Eye On Albuquerque

FUNERAL SERVICE FOR APD SENIOR POLICE OFFICER WALCK (Ret.)

2012-02-13T21:56:00.003-07:00

Daniel’s Funeral Home is in charge of the funeral arrangements, located at 1100 Coal Ave. SE

Visitation will be on Wednesday, from 2-4 PM and Thursday, from 2-8 PM

On Wednesday, at 6:30 PM, a Rosary celebration will be at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church located on 1800 Martha Street NE

A Funeral mass will be celebrated at 9:00 AM on Thursday at St Bernadette’s Catholic Church

On Friday, a funeral mass will be celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church located in Las Vegas, New Mexico at 9 AM. Interment/graveside service will be at the Walck’s Ranch located in Mora, New Mexico. Immediately after the services and return to Las Vegas, New Mexico, all are invited to a reception.

Ray Schultz a Deals Final Blow

2012-02-12T19:37:00.005-07:00

It is with the greatest sadness and sorrow the staff here at the Eye learned of the passing of Retired Senior Officer Alfred Walck.

Walck was pressured to retire from the Albuquerque Police Department by Ray Schultz. Shortly afterward, Walck suffered a massive stroke and heart attack. Walck was partially paralyzed, wheelchair bound and was in the process of recovery. It is believed that the medical episode that Walck suffered was the result of the heinous acts of Schultz and APD's upper echelon.

Walck was notified while in Healthsouth Rehabilitation that Ray Schultz and APD were seeking his decertification as a police officer. This added stress, pushed Walck into a relapse, and today Walck suffered another heart attack and passed away.

The Eye's deepest thoughts and respect to a thirty-eight year police officer, Alfred Walck.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Alfred Walck and the Walck Family.

"Kick 'Em When He's Down"- The New Slogan Of Chief Schultz

2012-02-02T18:26:00.003-07:00

We decided to continue the previous story about Al Walck. Whether you like him or not, he was a 30 plus year veteran who was loyal to the Albuquerque Police Department. His recent stroke and massive heart attack has left him in a terrible medical state. Officer Walck will no longer work again, let alone work in any law enforcement capacity. Without divulging too much of his medical condition, it is safe to say that he is far from being recovered and may suffer permanent injuries the rest of his life. Officer Walck left the department peacefully. He surrendered his letter of resignation and left with pride and dignity.
Recently, Officer Walck's mailbox contained a very suspect letter. A letter from the New Mexico Department of Public Safety advising Officer Walck that Chief Schultz had submitted his name to the Law Enforcement Board, recommending his complete
decertification. What a surprise for someone who is trying to move forward that the Chief has to give his "one last jab". He could not let his personal feelings towards Al Walck go. The Eye wishes it was surprised by the Chief's actions. Unfortunately, nothing about Chief Schultz' disrespect of an officer surprises us. Chief Schultz is constantly acting on emotion rather than intelligence. It is so interesting that Chief Schultz is more caring towards criminal offenders than to his own officers, his lack of support is worse than the department has ever seen. It is time for him to leave.

Is This Another Worthless Check Signed By The Chief or The Mayor?

2012-01-25T07:57:00.004-07:00

Week after week it seems as if The Journal and other various news outlets are blaming the problems with APD on training, or lack there of. Chief Schultz preaches to the citizens that he promises to hire better trained officers. Newsflash, the training the officers receive at the police academy is State Regulated. This is an incredible deflection technique on the part of the Chief and the Mayor. The issues with the police department are not "training issues", they are ADMINISTRATION ISSUES!
The Eye has been told that there is going to be heavy duty training reconstruction going on at the police academy. From what the Eye has heard, the city is going to hire an outside individual with no ties to law enforcement and no ties to APD to oversee the police academy. This civilian will in essence be the highest in the Chain of Command for the academy staff. We have been told that this comes with a price tag of $100,000.00 a year.
So, lets get this straight: $100,000.00 will be spent YEARLY for someone to make sure that the academy is adhering to the standards set forth by the New Mexico Department of Public Safety (NMDPS). The current academy staff is fully competent and diligent in their teaching and training efforts. The lesson plans are not plans that they make up and do not solely represent APD only. The lesson plans are from NMDPS and follow the state standards. This plan is not only ludicrous and a waste of money, this is a slap in the face to the entire academy staff. Maybe Mayor Berry and Chief Schultz should rethink their $100,000.00 investment. If training is the major issue, maybe NMDPS should foot the worthless bill and not the citizens of Albuquerque.

Railroaded Out By Chief Schultz

2012-01-17T16:58:00.003-07:00

The Eye received the following from Officer Alfred R. Walck. It is apparently his letter of resignation to Chief Schultz. The Eye finds it so "Schultz like" to railroad a very seasoned officer out of the department while also attempting to strip him of his dignity. This is no surprise, as this is definitely not the first time that Chief Schultz acts on emotion and not logic or professionalism.

Dear Chief Schultz:

I write to advise you directly that I am retiring in lieu of further action against me. It is my deeply held opinion that the proposed termination gave me no option but to retire to protect myself and my family from further action against me. My retirement will be effective November 14, 2011.

Although our professional relationship has been tumultuous and difficult, I never was your enemy, although you clearly believed differently. I disagreed with many of your decisions, but, in all fairness, I was hardly unique.

You proposed to terminate me for reasons that are inconsistent with the actual events. In that particular incident, I was dispatched to a report of burglary, with the suspects attempting to gain entrance into a medical facility while staff was inside the facility. The report showed that two suspects were attempting to batter their way in, and members of the public were directly at risk. Under those circumstances, making the victims safe is, as always, the highest priority, and I did so. My back-up arrived at about the same time, and the initial scene was made safe.

By the time we arrived, however, the suspects had fled in two different directions. I was not directly involved in the search (either by way of coordination or undertaking the search) for the suspects, because events were moving quickly, and other officers immediately undertook those. Indeed, although I was initially dispatched as primary to the scene, two other officers, including a sergeant, declared that they were primary. Neither the officer nor the sergeant was from a specialized squad; neither of them clarified their declaration or suggested that claiming primary status was in error. Instead, at the scenes of the arrests, those officers were in charge, not me, and no one, other than Internal Affairs and you, seem confused about it.

While my back-up and I continued to secure the scene as would be customary, a high-priority domestic violence call came in. Officer Barnard was dispatched first, and a back-up unit was ordered. Both Officer Barnard and I were cleared from the scene by our sergeant because the domestic violence call was a high priority call, and the medical facility was entirely secure. Officer Barnard and I directly responded to that call and it was resolved without difficulty. It is depressing beyond words that I would lose my job for that, but I would rather lose my job knowing that I did mine, than the alternatives.

As best can be determined, no one believed that I was primary officer at the scene at the time we were dispatched to the domestic violence call. Dispatch showed other officers as primary, but I was investigated. Because the suspects had fled (one was arrested, suffering injuries in the process, and another was arrested after breaking into another building), air support was called in, and officers, including at least one sergeant, were scattered around the area, taking the incident in hand. I was not directly involved in any of their activities; I have no command authority over those officers and those officers were not even within my immediate chain of command.

This was primarily why, when a priority domestic call came in, and back up was required by dispatch, two officers, including me, responded. Scott Barnard and I both cleared the departure from the scene with our sergeant who approved our leaving the scene. If I was primary- and by that time, two other officers had taken primary and declared so to dispatch-this would not have made sense. With a more thorough, and less targeted investigation, you would have learned that other officers were on the scene (including command staff), and were, in fact, operating as primary officers. None of them were proposed to be terminated by me.

Officers in APD have long known that Internal Affairs runs at your command. The fact that I was investigated (and no one else) is hardly shocking. No doubt you blame me for Darren White's departure from the City. Although you blame me, the blame instead, belongs on him for crossing the line between personal interest and law enforcement and failing to recognize the inherent conflict of interest that comes from his relationship with Mrs. White and his position with the City and his appearance on an accident scene. Mr. White did what no other husband of an accident victim would be allowed to do, and he did so by virtue of his position.

Because I had legitimate concerns about Mrs. White's medical condition, I permitted him to remove her, but of course, my options were, in truth, to arrest him (and perform a probably cause exam) or to allow him to remove her as he clearly expressed he intended to do, and to continue my investigation once she and he were gone, lights and sirens flashing. With his job title, I could hardly deny him his demands. Of course, you forcing me into retirement prevents me from completing that investigation and referring charges if they were appropriate under the facts.

From before the Darren White incident and severely so afterward, I have been the victim of retaliation, harassment and demeaning conduct by officers that report to you directly. I have written you to put you on notice of the incidents and to request your held, and, to my knowledge, never once did you intervene. As best I can determine, you not only approved of the conduct, but you encouraged it at least tacitly. The conduct created a hostile work environment, contrary to the standard operating procedures of APD.

Once you advised in your letter that you intended to fire me, I had no choice. I have earned my service time, and I have earned the leave time I accumulated, over decades-nearly four- of serving as a law enforcement officer in this State. I could not afford to lose those hard earned hours.

I retire, and hereby give you notice of the same.

Officer Alfred R. Walck.

Downtown Gets Special Treatment, Despite The Violence!

2012-01-01T19:58:00.006-07:00

Yet again, downtown Albuquerque is receiving special treatment and special police services, despite the large violent problems that plague the downtown area. If downtown Albuquerque was like any other Albuquerque business, the Criminal Nuisance Abatement Unit (CNAU) would have it shut down! The Eye did a story on November 16, 2011 that explained how it appeared as if the downtown area was receiving a "full immunity" from all of its criminal behavior. It seems as if the New Years Holiday is no exception to this immunity clause.
On December 23, 2011, an email from Karen Salazar, reiterating that field lieutenants are to be forced off "per dept memorandum 11-140". Ms. Salazar even stated that a few lieutenants have stated that they were required to work the holiday, even though it was in direct contradiction to the department memorandum.
Our eyes tell us the Valley Area Command Lieutenant (specifically graveyard) was forced to work overtime on New Years, solely for the the purpose of combatting the downtown area and the violence that was predicted to occur.
Low and behold, those predictions came true. There was at least one shooting (leaving two people shot) and one stabbing. This is on top of all of the other altercations and disturbances in the downtown area. This leads to many questions: What makes the downtown area so special? Why does the downtown area get special treatment and obviouse police presence at a cost to the city? Are all Albuquerque liquor establishments provided with the same treatment? Why aren't the downtown businesses required to hire chief's overtime officers as every other businesses are told to do? In fact, Graham Central Station (a local nightclub in the Northeast Heights) was threatened with a "hire chief's overtime or close" option.
As our story on November 16th indicated, this unfortunately is not an isolated incident. The downtown area has violent incidents every single week. What is keeping CNAU from issuing all of the businesses downtown with a notice to seize the violent behavior or be forced to close?
It seems like yet again, Mayor Berry and Chief Ray Schultz are discriminating against all of the other Albuquerque buisnesses while catering to those that are most violent and most dangerous to the citizens of Albuquerque.
Check out one of the stories that KOBTV covered regarding the New Years shooting by clicking here.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T10:29:00.002-07:00

The Eye wishes everyone a Happy New Year. The Eye looks forward to a 2012 and to the many changes that are hopefully coming!

Can Someone Please Fix The Computers?

2011-12-27T08:18:00.005-07:00

Several Months ago, Officers were called into the IT Office to have their computers transitioned to Radio IP. This transition was a supposed upgrade and allegedly cost the department millions of dollars.
Instead of an upgrade, Radio IP is a definite downgrade. Soon after having it installed, officers were going into the office, begging to have it removed. They were told "no" because everyone had to have Radio IP installed. It did not matter that it wasn't working properly. It did not matter that the officers in the unit would temporarily fix the problem, however the program would become unworkable shortly after being "fixed".
When working, officers are able to pull vehicle registrations, dispatched calls, warrant checks, etc. When Radio IP isn't working, officers are not able to do any of those things.
Two weeks ago, the entire system went down AGAIN. The city was forced to pay thousands of dollars in overtime for the Lieutenant, Sergeant, numerous officers, and several civilians to work on each computer individually to try to get the program running. Well, the fix lasted less than two weeks and the employees are back to square one.
Part of the problem is training and experience. The IT unit is comprised of sworn officers that came from varying backgrounds, none of which was computer technology. A couple of the officers were detectives, one was a field officer who had just left the academy, another was an officer that was brought in because she was on ILD due to a pregnancy. Computer classes were taken AFTER being brought into the unit. Are these positions that are really necessary and beneficial for sworn police officers? It seems like computer college students from UNM could be doing better. The trained civilians in tech services seem to be doing much better than the sworn officers.
Does the city not care about officer safety? Officers can not run the registration or warrant checks for subjects prior to making contact. Officers can not receive dispatches and have to constantly ask the dispatcher to repeat the calls. Officers can not pull the "hazards" from the call. "Hazards" are a type of warning to the officers about any safety issues that the location or subject may be involved in. For example, a hazard may flag a mentally unstable subject that has threatened to kill police officers should they come to his/her house.
It seems like Chief Schultz acted on impulse yet again and chose to "fix" something that was not even broken. Should there have been a trial period, the glitches of the system could have been found before spending the money, before wasting the resources, before wasting the "airtime" having to broadcast every single thing, before placing the officers in a more dangerous situation every day.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-24T22:42:00.003-07:00

We here at the Eye want to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas!

What About His Certification?

2011-12-17T15:49:00.008-07:00

ADDED TODAY (December 21, 2011):
Chief Schultz was found guilty of violating Officer Orlando Camacho's Right to Due Process. Just another day in the life of Chief Schultz.

On Tuesday, there was an emergency meeting of the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Board. After the meeting it seems like the certification of police officers is being attacked. The Law Enforcement Academy Board is set up to review officers that are suspected of misconduct or even termination and decide whether the officer's certification should be suspended or even pulled indefinitely. Once the officer has their certification pulled, they can not be a law enforcement officer anywhere in the state. One of the hearing officers of the board expressed his displeasure in the Attorney General's office as to the current amount of pending cases. The board was also concerned with the accused ineffectiveness of the Attorney General's office.
The board's obvious passion for officers certification poses a question for the Law Enforcement Academy board. Is being found in violation of one's constitutional rights enough to decertify an officer, better yet decertify a Chief of Police?
In November of 2009, Chief Ray Schultz was found guilty by a jury of violating former officer Sam Constales' civil rights (See cv-00827-MV). Being found guilty of violating someone's civil rights is extreme to say the least. No law enforcement officer ever wants to be found quilty of such a violation. It appears to the Eye that a violation of this caliber more than meets the definition and criteria of officer misconduct. Chief Ray Schultz currently has at least one other pending case in Federal Court in reference to his violation of civil rights. D-202-CV-201106829 (Terysa Welch vs City of Albuquerque, et. al. ) accuses Chief Ray Schultz of Deprivation of Civil Rights Pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42USC sections 1983 and 1985, and the New Mexico Human Rights Act. As it turns out there are numerous cases where Chief Ray Schultz has been accused of violation of civil rights (nmcourts.gov). Are we the only ones that see a pattern here?
Why hasn't the certification of Ray Schultz been questioned by the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Board? We did fail to mention that Chief Schultz is a member of the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Board.
According the New Mexico DPS website, "Oversight of the Law Enforcement Academy operations, revocation or suspension of certifications for officer misconduct, and direction for in-service training of officers are but a few of the many responsibilities of the Board." In our opinion, the accusations as well as the 2009 Costales jury decision against Chief Schultz is more than enough to warrant a hearing before the Board. Whats good for one officer is good for The Chief, isn't it?

What Exactly Doesn't He Control?

2011-12-13T16:48:00.006-07:00

For years and years Albuquerque City Employees have signed up for insurance benefits and have had the option of choosing their provider. It seemed only fair. Lovelace, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Presbyterian all were available health care providers that had both pros and cons. Finding a primary care physician can sometimes be a feat in itself, and when you finally find a good provider you do not want to have to change.
Unfortunately, Mayor Berry helped to make sure that city employees no longer had a choice in the matter. Earlier this year he forced others out and allowed only Presbyterian to be the sole provider.
This sudden change caused hardships on many city employees. Co-pays went up, premiums were increased, and service went down. For example, prescription medications and treatments that were provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield are no longer being approved by Presbyterian. Employees are left with two options, pay for the treatment and medication completely out of pocket or go without.
In fact, the Eye was contacted by two separate parents of special needs children. These parents are employed by the Albuquerque Police Department.
One parent explained to the Eye that the co-pay and out of pocket expense has risen so much, their family can not afford to get the care their child needs. Another parent explained that they have now been forced to apply for Medicare as Presbyterian does not provide the same treatment that is needed for their child's survival. These parents explained that this lack of service is the exact reason why they did not enroll in the Presbyterian Health Plan when they were hired by the city.
Our last email recieved stated that this employee has been prescribed the same medication for several years for an untreatable medical condition. The medication provides relief for the pain and discomfort this condition is causing. This employee has tried other medications and the one they are currently using is the only one that works. Presbyterian refuses to pay for the medication and it is forcing this employee to spend four hundred dollars just to remain healthy. The employee tried to appeal, however the staff at Presbyterian wants this employee to try all the other medications, yet again and even now is refusing to compensate the employee.
What gives Mayor Berry the right to chose what health plan employees are allowed, especially those that have been long time employees and were promised to be able to make the decision on health care when they first enrolled. What benefits is the Mayor personally receiving to have had this radical change become permanent?
Is the Mayor concerned that his employees are suffering and are inconvenienced at his hands?
Will Mayor Berry ever allow the citizens of Albuquerque to have a choice about ANYTHING or will he continue to dictate everything?
One thing is for sure, Mayor Berry's independant, selfish ways of "ruling" are not only ruining morale, they are physically hurting the employees as well.

Hey Ray and Kari, Why Don't You Tell The Public The Whole Story?

2011-12-09T08:33:00.008-07:00

If you watched the local news last night, especially Channel 4 (KOBTV), you would see that the Schultz/Brandenburg media manipulation is at it again. It was reported that approximately 1/3 of the DWI cases brought to Metropolitan Court are dismissed because the "prosecution was unable to proceed". If you have had any experience with Metropolitan Court, you would know this more than likely means the officers were not able to attend court. Kari Brandenburg stated she did not want to point the finger at just one person, but the lack of support for APD officers speaks differently.

For the most part, DWI cases being dismissed is NOT the police officer's fault. For those who are unaware, here is a quick breakdown of the logistics with officers and court cases. At the most, officers are given seven days notice of court hearings. There are actually times when officers get only one day notice to appear in court. In essence, this means that although officers have days off, they really do not have any days off. This can make it very difficult for officers to plan for doctor's appointments, daycare, personal time, etc.

Instead of being sympathetic to the needs of the police officers, Chief Schultz has (as so typical of the Chief), made it into a blame game with the officers on the receiving end. Memos threatening officers with absolute discipline have been circulating and the discipline seems to be escalating. For example, if an officer calls in sick, some employees are being forced to provide doctor's notes, proof of the sickness, and proof of calling in to the APD Court Liaison Office. How many people go to the doctor every single time they (or their child) is sick? In fact, if an officer is going to miss court, that officer must provide a thirty day notice to APD Court Liaison advising their absence. Again, an officer's scheduled day off is not really a day off, they are at the mercy of the department and the District Attorney.

Day shift Officers are faced to log out at court and are not available to take calls for service. On those instances where the officers are stuck on a call, they must call into court and then later prove they were in fact on a call. Swing shift and graveyard officers usually are at court when their shift is just beginning or just ending. Not only is personal time comprised, so is their sleep time. For example, you can have an officer work from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., proceed to court at 8:30 a.m., then they may have court in the morning, afternoon, etc. So the officer may leave court at 3:00 p.m., or even later in the instance of a trial. The officer gets home at 4:00 p.m. or 5:00 p.m., only to go to work a few hours later. For typical case of "when I say jump, you better jump".

Let us not forget the aspect that defense attorneys know the loopholes and many attorneys continue their criminal cases over and over knowing that the one time the officer does not appear, they will more than likely receive a dismissal. As stated in the kobtv.com story, Retired Sergeant Paul Heh, had once attended court 23 separate times for one single DWI case. According to Paul Heh, he has no idea what the outcome of the case was because he never received notice for his 24th appearance.

It would seem like Kari Brandenburg and Chief Schultz are so conceited, they can not admit that the system is severely broken and the fault does not lie within the officers, but lies with the Chief of Police as well as the District Attorney's office. It would have been so nice if either one of them took the responsibility or admitted that the Officers are the ones placed with the burden and are not to blame. , but then again we dont live on Fantasy Island do we?

For the KOB story, click here.

Big Brother is Not Only In The House, But Big Brother Has Crossed The Line!

2011-12-01T17:23:00.005-07:00

The Eye gets many emails every day, some giving us ideas for stories, others bad mouthing us. The Eye reads every single email. The last few emails we have received are from different people, yet all seem to have experienced the same incident. The Eye does not know if this is true, but The Eye can tell you several people have contacted us very concerned and wanting this to finally get out to the citizens of Albuquerque.
For those who don't know, APD has an Tech Services Unit that deals with the department computers and the problems that come with them. The Unit is not comprised of current college students, or computer "nerds". The I.T. Unit(Information Technology) has the newest computer gadgets and are not afraid to use them.
Rumor has it that there was a meeting where a flash drive was placed into a computer that was wired into the city network. This would be similar to an officer placing their thumb drive in any of the computers at the substation, or at the PTC. Let's face it, officers do it all the time. That is how the officers save their files, save their reports, etc. During this meeting the flash drive was removed from a city computer and then placed in an employees personal computer that was NOT hooked up to any city network and not affiliated with the city in any way. What comes next seems almost movie like, very Hollywoodesque. The Chief was able to see all of the files on the employees personal computer. This means if you use your flash drive in a city computer and then insert it into your home computer, the city is able to see what is on your home computer. Is nothing sacred anymore? Is there no line the Chief won't cross? What would justify the need for the Chief to retrieve any information from an employees computer? Where are the warrants?
Employees need to get locked flash drives (ironically the I.T. Unit has them already). Do not use the same flash drives on city equipment and then your personal computers. Password your file folders, do not let it be easy for them.
IF this is in fact accurate, this is more than an invasion of privacy. This is a complete disregard for the constitutional rights of an employee (DEJA VU isn't it CHIEF SCHULTZ)!

Again, The Eye has not been able to confirm these accusations. The Eye contacted a very reliable computer expert who stated, not only is this technology available and very plausible, it is very easy to do (especially in the APD setting). We would love to hear from Chief Schultz about this, however, he will never grant us an interview or answer his questions.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T11:28:00.002-07:00

The Eye would like to wish everyone and their families a Happy Thanksgiving!

New Training or New Trainer?

2011-11-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

It is no surprise that the Albuquerque Police Department has been in the spotlight. In fact, there is hardly a day that goes by that APD isn't on the front page of the newspaper or the top story in the news. City Council Meetings have been so heated lately and almost every meeting many individuals are there to express their "anti-APD" feelings. We can't remember a time when APD has had such a bad reputation as they do now.

So what is the Chief's answer to this low morale, high aggression, bad decision making department? More training, better training, higher discipline. Chief Schultz even went to the media boasting about his new plans for better officers. One problem, he forgot to tell the media about his plan on training these new officers.

Recently there was an opening listed for current officers that were interested in becoming Field Training Officers. These are SUPPOSED to be veteran officers that train the newly sworn officers that just graduate from the academy, or new officers that transfer to the department. We were told that the majority of those that are being selected as new Training Officers each have a grand total of TWO years on the department. TWO WHOLE YEARS and the Chief will be granting them "training privileges". You have got to be kidding. Where in the world does the Chief get off thinking it is acceptable for a two year officer to train a new cadet or a new transfer? This has to be one of the most ludicrous thought processes of Chief Schultz.

What is your thinking when you let a rookie officer train another rookie officer? We ask you Chief Schultz, where does this practice of hiring new officers to train new officers fall in your theory of "better training"? Chief Schultz, you are continuing to ruin the integrity of the Albuquerque Police Department. Chief Schultz, you are continuing to ruin the integrity of the Field Training Program. You Mayor Berry, are no better for allowing him to continue to bring this Department down. Will there ever be a time when Mayor Berry realizes he is continuing to put the safety of the citizens at risk, because of his continuous RISKY behavior?

Transition- What Transition?

2011-11-19T14:57:00.006-07:00

The Eye received an email that showed us a story that the Alibi just posted. Here is the posted story, straight from alibi.com:

Lost in Translation
Commissioner contends a key APD report never made it to the mayor
By Carolyn Carlson

When the latest rash of officer-involved shootings had just begun in 2009, a transition team created a report for the incoming mayor about the Albuquerque Police Department. It pointed to corruption, fear of retaliation on the force, criticisms from the public and problems with APD's leadership.

Read the full text of the original report by clicking here.But Mayor Richard Berry may have never seen that version of the report.

Two years later, retired APD Sgt. Paul Heh tried to address the City Council about the two versions of the report. Heh’s presentation was cut off, and he was not allowed to discuss the differences between drafts. Heh says he wonders if Berry would have chosen to reappoint Police Chief Ray Schultz if the original had reached the mayor's desk as written.

Heh was not on that transition team but has obtained copies of two conflicting documents.

Bernalillo County Commissioner Wayne Johnson was a member of the transition team along with eight others. He says the group was approaching a consensus for a final version but didn’t get a chance to finish. The process was cut short when members were told to wrap it up and submit what they had. Johnson says the team was working on a draft that pointed out systemic problems within the department and asked whether Police Chief Schultz needed to be replaced.

“The draft submitted to the mayor was not voted on and was not the direct work product of the committee,” Johnson says. “We were asked to do an honest assessment of the police department, good and bad. And we were doing that. Then we were not given enough time to finish the report.”

Read what was submitted to the mayor by clicking here.The team made 41 recommendations. The modified report that went to Berry had 38. Still, critical observations in the original never crossed the mayor's desk. Johnson says he doesn't know who softened the report.

The team reviewed the work of nationally known police expert Neal Trautman, including a paper titled “How & Why a Department or Jail Becomes Corrupt.” Members of the group found that aspects of APD could indicate shady leadership, according to Trautman’s “Continuum of Corruption” guidelines.

Fear among the rank-and-file is one of the major clues that a department is rotting, according to Trautman's paper. Others include: bitterness and harsh criticism by large groups of citizens; bursts of open defiance of administrators; workers rationalizing unethical actions during conversations with each other; and a departmental attitude of keeping corruption out of the media. Avoiding bad press, Trautman writes, becomes more important than addressing and disciplining corrupt acts.

“We were asked to take an honest, hard look at the department, then not allowed to finish the task."
-Bernalillo County Commissioner Wayne JohnsonThe team, in its first draft, observed that members of APD’s command were defensive and ignored requests for meetings. Some commanders met with team members but feared retaliation from their superiors, according to the original report. Field officers told the team they were afraid to identify problems and that higher-ups seemed distant from the cops on the front lines. Supervisors reported that they felt out of the loop.

Bob Martinez served as chair of the police transition team. He is president of the local chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police. The modified report bears his name on the cover sheet.

“The report with my name on it is the official report of the transition team,” Martinez says. It was his job as chairman to wrap things up, he says, and reflect the views of the majority of the group. He says the transition team rubber stamped what was sent to Berry. “It was done and approved by the committee.” There may have been a minority opposition to what was given to Berry, he adds, but the official report is what the transition team agreed to turn in.

Johnson and other members contend this is not the case. Instead, he says, the transition team never finally approved anything, and critical observations of APD brass were deleted from the final draft.

