The Baltimore Spectator

BUSTED: French President Uses Black Actor To Improve Image

2012-02-05T04:39:00.001-05:00

Le scam? Sarkozy accused of 'bussing in' fake black workers during site visit in bid to boost his ...

Economic Spectator: Men Hit Hardest By Job Losses, But Recovery On The Way

2012-01-29T14:50:00.001-05:00

This article states during the recession, men lost jobs at greater rates than women. But it also states that men are starting to see an increase in returning to work. Is this true in Baltimore? What about in the Black community?

Economy: The Man-cession and the He-covery : http://usat.ly/wU8nJ3

Public Safety Spectator: House Fire

2012-01-29T13:48:00.001-05:00

*1 ALARM FIRE* Box 53-1 100 blk Westowne Rd, SW Balto; 2 story end unit rowhome, fire 2nd fl. Ops FG-1. #baltfire -- BCFDL734 (@BCFDL734)

Happy Birthday Dr. King -- Thank You For All You Have Done

2012-01-15T08:36:00.000-05:00

Dear Dr. King!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!

I realize it'll probably be a while till you see this, but I wanted to take a few moments to record some of my thoughts on how much you've meant to me, and how far we've come since you've been gone.

Although today's your birthday, most of America will not actually recognize or honor you until tomorrow. Well, I'm not sure about the honoring part, but a lot of people will have a day off. How many will truly recognize they have you to thank for this? Who knows!

Real men wore hats, cool cats wore fedoras!

This may seem a bit odd, but really you're in good company. They celebrate the birthdays of Jesus and Presidents Washington and Lincoln on days other than the actual dates too. They give them about the same recognition and honor. A great time for picnics, parties, parades and car sales.

Speaking of your birthday, you don't even want me to begin to tell you about how much resistance there was to designating it a federal holiday. It's peculiar how we celebrate with a holiday, Christopher Columbus who was neither American nor president. Come to think of it, actually quite strange. Other than yourself and Jesus, he's the only man who was never president, but has been honored with a national holiday.

Kind of ironic really. In some ways, Christopher Columbus could be thought of as one of the founding fathers of American slavery of black people. Where as, you're most definitely one of the founding fathers of our modern day freedom and liberation.

By the time you read this, I guess you'll already know, they killed Bobby Kennedy too.

Dr. King, a lot has happened in America since you last walked the Earth. We've gained all sorts of freedoms, made all kinds of progress, even to the point of having a black president.

Remember that dream you had? Could you believe I went to school and sat next to white girls and white boys. Got invited to their homes for dinner, and even went on dates with some of the white girls and lived to tell about it.

Even Martin Luther King found time for fun on occasion.

FREEDOMS FATE IN QUESTION

Looking back over the years, we really have come a long way, but today I'm a bit worried. More worried than I've ever been my entire life. While we've marched ahead, made great strides, I fear we may have started to slowly slip backwards and nobody's paying attention.

There's this thing called the Patriot Act. Oh Dr. King, I can't even begin to describe how horrific it is once you dig into the details. If it were around in your day, long before your great March On Washington, you probably would have been locked away and never seen or heard from again under the guise of "national security."

Oh, then there's the National Defense Authorization Act. To discuss the devious details of this devilish law would take a whole book.

For many in government and to the powers that be, you were considered a grave threat, but I guess you already know this. There's been many more incremental threats and scaling back of our freedoms, but most of us seemed unconcerned or too busy living our lives to pay attention.

I hope some of us will wake up before it's too late. I mean, I know it's good to dream and all, but what good is a dream without taking action towards fulfilling it? So much of what you fought for, so much of what you believed in, so much of the very essence of the spirit of what you stood for is at risk today in America.

You probably have a ton of others letters to read, so I'll wrap this up now. There's much more I'd like to share with you, but I suppose that will have to wait. Perhaps if it's OK I'll write you again sometime.

Thanks for all that you have done, thank you for fighting for our freedoms, thank you for inspiring a generation, thank you for paying the ultimate sacrifice.

Tearfully yours, with love,

A.F. James MacArthur

P.S. We shall overcome!

P.P.S. Response not necessary.

BREAKING NEWS: Shooting 4700 Block Liberty Heights

2012-01-11T23:51:00.001-05:00

Baltimore - Shortly after 11:00 p.m. Baltimore Police reported via twitter; officers were on the scene of the above location in north west Baltimore, for a call of an adult male reported to be shot.

A source revealed an adult male was shot multiple times and as of this writing was in critical condition enroute to a local trauma center. The incident may have taken place inside a business, possibly a store.

This is the second shooting of the night. Earlier, police reported a male was shot in the arm on Edmondson ave.

Since the start of the year, city officials and many in media have been touting crime statistics from last year, seeming to indicate lower incidence of reported crime, as some sort of triumph. Mean while violent crime seems to have taken a notable spike and has surged along at a steady pace, as if to punctuate the fact our city is still a very dangerous place.

Filed by A.F. James MacArthur

2011-12-13T08:12:00.003-05:00

Occupy Baltimore has been evicted. See www.InvestigativeVoice.com for full report.

2011-12-13T08:12:00.001-05:00

Occupy Baltimore has been evicted. See www.InvestigativeVoice.com for full report.

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COP OUT - Is The Baltimore Police Department Actively Hiding Officer Misconduct?

2011-12-09T08:35:00.000-05:00

Well Rehearsed Routine Allows Misinformation To Flourish

By A.F. James MacArthur
MacArthurMedia@gmail.com

There's an ongoing, elaborate, active effort of evasiveness, by the Baltimore Police Department to keep bad information about its officers from ever seeing the late of day. Sure, every so often a sacrificial lamb is offered up to satisfy those who only observe the surface, but deep below lurks a murky pit of deception and deceit.

On the record, the department will say they're committed to transparency and accountability, but for anyone attempting in-depth coverage of the agency, reality rings different. In many cases, when a situation occurs, depending on upon who the officer is and his or her internal alliances and affiliations, a whole system of misdirection and suppression, in attempts to cover the indiscretion is activated. By the time information is released to the media, the red herring has already been smeared across the trail, and the foul scent leads the hounds astray and away from the truth.

In up coming reports, we'll attempt to dismantle and untangle the sticky web, where what should be public information, goes to die. There's at least a half dozen cases you've probably never heard of, we will do our best to expose.

From questionable shootings of civilians, to dangerous high speed chases, faked injuries and fraudulent workmens compensation claims, and even domestic abuse perpetrated by officers, there's a lot more going on with an agency charged to protect and serve us, than you would ever know from following Baltmore's mainstream media.

Under the guise of "personnel matters," shields are raised, while misdeeds manage to burrow further down the rabbit hole. Anyone doubting this should look up the published record of what we now know of former Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Before killing an unarmed Marine in a drunken off-duty night club incident, he was involved in numerous alcohol fueled altercations, including crashing his car, destroying a gas station, and shooting other unarmed civilians who happened to survive, all the while being allowed to remain on the job.

His case, while startling, is only the tip of the iceberg, but should serve as an illustration of how misconduct, even rising to the level of criminal acts, have not been a disqualifier for continued employment with the Baltimore Police Department.

With a newly sworn in Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake making overtures to maintaining open government in the city, the roadblocks continually thrown in front independent investigative journalists tell a different story. As the Baltimore Spectator continues the quest of bringing you accurate and timely news and views not commonly heard, we'll see how Baltimore city and its agencies cooperate.

Baltimore Spectator On Twitter

TIP LINE: 410-205-NEWS (6397) Voice/Text capable
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Committed to holding those in authority accountable, A.F. James MacArthur has personally investigated or initiated internal affairs inquiries on numerous public servants, resulting in a variety of punishments and sanctions of those who violate the public trust.

MOUNTED UNIT -- Alleged Public Sex Act Lays Suspension On Two Female Police Officers

2011-12-08T05:35:00.006-05:00

Possible Cover Up Kept Incident Under Wraps Nearly Two Months

By A.F. James MacArthur
MacArthurMedia@gmail.com

Baltimore Police Officer Kelly Steinhorn

In a story that seems straight out a low budget porn film, two Baltimore Police Department, Mounted Unit officers, are alleged to have engaged in a public sex act with a third individual, said to be a man. Specific details remain unclear, but known facts appear to be adding up to yet another embarrassing, notorious scandal, for the beleaguered police department.

Baltimore Police chief spokesman, Anthony Guglielmi, confirmed to the Baltimore Spectator, two officers were suspended and placed on administrative duty while the incident is investigated. Although he would not release the names of the officers involved, sources reveal them as Kelly Steinhorn and Jill Murphy, both assigned to the Mounted Unit, which patrols the streets on horseback.

SWEPT UNDER THE RUG?

Guglielmi also stated, that while the incident occurred in October, it is still currently under active investigation, with the administrative suspensions being handed down only within the past week. He could not explain why a two month old incident, was still under investigation.

Sources tell the Baltimore Spectator, a third female officer caught the others in the act and may have been threatened about going forward with reporting it. Word is, the unidentified officer's complaint may have been initially ignored by Mounted Unit supervisor Sgt. John Ambrose.

MANY QUESTIONS REMAIN

Officer Jill Murphy, photo by J.M. Giordano

The incident is reported to have happened at a bar in Baltimore. While Guglielmi claims the accused officers were both off duty, it is not clear whether the third officer reporting the incident, was also off duty. The circumstances involving how or why she came into contact with the initial two officers, and the third, as of yet to be identified, individual involved in the alleged sex act remain murky, but sources say she may have been on duty.

Although the supposedly took place while the officers were "off duty," the spokesman referred to it as an "integrity issue," and said possible violations of officers code of conduct would not be tolerated. With the entire incident under investigation by the Internal Affairs Division, the officers face further potential punishment, including possible termination.

HEARD HERE FIRST

Initially broken the Baltimore Spectator twitter feed, early Wednesday morning, the story has generated a ton of buzz, with several mainstream media outlets picking it up, prompting a press conference at Baltimore Police headquarters by Wednesday afternoon.

For a department that's no stranger to constant scandal and controversy, this latest episode is serving as the number one scuttlebutt with officers on the force. Another distraction from their core purpose. According to one officer, speaking anonymously, "we can't get out of our own way sometimes."

TIP LINE: 410-205-NEWS (6397)
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A.F. James MacArthur attended and trained at several police academies. Although once caught with a female fellow cadet sitting on his lap, he was never part of a mounted unit.

Other Sources

Fox 45's Keith Daniels, broke the story on TV

Adam May, from WJZ added additional details

ABC 2

CRASH SMASH! - Suspects Fleeing Police Collide With Nearly Dozen Vehicles

2011-10-19T16:53:00.003-04:00

Car driven by suspects fleeing Baltimore Police (red one in rear) comes to stop after wedging into parked cars on Gwynns Falls Pkwy, near N. Rosedale St.

Story, photos & video by A.F. James MacArthur

A loud crash, resembling an explosion according to witnesses, woke up residents living along Gwynns Falls Pkwy. in North Baltimore late Tuesday night. Two suspects being chased by the Baltimore Police Department crashed a red Ford Thunderbird, with expired Virginia temporary tags, into a pair of parked cars, ending the chase in the residential neighborhood.

It's unclear why the suspects were being pursued by police and where the chase originated. Baltimore Police have not yet responded to inquiries placed by The Baltimore Spectator seeking information on the late night chaos and commotion.

Car fleeing police displaying expired Virginia temporary tags.

After the crash, the two male suspects miraculously seemed to not sustain serious injuries and fled on foot. One was captured a short time after, while Fox Trot, the police department's helicopter unit, assisted in a search of the area for the second suspect. The captured suspect could be heard loudly arguing, using profanity, telling police "I wasn't the driver..I need and [expletive] ambulance."

A police officer promptly retorted "it doesn't matter, you guys crashed into 10 cars tonight, and you're gonna be responsible for all that." Apparently referring to vehicles located elsewhere in the path of the pursuit. It is not clear whether the other vehicles were occupied, where they were located, or if their owners were notified of the cause of the damage.

Rhonda Gantt (seen in the video below) and a companion driving in a Dodge Durango, were struck by the fleeing suspects, moments before the chase ended, as their SUV cleared the intersection of Gwynns Falls Pkwy while travelling south on N. Rosedale St. Ms.Gantt said she did not see any lights illuminated on the suspects car, nor emergency lights or hearing a siren on the police cars giving chase.

Airbags deployed in car driven by suspects fleeing police.

While police officers searched the car, a steadily growing crowd of residents began to emerge from their homes surveying the scene. Several owners of damaged vehicles lamented upon realizing they were suddenly out of transportation. One woman, wishing not to be identified; the owner of a green Honda Civic, she endearingly said was named "Harry," was concerned about how she would get to work in the morning.

Saying that she could probably figure out short term temporary arrangements, the Honda's owner told The Baltimore Spectator, her larger concern was the car being covered only by liability insurance, and being her only form of transportation to get to and from work, was worried about who would cover the costs.

The Baltimore Police Department has stated on numerous occasions, officers are not allowed to engage in high speed pursuits unless given express permission by superiors, and then, only under very extreme and unique circumstances. This has not however prevented serious property damage, injury and even death as a result of police chases in the city. It is not clear whether the officers last night, were authorized to engage in a high speed pursuit with the suspects.

In July of 2010, Officer Timothy Beall, ignored orders of superiors to break of a chase involving a motorcycle. The chase ended outside his jurisdiction, when the motorcyclist was struck by the police car driven by Officer Beall in Baltimore County, causing the death of the fleeing motorcyclist. Officer Beall was suspended for his actions.

