Two Harford County Sheriff’s Office corrections officers who appeared in a locally-produced rap video will not face punitive action by the department according to Sheriff Jesse Bane, who said their creation of the video is protected under the First Amendment.
Bane told The Dagger that he had viewed the seven-minute-long video and consulted with legal authorities, but ultimately decided that the appearance of corrections officers Larry McFarland and Carlos Jusino was protected under their right to freedom of expression.
“I have to be very careful because I have to protect First Amendment rights,” Bane said Friday. “And because you are a deputy sheriff, doesn’t mean you don’t have First Amendment rights. I have to be very careful, because if I deny someone their First Amendment rights, which is freedom of speech, I open up this agency to one hellacious lawsuit.”
“I did scrutinize that thing,” Bane added, “because if there was anything in there where I could have taken action, I would have done it.”
In the video “We Came to Party,” for which Jusino and McFarland call themselves 80 Proof, the pair appear picking up cars from Adams Chevrolet in Havre de Grace, and driving them to the DC V 2.0 club at the Clarion Hotel in Aberdeen. No profanity is present in the lyrics, and neither man appears to personally engage in any lewd behavior. Neither the video nor the group’s Facebook page includes any mention to their position as Harford County sheriff’s deputies.
Still, as the video made the rounds internally at the Sheriff’s Office, it sparked a debate over whether the deputies were in the wrong.
“You know what, I think people in my agency are upset with that,” Bane said. “Is it something I’m happy to see out there? No, I’m not happy to see that out there.”
However, Bane said he believed McFarland and Jusino’s video does not create a cause for concern about their roles at the Harford County Detention Center.
“I can tell you that those two corrections officers do a good job,” Bane said. “They went through the same rigorous screening that every member of this department goes through when we hire them.”
“I can’t speak for them, but I think if they had it to do over again, I would like to think they wouldn’t do that,” he added. “Particularly because of the controversy it’s created, because I don’t think they care to be the center of controversy. And again, I can’t speak for them, I don’t know, but I have nothing to indicate at this time that those two corrections officers are a threat to the security of that institution. If I had anything to indicate that, they would be dismissed.”
The appearance of the 80 Proof video comes on the heels of debate over the department’s policy on visible tattoos, arguably another form of personal “expression.” Bane said the department’s current policy prohibits tattoos on a deputy’s head, face, neck, or hands; requires any tattoos to be covered by their uniform; and bans offensive tattoos, as determined by command personnel.
However, that policy has drawn complaints from some employees over the need to wear burdensome clothing during hotter months to stay in compliance with the policy.
“I think this is where you have to be extremely careful about what you’re going to allow or not allow if your personnel are going to where tattoos,” Bane said. “Law enforcement—and there’s case law to support this—we have the authority to say what tattoos it is that you can have or can’t have. But we also have a reason for prohibiting certain types of tattoos without denying a person their freedom of expression.”
Bane said challenges such as the 80 Proof video and the more widespread occurrence of tattoos on candidates for deputy positions will only become more prevalent in today’s culture.
“If you talk to any police chief or sheriff, this issue of tattoos, and this issue of the Internet is a real problem,” he said. “Because here again, you can regulate activities or conduct of your deputies on the internet, whether it be Facebook or a web page or whatever, but you have to be very careful how far you go with that.”
“We tell our deputies, we tell them all, be careful what you put out there,” he added. “We would prefer you didn’t put anything out there at all. But be careful what you put out there, it can come back to haunt you.”
Click below to view the 80 Proof video:
The description of 80 Proof from the group’s Facebook page follows:
It all started about 2 years ago. Carlos Jusino, myself Larry McFarland, and two others took a trip to Cancun Mexico. We were having such a good time partying in the clubs that we decided to create a song for the clubs in Cancun for the next year. The song that was created was called “80 Proof the Liquor Song.” We took the song with us on the next trip and everyone loved it including the DJ’s and the people partying in the clubs. The emcee who was in all of the main clubs in Cancun started calling us by the name of the song. In his own words, “80 Proof is in the house ” That is how it all started. 80 Proof sounded so good to us we decided to name ourselves 80 Proof. We came home and began to record an EP. It turned out better than we expected. The EP is called 80 Proof – Top Shelf. Look out we just started and there’s much more to come.
Retired Deputy says
Double standard once again freedom of speech my ass! On duty or off we are suppose to hold ourselves to a higher standard than any other public employees ! Rap videos are ok because they are public expression of art but a tat’s are not an expression of art is the a joke or what? Any thoughts???
David A. Porter says
I have no idea what you are talking about. As a Federal Employee I am required by policy not to expose my agency to anything that would bring ridicule on the United States Government – including the appearance of impropriety. Yes we are held to a higher standard. We are expected to be honest in all the things we do. We are expected not to engage in behaviors that other citizens may participate in. It comes with the job. If you don’t like the scrutiny, then don’t take the job.
tru dat says
Porter: I’m unclear as to what your point is. You are a Bane supporter, so are you saying your boy Bane is wrong because he is clearly allowing his employees to bring riducule and the appearance of impropriety to the agency without reprimanding the individuals doing so? If this is what you are trying to say, then I wholeheartedly agree with you for once.
David A. Porter says
Were they in their uniforms in the video? Did they explicitly state they were employees of HCSO? Did they do anything to create the appearance that they were representing HCSO in the video in order to bring ridicule on that organization? It is a non issue. The previous poster was complaining about a double standard. The standard was complied with.
tru dat says
David, David, David: Again, read the Sheriff’s own Policy & Procedure about off-duty conduct. If you are off-duty, you are more than likely not in uniform. And I know you’ll say you can be in uniform and still be off-duty. That’s not the point. Point being that it doesn’t matter what they were wearing and who knew they were CO’s. Everyone at the agency, law enforcement and corrections, gets a copy of the guidelines so everyone is familiar. Answer me this–how come 2 deputies were overlooked for promotion and a records clerk was transferred to midnights for supporting another candidate? They didn’t campaign while on duty. I guess having a Gahler sign in your yard violates policy, while shooting a video with criminal implications is not a violation. Again, can you say double standard? If the video is a non-issue, then the supporting of another candidate should be a non-issue as well.
Bobbie P says
Tru Dat,
Mr. Porter is saying exactly what most of the Deputies have been saying. If it would bring ridicule or give the appearance of impropriety, which it does, then it would/should be a cause for action.
Sheriff Bane says that he consulted legal authority, but does not say what counsel they provided. He does say that “ultimately” he decided that it was protected speech. Well of course its protected speech, there were no laws broken. Inappropriate conduct for two Deputies…Probably, but that is left up to the interpretation of the Sheriff. And the Sheriff has decided. The observed conduct was appropriate and acceptable.
Had these two Deputies made a video while standing on a street corner in civilian clothing singing; ‘Jesse Bane is a vindictive, spiteful, paranoid man’, their speech would have been protected, but I suggest that Sheriff Bane would have found their conduct inappropriate as Deputies, and a cause for administrative action.
Randy Wofford says
this man may save a life he has got my attention I work out with staffs and knifes kung fu I will use this as one of my songs Ill post it later your a good man keep up with your music. Later
The truth says
***********************************************************************
a couple of years ago one of these deputies got caught receiving a ****job while on duty, with a HCSO civilian employee, in a county owned vehicle while parked in a public park. Maybe this was a bad call by the deputy to make the video……or maybe he is the best qualified for the job and nobody else can do what he does. After the above mentioned event one would think you would shut up and do you J O B and be thankful you have a job. Just remember people “Porter” its all about who you know! and nothing else matters. One for Jesse and boys.
P.S. If your keeping score its alot to a little
Randy Wofford says
Go off man rap is all good and here is one for you it goes sit back relax put on your headgear get ready for a trip through the atmosphere i dont need a spaceship I use my microphone, i missed something figure it out.. peace
Randy Wofford says
I like ive passed on to my facebook I wish I had a friend like you.
CW says
It’s a good thing that one of those individuals was/is dating the Sheriff’s go-to major. It makes the whole situation much easier to overlook. The article also needs to include a little more about the change in the tattoo policy. Individuals have been hired for years with tattoos but all of a sudden, they cannot be seen. That is where deputies have the issue. You cannot hire someone with something permanent on their body and then change the policy and tell them to cover it up, after they haven’t for years. It’s sad that tattoo policies are at the top of Bane’s priority list.
Randy Wofford says
there is a society that says no tats and its only for show I was locked once and a guy with a teardrop pissed me off so I called him into my cell after knocking his tray off lunch of the table I say in todays world its good for police to intemadate but not with greed I dont need a tat im very well know as it is. but nice art and color buddy. take care
tru dat says
Agreed, Retired Deputy. Double standards are rampant in the agency. How about the deputies who supported another candidate for Sheriff? Freedom to support the candidate of our choice gets employees passed over for promotion and transferred to midnight shift. But sworn correctional officers portraying themselves as thugs get no reprimand. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office Policy & Procedure handbook states: “Conduct Standards & Discipline: The Harford County Sheriff’s Office expects every employee to adhere to the highest standards of job performance and of PERSONAL CONDUCT. All employees must maintain the highest standards of integrity by: Not placing himself/herself in a position, while off duty, which would reflect adversely upon the Sheriff’s Office”. “Conduct Standards: The Agency reserves the right to discipline or terminate any employee for violating any criminal law, Agency policy, practice or rule of conduct.” “POLITICAL/CAMPAIGN ACTIVITIES. The Harford County Sheriff’s Office encourages employees to exercise their constitutional right to vote and participate in the political process.” Seems like a no-brainer to me. Not only is Bane allowed, under his own policy, to discipline deputies, he, as Sheriff, is OBLIGATED to uphold the policies of the agency. He is also OBLIGATED to allow participation in the political process per the Constitution of the United States. So now he is bigger than the Constitution? If it wasn’t perfectly clear to EVERYONE before that Bane is a spineless, double-talking, deceptive liar, it should be readily apparent now.
THEREAL_RETIREDAWHILE says
Now that its ok, next up Uncle Jesse and twin, rapping about life on a chicken farm to the mean streets of Edgewood and then being a hardcore cop…oh wait
Can you rent Model T’s? Sorry Jesse
Bobby Weaver says
Oh my, ho-hum. Did any of you watch the video? This is a non-issue. These guys did not do anything illegal and there has been no code of conduct violation. Let the damned thing die it’s own death; the music and video are bad enough by themselves without having to bring politics into it.
tru dat says
Bobby, did you not read the language taken directly from the Sheriff’s policy and procedure guide? While they didn’t do anything criminal, they clearly violated the Sheriff’s Office code of conduct, which Bane is obligated to uphold. If you think portraying gangbangers while working as a correctional officer at the DC is no problem, then you clearly have mental and moral issues and are clearly in the minority in your feelings.
Bobby Weaver says
I didn’t see anything that would tie these two to a gang. In the video there was no gang colors, no signing, no tagging, no guns, no drugs, no violence, etc. The video may have been silly, poorly produced and not within your taste, but I don’t see anything that should cause two deputies to have any kind of reprimand. I personally do not think that Sheriff Bane should get another term, but it certainly isn’t because of a personnel decision that he made in regards to this non-issue video. I think there are more comments about these two than there was when a high ranking HCSD employee was caught stealing from Home Depot, twice. I think people like yourself need to put things into perspective a little bit and learn some tolerance and acceptance.
Marc Eaton says
That is the point Mr. Weaver. If you are one of Banes people you can do anything. If not you get skipped over and transferred for no reason. Bane thinks he did a good job on explaining this video! Now I have a more questions for him. If he will even answer them.
Bobby Weaver says
I can see the Bane haters are coming out of the woodwork. As I said in my last post, I do not believe Jesse Bane should be re-elected, but it is not based on a non-issue video made by two off-duty deputies on their own dime. You are taking a minor issue about a couple of deputies, what is a personnel issue for Sheriff Bane, and a First Amendment issue for the entire country, and blowing it up into a huge political anti-Bane smear. Good job, welcome to small town backwoods politics, the thing you think you are against, you actually endorse and take part in. Give true examples of favoritism by Bane instead of vague unsupported comments.
just sayin' says
Bobby Weaver, you say the gangbanger video is a small personnel non-issue. What do you think of Bane overlooking the top 2 on his promotions list because of a personal dislike for them? And do you think it is a non-issue for him to toy with people’s lives when they are ill with cancer, rheumetoid arthritis and other illnesses by banishing them to other shifts because they voted for someone other than him? I can’t believe you Bane believers. What a heartless callous lot you all are.
Bobby Weaver says
I said in the post that you commented on, that I do not support Bane for re-election. I strongly suggest that if you have evidence of any mis-conduct by Bane, than you need to publish it along with your derogatory and inflammatory remarks, or sue him.
Bobby Weaver says
Non-sequitur post.
HarshReality says
Nothing illegal? Im sorry, did you not see them park in a handicap spot? Thats $500 right there my friend. LOL
INDEPENDENT says
This is for those police officer’s who have tattoos: http://articles.baltimoresun.com/2008-06-28/news/0806270215_1_arundel-county-anne-arundel-long-sleeve
pizzle says
I don’t see anything wrong with the vid, except maybe the appearance of “suspicious activity” in dropping what I can only imagine is a bag of cash on the counter. Why not just hand over a check? I mean, lugging around all that cash????…what a hassle! It’s not really safe. What if they got mugged on their way to the dealer? They could have been earning .01 percent on their money if they had kept it in the bank and just written a check at the dealership. Also, was there a need for TWO convertibles??? I think having a truck and a convertible would have been the wise choice. Then, they could use the convertible on “cruise days” and the truck could have been used for the Home Depot runs and trips to the landfill to get the recycled mulch. Come on, people!….think!
omgomgomg says
Good One!
Resident says
I do not support Bane, but really, is it that big of a deal? Its just a youtube video. As a private, non-government affiliated citizen, I really don’t care about the video. In fact, if you deputies hadn’t posted it all over the web, I would’ve never have known they worked at the detention center. This really is a NON-ISSUE Stick to the facts about Bane if you want him out and stop making a mountain out of mole hill, it makes you all seem like a bunch of petty crybabies. Now can you all just go back to work and maybe solve the stabbings in Edgewood?
WGAF says
I thought it was illegal to not buckle up. I think Mr. Bane needs new glasses!
RandomPoster1 says
Again watch and listen to the video. In addition to “throw your set signs up,” a clear reference to gangs and hand signs, one of the background actors in the video is a felon, so now it’s cool for our deputies/police to make video’s with felons, especially felons on parole?
HCDCfrequentflier says
As a Platinum member of the Harford County Detention Center, please let me take this opportunity to thank the Deputies for providing a warm fuzzy feeling to all the gang members who are residing at the Harford Hilton (no offense to the Corporation is intended by this remark). These men are clearly not real gang members so we view this as satire, and appreciate the foolishness it causes amongst the ranks. With any luck, maybe they’ll be promoted and let us listen to something other than country music. Possibly, we can have a dance with the female inmates if we behave?
Let me also say that members with priveledged status such as me deserve larger cells with a better free breakfast. The powdered eggs are aweful. Jesse, please spend a bit more for your Platinum members. We deserve it. Why do you think we keep returning?
Localguy says
First… had I stumbled upon this video on my own 1) I would never have known they were corrections officers, 2) known it featured a felon on parole, 3) contained gang signs (I didn’t actually see any flashed), and 4) mattered to anyone.
Second, my advice and request 1) don’t quit your day job fellas – just saying, and 2) how do I get those 7 minutes of my life back?
Resident says
The whole thing just seems petty. Now they are complaining about them not wearing seatbelts? Gee how many times do I see police officers either not conforming to traffic regulations or being discourteous to us citizens? A hint: more than I care to remember. But do we citizens make a big deal out of it? No, not really. You deputies don’t like your boss? Too bad, because he was elected by the very same people you are sworn to protect. Want to change that? Then do it the right way and support someone different in the next election. Be thankful you have a job, concentrate on doing that job, and for God’s sakes quit crying over every ridiculous thing to come your way.
tru dat says
Don’t any of you posters know what the term “double standard” means? Do you not understand that contrary to what anyone thinks, the deputies violated agency policy. Whether the ordinary citizen believes the video is a non-issue or not, it IS an issue within the agency because it against agency policy. Apparently there are only 4 people in the agency who don’t have a problem with it–Bane, The Major, the Major’s boyfriend and the other performer. So 215 deputies and approxately the same number of co’s think it’s wrong, but the 4 who don’t have a problem with it are right. Remember, with Courage, Honor and Integrity…..
WRONG DAT says
Courage, Honor and Integrity? How about quit watching youtube and solve the 5 stabbings in Edgewood. Or shut down the crack house in Perryman. Or slow down the obnoxious drivers on 924. Or get out of your car and actually get to know the citizens youre surpose to serve.
Verdadero says
I’m curious…what did Bane have to say about his deputies being in a video with known criminals (felonies). You will never get a straight answer from Bane. Policy clearly states you cannot associate with criminals. Jusino is the same deputy who left his gun belt in his vehicle at Rocks State Park while entertaining another jail employee in the woods. This was brought to the attention of the Sheriff’s Office by the Park Police who thought it was suspicious. Jusino also pretends to be on the Law Enforcement side of the agency. He tells everyone he is on the SWAT team. There are many ladies in the Edgewood area that are enamored by Jusino’s fabricated SWAT stories. This is the same man who talks about “hellacious law suits “, but is ok with violating a deputies rights concerning political activity! If you didn’t support him in the last election you are done… not promotable but definitely transferable (banishment). Bane is so dishonest and such a hypocrite.He needs to be exposed for exactly what he is. The morale is at an all time low at the Sheriff’s Office now; there is talk openly about a no confidence vote coming soon. I have said it before and will say it again, Jesse you are a little man in a Big Job.
Marc Eaton says
He forgot to mention the money or drugs in a bag. Did the deputies fill out the proper paper work for secondary employment. The parking in the clearly marked handicapped parking spaces. Bane now can say he addressed the video but he really didn’t. So in his mind if he is asked the question he is telling the truth that he did indeed look into it. In Bane’s defense, he would not know what he was looking for or what would be a sign of gang influence unless one of his police officers told him what to look for. The lady who attends meetings with Bane on gangs has yet to say what she thinks of this video also.
Randy Wofford says
cant we all just get along and a felon is a human but some are murders and to take a life is not a good thing think about what felon you hang with man Im one and I educated many students through collage preparing to become doctors phds and Its a hard story would blow this situation away plus I believe in the 33 degree. PEACE
Troo Dee says
No front tags on the red Chevy. Get em Tru. They should know better.
tru dat says
I’m glad you find these violations amusing. I’ll bet you won’t be laughing when you’re pulled over for not having tags and not wearing your seatbelt. I am just appalled that so many of you have such a disregard for the law.
Joe Fryday says
If I had a badge in my pocket or family with one I’d skate like Kimmie Meisner! Let’s see a sobriety checkpoint outside of the FOP lodge. Not likely.
Bobby Weaver says
What word describes lower than petty?
just sayin' says
that word would be trivial which describes you perfectly Bobby Weaver.
Bobby Weaver says
The video is petty, and the bashers of Bane’s response to the vidoe are being petty. You obviously have an agenda that is much larger than this juvenile video and I hope you can find a positive outlet for your discontent about Sheriff Bane aside from this thread about this petty video. I voted against him in the last election and I will likely vote against him again, but I refuse to bash the man for his handling of THIS PARTICULAR ISSUE (the video, in case you forgot what the thread was about). I bet that you and many others have a laundry list of valid complaints, but using this video to showcase them is not helping your cause, in fact, it may very well be hurting it, because this forum makes you seem to be quite petty, or whatever a good word for beyond petty is. I’m glad to see you using your real name while trashing others, by the way.
King of Common Sense says
Tru Dat, I have not seen 215 comments on here from verified Law Enforcement or Correctional Officers to support your idea that we all think the video deserves punishment. I am one of those officers that you allege feels that way, and I disagree with you.
It is clearly one of the worst music videos ever made, but it does not bring negative light on the Sheriff’s office or in any way reflect on the integrity of these two officers. I believe the felon everyone is referring to is his biological brother, not some random criminal they associate with. The job is hard enough without having to worry about big brother watching your entire personal life too. I can’t imagine what people in the private sector would think if their employer questioned them about something as trivial as this video. But the argument is that because we are officers we are supposed to be mindless servants without our own hobbies and interests until we serve 25 years and are released from servitude? Well I reject that argument.
tru dat says
King: Again, my point is not the video. It is that the content of the video is a violation of Sheriff’s office policy. And again, if this video is trivial, than so is going after someone for having a Gahler for Sheriff sign in their yard. Bane can’t have it both ways. I do agree that all of this is a distraction to the deputies but Bane initiated this avalanche by denying two top-qualifying Sgts their promotions and by moving a sick records clerk to midnight shift. If you support those moves than I truly do pity you as your priorities are clearly messed up.
Mike Welsh says
King,
No, you are not supposed to be some mindless servant. You are supposed to use your brain and think. With regard to the video, looks like those involved had a brain fart. Would you have participated in making such a video?
David A. Porter says
I might have done something with a West Side Story theme. But then again I like musicals, not rap videos. Perhaps we could get Marc to do a Professor Harold Hill riff on what he thinks about Sheriff Bane. Now that would be entertainment and I’d watch that. Provided it was clever of course.
Mike Welsh says
Wow, you as Maria in drag. I’d watch that, provided of course it was done with your usual taste.
King of Common Sense says
Unfortunately, I don’t know anything about those moves other than what I have read on here. However, I do know that attacking these two deputies will not make the situation with LE promotions or civilian transfers or political revenge any better.
ven says
Im wondering if this would have been a country music video, and they dropped the loot on horses and hay, would anyone bat an eye?, However, as embarrising as it may be for the Sheriffs Office, because after all it’s rap music, horrible rap music but rap music none the less, I dont see anything wrong. These guys are just having fun in their makeshift studio and trying to drum up some extra cash. Bring the issue back up if they start treading on the Constitution while on the job.
RandomPoster1 says
So all of those on here who say that this video is just no big deal, would it be okay if it were two white officers saying “throw your swastikas up?” Or what if it were three white deputies singing “everybody in the club burn your crosses tonight?”
100% certain that if that were the case the sheriff would no doubt fire the those involved while mandating sensitivity training for all white officers in the agency. Keep in mind his funeral record as sheriff: lodd’s=0, Known gang members=1
We know where his priorities lie.
HCDCfrequentflier says
Yo Random Poster,
Who you represent? Swastikas would likely offend all my brothers at the HCDC, so eaz up. Swastikas (when inverted the way Nazi’s did) offend many folks due to their association with Nazi’s racial hatred and other attrocities.
My gatekeepers did not use methods to invoke hatred in their video. Rather they were “role playing,” and although harmless, they did look silly. I would like to think that my gatekeepers are not deliberately offensive and have some morals. After all, they don’t beat us and occassionally, let us smoke and call our loved ones on cell phones.
