After all the recent news on corruption taking place in various law enforcement agencies, someone actually thinks its OK... Why has no local (Sun or Herald) made mention of this news story?
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Ex-city marshal hopes to return (with DOCUMENT)
Comments 16 | Recommend 3
Ray Burgess, who left office in 2005, is 1 of 3 candidates in April 14 election
March 15, 2009 - 10:03 PM
Andrew Gant
Daily News
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS - Ray "Buddy" Burgess, a former city marshal who retired under ethics complaints and criminal charges for falsifying documents, is trying to reclaim the office that has been vacant since Mike Adkinson became Walton County sheriff in January.
If he wins the April 14 marshal's election, Burgess would return to law enforcement more than three years after he lost his police certification, paid thousands of dollars in fines and faced censure and reprimand from the state Commission on Ethics.
"People are going to make their choices," he said Saturday. "Most people know me ... The circumstances, they're not just plain black and white."
Burgess faces two opponents: Police Capt. Mark A. Weeks, the acting supervisor at the DeFuniak Springs Police Department, and Walton County Sheriff's Deputy Jimmy Macon, who ran for sheriff last year.
Burgess pleaded no contest in 2005 to charges that, as city marshal, he falsified documents to help a Walton sheriff's deputy avoid re-certification testing. One of Burgess' employees quit under pressure to help him.
He retired after the first-degree misdemeanor plea. Gov. Charlie Crist last year ordered Burgess to pay $3,500 in civil penalties.
The ethics commission also found probable cause to believe Burgess enlisted a police officer to report fraudulent overtime hours so the officer could receive more pay and kick back the money to Burgess.
Burgess still denies those allegations. They were dropped from his civil punishment, according to ethics commission spokeswoman Kerrie Stillman.
On Saturday, Burgess said he invites residents to call him if they have questions about his past.
"I'll give them my side of the story and they can make their own conclusions," he said, adding that he's taken responsibility for the falsifications "to help a fellow law officer."
Weeks and Macon did not immediately return phone calls seeking comment.
Replies
54
Beach Fanatic
Maybe Pete's focus in this thread was the local newspaper, and it's lack (in Panama Pete's view, I don't have enough information to have an opinion on that subject) of coverage of the issue. The media issue seems pertinent to the SoWal community, imho.
SoWal Expert
The Herald covered the Burgess story in-depth as it transpired and I expect a recap to be assigned as the city election draws closer. Not to sound gruff, most everyone in Dfs that gets to vote are well aware of this issue.
Doesn't seem they are ignoring it at all.
Beach Fanatic
Hmmm....I was not getting any play on this on the Tampa Bay blogs either. I wonder if that is why.
lol...but hey, you never know. Over the weekend I had a reminder of just how small this county actually is.
Beach ComberAuthor
Clairify
Let me clairify for U. The Herald did report on Burgess being removed from Office years ago. The only reported on the fact that he was found guilty of the ethics violation surrounding the fraud, altering the FDLE Document. No recent articles have been reported, this would seem to me like timly news as a man Removed From Office by The Governor is running for the same position, again.
What they failed to report, and continue to fail to report, is that the Ethics Commission found Probable Cause and Cited Ray Burgess for also elisting an employee to submit false over time slips, thus paying the employee for false OT. The money was then reported to be given to Burgess by said employee. This is all documented in the Ethics Report, any news agency worth their salt can find this. Hell, NWFL Daily found it, probably because it is just what Charlie Morris was doing.... I am certain that most DFS Residents do not know about this. If they do, they must condone it as several have signs in their yards for Burgess.
I am very disapointed in the Herald for its failure to report news with regards to this candidate. Ray Burgess is a criminal. He has no business in public office, let alone a law enforcement position. It is the duty of the paper to educate the citizens in matters such as this. It is not their duty to stand by idle and wait for candidates to purchase ads and generate revenue. Burgess has zero qualifications and he is not even a certified law enforcement officer. Does no one else see this? Or do you just not care?
Doesn't seem they are ignoring it at all.
Let me clairify for U. The Herald did report on Burgess being removed from Office years ago. The only reported on the fact that he was found guilty of the ethics violation surrounding the fraud, altering the FDLE Document. No recent articles have been reported, this would seem to me like timly news as a man Removed From Office by The Governor is running for the same position, again.
What they failed to report, and continue to fail to report, is that the Ethics Commission found Probable Cause and Cited Ray Burgess for also elisting an employee to submit false over time slips, thus paying the employee for false OT. The money was then reported to be given to Burgess by said employee. This is all documented in the Ethics Report, any news agency worth their salt can find this. Hell, NWFL Daily found it, probably because it is just what Charlie Morris was doing.... I am certain that most DFS Residents do not know about this. If they do, they must condone it as several have signs in their yards for Burgess.
I am very disapointed in the Herald for its failure to report news with regards to this candidate. Ray Burgess is a criminal. He has no business in public office, let alone a law enforcement position. It is the duty of the paper to educate the citizens in matters such as this. It is not their duty to stand by idle and wait for candidates to purchase ads and generate revenue. Burgess has zero qualifications and he is not even a certified law enforcement officer. Does no one else see this? Or do you just not care?
Beach Fanatic
summary
You seem to have hit the mark. But, in addition, here is a quick summary for you.
A few years ago, then City Marshal, Ray Burgess, got caught in an act of dishonesty, unethical behavior. A brave whistle blower (admin.) and wife of a WCSO Supervisor, brought forward charges that Burgess was operating in an unethical manner. (It should be noted that it is common knowledge that prior to this current DFS Leadership, the DFS PD was quite the laughing stock of law enforcement. Remember, the child molester caught on MSMBC "to catch a predator". He had worked there along with other "questionable" officers. As I understand, they are gone now.)
Anyway, Burgess was investigated and removed from office by the Governor, Charlie Crist. An FDLE Agent was also relieved of his duties with the State over the activity (altering a State Document). Most people know of the altering situation, but they do not know about the other incident investigated and ruled on by the Ethics Commission. That is what is of interest. Burgess was also found to have had an employee (unk) falsify overtime sheets, thus, getting false overtime checks (this is theft of public funds people). The money was then pocketed by Burgess. I think this is the point the papers have failed to report. They did print articles years ago, but now, here is the election and citizens have a right to be informed. I do not know why the paper chooses not to run a story, maybe they will. THEY (HERALD) CHOSE TO RUN A NEGATIVE AD AGAINST TOM COOPER IN THE SHERIFFS ELECTION. THAT STORY WAS NOTHING COMPARED TO BURGESS'...;-)
What is interesting is that these Ethics Violations, Burgess' arrest and subsquent plea deal are factual and public record. Not rumor like the various DUI's bought off with several thousand dollars, arrest warrants that vanished, shady handling of evidence (weapons, drugs) and the various other horror stories that come out of the previous Burgess Tenure.
The other interesting fact is that Burgess no longer has his Florida State Law Enforcement Certification, required by law to be a law enforcement officer. How can he be the Chief of Police? I have heard that his is "a nice guy", so maybe he is qualified.
w
Maybe Pete's focus in this thread was the local newspaper, and it's lack (in Panama Pete's view, I don't have enough information to have an opinion on that subject) of coverage of the issue. The media issue seems pertinent to the SoWal community, imho.
You seem to have hit the mark. But, in addition, here is a quick summary for you.
A few years ago, then City Marshal, Ray Burgess, got caught in an act of dishonesty, unethical behavior. A brave whistle blower (admin.) and wife of a WCSO Supervisor, brought forward charges that Burgess was operating in an unethical manner. (It should be noted that it is common knowledge that prior to this current DFS Leadership, the DFS PD was quite the laughing stock of law enforcement. Remember, the child molester caught on MSMBC "to catch a predator". He had worked there along with other "questionable" officers. As I understand, they are gone now.)
Anyway, Burgess was investigated and removed from office by the Governor, Charlie Crist. An FDLE Agent was also relieved of his duties with the State over the activity (altering a State Document). Most people know of the altering situation, but they do not know about the other incident investigated and ruled on by the Ethics Commission. That is what is of interest. Burgess was also found to have had an employee (unk) falsify overtime sheets, thus, getting false overtime checks (this is theft of public funds people). The money was then pocketed by Burgess. I think this is the point the papers have failed to report. They did print articles years ago, but now, here is the election and citizens have a right to be informed. I do not know why the paper chooses not to run a story, maybe they will. THEY (HERALD) CHOSE TO RUN A NEGATIVE AD AGAINST TOM COOPER IN THE SHERIFFS ELECTION. THAT STORY WAS NOTHING COMPARED TO BURGESS'...;-)
What is interesting is that these Ethics Violations, Burgess' arrest and subsquent plea deal are factual and public record. Not rumor like the various DUI's bought off with several thousand dollars, arrest warrants that vanished, shady handling of evidence (weapons, drugs) and the various other horror stories that come out of the previous Burgess Tenure.
The other interesting fact is that Burgess no longer has his Florida State Law Enforcement Certification, required by law to be a law enforcement officer. How can he be the Chief of Police? I have heard that his is "a nice guy", so maybe he is qualified.
w
Beach Fanatic
Correction
I must correct myself. In my last post, I cited that the Herald reported negatively on T. Cooper in the last Sheriff's Election, that was misinformation, it was the SUN, another local paper, that ran the ariticle, which also has yet to report the FACTS on this Burgess Character.
My appology to the Herald. I am hoping they will cover this story indepth.
w
I must correct myself. In my last post, I cited that the Herald reported negatively on T. Cooper in the last Sheriff's Election, that was misinformation, it was the SUN, another local paper, that ran the ariticle, which also has yet to report the FACTS on this Burgess Character.
My appology to the Herald. I am hoping they will cover this story indepth.
w
Beach Crab
Ray made an error in judgement, but I wouldn't call him corupt. He made a mistake, he admitted it, and now he wants another chance. I see nothing wrong with him running again.
He was a very popular Chief, and I suspect he probably will be again.;-)
He just didn't make an error. Fraud is fraud.
Beach Lover
Who cares
Why do you have your panties in such a wad over Ray running? It's real simple if you live in the city vote against him. If you don't get over it.
I don't live in the city, therefore I can't vote one way or the other. I will say that I know Ray and think he'll do a fine job if he gets elected.
I'll also say that if Mark gets elected he'll do a fine job. I don't really care one way or the other, but I think you have an alterior motive in why you're crying so much about Ray running.
It's simple......he qualified to run, therefore he can. If you don't like it, vote against him, otherwise get a life.
Does anyone care that a criminal is running for the Chief of Police in DFS? Do you? We just got rid of a terrible sheriff last year. Morris is arrested on federal charges and you all want to banter about where a proper forum is to discuss Ray Burgess and his lack of ability, integrity and morals.
Why do you have your panties in such a wad over Ray running? It's real simple if you live in the city vote against him. If you don't get over it.
I don't live in the city, therefore I can't vote one way or the other. I will say that I know Ray and think he'll do a fine job if he gets elected.
I'll also say that if Mark gets elected he'll do a fine job. I don't really care one way or the other, but I think you have an alterior motive in why you're crying so much about Ray running.
It's simple......he qualified to run, therefore he can. If you don't like it, vote against him, otherwise get a life.
Beach ComberAuthor
Since posting a string a few weeks ago, I must say that I am surprised and concerned as to the little attention it has received on this blog. Political Issues were at one time, important to this community, especially those involving Law Enforcement.
I, as an educated voter, base my choices on fact, not emotion. I do not select candidates based on how long I have known a candidate and that my mother?s grandma?s grandma knew someone?s family from the ?old days?. Facts are important in making these decisions; I believe that they are the most important thing.
I also believe that the media and journalists have an obligation to report these facts, not spin them or avoid them. Why is it that the NW FL Daily News, a paper from Ft. Walton Beach, has covered Ray Burgess and his moral, ethical and legal troubles, yet our ?local? papers have Failed to report the facts? Is there an agenda there? Does one or both support this candidate? Where is the journalistic integrity?
