TO THE CONCERN FOR THE GOOD OF THE DEPARTMENT wrote on Jan 25, 2008 10:00 PM:
" After first promising me a phone call to prove that I was innocent and should not have been arrested, then abusing me, after being in a nasty hole for approx. 15 hrs, an elder officer came by, and put a phone in the hole with me, after I'd asked him. The phone did not work for it was not pluged in, so I was able to pull the very long cord into the hole with me. Then another officer came by but ignored me when I mentioned the cord problem to him. Finally I was able to get someone to plug it in for me and they left me alone with it. I then made a number of calls, even calling the Sheriffs Dept. Judges ext. Don't tell me that they are concerned for the good of the department or anyone, innocent or not. I would say that such written down as a record against me. I went to the court house and ended up being directed to the jail house to look for records, But I chose not to go there. "
To Impeach wrote on Jan 8, 2008 10:53 PM:
" No law in IL. allows for that, you idiot! "
johnqpub wrote on Jan 3, 2008 5:49 AM:
" it would be so great to see someone become sheriff who would run the dept with honor and pride and clean it up.
its truely a mess over there "
impeach Tom wrote on Dec 30, 2007 11:08 PM:
" Tom Cundiff needs to be impeached. As the sheriff he has failed to do his duties in providing proper training and enforcing the sheriff's SOP (standard operating procedures manual). This duoble standard for deputies verses the public has gone on way too long. It is time the people of Williamson County to stand up for what is right and get qualified people in office. This would have never happened if he had been doing his job. Tom, where have you been in all of this? These people think they don't have to answer to anyone. The voter's need to show them they do. "
Ex Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 30, 2007 8:54 AM:
" Quote" from Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 29, 2007 4:49 PM:
" To: Ex Correctional Officer, i don't kow how long ago, or what joint you worked at, but if you saw that type of behavior, and didn't report it, that doesn't say much for you. Unquote"
Correctional Officer wrote Quote" Republican nice try, if you would go back and read all the post of what I said you would see I did complain and I did ask why, and if you notice I said I quit because of the corruption with in the system.
This goes on all the time but nothing is done about it as they cover there tracks pretty well. "
concerned wrote on Dec 30, 2007 2:09 AM:
" I had the unpleasant experience being in Wmson Co Jail a few years ago for 1 night. It took me several hours to get my prescription meds after by family brought them up for me. My 17 year old son was in the men's cell block the same night. I was told he was in there with approximately 20 other men, this included men that had committed all kinds of crimes. I was told there were no cameras in there but they were required to do the walk thru, after seeeing the walk thru in the women's section, I knew that he was being completely unsupervised. I was up all night worried to death about him, I almost had a nervous breakdown. The sheriff's office and jail leaves a lot to be desired. "
Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 29, 2007 4:49 PM:
" To: Ex Correctional Officer, i don't kow how long ago, or what joint you worked at, but if you saw that type of behavior, and didn't report it, that doesn't say much for you. If a person in a cell is posing a danger to himself, by attempting suicide, or if that person has thrown, spit, or assaulted staff, of his cellmate, then there are times when use of force is justied for their own protection. as for Brock saying that there were no charges filed, whcih I do not have particulars of the case, or incidents, if Huse were combative or attepmting to harm himself, them force was justified, but if Huse had assaulted anyone then he could be charged criminally with assault, and I do believe that is what Brock was trying to say. As for the civil suits, it does not take as much to win a civil suit, but with that being said inmates have been known in the past to file bogus suits, in the attempt to win money, gain transfers, or even get cruchny peanut-butter.If this person had that much damage, was it self inflicted? Did it involve pre-existing injuries, or was it do to use of force? If the use of force were justified then it will be resolved, if on the other hand excessive force were used, and he posed no threat to himself or others, he will no doubt win his case, and the county will take it on the chin. Still nothing from the Sheriff either way. So Ex-C/O if you are gonna tell stories, then plug in details or better explain the facts. "
Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 29, 2007 4:34 PM:
" Brenda, as for you comment on Cundiff stepping up and saying this is what happened, how can you say that he did the right thing? The right thing would have been not to do it at all. Then it should have been reported immediately to his supervisors. What Cundiff did, was take a deal to keep himself from doing time, for the same thing the others involved got 2-5 years Fed time. He ain't no saint. You need to understand that by the time the FEDS were investigating, and indicting that all were going to get some time, Cundiff rolled, snitched or ratted on his co-horts, and the other goons involved. That makes him no less guilty. It does however, question his integrity, even more so. And whether or not you believe it, he is the Sheriff, and one of those involved is under his authority. Not to mention that the other lawsuits, and jailers/deputies involved are under his supervision. If you are to be a leader,manager, and administrator, then how can someone honestly do that with the same type of discipline in his file. And it also shows lack of leadership as for him, making no comment, either way. Either say "no comment", or "this situation will be handled and I will look into matters",or say that until proven guilty, he will support his deputy, or that this type of abuse of authority will not be tolerated under my watch. He should say something. He has not and that is very peculiar, and shows a true lack of leadership on his part. It is time for some serious changes in our county government. "
Anybody home? wrote on Dec 29, 2007 9:36 AM:
" There is a problem with the new website that kicks comments out claiming hyperlinks when none are present. No good link to point out problems. New site looks good but without the "personal touch" it still needs some tweeking. "
brock wrote on Dec 28, 2007 7:26 AM:
" great new look
good to see the si keeping this story alive and in the public eye "
OLD NEWS wrote on Dec 27, 2007 10:35 AM:
" OLD NEWS, WHO CARES. NEW WEBSITE AND OLD NEWS, TYPICAL SOUTHERN. "
brock wrote on Dec 14, 2007 6:05 AM:
