept me from it. I do have issue with your comments reference East Coast and West Coast styles. Every law enforcement funeral I have been to in the southeast has been exactly as you described. We all stand at attention with tears in our eyes and sorrow in our hearts as we lay to rest our fallen. Not to mention, I have known a few “West Coast” Officers who party a hell of a lot heavier than some of the “East Coast” Officers. Take care and everyone STAY SAFE out there!
“For whatever reason, many of my brothers are criticized for having too much fun…DC is close to New Jersey, New York and Philly. You should try to be too, because you may never really understand who we are.” -Det. Wayne Davis
“[K]eep in mind just because the author is a LEO does it make him your brother…Outside of the NE alot of these guys just dont get it” -”Officer whosavesurarse”
Yeah, you’re absolutely right. I really don’t get it. Why should a bunch of drunken cops causing trouble outside their own jurisdiction get a pass when anyone else would get arrested? Why should the rest of us “try to understand” why it is okay for someone sworn to uphold the law to bend it just a little bit…well, sometimes a lot.
I’ve been “badged” by many fellow officers I’ve had occasion to stop for one traffic violation or another, but the only three who gave me attitude about it (including one flipping his badge out the window while driving off before I could even contact him, apparently the custom in New York where he was from) were from the Northeast. Like it or not, you guys have a reputation with your fellow officers everywhere else in this country, and it isn’t a positive one. Those three were also the only three I’ve had occasion to go so far as to write a ticket. The others were all professional enough that I could trust their assurances that they would realign their driving habits with the law…at least in my county!
It is unfortunate for everyone that a small number of people act this way. Police officers are human, too, but are held to higher standards. What a shame.
Ok, first off. I don’t give a damn where you are from, what police department you work for, or what “excuse” you are using to party. When a police officer acts like this, it makes ALL OF US look bad. And it really PO’s me when a bunch of idiots make MY profession look bad. We have a hard enough time with the public trusting us as it is.
And you guys that are bashing Tim….grow up. People are allowed to criticize cops. We all like to have fun. But whether you like it or not, you must act professional on and off duty. Don’t act like a moron. Don’t disrespect those of us that act like professionals. And also don’t use the excuse that you are “Having a good time to remember the fallen officers.” BS. All you are doing is tarnishing what they died for.
I went to Police Week in 2003, and won’t go back because of how some of the cops acted. And to you people that want to get upset about the East Coast/West Coast thing….I’ll narrow it down for you. Try Northern East Coast….that is more accurate.
By the way….to the NE cops with a chip on your shoulder. Try going to any other area of the country where Police Unions have little to no power…..25 or 30 year retirement….etc etc. I think the more accurate comment (read Ofc whosavesurarse) is that yeah, we may not understand how it is in the NE….but you don’t understand how it is anywhere else. Act like that while working for any other department, and let it get back to the command staff. You may not have a job when you get back.
I AGREE THAT THE CONDUCT OF THESE OFFICERS WAS OUT OF LINE AND AM GLAD SOMEONE SAID SO. HOWEVER A AN EAST COAST OFFICER I HAVE ATTENDED THE BURIALS OF SEVERAL FELLOW OFFICERS AND HAVE NEVER SEEN CONDUCT LIKE MENTIONED IN THE ARTICAL. POLICE HAVE AS MUCH OR MORE NEED TO LET OFF SOME STEAM BUT THEY SHOULD SET AN EXAMPLE WHEN DOING SO. PRIVACY, AND POLICING THEMSELVES WOULD BE A GOOD START ALONG WITH DD WHO ARE ALSO TASKED WITH SEEING THAT THOSE LETTING OFF STEAM DON’T EM-BARE-ASS THEMSELVES. NOT TO THROW STONES BUT I VISITED THE WEST COAST TO SEE SOME BROTHER OFFICERS AND SAW THE SAME CONDUCT THERE. WELL KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND WATCH YOUR SIX.
To quote a famous philosopher, “Can’t we all just get along?”
It is unfortunate for everyone that a small number of people act this way. Police officers are human, too, but are held to higher standards. What a shame.
I agree that it is a shame that a few number of people act this way. However. It is not a shame that law enforcement officers are held to a higher standard. JC if you truly believe that we should not be held to a higher standard and if you are a law enforcement officer then maybe you should find a new career. Surely you knew before taking the job that you would be held to a higher standard.
AAAfter 23 years of eating law enforcement agency **** (both as a county deputy and a federal S/A. I’d like to go there, honor our dead, get drunk, and break ****. Tim FTSO
Editor’s Note: This comment was edited to remove profanity.
Oh by the way, I’m not the “Tim” who wrote the article. I’m the old “Tim”.
Editor’s Note: We knew that.
Tim:
Big +1 all around, except that I’m going to have to give you an attitude adjustment about a certain political figure when next we meet….
There’s nothing wrong with a quiet celebration - even if a certain amount of alcohol is consumed. But once you take it outside, in public, it’s a disservice to the profession.
I know you do “get it”…. We’ve been in this discussion before, elsewhere/elsewhen. And it does seem that the further West you go, the more likely you will find that other LEO’s will be less protective towards all but the slightest offense. We can rail about that, but it’s pretty trivial, and generally invisible to the public. Bigger fish to fry….
Very simply, you can’t DEMAND (or even COMMAND) respect. You can only earn it. (’Course, don’t tell the Sergeant about that….)
Regards,
Stu.
I will start by saying, that all though I do not condone the actions of the officers who caused the disruption, I do take offense to the fact that Tim would single out “East Coast and West Coast” in this article. I am of Irish decent and when my grandmother passed away several years ago, she was right off the boat from Ireland, we made our piece and then had one of the best celebrations I have attended in years. You see we mourn for a period and then celebrate the life of our dead. Does this mean that all Irish people are wrong in how they deal with death? It is a cultural thing and I do not think that “East Coast v. West Coast” is the dividing line.
I make it a point to attend as many officer funerals as I can, both east coast, west coast and those land locked areas in between. Although each is different, it is the culture of the department, the people and the area that dictates what occurs before, during and after a funeral. Who is to say which culture is right and which is wrong? And least to label it an “East Coast v. West Coast” mentality.
Tim, just as a side note, I lived on the West Coast and had the opportunity to go out with several officers while there. I have also spent many days with the “West Coast” officers in DC during this week as I have attended for over 10 years. These brothers and sisters from the “West Coast” don’t hold back during this week in DC nor in their home states. Just ask the officer from the Golden Gate area of CA who got drunk partying during Police Week, attempted to capture some photos of one of my “East Coast” sisters by utilizing his cell phone camera in a way that would get you pinched in any state. I wont take your precious time in letting you know his outcome at the hands of this “East Coast” sister, so lets just say that the remedy was a cold steak to the effected area. So much for your “West Coast” professionalism.
So please don’t label it an “East Coast v. West Coast” thing. It only stirs the pot. Let us just call it a small problem that occurs when a group of like people gather no matter where they are from.
Editor’s Note: As I pointed out in another installment, I am of Irish descent. Had I been credited with my proper heritage, my last name would have been “Flanagan.”
Tim I agree with you whole heartedly on some of your observations excludeing the one on east/west coast funerals. I unfortunatly lost one of my brothers that was honored this year and the partying didn’t happen. But on to the BIG picture what happened in D.C. was unaccecptable. Those (so-called) officers disgraced what this whole week was about. This week is about remembering those brothers and sisters that lost their lives last year and the years before. I have been in law enforcement for the past 8 years both in the military side and the civilian side and I have lost brothers on both sides. To Ofc. whosavesurarse you might want to look at why you are working in the profession you are because with several departments I have worked with jointly or been a member of if you would have acted that way being em,ployed with them you would not have a job and more than likely would have trouble geting another law enforcement job. I am a law enforcement officer on the east coast and I don’t understand your reasoning several officers in my department have my number so they can call me if they need a ride so yes you can say I look after my brothers but that is before trouble happens and that is what should happen is stop it before it starts. To all my fellow officers always remember to do the right thing in and out of uniform because whether on duty or not you will always be judged as a law enforcement officer in good situations and bad and the good situations normally arent the ones shown on the 6′oclock news it is normally just the bad ones. To all the families of the officers that were killed in the line on duty last year if reading this remember they maybe be lost but they will never be forgotten.
