Pubdate: Wed, 29 Sep 2004
Source: Leaf-Chronicle, The (US TN)
Copyright: 2004, The Leaf-Chronicle
Contact:  http://www.theleafchronicle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1601
Author: Richard Brewster Sr.
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n1312/a03.html

POLICE VIOLATED CIVIL RIGHTS IN RAID ON THE WRONG HOME

There is no excuse for the home invasion conducted by the police
department.

The warrant was for another home. Based entirely on that evidence
means the officers violated the civil rights of a citizen and were
guilty of criminal home invasion and criminal assault for kicking a
sick, deaf man to the floor.

Why anyone would make an excuse or try to minimize what occurred is
beyond explanation. I think those guilty of the home invasion and
assault need to be brought up on charges.

Factors bearing on the case as presented in article:

a. Police did not know of the illegal conduct; informant had to tell
them.

b. They obviously spent no time investigating or even locating the
residence. Therefore, the plan used on the raid was doomed from the
beginning.

c. Blanket raid warrants need to be verified by someone. This is not
the first time this happened. Saying "I am sorry, and we will make it
right" does not fix the problem. For training, watch "Cops" on TV!

d. I also think the department personnel have built so many barriers
from the public, there is little or no contact. You want proof, go
down and try to give them some information. You will never get to see
anyone but a clerk, who makes excuses for the officers.

Sad part is, if and when they screw up and break the law themselves,
destroy property and assault citizens, we the taxpayers have to bail
them out. Just raise taxes.

Let's clean out the department. Bring the home invaders up on
charges.

Then, maybe, planning, observation and coordination will replace the
"I'm sorry."

Richard Brewster Sr.

Clarksville
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin