SPECIAL POLICE MEETING IN JULY.YOULL LOVE THIS,:)

HERE IS THE ACTUAL MEETING MINUTES FROM THE SPECIAL POLICE MEETING FOR THE COMMUNITY IN JULY 2011. IN IT YOU WILL SEE THE STATEMENTS,COMMENTS,LIES,AND FACTS.

AT A LATER DATE I SHALL BE ADDRESSING EACH OF THE COMMENTS, AND LIES,ONE BY ONE.

I SHALL BE GIVING YOU THE READER THE FACTS,WITH AGAIN PROVEN DOCUMENTS,AND STATEMENTS, I SHALL BE PROVIDING EMAILS ETC.

AFTER YOU READ THIS,YOU WILL SEE THE ABSOLUTE, UNBELIEVABLE MINDSET I AND THE OTHER OFFICER HAVE HAD TO DEAL WITH.

YOU WILL SEE STATEMENTS MADE,WITHOUT ANY PROOF,COMMENTS ABOUT ME,WITHOUT PROOF.

AS I STATED, I SHALL BE ADDRESSING EVERYONE OF THEM,,:)

ENJOY READING ,YOU WILL SCRATCH YOUR HEAD AT SOME OF THE STATEMENTS AND COMMENTS MADE

Village of Cordova

    Police Commission Meeting

July 13, 2011

     A meeting of the Police Committee was called to order by the Police Committee chairman Bruce Wood in the Conference Room at 7:30PM.

     Those seated at the table were Bruce Wood, Rochelle Kindelsperger, Ray Goossens, Ryan Gaines and Clerk Sharon Peterson.

    Also in attendance were the members of the Village Board- Larry Dhooge, John Myers, John Haan, Dean Moyer and Patsy Fidlar.  Others in attendance-Quad city Times Brian Wellner, Dispatch/Review-Lyle Ernst, Dispatch Bill Mayoroff , Linda Meinheit,

Mary McCarthy, George Kerr, Ken McCool, Mike Piatt, Barber-Jared, Vicky and Jared, Amy Haan, Candy Moyer, Ed Vaughn, John Henyan, Del Moyer, Elaine Winter, Mary Ann Saathoff, Shelly Owens, Laurie Knight, Tom Ray, Cordova Dragway-Scott Gardner, Jim & Joanne Hines, Bob Willhite and Colleen Melody, Bill and James Somers, Kathy Brown, Bonnie Olson, Jim Boone, Alvin Barber, Bob & Ginny Bennett, Jared Cole,  TJ Marsden, Julie Hager, Lynn Fidlar, Patrick Wirth

  Bruce announced this is the first meeting of the newly formed Police Committee and he was going to use a power point presentation.  We will be looking at fact based assessments, finalizing a survey to be sent out to the public to gain public input and comments.  This meeting will be recorded and Sharon will be doing the minutes.

    The meeting rules were noted as follows: only speak when recognized by the chair, only offer fact based comments or evidence and limit it to 2 minutes and be courteous and respectful.

    The Police Committee membership- after Fridays meeting Jon Kavanaugh, Cordova Township has resigned from the Committee.  Rochelle Kindelsperger was introduced as the citizen on the Police Committee and she has experience as a former lieutenant on the Oklahoma State Police.  Rochelle is also a member of the community for 9 years and has volunteered to serve on the Committee.

     Rochelle noted she was thrilled when asked to participate on the Police Committee and being able to serve the community.  When we met to work on the survey it was brought to the attention that the meeting may be a gray area and that is why we are having this meeting tonight. The newspaper said I made statements about the officers and that is not the truth. I am an individual and will make my own comments. I will stay neutral until the facts are presented.  It is then up to the Board to make a decision. I was highly upset with the newspaper and the false statements printed.  Bruce noted the Dispatch did print a correction.

      Rochelle I do my best and do not feed off of others-we all have different ideas.  I do think the survey is a good idea to gain input and comments.  You are the people who pay these guys wages. I am highly upset with the actions of this community and I have told Bruce so I must resign for reasons of my health.  Bruce thanked Rochelle for her assistance and contribution to the Committee.  I am extremely disappointed to the point of anger that the community is making this job so difficult.  I do plan on using Rochelle as a point of contact.  Shame on you people! I am now a Committee of one due to the controversy generated by Friday’s meeting. I invite John Myers to the table and he is a part of the Police Committee. The committee should be 2 from the Village, 2 from the Township and a citizen.

      Jon Myers, I have not prepared for this meeting and I had no agenda.

      Dean Moyer asked where in the Police Protection Contract it states that the Township must be involved. Bruce read item 4-“Police protection within the Village and Township shall be under the jurisdiction and control of the Police Committee of the Village , and two representatives of the Township, with approval of the Township Board, to serve as non-voting members of the Village Police Committee with said Township representatives to serve terms of one year beginning on January 1^st of the following year, or until a successor is appointed and approved.”  Bruce we need a committee of 5 members.

      Bruce introduced the officers to the public and noted he had received a resignation from Ray Goossen today as the Investigating Sgt and he not a patrolman.  If that was the goal you have succeeded.  Ray has helped me tremendously but he knows what is best for himself and his family.  Ryan Gaines was the target of Friday’s meeting and he is the newest officer.  We also have 2 other part-time officers but they were not required to be here tonight.  We also have back-up protection from Rock Island County, Illinois State Police and Mutual aid agreements with surrounding communities.

   The people need to know what the officers are doing and we post the activity monthly report. Lyle Ernst noted he also publishes the monthly report in the Review.

    Bruce’s presentation included some statistical information regarding stops.  Jim Boone questioned how many of the citations issues got thrown out?  You need to give us that information also. Bill Somers, your numbers do not add up!  Bruce, some stops we issue warnings and other stops we may issue multiple citations.

    I have been able to obtain financial information of the Police Department for the last 12 years  (see page 12) as well as hours of coverage history (see page 13 and 14). Also included are the projected revenues (page 15) and the Budget (page 16).

     John Myers, I have worked on some budget figures but I did not know I would be sitting here.  We also need to include the cost of the vehicles. We need to be looking at the present usage how much service time they have before they will need to be replaced.