Let me be one to provide you with facts, not emotion.
Complaint No. 05-110 State of Florida, In re. Ray Neal Burgess/Respondent, states:
The Respondent (Burgess) had violated Section 112.313(6) Florida Statues in two instances.
1) ?by using his position as Chief of Police of DFS to falsify FDLE officer certification records.
(This is FRAUD, Do we want someone who would ?falsify records? in a position of authority, let alone that of law enforcement?) What else would they ?falsify??
2) ?by misusing his position to solicit a subordinate officer to increase the officer?s over time hours claimed, at to allow (Burgess) to pocket the unearned overtime pay.
(This is THEFT, Theft of the citizens of DFS tax money. It is also Fraud, falsely reporting earnings. This is the same premise that Charlie Morris used to commit his Federal Crimes. What else has this candidate stolen? Maybe the Feds need to come to DFS.)
The Complaint goes on to outline other issues surrounding this candidate and their business practices. Anyone with commonsense can see, based on FACTS stated above, this man is a CRIMINAL. He can try to spin what he did any way he wants, most criminals all attempt to justify their crimes. After further investigation, it is also no surprise to me that this candidate has campaign signs in the yards of residents who are convicted felons/criminals.
As for my agenda, it is simple. Ensure quality law enforcement in our area, out those who commit fraud while in public office and provide facts to citizens when our media will not. Wake up and educate yourselves.
Why do you have your panties in such a wad over Ray running? It's real simple if you live in the city vote against him. If you don't get over it.
I don't live in the city, therefore I can't vote one way or the other. I will say that I know Ray and think he'll do a fine job if he gets elected.
I'll also say that if Mark gets elected he'll do a fine job. I don't really care one way or the other, but I think you have an alterior motive in why you're crying so much about Ray running.
It's simple......he qualified to run, therefore he can. If you don't like it, vote against him, otherwise get a life.
As for answering your "alterior motive" reference, please see above as I posted my Agenda a while back. Nothing to hide here.;-)
Thank you for replying to my post, as you make my point for me with your flowing text. All you can say is "get over it" and "get a life", which may be vaild points to some, but you avoid the real issue. That of taking a STAND.
Something that all citizens who give a damn need to start doing, taking a stand and saying "enough" No more corrupt public officials. If all citizens of Walton County were like you and thought everything was simple and didn't care that a convicted criminal is running to be the head of a local law enforcement agency, we'd still have Ralph Johnson as a Sheriff. It wouldn't be long till the Feds crossed the county line from Okaloosa to Walton to see what was going on. Maybe they still will.:shock:
If you choose to not care, that is your right to do so. But, don't waste other's time commenting on something you don't care about and then try to imply something about me that I already posted up front (ie. Agenda). If you wish to be productive, you'll provide me with facts, as I have provided you, not with snide comments about panties...
Beach Fanatic
Panty
It looks like you have touched a nerve Pete.
I don't understand why individuals choose to voice their opposition to someone stating facts and then turn their post into an attempt to sling a personal attack at the one who created the post in the first place, completely failing to realize the valid point one has brought to the table for discussion. (nice run on hun?)
From reading the post by WC, it would seem to me that they don't want to "rock the boat" or upset either side, seeing as that they probably have a vested interest in keeping both candidates happy. This is understandable, but then why not just stay off the thread? It's not like you (or anyone posting) have made false statements, negative personal comments, or the like about this very interesting candidate. Just the FACTS, just the FACTS.
Since your post, I have started to "Watch" again and what I have found is quite interesting.
Nothing I'd say I'd call FACT just yet, but we're working on that...;-)
Thx,
W
It looks like you have touched a nerve Pete.
I don't understand why individuals choose to voice their opposition to someone stating facts and then turn their post into an attempt to sling a personal attack at the one who created the post in the first place, completely failing to realize the valid point one has brought to the table for discussion. (nice run on hun?)
From reading the post by WC, it would seem to me that they don't want to "rock the boat" or upset either side, seeing as that they probably have a vested interest in keeping both candidates happy. This is understandable, but then why not just stay off the thread? It's not like you (or anyone posting) have made false statements, negative personal comments, or the like about this very interesting candidate. Just the FACTS, just the FACTS.
Since your post, I have started to "Watch" again and what I have found is quite interesting.
Nothing I'd say I'd call FACT just yet, but we're working on that...;-)Thx,
W
Beach Comber
Its Simple...
"It's smiple..."
This narrow level of thinking is amazing to me.
Based on the facts presented (let's assume they are all just that, facts), this logic would say that "because you can, one should do".
Just because someone can "qualify" apparently means they are Qualified.
To qualify for an election, in this case, City Marshal, one needs to file and pay the fee. As I understand it, that's it, that is it. "SIMPLE" right?
The pressing question is this; Which Candidate is actually QUALIFIED, not meaing "I paid the fee, etc." I mean what qualifications does one have to be considered for this position?
I would look at the following when asking that question:
Experience (is the person Cerified as a Law Enforcement Officer, what specific training does one have?)
Education (can the person understand and work with a budget, speak to the public/media, etc.)
Leadership (does the person have the RESPECT of their peers and subordinates. Are they willing to make people better at their jobs, or just keep them stagnant, never moving upwards?)
Integrity (telling the Truth when no one is watching, telling the truth when people are watching is Honesty)
Morals (set of beliefs, "capable of making the distinction between right and wrong in conduct")
I could go on, but you all get the idea. Based on Facts provided, it would seem to me that Burgess falls far short on his Qualifications, although he did qualify... So I guess it really is Simple, isn't it?
Why do you have your panties in such a wad over Ray running? It's real simple if you live in the city vote against him. If you don't get over it.
I don't live in the city, therefore I can't vote one way or the other. I will say that I know Ray and think he'll do a fine job if he gets elected.
I'll also say that if Mark gets elected he'll do a fine job. I don't really care one way or the other, but I think you have an alterior motive in why you're crying so much about Ray running.
