29 June 2009
SPECTATOR RADIO - LISTEN TO THE SHOW REPLAY
Baltimore Police Dept. Needs Complete Overhaul
Allow me to attempt to answer this: YES, the cops know where to look, but most don't care to. It would be risky and require lots of hard work. When you actually go after "bad guys with guns," there's a chance of getting shot. When you go after a good guy with a gun, like me, you know that I will be compliant and cooperative. This allows you to rack up an easy statistic to allow you and your superiors the feeling that you are actually going out and protecting and serving. Never mind that my gun is legal and that as a citizen I have a right to keep and bear arms, and to defend and protect my life. Why would you care?
Meanwhile the only thing being served is a self important, self inflated ego, while the majority of serious crimes in the city go totally unsolved. The Baltimore Police Department has a less than .500 batting average in solving serious crimes. Anyone, from Commissioner Bealefeld, to anonymous apologists who think I'm wrong, I challenge you to pull out the statistics on case closure rate, and we'll review together, and you will lose!
It is much too easy to criminalize someone who is an easy target, but is actually innocent. To the typical lazy, unscrupulous, morally corrupt cop in Baltimore (not all are this way), and there are many. While I do not intend to pile on, there is a serious problem that is still not being addressed by the city.
Merely throwing money at something does not fix it. Particularly when we have yet to see one single city official come out and harshly denounce what was allowed to happen in the police department for so long. Too long!
Here's the deal; at this point, the stories have been published, obviously the creditability and veracity of the victimized officers have been sustained. Hence the multi-million dollar settlement.
Shame on the city for spending years fighting the truth rather than taking serious steps to remedy the situation. Instead it was left to fester and stink like a gangrenous wound on an appendage no longer useful. At that point, the only option left is amputation. Let's cut off the head, and the roots (other racist commanders) that prop it up, and start all over again.
City leaders ought to be embarrassed that they've allowed this condition to persist for so long. Though not the source of the problem, I hold Mayor Sheila Dixon 100% responsible for initiating the change that MUST TAKE PLACE.
No stranger to city government, having served nearly 20 years as a council member, City Council President, and now Mayor. Dixon was in office throughout the time period in question. Therefore, as far as I'm concerned, part of the problem.
Madame Mayor; it's now time to be part of the solution. Massive reform and a complete overhaul of the Baltimore Police Department MUST HAPPEN NOW! Anything less would show a lack of commitment to our community, insincerity in improving race relations, and only lip service when you say you want a safer city.
Like Commissioner Bealefeld has told me many times, it's time to stop talking and start taking action. The action needs to start at Baltimore Police Headquarters.
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To my regular readers who've been following my story, let's see what they do to me next? Is another false arrest imminent? More harasmment, perhaps being shot and having it deemed justifiable? Or perhaps a kangaroo court guilty verdict, it will be interesting to see. Trust me, the enemies of freedom are ever hard at work.
UPDATED: Billy Mays 911 Audio
Celebrity Death Comes In Fours?TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Tampa police say Billy Mays, the television pitchman known for his boisterous hawking of products such as Orange Glo and OxiClean, has died. He was 50.
Authorities say Mays was pronounced dead Sunday morning after being found by his wife at home. There were no signs of a break-in, and investigators do not suspect foul play. The coroner's office expects to have an autopsy done by Monday afternoon. (see rest of NY Times story)
28 June 2009
27 June 2009
A Walking Rant!
UPDATE: Less than an hour after publishing this piece, the Baltimore Police inform us of the following:
In Baltimore, Walk At Your Own Risk
My love hate relationship with this place is growing deeper. Something as simple as stepping out to get some exercise could end up being a walk on the wild side.
If you live in one of the more exclusive Baltimore enclaves, things may be a bit different. This brings up another one of my big gripes; the tale of two Baltimores. One for the privileged, the monied, the ruling class, the other for the rest of us unfortunate unlucky souls. But that’s another story all to itself, so I’ll spare you for now.
An avid physical fitness buff, I enjoy frequent walking and running. I’ve done this all around the world. Whenever I travel, even in a layover, one of the first things I try to do is explore my surroundings on two feet. Walking if I’m particularly unenergetic, or not wearing the right clothes, and running when I really feel like covering some ground and I’m properly attired.