 Bruce noted the Impala was mostly purchased with Grant funding.  John Myers, we do not know the future availability of grant funding.

     It was noted by Ryan that the Police Department has increased stationary patrols in an effort to cut fuel and vehicle expenses. Bruce noted page 10 of the statistical information shows in 2008-2,737 road hours and the first 6 months of 2011 with multiple officers working the road hours are 2,082.

     We have a situation in Cordova when people see one squad they think they can speed and we have been working 2 officers at a time to try to slow people down.

    Bruce stated there had been 2 meetings with Rock Island County (page 17).  They expressed a high degree of frustration with the Trustees calling them and they wanted the Mayor to contact them at my first meeting.  I then went along with the Mayor meeting.  We have talked about some pretty sensitive topics.

    Page 18 reflects the tax increase necessary to support protection services with Rock Island County.  Bruce noted a 1 year deputy is $35 and it goes up from there.  The officers were asked to state their hourly wage- Ray $11.33 and Ryan $10.50. Ryan noted we all attend the same Police Academy. Ray noted he has 18 years experience.

     Scott Gardner questioned if the cost of vehicles was factored into all quotes? Bruce, County would provide their own vehicle and we would be selling ours.

     Ray noted that Cordova would not have any protection after midnight as we fall in zone 3 and they can be anywhere from here to Andalusia at the other end of the
County.  The Village will also get any revenue not would we be a participant in any drug forfeitures, etc.

     Pat questioned if the numbers presented from Rock Island County for protection were their numbers of Bruce’s? I know Port Byron just contracted with Rock Island County for $156,000.  Bruce we meet with the person who writes the contracts. Bob, Rock Island did not say this is a hard fast number because they need more information to know what our full scope of protection would involve. Pat, these are inflated numbers by you! Bruce apparently you don’t understand or don’t want to and I don’t want anymore outburst from you or you will be asked to leave. Pat told the Village Officers they could not touch her and Ryan has been fired. I will leave.

     John Myers questioned where the revenue goes when a citation is issued in the Village. The deputy would be our employee.  He  noted he had checked and as this time has no clear answers yet.  I think when the citation goes through the court system our account will be credited.  Bruce are clearly not going to get what we currently do.

     Ray explained he worked in Andalusia until Rock Island County took over and he  still has contacts and knows they do not get any citation revenue and they are paying $82,000 for an officer from 4PM-midnight.

     Bruce, Rock Island County did share a copy of Port Byron’s contract with us.

     John Myers, I did call Clay, as his father was involved in the Port Byron contract and he is not sure on the revenues.

      Bruce you will see that Cordova Township contributes for the Police Protection and the Village will not have that source of revenue either.  Jim  Boone questioned since when did the Police focus become on revenue?  Who at Rock Island County is telling you all of this?

      Bill Somers, Rock Island County has a different level of professionalism. Bruce the survey will allow the citizens to address what they feel needs to be addressed.  The County deputies are also on a different carrier path.

     Ray, we are here to protect and serve, not for the sake of revenue. Our concern is public safety and we all know speed kills and DUI enforcement needs to be conducted.  I was involved previously with putting a 6 year on in a body bag and it was not nice.

     Bruce, last Sunday when I was returning to the Community I say Ryan had 3 motorcycles pulled over that had been traveling at 106 MPH.  We are not a speed trap and we are doing what is necessary.

    Mr. Willhite, you talk about team work to get people but yet you say your focus is not on revenue.  The actions of the police department hurt business during the outage. Bruce, they are here to serve and protect.

      Bruce page 19 deals with the meeting held last Friday was originally scheduled for Thursday then moved when the room was not available. I was not asked for my input. They had no data and yet they cut the police officers hours, objected to the Police Committee.  I have put a lot of energy and focus on what I am doing and I do not have a secret survey.  The survey has been in a lot of hands and I have asked the Board for a final review.  The only comments I have received were from John Myers.  I do not appreciate the personal attacks made on me and I do believe they are malicious and strong words.

     I know of one person selling their home and thought they had an interested buyer until they research Cordova-that’s the place causing  all the problems.

     Pages 20-21 are from the Illinois Compiled Statues dealing with the Illinois Police Officers Bill of Rights and I believe this is germane to Friday’s meeting. There are no sworn avadavat. I invite you to read this and you will find a violation has clearly occurred.

    Jim Hines, when I spoke with you did not say an avadavat was required.  Bruce, Please do so I am telling you now. I spent 2 hours with Mr. Hines total between 2 phone conversations.  Jim I do appreciate your time and thank you.

      Linda Mienheit, I had a problem handled by the Cordova Police Department and they were very respectful and even came back to check and follow-up on my welfare.

      Bruce there have been some very vocal allegations made.

     Julie Hager, I came to the meeting and brought my attorney and it made not difference. Bruce, the law is clear and we all need to follow the law.  Julie, are you saying my lawyer didn’t know what he was doing.  He now works for the States Attorney. It is funny he knows nothing.  Bruce, we need sworn affidavits.

     Ray questioned what Julie’s attorney had said.  Julie you 2 can be in a lot of trouble writing to my daughter and the intimidation. Ray, could be.   Bruce, I will talk to Julie. I have seen her complaint and her son’s.  We do have a complaint form to be used.

      Scott Gardner, I was a trustee for Albany for 8 years and the Police Chairperson for 4 years.  I was told by Whiteside County we can fire as Illinois is an at-will State.  We actually did so.  The Board has a lot of authority.

     Bruce, the Police Chief just got fired in Hillsdale.HE GOT FIRED FOR MISCONDUCT

     Bill Somers, the deal with Piatt’s family should remain confidential. We as residents own this town,THIS IS PRICELESS,,,WE OWN THIS TOWN?WOW and we employee the officers and yet we can’t know what is going on!

Bruce, I am not here to debate and I respect Julie and will do my best to see that she gets a clear hearing. This job is not a thankful opportunity.