It's simple......he qualified to run, therefore he can. If you don't like it, vote against him, otherwise get a life.
"It's smiple..."
This narrow level of thinking is amazing to me.
Based on the facts presented (let's assume they are all just that, facts), this logic would say that "because you can, one should do".
Just because someone can "qualify" apparently means they are Qualified.
To qualify for an election, in this case, City Marshal, one needs to file and pay the fee. As I understand it, that's it, that is it. "SIMPLE" right?
The pressing question is this; Which Candidate is actually QUALIFIED, not meaing "I paid the fee, etc." I mean what qualifications does one have to be considered for this position?
I would look at the following when asking that question:
Experience (is the person Cerified as a Law Enforcement Officer, what specific training does one have?)
Education (can the person understand and work with a budget, speak to the public/media, etc.)
Leadership (does the person have the RESPECT of their peers and subordinates. Are they willing to make people better at their jobs, or just keep them stagnant, never moving upwards?)
Integrity (telling the Truth when no one is watching, telling the truth when people are watching is Honesty)
Morals (set of beliefs, "capable of making the distinction between right and wrong in conduct")
I could go on, but you all get the idea. Based on Facts provided, it would seem to me that Burgess falls far short on his Qualifications, although he did qualify... So I guess it really is Simple, isn't it?
Beach Lover
"It's smiple..."
This narrow level of thinking is amazing to me.
Based on the facts presented (let's assume they are all just that, facts), this logic would say that "because you can, one should do".
Just because someone can "qualify" apparently means they are Qualified.
To qualify for an election, in this case, City Marshal, one needs to file and pay the fee. As I understand it, that's it, that is it. "SIMPLE" right?
The pressing question is this; Which Candidate is actually QUALIFIED, not meaing "I paid the fee, etc." I mean what qualifications does one have to be considered for this position?
I would look at the following when asking that question:
Experience (is the person Cerified as a Law Enforcement Officer, what specific training does one have?)
Education (can the person understand and work with a budget, speak to the public/media, etc.)
Leadership (does the person have the RESPECT of their peers and subordinates. Are they willing to make people better at their jobs, or just keep them stagnant, never moving upwards?)
Integrity (telling the Truth when no one is watching, telling the truth when people are watching is Honesty)
Morals (set of beliefs, "capable of making the distinction between right and wrong in conduct")
I could go on, but you all get the idea. Based on Facts provided, it would seem to me that Burgess falls far short on his Qualifications, although he did qualify... So I guess it really is Simple, isn't it?
I don't know anything about this election. I do not live in DeFuniak Springs, so its the business of those voters up there to "hash" this out.
I just wanted to tell you that I liked that part of your post about honesty and integrity! Very Cool!;-)
Beach Fanatic
What's the difference here???
If anyone is interested...
What is the difference with what is going on in Okaloosa County and what WENT ON in DeFuniak Springs P.D. under Ray Burgess? Facts have been presented via Florida State Ethics Documentation finding Burgess had a subordinate falsify overtime records, gererating fraudulent overtime checks. The checks were then kicked back to Burgess, who is said to have pocketed the cash. (Reading the recent article from NWFL News, what is the difference? Aside from the scale of the illegal activity and the fact that the Feds are heading up the investigation, instead of the FDLE, really, what is the difference?)
I am very pleased to see that Okaloosa County has risen up in disgust over this corruption. I can only hope that others see the similarities that exist in both of these cases and speak up. Walton County faces enough challenges right now and we do not need corrupt officials involved in any level of government or law enforcement.
If anyone feels different, I really enjoy attempting to understand your thought process.
be seeing u,
w
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Two fired at Sheriff's Office (with INVESTIGATION)
Comments 144 | Recommend 19
Chief Deputy Michael Coup and Assistant Director of Information Technology David Yacks terminated for "unbecoming conduct," alleged violations of state law
April 2, 2009 - 3:32 PM
Tom McLaughlin
Daily News
Michael Coup, chief deputy of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office under Sheriff Charlie Morris, was terminated Thursday.
So was David Yacks, the sheriff's chief assistant of information technology.
Interim Sheriff Ed Spooner announced that both men had been fired following an internal investigation into their conduct during the time they worked for Morris, who is presently suspended and facing federal criminal charges.
Spooner said Sheriff's Office personnel had been informed of the firings Thursday afternoon.
The State Attorney's Office, which is investigating the Sheriff's Office, has been notified of the findings of the internal investigation, Spooner said.
"I'm sure we'll probably hear from them tomorrow," he said.
The Sheriff's Office investigation discovered that Yacks was in Las Vegas with Morris on Feb. 27 when Morris was taken into custody on a criminal complaint alleging fraud, theft and money laundering.
Yacks is the brother of Teresa Adams, the former administrative director for the Sheriff's Office. She was arrested on the same day as Morris, also for fraud, theft and money laundering.
Investigators found Yacks had received performance bonuses totaling over $89,000 in less than a year, the Sheriffs' Office said, and returned some portion of that bonus money to Morris in kick backs.
Yacks received seven bonuses between Feb. 29, 2008 and Jan. 16 of this year, Spooner said, and he should have asked questions.
"When you get that many bonuses in that period of time and you're asked to give money back and pay for plane tickets, clearly there's a situation where you're required to respond," Spooner said. "A reasonable prudent person would know there is something out of the ordinary with those things."
The report on Coup states he, too, admitted receiving a bonus from Morris and returning some portion of that bonus to Morris.
Coup said Thursday the request from the sheriff to return a portion of a bonus was made "one time and one time only" in 2006.
"I characterized it as unusual," Coup said. "He seemed distressed."
More than $5,000 in cash was found in Coup's desk on the day the FBI came into the Sheriff's Office to arrest Adams and begin an investigation.
The investigation found that Coup showed "a lack of supervisory responsibility" because he was aware Morris was getting kickbacks from bonuses he provided to Coup and other employees.
Spooner said he was "disappointed" by what the internal investigation turned up on Coup.