Mike Welsh says
HCDCfrequentflier,
Thanks for sharing. I had been told that things at the HCDC would improve after the Wardens retirement and the Sheriff sending the Chief Deputy out there to run things. I’m sure the inmate population feels much better now that you can get the occasional smoke and non-recorded cell phone call. Anyone getting a little nookie? Rest assured, your Sheriff loves and appreciates you.
RandomPoster1 says
Don’t you think the family of the murdered cab driver who was killed as part of a gang initiation would take offense at sworn members of their local law enforcement agency using gang references for profit?
How about that lady from Edgewood whose gang banger kid was killed and used to cause all kinds of headaches for deputies but was Banes poster women? This make ammo for her case?
How about any victim in Harford County of gang related crime, think they may feel hesitant about called the sheriff’s next time something happens?
King of Common Sense says
To answer your question, no I would not participate in a video like this. Working there is stressful enough without bringing extra attention on yourself and besides I can’t stand rap music. “VEN” said what I was getting at in the other forum, if it were two northern county white officers paying cash for a red Ford F350 and heading to the Buck to watch the tractor pulls then none of these comments would have been made. There was no specific mention of any one gang or affiliation like “randomposter1” is using in his hypothetical, so a brief mention of throwing up your set signs is quite different. Without endorsing a specific group, the statement is simply pandering to some of the hip hop audience.
RandomPoster1 says
I didn’t mention a specific group either. Swastikas were originally good luck symbols used by Native Americans and others, later used by the Nazi’s. In addition to the Nazi’s, the swastika has been used by numerous groups. Same goes for cross burning, while most commonly associated with the Ku Klux Klan, it too has been utilized by numerous groups.
So, since I didn’t reference one specific group I should be okay, right?
Regulardude3 says
Randomposter1,
Next time, don’t mention anything. In fact, don’t type anything either.
Random poster says
The only things those two co’s are guilty of is bad music, ugly woman.
SmogDog says
The funniest thing about this is their extreme sense of accomplishment. Good Job Guys!! You have graduated from private circles laughter, to local media. I’m convinced that it won’t be long until you make national headlines.
WRONG DAT says
Common sense never prevails in situations like this. Your comparing apples to oranges. Stick to the facts of the situation at hand and do not create hypithecial comparisons to cloud the subject.
Everyone knows that driving without a seatbelt is illegal. But should the violator suffer the same penailty as a theif? Let’s keep it in context. Its a corny rap video, that’s all.
Seriously, if this all you have against Bane he is surely to get re-elected. The last thing the public wants is to listen to a bunch of cry baby cops who are mad at their boss because someone didn’t promoted or someone has to work midnights. I mean if you guys had to go out and get real jobs you would really get a reailty check.
Shizzle says
SERIOUSLY!?!! With all the issues this county has THIS is what is being debated? While I’m not a RAP fan (too old, too slow and too white I guess) I AM outraged that no one has started a campaign to have the fellow in the black Camaro prosecuted for parking in a handicapped space………..SIGH
RandomPoster1 says
Shizzle,
It isn’t the fact that they made a rap video that is being discussed, it is a multi-part issue that is at the heart of the discontent.
– the video features lyrics that go to the heart of what law enforcement is supposed to protect people from, i.e. gangs. The fact that two members of the department are using/emulating it for profit/personal gain goes against everything they are supposed to stand for.
– the feature features a known felon. Sure it is one of the singers brother, but why emulate his behavior? It would be like me making a video at chuck-e-cheese with a family member who was a convicted child sex offender.
– you have people in the department openly punished for “free speech issues” that are non-criminal in nature, but it’s okay for this video? It goes to the heart of what the sheriff truly stands for, for years he has pushed tolerance with gangs and sensitivity towards anyone that isn’t white. Again, I’d be interested to see what would have happened if the CO’s were white and/or not boinking a command staff member or boinking a white command staff member. Again, police funerals 0, gang member funerals 1.
if you dont like it says
if you dont like it make your own video
IS THIS A JOKE? says
Seriously? Seems like someone is mad at the men in the video and using the video to get to them. Grow up! No one cares about the video! You people cant really think it resembles gang like activity! Why choose this battle?
Marc Eaton says
This video shows Bane’s poor….lack of good judgement. If one member had not been dating a Major would the decision been the same? You Baners can spin it any way you want to. Why have rules and regulations if you are going to pick and choose the people you want to follow them. Leadership? Integrity? Common Sense? Next thing you will have people selling Home Depot gift cards on line while they are working.
IS THIS A JOKE? says
@ Marc- And how do you know one of them is dating the major? You seem to know so much about them personally. That’s the point. If you dont like the Sherrif then dont vote for him. Do you think its right to talk so much about two men who dont have anything to do with you or the fact that you have such hatred for another human being? Be happy you have the freedom of speech to express yourself on this forum and stop calling double standards and take a look at what your doing! Who pissed you off?
just sayin' says
Retired Deputy Eaton, I most certainly hope you continue to exercise your right to freedom of speech. Those of us to want to keep our jobs under Bane do not have that right. You have made mention previously of many deputies contacting you personally with information so I’m sure you probably know more about what is going on there than most of the deputies do. Thank you for your efforts on behalf of those who have no voice.
Marks 8th Cousin In-Law says
This is not about Black/White. This is about ethics, morals and conduct of which must be held to a different standard. When you take a job with the Sheriff you agree to hold yourself to a higher standard. You agree that you will not place yourself in a position to be of “questionable character”. The front tag issue is not an issue its a dealer tag and you only get one tag. The Handicapped parking issue is an issue, the no seatbelt is an issue, the “throw your set signs up” is an issue. The “double standards” problem is an issue. Please do not make this into a race issue and focus on the issues.
WRONG DAT says
Did anyone solve the 5 stabbings in Edgewood yet? Or are all the Deputies too busy calling Eaton to complain about this stupid video? Seriously, make crime the issue that drives the election, not some stupid video that no one would have seen if YOU didn’t post it.
RandomPoster1 says
thug on thug
r says
more like bad rapper on bad rapper.
Dissenter says
i always said “the legal gang w/guns are just another illegal gang”…i’d rather have gang members watch my home then any harford co cop…. at least that way i know what to expect and do… real gang members don’t kick your door down in the middle of the the night w/supposed search warrants signed by drunk judges and call’em legal, leaving the victim no real legal recourse…i didn’t watch the video but i congratulate the producer for the controversy…keep’em comin…anything that makes hcpd look like the asses they are is ok w/me..lol
Parent says
I don’t want to “make the hcpd look like asses” (it’s hcso btw) but I do think you have a point. The “war on drugs” has made a free-fire zone out of many of our most economically challenged neighborhoods and Federal grants for para-military SWAT teams that are deployed to raid homes of non-violent offenders has gone wrong many many times. It’s easy to recall the public official’s dog that was killed in a raid on a home simply because a package was delivered there by a third party. It’s just as easy to find dozens of other examples with much more incredulous results. Our military at war has tighter rules of engagement than our “peace keepers” at home. Either per capita or by actual numbers, we have more citizens in prison than any other nation. Are we that much more dangerous that anyone else in the world? Isn’t there some other solution that doesn’t tread so heavily on the constitution or require me to house and feed non-violent offenders?
RandomPoster1 says
Other countries kill violent offenders. Other countries gangs are armed with automatic weapons, rockets and grenades and get into prolonged shootouts with police, resulting in numerous dead. Other countries allow physical punishment, hence allowing true punishment on offenders. Other countries parents are busy hoping UNICEF comes through with grain so one of their five kids won’t starve to death, not coddling their poop-head kids and making excuses for them so they do end up in jail
(Insert female wailing “Think of the children!”)
If it’s so much better elsewhere, may I recommend a good travel agent?
m says
I would take you up on the travel agent, but what if another rap video is made and I am out of the country? Don’t wanna miss all the excellent singing? Besides, all the hot ladies in the next installment!
Marc Eaton says
http://video.foxnews.com/v/1495078196001/cop-spotted-transporting-mattress-box-spring-with-car/?playlist_id=87937
Miami Dade officer suspended for violating department policy. Watch the video and see that she was also reprimanded for parking in a handicap parking space. I guess some departments take their rules and regulations a little MORE serious THAN others! Listen to the Major as she speaks about this incident.
She should come to Harford County. Under Bane you can steal vacation time while assigned to the School Policing Unit and then lie in a staff investigation and still keep your job. Your punishment? Demoted and put back into patrol!!! Did you hear what the one citizen said about this mattress incident being “unethical”? A mattress on top of a police car UNETHICAL? Dare we cross compare the act of transporting a mattress against 2 officers ‘waving SET SIGNS (PER THE LYRICS) AKA GANG SIGNS in a public video on youtube? Too bad this female officer didn’t work for HCSO.. for surly Bane would have given her a free ride due to her ARTISTIC EXPRESSION in “Mattress Art”. Maybe Miami Dade would be interested in a new series called SHERIFF SWAP!! You know, like Swap my Spouse? I just don’t think I hate Miami enough to do that to them!!!!
I have an EXCELLENT REALITY SHOW IDEA…Swap-my-Sheriff..coming this fall to Bravo TV!
Bobby Weaver says
You have this forum now, so please tell us, please announce your intention to either run for Sheriff or endorse a Bane opponent in the hopes of getting hired back on to a top-tiered salary.
Dissenter says
randomposter1…i believe citizens in the usa are more concerned these days w/their own home terf then w/poor people being stepped on by the arragant criminal governments of the world..if they would raise up and kill more government criminals like we have done in the past, maybe their futures would be a lil brighter?..we in harford co are doing everything we can, to keep this county government, and bane, from stepping on us!..i suggest u get your gun or bug spray,or what ever u keep in your purse, and go help them, if your so worried about someone else’s backyard?………hcpd, thanks for the votes, its nice to see you still care..lol
The truth says
a couple of years ago one of these deputies got caught receiving a ****job while on duty, with a HCSO civilian employee, in a county owned vehicle while parked in a public park. Maybe this was a bad call by the deputy to make the video……or maybe he is the best qualified for the job and nobody else can do what he does. After the above mentioned event one would think you would shut up and do you J O B and be thankful you have a job. Just remember people “Porter” its all about who you know! and nothing else matters. One for Jesse and boys.
P.S. If your keeping score its alot to a little
Marc Eaton says
Verified yesterday, the person of which you speak in Juice who drives the mini van in the video. So I guess it was freedom of sexual experience that was protected under this violation of the conduct policy. Anybody seeing a pattern here by Bane?
Before you say it Bobby, I verify my information before I post it. I am working on something which took place last week involving another person who carries their FOJ card. (FRIENDS OF JESSE) DON’T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT.
just sayin' says
Bobby, you must not be familiar with gangs if you say there is no gang action in the video. It is widespread throughout the video. I do agree with the badly produced part of your comment though.
Bobby Weaver says
Dude, you guys are really digging for some sort of gang affiliation. If you are a deputy, I implore you to please just go to work and solve some real crimes.
Bobby Weaver says
Look people, the Harford County Sheriff’s Department is a 24/7/365 operation; some people NEED to work crappy shifts, ask any nurse you may happen to know. Also, there are too many high-ranking jobs, and not enough people doing the real work in the department; EVERYONE can not get a promotion. This thread is showing that there is some real dissent within the ranks, but this petty video is a really bad forum in which to get your points across. After seeing how both sides behave, perhaps us regular citizens should push to abolish the whole damned Sheriff’s office and have you all have to re-apply for your jobs with a newly created Harford County Police Department. This whole non-issue is nothing more than backwoods mud-slinging political chaos. All of you need to remember that you don’t work FOR Bane, you work UNDER Bane, you actually DO WORK FOR HARFORD COUNTY CITIZEN TAXPAYERS!