Officer Beall was also involved in an officer involved shooting, that left a suspect dead, when he mortally wounded a man accused of pointing a rifle at him in 2009.

Racial Profiling, Harassment, Threat & Intimidation By Baltimore Police

2011-09-09T12:35:00.006-04:00

The message below, sent to Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld, of the Baltimore Police Department, details the most recent incident of officers violating my civil rights. Copies were also sent to various media.
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To: Frederick H. Bealefeld III Commissioner, Baltimore Police Department

CC: FBI, Honorable Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Baltimore City Council, Members Of Media

Civil Rights Advocacy Groups

Copies will also be sent via U.S. Postal Service

Commissioner Bealefeld,

I would like to draw your attention to an unfortunate incident regarding Officer K. Rodriguez and others, taking place in the Southern District. Rodriguez was the primary antagonist, accompanied and assisted by Officer Perry. Officer Rodriguez's conduct displayed a lack of good judgement, lack of common sense, and most distressingly, a fundamental lack of understanding of the constitutional and civil rights of a citizen and a member of the press. His conduct also had a clear overtone of racial discrimination.

A person behaving in such a way as was displayed by Rodriguez should not be allowed to serve the public and, presents a serious liability to the Baltimore Police Department, the City of Baltimore, and to the citizens of this city.

I have personally witnessed and been subject to a systematic, continuous, perilous pattern of harassment and routine violations of my constitutional and civil rights, by the Baltimore Police Department. The purpose of this message is to bring to your full and complete awareness the most recent incident, ranking among the most egregious violations of my rights by members of this department (see 'Details Of Complaint' below)

Being so informed, by allowing these actions to continue, you would be considered criminally compliant, by your inaction to prevent.

Pictured left to right, Larry "The Celebrity" Cab Driver, Police Commissioner Frederick H. Bealefeld III, & the author.

As a well known, respected, highly popular figure on the local news scene, I deserve the ability to practice my craft, as a constitutionally protected activity, without unnecessary and undue harassment, and infringement by the Baltimore Police.

In the past, attempts to handle these matters at the district level, and even through internal affairs, have proven to be largely futile and wholly ineffective. This is only the latest incident, in which your officers have singled me out while attempting to report the news, for a special brand of harassment and intimidation. I was once even arrested for nothing other than refusing to put away my camera, while in a public space. It is my fear that this situation will continue unabated until it rises to the level of someone getting hurt. This of course is entirely unnecessary, and preventable, by action only you can take.

Covering breaking news at a clandestine meth lab explosion.

Past attempts to handle these matters at the district level, and even through internal affairs, have proven to be largely futile and wholly ineffective. A memorandum of understanding, increased training and awareness as to the rights and duties of the press in a free and democratic society seems in order for members of your department. The willful and oppressive, intimidating, threatening actions of those sworn to protect and uphold the law will not be tolerated.

Commissioner, you must turn this around. Your response and intended remedy to this most pressing matter is desired. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE.

Yours In Freedom And Truth

A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Independent Investigative Journalist

Director

MacArthur Media International

Direct: 410-205-6397

Crime & Community Reporter

InvestigativeVoice.com

News & Commentary

1010 AM WOLB,

Larry Young Morning Show

Taxi Talk in The Afternoon

P.S. Having practiced journalism in various forms, for nearly 20 years, photographing and interviewing among others a wide array of politicians and elected officials, including Presidents, senators, congressmen, local leaders and all manner of celebrities and popular figures, around the country and even overseas, covering all manner of breaking news and emergencies, no where have I experienced more issues of harassment and ill treatment by police, than in Baltimore City.

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DETAILS OF INCIDENT WITH OFFICER K. RODRIGUEZ, BALTIMORE POLICE DEPARTMENT

On the night of 4 September, 2011, shortly before midnight, I received information from a source there was a rescue underway for a person in the water near the Potee St./Hanover St. bridge, believed to be a suicide jumper. As a member of media covering issues of public safety, I responded to the area in attempts at gathering information for a story.

Upon my arrival, there was no crime scene tape, or officers cordoning off an area. I walked several hundred feet towards the center of the bridge where there was a large gathering of people. Among them were numerous civilians and members of both the Baltimore City Fire Dept. and the Baltimore Police. As I begin to walk around the perimeter of scene, taking wide angle photographs and making notes, the first person to acknowledged me was a uniformed, white shirted, commander of the Baltimore Police. I did not take note of his name, but he acknowledged me with a friendly smile, wave, head-nod and the words 'how you doing?'

Wearing a bright safety orange "incident vest" clearly displaying with large letters and the word "PRESS" along with my name, in addition to the camera hanging from my neck, there could be no mistaking who I was and my purpose for being there.

Several uniformed officers also acknowledged my presence in a friendly and courteous manner as did members of the Fire Dept. It was not until I was seen by a sergeant, wearing no name tag on his uniform, did the troubles begin.

The sergeant immediately began to rudely and aggressively question me and told me I could not be there. Having been to literally hundreds of crime scenes over the years as a reporter, photojournalist or in some of other capacity, I found his actions to be quite strange and off putting, as I was not in physically in the way, or interfering with the ongoing search and rescue operations, nor was there any danger presented to myself by being there.

I politely identified myself as a member of media, and told him I was here to do a story, and that under the law my actions were permissible. I asked if there was a designated area he would like me to stage in; he then continued to speak to me in a rude, aggressive and threatening manner stated I would be arrested if I did not leave immediately. He then signaled two officers towards me.

Immediately Officer Rodriguez rushed towards me reaching out with his hands as if to grab me, while Officer Perry backed him up displaying a pair of handcuffs. This action shocked me, as I was not aware of having committed any crime, and I felt the officers were about to falsely imprison me, then later articulate a conjured up reason as to justify an arrest. This has been done before.

In a clear, stern voice, I informed the officers that I broke no law, and if any of them were to touch me, it would be a violation of my rights. Rodriguez got within inches of my faces and began to address me in a very uncivil, ridiculing manner. When he told me to "turn around and get out of here," I told him he was standing way too close to me, and I would never turn my back on someone acting in such a threatening manner. He then gestured as if to strike me or place hands on me again. At this point, I told him his actions are unnecessary and uncalled for, I would be vacating the area, and if he should touch me, I would consider this an assault.

Due to the immediate threat displayed by Rodriguez's and Perry's aggressive posture, I began to walk backwards off the bridge. Fearing some sort of attack from the officers was imminent, I wanted to keep them within eyesight. All the while, other civilians on the bridge who happened to be white, did not have this sort of personalized police attention I was receiving. The officers followed me for a distance of several hundred yards, well away from the scene of the incident.

Fearing for my safety, and believing the situation may escalate, as we were now a great distance away from the scene and supervisors. I called 911, informed them of the threatening and harassing actions of the officers, and requested a supervisor respond to our location. I remained on the line so the operator could hear the commotion and interaction between Officer Rodriguez and myself. The 911 call lasted over 11 minutes, yet no supervisor ever showed.

At some point during the incident, being unable to gather information for my originally intended news story, I informed the officers they would now be my story, and I would be taking photographs and video of them, so their actions could be documented. Officer Rodriguez began to violently protest, reaching out as if to grab my camera, then shielding his face, and continuing to threaten me, all the while advancing on me.

What was most disturbing is, while I willingly attempted to leave the scene, I see no reason why the officers felt it necessary to shadow me, essentially stalking and harassing me for several hundred feet. The scene was that of a search and rescue, there was no danger posed my presence. No possibility of gun fire, disturbing evidence, risk of explosion etc.

It is my belief that the sergeant and officers were hiding behind the badge, and using the guise of law to willfully and deliberately violate my freedom of the press among other civil rights, their threatening behavior not withstanding. Judging by the fact of the white civilians in the same area not being harassed, it is also my belief, that the aggressive actions were precipitated by my being a black man, to which this department has a long, dark history, of unfair, illegal, violent and brutal actions, going against all form of decency and human rights.

Incidentally, the entire time, personnel on the bridge, in addition to the FoxTrot Unit (police helicopter), were searching and scanning the area with spotlights, looking for the victim. Officers Rodriguez and Perry were not helpful in this, as they spent an inordinate amount of time, a great distance away from the scene, while harassing me. That night the victim was never found. Two days later, a body was found floating in the immediate vicinity, all evidence indicates this was the body of the person being searched for on the night of the incident.

Perhaps a rescue might have been effected, while the individual was still alive, were resources more fully and appropriately applied to the situation.

Interesting Sun Reader Comment on The Baltimore Grand Prix

2011-09-04T09:37:00.000-04:00

The comment below was from the most recent Baltimore Sun article attempting to present both sides of the argument, for an against the Baltimore Grand Prix.

Capt. Buzz Nichols at 8:00 AM September 04, 2011

I lived in Long Beach, CA when the Grand Prix came to that city. I’ve also lived in Baltimore, so I know what you are in for. Two words: mayhem and chaos. Just as in Long Beach, this venue is for the enjoyment of the few (wealthy and influential), while disrupting and inconveniencing the rest.

Here is what you are experiencing this weekend : People are dead because rescue medics are not be able to get to you in a timely manner. There is a spike in crime, because law enforcement are tied up with directing traffic in circles and crowd control. Businesses have to close because customers are not able to get to them. Public transit is interrupted for the many that need it most. If you are along the race route you are not allowed to leave your home, or get back to it if you have.

And then there is the noise, the litter, the drunks, and people that could care less about their behavior. The only people that will make money are the promoters (already wealthy at the expense of tax payers). And a first time event of this magnitude will cause problems that no one previously thought of. It took Long Beach about three years before they got it close to right. Here is another thing. The cars don’t just show up and race. There are a few days of practice for the drivers and their crews to prepare. And then a few days of after event clean up and dismantle of the course.

I'll Show You Mine, If You Show Me Yours

2011-04-23T03:57:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, a simple trip to the bathroom, turns out not quite so simple. Originally published in 2007 -- A.F. James MacArthur

At one time in my youth, I worked briefly at an organic market in Southern California. After I left the place I remained on pretty good terms with the staff and owners. I still shopped there on a regular basis despite my unceremonius departure. As an athlete, I am constantly pushing fluids, usually water. Everywhere you see me, there'll be a water bottle nearby. The new airport restrictions on fluids really suck by the way (no pun intended, but I love sucking water) It's a conspiracy I tell you. I am now forced to abandon my water bottle, and purchase the overpriced stuff from the airport vendor once I'm past security. But I digress.

While in the store, I had a sudden urge. I mean, I had to go like a race horse. I ran to the restroom, reached up for the handle of the single occupant mens room, and as I turned the knob, that sinking feeling hit. OCCUPIED! The door was locked. My spirit was crushed and my bladder about to explode. After waiting around doing some kind of funky squirm dance, I saw a woman come out of the single occupant ladies room. Hmmmmmmmmm.....

COVER ME, I'M GOING IN!

Look left, look right, coast clear. When I locked the door behind me a strange feeling hit me. First off, I truly felt like I was somewhere I didn't belong. It didn't look much different than the mens room, but there was just a hallowed ground kinda aura to the whole thing. Somehow it seemed cleaner, somehow it smelled better. Even looked better with the tasteful art and the bouquet of flowers. How come they don't put this crap in the mens room anyhow?

As I relieved my self I thought of how as a man, out in the wilds, this process was so instinctively simple to accomplish. No need to pull down my pants, no need to squat no big deal. Just turn my back toward where people are, unzip, and discreetely do what I gotta do. With women it is so much more of a production. Is that why you guys tend to do it in groups? You need a look out and a cover person. But seriously, after my time in the Marine Corps, I got to the point where I could go pee most anywhere, anytime. There was really no shame. Hey, it's a natural process, we all gotta do it.

So after several minutes, I was done. After washing up I was ready to exit. I stepped out and there was a woman waiting. The look of shock and horror on her face was unreal. You would have thought I was OJ and she just witnessed me killing Nicole Brown Simpson. Sensing that this lady was going to start trouble I quickly utilized my military escape and evasion training and attempted to vacate the scene. Oh no, not good enough for this lady. She was locked on target.

Now mind you, the bathroom was a single occupant type, and I locked the door. Should this really have been a big deal? Well I guess she must have thought so. Before I knew it, I heard from behind, "THERE HE IS!" She was pointing me out to the store manager. Now, the simple act of heeding a nature call had turned into a strange man hanging around, going in and out of the ladies room. I swear, some people. After much explaining, I was let off the hook but with a stern warning. The guy was serious too. He did not buy my story.

FLASH FORWARD YEARS LATER...

So a couple weeks ago I'm in the Boston Market restaurant in Greenbelt Maryland. I gotta go again. After ordering my food, I make my way to the mens room. I reach up, open the door and step in. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!" The shrill ear piercing shriek nearly caused my heart to stop beating. I look over and a handsome young lady with her pants around her ankles shot to her feet and quickly pulled up her panties. As I immediately recoiled like a viper having just struck some helpless prey I was puzzled. What the? Had I entered the wrong door. A quick look at the universal symbol on the door reassured me that I was not out of line.

Now in complete shock, yet slighlty amused, I waited in the lobby area. An older woman, who it turns out was accompaning her said to me, "she didn't have it locked?" Within a few minutes, a complete red faced girl walked out of the mens room and profusely and embarrasingly apologized to me.

I turned to her and simply said, "it's ok, I'm a doctor." No complaining to management, no accusations, no desire to cause further embarrassment. Wish that had been my fate when it was me years earlier. Some people are just so sensitive.