Leaving my house, if I walk to the right, or I walk to the left, I immediately pass where people have been killed. Not a comfortable feeling, trust me, you can never get it out of your head. Trotting down the busted up sidewalks, dodging piles of litter, keeping an eye out for the teaming population of aggressive rats, I’m careful not to trip or stub my toe. Falling on a pile of broken glass, or worse, a hypodermic needle could leave a mark. Baltimore has some of the highest property taxes in Maryland, looking at our sidewalks and or streets, you wonder; where does all the money go?
Out the neighborhood and on the main road, my encyclopedic memory flashes a mental popup whenever I pass places where others have loss their lives. Like a combat zone, violence is all around. Anyone choosing to ignore this is simply living in denial. From robberies gone bad, to standing around waiting to catch a bus, it’s easy to lose your life in Baltimore. Even just going out for a walk.
Crossing a street in Baltimore requires a special skill set not highly developed in most humans. Despite having a walk signal, you still have to be wary of turning cars or (gasp) red light runners! Drivers here think nothing of clipping a walker. Some cars have gotten so close, it felt as if my legs were getting some new form of hair removal called the auto(mobile) rub off!
Is it any wonder that many pedestrians just dart out in the middle of the streets? It’s probably an act of open rebellion. Forget a cross walk, on coming traffic, let’s play chicken. The adversarial relationship between those on foot and people behind the wheels of automobiles is so bad, the police deployed special patrols just to monitor cross walks downtown. Talk about walking through the valley of the shadow of death, I do it everyday!
26 June 2009
RADIO SHOW -- Listen To The Replay
Baltimore Police, Major Shake Up Coming? Could Bealefeld Eventually Be Implicated?
25 June 2009
BREAKING NEWS: Micheal Jackson, Dead At 50
The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter
Join the Office of The British Prime minister, The Baltimore Sun, and many of Charm City's top journalists. Become one of our followers. Get updates and random musings from the mad mind of A.F. James MacArthur. Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure. twitter.com/baltospectator -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Goodbye Big Shaqtus, Shaq Leaving Desert, Traded To Cleveland!
Third Time Traded In Four Years
SC Governor Mark Sanford's Mistress Identified
A beautiful brunette with big eyes who plays tennis on a nearby lawn and runs every morning in her neighborhood. Farewell Charlie's Angel -- Farrah Fawcett Has Died
The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter
Join the Office of The British Prime minister, The Baltimore Sun, and many of Charm City's top journalists. Become one of our followers. Get updates and random musings from the mad mind of A.F. James MacArthur. Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure. twitter.com/baltospectator -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Dixon Leads By Example
A Cleaner Greener BaltimoreBaltimore "Most Dangerous" City Highest Chance Of Becoming A Crime Victim
1 in 55
in Maryland
1 in 142
CRIME INDEX
5
100 is safest
This city is safer than 5% of the cities in the US.
News blurb
Detailed map of neighborhood and statistics
24 June 2009
THE BUZZ! Former Astronaut Record Rap Song With Snoop Dogg
It's A Free Concert From Now On -- Virgin Fest Leaves Baltimore
23 June 2009
Angel Of Iran, Weeping For Neda
Symbol Of An Oppressed People 
May your beauty; gone too soon; forever remind us of the ugly evil that surrounds us. That no matter how much progress is made in some areas, the fight for freedom must continue. For injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
Through you, we saw in living color there are those on this earth, whose hearts made of stone, think nothing of destroying innocence. Although you have no way of knowing; many have weeped for you. It is believed that we all have an express purpose for being. While yet alive, some of us come to realize and fulfill this purpose, but for others, it takes death. No matter how tragic, no matter how untimely, ultimately, tragedies such as yours are not in vain.
Now more than ever, the world knows the truth. The despicable nature of the evil regime ruling your land has been shown. There can be no excuses, no denying, for God has opened all our eyes through his beautiful Persian angel. They got to you Neda, but you got to us. Your blood may be the price for freedom for you people.
Though we wish there could have been another way, now you are able to say what would never be heard before. Your people want justice, your people deserve liberty, your people are dying for freedom and deserve it.
Now my dear Neda, you are free! In mourning your passing, I must ask myself, what kind of world tolerates and accepts this sort of thing? Realy, not one that I care to dwell in. I know you're in a better place, for where you are, finally there is rest. Finally there is peace. For your country, my prayer is we will see this in our time.
The tyrannical leaders, while able to hurt some, have managed to anger many. May their fate and destiny find them. Neda, the world has seen you, the world has heard you. Now rest my dear. You can know that those responsible will not go unpunished.
Man Shot In Hand . . . WHILE DRIVING
22 June 2009
Martin O'Malley Rocks!
I COULDN'T RESIST
On Friday, June 19, after naming Prince Frederick Maryland's Capital for a day, Governor Martin O'Malley and his entourage spent the day in Calvert County. Later that night, Governor O'Malley and his Celtic band, O'Malley's March, headed south to St. Mary's City in St. Mary's County where they helped close the first River Concert of 2009. The recorded performance is the one number they performed without the backing of the Chesapeake Orchestra -- the headliner for the evening.
Baltimore Police -- A Racist Institution? -- Tonight's Radio Show -- LIVE 9:00PM
The Baltimore Police Department is settling a federal racial discrimination lawsuit for $2.5 million. The police officers are suing. If the departments own officers feel discriminated, how do the regular people of Baltimore feel?
Gunbattle In Arbutus, One Wounded - Baltimore County
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.Wounded Robber At Shock Trauma
The stores armed security guard observed the pair. When they tried exiting the store, he confronted them. While fleeing, the lookout pulled out a gun and started shooting at the guard. The guard returned fire hitting wounding the suspect.
After exiting the store the men jumped into a car and continued to shoot at the guard. The guard again returned fire.
Several hours later Baltimore County Police discovered the car near Wilton Farm Road with the suspect nearby. The suspect was arrested and is currently being treated at Shock Trauma for gunshot wounds suffered during the robbery.
Legal Disclaimer Regarding Advertising
20 June 2009
Baltimore Officer Arrested -- Domestic Violence
Ford was assigned to the Western district, he began with the force in 2007.
Baltimore Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi states has been suspended pending investigation, along with having his gun, badge and all police issued equipment confiscated.
BREAKING: Police Commissioner Bealefeld Rushed To Emergency Room!
UPDATE 1530hrs: Per Baltimore Police; Commissioner Bealefeld will remain in hosp for standard 24 hour observation. He is responsive & coherent & talking w/ family & staff
UPDATE 12:52pm: Per Baltimore Police; Police Commissioner Bealefeld most likely suffered minor exhaustion during 10 Mile road race. Hosp test results are coming back normal.
Was Participating In Athletic Charitable Fund Raising Event
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
The Baltimore Police report this morning that Police Commissioner Bealefeld was rushed to the emergency room of a local hospital and is currently undergoing an evaluation. No word on just what prompted the emergency or what symptoms the Commissioner was showing.
During mile nine of a sanctioned 10 mile race, Bealefeld begun having problems and was quickly tended.
FLASHBACK, Baltimore Police Announce Via Twitter:
TODAY 730AM - Commissioner Bealefeld runs Baltimore 10 Miler to raise $ for BPD Foundation. $2 donated for every runner the boss passes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------As an avid runner, I’ve participated in several runs with Commissioner Bealefeld. With shame I freely admit the 47 year old usually leaves me in the dust. I’m hoping to take victory in an eventual rematch. Here’s to wishing Frederick H. Bealefeld III a speedy recovery.
Desperate; Fire Dept. Now Charging Fee To Job Seekers
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
You know it’s a tough economy when in Baltimore City, a city reporting one of the lowest median household incomes among major cities in the U.S. charges applicants for a job. Out of work, out of money, but you’re a good hard worker, eager to serve, better put your money where your mouth is.
Baltimore City is now charging a fee for the privilege of having them review your job application and consider you for the position.
Join The Twitterverse
The Baltimore Spectator On Twitter
Join the Office of The British Prime minister, The Baltimore Sun, and many of Charm City's top journalists. Become one of our followers. Get updates and random musings from the mad mind of A.F. James MacArthur. Baltimore crime, grime and politics with a sprinkling of nonsense thrown in for good measure. twitter.com/baltospectator -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BodyMore – 6 People Shot Overnight, One Dead
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
Nine Shot In City Since Yesterday
@Baltimore Police UPDATE: Patterson Pk / Oliver St - 1 victim deceased, 1 in critical cond, 4 w non life threatening injuries. No info on suspect or motive
I suppose this is normal and routine? Six people shot just a few hours after a double shooting? It’s been a couple weeks since dual conflicting announcements concerning crime were made. First the city claimed crime is down, then the FBI said Baltimore led the nation in danger and violence.
If one were unsure what to believe, close observation since the announcements would allow even the most slowest, Baltimore City Public Schools educated, high school drop out, crack headed, addlebrained among us to draw our own conclusions.
Summer has just kicked off and already we’re seeing several shootings per day. Guess it doesn’t matter how much form stone you place on the outside, a house with a crumbling foundation will still fall.
19 June 2009
Bodymore Chronicles, City As Dangerous As Ever
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
@BaltimorePolice DOUBLE SHOOTING: Reported @ Northern Pkwy / York Rd. 2 adults shot during possible carjacking. Police investigating 15 minutes ago from txt
Seriously Baltimore, are we still buying the notion that crime is down? Hate to beat a dead horse, but really? They must think we are, cuz Sheila D and Freddy B are still out saying it ain’t so bad.
I’m seriously thinking about setting up a squatters camp on the inner harbor. This is my last resort to feel safe in this city. God knows I don’t feel that way now. Considering this morning on my way down Greenmount Ave. the first shooting happened.
Now tonight, moments after I step in the house having just come off York road from a walk, boom, this happens. ANOTHER ONE!
Baltimore Crime, One Day Review
City Claims Of Crime Decline Seems Unfounded
Here’s a look at some of the serious incidents reported via Baltimore Police Twitter in the last day as of 0700:
SHOOTING: Reported @ North/Greenmount, adult male shot multiple times 21 minutes ago from TwitterBerry
SHOOTING: Reported @ Fayette / Belnord, adult male shot. Life threatening injuries, police investigating about 7 hours ago from TwitterBerry
UPDATE: Stabbing @ Tunbridge is now a homicide about 8 hours ago from TwitterBerry
STABBING: 600 blk Tunbridge, adult male stabbed in chest, critical condition Police investigating about 9 hours ago from TwitterBerry
SHOOTING: Reported at North/Madison Ave, adult male shot. 2:21 AM Jun 18th from TwitterBerry
18 June 2009
Fire Truck Crashes Into House, Injures Several
You may recall it was just two years ago, another city fire truck was found to be at fault in an accident that killed a pair of civilians (see story)
Notable in both accidents is the calls for service both turned out to be unfounded. Today's was a house fire that never was, the other one was smoke showing in an apartment. Turned out to be a pot burning on a stove.
As a former volunteer firefighter/rescuer/EMT, I have nothing but the utmost respect for firemen. My father was also a volunteer on a ladder truck company. If you see them speeding down the road, stay the hell out the way. They could be rushing to save a life. Alternatively, by giving a wide berth, the life you save may be your own.
Commissioner Bealefeld’s Baltimore Secret Police
It should be pointed out that a few days AFTER this video was released, the local newspaper ran a big story detailing several officers of the Baltimore Police Department being internally disciplined. The discipline was due to Ku Klux Klan related activity. Interestingly, named in connection with the KKK incident, but not disciplined was Charles Bealefeld. Yes, that’s Commissioner Bealefeld’s brother. He’s a cop too. How convenient that he was transferred to another department right before the hammer fell. Correction, he “retired” from the Baltimore Police and suddenly showed up working for Anne Arundel County Police
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SPEAK UP! With James MacArthur, Live From The Bunker
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AGAIN: Baltimore Spectator Attacked! Call Off The Dogs Pt. 2
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
This Time They Got Me
Several weeks ago without warning or provocation I was attacked and wounded by a vicious dog. As I performed yard work in the rear courtyard of the bunker compound, a large white dog suddenly appeared. Before I could respond he leaped through the air and latched onto my arm. The picture above are the results.
One fang punctured deep into my arm penetrating the muscle, resulting in profuse bleeding. I spent several hours in a local Emergency room.
Regular readers of the Baltimore Spectator may recall it was back in March a different dog made an unsuccessful attempt on me (see, Call Of The Dogs). The Baltimore Spectator is aware there are many who would like this voice silenced, but resorting to four legged attackers seems quite unorthodox.
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As an officer, A.F. James MacArthur dealt with vicious dogs throughout his public safety career. From kicking in doors with the fugitive, vice and narcotic squads, to dealing with crazy tenants as a landlord. MacArthur once worked with a K9 partner as part of a search team and is an avid animal lover. Having been bitten a few times, and having to resort to using lethal force in a few instances, this event will probably re-open a few old wounds so to speak.
Those Damn Apes! -- Gorilla Menaces With A Knife
Barika the gorilla holds a knife accidentally left behind by a maintenance worker. (Heike Scheffler)
At one point the knife wielding gorilla pounded his fists against his chest when another wanted to see the knife. In the end, thankfully no one was hurt. Read full story
President Obama Kills On Camera
Inner Harbor, Baltimore’s Green Zone/Open Letter To Mayor Dixon
To The Honorable Mayor Sheila Dixon,
I've been quite impressed with the recent increase of police presence at the inner harbor. For a while it seems we were about to lose control of the last bastion of peace and tranquility in Baltimore City. With the neighborhoods resembling combat zones in physical appearance, level of danger, and the hopeless mentality pervading the residents, it’s nice to have a place where you can let your guard down. Thank you for reassuring us there is at least one safe place left. After all, the rest of us don’t get 24/7 armed bodyguards like you do.
When I look to my left and I look to my right, all I can think of are my neighbors that were murdered in cold blood inside their homes. Home invasion murders, even indoors, there were not safe. Not to mention the street robberies that have also ended in murder, several within the last weeks.
My have all abandoned this city and urge me to do the same; they worry for me more here than they did when I’ve been overseas, in combat zones or places experiencing civil unrest and near total anarchy.
What will it take for a stepped up police presence in the hood? I know there’s little potential for well to do whites getting hurt there, so reducing the violence won’t provide nice photo ops and political PR points?
As a homeowner, for years I’ve watched the property values in my neighborhood fall, just as I’ve watched the bodies of those murdered around me fall. And yes, I have literally seen the bodies.
Honestly, I’m sorely disappointed in you and your administrations lack of comprehensive effort in truly attacking the problems we in our neighborhoods. I knew all along you didn’t really care about us, but more and more, you remind me just how little regard you have for our safety.
Open air drug dealing is tolerated despite repeated calls to police. This place is a gang stronghold, yet the gang unit is understaffed, with few actually pounding the ground gathering needed intelligence.
From where I stand, there appears to be no sincere desire to clean up this part of town. I guess it’s because we’re not on the beautiful waterfront, we don’t have the shops, restaurants and lots of white tourists. TV cameras only come around here when one of us fall victim to the murderous thugs permitted to rule the streets.
With one of the home invasion murders being right next door to me, I feel quite unsafe even in my own house. If I really want to feel safe I could always start sleeping on a bench at the Inner Harbor right? Not really, Bealefeld and his bullies would find a reason to arrest me then. Not like they need probably cause. Lack of it has never been stopped the Baltimore Police Before.
Commissioner Bealefeld told me it’s safe at the Inner Harbor, but he wants people like me to stay in our neighborhoods. He wouldn’t dare be so bold as to say it’s safe where I live.
So tell me Madame Mayor, what have you done to make us safer out in the neighborhoods, and what’s the current plan, where do we go from here? Oh yeah, that whole crime is down thing, seriously now, we’re not buying it, and from where I stand, honestly, I just don’t seen. Tell that to the family of Dr. Woah-Tee, they’re the ones crying.
Sincerely,
A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
A city resident living in fear of his life on a daily basis.
P.S. Since you’ve ignored all the private letters I’ve sent you, I’m quite sure you’ll ignore this one too. It’s ok Madame Mayor. I’m used to it now. Didn’t vote for you last time, and at this point, I’ll be glad to work tirelessly to see no one else will next time.
P.P.S. To my supporters; should you suddenly not here from me, know that they're up to they're old tricks again. Probably pulled another underhanded mob tactic. We know how our leaders can't take criticism.
17 June 2009
Message From Malcolm X -- ATTENTION COMMISSIONER BEALEFELD -- A Special Message
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16 June 2009
Mayor Dixon's Chief Of Staff Arrested
Chief of Staff Demaune Millard and Housing and Community Department Director Elizabeth Smith were arrested June 7 on second-degree assault charges. WBAL reports.
Bealefeld's Bogus Bad Guys With Guns, & Other Bald Face Lies Of The Baltimore Police
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
When the Baltimore Police Department tells us crime is down, we’re supposed to B E L I E V E? Much like when then Mayor Martin O’Malley told us to, I’m still not quite sure just what to B E L I E V E? Funny thing is, Martin never told us. Good thing the FBI quickly released official statistics showing we lead the nation in crime. So even if it’s down, why are you celebrating. This city is a war zone and we all know it.