The Alibi spoke with another member of the transition team who wishes to remain anonymous, “Steve.” He says at least half of the nine-member transition team felt there were significant problems in the police department, and a change in leadership was recommended. He also says the report was reviewed by newly appointed Public Safety Director Darren White before it was sent to Berry.

The softer version was given to the mayor before he reappointed Chief Schultz. Steve also wonders if Berry would have made a different decision if he had seen all the information the team collected.

Dayna Gardner, Berry’s spokesperson, did not directly address the question of whether White or anyone else reviewed and changed the report. Gardner also didn't say whether Berry knew about an earlier version identifying systemic problems.

More than 200 volunteers analyzed each of the city’s departments after the 2009 mayoral election, she says. Berry’s transition effort was led by Sherman McCorkle, a longtime supporter of White. “Each chairman, or their respective designate, submitted a final consensus report reflecting their committee’s work, findings and recommendations,” Gardner says.

All of this matters, Sgt. Heh says, because the police transition team did a thorough review of the department in 2009, highlighting problems that have continued to plague the department. Both he and Commissioner Johnson say the first version, though rushed, reflected work by members of the community and pinpointed solvable problems. “We were asked to take an honest, hard look at the department," Johnson says, "then not allowed to finish the task."

Heh says it appears to him that the Berry administration hired police leaders who would rather hide or deny APD's problems than address them. “It doesn’t help to put a Band-Aid on a major wound.”

Well, now it is evident why City Council was so afraid to let Paul Heh speak at the council meeting.

The ORIGINAL report submitted by the transition can be found by clicking here.

The ALTERED report given to Mayor Berry can be found by clicking here.

Yet again, Mayor Berry we really hope you have the City checkbook wide open and the checks signed. (You may want to invest in Overdraft Protection, something tells us you will need it).

A special thank you goes to The Alibi for letting the truth speak!

Downtown Bars= Full Immunity, Isn't That Right Mayor Berry and Chief Schultz?

2011-11-16T14:43:00.009-07:00

Chief's Overtime is a program that seems to benefit many. Theoretically, private businesses contract the Albuquerque Police Department to provide a security of sorts for their business or event. The business pays the City of Albuquerque $52.00 an hour for officers and even more for Sergeants and Lieutenants. The City obviously profits from this service, as it is well known that the Officers do not make near that amount. Some businesses, like Graham Central Station, rely on Chief's Overtime Officers to maintain a safe environment. In fact, the opening and continued operation of Graham Central Station was contingent on the employment of officers at their business.

Recently, the Chief of Police,Ray Schultz, ordered that ALL contracts with liquor establishments be immediately null and void and no longer honored. Scratch that, not ALL businesses, just those businesses that Chief Schultz ordered. For example, contracts with Tumbleweeds and Graham Central Station are no longer honored, however Chief's Overtime is still applied at all Lobo functions and Isotope games. For those unaware, all Lobo events and all Isotopes games sell alcohol.

Now for the really big twist; the Downtown district (a district famous for the large amount of bars in a relatively small area) is provided with FREE police service. By free, we mean the bars do not pay the city a SINGLE penny for the exclusive use of an entire police squad; sometimes more. For example, EVERY single Friday and Saturday at least one ENTIRE squad makes themselves unavailable for calls for service and is ordered to stay solely in the downtown district.

Is the crime downtown SO BAD that it needs ENTIRE squads to be there non stop during operational hours? The answer is simple, YES! One on Saturday (October 8, 2011), while the bars were open, ONE squad handled nine dispatched calls, ten on site calls, one misdemeanor arrest, ten separate disturbances, and four separate fights. One of the fights was so violent that the victim had to be transported to the hospital with a skull fracture. On August 26, 2011, there was one stabbing, one Fire Marshall call (overcrowding at the One-Up bar), a tasing call, four traffic stops, ten separate disturbances, three misdemeanor arrests, two investigations, one theft, one traffic problem, and eighteen on site actions. In fact, our Eyes tell us the Fire Marshall is dispatched EVERY week due to overcrowding.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, these are just two examples and the Eye has many more statistics involving downtown. With all of these problems, why is the City allowing the businesses to remain open? Why is the Criminal Nuisance Abatement Unit allowing these businesses to remain open when in fact, they violate the Nuisance Abatement Ordinance EVERY SINGLE WEEK?

According the the Ordinance, "A public nuisance shall include and is further defined as any parcel of real property, commercial or residential, that is the subject of or that has been involved with calls for service to any law enforcement agency(ies) for violations of the criminal statutes cited in § 11-1-1-3(A) defining public nuisance and shall include a repeated pattern of calls for service and complaints of vagrants, suspicious persons, suspicious cars, general calls for welfare checks, disorderly conduct, domestic violence, domestic altercations, domestic disputes, loud parties, loud music, neighborhood complaints, noise ordinance violations, and public drunkenness and shall be subjected to the imposition of penalties for public nuisance as provided by § 11-1-1-11 ROA 1994."

Chief Schultz and Mayor Berry have thrown a wool blanket over everyone's eyes. They are turning less violent businesses away, and are allowing VIOLATING businesses to thrive, and even provide FREE security. The city has once again discriminated against. By allowing this to continue, the city has shown a complete disregard for the safety of its officers and the safety of the public. Next time you make a call to 911 and the officers take a long time to respond, just have a peace of mind to know that they are probably taking a long time responding as they are too busy dealing the havoc, chaos, and violence of downtown. A havoc, chaos and violence that is not only condoned by the Chief of Police, but financially supported as well.

For the complete Nuisance Abatement Ordinance, click here.

Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say! (We Mean You, Chief Schultz)

2011-11-08T12:57:00.005-07:00

Chief Ray Schultz recently gave interviews to the news outlet in reference to his "new" recruiting techniques and ambitions. Before we go any further, yes this is the same chief that two or so years ago gave an order to get to 1100 officers regardless. This is the same Chief Schultz that was reversing the decisions of detectives from The Recruiting and Background Unit and ALLOWING subjects into the academy that had been previously flagged. This is the same Chief Schultz that allowed cadets UNDER 21 years of age to enter the academy, just to make that magic number. Well Chief Schultz, how did that work out for you? According to his interview with KRQE Channel 13, Chief Schultz said "What we will be doing is hiring better, more qualified folks”. Let us get this straight, so you admit you have knowingly hired less than qualified folks? The Eye thinks this is a straight confession and admission of guilt and could be used in the many pending lawsuits against the City. Chief Schultz also stated (according to KRQE), "The changes include trying to recruit less aggressive and less confrontational officers, as well as looking for people who are more compassionate, better problem solvers and those who can more easily de-escalate a situation." Again Chief Schultz, are you saying your current police officers are aggressive and confrontational? Are you saying your current police forcce is less compassionate and by your own admission, your police department are not good problem solvers and have a harder time de-escalating a situation. WOW! Chief Schultz not only did you throw every officer under the bus, you have yet again managed to undermine the entire Police Department. The Eye can not understand why Chief Schultz didn't stand up for the officers or the Police Department. He might as well just write a blank check to every Plantiff in EVERY lawsuit against the City and against APD. It is not the officers that need correction, it is the administration. APD administration needs to be completely demolished. This department needs LEADERS, real leaders. Your fate has been sealed Mayor Berry, the moment you went back on your word and decided to keep that liability of a Chief around, your fate was sealed. The Eye has a suggestion for you Chief Schultz. Instead of admitting everything YOU THINK is wrong, why don't you stand up for the officers YOU HAVE TRAINED. Why can't you look the camera in the eye and state "If you point a gun at an officer YOU WILL DIE". Why don't you look into the camera and tell the citizens that had it not been for the actions of the suspects, they would never have been shot. Each and every person shot by APD chose their destiny, each and every one of them chose to play Russian Roulette with the police. Sometimes they won, sometimes they lost. It seems Chief Schultz is now LETTING THEM ALL WIN!

Is There No Line He Won't Cross?

2011-11-03T18:43:00.004-06:00

The Eye has been keeping tabs on the APD Social Media Policy that has recently come out. We have yet to figure out how Chief Schultz is able to overpower the Constitution of the United States. It seems that officers are not allowed to voice their opinions, about anything. This includes ALL officers at ALL times regardless if others know their profession or not. Officer Pete Dwyer was recently terminated for his personal rants on a social media outlet. Although his opinions were to many tasteless and racist, they were after all his opinions. The same opinion and freedom that has been guaranteed to us by the Constitution. Recently an officer was contacted by his Lieutenant. It had come to the Lieutenant's attention that there was at least one inappropriate picture on this officer's Facebook page. This officer is a well known, tenured officer and makes no apologies for being an Atheist. The photograph was a depiction of Jesus on a cross followed by some Atheist "inside" joke. The officer was told to immediately remove the photo or face certain discipline (which according to the social media policy can mean termination). The eye, although not in agreement of the atheist ways and point of view, completely believes that Chief Schultz has crossed the line. There is a certain line of church and state, it is there for a reason. You may not agree with a certain religion, or lack there of, but you should agree that the individuals have the right to express their opinions and feelings. This is one of the many aspects that make this country what it is today. Nothing on this officer's Facebook page makes any indication that he is an Albuquerque Police Officer. In fact, all of the information on the page is only accessible if you are a "friend" of this officer. What is the difference between this page and a private conversation the officer is involved in? To make it worse, after the officer was forced to remove the photograph, he was told he still MAY receive some sort of discipline. This is indeed a clear cut violation of every right this Officer should have. The Eye finds it ironic that while one officer is getting threatened with discipline, city employees are getting emails from the Chaplain unit. It seems that the Chief of Police not only picks and chooses WHAT officers can say, but he also picks and chooses WHO is allowed to speak. Chief Schultz you are supposed to be a leader, not a dictator. We predict many lawsuits to be coming out of this, and many checks to be written.

Vote, What Vote?

2011-11-01T17:02:00.003-06:00

Albuquerque Citizens put the Redflex cameras to the test on October 4, 2011. The citizens overwhelmingly voted against all of the cameras. Although city council members as well as the Mayor, stated they would "listen" to the voters, the cameras are yet to come down. In fact, there are at least half a dozen employees that are dedicated solely to the red light cameras, none of which have received notice that their employment is no longer needed. The Eye was recently contacted in reference to the red light cameras. This anonymous man went to his mailbox only to find a notice from a Texas collection agency. The agency accused him of owing 300 dollars for a ticket he never recieved. The man contacted the agency and was told he had to pay the full amount immediately or else suffer the consequences of having his creadit tarnished for at least ten years. This was the first time he had even heard of receiving the ticket. Needless to say, that ticket will go unpaid, because he refuses to submit a payment of $300 for something he has no proof of doing. If this is happening to him, it is happening to many more people. Come on Mayor Berry, come on City Council. The citizens of Albuquerque have spoken------ NO MORE RED LIGHT CAMERAS.
Admit you are wrong, and look elsewhere for the revenue. Why hold a vote if the voice of the citizens does not count for anything. Mayor Berry, it is ok to admit you were wrong. It is ok to admit that the cameras have nothing to do with public safety, but has everything to do with money. It is ok to admit that public safety employees do not support you. It is ok to realize the citizens are smart individuals and this bluff involving credit agencies will not work. Our advice.... BRING IT ON, we are ready and the CITIZENS HAVE SPOKEN!

Nice Temper Tantrum Chief Schultz!

2011-10-30T09:18:00.005-06:00

An interesting story came to us via email. As we started reading about the Appreciation Day that was held at the Valley Area Command Substation on Friday, we thought that for once the Administration of the Albuquerque Police Department would be shining for their outward support of the officers. THINK AGAIN. According to our letter, Chief Schultz was in attendance, standing near the APOA tent. Commander Rae Mason (our new hero) announced that for the first time ever, she was presenting an officer with the Officer of the Year award. According to the letter received, she announced Officer Dawn Roberto was receiving the award. As soon as Commander Mason announced the recipient, Chief Schultz turned and left. Even though he was standing directly behind the officer, he could not show the respect to even congratulate the officer. Lt. Dodi Comacho (our other new hero) quickly interjected. She stated all the good things Officer Roberto has accomplished and even stated no one can figure out why the countless nominations for Officer of the Month have been denied. Our eyes know why the nominations have not been approved. Chief Schultz is throwing another one of his well known temper tantrums. You know, the kind of tantrums he throws when people call him on the carpet, when he is caught off guard and has no time to devise an excuse. You may hate her, you may like her, but the eyes believe no one can doubt the fact that Officer Roberto is a hard working officer that has made this Chief look good. She is also a union member that continuously stands up for Officers and does not back down. We applaud Commander Mason and Lt. Camacho for their recognition. Chief Schultz, your tantrum was not gone unnoticed and you should be ashamed of yourself for the way you handle yourself. It is time for you to leave, bring the morale back to this department and for petes sake, leave the tantrums to the two year olds.

ATTENTION: DOUBLE CHECK YOUR PAYSTUB- RETIRED INCLUDED!

2011-10-25T17:11:00.005-06:00

This is like a modern day Robin Hood. Only the City of Albuquerque is not robbing the rich to feed the poor, they are robbing the poor to feed the rich. We can not forget the pay raises the Mayor and some of his staff received, while the Officers of the Albuquerque Police Department are yet to get paid according to the contract they negotiated (taking a pay cut in fact).
Now on to the pay stubs. Our Eyes tell us that it is very rare to find a single employee that can decipher these pay stubs. If you work overtime, it is unknown and we think highly doubtful you are getting paid what you are supposed to. We understand that the Chief has yet to act on the numerous requests by officers to explain in detail how the officers are paid, and if they are getting paid what they are due.
We are hardly surprised that it does not end there. It has come to our attention that the City of Albuquerque is deliberately withholding money that is owed to its officers that retire. When an officer retires, their last paycheck still reflects all of the current deductions. When an officer retires prior to the end of the pay period (that is an whole "nother" story), one would think the deductions are prorated. For example, if someone purchases insurance, the monthly payment is prorated depending on the time of purchase. Right now, the City of Albuquerque deducts an entire month of deductions, regardless of your last day.
This exact scenario happened to one of APDs recently retired officers, Lynn Scott. She retired before completing an entire month of work. However, she received her last paycheck and an entire month of deductions was taken from her paycheck. The City of Albuquerque did not prorate her deductions. Officer Scott promptly notified the Department and over a month later, she received a letter from Mark Saiz (HR Manager, Insurance and Benefits Division). The letter indicates that the prorated deductions is "not possible".
Our Eyes tell us that Officers that retired from three years ago until now all have a grievance against this horrid practice and downright theft of monies that are owed to each and every one of these officers.
This is yet another example of the City taking from those that deserve so much more. Mayor Berry, you are no modern day Robin Hood, so stop trying to act like one.

As a side note: Legal action is pending. If any retired officer is interested in obtaining this information, please contact us at theeyeonalbuquerque@gmail.com

The Straw that Broke the Mayor's Back?

2011-10-18T11:48:00.009-06:00

Was last night's embarassing and unprofessional behavior of Chief Ray Schultz, finally the straw that broke the camel's back? There was a City Council meeting last night. The usual "frequent flyers" were there, some to speak, others to observe. Prior to the meeting beginning, as it happens every meeting, many people (including Chief Schultz), meander about before taking to their seats. Kenneth Ellis, the father of one of those killed by APD, contacted us after last night's meeting. Mr. Ellis told us that at the meeting, he walked up to Chief Schultz and told the Chief that he was "praying for him". Mr. Ellis admits he ended with "you'll need it". The meeting started and was filled with many citizens giving their comments and stating their opinions. One subject was a student that talked for over 7 minutes about his inability to attend school without a free bus pass. Other people talked about the conservation of energy. Then former APD Sergeant, Paul Heh, approached the podium. Three people had vowed to relinguish their talk time in order to allow Paul Heh to fully talk to the City Council and citizens of Albuquerque. This has been a long standing past practice of the City Council; allowing those people that have a somewhat complicated matter to be able to adequately and fairly voice their concerns and comments. Right away Council President, Don Harris, announced he would not let anyone relinguish their time and demanded Paul Heh keep to a two minute time constraint. Council Member Ken Sanchez made a motion to override President Harris and allow the time for Paul Heh. He wanted to hear what Paul Heh had to say. The Motion was given a second nomination and of course when set to a council vote, the result was 4-5. This forced Paul Heh to stop midstream and NOT speak any further. It was clearly no coincidence that it was the Republican council members that voted AGAINST hearing Paul Heh speak. It was obvious by the actions of the Council that this was a premediated vote on behalf of the Republicans. Despite the crowd's pleas to continue, Paul Heh was forced to walk back to his seat. What were they afraid of hearing? What were they afraid of the public hearing? Paul Heh walked back to his seat and at intermission, Mr. Ellis approached him. This is where it gets even more exciting, as Mr. Ellis and Paul Heh were talking, Chief Schultz walked up to them and shook his finger at Mr. Ellis. Chief Schultz stated "Don't you ever approach me at a meeting again and say what you said to me". Mr. Ellis told the Eye that he felt threatened and was even afraid to walk to his car. Why would Chief Schultz be so angry that someone has offerred their prayers to him? In fact, doesn't the APD chaplain unit advocate daily prayers to the officers of APD? Our Eyes wonder what the Chief would have done if an officer had acted in the same manner. Our bet is that the officer would be shoveling papers in Report Review or answering phones at a substation. This is the definition of "Conducting Unbecoming" if ever there has been one. Does the Chief need remedial C.I.T. training? IF one comment like "Im going to pray for you", sets him off like that, what else will set him off? Chief Schultz, where is your higher standard? You know, the higher standard you demand your officers live up to or face immediate discipline. To you Mayor Berry, when will you see the liability that Chief Schultz is causing you? He is a time bomb and he is ready to explode, are you Mayor Berry prepared to write the check for the violations that he continues to exhibit?

See the City Council Video here.

Thanks to our Readers

2011-10-10T21:10:00.006-06:00

Due to your diligence; Fairy Berry Land was put to a halt for now and the red light scam was voted down.

OUR THANKS TO YOU!

We have received several e-mails asking if the Eye is still active? The answer to this question is, "YES." The Eye does not make things up. Our staff finds stories we need to verify. We are working on some great stories for the coming weeks.

If anybody noticed, Berry has kept Schultzie on a tight leash. Recently, we have only seen the other court jesters out and about like: Banks. Too bad his family relative who he managed to sneak into APD wasn't availble for the photo shoot.

Stay tuned!

Listen to Mayor Berry; Vote His Way

2011-10-02T21:24:00.004-06:00

You read the headline correctly! The Eye is recommending that you vote in accordance with Mayor Berry’s statements. Below you will find a link to a video where Mayor Berry clearly states, “You take care of the Fire Department, you take care of the Police Department. ‘You take care of the people who keep us safe every day first.’ ” Berry continues to state, “…and then you work on boutique projects after you’ve got those main dollars in place.” (Bolded added for emphasis)

HELP MAYOR BERRY KEEP HIS WORD! VOTE “NO” ON ANY BOUTIQUE TAX BONDS!!!

Listen to your Mayor; vote "NO" to the Faire Berry Botique bonds.

No more taxes till the City can restore all the losses Mayor Berry has slammed the citizens of Albuquerque and the City employees with.

NO MORE TAXES; PERIOD! Vote “NO” on the Redflex Scameras and vote for ANYBODY but Brad Winter or Trudy Jones. These two candidates are anti-public safety.

The Eye would like to thank our local firefighters and the Local 244 Union for their contribution to the link below.

Click HERE for video link.

UNM, An Advocate for Alcohol And Yet Another Black Eye!

2011-10-02T12:12:00.005-06:00

Yesterday’s game was expected to be a handful. It was the first game the Lobos would play since the firing of Coach Locksley. The game was against the archrivals UNM Lobos and NMSU Aggies. UNM expected such problems (as demonstrated by last year) they even hired extra officers to be on duty.

Tailgate lots opened very early, despite a 6:00 p.m. scheduled kick off. Some people began to arrive at 10:00 a.m. and it appeared that UNM had a no rules tailgate party. Alcohol was plenty and people were piled in to the numerous tailgate lots. There were many tailgaters that had tents, full D.J. and people dancing, fighting, and drinking in the lot. One such tailgater was the "PIKE" fraternity house. During the tailgate party, an 18 year old girl was seen passed out near the "PIKE" spot. She had been drinking with them, along with several "PIKE" pledges and brothers. The female was so intoxicated she was required medical attention and Albuquerque Ambulance was called to treat and transport her to a nearby hospital. Several citations were also issued for minor in possession.

Many PIKE members were getting on the microphone and announcing which people were actual SID (Special Investigations Division)undercover officers. Isn't that interferring with a police investigation? What comes next is mind boggling. Supervisors on scene asked if UNM wanted the PIKE tailgaters to be escorted off property. UNM had briefed officers and stated there was a no tolerance and people would be cited and escorted off the property. Seeing that the PIKE tailgaters were providing alcohol to minor, or at least allowing minors to drink with them; it only seemed obvious that the PIKE tailgaters would be told to leave. The answer from the UNM big wigs was hypocritical at best, "let them stay." During the night, Albuquerque Ambulance and AFD were called to the lots in reference to intoxicated minors, numerous times. That does not seem to be the worst of it.

At 6:00 P.M., UNM officials told officers to let all of the tailgaters know that they had two choices; go into the game, or pack up and leave the property immediately. So let us get this straight. Officials KNOW people have been drinking ALL day long and their answer is "pack up and leave." Where does the responsibility of UNM lie? It has been on the news regularly that bars and other establishments are sued when a patron is in an accident after leaving their establishment. The courts have found that liquor establishments have a responsibility to know that certain intoxicated people should not be allowed to drive and that their intoxication level is the responsibility of the various establishments. What about UNM? Here is an "establishment," a SCHOOL no less that is KNOWINGLY allowing intoxicated people leave the area. UNM allows these people to drink all day long without any limit on the amount of alcohol they consume.

There are so many things UNM can do to help with this problem:

1) Make it a dry campus and they so often boast
2) Allow alcohol to be served only a certain time period and ending many hours prior to the start of the game.
3) Have trained staff to monitor and take appropriate action when they see someone is intoxicated.

One thing is for certain; UNM's policies must change. At yesterday’s game, many people were issued citations, many people were arrested, and many people were injured. It is only time before it becomes fatal.

Schultz Sharpens his Forte

2011-09-28T20:59:00.008-06:00

When one thinks a local village idiot can do no worse, somehow they manage to surprise a person. On Monday, the Albuquerque Police Department issued another social media policy directed at an employee’s personal choice(s). Apparently Schultz is a bigot; you must think, believe and do as Schultz instructs! If you do not, you will be disciplined up to and including terminated.

Does this seem harsh or severe? Not if you’re a dictator like oh, let say, Momar Kaddafi or Raymond Daniel Schultz. You must do what as he says like an obedient slave. What’s next with this fascist leader? Is he going to go after officers for being Black or Indian or because they are gay or lesbian? Those days are gone; our community will not tolerate a bigot of any type or form. Schultz will soon find himself in the same situation as Kaddafi, held up in a hole waiting for the free will of the people to take him out.

No Schultz it is not a “threat,” it is a fact that you need to leave and take all your baggage and prejudices with you. Schultz’s actions would make the forefathers of our Constitution puke. The United States of America was founded and built on FREEDOM! That freedom includes “Freedom of Speech!” Schultz has overstayed his tenure and it is time for him to leave. The Eye sees another huge slap in the face to the City over this ridiculous policy.

Let us not forget that incompetence is promoted by incompetence. Schultz placed retired/rehired Officer John Gallegos to be the Departments’ Social Media Compliance Officer. This guy is paid about $50,000.00 a year to “surf” the internet looking for APD officers who might post something on the intranet. This is the same John Gallegos who tried to shove (Ret.) Officer Mark Bralley and his attorney Paul Livinston out of an office during an Internal Affairs interview. This cost the City hundreds of thousands of dollars. Gallegos has already proven he cannot make good decisions and Schultz rehires him and places him in this critical position? It would be shocking, but it is not because it has become a common for Schultz to make bad decisions.

Interesting enough, our Eyes tell us that Schultz attends church and stands there as a hypocrite. Is a church a place where three or more gather for a common purpose? Does his church sometimes oppose what the government does or says? This makes him guilty of his own policy. What about Schultz’s membership of the International Chiefs of Police (IACP)? What about the Fraternal Order of Police who commonly disagrees with the president and has a political action committee that “acts” against the President or endorses another candidate?

What about when Schultz conspired with Darren White to “go after” Sam Costales? Schultz has violated just about every single piece of this garbage; he calls a policy. Berry should terminate Schultz based on Schultz’s past actions. This site has provided proof and “information” repeatedly. UNM wizened up and terminated their problem (who has cost them millions). When is the City of Albuquerque going to follow suit?

Schultz has failed to learn that “respect is earned; not simply given.” When will Schultz learn? This is just another civil rights violation in the making. But Schultz sees it as no big deal, after all, it’s not his money; it’s YOUR MONEY that will be paid out! As far as being convicted for civil rights violations, this will just be another notch in his lip stick case…

Some of this policy is directly out of federal law language. You decide if this policy is right or wrong when it comes to a person’s personal choice(s); we are not talking about terrorist or terrorism:

Personnel shall not knowingly associate, visit, join, participate, mimic or have ongoing dealings with individuals, persons, memberships, associations, organizations, enterprises or groups of three or more persons under a common sign or symbol that:

|1|-|5| 1. Advocates the overthrow of the government; or vigilantism; or violence, or criminal activity, or discrimination, or knowingly or unknowingly violates the laws, ordinances or statutes of the City, State, U.S. or Constitution of the U.S.

[5-7} 2. Reduces the efficiency of personnel or organization, or creates a conflict of interest in either the on, and off-duty conduct of personnel with the stated goals, standards, requirements and or vision statement of the department; or compromises the conduct of themselves both on and off-duty in such a manner as to reflect most favorable on the department, or creates a self-induced jeopardy.

This type of behavior is expected from a two year old child who doesn’t get their way; not from a top executive in the City of Albuquerque.

A dictator is just that; a DICTATOR!

COMMIT TO TELL TEN TO VOTE “NO” ON ALL BONDS AND “NO” TO THE RED LIGHT CAMERAS!

2011-09-25T22:14:00.002-06:00

The Eye, as many others in our community, are tired of the incompetence of our City’s Leadership. The Eye is asking that you tell ten people to VOTE “NO” on all bond issues and “NO” on the Red Light Cameras. What does this mean; it means no more new taxes and the City continues as it is now. It also means, no more supporting Redflex; a company who is not in Albuquerque, let alone in New Mexico.

We are in the worst economy that we will ever see in our lifetime and the City is demanding the citizens pay more and more to compensate for their incompetence. So many people are out of work, losing their homes and cannot put groceries on the table and the City leadership is still trying to “squeeze blood out of a turnip.” New Mexico is the second poorest state in the Country. According to Channel 7 News (see it here) the average yearly income is the same amount of money that Reflex donate to a local fly-by-night outfit to keep the Scamera’s in place. We are a struggling community and any new taxes hurt our kids and our families directly. This is wrong on many levels.
Until the City’s leadership is able to handle (budget) the money that we have already entrusted them with and are able to bring the City up to where it was prior to Berry; we do not trust giving this incompetent group another penny. Mayor Berry wants his Faire Berry Land on the Bosque with our tax dollars. Ask this question, if we don’t have the money to run the City now, how is the City going to pay for costs associated with Faire Berry Land? Where are the additional law enforcement personnel? Where are the maintenance and grounds keepers, supervisors and other required staff and equipment? Who is going to pay for it? This is going to cost the tax payers a fortune!

