FALSE CONFESSION CASES
A recent article that appeared on the John E. Reid & Associates popular investigative web site dealt with the issue of �False Confession Cases�. Some of the highlights from this are excerpted for your review. This area is certainly one that has been receiving increased attention lately.
In the past several years a number of false confession cases have received extensive publicity. In several of these cases the convicted individual has been exonerated by DNA testing and the actual perpetrator, in turn, has been identified. In these cases it is important to examine in detail exactly what happened; what went wrong; what are the lessons to be learned, and what are potential safeguards that can be put into place to prevent future mistakes.
To be sure, in the experience of most professional interrogators the frequency of false confessions is rare. When we do learn of them, however, the interrogation tactics and techniques should be scrupulously examined, as well as the circumstances surrounding the interrogation. When this has been done, there are four factors that appear with some regularity in false confession cases:
1. The suspect is a juvenile; and/or
2. The suspect suffers some mental or psychological impairment; and/or
3. The interrogation took place over an inordinate amount of time; and/or
4. The interrogators engaged in illegal tactics and techniques
Every interrogator must exercise extreme caution and care when interviewing or interrogating a juvenile or a person who is mentally or psychologically impaired. Certainly these individuals can and do commit very serious crimes. But when a juvenile or person who is mentally or psychologically impaired confesses, the investigator should exercise extreme diligence in establishing the accuracy of such a statement through subsequent corroboration. In these situations it is imperative that interrogators do not reveal details of the crime so that they can use the disclosure of such information by the suspect as verification of the confession�s authenticity.
A review of the available information in false confession cases has revealed that in many of the interrogations the investigators engaged in the use of impermissible threats and promises. Interrogators in these cases have made such statements as: "You�re not leaving this room until you confess", and "If you tell me you did this you can go home and sleep in your own bed tonight (when such is not the case)."
A tactic utilized in interviewing according to �The Reid Technique� involves the use of alternative questioning. The proper of use of the alternative question should never threaten consequences or offer promises of leniency.
The following are improper alternative question examples:
"Do you want to cooperate with me and tell me what happened, or spend the next five to seven years behind bars?" (improper)
"Do you want to be charged with first degree murder, which will mean life in prison, or was this just manslaughter?" (improper)
There has been the suggestion by some critics of police interrogation techniques that the alternative question � "Was this your idea or did your buddies talk you into it?" is potentially dangerous because it only offers a suspect (including an innocent one) only two choices, both of which amount to an admission of guilt. Obviously the third choice is for the suspect to deny any participation in the commission of the crime that is under investigation.
It should be noted, however, that the courts have rejected the idea that a confession is inadmissible if a suspect confesses because he harbors some internal hope that his confession may lead to a lesser sentence.
Confession corroboration may be a vital task for the investigator.
Simply taking a confession at its face value, without ensuring the accuracy of the statement, could lead to problems later on.
It is imperative that interrogators do not reveal details of the crime so that they can use the disclosure of such information by the suspect as verification of the confession�s authenticity. In each case there should be documented "hold back" information about the details of how the crime was committed; details from the crime scene; details about specific activities perpetrated by the offender; etc. This is becoming increasingly more and more difficult in the atmosphere of multiple sources requiring a �Need to know�! Have you ever decided to hold back what you felt would be a key piece of information, only to read about it the next morning in the NY POST?
The goal should be to match the suspect�s confession against these details to establish the veracity of the statement. It should be remembered, however, that suspects do not always tell us everything that they did and they do not always remember all of the details themselves. �It is also a fact that most confessors to crimes of a serious nature will lie about some aspect of the occurrence, even though they may have disclosed the full truth regarding the main event. They will lie about some detail of the crime for which they have a greater feeling of shame than that which they experienced with respect to the main event itself."
Nevertheless, when significant and substantial contradictions exist between the known facts about the crime and what the suspect describes in his confession, extreme care must be exercised in the assessment of the confession�s validity.
OLD TIME CRIME NEWS
I�ve recently received a copy of an article that was written by Lona Manning for a publication named OLD NEWS, on the story behind Detective Joseph Faurot, the NYPD detective who pioneered the fingerprint identification system as a means of making criminal identifications here in New York, in the early 1900�s.
Prior to that Faurot and other policemen in New York City used a method called the Bertillon system to keep track of repeat offenders.
The Bertillon system was developed in 1885 by Alphonse Bertillon of the French criminal investigative agency, or Surete, which assisted in identifying criminals no matter what alias they used.
Whenever a suspect was arrested, the police recorded his hair color, eye color, and other distinguishing characteristics, and also recorded various body measurements such as height, forearm length, and width of the head. These details were noted on index cards with mug shot photos attached, giving each criminal a unique identification.
You can check out Lona Manning�s web site, which has links to her other crime related articles, at the following:
http://www.crimemagazine.com/authors/lmanning.htm
SOME COPS ARE A MAGNET FOR ACTION
I came across an article in the Summer 1979 edition of Spring 3100 concerning two friends, and an incident they were involved in while still assigned to the 83 Precinct.
At the time they were radio car partners in the 83 Pct, and PO Jack Beisel and PO William Kilbride responded to a silent alarm that was set off inside a Bushwick bar by the owner as he was being held up by two men.
Arriving on the scene the officers found the front door locked, and a man inside refused to open the doors. They solved that problem by obtaining a key from the building owner�s wife. Once inside they saw another man coming from the rear with a gun and holster clipped to his belt, off-duty style. Announcing to the officers that he was �on the job�, he produced a shield and ID of a correction officer. He was immediately contradicted by the owner, who yelled from the rear that he was being robbed. Guns wre drawn and shooting started.
The gunfire wounded Beisel in the chest, but he was able to get himself up and join Kilbride in a shot-filled pursuit of the gunmen. Although the gunmen was struck in the back he avoided capture until other responding officers from the 83 found him lying in a vacant lot. The second gunmen was arrested later at his residence.
Beisel was taken to Wyckoff Hospital where he satisfactorily recovered from his wound.
What the Spring article doesn�t fill in is a post-script to these officers.
Following this incident, Beisel and Kilbride were offered an opportunity to change commands, and seeking a change in work environment they were transferred to the 11 Precinct; closer to home, and a little less action. So you would think.
Shortly after arriving in the 111 Pct, the Brooklyn North at heart officers managed to keep themselves busy. Responding to a stolen car report they soon found themselves (once again) in pursuit � shots fired and all. No injuries to the MOS; arrest effected.
Jack Beisel and Bill Kilbride later attained their gold shields, and continued as very active homicide detectives in Queens (covering the back of The Minister�s father, I�d like to add).
At last contact they had retired, continuing their law enforcement expertise with the Queens DA�s Office.
CRUISER PATROLS
One of the early duties performed by the Detective Bureau (Detective Division at the time) included assignment to �Cruiser patrols� within a division.
At a time when precincts did not have officers working in plainclothes (there was no Anti-Crime teams), the Detectives that were assigned to �Cruiser patrols� performed those functions. This was the �first stop� for many newly-assigned white shields to The Squad.
WHERE DID THE TERM "COPS" COME FROM?
When the first police force began to patrol in the summer of 1845, they only badges on their civilian clothing. The badges were 8 pointed stars with the seal of the City at the center and were made of stamped copper.
The newspapers of the time referred to the new force as the "Star Police" but people seeing the shiny copper shields began to call the new force "Coppers" which was later shortened to "Cops."
There is also a British police term; Constable On Patrol which may account for the term "cops" in England as well.
Travelers to Chicago will note that the term �coppers� is still used today when referring to police officers there.
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
June 18, 1932 Ptl Joseph Burke, 32 Pct, Shot-robbery in progress
June 19, 1980 PO Joseph Keegan, TD1, Shot-arrest
June 20, 1930 Ptl Patrick Mitchell, 30 Pct, Shot
June 20, 1942 Ptl William Rooney, 30 Pct, Shot
June 20, 1974 Lt. Henry Schiermann, InspSvcs, Shot-off duty robbery
June 22, 1942 Ptl Joseph Swoboda, Traffic C, Trolley car accident
June 24, 1922 Ptl William Dearies, 113 Pct, Line of duty incident
June 26, 1918 Ptl Jospeh Nolan, 22 Pct, Brick thrown causing head injury
June 26, 1930 Ptl Wilson Fields, 62 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
June 26, 1937 Ptl George Mahonken, Mcy Unit, Motorcycle accident
June 26, 1977 Det Henry McDevitt, 48 Pct, Assaulted
Monday, June 21, 2004
Monday, June 14, 2004
THE NYPD MEDAL OF HONOR
Awarded to those members of the department undergoing extraordinary personal risk and exhibiting indomitable courage in the performance of duty. This medal was awarded from 1912 to 1972.
What was to become known as the Police Department Medal of Honor was designed in 1912 by Tiffany & Co. It was initially referred to as The Department Medal, but on October 10, 1914, Police Commissioner Woods announced that the name of the honorable Mention Medal was changed to the Medal of Honor.
Until 1921, there had never been a posthumous award of a medal. Upon recommendation of the Honor Committee, it was Police Commissioner Enright who approved the posthumous award of the Medal of Honor to members of the department killed in the performance of duty.
The first posthumous awards were made in 1921 and were retroactive to 1918.
From 1918 to 1972 there were only four years � 1956, 1958, 1959, 1969 � in which there were no posthumous awards of the medal of Honor. The most posthumous awards, 11, were made in 1931.
The first presentation of the Medal of Honor went to a Detective Bureau member. Acting detective Sergeant Charles Carrao was honored for his actions in the early morning hours of September 15, 1911. He followed a suspected Black Hand bomber into a tenement house on East 13th Street. The bomber lit the fuse to the bomb, which Det. Carrao pulled out and extinguished on the hallway floor. With the aid of other detectives the bomber was arrested.
SUMMER OF 79: HE WOULD BE CHIEF
The Summer of 1979 was extremely busy for this department. The Summer issue of Spring 3100 contains many notable entries, among which is a Medal Day ceremony of some note.
The June 12, 1979 Medal Day saw the Police Combat Cross awarded to two members of the 83 Precinct for actions they performed on March 15, 1978.
On that day PO Fred Falcone and PO Joseph Esposito were informed that three men, one armed, had just entered a store. As the officers approached, the men fled and during the subsequent chase a gun battle ensued resulting in the wounding and capture of a suspect.
You all know one of those PO�s as Chief Of Department today!
This same Medal Day saw the Medal of Honor awarded, posthumously, to PO Norman Cerullo and PO Christie Masone of the 79 Pct.
Six members of Brooklyn North were awarded the Combat Cross, and another nine MOS from Brooklyn North were awarded the Medal for Valor at this ceremony.
IN MEMORIAM: PTL. WILLIAM RAMOS
Ptl. William Ramos of the 80th Precinct was killed in the line of duty on June 14, 1960, while intervening in a holdup that had just taken place.
At about 1320 on June 14, 1960, Ptl. Ramos was on foot patrol on Fulton Street when he intercepted a man and a woman leaving the scene of an armed robbery they had committed in a hotel at 124 Fulton Street, Brooklyn. During an exchange of shots in which the holdup man was wounded, Ptl. Ramos was fatally wounded and died later that day.
The two bandits were arrested later the same day.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
For help in locating a particular state agency or office you can try contacting the general information operator. Local state�s operator information numbers are:
New York 518-474-2121
New Jersey 609-292-2121
Connecticut 860-566-4200
Pennsylvania 717-787-2121
FOR THE CULINARY DETECTIVE
The publisher for a cook book featuring recipes from law enforcement officers is seeking contributions.
The publisher is coming out with a wonderful cookbook this fall featuring recipes from law enforcement from all over the country and the world. The book will feature photos of each contributor, their special dishes, and a brief history of their career.
They have already received some great submissions from all over, but could certainly use some contributions from New York.
You can check out the book's website at:
www.culinarycops.com
You can contact the publisher directly via e-mail at:
clconnor@culinarycops.com
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
June 9, 1931 Sgt William O�Shaughnessy, 28 Pct, Shot-robbery in progress
June 9, 1939 Ptl Alexander Stult, ESU, Asphyxiated during rescue
June 9, 1969 Sgt Edward Henninger, AIS, LOD heart attack
June 11, 1925 Ptl James Cullen, 37 Pct, Motorcycle accident
June 12, 1991 PO Kenneth Hansen, Harbor, Drowned
June 14, 1960 Ptl William Ramos Jr, 80 Pct, Shot-robbery
June 15, 1944 Ptl Eliote Holmes, 13 Sqd, Line of duty injury
June 15, 1967 Ptl Walter Ferguson, DetDiv, LOD Heart attack
June 15, 1979 PO Ted Donald, PSA7, Shot-burglary arrest
June 15, 1980 PO John Patwell, 43 Pct, LOD Injured
June 15, 1983 PO John Mandia, 25 Pct, Fell under train
June 15, 1984 PO Juan Andino, 40 Pct, Shot-robbery arrest
June 16, 1927 Sgt Joseph Weckesser, 71 Pct, Fire rescue
June 16, 1967 Ptl Lloyd Innes, TD30, Shot-previously arrested by him
June 16, 1988 PO Gary Peaco, PSA7, Auto accident
June 17, 1912 Ptl Thomas O�Connell, 29 Pct, Drowned during rescue
June 17, 1973 PO Ralph Stanchi, 32 Pct, Shot-investigation
Awarded to those members of the department undergoing extraordinary personal risk and exhibiting indomitable courage in the performance of duty. This medal was awarded from 1912 to 1972.
What was to become known as the Police Department Medal of Honor was designed in 1912 by Tiffany & Co. It was initially referred to as The Department Medal, but on October 10, 1914, Police Commissioner Woods announced that the name of the honorable Mention Medal was changed to the Medal of Honor.
Until 1921, there had never been a posthumous award of a medal. Upon recommendation of the Honor Committee, it was Police Commissioner Enright who approved the posthumous award of the Medal of Honor to members of the department killed in the performance of duty.
The first posthumous awards were made in 1921 and were retroactive to 1918.
From 1918 to 1972 there were only four years � 1956, 1958, 1959, 1969 � in which there were no posthumous awards of the medal of Honor. The most posthumous awards, 11, were made in 1931.
The first presentation of the Medal of Honor went to a Detective Bureau member. Acting detective Sergeant Charles Carrao was honored for his actions in the early morning hours of September 15, 1911. He followed a suspected Black Hand bomber into a tenement house on East 13th Street. The bomber lit the fuse to the bomb, which Det. Carrao pulled out and extinguished on the hallway floor. With the aid of other detectives the bomber was arrested.
SUMMER OF 79: HE WOULD BE CHIEF
The Summer of 1979 was extremely busy for this department. The Summer issue of Spring 3100 contains many notable entries, among which is a Medal Day ceremony of some note.
The June 12, 1979 Medal Day saw the Police Combat Cross awarded to two members of the 83 Precinct for actions they performed on March 15, 1978.
On that day PO Fred Falcone and PO Joseph Esposito were informed that three men, one armed, had just entered a store. As the officers approached, the men fled and during the subsequent chase a gun battle ensued resulting in the wounding and capture of a suspect.
You all know one of those PO�s as Chief Of Department today!
This same Medal Day saw the Medal of Honor awarded, posthumously, to PO Norman Cerullo and PO Christie Masone of the 79 Pct.
Six members of Brooklyn North were awarded the Combat Cross, and another nine MOS from Brooklyn North were awarded the Medal for Valor at this ceremony.
IN MEMORIAM: PTL. WILLIAM RAMOS
Ptl. William Ramos of the 80th Precinct was killed in the line of duty on June 14, 1960, while intervening in a holdup that had just taken place.
At about 1320 on June 14, 1960, Ptl. Ramos was on foot patrol on Fulton Street when he intercepted a man and a woman leaving the scene of an armed robbery they had committed in a hotel at 124 Fulton Street, Brooklyn. During an exchange of shots in which the holdup man was wounded, Ptl. Ramos was fatally wounded and died later that day.
The two bandits were arrested later the same day.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
For help in locating a particular state agency or office you can try contacting the general information operator. Local state�s operator information numbers are:
New York 518-474-2121
New Jersey 609-292-2121
Connecticut 860-566-4200
Pennsylvania 717-787-2121
FOR THE CULINARY DETECTIVE
The publisher for a cook book featuring recipes from law enforcement officers is seeking contributions.
The publisher is coming out with a wonderful cookbook this fall featuring recipes from law enforcement from all over the country and the world. The book will feature photos of each contributor, their special dishes, and a brief history of their career.
They have already received some great submissions from all over, but could certainly use some contributions from New York.
You can check out the book's website at:
www.culinarycops.com
You can contact the publisher directly via e-mail at:
clconnor@culinarycops.com
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
June 9, 1931 Sgt William O�Shaughnessy, 28 Pct, Shot-robbery in progress
June 9, 1939 Ptl Alexander Stult, ESU, Asphyxiated during rescue
June 9, 1969 Sgt Edward Henninger, AIS, LOD heart attack
June 11, 1925 Ptl James Cullen, 37 Pct, Motorcycle accident
June 12, 1991 PO Kenneth Hansen, Harbor, Drowned
June 14, 1960 Ptl William Ramos Jr, 80 Pct, Shot-robbery
June 15, 1944 Ptl Eliote Holmes, 13 Sqd, Line of duty injury
June 15, 1967 Ptl Walter Ferguson, DetDiv, LOD Heart attack
June 15, 1979 PO Ted Donald, PSA7, Shot-burglary arrest
June 15, 1980 PO John Patwell, 43 Pct, LOD Injured
June 15, 1983 PO John Mandia, 25 Pct, Fell under train
June 15, 1984 PO Juan Andino, 40 Pct, Shot-robbery arrest
June 16, 1927 Sgt Joseph Weckesser, 71 Pct, Fire rescue
June 16, 1967 Ptl Lloyd Innes, TD30, Shot-previously arrested by him
June 16, 1988 PO Gary Peaco, PSA7, Auto accident
June 17, 1912 Ptl Thomas O�Connell, 29 Pct, Drowned during rescue
June 17, 1973 PO Ralph Stanchi, 32 Pct, Shot-investigation
Monday, June 07, 2004
MORE ON THE FRENCH CONNECTION
It was October 7, 1961, when Sonny Grosso and Eddie Egan, two detectives in the Narcotics Division, were so elated that they �went out on the town, despite having worked for the past twenty-seven hours�. So describes the beginning of this infamous case by Edward Conlon, in his recent blockbuster book BLUE BLOOD.
They went to the Copacabana, because Egan had his eyes on the coat-check girl, and because they could easily tin their way in to the swank club.
It was there that they recognized some mob-connected dope dealers and gamblers, but were stunned by the person who was the center of attention, as they had no idea who he was. The detective instincts in them took over, they followed this person from the club as he changed cars, parked a car, and ended up in a Brooklyn (North) luncheonette on Bushwick Avenue and Maujer Street.
So begins the investigation of what is perhaps the most celebrated investigation in NYPD history, related in a great book and an even greater movie, as the French Connection.
All knew Eddie Egan, who made First Grade in just four years on the job, as �Bullets� or �Popeye�. The Irish street kid, he was outgoing and �hard-charging, skirt-chasing, strongly built with a bit of a belly, ruddy and fair�.
Sonny Grosso was known as �Cloudy� because �he kept an eye on the down side�. He was also �disciplined and reserved, tall and thin, with dark eyes and olive skin�. A sharp contrast to his partner, for sure.
It is noted that Popeye made detective a year after he joined the department, and that he and Grosso teamed up in narcotics in 1959.
One of the ways that the movie version of the French Connection is perversely gripping is in its depiction of the grueling dullness of surveillance, and the monotony of putting a case together. �It was all shoe leather and peeking around corners�, real detective work, that put everything together.
The scene in the movie where Popeye and one of the Frogs do an elaborate dance in the subway, stepping on the train, then off, then on, until the Frog is on and Popeye is off, and he tips his hat as the train pulls away � that happened. The famous car chase scene as the elevated train is pursued from station to station � didn�t. Sonny and Popeye did have to beat a train to the next stop, but the train was underground. Although they did have to dodge midtown traffic, trying to beat the Shuttle from Grand Central to Times Square, there was no shoot-out at the end.
The car they seized the heroin from was a 1960 Buick Invicta, which had nearly 112 pounds of nearly pure heroin concealed in the rocker panels. By the way, in the movie, when the French television anchor goes to the auto pound to retrieve his car, the Sergeant at the desk is played by Randy Jurgensen � one of Grosso�s former partners, who played a large part in the Murder at the Harlem Mosque incident.
This great narcotics investigation became a legendary one. At the time the NYPD had only 200 cops assigned to the Narcotics Division, and there were only sixty federal drug agents assigned to New York. The drugs that they seized consisted of approximately one month�s supply of heroin for the entire country.
What the movie left out was that a large part of the drug seizure took place months after the initial ones. The first phase took three months; the second phase that involved the Frenchmen took another ten days. For another full month Sonny and Popeye had to sit in a basement in the Bronx, surveilling a steamer trunk, where the luncheonette thugs brother lived. Of course, when would this surveillance come to fruition? On a Saturday that Sonny was the best man at a wedding, wearing a tuxedo at St. Patrick�s cathedral, he got a call from Popeye telling him to �Get back, this is it�.
Sonny skipped the reception and came back to collar the main target wearing his black tie outfit!
WHEN DID THE NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ACTUALLY START?
When the High Constable of New York City, Jacob Hays retired from service in 1844, permission was granted by the Governor of the state to the Mayor of the City to create a Police Department.
A force of approximately 800 men under the first Chief of Police, George W. Matsell, began to patrol the City in July of 1845. They wore badges that had an eight-pointed star (representing the first 8 paid members of the old Watch during Dutch times). The badges had the seal of the City in their center and were made of stamped copper.
THE DEPARTMENT MEDAL
From 1889 to 1911, the department awarded a medal known as the Department Medal, or �Medal of Honor�.
On January 15, 1889, the Board of Police Commissioners made Honorable Mention in the minutes of the board meeting and awarded a Department Medal to Ptl. John Meagher of the Steamboat Squad for his rescue of a man who had jumped into the North River. This medal was previously known as the Honorable Mention Badge. After 1889 the medal was known as the Department Medal, or a Medal of Honor.
Although not always done so, some commissioners, in particular Theodore Roosevelt, would have a formal presentation ceremony at Headquarters.
INTERESTING WEB SITES
Clumsy Crooks - A hilarious lineup of true stories of actual crimes committed by clumsy crooks.
http://www.clumsycrooks.com/
Government Telephone Directory Online
The Government Services Administration recently revised U.S. Blue Pages Online. You can search federal government blue page listings by state, city and state, area code or keyword.
http://www.usbluepages.gov/gsabluepages/
HALL OF HEROES
Did you know that there are approximately 75 New York City Police Officers who fell in the line of duty that are NOT included on the Memorial at One Police Plaza, nor the Memorial at Battery Park?