"With a person in that position there's an expectation and a responsibility to take action when you see something like that going on, and that just didn't happen," Spooner said. "You're duty bound to perform follow up, even if it could cost you your job."
The report said Coup knew that Randall Holcombe, Morris' assistant director of administrative services, had enlisted inmate help to assist Morris' wife, Barbara Morris, with her estate sale business.
Holcombe's position with the Sheriff's Office was eliminated March 4.
It said Coup knew Morris was using Sheriff's Office employees to work at Morris' home in Shalimar.
The report said Coup accepted a $7,000 cash bonus and spent $1,100 on himself.
Coup said the cash bonus "was given to me by the sheriff, who I quizzed, and later I talked to Terry Adams about it."
"I never knew that was proceeds from any kick back scheme," he said. "I never willingly accepted any money associated with Charlie Morris for any kick back scheme."
The report said Coup informed investigators that he had "quizzed" Adams about the $7,000 bonus.
The report concludes Coup may have violated a state statute that no public officer may "accept compensation, payment, or thing of value when such public officer ... knows, or, with the exercise of reasonable care, should know that it was given to influence a vote or other action in which the officer ... was expected to participate in his or her official capacity."
The Coup investigative report states that Sheriff's Office Majs. Mark Schniepp and Larry Donaldson also received bonuses from Morris and that the sheriff had requested a portion of those bonuses be returned to Adams.
It said Schniepp went to Coup for "assistance with the (bonus) matter."
"There is no indication that Chief Deputy Coup took any action in regards to this information other than to tell Schniepp that he had also been asked to return a portion of a bonus in the past," the report states.
Coup said his version of the story concerning Schniepp's revelation varies from the major's version.
"There's a dispute between their version and my version," he said. "There's a dispute between what they said to me and what I said they said to me."
When asked if he thought giving a portion of a bonus back to the sheriff or his administrative director was a violation of law or unethical, Coup said "he did not and that the bonuses were between the employee receiving it and the sheriff," the investigative report said.
The Sheriff's Office report compiled on Yacks said he too might have violated state statutes forbidding unauthorized compensation.
Yacks, the report said, arranged trips to Las Vegas for Morris, including a September trip to celebrate Morris' re-election.
He told investigators that he made three trips to Las Vegas in 2008 and another one in 2009. He told them he arranged, "under orders from Sheriff Morris" to send others on trips to Las Vegas.
He said he put the trips on his American Express Card to collect sky miles and was reimbursed with bonuses from Morris.
Yacks told investigators he paid $1,600 apiece for six first-class tickets to Las Vegas for the September 2008 trip and was reimbursed $8,000. He gave $2,000 of that back to Morris, the investigative report revealed.
In February of 2009, the report said, Yacks arranged for another former Sheriff's Office employee, then-Chief of Staff Sabra Thornton, to fly to Las Vegas.
He told investigators he originally booked Thornton in coach seating, but had her upgraded to first class at the request of the sheriff.
Yacks described Morris to investigators as a "father figure" the report said.
Asked if he thought using bonus money to pay for trips to Las Vegas was appropriate, Yacks said "he never asked for the bonuses and that he respected Sheriff Morris as the top law enforcement officer in the county."
He told investigators he'd asked his sister, Adams, if the bonuses were appropriate and she said that they were.
The Sheriff's Office found Yacks "obeyed an order that he knew, or should have known, would require him to commit an illegal act."
It found "Yacks failed to comply with laws ordinances, rules and the Constitutions of the United States and the state of Florida."
The report concluded that the actions of both Coup and Yacks "adversely affects the moral(e), operations, or efficiency of the agency and has a tendency to adversely affect, lower, or destroy public respect and confidence in the Office of the Sheriff."
Spooner said "I don't see anything at this point," based on the internal investigations already conducted, that could result in further disciplinary action within the Sheriff's Office.
He said Schniepp and Donaldson aren't being investigated.
He added, however, that an audit report conducted by the accounting firm of Carr, Riggs and Ingram, which should be released next week, would undoubtedly spawn more internal investigations at the Sheriff's Office
If anyone is interested...
What is the difference with what is going on in Okaloosa County and what WENT ON in DeFuniak Springs P.D. under Ray Burgess? Facts have been presented via Florida State Ethics Documentation finding Burgess had a subordinate falsify overtime records, gererating fraudulent overtime checks. The checks were then kicked back to Burgess, who is said to have pocketed the cash. (Reading the recent article from NWFL News, what is the difference? Aside from the scale of the illegal activity and the fact that the Feds are heading up the investigation, instead of the FDLE, really, what is the difference?)
I am very pleased to see that Okaloosa County has risen up in disgust over this corruption. I can only hope that others see the similarities that exist in both of these cases and speak up. Walton County faces enough challenges right now and we do not need corrupt officials involved in any level of government or law enforcement.
If anyone feels different, I really enjoy attempting to understand your thought process
.be seeing u,
w
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Two fired at Sheriff's Office (with INVESTIGATION)
Comments 144 | Recommend 19
Chief Deputy Michael Coup and Assistant Director of Information Technology David Yacks terminated for "unbecoming conduct," alleged violations of state law
April 2, 2009 - 3:32 PM
Tom McLaughlin
Daily News
Michael Coup, chief deputy of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office under Sheriff Charlie Morris, was terminated Thursday.
So was David Yacks, the sheriff's chief assistant of information technology.
Interim Sheriff Ed Spooner announced that both men had been fired following an internal investigation into their conduct during the time they worked for Morris, who is presently suspended and facing federal criminal charges.
Spooner said Sheriff's Office personnel had been informed of the firings Thursday afternoon.
The State Attorney's Office, which is investigating the Sheriff's Office, has been notified of the findings of the internal investigation, Spooner said.
"I'm sure we'll probably hear from them tomorrow," he said.
The Sheriff's Office investigation discovered that Yacks was in Las Vegas with Morris on Feb. 27 when Morris was taken into custody on a criminal complaint alleging fraud, theft and money laundering.