This is plain stupid. The City leadership needs to become competent and prove they can handle it. Maybe then the tax payers might consider more taxes. For now, we are in the “Great Depression of our era.” The City needs to learn to “live within its’ means; just like the rest of us.” No New Taxes!

And for those liberals who have stated, “Well, it will only cost this much more per household per year…” If you think the cost is “affordable,” then you can pay the tab and there should be no need for any tax increases.

Redflex who owns the Red Light Scamera’s donated $45,000.00 to Safe Streets Albuquerque in hopes of fooling the citizens of Albuquerque into keeping their “Gravy Train.” Don’t be FOOLED! Send a true message to Redflex and the City Leadership and VOTE “NO” on the Scamera’s!

One last thought, Berry owns a few goons on the City Council and it is time to create an equal playing field for the citizens. It is time to get rid of a few problems. The Eye is recommending that you do not vote for Brad Winter who has failed to do his job with the council and continues to wreck APS. The Eye also recommends that you do not vote for Trudy Jones; “Tutti Frutti” who has shown that she cannot handle the job or responsibilities of the position. We are not endorsing anyone and especially NOT endorsing Winter or Jones. Remember these two clowns have been covering Berry’s track, including blocking a federal investigation into the twenty police shootings. If nothing was done wrong why would they oppose an outside investigation? Think about it before you cast your vote. The Eye is not asking you to vote Republican or Democrat; the Eye is asking you to make a better choice. This is not a partisan issue but a logical one.

Please commit to tell ten people to VOTE “NO” on all bonds and the Scamera’s! Ask those ten to tell ten more people to VOTE “NO!”

Time for Governor to Stop Playing Liberal Games

2011-09-22T21:14:00.003-06:00

The Eye takes a different view from Gov. Martinez on how to approach the illegal alien driver’s license issue. Driving is a privileged granted by the State of New Mexico and not a “God given right” or a “Constitutional right.” Even if it was a “Constitutional right,” these people are illegal aliens; therefore, they are not entitled to a “Constitutional right.” The Governor should administratively revoke all illegal alien drivers’ licenses. If the illegal alien wants to fight this issue, they would have to file an appeal like the rest of us do legally.

In a Reuter story (read it here), Judge Sarah Singleton in Santa-Fe, “issued a temporary restraining order blocking the program, arguing in a brief ruling that ‘irreparable injury’ would occur from "constitutional deprivations to the applicants." If illegal aliens have these rights that Singleton claims, none of this would be an issue and every state in the United States would issues licenses to everyone.

The Governor needs to put her foot down and cut the “nicy-nicy” baloney!

Most recently, several churches, including the Catholic Church, have chimed in and given their two cents in favor of illegal aliens having driver’s licenses. Whatever happened to the “Separation of Church and State?” Did all these Churches take a poll to see if the parishioners’ approved of them speaking on their behalf as a communal body? Martinez won the election, and part of her promise was to stop the illegal aliens from obtaining licenses in New Mexico. One last thought, before any church even thinks about looking in Martinez’s closet; they better look in their own closet and clean it first.

If all the liberals are “that” concerned, here is an alternate idea, the State should issue “Illegal Alien Driver’s Licenses.” This would remove the cloak for the crooks. The Illegal Alien Driver’s Licenses would clearly state the person in possession of the license is an illegal alien. Any law enforcement, government agency, or any other party dealing with the alien would know immediately that the person is an illegal alien.

The license would be clearly marked and state, “Illegal Alien” and state the person who presented this information passed a New Mexico driving test. The license would clearly state, “DO NOT RELY ON THE INFROMATION ON THIS CARD!” The reverse side of the card would state, “Confirm subjects’ information independently.” The license would not resemble the New Mexico standard license in any formative manner.

Let the Governor do the job she was hired to do. If you don’t like it; move or run for office and spew your vial after you’re elected.

Chief Costs the City $175K While “Dawg” Defends

2011-09-20T21:54:00.003-06:00

According to the Albuquerque Journal (read it here), “The city has paid $175,000 to settle claims brought by three women against the Albuquerque Police Department and a former reserve officer…” The Journal states in the lawsuit, David C. Young, a radio technician, “misrepresented his position and authority, claiming to be a detective and a commissioned officer when he was in fact a civilian.” We all know a good chief knows what is going on in his department, right? Not APD’s “I know nothing” Schultz.

Our Eyes behind the badge tell us there have been several questionable incidents involving Dave Young while he has been with APD. Young was assigned, at one time, to the Departments’ Special Investigation Division (SID) as a quasi-fleet coordinator (one of the Good Ol’ Boys). Our Eyes tell us Mr. Young had several issues but all were swept under the rug. Then again, you need to keep in mind that APD’s SID Unit does whatever it wants, remember the Brad Arensfield case? Guess who was behind that mess? If you guessed APD’s SID Unit; you are 100% correct. Our Eyes tell us that this unit has been run by and with rogue coppers.

Apparently the Chief doesn’t care because he has done nothing to correct the problems or is waiting for another million dollar suit. When the next suit hits, Schultz can have his guard “Dawg” Kathy Levi attack this new blunder and start the regular rhetoric; “The main thing to remember is that when this was brought to the attention of the chief, he suspended it.” These reactive responses are too little; too late Chief.

In the Journal it states, “The women claim David C. Young, a department technician who was allowed to work overtime as an undercover officer and arrest suspected prostitutes, misrepresented his position and authority when arresting them.” It appears that more payouts are on the way. The Journal also reported, “Attorney Arne Leonard said the recent settlement takes care of pending federal litigation, but a separate state action filed against the city in May by the Kennedy & Han law firm is still pending. That lawsuit was filed on behalf of 12 individuals to set aside convictions in cases in which Young made the arrest.” If the cost is $175,000.00 per every three persons; the City will need to pay out an additional $700,000.00 for the 12 individuals that are pending. The new total; $875,000.00. That will bring this debacle to around the same amount as the Costales debacle.

According to the Journal, Deputy (Dawg) City Attorney Kathryn Levi stated the settlement was paid out to two women who filed suits against the City and a third women just asked for the dough and did not file a suit. Must be nice for the third women; “Ask and you shall receive.”

The Journal investigation also reported, “He even wrote criminal complaints testifying under “the penalty of perjury” that he was a detective with the Albuquerque Police Department…” We figured if Schultz could fudge under oath, it must be okay for APD’s premier radio technician to do the same. Schultz was convicted in Federal Court of fudging the truth concerning former APD Officer Sam Costales. The Jury slammed Schultz who was convicted of civil rights violations which resulted in a huge award in favor of Costales of for $862,000.00.

According to the Journal, Young stated in an email, “…it had been a tough week and ‘I need to point my GUN at somebody.’” Let’s make sure we have the story correct. This dork comes out of Sherwood Forrest and feels a “need” to point a firearm at an Albuquerque citizen, right? Does anybody see a “loose cannon” ready to go off and hurt one of our citizens? Oddly enough, an APD supervisor thought this was a good idea? Can anyone say, “Culture of Corruption?”

Ray Schultz’s number two guard dog, Deputy “Dawg” Kathy Levi, stretched out her neck for Schultz stating, “The main thing to remember is that when this was brought to the attention of the chief, he suspended it.” Who is Levi to instruct anyone on what to “remember?” Schultz screwed up again and Levy wants us all to “remember?” Really? Well Ms. Levi, everyone “remembers” all the debacles that your Master Schultz has caused and no one will forget it either. Just a reminder Levi when a neck stretches out, the end result is not pleasant.

Santa Schultz keeps costing us tax payers but Mayor Eeyore Berry thinks Schultz walks on water. The Mayor should be deducting 10% from each settlement out of Schultz’s pay. Schultz might actually start watching and managing the Police Department. For now; Schultz “skates” again.

The Honorable Judge Parker Restores Faith

2011-09-19T22:05:00.001-06:00

Today Former APD Officer Brad Arensfield learned his fate. Arensfield was convicted in Federal Court of Obstruction of Justice. The Honorable Judge Parker sentenced Arensfield to: six months (and one day) in prison, six months of house arrest, and three years of probation. The Eye would like to salute Judge Parker. This man truly applied common sense in sentencing Arensfield. The sentence was reasonable, given the circumstances and justice has been served.

It was comical watching Assistant US Attorney Yardbird make himself look cheap along with belittling the Office of the US Attorney. Yardbirds’ only claim that he rejoiced in, was Arfensfield was a convicted felon and could not be a copper. We here at the Eye expected a professional display with statements such as; “Justice has been served” or “the people prevailed in this case.” No, Yardbird sounded like he was just released off the farm. This prosecutor should have shown up with a straw in his mouth wearing a pair of faded coveralls.

Our Eyes tell us Arensfield’s attorney will be appealing this case based on the fact that evidence was intentionally withheld by Assistant US Attorney Tara Neda. The records show that Neda has a past pattern and practice of intentionally withholding evidence in Federal cases. In all probability, a higher court will rule in Arensfields’ favor.

Schultz’s Goons Continue Culture of Corruption

2011-09-14T21:36:00.004-06:00

The Eye obtained two letters (see below) that were written in support of former APD Police Officer Brad Arensfield. The letters offer a true story of a dedicated police officer and friend willing to voice his opinion as a citizen. This citizen’s opinion lead to harassment and threat of termination by APD Sergeant Buckner.

Our Eyes tell us Sgt. Buckner’s involvement in the Arensfield case is questionable, at best. Some of our Eyes claim Buckner is a “rogue cop.” This sergeant doesn’t seem to know when to keep his trap closed. Buchner started harassing an APD officer for voicing his support for Arensfield and in a “round-about” way, threatens to have the officer terminated for exercising his first amendment rights. For starters, this violates the officer’s First, Fifth and Fourteenth amendment rights. One would think that Schultz, who is a convicted civil rights violator, would not allow such behavior or is it he does allow, condones and encourages this type of unacceptable behavior?

First letter of support/opinion to the Honorable Congressmen, Martin Heinrich:

Congressman Heinrich, I am writing this e-mail to you because there has been a great injustice here in Albuquerque, New Mexico involving a veteran police officer by the name of Brad Ahrensfield. Mr. Ahrensfield has been wrongly accused in a Federal Court for allegedly interfering in a federal investigation for warning the target of the investigation. However, in the first trial, Mr. Ahrensfield was found Not Guilty. But in the second trial, the Prosecution withheld discoverable evidence from the Defense until it was too late for the court to admit it. This discoverable evidence would have undoubtedly proven the innocence of Mr. Ahrensfield. As a result, Mr. Ahresfield was found guilty and is facing several years in prison while he waits on the Federal Appellate Court to review all the evidence. Mr. Ahrensfield's attorney, Jason Bowles, has discovered that the Prosecuting attorney, Tara Neda, has a history of withholding discoverable evidence that has resulted in several innocent people going to prison, later to be released because all the evidence finally came out.

Mr. Ahrensfield dedicated his life to serving not only the community of Albuquerque but the fellow officers who served with him. He was an expert witness for Use of Force and Defensive Tactics. He has taught and trained thousands of police officers and military personnel all over the world in how to protect themselves and the communities they serve. He served in the military for several years where he went through extensive training with Special Forces groups and shares his knowledge with anyone who wants to learn. He is a devoted and loving father and has a deep passion for helping those around him. Congressman Heinrich, all Brad Ahrensfield needs is another trial to get the evidence that will prove his innocence heard. Congressman Heinrich, I am writing this to you because I know Brad Ahrensfield. I have worked with him and I have taught with him and I have seen his passion for people first hand. Please help in any way that you can. Thank you Congressman and God Bless.

Vicente Alvarado
505-XXX-XXXX

Second letter of support/opinion to the Honorable Judge Parker:

To The Honorable Judge Parker,

Sir, my name is Vicente Alvarado and I am writing you this letter because I want you to know a little bit about my experience working with and being around Mr. Brad Ahrensfield. I have known Brad Ahrensfield for approximately four years and have worked closely with him on several occasions. Brad has trained me as a Defensive Tactics Instructor for the Department of Public Safety, a Ground Control Instructor as well as provided training in Dignitary Protection. I know that Brad has dedicated his life to keeping police officers safe as they work the streets. He has not only provided training to Law Enforcement personnel but Military personnel all over the world. Brad is very passionate in keeping our military and police officers alive as they perform their duties.

Your Honor, it is unfortunate that you will not be receiving letters from members of the Albuquerque Police Department in support of Brad. It is not because they do not support Brad but that they are scared to show their support. Please allow me to explain and give you an example of what personally happened to me.

A few months after the second trial, I wrote an email to my congressman, Congressman Martin Heinrich, about my concerns regarding the trial. I never identified myself as being involved in law enforcement, only that I was a concerned citizen. As a result of this email to my Congressman, I was confronted by Sergeant Ryan Buckner of the Albuquerque Police Department on August 24, 2011, at the Albuquerque Police Academy. I was there speaking to Sergeant Mike Smith while Sergeant Buckner was exercising on a machine next to Sergeant Mike Smith. I never look towards Sgt. Buckner or acknowledged that he was even there. Sgt. Buckner interrupted my conversation with Sgt. Smith asking me if I was going to write another letter to Martin Heinrich supporting a "convicted felon." He went on to raise his voice at me in front of Sgt. Smith stating that supporting a "convicted felon" was a sanction 5 in the Standard Operating Procedures of the Albuquerque Police Department. At this time, I tried to ignore Sgt. Buckner but he continued to raise his voice at me stating again that its a sanction 5 that could be suspension up to termination from the department. I continued to ignore Sgt. Buckner and I left the area.

It is for reasons like this that officers from the Albuquerque Police Department are afraid to give their support or stand up for what they feel is right. The freedom of speech does not exist within the department. This fact has been put in writing in the Standard Operating Procedures. Officers have been disciplined and terminated because they expressed their freedom of speech. I also am concerned because I am writing this letter to you Sir, but I cannot stand by and say nothing when a man who has dedicated his life to the safety of so many people is facing, in my opinion a great misfortune. Police officers are trained to help those who cannot help themselves, to stand up for what is right. However, if standing up for what is right means discipline from those administrators who can pass down sanctions on those same officers, the chances of those officers doing the right thing is very slim.

Your Honor, I know Brad has been a great teacher, mentor, father and friend to so many people. His military service has stretched all around the world and he has helped so many officers and military personnel through physical training to keep themselves safe while performing their duties. Brad has been an inspiration to so many people. Your Honor, I can only ask that you take into consideration the man that Brad is and the lives he has touched around the world before you pass judgment on him. He has the support from several members of the Albuquerque Police Department but as mentioned earlier they cannot come forward for fear of discipline action.

Your Honor, thank you for your time in reading this letter.

The Eye knows that everyone is sick of this behavior. When is the Mayor going to be the Mayor? When is Albuquerque going to get a new chief that will restore the public’s confidence in the police? The warning flags are all there but Berry has consciously decided to ignore all of them.

One note worthy to mention: Supporters of BRAD ARENSFIELD will be gathering at Twin Peaks Restaurant on Sunday, September 18, 2011, at 1:00 PM to show support. The public is welcome to attend.

Let Us Not Forget 9-11!

2011-09-11T06:26:00.002-06:00

The Eye would like to take this time to thank all of those that have served this country, and all those that continue to serve our country. Your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. We will always remember 9-11-01:
Times of impact: 8:46 a.m. and 9:02 a.m. Time the burning towers stood: 56 minutes and 102 minutes. Time they took to fall: 12 seconds. 2819 dead from 115 different nations. 343 Fireman/ paramedics, 23 NYPD, 37 Port Authority officers all perished.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Smile! You're on Scammer Camera!

2011-09-09T16:35:00.007-06:00

Checked your mail lately? This week many citizens of Albuquerque are getting a piece of propaganda in the mail that on the outside looks like a great campaign. Luckily, not all of us are that stupid. Not all of us are willing to buy beachfront property in Arizona. Safe Roads Albuquerque sent out a mailing that depicts a graphic car accident on one side and meaningless and biased statistics on the other. Safe Roads is wanting the citizens to "Vote Yes on October 4 and help save lives". Very dramatic, yet very misleading. KRQE provides two separate statistics. One states, "Red light running decreased by 50% in one year at city intersections with traffic safety cameras. KRQE, 7/24/10". WOW, again looks pretty impressive from the outside. The next statistic is "Traffic safety violations increased by 584% when traffic safety cameras were turned off at three intersections" KRQE 5/28/10". AMAZING, not only is KRQE able to predict the weather and broadcast the news, they are now clairvoyant! How would anyone know that violations were increased when the cameras were turned off? Not to mention that KRQE is Darren White's very own personal newstation (and the term news is used very loosely).
So many questions come to mind. WHO is RedFlex and who exactly is Safe Roads Albuquerque. For those who haven't been keeping up Albuquerque news, RedFlex is the company that is responsible for the implementation of all of the red light cameras throughout Albuquerque. The same cameras that Mayor Berry wanted to get rid of. The same cameras that were shut off for some time because the benefits and validity of the cameras came into question. It was even implied by law enforcement that the grossly inflated statistics were because the accidents were not properly measured and documented correctly to correlate with the cameras.
Craig Loy, retired APD Captain, and former City Council member, quoted the following:"Why should reckless drivers get away with breaking the law? Safety cameras save lives. That's why we need to keep them." This is the same Craig Loy that is the Chairman of Safe Roads Albuquerque, that is behind this ludicrous campaign. It is mind boggling to imagine the cost of printing tens of thousands, or even more, of this colorful two sided-deceptive piece of propaganda. Our Eyes found out that the top contributor to Safe Roads Albuquerque was none other than RedFlex; to the tune of $45,000.00. There was however, another contributor, that was an unknown female who contributed a whopping $50!

The Eye wonders why this information wasn't printed on their fancy little flyer:

A 2008 University of South Florida report found:
"Comprehensive studies conclude cameras actually increase crashes and injuries, providing a safety argument not to install them.... public policy should avoid conflicts of interest that enhance revenues for government and private interests at the risk of public safety."

Or how about this- In October of 2010, the University of New Mexico released The Albuquerque Red Light Camera Study. "The report dismissed the increase in the overall number of crashes by providing an accident cost analysis not based on any examination of the collisions in Albuquerque, but by applying a generic formula designed to downplay the importance of rear end collisions. The report recommended that the city use engineering countermeasures to improve safety. Mayor Berry issued a statement confirming his willingness to do so -- including giving drivers longer yellow times." There was no question that the installment of the cameras was nothing more than a money driven exercise. "The study, which was funded by the city of Albuquerque, presented automated enforcement as favorable a light as it could. The study measured the number of accidents in thirty-eight camera-free control intersections used for comparison with the twenty photo-enforced intersections. The total number of crashes at the photo enforced intersections increased while camera-free intersections saw a decrease. While injury accidents decreased at the camera intersections, the decrease was much more prominent, 29 percent, at camera-free locations." See for yourself at http://www.thenewspaper.com/news/33/3303.asp.

This is nothing more than a lame attempt to pick pocket the citizens of Albuquerque and question the intelligence of every single citizen. What does Craig Loy gain by this Safe Roads Campaign? As the campaign states, "Vote YES for Safe Roads on October 4". The Eye sees things differently. On the contrary, Vote NO and tell RedFlex we have Albuquerque Police Officers that are there to keep our roads safe and issue their own citations, and not some meaningless citation generated by a faulty, money driven camera.

Resigned Cynicism; Is there Hope?

2011-09-08T21:52:00.001-06:00

The Eye received this letter from Marty Gilmore, a retired APD Captain, and from all the emails we receive, it seems Gilmore is right on target when it comes to many of the retired senior coppers.

I retired after twenty-five of service as an Albuquerque Police Department Captain/Commander. During my tenure I served as Commander of the Southeast and Foothills Area Commands, the Traffic Division, the Crime Lab, Records/ID and Evidence. I was also given responsibility to command the first accreditations process and form the Inspections Unit.

I was happy to see Ray Schultz be given the opportunity to be Chief under Mayor Chavez as he had worked for me in the Crime lab and did a great job. As time passed word kept getting back to me that Ray was not the same person he was before he took the position of Deputy Chief in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was becoming disconnected from the officers and discipline was becoming a major issue. Officers were becoming reluctant to do their job for fear of discipline should they make an honest mistake.

I was very surprised to see the current mayor retain Chief Schultz after being told Chief Schultz and his command staffs were pushing hard for the re-election of Mayor Chavez. The function of loyalty is to the community first and then to the chain of command. To avoid corruption there can be no other approach.

Never did I believe the possibility of a Justice Department investigation possible due to the lack of leadership. Chief Schultz said he is the man to clean up APD's problems. The thought that comes to mind is who was in charge when the mess was created? Also, why is the Journal so quick to defend the Chief and say he is the right man to correct the problems existing at APD when the Journal has been very critical of the APD for the past number of years?

The APD at one time had a reputation of being one of the best local law enforcement agencies in the nation. I believe it can regain that standing through a good work ethic, getting back to the basics of police work, good discipline and new leadership.

David M. Gilmore Retired APD Captain

The laments never stop coming; yet, Albuquerque’s Mayor Berry pretends he is deaf and dumb. The Eye is at the point of resigned cynicism and realizes Berry is never going to correct the wrong doings but force the rest of us to live and deal with his bad decisions. Mayor Berry has become pathetic. Is there any hope?...

Berry Does the Three Card Monte and its Ugly

2011-09-07T20:34:00.000-06:00

Our Eyes have been watching and learned Mayor “Eeore” (Berry) has a long face for a good reason. Berry shuffled the deck of cards when Darren White ousted himself from the City. According to the City’s Web-site (read it here), “Mayor Berry has decided not to fill the position of Public Safety Director at this time. That position most recently paid $120,640. Under the new City of Albuquerque organization chart, the Chief of Police and Fire Chief will report directly to Chief Administrative Officer Rob Perry.” The Mayor claims he did not fill the position; however, Perry’s new title is Chief Administrative Officer/Public Safety Director.

Sidebar
When it comes to police and fire issues; Perry doesn't know the difference between derriere products from dairy products. Albuquerque is not the “barnyard” where everything is controlled behind safe and secured locked gates at the Department of Corrections. Perry is completely unqualified for this position. So much for the rubbish for the Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board who claimed the Chief could now be the Chief. Berry would have been better off placing police and fire under Soladay who is as qualified as Perry to be the Public Safety Director.
End Sidebar

If the PSD’s position was not filled, why does Perry have this title: Chief Administrative Officer/Public Safety Director? This title blatantly states Perry has the position that was supposedly not filled. Here are a few questions? Why does the Chief of Police and the Fire Chief report to Perry NOT Berry? Where is the big chunk of change from the wasted position that White held? It’s easy; Perry took over White’s old position. Soladay received a newly created position of Chief Operations Officer with White’s old salary of $120,000.00.

What has happened is a card game of politics; the “Three Card Monte.” The game requires the players to switch hats (titles) so fast the public doesn’t realize they have been juke by Berry. Game over Berry and Perry, the Eyes see all and tell all.
Where’s the savings or re-organization you ask; there is none, just the “Three Card Monte.” Perhaps the City Council will see the game for what it is and vote to stop this fleecing of public tax dollars. You have fooled no one Berry; you only hammered one more nail into the box of your political career. Stop lying and simply tell the truth, you’re not going to be the Mayor in a few years, anyway. The Eye is hopeful that our future Mayor is taking notes on what NOT to do.

Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board Promotes Incompetence

2011-09-04T21:43:00.000-06:00

In the Albuquerque Journal Editorial Section was a posting (read it here) by the Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board. The Eye has known this Board to say outlandish rubbish; this past week, the Board beat their own rubbish record stating, “APD Needs One Chief; Schultz Right for Job.” Perhaps the City needs to send the tab of over $6,000,000.00 in liability that Schultz has cost the tax payers. Perhaps if the Board was footing the bill they would be “singing a different song.”

If the Board wants to play semantic; they could start by just paying the $862,000.00 awarded to former APD Officer Sam Costales. This huge award was granted after Schultz was convicted in the United States Federal District Court of retaliation/civil rights violations. We want to remind the Board that Schultz started harassing and retaliating against Costales after former Sheriff Darren White gave the order to attack Costales like a dog foaming at the mouth. Once Schultz was ordered to “Sic,” he went after Costales. How does anybody in this City feel comfortable knowing that the Chief committed civil rights violations against one of his own; what value does he place on you and Eye?

The article praised Schultz for responding to the City’s most recent police shooting. The article stated, “This week, when an Albuquerque police officer shot and killed a career criminal armed with a loaded AK-47, Chief Ray Schultz showed why he is the right man for that job.” Really? So if “Porky Pig” or Geraldine Amato showed up, they would make a great chief too; right? The ridicules statements made by this Board are asinine. Of course at this point either one would make a better chief than Schultz. Where is Taco Bell TJ when you need him? I am sure he was out there too.

What the Board failed to mention is CHIEF SCHULTZ provided all the visual props to teach the City’s criminal element how to easily kill an officer wearing a bullet proof vest. Schultz should be terminated for this irresponsible action. This was beyond words for the damage that he personally has now done by this free classroom training for criminals. Way to go Schultz…

The article also discusses the PERF Report. The article states, “When the national Police Executive Research Forum investigated the increase in officer-involved shootings and made 40 recommendations, Schultz implemented 39 and added 19 of his own.” The article fails to speak about the conflict of interest; Schultz is an active member of PERF.

The Board also discusses how Schultz was quick to create a policy concerning social media. Once again, Ray’s cheerleaders failed to mention Schultz a few months prior was “tweeting” and admonishing our district court judges over his perception of the job they were performing. Schultz stated in a memo, “the conduct of individual officers can impact the reputation and integrity of this department and all officers and civilian personnel. It is essential that the public have absolute trust and respect for the Albuquerque Police Department and the men and women who serve in it. … The department is committed to a safe, secure community where the rights, history and culture of each citizen is valued and respected. The department will accept nothing less.” His policy is good for the rest but not good for him. Schultz should “practice what you preaches” and quite being a hypocrite.

The Board claims, “Schultz’s comments show he understands APD officers are held to a higher standard, that they must walk their law-abiding talk, that the public looks to his men and women, who put their lives on the line every day, to set an example.”

“They must walk their law-abiding talk…” Really? Schultz violates civil rights and walks without any consequences; Schultz violated his own social medial policy and walks without any consequences; Schultz provides training to criminals on how to kill officer wearing bullet proof vest, we anticipate Schultz will walk on this one too.

The biggest problem and weakness in APD is Schultz. “Set the example” Schultz, it is time for you to go!

Is UNM Police Inviting More Problems and Liability?

2011-09-03T16:54:00.000-06:00

UNM raised hell with the Albuquerque City Council when the Council refused to clear UNM to proceed with a liquor license. UNM through legal and political maneuvering gained approval to sell alcohol at the UNM football events. Realizing some of the potential problems, UNMPD decided to implement a “Text Messaging Campaign.” This allows anyone to complain via text messaging. Here is the caveat; what if a bitter spouse wants to “get even” with their significant other? Or perhaps some other type of rivalry? What happens when the police have insufficient information because the disturbance was not called into a trained dispatcher? UNMPD has given some disgruntled individuals a tool to harass and/or intimidate another person. In addition, UNMPD may have invited more liability than what they can afford.