Now the hand-wringing begins, broken only by periods of self flagellation. Cops are their own worst critics sometime, and I’m sure the Chiefs will all weigh in with self righteous anger. Going along with them will be the persons who wanna be chiefs or persons who go though their time on earth pissed off by the notion someone, somewhere is enjoying them selves.
Frankly, this article (and the posters nodding in agreement) actually pisses me off more than the 4 guys drinking a beer on the “scandalous” video. Or the one nerd on a Segway. Condemn a few that may have crossed the line, sure. They deserve to be spanked. Condemn the drinking, the fun, the party, condemn the feeling of brotherhood? No, you folks do NOT get it. Its sad, really.
I was at Police Week this year, have been for many years. I am moved to tears every year. It reminds me of our sacrifices, and the noble burden we bear. I also sightsee, shop and enjoy DC. I do so respectfully, soberly and with decorum. So I’m OK, according to Mr. Dees.
Gee. I also drink and talk and laugh and become recharged when I feel the brotherhood/sisterhood that is law enforcement. Oops. I guess I should stay home. I must be a disgrace: I spend some time with my brothers and sisters AND John Barleycorn.
I take great offense at dredging up incidents from the past — one over a decade old — saying “This kind of behavior underscores…” It does not underscore anything, except the agenda of the author. 10 - 15 years of police weeks. Thousands of attendees. Evil John Barleycorn lurking in bars. Three very serious problems. (A PD would love to have those stats for their jurisdiction.) Think. No one defends the actions of those past individuals that were arrested and charged. Screw them. Why bring it up?
I was at the infamous corner when MPDC pulled up and asked people in a professional manner to not drink on the street. I also saw them get compliance. Would you arrest a civilian under those circumstances? No. Why would we treat our own different, or take action only on what they are. Are we to be (Shall I use a dirty word, from which chiefs recoil?) profiled in this manner?
And, for your info, it is NOT and East/West coast thing. I’m from that vast area you fly over to get to either. Yes, down there we have towns and cities and cops like you do. Why try and cause some sort of divide that does not exist? I saw cops from all over the world with beers in their hand. Maybe they are from the east coasts of their country. I saw west coast cops arm in arm with evil east coast cops in toasts to fallen comrades. Hmmmm. Damn John Barleycorn must have seduced them to the Dark Side.
Of course I’ve also seen total strangers, united by the badge, comforting their tearful brothers at the memorial, in bars, and on the street. I have been with them. That TOO is the memorial, just as much - maybe more so - than the formal services. I’ll say it again, you either get it, or not.
The cops I know are proud of their profession. The ones I knew who are on the wall, well, loved life and they loved the company and the comradeship of friends. Gosh, and they even liked a good party, too. So why do we celebrate in DC? Well, call it a celebration of their lives, or the profession, and the good fortune of knowing them. You may stay home if that is not your way or it offends you. You are in the minority.
To hear our “friends in the press” talk Police Week should be solemn and reflective. Silent. Low key. Perhaps a spot of afternoon tea when its over. Well, they are the liberal media, who hates us anyway. Now we have supposed cops posting the same thing, insulting those of us that can both honor AND celebrate. Its sad, really.
You cannot expect everyone to react to the obviously emotional character of an event such as this in exactly the same way. Some get somber while others get angry. Some need to cry while others need to laugh. Those that need to cry often find each other and find mutual comfort. Those that need to laugh will find each other as well. So, the “revelry” is not so much a party as it is a “drowning” of the pain. For better or worse some turn to alcohol to numb the pain. Cops are no different from the rest of society in that respect but we are different from the majority of society in that we see and feel and carry more grief and horror than the average citizen. The raising of a glass to fallen comrads is as old as history itself as is the fact that some do not know when to put that glass down. The disease of alcohol takes over. Don’t blame the DC cops for understanding the pain. Alcohol abuse is a condition that police departments need to address long before arriving at this and other events honoring our fallen comrads.
I know the DC resident who taped the misconduct of the officers in question. I want to say, as a retired EMT, who has served beside Law Enforcement for over 20 years I was saddened by the disrespect the handful showed to the thousands.
I appreciate your article and the fact that there are those who understand, even if they do not agree with the actions of reporting this. The residents of DC deserve the respect as a host to this event, and on several occasions have asked that changes be made to the way the event is handled.
I am hopeful that changes can be made, so that those attending can have the freedom to express their grief, and celebrate the lives of those they served with, and who have fallen, without causing conflict with the taxpayers of DC.
Funny, you should point out to everyone the one time a year we get to remember our friends who we have lost. Remember most of the brother and sisters we lost are just like US. We work long hours and never get to let it all out, During this week we cry, we remember , we cry, we go out and try to let off a little stress that this brings. Now I know that some my go a little to far, and need to be settled down by fellow brothers not be placed in the spot light by the local press and then the department is forced to act. I am so sure the people who have filed a complaint and take time to video this just love the police. RIGHT….. I noticed that a news paper had ask to reprint this is his paper, And I am sure you said ok…. REMEMBER we miss the ones we have lost and would I would do anything to bring my friend back. SO to rap this up. everyone knows we will get a little wild with brothers and sisters we have not seen in a year, and after we have cried all day. Please just don’t try and make us out to be officer who don’t know what this week is about. We do know because next year it could my family or my brothers family in the seats. WE are out everyday of every hour. Lets just don’t blow this up and make it more than it is. All I saw was a bunch of cops have fun like everyone else and have not seen any news clips about them????
I have never been to Police Week.. One day… But I have worked security in one of the biggest St. Patrick’s day festival (I will not mention the city’s name, except the festival’s ranked 2nd or 3rd in the nation) Cops and firemen from all over the US, especially from the northeast come to march in the parade. I will spare you the details, but the officers will march around noon.. and 2 hours later they’re SMASHED.. There’s no way around it sad to say. I am a CJ majior in college and a MP for a state defense force unit and some of these officers, being drunk and reveling IN UNIFORM.. have showed me how not to act in public, or private for that matter when I enter the civilian lawenforcement field. Great article as always Tim!
SGT Mack Williams SCSG MP
Time and time again we seem to be our own worst enemies. Officers will end up sacrificial lambs and lose their careers for someone fanning the flames of a complaint that amounts to a summary offense at best in most juristictions.
God forbid an officer who lost a buddy, blows off some steam with a few thousand of his brothers at an organized event.
Sounds to me like the D.C. officers used the same discression that many other police agencies use during bike weeks across the country or in any other large scale event that brings millions of dollars to the local economy.
I say a job well done to the D.C. officers and shame on those who are bringing more attention to this that it really deserves.
I wonder if the author has ever appreciated an officer extending him some professional courtesy by using his discression?
I wonder if the author has ever lost a friend at work and blown off some steam to cope?
I wonder how the author would feel if someone wrote a negative article about the way he chose to cope with the loss of a friend?
Seems like the author has transitioned to his new career in the media well. Shame on you sir.
Editor’s Note: To respond to your questions individually:
I’m an East Coast cop, and I will say this. When I’m dead, if it’s Line of Duty, or shot by a jealous husband, or whatever, I hope that the officers that I’ve worked with will come to my casket, take a Coors Light or Molson Golden from off of the ice surrounding my body, and have a final beer, on me.
No, really, I don’t want my funeral to be a sorrow-filled, sad affair. I want people to remember the good times that they’ve had with me, and (hopefully) the good things that I’ve done. And if that involves a beer, (or 6) then have at it.
As for police week, I can’t and won’t say anything. I wasn’t there.
Tim, Great article!!! No Officer is above reproach when it comes to how they act. As crappy as it may seem we are held to a higher standard, and everyone knew that going into the job and if you can’t handle that maybe you should think of a different line of work. As to your comment about N/E Officers I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt that you did not literally mean all N/E officers are that way, being an avid reader of yours I don’t think your that ignorant. And as to the Bush statement. Well I’m not a Bush fan but it is comforting to know that the leader of our country has enough respect to do that for the victims, thank you for sharing that with us.