On the fourth floor of the Police Museum, the Hall of Heroes, there are still spaces where the badges of these fallen officers were supposed to have been added, but any recognition by the City of New York of the sacrifice that these men made has been indefinitely postponed. A ceremony had been scheduled to install their names on the Memorial at One Police Plaza in September 2001 - it was postponed due to the events of 9/11. Under the Bloomberg administration, there is no intention of ever rescheduling any acknowledgement of the ultimate sacrifice of over 77 men of the New York Police Department.
Several police organizations are in the process of correcting this oversight.
SPRING BREAK
It was nice to see the great turnout at the recent Brooklyn North Detective Club Spring BBQ.
So many of our members showed up for great time, that was aided by some great weather as well. It was nice to see those retirees taking the time out to join us as well. Joe Heffernan looked great, well tanned, and at ease with everything. There was Bobby Quinlan and Steve Amalfitano, recent 75 Squad retirees, joining in as well. They both looked great! Retirement seems to suit them well, as it does for Bobby Gates, and Bobby Fragoletti. Fragoletti thought he could combine the detective�s BBQ into a dinner he owed some former team members, but they wouldn�t have any of that! He�ll just have to make up with a special lunch at Mendy�s.
Louis Savarese and Lester Kakol put a lot of hard work into setting things up, and it was greatly appreciated. Paddy Adams did a fine job grilling the food to perfection. The festivities weren�t complete until some of our more valiant gumshoe�s jumped in to take part in some karaoke � (dare I say who they were?).
A great time was certainly had by all!
CONDOLENCES ARE EXTENDED
All of the Brooklyn North Detective Family wish to extend our sympathy to the family of Det. Larry Eggers, from Brooklyn North Homicide, whose nephew was killed while serving in the Armed Forces this past week.
On May 29, 2004, three soldiers three soldiers supporting Operation Enduring Freedom were killed in action. They died in Kandahar, Afghanistan, when the vehicle they were operating hit a land mine.
Larry�s nephew, Capt. Daniel W. Eggers, 28, of Cape Coral, Fla, was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), from Fort Bragg, N.C.
Other casualties were Staff Sgt. Robert J. Mogensen, 26, of Leesville, La. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, NC and Pfc. Joseph A. Jeffries, 21, of Beaverton, Ore. He was assigned to the Army Reserve�s 329th Psychological Operations Company, Portland, Ore.
Captain Eggers will be returned to the States, and following a memorial service in his hometown he will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
IN MEMORIAM: PTL. SID THOMPSON
Ptl. Sid Thompson of the Transit Police Department was assigned in plainclothes on a fare evasion stakeout at the 174th Street IRT No. 2 subway station in the Bronx on June 5, 1973.
While attempting to arrest a fare evader, Officer Thompson was fatally shot by the farebeater�s companion. Both were linked to the Black Liberation Army terrorist group.
Later, in a police raid of an apartment, one suspect was killed, others were arrested, and a Transit detective was wounded.
Officer Thompson left a wife, a son who became a New York City Police Officer, and a daughter.
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
June 2, 1973 PO Robert Laurenson, 20 Pct, Shot-robbery
June 2, 1989 PO Jeff Herman, 71 Pct, Shot-investigation
June 3, 1938 Ptl James Fisher, 73 Pct, Shot-accidental discharge
June 4, 1927 Sgt Benjamin Cantor, DetDiv, Shot-robbery arrest
June 4, 1932 Ptl Thomas Burns, McyUnit, Injured on patrol
June 5, 1977 PO Sid Thompson, TD12, Shot-arrest
June 6, 1939 Ptl Emmitt Cassidy, 120 Pct, Shot-off duty incident
June 8, 1958 Ptl Herman Corn, 52 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
It was October 7, 1961, when Sonny Grosso and Eddie Egan, two detectives in the Narcotics Division, were so elated that they �went out on the town, despite having worked for the past twenty-seven hours�. So describes the beginning of this infamous case by Edward Conlon, in his recent blockbuster book BLUE BLOOD.
They went to the Copacabana, because Egan had his eyes on the coat-check girl, and because they could easily tin their way in to the swank club.
It was there that they recognized some mob-connected dope dealers and gamblers, but were stunned by the person who was the center of attention, as they had no idea who he was. The detective instincts in them took over, they followed this person from the club as he changed cars, parked a car, and ended up in a Brooklyn (North) luncheonette on Bushwick Avenue and Maujer Street.
So begins the investigation of what is perhaps the most celebrated investigation in NYPD history, related in a great book and an even greater movie, as the French Connection.
All knew Eddie Egan, who made First Grade in just four years on the job, as �Bullets� or �Popeye�. The Irish street kid, he was outgoing and �hard-charging, skirt-chasing, strongly built with a bit of a belly, ruddy and fair�.
Sonny Grosso was known as �Cloudy� because �he kept an eye on the down side�. He was also �disciplined and reserved, tall and thin, with dark eyes and olive skin�. A sharp contrast to his partner, for sure.
It is noted that Popeye made detective a year after he joined the department, and that he and Grosso teamed up in narcotics in 1959.
One of the ways that the movie version of the French Connection is perversely gripping is in its depiction of the grueling dullness of surveillance, and the monotony of putting a case together. �It was all shoe leather and peeking around corners�, real detective work, that put everything together.
The scene in the movie where Popeye and one of the Frogs do an elaborate dance in the subway, stepping on the train, then off, then on, until the Frog is on and Popeye is off, and he tips his hat as the train pulls away � that happened. The famous car chase scene as the elevated train is pursued from station to station � didn�t. Sonny and Popeye did have to beat a train to the next stop, but the train was underground. Although they did have to dodge midtown traffic, trying to beat the Shuttle from Grand Central to Times Square, there was no shoot-out at the end.
The car they seized the heroin from was a 1960 Buick Invicta, which had nearly 112 pounds of nearly pure heroin concealed in the rocker panels. By the way, in the movie, when the French television anchor goes to the auto pound to retrieve his car, the Sergeant at the desk is played by Randy Jurgensen � one of Grosso�s former partners, who played a large part in the Murder at the Harlem Mosque incident.
This great narcotics investigation became a legendary one. At the time the NYPD had only 200 cops assigned to the Narcotics Division, and there were only sixty federal drug agents assigned to New York. The drugs that they seized consisted of approximately one month�s supply of heroin for the entire country.
What the movie left out was that a large part of the drug seizure took place months after the initial ones. The first phase took three months; the second phase that involved the Frenchmen took another ten days. For another full month Sonny and Popeye had to sit in a basement in the Bronx, surveilling a steamer trunk, where the luncheonette thugs brother lived. Of course, when would this surveillance come to fruition? On a Saturday that Sonny was the best man at a wedding, wearing a tuxedo at St. Patrick�s cathedral, he got a call from Popeye telling him to �Get back, this is it�.
Sonny skipped the reception and came back to collar the main target wearing his black tie outfit!
WHEN DID THE NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ACTUALLY START?
When the High Constable of New York City, Jacob Hays retired from service in 1844, permission was granted by the Governor of the state to the Mayor of the City to create a Police Department.
A force of approximately 800 men under the first Chief of Police, George W. Matsell, began to patrol the City in July of 1845. They wore badges that had an eight-pointed star (representing the first 8 paid members of the old Watch during Dutch times). The badges had the seal of the City in their center and were made of stamped copper.
THE DEPARTMENT MEDAL
From 1889 to 1911, the department awarded a medal known as the Department Medal, or �Medal of Honor�.
On January 15, 1889, the Board of Police Commissioners made Honorable Mention in the minutes of the board meeting and awarded a Department Medal to Ptl. John Meagher of the Steamboat Squad for his rescue of a man who had jumped into the North River. This medal was previously known as the Honorable Mention Badge. After 1889 the medal was known as the Department Medal, or a Medal of Honor.
Although not always done so, some commissioners, in particular Theodore Roosevelt, would have a formal presentation ceremony at Headquarters.
INTERESTING WEB SITES
Clumsy Crooks - A hilarious lineup of true stories of actual crimes committed by clumsy crooks.
http://www.clumsycrooks.com/
Government Telephone Directory Online
The Government Services Administration recently revised U.S. Blue Pages Online. You can search federal government blue page listings by state, city and state, area code or keyword.
http://www.usbluepages.gov/gsabluepages/
HALL OF HEROES
Did you know that there are approximately 75 New York City Police Officers who fell in the line of duty that are NOT included on the Memorial at One Police Plaza, nor the Memorial at Battery Park?
On the fourth floor of the Police Museum, the Hall of Heroes, there are still spaces where the badges of these fallen officers were supposed to have been added, but any recognition by the City of New York of the sacrifice that these men made has been indefinitely postponed. A ceremony had been scheduled to install their names on the Memorial at One Police Plaza in September 2001 - it was postponed due to the events of 9/11. Under the Bloomberg administration, there is no intention of ever rescheduling any acknowledgement of the ultimate sacrifice of over 77 men of the New York Police Department.
Several police organizations are in the process of correcting this oversight.
SPRING BREAK
It was nice to see the great turnout at the recent Brooklyn North Detective Club Spring BBQ.
So many of our members showed up for great time, that was aided by some great weather as well. It was nice to see those retirees taking the time out to join us as well. Joe Heffernan looked great, well tanned, and at ease with everything. There was Bobby Quinlan and Steve Amalfitano, recent 75 Squad retirees, joining in as well. They both looked great! Retirement seems to suit them well, as it does for Bobby Gates, and Bobby Fragoletti. Fragoletti thought he could combine the detective�s BBQ into a dinner he owed some former team members, but they wouldn�t have any of that! He�ll just have to make up with a special lunch at Mendy�s.
Louis Savarese and Lester Kakol put a lot of hard work into setting things up, and it was greatly appreciated. Paddy Adams did a fine job grilling the food to perfection. The festivities weren�t complete until some of our more valiant gumshoe�s jumped in to take part in some karaoke � (dare I say who they were?).
A great time was certainly had by all!
CONDOLENCES ARE EXTENDED
All of the Brooklyn North Detective Family wish to extend our sympathy to the family of Det. Larry Eggers, from Brooklyn North Homicide, whose nephew was killed while serving in the Armed Forces this past week.
On May 29, 2004, three soldiers three soldiers supporting Operation Enduring Freedom were killed in action. They died in Kandahar, Afghanistan, when the vehicle they were operating hit a land mine.
Larry�s nephew, Capt. Daniel W. Eggers, 28, of Cape Coral, Fla, was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), from Fort Bragg, N.C.
Other casualties were Staff Sgt. Robert J. Mogensen, 26, of Leesville, La. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, NC and Pfc. Joseph A. Jeffries, 21, of Beaverton, Ore. He was assigned to the Army Reserve�s 329th Psychological Operations Company, Portland, Ore.
Captain Eggers will be returned to the States, and following a memorial service in his hometown he will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
IN MEMORIAM: PTL. SID THOMPSON
Ptl. Sid Thompson of the Transit Police Department was assigned in plainclothes on a fare evasion stakeout at the 174th Street IRT No. 2 subway station in the Bronx on June 5, 1973.
While attempting to arrest a fare evader, Officer Thompson was fatally shot by the farebeater�s companion. Both were linked to the Black Liberation Army terrorist group.
Later, in a police raid of an apartment, one suspect was killed, others were arrested, and a Transit detective was wounded.
Officer Thompson left a wife, a son who became a New York City Police Officer, and a daughter.