     Pages 22-25 are the summary of some of the things I have been working on and you will see who is behind each item:

      #4- the firing of the Hillsdale Police Chief- I have talked to Rock Island County and there is no complaint from the Rock Island County deputy.  Ryan, there was a complaint from Hillsdale sent to a specific Board member,AGAIN,WHAT BOARD MEMBER?PATSY FIDLAR, who withheld it for 3-4 days. Bruce, that letter was a contributing factor to the firing of the Hillsdale Police Chief. Ray noted, as the investigating officer he had made contact with Police Chief Ringberg and he stated he was not there. I replied you wrote the letter! He informed me a Cordova officer had left his jurisdiction running hot and he had written the letter on behalf of a Rock Island County deputy Miller.THE CHIEF IS FRIENDS WITH PATSY FIDLAR, SEEMS HE LIKES TO LIE AS SHE DOES Boyd said it did not happen and Rock Island County takes care of their own correspondence. Bruce noted he had also spoken with the Sheriff’s Department on this and was told the same thing.

       Scott Gardner, let’s go back to #3. Bruce I have gone through several documents and records and the termination was justified. Scott questioned if there is a pending investigation? Ray, there is an on-going State investigation. Scott on July 12^th I contacted Jim at the State’s Attorney Office and he was unaware of any investigation. I was told by Sgt Goossen when I had Rich working for me at my facility the Cordova Police Department would not respond until Rock Island County was on the grounds and this concerns me. I do not plan to continue to employ him the remainder of this season.

      Bruce the officers being together due to the nature of the on-going investigation can turn into a he said/she said, thus a controversial situation. I thought when we talked we both agreed and the Cordova officers will continue to do the drive-thru patrol. INTERESTING HERE Scott agreed ,WELL ILL BE,HE AGREEDbut noted there is nothing on the State Attorneys desk Bruce, rarely will they talk about an on-going case. Scott, I do not want to jeopardize the public or your officers. Bruce, I respect your business and it is good for the community.

    Ray, I have 4 pending cases now that have not reached the State Attorneys desk.

    John Myers questioned if anyone knew of an officer Patterson? Ray, yes.AND HERE OUT OF THE BLUE, HE DROPS A NAME,,,WAS I TO BE IMPRESSED?

       #5 Passing the Riverdale School bus-I have spoke to the bus driver, the Superintendent and an eye witness. The bus was on the street and the police squad was in the parking lot. The bus driver thought, out of the corner of her eye, she seen the car move. The eye witness and Ryan both say the vehicle was parked. We need to be very careful as this situation is a felony. We hear from Pat otherwise and she says she has additional information but has refused to cooperate SHE REFUSED TO COPPERATE AS SHE IS A LIARand my decision is based on evidence.

      #6 Sexual Harassment- we have nothing.  No statements, affidavits, evidence-only allegations.

      #7-Motorized bicycles is still being investigated and is an open case. Ray, TJ said he was harassed at his place of employment-it was not Ryan or myself. Marty went to talk to him.  TJ, I didn’t say at my employer.

       Jim Hines, this is a censored meeting-you laid out the rules that we were going to be courteous and respectful and the snide remarks need to stop.  Bruce we need data, sworn affidavits and not off the cuff comments.

       #8 Stabbing incident- Ken McCool advised my some investigation is under way due to remarks made about this situation.A MAINTENANCE WORKER,AUSTIN MCCOOL STABS A PERSON 4 TIMES,AND NO INVESTIGATION ON HIM,NO COMMENTS BY THE GANG OF 4 ON THIS.THIS IS A ACT OF SEVERE VIOLENCE,BUT NO MENTION OF IT WHATS SO EVER ODD.

      #9 Ramada Inn Allegations- this continues to be brought up and it was in 2009.  I had conversation with Pat yesterday and she says it happened.SHE STILL INSISTS THIS HAPPENED,THIS MEETING WAS IN JULY,STATUE OF LIMITATIONS IS ONE YEAR FOR SLANDER AND DEFAMATION,AND I PLAN TO PURSUE THIS, I am aware of a City of Moline Incident Investigation Report that notes unfounded and I have also questioned Rock Island County and officer Goossen.

     #10 Police coat purchase.  Ryan Pat objected and said I wouldn’t be here long. Bruce, I told Ryan the sign in the yard was not a smart thing to do (#11) and we have had conversation about it. He exercised his right of free speech but he has a special position being a Police Officer and that is close to the line.

       Ryan, the Illinois Municipal Handbook says you can’t fire anyone for exercising their Constitutional Rights. It was also wrong for Mr. Hines to say I had only been in the community for 6-8 months.  Bruce, we all know what gets in the newspapers in not always right.  Jim Hines, you said things against Pat and she has been here 30-40 years and is an elected official.  You were out of line and unprofessional and you owed Pat an apology.  I did find out later you did apologize. Ryan, I am a new resident with a wife and 3 children and  did not appreciate the comment that we should be driven out of town-how would that make you feel!

     #12 Police harassment of Trustee Fidlar- again repeated complaints but no affidavits, witness or evidence.  Allegations unfounded. SHE CAN LIE ABOUT A PERSON,SAY HE MOLESTED HIS OWN CHILD,IS THIS NOT HARASSMENT?SHE IS THE BIGGEST HARASSER THERE ISKen McCool, there are complaints.SO THERE'S COMPLAINTS,ARE THEY VALID?NO, Bruce, I have reviewed the complaint book and minutes I as still researching. Ken, that is why we need a better recording system and a video.  John Haan, harassment can occur without a witness. Bruce then we have a he said/she said.

     #13 Alleged molestation by Fidlar.  Pat questioned Bruce you have been a Trustee for how long! Bruce I will have control of this meeting and again this story has been fabricated. Pat, I resent the statements Goossen made to the press tonight. Ray, would you take a polygraph at my expense? Pat, you are crazier than a bedbug. INTERSTING HERE IS THAT SHE CAN HARASS,SLANDER,AND LIE AND THEN  SHE WILL REFUSE A POLYGRAPH,WHY?SHE IS EVIL AND A COMPULSIVE LIAR Bruce, one more and you will leave. Pat they can’t touch me Here IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF FIDLAR THINKING THAT SHE CAN DO WHATEVER,SAY WHATEVER,AND  NO ONE CAN DO ANYTHING TO HER,WELL SHES GOING TO BE IN FOR SURPRISE, and Ryan has been fired anyhow. You don’t have to call Rock Island County for back-up, they are already here. Bruce noted he had been called the jack-ass in charge.

     #14 Scotts law- Patrick Wirth is the correct name. Vicky Barber noted Ryan had apologized and she thought that needed to be voiced publically. 

      #15 the recovery of stolen property

     #16 mopeds-this is still an ongoing situation.  Mopeds do require a driver’s license to operate on the streets. John Myers questioned if the moped is a manufactured and if so as licensed as such.  Bruce, if it has a motor you must have a Drivers license.  John Myers, manufactured they are 50CC and there is a difference between a moped and a bike with a motor, motorized bicycle. Bruce I have had conversation with 3 captains of Rock Island County and there is no debate.  The situation was described and it will now move through the courts. Ryan, the law is very vague and Ray has obtained additional information from the State Attorneys office.

     Ken questioned if the cases had been thrown out-that’s what I heard?  Jared Cole, under 50Cc and 150 pounds they are legal.  Bruce, I was told any officer would handle this situation the same as we did. There has been a lot of effort and anguish in this situation.

     Julie Hager, Ryan has tried to talk to me an apologize too but both of the officers have said thing at the gas station that did not happen.  Bruce thanked Julie and noted we need to heal as a community.  Ryan, I would like to set down with the family. Julie, Ryan was more professional than Ray. Ray had an attitude where Ryan was level headed. They can’t be saying things as it gets back to people.  Ryan, some things need to be taken with a grain of salt as they are not always relayed correctly.  Julie, I have heard from at least 5 people.  Bruce, I am thankful for Tom’s business but the conversation around the gas pump is not  always reliable. Ryan, we have been hearing you have filed a $100,000 suit.  Julie that is not true-I grew up here and yes I did think about moving.  Ryan we all need to forgive and forget.  Julie again noted Ryan is very professional

     Mike Piatt, you can’t believe the conversation at the gas pump as truth and you said we need sworn statements.  Bruce,  some people tend to feed and I need to deal with facts. Julie, the police officers need affidavits too. Bruce, a Police Report is a sworn statement.  If an officer files a false report it is a felony.

      Ginny Bennett, everyone needs to file a report-citizen or police. We all know how a story can get started on a telephone and by the time it gets down the line the entire story has changed.  Look at the Casey Anthony case.

     #18 Email- I got a copy of the email and talked to Ryan.  Ryan, when Karen heard I was a police officer that was what made her feel it was threatening. She turned it over to the State Attorneys office but asked them not to prosecute it.

     Candy Moyer questioned if there is documentation in the personnel file of the conversations and reprimands?  Bruce, I have been in this position for 3 weeks.

      Ginny, this man has been in this position for 3 week and he is trying to make things right. I can’t believe the way you people are going at him. Amy Haan, didn’t you run for office and back out? Ginny, people were saying things about me and I knew I would never have a minute of peace.  It is to bad people have to be that way.

     #19 cell phone usage- the officers have to use both the phone and laptop squad computers in their duties.

     #20 Daughter in squad-Ryan, I will make no apology for this. The car is stationary and parked and children love to see police squads and fire trucks and how they work. I went to the Church at vacation bible school and gave out goodie bags for click it-ticket and the loved the squad. I love children and we need to conduct a bike rodeo.

      #21 underage party- Ryan, it was a drug and alcohol situation. People fled and I returned and hour later to arrest an intoxicated person getting into a vehicle to drive off. I had a problem due to faulty equipment and could not contact Rock Island County.  The homeowner called Rock Island County to say I needed help.

      #22 Safe recovery- we had a very happy elderly man when the contents were returned to the owner.  Why it was not taken care of prior is unknown.

      #23- QC Online suit-the Village is not involved.

     #24-attempted bribery.  Dean Moyer offered to buy a position. I said at the time to Dean, you do not want to go there! He was trying to make a point but because of the toxic nature of things going on here we are.  Dean, yes I said it. Jim Hines. Why is Goossens name behind this one?WHY?I WAS THE INVESTIGATOR  Ryan, complaint from a citizen or confidential informant and he was the investigating officer but no longer is. Dean, it was a joke.  Why are we spending our time and money for an investigation-you stupid bastard! HERE WE HAVE AND ELECTED OFFICIAL ACTING LIKE HES A BULLY,TYPICAL Bruce, they have to do their job Dean, this is public information.  Bruce we are not getting anything productive done. He made the comment and it was run with. Yes it may be unfair.  Jim Hines, you are the Police chair and you can say it was a joke.

     #25 Henry County rape- this is just a flavor of the things we do.  Ryan, I had a person come to me and disclose 5 additional victims.

     Ken McCool questioned what the investigation has cost the village in the recovery of stolen property?  Ray, we are not here to make money.  Bruce, there were 4 counties involved in this.  Ryan, and no one has told us thanks.  Bruce, it has raised and embarrassment to Exelon with the theft recovered items from their site.  Ken, is anyone else sharing in the expenses?  Bruce, it really didn’t cost but there was a spike in hours but we were down with the decline in hours with the personnel changes we had.

     Ray, I took a call which said a tractor from Cordova was in Fulton and we found a lot more.  Whiteside County backed off the situation. Dan Bush, Carroll County had knowledge 8 weeks before we became involved. Ray, there are still items there.  Bruce we still have evidence at Cordova Township and now our investigation  officer, in all of this turmoil has resigned.  Ray we recovered a $75,000 John Deere Loader and this is still an on-going criminal investigation.

   Page 31 Conclusions. This is an embarrassment and we need to be scolded. The toxicity has damages our community reputation. This needs to stop.