Yacks is the brother of Teresa Adams, the former administrative director for the Sheriff's Office. She was arrested on the same day as Morris, also for fraud, theft and money laundering.
Investigators found Yacks had received performance bonuses totaling over $89,000 in less than a year, the Sheriffs' Office said, and returned some portion of that bonus money to Morris in kick backs.
Yacks received seven bonuses between Feb. 29, 2008 and Jan. 16 of this year, Spooner said, and he should have asked questions.
"When you get that many bonuses in that period of time and you're asked to give money back and pay for plane tickets, clearly there's a situation where you're required to respond," Spooner said. "A reasonable prudent person would know there is something out of the ordinary with those things."
The report on Coup states he, too, admitted receiving a bonus from Morris and returning some portion of that bonus to Morris.
Coup said Thursday the request from the sheriff to return a portion of a bonus was made "one time and one time only" in 2006.
"I characterized it as unusual," Coup said. "He seemed distressed."
More than $5,000 in cash was found in Coup's desk on the day the FBI came into the Sheriff's Office to arrest Adams and begin an investigation.
The investigation found that Coup showed "a lack of supervisory responsibility" because he was aware Morris was getting kickbacks from bonuses he provided to Coup and other employees.
Spooner said he was "disappointed" by what the internal investigation turned up on Coup.
"With a person in that position there's an expectation and a responsibility to take action when you see something like that going on, and that just didn't happen," Spooner said. "You're duty bound to perform follow up, even if it could cost you your job."
The report said Coup knew that Randall Holcombe, Morris' assistant director of administrative services, had enlisted inmate help to assist Morris' wife, Barbara Morris, with her estate sale business.
Holcombe's position with the Sheriff's Office was eliminated March 4.
It said Coup knew Morris was using Sheriff's Office employees to work at Morris' home in Shalimar.
The report said Coup accepted a $7,000 cash bonus and spent $1,100 on himself.
Coup said the cash bonus "was given to me by the sheriff, who I quizzed, and later I talked to Terry Adams about it."
"I never knew that was proceeds from any kick back scheme," he said. "I never willingly accepted any money associated with Charlie Morris for any kick back scheme."
The report said Coup informed investigators that he had "quizzed" Adams about the $7,000 bonus.
The report concludes Coup may have violated a state statute that no public officer may "accept compensation, payment, or thing of value when such public officer ... knows, or, with the exercise of reasonable care, should know that it was given to influence a vote or other action in which the officer ... was expected to participate in his or her official capacity."
The Coup investigative report states that Sheriff's Office Majs. Mark Schniepp and Larry Donaldson also received bonuses from Morris and that the sheriff had requested a portion of those bonuses be returned to Adams.
It said Schniepp went to Coup for "assistance with the (bonus) matter."
"There is no indication that Chief Deputy Coup took any action in regards to this information other than to tell Schniepp that he had also been asked to return a portion of a bonus in the past," the report states.
Coup said his version of the story concerning Schniepp's revelation varies from the major's version.
"There's a dispute between their version and my version," he said. "There's a dispute between what they said to me and what I said they said to me."
When asked if he thought giving a portion of a bonus back to the sheriff or his administrative director was a violation of law or unethical, Coup said "he did not and that the bonuses were between the employee receiving it and the sheriff," the investigative report said.
The Sheriff's Office report compiled on Yacks said he too might have violated state statutes forbidding unauthorized compensation.
Yacks, the report said, arranged trips to Las Vegas for Morris, including a September trip to celebrate Morris' re-election.
He told investigators that he made three trips to Las Vegas in 2008 and another one in 2009. He told them he arranged, "under orders from Sheriff Morris" to send others on trips to Las Vegas.
He said he put the trips on his American Express Card to collect sky miles and was reimbursed with bonuses from Morris.
Yacks told investigators he paid $1,600 apiece for six first-class tickets to Las Vegas for the September 2008 trip and was reimbursed $8,000. He gave $2,000 of that back to Morris, the investigative report revealed.
In February of 2009, the report said, Yacks arranged for another former Sheriff's Office employee, then-Chief of Staff Sabra Thornton, to fly to Las Vegas.
He told investigators he originally booked Thornton in coach seating, but had her upgraded to first class at the request of the sheriff.
Yacks described Morris to investigators as a "father figure" the report said.
Asked if he thought using bonus money to pay for trips to Las Vegas was appropriate, Yacks said "he never asked for the bonuses and that he respected Sheriff Morris as the top law enforcement officer in the county."
He told investigators he'd asked his sister, Adams, if the bonuses were appropriate and she said that they were.
The Sheriff's Office found Yacks "obeyed an order that he knew, or should have known, would require him to commit an illegal act."
It found "Yacks failed to comply with laws ordinances, rules and the Constitutions of the United States and the state of Florida."
The report concluded that the actions of both Coup and Yacks "adversely affects the moral(e), operations, or efficiency of the agency and has a tendency to adversely affect, lower, or destroy public respect and confidence in the Office of the Sheriff."
Spooner said "I don't see anything at this point," based on the internal investigations already conducted, that could result in further disciplinary action within the Sheriff's Office.
He said Schniepp and Donaldson aren't being investigated.
He added, however, that an audit report conducted by the accounting firm of Carr, Riggs and Ingram, which should be released next week, would undoubtedly spawn more internal investigations at the Sheriff's Office
SoWal Expert
How is it that they were able to pay an employee more than $89k in bonuses w/o worrying about anyone noticing? Where is the oversight for the budget?
Beach Fanatic
G o b
Its known as the "Good 'Ole Boy" system. Individuals with no morals or ethics who do favors (sometimes Big Favors) for those who actively support (or have actively supported) "them" (the one without morals/ethics) in their quest for power, usually in the form of a position of authority, ie. Elected Position.
What you see in Okaloosa is the complete failure and colapse of G O B and the fun has only just begun. We DO NOT need this in Walton County.
w
How is it that they were able to pay an employee more than $89k in bonuses w/o worrying about anyone noticing? Where is the oversight for the budget?