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
June 2, 1973 PO Robert Laurenson, 20 Pct, Shot-robbery
June 2, 1989 PO Jeff Herman, 71 Pct, Shot-investigation
June 3, 1938 Ptl James Fisher, 73 Pct, Shot-accidental discharge
June 4, 1927 Sgt Benjamin Cantor, DetDiv, Shot-robbery arrest
June 4, 1932 Ptl Thomas Burns, McyUnit, Injured on patrol
June 5, 1977 PO Sid Thompson, TD12, Shot-arrest
June 6, 1939 Ptl Emmitt Cassidy, 120 Pct, Shot-off duty incident
June 8, 1958 Ptl Herman Corn, 52 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
BLUE BLOOD
I�ve just finished reading a book, BLUE BLOOD, written by one of NYPD�s own, Detective Edward Conlon, which outlines his life as a New York City Police Officer � with the NYPD running through his veins.
Conlon, now a detective in the 44 Squad, started his NYPD career as a Housing cop in the Bronx, working his way up to the SNEU in PSA7. His story was finely told, and has been receiving some notoriety on the book circuit � certainly helped along by the fact that Conlon is a Harvard graduate.
Described as �an epic work of nonfiction about what it means to protect, to serve, and to defend among the ranks of New York�s finest�, it was certainly worth the price of the book and will take a prominent place in the Minister�s Library.
Cops could be the most brutal critics when it comes to �cop-memoirs�, but I would highly recommend this book for your summer reading list. Conlon got his literary start writing a �Cop Diary� column in THE NEW YORKER, under a pseudonym, so as not to call too much attention to himself at work. This was all done, of course, with the approval of DCPI.
Conlon is fourth-generation NYPD � his great grandfather was �an officer of dubious integrity�, whom he has gotten a copy of his 10-card � and his father was an FBI agent.
While Joseph Wambaugh � himself a retired LAPD Sergeant turned acclaimed author � describes the book as �the most stunning memoir ever written about the cop world�, I would have to agree that at least Conlon is a terrific journalist and a born storyteller. I can also see how the �civilian� population would take to this book; he describes the PD-world in terms that is easily understood, while still managing to describe the often-times discouragement and monotony common to police work.
Conlon talks about police work being a vocation, and about his love for the job, and desire to be out on the street. He dislikes inside, administrative tasks, and is described as portraying "being a cop is as much a public trust as holding office or serving in the Peace Corps". No wonder why I really like this guy! That and the fact that he's a teamate of Bobby Nardi's.
Don�t pass up an opportunity to read this book, and recommend it to your civilian friends. You � and they � won�t be disappointed.
FRENCH CONNECTION
One of the passages in BLUE BLOOD that I enjoyed was his description of the French Connection case. I guess it was reassuring to know that I�m not the only cop-buff who finds the book, and the movie, to be spectacular. It also helps to know the real story behind the movie version � which is why I enjoyed the hardcover book so much.
Some regular department larger-than-life figures emerge from this tale. Eddie Egan, whose character is played by Gene Hackman under the screen name of Popeye Doyle, as well as Sonny Grosso, who is the model for the character Cloudy Russo, were in fact real partners in Narcotics who literally stumbled across the largest case the department had seen at that time.
After the fame of the French Connection hit, you will no doubt be surprised to learn that Sonny Grosso and Eddie Egan were split up in 1967 and sent to precinct detective squads in Harlem (Grosso) and Brooklyn North (Egan). Although they were celebrities outside the department, their fame was met with the predictable jealousies that both fame and presumed wealth provoked. In addition, the hard-charging, smack-�em-around-and-figure-it-out-later Popey Doyle-Egan image was the exact opposite of the image Commissioner Patrick Murphy wanted to project for the NYPD. Edward Conlon describes an interview he had with Sonny Grosso, describing Egan as �as good a street cop as the NYPD ever produced; he was the first through the door and the first to the bar. Perps in the cells used to brag about getting locked up by him�.
Egan had made First Grade Detective with less than four years on the job! After the French Connection case, when they were sent separate ways, Sonny and Eddie both began to moonlight in the movie business. On the job, Sonny moved ahead steadily, while Eddie occasionally stumbled. The glory days of their Narcotics past was over, and the paperwork of the detective Bureau was a crutch to Egan�s style, not helped by the fact that he could barely spell. Finding himself the subject of some inane allegations, Egan was faced with a Trial Board hearing that found him guilty of some procedural infractions, for which Commissioner Murphy sought to have him fired for!
Calling to mind the anonymous quote �To err is human � to forgive is against department policy�, Murphy sought to make an example of Egan, for surely �wasn�t a cop like him who wasn�t caught taking money simply too smart to be nabbed�? And surely with all the �Hollywood money� he was making, �how could anyone tell the clean from the dirty�? (Yea. Murphy was a real friend of the rank and file).
As it was, Egan made a total of $3,900. for all his work on the book and the movie. Though eventually reinstated to his full rank, when he left the job he was less than wealthy, with a bank balance of $89.79. Finding some small acting parts, usually playing a cop, he opened a detective agency that failed, and a bar in Florida called The Lauderdale Connection. As Conlon sums it up, �The Job was not his friend, either�.
GOOD NIGHT, LAD!
The ranks are a little sadder these days.
Truly a gentleman, and a consummate professional detective, Retired Detective Sergeant Jack Cassidy passed away last week after a bout with cancer.
Detective Sergeant Jack Cassidy was my first detective supervisor, when I entered the Transit Police� Detective Bureau almost twenty years ago. He commanded one of the teams in the Major Case Squad, and paved my way into becoming a detective.
I can still see him standing there, wringing his hands the way he did with a sinister smile across his face, welcoming me to �The Squad�, with his cheery �Welcome, Lad�.
I was always called �lad�, despite that over time I not only reached his rank, but passed on to the next level, and despite I was now at the point I could qualify as a member of the Dinosaur Club. After the merger of the departments, Jack stayed in place in command of the Special Investigations Unit of the Transit Bureau. It was there that he found himself in contact with all levels of the department, helping detectives as well as Chief�s find their way around the Byzantine known as the Transit Authority. When the Transit Authority was expanding the MetroCard to the point of eliminating tokens, it was Jack who helped point out the areas subject to fraud, and helped ease the transition. When a detective from a squad had an inquiry about MetroCard usage, it was jack that saw that the proper attention was given; remembering always that he was a Detective Sergeant, with the emphasis on detective.
I shared a lot of good times with Jack and his team. I caught my first homicide with Gerry Gallagher, on the night we were supposed to be celebrating a retirement. �Nice job, lad� was my greeting from Jack the day after the arrest was made.
Melancholy, perhaps, but I want to remember the smile on his face when he stood at his retirement dinner, and greeted me with a �Hello, lad�. You have left a lot of good friends behind, and have left us with great memories. Good night, lad!
EARLY NYPD MEDALS
Thanks to Ret. Det1. John T.M. Reilly, who recently published a book �AWARDS FOR VALOR�, that documents the medals of the New York City Police Department from 1871 to 1998. A true police historian, John has done a magnificent job documenting this part of department history.
The earliest NYPD medals were established on August 5, 1871. There were approximately sixteen such awards given by January 21, 1884, under the resolution that was passed by the Board of Police Commissioners for a medal to be presented for meritorious conduct.
The medal was first awarded to Ptl. Bernard Tully of the 19 Precinct, on August 17, 1871, for the capture and arrest of a burglar.
The original medal was in the shape of the then shield of the department. On the obverse are the arms of the City of New York, the names of the police commissioners, and the words Municipal Police. The reverse contained an inscription describing the act for which the medal was bestowed.
Later editions of this award saw a silver medal in the shape of a police shield, hanging from a ring and suspender, on which the letters �N.Y.� are entwined (think, Yankees interlocking �NY�) and attached to a top bar with the word �Valor� inscribed.
While the commissioners had also specified that gold or silver medals might be awarded, there is only a record of one gold medal being awarded. This medal was presented on February 26, 1879 to Captain Thomas Byrnes of the detective Division for the arrest of thieves who had assaulted and robbed a woman on Fifth Avenue.
PROMOTION CONGRATULATIONS
Brooklyn North Detectives congratulates MARK MURRAY of the 75 Squad on his recent promotion to Detective Second Grade!
Not wishing to take away from Mark�s deserved bump in grade, I am only saddened by the fact that such promotion congratulations are not accompanied by a longer list, in multiple categories.
CALLING IN SICK
Certain to be found humorous to non-department readers is the way that Edward Conlon describes the procedure for calling in sick.
He notes that if you have a cold, you cannot tell that to the Sick Desk. �You can�t have a cold�, he was told by the Sick Desk. �We can�t put that down. You have to say you have �flu-like� symptoms�.
He then notes that, for his next �non-colds�, he tried out a variety of ailments. He called in with �Space Dementia�, which is what Steve Buscemi had when his spaceship circled the comet in the movie ARMAGEDDON. This was recorded, without question, by the Sick Desk. When he next tried to call in with Dutch elm disease, which happened to be responsible for wiping out many magnificent trees across the country, he was told �You can�t go Admin Sick with Dutch elm disease. You have to go Regular Sick�. His answer was simple. �Right, I forgot. I guess I�ll have flu-like symptoms�. �Okay, you got it. Hope you feel better�, was the response from the Sick Desk.
Although he didn�t try it himself, he convinced a friend to call in sick with �autoerotic asphyxia�, which he successfully managed to do.
Personally, I�d like to see a list of the ailments used by Nicky Dimonda!
MOS 10-13
There is an upcoming 10-13 benefit scheduled for an MOS who is awaiting a kidney transplant.
JEFF JAMAL of the 25 Squad, formerly of Manhattan Warrants and the 28 Pct, is awaiting kidney transplant surgery and is currently undergoing dialysis and other high-priced medical care.
On June 17, from 1900-0200 hours, there will be a benefit racket at Gaelic Park to benefit Jeff.
For tickets, and other information including directions to Gaelic Park, please contact the 25 Squad at 212.860.6536.
TRYING TO KEEP YOUR PHONE BOOKS CURRENT...
Is never an easy task. Some changes in Brooklyn North Detectives, among Squad Commanders, includes the following.
Lt. Joe Ferrara has gone from the 73 Squad to the 75 Squad, to take the spot left vacant with John Amodeo being out on medical leave.
Lt. Eddie Lott moves from the 81 Squad to the 73 Squad, where he is no stranger, having been the RIP/RAM Sergeant there in the past.
The 81 Squad will be commanded by Sgt. Richie Lapera for the time being. Richie is certainly capable, and the right man for that job!
We hear that help is on the way, in the form of new supervisors in the Lieutenant and Sergeant ranks - long overdue. With the recent transfers of new investigators still making their way here, we may actually see some squads back up to their required manpower levels. Wouldn't that be great?
REMEMBER...TO CONTACT THE MINISTER OF INVESTIGATION
You may send an e-mail to:
Ltjac77@yahoo.com
I�ve just finished reading a book, BLUE BLOOD, written by one of NYPD�s own, Detective Edward Conlon, which outlines his life as a New York City Police Officer � with the NYPD running through his veins.
Conlon, now a detective in the 44 Squad, started his NYPD career as a Housing cop in the Bronx, working his way up to the SNEU in PSA7. His story was finely told, and has been receiving some notoriety on the book circuit � certainly helped along by the fact that Conlon is a Harvard graduate.
Described as �an epic work of nonfiction about what it means to protect, to serve, and to defend among the ranks of New York�s finest�, it was certainly worth the price of the book and will take a prominent place in the Minister�s Library.
Cops could be the most brutal critics when it comes to �cop-memoirs�, but I would highly recommend this book for your summer reading list. Conlon got his literary start writing a �Cop Diary� column in THE NEW YORKER, under a pseudonym, so as not to call too much attention to himself at work. This was all done, of course, with the approval of DCPI.