Mike Welsh says
Bobby Weaver,
Since you find the video as such a petty issue, why do you think Sheriff Bane took the time to be interviewed by The Dagger, and explain his decision not to take any administrative/disciplinary action regarding the Deputies in the video? Apparently Sheriff Bane did not find it as petty an issue as you do.
Sheriff Bane, in his interview, didn’t state that he did not find the video offensive. In fact he said “I did scrutinize that thing”…”because if there was anything in there where I could have taken action, I would have done it.” Bane went further to say “Is it something I’m happy to see out there? No, I’m not happy to see it out there.” Again, the Sheriff’s words don’t seem to indicate that this is some petty video.” He understands the underlying theme in the video. In the end, he decided ultimately that the Deputies were protected under the right to freedom of expression. But petty. No I don’t think the Sheriff thought the issue was petty.
Bobby Weaver says
I didn’t say that Sheriff Bane said it was petty, I am saying it is petty. So are all of you who are blowing this thing up to be something it is not. The more some of you post, the less confident I am with the goings on at the patrol level. Looking in at this organisation is like watching the episode of Mayberry RFD when Barney and Gomer were going at – citizen’s arrest, citizen’s arrest. Grow a pair, do your jobs, protect and serve, and vote the s.o.b. out of office by backing up your conjectures with real evidence, because Sheriff Bane may may be a horrible boss, but nothing in that video or his words related to it show it. Petty, petty, petty, my own words, not Sheriff Bane’s.
Marc Eaton says
Bobby, this video is just the tip of the iceberg. You have it in your mind is was okay, nothing will change that.
Bane addresses only parts of the video and ignores other issues. He like most liberals pick and choose who is entitled to rights and who are not. Bobby you choose not to see the issues in the video.
Bobby Weaver says
I myself am far from Liberal. I am on the outside of the force, looking in as a citizen, and what I see are a bunch of petty remarks about a Sheriff, who did not appear in said video, but scrutinized the video, gave some remarks about the video publicly, and made a decision that was his to make. The video is petty, it really is, I’m sure that if I really had it in for one of those guys, I could watch it 20 + times and see some things that I would question more, but I think you need to ask yourself about your personal motivations for giving that video such scrutiny. I would love to see some facts backing up the conjecture that has surfaced on this forum, but I really would like to see you guys have another public forum to express them. All sorts of comments are being made about the man, and there’s no evidence presented to back it up. While I personally believe that these improprieties have been going on, I do not believe your cause is being served best by the attacks without proof that are being posted on this thread about the video. I think you are missing the point. The point is that you are addressing the right issues, on the wrong forum, without the proper evidence to back it up, and the snide remarks make you all look petty. Surely most of you in LE have learned about bringing fact based and supported accusations before the proper venue? For those of you in LE who do not get it yet, let’s try it this way – what do you think would happen if you were to testify in Harford County District Court that the person ticketed for speeding and running a red light on MD rte 24, was also a shoplifter in Pennsylvania? What do think would happen? First, the judge would say that you had an improper venue, second, once you found the proper venue (a PA court) you would have to have proof to back up your conjecture, that the person in question, did indeed shoplift. Right issues, wrong venue, unsubstantiated accusations.
Marc Eaton says
Okay, Bobby where would you like it addressed? The Dagger is looking into it, no other paper in Harford County will. Bane backed the facts up on what I said about this video in his letter, of course skipping over most of it. You know nothing of gangs do you? As four unsubstantiated accusations the video speaks for itself. Others see it why can’t you. Do you see Bane saying anything about the other accusations on here. He will not address them because he can’t. You can’t refute what is true, I get my information from deputies who work there. I am amazed at what is going on under Bane. You should be to.
Marked says
Learn how to identify gangs and gang activity. Then you will understand.
The truth says
It’s funny “Weaver” how you are blinded by the light. Eaton is right on with all of his comments, and just like Eaton I only state the facts. This deputy did get in trouble a couple of years ago for his sexual experience but had his F O J card with him. Weaver explain to me how a deputy can get in trouble at work for failing to do his job, then lie about it in an internal investigation (IA) and still keep his job. Since you can’t I will tell you. This former union president lied in a IA and because of that the HCSO legally had to notify the Harford County States Attorney Office of the deputy lying in that investigation. Doing so now makes him/her ineligible to testify in court because of trust issues making him a useless police officer. This deputy pulls out his F O J card and received a Monday through Friday job with a take home car as his a punishment…..do you see an issue with that. IF you can’t, I will put it in perspective for you. If this deputy observed a crime (rape, robbery, theft, etc…) while on his way home from his nice cushy desk job, he couldn’t even testify in court. It was a waste of tax payers’ money and a waste of a spot that could’ve been used on a deputy to be on the street fighting real crime.
If you want more stories just like this just ask, I have more stories then Dr. Seuss.
Marc Eaton says
The Truth, I had forgotten about that one. I am glad you brought that up. He was also caught sleeping under Sheriff Golding’s watch and managed to keep his case open until Bane was elected and all was forgiven. There is a deputy who was caught in a lie who was a corporal in the School policing unit, he is still working the streets. I guess Bane’s legacy began on day one of his first term. I understand another FOJ carrier called upon Bane last week. I am waiting for the name and specifics but plan on putting the story on here. Even with all that is going on right now Bane has no fear of continuing his actions. Keep up the good work.
marc0189@verizon.net.
WRONG DAT says
There you go! That’s what “Bobby Weaver” is talking about! Make an issue out of those things, not some stupid video. It’s just not the same thing. As a private citizen, I’m sick and tired of hearing about the Balitmore Police shooting and killing one of their own, hiding a murder weapon in their own car, and now shoplifting. Here in Harford County, we have a stupid rap video?
My point is, if change is really needed, post the REAL issues. Ones like guys sleeping on duty, lying in court and other SUBSTANTIAL facts. Making this video surley was not the best thing these CO’s could have done. But it’s not something that will beat Bane in the election booth. You Deputies have had no problem outing these CO’s, why don’t you out some real drama that shows Bane’s lack of leadership ability.
Marc Eaton says
Wrong Dat, the video is to show Bane’s incompetence and inability to make good decisions. The Correctional Officers showed poor judgement in making this video so they are at fault also. They are supposed to abide by the Rules and Regulations that ALL deputies are to abide by.
For some reason Bane has decided that lying in a internal affairs investigation is different from lying in a staff investigation. If you lie in a internal you can no longer testify in court. If you lie is a staff investigation you loose your corporal stripe and get taken out of school policing and moved back to criminal patrol and can still testify in court. In this persons case I had a first hand experience with him and his inability to tell the truth. It was in my last internal affairs investigation. I know this to be true because I read the file and he LIED. Unless things have changed a lie is a lie. I would ask Bane why this deputy is still making arrests and testifying in court cases. How does it make you feel as a citizen to know that this deputy is still working……he could answer a call for service at your house or pull you over and cite you for a traffic violation. If you knew his name would that make a difference to you if you had contact with him? From Kunkle to Golding lying would get you fired. Why is lying acceptable now under this Sheriff? Ethics and integrity?
Bobby Weaver says
Now the cream is rising to the surface. If things like what you are now speaking about are rampant in the agency, they surely will get the attention of the taxpayer more so than than the video. Marc, I wish you well in your quest for justice and integrity. I do wish there were some other forum, like a public meeting followed by the press.
Mike Welsh says
And that is why the Deputies Union needs to get involved. Hopefully they will.
Billy Jack says
OK, Mr. Eaton, now you have my attention. The other things you have discussed have seemed to me to be personnel matters and decisions with which you disagree. Every CEO/CO has to make unpopular decisions that sometimes effect popular people and there is always dissension as a result.
The issue of a person in uniform clearly telling lies that are verifiable is different. Having someone in a position of authority and trust who is unable to testify in a court of law because of his documented duplicity begs investigation. I hope to hear more about these situations.
David A. Porter says
I have to say I agree with Billy Jack on this. When I was reading your comments before I attributed your dissatisfaction with being disenfranchised from Sheriff Bane. These issues you cite now are to me far more important than a YouTube Video made by employees that lacked self control and restraint. To me – there is nothing I value more than honesty, especially in the courts and in law enforcement. There is nothing more disturbing than going up against an individual who has implied credibility because of who they are as opposed to the truth. Please continue to focus on these issues in your protests. Your dislike of Bane is still obvious and it does seem like a political issue but no one should be in a position to ignore the problems that his staff presents to the credibility of the organization. He will be judged ultimately on the way he handles these issues when it comes time for the election. I just hope whatever candidate that goes against him offers an improvement as opposed to simply favoring a new batch of employees over the rest.
The truth says
Billy Jack we can go on and on. I will keep this one short because you can research this one your own because it was public. How about several deputies throwing a bachelor party where a female whom performed a sexual act with a deputy and then she didn’t receive payment and became upset. That’s when another deputy got into an altercation with the female where she was thrown out of the house and assaulted. The city police were called and the deputy was arrested. Remember internal and criminal investigation are two different things. These deputies pulled out there F O J card and all made it out of their internal investigation unscathed and back on the street.
George says
Hardly unscathed…they spent months riding a desk with no LE powers for the duration of the IA (and probably had an unpaid suspension at the end of it), lost their DFC stripes, got transferred out of their cushy specialized unit assignments and back to patrol, and were put back on probation. The criminal charges also were dropped when the stripper kept changing her story and eventually admitted she lied about some of what happened.
Marked says
They should have been fired for the criminal act of picking up a stripper. Any skilled investigator can talk circles around a stripper and trip up her story. Who cares, she should not have been there in the first place.
WRONG DAT says
Same issues in Aberdump only now the inmates run the asylum. beaten wives, beaten girlfreinds, bad checks gallore! No one does anything there, why should the county be any different?
Marc Eaton says
This is from my friend, Tim Impallaria’s face book page. If you think what Bane is doing to him is not affecting just him and not his family you are wrong.
“Taking some time off in Annapolis with my brother stuffing envelopes and getting my thoughts together. My job has caused so many hardships to me and my family. My father always told me to stick up for what is right. Unfortunately that is not always right in the real world. This has devastated my family and hurts me deeply. If you read The Dagger Press about Harford Counties problems they hit the mark. I will not say anymore about it because I have already been touched by them. I love my job and my resume can show how much I give back to my community. Again I’m sorry to my wife and children for putting them through this. I love you all and I’m hoping we can get through this horrible time.”
Again, Jesse when you close your eyes at night do yo sleep well knowing the hardships you cause for the families of the people you target? Or do you even care?
Americans Agains Racism says
Nice Beats..Nice Video..Nice Editing…Its a Music Video…Get a Life, ya’ll…let them pursue their art, you pursue your lives.
Americans Agains Racism says
*Against (corrected before you all have conniptions)
Americans Against Racism says
there we go, still upset how Ravens offense disappears for extended quarters! What’s that all about?
Marc A Eaton says
Sheriff Bane needs to take note of how a real leader deals with policy violations.
http://www.policeone.com/news/6029571-Officer-punished-for-involvement-in-rap-video/
get a life marc says
Seriously Marc….which one in the video pissed in your wheaties? Move on. And knowing these men personally, both would give you their last dollar if you needed it. Find another issue. Maybe it was a dumb video but now you’re harassing these men and their families. Bravo! Was that your intent?
BBC says
Get a Life: How can you accuse Marc of harrassing the families of the boys from the hood, I mean the correctional officers who made the video? He is simply stating that a true leader would have handled it in the appropriate manner.