Its known as the "Good 'Ole Boy" system. Individuals with no morals or ethics who do favors (sometimes Big Favors) for those who actively support (or have actively supported) "them" (the one without morals/ethics) in their quest for power, usually in the form of a position of authority, ie. Elected Position.
What you see in Okaloosa is the complete failure and colapse of G O B and the fun has only just begun. We DO NOT need this in Walton County.
w
Beach Comber
Its known as the "Good 'Ole Boy" system. Individuals with no morals or ethics who do favors (sometimes Big Favors) for those who actively support (or have actively supported) "them" (the one without morals/ethics) in their quest for power, usually in the form of a position of authority, ie. Elected Position.
What you see in Okaloosa is the complete failure and colapse of G O B and the fun has only just begun. We DO NOT need this in Walton County.
w
Thank God!
Beach Fanatic
Radio Interview
Check out this link to a radio interview with the candidates for City Marshal:
http://www.wzep1460.com/election_center.htm
The mp3 is on citymarshal.
Very telling piece on the candidates (Burgess included)
Check out this link to a radio interview with the candidates for City Marshal:
http://www.wzep1460.com/election_center.htm
The mp3 is on citymarshal.
Very telling piece on the candidates (Burgess included)
Beach ComberAuthor
Check out this link to a radio interview with the candidates for City Marshal:
http://www.wzep1460.com/election_center.htm
The mp3 is on citymarshal.
Very telling piece on the candidates (Burgess included)
Thanks for posting this, you beat me to it...
Beach Fanatic
Article
I did read the Herald this week and there are several good articles, focusing on the DeFuniak Police Election, providing very specific reasons why quality, ethical law enforcement is necessary.
From the pieces I read, the candidate running against Burgess, the current head of the department, is extremely qualified and articulate. In addition, he has the support of the citizens and department as well. The letter to the editor by a DFS Citizen is fantistic and really sums everything up quite well, Kudos to you for expressing your opinion.
Based on the Articles, I believe the following holds true:
Clue: If you need the governor to pardon you or to reinstate your certification, you have no business even running for an elected position.
Clue 2: I you say "forget the past" and then go back and use it as an excuse, you have no ability to think and formulate thought without contradiction.
(Burgess wants people to forget the past, but he referrs to it and how his past boss wasn't certified, so it must be OK for him too. How long ago was that??? Times change and so do qualifications, needs, etc.)
Clue 3: When asked what your plans are for the department and you answer that you "don't know". You really have no clue what you are doing and have no business running for any elected position.
Clue 4: If you are in law enforcement and you feel that carrying a gun is antimidating to the public, check your thought process. A gun is a tool of the job, SERVE and PROTECT. Look at what happened yesterday (College shooting), bet the citizens were glad to see the DFSP show up with guns.
Clue 5: Core values of any good law enforcement officer are Integrity, Morals, Honesty and Commonsense. From reading the interview with Burgess, it is obvious he has none of these.
Thank you (Herald) for investigating the facts and reporting them. I just hope people have the time and take the effort to read and educate themselves.
w
PS Cool article on the Pot Bust Too....
I did read the Herald this week and there are several good articles, focusing on the DeFuniak Police Election, providing very specific reasons why quality, ethical law enforcement is necessary.
From the pieces I read, the candidate running against Burgess, the current head of the department, is extremely qualified and articulate. In addition, he has the support of the citizens and department as well. The letter to the editor by a DFS Citizen is fantistic and really sums everything up quite well, Kudos to you for expressing your opinion.
Based on the Articles, I believe the following holds true:
Clue: If you need the governor to pardon you or to reinstate your certification, you have no business even running for an elected position.
Clue 2: I you say "forget the past" and then go back and use it as an excuse, you have no ability to think and formulate thought without contradiction.
(Burgess wants people to forget the past, but he referrs to it and how his past boss wasn't certified, so it must be OK for him too. How long ago was that??? Times change and so do qualifications, needs, etc.)
Clue 3: When asked what your plans are for the department and you answer that you "don't know". You really have no clue what you are doing and have no business running for any elected position.
Clue 4: If you are in law enforcement and you feel that carrying a gun is antimidating to the public, check your thought process. A gun is a tool of the job, SERVE and PROTECT. Look at what happened yesterday (College shooting), bet the citizens were glad to see the DFSP show up with guns.
Clue 5: Core values of any good law enforcement officer are Integrity, Morals, Honesty and Commonsense. From reading the interview with Burgess, it is obvious he has none of these.
Thank you (Herald) for investigating the facts and reporting them. I just hope people have the time and take the effort to read and educate themselves.
w
PS Cool article on the Pot Bust Too....
Beach Comber
Interesting...
I went out a got a copy of the paper. Apparently there is something to all of the talk about local corruption and this Burgess Character...
Is the Herald available Online?
I went out a got a copy of the paper. Apparently there is something to all of the talk about local corruption and this Burgess Character...
Is the Herald available Online?
Beach Lover
I went out a got a copy of the paper. Apparently there is something to all of the talk about local corruption and this Burgess Character...
Is the Herald available Online?
They have a website at www.defuniakherald.com, but not all the paper is posted as does The Walton Sun and Northwest Florida Daily News. Articles from the current paper, April 9, are already up.
Beach Crab
After all the recent news on corruption taking place in various law enforcement agencies, someone actually thinks its OK... Why has no local (Sun or Herald) made mention of this news story?"As a recent visitor to your area, I could not believe what was and is going on in your law enforcement agencies, and apparently with your approval! According to what I read and heard while I was there in your area, the former number two from a previous Sheriff?s Office administration, (Bill Chapman), approached the Town Marshal (Burgess) and after a transfer of an unknown amount of cash, the marshal agreed to falsify legal documents to allow Bill Chapman to remain in law enforcement, without having to be recertified, as required by law. This is now a conspiracy, which is a crime, along with fraud, also a crime. Now, one or both made contact with a ?yahoo? from FDLE and made him part of this conspiracy and crime.