Conlon is fourth-generation NYPD � his great grandfather was �an officer of dubious integrity�, whom he has gotten a copy of his 10-card � and his father was an FBI agent.
While Joseph Wambaugh � himself a retired LAPD Sergeant turned acclaimed author � describes the book as �the most stunning memoir ever written about the cop world�, I would have to agree that at least Conlon is a terrific journalist and a born storyteller. I can also see how the �civilian� population would take to this book; he describes the PD-world in terms that is easily understood, while still managing to describe the often-times discouragement and monotony common to police work.
Conlon talks about police work being a vocation, and about his love for the job, and desire to be out on the street. He dislikes inside, administrative tasks, and is described as portraying "being a cop is as much a public trust as holding office or serving in the Peace Corps". No wonder why I really like this guy! That and the fact that he's a teamate of Bobby Nardi's.
Don�t pass up an opportunity to read this book, and recommend it to your civilian friends. You � and they � won�t be disappointed.
FRENCH CONNECTION
One of the passages in BLUE BLOOD that I enjoyed was his description of the French Connection case. I guess it was reassuring to know that I�m not the only cop-buff who finds the book, and the movie, to be spectacular. It also helps to know the real story behind the movie version � which is why I enjoyed the hardcover book so much.
Some regular department larger-than-life figures emerge from this tale. Eddie Egan, whose character is played by Gene Hackman under the screen name of Popeye Doyle, as well as Sonny Grosso, who is the model for the character Cloudy Russo, were in fact real partners in Narcotics who literally stumbled across the largest case the department had seen at that time.
After the fame of the French Connection hit, you will no doubt be surprised to learn that Sonny Grosso and Eddie Egan were split up in 1967 and sent to precinct detective squads in Harlem (Grosso) and Brooklyn North (Egan). Although they were celebrities outside the department, their fame was met with the predictable jealousies that both fame and presumed wealth provoked. In addition, the hard-charging, smack-�em-around-and-figure-it-out-later Popey Doyle-Egan image was the exact opposite of the image Commissioner Patrick Murphy wanted to project for the NYPD. Edward Conlon describes an interview he had with Sonny Grosso, describing Egan as �as good a street cop as the NYPD ever produced; he was the first through the door and the first to the bar. Perps in the cells used to brag about getting locked up by him�.
Egan had made First Grade Detective with less than four years on the job! After the French Connection case, when they were sent separate ways, Sonny and Eddie both began to moonlight in the movie business. On the job, Sonny moved ahead steadily, while Eddie occasionally stumbled. The glory days of their Narcotics past was over, and the paperwork of the detective Bureau was a crutch to Egan�s style, not helped by the fact that he could barely spell. Finding himself the subject of some inane allegations, Egan was faced with a Trial Board hearing that found him guilty of some procedural infractions, for which Commissioner Murphy sought to have him fired for!
Calling to mind the anonymous quote �To err is human � to forgive is against department policy�, Murphy sought to make an example of Egan, for surely �wasn�t a cop like him who wasn�t caught taking money simply too smart to be nabbed�? And surely with all the �Hollywood money� he was making, �how could anyone tell the clean from the dirty�? (Yea. Murphy was a real friend of the rank and file).
As it was, Egan made a total of $3,900. for all his work on the book and the movie. Though eventually reinstated to his full rank, when he left the job he was less than wealthy, with a bank balance of $89.79. Finding some small acting parts, usually playing a cop, he opened a detective agency that failed, and a bar in Florida called The Lauderdale Connection. As Conlon sums it up, �The Job was not his friend, either�.
GOOD NIGHT, LAD!
The ranks are a little sadder these days.
Truly a gentleman, and a consummate professional detective, Retired Detective Sergeant Jack Cassidy passed away last week after a bout with cancer.
Detective Sergeant Jack Cassidy was my first detective supervisor, when I entered the Transit Police� Detective Bureau almost twenty years ago. He commanded one of the teams in the Major Case Squad, and paved my way into becoming a detective.
I can still see him standing there, wringing his hands the way he did with a sinister smile across his face, welcoming me to �The Squad�, with his cheery �Welcome, Lad�.
I was always called �lad�, despite that over time I not only reached his rank, but passed on to the next level, and despite I was now at the point I could qualify as a member of the Dinosaur Club. After the merger of the departments, Jack stayed in place in command of the Special Investigations Unit of the Transit Bureau. It was there that he found himself in contact with all levels of the department, helping detectives as well as Chief�s find their way around the Byzantine known as the Transit Authority. When the Transit Authority was expanding the MetroCard to the point of eliminating tokens, it was Jack who helped point out the areas subject to fraud, and helped ease the transition. When a detective from a squad had an inquiry about MetroCard usage, it was jack that saw that the proper attention was given; remembering always that he was a Detective Sergeant, with the emphasis on detective.
I shared a lot of good times with Jack and his team. I caught my first homicide with Gerry Gallagher, on the night we were supposed to be celebrating a retirement. �Nice job, lad� was my greeting from Jack the day after the arrest was made.
Melancholy, perhaps, but I want to remember the smile on his face when he stood at his retirement dinner, and greeted me with a �Hello, lad�. You have left a lot of good friends behind, and have left us with great memories. Good night, lad!
EARLY NYPD MEDALS
Thanks to Ret. Det1. John T.M. Reilly, who recently published a book �AWARDS FOR VALOR�, that documents the medals of the New York City Police Department from 1871 to 1998. A true police historian, John has done a magnificent job documenting this part of department history.
The earliest NYPD medals were established on August 5, 1871. There were approximately sixteen such awards given by January 21, 1884, under the resolution that was passed by the Board of Police Commissioners for a medal to be presented for meritorious conduct.
The medal was first awarded to Ptl. Bernard Tully of the 19 Precinct, on August 17, 1871, for the capture and arrest of a burglar.
The original medal was in the shape of the then shield of the department. On the obverse are the arms of the City of New York, the names of the police commissioners, and the words Municipal Police. The reverse contained an inscription describing the act for which the medal was bestowed.
Later editions of this award saw a silver medal in the shape of a police shield, hanging from a ring and suspender, on which the letters �N.Y.� are entwined (think, Yankees interlocking �NY�) and attached to a top bar with the word �Valor� inscribed.
While the commissioners had also specified that gold or silver medals might be awarded, there is only a record of one gold medal being awarded. This medal was presented on February 26, 1879 to Captain Thomas Byrnes of the detective Division for the arrest of thieves who had assaulted and robbed a woman on Fifth Avenue.
PROMOTION CONGRATULATIONS
Brooklyn North Detectives congratulates MARK MURRAY of the 75 Squad on his recent promotion to Detective Second Grade!
Not wishing to take away from Mark�s deserved bump in grade, I am only saddened by the fact that such promotion congratulations are not accompanied by a longer list, in multiple categories.
CALLING IN SICK
Certain to be found humorous to non-department readers is the way that Edward Conlon describes the procedure for calling in sick.
He notes that if you have a cold, you cannot tell that to the Sick Desk. �You can�t have a cold�, he was told by the Sick Desk. �We can�t put that down. You have to say you have �flu-like� symptoms�.
He then notes that, for his next �non-colds�, he tried out a variety of ailments. He called in with �Space Dementia�, which is what Steve Buscemi had when his spaceship circled the comet in the movie ARMAGEDDON. This was recorded, without question, by the Sick Desk. When he next tried to call in with Dutch elm disease, which happened to be responsible for wiping out many magnificent trees across the country, he was told �You can�t go Admin Sick with Dutch elm disease. You have to go Regular Sick�. His answer was simple. �Right, I forgot. I guess I�ll have flu-like symptoms�. �Okay, you got it. Hope you feel better�, was the response from the Sick Desk.
Although he didn�t try it himself, he convinced a friend to call in sick with �autoerotic asphyxia�, which he successfully managed to do.
Personally, I�d like to see a list of the ailments used by Nicky Dimonda!
MOS 10-13
There is an upcoming 10-13 benefit scheduled for an MOS who is awaiting a kidney transplant.
JEFF JAMAL of the 25 Squad, formerly of Manhattan Warrants and the 28 Pct, is awaiting kidney transplant surgery and is currently undergoing dialysis and other high-priced medical care.
On June 17, from 1900-0200 hours, there will be a benefit racket at Gaelic Park to benefit Jeff.
For tickets, and other information including directions to Gaelic Park, please contact the 25 Squad at 212.860.6536.
TRYING TO KEEP YOUR PHONE BOOKS CURRENT...
Is never an easy task. Some changes in Brooklyn North Detectives, among Squad Commanders, includes the following.
Lt. Joe Ferrara has gone from the 73 Squad to the 75 Squad, to take the spot left vacant with John Amodeo being out on medical leave.
Lt. Eddie Lott moves from the 81 Squad to the 73 Squad, where he is no stranger, having been the RIP/RAM Sergeant there in the past.
The 81 Squad will be commanded by Sgt. Richie Lapera for the time being. Richie is certainly capable, and the right man for that job!
We hear that help is on the way, in the form of new supervisors in the Lieutenant and Sergeant ranks - long overdue. With the recent transfers of new investigators still making their way here, we may actually see some squads back up to their required manpower levels. Wouldn't that be great?
REMEMBER...TO CONTACT THE MINISTER OF INVESTIGATION
You may send an e-mail to:
Ltjac77@yahoo.com
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
SOME MORE HARD-BOILED DETECTIVE QUOTES
�Did anybody ever tell you dumb is forever�?
Mike Hammer (by Mickey Spillane)
�I never expect anything, and I still get disappointed�.
Mike Hammer (by Mickey Spillane)
WHY ARE THERE GREEN LIGHTS OUTSIDE THE ENTRANCES OF POLICE PRECINCT BUILDINGS?
It is believed that the Rattle Watchmen, who patrolled New Amsterdam in the 1650's, carried lanterns at night with green glass sides in them as a means of identification.
When the Watchmen returned to the watch house after patrol, they hung their lantern on a hook by the front door to show people seeking the watchman that he was in the watch house.
Today, green lights are hung outside the entrances of Police Precincts as a symbol that the "Watch" is present and vigilant.
FINNEGAN AND FALLON- A FOLLOW UP
Following the recent posting on this site regarding the line of duty deaths of Det�s. Finnegan and Fallon, I received a response from Ret. Det. Capt Frank Bolz.
Frank recalled being a detective in the 81 Squad at the time these detectives were killed. He was a new detective in the 81 Squad, and was on vacation at the time.
�In those days before overtime pay, whenever an incident occurred, it was expected that all off duty detectives would respond to the squad handling the investigation�.
After some diligent detective work, Jerry Rosenberg would be arrested for the homicide. Al Seedman, who was the distict detective Captain at the time, would have his photo appear in the NY POST holding up Rosenberg�s head by the hair for the camera.
�He caught some flack for that�. In fact, as Seedman noted in his autobiography, it held up his promotion to Deputy Inspector for some time.
�Jerry Rosenberg would become the jail house lawyer in Attica, during the Attica riots. He would later get his law
degree in jail, for FREE, and then sue the N.Y. Bar ethics committee to try to be admitted to the NY bar�.
A TV film would be produced about Rosenberg, played by Tony Danza. �All this time, the children of Finnegan and
Fallon would struggle to get their college education�. As the Director of the Police Line of Duty Widows scholarship fund, Frank was well aware of the problems they encountered.
Thanks, Frank, for your insight. It�s ALWAYS appreciated!
ON THE MEND
Your friends in Brooklyn North wish JOHN AMODEO a speedy recovery from his recent heart surgery.