Mr Dees, (and others) I don’t believe anyone defends idiots that cross the line. Repeat, a handful of idiots are responsible. We look down on them as idiots that messed it up (if they did what is claimed). I don’t believe that anyone is saying Police Week must be celebrated in a manner that breaks the law. Definitely not.
Your way is respected by any cop with half a brain. Its your way, but it is not everyones way.
Don’t look down on those who make this week about life and brotherhood, as well as tears and memories. I read your blog before the current one, and I find it hard to believe its the same guy. You feel the warmth and brotherhood and “you can start a conversation with anyone.” But you are shocked and amazed when a celebration breaks out with alcohol. Then hours later you are taking (sparse) press reports at face value. WTF?
Now you have Sal diagnosing us with the ‘disease of alcohol’, a poster called InThePublicEye saying they are a retired EMT they ‘know the complainer’ and as an EMT how saddened they are, and supposedly an ex or current MP who is dragging out old drunk cop stories.
Well, the fretting continues. We continue to spank ourselves generally instead of condemning the idiots and marching on.
Friends beget celebrations. In all walks of life. Put a large group of people of common bond together, and what do you expect? Mr. Dees, it will continue to be a celebration. or a party, if you wish. We are not tapping a keg at the Tomb of the Unknown. We are spending sacred moments in sacred places with our memories, and moving elsewhere to share them with friends. Many survivors are right in there with us as honored guests. I have stories about them that tug the soul. Don’t look down your nose at us.
I wondered when someone would trot out the ‘disease of alcohol’ (alcoholism, perhaps?) after the ‘John Barleycorn’ reference in the article. This is insane. There are alcoholics in the profession, and its tragic. But this wasn’t caused by alcoholism. It was just a few idiots. Oh, but I drank so I’m probably ‘in denial’.
In case any of you are wondering, InThePublicEye is the screen name used by the poster of the horrifying video of 4 old farts sharing a beer — oops — one guy sipping a beer — oops — someone racing along on a Segway at 3 mph — er — out of control cops. So they could be the same person, except THAT poster is almost incoherent in their raves. If you do know the poster, tell them they are not helping the cause. Tell them their complaint would have had greater validity if she hadn’t run to “our friends” the press. Let MPDC do their thing, and solve the problem, if any.
And Sgt Mack, thank you for your service. I respectfully would like to ask something: Spare me your drunk cop stories from years ago. Its something a civilian would do. Sort of like when a person meets you finds out you’re a cop, and has to tell you about all the tickets they’ve gotten.
To ALL of you: STOP BEATING YOURSELVES AND EACH OTHER UP. It wasn’t Police Week, or parties, or being from the east, or booze, or the profession. IT WAS A NOISE COMPLAINT. A ticket in most jurisdictions. No one got naked, raped or hurt. I’ll apologize on behalf of Law Enforcement for the lost sleep.
It was a few idiots who didn’t take the hint, and put some MPDC cops in a bad position. Screw em.
Oh, yes, in parting: think about this: Not even the cop bashing press is still running with this non-issue.
Be Safe. See ya in DC 08.
Well I have read “the” article and all the comments associated with it. I will admit that we live in a culturally diverse society. As LEO’s we deal with it day in and day out. We wear a badge and a gun, we place our lives on the line everyday, (hoping that our families never have to attend Police Week as a survivor)we ARE held to a higher standard. But in the end we are only human, with all the flaws and insecurities as everyone else. Though we face situations the average person could not or would not face, we are still only HUMAN.
Regardless of how we deal with the loss of fellow officers (brothers and sisters), it is not a East or West “thing”, it is a human “thing”. As it has been pointed out, we all respond differently; some may “mourn” the death of a loved one and others may “celebrate” the life of the loved one. I have been to funerals where it was all tears and whaling, and others where it was shouting cheering, and rejoicing. It all depends on our perspective.
I work in the DC area as a Federal LEO and have witnessed the outpouring of compassion and respect from the LEO professionals from all over the world.