The Battle Of Baltimore - How To Win It! (originally published 2007)

2011-04-23T03:43:00.000-04:00

Summer's here and another election grows near.

While politicians talk, criminals continue to walk.

The streets of Baltimore are dangerous and deadly

as the battle wages on.

Gone is the hope of growth and mobility.

Gone is the the hope of peace and prosperity.

Mamma's crying and she just won't stop.

She looks around and it's only getting worse.

She pleads with heaven as baby boy lies in a hearse.

Another one bites the dust.

In the police there is no trust.

Leadership is corrupt and the system is broken.

On the news lies continue to be spoken,

but on the street it's reality we meet.

Thousands have died, many more will follow.

The empty promises ring hollow as I watch another young man who tried and tried to flee the hood, get taken down buy the gunman's bullet.

The system in place, it ain't no good.

It continues to fail the neighborhood.

Keifer will you crack down on the reefer man bringing down my block?

Ms. Dixon you've gotten your licks in,

you were temporary, but were you exemplary?

Will you make a difference?

To me it makes no sense how the bloodshed continues.

In this city there's an all out emergency,

but a sense of urgency I do not see.

The powers that be, continue to fail you and me.

Our pleas they ignore as they show us the door.

Do they really care? If so, where does it show?

Not in my neighborhood, not on my street.

Stand up people, now move your feet!

Take action, only we can save ourselves.

Cuz truly it shows, they don't really care about us.

Fuss if you must, but take action!

Stand up and fight, rise up with all your might.

Our community can no longer be a haven for the criminal mavens.

Without fail they should be in jail, but really it starts with you.

What you do is make the call.

Be relentless and report them all.

If you don't who will?

Do you want to see them continue to kill, kill, kill?

The time for us to work together has begun,

one by one we can reclaim these streets.

Block by block, we need to take stock.

Be proud of your place, stand up to the criminal disgrace.

For only we can save us.

There ain't no harm in trying to reclaim the charm.

LEGALIZE IT! Jamaican National Commission On Ganja Recommends Decriminalization

2011-04-13T10:20:00.001-04:00

Top government officials in Jamaica reviewing commission's recommendations to decriminalize possession of small amounts of weed.

Related:

California Lawmaker Eyes Legalizing Marijuana, $1.4 Billion Revenue Potential

Weed Vs. Weapons, Which Poses Greater Threat? -- Baltimore Police Misguided Focus Possibly Cost A Man's Life

A Brits Warning On Guarding The Second Amendment -- America, Don’t Let This Happen to You

2011-03-28T01:34:00.000-04:00

So with gun legislation tightening up gun crime has gone up too, in fact ten-fold since the handgun ban, illegal pistols are rife in our towns and cities, I cannot help think that those children died in vain.

In the UK it is a right to own a shotgun, a privilege to own a firearm and damn right illegal to own a pistol, you in the States have the right to bear arms, fight tooth and nail to retain that right, Obama is looking at our unjust and antiquated legislation as a model for his own.

90 Girls Pregnant At Same High School In Memphis

2011-01-15T13:58:00.001-05:00

Ah yes, another place with issues to make Baltimore feel, we're not that bad.

MCS Board working to deal with pregnancies at Frayser High - WMC-TV 5 - Memphis, TN

Bible City USA! Baltimore Commemorates National Bible Week

2010-11-23T23:18:00.001-05:00

"Anytime you want to offer prayer or read scriptures for the city, I mean that's what we need," "We have so much evil and violence in the world today." -- Baltimore City Council President Bernard C. "Jack" Young

For a city with seemingly a church on every corner, it's perhaps fitting, that Baltimore has been selected as this year's National Bible City.

Did Mutilated Missing Baltimore Teen Fall From An Airplane

2010-11-23T11:16:00.001-05:00

In a tale that's becoming stranger and more twisted by the day, the search for an explanation of how the mangled body of teenager Delvonte Tisdale, originally from Baltimore, wound up on the lawn of a house in Boston.

While the story lists the boy being from North Carolina, those who've been following the story know that he and his family are originally from Baltimore.

AP Version

PREACH ON! -- Anti-Facebook NJ pastor acknowledges threesome with wife and church assistant

2010-11-20T21:17:00.000-05:00

A pastor who said Facebook was a "portal to infidelity" and told married church leaders to delete their accounts or resign once testified that he had a three-way sexual relationship with his wife and a male church assistant.

RIP James MacArthur

2010-10-29T13:27:00.001-04:00

Stage and screen actor James MacArthur, who played "Danno" in the original version of television's "Hawaii Five-O," died Thursday at age 72.

Actor who played Danno on 'Hawaii Five-O' dies

RIP James MacArthur

2010-10-29T13:26:00.000-04:00

Actor who played Danno on 'Hawaii Five-O' dies

Two Cops Accused of Robbing Undercover Officer

2010-10-06T12:06:00.001-04:00

Two Cops Accused of Robbing Undercover Officer 'As far as corrupt cops, if they want to continue to do what they're doing we will find them, we will arrest them and they will be prosecuted, period,' - Philadelphia Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey

United Tastes - Lake Trout Remains a Fried Favorite in Baltimoreom

2010-09-28T20:13:00.000-04:00

It's not trout, nor is it from a lake, but you can't go far on a Baltimore street without running into a shack pedaling this funky fried food favorite. The mystery that is lake trout tackled by the New York Times.

Lake Trout Remains a Fried Favorite in Baltimore

Legal titan Murphy says Jessamy has "failed"

2010-09-12T12:47:00.000-04:00

Legal titan Murphy says Jessamy has "failed"

"Her record has been one disaster after another, and it's plain to see. The statistics on her office have been accurately quoted, and they're awful. It's time for a change."

Maryland Gov. Would Sign Marriage Bill

2010-09-12T11:05:00.000-04:00

If Re-elected O'Malley Promises To Sign Marriage Bill

Environmental Militant James Lee Shot and Killed After Taking Hostages at Discovery Channel Headquarters

2010-09-01T20:14:00.001-04:00

Environmental Militant James Lee Shot and Killed After Taking Hostages at Discovery Channel Headquarters

Maryland Politics - O'Malleys on pace to earn $1.2M during 4 years in Annapolis

2010-08-31T11:45:00.001-04:00

$60,000 annual pension from Baltimore City among incumbent governors earnings.

Maryland Politics - O'Malleys on pace to earn $1.2M during 4 years in Annapolis

Baltimore Among Least Safe Cities For Children

2010-08-31T10:53:00.000-04:00

Baltimore Ranks Near Bottom In List of Safest Cities For Children

RUNNING GUNFIGHT — Teens on foot and bike shoot it out in Irvington

2010-08-29T18:33:00.000-04:00

RUNNING GUNFIGHT — Teens on foot and bike shoot it out in Irvington

Priest Has Sexual Affair With 17 Year Old Girl, Results In Pregnancy

2010-08-29T16:45:00.000-04:00

Reading, PA Priest Has Sex With Student, Impregnating Her

Page Croyder Interview Teaser

2010-08-29T06:19:00.000-04:00

James MacArthur Interviews Former Deputy State's Attorney Page Croyder on Baltimore State's Attorney's Race

Paris Hilton Mug Shot Tally Reaches Three (And Counting) | The Smoking Gun

2010-08-29T06:15:00.000-04:00

Paris Hilton Mug Shot Tally Reaches Three (And Counting)

WHAT FUTURE BALTIMORE? — Of pools, politics and pensions

2010-08-13T12:42:00.000-04:00

WHAT FUTURE BALTIMORE? — Of pools, politics and pensions

The dim dark reality of Baltimore current trajectory if left unchecked.

Police Commissioner: “We’ve Got Batman.” $ The City That Breeds

2010-08-06T14:12:00.000-04:00

Police Commissioner: “We’ve Got Batman.”

Man Charged With Spraying Shoppers With Semen - WBAL Radio - wbal.com

2010-08-04T14:42:00.000-04:00

Man Charged With Spraying Shoppers With Semen

Baltimore Crime Beat: Scared, worried about crime - Baltimore crime news: Police, courts and police stories in the city and central Maryland - baltimoresun.com

2010-08-04T12:50:00.000-04:00

Baltimore Crime Beat: Scared, worried about crime

Wayward reptile nabbed in Patapsco - baltimoresun.com

2010-08-03T21:18:00.000-04:00

Wayward reptile nabbed in Patapsco

Child hit by police car in West Baltimore

2010-08-03T16:11:00.000-04:00

Child hit by police car in West Baltimore

HEDGING HIS BETS — O'Malley still coy about endorsing Jessamy

2010-07-31T21:37:00.000-04:00

HEDGING HIS BETS — O'Malley still coy about endorsing Jessamy

In Regards To Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Patricia Jessamy & Crime Stats

2010-07-29T07:30:00.013-04:00

Don't Give Me No Broccoli & Tell Me It’s Greens

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Baltimore has seen no shortage of horrific crimes and human atrocities. City residents live in daily fear of life and limb, calculating their odds at being the next victim. A point lost on local politicians.

My colleague at The Investigative Voice, Stephen Janis, wrote an excellent piece, begging to stop uttering the oft touted “crime is down” refrain, city elected official and the Baltimore Police Department continually attempt to drum into our heads.

They say that statistically, crime is down, but anyone taking this as cause for celebration is part of an exhibit of a classic case, of collective denial.

First off, anyone willing to trust these stated statistics for crime in Baltimore, is either deliberately in denial, or decidedly clueless. I ask you, is this what we want in a State's Attorney?

AN ALTERNATE REALITY FOR POLITICIANS

At this point, it is an indisputable fact that crime has been systematically downgraded and routinely under-reported and even ignored. Not only has this been reported time and time again, as a journalist, I've even had the fortune and fortuitous pleasure of witnessing it myself. So I know it happens.

Larry Gibson, Mrs. Jessamy, Mayor Rawlings-Blake; non of them have spent much time, if any, at active crime scenes. So to put it frankly, when they speak on the issue, in all due respect, they typically don't know what they hell they're talking about.

Showing up at photo-ops and speaking a few empty and shallow words do not count. In Mrs. Jessamy's case, her silence at a community rally in Charles Village – held at the exact spot of the brutal murder of Hopkins researcher Stephen Pitcairn-- was particularly disturbing. It represented a lack of a willingness to take responsibility or to be held accountable. At least Police Commissioner Bealefeld had the balls to say he was "sorry" they [Baltimore Police] "failed to protect" us. For this he will continue to get a level of respect from me.

It is understandable why people like Mayor Rawlings-Blake, Jessamy and others speak the way they do. They live a reality vastly different than the typical Baltimorean. With their chauffeured driven luxury SUV's and full time bodyguards, how fair is it for us to expect them to get it?

DIMINISHED PERSPECTIVE

I invite any of our elected leaders to do a ride along with me as a crime reporter/photographer to see things first hand when all the bloody gore and guts are still out in the open. Before the fire department has hosed it all down and cleaned up.

Accidentally walk into a pool of a victim's blood like I have. See someone's brain matter splattered all over the wall moments after their head was blown off. Smell the sickening, stomach churning, unmistakable, unforgettable, foul stench of a rotting corpse. Then tell me if you feel crime is down. Better yet, tell me if you think this city is safe.

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Killer of girl in 1991 charged with carjacking - baltimoresun.com

2010-07-29T05:22:00.000-04:00

When Justice Fails The Bad Guys Win, Hermann Shows Us How Killers Are Set Loose To Wreak Havoc

Baltimore Crime Beat: Charles Village residents, city officials converge at stabbing site - Baltimore crime news: Police, courts and police stories in the city and central Maryland - baltimoresun.com

2010-07-29T05:20:00.000-04:00

Fenton Blogs About Charles Village Community Rally In Response To Killing

Maryland Politics: Franchot, O'Malley weigh in on Charles Village killing - Politics and Policy from Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington - baltimoresun.com

2010-07-29T05:18:00.000-04:00

Franchot, O'Malley weigh in on Charles Village killing

BANG, BANG! Chirp, Chirp

2010-07-27T09:28:00.007-04:00

A True Tale Of Two Bullets & Two Birds

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

After witnessing gunfire right outside my window and the accompanying speedy, yet unimpressive response by Baltimore Police, I decided to take matters into my hands. As a former investigator, I know a few things about gathering evidence, so I decided to canvass the area.

Unlike the police officers who just slowly drove through the areas, barely bothering to come out of their cars, I took to the streets. As police officers stood around doing nothing, one or two on foot, others sitting in their vehicles, I felt forced and compelled as a citizen to take action.

Pounding pavement moments after the incident, with full knowledge the shooter was most likely still being in the immediate vicinity I set out. Armed with nothing more than the power of observation, I interviewed several witnesses. I also canvassed the area searching for spent shell casings, bullet fragments, or anything else that my prove useful. The police did not.

In the early morning darkness, my visual canvass yielded very little. However, later in the morning after the sun had risen, my routine daily walk produced a strange ironic coincidence.

One of my dogs began pulling hard on the leash towards a particular spot on the ground. Looking closely, I observed a young robin madly flapping it’s wings but unable to take flight. With all it’s might the poor winged fowl could not get off the ground. I felt pity and compassion for the desperate little creature as I pulled my curious dogs away.

Shaking off the sadness of the sight, we moved on with our walk. Things remained uneventful until we rounded a bend to approach home. Directly across the street from the after hours club where two shots were fired into the air, there lay another bird, this one half dead, and not able to move, save for blinking it’s eyes.

Though both birds were still alive upon my discovery, it wouldn’t take a veterinarian to determine that both would soon be dead, there was no hope of saving them. Much as I wished something could be done, I had to abandon all hope.