" of course i know that they face no jail time in civil preceedings, still if employees are named over and over and are causing the sheriff's dept grief and money defending them, why would'nt they be suspended and fired if found liable? is it in the best interest of the dept, insurance carrier and other good officers to have to deal with this stigma? does'nt the sheriff want to better his dept, maybe there should be a thorough investigation by an outside agency.after some soul searching, you really can't blame the sheriif as long as he cleans house of the problems, now if he just says there is no problems then he himself is a problem, we'll have to just wait and see i suppose. i'm sure this sction will disapear as soon as some complain and thats a shame since this is our only forum to express our oppinions and concerns_some will not like my outspoken oppinions and i have said these are just my oppinions and we are all entitled to speak our mind even in williamson county "
Brenda wrote on Dec 13, 2007 7:23 PM:
" Guess you missed the point. You’re saying Cundiff should have upheld the Blue Shield and attempted to have an attorney put on a dog and pony show and try to beat the charges? The court records indeed indicate that he was involved, but my point is he was the only one that was willing to say, "yes, I was involved and so were others." The others had the same chance to come clean but tried to beat the charges. I am not naive and have voted Republican for years and was not pleased with some of the Republicans that held that office. Cundiff is not a hero, he is a man who was willing to admit his wrong-doing. Unlike you, I see no honor in covering for other officers and attempting to beat the charges (no pun intended). And concerning the suspension of officers that Huse has accused, this is a civil case and not a criminal case. To file a criminal case, there has to be some evidence...to file a civil case, you only have to pay the fees. The Union would be ready to fight a suspension as a result of a civil case being filed. (By the way, there were over 130 inmate Federal civil suits filed in Illinois this year). Of course it would be nice IF Huse was submitted to "torture" that one of the officers involved would step up and provide information. "
to Brock wrote on Dec 13, 2007 5:07 PM:
" Uhh.. did u know that a civil suit is not a criminal trial? Therefore these individuals will not see any jail or prison time, so they will not see any inhouse punishment either. I thought you knew it all??? "
Ex Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 13, 2007 3:02 PM:
" Let me pose this question, Why is it necessary to subdue someone that is locked in a cell? I have seen this time and again, If an inmate is screaming and hollering in his cell and cussing the guards, what harm is he doing to his self or others? Just where is he going to go or what is he going to do? When I worked in corrections, I would see Officers gassing an inmate in his cell and the white gas was so thick one couldn’t see his hand in front of him and the officers would run in and wrestle an inmate down and I would ask why is this necessary to put his life in danger or the officers life? I suggested that they let him stay there until he got over his little tantrum.
I guess if they would have done what they did and then put him in a straight jacket and would placed him in a padded cell maybe it would have made more sense but that was never done, what was done was this, he would be put in an identical cell and everything in his cell would be inventoried and stored, and many times they would give him a huge shot of Thorazene to make him more docile, and they might keep him on this for year’s.
Then he would be charged with something that would end up getting him more time in that unit or reflect on him and his parole. "
brock wrote on Dec 13, 2007 11:50 AM:
" to brenda_if what you say is firsthand knowledge then that is great. its certainly a good start. i think most people just want to see some sort of
authoritive action taken. if these cameras show the events in question then they will tell the story and i for one will eat my words if they show the officers were as they say just defending themselves. its just hard believing considering all the events of late that this did'nt happen. if there is any question tho , these men should at the very least be suspended just like rinella was untill its proven they are innocent. "
To: Brenda wrote on Dec 13, 2007 11:32 AM:
" You're either naive or your politics have blinded your ability to be objective. Yes, when he was charged with beating prisoners at Stateville, he did tell what happened. But, he didn't snitch because it was the 'right thing to do', he did so to save himself from a lengthy prison sentence. The others involved were each sentenced to 2-5 years in prison. Cundiff would have received the same sentence, but he testified for the federal prosecutor. If you read the court records, you'll see that Cundiff was as responsible for the beatings and acted as viciously as the other guards involved. Please don't portray Cundiff to be some hero for his actions. What he did to the prisoners was cowardly. In 2010, before the next election, we'll be certain that everyone in Williamson County knows exactly what they have for a Sheriff. "
Benda wrote on Dec 13, 2007 9:42 AM:
" As I understand it, many of you feel that the correctional officers should fess up to what they did IF they did anything and take responsibility. There is a reason they may not...Cundiff did just that when things got out of hand at DOC. He was the only one who said "this is what happened". It took guts to admit involvement. I would bet that the supervisors in the jail have spent some long hard hours in his office explaining what happened. It is also my understanding that a battery of cameras and recorders have been installed to monitor both the holding area and the squad rooms...something that the last two Sheriff's have also wanted but could not get funds from the county board to purchase. This Sheriff has also installed recorders in the squad cars that document interaction between officers of suspects...and guess what? When someone comes to court in a nice suit and slick lawyer the judge gets to see what really happened. Cundiff understands that "the buck stops here" and IF someone did violate procedures he will hold them accountable and that includes himself. "
brock wrote on Dec 13, 2007 5:43 AM:
" good job _you need to read what i said again about mike!
my opinion_i don't know if huse was combative
why was the serious charges against huse dismissed
12 broken bone_tasered 10 times over a period of 5 months
was he charged with resisting in each incident? if so where are those charges?
if he was combative where are the charges
i have a problem understanding how a man could be that combative and not be charged
i also have a problem with the same correctional employees being involved in more than one inmate abuse lawsuit.