When the celebrations begin, most of them are confined to the privacy of the facilities that they are held. Sometimes they pour out on the street, but are quickly contained by their fellow LEO’s that are with them. Unfortunately, the roaming cell phone camera or camcorder is present and catch only a few minutes of what was contained and controlled after the outburst. The media does not report the FACTS, they generate sensationalism. The media doesn’t tell the truth, they manufacture the story to get the public roaring. And this is what the NEW Chief of Police created, the trap of politics and sensationalism. Did she have to have the media tale her to the house of a complainant to pick up derogatory video? How many times do you take the media with you on a call to collect evidence?
Rude, AND out of control behavior by any one is not acceptable by any of us under any circumstances LEO’s or Joe Civilian.
The author of the article pointed out the same thing, nothing more, nothing less. As for the President of the United States, I don’t care what what my or his political swayings are, we should all be impressed with the most powerful man in the free world, who has a crammed schedule, that will take all the time necessary to express his gratitude and condolences to the families of fallen heroes whether on the battlefield in a far off land or the streets of our nation.
Thank You to all the LEO’s for your service to our country and STAY SAFE
Excellent article. Just like any barrel there are gonna be a few bad apples. Time and time again we learn this in every aspect of life.
I would add that the president has enjoyed quite a bit of vacation time. I think the 2 hours being important depends on the work and focus that day. I digress. I’ll concede that it was very kind of him to greet each of those people.
Tim,
Being from a “west coast” police agency (LAPD), and having done training all over the country, I would like to weigh in on the west coast versus east coast comments made by you. I have found that the difference in officers and detectives is strictly the product of the professionalism of individual officers and not departments or regions. You have great cops in departments all over this country. You have less than stellar performers even on the west coast Tim. This job is tough enough with out turning on each other. Just as with your original article on the Border Patrol Agents you need to spend a little more time in the common sense section of your brain before you type.
To all the detectives I have worked with on the “east coast”, Tim Dees in no way represents the view point of those who have actually worked with you.
Clay Searle
President
International Narcotics Interdiction Association (INIA)
“I would add that the president has enjoyed quite a bit of vacation time.”
I doubt any chief executive has had a real vacation in office since WW2
I would point out that since I have been going to the memorial, Bill ‘I feel you pain’ Clinton didn’t spend time with the survivors. Neither did his sock puppet Algore when he stood in for the President –coincidently, I’m sure — in the election year. Both delivered impassioned speeches about being a friend to law enforcement and the 10K cops they were putting on the streets.
Bush’s speeches have all been “Thanks”. And he’s spent the time with survivors. Those are the facts, draw what conclusions you may.
Krupak has hit the nail on the head, Great comments, well thought out. I am retired after 33 years. The word professional has been thrown around for years and I am not sure what that really means. We will never reach that status like a doctor, engineer, dentist, a nurse or lawyer. You can’t pick up roots and transfer like one of them, to any department unless you are prepared for another academy and twelve months of probation and a field training officer. Basicly none of our training counts, if we decide to go to another police department, professional, I think not! Sure was enjoyable reading all of the PC cops opinions. A lot of Chief material, noew they are the real trained professionals, they never have to be retrained when they take the reigns of a new department. So sad! Do not miss the BS and PC.
A certain poster reminded me of a point I missed, nevermind the fact it has been beaten beyond recigonition. I’m not bitching about drunk cop stories; I am sick and tired of cops getting drunk and then getting a hand from cops who, if the drunks weren’t cops, would be taking them to County for public intoxication. I’m just saying, if you’re gonna make an ass out of yourself, nothing should save you from the consequences, be it the Chief of police to the newly hired cadet. I understand everyone needs a cold one every now and then, I’m not blasting anyone; everyone needs to cope and everyone have their ways, but there should be some equality. Think about it.
I’m doing this between breaks from class, so forgive me. I really wouldn’t wish anybody to have alot of drunken-person stories. I don’t have too many, after all I still have alot to learn as a LEO (I have been a MP for 4 years and I’m in my early 20’s.) I live in a seperate jurisdiction from my unit’s area of operations, so i see things from both sides; an officer and a civilian. I’m not saying anybody’s an expert in civilian- police relations, nobody is. But some civilians would agree that cops get away with murder- not literally but little things can accluminate. The cop who gets falling down drunk, make noise and the officers who are responding to the complaint take them home, for example. We are here to make the example, not to selectively follow the rules when we feel like to. But this isn’t every cop. Only the few choose to break the rules they have pledged to enforce, They make us all look bad. It doesnt matter if an accused officer is exonerated later. The damage is alreadly done. But I am not bitching, just trying to get a point across. I might go to Police Week next year. I heard it’s an experience that one shouldn’t miss.