John, the Squad Commander of the 75 Squad, went in for a stress test recently, and found himself facing heart surgery that involved six stents placed in two arteries! Thankfully, John wasn�t more seriously injured.
While he is at home recovering, we know he misses all of us here in Brooklyn North, but it�s not as much as we miss you, John! Hoping you a speedy recovery, and looking to see you at our Squad Commander�s lunch meetings soon!
We all miss you!
INTERESTING WEB SITES FOR THE INVESTIGATOR
Here are some sites that are very useful in helping to locate people.
PeopleSpot: A new portal dedicated to helping you find people. There is a huge reference list of sources, aids, and resources you can use from this new portal.
www.peoplespot.com
SkipEase: A massive link list providing links to dozens of search sites that are very useful in locating missing persons.
www.skipease.com/index.html
Skip Tracer Tool Box: Another very well done and extensive links page.
http://skiptoolbox.freeyellow.com/
Telephone Directories on the Web: This site links you to over 350 telephone directories, yellow pages, business directories and email directories in over 150 different countries.
www.teldir.com/eng
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Insurance companies maintain a Special Investigations Unit to conduct specialized fraud investigations. Usually staffed by retired detectives, the Special Investigations Unit�s are probably a good starting point for the detective seeking investigative assistance.
When contacting an insurance company, ask to speak to someone in their Special Investigations Unit.
For more information you can check out the web site for the:
International Association of Special Investigations Units
410-931-8100
www.iasiu.com
�Did anybody ever tell you dumb is forever�?
Mike Hammer (by Mickey Spillane)
�I never expect anything, and I still get disappointed�.
Mike Hammer (by Mickey Spillane)
WHY ARE THERE GREEN LIGHTS OUTSIDE THE ENTRANCES OF POLICE PRECINCT BUILDINGS?
It is believed that the Rattle Watchmen, who patrolled New Amsterdam in the 1650's, carried lanterns at night with green glass sides in them as a means of identification.
When the Watchmen returned to the watch house after patrol, they hung their lantern on a hook by the front door to show people seeking the watchman that he was in the watch house.
Today, green lights are hung outside the entrances of Police Precincts as a symbol that the "Watch" is present and vigilant.
FINNEGAN AND FALLON- A FOLLOW UP
Following the recent posting on this site regarding the line of duty deaths of Det�s. Finnegan and Fallon, I received a response from Ret. Det. Capt Frank Bolz.
Frank recalled being a detective in the 81 Squad at the time these detectives were killed. He was a new detective in the 81 Squad, and was on vacation at the time.
�In those days before overtime pay, whenever an incident occurred, it was expected that all off duty detectives would respond to the squad handling the investigation�.
After some diligent detective work, Jerry Rosenberg would be arrested for the homicide. Al Seedman, who was the distict detective Captain at the time, would have his photo appear in the NY POST holding up Rosenberg�s head by the hair for the camera.
�He caught some flack for that�. In fact, as Seedman noted in his autobiography, it held up his promotion to Deputy Inspector for some time.
�Jerry Rosenberg would become the jail house lawyer in Attica, during the Attica riots. He would later get his law
degree in jail, for FREE, and then sue the N.Y. Bar ethics committee to try to be admitted to the NY bar�.
A TV film would be produced about Rosenberg, played by Tony Danza. �All this time, the children of Finnegan and
Fallon would struggle to get their college education�. As the Director of the Police Line of Duty Widows scholarship fund, Frank was well aware of the problems they encountered.
Thanks, Frank, for your insight. It�s ALWAYS appreciated!
ON THE MEND
Your friends in Brooklyn North wish JOHN AMODEO a speedy recovery from his recent heart surgery.
John, the Squad Commander of the 75 Squad, went in for a stress test recently, and found himself facing heart surgery that involved six stents placed in two arteries! Thankfully, John wasn�t more seriously injured.
While he is at home recovering, we know he misses all of us here in Brooklyn North, but it�s not as much as we miss you, John! Hoping you a speedy recovery, and looking to see you at our Squad Commander�s lunch meetings soon!
We all miss you!
INTERESTING WEB SITES FOR THE INVESTIGATOR
Here are some sites that are very useful in helping to locate people.
PeopleSpot: A new portal dedicated to helping you find people. There is a huge reference list of sources, aids, and resources you can use from this new portal.
www.peoplespot.com
SkipEase: A massive link list providing links to dozens of search sites that are very useful in locating missing persons.
www.skipease.com/index.html
Skip Tracer Tool Box: Another very well done and extensive links page.
http://skiptoolbox.freeyellow.com/
Telephone Directories on the Web: This site links you to over 350 telephone directories, yellow pages, business directories and email directories in over 150 different countries.
www.teldir.com/eng
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Insurance companies maintain a Special Investigations Unit to conduct specialized fraud investigations. Usually staffed by retired detectives, the Special Investigations Unit�s are probably a good starting point for the detective seeking investigative assistance.
When contacting an insurance company, ask to speak to someone in their Special Investigations Unit.
For more information you can check out the web site for the:
International Association of Special Investigations Units
410-931-8100
www.iasiu.com
Monday, May 10, 2004
NATIONAL POLICE MEMORIAL WEEK
This week has been set aside and designated NATIONAL POLICE OFFICERS MEMORIAL WEEK throughout the country.
May 15 has been the day designated as the national day of remembrance for all police officers who have performed the ultimate sacrifice. Let�s not forget our brothers and sisters throughout the country on this day.
CONSTABLE KILLED IN 1675 ADDED TO THE ROLLS
As reported by the Associated Press this past Sunday, a Constable who was killed in 1675 in Springfield, Mass is the newest name added to that city�s memorial for fallen police officers.
Constable John Miller was killed protecting the town against American Indians in 1675. He is reported to be the first known law enforcement fatality in what later became the United States.
�Miller is the earliest known law enforcement person in the country to die in the line of duty, Margaret R. Sullivan, a Boston University administrator who researches police fatalities in her free time, told The Republican of Springfield.�
It is noted that The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial recognizes New York City Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith, who was shot May 17, 1792, as the first law enforcement death in the nation's history.
Retired Det. Mike Bosak, a noted police historian, notes that Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith should properly be known as a Westchester County Deputy Sheriff, not New York City, as The Bronx at that time was part of Westchester County.
Mike Bosak is the historian who discovered the account of the murder of Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith by John Ryer at Levi Hunt's Inn in court records archived at the Westchester County Records Center in Elmsford. Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith was killed in what is now known as the West Farms area of the Bronx.
I would like to add that one of Mike Bosak�s points of agreement with the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC is that the Washington Memorial honors fallen American law enforcement heroes, not constables or soldiers working for a foreign government fighting American Indicans in military actions prior to the origin of the nation.
The earlier constables were British. Those constables worked for the British Government, better known at that time as "States-General of the United Provinces", or as it is known today: "The British Colonies in America". These constables were under the direct command of the British Army and his majesty King George, King Henry or for that matter King Phillip in 1675. While they may have been performing a law enforcement role, they were technically not American law enforcement officers.
NEW YORK CITY POLICE MUSEUM EXHIBIT
If you get the chance, try to visit the New York City Police Museum, located at the old 1st Precinct on Old Slip in downtown Manhattan, for the 4th Annual Antique Police Car Show.
The show, on Saturday, June 5, 2004 from 10am to 4pm, will feature some new cars this year.
In addition to the 1971 and a 1968 Plymouth Fury, there will also be a 1973 Plymouth Fury � the first blue and white car � and a green, black and white 1966 Chevy Biscayne.
In addition to other museum exhibits, the antique police cars are sure to be a fun exhibit for all.
IN MEMORIAM: DET. LUKE FALLON AND DET. JOHN FINNEGAN
Det. Luke J. Fallon #489, 70 Squad
Det. John J. Finnegan #1613, 70 Squad
On May 18, 1962, Detective Luke Fallon and Detective John Finnegan, partners in the 70 Detective Squad, were shot and killed in a gun battle with bandits caught in the act of robbing a tobacco and confectionary shop in Brooklyn's Boro Park section.
Both men were gunned down in a vicious exchange of shots with the robbers. Five suspects, the two in the store and the driver of the getaway car, plus two accessories, were rounded up within five days. One was picked up in Chicago, another in Connecticut, two in New York and the fifth surrendered to The New York Daily News.
The detectives were on patrol when they learned of the robbery. As they entered the store, both men were met by a hail of fire. They returned the fire as they fell, mortally wounded.
Detective Fallon was 55 years old and had been with the NYPD for 26 years.
Detective Finnegan was 29 years old and was with the department for six years. He had been a Patrolman in the 79 Precinct, and went to the Detective Bureau following an arrest he made for a cab robbery.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Stolen Vehicle Investigations
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is an insurance industry funded investigative agency formed to combat insurance fraud. They are very active in combating vehicle theft and vehicle fraud.
703-430-2430
www.nicb.org
International Association of Auto Theft Investigators
www.iaati.org
WHAT�S GOING ON IN TIMES SQUARE?
If you want to check out the live camera feed of Times Square, go to:
EarthCam- Times Square
http://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/timessquare/
CHARLIE CHAN
Another somewhat notorious fictional American detective is Charlie Chan of the Honolulu Police Department.
The hero of a series of films that ran from 1931 to 1949, Inspector (he started out in the earlier films as a Sergeant) Charlie Chan � meek, simple, humble, overweight, and family-loving with his eleven kids � was never played by a Chinese, Asian or Hawaiian actor! The lead characters were all white males, with the appropriate moustache and chin whiskers � and squint � to help them carry off the role of the Hawaiian-Asian detective.
Known for his jovial character, Chan had a saying for almost every occasion. He often referred to his oldest child as �Number 1 son�, and throughout the series he was a respected and powerful figure that was never questioned about his authority. He seems to have barely enough time to solve cases because he is too busy overseeing his ever increasing brood of children. When the Chan book series started in 1925, he had nine children; when it ended seven years later, he had eleven. Much of the humor of the Chan series comes from this contradiction: How many Great Detectives have to deal with family problems?
As Chan would say, �He who runs with light conscience makes the most speed�.
HIDDEN GOOGLE FEATURES
Did you know that you can type a VIN into GOOGLE and it will link you to information on the year, make and model of the VIN?
Likewise, this same type of search can be performed with several other number sets including UPS/Fed EX tracking numbers, UPC codes, telephone area codes, patent numbers, FAA tail numbers and FCC equipment IDs.
For more details go to google.com and click the What's new at Google? link and then scroll down to search by numbers.
Now, I'll really be impressed when you can type in a SSN and get back info!
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
May 10, 1922 Ptl Henry Pohndorf, 38 Pct, Shot-robbery arrest
May 10, 1979 PO Robert Soldo, 108 Pct, Shot-0ff duty incident
May 11, 1959 Ptl Harry Hafner, GCP Pct (Hwy3), Motorcycle accident on patrol
May 12, 1925 Ptl Charles Godfrey, 16 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 12, 1932 Sgt Theodore Werdann, 87 Pct, Injured on patrol
May 12, 1944 Ptl Joseph Curtis, Mtd Unit, Line of duty heart attack
May 12, 1951 Ptl Harold Randolph, 75 Pct, Shot-off duty police action
May 13, 1913 Ptl Charles Teare, 12 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 15, 1934 Ptl John Morrissey, Telegraph Bur, Injured assisting an officer
May 16, 1864 Ptl George Duryea, 19 Pct, Arrest-robbery
May 16, 1947 Ptl Frank Golden, 108 Pct, Shot-accidental discharge, burglary arrest
May 17, 1927 Det Morris Borkin, Det Div, Shot-burglary arrest
May 17, 1930 Ptl William Duncan, 18 Pct, Shot-GLA arrest
May 18, 1922 Ptl Douglas Hay, 49 Pct, Assaulted
May 18, 1962 Det Luke Fallon and Det John Finnegan, 70 Sqd, Shot-Robbery
This week has been set aside and designated NATIONAL POLICE OFFICERS MEMORIAL WEEK throughout the country.