someone said are they guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and my answer is no but are they probably guily and my answer is yes and in a civil suit thats all it takes. now my oppinion is based upon the fact that williamson county law enforcement has most recently showed a pattern of violence against inmates and citizens and as far as the sheriif goes, i never knew his past until reading about it here abd that just adds fuel to the fire. do you think this problem just developed recently, in most cases a law breaker will continue to break the law until they are caught, don't you agree? some old timers commenting said this has gone on for quite some time, that would give me the impression that the young men in the herrin case pretty much were trained to get their message out that if you mess with cops then we will get
you, this can't be condoned "
To: Good Job wrote on Dec 13, 2007 2:05 AM:
" Are you speaking of the same Sheriff (Cundiff) who has deceived the public about his criminal record and the details of his heinous beatings of prisoners? Even after his staff has been accused of beating prisoners and civilains, he still won't come clean with the people who elected him. "
Good Job wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:24 PM:
" Hey Sympathy...AWESOME!!!! HAHA and to you mr.know it all Brock, read the original story again. Mr. Carruthers had an application in to be an auxiliary officer, not a deputy. And the Sheriff even stated he hadn't even been considered yet. "
brock wrote on Dec 12, 2007 3:57 PM:
" to sympathy ahhh youth.
you can call me names if that makes you feel better. just had coffee and guess what the topic of the day was. there are more people talking about these cases than any story the si ever wrote.
i wonder how mr garnati knew this case would be so big. he must be a very smart man. "
My Opinion wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:46 PM:
" I'm a Police Officer and have been for several years(part of that time was in Williamson County)and I'm very proud of what I do. I further was a Correctional Officer with IDOC for several years prior to that, so I know what it's like working in a correctional setting. First of all, I wouldn't judge too quickly on what happened to Mr. Huse @ the jail. Brock, do you know if he was combative during the times he was tazed? Do you know for a fact that no officers weren't injured by Huse? I haven't read anything from you indicating that you do know. Only that they are "100% guilty" in your opinion. During my course as a C/O, I was assigned to a Tactical Unit that was responsible with removing violent inmates from cells. We had to wear helmets, vests, etc., when we made entry into the cell to restrain the inmate. In almost every case one of us usually got hurt. How do you know this wasn't the case with Huse? Tasers are wonderful tools and usually minimize the risk of injury to everyone but sometimes they are deployed too late in the fight. I seriously doubt that Huse was tazed 10 times on one day when he was in jail for over 5 months. I hope you never get picked for a jury who supposed to look at ALL the facts before deciding guilt. "
To: Whirlwind wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:39 PM:
" Sure to goes way back. You're exactly right. How else could a man be hired as a police officer while he's being prosecuted? I remember when Tom Cundiff was hired by the Herrin Police Department while he was going to court for roughing up inmates at a state prison. If he had not snitched on the other guards he would have went to prison like the other guards did. "
Whirlwind wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:57 PM:
" It's obvious that many of you can't spell correctly - now I'm beginning to wonder if a lot of you can READ at all. The corruption that has taken place in Williamson County goes way back when. You merely have to have the most basic knowledge of what has taken place: in the jail, in the courthouse, in the WCHA and last but hardly least, the whole Barry Kohl fiasco to understand the corruption within [just] these offices in Williamson county. "
Sympathy from Brock wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:59 AM:
" Yes, Brock you should feel sorry for a whole bunch of us...that have to live our lives tolerating idiotic statements and people like you. Since you are so smart, let's see if you can figure out my message when it is stated like this - United Radicals Always Come UNited Together. Being such a smartee, I have no doubt that you can figure it out! "
Ex Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:46 AM:
" Brock, Can you say Mob action? that is the charge the police choose to use when a bunch of teenagers get into a fist fight and the police lock all of them up that are at the fight guilty or not.
so I ask what is the difference now? do they just do this to our children or is the old adage what is good for the goose is also good for the gander apply here? or does the rules change now when police are involved. "
cyanide wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:26 AM:
" to the person saying all of them are being lumped together, if they were there and didnt stop it from happening then they are just as guilty as the officers doing the beatings. even at the least they are guilty of covering it up which maybe not as bad is still cowardly. "
brock wrote on Dec 12, 2007 6:40 AM:
" i said all involved in beating the inmate should go to jail, if others watched and did'nt intervene then they are guilty of covering it up.thats the part i don't understand, why good officers would risk their jobs to back up a few bad ones, i guess out of friendship. the problem i think here is youth and we all know young people can make big mistakes in judgements but you have to ask yourself where did they learn this from. someone in all this there is older personel involved. do you honestly believe all involved will go to trial, my guess is no, some will take a plea bargain and testify against the others when reality sinks in. thats just how it seems to always work.you know the old saying, the first one on the bus gets the best seat.the next sheriff of williamson county will be forced to clean the dept up, most oldtimers reading here knows whats been going on. its time we bring credibility back to law enforcement in williamson county. i ask you why would anyone not want that? carruthers almost became part of law enforcement, take a look at his past and tell me how his hiring could have been justified and who recommended this guy? "
Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:41 PM:
" Yes, Butler does have an office. He is smarter than most involved, but he can no longer practice law. "
To : marionalumni wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:18 PM:
" I wouldn't hire this one. Come on, you really believe that this has merit. THINK ABOUT IT, if the case had merit then an outstanding law firm would be filing this thing. Not some guy sitting in a chair smoking a CIG with NO OFFICE! "
brock wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:14 PM:
" i don't think i'll have to worry about seeing the inside of a prison, i find that people really get mad when deep inside they know your right. now i would guess you are THE TYPE of man that feels very insecure and surrounds yourself with other cowardly types, probably one of the c/o's named in this lawsuit, hows that for a guess? in all honesty i feel sorry for you. "
Brock....Re:Hypocrisy wrote on Dec 11, 2007 5:51 PM:
" Your stance is that based on the evidence that is "PUBLIC" knowledge you are 100% convinced that they are guilty of beating inmates. Let me reiterate then. Do you really believe that the public has anywhere close to all of that so called knowledge? Then you claim that based on their past records and patterns of abuse they ALL deserve to go to prison. Is that right?? All eight of the named defendants? So I assume you are stating as a matter of fact that all eight officers share similar histories and records? All of them? I suggest you dig into that big pile of public knowledge and check your facts before you make statements with such conviction. All eight of them are being mobbed together as if they are one entity and therefore all the same. There's that hypocrisy again...they were all there, so they must be all guilty. As I said before, unless you were there when it took place, you absolutely cannot claim 100%....beyond a reasonable doubt. "
Ex Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:42 PM:
" Mayor Butler evidently does not have an office either as I see him doing paper work all around Marion in restaurants and I see him in other Williamson County cities doing this, but he seems to be getting his Job done.