In rebuttal.
No, we do not “get away with murder” even in little things you say accumulate. This is not the forum for for burning a lot of electrons explaining the applications of the law, but here’s the Reader’s Digest version: for many minor offenses, traffic, noise, etc. you would have the discretion, as an officer, to take many forms of enforcement. If you stop a civilian for speeding, you might warn him and release, if you feel that will gain his future compliance. If not, you may cite him. Sometimes civilians learn slowly. Fellow officers, however can and should learn immediately. If your power to fit the enforcement action to the offense allows, then you warn them. 99.9% you’ll get an appology. (better odds than the general public) I’ve warned, and also taken home civilians have done minor things wrong. Humans — civilians and cops — sometimes make errors. No criminal or evil intent. Despite what you may see on TV, we do not lock up everyone we contact. Assuming that the cops are getting a wink and a nod that a civilian would never see is something cop bashers like to claim.
The next time some civilian corners you off-duty and talks about cops being sworn to uphold traffic laws, but sometimes they speed, etc; feel free to point out that they agreed to uphold the traffic laws when they got their drivers license. And, gee, do they speed sometimes, too? Have they ever asked for a break? Have they ever gotten one? End of talk. Don’t get sucked into this guilt trip they want you to take.
If I had been dispatched to the “disturbance” the press is claiming for DC, and the offenders were civilians, note this: If I had gotten complaince, as they did (eventually) I would not have made any arrests. Just like they didn’t. The problem was solved. [remember, I was there] If they were CIVILIANS and MPDC had swooped in and started bagging people up, I would speculate (I might be wrong, but…)The press would have been all over them, for locking up people for minor BS that were just having a good time. Next thing, as one of the responders, I’m off to sensitivity classes because I’m “badge heavy” and ‘police executives’ would still be wringing their hands wondering why I did what I did.
NEVER giving a cop a break is not justice. Its false professionalism. Not taking into account his status is putting blinders on, treating him more strictly because of his occupation. Of course, cop or no cop, some lines should not be crossed, and professional courtesy does not apply. None of those happened.
Finally: Yes, there are many experts on police-civilian relations. If you are to be successful in your new career, you best become one, too. Knowing the law, and applying it justly to all persons of all walks of life is not the same thing.
’nuff said.
What ARE our academies teaching these days?
All I can say is disrespect breeds disrespect. Not sure how an editorial written as a piece to bash fellow officers is even open to discussion by other officers. Obviously we have lost track on what this is about. Personal Contributions. How much money have each of you raised to donate to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund? How much for the Museum they are building? How much have your raised or even donated to a political cause or candidate? Tim can sit here and bash us all he wants, disparage the President he may not agree with, but without some proof that he actually does anything to support us or a candidate, I would suggest he stick to writing about his trips, police gear and technology. The proof is in the pudding, and last I checked, Officer.com has not even made a direct donation to the NLEOMF no has Tim Dees! I hope I am wrong and that they have donated at least $25,000..am I wrong? Sitting there making comments from the crowd is a lot easier than standing up front and making a positive difference. But then I guess that is par for Tim as he only served a short time I take it in a tiny department.
Editor’s Note: I can’t speak to my employer’s corporate giving record, as I am not involved in those decisions. I assure you that I make regular personal donations to the NLEOMF, but I don’t know how you could check on that. I’m not going to publish my tax returns for your benefit. My active police service spanned fifteen years, mostly in an agency of about 300 sworn officers, and was enough that I get a pension check every month and have a retired officer’s ID in my pocket.
Officer Tim has proven is salt. Some of you are rusty behind the ears and could use a takeing out behind the barn and set straight. I agree with O.Tim and his character like most of us is not perfect. But hey, get over it! Have a good day~
WTF? What did that last post even mean?
I mean what is the point?
I guess this discussion/thread is officially finished.
Be Safe, my brothers & sisters.