Now here comes Commissioner Bealefeld and his so called bad guys with guns. Or should I say, Black Guys With Guns. It’s a well known fact that the first wide scale gun grab of legally owned fire arms was conducted in the deep south by members of the Ku Klux Klan. Sometimes it was done under the guise of law enforcement by day, other times, during the night, the same cops, hiding behind white sheets came by as the Midnight Riders. Hitler taught them, if you’re gonna take advantage of a race of people, you best be sure they can’t fight back.
“UPDATE ON FIGHT AGAINST BAD GUYS W/ GUNS: As of today, BPD has seized 1,200 illegal guns and 568 people arrested for gun offenses since 1/1.” – Baltimore Police 15 June 2009
For the Baltimore Police Dept. to release these figures shows just how desperate and dishonest these guys are. Just what constitutes a bad guy with a gun? Just because you arrest someone with a gun, does this make them a bad guy? What if the gun was legally owned, and the man arrested is exonerated in court, and his gun is given back to him? What will you say then? I suppose the police are now in the business of handing out verdicts. Typical for a police state? The kind history has shown us where Secret Police ran the show. The same kind that snatched people up, even 16 year olds, and they were never seen again.
In a town were a large sum of arrests never lead to conviction, one really has to take this claim with a grain of salt. Many arrests made by Baltimore Police are thrown out because of sloppy police work, lack of evidence, no probable cause, and a host of other reasons. In short, a citizen was arrested, chances are roughed up, and imprisoned, for now valid reason. Space does not allow me to elaborate at this time, but I have before, and I will in the future. So they claim the guns were illegal, well, we’ll have to see if the prosecutors, the jury and the courts agree won’t we?
The 568 people claimed arrested, were they all indeed criminals? Should we B E L I E V E just because you say so? How many have been convicted? To claim any sort of victory, without a trial or a guilty finding is shallow, hollow, and desperate. With crime out of control, Commissioner Bealefeld is willing to do anything to convince the people of Baltimore this is not so.
Better known for harassment and false arrests, and now kidnapping, Baltimore Police do little by way of protecting and serving. More like serving their own best interest, arresting easy targets of opportunity, the proverbial low hanging fruit. When it comes to making residences feel safer, the department has been an utter failure for some time.
Seeing the Commissioner walk a foot post over the weekend on the Inner Harbor reminded me of a scene from the Titanic. As the ship sank, the orchestra played soft soothing music and pretended everything was ok. It was a show. A show of denial and deception.
I’m not sure if Bealefeld is a musician, but the next time he plans to get on stage, he really ought to add some background music, it would make his words go down easier. I’ll be glad to assist in production if he calls.
An upcoming piece will dig further into some direct lies spouted by Commissioner Bealefeld and other empty misleading claims of the Baltimore Police Department. Like the time he boldly stood in City Hall and claimed he had to hide the names of officers who shoot people because 83 threats to police were investigated last year. Of course, it wasn’t until confronted by local press that he admitted not on of the threats were related to police involved shootings.
Or like the man who witnessed say was shot in the hand by police, but mysteriously later on his shooting turned into a self inflicted wound from attempting to flee officers.
What’s next, I’m found dead and it’s deemed suicide? Nice try boys, the Baltimore Sun may buy into it, but lots of others won’t. The despicable level of official corruption and criminality surely tops anything in Chicago or New Orleans. The people just don’t know about it due to Baltimore’s lack of comprehensive media, or reporters with guts.
I guess players will keep on playing, police will keep on shooting, and Commissioners will keep on messing with numbers to justify their existence and protect their jobs. Makes it seem as if they’re actually doing something about making us safer.
Meanwhile all of the brass jump into their city owned, personally assigned take home vehicles, and get the hell outta the city when their work if done? Thought it was getting safer? Why do so many of you refuse to live here, and use our money to fund your commute? That includes you too Anthony Guglielmi. Aren’t there enough jobs closer to DC? Why have you come up here to lie to us all and attempt to lull us into a false sense of security, but meanwhile you drive 100 miles to get back to your home in Alexandria?
P.S. To the Commissioner, to the Department, to the City, or anyone else, if you don’t like what I’m writing, if you think I’ve been inaccurate or untruthful, how about suing me and taking me to court instead the usual underhanded mob style tactics you use? False arrests, the wrongful imprisonments, illegal search and seizures, continual harassment, so uncivilized. I’ve suffered it all due to the piss poor lack of professionalism, honor, or dignity regularly put on display by so many wearing the uniform of the Baltimore Police Department. Just look at the story below this one.
By the way, if you do sue, remember, in discovery, lots of records will be subpoenaed, people will be compelled to testify and lots of dirt will be exposed. So go on, keep harassing and trying to hurt, harm and discredit me. I’m just a wee little blogger remember? Let’s see what you clowns do next. How obvious will you be this time.
After Police Kidnapping, Greater Oversight Demanded
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
NAACP Calling For Investigation Of City Police Actions
Attorney Roland Patterson with NAACP President Marvin ‘Doc’ Cheatham, at a press conference at the Baltimore Branch of the NAACP calling for greater police accountability.
Without probable cause or provocation, plain clothes officers of the Baltimore Police Department snatched Michael Johnson off the street near a playground. The men in the van with tinted windows ordered the 16 year old to get in. If it were not for the nightsticks in their hands or the badges hanging around their necks, the men resembled a group of thugs. Their actions that followed went with the image.
“I’m going to put my night stick up your ass,” said the officer to young Johnson. After Johnson told him he wasn’t going to do anything to him, the officer jumped out, forcibly grabbed him placing him and him headfirst into the van.
After striking Michael Johnson in the leg with the nightstick, the police officer then asked the 16 year old if he had any money. Johnson said no, but they went through his pockets anyhow. They took his cell phone, threw the battery out the window, and broke the phone in half.
The van then proceeded to the highway. “You think we’re playing, we ought to drop you on I-95.” As they continued, an officer said, “you think you’re a tough guy, you’re going to learn some respect!” Referring to an earlier incident in which one of Johnson's associates was similarly accosted, the driver of the van said “You think your friend went some where, wait till you see where you’re going.”
It is unclear why young Johnson was taken to a Howard County park, his shoes and socks removed, and was forcefully thrown out of the van in the rain. What we do know is, after making his way to a gas station and calling 911 on a payphone, Howard County Police eventually responded, took a report, and drove the youth back to Baltimore City.
For a police department with a reputation of abuse, gross misconduct, poor leadership and oversight, the above allegations are disturbing. They represent the latest examples of unprofessional thug like conduct at the hands of members of the Baltimore Police Department, much of which has been personally experienced and witnessed by this writer.
The incident occurred on 4 May 2009. Despite repeated requests and demands, the State’s Attorneys Office nor the Baltimore Police Department has responded to inquiries or comments from this writer.
15 June 2009
14 June 2009
Criminals, Cops & Crackheads
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
Don’t Tase Me Bro
A man lay on the ground writhing in agony. From where I was, I could clearly see the wires attached to the probes in hooked into his body. They led back to the officers gun still in his hand. It was a taser gun, but a gun non the less. These things have killed people, plenty of them. Every year, even in Maryland. Why do you think an ordinary citizen is forbidden from owning one?
Realizing I had just witnessed a man get shot with a taser by Baltimore Police, the old beat reporter kicked in. Whipping out my notepad I began to furiously take notes. I spoke to as many witnesses as I could.
The results of my investigation are quite startling. The man unarmed, but apparently he was shot with the taser as a form of compliance, because he was not moving quickly enough.
I do not claim to be an expert, but all of my police training and advanced tactical exercises tell me that use of force is only justified when life is in danger, not just because someone isn’t doing what you want them to do.
Not only was the man unarmed, he was actually found unconscious by the police. A passerby earlier saw him laid out in front of the Govans Manor Apartment building on York Rd. They called 911 and the police responded to an unconscious man. How things went from he man being unconscious, to being a threat necessitating force is still a mystery.
After quietly observing all this for a while, the police soon took notice of me.
Police Officer: You’re a long way from home aren’t you?
Citizen MacArthur: Just out for a walk, I do that a lot.
Police Officer: Anything I can help you with?
Citizen MacArthur: Guess they didn’t tell you everything about me did they?
Police Officer: No they didn’t, you’re the guy that drives the XXXXX car and lives at XXXX right?
Citizen MacArthur: Yup, that’s me. I’m also the guy that’s an investigative journalist, a contract Special Investigator, and an occasional tactical instructor among other things. Knowing you guys were turned loose with 500 hundred tasers on the streets of Baltimore, of course I’m curious when I actually see one used.
Police Officer: Oh, ok, well….thanks!
At 3:25 in the morning, the streets of Baltimore are roamed by a select group. Typically criminals, cops, or crackheads (insert drug/addiction of choice here). Of course, there’s also weird investigative journalist types out for 10 mile conditioning walks with his dog.
RELATED
13 June 2009
City Should Look Beyond Inner Harbor In Fighting Crime
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.
With stepped up patrols, a nearly doubling of the deployed force, and even the Police Commissioner showing up to perform foot patrol, clearly the city is trying to do damage control. Recent violence and mob scenes at the Inner Harbor has tarnished the long held, city fueled impression that the area is safe.
If the city truly cared about it’s citizens and actual residents, a similar effort would be seen in the worse neighborhoods. You know, the kind where lots of people actually live, unlike the Inner Harbor.
Obviously the city cares more about appearance and PR than they do about the people. With murders, muggings and shootings on a daily basis in the communities, there appears to be no increase in effort and attention. Instead, the harbor is where it all goes. This looks good for TV and public appearance.
While the harbor has now been secured, the rest of us go home and live in fear as we duck and cover in the war zone that so many Baltimore neighborhoods have become. Don’t B E L I E V E me? Check out the crime maps and see how many neighborhoods have murder after murder, and shooting after shootings, all of which going completely unsolved. Then ask the city, ask the police, what have you done to make things better there? What have you done to make me feel safer in my neighborhood?
The answer is simple. NOT A DAMN THING!
No wonder the overall population continues to decline. I suppose since the downtown waterfront population is actually growing and with the condos there going for over a million a piece; there’ll be enough tax revenue to support the city, after the rest of us retreat to safety and leave this God forsaken place. And I don’t say that to be facetious.
Truly, God has forsaken this place. There appears to be no hope of things ever getting better. Efforts for improvement are often met by stiff and sometimes violent resistance. The populace has been lulled into complacency and perpetual repetitive motion. Why do you think the same do-nothing incumbents responsible for this disaster of a place keep getting voted back in?
12 June 2009
Police Shoot At Unarmed Man
By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor
Note: After story and headline was written, Baltimore Police issued an update several hours later claiming the suspect was not shot by police, but injured himself while fleeing.
As the first member of local media on scene, this reporter approached the scene seeking answers. The yellow tape was all around. Greenmount Ave., a major artery leading in and out of the city was blocked off.“You can be here, you gotta go on the other side of the street.” Although I stood outside the police line, I was still too close for the officers on the scene.
A funny observation was when all of the “mainstream,” that is, white media arrived, they stood right up against the same line without getting any harassment from the police. This reporter joined them and was able to do several live reports for Radio One. With the help of newsman Robert Altman in studio, we went on air over all four radio stations immediately with the story before anyone else.
When I was initially shooed away from the scene, I interviewed many local eyewitnesses. Their story is a man jumped out a car and was being chased by police. They heard a shot fired from the alley and the man eventually staggered out in handcuffs escorted by police. Several witnesses claim the man was struck several times and beaten by police although he was in handcuffs.
This reporter observed the man with an open wound on his hand left to sit on the curb in handcuffs for over an hour. A city Fire Department medic unit arrived on scene and left without transporting the victim.
Per Officer Troy Harris, Baltimore Police spokesman: Around 3:25 near the 1000 block of Lanvale St., plain clothes officers observed a man in a black Dodge Magnum in a suspected drug transaction. The officers attempted to make a stop and the suspect fled.
The police helicopter was notified and maintained contact with the suspect. With the officers on the ground following, the suspect led them to the 300 block of 23rd St., near Greenmount Ave. At this point the suspect bailed out and fled into an alley behind the Greenmount Ave. Recreation Center.
While in the alley, the suspect failed to respond when the officer told him to show his hands. At this point the officer fired a single shot.
Upon searching the suspect, no weapons or drugs were found. This reporter also personally witnessed several plain clothes officers completely search the suspects car from top to bottom. There were no weapons or drugs found there either. The car was towed to the crime lab for a more detailed examination.
Before any other members of media arrived, this reporter witnessed a city Fire Dept. ladder truck arrive on scene. Several plain clothes officers climbed the ladder to get onto the roof of the rowhouse behind which the shooting took place.
At the time of the incident, Ofc. Harris stated it was unclear whether the suspects wounds were from the officers shooting, or possibly an injury sustained while fleeing and or jumping over fences.
Per department policy, the name of the plain clothes male officer, or his female partner was not released.
The incident kept Greenmount Ave. closed for nearly two hours during rush hour. Several MTA buses loaded with passengers were seen sitting idle stuck in the resulting traffic backup.