Channel 7’s Marissa Maez stated, “UNM Police say, they are also starting this new ‘Text Messaging Campaign’ to allow fans to text them when they see an intoxicated person misbehaving during the game.” According to UNM Lt. Robert Haarhues, “so, not only fans who had too much to drink, uh, whatever the issue maybe, uh, we want people who are afraid to say something… ” What happened to just call the police when someone disturbs the peace? This allows a trained dispatcher to evaluate, extract and gather facts from the caller. Does the text message say the offender is armed and with what? Does the text message say the offender just ran over two kids, gives a vehicles description or a license plate number? Any professional knows that face-to-face communication is the best; next is direct verbal communication with another person. There is a reason why professional law enforcement agencies require calls for service (complaints) to be called in.

UNMPD is inviting more problems and vicarious liability. Ultimately, this botched “campaign” is going to blow up in UNM’s face when a family sues for not following professional law enforcement standards.

One last opinion, if UNM’s desire is to make more money, they should fire their football coach for losing game after game. A proven and accompllished coach like Steve Alford packs the PIT! It would be the same result for the football team, if UNM had a good football coach. UNM is trying to solve a problem by treating a symptom. Fix the problem and pack the stadium; and skip the booze.

An Open Letter From; We The People

2011-09-02T12:35:00.000-06:00

The Eye recently received this open letter that was sent to Mayor Berry. This letter is right on point and spells out some grave errors. We hope when the Mayor read this letter he will realize; it is not just the Eye complaining, this is your voting block.

Dear Mayor Berry,

During your tenure as mayor I have supported some of your decisions when it came to public safety, especially that of accepting Darren Whites resignation. When you chose to veto the city councils effort at calling for a DOJ investigation, (R-11-247), citing in part the P.E.R.F. investigation and that of another city employee, or employees, I made an effort to seek-out and read the report. I immediately saw it as a "schmoozing" report, but when I learned that Chief Schultz in fact is a member of P.E.R.F. I became enraged at the thought that you had to have known about his direct involvement, lest he intentionally kept it from you, as has been his practice regarding myriad issues where the public is concerned. I will not resort to name-calling but his arrogance is legendary.

I then set-out to check a few things for myself and I must say first of all that the P.E.R.F. report, in my opinion, is a waste of money, or as someone recently said, "APD got exactly what they paid for." Actually, "We-the-people" paid for it, or at least its conclusion. As one who helped pay for the investigation and report, I would like a copy of all communications between all investigators and P.E.R.F. personnel and the City of Albuquerque, Albuquerque Police Department, and anyone else who was involved. I can't believe you would be satisfied with a report that doesn't even have a table of contents or an index! Not to mention the fact that investigative methodology isn't addressed, nor who actually conducted these investigations. If your office can-not provide what's requested, please pass this along to the appropriate department.

I maintain the majority of Albuquerque Police Department officer's are of good standing and truly want to do a good job, but they're being hindered by department hierarchy, who're making bad decisions. I am left to wonder what in the hell motivated Chief Schultz, et al, to do a dog-and-pony-show on broadcast television regarding the last shooting incident on the westside, where I live. Was this something you approved? As a citizen I am livid over this, but were I a police officer, I would be requesting chain-of-command to find out why the chief would deliberately explain, nay, demonstrate to "the bad-guys" how to kill a cop, or someone else, what kind of weapon is required, and the type of ammunition needed! It's bad-enough people are intentionally knocking each other off, some call it gang warfare, but for a chief of police to reinforce what to do is stupid, stupid, stupid!

Normally, I keep my opinion of such political hot-potatoes to myself, but it's obvious to an exponentially growing number of "We-the-people" that something is very wrong within our police department, beginning at the top, which includes you too mayor. At the very least things are out of control, and at the very worst citizens are being killed at a rate that far exceeds police departments of similarly sized cities as Albuquerque and some much larger.

Mr. Mayor, picture yourself standing at the center of a locomotive turntable, (your office), and several freight trains are bearing down upon you at out of control speed, all at once. This is how I see your situation. The trains are from within the police, (and fire), department, but they also represent several citizen groups and their membership is rocketing upward, trust me.

This mornings Albuquerque Journal editorial speaks of 14 shootings, when the fact is that there have recently been 20 shootings, of which 14 have been fatalities. It's this form of protectionist reporting that festers like an open wound, to a point that it's hard to separate truth from lies. Mayor, the city and your administration of it is festering and the mis-management of APD is the wound. A good chief would have been proactive and immediately addressed the so-called bad apples, as referred too by Chief Schultz, within the department, instead of waiting for people to thumb their noses, and worse, having done-so publicly! Why have shootings occurred and the officer states he didn't deploy his taser because it didn't work! Why isn't assigned equipment being used in the manner intended? Why aren't officers utilizing audio and video recording devices as prescribed by standard operating procedure? I can go on for several pages but I will say this, now that the horses are out of the stable, "We-the-people" are invited to have a look inside, in the form of a damned dog-and-pony-show! Am I missing something here or is it just my blood boiling?

Mr. Mayor, I think it's time to cut-out the wound and begin the healing process, for the sake of us all. Although, I am a democrat, and because I believed you would be the breath of fresh air our fine city needed, I voted for you, but you haven't kept your end of campaign promises; you've simply bargained them away. Speaking for myself, I want to see a change in the top administration at APD, and for supervisors to ensure stricter adherence to policies and procedures by everyone in the department, yes that includes civilians too. It's a police agency, sir, not a bordello. As someone who helped manage a protective force of several hundred armed officers at a weapons laboratory, I know what it is to deal with a strong union on a day-to-day basis, and it starts with respect. Unfortunately, you, Chief Schultz, and most of his top command do not have the respect of subordinates and dog-and-pony-shows won't get you there.

Without needed change Mr. Mayor, I promise I will ask 100 people not to vote for you in the next election, explaining why, and I will ask that each approach 10 more, and so-on, until "We-the-people" have our say! Accordingly, we're also keeping our eyes on the city council and taking note of who listens to what we believe is in the best interest of our city, and for us who choose to live here. Until election day, your option is to hunker-down and weather the proverbial Department of Justice storm, or just continue to bury your head in the sand.

Respectfully,

Lawrence Trujillo

Some Police Shootings are in Question; This One Is Not

2011-09-01T21:00:00.000-06:00

APD’s most recent police shooting is legitimate. The Eye has taken an in-depth look into this case and the facts are undisputable. Our Eyes tell us that APD Officer James Purdue is one of the best; if not the best Officer in APD. Our Eyes tell us that Purdue is a mature, rational and seasoned officer. One senior high ranking retired APD officer stated, “Purdue’s background prior to and his service to APD and the community is impeccable! ‘I would trust Purdue with my life.’” There is not a story here in regard to illegal or inappropriate actions or behaviors on behalf of APD.

The incident occurred when 31 year old Michael Marquez, who was wanted for several violent armed robberies, was located and surrounded by police. Marquez has a long history of violent behavior. Below is a small list of facts concerning this violent felon and this incident:

• Convicted triple felon
• Convicted child rapist (14 year old girl)
• Convicted car thief
• Convicted of drug possession
• Registered sexual offender
• Armed with a stolen loaded military type assault weapon
• Felon in possession of a firearm
• A member of the violent Sureno’s 13 gang

Marquez should have been in a “comfy prison cell” in the Santa-Fe, New Mexico State Penitentiary. Marquez dictated the actions of police contrary to his brothers’ statement to a Journal photographer (read it here); “Bill Marquez, the suspect’s brother, told a Journal photographer that just because someone is a criminal does not mean they ‘should be treated like an animal.’” It is deploring and an insult for Marquez’s brother to compare this violent fleeing felon and child rapist to the innocents of an animal. The only truth to the Bill Marquez statement by proxy is; Michael Marquez was a criminal and chose how he wanted to be treated.

Michael Marquez was a criminal living a life of crime. There are consequences for violent criminal behavior; Marquez finally paid the price. When Marquez chambered a live round in his assault rifle while surrounded by police; what did he think was really going to happen? He knew there would be response and consequences for his actions. The victims that Marquez shoved a gun on and threaten and the 14 year old girl who Marquez raped; may now be able to start the healing process, knowing that Marquez is no longer a threat to them or anyone else.

Sidebar On the Channel 7 News, Schultz was bumbling and did not make any sense. We believe he was trying to say; the officers were familiar with the sound of a live round of ammunition being chambered into a firearm. Sidebar End

The Eye offers condolences’ to the family. No one wants to see another person die. Officer Purdue acted accordingly to stop the actions of an armed violent felon, Michael Marquez. Officer Purdue prevented Michael Marquez from hurting another human being.

The Eye believes this was clearly a legitimate and bona fide use of force. The Eye is positive that Purdue took no joy in having to terminate another person’s life; Purdue was only performing the job he was hired to do, “serve, protect and defend.” Marquez will no longer be a menace to society.

Is the Mayor a "Berry Good Liar?"

2011-09-01T05:05:00.003-06:00

The Eye received the open letter below from Senior Sergeant Paul Heh (Ret). Apparently there is more to story we have yet to hear. Some say the “eyes are the window to the soul.” If this is true; we will be looking a lot deeper into Berry’s the next time we run into Mayor Berry…We all Know how much this Mayor loves our "Eyes."

To Mayor Richard Berry:

I have tried several times after the election to speak to you regarding concerns I have. You refused to speak to me, stating, “you were simply too busy.” I understand hectic schedules. I worked for APD for over 24 years. I worked from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., and then often times spent the entire day in court, only to come home and sleep for an hour, at most. Well guess what Mayor, I am retired and have all the time in the world to email you this letter.

As I am sure you remember I supported you when you were running for Mayor, when you told me you had no support. In case your memory has failed you, let me remind you of a few things: I made radio advertisements for you, I arranged “ride alongs” for you with officers of APD, I had several sit down meetings with you (sometimes weekly at Flying Star), we spoke at least three or four times a week by telephone. I rallied support for you from APD (AGAINST the endorsement of the APOA). I rallied support for you from AFD (long time supporters of Marty Chavez). I rallied support from various city employees. I rallied support for you from court employees, and even attorneys of all fields and party affiliations. I did this because I believed in what you told me. People voted for you because of what they were told, “what you stood for and what you believed in.”

You, Mr. Mayor, told me that upon your election the Chief of Police, Raymond Schultz, would be immediately replaced. In fact, you bolstered the fact that you would clean house from the fifth floor up. This was paramount in getting the support of the rank and file of the police department. Mr. Mayor to say you were disingenuous is a huge understatement and just a nice way of saying; YOU LIED!

The ink wasn't even dry on the ballots and you reappointed Raymond Schultz as Chief of Police. You told me that Public Safety was going to be your main concern and that ALL city employees were very important to you. You have made the Police Department, the Fire Department and City Employees your enemy. You have made a mockery out of Public Safety. You promised you would not fill the Public Safety Director position; you told me you felt it was a waste of taxpayer's dollars. This was a position you promised Darren White in August, three months before the election; yet, another one of your lies. Well Mr. Mayor, I feel you have made your position as Mayor a waste of taxpayer's dollars. I would ask you these questions: How did Darren White work out for you? How is Raymond Schultz working out for you?

You are destroying what I have dedicated 24 years of my life to, which had become a second family to me. I cannot sit silent and watch the good men and women of The Albuquerque Police Department suffer under your inept lack of leadership. In my opinion Mr. Mayor, you have no ethics, no integrity, and you, Mr. Mayor, are without any honor. If you would like to dispute what I have said here, I will happily meet you in any public forum of any time and place. Until then, take a long look in the mirror. That is your soul looking back at you; are you happy with what you see? You can lie, spin, and twist, but your soul knows the truth. Luckily for the citizens of Albuquerque and the members of APD and AFD, we are able to see the truth at last.

You will be hearing from me again Mr. Mayor. I will do everything in my power to make sure you do not get re-elected. I will not allow you to destroy APD, nor will I sit still and sit silent and watch you destroy the City of Albuquerque. If anyone wants to challenge me with what I have had to say, I will not answer anonymous challenges. I will meet anyone face to face in any public forum to answer their challenge.

Paul J. Heh
Senior Sergeant APD, (Ret.)

Retired APD Commander Challenges Journals' Approval of Schultz

2011-08-30T06:03:00.012-06:00

The Eye receives many types of information and letters. Below is an open editorial letter from a retired APD commander who we understand is very credible and honest. Commander Tate (Ret.) is part of a dying breed of officer that is becoming none existent within APD’s rank and file. The Eye would like to thank Tate in advance for his candidness and honesty. It should be noted that this letter was originally sent to the Journal; everyone knows the Journal would never print a hard hitting letter like this one.

Being retired from the Albuquerque Police Department, I was immediately drawn to the headline “In the Hot Seat” in Sunday’s paper. I read the article by Jeff Proctor outlining APD Chief Ray Schultz and his claim that he is the man to fix problems at APD. I couldn’t believe what I was reading. I became upset with how Chief Schultz diagnosed the problems at APD and how he demonstrated a lack of leadership and accountability. I am also embarrassed for how APD’s reputation has diminished over the last several years and I believe the officers of APD and the Albuquerque community deserves better.

I retired in 2006 at the rank of lieutenant and served as the Director of Training for the Albuquerque Police Academy from 2003 to 2006. Prior to that I was in charge of the Internal Affairs Unit from 2001 to 2003 and worked closely with Chief Schultz in both assignments. I spent time with him and got to know him fairly well. I always liked his sense of humor….he is a very funny person when you get to know him. I was excited when he came back to be Chief and thought he would do well in the position. However, in the months following his return, I realized that he wasn’t the same person I knew before he left to Scottsdale, AZ.

Chief Schultz states in the article that he cares about APD and is the man to fix problems. The only problems he identifies are related to training and psychological screening? Give me a break! He must be living under a rock or has his head buried deep in the sand. I remain in contact with many current APD officers and recent retirees of all ranks. When discussing the state of APD, the common theme I hear from all of them is that the Chief does not care about the officers, APD leadership does not practice what it preaches, discipline and overall treatment of officers is not consistent, and morale is at an all-time low. This has become Chief Schultz’ “brand” and he now owns that.

For the past two years I have been working in the private sector focusing solely in the area of leadership; facilitating leadership courses to corporate leaders throughout the country. I can’t understand how Chief Schultz can say that there is no crisis in APD. There is a huge crisis in APD in the area of leadership…..or should I say lack of leadership. The article spends a great deal of time describing the training Chief Schultz has been to and groups and organizations he belongs to; even describing his uniform and its appearance. However, none of these things make a leader. They are all positional and superficial window dressing. A real leader is someone that can share an inspiring vision, communicates effectively, influences, motivates and develops people. I can see no evidence that Chief Schultz has demonstrated any of these traits.

The fact is he has lost all credibility from the officers. The police union president, Joey Sigala, claims that Chief Schultz is smart. The irony here is that Chief Schultz is not smart enough to know how he when he has lost all effectiveness and has no chance to correct anything without the “buy in” of the men and women wearing the badge. What can he possibly fix without the support of the department? He has lost all credibility and needs to step down for the best interest of the department. His staying around shows how disconnected he is and how it is all about him and his position of police chief. If he had the best interest of APD in mind and cared about the department as he claims, he would resign. That act alone might be the best example of leadership he has ever shown.

Some may say that Chief Schultz hasn’t been allowed to be chief. That is nothing but a cop out. It is ridiculous to blame anyone (Darren White, Mayor Berry or Mayor Chavez) for Chief Schultz not being able to do his job. He makes his own decision to follow what is right or wrong. For example, Chief Schultz had the chance to stand up to Mayor Chavez when he returned in 2005. He had his pension secured and did not need to be a “yes” man. He had the security to stand up for what was right and fight for what was wrong. However, for whatever reason, he decided to succumb to the politics of the position and make decisions that were in the best political interest of the time and not necessarily in the best interest for APD and the community. Everyone knows that the position of chief is political as it’s an appointment by the mayor. However, everyone is accountable for decision they make…..and he is no different.

In 2005, The Mayor Chavez push to hit 1100 sworn police officers directly and indirectly influenced the quality of candidates hired. The talk of that time was all about numbers, numbers, and more numbers. It was never about quality. Ask anyone who succeeded me at the Police Academy, worked in training, recruiting, polygraph, or psychological testing during the last six years. I sat through numerous meetings over police applicant selections where it was evident that getting numbers into Police Academy seats was the main focus. One of the main reasons I chose to retire in 2006 was as a result of seeing what was happening to the selection process…..it became very frustrating to me.

The process to become an APD officer is challenging, time consuming, and set up to identify only the best candidates. If left alone, the process will work 98% of the time. The real problems begin when the chief or deputy chiefs meddle in the process and don’t follow the consistent guidelines for each candidate. Driven by a desire to look good to the mayor or a desire to follow different rules based on who an applicant may know all serve to taint the process. This also increases the likelihood that more than the expected 2% to 3% will “sneak through.”

I agree with Chief Schultz that there will always be 2 to3 % that manage to get through no matter how good the process is. However, I don’t agree with the words “sneak through” that he used. Many of these hires were a result of ignoring the warning signs that were present in the applicant’s background and interviews….and that’s not sneaking to me.

Several people were interviewed to determine if they felt Schultz should step down or not, but how many have knowledge of life within the department and what goes on day to day on the inside. Since those people would be afraid to speak due to a fear of punishment or retaliation, how about conducting an internal survey by an outside group? This might yield different results than this article depicts. It is unbelievable to me that Mayor Berry kept Schultz to begin with, and continues to support him to this day. Schultz claims he still has a few things left to do on his list of 50 things. I think that mayor Berry has at least one thing left on his list…..and that’s getting a new chief……APD deserves it.

Steve Tate
Retired APD Lieutenant

The Eye concurs with this letter and must say BRAVO! to Commander Tate (Ret.)!

Governor Races to Lose it all for NM Unemployed

2011-08-29T21:49:00.001-06:00

Our Eyes have brought an interesting story to us. On August 26, 2011, the day started out like most days do; the Governor sold the State jet at a loss of $3,000,000.00 and then jumped into a State Police vehicle and raced to meet some very important clients who were considering moving their business to New Mexico. Being a former District Attorney, one would think the Governor would know that speeding is illegal here in New Mexico. Well, let’s just say the Governor’s State Police vehicle was “lit up” by one of Albuquerque’s local “Po Po’s.” Apparently the Governor’s vehicle was speeding along the 4900 block of Pan American here in Albuquerque at about 12:30 P.M. Apparently this officer doesn’t have a big dollar state job (yet) and he did not know the Governor could do whatever the she wanted. Does any of this remind you of Giant Bill?

Our Eyes tell us that no citations were issued. From that point, the day seemed to continue to go downhill for the Governor and for the unemployed residents of New Mexico. Here’s a hint; we’re not talking about the $3,000,000.00 loss on the jet either.

The Governor was so busy selling the State jet (at a loss) and being stopped by the coppers; she was 30 minutes late to meet this client. When the Governor did show up; she basically told the client “they could have lunch sometime...” The Governor did not try to sell the company on coming to New Mexico. There were several options that the Governor could have provided such as, incentives that were possible (and already part of legislation). The opportunity to compete for their business against other states like Colorado, Arizona and Texas was apparent but the Governor did not bite. Maybe the Governor was suffering PTSD from being stopped earlier? Remember, the Governor has a top notch guy on her staff (maybe the only guy); Jon Barela, who oversees the State’s Economic Development.

Our Eyes tell us that Barela was clearly out of his league and boasted to this potential client; “We have a $300 million dollar surplus.” This did not sit well with this client and may have been taken offensively. Barela failed to mention the State of New Mexico has plenty of Economic Development Opportunities. Barela also failed to offer any valid reasons why they should consider bringing their company to New Mexico. Perhaps the Governor can stop cutting programs and benefits to the citizens of New Mexico since Barela claims New Mexico now has so much money in surplus that we don’t need any more jobs here in the State?

For those of us who work and watch friends and neighbors struggle because of the lack of jobs; this is a slap on the face.

New Mexico looses opportunities to create new jobs nearly every week due to the inability of Governor Martinez and her minion Barela’s ineffectiveness. This particular client was not a small deal; this was a Fortune 100 back office operation; financial services (not just a call center) that would employee 600 employees. Barela might want to be more cautious; the majority of the Governor’s Cabinet is all women. Barela may find that he has only been a seat warmer for one of the ladies. We hear Diana Denish is available…

Schultz is a Schmuck; as We Say Back Home

2011-08-28T21:47:00.002-06:00

Below is an "open letter" that was sent to us from an APD officer that we have not heard from before at the Eye. Keep in mind; this is from a person who is behind the badge. The letter contains some thoughts that we feel should be shared.

I am writing you this letter because the front page of the Sunday's Journal (08/28/11) is sitting like a brick at the pit of my stomach. I would love to write this in the editorial section, but I live under a boss who rules through fear and intimidation, and I am not allowed to voice my opinions. Morale at the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) has never been as low as it is now. Reading the article in the paper today, literally made my stomach turn. Chief Schultz is not the "problem fixer," he IS the problem. I am not a disgruntled employee nor am I biased because of any discipline I have received at the hands of Chief Schultz. In fact, I have never been disciplined and have been a police officer for over a decade with APD. Mayor Berry was given the police endorsement, mostly because of the empty promises he made to the officers of this department. He PROMISED he was going to "clean house" and hire a new Chief; a flat out blatant lie. Chief Gallegos was not solely responsible for the Evidence Lab fiasco. In fact, at the time of Gallegos' reign, Chief Schultz was the Deputy Chief in CHARGE of the Crime Lab! The public wonders why there are officers that are committing unethical, sometimes illegal acts. Look at our Chief, we are only doing what we are taught.

A couple of years ago, there was a Sgt. that was found to be intimately involved with one of his subordinates. The subordinate, a detective under his immediate command, killed herself, leaving a husband (another APD officer) and two small children. This Sgt. was transferred to another area command and shortly, thereafter, was promoted to Lieutenant. There was NO discipline whatsoever. In fact, immediately after his departure from the NE Impact Team, a letter was placed in the blotter written by then Captain Henz. It stated that this was not a disciplinary action, but a transfer that the Sgt. had wanted for quite some time. The Chief did nothing to protect the officers, or the family of the deceased officer.

There is a Lt. that while in charge of records, received at least three separate EEOC complaints against him. the complaints were filed by women that had no connection to each other, nor had they concocted their stories, as the complaints were filed at different times. The complaints were similar and all accused the Lt. of discrimination based on sex. One of those cases has since been settled, FOR the officer and AGAINST the Lt. This same Lt. caught two officers (one of whom was married and was ordered not to be at the academy) having sex in the parking lot of the Police Academy. He chose not to discipline, nor did he document the conduct unbecoming that he observed. The Chief did not punish this Lt., instead he was recently promoted to Commander.

Chief Schultz allowed former Public Safety Director, Darren White, to lie to city council AND to the citizens of Albuquerque. Several months ago, TJ Wilham was terminated from city employment and escorted out of City Hall. Then, 24 hours later, TJ was "relocated" to the communications center and given a job that was created solely for him. Darren White denied there was a termination, however, there was. CAO Campbell was the one that signed the termination letter and made sure Mr. Wilham was escorted from the building. Covering up for someone is just as bad as the deception itself.

Chief Schultz constantly prides himself in making sure the city knows that its officers are held to a higher standard. However, he praises and commends those that act in behavior that is anything but professional. He chose to promote and assign a PIO that has made it a habit of involving herself with married men, sometimes ON DUTY. He has allowed this Sgt. to remain a Sgt. despite the fact, that she is not supervising ANYONE! This was behavior that was discovered by Attorney Brad Hall (attorney for Terra Chavez- slain wife of an APD Officer). Mr. Hall filed a request and was granted the investigation details of ongoing infidelities that was occurring within the department. The Chief quickly settled the lawsuit, and thus never having to provide any details of this unprofessionalism.

Chief Schultz chose to place a PROBATIONARY employee in Animal Control, while the death of the officer's wife was investigated. There were issues with this officer NOT related to the death of his wife, and he chose not to terminate this employee. This probationary employee was employed for over 3 years and even got off of probation while on administrative leave.

Chief Schultz indicated in the Journal article today that he was released from the infamous Costales lawsuit. Chief Schultz was found GUILTY of intimidating Officer Costales and disciplining Officer Costales based on retaliation. That part of the suit was settled and thus his name was removed.

Several years ago, during a Union Meeting, an Officer made a Motion to conduct a vote of no confidence in Chief Schultz. Immediately after that Motion, the Chief began to intimidate and harass the officer. For example, the Chief began showing up on ALL of this officer's calls, making him feel extremely intimidated. This officer eventually withdrew his Motion because of the fear of retaliation.

During a City Council meeting a year ago, a well known and long serving APD Sergeant voiced his concerns about the department as well as Chief Schultz. This Sergeant walked to his car after the meeting and received a phone call that an Internal Affairs investigation had been opened on the Sergeant. This was a clear showing of fear and intimidation. To this date, the Sergeant was never given the outcome of that investigation.

A former Deputy Chief was investigated by the FBI in reference to a case. During that interview, the Deputy Chief stated that the Officer being investigated was a victim of Chief Schultz's intimidation and retaliation way of supervising. The officer had testified in Federal Court that ultimately led to charges against another officer being acquitted of all charges that the State had brought up against him. Chief Schultz was so angry and humiliated that he "punished" that officer by holding the transfer that he so passionately wanted and earned.

Chief Schultz loves to sugar coat every wrongdoing that is discovered under his regime. He does not take responsibility for his actions, yet disciplines those officers who fail to do so or go against him. Morale is at an ALL time low because of Chief Schultz. He has given officers lie after lie and has used his position to intimidate officers who challenge him. Chief Schultz refuses to allow officers to work a 4-10 shift because he states there is no "officer coverage" available for calls for service. There are LESS officers working in the field than there have been in years. There are some squads that have only 5 officers for the entire shift for the entire area command.

More training was an issue of concern that was brought up to the Chief in an effort to better the department. Chief Schultz agrees on paper, yet does the opposite. Chief Schultz has on more than one occasion transfered BRAND new Sergeants to investigative positions that require significant training. There are BRAND new sergeants transferring to specialty units (DWI, K9, I.A.) before experiencing any field time after promotion whatsoever.

The citizens of Albuquerque deserve to be told the truth and educated about this administration. Chief Schultz is experiencing more problems with the department than ever. The time has come for him to resign or be terminated. Do not let him fool you, he IS the reason the department is in complete shambles.

What is the Price of Silence?

2011-08-23T22:00:00.002-06:00

Apparently for the Berry Administration it is an $80,000.00 a year job paid for by your tax dollars. It appears that TJ Wilham knows too much (we know that’s a stretch at any rate) and Schultz is afraid to let him go. Wilham has been reassigned to Chief Schultz’s staff on the Fifth Floor as a PIO. Wilham was originally hired by Mayor White, we mean Berry as a PIO. The history of this slug is interesting.

Berry hired Wilham as his PIO. Wilham was forced out of the nest by PIO Chris Huffman-Ramirez. Our Eyes told us that Wilham was fired while Boss Hog Darren White (read it here) was out of town. When White rushed back into town, he gave Wilham back his job and reassigned him to a position that was nonexistent and that was not funded. White assigned Wilham to “Special Projects Coordinator.” This position was under the watchful eye of White and former Undersheriff, Sal Baragiola. The job was never listed on the City web-site. There was never a job description or duties assigned to this position.

Our eyes told us that White was making APD pay for Wilham’s salary. Schultz demanded the body that he was paying for and Wilham was transferred from doing nothing under Baragiola to APD. Wilham’s new job was overseeing a program that would not exist in APD for another five years. Now, Wilham is on the Chief’s Staff as a PIO. The question is why?