Living in Baltimore, I continue to encounter strange metaphors and symbolic observations that mirror real life situations. So while Baltimore Police may wish to disguise that fact that shots were fired the night before, natured provided a reminder.

I thought to myself, could it be related? Is it possible? What are the odds of a gun randomly being fired into air; producing two bullets, killing two birds?

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Open Letter To Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

2010-07-24T07:27:00.013-04:00

To The Honorable Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Mayor, City Of Baltimore

Dear Madame Mayor;

Last night I called the police after witnessing a serious crime, and I was deliberately ignored!

I am writing this letter to make you aware of a problem that you have openly stated your concerns about: the Baltimore Police Department, accurate reporting of crime, and improved relations between the citizens of Baltimore and the police.

After sitting through numerous conferences, events, forums and meetings and listening to yourself, Police Commissioner Bealefeld, City Council President Jack Young and others speak of making improvements, I must say, as a citizen, I’m largely unable to see any difference at the street level where the rubber meets the road.

SHOTS FIRED, POLICE IGNORE WITNESS

Early this morning I was awakened by a very loud commotion involving a large group of young men, standing around, arguing loudly, on the verge of getting into a physical altercation. Within moments of my looking out the window, a young man pulled out a pistol, fired several shots in the air, and the group began to disperse.

After reporting the incident via 911, I was pleased to see what appeared to be a speedy response. What bothered me though was when I made numerous attempts to get the attention of responding officers, but was flatly ignored by all.

At one point, one nearly struck me with his patrol car as I tried to flag him down. Note, he was moving at an extremely low speed (perhaps five miles per hour), with flashing lights on as he went by with his windows open. Besides my frantic arm waving, I also attempted to verbally get his attention, this was all to no avail.

Standing inches away from his open drivers side window, it would be IMPOSSIBLE for him not to have seen me. Being the only one standing there at the time, it’s not as if I blended in.

ROUTINE UNDER REPORTING

When witnesses are ignored it makes it easy to avoid paperwork and not file a report. When reports are not filed, it makes it easy to show statistically that crime is down. When the city, and media report crime is down, and the perception by the majority of citizens is that is pure nonsense, this is the reason why.

If this has happened to me on numerous occasions, one must wonder just how widespread is it? It’s not just rape victims.

Because of my many attempts in the past of going through internal affairs, speaking to district supervisors, and even the commissioner; concerning officers failing to live up to their duties of protecting and serving the public. I feel there is no other choice but to turn to you. Will you also ignore me and continue to allow the status quo to continue?

With all of the robberies, assaults, stabbings, shootings, and murders that have occurred recently in this north Baltimore neighborhood, I am truly disturbed by police ignoring a citizen complainant who was also an eye witness. Reminds me of when I was a witness to murder and was ignored and offered no protection, despite the shooter being aware that I knew who he was.

VICTIMS TREATED LIKE SUSPECTS

Too many times in the past, Baltimore Police have made me the subject of investigation in response to my complaints, rather than focus and place efforts on actually following up on the reported criminal activity. This is shameful.

Madame Mayor, I should also point out, due to past experience, I know that my complaint leaves me wide open to retribution, revenge and ridicule by those who would rather keep the truth in the dark.

While I often feel I stand alone in a place resembling a war zone in sight, sound and atmosphere, the truth must be told. This is a large part of the reason Baltimore city continues to lose it’s tax base. People are moving away. Even the cops don’t want to live here, and 80% to 90% don’t! Not my numbers, but those of Commissioner Bealefeld himself. What message does this send?

In conclusion, I must again express my extreme displeasure in what has been a lengthy pattern of systematic avoidance, ignoring and lack of action to address criminal activity on the part of Baltimore Police that I have PERSONALLY brought to their attention.

When will we see a true and genuine effort to fully reform the standards, practices behaviors and procedures of this department?

Sincerely disgusted and discouraged;

A.F. James MacArthur, Ph.A.L.

P.S. In the interest of being somewhat brief, I won’t even go into the numerous incidents of police officers currently involved in the court system as criminal defendants, accused of all sorts of violations, assaults and out right criminal activity including and up to MURDER against the people of Baltimore. The time for change is NOW! TOMORROW WILL BE TOO LATE!

P.P.S A more fully detailed account of the above incident, and numerous others will soon be published; chronicling how the city and it's police department has largely abandoned and systematically ignored all hope of improving this area.

RELATED:

NEWS FLASH: -- Shots fired early Saturday morning outside popular after-hours club

Violence Reduction Symposium -- Open Letter To Mayor Sheila Dixon

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COURTROOM SPECTATOR! – The Baltimore Spectator Ordered To Jury Duty

2010-07-21T02:08:00.009-04:00

Part 1 – Bitter Reluctance – Why I Wasn't Enthused About Serving

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED TO APPEAR IN ROOM 240 COURTHOUSE WEST, ST. PAUL AND LEXINGTON STS… FAILURE TO REPORT FOR JURY SERVICE MAY RESULT IN PENALTIES UP TO $1,000 FINE, OR UP TO 60 DAYS IMPRISONMENT OR BOTH.

When I first opened the official notice, I was a bit troubled. Not that I have any problem with doing my civic duty, but to me the whole situation was filled with irony. Not to mention the potential of severe economic loss caused by a day, or many days of no real income.

You see, one of the last times I was in that very building, for what was to be a routine preliminary appearance for a hearing, I was taken into custody upon entering. I was held without a charge for 40 days! Yup, 40 days of no income, 40 days of my house left unattended (broken into several times), 40 days of mental anguish being held and having not committed a crime. This is a place I’d sooner never re-enter unless I was some sort of plaintiff suing the pants of this city for all that it put me through.

If you’re not familiar with the story of the abuse and harassment I’ve suffered at the hands of Baltimore City Police, I’ll have to save it for another time.

Read more...

Incidentally various rumors and snippets of what actually happened leading up to, during and after what I now call the “incident of 2009” have been floating around. It should be noted, as of this writing, I’ve never published a full account of this, so anything you’ve heard or read is most likely highly inaccurate.

You might imagine that I am not very found of the Circuit Court For Baltimore City, commonly known at the Mitchell Courthouse.

Having been arrested, detained, and otherwise seeing my constitutional rights totally trampled on by various entities of Baltimore City, I simply wasn’t thrilled to be forced to go into a city government building. After all, this is how they got me the last time, and the time before that.

Seems like a pretty good piece of entrapment. Let’s force you to come to one of our buildings, antagonize and be rude to you, and when you speak up and stand up for yourself, arrest you for “trespassing” and or “disturbing the peace.” Like the time my car was impounded and I was arrested for refusing to leave the impound lot without my car. Never mind I had a signed company check in hand.

Being in a place that you have to go to on official business should hardly constitute trespassing. Of course, expecting logical behavior by government and law enforcement in Baltimore City might be asking a lot. Not sure if you noticed, but these days this seems to be in short supply.

It should be noted that for one of my “trespassing” charges, the arresting officer, Michael Maurice, didn’t have the nerve to show up to court in order to substantiate his bogus and baseless charges.

I should not have been surprised by this, after all, Baltimore is known for illegal unwarranted arrests, for this we can thank then mayor, now governor, Martin O’Malley.

Between the murders of several people close to me and my major disappointment in the way the Baltimore Police has handled the investigations, my house being broken into numerous times, my cars being broken into repeatedly, motorcycles stolen from my backyard, numerous incidents of false arrests and imprisonments, countless fraudulent towing and impounding of my vehicles, you can see why I feel little need to “give back” to Baltimore. Quite frankly, after paying the exorbitant taxes in this city, I feel like I’ve given plenty.

In Part Two I’ll walk you through my day as a juror.

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URBAN WARFARE -- Marines Patrol Crime Ridden Gang Territory -- LOS ANGELES!

2010-07-14T22:34:00.004-04:00

Police Patrolling American City Have Lessons Useful For Combat

In a secret training exercise lasting about a week, police officers and members of the military worked the streets of LA together. Members of the United States Marine Corps went on patrol with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).

Covering some of the roughest, toughest neighborhoods, the idea was to give the combat trained troops skills in dealing with individuals that are more criminal than military combatant.

During the exercise, the Marines wore civilian clothes and were never ID'd as being members of the military.

While the idea of police training the military is interesting, it also has some disturbing connotations. This time the Marines were merely unarmed observers, but what's next?

Read More: Cops Show Marines How to Take on the Taliban | NBC Los Angeles

KILL ZONE: 58,000 Dogs Killed In Last Three Months In Iraqi Capital

2010-07-10T12:02:00.003-04:00

With Security Issues Stabilized, Hussein Era Animal Atrocities Resume

NOTE: Despite numerous rumors and murmurings to the contrary, managing editor A.F. James MacArthur is still covering and producing local Baltimore news, commentary and editorials. Stay tuned for a series of installments via InvestigativeVoice.com and right here at The Baltimore Spectator.

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

UPDATE 1408 hrs est: The AP published a story AFTER this report giving more details than were available when we published originally. It states there are 1.25 million stray dogs in Baghdad. The Drudge Report has also just picked up the story.

Claiming a rise in fatal dog attacks on humans, officials in Baghdad say 20 teams made up of shooters and veterinarians roam the streets daily, shooting and poisoning the many strays in the city. Of course, no one has given the hard stats and figures on this supposed rise in fatal attacks on humans, but no worries, this is Iraq after all, so it's certain everything is above board and on the up and up.

Iraq once well known for numerous human rights violations (sorry Bush haters, it's true), seems to have reverted back to an old Saddam Hussein policy of shooting strays on sight. You wonder how many escaped or missing pets get caught up in the dragnet? In Iraq, if your pet accidentally got out, chances are, you'd never see it again. Oops, sorry little girl, we didn't mean to shoot Barney.

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated”-- Mahatma Gandhi

After the the United States invaded in 2003, the wanton dog killing slowed down while more pressing issues were tended too. However, since 2008, the doggy death program has silently been revived. The last three months were particularly deadly for the desert dogs.

Having spent several years working full time in animal control as an officer, cruelty investigator, and even once acting in the role of game warden, this story is very disturbing. Any animal lover or pet owner should be deeply saddened by this approach.
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FULL DISCLOSURE: A life long swashbuckler, the author was once part of a team that hunted down, and eventually shot and killed a rabid fox, that threateningly approached, then Vice President, Dick Cheney and his family (TRUE STORY!).

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WORLD EXCLUSIVE AUDIO: Mel Gibson's Explosive Racist Rant

2010-07-09T20:26:00.002-04:00

"If you get raped by a pack of niggers, it will be your fault." -- Mel Gibson

Calling Oksana Grigorieva, the mother of his eight month old child, a "fu*cking whore", actor Mel Gibson also told her he doesn't want her, nor does he love her telling her she was "an embarrassment." Gibson's bitter racist rambling was all caught on tape when his girlfriend secretly recorded him.

My bet is for Mel, it really was all about the sex, but poor Oksana probably thought it was love. Oh, did you hear he also punched her in the mouth knocking out her front teeth?

Good one Mel, the real LETHAL WEAPON is that dirty mouth of yours. I hope a bunch of misguided Christians continue to watch your movies and praise you for your inaccurate, propagandist movie Passion Of The Christ. By the sounds of you on this tape, it sure sounds like you have a heaping helping of "the spirit" in you.

WORLD EXCLUSIVE AUDIO: Mel Gibson's Explosive Racist Rant

Mexican Clown Busted In Sex Attack

2010-07-09T10:00:00.002-04:00

Read Story...

VIDEO: Lindsay Lohan Court Room Meltdown

2010-07-08T12:48:00.003-04:00

In what could have been the setting of a Hollywood courtroom drama, Lindsay Lohan found herself being sentenced to jail after repeatedly violating the terms of her probation.
After giving a somewhat lengthy and award worthy soliloquy before the judge, actress Lindsay Lohan totally looses it the court. While being sentenced to 90 days in jail, and an additional 90 days inpatient drug rehab, to commence within two days of her release, Lohan finds the shoulder of her attorney a suitable pillow to cry on.

I know this is not a celebrity news blog, but some train wrecks are hard to ignore. Take a close look at the collagen injected, trout pout lips on the Freaky Friday star.

BARE NECESSITIES: Welfare Recipients Get Cash At Strip Club ATM's

2010-07-08T00:14:00.001-04:00

Widespread Welfare Fraud Easily Committed Despite Cash Strapped State Govt.

It's well understood that welfare cash is meant to pay for essential necessities, but a lap dance at a strip club? While it can be argued that for some, this is a much needed service, this story shows the problem when welfare is doled out and not properly accounted for.

Several weeks ago, The Baltimore Spectator reported on welfare cash being withdrawn at casino ATM's.

Reminds me of stories you hear about women using child support to pay for hair and nails and other things having nothing to do with the kids, but that's another story.

While the story is set in California, it's should serve as a cautionary tale to fiscally constrained governments across the land. YES, this can happen where you live. Chances are, it's already happening in one shape or form.

Besides the $12,000 recently discovered being withdrawn at the strip clubs, the casinos saw millions in welfare money come out of their cash machines. And this is just what is currently known about. Keep in mind these figures were produced by government accountants. The actual figure could be fare worse.

Nearly $4.8 million has been withdrawn from ATMs at casinos and poker rooms with welfare benefits cards from 2007 through June, according to state officials. The vast majority of that, $4.4 million, was withdrawn at tribal casinos.

Rare 1970s BP board game promises oil 'thrills' comes back to haunt them | Metro.co.uk

2010-07-06T19:41:00.003-04:00

Rare 1970s BP board game promises oil 'thrills' comes back to haunt them | Metro.co.uk

America's Greatest Governor

2010-07-05T18:14:00.001-04:00

National Education Association Gives Award To MD Governor Martin O'Malley

Is this the same O'Malley who was Mayor of Baltimore for eight years? Within those same eight years Baltimore saw it's public schools finish nearly dead last in every category that counts. With more kids dropping out than graduating, it's hardly what I would call a success or glowing accomplishment in the O'Malley legacy.

It's not that I have anything personal against the NEA or Governor O'Malley, despite the fact that he's had it out for me for some time. Some of the facts of his record are simply disturbing. To be crowned the "Greatest Governor" by a group whose stated goals are supposed to involve the advancement of education is honestly quite puzzling. It seems these so called educators haven't done their homework.

Were I a dues paying member of the nations largest teachers union, I'd demand my money back.

Retired school teacher Quinton D. Thompson; wrote an open letter to O'Malley. It was sent as a letter to the editor of The Baltimore Sun. Concerning the NEA, Thompson said: "Sadly, instead of striving to fulfill this mission, it has become obvious the NEA’s questionable priorities have been the promotion of their political influence, job security and the protection of their mediocrity which, I believe, should be termination of employment instead." The Sun refused to print his letter.

Read more

How is Martin O'Malley the "Greatest Governor" in America? Please, somebody, anybody, help me.

At a lost to me is just what is the criteria for "Greatest Governor." Could it be coming up with a failed economics planned causing severe revenue drain?

Or perhaps it was when a group of prominent Black Mayors in Maryland called an emergency meeting, invited O'Malley who confirmed, then suddenly became a no-show (see O"Malley Snubs Black Mayors). Not even giving a courtesy call.

You probably never heard of any of these stories, because typically, the establishment media gives Mr. O'Malley a pass and lets him off the hook.

Last year we ran a comment from a reader that's well worth repeating:

FEATURED COMMENT: James Greene

O'Malley has demonstrated time and time again that he has no regard for human life particularly when it comes to blacks. His deficient, self-serving, arrest everyone in sight, policing policies in Baltimore City destroyed thousands of lives, through illegal arrests and by permiting the most dangerous, violent, criminals, to remain on the streets, in an effort to control the stats and cook the books. All to make himself look good at any cost. Why? Many ask why and how this amoral, incompetent, individual was able to win the office of governor when he was the worst mayor in the history of Baltimore City. Answer. The lives he destroyed were black, and mostly poor. Who cares, right? Certainly not black voters who will vote for ANY democrat even a Martin O'Malley who gave them NOTHING as mayor except a useless, hollow, message to BELIEVE in nothing.

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FULL DISCLOSURE: Managing Editor, A.F. James MacArthur has numerous relatives in education, including several administrators, principals, a long time NEA rep, in addition to a retired NEA rep.

Baltimore corruption: Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake has vowed to clean up corruption, but crime still pays - baltimoresun.com

2010-07-05T16:25:00.000-04:00

Baltimore corruption: Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake has vowed to clean up corruption, but crime still pays - baltimoresun.com

BLOOD SPORT: Martial Arts Fighter Rips Out Mans Heart

2010-06-28T23:04:00.002-04:00

Fighter May Have Been Tripping On Hallucinogenics

In the time leading up to Jarrod Wyatt taking a knife and cutting out the heart of his still living sparring partner; the two apparently became obsessed with, apocalyptic events. They felt the end was near.

Just how this led to Wyatt cutting out the still beating heart, along with the tongue, and ripping out the eyeballs of Taylor Powell remains a mystery.

Oh yeah, almost forgot, Wyatt cooked up the body parts of his victim, he felt he needed to "stop the devil."

I must admit, I've been sitting on this story for a good long while. Really didn't want to post it, unsure what to do with it, I filed it away in my "potential stories" folder. But now for those with an insatiable appetite for news of the deviant, insane, demonic behavior that now seems to be on an increase throughout the land, I offer it up.

GOODBYE SIR! -- West Virgina Sen. Robert Byrd Dead At 92

2010-06-28T05:57:00.006-04:00

"The Klan is needed today as never before and I am anxious to see its rebirth here in West Virginia" and "in every state in the Union." -- Sen. Robert Byrd

Voted against Civil Rights Act of 1964

Only Senator to have voted against Supreme Court nominations of both Thurgood Marshall & Clarence Thomas --only blacks to have ever been nominated to the post

Twice used the term "white nigger" on national TV.

Former Klansman, was longest serving member of United States Senate

Not just a member, but a ranking active recruiter of the KKK.

Developing.....

SORRY OBAMA! -- Ghana Celebrates World Cup Victory Over USA

2010-06-26T23:21:00.015-04:00

For the second World Cup in a row, the United States is defeated by Ghana. CBS NEWS has more.

NOTE: the natural "illumination" used for the hand made sign.

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Photo copyright Getty Images/Wall Street Journal

Greener Grass – Are Things Really Better In Baltimore County?

2010-06-26T15:05:00.004-04:00

Today I had to run an errand near Towson. Heading up York Road from the Bunker in north east Baltimore, I was incensed by the level of traffic congestion and the snail slow pace of forward progress (traffic that is). By now I should be used to going no where fast, this is after all Baltimore City.

For years, I travelled about almost strictly by bicycle. These days due to work and business obligations, not to mention security considerations, such travel is almost impossible for me.

As I bounced about the bone jarring, teeth rattling, rutted out, pot-hole strewn thoroughfare, so typical for what passes as a main road in Baltimore, I couldn’t help but think; it’s gotta be better than this, somewhere, somehow.

Soon I realized part of the problem. Funerals. Not one, but two funerals, less than a mile apart, on the same road. That’s enough to jam up any travel.

I couldn’t help but think of the further irony. With the level of killing that is commonplace in this city, combined with all the natural and accidental deaths; Baltimore is constantly burying it's dead. It's just part of the rhythm that is life in charm city. A place where R.I.P. t-shirts are a common fashion statement, not to mention a cottage industry. A place where street side memorials are often the only place where flowers are seen in a neighborhood.

After feeling the muscles in my neck begin to tense so tight, I thought they’d snap like a rubber band pulled beyond it’s limit; suddenly I realized there was no more traffic congestion. No more riding the brakes, no more being nervous I might hit someone as pedestrian after pedestrian just dart out in front the car playing chicken. The road under my wheels felt remarkably smooth, I thought I was floating on air.

Was I delirious, dreaming, drunk or high? No, I’d just crossed over into Baltimore County.

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A.F. James MacArthur has never resided in Baltimore County.

SURPRISE SONGS! -- 273 New Jackson Tracks Discovered

2010-06-25T19:04:00.002-04:00

For those who just can't get enough of the King Of Pop may soon get the chance to hear a whole host of previously unreleased songs.

The collection is said to include duets with Tina Turner, songs with the family, and solo work from the most famous Jackson sibling.

Today marks the one year anniversary of the death of music legend Michael Jackson. Various reports state Jackson has earned over $1 billion in sales in the past year.

FUNDING FRAUD -- CA Gov. Schwarzenegger Bans Welfare Cards At Casinos

2010-06-25T10:39:00.004-04:00

Could This Happen In Maryland?

An LA Times special report revealed welfare recipients in California had withdrawn nearly $2 million dollars since October, at casino ATM's using state issued welfare debit cards .

Apparently the report only has figures from that point, but one has to wonder how widespread has the abuse been. How much money did this cost the already broke and bankrupt California revenue system.

Reacting to the report, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger issued an executive order banning such use. For the time being the Governator will have to rely on the honor system for compliance. Apparently the technology is not readily in place to bar ATM withdrawals from casino ATM’s. The order asked welfare recipients to sign a pledge stating they will only use public assistance money to purchase basic family necessities.

Will be interesting to see what happens next. Since card holders can simply go to say a 7-11 ATM across the street, withdraw some cash, THEN go to the casino, the order seems virtually unenforceable.

I can't help but wonder if such a future awaits the soon coming Maryland slots and gaming? What am I thinking, it's already happening. Half the people clogging up the line at my local corner store buying scratch offs are no doubt on welfare.

Truly, one can get upset thinking of your taxpayer dollars paying for others to gamble with, but get real. What do you think you're government's doing every day?

Gotta love it!

Photo courtesy of the Sandoval Signpost

All Is Calm On The Eastern Front -- After 13 Shootings In Three Days

2010-06-21T19:05:00.003-04:00

Fresh back from vacation, Baltimore Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld made his first public appearance since one of his officers shot and killed an unarmed Marine over some sort of dispute over a woman.

Despite what you heard, Baltimore is getting safer by the day. At a mid-day press conference at Baltimore Police Headquarters Monday, Commissioner Bealefeld spouted off a litany of facts and statistics as to why we should not be alarmed by the weekend violence.

Despite an almost daily bombardment of gun fire in many neighborhoods, we the people of Baltimore are being told to calm down, it's not so bad. Read my full report on Commissioner Bealefeld's call for calm at InvestigativeVoice.

ATTENTION POLICE -- DON'T SHOOT! TSHIRTS from Zazzle.com

2010-06-19T18:07:00.000-04:00

ATTENTION POLICE -- DON'T SHOOT! TSHIRTS

EXCLUSIVE Slain Marine Tyrone Brown's Father Speaks Out

2010-06-18T22:14:00.003-04:00

"This City Is Just Getting From Worse To Worse" -- Reginald Dargan, father of Tyrone Brown

After the candle light vigil held in front City Hall last Saturday, Investigative Voice Senior Reporter Stephen Janis along with myself, caught up with Reginald Dargan. Dargan is the father of former Marine Cpl. Tyrone Brown who murdered by Baltimore Police officer Gahiji Tshamba on the morning of June 5th.

Was Killer Cop Surrender Staged?

2010-06-14T13:42:00.003-04:00

Disparities and continually changing facts leave many questions

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

The late night surrender of Baltimore Police officer Gahiji Tshamba, who was being sought on a warrant for the first degree murder of former United States Marine Tyrone Brown, should have begun to provide answers. But instead of clarity, there’s now more confusion and questions than ever.

Some with knowledge of the case suggest that in the last few hours leading up Tshamba’s surrender, his lawyer and top police commanders were in back and forth negotiations on just how to proceed. So while the public and most media were off chasing the trail of an “intensified search” for the rogue cop, some at police headquarters already knew he was about to surrender.

Was the 9:00 pm press conference, the highly publicized foot search along with neighborhood canvassing, complete with an old school wanted poster being handed out; all part of a well choreographed stage play?

For those that are skeptical, consider this; are we really to believe that with an area-wide manhunt involving city, county, state and federal officials, somehow, someway, the killer cop Tshamba, who we’re told doesn’t even own a car, just magically appeared in the lobby of central booking, sat down, crossed his fingers and waited for his lawyer to show. If that’s the case, this guy is good, really good, and damn scary. More like special forces recon than city beat cop. At least this is the way police tell us it happened.

EARLY MISDIRECTION

Also, it should be noted that initially police told us Brown was hit with six of the thirteen bullets fired. Considering the close proximity in which the incident supposedly took place, I found this quite suspicious. It wasn’t until after my prodding of Maj. Terrence McLarney, commander of the city’s homicide squad, did we learn Brown was actually hit nine times.

mis·di·rec·tion
[mis-di-rek-shuhn] Show IPA
–noun
1.
a wrong or incorrect direction, guidance, or instruction.

I will leave questions as to why such a disparity to you the reader, but wait, it’s not over yet. After I got McLarney to up the number of bullet wounds to nine, all of the media took to adjusting and modifying their reports to include this count. Now suddenly, since Sunday morning, the Sun reports, according to charging documents and the autopsy report, Brown was actually hit with 12 of the 13 bullets fired from Tshamba’s gun.

How long was this fact known by police? Why were we not given an accurate shot count all along? Early attempts at some sort of cover-up?

Also, I’m being told that Tshamba was in the company of police officers on the night of the shooting. Could some of the witnesses have been part of an entourage of drunken cops doing their best to cover for a friend who lost it?

It is interesting to note, of all the witnesses interviewed, only the ones who were in Tshamba’s party made any mention of Brown getting into a physical altercation with Tshamaba. This story was quickly dismissed as being inconsistent and having no merit.

Furthermore, Tshamba, who we’re told hasn’t owned a car in years has been driven around, staying with, and in the company of fellow officers the whole time since AFTER the shooting, even AFTER the warrant was issued. Will we be seeing charges of aiding and abetting a fugitive?

We had gotten word of a serious and credible death threat towards Tshamba by someone with intent on avenging the death of the former Marine Tyrone Brown. It is a fact that Baltimore Police took it seriously. A whole day was spent investigating and seeking out the would be vigilante.

The Baltimore Sun did not report this, instead referring to the whole thing as a hoax. Yet today they report the death threat among other reasons why Tshamba was in hiding. In the newest Sun articles, the threat is no longer called a hoax.

In the drama filled week since Tshamba unloaded his police issued pistol into the unarmed Marine, Sunday morning’s act has got to be one of the most grand entrances ever seen, befitting of a Shakespearian tragedy. It had all the necessary elements of suspense and drama. Only problem was, with the news cameras long gone, most reporters asleep, family and friends from the vigil long gone, there was no audience, no one saw it. All part of the script? You decide.