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Ex-city marshal hopes to return (with DOCUMENT)
Comments 16 | Recommend 3
Ray Burgess, who left office in 2005, is 1 of 3 candidates in April 14 election
March 15, 2009 - 10:03 PM
Andrew Gant
Daily News
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS - Ray "Buddy" Burgess, a former city marshal who retired under ethics complaints and criminal charges for falsifying documents, is trying to reclaim the office that has been vacant since Mike Adkinson became Walton County sheriff in January.
If he wins the April 14 marshal's election, Burgess would return to law enforcement more than three years after he lost his police certification, paid thousands of dollars in fines and faced censure and reprimand from the state Commission on Ethics.
"People are going to make their choices," he said Saturday. "Most people know me ... The circumstances, they're not just plain black and white."
Burgess faces two opponents: Police Capt. Mark A. Weeks, the acting supervisor at the DeFuniak Springs Police Department, and Walton County Sheriff's Deputy Jimmy Macon, who ran for sheriff last year.
Burgess pleaded no contest in 2005 to charges that, as city marshal, he falsified documents to help a Walton sheriff's deputy avoid re-certification testing. One of Burgess' employees quit under pressure to help him.
He retired after the first-degree misdemeanor plea. Gov. Charlie Crist last year ordered Burgess to pay $3,500 in civil penalties.
The ethics commission also found probable cause to believe Burgess enlisted a police officer to report fraudulent overtime hours so the officer could receive more pay and kick back the money to Burgess.
Burgess still denies those allegations. They were dropped from his civil punishment, according to ethics commission spokeswoman Kerrie Stillman.
On Saturday, Burgess said he invites residents to call him if they have questions about his past.
"I'll give them my side of the story and they can make their own conclusions," he said, adding that he's taken responsibility for the falsifications "to help a fellow law officer."
Weeks and Macon did not immediately return phone calls seeking comment.
All this corruption is now in place to deceive the public by these ?trusted? lawmen. What they did not expect, was an office worker, (the wife of a well respected supervisor in the Walton Co. Sheriff?s Office), would not allow this crime to go any further and reported this crime. The office worker lost her job, the Town Marshal lost his job along with his law enforcement certificate, and the yahoo from FDLE lost his job! Now the only winner in this conspiracy was the architect of this crime, the former #2 man, Bill Chapman, who was never investigated for this crime! He simply walked away unscathed.
An opening for Town Marshal became available, and the city attorney recommended his nephew for the position of Town Marshal. So, the relative is appointed Town Marshal, and who do you think was one of his first hires? Bill Chapman! Even after knowing his background for criminal conspiracy and fraud! Later the people elected the city attorney?s nephew as their Town Marshal. Bill Chapman remained in the Town Marshal?s Office. Next, the Town Marshal ran for sheriff, and in his campaign he stated he had a number of years in law enforcement, which included parole and probation and corrections. This is fraud, as neither are law enforcement. The Town Marshal was elected sheriff, and had his hand- picked team, which included Bill Chapman, to check out the Sheriff?s Office, before his term of office took place. The people of Defuniak Springs were paying the teams salary all this time. Fraud comes to mind. The citizens were paying for law enforcement protection from these individuals in the Police Department, and they were working for the sheriff elect, in unrelated Police Dept. matters.
The newly elected sheriff took office, and who do you think he appointed as his #2 man?? Bill Chapman. Remember the wife of the supervisor who reported the conspiracy that Bill Chapman was involved in? Her husband, who was a Road Patrol Lieutenant now became a Road Patrol Deputy! Seems the way honesty is handled in Walton Co. Law Enforcement is by firing and demotions! To top this off, the disgraced Town Marshal ran for his old job back, and almost made it, after the majority of the citizens knew the details of the corruption being committed.
I can proudly say I am not among the Walton Co. residents that continually approve of corrupt law enforcement. If I were a resident, I would demand an investigation by the FBI of all employees of the law enforcement agencies in Walton County.
Beach Fanatic
Nice first post, and a whole lot of information and, more importantly, misinformation by someone who only "visits" our area.
Your initials wouldn't be RJ, would they?
Your initials wouldn't be RJ, would they?
Beach Crab
Visitor
Answer, Nope I'm not. My info is verified. Be nice to the outsider who "ain't from around here". They bring money and gainful employment, during these trying times, to locals would be sitting around whittling a stick, and have no food on the table for their kids. I see the same thing here in my hometown. Where the established families who have lived their all their lives are way to insulated to see the forest for the pines. And...most importantly....GO Gators!!!!!!!!
Nice first post, and a whole lot of information and, more importantly, misinformation by someone who only "visits" our area.
Your initials wouldn't be RJ, would they?
Answer, Nope I'm not. My info is verified. Be nice to the outsider who "ain't from around here". They bring money and gainful employment, during these trying times, to locals would be sitting around whittling a stick, and have no food on the table for their kids. I see the same thing here in my hometown. Where the established families who have lived their all their lives are way to insulated to see the forest for the pines. And...most importantly....GO Gators!!!!!!!!
Beach Fanatic
Answer, Nope I'm not. My info is verified. Be nice to the outsider who "ain't from around here". They bring money and gainful employment, during these trying times, to locals would be sitting around whittling a stick, and have no food on the table for their kids. I see the same thing here in my hometown. Where the established families who have lived their all their lives are way to insulated to see the forest for the pines. And...most importantly....GO Gators!!!!!!!!
Oh good, one of my favorite things. There's one in every bunch.
Folks who have followed this saga closely know the fact from the fiction. Further, "verified" (by what, hearsay?) information is not nearly as reliable as actually having watched, thankfully from a distance, this thing unfold.
I don't really understand what the point of your post was, being as the city election happened last week and is over, other than to further someone's personal agenda against Bill Chapman.
Finally, and this is my last comment on the subject: I work closely and excellently with our visitors and with the folks who enable our tourists to visit this beautiful area we call home. People who know me, and even people who only know me from this board, know that it's not easy to rile me up. However, there is one surefire way to get my attention, and that is to bash our local law enforcement. You don't want to go there with me.
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