The Albuquerque Police Department already has a supervisor in charge of being Ray Schultz’s PIO. That person is Sergeant Trish Hoffman. Of course Sgt. Hoffman does not supervise anybody but still receives supervisory pay. Now, Sgt. Hoffman has TJ “Yo quero Taco Bell” Wilham working with her. In addition to Sgt. Hoffman, APD has PIO’s assigned to every shift; day, swing, and graveyard. What does this “gypsy” do to make $80,000.00 per year? He was not and is not needed. Perhaps, the only reason for the huge salary is “hush money?” Perhaps the IG (Inspector General) should investigate why the City is giving this money away.

We would advise the IG to be cautious about what Wilham tells them. Our eyes tell us Wilham told a classroom full of police officers (in from of current PIO, Sgt. Hoffman), “the only way to make money in media is to lie.” Sgt. Hoffman challenged Wilham and asked, “Did you lie to me?” Wilham replied, “I lie every day.” What a model City of Albuquerque employee. Of course, Chief Schultz made lying acceptable when he was convicted in Federal Court.

The only job that Wilham has been documented and photographed performing is getting Taco Bell. Some refer to Wilham affectionately as “Taco Bell TJ” or “Yo quero Taco Bell.” In any event, delivery boys usually work off of tips and do not receive a huge City salary of $80,000.00 per year. If this is the case Berry is going to have every Domino’s and Pizza Hut driver applying for the same job.

The big question is; what is it that Wilham knows that would force Berry and the boys to keep this slug on the payroll in order to keep him silent?

Here’s the Real Kicker

2011-08-23T09:14:00.003-06:00

Recently in the Journal (read it here) article, it was reported that two APD officers allegedly kicked a bad guy on the head. Our Eyes tell us this wanted felon has a history of abuse and being a racist bigot with alleged ties to the Aryan Nations Brotherhood (white supremacist and neo-Nazi). We wanted to review this story and ask a few questions like, if this occurred on February 13, 2011, why is it barely released now? Now, meaning that Schultz is in the water wearing a custom pair of concrete boots with crocodiles up to his derriere. The Eye may have an answer.

To answer the question we must look at the circumstances and the situation, at the time that this occurred. Schultz was caught up taking care of White and his fiascos. Also, the Tera Chavez family lawsuit was settled for $230,000.00 dollars. Tera Chavez was allegedly murdered by former APD Officer, Levi Chavez. Tera had warned family and friend if she was found dead; it would be her husband Levi Chavez who killed her. The reason, because she refused to participate in Levi Chavez’s alleged scheme to stage the theft of his ford truck. Tera claimed that Levi Chavez was assisted by his “APD buddies” in the alleged theft. Levi Chavez was a lateral entry into APD.

Schultz was referred to as “Santa Schultz” because of all of the money he kept giving away from the City’s funds. Anybody remember the television show, "The Six Million Dollar Man?" Well, let put it this way; Schultz could tears in the Six Million Dollar Man's eyes with all the money he has spent of your tax dollars.

If this case is as bad as it is made out to be; shouldn’t it have been released back in February? Our Eyes behind the badge tell us that the officers; entire chain of command reviewed the video and found that the strikes were within APD’s policy and training, given the situation and the circumstances. The Eye understands that the video was also reviewed by the academy/training staff who all concurred with the officers’ chain of command.

Is waiting five months a convenient time to release an incident appropriate? The officers’ do not deny anything and documented it in the police report. It does not appear like there is anything here, the officers could have shot this offender and moved APD’s total to twenty shootings.

This brings us to what is really happening here. Schultz is constantly looking for distractions; this case only serves to shield Schultz from being a target of the public. Once again, and the readers may be tired of hearing this, but it is a fact; Schultz is ready to push these two officers under the bus to save his own hide. Schultz was convicted in federal court of retaliation/civil rights violations. These are real federal offenses; yet Schultz received nothing for his malice acts. The disparity in treatment in APD with Schultz is horrible!

It is obnoxious knowing the truth and listening to Berry constantly praising Schultz. Of course Berry praised the last looser he had on his team too. Berry must enjoy the tantalizing taste of “crow,” he keeps serving himself a mountain of the ugly black bird.

What’s Good for the Goose is Good for the Gander

2011-08-19T10:16:00.004-06:00

Recent APD Officer Kindle was accused in a police sting operation of inappropriate contact with a female escort; Kindle promised the female escort to help her with some pending charges in exchange for sexual favors. According to KOAT7 (read it here), “Police say some of their contact happened on work time, and they caught Kindle in the act.” The statement made by the Chief of Police, Ray Schultz, was nothing short of shocking to the conscience.

Albuquerque’s Police Chief, Ray Schultz, released this statement by saying, “I am disappointed and want to make it clear that it is a privilege to wear an Albuquerque Police Department uniform, and anyone who tarnishes it will be fired.” We here at the Eye found this statement to be shocking and clearly hypocritical. Schultz was convicted of violating the civil rights of former APD Officer Costales in November of 2009, in the United States Federal District Court. The jury found that Schultz personally violated Costales’ rights, as did APD itself. If this officer “tarnished the Albuquerque Police Department’s uniform” what exactly did Schultz’s civil rights violation do the uniform? Should Schultz face the same fate as Kindle?

Former Officer Costales witnessed several Bernalillo County Sheriff’s deputies abusing one of Albuquerque’s local prominent family members belonging to the Racing Team of the Unser’s. Former Sheriff Darren White complained to Schultz about Costales breaking the “Blue Wall of Silence.” Schultz initiated several retaliatory actions that were ruled by the jury as a violation of Costales’ civil rights. Thanks to “Santa Schultz” (as we kindly refer to him as), for his civil rights violations; Costales walked out of the court room with a mountain of cash. The jury awarded Costales $662,000.00 in damages and an addition $200.000.00 in attorneys fees. That’s a total of $862,000.00. This does not include the thousands of dollars it cost the city to prepare for trail. Oh, former Sheriff Darren White settled with Costales early on for a mere $30,000.00.

Was Schultz disciplined? No. Was Schultz decertified by the State Law Enforcement Board? No. Did anything happen to Schultz? No. Schultz violated another human beings civil rights and cost the City Of Albuquerque $862,000.00. His reward you ask? No discipline, no accountability, and his buddy, Darren White made sure he stayed as chief with a $140,000.00 a year salary, plus benefits. What a deal! Does anyone see anything wrong with this?

If “What’s Good for the Goose is Good for the Gander,” when comparing these two; one has been convicted of retaliation in a federal civil rights violation case in the United States Federal District Court and the other stands accused of inappropriate contact. One was given the keys to the city and the other is going to be given the ax. Where is the equality in treatment?

You get to be the judge at this point…

Even "Santa Schultz" wonders why...

Berry Veto's DOJ Investigation

2011-08-18T18:12:00.004-06:00

Our Eye's on the inside are telling us that Mayor Berry Just Vetoed the proposed DOJ investigation that the City Council approved. Berry actually does not have the authority and now has insulted the DOJ.

We figure that Berry did not read our last post carefully enough, "Get across the river before you insult the crocodiles." This signals to the DOJ that there is a real problem that APD is trying to hide from...

Stay tuned folks...

Eye Poll Slams Schultz for Bad Performance

2011-08-17T22:11:00.001-06:00

The Eye recently ran an Eye Poll to see you how the citizens felt about APD’s Chief of Police, Ray Schultz. Although, our poll is unscientific the results show that Schultz received an overwhelming bad rating in his performance. Our Eye Poll asked the following:

How do you rate Chief Ray Schultz given the turmoil in APD?
Rating Voters Percentage
Great 28 12%
Okay 11 4%
No opinion 9 3%
Poor 38 16%
Extremely poor 140 61%
Error margin +/- 4%
226 participants voted

Our poll shows 16% of the participants who voted, rated Schultz’s performance at “okay” to “great.” A total of 3% did not have an opinion. Here is the no shocker to us here at the Eye; a whopping 77% rate Schultz’s performance at “poor” to “extremely poor.” Let us repeat this information; 77% of the participants, who voted, rated Schultz’s performance at “poor” to “extremely poor.”

Is Schultz’s lousy rating due to all the police involved shootings? Is it due to the Schultz’s alleged involvement in the Darren White debacle? Is it that Schultz lied and stated there was “no probable cause” in the Kathy White alleged DUI case? Is it that Schultz was convicted in a United States Federal District Court of civil rights violations? Is it the record millions of dollars paid out under Schultz’s leadership or lack thereof? We could go on and on and on…

This poll probably comes as no shock to Schultz as he scrambled this week looking for a distraction. We found what we believe is that distraction, check back with us tomorrow and read what Schultz “brewed up” to take the heat off of himself again. The Eye has seen his tactics before when he sat back and let his department rip Judge Murdoch into pieces. Yes folks, the same big disaster case the special prosecutor from Santa-Fe County dismissed this week.

Stay tuned folks, tomorrows story will raise eyebrows on both ends of the isle…

Santa-Fe County DA Makes Smart Decision; Bernalillo County DA Still Lost

2011-08-15T21:34:00.003-06:00

The Eye told you this bogus case was going, you guessed it; nowhere. According to the Journal (read it here), “Rape charges against former top criminal judge Albert S. “Pat” Murdoch are being dropped for now, but police say they expect to refile them along with new charges, unrelated to the original case.” Realistically, the only “thing” police can expect is a huge lawsuit for filing a ridiculous case against a prominent district judge after a shoddy “two day” investigation.

The Santa-Fe District Attorney’s Office apparently doesn’t want to embarrass our local cops for a bungled investigation. The Santa-Fe DA is wise to dump this case and wash their hand of anything having to do with it. A rookie DA would see this case is garbage, little alone a seasoned DA.

If the police are relying on any evidence gathered after the initial bungled investigation, they can forget it. Murdoch’s dream team of attorneys will have that evidence suppressed easily.

According to the Journal, “Attorney Nancy Hollander said she welcomed the dismissal because Murdoch ‘should never have been charged in the first place.’” Hollander continued to state, “I still believe my client is a victim and he will be fully vindicated.”

Everyone should like this comment by the police, “Albuquerque police would not confirm the nature of possible new charges, citing the ongoing investigation.” What happen to the “two-day” investigation? The police can do a shoddy “two-day” investigation, arrest a prominent judge, and paste his face all over the media; but, they can’t comment now on possible new charges. This is laughable if it was not for the fact that a judge’s career has been ruined.

Interesting how APD’s Doug West, stated, “However, APD Commander Doug West, who oversees the Vice unit, said they were not related to the rape case and surfaced when detectives scoured through hundreds of phone and computer records.” It is looking more and more like West and crew are trying to drum up some new charges in an attempt to save their behinds. This type of activity will only cost the City more money in liability.

The story continues and with West’s statement, “Detectives are still examining records, which is the reason the charges are being temporarily dropped.” With so much material still left to review, police and prosecutors would likely not meet the 60-day deadline to prosecute after arrest,” West said. Oh really, once again, what happened to the “two-day” investigation to arrest a prominent judge right off the bench?

The bottom line will come when the police finally discuss the root of the problem and the real criminal; the whore who repeatedly and voluntarily went to Murdoch’s house to be paid $200.00 per visit. The article states, “Police were also investigating that woman for possible extortion, because she had apparently been trying to sell the video on the street…”

White to Bring Down the Downs

2011-08-14T19:43:00.002-06:00

The Eye has been told repeatedly that they do not understand the ties between White, McCleskey, Gov. Martinez, Dan Mourning and the State of New Mexico. The Eye is going to break it down for you. Understand that these connections are all a series of political “pay backs” for “favors” granted. This is how White (who has no experience in private consulting) can obtain a consulting license in one single day and sign a huge contract with the Downs of Albuquerque on the following day.

Remember, if they watched the news or “googled” their new consultant; it would show he resigned in disgrace from the City, has ties to a possible multi-million dollar fraud case (Tru-touch), possible perjury in a federal case (Arensfield), large payouts by Bernalillo County (on White’s behalf), the possible role White played in the firing of US Attorney, David Iglesias, etc…

Let’s start at the beginning. McCleskey and White are friends and partners in who knows what. McCleskey advised on Mayor Berry’s and Gov. Martinez’s campaigns. In what appears to be “owing favors,” McCleskey orders Berry to place White as Public Safety Director; a position that Berry promised to eliminate. White is a long time friend with Dan Mourning and pushes McCleskey to appoint Mourning to the post as the State Fair Manager. White also pushes McCleskey to place him on the Judicial Standards Commission (which White resigned from in disgrace). Martinez was just elected and is allowing McCleskey to do whatever he wants. None of us with jobs, little alone those without jobs, are “spoon fed” high dollar contracts just because of a friendship.

Dan Mourning signed an extension to the Downs and Racino owner, Paul Blanchard. Remember Blanchard and partners only own the business; he does not own the Fair grounds, the racetrack, any building or any of the surrounding property (a total of 93 acres). This is ALL owned by the State of New Mexico. This was an extension to an already twenty-five year lease. Anyone else see a problem here?

White’s tied up in controversy, resigns in disgrace from the City of Albuquerque as the Public Safety Director making $135,000.00 per year and resigns from the Judicial Standards Commission (also, in disgrace) and claims he “retired.” Oops, only one problem, White does not have enough time paid into PERA (the States Public Employees Retirement Association) to actually retire with full benefits. White gets the plug in with the Downs to get a high dollar contract because of his vast lack of knowledge in the areas of a horse racing and a Racino. Our Eyes claim the contract is for $75,000.00 for six months. It is rumored that McCleskey and Mourning set up the entire deal to help White out. Both McCleskey and Mourning are “acting agents” on behalf of the State of New Mexico and Gov. Martinez.

The Journal printed the truth in a recent story (read it here). According to the story, “Former City Public Safety Director Darren White has been hired by the Downs at Albuquerque to assist the racino in putting together a proposal to continue operating the racetrack and casino at Expo New Mexico for the next 25 years.” (Emphasis/Bold italics added)

Folks there you have it; the truth! White has been hired to “assist” the racino in gaining licensing and leasing for Expo New Mexico for the next twenty-five years. The article continues to reaffirm the statement. “Attorney Traci Wolf, Vice President of the Downs at Albuquerque, confirmed Thursday that White was recently hired by the racino to consult on security issues.” Wolf also stated, “He has been hired as a consultant to assist us with preparing our request for proposal.” (Emphasis/Bold italics added)

Since White knows nothing about racing or a racino, how could he possibly “assist” in this multi-million dollar proposal to cover the next twenty-five years? If it makes all the knights men or anyone else who have been racing to defend Martinez on this issue want to view this as a conspiracy theory; have at it. This is a public opinion blog.

This will be the first time in twenty-five years that a competitive lease will be offered for the property. The new lease will be for another twenty-five years. Now that White’s pockets are stuffed full with cash in exchange for his “assistance” (in preparing a new proposal), who do you think will get the new lease for the next twenty-five years? Are you thinking a new bidder possibly? You are a fool if you’re thinking that way. The Vice President who is an attorney for the Downs could easily prepare an adequate proposal. This is all politics; we all know who already has this lease in their pocket.

The picture White has painted appears to show that Blanchard and his partners have made “one hell of a deal” for pennies on the dollar. We all thought we had voted all the “pay-to-play” players out; wrong! We hope this picture is wrong and that there is honesty, integrity and dignity out there. So far, the facts are proving White’s picture to be correct.

The Eye has been told that Blanchard was former Governor Richardson’s BFF (best friends forever). This may be true, but now as it was then; it is all about the money. That means any expenditures’ that must be made is an acceptable overhead cost. For some, “the end does justify the means.”

White was given a free-bee by his friend Deaton. Although, all the facts show White was involved in wrong doing; Deaton let him off the hook completely. This spawned the City Council to request an investigation by the Inspector General. Meanwhile, the Department of Justice may initiate an investigation into other issues where White may be involved. White was a great choice for this contract, right?

Here is a closing thought. Confucius say, “Cross the river, then insult the crocodiles.” It appears that the Martinez Administration just entered the river to save White. All the crocodiles have their salt shakers in hand ready to feast. This is not going to end well in all probability for Martinez or her cronies.

Pro-tem Governor Jay McCleskey Gives his Friend (White) a Huge Contract

2011-08-11T23:07:00.004-06:00

You heard it here first on the Eye. Our new Pro-tem Governor, Jay McCleskey, has been running the State by proxy and gave a huge contract to his friend, Darren White. Apparently, McCleskey will only allow the person we elected, Susana Martinez, to “call” herself Governor when in-fact McCleskey is running the show.

Our Eyes at the State told us about the contract that White was granted. White fled the City of Albuquerque in disgrace and now is under investigation by the City’s Inspector General and facing an inquiry and possible full blown investigation by the United States Department of Justice.

Our Eyes Claim that White’s contract is for $75,000.00 for six months. Do the math folks, that’s $150,000.00 per year to do; NOTHING! White’s other close friend, Dan Mourning, is in charge of Expo New Mexico where White will be stationed. Mr. Mourning appears to be a political appointee, only. Mourning has absolutely no experience in dealing with an enterprise of this magnitude. Mourning ran a hole in the wall restaurant in Albuquerque. What a deal, a multi-thousand dollar contract for another created position. White’s new position is just like the one White created for TJ Wilham, who also does nothing. Now Pro-tem Gov. McCleskey needs to send out contracts to the thousands of unemployed citizens in New Mexico and not the ones like Darren White. Every single New Mexican should be appalled by this entire scenario.

Governor Martinez needs to use her famed “Public Corruption Team” against McCleskey. We know that will never happen. Now that we have the God Father McCleskey in Santa-Fe running the State; the Eye is thinking that Big Bill’s team was a better choice. Governor Martinez, be sure you behave or McCleskey will have you cleaning toilets too.

The Republicans have become the cretins of New Mexico. The public is not going to forget this “Sham.” There is dirty politics and then there is filthy politics. This is a filthy set-up. How does the Governor sleep at night knowing that she is the floor mat for McCleskey to step on with his cleats and muddy shoes?

The Eye warned the Governor before:

Apparently the Governor doesn't learn...

Was Governor Martinez Betrayed by Senior Advisor McCleskey?

2011-08-10T21:47:00.001-06:00

Our Eyes at the State are telling the Eye an interesting rumor. According to some of our Eyes, Darren White has been given a huge contract as head of security, consulting for the Casino-Racino at the Expo New Mexico. Strangely enough, Expo NM has been bleeding red; yet they find the big bucks for White? The Eye is being told Senior Advisor to Governor Martinez, Jay McCleskey, arranged the whole set up behind the Governor’s back.

It is nice to know when you are forced to resign in disgrace; you can always use a friend to get you a big contract with the State of New Mexico. Perhaps McCleskey could help out the thousands of New Mexicans who are unemployed with a big fat State contract.

The Republican Party of New Mexico should be ashamed of this behavior if this rumor is true. The Republican Party wants all of us to vote in another Republican candidate in the future? Really? This will not happen this does not taint the party; these types of actions decapitate the party.

This rumor may bear some truth because some of our Eyes observed White at the City obtaining a consulting license. The Eye will continue to follow this story.

Mayor Berry’s Improvement Plan will take 25 Years

2011-08-09T21:48:00.001-06:00

Yes, you read that correctly. Our local embarrassment, Mayor Berry told KRQE News (read it here) that “he plans to improve city services by rolling out his 25-year plan for the city.” The citizens of Albuquerque need improved city services now, not in twenty-five years. If this mayor cannot run the City now, what makes him think he can run it any better in twenty-five years?

Berry was commenting on a survey the City funded. The City survey slammed the police. According to the survey, “only half of people polled felt APD treated citizens with respect.” According to the story, Mayor Berry said “regaining public confidence in APD’s a top priority for his administration.” The survey also stated, “Less than half of all people felt ‘very safe’ outside at night in the city.” The survey also revealed that “13 percent felt ‘very safe’ downtown at night.” The Mayor’s answer to this; “Berry wants to address that by attracting more businesses and families to the downtown area.” For what, so those businesses can be robbed or burglarized or for families to be victimized by the high crime rate downtown? The downtown area would have to be scrubbed clean before anyone in their right mind would consider moving into the downtown area.

The survey also stated, “Less than half of all people felt "very safe" outside at night in the city.” Berry responded by saying, “Whether it's eating, entertainment, whatever it happens to be, to bring more people down there with their families, I think it will get better over time.” Once again, who would knowingly take their families where there is an extremely high propensity to have someone injured or victimized? Here is the truth of this statement; yes, over time it will get better, only because this administration will be gone.

Berry claims “regaining public confidence in APD is a top priority for his administration.” Then Berry rambles on and states, "We want to make sure we're going out there every day and getting the trust of the community." Where is the “we’re?” Does Berry carry around an imaginary friend in his pocket? Berry has done nothing to try and gain the community’s trust. Keeping White till the ship ran aground and continuing to back White knowing full well, that he made a horrendous mistake, is completely unacceptable. To add insult to injury, Berry keeps an insurance policy to ensure the ship will never sail again by retaining the “has-beens” of the Marty Era. Schultz and Breen are not respected and have lost all ability to lead the men and women of public safety.

It seems that Captain BlueBerry and his ship of fools will always be wrecked, because this ship wreck will never be repaired. Public trust will never be regained with these fools sitting in Berry’s ship’s “bow-el.”

Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board Post Makes Sense

2011-08-08T21:54:00.001-06:00

Known for writing nonsense and gibberish; the AJED (Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board) regurgitated public information and posted it in the Albuquerque Journal’s (read it here) Editorial Section. The AJED usually writes a barrage of “tree hugging and extreme liberal opinions.” The AJED summarized the actions of our City Government. For the most part, the statements all agree that the City will cooperate with the DOJ (Department of Justice) probe. AJED is clearly non-committal of the article; the AJED simply put information together for the public.

The DOJ had already initiated a probe into the deadly force actions of the Albuquerque Police Department. Darrell (Mayor Berry) and his other brother Darrell (Robbie Perry) and his other brother Darrell (Ray Schultz) tried desperately to cover up the entire issue by having some friends of Schultz do a review with recommendations. The article states that Perry sent a letter to DOJ along with the PERF report. We wonder if Perry made the same statement to DOJ that he made to the City Council. When the DOJ stops laughing, there may be a list of ideas as to what they will do with the PERF report; kindling for a fire, paper to use under the bird cage, etc…The report (PERF) was returned with the recommendations and a huge bill. The Eye is sure that the City of Albuquerque is paying for someone’s beach-front property.

The City Council made the correct decision calling for the investigation. Public trust is paramount and must be gained and retained at all costs. The biggest question remains; why has the “Darrell Brothers” (Blue-Berry, Straw-Perry and Shortcake-Schultz) tried avidly to prevent this investigation? Here is a reminder from the Eye; the Darrell Brothers do not have a choice in the matter. The DOJ is a federal agency and does not need your approval to conduct any type of investigation. DOJ is the real thing, if they need to come in and rescue APD from corruption; they have legitimate legal authority to do so.

On the brighter side of things, DOJ may not find anything with the current probe and may not conduct a full blown investigation. Chances are strong that some type of an investigation will ensue because of the “culture of corruption” that exists in APD and the failure of the City’s current mayor to respond to the problems. White was pressured out; Schultz should never have been retained and should leave like White. The Democrats are throwing parties behind the scenes in jubilation of Berry’s failures. The new mayor will be tasked with cleaning up all the Berry stains left behind.

This whole mess is going to turn “Berry ugly” in a hurry due to a few “Berry bad mistakes,” such as White, Schultz, Baragiola, etc…The Democrats will be saying, Thank you “Berry much” mister Mayor.

Do You Know Where YOUR Money Is Going?

2011-08-07T22:59:00.003-06:00

The last couple of APOA presidents have brought on much disgrace to the Association. For example, one Past President is accused of embezzling money not only directly from the Association, but from fundraisers as well. Another Past President (and current APOA Manager), has been accused of using the APOA money to help his "buddies". For example, there are allegations that he used APOA money to fly fellow officers to Arkansas to help with their criminal charges. Also, he is accused of using APOA money to pay for Calibers Memberships for his friends (civilian and not police officers).

The latest allegation against current APOA President, Joey (Filberto) Sigala, is mind boggling. As many of you know, the APOA was kicked out of the APD Main Police Station. BCSO offered FREE space to Joey in order to give the APOA a meeting area. Joey and his best friend, aka Vice-President, began looking at property to buy. They were unable to locate a building to purchase, so they jumped into a rental building. These two signed a year long lease at $2000 a month WITHOUT the approval of board members, let alone the general membership. What is even more alarming is that Joey and Flip signed a lease and never showed it to the union attorney prior to signing the lease. Even though a Judge ruled that they could conduct Union business on city time, the APOA is paying Joey an additional $36,000 a year and Flip (Felipe) an extra $24,000 a year. That is IN ADDITION to their APD City pay. Ron Olivas (Past President) has been hired at a rate of approximately $40,000 a year (again without full permission from board OR membership). Joey and Flip CHOSE to be in their positions. At a recent executive meeting, Joey made all of the representatives attend a full day meeting on a Saturday. No one was compensated to attend (except Joey and Flip).

Joey recently purchased a high dollar desktop MAC computer for the secretary. There was no need to purchase such a high dollar item, in fact the old computer is set up at the APOA office. Joey also purchased BRAND NEW iPHONES for himself and Flip. There was nothing wrong with their cellular phones, Joey just felt the need to spend YOUR money yet again. Another computer was purchased to allow for the construction of the APOA newsletter. A newsletter that is no longer around, however the newsletter creator has been able to keep the computer for his own personal use.
Joey and Flip have gone on numerous trips throughout the year. We want to know why they seem it is so necessary to go on trips together. Why does a Union President and Vice President have to be gone at the same time and why do they need to go on so many costly training trips? Lastly, and perhaps the most questionable is the purchase of a pool table. Joey purchased the pool table and yet again asked no permission. The pool table is conveniently housed at his residence. The pool table was purchased with YOUR money. We believe that a full audit needs to be conducted and Joey and Flip need to be removed. Bottom line, are you getting your moneys worth?

Time to Say Goodbye to One of APD’s True Hero’s

2011-08-04T22:42:00.001-06:00

The time has come to say goodbye to Master Sergeant, Paul Heh. Sergeant Heh has been with APD for approximately twenty-five years, of that time; Sergeant Heh has been a sergeant for approximately nineteen years. Sgt. Heh has posted several times here on the Eye and has always put his name on what he’s posted. Sergeant Heh is retiring at the end of this month.

The officers who spoke to the Eye, with the understanding we would keep their identity anonymous, (due to head hunting of their current Chief of Police, Raymond Daniel Schultz). The Eye understands the officers’ plight, Schultz is known for his pattern of harassment, intimidation and retaliation if an officer ever opposed him. The officers we spoke with gave a very strong praise for Sergeant Heh. Everyone told us he was an honest, stand up type of man. This is a rare quality to find in APD’s management staff.

This type of employee is rare and has become a dying breed. We salute you Sergeant Heh for having dignity, respect and honestly. The officers told us that you have always stood up for what is right, even when it placed you in peril. Your statements at the Albuquerque City Council were profound and respected.

This is just a thought, if you ever want a job; the Eye On Albuquerque would be proud to have you on our staff. Thank you for your service to our community and the citizens’ of Albuquerque!!!

Schultz should be Amongst the Primary Targets in IG Probe

2011-08-03T21:21:00.006-06:00

DOJ (Department of Justice) has already started an investigation reviewing claims against APD to determine if they will conduct a full blown investigation. Channel 7 News told Chief Schultz DOJ may come into investigate. Chief Schultz stated, “If they come in, we’ll respect ‘that’ and anything that they ask us to do.” Schultz talked as if he has a big choice in the matter. This is the Federal Department of Justice; Chief, you have no choice. The Eye knows you like to ignore Federal stuff like civil rights violations. Channel 7 News asked Schultz, do you welcome an investigation? Schultz replied, “well, obviously we already have the PERF investigation that’s already been done…” Schultz “hymn hawed around,” it was like watching an episode of “Hee Haw!” Schultz rambled about implementing sixty different things, Blah, Blah, Blah… The bottom line is; if Schultz has nothing to hide, he and APD should welcome and embrace any legitimate investigation.

The Honorable City Councilmen, Ken Sanchez, hit it perfect when he stated to Channel 7 News, “there is a crisis in leadership; in the City of Albuquerque.” Mayor Berry was asked, do you have any concerns with all the controversy going on in Albuquerque? Berry replied, “Uh…Blah, Blah, Blah…” Berry should have just said up front, I don’t want to answer that question and I am going to avoid it. Berry followed the rules for lying or covering-up; deny, deny, deny and make counter allegations. Berry talked about the great job that the men and women of the City do risking their lives for the citizens. He also talked about his fifty million dollar package he wants from Albuquerque. Berry played the game and basically avoided the question.

Schultz should have been a target in the IRO investigation since he lied and stated that there was no probable cause for a DWI investigation. But since “Ray” is a friend of IRO Deaton, he got a free “get out of jail pass.” This was a sloppy investigation at best. Schultz in all probability ordered Beth Piaz to have Walck change the report. Our eyes tell us, Paiz was on the phone and Schultz could be heard asking Paiz, “Did Walck change that report?!?” Paiz reportedly replied, “No Chief, he has not.” Chief Ray Schultz stated, “Have him change that F-(BLIP)ing report!” Paiz allegedly told the Chief, “yes” and ordered Sgt. Wolley to instruct Walck to change the report. Schultz and Paiz should be primary targets of the IG’s investigation, not only for administrative violations but for criminal violations.

If this is true, why would Schultz ask such a question and give such an order? Who ordered him to cover up? Was Chief Schultz ordered to cover up or did he act on his own? All these questions must be answered.

Schultz shared a personal vendetta with Deaton against Walck. Deaton and Chief Schultz attended a meeting at the New Mexico LEA Board in an attempt to have Walck decertified. Their efforts were fruitless; the Board unanimously ruled in favor of Walck. Deaton slammed Walck for not conducting a DWI investigation claiming there was plenty of cause. The problem is Chief Schultz publically stated that there was not any probable cause to conduct a DWI investigation. Deaton still gave his friend “Ray” another “get out of jail free card.” Let’s hang Walck and let Schultz “skate” on this one. This is wrong, very wrong.

Schultz was found guilty of Civil Rights violations against another police officer but was never decertified or disciplined or terminated although a United States Federal District Court found him guilty. Does anyone else besides the Eye wonder why Schultz’ “skated” on this one too but he hounds a 38 year senior veteran?

Deaton should have refused and recused himself from conducting this investigation, however, just like Walck; Deaton was intimidated by his boss. Otherwise, a retired federal judge knows better than to take part in a “political shenanigan.” Maybe that is why it is such a lousy investigation.

Here is one last item of interest. According to the Journal (read it here) RJ Perry, not RJ Berry made a statement to the City Council on Monday, “urged councilors to consider the scope of what they would be asking for. It’s not necessarily a ‘friendly’ investigation to help out local police.” It appears that Schultz may need to give his “friend card” to DOJ. Let us know how this works out for you Chief. The Eye does not believe that the DOJ will honor your card like Deaton did for you.

A DOJ probe should not be “friendly,” it should be legitimate with lawful authority and factual. It is time for Berry to “chop the head off the snake.” The City’s top leadership including APD and AFD need a clean sweep and new executives from outside the current ranks that are tainted.

IRO William Deaton Gets a Vote of No Trust from City Council

2011-08-02T21:56:00.003-06:00

The Albuquerque City Council voted unanimously on Monday night to have the IG (Inspector General) Office investigate the incident and circumstances involving former Public Safety Director, Darren White. White stands accused of several administrative violations and a long list of crimes ranging from impersonating a police officer to conspiracy to cover up his wife’s alleged DUI crash. The City Council voiced concerns that Deaton did not have the authority to conduct an investigation on non-sworn officer. Deaton’s findings were released on Friday, July 29, 2011.

The City Council’s vote to have the IG’s Office investigate is clearly a vote of “no trust” for Deaton. Immediately after releasing the report Deaton fled the country. Deaton knew before hand several facts; first, he did not have any subpoena powers, two, he knew that he had a personal and on-going friendship with White, and third, he knew the IG’s Office does have the investigative abilities with legitimate subpoena powers. The Eye sees Darren White bouncing and heading to Suffern, New York to “visit” family “again” now that he is in hot water again. The jester’s court of Berry’s fools has all the makings of a movie. Why would Deaton take off, to avoid being questioned about his poor shoddy investigation?

Deaton knew he did not have authority and should have refused to handle the case. Perhaps former Judge Deaton could have directed the City in the correct direction? According to the redacted report by Deaton, White was never interviewed, why? If White was interviewed, why was he not asked about the criminal allegations? If Deaton did interview White and failed to ask the important and relevant questions, doesn’t that make Deaton and his office guilty of conspiracy and a minimum of misfeasance, but more than likely malfeasance of duty? White was the cause of the investigation, he was at the center of the investigation and he was the primary target of the investigation. Now, how is it possible to clear everyone including White of wrong doing without interviewing the target? And if he was interviewed, how come none of the relevant questions asked, show any facts? On the other hand, how is it that Deaton dumped everything on Senior Officer Walck and then fled the country?

Deaton had a personal vendetta against Walck as did Chief Schultz. Both Deaton and Schultz appeared in Santa-Fe at the Law Enforcement Board several weeks ago in an attempt to have Walck decertified as a police officer on an un-related situation. The Law Enforcement Board in Santa-Fe refused to decertify Walck and unanimously voted in favor of Walck. This left both Deaton and Schultz angry and looking for anything to go after Walck in retaliation. They found their opportunity with Darren White’s blunders. Here again, when Deaton knew this case involved an officer that he held a personal vendetta against, Deaton should have refused to handle the case and recuse himself. Schultz knowing the situation should have voiced an objection if he had any integrity.

The Eye sees another huge settlement coming out of this case. The Eye is sure that Senior Officer Walck will welcome the big money but for the rest of us citizens paying out on incompetence, it is disheartening.

Deaton’s case is riddled with problems. For example; Schultz claimed there was no probable cause for a DUI investigation yet the IRO slams Walck for not conducting a DUI investigation. Does that mean that Deaton is calling Ray Schultz a liar? Deaton’s credibility has been ruined by his own actions and by the vote of no trust. The City should release Deaton from the City’s service. The person, who is chosen to replace Deaton, should be a credible person of good moral fabric.

Bravo to the City Council, especially the Honorable Ken Sanchez for stepping up to the plate and handling business!

Per Our Eyes Request; Regarding the Brad Arensfield Text Messages

2011-08-02T19:02:00.004-06:00

Please read below through the links provided. The two links will take you to two of the stories that we ran here on the Eye.

Read it here and here.

Brad Arensfield Speaks out at City Council Meeting

2011-08-01T23:03:00.004-06:00

Former APD Officer Brad Arensfield addressed the Albuquerque City Council and spelled out what he has been through with APD and the retaliation he has suffered. Arensfield told the Council that he could not understand how Chief Ray Schultz, who was convicted in a United States Federal District Court of civil rights violations, is still allowed to serve on the New Mexico Law Enforcement Board. Arensfield stated that Schultz is a liar and runs APD with the use of retaliation. Arensfield offered proof from the records provided to him by the FBI.

Arensfield read the record out loud. It stated then, Deputy Chief, Mike Castro, was ordered to do an investigation on Arensfield as retaliation for testifying at a homicide trial involving another APD officer. As a result of the testimony given by Arensfield, the officer who was off duty when the death occurred was cleared. Schultz wanted the other officer fired as a result of the (justified) murder. After being cleared, this opened the way for the other officer to be reinstated with APD. This infuriated Schultz.

Arensfield is set to be sentenced shortly for obstruction of justice in an FBI investigation. Arensfield was convicted of notifying a friend about what he believed was an APD investigation. Arensfield’s son worked at the business that was being targeted. Arensfield removed his son and told the owner about the investigation. The owner stated that he already knew about the investigation because Darren White’s wife had been texting the owner’s wife about the investigation with all the details. White told the owner and his wife that he would take care of all of it and clear Arensfield. According to the owner, White claimed that it was all a political set up. The owner claims White lied at the FBI trial and failed to follow through on his promise to correct the record.

Schultz has lied several times and proof does exist. The question then becomes, why does Berry keep him? "The writing is on the wall." It is time for Berry to clean house.

Arensfield acknowledges his poor judgment but this case does not warrant prison. Knowing how corrupt White and Schultz are, this is a good time to show your support for Arensfield.

Please send either a letter of support for Arensfield or an email. The information is as follows:

Jason Bowles Attorney at Law
201 3rd St. N.W.
Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87102

Or

Email jason@bowlesandcrow.com

White to File Bogus Complaint

2011-07-31T21:53:00.002-06:00

Albuquerque’s local ex-TV camera hog, Darren White, stated in today’s Journal (read it here) he is planning on filing a “state and federal complaint over the release of a paramedic run report.” The Journal also stated, “White believes the information was leaked to reporters in violation of privacy laws.” White had said in the past that he believed that it was a HIPAA violation; which it is not. Apparently, White has failed again; if he would research the topic he would have learned he is dead-wrong.

Notwithstanding, White himself went on public television and stated that they (Darren White and Kathy White) were releasing Kathy White’s medical records. CAO Rob Perry was rushing the media in the room, throwing the reports at everyone like a dog with rabies foaming at the mouth. White by his own public statement released Kathy White’s medical records. At this point it does not matter if White’s claim is privacy or HIPAA or both. He sealed the fate of this entire quandary when he publically gave his waiver.

The Eye has included two sites for you to visit as proof that there was not any HIPAA violation.
Read it here and here.

This looks more like harassment and more intimidation by White. The paramedics stated “they were intimidated by White’s presence at the scene, but they were able to do their jobs effectively, according to the IRO report.” This statement means two things, one, White was intimidating the paramedics; two, it also means the paramedics remained professional while White was intimidating them.

White stated in another Journal article (read it here), “I’m further grateful that the IRO found there was not ‘one piece of evidence’ that I tried to ‘influence anyone or try to cover-up the circumstances surrounding the accident.’ ” This is from a man who claims that he is a 16 year law enforcement officer. When the IRO’s investigation showed the paramedics stated “they were intimidated by White’s presence at the scene…” That is clearly more than “one piece of evidence” that clearly shows that he abused his position of power over them. That is evidence! Did the IRO question APD’s chain of command including Schultz to see if White contacted them in an effort to cover up this incident? Did the IRO seize phone records, text messages, emails etc…? The Eye believes since the IRO is not law enforcement and has no criminal investigational experience, he missed many pieces of evidence. The “White lies” never seem to end. The public does pay attention and realizes when someone is lying.

We here at the Eye know that White and Deaton are friends. Based on that friendship, the IRO should have refused and recused himself from this investigation. Instead the IRO, an ex-Federal Judge who knows better; continues with the case. The IRO should know that he did not have jurisdiction over any City employees except sworn police officers. In the end, a criminal investigation will show clear improprieties in this one sided “I’m Darren’s friend” investigation.

The City needs an outside criminal investigation to save face at this point.

APD’s DC Allen Banks Gets Embarrassed While Laughing at APD Shooting

2011-07-29T09:01:00.005-06:00

One of our Eyes sent us the two still photos that are at the bottom of this story. We are told that the photos were taken from KOB TV Channel 4’s original video from May 5, 2011 (view it here). An APD officer shot and killed an Albuquerque man who police thought was armed. The investigation later showed that the man shot was armed with a black spoon. Banks was at the scene talking to Chief Schultz.

APD’s Chief of Police Ray Schultz tells Deputy Chief Allen Banks something; Banks breaks out into laughter at whatever Jester Shultz said. Banks then put his hand over his face in what appears to be embarrassment. When a citizen dies at the hand of police, rather it is justified or not; it is not dignified to laugh. We are sure the Gomez family found absolutely no humor in this undignified act.

The Eye was told KOB Channel 4 edited the laughter out of the video. If you view the video; watch between 2:15 and 2:20, the video shows Schultz and Banks standing in the street next to a police car. The still photos show the comedy show that was edited out by KOB Channel 4.

To add insult to injury, one of our Eyes told us that while a family member of the victim was being held in a police car, “Chief Schultz had a donut party…Laughing…” This is disgraceful and hideous.

Ray Schultz wants to stay as Chief and Allen Banks wants to stay as Deputy Chief or even Chief some day, really? Try respecting the citizens of Albuquerque and show respect for the dead; you have both dishonored and disgraced the badge.

Do we have a real Mayor in Albuquerque? A Mayor who takes care of business and does not hide? We already had a lousy Mayor who was invisible; we do not need another Saavedra. The biggest shame of all falls on Berry for his lousy decisions; all those he selected for top City positions.

The Eye means no disrespect and apologizes to the family for having to bring this story to light; however, the citizens of Albuquerque need to be educated as to what their “leaders” are doing.

Breen Loses; Girlfriend Wins

2011-07-28T21:12:00.002-06:00

Albuquerque’s Fire Chief, Breen, was slammed late today by the IAFF Local 244. The Union stomped on Breen and gave a hard hitting vote of “No Confidence.” Ironically, while Breen was being trampled on by the Union his girlfriend, Kimberly Swift, walked on her DRUNK DRIVING car crash case (see it here).

Swift told officers to call Darren White to the scene when she crashed, this was reported by the Eye in a prior posting (read it here). A Craigslist posting claimed that Swift told officers that Breen and White could get her out of it. Too bad at the time Darren White was busy; otherwise, Swift would have been the first alleged drunk driver to be driven away from a crash scene (next would be Kathy White).

Breen spent this past weekend “buttering up” his employees at the Albuquerque Convention Center in an attempt to avoid a vote of “No Confidence.” Apparently the Fire Union employees did not like the “butter job” they received.

Maybe White can get his old job back as a cabbie. He could then give out his card to everyone in the Berry Administration. This way when they crash and are intoxicated he can rescue them from the scene.

The Union carries a wallop! The last vote of “No Confidence” was given to Darren White, who left the City skidding on his keister. Maybe Breen needs to purchase some keister pads, right away? Our Eyes told us that Breen was called into the Mayor’s Office and was told he was a “liability.” Maybe Breen can hitch a ride with White? Maybe not…

Santa Fe County Commission Slams Christus St. Vincent (Open Post to the Eye)

2011-07-28T15:06:00.002-06:00

Santa Fe County Commission Sides with St. Vincent Nurses in Contract Talks

by Fonda Osborn

Santa Fe County Commissioners Virginia Vigil, Kathy Holian, and Liz Stefanics admonished executives of Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center during a hearing Tuesday, where nurses and technical staff represented by District 1199 of the National Union of Hospital & Health Care Workers (NUHHCW) urged commissioners to hold the hospital accountable for its use of taxpayer dollars.

“Christus has to respect the tradition of unions in our community,” said Commissioner Holian. “Santa Fe is a union town.”

Commission Chairwoman Vigil agreed.

She said that St. Vincent’s is a community hospital, and, as such, it should benefit the community.

“I'm concerned that we no longer have a community hospital whose primary concern is the health of our patients,” Vigil said. “I'm concerned their priority has shifted from a local community hospital to corporate America. Corporate America in the way it has been shown to us through Christus St. Vincent does not work in Santa Fe.”

Meanwhile, Commissioner Stefanics lauded the efforts of St. Vincent nurses to keep Santa Feans healthy.

St. Vincent’s nurses and technical staff have been in contract talks with Christus executives since May.

Recent revelations have put the lie to the claim that St. Vincent’s lacks the resources to protect patient care and safety.

According to tax documents submitted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Christus St. Vincent executives have been taking money out of the hospital to increase their pay, instead of reinvesting those profits in the patients and staff who helped make those profits possible in the first place.

That is why the hospital’s proposal to eliminate the ability of nurses and hospital staff to continue providing compassionate, community-based care through safe staffing ratios makes no sense.

Similarly, Christus St. Vincent’s proposal to eliminate the federally guaranteed right of nurses and staff to collectively bargain over new working conditions would further jeopardize patient safety.

If the hospital fails to reach agreement with the nurses on a new contract by the end of July, there may be a strike.

District 1199 is affiliated with the American Federation of State County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

A Great Way to Show Your Support!

2011-07-28T09:14:00.001-06:00

Public Notice

2011-07-27T20:37:00.001-06:00

The Eye On Albuquerque received an email from M.G. Bralley, stating he was concerned that he has been “mistaken” as the “Eye,” referring to the “Eye On Albuquerque.”

The Eye On Albuquerque is not affiliated or associated in any way, shape or form to this individual. The Eye On Albuquerque has not and will not ever authorize this person to represent our blog or to be an authorized agent of or for the Eye On Albuquerque. This person is not a proprietor and does not have any proprietor rights. This person has no authority, control or interest in the Eye On Albuquerque whatsoever.

The Eye On Albuquerque is not responsible for any statements, acts or omissions of this individual. The Eye On Albuquerque has absolutely no ties to this person at all.

If this bogus rumor is brought to your attention, please stop it immediately. If you are the person making the untruthful accusation against this person; seize and desist immediately, this person has nothing to do with the Eye On Albuquerque. If any person claims to be a representative or associate of the Eye On Albuquerque, please contact the Eye On Albuquerque via email at theeyeonalbuquerque@gmail.com immediately with that person’s information.

Perry Trips on His Own Jaw; Council in Quandary

2011-07-26T22:04:00.002-06:00

In today’s Journal (read it here) “Albuquerque Chief Administrative Officer Rob Perry says he asked the city’s independent review officer to investigate a single-car crash involving the wife of then-Public Safety boss Darren White and its aftermath in his capacity as a citizen.” Perry claims that he made the request as a “citizen.” That is clearly a “White Lie,” in a letter from Perry to the IRO, Perry stated, “As we discussed on the telephone today, and at the request of Mayor Berry, I am asking you to conduct a thorough review of the facts surrounding (the crash.)...” Perry was referring to the crash involving Kathy White, the wife of former Public Safety Director, Darren.

Perry stated, “We believe this clearly provides the IRO statutory authority to investigate allegations of impropriety by all parties involved in this incident,” Perry wrote in the letter, dated Tuesday. “I dispatched a letter to Mr. Deaton asking him to do such. To this extent I am a citizen of Albuquerque, and the (letter to Deaton) can be construed as a complaint.”

Perry later stated to the City Councilors that the correspondence he sent to IRO William Deaton “can be construed as a complaint.” Perry opened his mouth and inserted his foot up to his knee. Construed; Perry was obviously double talking. Perry stated point blank that he was complaining and requesting an investigation on behalf of Mayor Berry. Perry sent (dispatched) an official letter on City of Albuquerque letter head and not on his own stationary. We can only be lead to believe that he drafted the letter on behalf of the Mayor during his normal scope and course of duties with the City of Albuquerque. Perry was acting on behalf of the City and not on his own behalf. Perry lied to the public and to the City Council.

The Eye already warned that the contract that Perry signed with the IRO may be illegal. The Councilors have recognized that there is a huge problem here and have asked for an independent investigation citing, violation of the city ordinance, “which states that the IRO is authorized to investigate citizen complaints against sworn police officers.”

Some profound words come from Councilor Ken Sanchez. “This clearly isn’t a citizen complaint,” Sanchez said. “I think the administration is digging itself deeper and deeper into a hole and not being transparent in what they’re doing.

Sanchez also stated, “The bottom line is the IRO doesn’t have the authority to do this investigation based on the contract and the ordinance. And this administration is finding a way to continue it, which is illegal and sets a very bad precedence that we are not following our own ordinances.” The Eye completely agrees with Sanchez which leads us to the next issue.

Perry's lying is terrible but what is worse is the conspiring that is going on behind closed doors. Schultz knows and should have told Perry, who is an attorney, that the City must conduct a criminal investigation first. This information is contained in the APD Standard Operating Manual. Under Garrity since it is a compelled statement, the statement(s) may not be used in a criminal investigation or proceedings. An administrative investigation will be maintained privately and no one will be able to see the facts. The big difference is, on a criminal investigation the results would eventually be made public.

The City Council is right on target and should stay the course. Schultz, Perry and the City are attempting to use legitimate means to keep the illegal doings private, hidden and concealed. The City Council must react strongly and demand a full and complete criminal investigation. Don’t be fooled by the simpleton games that Schultz and Perry are playing; they are trying to conceal crimes that were committed. This type of behavior is going to place us on the AP hotwire and ruin the rest of the City’s reputation. This is looking more and more like some of the things that transpired in New Orleans,Louisiana, that caused DOJ to come in and take over the PD.

The City Council has stated they will ask for an independent investigation from the City's Inspector General. The Mayor's spokesperson stated the administration will respect the Council's opinion. This is agreeable to the Mayor's Office because it will still be an administrative case which can be kept secret. The Council must demand a criminal investigation first; and then an administrative investigation may take place afterwards.

Instructions; do not lie and stop trying to hide the truth. Schultz and Perry should know that the truth always comes out in the end. Councilor Ken Sanchez stated, “I think the administration is digging itself deeper and deeper into a hole…” The Eye agrees complete with this statement and offers this advice; if you want to get out of the hole, quit DIGGING!

Breen Speaks the Truth While Berry’s Administration Continues to Lie

2011-07-25T20:59:00.001-06:00

Our Eyes tell us AFD’s Chief Breen told fire personnel the truth concerning IAFF Local 244’s President Diego Arencon’s removal from handling union affairs on duty. Breen stated he thinks Berry's decision to remove Mr. Diego Arencón, the President of IAFF Local 244, from his 40 hour a week union business schedule is illegal. Breen stated he thinks the order itself is unlawful yet he carried out the order. The Eye can see within a week there will be a headline on the front page of the Journal saying "Fire Chief says Mayor's Order Illegal."

The Eye is not a doctor but we would recommend that Chief Breen take some Imodium to stop or at least slow down some of his issues.

Breen Grabs a Fire-Shovel and Buries Himself

2011-07-24T20:46:00.005-06:00

Our Eyes are telling us that on Friday, July 22, 2011, AFD Chief Breen repeatedly told his employees that he was "with" them, but he said he would be fired if he stood up to the Mayor. Breen blamed everything on the Mayor. Breen stated, he doesn't agree with what the Berry Administration has been doing to the Union but he isn't ready to retire. Breen also stated he wants to repair “labor relations” in the Fire Department. Why didn't Breen want to repair labor relations during the past year and a half? Breen acted paranoid about any recordings of the meeting. The media was circling like sharks with blood in the water, begging fire personnel to give any hint as to what was said in the closed door meetings.

Our Eyes tell us two hours after Breen’s meeting with AFD personnel, he was called to the Mayor's office and was told that he was a “liability.” The local Union 244 has yet to conduct their planned vote of “No Confidence” on Breen. Our Eyes tell us that Berry is in a huff over Breen conducting the closed door meeting with only AFD personnel. It appears Berry and Perry are paranoid themselves over what Chief Breen is saying behind closed doors. Is Berry getting ready to cut Breen loose? Or is Breen going to be one of the sacrificial lambs?

Breen might just find himself in familiar company with Darren White and possibly APD’s Fifth Floor. All who may be back in the job market…

Murdoch to Walk on All Charges

2011-07-23T23:25:00.004-06:00

Is it possible for a man who is paralyzed from the waist down to walk? Here in Albuquerque it is. The Eye On Albuquerque called this one from the beginning and now it is coming to light, all charges against Presiding Criminal Judge, Pat Murdoch, will be dismissed. This case is a classical illegal search and seizure case. When this is all over, Murdoch will be the only true man standing.

It has now come to the attention of the DA’s office that the evidence obtained in the Murdoch case was obtained illegally. The Great State of New Mexico passed a voyeurism law that prohibits the video taping others in their homes, restrooms, etc… What does this mean, for Murdoch’s dream team; it means that the video will be suppressed. As a result of suppression, everything else obtain as a result of the illegally recorded video will be suppressed by the courts as well. This means that the Albuquerque Police Department does not have a case and the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office looks like a bunch of buffoons for allowing this bogus trash in the first place.

This will clear the way for Murdoch to sue the Albuquerque Police Department and the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office. The dollar amount may be well over a million dollars. This case will never go to trial. Any jury that sees a respected presiding district court judge who is paralyzed from the waist down, whose career and life was ruined by the reckless acts of the Albuquerque Police Department and the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office will quickly grant an enormous award; around the four to ten million dollar range. Berry may be asking for a tax increase to cover the millions of dollars that Schultz keeps costing the City of Albuquerque. The City will be wise to pull out the “Sam Costales Check Book” and start writing out those zero’s behind that first digit.

One last thing for Kari Brandenburg; amend the charges against Murdoch; this will help Murdoch’s dream team show malicious prosecution. This will open up the DA’s checkbook wider. As you know juries are big on retaliation.

Here is another case for the IRO to look into. The Murdoch caper will need to be administratively reviewed and swift action must be taken in order to save what little credibility APD has left. At this point the final domino from the Fifth Floor will fall; DC Paul Feist. Obviously Feist being a deputy chief had knowledge of the shoddy investigation and approved it. When the Murdoch fiasco broke, Feist was on television acting conservatively smug and victorious, as did Commander Doug West. Another two careers flushed down the toilet.

Gov. Martinez; get off your tail feathers and do something. The “lame duck” routine is getting old and quite frankly, it has been old for a very long time. This goes for all of us including the Republicans who back your duff. All this is “public corruption,” do something, anything or you will be a one termer just like Berry.

Berry will need to be a man and give the orders to clear the Fifth Floor. Berry needs a lifeline from someone out there who is known for their credibility, boldness, a stand-up kind of guy, who has dignity and honesty to lead APD. The new leader will need flexibility to hire, fire, and promote as he deems appropriate. Repairs will take many years.

Is the IRO’s Investigation Pointing at the Entire Fifth Floor?

2011-07-22T21:52:00.007-06:00

Our Eyes are claiming the IRO’s (Independent Review Officer) investigation is pointing at more than just White, Schultz and Paiz. Our Eyes claim that the APD Fifth Floor is standing on a banana peel. A slight push and the entire Fifth Floor will slip into the grave. Meanwhile Schultz is in hiding. Does anyone know why “The Chief of Police” would be in hiding?

Our Eyes are telling us that others from the Fifth Floor have been out “attorney shopping” in hopes of protecting their derrière. Even if they “Attorney-Up;” it’s not going to help any of their souls. They bartered a deal with Darren; the Devil. Our Eyes also claim that Schultz may be gone a few days or a few months. Our Eyes claim that he will have a boot print on his rear.

More proof; in today’s Journal (read it here)Chief Schultz, who is the leader, at least in theory, of the Albuquerque Police Department said Thursday, “he was not aware of any such orders given to Walck.” This was in response to Walck stating that Paiz had ordered him to alter his police report which is a public document. Walck refused the illegal order. Walck stated via his attorney that he was advised an hour later that he was now a target of an IA investigation. Doesn’t that add up to intimidation of a witness, or black mail, or extortion? The Eye seriously doubts that Paiz even goes to the powder room without telling Schultz. On a situation of this magnitude, Schultz knew nothing? Here is a suggestion for the IRO and the future criminal investigator that gets this case, pull the e-mail and the Blackberry records. They will prove what we have told you all along. Paiz has a fairly good reputation, it is doubtful she will ruin her career completely to help Schultz and White. Both are lost causes; Paiz should cut her losses and come completely clean with the truth.

Here is another question. Schultz claims he knew nothing. How does the Mayor’s Office know that Walck “refused his commander’s order?” According to the Journal, the Mayor’s Office stated, “Walck also refused his commander’s order to complete the report.” Schultz is the Chief of APD but yet he knows nothing and the Mayor’s Office does? What? Really? Schultz also stated, “…Internal Affairs had been looking into why Walck did not complete his report the day of the incident, contrary to department policy.” Now Schultz is stating that his IA Lieutenant doesn’t keep him apprised of complaints involving the Chief Public Safety Director’s wife? What? Really? This sound like more fibbing.

If Schultz is not running APD, who is? He allowed a bogus arrest of Judge Murdoch which will cost the City of Albuquerque a fortune! Murdoch will be a very rich man. A two day investigation based on the word of a whore and her pimp; this is a horrible atrocity. Detective One-O-One; do not trust prostitutes or their pimps. Is that really that hard to understand?

The big question now is; will White actually cooperate, if he does will he lie again? Now that White has left City services; will he even participate with an investigation, knowing the lies that he has already told publicly?

Here is a snag, William Deaton’s girlfriend, Geraldine Rivera, who is a retired state district judge, is best friends with Darren White. Does this claim create a conflict of interest for Deaton? We already know that Deaton does not have the authority to investigate non sworn APD officers. The Eye has not forgotten that Perry signed a contract with Deaton and that contract may be completely illegal. Perry being an attorney should know better.

All this may be the rumor mill; maybe not…Stay tuned!

Is AFD’s Fire Chief Breen, using AFD Funds for his own Benefit?

2011-07-21T22:11:00.002-06:00

Our Eyes are telling us that Fire Chief Breen used AFD funding to rent space at the Albuquerque Convention Center starting Friday, July 22, 2011, till Monday, July 25, 2011. The reason for this huge expensive rental is to have open “forums” to defend himself against the up-coming vote of “No Confidence” the local AFD Union 244 is planning. Plus, late Thursday, Breen issued order# 149 which states that Breen will allow up to eight out of district units and all in district units to attend his Gala Event.

At odds, the Mayor’s Office recently created a policy that no city time can be used for union business. Breen is allowing twenty four on-duty units to attend his meeting. The memo speaks about, "recent labor dealings." The entire reason Breen is having these meetings is because of 244’s decision to have a vote of “No Confidence.” All of AFD is 100% in the local Union 244. Why is it okay for Breen to allow one-third of the entire on duty Fire Department to attend his meeting after the Mayor’s Office stated that this is prohibited?

If this is true; it is completely wrong and unacceptable. Fleecing public monies and public services for ones’ own personal benefit is corrupt.

Does anyone think it is an appropriate use tax payer dollars for the AFD Chief’s personal benefit? Here are a few ideas. First, AFD owns a brand new academy Breen could use for free. Breen could use the APD Roger Hoisington Academy or the City/County Chambers. There are many appropriate places the City owns throughout Albuquerque that could be used for free. Second, the Fire Chief could go to each station without cutting services to the public. Here’s a crazy idea, go out and ride, take a few calls with your personnel.

It appears Breen is picking up where White left off. This type of behavior will not sit well with the rank and file in AFD nor the citizens of Albuquerque who will be missing one-third of the on duty fire personnel.

Breen should be a model of good stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Wastes like this should not be tolerated by the Berry Administration. Oops, The Eye forgot, “One Term Berry” allows liars and bad behavior to thrive.

If Breen wants to get his name out of the headlines, he will need to burn down the barn or trump up some charges on someone else. Maybe poor Judge Murdoch was playing with matches while the prostitute was videotaping. This administration is a farce…

Is Judge Murdoch just a Distraction?

2011-07-20T17:09:00.007-06:00

The media has been lavishing in the news concerning Judge Murdoch, but is Murdoch just a pawn in Ray Schultz’s game of chess? Cases like this take several weeks or months to put together. Yet, Murdoch’s case is completed from start to finish in two days. The Eye smells a rat. Did Schultz have this investigation rushed to distract from his own behavior? Where was Chief Schultz when one of the biggest arrests in APD history was made?

Murdoch may have been a participant in some type of perverted acts but is he actually guilty of raping a prostitute? A person who accepted money in exchange for sexual acts? Our Eyes tell us that the “tape” shows Murdoch (who is partially paralyzed) participating in “role playing.” Can this partially paralyzed man actually rape someone? Really? According to one new site (read it here), “The woman told police she met with the judge about eight times and he paid her about $200 each time. She said he forced himself on her during one visit, and she returned and secretly recorded a second forced encounter.” How is it that this prostitute, after being traumatized from being raped, managed to grab her camera, return to Murdoch’s, collect her $200 and video tape being raped again? The alleged rape victims’ boyfriend sold the DVD to police for $400.00? Does this add up to anyone? The Eye doesn’t buy this rubbish. The Eye is not belittling any legitimate victim of rape. Rape is an extremely serious offense.

The Eye wants to present a different logical look at this situation. Schultz is in hot water for lying and participating in Darren White’s crimes. Murdoch’s case comes up and Schultz decides to have his staff rush it and make the arrest to distract from his own misdeeds. He sends out the only deputy chief who has not been draped with Schultz and White’s fiascos. Schultz could not send out Paiz because she allegedly ordered Walck to falsify his report. Schultz could not send out Banks because Banks supposedly knew about the whole cover-up plot and did not report it. DC Feist was the only stool-pigeon left to sacrifice. Schultz is given an opportunity to run his department and “shine” but instead he hides. Why? Where was Schultz when the big arrest was made? Is he afraid of the media asking him why he lied to everyone? Is he afraid the media will ask why he participated in Darren White’s fiasco? What is Schultz afraid of?

This entire mess is called a smoke scene or a ruse. Yes, Murdoch may have done something wrong by hiring a prostitute but will the final facts support the media grand-standing that the police department has taunted? Based on the face-value of the facts given up to this point, the Eye is calling this one now; Murdoch will be found not guilty of the current felony charges. This appears to be mostly an illegal civil matter and a possible misdemeanor solicitation of a prostitute. The real facts will, in all probability, support the concept that Schultz wanted someone else shoved under the bus to save his own hide. In this process DC Feist was made to look like a fool.

Here we go again, another cover-up involving one of Darren White’s followers.

Corporate Greed; "It's all in the Name of Money!"

2011-07-20T14:54:00.005-06:00

Here is an open letter from one of our patron. The Eye feels it is important to support a good cause for the right reasons. Please give your support to the men and women who care for you or your families’ in times of need.

Playing Doctor is No Joke

By Frank Froschle

A recent article in the Albuquerque Journal shows that executives of Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in Santa Fe have been bargaining in bad faith with the hospital’s nurses and staff.

According to the article, the hospital made more than $21 million in 2009.

A year earlier, the hospital cleared almost $19 million.

Over this same time period, Christus St. Vincent CEO Alex Valdez’s annual salary increased from $271,000 in 2004 to $615,000 in 2009, while Board Member Ernie Sadau received more than $1,019,675 in 2009 from the Christus home office in Texas.

The pattern is clear.

Hospital executives have been taking money out of the hospital to increase their pay, instead of sharing those profits with the patients and staff who helped make those profits possible in the first place.

In 2008, the average nurse at St. Vincent’s earned $52,000 and received no raises.

Now hospital executives are proposing to endanger patient safety by reducing staffing ratios.

St. Vincent’s is New Mexico’s oldest hospital.

Unfortunately, it hasn’t been the same since Texas-based Christus Health took over the hospital and hired some high-priced California lawyers to start rationing care.

While this approach may have raised profits, it has compromised patient safety and endangered the kind of ethical, compassionate, community-based care that St. Vincent’s nurses and staff have been delivering for more than 35 years.

Mr. Valdez and all those out-of-town Christus lawyers and executives need to settle the contract in favor of St. Vincent’s nurses and staff, so they can get back to doing their jobs.

Frank Froschle
2320 Brother Abdon
Santa Fe, NM 87505

Who is Responsible for Hiring Levi Chavez?

2011-07-19T23:07:00.002-06:00

Former APD officer and accused murderer, Levi Chavez, is on the hot seat again. Officials recently received the Ford F-250 truck that Chavez claimed was stolen. According to the Journal (read it here), Chavez stated that he “still had the original, factory keys and its ignition was undamaged when it was recovered in Mexico earlier this year.” Murder, insurance fraud, womanizing; who hired this guy? And the answer is; Albuquerque’s Police Chief, Ray Schultz.

Chavez is alleged to have murdered his wife, Tera Chavez, in October of 2007, because Tera refused to go along with his fraudulent acts. Tera Chavez had told friends and family that if she ended up dead, it was her husband, Levi Chavez. In the documents filed in the civil lawsuit against the City of Albuquerque’s Police Department, Tera claimed that Levi Chavez did not want his truck anymore but a Cadillac. Tera also claimed that Levi and his cop buddies were going to stage the theft of the truck in order to defraud the insurance company. Strange how after Tera’s murder, Levi Chavez bought a Cadillac? Right? Strange?

The Journal stated, “According to state MVD records, the dashboard VIN plate identified in the Mexican police report was registered to a vehicle formerly owned by APD white-collar crimes Detective Pete Dwyer.”… “Dwyer’s truck had been totaled in a 2008 crash on I-25 and had been sold at auction by his insurance company.” Why don’t they disclose “who” purchased the vehicle? Most companies allow the original owner first “dibs” on a stolen recovery. The Journal also fails to mention that Dwyer also served in the APD Auto-theft Unit and was forced to resign as President of the APOA for alleged spending improprieties.

Chief Schultz had knowledge concerning the Union issues and allowed Dwyer to transfer into a cushy job. Why?

Don’t forget Schultz authorized the settlement to the Tera Chavez Estate for $230,000.00.

This is just another example of poor decision making on Schultz’s behalf. One would think that there were other red flags in the Levi Chavez file that Schultz should have seen. Schultz was desperate for numbers and error on the side of bad decision making and hired Chavez. This was just another fine mess that Schultz got the City involved in.

Chief Schultz has a proven past of poor and misguided leadership at best. When is there going to be a “changing of the guard?” Mayor Berry, the Eye told you about the big White elephant on your desk, now you have a pink elephant on your desk; when are you going to take the appropriate corrective action?

Culture of Corruption; it Exists in APD

2011-07-18T22:47:00.006-06:00

The Eye back on March 1, 2011, asked the question, “Culture of Corruption; Does it Exist?” (read it here). By the actions of APD’s top brass from Schultz down; the answer is “Yes.” We researched our achieves and found story after story, warning Mayor Berry and giving him facts about the corruption both White and Schultz were conducting. When APD’s top brass, agreed to become a party to Darren White’s cover-up and crimes, they committed themselves to purgatory.

The Eye knows that the Transition Report for APD was “doctored” before it was submitted. The team that prepared the Transition Report did the research, interviews, documentation and prepared the report for submission. The team had a falsehood belief that the Mayor was actually going to receive an un-altered report. What actually transpired was much different. When the report was submitted to FORMER Public Safety Director, Darren White, the report was in its original forum, but when the Mayor received it, the report was altered (doctored). All of the critical information that it contained was removed. It was obvious that whoever doctored the report was wearing “Rose Colored Glasses.”

Some of the information was about the culture of corruption and how APD showed many of the signs. Other important information was intentionally withheld, such as, commanders of APD telling the transition team, in private; they were “scared of the 5th floor.” Anything that was spoken about or alluded to corruption or the culture of corruption of any kind, was taken out of the report. Did Berry ever ask to see the real report? Maybe he should ask for the real report now, since the LIAR, Chief Public Safety Director, Darren White, is gone.

The team used the periodical written by Dr. Neal Trautman, “How Police Departments Become Corrupt,” the team found many subtle likenesses to that of APD. These types of cultures start at the top and are cultivated. As this behavior continues, it radiates downward till the entire organization is corrupt. This is becoming more apparent each and every day.

Mayor Berry will now have to battle the new liar on the block, Chief Schultz and his lying cronies. It appears that White taught Schultz well. If you were convicted in a United States Federal District Court of violating another person’s civil rights like Schultz did; would you still have a job? By the way, does anyone remember how Sam Costales became the focus of Chief Schultz’s aggression? Darren White was Sheriff and went to Schultz to complain about Costales. Bernalillo County paid out $30,000.00 on White’s behalf to Costales. The City of Albuquerque paid close to a $1,000,000.00 with all the cost and judgment.

The Eye traced the deception, lies and cover ups to the origin of the Berry Administration. If DOJ or any other federal agency wants a copy of the original report and the doctored one, please contact the Eye.

Who Drank the Poisoned Kool-Aid Freely; Who was Forced?

2011-07-17T20:40:00.009-06:00

Fresh from the “rumor mill” some interesting questions have developed. Darren White, while trying to cover up his wife’s alleged DUI crash, passed poisoned Kool-Aid laced with felonies and other crimes around. While some drank it freely, did he force others to drink it?

If some of you remember the catastrophe in Jamestown, Guyana, another fascist dictator, Jim Jones, offered poisoned Kool-Aid to his followers. Those who refused the poisoned drink were held down and forced to drink. Our “rumor mill” believes that Mayor Richard Berry, CAO Rob Perry, and Chief of Police Raymond Daniel Schultz all chose to drink freely. But did Deputy Chief of Police Elizabeth Paiz, Deputy Chief of Police Allen Banks, and Commander Clifford Saylor drink freely or were they forced?

The rumor mill tell us that White knew he was wrong for running full police code to the scene and interfering with the police investigation. Ultimately, White removed a potential DUI offender from a crash scene. According to the Journal (read it here), “city officials said White is not a certified or sworn law enforcement officer and does not carry a gun during working hours.” The journal article also stated, “The brown Chevy Tahoe he drove to the scene of his wife’s crash last week is one of two city vehicles equipped with lights and sirens that is driven by a civilian, officials said.” The article claims that the other fully equipped vehicle belongs to Mayor Berry and the vehicle is mostly driven by a sworn police officer. If White is not certified why has he been seen wearing a police badge with five stars? Why was he running full police code to the crash scene if he is a civilian? Isn’t this impersonating a police officer? Don’t you wish you could run around and play cop with lights flashing and sirens blaring? Instead of admitting his wrongs, White allegedly started passing around the poisoned Kool-Aid.

The first to guzzle the juice was Berry, Perry and Schultz. Berry knows White is wrong but is still backing him. Perry at the news conference became angered at the media and literally threw copies of Kathy White’s records at the media. Perry blamed the media for White’s fiasco. Our Eyes tell us that Perry offered to sue two local television stations on White’s behalf. Next up to shoot off his mouth was Chief Schultz. According to Schultz who was once a DUI Sergeant for APD, stated there was not “probable cause” to conduct a DUI investigation. Schultz also blamed the media. Let’s see, Kathy White admitted to consuming a mind altering drug, she admitted to driving, she admitted to have impairment (blurred vision) and she admitted to crashing into a fix object (a curb). Yup; this is probable cause. Schultz lied to protect White, his lies and crimes as did Perry and Berry.

Next, the rumor mill tells us that Darren White met with one of the officers and offered a “deal” to make this go away or keep the facts under wraps. This amounts to conspiracy, extortion and black mail. If this is true, it appears someone did not keep their part of the “deal.” This would make sense because White put the pressure down on APD’s top command staff which lead to the next debacle. Paiz sent orders down the chain of command ordering/instructing Senior Officer Walck to keep the facts out of the report, such as the admittance of the drugs and the box that was checked showing that Kathy White admitted consumption of prescription drugs which was an attributing factor. When Walck refused, Paiz sent down the orders again. The question is, did Piaz do this of her own accord or was she following orders from Schultz and/or White? In this mess, Banks had to know what was going on and did nothing. The APD SOP states, “Any act or omission is the same as lying.” Walck’s chain of command, including Commander Saylor knew about this and did nothing. Saylor received information about this situation through several different sources. This comes down to conspiracy. Walck was wise not to alter the report which is a public document and knew it is a felony to alter a public document. If Paiz did give these orders that were illegal, they are; to wit; conspiracy, extortion and black mail.

Thus, all who had knowledge of this are all guilty of conspiracy, extortion and black mail. This requires a criminal investigation; not an administrative review. This is the time that Gov. Martinez needs to send her elite Political Corruption Unit down to Albuquerque to handle this. Since the Governor is a Republican and all the Republicans are trying to save this liar, perhaps the State Attorney General, Gary King, needs to step up to the plate and handle this with integrity.

Did Albuquerque’s former public safety director commit insurance fraud? Kathy White admitted to taking a drug for seizures/bi-polarism. Darren White stated that she had been taking it for about a year. Was this disclosed to their insurer?

Another one of our Eyes claims that White does not have enough time paid into PERA (Public Employees Retirement Association). This could be a rumor but our Eyes claim that White withdrew all of his invested money when he left former Governor Gary Johnson’s administration. This means that White would need to pay back both his part and his employers’ portion. Each year that he may have withdrawn could cost up to 50,000.00 per year. It is possible that he withdrew over ten years worth. If this is true who is paying all that money back? Is it the tax payers of Albuquerque? Did White retire with any retirement compensation?

Some of our Eyes in County Government are telling us that Darren White is smack-dab in the middle of the free tickets scandal from the Journal Center. Our Eyes tell us that formal charges are forth coming in this case.

Darren White is a catastrophe looking for a place to happen; as we have seen here in Albuquerque. Thank goodness that the Honorable Martin Heinrich beat White in the congressional race for District One.

These questions warrant a full criminal investigation. Even if you buy into White and company’s rubbish, even if these questions are based on the appearance of impropriety, they must be investigated to the fullest extent. All who played part wittingly or un-wittingly must be brought to justice along with White. If the entire top command of APD is dirty; it is time to clean it out. The Mayor will need to re-evaluate his stance on White and on the rest of his top level personnel who participated in this fiasco. White’s stains have bled all over the 5th floor of APD. The Eye On Albuquerque has repeatedly warned you about the “Culture of Corruption” in APD, here is your proof. The Albuquerque Police Department needs new leadership. The slate needs to be wiped clean. The Mayor will need to appoint a chief who is known for dignity, honesty and integrity. No more “good ol’ boys!” While Berry is at it, he needs to dump the rest of Darren White entourage. Don’t you hate it when someone up and leaves; and leaves all their junk behind for someone else to clean it up?

Kudos to the fire guys and gals who called this one! The community knows we have the best paramedics and EMS equipment in the Southwest region; contradictory to what White stated. The local fire union’s vote of no confidence was right on the spot. Too bad Perry and Berry were and are too blind to see past their noses.

It's Official; Darren White is OUT!

2011-07-15T17:27:00.004-06:00

The Eye would like to thank all of our Eyes for their input which helped remove this cancer from our City.

BRAVO! BRAVO! BRAVO! Here's to the respectable people on the City Council who have done their jobs!!!

NEXT!

Rumor Mill has it; White has Submitted His Resignation

2011-07-15T15:20:00.003-06:00

Our Eyes on the inside are telling us that Public Safety Director, Darren White, has submitted his resignation to Mayor Berry. Our Eyes on the inside tell us that Berry stated he would wait until the IRO’s report next week before he officially accepts it. White apparently knows and is fearful of the testimony of the personnel out at the crash scene. Once they tell the truth; it will be curtains for White, anyway.

Meanwhile, our Eyes in Santa-Fe are telling us Gov. Martinez and the R’s are planning for a new job for White. Our Eyes claim that White’s best friend who is a top-senior advisor to Gov. Martinez was overheard saying, “this job will help him (White) land softly.”

Keep in mind, this is just the rumor mill…

Gov. Susana Martinez Need to Honor her Campaign Promises

2011-07-15T09:02:00.005-06:00

The Honorable Susana Martinez made a campaign promise to hold corrupt public official accountable. Chief Public Safety Officer (LIAR) Darren White is actively being corrupt by his lying and covering up his wife’s suspected DUI crash. This issue stands alone and the Eye is not talking about Brad Arensfield or Tru-touch or the other issues that are questionable.

The Eye realizes that White is a “friend” of the Governor and has “friends” in Governors office (with friends like White; who needs enemies), notwithstanding, the Governor must act decisively and cut her losses. The Governor has made a fool of herself by backing White after everyone told her what a “piece of work” he was. Even our own Mayor Berry has stated that White is a rogue employee that abides by no set of rules (SOP).
Now is the time for Governor Martinez to remove White from the Judicial Standards Commission to ensure honesty and integrity.

If this Governor has any integrity and/or honesty, it is time to prove it. The smell is only going to get worse as more facts are revealed.

It might be a good idea to call the Governors’ Office and let the Governor know your dismay. Click here for a web link to send an e-mail or you can call 505-476-2200 to speak with a Constituent Services representative.

Sufferin’ in Suffern; New York that Is

2011-07-14T16:59:00.004-06:00

Some of our Eyes have told us that Chicken Public Safety Director, Darren White and his blushing wife have “flown from the coup.” Yes, our modern day “Bonnie and Clyde” are on the run from Albuquerque’s local media who are seeking the truth.

Our Eyes claim that White is from Suffern, New York, and White and his wife are suffering on the run. We all know that you can run but you can’t hide! Darren White has to know that the fire pit will still be red hot when even he decides to surrender to the media. We are sure he will have cooked up a few more lies to feed the public.

Our Eyes tell us that Kathy White is Darren’s “Achilles Heel.” If Kathy White tells the truth about Brad Arensfield, Tru-touch, etc… Darren is done for and he knows it! If the media got a hold of Kathy there is a strong chance that she will spill the beans. Some believe that this is why White has “removed her from the equation.”

On another front, our Eyes are telling us that the AFD folks have made a vote of no confidence on Darren White for lack of ethics. We have lost count how many times Darren White has publically received a vote of “No Confidence.”

On a side note…We all know how it ended for “Bonnie and Clyde.” Only it will not be bullets that take Darren White out, it will be the TRUTH. Maybe Darren White will man-up and tell the truth and avoid a tragic ending. This is really simple; “Tell the truth Darren White!”

Why doesn’t the Mayor get it? The Mayor needs to pull his head out of the sand and see what is going on.

BROVO to the Albuquerque City Council for taking the lead and appropriate action!

Put the trash out; the entire place stinks to high hell!

Cut Your Losses; Tell the truth

2011-07-14T11:31:00.003-06:00

Come Clean; Tell the Truth!

Some damage has been done but all is not lost yet. Those involved need to come forward and tell the truth now.

Stop staining the badge.

APD needs to be "In Step With Our Community," and not in step with the LIARS in the Berry Administration.

Cover up Continues for Kathy (Crash) White and her dedicated (to himself) Husband, Darren White

2011-07-13T20:48:00.003-06:00

Our Eyes behind the badge are telling us that Albuquerque’s Deputy Chief of Police, Beth Paiz, may have been giving some; let’s say illegal orders from behind the scenes. Our Eyes claim that DC Paiz ordered Senior Officer Al Walck to remove the drugs he listed in his report through his Chain of Command. Our Eye’s also claim that Paiz order Walck to change the accident from “no injuries” to an “accident with injuries.” Our Eyes tell us Senior Officer Walck told his superiors to have Paiz put it in writing and he would comply. Apparently Piaz did not write the order and Walck did not change the report. This apparently angered the brass. Remember this is just a rumor that our Eyes are telling us about.

Did Paiz order Walck to change the report by removing the drugs listed that Kathy (Crash) White admitted to popping before she decided to drive DUI and crash? Was Paiz trying to protect Chief Public Safety Director, Darren White’s wife (A.K.A. Kathy Crash)?

Did Paiz order Walck to change the report to an accident with injury to cover Chief Public Safety Director, Darren White, because White utilized full emergency equipment to respond to his wife’s crash? Full emergency equipment consists of flashing red lights, police siren and being allowed to go through red lights, etc…You see, APD’s policy allows officers to run full code to accidents with injuries. Darren White ran full code but did not have a legitimate reason other than to whisk his wife away and save her from jail for driving DUI.

Where are our City leaders? Stand up and do something for us citizens. The Eye has heard some grumbling that two City Councilors, who has the guts to do something, are planning on making a motion to place Darren White on administrative leave until the investigation is completed.

This City needs to rid itself of the cancerous liars; White has failed and should be removed.

There are Four Rules for Liars

2011-07-13T10:09:00.006-06:00

Yes, Darren White is busy lying and he now has the help of fellow liars like Schultz and the newest liar, Chris Ramirez. In today’s Journal (read it here) White and the rest of the liars went on the offensive trying to distract from Darren White’s wife’s crash. It appears that there is a strong propensity that Kathy White, Darren White’s wife, was DUI when she crashed her black Porsche into a curb in Northeast Albuquerque last week. Some of our Eyes behind the badge are telling us that Public Safety Director Darren White whisked his wife away to prevent the law enforcement officers from conducting a DUI investigation.

This is how it works when liars are at work. Below are the rules that liars follow in order to avoid the truth:

Rule number one: Deny! CPSD Darren White, “poor me,” and people taking advantage of my wife’s medical condition… Kathy White admitted she was popping pills with blurred vision and crashed her black Porsche into a curb.

Rule number two: Deny! Chief Ray Schultz; There was no probable cause...Kathy White admitted she was popping pills with blurred vision and crashed her black Porsche into a curb.

Rule number three: Deny! Darren White, I did not interfere; I only stood guard and intimidated all of the subordinates that work for me. Once again, the fact of the matter is Kathy White admitted she was popping pills with blurred vision and crashed her black Porsche into a curb.

Rule number four: Make counter allegations! Ray Schultz, there were no signs of alcohol or drugs…There was no probable cause…It’s a 38 year veteran’s fault. Let’s blame him. Oh, and blame the media.
And the best answer from this week’s Prestigious Burro Award recipient, Chris(Huffman)Ramirez who stated, “Can you really be under the influence of birth control pills?” Once again, Ramirez was heavily engaged in making a Burro of himself and practicing rule number four; make counter allegations to distract from the truth. Mr. Huffman-Ramirez; you have ruined what little credibility and respect you had. Here is the truth so you understand it in the future Mr. Burro(Huffman)Ramirez, Kathy White admitted she was popping pills with blurred vision and crashed her black Porsche into a curb.

Remember the rules when you hear these liars talk. A recap of the rules; deny, deny, deny, and make counter allegations.

Mayor Berry, you need to do something or you are going to go down with the lonely ship of fools. It is time for new blood in City Hall. Everything there now is tainted with liars.

The item Below was added on 07/13/2011 @ 1527hrs.

To listen to the original 911 call, click here.

The Straw that Broke the Camels’ Back

2011-07-12T22:30:00.007-06:00

The Eye has known about the alleged DUI involving Darren White’s wife for some time. We intentionally held back to prove a point. If the Eye broke the story, White and Schultz would have started the whole “Social Media Waa Waa” to distract from the truth of this alleged DUI crash. With all the blood in the water; we let the media piranhas’ feast first! This is clearly an abuse by a public official using his official position of authority over his subordinates. White showed up in official capacity in a city vehicle. Does anyone out there really think that any employee from APD or AFD was going to pursue a case against White’s wife when White was standing guard intimidating everyone for over 30 minutes making his official presence known and using that authoritative position to get his wife out of hot water?