May 15 has been the day designated as the national day of remembrance for all police officers who have performed the ultimate sacrifice. Let�s not forget our brothers and sisters throughout the country on this day.
CONSTABLE KILLED IN 1675 ADDED TO THE ROLLS
As reported by the Associated Press this past Sunday, a Constable who was killed in 1675 in Springfield, Mass is the newest name added to that city�s memorial for fallen police officers.
Constable John Miller was killed protecting the town against American Indians in 1675. He is reported to be the first known law enforcement fatality in what later became the United States.
�Miller is the earliest known law enforcement person in the country to die in the line of duty, Margaret R. Sullivan, a Boston University administrator who researches police fatalities in her free time, told The Republican of Springfield.�
It is noted that The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial recognizes New York City Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith, who was shot May 17, 1792, as the first law enforcement death in the nation's history.
Retired Det. Mike Bosak, a noted police historian, notes that Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith should properly be known as a Westchester County Deputy Sheriff, not New York City, as The Bronx at that time was part of Westchester County.
Mike Bosak is the historian who discovered the account of the murder of Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith by John Ryer at Levi Hunt's Inn in court records archived at the Westchester County Records Center in Elmsford. Deputy Sheriff Isaac Smith was killed in what is now known as the West Farms area of the Bronx.
I would like to add that one of Mike Bosak�s points of agreement with the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, DC is that the Washington Memorial honors fallen American law enforcement heroes, not constables or soldiers working for a foreign government fighting American Indicans in military actions prior to the origin of the nation.
The earlier constables were British. Those constables worked for the British Government, better known at that time as "States-General of the United Provinces", or as it is known today: "The British Colonies in America". These constables were under the direct command of the British Army and his majesty King George, King Henry or for that matter King Phillip in 1675. While they may have been performing a law enforcement role, they were technically not American law enforcement officers.
NEW YORK CITY POLICE MUSEUM EXHIBIT
If you get the chance, try to visit the New York City Police Museum, located at the old 1st Precinct on Old Slip in downtown Manhattan, for the 4th Annual Antique Police Car Show.
The show, on Saturday, June 5, 2004 from 10am to 4pm, will feature some new cars this year.
In addition to the 1971 and a 1968 Plymouth Fury, there will also be a 1973 Plymouth Fury � the first blue and white car � and a green, black and white 1966 Chevy Biscayne.
In addition to other museum exhibits, the antique police cars are sure to be a fun exhibit for all.
IN MEMORIAM: DET. LUKE FALLON AND DET. JOHN FINNEGAN
Det. Luke J. Fallon #489, 70 Squad
Det. John J. Finnegan #1613, 70 Squad
On May 18, 1962, Detective Luke Fallon and Detective John Finnegan, partners in the 70 Detective Squad, were shot and killed in a gun battle with bandits caught in the act of robbing a tobacco and confectionary shop in Brooklyn's Boro Park section.
Both men were gunned down in a vicious exchange of shots with the robbers. Five suspects, the two in the store and the driver of the getaway car, plus two accessories, were rounded up within five days. One was picked up in Chicago, another in Connecticut, two in New York and the fifth surrendered to The New York Daily News.
The detectives were on patrol when they learned of the robbery. As they entered the store, both men were met by a hail of fire. They returned the fire as they fell, mortally wounded.
Detective Fallon was 55 years old and had been with the NYPD for 26 years.
Detective Finnegan was 29 years old and was with the department for six years. He had been a Patrolman in the 79 Precinct, and went to the Detective Bureau following an arrest he made for a cab robbery.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Stolen Vehicle Investigations
The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is an insurance industry funded investigative agency formed to combat insurance fraud. They are very active in combating vehicle theft and vehicle fraud.
703-430-2430
www.nicb.org
International Association of Auto Theft Investigators
www.iaati.org
WHAT�S GOING ON IN TIMES SQUARE?
If you want to check out the live camera feed of Times Square, go to:
EarthCam- Times Square
http://www.earthcam.com/usa/newyork/timessquare/
CHARLIE CHAN
Another somewhat notorious fictional American detective is Charlie Chan of the Honolulu Police Department.
The hero of a series of films that ran from 1931 to 1949, Inspector (he started out in the earlier films as a Sergeant) Charlie Chan � meek, simple, humble, overweight, and family-loving with his eleven kids � was never played by a Chinese, Asian or Hawaiian actor! The lead characters were all white males, with the appropriate moustache and chin whiskers � and squint � to help them carry off the role of the Hawaiian-Asian detective.
Known for his jovial character, Chan had a saying for almost every occasion. He often referred to his oldest child as �Number 1 son�, and throughout the series he was a respected and powerful figure that was never questioned about his authority. He seems to have barely enough time to solve cases because he is too busy overseeing his ever increasing brood of children. When the Chan book series started in 1925, he had nine children; when it ended seven years later, he had eleven. Much of the humor of the Chan series comes from this contradiction: How many Great Detectives have to deal with family problems?
As Chan would say, �He who runs with light conscience makes the most speed�.
HIDDEN GOOGLE FEATURES
Did you know that you can type a VIN into GOOGLE and it will link you to information on the year, make and model of the VIN?
Likewise, this same type of search can be performed with several other number sets including UPS/Fed EX tracking numbers, UPC codes, telephone area codes, patent numbers, FAA tail numbers and FCC equipment IDs.
For more details go to google.com and click the What's new at Google? link and then scroll down to search by numbers.
Now, I'll really be impressed when you can type in a SSN and get back info!
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
May 10, 1922 Ptl Henry Pohndorf, 38 Pct, Shot-robbery arrest
May 10, 1979 PO Robert Soldo, 108 Pct, Shot-0ff duty incident
May 11, 1959 Ptl Harry Hafner, GCP Pct (Hwy3), Motorcycle accident on patrol
May 12, 1925 Ptl Charles Godfrey, 16 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 12, 1932 Sgt Theodore Werdann, 87 Pct, Injured on patrol
May 12, 1944 Ptl Joseph Curtis, Mtd Unit, Line of duty heart attack
May 12, 1951 Ptl Harold Randolph, 75 Pct, Shot-off duty police action
May 13, 1913 Ptl Charles Teare, 12 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 15, 1934 Ptl John Morrissey, Telegraph Bur, Injured assisting an officer
May 16, 1864 Ptl George Duryea, 19 Pct, Arrest-robbery
May 16, 1947 Ptl Frank Golden, 108 Pct, Shot-accidental discharge, burglary arrest
May 17, 1927 Det Morris Borkin, Det Div, Shot-burglary arrest
May 17, 1930 Ptl William Duncan, 18 Pct, Shot-GLA arrest
May 18, 1922 Ptl Douglas Hay, 49 Pct, Assaulted
May 18, 1962 Det Luke Fallon and Det John Finnegan, 70 Sqd, Shot-Robbery
Monday, May 03, 2004
�FORGET IT JAKE, IT�S CHINATOWN�
The infamous closing line from that great 1974 classic, starring Jack Nicholson as P.I. Jake Gittes, and Faye Dunaway playing the stunning starlet (�my sister, my daughter��), is just one of the classic movie lines to come from Roman Polanski�s classic noir.
Here are some other memorable quotes from the movie.
�I goddamn near lost my nose. And I like it. I like breathing through it.�
Escobar: Isn't that your phone number?
Jake Gittes: Is it? I forget. I don't call myself that often.
Evelyn Mulwray: I don't get tough with anyone, Mr. Gittes. My lawyer does.
Evelyn Mulwray: Hollis seems to think you're an innocent man.
Jake Gittes: Well, I've been accused of a lot of things before, Mrs. Mulwray, but never that.
Noah Cross: , most people never have to face the fact that, at the right time and the right place, they're capable of... anything!
Telephone caller: Are you alone?
Jake Gittes: Aren't we all?
Jake Gittes: To tell you the truth, I lied a little.
MEMORIAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT
On March 10, 2003, Detective Rodney Andrews and Detective James Nemorin made the �Ultimate Sacrifice� when they were gunned down helping to take guns off the street.
In honor of their efforts, and to let all know that they are not forgotten, an Annual Softball Tournament was arranged. Over 45 teams came out for the 2nd Annual Event, which was hosted this year on April 24 � 25 at Cunningham Park.
The finals for the 2nd Annual Tournament will be played at Keyspan Park on Saturday, May 8th, at 1pm.
There will be 2 games played, from the two divisions, and between games a special tribute to these Detectives will take place. There will also be a silent auction for sports memorabilia and other collectible items taking place.
An after-game party will take place at Peggy O�Neils, also located at Keyspan Park, that will also include live music and entertainment.
Tickets are available from your DEA Reps, as well as at the Keyspan Box Office, or by calling 646-372-1013.
Hope to see everyone there, for this very worthwhile cause.
PROMOTION KUDOS ARE IN ORDER
Congratulations are in order for two of Brooklyn North�s gumshoes.
Promoted to Detective Second Grade are Tommy Donohue of the 88 Squad and Marko Vulich of the 90 Squad. Two very deserving promotions indeed! We all wish you the best on this happy occasion.
Congratulations to Thomas Reilly of the Brooklyn Robbery Squad on his promotion to Commander Detective Squad!
Also noted in the promotions was Patrick Dolan�s promotion to Second Grade as well. Patrick is assigned to the Cold Case Squad; a very knowledgeable and professional investigator, he was an active part of the 40 Cal Task-Force last year. Well done, Paddy!
It was also nice to see Al Materasso�s name on the promotion list. Chief Materasso, who recently served as Chief of Queens Detectives (Bronx Detectives before that) was given a second star and promoted to Assistant Chief. A real gentleman, and a true professional. Congratulations, Chief.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Tele-Track: Tele-Track is otherwise referred to as the �Fourth Credit Bureau�.
It�s a great source for locating hard to find low income and transient persons. TeleTrack collects information from what are referred to as �Sub-Prime� businesses such as rent-to-own furniture stores, check cashing facilities, used car dealers, secured credit card issuers, cable TV companies and others.
To find out more, check out their site at:
www.teletrack.com
800-729-6981
770-449-8809
SALVATION ARMY MISSING PERSONS BUREAU
Did you know that the Salvation Army has a Missing Person�s program?
This may be one of the few options for persons who cannot afford the services of a traditional private investigation agency. This is a place to refer proper family members who cannot afford any other service.
The service is only for persons trying to locate missing family members who have not been heard from for six months or longer. The privacy of the missing person who does not wish to be located will be maintained. Searches will not be done for legal, adoption or genealogical purposes or when the missing person is under 18 years of age.
There�s a $25 application fee. If the case is accepted, the investigation is done free of charge. There are four regional bureaus. Locally to New York, the contact is:
Eastern Territory 800-315-7699
www.salvationarmy-usaeast.org
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Did you happen to catch the fine article in the April 28th edition of the NY TIMES by Shaila Dewan?
The article documented how New York�s COMPSTAT approach to policing has spread across the country, through the numerous retirees who are now leading departments throughout the country.
In addition to the more well known, like Bill Bratton who now heads LAPD and John Timoney who is leading Miami, there are a host of other department leaders.
Former Deputy Chief Jane Perlov, who was the first female to head a borough detective command (Queens), is now the chief in Raleigh, N.C. Jose Cordero, a former inspector, now leads the Newton, Mass. police department. Kevin Clark, an NYPD deputy chief, now heads the Baltimore police department, and is assisted by Anthony Romano, another former NYPD.
In Sarasota, Florida, Peter Abbott is the chief of police, and Daniel Oates leads the department in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
It was fine reporting on how the Compstat process is being broadened throughout the nation. What we now take for granted is often a radical change in other places. Chief Cordero is quoted as saying �It�s common-sense police management�, and it seems to be working.
An interesting note in the article was a reference made by Kevin Clark, the current Baltimore commissioner, who was a deputy chief in the Narcotics Bureau at NYPD before he retired.
�The former New Yorkers are true believers, despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that they have suffered through the ordeal of accountability themselves. Very few rose high enough in the New York ranks that they no longer had to answer questions with maps projected behind them (at the podium!). Commissioner Clark noted �It was the best job in the world (deputy chief in Narcotics), he said without irony. I was finally freed of Compstat�.
It was also noted that �several chiefs said they had tones down the confrontational aspect, shifting the emphasis to sharing information. Peter Abbott calls his version a �kinder, gentler Compstat�, while Chief Oates calls his �Compstat Ultralite�.
IN MEMORIAM: INSPECTOR THOMAS BOYLAN
The highest ranking Member of the Service to be killed in the line of duty is Inspector Thomas Boylan.
Inspector Boylan was killed on April 5, 1952, while on patrol when an airplane struck his auto.
Inspector Thomas V. Boylan was a 30 year veteran of the Police Department. He had an outstanding reputation for establishing good working relationships between the Police Department and the community. As the new Commanding Officer of the 22nd Division, housed in the 103rd Precinct, he often would be found on patrol getting to know the community better.
Such was the case on April 5th, 1952. At approximately 8:25a.m. he and his driver, Patrolman William O�Shea, were in a RMP patrol. Without warning a C-46 cargo plane, having missed the runway at Idelwild Airport (JFK), suddenly plunged into a row of houses on 169th Street and 88th Avenue, directly in front of them. Debris from the plane struck the RMP killing Inspector Boylan instantly. Patrolman O�Shea survived.
In February 1954, a Police Athletic League (PAL) youth center was named in Inspector Boylan's honor.
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
May 3, 1913 Ptl William Heaney, 12 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 3, 1921 Ptl John Conk, 97 Pct, Struck by horse
May 3, 1931 Ptl Bernard Sherry, 15 Pct, Shot-burglary in progress
May 3, 1964 Det Joseph Greene, DetDiv, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1863 Ptl Francis Mallon, 4 Pct, Shot by EDP
May 4, 1914 Ptl Michael Kiley, 156 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 4, 1931 Ptl John Hoey, 40 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1938 Ptl Thomas Hackett, 4 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1968 Ptl Gerard Apuzzi, 107 Pct, Asphyxiated-rescue
May 4, 1981 Lt Jan Brinkers, PSA8, Shot-off duty robbery arrest
May 5, 1934 Ptl Arthur Rasmussen, 3 Pct, Shot-robbery in progress
May 5, 1971 Det Ivan Lorenzo, Narcotics, Shot-off duty incident
May 6, 1934 Ptl Lawrence Ward, 23 Pct, Shot-investigation
May 6, 1964 Ptl Stanley Schall, 70 Pct, Line of duty heart attack
May 7, 1931 Ptl John Ringhauser, 102 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 9, 1939 Ptl William Holstein, Mcy2, Motorcycle accident on patrol
The infamous closing line from that great 1974 classic, starring Jack Nicholson as P.I. Jake Gittes, and Faye Dunaway playing the stunning starlet (�my sister, my daughter��), is just one of the classic movie lines to come from Roman Polanski�s classic noir.
Here are some other memorable quotes from the movie.
�I goddamn near lost my nose. And I like it. I like breathing through it.�
Escobar: Isn't that your phone number?
Jake Gittes: Is it? I forget. I don't call myself that often.
Evelyn Mulwray: I don't get tough with anyone, Mr. Gittes. My lawyer does.
Evelyn Mulwray: Hollis seems to think you're an innocent man.
Jake Gittes: Well, I've been accused of a lot of things before, Mrs. Mulwray, but never that.
Noah Cross: , most people never have to face the fact that, at the right time and the right place, they're capable of... anything!
Telephone caller: Are you alone?
Jake Gittes: Aren't we all?
Jake Gittes: To tell you the truth, I lied a little.
MEMORIAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT
On March 10, 2003, Detective Rodney Andrews and Detective James Nemorin made the �Ultimate Sacrifice� when they were gunned down helping to take guns off the street.
In honor of their efforts, and to let all know that they are not forgotten, an Annual Softball Tournament was arranged. Over 45 teams came out for the 2nd Annual Event, which was hosted this year on April 24 � 25 at Cunningham Park.
The finals for the 2nd Annual Tournament will be played at Keyspan Park on Saturday, May 8th, at 1pm.
There will be 2 games played, from the two divisions, and between games a special tribute to these Detectives will take place. There will also be a silent auction for sports memorabilia and other collectible items taking place.
An after-game party will take place at Peggy O�Neils, also located at Keyspan Park, that will also include live music and entertainment.
Tickets are available from your DEA Reps, as well as at the Keyspan Box Office, or by calling 646-372-1013.
Hope to see everyone there, for this very worthwhile cause.
PROMOTION KUDOS ARE IN ORDER
Congratulations are in order for two of Brooklyn North�s gumshoes.
Promoted to Detective Second Grade are Tommy Donohue of the 88 Squad and Marko Vulich of the 90 Squad. Two very deserving promotions indeed! We all wish you the best on this happy occasion.
Congratulations to Thomas Reilly of the Brooklyn Robbery Squad on his promotion to Commander Detective Squad!
Also noted in the promotions was Patrick Dolan�s promotion to Second Grade as well. Patrick is assigned to the Cold Case Squad; a very knowledgeable and professional investigator, he was an active part of the 40 Cal Task-Force last year. Well done, Paddy!
It was also nice to see Al Materasso�s name on the promotion list. Chief Materasso, who recently served as Chief of Queens Detectives (Bronx Detectives before that) was given a second star and promoted to Assistant Chief. A real gentleman, and a true professional. Congratulations, Chief.
FOR THE INVESTIGATOR�S ROLODEX
Tele-Track: Tele-Track is otherwise referred to as the �Fourth Credit Bureau�.
It�s a great source for locating hard to find low income and transient persons. TeleTrack collects information from what are referred to as �Sub-Prime� businesses such as rent-to-own furniture stores, check cashing facilities, used car dealers, secured credit card issuers, cable TV companies and others.
To find out more, check out their site at:
www.teletrack.com
800-729-6981
770-449-8809
SALVATION ARMY MISSING PERSONS BUREAU
Did you know that the Salvation Army has a Missing Person�s program?
This may be one of the few options for persons who cannot afford the services of a traditional private investigation agency. This is a place to refer proper family members who cannot afford any other service.
The service is only for persons trying to locate missing family members who have not been heard from for six months or longer. The privacy of the missing person who does not wish to be located will be maintained. Searches will not be done for legal, adoption or genealogical purposes or when the missing person is under 18 years of age.
There�s a $25 application fee. If the case is accepted, the investigation is done free of charge. There are four regional bureaus. Locally to New York, the contact is:
Eastern Territory 800-315-7699
www.salvationarmy-usaeast.org
WHERE ARE THEY NOW?
Did you happen to catch the fine article in the April 28th edition of the NY TIMES by Shaila Dewan?
The article documented how New York�s COMPSTAT approach to policing has spread across the country, through the numerous retirees who are now leading departments throughout the country.
In addition to the more well known, like Bill Bratton who now heads LAPD and John Timoney who is leading Miami, there are a host of other department leaders.
Former Deputy Chief Jane Perlov, who was the first female to head a borough detective command (Queens), is now the chief in Raleigh, N.C. Jose Cordero, a former inspector, now leads the Newton, Mass. police department. Kevin Clark, an NYPD deputy chief, now heads the Baltimore police department, and is assisted by Anthony Romano, another former NYPD.
In Sarasota, Florida, Peter Abbott is the chief of police, and Daniel Oates leads the department in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
It was fine reporting on how the Compstat process is being broadened throughout the nation. What we now take for granted is often a radical change in other places. Chief Cordero is quoted as saying �It�s common-sense police management�, and it seems to be working.
An interesting note in the article was a reference made by Kevin Clark, the current Baltimore commissioner, who was a deputy chief in the Narcotics Bureau at NYPD before he retired.
�The former New Yorkers are true believers, despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that they have suffered through the ordeal of accountability themselves. Very few rose high enough in the New York ranks that they no longer had to answer questions with maps projected behind them (at the podium!). Commissioner Clark noted �It was the best job in the world (deputy chief in Narcotics), he said without irony. I was finally freed of Compstat�.
It was also noted that �several chiefs said they had tones down the confrontational aspect, shifting the emphasis to sharing information. Peter Abbott calls his version a �kinder, gentler Compstat�, while Chief Oates calls his �Compstat Ultralite�.
IN MEMORIAM: INSPECTOR THOMAS BOYLAN
The highest ranking Member of the Service to be killed in the line of duty is Inspector Thomas Boylan.
Inspector Boylan was killed on April 5, 1952, while on patrol when an airplane struck his auto.
Inspector Thomas V. Boylan was a 30 year veteran of the Police Department. He had an outstanding reputation for establishing good working relationships between the Police Department and the community. As the new Commanding Officer of the 22nd Division, housed in the 103rd Precinct, he often would be found on patrol getting to know the community better.
Such was the case on April 5th, 1952. At approximately 8:25a.m. he and his driver, Patrolman William O�Shea, were in a RMP patrol. Without warning a C-46 cargo plane, having missed the runway at Idelwild Airport (JFK), suddenly plunged into a row of houses on 169th Street and 88th Avenue, directly in front of them. Debris from the plane struck the RMP killing Inspector Boylan instantly. Patrolman O�Shea survived.
In February 1954, a Police Athletic League (PAL) youth center was named in Inspector Boylan's honor.
�LEST WE FORGET�� THE NYPD MEMORIAL
May 3, 1913 Ptl William Heaney, 12 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 3, 1921 Ptl John Conk, 97 Pct, Struck by horse
May 3, 1931 Ptl Bernard Sherry, 15 Pct, Shot-burglary in progress
May 3, 1964 Det Joseph Greene, DetDiv, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1863 Ptl Francis Mallon, 4 Pct, Shot by EDP
May 4, 1914 Ptl Michael Kiley, 156 Pct, Shot-arrest
May 4, 1931 Ptl John Hoey, 40 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1938 Ptl Thomas Hackett, 4 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 4, 1968 Ptl Gerard Apuzzi, 107 Pct, Asphyxiated-rescue
May 4, 1981 Lt Jan Brinkers, PSA8, Shot-off duty robbery arrest
May 5, 1934 Ptl Arthur Rasmussen, 3 Pct, Shot-robbery in progress
May 5, 1971 Det Ivan Lorenzo, Narcotics, Shot-off duty incident
May 6, 1934 Ptl Lawrence Ward, 23 Pct, Shot-investigation
May 6, 1964 Ptl Stanley Schall, 70 Pct, Line of duty heart attack
May 7, 1931 Ptl John Ringhauser, 102 Pct, Auto accident on patrol
May 9, 1939 Ptl William Holstein, Mcy2, Motorcycle accident on patrol