I think in this day and age with the internet and a lap top and a cell phone it is not necessary to have an office, actually he may be smarter than the States Attorney and other lawyers around.
It seems that the money he would be paying for an office and it's up keep is going into his pocket.
Has anyone ever seen the movie staring Paul Newman as a defense attorney? the name of the movie is the Verdict I would suggest some of you rent that movie and then say reevaluate your statements.
I do feel the officers are guilty from my knowledge of how officers in Williamson county have acted in situations before, however lets not count this lawyer out. "
The Type wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:24 PM:
" Brock is obviously one of those individuals who will spend all his time in prison studying for loopholes in the laws that sent him to prison in the first place. Brock is one who will always defend the criminal as being a victim of society and never hold anyone accountable for their actions. It is obvious that Brock is of a criminal mindset and regards truth and honesty and subjective endeavors and not to be taken into account. This is a very dangerous person as they do not recognize the boundaries and will always find a way to justify their underhanded dealings and methods to take advantage of others with no regard to what is right or wrong. "
marionalumni wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:07 PM:
" do you even know what it takes to become an attorney most attorneys in their first 5 years of practice struggle
to build a practice mr williams is no different and he may surprise you most lawyers won't touch these cases cause they are very hard to win due to the public trust in law enforcement but seeing the recent outcry against some, i don't think mr williams will even have to argue these cases as most likely they will be settled on the side lines and guess what we will never know the outcomes cause they will be confidential. be careful how you downgrade attorneys someday you just may need one. "
Where's Tom? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:28 PM:
" Well, more charges against Cundiff's Deputy and the other officers involved in the alleged beatings, and still no sign of Sheriff Tom. This is just one example of how Cundiff's federal conviction for beating inmates is crippling his ability to serve as Sheriff. "
Can't Believe It wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:13 PM:
" I went to the hugh Williams Law Firm Web Site. OMG he really doesn't have an office, is this guy even really an attorney? I have to wonder why a more prestigous attorney doesn't take these cases. Maybe there isn't anything to the claims so the only attorney willing to get involved is just a sleazy reptile! Hey Mr. Williams (and Richard Whitney) been chasing any ambulances lately? Oh that's right, Mr. Whitney isn't allowed to chase ambulances anymore, now he just has Mr. Williams chase them for him. "
brock wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:46 AM:
" to the one that wrote to brock.
i might respect your authority out of respect but never by threats or fear.
and you will respect me for the same reasons i'm sure.
you can bully some but not all.
i can assure you i will stay on top of this story and type whatever i dig up
on these corrupt cowards. of course they look pretty good at digging their own holes. yes based on the evidence that is public knowledge i am 100% convinced they are guilty of beating inmates, based on their records and patterns of abuse and i hope for the sake of the future of law enforcement that these men are sent to prison where they belong. "
Been In wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:22 AM:
" I my self have been in Williamson County jail over a unpaid traffic ticket and NEVER was treated bad. If you give respect you get respect. I never gave them lip or caused a problem and I was treated good by the jailers and police. You treat them like you want to be treated and you will not have a problem. This guy disarmed a police officer so it is clear cut he was the problem in the jail not the jailers.
"
Mystery wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:41 AM:
" In all sense you lose alot of rights in jail. Getting beat and harrased is not suppose to happen. But sometimes people cry alot and want to be heard, so they hire an expensive lawyer and go SUE CRAZY. If your cooking at a restraunt and someone orders a special their way, you make them their "special order". When a prisoner is out of control, the guards must put him in control out of safety of everyone(guards, prisoners, etc...). What if the guards didn't care what this man did in jail and left him alone. Sooner or later, he's going to piss off the wrong person and not make it out except on a stretcher. Everything shall be decided in a court of law, not the people's court like this blog likes to play. Thank you and have a good day "
2 Brock wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:34 AM:
" I can only hope that I get the pleasure to meet you in a professional setting some day. You WILL respect MY authority!! "
Hypocrisy....... wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:00 AM:
" Wow!I have just read this article for the first time, and then read every comment posted thereafter.Do any of you have ANY personal stake in this case? Do you have all the evidence that will be presented to a "Real Jury" if and when this goes to trial?Because if you don't have ALL the evidence you are just as guilty for pre-judging the guards as you cry out for others not to judge these criminals before the fact! Just another form of the blatant hypocricy that is so prevalent in SO IL, especially in Wmson County! Anyone who has lived here most of their lives,especially in Herrin and Energy knows what I'm talking about. Some have been on the other end; prosecuted, etc.; and then watch the same behavior repeated by thesw officers.Whether it's Herrin,Energy,County,State or yes...much higher up the foodchain. They all fall under the same umbrella so to speak. Oh Yes! The good old boys club is very much alive and well. By attesting to that I sympathize with the view of corruption in our local Govmt. HAVING SAID THAT, My point remains: Unless you have presided over all the evidence on BOTH sides you have no right to judge the plantiff or the defendants. Noone knows incontestably what took place. All you have is conjecture and supposition. What if one of them was someone close to you? One of them is to me!!Want change? Try VOTING! Last I checked, it was Sherriff and S.A,Elect!! "
Attorney wrote on Dec 11, 2007 6:46 AM:
" Go to Hugh Williams Web Page. The guy doesn't even have an office! It says I make house calls, No Kidding, without an office, I guess you could meet him in a parking lot!! What a joke! "
2 Ha wrote on Dec 10, 2007 8:34 PM:
" Yeah, I can well imagine that being a Mall Cop has it moments when it isn't a glamorous as it appears. Maybe if you work real hard, you might make meter patrol!! "
brock wrote on Dec 10, 2007 7:00 PM:
" ha__are you God cause the last i heard was it was God's job to judge us humans
thats the problems here, remember back in the 60's when a long haired person was dubbed a hippie or a druggie, never judge a person by their cover cause they might surprise you and be a scientist or someone great. so you think people that makes mistakes in life are lowlifes, well what does that make these cops you seem to be defending? "
Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 10, 2007 6:41 PM:
" RE: HA, Stop crying about your job. Do you job. Do you know what your job is? I seriously doubt if it involves corporal punishment. How is it hard to convey that some criminals are scum. What is so hard about your job in law enforcement that would make you want to break the law, or sympathize with those who do? I can assure you that unless you are a judge, it is not your job to impose a sentence, or anything on an offender. Remember that when you get down to the level of the dirtbags you are supposed to be watching, then you have become a dirtbag yourself. Sure it is frustrating, to see things occur, but there will come a day when everyone shall be judged, and until then Bro. just do your job. Now C/O can I get another roll of toilet paper? "
HA... wrote on Dec 10, 2007 3:27 PM:
" I think that I might not have done as good of a job communicating as I would have liked. I didn't mean to come across so crass. It does get very frustrating when dealing with some of the lowest forms of the human spirit and then to see those same people able to receive a light sentence or never get punished for their crime. It is equally frustrating to see good, good people with honorable names and integrity have to defend themselves against those who lie and cheat and think nothing of ruining lives. I'm sure everyone would sing a different tune if they could just see some of these criminals walk when they were guilty as ever but it wasn't something that could be translated into a courtroom...or the lawyers got into the mix and compromised the effort of everyone involved. If only you could spend some time in my shoes!! "
idiot with an opinion wrote on Dec 10, 2007 1:48 PM:
" Remember the story of the Hurricane? "
Middle Ground wrote on Dec 10, 2007 9:59 AM:
" First off, I think it's important to realize that not every cop/police officer/law enforcement agent is a bad person. In fact, the majority of those who work in the law enforcement field are great individuals who serve the public's best interest. I think it's easy to criticize and knock those who work in law enforcement, but unless you have walked a day in their shoes, you have no idea the constant stress and pressure they face. However, having said all of that, I have observed over the years that the Southern Illinois region has its fair share of corrupt and cruel law enforcement employees (sheriffs, sheriff deputies, city/town police officers, jail/prison employees). Many of these "bad apples" simply enjoy abusing what little power they have been granted. Now, I understand and realize that these types of people are everywhere. These problems are not unique to Southern Illinois. I understand that. But, it has become obvious to me that this area has a problem when it comes to law enforcement officials abusing their power on a regular basis. And I think it's high time that the local media and local residents "call out" our elected sheriffs and appointed police chiefs and make it clear that this type of behavior is unacceptable and only makes our area look bad. "
cyanide wrote on Dec 10, 2007 7:33 AM:
" to mother i agree some ppl do deserve to be there but there are also ppl there that have made simple mistakes and deserve to pay their debt to society and move on but with police like this how is that goin to happen? ive been falsly harrassed on numerous occasion just for the way i look and have been made suspect in crimes because im in the area. before the question is raised no ive never spent a single second in jail. i was arrested once and taken home because of a curfew violation and that is the extent of my criminal history. "
An Officer Also wrote on Dec 10, 2007 7:25 AM:
" My only comment is to (HA). Your comments are disturbing and shameful to anyone who wears the badge and uniform I proudly wear. We took an oath to present the facts and to the best of our ability, bring forth the facts for the courts to decide. I don't ever have to worry about lieing for my brothers and sisters in blue. Because those I work with are always above board! And if they did make a bad judgement call they would be the first to stand up and admit it outright. I don't beleive you are a bad officer but your comment is all wrong, and if you feel that way you are in the wrong line of work. This is the kind of thinking that gives real law enforcement a bad name. This is why the general public has such distrust for law enforcement. Go back to watching the re-runs of the "Sheild", but don't take on the shows good cop, bad cop theme for real life. Carry On! "
Mike wrote on Dec 10, 2007 12:29 AM:
" There's nothing worse than an idiot with an opinion.
Don't you people have anything better to do than argue over whether or not some kiddie rapist got beat while incarcerated. "
brock wrote on Dec 9, 2007 7:59 AM:
" face it people this is big news and concerns us all.now there are new charges in the wynn case and i bet this is'nt the end and there will be indictments in these other men's claims.
at the least a grand jury should take a close look at the goings on at the county jail.there are just to many people telling the same story about the same men, i'm sure these people don't know each other so how could they all pretty much tell the same story. rinella trying to set wynn up will mean all cases he has filed will have to be looked at.once a corrupt officer always a corrupt officer and trying to send an innocent man to jail on false charges just goes to show that there may be innocent men in prison right now as a result of rinella's corruption. wow look at the evidence they have against these men and you wonder why this story is so big.this is cnn / msnbc material and i bet it won't be long before you see it there. my hat goes off to mr garnati and the si (beth) for staying on top of this.i think its about time for the sheriff to speak up about all these allegations. "
Lop Sided wrote on Dec 8, 2007 8:01 PM:
" Boy the Southern sure picks what blogs they want to put on. I know many positive ones that have not been posted. It's all about selling papers to the Southern. What a shame! "
Hawkmon wrote on Dec 8, 2007 7:42 AM:
" You know.....if it were a friend incarcerated, the police and chief would be bringing him surf and turf at the cost of tax payers instead of beating him and hurting him. But, that wouldn't happen. Friends of the police and chief do no wrong so wouldn't be in jail. "
To Gerri wrote on Dec 7, 2007 9:19 PM:
" Yet they are the ones you call to raise your kids, clean up your messes and counsel your marriage! Most of you couldn't do the job anyway! "
a mother wrote on Dec 7, 2007 8:38 PM:
" to cyanide neither one of us were there and we don't know the circumstances surrounding his arrest. I'm sure there was some basis and surely you would agree. Not every person that goes to jail deserves it, but they did not get there for no reason. Something happened for the police to be called in the first place. What about all the people that have been let out of jail just to go back in for the same offense if not somehting more severe? In a perfect world none of this would have happened. We all know that is not where we live though. All we can do now is hopow for the best outcome for everyone and pray we don't have to call the police any time soon. "
gerri wrote on Dec 7, 2007 6:32 PM:
" sure is sad to see what our law enforcement has come to "
Williamson Republican wrote on Dec 7, 2007 5:56 PM:
" RE: Badge.. So you think there is no steel curtian? Why would they tech this in sociology classes, and Administration of Justice clases. So Hollywood is to blame? Well at least i do agree with you that it is unprofessional to use excessive force. I wonder if the WCSD has an Internal Affirs Department? What is the grievance process like for those in jail. Why is it so hard to get Deputies to take a statement, or file a complaint at the office? There are several problems at the SD. And with those problems you can only blame mangament. Also to the earlier post that was about patronage, the WCSD has a Merit Board that was instituted long ago, to help level the playing field. "
cyanide wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:00 PM:
" to a mother: u say that noone has ever gone to jail for no reason huh? so how do u explain all the prisons that have been let go because of evidence surfacing after they have already been convicted? how many ppl in the past decade or so have been released because of the advancement of dna test? are u sayin that those ppl are still guilty and should still serve the sentence handed to them? that was just an insane statement by u and maybe u should really rethink it. "
brock wrote on Dec 7, 2007 3:50 PM:
" badge, i commend you for making that statement as an honored police officer.
just remember mr ha ha cop that lieing to a federal officer during a federal investigation can get you up to 30 years in a federal prison. just ask martha or barry. if you are the voice of the police then heaven help us all.
i just wonder how many have lied to the fbi agent investigating this? if i ever have to call the police, i will call the state police as after your statement i won't trust the police of williamson county. of course there are instance when you have to use force and i agree with you, you have that right. but it seems like you have decided that it is okay to beat and taser prisoners at your whim. you bad officers are nothing more than cowards with badges with mental health problems so take a tip from a good guy and resign and get help. "
Badge wrote on Dec 7, 2007 2:16 PM:
" It is the comments like those posted by HA that really get my goat. I grew up in Southern Illinois, proudly served in the US military and now proudly serve as a police officer in a major US city. In my experience most officers are committed to doing the right thing. This "Blue Wall of Silence" is mostly a creation of Hollywood used to make good story plots. If "HA" and his buddies are willing to take justice into their own hands and then lie about it then they are no better than the persons that they assault. HA there is a thing called the US Constitution and I believe it still applies in Southern Illinois. Its that document you swore to uphold. Don't get me wrong there are times when things escalate and force in needed to execute an arrest; but, HA your mindset is not that of a professional police officer and you need to rethink if maybe you are not cut out for this job. Please do not purport to represent police officers and then turn around and say you would lie to get a conviction or hide the actions of another officer. Your comments have made you the laughing stock of the law enforcement community. As one brother in blue to another --Do the right thing not the easy thing, becasue if we don't do the right thing, who will.
"
To: HA.... wrote on Dec 7, 2007 1:44 PM:
" Your comments are a weak, transparent attempt to create distrust in our police officers and discontent among the residents of Williamson County by portraying yourself as a rogue cop. Yes, three young men made a terrible mistake. Yes, our Sheriff has a conviction for beating inmates and should never be in-charge of a jail. However, the great majority of the officers throughout the county are terrific people, fair, and compassionate. "
lacky wrote on Dec 7, 2007 12:44 PM:
" Old Tom Cundiff has been beating people for years, or turning a blind eye to it. Someone needs to research a bit of Herrin Hx here. Tom doesn't care, nor do any of his fellow officer's. Least of all does Chuck G. Chuck will go thru the motions, but deep down inside, we all know where this is going. As for the idiots that were beaten....they probably have less common sense than God gave a goose. They too were "losers" on the opposite end of the spectrum. More than likely they were drunks, pedphiles, and/or drug addicts, so I have even less sympathy for them. What a sad world we live in these days. "
HA... wrote on Dec 7, 2007 11:02 AM:
" I have to back my brothers in blue. We are a family and we will stick together no matter what. When you are out there putting your life on the line, then you will do anything for those who have your back. So, yes, I would lie if it meant putting a criminal in jail and keeping those who work with me out of court or jail. It comes down to this...good is good regardless of how you get there and a criminal is a criminal regardless of how they are convicted. To me, any means necessary in order to get the charges to stick on a guilty criminal is justified and any means necessary to protect the good guys so they can go back out there and bust the bad guys. "
Response to 2 Officers wrote on Dec 7, 2007 10:15 AM:
" I am not a police officer but I am willing to guess because of your attitude that you or someone close to you has called the police before. It sounds to me that because of a bad outcome you now hold all police officers at fault, how sad. You are saying that "I'd rather take care of it myself" Is that not what the officers are being charged with. Handling a situation themselves and not acting as police officers. Why is it that in your eyes, What is good for you the GOOSE (you), is not good for the GANDER (police officers)? It also amazes me that people are spouting off about prejudging those that were incarcerated and yet is that not what they are doing to the police and correctional staff. Maybe we all need to take a step back and look at our own actions before judging anothers. "
dah! wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:42 AM:
" You know it all comes down to two things
1. Don't do anything to get the police called in the first place.
2. Don't fight with the police when they get there. Sooner or later they will have enough help to kick your butt and take you to jail.. "
brock wrote on Dec 7, 2007 4:29 AM:
" ha you start by acknowledging these acts happened, then go on to defend them. i think thats the problem. everyone is aware of the blue code of silence. let me ask you this would you lie for these men if called to testify
in federal court. i'm curious if officers would risk their careers and freedom for as you say a few bad officers. if these men are proven to have committed these acts would you still back them. when will the good officers of williamson county say enough is enough. we've heard all the hype about cundiff snitching out fellow officers and then becoming sheriff so where was his silence. how many crimes has went unreported out of fear since these officers did all this? lets look at this in another way, when you commit these acts in the jail, you pull good officers off the street to assist you,that leaves the public at risk. you would have thought by now the good officers would have took a stand against the bad ones but maybe this problem is bigger than we think, maybe there are more involved than has been shown so far. maybe our next sheriff will be one of the good officers that says enough is enough, now thats a thought. what is an inmate, it could be your mother_father sister_brother_son_daughter_friends
as clint, kyle, kyle, mike, casey, justin have found out! "
a mother wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:04 PM:
" to truth: I did not prejudge. Nobody goes to jail for no reason. Something had to have happened for him to be there. I in no way am judging him or his character. I do not know him.
to the response made to me at 12:58 am on Dec. 6: What??!! No. 1 tom Cundiff is not my sheriff. No. 2 are you asking a question or making a statement? "
HA... wrote on Dec 6, 2007 7:02 PM:
" Once again, not all officers are like these you are hearing about. They ALL go to work daily and put their lives in jeopardy to deal with druggies, drunks, etc.. I am so tired of hearing about the poor pitiful inmates. I know for a fact that several officers were injured by this guy. Also for 2 officers... go ahead and take matters into your own hands because nothing will probably happen to you. AND if you ever need help.. don't bother calling the police, call Mr. garnati and wake him up to come and help you. "
Ex Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:36 PM:
" The first step to a dictatorship is the local government controlling the presses, what happened to the Garnati story? "
TRUTH wrote on Dec 6, 2007 11:32 AM:
" to a mother: please take your own advise as you prejudge this man as being gulity yourself. Did you ever stop to think he was innocent and that is why the S/A office dropped all the charges. When you get a defendant usually lying they don't want to come forward because they know they would be caught in thier lies. I do agree that one day we all do pay for our sins. You said you will make it known about your DAUGHTER seems like they don't care male or female youre going to get abused there. As i stated before contact the FBI in springfield. Don't talk about it. Take action! It is typically in these cases that they never get heard from victims because they don't know who to turn too. As for as lawyers they don't like to handle these cases becuase of the time frame it takes the dept. of justice to deal with it. IE 4 to 5 years. I think its going to take a dead body before they decided to act in this matter and that is sad to say. The question is, is it going to be your son or daughter!!!! THINK ABOUT THAT ONE. "
2 Officers wrote on Dec 6, 2007 9:05 AM:
" Most cops are sadistic in nature as they actually enjoy hurting others and being the one to give people a difficult time. Therefore, we should not have ANY sympathy for these clowns as they are going to get what they deserve. Things will only change once we have had enough of their act and demand that they tone down their school yard ways. I don't have any sympathy for any cops as they all deserve any heartache that they receive...and then some!! If it were up to me, I'd be for each and every one of us protecting ourselves as I don't need anyone telling me what is right and what is wrong. If someone does me wrong, I'd rather take care of it myself. "
cyanide wrote on Dec 6, 2007 8:43 AM:
" all this does is show more corruption in so ill. just like last august when fines were paid on the spot huh? its gettin hard to defend your wonderful police for now isnt it? "
Real Life wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:22 AM:
" Funny how the other board was reduced to just a few comments and NOW has been taken off the most commented list on the front page?
I guess when you have high dollar advertiser's that don't like the subject matter and are politically connected , a phone call will take care of the matter!
Again , another example of the dollar determining the news, how sad! "
brock wrote on Dec 6, 2007 6:18 AM:
" amen to a mother well spoken
to wunderful_when i read your first comment i detected something especially
the part about jail not being a motel.
you did'nt sound to compassionate. you know beating non resisting prisoners is a crime no matter what they are charged with_that being said i am sorry if i offended you_i have no anger just concern. i assure you NONAME i am no idiot. i am well educated and will always be on the side of justice, and by the way i have never been in the williamson county jail. i'm sure this comment section will disappear soon but maybe the concerns of many will be remembered. everyone has the right to comment and state their oppinions whether it be negative or positive toward either side, people that find themselves in the williamson county jail and are found guilty of a crime should be punished by the law statutes not the law officers that we pay to protect us, obviously something went terribly wrong here and now these men that this happened to should be made whole again whether it be in the form of money or their minds. if this sort of police abuse ends then the people of williamson county win. life is short and someday a lie will never leave you.
god bless (((((((((((((all)))))))))))) "
To: A Mother wrote on Dec 6, 2007 12:58 AM:
" Your Sheriff, Tom Cundiff, was convicted of beating prisoners? How does that make you feel? Are you confident that he can control his officers? He's proven that he can't control himself. "
a mother wrote on Dec 5, 2007 9:46 PM:
" Wow! What is wrong with you people? This has nothing to do with Republican or Democrat. It has to do with right and wrong. Huse did wrong and so did the officers! Two wrongs do not make a right. My daughter was also mistreated in that jail and I will make it known. Let it be known, not for the money either! It was a great embarrassment and wrong on her part for her to even be there, but that does not give them the right to add insult to injury. You can all sit in your homes and pass judgement but what you need to do is put yourself in the other persons place. No matter how serious or petty the crime, another human does not have the right to put their hands on you. Period!!! Maybe that is what is wrong with the world today. If you or one of your loved ones experienced something like this you would want the other person to stand up and be held accountable for their actions, wouldn't you? I think you would. So, don't be so quick to judge. We will all pay for our actions one day in one way or another. But, it shouldn't be from the people who are paid to Serve and Protect us. Not beat us and judge us. "
Brock is an idiot wrote on Dec 5, 2007 8:11 PM:
" Brock, it sure sounds like you have some fear in your comments, maybe if you obeyed the law you could relax a little. By the way, kudos on deciding the guilt of these officers without all the facts. Good thing you aren't a judge- talk about corruption, guilty until proven innocent!?!? "
Wunderfull wrote on Dec 5, 2007 7:13 PM:
" I believe that a taser is only to be used in a jail if force is necessary. I also still believe it is much better than breaking someones bones, or throwing them against something. I don't think people should harm other people, but I do think they should have the right to protect themselves. How dare you assume, Brock, that I am not compassionate. You also assumed I am a female. I have never supported the use of physical violence to solve any problem. I work in a surgical setting, and have personally NEVER saw or heard any abuse to the freedom impaired individuals I have taken care of. Everyone in my care is treated with respect, and without prejudice. Brock, sounds like you need anger management! "
brock wrote on Dec 5, 2007 5:51 PM:
" thats a stupid thing to say and just goes to show how bad the situation is.
like you hav'nt broken the law at some time. oh excuse me i forget you guys don't pull over each other.its so obvious where some of these comments are coming from. "
Real Life wrote on Dec 5, 2007 3:38 PM:
" This is easy:Don't break the Law,Then you won't go to Jail, Then you don't have anything to worry about! How about some of you try that for a change in life! Oh and those that don't listen, WAAAAA !! "
brock wrote on Dec 5, 2007 1:42 PM:
" you heard it straight from a correctional officers mouth, from the wife of an officer, lets see you heard from a nurse that she supports abuse if a man is in jail_these officers want you to believe this man threw his body around enough to break 12 bones, unbelievable. heres the thing what does the original police report say?
what will the doctors say? i think the tide in williamson county is changing.
given the fact that all these incidents are related in one way or another, i don't see any jury member not believing these beatings did take place, i am now 100% convinced these beatings at the hands of officers/jailers did indeed take place.
i don't see how any reasonable person can say it did'nt happen. lets looks at this case, over a period of 5 months this man threw himself against walls_floors etc broke 12 bones
was in severe pain but yet was combative still and had to be tasered
10 times. after all this the charges are dropped but this man still contacts the fbi knowing that he was at fault_does that make any sense? no of course not. it does make sense for all involved to cover something this severe up or at least try to.there is some smart people in southern illinois
and if you think they buy this garbage you are so wrong. they should print these comments in the sunday paper.
people need to be aware of this. "
Truth wrote on Dec 5, 2007 12:56 PM:
" To Mr.Nurse & isolated case if you got knowledge of a beating then contact the FBI in springfield in this matter. Let justice pervail. We all know williamson county has far been corrupt, Take a stand and report it, once you call i'm sure then will direct you to the person investigating these cases. This county has got charges pending from the mayor on down to even the housing authority. Sounds like another BLOODY WILLiAMSON in the making. As for "isolated" contact Hugh williams maybe he'll take the case for free. My question is why hasn't the federal court in benton started a grand jury investigation into all these lawsuits coming there way. Yes, there was several cases that was submitted against the nurse there not providing medical treatment to numerous people to the FBI. "
Correctional Officer wrote on Dec 5, 2007 11:28 AM:
" Williamson Republ