The answer is no. Everyone wants to keep their job and no one wants to lose their pay check by pissing off the boss because his wife decided to crash her black Porsche, by her own admittance, popping pills. News flash, this is called DUI (Driving While Under the Influence).

Here is a short list of questions that need to be answered:

1. Why did White use “emergency equipment” to respond to his wife’s crash? This equipment is intended for first responders to save lives or for responders who are responding to a crisis or critical incident. White’s wife was being seen by medical professionals. There was no need for him to abuse his position or power.

2. Why did White feel it was okay to “butt in” while APD and AFD were in discharge of their official duties? Would you or Eye be allowed to approach the police or fire and interject our two cents? White openly abused his position and authority. He clearly intimidated subordinates under his care and control.

3. Why did White stay at the crash for thirty minutes intimidating personnel that are under his care and control? This one is easy; because he can! All fascism leaders are above the law. White committed several offenses and is now playing the “poor me” routine, I am just a good husband. Did anyone else notice that White was dressed down and not wearing a suit as he commonly does?

4. Why did White think that his vehicle that does not have any medical supplies, equipment or medical personnel was a better choice to transport his wife to an emergency facility? Maybe he wanted to get his wife away from the scene so law enforcement could not pursue a DUI case against her? White needs to publish his cell number so other celebrities can call him to get them out of hot water. Ron Bell; write this number down! Sorry Ron, you’re not Darren White’s wife; no free pass for you.

5. Why is it when others like Ron Bell take prescription drugs and drive, they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and people like Darren White’s wife get a free ride and a get-out-of-jail-free card? White being a good husband has his priorities clear and he acted on those priorities; he got his wife out of a DUI crash with no charges at all.

6. Why was the urinalysis sample collected/conducted the following day on 07/07/11? Could it be to allow the drugs that Kathy White admitted to taking to metabolize and allow her body to naturally rid itself of the drugs? Can anyone else out there say; cover up?

Why did Schultz stand there and lie? Schultz was a DWI sergeant and knows the truth about DUI and what probable cause is required. Schultz stated, “There were no signs of drugs or alcohol.” According to the Journal, “Kathleen White told APD officers she was on two types of prescription medications for ‘anxiety,’ according to the police report.” The Journal also stated, “Schultz said no DWI investigation was conducted because it appears there wouldn’t have been probable cause to do so.”

One of the symptomatology that should be looked for during a DUI crash investigation is the admittance of use of drugs. Kathleen White admitted to the consumption of prescription drugs. Another symptom of DUI is the admittance of impairment. Kathleen White stated that she had blurred vision. The AFD report stated she had trouble standing. Proof of impairment, she crashed her black Porsche into a curb. There you go Schultz; there is your probable cause. You lied Schultz; shame on you.

The law states that DUI is driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol which affects a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle to the slightest degree. Kathleen White crashed into a curb. This is impairment far beyond the “slightest degree.”

The Journal also quoted White as stating, “People are using my wife’s medical condition for cheap political attacks.” During a news conference what said, “I don’t know who’s making these allegations, but I have done nothing wrong. Unfortunately, because of these attacks, my wife and I have had to make a decision to provide media with her personal medical records, which is something we should never have to do.” White is making a fool of himself and should know better than to use words such as “never.” The word clearly implies never and there is no ambiguity. Yet White can play his “poor me” routine and use the word never and then do what he claimes he “never” would do. This is an oxymoronic statement.

According to the Albuquerque Journal (read it here), “she (Kathleen White) tested negative for numerous prescription and illegal drugs.” Hit the brakes, this is an inaccurate statement. What is the tolerance level that is set for these tests by Tri-core? All companies, including the City of Albuquerque have certain levels set. If there are drugs present but it does not exceed the “tolerance levels” the laboratory will not report it. It will show as testing “negative.” Did you hear Darren’s pet Schultzie discriminate this crucial information?

Gov. Martinez, the Eye warned you about White, his lying and his abuse of power. Is Darren White still the best choice for the Judicial Standards Commission? White is going to pull you down along with Berry.

One of our Eyes told us about the big meeting that Schultz and White called for with APD’s supervisory staff. White told the staff that integrity was everything to him. Where is White’s integrity?

Berry has called for an independant investigation into this matter. The problem is, we all know that when it comes to Mister White lies, any wrong doing on White's part will be "White washed!"

Darren White has drawn “the straw that broke the camel’s back.” It is time for White, Schultz and their lying ways to leave our city. The republicans need to clean house and put the trash out at the curb.

The item below was added 07/13/2011 @ 1458hrs

Listen to the 911 call here.

Free For All or is it Free for Some But Not All?

2011-07-07T10:10:00.007-06:00

One of today's top stories on Channel 4 involved the alleged battery on an abortion protester. It was not the story in particular that opened our Eye; it was, however, the statements given to Channel 4. The Eye could not help but question the hypocrisy of the statement of one of APD's Public Information Information Officers, Officer Robert Gibbs. This is what Channel 4 quoted:

"APD officer Robert Gibbs said ultimately, it comes down to Shaver's right to free speech.

"He was exercising his free speech that we are all allowed to with the First Amendment. That doesn't mean you
can get up and hit somebody or batter somebody," Gibbs said."

This comes as a surprise to The Eye. It was only recently that administrators told supervisors that Officers would face discipline if they made remarks that were deemed inappropriate or put APD in disrepute. So does this mean that City administrators can now dictate who is allowed free speech and who is allowed what we could call "monitored, censored, and stifled speech"? Does the Constitution afford free speech to everyone, except law enforcement officers?

The administrators seem so afraid of officers voicing their own, independent opinion, that there are reports that social media websites are being monitored constantly in order to document the postings made by the officers. In risk of sounding repetitive, The Eye has still been unable to find the footnote of the Constitution that does not allow law enforcement officers to voice their opinion, ON their OWN time, not ON DUTY, even when not representing APD in any way. The threat of discipline (possibly including termination) via the means of intimidation, seems like the current "normal route" of business for the top administrators.

So, please enlighten The Eye. Which will it be? Is "everyone" protected by the First Amendment, or is it just a benefit for those lucky enough to be hand chosen to be protected?

Want to see for yourself? Click here.

City, County and State Leaders Need to Take Lead

2011-06-30T23:11:00.001-06:00

The Las Conchas Fire is setting a new state record as being the largest fire in New Mexico history; our leaders are doing little to prevent others. Closing off certain areas is a good preventative measure, as are requests to the public not to purchase fireworks. All leaders are making these requests but are offering little alternatives to a public, who are grateful for 235 years of freedom. The public has a right to celebrate Independents’ Day as proud Americans.

It seems that our leaders want us to make the sacrifice and do without because they want to be “penny-pinchers.” How come our leaders do not set up and provide several fireworks displays, at different locations, in different communities? Is it the cost? Stop “penny-pinching,” if there is another fire, the coffers will be quickly depleted in an effort to stop another fire. What the Eye is saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure.

For example, if Mayor Berry set up fireworks displays in several areas around the City and advertised these events, there would be no need for the public to purchase or use fireworks. Yes, there is costs (ounce of prevention) involved but in comparison to a fire in the Bosque, which would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars (a ton of cure); the fireworks displays would be a small price to pay. The City could charge a small fee to help cover the cost and/or give out passes to attend the events.

Our leaders need to do more to prevent fires during the fire season. What they have done up to this point is insufficient. Cheap talk and acting like they are really doing something does not cut it for a public who is in tune with the real world.

Keep in mind, the Eye is not questioning the need to be safe and protect our land from fire. The Eye is questioning our lame leaders. The need to be proactive is clear but the rhetoric that our leaders speak about is just cheap talk.

The Eye encourages our audience to be safe and avoid situations that may be dangerous to them or to others. Make plans on attending public fireworks displays that are available to the public or park where you and your family may safely enjoy the celebration.

Santa-Fe Interim Chief Real’ Cognitively Deficit Decision

2011-06-30T10:06:00.003-06:00

The Journal North (read it here) carried a story about Santa-Fe Interim Chief, Ray Real, and his decision to change the police officers Take-Home Car Policy. The City of Santa-Fe and the citizens’ of Santa-Fe should realize the repercussions that will follow this “cognitive deficit” decision. This will affect liability, recruitment, retention and quality of officers in the long run. The cost could be staggering.

Not all the officers that work for the SPD make as much money as Val Kilmer or others who can afford to live in Santa-Fe, New Mexico. Most of the officers live where their salaries allow them.

The Eye located this information:

The median income for Santa-Fe is $52,000.00 New Mexico’s median income is $43,000.00.

The median house/condo for Santa-Fe is $306,000.00. New Mexico’s median house/condo is $160,000.00.

Source: http://www.santafenm.gov/jobs.aspx?jobID=651

According to the City of Santa-Fe website, the starting wage for an officer is $18.73 to $22.33 an hour. Yearly this comes out to be $39,000.00 to $46,500.00 per year. This is before taxes, insurances or other benefits are deducted. The average salary for a Santa-Fe police officer is around the New Mexico median income of $43,000.00. This shows a deficit for an officer of approximately $9,000.00 compared the average/median income for a Santa-Fe resident.

Let’s compare the housing market. If the median house/condo for Santa-Fe is $306,000.00 and New Mexico’s median house/condo is $160,000.00; that means an officer would need to afford and make two house payments in comparison to living in Santa-Fe. This does not even touch the issues of property taxes. It should become clear why so many officers do not live in Santa-Fe; it is cost prohibited.

According to the article, “both the city and the county have undertaken fairly aggressive programs to create more affordable housing.” No police officer wants to live in the “projects” of Santa-Fe or any other place for that matter. Let’s make a deal; Rael and the Santa-Fe City Council need to move into the “affordable” housing first. Then the Eye believes that the officers will then move and be your neighbors. We hear it from here; those officials of Santa-Fe do not want to give up their nice homes in good neighborhoods. Case-in-point made.

If Rael wants to make a name for him-self and remain as chief, he needs to think of something better than this type rubbish. Rael should have learned a lesson from the time that Albuquerque’s Public Safety Director, Darren White, tried to change the APD policy and lied to the Albuquerque City Council. Throwing a bone to city leaders and shoving the rank and file under the bus for a personal benefit is wrong and shows moral bankruptcy.

The Albuquerque Journal Editorial Board (AJED) must be detached from reality. Their praise of this cognitively deficit decision is just as poor of an action as Rael’s decision. The cretins that are on the AJED are detached from reality. The Board also recommended, “Rael might want to consider a slightly more radical approach to the commuting issue. Why not make the 20-mile rule apply to everyone? The Santa Fe community would reap the benefit of take-home cruisers – namely, an after-hours police presence in whichever neighborhood an officer lives. And the city – and taxpayers – would save money.” With this type of poor mentality; get rid of the take-home-cars and cost the City of Santa-Fe tens of millions of dollars. Did anybody catch the key word that is completely descriptive of the AJED? RADICAL! Radicals have no place in government.

Santa-Fe PD will have to purchase land at all police facilities, pave parking lots to park the officer’s vehicles, provide security, install showers and locker rooms, provide time for officers’ to dress out for work, etc… In lieu of this, the City of Santa-Fe would have to substantially increase officers’ wages and benefits in order for the officers to afford “Santa-Fe living.” The cost would be staggering. Before you suggest such rubbish, do your research and get the facts.

The only way to get a policy like this into place would require more money now and in the long run than what it is currently costing now. Santa-Fe needs to avoid the “good ol’ boy” routine and hire a competent Chief. Don’t be fooled by the smoke and mirrors.

The Eye felt that this needed to be addressed because our local cretins may get the same dumb idea again to modify our local policy.

*Reprint from the Eye Story: Culture of Curruption (March 1, 2011)

2011-06-23T20:18:00.002-06:00

Mar 1, 2011
Culture of Corruption; Does it Exist?
One of our Eye’s has found a serious deception in Berry’s Magical Spin Kingdom. Seems that back when our illustrious Mayor, Thee Honorable King Berry, had de-throned Martin Chavez, there was a mad dash to organize transition teams for twenty some departments throughout the City of Albuquerque. It appears the Transition Report for APD was “doctored” before it was submitted. The Eye wonders if other department reports were also “doctored.”

As the teams were being formed and selections were made for these prestigious positions, King Berry made two vex and faltered appointments; that being David Campbell, CAO and Darren White, to Public Safety Director. Now keeping in mind that it was determined two positions would or should be eliminated; one held by Joe Bowdich, Executive Director, Albuquerque Police Department and Pete Dinelli, Public Safety Director, City of Albuquerque. The Public Safety Director position was never eliminated and the appointment of White seemingly appeared strictly a “Political appointment” in return for White’s Monday morning endorsement of Berry. We recently heard that Campbell was “muscled” out by White, but the Eye does not know this for a fact. Rob Perry appears to be competent and an acceptable appointment.

Because of the Teams’ finding and before the final report was submitted to the Mayor and Public Safety Director White, a special meeting was requested of the two aforementioned to discuss some peculiar irregularities the team had revealed. The meeting was denied and the team was instructed to rush the report and turn it in. It didn’t seem to matter what was in the report and all wondered why? The team worked diligently on the report just the same and submitted it. The team later learned why they didn’t care what was in the report; the original report was re-written, “Doctored.” It appears that anything talked about or alluded to corrupt or the culture of corruption of any kind was taken out of the report.

Based on a periodical written by Dr. Neal Trautman, “How Police Departments Become Corrupt,” the team found many subtle likenesses to that of APD. These types of cultures start at the top and are cultivated. As this behavior continues, it radiates downward till the entire organization is corrupt. The Eye asks this question, when Schultz released a story concerning a female officer failing an alcohol test, is that not a culture of corruption on some level? “The Eye is not saying…the Eye is just saying.”

The transition team’s report was altered, revised and re-written, “Doctored.” Question is; who “Doctored” it and who gave it final approval? The original report contained findings that mirrored the “Culture of Corruption” that was intended and printed for the newly elected Mayor Berry to review. Did Berry know that there are two different reports? Did Berry see both reports? Who is the Spin Doctor?

Hence, another version, the so called ‘Official’ (Doctored) version was filed.
Both versions can be viewed via the links provided below along with Dr. Trautman’s periodical.

Once again, deception, lies and cover ups go back to the origin of the Berry Administration. Was the report that was submitted a result of a loyal subordinate or of an insubordinate deceitful employee? Maybe Berry has a spin doctor on his staff that does a magical spin that does all these foolish evil deeds. You will have to decide.

The public demands better, ethical and accurate reporting. Does this Mayor really know what’s going on around him? Perhaps assembling a new team selected by the City Council to re-evaluate the Police Department is appropriate. This would erase the appearance of impropriety or make it look good and have the magical “Spin Doctor” do the same thing as before all over again.

To view the two different reports, please visit The Eye On Albuquerque on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/.

Anybody want a bowl of “Fools Berry” for breakfast? Apparently this is the only item on the Berry Administration menu. The public are not fools and should not be treated as such.

What say you; Mayor Berry?

That’s what we thought…

Final words:

The Eye gave the proof but no one in authority cared; well, here it is again. Read what Dr. Neal Trautman wrote in his periodical, “How Police Departments Become Corrupt” and what the transition team found. "The team found many subtle likenesses to that of APD. These types of cultures start at the top and are cultivated. As this behavior continues, it radiates downward till the entire organization is corrupt."

White Leaves Biggest Stain on APD

2011-06-23T11:38:00.003-06:00

Public Safety Director, Darren White and Chief Ray Schultz called a meeting of APD’s management staff of rank of sergeant and above. According to the Journal (Read it here) the purpose of the meeting was to advise supervisory staff about the concerns of top management. Chief Schultz told his “supervisors to warn officers that misconduct won’t be tolerated.” Public Safety Director, Darren White stated, “We are confronted with misconduct and allegations of misconduct that has led to a perception among many in the public that we have forgotten who we work for.” White continued and stated that some officers have “stained” APD. The question becomes; is this pot calling the kettle black?

The answer to the question is, yes, Darren White has stained and continues to stain the City of Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Police Department. It is odd that White would have the audacity to even speak. White told the audience, “We’re not talking just about comments posted on the Internet. If you engage in any behavior that brings discredit to this department, you should expect to be terminated.” If this is true, where is White’s termination? Ask the City Council, about White lying to them. He has lied over and over again and without consequences.

White also stated, “I don’t think I’d say there’s a cultural problem at APD, but there are a number of folks — and it’s more than just a few — who don’t live up to the values and ideals of the majority of the hard-working men and women on this department. They are putting a stain on the department that, left unchecked, could create longlasting problems.” The Eye disagrees with White and has stated this before, APD is suffering from a “culture of corruption” which gained all its’ momentum when White became public safety director. The guilty ones never call it like it is. White enjoys the masquerade of a smoke screen and putting “lipstick on a pig.” The problem is when it is all said and done; all you have is a pig wearing lipstick!

The “stain” that White refers to is his own. The rank and file witnesses the top leader (White) of the Department lying and running amuck. It only makes “sense” to them that this is an acceptable practice and they see no issue if they do the same. This is how the “culture of corruption” gets started, fostered and is promulgated by the top. The days of, “do what I say and not as I do” is no longer acceptable to anyone. Do the math, when did White become public safety director and when did all the hard problems and issues start with APD. The facts speak for themselves.

Schultz is battling many fronts. He is trying to save his department and trying to deal with a monkey (White) on his back. Terminate the public safety director’s position, this will allow Schultz to be chief and allow positive change. Schultz has looked like a smut because of the fronts he is battling. This will not change till the rank and file see that there is consequences for all, including White. If Schultz doesn’t do the job he was hired to do, get rid of him and find someone who can.

Both White and Schultz need to clean out their own closets before they look into some else’s. This “holier-than-thou” routine only makes it obvious what they are doing and make the public want to heave.

Accountability, responsibility and authority starts at the top.

Money Hungry Redflex Opposes Public Vote on Scam-era’s

2011-06-21T08:32:00.002-06:00

According to the Albuquerque Journal (read it Here), “Albuquerque city councilors want the fate of the red-light camera program to be decided at the polls Oct. 4.” This of course is a lie. Part of the Council wants it to go to the votes but the other half does not and is seeking a “legal opinion” in hopes that they do not have to abide by the voters wishes. It appears that half of the Council is trying to protect Reflex’s “Cash Cow.”

The Journal stated City Councilor Dan Lewis sponsored the ballot measure. He said politicians have made all the camera decisions so far, and it’s time the public weighs in directly. “It’s time that we hear the citizens of Albuquerque speak,” said Lewis, who’s been critical of the cameras.

In the story by the Journal, “opponents of the measure raised legal questions about whether it’s appropriate for the council to delegate a public-safety decision to voters. The election results won’t be legally binding on the council – just advisory – and that fact may be lost on voters, critics said.” The people speak their will and the dictators on the council want to consider it as “advisory.”

According to Tutti-Frutti Trudy (Jones), “This is a representative government,” Councilor Trudy Jones said. “We were elected to make decisions.” This statement by Tutti-Frutti Trudy shows her ignorance. Yes, City councilors are elected to represent but their elected purpose is to voice the “will” of the people they serve. If the people vote the Scam-era’s out; that is the will of the people. City Council has absolutely no right to challenge the will of the people. This is a flagrant ethics violation and shows a complete contempt for the public they swore to serve.

Here is a surprise, Reflex’s’ big dollar attorney, Dick Minzner, “also questioned whether the issue is proper for the ballot.” Is anyone wondering why Reflex is getting involved? Anyone remember Dick telling the City Council last month that he hoped that Redflex would issue enough citations to keep Redflex profitable? Anybody see a problem here?

Dick went on to give the City “free legal advice” stating, “The proposal to put this on the ballot runs close to violating the City Charter,” he said. “The council cannot delegate its legislative power to the voters.” The Eye is guessing that Dick plays a lot of Horseshoes. His statement is more of a comedy show, the statement that “it runs close to violating the City Charter” is compatible to almost being pregnant; either you are or you’re not. City Attorney Perry better be careful, Dick may be after his job.

Making the correct decision to send the Scam-era’s to voters were Don Harris, Ken Sanchez, Brad Winter, Michael Cook and Lewis. The “I want to play GOD over the Citizen’s of Albuquerque” who opposed the measure were Jones, Rey Garduño, Debbie O’Malley and Isaac Benton.

Council Sanchez stated, “It’s time the voters have their voices heard once and for all.” You can see why Sanchez is re-elected time after time. What a concept; allowing the publics’ voices to be heard.
O’Malley was quoted in the Journal as saying; it doesn’t make sense to put the question before voters. “It essentially asks … ‘should we fine you if you violate the law?’ They don’t really have any authority to say ‘yes’ or ‘no,’ ” O’Malley Negated to state that the fines are civil and not criminal and she negated to state that this scam is making Redflex extremely wealthy.

Of interest, according to the Journal, “Monday’s meeting grew especially testy at one point, when Lewis questioned Minzner, who had identified himself as an attorney for Redflex. ‘I wonder why you’re here,’ Lewis said. ‘I question the motive.’ Lewis repeatedly mentioned that Redflex makes money from the program. Other councilors said Redflex had every right to have a representative argue on its behalf, just as anyone else can. Jones apologized to Dick. ‘I don’t believe it’s our place to tell someone they shouldn’t be here,’ she said.”

Councilor Dan Lewis is completely correct for asking the public how they wish to be policed. It is also completely appropriate for Lewis to question the motives of Dick Minzner who represents money hungry Redflex. Cutting through the chase, Redflex knows that the Scam-era’s are a “Cash Cow” and will fight “tooth and nail” against anyone who threatens that cash flow. Redflex is becoming like the Mexican Drug Cartel…Money, Money, Money…

Tutti-Frutti Trudy and the rest of the “Napoleons,” need to remember this; we the people, by the people and for the people. Take stock in these words. You know what happened to Napoleon.

One last thought; if the public votes in favor of the Scam-era’s, would the dictators still want to seek a legal opinion? The answer is no, the tyrants would have gotten their way and they would not need to use your tax dollars against you, to fight you.

APD Officer's Behavior called into Question

2011-06-19T22:52:00.002-06:00

The local media has been taunting a story concerning the twitter postings by APD Officer Pete Dwyer. Is Dwyer a problem officer? Has the Police Department been ignoring the problems with this officer? Why would the Police Department commit nonfeasance of duty if they did know? Let’s review some of the issues and concerns that have been brought to our attention.

Pete Dwyer is a former Albuquerque Police Officer’s Association (APOA) President. Our Eyes behind the badge tell us that Dwyer was forced to resign under pressure during his tour as the APOA President due to unaccounted debt that Dwyer charged up without the permission or authority of the APOA. Our Eyes tell us that the APOA Board decided not to prosecute Dwyer on the condition that he resigned. Our Eyes also tell us that the Police Department had knowledge about these alleged improprieties’ and did nothing. The Police Department allowed Dwyer to be assigned to a cushy job that Dwyer wanted after he resigned from the APOA. Dwyer dodged the bullet on this one.

Most recently, the Police Department was looking at Dwyer for his MySpace Page. According to the Journal (read it here), “Police Chief Ray Schultz said Detective Pete Dwyer wouldn’t be disciplined for an ‘inappropriate’ comment on his MySpace page…” Dwyer barely dodged another bullet.

And now Dwyer has set himself back in the line of fire. Dwyer’s twitters; although they are distasteful, are protected under free speech and do not violate APD’s policy.

According to the Journal, “Dwyer’s name has also come up in the midst of another controversy, one that he mentioned on his Twitter account.”

The Journal stated, “APD Criminal and Internal Affairs investigators are looking into how a vehicle identification number plate from a truck once owned by Dwyer ended up on a truck owned by former APD cop and wife-killing suspect Levi Chavez.” Our Eyes tell us that Dwyer was assigned to the Department’s Auto Theft Unit at one time and dealt with vehicle identification number plate as a detective in the Unit.

Schultz did a knee jerk reaction to the media’s pressure and panicked. Placing this officer on desk duty over a possible department SOP violation which only carries a penalty of a verbal reprimand or at best a written reprimand is simply ridicules.

It appears that Schultz has already played the part of the hangman and has already decided the guilt of Dwyer without an investigation or any legitimate proof. In the Journal story, Schultz stated, Dwyer “has been told to show up at 8:30 in the morning (today) at Internal Affairs with his badge, his gun and his car,” Schultz said late Thursday. “Obviously we have some serious problems here.” When Schultz spoke about “serious problems here,” the Eye wonders if he was referring to his leadership.

The Journal quoted Schultz as saying, “We respect and value the right to free speech, but comments that impair our officers’ ability to perform their duties and brings discredit to the Albuquerque Police Department will not be tolerated.” In this statement by Schultz, he ties “performance of duties” and “discredit to the department” together. Even if there was a violation, it is doubtful that Schultz will be able to prove the “and” part that he has asserted.

Dwyer never said or represented that he was a copper or even a City employee. If Dwyer is going to get hammered for this, Berry better have another hammer ready to do Schultz for his rant on twitter against the District Court Judges. Oh, that’s right; Darren White was shooting off his mouth against the District Judges too. Berry, you will need to run by Sears and buy out their stock on hammers.

With all the violent crimes in this City; With 18 police involved shootings; and all this administration is worried about is violating protected free speech. Do the job you were hired to do and get back to work.

White Lies would get you Fired, but not Darren’s White Lies

2011-06-16T21:53:00.003-06:00

How do you know Albuquerque Public Safety Director, Darren White is lying? His lips are moving! It has become common place to hear of another White lie from the “Burro” Award recipient, Darren White. City Councilor Ken Sanchez called White out in public on his lies. In the opinion page of the Journal (read it here), Sanchez blasted White for repeatedly lying to the public. The Eye has done several stories documenting other lies that White has told.

Sanchez in his open letter to the Journal set the record straight. According to the letter, White lied when he was interviewed on KOB-TV; White said that voters were assured that Public Safety Tax money would not go to salaries and benefits. Sanchez stated clearly, “That is absolutely not true.”

Sanchez went on to chastise White and the Berry administration (and rightfully so) for diverting 3 Million dollars per year for up to thirty years “in order to borrow money to pay for boutique capital projects that the city may not be able to afford to operate.” That same money could have purchased new police and/or fire vehicles.

Sanchez also stated, "In the same Journal article, White asserted that the city has not followed the five-year expenditure plan that I referred to earlier. Once again, that is simply not true. In fact, through fiscal 2009, the last year of the five-year plan, the Public Safety Quarter Cent Tax had purchased more than $34 million in public safety equipment, including nine fire engines, six rescue vehicles, one command vehicle, 32 sedans, one brush truck, one SUV and dozens of police vehicles. In addition, the city used Fire Public Safety Tax money to renovate the Fire Academy, to renovate fire stations 2, 15 and 18, and for miscellaneous maintenance and capital equipment." This was simply another one of White's lies.

Sanchez backed up his claim by stating, “It’s important to point out that since the inception of the Public Safety Quarter Cent Tax, the city’s Office of Internal Audit has conducted a management audit and a follow-up audit on the use of the proceeds of the tax. One of the purposes was to determine whether Public Safety Tax dollars were being used in accordance with the law. Both the management audit and the follow-up audit found only minor technical issues, but absolutely no misuse of the funds.”

Kudos to Councilor Sanchez, thank you for educating the public and setting the record straight. Oddly enough, if you or Eye lied the way White does, we would be fired. White lies constantly and nothing is ever done. Maybe fibbing and being a tattletale is truly Darren Whites job because that is all he seems to do. It is no wonder the culture of corruption thrives in the City.

It is time for new leadership. When election time comes, please vote your conscience.