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A.F. James MacArthur is a contributing editor and crime correspondent for Investigative Voice. Having worked nearly 20 years in public service in a wide range of capacities including patrolman (foot, bike, vehicular), search & rescue, intelligence and investigations. MacArthur’s path into journalism did not follow the typical route

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RETROSPECT ON COMPRENSIVE AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE (oldest to most recent) WITH READER COMMENTS

OFFICER'S DOZEN — City cop shoots alleged assailant 13 times during altercation outside midtown bar; victim dies within the hour

NEWS FLASH - Police officer involved in weekend shooting suspended

NEWS FLASH – NAACP seeks briefing on controversial police shooting of Iraq war vet

NEWS FLASH — Police say off-duty officer shot Iraq vet nine times

‘LIFE IS TOO SHORT’ — Gunned-down Marine‘s last words haunt bar patron

NEWS FLASH! — Prosecutors issue murder warrant for off-duty cop, now missing, who shot ex-Marine

IN CUSTODY — Off-duty cop who killed Iraq War vet a week ago turns himself in to police

Slain Marine Remembered At Candle-Light Vigil

2010-06-13T07:40:00.008-04:00

A Photo Journal With Commentary By A.F. James MacArthur, Crime Correspondent, Investigative Voice. All photos unless indicated by A.F. James MacArthur

CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE

“Life Is Too Short” – Tyrone Brown

On the morning of June 5, 2010, former United States Marine, Tyrone Brown (left, family photo) was shot and killed by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Brown served four years in the war in Iraq, surviving some of the heaviest combat of the conflict including The Battle Of Fallujah. His father Reginald Dargan (right hand photo) believed his son suffered with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Dargan said "something happened" to his son during the war that changed him. Although Brown never really spoke about it, his father says "he wasn’t the same after returning home."

The warm glow of candles illuminate a t-shirt placed on the ground by fellow Marines who served in combat in Iraq with Tyrone Brown.

The Marines, none of whom reside in Baltimore made the trip to remember their fallen brother. At various moments during the vigil, they were overcome with emotion and reduced to weeping and crying. Brown was murdered in cold blood outside a Baltimore night club by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Tshamba, currently wanted for first degree murder remains a fugitive. As of 10:00 pm Saturday, Police say they have no idea of his location.

Terrell Ashburn, brother in law of slain Marine Tyrone Brown displays a t-shirt in remembrance of Brown at a candle light vigil held Saturday night at City Hall. The back side shows Brown with his sister (different from wife of Ashburn) Chantay Kangalee, who was due to be married with Brown appointed to walk her down the isle.

“I'm very upset about it [shooting death of Tyrone Brown]. It seems like whenever he got [Officer Gahiji Tshamba] drunk, he wants to shoot someone. They [Baltimore Police] shot the wrong person this time.” -- Terrell Ashburn, brother in law of Tyrone Brown.

Friends and family members including the father, mother, and a sister of murdered Marine Tyrone Brown pause for a moment of silence at a candle light vigil held Saturday to remember the fallen warrior. Brown was shot and killed by off duty Baltimore Police Officer Gahiji Tshamba. Tshamba who is now a fugitive from justice, wanted for first degree murder, fired 13 shots at Brown. Nine bullets struck brown in the head, torso and groin.

Military veteran and former Baltimore City Police Officer Frances “Jean” Hamilton speaks with Joseph Armstead (back turned), Vice President, Baltimore Branch NAACP. Hamilton is currently running for election for Sheriff of Baltimore City. Armstead is a special correspondent to MacArthur Media.

A young boy watches candles burning in honor of former Marine Tyrone Brown

IN CUSTODY

KILLER IS CAUGHT

At approximately 1:30 am, Sunday morning, while this photo journal was still being edited, a few hours after the vigil was held, Baltimore Police reported Officer Gahiji Tshamba turned himself in to central booking.

Be sure to go to Investigative Voice for continued comprehensive coverage of this developing story. As of 6:30 am Sunday morning, every news outlet in Baltimore still had headlines referencing an intensified search for Tshamba, meanwhile this spot was updated approximately 1:59 am and Investigative Voice reported the surrender on the front page at 2:27 am Sunday.

"We Will Not Rest Until He Is Brought In" – Chantay Kangalee

Rest In Peace Tyrone Brown

Long after most have burnt out, two candles remain burning bright symbolizing the undying hope of the family, that justice will be served , and representing the eternally faithful spirit of the United States Marine Corps.

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RETROSPECT ON COMPRENSIVE AS-IT-HAPPENED COVERAGE (oldest to most recent) WITH READER COMMENTS

OFFICER'S DOZEN — City cop shoots alleged assailant 13 times during altercation outside midtown bar; victim dies within the hour

NEWS FLASH - Police officer involved in weekend shooting suspended

NEWS FLASH – NAACP seeks briefing on controversial police shooting of Iraq war vet

NEWS FLASH — Police say off-duty officer shot Iraq vet nine times

‘LIFE IS TOO SHORT’ — Gunned-down Marine‘s last words haunt bar patron

NEWS FLASH! — Prosecutors issue murder warrant for off-duty cop, now missing, who shot ex-Marine

IN CUSTODY — Off-duty cop who killed Iraq War vet a week ago turns himself in to police

Killer Cop Surrenders

2010-06-13T02:28:00.008-04:00

IN CUSTODY

Wanted For Murder Of Marine, Rogue Cop Shows Up At City Jail ... developing story, check back for updates.

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

According to Baltimore Police, Ofc. Gahiji Tshamba who eluded a massive manhunt on a first degree murder warrant for nearly two days, turned himself in around 1:30 am Sunday morning.

Tshamba is said to have showed up at Baltimore's Central Booking And Intake Facility, commonly known as Central Booking. The facility serves as a first point of detention for persons arrested in Baltimore City.

Due to the nature of the charge, Tshamba will automatically be held without bail. The surrender comes after an intense period of searching begging Friday evening when a rare first degree murder warrant was authorized and issued for Tshamba.

The warrant came a full week after the shooting death of Tyrone Brown. During the ensuing week between the shooting and the warrant, Baltimore residents voiced fierce opposition and displeasure. Calling for the resignation of everyone from State's Attorney Patricia Jessamy, to Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld III, residents flooded online talk and comment forums, along with barraging local talk radio programs in order to air sentiments of anger and frustration.

On Saturday night a candle light vigil in front of City Hall was held by family and friends. a few short blocks away at the same time, was a press conference held by Baltimore Police. At the time of the press conference, Baltimore Police along with members of the regional Warrant Apprehension Task Force were actively seeking the whereabouts of Tshamba.

The surrender came as a relief to many including Reginald Dargan, the father of victim Tyrone Brown. Contacted at home by the Baltimore Spectator, awoken from sleep, Dargan said "Oh thank God, thank you for telling me!"

See continued comprehensive coverage and read our my detailed step by step, as-it-happened breaking stories on Investigative Voice, the Voice of The People.

Kill & Walk, Kill Don’t Talk

2010-06-12T00:54:00.006-04:00

Commentary By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

As I sit here attempting to focus my thoughts and crank out a cohesive coherent piece, I must admit, I’m struggling. In a bad, bad way, so bear with me as I do the best I can.

Thinking about my three neighbors on either side of “The Bunker” (my reinforced rowhouse) who were killed in cold blood via home invasion, I often weep. Gone is the relative comfort I once had, knowing should any trouble come through these doors, I’d be ready. Now my only option is to call 911. Lot’s of good that’ll do. Last time I needed help they arrested me. What’s next, shooting me and not the bad guy?

Thanks to the Baltimore Police and Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld’s bad guys with guns campaign, my constitutional right of self defense has been all but stripped from me. Thinking back to that fateful December night, had I killed the two intruders, rather than scaring them off, I’d be in better shape today. Had I just shot them, and kept my mouth shut, I would be free today.

Heck, Ofc. Tommy Sanders shot and killed an unarmed man who was running away from him, and some joke of jury, more like a pool of morons let him walk. Too bad his victim Lamont Hunt can’t do any walking of his own…. now that he’s DEAD.

I won’t even discuss the samurai killer, or any of the host of others, cop or citizen who’ve been able to kill and walk in this town. Truth is, of all the murders in this town, less than half are ever even solved. But bear a firearm to stand your ground against invaders, call the cops to report it, then look out. Brace yourself for what comes next. Arrest, release, re-arrest, legal fees, house broken into while arrested, a criminal record, man I could go on and on.

Then there’s that no good, piece of trash, psychopathic, killing machine Gahiji Tshamba. Another one of the finely polished, gleaming sparkling blue diamonds of the Baltimore Police Department. We all know the story by now so I’ll spare rehashing it for you.

Let me get this straight. You get to kill a man in cold blood. Remain silent, give no statements, refuse a breathalyzer, report to work… and NOW there’s a warrant. Way to go Patricia Jessamy!

Meantime while Tshamba was not under arrest or even charged, I’m sure his passport was seized right? Uh huh, I’m sure his house was searched for other personally owned weapons right? I guess not, you can’t do that without charging and arrest now can you?

It’s such a good feeling to know that the police force is replete with these kind of characters. Oh, but some of you would have us thinking these are isolated cases and anomalous incidents.

Sure they are. We B E L I E V E

But before I finish, I have to ask a few more questions. Except for Mayor Rawlings-Blake several days later making a statement, along with Del. Jill Carter releasing her own thoughts and comments, why have our so called leaders been so silent? With elected officials charged with serving the needs and well being of the citizens, an innocent man was killed by an officer of the law, but no one has anything to say about it.

Meanwhile, how come we’ve heard nothing from Frederick Bealefeld? Seriously man, it’s been like a week. One of your robo-cop killing machines has struck again. Is the silence approval, or are you too busy re-writing and revising your resignation letter?

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Double Homicide Leads To Weekend Kill Count Of Six In Battleground Baltimore

2010-05-31T04:05:00.012-04:00

Weekend Gunfire Mirrors Last Weekend's 8 Shootings

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

It's been a busy weekend covering crime in Charm City. I was working on several non-crime stories, but was unable to finish due to the non stop violence escalating to a fever pitch this full moon weekend.

The latest killing was a double shooting at S. Pulaski and Hollins St.

Police investigate the murder scene at Orleans and N. Rose St. (Night Vision image, A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

Sunday morning, in the same neighborhood, a man was shot to death after a domestic dispute inside a house on the 2100 block of Ramsay St.

Late Friday night/early Saturday morning there were three murders. Two of them were a few blocks and a few minutes apart. I was actually at the murder scene at E. Monument St. & North Luzerne Ave. when just a few blocks away, shots rang out. I didn't know it at the time, but I had just been an ear witness to someone getting their brains blown out.

At Orleans and N. Rose St. a man riding a bicycle had been shot at point blank range in the head.

Not only was this a bit too close for comfort, it also shows the brazen boldness of the new breed of Baltimore criminal. To kill within sight and earshot of 25 police officials and a crime reporter indicates an individual for which killing is all too easy and routine. Neither one of the shootings was probably his first. And with no motive or suspects, they likely will not be his last.

Another Baltimore lone gunman continues to roam the earth in search of new targets and fresh victims.

Stealing $4 Pair Of Socks Nets Life In Prison

2010-05-29T22:05:00.003-04:00

A Florida repeat offender recently released from jail received a sentence of life in prison for violating the terms of his release. The violation occurred when the man decided to shoplift clothing from WalMart and showed a gun while being pursued by store security.

Would Baltimore benefit from this level of harsh sentencing for repeat offenders?

Shuttered Waverly Firehouse Reopens

2010-05-29T15:46:00.002-04:00

109 Year Old Fire House Continues To Serve, Save & Protect

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

After being shut down for nearly one year, Fire Station 31, on Greenmount Ave. officially went back into service today.

“This community needs this fire station” – Fire Chief James Clack

Located in the heart of Waverly, a community struggling for revitalization and recognition for things besides gun violence, open air drug dealing and urban blight and decay. The station houses Engine Co. 31 and Medic 3.

Due to unsafe building conditions, the station was closed last June. In an effort spearheaded by Councilwoman Mary-Pat Clarke with overwhelming community involvement, a grassroots movement raised up to save Fire Station 31. The station was once marked for permanent closure.

After being rejected for stimulus money, through bake sales, fund raising house parties, among other things and Dept. of General services bond funding, the needed half million dollars for necessary repairs was procured. Local business owners consider the fire station a vital part of the new direction of Waverly.

“This is the kind of partnership and community involvement we need to see more of” remarked Khalil Zaied, Director of the Dept. Of General Services. In a time of rotating fire station closures, and the potential layoff of hundreds of firefighters due to fiscal failures, the sentiment couldn’t be more poignant.

Back in service for less than 24 hours, the station responded to a house fire around 4:30 a.m. Saturday.

After a marching band played and various officials and community leaders gave brief remarks to the assembled crowd of nearly 200 people, an official ribbon cutting was lead out by Councilwoman Clarke. The community was then invited to tour the historic, 109 year old fire house, which dates back to the era of horse drawn fire wagons. A barbecue cook-out reception was held in the back.

One of the oldest professional fire department in the nation, the Baltimore City Fire Department has been in service for 151 years.

Excellent video report by Fox 45, watch till the end to see a few seconds of some creepy, big, tall, long hair guy off in the distance.

Three Shootings Less Than One Hour

2010-05-29T02:22:00.005-04:00

Shooting, Orleans/ Rose St, adult male shot. Homicide notified.0126
Shooting, 4000 Pennington, adult male shot, homicide notified0121 hours
Shooting - Monument St/ Luzerne, adult male shot. Homicide unit notified.0037 hours
developing . . .

Murder In The Streets -- Man Shot On Sidewalk, Left For Dead

2010-05-21T23:34:00.008-04:00

Man Shot To, 4700 Blk Alhambra Ave.