     Bill Somers, I complained to the Chief when my son was driving without a  license and had not been notified by the State and was unaware of if.THE SON TOLD MYSELF AND THE FORMER CHIEF THAT HE DIDNT EVEN CHECK HIS MAIL SOMETIMES FOR 3 MONTHS,YOU WERE NOTIFIED SOMERS, They had him stopped when Wirth passed them and it wasn’t until the next day that Wirth was issued the citation for failure to reduce speed for an emergency vehicle. My son says Wirth did not fly by as he just left a stop sign a ½ block back.  We had 2 officers at the scene and my vehicle was left in the street, no lights with the keys in the ignition-why didn’t one of the stay with the vehicle until I got there? Ray, I followed him when he did not signal a turn at 11^th &  Main and I had been informed he may be intoxicated. I had probable cause when he did not signal. He had an open can of beer in the vehicle, for which he was not charged. I did not take him to Rock Island County but brought him up to the Village and he called his dad. I did administer a breathe test. I tried to make it easy on everyone and if you want to call that unprofessional what do you want?  Bill, Bruce needs to stay out of this.ANOTHER WITH THE BULLY MENTALITY

     Ginny, Bruce is the Police Chair and only trying to do his job. The Trustees get paid $125 month and the Mayor $500.  Bruce, I have not been cashing my checks and I am in this for the public. I am getting calls at all hours and I love being here for the citizens. It does embarrass me that Cordova is on the front page of the newspaper 4-5 days a week. I just spoke with a reporter. I have lived here 9 years. This is a good town. We need to get the newspaper articles correct.

      Julie Hager, the question was brought up earlier and I think we need to know the number of arrest made and citation in relation to those thrown out.  Bruce, I do believe the majority stand but we have the squeaky wheels and attitudes affecting thing. Julie, I kept my mouth shut till March. Bruce, I didn’t mean that at you and I apologize if that is what you think.  We have built this ora and got a lot of unfounded allegations and unjustice. We have the officers chasing rabbits that don’t exist.

     Julie, we have let the officers get by with stuff that shouldn’t have happened. I warned you that the situation was going to get worse and they needed to be reined back. They may need to be re-trained. Don’t even say I am a squeaky wheel. Bruce, my apology if you interpreted it that way.

     John Myers, it also bothers me if we are having cases thrown out. YOU MR. MYERS HAVE NO CLUE OF THE JUSTICE SYSTEM, We shouldn’t have that if our officers are doing good work the citation would be upheld. Bruce, some get to a judge and others get to a trial. I do not see a pattern of bad police work. John Myers, when tickets are thrown out it raises a red flag!AND THIS COMING FROM A COMPULSIVE LIAR

      Scott, I was on the Board in Albany for 8 years and what do you think is contributing to all of these complaints?  Bruce, I will reserve my judgment.  I get calls and yes I listen.  We also have the toxicity of the Board and that is the reason I accepted this position is to stop it.  We have real estate not selling due to the reputation and it could be affecting empty business sites and future community growth if someone researches us. I do pray that hasn’t happened. I feel embarrassed that 2 people have been chased off of the Police Committee already but I see Rochelle’s point and she does not need to put her health at risk.

    Joanne Hines, the last statement made in your presentation “ Wanton disregard of the good of Cordova”. I have served this community for 17 years and you have people attending the meetings when you have controversy. So where do you see the disregard?

    Bruce, the meeting held Friday was irresponsible and uncalled for. I prepared a survey and ask for input but believe we need the confidentially to get response. We want people  to be comfortable so they can be honest and straight forward.  We will also include a stamped envelope for return to achieve a higher return rate if possible and ensure the people the survey is getting in the right hands. 

      Joanne, we have 3 people in our household with differing opinions.  Bruce we will works that out but I do feel there is a sense of urgency and we need to get this out. Hopefully we will get a 20-30% return.

      Jim Hines, per our phone discussion Bruce said only the Police Committee will see the surveys.  Why isn’t the rest of the Board allowed to get involved?  Bruce, I am sure there are a number of people who would be uncomfortable if the officers, Board members or Mayor seen them.  Bruce called for a raise of hands from the audience as to who cared how many and who were involved in reviewing the surveys and got a mixed vote. Jim I trust the 5 of the Police Committee but I also trust the rest of the Board. 

    Alvin Barber, it is what it is and there is nothing to hide.

    Bruce the Sheriff Department also things it would be the best way to handle it.  Amy Haan, the Board can override you so what you say makes no difference.WOW, CLASSY LADY STATEMENT

     Jim Hines, the minutes are not a true transcript.  I can go chapter and verse and parts of conversation have been left out.  Bruce the Village is not going to spend the money for a court reporter. I have never seen any censored as you claim.  If we see something missing we have the opportunity before the minutes are approved. We are wanting to upgrade the recording system.  Jim, never have I said we need a court reporter. Bruce, this is not necessary.

    Ken McCool questioned who owned the camera in the corner of the room. Ryan, I do.  Ken, it is illegal to video me without my consent and you have not obtained permission to tape me. AND THIS MAN WAS A BOARD MEMBER FOR HOW LONG?AND HE DOESN'T KNOW ABOUT THE OPEN MEETING ACT?MAYBE YOU NED TO BE RE TRAINED Bruce, he asked me and I approved it.  This is a public meeting.

     Ray, a police officer has its unpleasant tasks but I have notice the 8-10 at this meeting creating complaints have a history and do not have a pleasant view of the Police Department. I may be crustier and harder.  We play with the Children when we are patrolling and this is a beautiful river town.

     Ken, we as taxpayers pay State, County and Village.  As citizens and taxpayers we have the right if we have a concern to come to the Board.  Concerns need to be looked at and investigated to the best of your ability.

    John Myers, the bottom line-wonton disregard-couldn’t it be said for the concern of the Village.  Bruce, those are my words, not he Police Committee.

     A motion was made by John Myers and 2^nd by Bruce Wood to adjourn the meeting at 10:12PM.   Meeting adjourned.

  

Where are the Supporters of the Hagers?

Odd,where are all the supporters of the John Hager incident?Facts really are a bummer aren't they?

Chris Minor Interview with John Hager

 

NEW YEARS NIGHT INCIDENT WITH JOHN HAGER AND FAM,:)

Chris MinorReporter

August 26, 2011

CORDOVA— 

A Cordova man says he was the victim of excessive force during a traffic stop at the hands of Officer Ray Goosens, now in jail for allegedly threatening the owner of the Cordova Dragway.

Being maced is excessive use of force Johnny?

John Hager says he didn't drive alone for two months after a run-in with Officer Goosens, now charged in another case with felony intimidation.Funny,,,,he was seen by many in town driving soon afterwards,

''Goosens is scary. I fear for my life when he's on duty OK,,i might be ugly but not that ugly,:)On duty is when he flipped me off because I've already seen him lose his temper'',Using control tactics, isn't losing temper Mr.Hager Hager said in an interview at his home on Friday.

he fears for his life, but at a public board meeting does make the comment that, They can sit in my driveway and catch the speeders! He fears for his life, but flips me the bird 2x,here it should be noted, that he was ALONE, both times, he was by himself, but flips off the police officer he said is scary and he fears for his life from? lol come on John. Lose his temper? When on duty as a police officer I have 2 large females REFUSING TO OBEY DIRECTIONS, AND A LARGER MALE COMBATIVE, I use the proper amount of force to get the situation under control. The Hager’s feel that they are above the law. And if a person comes against them, that's losing your temper.
It was New Years Eve night, when Hager, a single father of two, I don’t care if he’s the Pope what’s this have to do with anything?

 was approached, approached?it was a TRAFFIC STOP WITH LIGHTS ON,not a meet and greet.And readers, here i should advise you that after I first went to him and he was at that time pleasant,I WENT TO THE SQUAD AND TURNED OFF THE LIGHTS SO IT WOULD NOT BE EMBARRASSING TO HIM in his driveway around 11pm by Goosens and another part-time Cordova officer, Ryan Gaines. False, Gaines was in the car; I approached him He says they approached him as he was walking to his mom's house next door, telling him to get back in his car. Negative ghost rider. I advised him to get back in his car after i made contact, for his well being as it was cold out! duh! He says the two claimed he had run a stop sign, and said they had done a computer check and found no record of his registration.LOL no record? Again negative we found record, it was EXPIRED! Hager says he insisted that couldn't be the case, but Goosens wasn't having it. Chris i have to ask, what and the world does this mean? I wasn't having any of what?

WELL here ya have Minor sensationalism. His plates came back EXPIRED. i have the printout. Available upon request:) 

''I said just arrest me then, and he rips open the door, Negative, he kicked the door open, and by doing do injured the other officer, (pictures available upon request) in fact former Chief Todd Allen took pictures the next day punches me in the face, wait, where is the part of the two large females? The part of the MOM saying i have the sticker at work? The part where the constantly refused to calm down, using the F word at me and would not go back in the house I fell onto the passenger door.OK,,how do you fall sideways? lol really John? I say my hands are up, my hands are up! No John it was OK!OK! After I sprayed you because you were kicking like a kid wanting candy,wait,heyyyy!:)  naw,,, That's when he maces me in the face, throws me out of the car and puts me in handcuffs'',I weigh 170.he weights 280. IM strong but not that strong, how did I throw him? Where did i throw him? Where did he land after I threw him?:)These are questions that need to be asked, I did put him in cuffs, but i find here some thing interesting, in his interview there is NO MENTION OF THE LOUD POP THAT CAME FROM HIS FINGER, WRIST, HAND! But in his complaint to the Village he states that he heard a LOUD POP. hmmmmmm lying maybe? Said the now 29-year old.

Hager's sister Jessica Scranton. a military veteran, says she saw it all.

As we were driving away, she flipped myself and the other officer off, I understand she was upset. Saw it all? Of course, she was the one that refused to quit interfering.and here is no mention of Scrantons Husband coming outside walking in a aggressive manner towards me and was stopped by Ryan.he threatened Ryan by saying "don't you dare touch me" why don't they mention this?

''Out of control, Officer Goosens got loud and irate and it was scary'', she said. Funny, a officer is trying to control a combative situation and her being a military veteran, is afraid because someone gets loud? What branch was it she served? GIRL SCOUTS?

Hager spent the next three nights in jail, and was charged with aggravated battery of a peace officer. Goosens and Gaines said Hager kicked and hit them. Police later said the video camera in the squad car had been turned off. NEGATIVE, Not turned off, it wasn't Turned on, as it was the old system we had that took like 3 different operations to activate the thing

Hager took a photo of his eye after he was released from jail, interesting here is after wards. How long afterwards? Where at? Why wasn't it documented at the Rock Island County Jail? With shades remaining of a black eye.

''It was a nightmare, it was by far the worst time in my life'', he recounted. Well here a idea, When you are stopped by officers, that WAS NOT EVEN GIVING YOU A TICKET FOR THE INFRACTION THAT CAUSED THE STOP, listen to them and they will move on, INSTEAD of kicking a door open, injuring a officer, refusing directions by officers, maybe then it wouldn't of ended like it did

Judge Walter Braud later threw the case out against Hager, all charges dropped.The judge has a case of his overturned by the 3rd appellate Court because of a mistake the Judge did.So are we to say that every decision he makes or ruling is the absolute?That he never makes bad rulings?this is a murder conviction that was OVERTURNED! because of errors made,


People v. Laabs, 2011 IL App (3d) 09091 Off the hook, but he says, the small town cops didn't let up. What does this mean? What contact did he have with me ever again? I have never, ever had any contact with him after this incident. What does it mean would not let up? What was done? When was it done? What was the incident that would validate the statement, didn't let up?

''They started stalking me.AHHH sorry John, you live on one of 3 majors roads in Cordova, If driving by on patrol is stalking, I can show you the legal definition of Stalking. They'd drive by normal, then slow way, way, down and make sure I knew I was seeing them'' Hager said. Normal? Whats normal? What speed? So driving by a person home that was arrested is Stalking?

After the case was dismissed, and it made the newspaper, Officer Gaines emailed Hager's sister via Facebook, writing to tell her that he had traced her IP to a comment she had written online about the incident, telling her if she didn't apologize for insinuating he was a ''liar'' and a ''dirty cop'', he would sue her.

''I think he was trying to intimidate me, but it didn't work'', Scranton said. Here I find interesting, Ryan is like 6/4 way bigger then I, But she said I was loud and she was scared, but she’s not of him? hmmmmmm

Hager says he doesn't believe the officers really ever ran his license plate that night. I believe allot of things, doesn't mean its true, Here it should be noted that John filed a FOIA request and received all the paperwork from this incident, he also GOT THE PUTER PRINTOUT THAT SHOWED PLATES WERE EXPIRED MAY2010!

''I went to the Department of Motor Vehicles that showed I had registration at the time'', Hager said. I HAVE THE PUTER PRINTOUT THAT SHOWED PLATES WERE EXPIRED MAY2010!

He says he filed a complaint with the Village of Cordova that went nowhere. I have written documentation that he has changed his story 3 times, 3,AND is available to any reader by filing a foia request with the Village Of Cordova

Now, Goosens is behind bars in another case, accused of telling the owner of the Cordova Drag way that if he didn't fire two security officers at the track, he would pull police security and not respond to any 9-1-1 calls there. Goosens denies it.

Hager has never talked publicly about his experience. He says as the son of a Navy man, he was taught to respect the uniform. I have to disagree with that statement But believes Goosens doesn't deserve to wear one.

''I don't want to take pleasure in any one else’s pain, but he deserves what happened to him. I hope some kind of conviction comes out of this. There's definitely a scar on my soul from this whole thing.’ I have a question, his soul is scarred? Is he, or has he been seen by a therapist? How long? What for? Is he on medication? And what is the symptom of a soul that is scarred? Remember there was documented pictures, no report of injuries at jail, a EYE WITNESS ACROSS STREET THAT FILED OUT A WITNESS STATEMENT THAT TOTALLY CONTRADICTS EVERYTHING THIS YOUNG MAN HAS SAID. HIS STORY HAS CHANGED 3X.I think maybe John and his family think there above the law,it should be noted here also that at the time of this stop his Grandfather was on village board. i welcome all comments on this incident,:) Thank you and Good Night:)IN Closing,,,heyyyyyy Chris Minor, I still have your cell number, can I call you to give you the truth?

NEW YEARS NIGHT INCIDENT WITH JOHN HAGER AND FAM,:)

On Dec 31 2010 at around 1130pm I did notice a van blow a stop sign. The officer and I made traffic stop on the vehicle as it pulled into a driveway. Driver exited the vehicle, (temperature was 14 degrees) I got out as the other officer was calling in the stop. I advised the driver that the reason he was stopped was he did not stop at the stop sign .he said, “Yes I did”. I asked him for his driver’s license and his insurance. Now the driver was out on New Years Night, he was wearing a short sleeve t-shirt, no coat, and flip flops, with NO socks. I was in Long johns, vest, long sleeve shirt, and I was cold. He was not bothered at all by the temp. He produced his DL and was looking for his insurance card. Also Rock Island County advised his registration was expired in may. This was confirmed thru my in-car puter. He could not find his insurance card, so I told him to return to his van, as it was cold out and see if you can find it. I told him that his plates were expired and he would be receiving a citation for the plates and no insurance if he can’t find it. I told him “If you have the insurance just show the judge and it will be dismissed, I said, “I am not writing you for running the stop sign” As I and the other officer were in our squad writing the citation, a female approaches the male and begins to say, This is f@#ked,this is bull s&^t. then another female arrives on scene, older and fatter. I exited the squad and began to ask the ladies to return to the house, every other word from them was “f&*k this, Cordova Police are harassing him, I again, said go back in the house, The older female, (who I found out was his mother) (Julie Hager of 1102 3^rd street Cordova ILL), asked why did you stop him? I told her reason for the stop, that his plates were expired and he has no insurance the other female (who I found out was his sister)(Jessica Scranton) said, well ill go print one out of the puter. The larger one said, they plates are not expired I have the sticker they both continued to, disobey my directions. I asked the older female, well where’s the sticker? She said at work. I was in front on left front fender area of the van and the driver,  (John Hager of 1102 3^rd street Cordova ILL) all of a sudden Yelled, “f&*k this!!! Arrest me then,” he kicked the driver’s door open, and it hit the other officer in the leg. (Should be noted here, it cut his leg and pictures were taken) I then pushed the other officer out of the way to try to restrain the driver, John Hager. He then slid back to the passenger side of the van and was kicking at me with both legs. He kicked me in right side of stomach. And right thigh. He continued even as I was saying, “quit resisting” over and over. I tried to grab his arm to bring him out of vehicle, because we now have the charge of resisting and AGG Battery on a police officer. But I could not for fear of being kicked in the face; I then sprayed him with Pepper Spray. At that very moment he yelled!! OK, OK,”as he put his hands up, and quit resisting. He was taken out of the van and placed into cuffs. At this time as I was putting in the cuffs I did notice that his skin temperature was quite warm. His mother, Julie Hager and his sister, Jessica Scranton, continued to be verbal, I then called dispatch for assistance from a deputy, and only after I said,” IF YOU DON’T GET IN THE HOUSE, I WILL ARREST YOU FOR OBSTRUCTION! They then went inside. I then placed John Hager in the squad. Now remember, he was just sprayed with pepper spray, and it was 31 minutes to arrive at the Jail. NOT ONCE DID HE COUGH, CHOKE, NO TEARS, NO NASAL DISCHARGE, NOTHING! He acted like it did not even faze him, which I believe it did not.  14 degrees, and he wasn’t cold and it had no effect on him, his skin temperature was hot, pepper spray had no effect on him, I have NEVER seen anyone not be effected by Pepper spray. NEVER. But it had no effect on him. Booking in, you are asked if you have any medical complaints. HE DID NOT MENTION ANYTHING! No cuts, bruises, black eyes, nothing. AND his booking picture will confirm that indeed, he was not injured in anyway.

Here it should be noted, ACROSS THE ROAD, WATCHING THE WHOLE ARREST, AND THE CONFIRMATION WITH THE 2 FEMALES WAS A EYE WITNESS.THIS WITNESS, and IN THE STATEMENT THAT THEY DID WRITE CONFIRMS EVERYTHING STATED ABOVE! EVERYTHING!EVERYTHING!!!

Then John Hager states in the Local TV station WQAD TV 8 interview with Chris Minor that he was injured. He has thru this whole deal changed his story to where I gave him black eye; to I hit him with the mace can, to where he is afraid to go out if I was working. That when I placed cuffs on him that he felt his finger snapped. But he did not mention any thing of the sort during jail processing. To have an injury to your hand, wrist, finger to where you hear a auditable sound would be and injury of some significance. He mentioned nothing. Why? Lying maybe? You be the judge.

Afraid of me?

I was in squad parked, he went by me and flipped me the bird. It was documented on my paper. And I called my boss to report the same. The other officer about 2 weeks later, was in squad, and gets flipped off. Who do you think it was? John Hager! He committed a traffic infraction, and was stopped. During the stop, he was asked, why did you flip me off? He said, I thought you were Goossens. He’s afraid for his life when I work according to his interview with the reporter, but he flips me off, 2 times? lol  right John. Once again, everything I have stated is documented with written proof. And can be viewed by filing a FOIA request. Lets see, he injured and officer, with pictures to prove it. EYEwitness with their statement, when asked if injured at booking said no. And is afraid of the officer but flips him off, I do believe someone is not being truthful. And now you know the rest of the story.J

The rest of the story

In January a traffic stop was made on a local resident of Cordova James D. Somers. Reason was failing to use turn signal and possible DUI. I ran him thru radio and it came back that he was suspended. It was snowing hard. He was advised that he was suspended and he was asked if he had $120.00 for fine? He stated no. I then asked him, do you have anyone that can bail you out for that amount? He again said no. This traffic stop was both audio and video recorded. I saw an open can of beer in his seat and asked him who is this? He said its mine. I took can. It must be noted that he was respectful, polite, and cooperative thru this whole ordeal. (Unlike his father). I then asked him, do you have anyone that can come and get your truck? So that you will not be charged for both towing and impound? He said my Dad. I said call him. I then told him this. James, I am going to take you to our PD I will write you a I bond, (NTA) so that you wont have to come up with any money, and this way you wont go to jail tonight and stay there till you get the $120.00. I will let your dad come and get your truck so you wont be charged with towing and storage and that will save you money also. I will NOT charge you for the open can of beer, but you know its illegal right? He said yes I do. (Come to find out the reason he is suspended was multiple tickets for illegal transportation of beer) I then took him to city hall, wrote him a traffic ticket and I bond, and gave him a RIDE home. I could of towed the vehicle, to which he would have had towing fee, storage charges from tow company, but I DID NOT I could of charged him for illegal transportation of liquor, to which he would have had more fines and costs. I could of took him to jail to where he would of went thru the process of being booked in, and stayed there until someone bailed him out, but again I DID NOT. This Stop was both audio and video recorded. His father Bill Somers was running for the village board at this time. My ex Chief Todd Allen, came to me and asked this, Do you mind if James does community service? I said, what? He then said, His DAD is running for the board and would be a great ally for us, (the PD) against the Mayor. I said, Todd I don’t want him to get off, you do whatever you want, and you’re the Boss. He said fine. In March I notice my file on this arrest was missing, I asked Todd, where is my Somers file? He said, this is why I hate the Mayor having a key to our office. I then informed the Mayor, what I was told. The Mayor asks Todd, whatever happened to the Somers arrest? Todd tells him, that a Rock Island County Judge dismissed it. I, being the investigator was advised what Todd told the mayor, so I called Rock Island County Traffic Div. and asked what Judge dismissed the ticket I wrote? My contact advised me that it has no Docket Number, and it has NOT reached the system yet? I said you sure? She said yes. I then told Mayor what I was advised by RIC. He AGAIN a few weeks later asked Todd whatever happened to the Somers arrest? He this time said Rock Island County Lost it. Now remember this, the MAYOR IS MY BOSS, whether I like it or not, he’s my boss. In early March myself and Todd met with Bill Somers at the local restaurant, at this gathering, he said, “folks are afraid to get drunk in Cordova anymore because of Gaines, they have to go all the way to Albany” he said “ isn’t it less dangerous for a person to drive a short distance to go home drunk then from Albany? I looked at him like, ARE YOU KIDDING ME? DID HE JUST SAY WHAT I THINK HE SAID? I then replied,” Have you ever had to put a 6 yr old kid in a body bag, because of someone driving drunk and killed him? I HAVE! That’s what designated drivers are for! I was thinking and this person is running for the board? OMG! He then said something about a friend of a friend wrecking etc, etc, Truthfully after that comment I thought to myself, this guy is an idiot.

I then go to Illinois State Police in March to advise them of the Official Misconduct, Obstruction of Justice that has been committed by Todd, (this was audio and video recorded) I was told that this would be investigated.

Now in April Todd Resigns, 2 days afterward he is cleaning out his drawer, Low and Behold, what does he find Behind the Computer? THE SOMERS FILE! (Without the Video tape though) Now this isn’t a computer like of old, it’s a monitor that is easily viewed what is behind it. No one had seen anything behind this monitor for 4 months. Odd isn’t it? In July Bill Somers comes to a special Police Meeting. In it he does say, that I was unprofessional, a liar, and he have been vocal about myself and other officer. Why? Because in my opinion  

1.     He didn’t get elected, Thank God

2. When Todd left I Re- filed the arrest report on his son, 2011TR6725 SOMERS, JAMES D

3.     He’s an unthankful person that has publicly made a fool out of himself.(maybe the people see how he really is)

He has made statement that, “I own this town” Sir you do not.

I write this to show the Corruption Of Cordova, and that I gave as many breaks to the arrestee as I could, but his father seems to think that another agency would have been more lenient? If it was another agency, this is what would have happened.

1. He would have went to Rock Island County Jail and booked in and stayed until bond was met. (Who knows how long)?

2. He would have been charged again with illegal transportation of liquor. (More fines)

3. His vehicle would have been towed at their expense and charged Towing, storage. (More expenses)

If By doing none of the above that makes me un-professional, then I am guilty as charged, but the son was polite, and cooperative.

Now citizens of Cordova, you know the, “ Rest of the Story”

Oh aren’t you glad Bill Somers didn’t get elected?J