Pools of blood stain the sidewalk, along with rubber gloves and other EMS ambulance paraphernalia marking the spot where a man was shot in the chest

. (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com 21May2010)

developing . . .

Rev. Al Sharpton Visiting Baltimore, Leading Rally

2010-05-17T09:50:00.007-04:00

Keeping It Real With Al Sharpton (Radio Show) 1:00 PM

Nationally Syndicated Radio show, special edition broadcasting live from Radio One Baltimore.

-- Rally On City Hall -- 5:00 PM

War Memorial Building

Rev. Al Sharpton to give a speech and lead a group in civil public demonstration to raise awareness of a lack of African-American ownership in the entertainment industry in Baltimore, a city with a 67% majority black population.

PRESS CONFERENCE -- 4:00 PM

(MEDIA ONLY, NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC)

For location and media access information, contact A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Baltimore Press Secretary For Rev. Al Sharpton -- 410-205-NEWS (6397),

Town Hall Meeting "The People's Agenda" -- 7:00 PM

Rev. Al Sharpton participates in an open forum, hosted by 92Q Radio Personality Konan, fielding questions and comments from the general public -- LOCATION: The Velvet Rope, 200 E. Redwood St.

NEWS BRIEF -- Overnight Shootings, Stabbing Add To Killings

2010-05-15T10:48:00.007-04:00

Police investigate after a man was shot in the face near E. Eager & N.Bond St. -- (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

Police responding to a call for shots fired near 1000 N. Broadway St. found a man with a gun shot wound to the face. The man ran out of the back of the apartment buildings to a female officer, who then requested a medic. The victim, an adult male, remained alert and responsive while being transported to nearby Johns Hopkins Emergency room.

At this time there are no known suspects or motives. Victim claims to have no knowledge of who shot him.

While this writer was on scene, police were observed knocking on door after door seeking eye or ear witnesses. Although lights were on and the residents appeared to be occupied, no one answered any of the doors. At one residence, a police officer was heard identifying himself through the door to the resident on the other side, but no one ever opened their doors.

Based on investigation and location of crime scene tape, it appears shooting actually took place closer to the intersection of E. Eager and N. Bond St.

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Man Fatally Stabbed, Harford Rd.

Around 1:30 a.m. Saturday, police found a man in his 30's on the 2800 blk of Harford Rd. suffering from stab wounds. The man was transported to Johns Hopkins Hospital where he was pronounced dead moments after arriving.

It's being reported the man may have been stabbed by someone he was in an argument with. Baltimore Police Homicide unit is seeking information from anyone that may have more information on this incident. They may be reached at 410-396-2100

Man Shot On Litchfield -- Condition Unknown

At 6:52 a.m. Baltimore Police also reported another shooting: OVERNIGHT SHOOTING - 5103 Litchfield, adult male transported to Shock Trauma.

NEWS BRIEF: Double Shooting Wednesday , Plus Additional Shooting This Morning

2010-05-12T21:54:00.006-04:00

Police officers stand on the porch of a house next to where a 28 year old man was found shot on the 700 Blk of E. 36th St. (A.F. James MacArthur, BaltimoreSpectator.com)

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

UPDATED 0500 HRS

Around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evening, police received a report of a young man was shot several times, including in the abdomen and shoulder, by an unknown gunman. The man was discovered in front of a house on an otherwise mostly quiet street, but apparently was shot at another location..

Baltimore Police officials not authorized to give statements to the media, describe the victim as a 28 year old black male. The current condition of the victim is unknown.

In what is now known to be a connected incident, police say at 6:35 p.m., they were notified of a walk-in shooting victim at University of Maryland Medical Center. The victim at the hospital is reportedly being uncooperative with investigating police officials.

Both shootings are reported to have taken place at Harford Rd and Homestead St. It is not known why one of the victims ended up on E. 36th St.

From Baltimore Police Twitter 3:00 a.m.: Shooting, 1000 blk W. Fayette, adult male shot in left hand

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This is a breaking news report and will be updated as more information becomes available and confirmed. Report tips, leads and story ideas by calling 410-205-NEWS

GIVE CITY HALL A PIECE OF YOUR MIND

2010-05-10T13:06:00.003-04:00

Baltimore City Council Taxpayers Night

TONIGHT

MONDAY, MAY 10, 2010

6:00 pm

at the

War Memorial Building

(Enter from Lexington Street, just east of Gay.)

Citizens are invited to sign-in and speak-up

about your funding priorities.

Sign-in usually begins at 5:30 pm.

(Please be sure to have picture ID.)

Metered parking is available “under the Expressway,”

at Gay & Saratoga, where the Sunday Farmers Market is held.

Unending Cycles Of Violence

2010-05-09T16:38:00.001-04:00

A man was shot in the face and killed Saturday afternoon near the intersection of N. Jefferson Ave. & Chester St. The stop sign above; defaced with a bumper sticker advertising “Back On Your Block” Bail Bonds, is all too telling. Just a few feet from where the murder took place. The irony is nearly all murders in Baltimore are committed by criminals with long prior records, with many of them getting arrested and repeatedly ending up “Back On The Block” after posting bail, and committing more crimes while awaiting trial. (A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor, BaltimoreSpectator.com, 8May2010)

Police Raid Gone Wrong, Columbia, MO SWAT Kills Family Dogs

2010-05-09T13:01:00.005-04:00

You heard about the drug raid gone bad on the house of a town Mayor in Prince Georges County, resulting in the shooting of his two friendly family dogs. Similar has happened in Columbia, MD and elsewhere. Now see for yourself the level of police resources, child endangerment and terror wreaked upon private citizens for having a small amount of pot in their house.

Is this really necessary? Is the trauma to the children, the risk of loss of life to the officers and the home dwellers, is it all worth it? What does society gain from these actions? The Spectator wants to know.

What you see here could happen in your town, as the ongoing war on drugs continues.

Whole Lotta Shooting Going On -- Last 24 Hours

2010-05-08T19:46:00.003-04:00

SHOOTING-716 WHARTON CT-ADULT FEMALE GRAZE WOUND TO BACK -- 1952

SHOOTING - N.CHESTER ST/JEFFERSON ST-ADULT MALE SHOT. HOMICIDE NOTIFIED - reported 1815 hrs

Shooting occurred in side alley. Police source states typical no motive no suspects. Lots of people outside, but no one saw anything. This reporter spoke with several people sitting in the back alley, not only didn't they see anything, they heard nothing either. Silencer? Not likely.

SHOOTING-5201 CRAIG AVE-ADULT MALE SHOT IN THE FOOT. - reported 1800 hrs

SHOOTING-516 BEAUMINT (sic?) AVE-ADULT MALE SHOT. NON LIFE THREATENING. -- 1414 hrs

Baltimore Police look for evidence in grassy vacant lot where shooting took place.

@HeberBrown reports: Shots fired in the 500 block of Beaumont Ave. 1 young AA male shot. 1 in custody. -- Read Pastor Brown's full report

@Justin_Fenton points out: 500 Beaumont is a block of north of 500 blk of chateau ave, where 29-year-old Dwayne Majett was killed April 27

Retaliation/revenge? The Spectator wants to know.

SHOOTING, MOSHER /MONROE, ADULT MALE SHOT IN BACK. -- 0515

Filed by A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Photos by A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Documentary Exposing Predatory Towing In Baltimore

2010-05-01T16:19:00.004-04:00

Silent Shootings & Inaccuracies - Pt. I

2010-04-27T04:58:00.009-04:00

If someone gets shot, and no one hears it, has that person truly been shot?

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

There were two murders over the weekend, but like most people, you probably didn’t hear about it. Even an avid follower of news would have easily missed it. Why? Because no one covered it. The little coverage eventually surfacing was sparse, bereft of detail, and filled with errors.

It’s a sad reality, a symbolic indicator of our collective disconnect and resignation to accept low standards, when people getting gunned down in the streets is no longer news. The loss of human life is relegated merely to another dot on an already crowded crime map. The shooting’s added to a list, a numerical statistic chronicling the battleground that is Baltimore.

Are we embarrassed by all the violence? Doubtful. Perhaps we’re tired of hearing about it. That’s scary. With problems as systemic as ours, ignoring and denying them certainly won’t make them go away.

ACCURACY IN MEDIA

So back to the two murders. The first happened early Sunday morning. At 1:40 a.m. Baltimore Police announced via twitter:

"Shooting, Liberty Hts/ Gwynn Oak, adult male shot 1:40 AM Apr 25th"

No further details were ever released by the police, but 59 minutes later, after arriving on scene, this writer tweeted the following via www.twitter.com/BaltoSpectator:

"Shooting at Liberty/Gwynn Oak appears to be fatal. Lots of crime scene tape & crime lab techs on scene.2:39 AM Apr 25th"

Sunday’s news saw no mention of the shooting. One wonders why a news paper, the daily paper of record, the only paper really, the largest local media, having a website and able to add news before press time, often finds itself so slow to break news. That’s if they ever mention it at all. Indeed many shootings never make the news.

It would not be until 7:45 p.m. that Justin Fenton of the Baltimore Sun reported the following in referring to the two weekend shootings;

“The first occurred about 2:30 a.m. Sunday in the 4800 block of Liberty Heights Ave., in Northwest Baltimore's Howard Park neighborhood.”

Just a second, if the police tweeted the shooting at 1:40 a.m., how come the Sun says it happened at 2:30? The case for having different voices in local media continues to be made. Without new media, including independent and alternative blogs and sites like this, who’s going to keep an eye on the establishment media? Who’s going to compel them to offer more comprehensive coverage of the scourge of violence destroying this city?

While having good sources and talking to spokesmen and public relations people is essential, often times, this is not a substitute for planting two feet on the ground and pounding pavement.

In Part II we’ll discuss the second shooting and how citizen journalism fills in the gaps.

BREAKING: Arrests Made In Greenmount Killing

2010-04-22T17:35:00.004-04:00

developing . . .

Troy Taylor (m-b-18) and Michael Rapheal Hunter arrested for the April 8 murder of 72 year old Charles Bowman.

Greenmount Solidarity Walk, A Show Of Support, Working Together

2010-04-17T17:50:00.009-04:00

Rally Had A Lesson On How Government Should Function

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and a host of top Baltimore City government officials gathered on Greenmount Ave. in a show of force and support. “We want you to come out to Waverly, come out to Greenmount, but don’t bring any trouble with you" said City Council President Jack Young. “If you bring any trouble here, we got something for you.”"

A week ago today, right at Greenmout Ave. and 33rd St., the main intersection of the area, 21 year-old Damon Minor was shot and killed in broad daylight. His assailant chased him down the street firing numerous shots striking him thoughout the the body and head. The brazen attack, on a crowded street sent out shockwaves, rattling the Waverly community.

48 hours before, 72 year old Charles Bowman was shot and killed inside the Yau Brothers Carry Out Restaurant in a robbery gone bad. The Greenmount Ave./Waverly area is no stranger to violence.

Last year three people were shot inside the same Yau Brothers restaurant, leaving two dead and one seriously wounded. Several years ago, the manager of the Blockbuster Video store was shot and killed inside the store. The store permanently closed its doors as a result. The incidents all happened within the same two block radius. Spread the circle out a bit further, count other types of crimes, and the crime map becomes way too clustered and filled with too many incidents to make any sense of it.

As Mayor Blake and her entourage including Council President Jack Young, City Councilwoman Mary-Pat Clarke, City Councilman Carl Stokes, Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld and Fire Chief James Clack led the way, a crowd of approximately 200 people followed. Among them were local residents and business owners all out to send a message that the recent spike in violence was not acceptable and would not be taken lying down.

Hit especially hard are the merchants on Greenmount Ave. who complain that a week later, things have been tough. They say the recent violence have folks no longer feeling safe and there’s been a noticeable drop in foot traffic. Fighting to eradicate urban decay and turn things around, the merchants have a vision of Greenmount as a Waverly Main Street. A safe place to take your family shopping, dining and to experience a traditional Baltimore neighborhood.

Without a sense of safety and security, these businesses already dealing with a weakened economy, will only suffer further, with some of them not making it.

With so many heads of local government including Assistant Commissioner of Code Enforcement Eric Booker, even the Director of the Department of Transportation Alfred Foxx, it was the perfect gathering of different parts of government all coming together in the same place, at the same time, focusing on a simple central mission, and sending a clear message to the community. To those that want a better Baltimore, we’re behind you. To those who bring violence, you won’t be tolerated.

If only Baltimore City government actually functioned on a day to day basis with such cohesiveness, clear purpose and focus, what a better place this would be. Perhaps our leaders need to get out more, A LOT MORE…ALL OF THEM, together, AT THE SAME TIME, neighborhood by neighborhood. Followed up by solid continued action, there would actually be chance to reclaim this city from the current direction of destruction we’ve been headed in for some time now.

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Additional photos from today event can be viewed on my FaceBook page

Battleground Baltimore Remains A Bloody Bastion For Boundless Mayhem & Murder

2010-04-17T08:12:00.005-04:00

Four Overnight Shootings Leave Three Dead

By A.F. James MacAthur Ph.A.L.

Despite continued cries of a so called crime decline, officials touting all sorts of statistical reports claiming reductions of violence in Baltimore, and the media all to willingly echoing the stats, is Baltimore honestly getting any safer?

The last 24 hours should serve as a reminder, as if one was needed, Baltimore remains an ever violent and dangerous city. Although so far this year reported murders are down, the high degree of mortality on the streets would put only the most naive Pollyanna at ease.

Baltimore Police's twitter feed gives a glimpse of SOME of the most violent crimes of the past day, the shootings. This of course does not take into account any muggings, assaults, robberies and all sorts of criminal activity that you, the general public, will never learn about.

It doesn't help when Baltimore Police continue to respond to calls, yet file no reports. Had I not witnessed this with my own eyes this week, I wouldn’t say this (more on that later, if they don’t silence me).

FOUR HOURS OF DEATH
10:00 P.M. Shooting, 3215 Spaulding, adult male shot
10:33 P.M. Double Shooting - Police investigating at 4116 Kenshaw.
11:14 P.M. Shooting, 1230 E. North, adult male shot in stomach
11:36 P.M. Shooting, 1121 N. Milton, adult male, Homicide requested
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------UPDATE: Moments after this story was published Baltimore Police released this via twitter; "Shooting, 1 N. Stricker, adult male with graze wound reported to police. Occured this morning at 2am." -- Of course it wasn't tweeted till 9:16 A.M.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

One of the victims of Kenshaw place is dead, and the man shot on N. Milton St. is also dead.

The shooting at 1230 E. North Ave. resulted in homicide. This is the same immediate vicinity of a homicide occurring last Sunday.

1121 N. Milton also resulted in death. A separate piece will be filed for this incident.

Police stated no known connections, nor motives for any of the shootings, but they give a snapshot at how widespread the random violence can be in this city.

At this time there are few details on the above shootings, but don’t tell that to the Baltimore Sun. As of 8:30 A.M. this morning they haven’t a single mention of the above crimes. For being the so-called news paper of record, how pathetically sad and disappointing, yet oh-so-typical.

This writer was the only representative of local media at the shooting. It’s a sad day when violent loss of life no longer warrants on scene news coverage, or when your collective local media is so weak, impotent and anemic, they just aren’t able.

Police Commissioner & Others To Lead "Solidarity Walk"

2010-04-17T08:01:00.004-04:00

Troubled Greenmount Ave. The Focus Of Demonstration To Turn Things Around

SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2:00 PM

BEGINNING AT DARKER THAN BLUE,

3034 GREENMOUNT AVENUE

2:00 PM

please join us as

Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld,

Fire Chief James Clack,

Council President Jack Young,

& our Northern District Police Commanders

lead neighbors and friends

in a

SOLIDARITY WALK TO PROMOTE RESTORED SAFETY

to GREENMOUNT AVENUE

We’ll walk north from Darker Than Blue to East 35^th Street,

then south on the eastside of Greenmount to East 29^th,

then back, completing the circuit.

We have suffered a sudden and unacceptable spike of violence in recent weeks along our Waverly Main Street.

Police, Fire and all of Baltimore City support our efforts now

to restore the safety and security we require.

Please turn-out to signal the turn-around.

Thanks.

Mary Pat Clarke, District Councilwoman

Man In Van Shot To Death In West Baltimore

2010-03-29T13:10:00.004-04:00

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L.

Murder Occurred On Same Block As Blue Light Camera

Baltimore police responding to a call for shots fired around 11:35 p.m., found the body of 28-year-old Antonio Wilson, slumped over inside a 2001 Chevrolet van. The drivers side door and window had multiple bullet holes with an unstated amount of shots hitting Wilson.

Wilson was transported to Maryland Shock Trauma Center where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes later.

The incident occurred on N. Calverton St near the intersection of Wheeler Ave. This reporter observed the victims van was still running with the headlights on after crashing into the rear of a parked white pickup truck and smashing into a utility pole.

Witnesses tell the Baltimore Spectator a lone gunman on foot ran up to the van as it stood still at a stop sign and opened fire on the driver, before running off in an unknown direction. The driver of the van loss control while attempting to flee his attacker. Unconfirmed reports say a female passenger may have also been in the vehicle and was unhurt.

Although Wilson had several trials on drug related charges pending, police do not have any suspects or a motive at this time.

The shooting happened on the same block as a blue light CitiWatch surveillance camera. Police have not said whether or not the camera provided usable footage.

City School Bus Collides With Car EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS

2010-03-23T12:16:00.010-04:00

By A.F. James MacArthur, photos by Dennis Pugh

Six medics responded to a collision between a car and a school bus on Loch Raven Blvd. near Lochwood Street. The crash was reported at 7:45am. Authorities say a woman driving a car carrying three children crashed with a school bus carrying special needs children to Winston Elementary.

The school bus driver was taken to nearby Good Samaritan Hospital, while two 14-year-old boys, a 12-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, all passengers of the school bus were taken to Johns Hopkins Bayview. Two boys, ages 7 and 14, riding in the struck vehicle were also transported to Bayview.

The Baltimore Spectator's own, photographer Dennis Pugh was on scene shortly after it the accident happened and was able to capture these dramatic photos of the scene. As horrific as it looks, we're told none of the injuries were serious.

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Man Sends Text Message Gets 15 Year Prison Sentence

2010-01-17T13:28:00.003-05:00

"Sorry about all this. Call me when you get a chance."

For stabbing his baby mama Lakisha Frye seven times and nearly cutting off her ear, Colin Akin Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in prison. A judge ordered him to serve five of those years. After only three years and three months behind bars he was released.

The two had allegedly renewed their tumultuous relationship and Mr. Johnson sent the text above after a heated argument. It would turn out to be the most costly text message ever sent.

The Frederick News Post has more.

Change, You Call This Change?

2010-01-12T00:00:00.002-05:00

Current Baltimore Leadership A Result Of Low Standards & Expectations

By A.F. James MacArthur Ph.A.L., Managing Editor

Last week saw the culmination to a long drawn out ordeal. After years of being a controversial and polarizing figure, Sheila Dixon was put to pasture politically. Like an old horse no longer effective in its duties, but not so worthless that it should be butchered, Sheila Dixon was given a chance to slowly fade away.

No more presidential snubs, or Jay Leno jokes, no more international headlines bearing the dubious distinction of yet another failed, disgraced, criminally convicted, black democrat politician. Believe it or not, to most living outside Baltimore, this became all we were known for. Even my friends in Europe brought it up. They voluntarily shared their views regarding Sheila Dixon. How embarrassing.

Shamefully, this all could have been avoided if Baltimore truly wanted change. One of the most perplexing matters to me is how a large body of voters who so enthusiastically rallied for and elected Barack Obama to the presidency are the same people who continuously re elect tired, worn out, worthless incumbents.

Baltimore has no issue with electing the same people over and over again, even when they fail to produce the results so desired by all. Putting the same names and faces back in year after year just to be lied to and have promises broken has become acceptable in Charm City.

Last election gave Baltimore an opportunity for change, to truly make a difference, instead we saw establishment politicians remain in their status quo positions. Some were even promoted without showing why they deserved it.

The late Ken Harris was a true champion of the people. Passionate, intelligent and connected, not bought or bossed by the machine. He would have made a most excellent City Council President.

In the Mayor’s race, Del. Jill P. Carter burst on the scene as a principled, proven independent voice. A legislator that shows no blind loyalty to party lines or special interest groups or rich business developers. The chance for true change layed right at your fingertips Baltimore, but you fell for the same old song and dance that’s been used to pimp our people for decades. Now look what you got.

Let’s not even get into how after nearly eight years of the disastrous O’Malley Mayorship, you people turned around and promoted him to Governor. After leaving Baltimore an utter and complete mess in nearly every category that counts, you thought he did such a good job that rest of Maryland should have a chance to suffer with us.

Mayor designate Stephanie Rawlings-Blake openly admits her close ties and allegiance with Governor Martin O’Malley. The man who took this city to a place, even most Dixon supporters don’t ever want to see us go again. Besides viewing him as a mentor and personal hero, she even relies on some of his cast off staff members to run her office. Change? You call that change? YEAH RIGHT!!!

The Baltimore Spectator

BUSTED: French President Uses Black Actor To Improve Image

Economic Spectator: Men Hit Hardest By Job Losses, But Recovery On The Way

Public Safety Spectator: House Fire

Happy Birthday Dr. King -- Thank You For All You Have Done

BREAKING NEWS: Shooting 4700 Block Liberty Heights

COP OUT - Is The Baltimore Police Department Actively Hiding Officer Misconduct?

MOUNTED UNIT -- Alleged Public Sex Act Lays Suspension On Two Female Police Officers

CRASH SMASH! - Suspects Fleeing Police Collide With Nearly Dozen Vehicles

Racial Profiling, Harassment, Threat & Intimidation By Baltimore Police

Interesting Sun Reader Comment on The Baltimore Grand Prix

I'll Show You Mine, If You Show Me Yours

The Battle Of Baltimore - How To Win It! (originally published 2007)

LEGALIZE IT! Jamaican National Commission On Ganja Recommends Decriminalization

Weed Vs. Weapons, Which Poses Greater Threat? -- Baltimore Police Misguided Focus Possibly Cost A Man's Life

A Brits Warning On Guarding The Second Amendment -- America, Don’t Let This Happen to You

90 Girls Pregnant At Same High School In Memphis

Bible City USA! Baltimore Commemorates National Bible Week

Did Mutilated Missing Baltimore Teen Fall From An Airplane

PREACH ON! -- Anti-Facebook NJ pastor acknowledges threesome with wife and church assistant

RIP James MacArthur

RIP James MacArthur

Two Cops Accused of Robbing Undercover Officer

United Tastes - Lake Trout Remains a Fried Favorite in Baltimoreom

Legal titan Murphy says Jessamy has "failed"

Maryland Gov. Would Sign Marriage Bill

Environmental Militant James Lee Shot and Killed After Taking Hostages at Discovery Channel Headquarters

Maryland Politics - O'Malleys on pace to earn $1.2M during 4 years in Annapolis

Baltimore Among Least Safe Cities For Children

RUNNING GUNFIGHT — Teens on foot and bike shoot it out in Irvington

Priest Has Sexual Affair With 17 Year Old Girl, Results In Pregnancy

Page Croyder Interview Teaser

Paris Hilton Mug Shot Tally Reaches Three (And Counting) | The Smoking Gun

WHAT FUTURE BALTIMORE? — Of pools, politics and pensions

Police Commissioner: “We’ve Got Batman.” $ The City That Breeds

Man Charged With Spraying Shoppers With Semen - WBAL Radio - wbal.com

Baltimore Crime Beat: Scared, worried about crime - Baltimore crime news: Police, courts and police stories in the city and central Maryland - baltimoresun.com

Wayward reptile nabbed in Patapsco - baltimoresun.com

Child hit by police car in West Baltimore

HEDGING HIS BETS — O'Malley still coy about endorsing Jessamy

In Regards To Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, Patricia Jessamy & Crime Stats

Killer of girl in 1991 charged with carjacking - baltimoresun.com

Baltimore Crime Beat: Charles Village residents, city officials converge at stabbing site - Baltimore crime news: Police, courts and police stories in the city and central Maryland - baltimoresun.com

Maryland Politics: Franchot, O'Malley weigh in on Charles Village killing - Politics and Policy from Baltimore, Annapolis and Washington - baltimoresun.com

BANG, BANG! Chirp, Chirp

Open Letter To Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake

COURTROOM SPECTATOR! – The Baltimore Spectator Ordered To Jury Duty

URBAN WARFARE -- Marines Patrol Crime Ridden Gang Territory -- LOS ANGELES!

KILL ZONE: 58,000 Dogs Killed In Last Three Months In Iraqi Capital

WORLD EXCLUSIVE AUDIO: Mel Gibson's Explosive Racist Rant

Mexican Clown Busted In Sex Attack

VIDEO: Lindsay Lohan Court Room Meltdown

BARE NECESSITIES: Welfare Recipients Get Cash At Strip Club ATM's

Rare 1970s BP board game promises oil 'thrills' comes back to haunt them | Metro.co.uk

America's Greatest Governor

Baltimore corruption: Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake has vowed to clean up corruption, but crime still pays - baltimoresun.com

BLOOD SPORT: Martial Arts Fighter Rips Out Mans Heart

GOODBYE SIR! -- West Virgina Sen. Robert Byrd Dead At 92

SORRY OBAMA! -- Ghana Celebrates World Cup Victory Over USA

Greener Grass – Are Things Really Better In Baltimore County?

SURPRISE SONGS! -- 273 New Jackson Tracks Discovered

FUNDING FRAUD -- CA Gov. Schwarzenegger Bans Welfare Cards At Casinos

All Is Calm On The Eastern Front -- After 13 Shootings In Three Days

ATTENTION POLICE -- DON'T SHOOT! TSHIRTS from Zazzle.com

**EXCLUSIVE** Slain Marine Tyrone Brown's Father Speaks Out

Was Killer Cop Surrender Staged?

mis·di·rec·tion

Slain Marine Remembered At Candle-Light Vigil

Killer Cop Surrenders

Kill & Walk, Kill Don’t Talk

Double Homicide Leads To Weekend Kill Count Of Six In Battleground Baltimore

Stealing $4 Pair Of Socks Nets Life In Prison

Shuttered Waverly Firehouse Reopens

Three Shootings Less Than One Hour

Murder In The Streets -- Man Shot On Sidewalk, Left For Dead

Rev. Al Sharpton Visiting Baltimore, Leading Rally

NEWS BRIEF -- Overnight Shootings, Stabbing Add To Killings

NEWS BRIEF: Double Shooting Wednesday , Plus Additional Shooting This Morning

GIVE CITY HALL A PIECE OF YOUR MIND

Unending Cycles Of Violence

EXCLUSIVE Slain Marine Tyrone Brown's Father Speaks Out

City School Bus Collides With Car EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS