A Harford County Sheriff’s deputy was hospitalized Friday for heart-related issues, sources told The Dagger, a day after another deputy died of a heart attack which began at the funeral for a third member of the agency.
The deputy was hospitalized with a heart issue Friday. However, the medical problem was recognized and addressed, and the deputy was in stable condition at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Towson late Friday, where he was being kept overnight for observation, the hospital said. The Dagger has opted not to disclose his identity for privacy reasons.
Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Monica Worrell said early Saturday morning that she was not immediately aware of any deputies having suffered heart issues Friday, and said such information may not be releasable due to medical privacy laws.
The most recent health scare for the agency came one day after Sgt. Ian Loughran, 43, was found dead sometime after midnight at his Pylesville home. The state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined Loughran died of a heart attack, the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement, the symptoms of which began at the funeral Wednesday for Cpl. Charles Licato.
Licato, 34, died in the early morning hours of Sept. 6 in a one-car crash while driving to his home in Cecil County. Both Licato and Loughran’s deaths were considered by the agency as coming in the line of duty. As a plainclothes officer, Licato was on duty while still in Harford County, and under state law and other common policies, an officer who dies of a heart attack within 24 hours of a shift in which they performed non-routine stressful or strenuous service can be considered to have died in the line of duty.
Loughran was not alone in facing physical ailments at Licato’s funeral. Worrell confirmed that at least two people required medical attention during Licato’s funeral, and said she observed one member of a law enforcement agency other than the Sheriff’s Office being removed on a stretcher.
Worrell added that the Sheriff’s Office has “strong programs in place for grief counseling,” and that a critical incident stress management team has been working with deputies since Licato’s death. She declined to discuss broader questions about the agency’s management of its employees’ stress levels until after Loughran’s funeral.
Other members of the Harford County law enforcement community experienced a dramatic Friday, as Aberdeen Police Department officers returning from the funeral and burial of one of their own rendered assistance at the scene of a fatal accident on Route 22 Friday afternoon.
Aberdeen Police Officer Charles Armetta was killed Sept. 8 in an off-duty incident after he fell from an elevated section of Interstate 95 in Baltimore City.
Armetta’s funeral was held Friday at St. Stephen Church in Bradshaw, with interment following at Bel Air Memorial Gardens in Bel Air. A reception was scheduled to follow at the Aberdeen Volunteer Fire Department.
While traveling from the gravesite to the reception, sources said members of the department came upon the scene of a fatal crash on Route 22, near the intersection with Route 543. According to Maryland State Police, a vehicle attempting to turn left off Route 22 into the WaWa at that location collided with a motorcycle, killing its operator.
The source said Aberdeen officers stopped to assist at the scene, along with other EMS and police agencies.
The Sheriff’s Office employees needs grief counseling! We need time to step away and get ourselves together. Everyone is devastated and the “strong program in place for grief counseling” is an in-house team comprised of agency members who themselves are in need of grief counseling. There is nothing wrong with this program in general; however, these are extenuating circumstances and it is not enough, especially since the lead counselor looks like he’s going to keel over from physical and mental exhaustion himself. Please please please get us some outside professional help. We are still reeling from these deaths and being pushed to work harder and harder being short-staffed by the losses. We are not being allowed to mourn. I hope something is put into place before anything else tragic happens or it becomes an officer safety issue. Someone in the command staff needs to take charge immediately to help the surviving staff.
This isn’t exactly a Battle of the Bulge moment here. Gen. George S. Patton Jr., for one, must be twirling in his grave. While I greatly appreciate and rely on law enforcement, you come off sounding weak, wimpy and blubbering under the weight of an entitlement mindset. If counseling services being provided aren’t adequate, perhaps you should seek outside treatment on your own, as do others. May God bless our fallen law enforcement officers, their families and friends.
You’re right, Otto, it isn’t the Battle of the Bulge. It is a small Sheriff’s Office in a small county in a small state where everybody knows everyone at least by face or by name. I’m sorry if generals are spinning in their graves. Your comments are cruel, heartless and lack compassion. Stand toe to toe with any of Harford County’s deputies, look them in the eye and I dare you to call any one of them weak or wimpy. They have feelings. Too bad you do not.
C’mon “Mommy Dearest”, None of the deputies were forced to join the Harford County Sheriff’s Department. They weren’t even drafted. They signed up on their own free will for various reasons. Therefore, they should be able to handle all situations associated with the occupation.
Otto- how can you use “weak, wimpy and blubbering” in a hateful post and then end the post with “may god bless our fallen law enforcement officers, their families and friends.”
This comment is immoral, We meaning you and me and the rest of this county should be supporting not bashing. You should be ashamed of yourself.
Otto, you are right. My guess is that he is doing some campaigning here. How sad. I appreciate our police and what they do. We don’t need campaigning, just respect for those who do their job without whining.
Monster where do you see campaigning? I see my brothers and sisters grieving and trying to understand things. I see my brothers and sisters asking for help, that doesnt make them weak that makes them strong. The only person campaigning is you and it shows how truly sick you are. If you are a brother or sister current or retired then you should know better.
Code 67 or whatever name you use, tell this to someone who believes you. There are two posts on here that make references to the sheriff doing more. You and your allies are bringing up politics. I agree this is not the time or place for it. I have a high regard for these officers and their families. This is a sad time, but it shouldn’t be used for campaigning.
Methinks Monster is still a bigot.
Q, what a moron you are. You also pick this time and place to spew your nonsense. What a loser. Have some respect for what is being said.
I have utmost respect for our law enforcement officers and those that were taken from us this week. You, however, are not worthy of respect.
Just reminding everyone what a closed minded bigoted tool bag you are and continue to be.
There are services available to those who require assistance.
Which should be provided by the agency.
Your 100% correct RR. The HCSO has a peer counseling group called CISM. They are an extremely dedicated group of officers, who are available to members that are in crisis. When somthing tragic happens (loosing 2 Deputies and one Officer in less than a week), it pushes the entire agency to the edge. CISM included….The HCSO is our home away from home. We are a 24/7-365 opperation. We spend many of the holidays together while others are with their families. We are a family, and we are broken hearted……
I aggree with the first poster on this thread. All of the efforts expended to ensure that our brothers and sisters have an outlet in the face of a crisis seem in vain when a colossal event shakes our foundation. Why hasn’t Mobil Crisis or a similar entity stepped in to help?
FYI: While our CISM Team is the doing the best we can, we have professional psychologists and clinicians on our team that are here to help. You only have to ask. In addition, MSP and other CISM Teams from across the State have come to our aid and have been helping us. So to sum it up, we have professionals and outside folks helping us through this very VERY difficult time. Thank you to the public for your continued support and prayers. And finally, YES today was Thank You Law Enforcement Day. For more information on that, look up Whole Truth Project on Facebook. It’s actually run by lawyers! ;o) May God continue to bless the law enforcement officials of Harford County.
re FYI:
That’s real funny John Wayne……………because none of them have been to the HCDC.
There is no support Mechanism for the Correctional Deputies even though we have worked with these deputies, sometimes side by side for a long time.
I don’t want to steal this blog with unnecessary bull $hit . I hope this Deputy is well. I have known him for some time, and I think he is a pretty nice guy.
This has been going on for a long time. It is unfortunate that it has taken 2 deaths for the facts to start to come to light. You Dagger reporters should be asking the HCSO commanders how many of their officers are transported via 911 for heart / stress related illness on a regular basis. Make sure you ask them to include HCDC stats.
Jeff,
If you need help or know someone that does, just look in the Public Folders for the on call CISM person. In addition, you can contact the two HCDC members that are on the team. If you believe that your shift needs a debrief, tell your supervisor. That’s all I’ll say here.
John I understand what you are saying, however, you are missing my point.
Due to the unfortunate set of circumstances that we are in, there should be a fail safe in place for not only our Deputies but also the CISM team. It’s one thing to be in financial, personal, or in a oops crisis, but it is a whole different animal when everyone is effected eg., If I were a doctor, I wouldn’t write myself prescriptions if I had a cold. Additionally, if all of my Dr. friends had the flu, I would seek assistance from outside of my ring of associates. I don’t think I can be any clearer than that.
John, I know your heart is in the right place, and that brings me some comfort.
“Allot of guys makes mistakes, I guess, but everyone we make, a whole stack of chips goes with it. We make a mistake, and some guy don’t walk away-forevermore, he don’t walk away.” ~John Wayne
I didn’t see you all greiving when you tasered those inmates to death…..
Did you ask anyone how they felt? Even though people treat police and corrections like animals, they are in fact human. Some are even humanitarians.
Just ready and waiting for all the police bashers to read this one about APD Officers and the off duty/ on duty issue. How many of them (the bashers that is) would stop and assist another injured person on the way home from work or anytime, not yet on the way home from a funeral?
God Bless the Deputy in the hospital, may he/she recover quickly and completely so he/she may return to serving us as they are so proud to do.
Sheriff, get your people the true and complete assistance they need in these times. You have the budget, don’t short change the Deputies…we need them as healthy and prepared as possible. Do it right Sheriff….
The Sheriff pays for all deputies to receive a thorough physical every year. The deputies need to follow up with their doctors when problems are identified. There is a responsibility on the deputies to also take steps to lead healthier lives. Eating right is one of those steps.
When the Sheriff wanted to install a physical fitness program there were a few deputies who did not want the “mandatory” program. Since the union balked at it the Sheriff did not institute it. In this case there were two wrongs and now we see the tragic results. Physical fitness and stress management should be required programs for law enforcement. Why would anyone disagree with that?
Recently Retired,
“Why would anyone disagree with that?”
I don’t know how recently you retired, but assuming it was in fact recent, have you taken a look around? It is no wonder that the deputies union leadership would not support such a program… I mean, really!
I would support such programs in a heartbeat, and the programs should have standards that must be met. Not just paid playtime for the deputies. There are many deputies that would welcome such a program.
Have you seen some of the deputies? Ever heard the word….WORKMAN’S COMP?
I have seen many of the Deputies. When looking at union leadership I can see over 300 reasons why the union would not support a PT program.
I also see many reasons why some individuals may suffer significant health issues specifically related to cardiac or pulmonary issues.
What’s your point?
My point is that when the HCSO and not just Bane tried to implement a PT program…lots of the same deputies had problems with it. They want to keep this issue from becoming mandatory. Some deputies don’t take care of their health and dare someone to say something.
Nice,
So where do you stand on having a mandatory PT assessment? I support having mandatory PT assessment, and believe many others in the HCSO would also support it.
I support mandatory PT. BUT there are deputies who do not want to have to exercise.
Yes, we know many deputies don’t want to exercise. Just looking around makes that abundantly clear.
Recently Retired, good post.
Thanks Monster
you have been retired to long because if you were here when the pt program was attempted, (push ups, sit ups and the mile and a half run) durring inservice you would know it was balked at because injuries, (sprains and strains) that people recieved were not covered by the sheriff as injury while working and there was a big fight that came about. I agree there should be something it’s just figuring out how it should be instituted and covered.
It was not covered because the word mandatory was left out of the policy. Let’s not nit pick. Bottom line is there should be a responsibility of both the Sheriff and the Union to develop and support a mandatory physical fitness program. When I was in the Military by god we got out an ran and did Pt every day. Keeping everyone at high state of physical readiness reduces injuries. The body and mind are much healthier. The entire time I worked at the Sheriff’s Office I was witness to a lot of fat, overweight officer’s, one of which could not bend over to pick up a piece of paper. The public notices and that detracts from a positive policing image.
We can sit by and watch other brothers pass or we can take the initiative to create a healthier workforce.
By the way, Ian was a great officer who did not deserve the unnecessary stress placed on him by the Sheriff. All he did was do a great job and a certain lazy deputy he once supervised made his job more difficult. The Sheriff should never entertain complaints from a subordinate about a supervisor who is just doing his job. What the Sheriff did was entirely wrong. But of course he has a track record of undermining supervisors.
Jack, it is your duty to stay in shape. You were required to do so when you were in the academy. So now it’s not? Why should the sheriff cover you if you are injured exercising? Would he if you did it working around the house?
The issue wasn’t with getting injured while exercising, it was deputies suffering minor injuries (sprains, etc) while performing the PT test at in service and the county refusing to cover their medical expenses or time off from work.
The reality is, all that really needed to happen was for the sheriff to make some minor changes in the policy wording and there wouldn’t have been an issue (or so I’ve been told by multiple PT instructors.) The deputies doing most of the bitching about having to do the PT test were old timers who hadn’t done a push up, sit up, or run a mile in years. There wasn’t even any penalty for not meeting the standard (which was the same as the standard to get hired…not very difficult) during the year and a half or so in service including a PT test…that’s right, the sheriff stopped PT testing in the middle of a year after about 1/2 the agency had done it and about 1/2 hadn’t yet.
I’ll be the first to admit that I need to be in better shape and that my waistline has expanded since my academy days. I am doing something about it, but many deputies aren’t. I’d probably even struggle to meet the standard right now (as easy as it is.) I am, however, strongly in favor of there being a mandatory PT test during yearly in service. It’d certainly be a better use of our time than sitting through yet another PAPR suit lecture when most deputies don’t even carry the damn things in their cars because they take up too much space and we have other gear to haul around (and even if everyone kept them in the trunk like we should, they’re supposed to be stored in a relatively stable environment and the trunk of a cruiser isn’t…)
Knowthetruth, you give away your real motivation when you say “Sheriff” and not “Chief of Police.” Is it necessary to campaign at every opportunity? I don’t think so.
Again Monster you bring up campaigning?????? All three people who died this week worked for the SHERIFF’s office at some point. The only person campaigning is you. Cut it out save it for another thread, let people grieve. I have no words for you right now. I am worried about my friends you are worried about bringing the election up. Give it a break.
Code 67 and your other names, your bs is just that. You never stop campaigning and should be ashamed of yourself. I doubt you are really a deputy.
Monster I don’t need to explain myself to you and I wont play into your senseless conversation. Your screen name alone speaks wonders about you, it was a good choice for you(brother?).
Monster, it is truly sad when one posts a response on here without taking the time to thoroughly read and understand the article, as well as the related response.. First you have no idea what my motivation for my post was.
As far as the statement I made, it referred to the Aberdeen Police Officers responding to the unfortunate fatal motorcycle collision they came across. Thus with all the other nonsense you and the other law enforcement bashers rattled off about Cpl Licato’s duty status, I mention the high degree of dedication and compassion those officers showed in their time of grieving. Couple this with their actions at the scene and an intelligent human being would realize that law enforcement officers live to the standard that they are really never off duty. Technically and legally speaking there are laws, rules and regulations and agency policies that address and control those parameters, but then again you don’t have a clue to the mindset of a law enforcement. Nor can you intelligently speak to or about their motivation to act when he/ she does. Notice the pattern you have established, pretty darn similar to your unfounded statement regarding my motivation. I am sure recently hired “Chief of Police” Trabert has the appropriate measures in place for his officers. I have no direct knowledge of what he is doing, nor do I need to comment on an issue I do not have enough information on.
As my name reflects, I do know the truth about what goes on in the Sheriff’s Office . The article referred to 2 Deputies who passed untimely and a third in the hospital. My plea is for the Sheriff to make sure he does all that he can and not cut corners while assisting/treating his Deputies during these difficult times. No politics, no campaigning, nothing mentioned whatsoever of the many issues discussed elsewhere on the Dagger regarding the Office. End of story.
Please , do us all a favor: engage your brain BEFORE you engage your mouth, or in this case, your keyboard.
Despite all of your off color and irresponsible comments and posts kindly remember the Lord is watching over you as well. I wish you well and pray someday you might understand. God Bless.
Beyond the officer’s natural response to stop and assist when they come upon people needing help…I remember when a friend that was a nursing major in college mentioning that nurses, police and firefighters could be brought on charges or open to lawsuit if they passed by an accident/incident without stopping and they had something on their car (license plate image/window decal//bumper sticker) that identified them as one of those professions.
I don’t know if that’s a fact or if the students were told that by their instructors to reinforce that they were choosing a career in service that did not have defined boundaries and they should expect their career to overflow into their personal life at times.
Knowthetruth, If I offended any of the officers or their families on this site, I apologize deeply. However, you campaign every chance you get. We both know that. Can’t you just express your respects to your brothers and their families and leave Bane out of it? Sadly, the answer is no.
Monster,
First, thank you for your condolences to the families of the Deputies/ Officers involved, and the extended family of Law Enforcement. That was truly the classiest statement I have seen you post.
Secondly:
“Sheriff, get your people the true and complete assistance they need in these times.”
No name calling ,(no name even mentioned), no political agenda, just a plea to the person in charge of the department to help us through these times. It would be said to any person in that position.
So if you can forward your condolences, I say to you, I was not attempting to make this a political issue.
God Bles us all.
Thinking of all the officers who have had a stressful week. Please be aware that stress causes physical problems. Thank God this latest officer was treated in time. Hopefully others will seek treatment rather than playing the strong guy and toughing it out. The officers need time to heal and talking about all that has happened will help. Bless them. Thi gs will get better.
I agree with those who say the officers need time. Some of these guys went right back on shift just hours after the funerals. Expecting those guys to do that, especially when there are other agencies who would step in and help is just asking for trouble. These officers should all have at least 12 hours to gather their thoughts and get back into a healthy mindset. I doubt any of the highest ranking officers would have went on patrol to give their guys some rest. Not to mention the extra hours all of the officers have worked for casket watches, viewings,etc.
I hope all the officers in the county heal from this. Remember patrol, keep yourself healthy and safe. Praying for you all.
My familys thoughts and prayers go out to the entire county police family. We take for granted that we have protection from a great police force, but what about when they need us for support. These officers are human and can only take so much. I have made it a point to thank every officer I have seen this week for there service. Regardless of who they work for- MSP, Town Police, County Sheriff, they are all family. They have taken many losses this week and we as the public should be supporting them as much as we can. I hope they are getting the support they need from their departments. I encourage citizens to take a few seconds of their time and just tell a police officer thank you, I am sure this means the world to them.
Had to check this a few times, but apparently today is the inaugural “National Thank A Police Officer Day”: http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/5980708-National-Thank-You-day-for-police-officers/
Talk about timing. Literally could not make this stuff up.
IM glad that people get on here and pick apart our police. They forget we assist in citizens funerals to get you through safetly maybe we should start getting on all the funeral homes
IM glad that people get on here and pick apart our police. They forget we assist in citizens funerals to get you through safetly maybe we should start getting on all the funeral homes and bash people and poke fun
This past week has not been easy. With that being said deputies are scared to admit they are not taking this well because they may end up like a certain deputy who got fired because he had medical issues. It shouldnt be this way, we are fathers/mothers, we are brothers/sisters, we are husbands/wives…etc, we are human. If I am not feeling good physically or this is taking a mental toll on me, that should be ok because we take care of our own. I really don’t know what to think at this point, i’m hurting.
Q, you need to stop calling people names on this thread. Stop it.
Josevelazues- maybe its the frustration of “monster” acting like he/she cares like police but is making things political. Maybe its the fact that “Q” is hurting and is tired of hearing unsensitive people bash the police. The hurtful comments need to stop, but the deputies need support and its becoming clear what certain peoples motivation is on here and its kind of sad.
Deputies, first I want to say if you are reading these threads stop. You’re not helping youself heal and move on by reading these comments from people that do not know the mood of the office or your pain right now. So resort to positive comments about your personal healing and remembering those we lost in a positive way. Second, I want to encourage all of you to take advantage of the CISM team and those from outside the agency who are there to help. If you can’t trust that your name will not be recorded then seek help from your Pastor, Priest or Rabbi or seek out any place of worship. I’m sure any Pastor, Priest or Rabbi will be more than happy to talk to you. You can talk to me, there’s someone in the office who knows how to get in touch with me. The point is don’t be a hero! You are human and your emotions are parts of what makes you the deputy you are. Just don’t hold it in. Together, we will get through this! I hope and pray that things will get better and I trust they will.
533 thank for your comment. Maybe I shouldnt have read these insensitive comments. I lost 3 people who I know this week, all of which were police officers/deputies. I hurt so bad inside and it is really hard to know that someone somewhere is posting such hurtful comments. Have you lost a loved one???? This is my family, please stop the negativity and because of what I have read and heard please HCSO give support to deputies at the DC and records they are also hurting. We will make it through this together and as one. ANYONE that has anything negative to say I wont challenge you, but I will ask you if you challenge my comment or give me a thumbs down, what kind of man/woman/person/human being are you????
The Land of Misfit Toys, all I can say is hang in there. Whether you wore the badge or not, whether you worked inside the jail or out on the streets we all lost two great deputies this week. It was bad enough to lose one but to lose the other without the opertunity to catch a breath makes it even worse. I know that my faith in Jesus has helped me tramendously over this past week and I knew Ian well enough that he would say “right on”. If you have just a little faith in Him then let Him carry you through. I know that God placed others in our lives to help each other out in times like this. So rely on the others in the law enforcement and corrections families to get you through this time of grieving. Go talk to someone who can help you sort this thing out. Losing someone in this family is really no different than losing someone in your blood family. There’s only but a few jobs in which a man or woman will place their lives in the hands of another and not think twice. That bond is unbreakable. Yes, I have lost someone I loved. In fact I found my grandmother one day after I left the law enforcement academy. So I too know how it feels.
And another one bites the dust………..
We have lost yet another life in this agency…yet rudeness, arrogance and even hate exist right here as we speak. The fact of the matter is, Ian, and Charlie (both Charlie’s) are gone…and whether you liked them of not, or whether you like the Sheriff or not, their families are still hurting. The familes they were born into and the families they selected (HCSO AND APD). It is ridiculous to think that those families should have to read negative remarks about them or other members of “THIS FAMILY” on the dagger. Have a heart…all of you. Reserve your negative comments for a personal letter to the sheriff, or an editorial letter to the Dagger. Grandmothers everywhere always knew best when they said “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”.
As for the original and first poster on this thread, I see a clear cry for help, I hope those of you who claim to be in a position to know inside sources within the agency will take that information to the correct source that can offer help and relief to these members of HCSO that need it so desperately that they would post about it on the internet.
Concerned Citizen…thank you for your smugness. The USA has a 1st amendment. Yes, the officers did not deserve to die. BUT the elephant in the room is whether being in a car, “After duty” constitutes an LOD. What about the officers who have their patrol car as the primary vehicle? Does this mean that if they go to the store, for groceries, that they are on duty? Why should they be negative comments if you don’t like them?
Famila,
Good Afternoon,
Maybe this will help clear up the issue for you. In Cpl Licato’s incident, he was still on duty as he had been working as one continuous course of conduct since earlier in the day, therefore he is entitled too and deserves the Line of Duty status. Bu this I mean the following: There was no break in service. He was in service and subject to be called for an action. Had he left, went across the dam and came back, after notifying the dispatched that he was ending his tour, say an half hour later, the circumstances would be different.
Lets take your example and apply my understanding of the law and department policy. The Deputy enters the patrol vehicle from their residence, on a day off, and heads to the grocery store. Should the Deputy unfortunately become involved in a collision, and the Deputy was not engaged in any law enforcement activity, the Deputy would be considered off duty.
Now lets say the Deputy makes it to the grocery store and it is in the middle of being robbed by an armed subject, ok? The suspect flees and the Deputy chases after the suspect and hypothetically we learn gets struck by a car. That Deputy the instant he/she began chase, became on duty. For all purposes, that Deputy would be covered under workers compensation insurance and if need be, LOD benefits.
Does this help you understand? I hope so.
God be with you.
Knowthetruth,
Thanks for explaining the continuous course of action/duty as being from time on duty until off duty and crossing the line out of Harford County into Cecil County where he lived. I assume there was no evidence to suggest that the officer had gone off duty, left the county, and returned later prior to having the unfortunate accident. You have been very helpful.
Good point, especially if you had already been home after your shift, then hit the road again in your agency vehicle. Based on the criteria that any and all persons who had an accident in any agency vehicle while in county, would be determined to be in LOD. There probably needs to be a very definitive policy of just what qualifies for LOD.
Gone for A Time,
You are more than welcome. Thank you for your kind words. I wish others here would open their mind before opening their mouth/ keyboard and posting hateful and hurtful statements.
As far as the circumstances surrounding Cpl Licato’s passing, these are what I learned so far in the investigation: He left the Sheriff’s Main Street Office @ 0155 AM and as a matter of fact, just prior to the crash, he passed a marked car and the Deputy checked his speed at 52MPH in a 50 MPH zone. His cell phone was not with him, left @ his residence, and his on board laptop computer was not in use. So it appears that there was no distracted driving or speeding issues. Seems to be leaning towards the possibility he fell asleep. He had worked many hours that day and prior days. Of course this is not the official report, so please, police bashers, hold your tongue for now, at least to the investigation is complete and facts released.
Again, thanks for your response, and may Gob be with you.
If the officer was within the County limits in his take-home car and happened upon a crime or resident in distress, would he be obligated to stop? I believe the answer would be yes. These officers take an oath to serve and protect, not to serve and protect only for 8 hours a day. He was on his way home from work. Classifying his death as LOD does not bother me at all. Of course, there will be those that disagree. But how would they feel if they were stuck on the side of the road, and the same officer did not stop his duty vehicle as he drove by because his shift was over?
What does it matter to you, the average citizen? The fact that the agency is classifying this as LOD has no bearing on any of you.
Jeff,
Not sure who you classify as an “average citizen”, as opposed to someone who is not an average citizen. But in an attempt to answer your question, I can understand how any citizen may have a question as to what criteria constitutes injured/died in the line of duty.
For instance, do any additional benefits accrue if a deputy dies in the line of duty as opposed to not in the line of duty? I would assume that additional benefits are available for line of duty injuries/death. If not, then there should be. I would consider an officer dieing in performance of duty to be different than someone who was involved in a vehicle accident on their way to the movies with their family, even though both were in their agency vehicle. Familia had a valid question with regard to that issue. If the answer is that both would be treated the same, then my thoughts would be that the citizens of Harford County are significantly more at risk financially than most people think. Some citizens may want to rethink the value of permitting officers use of agency vehicles while off duty.
The county is not who determines LOD or not. There is a certain criteria that has to be met for it. The citizens of the county do not incur “extra financial burdens” either way. LOD does have additional benefits for the family,etc, however most are covered by the agency and/or union or FOP. I know I have in the last week contributed quite a bit in fundraisers,etc. for both of the Charlie’s. As a citizen, I take offence to the fact that money is your biggest issue in all of this.
Sandi,
I could care less the cost. I am simply pointing out how a citizen could have a valid interest in how/what an incident is determined to be an injury or death occurring in the line of duty.
You say it is not the county that determines what is, or is not in line of duty. No one suggested that they did. Since you are apparently in the know, tell us who does make such a determination and what the criteria is.
You can find the information on it by looking up the officer down memorial page (odmp) or cops (concerns of police survivors)
They both have information nationally and broken down by state.
Copy/paste/search
nationalcops.org/benefits/maryland.pdf
We are not the people who are making sure you have a clean and dry shopping cart when you get to Wal`Mart. Please stop minimizing the ultimate sacrifice that both of these men have made to ensure your safety, to improve your neighborhoods, your schools….This list could go on and on.
Now Copy/Paste/Search
odmp.org
Ready to fill out an application?
The Annotated Code of Maryland. Not sure of the specific section, but Google that and search it. I have read it before.
People, please let’s stop this madness with insults, accusations, assumptions and meanness. Lets discuss it civilly please. In reply to the latest comments, every citizen in this county is precious. Average can be asserted as a relative term. The law enforcement officer fits into that category, comparatively speaking ,
with the family and kids at home, until it comes time to work or be duty bound to react.
Yes there are additional benefits in place for a LOD death. This is not a cost incurred to the taxpayer, and remember all the Deputies pay taxes as well. Maybe , they don’t live in this county, but they pay property taxes , etc. The same rings true for fireman and to a degree the volunteers we have here in this county.
As I said earlier, the status of the deputy is what determines the subsequent actions. And I’m sorry, but I feel as a Harford County resident, the take home car program is a plus. This rings true for several reasons: the visibility is a well documented deterrent to crime, the access to communications and equipment the deputy who not have accessible to them in their private vehicle, the response time in the event of an emergency, the maintenance costs and upkeep all make it beneficial to us .
A “motor pool” car is not as well kept as an assigned one. The take home vehicle is essentially their office, outfitted the way they want and adapt to. You see the nice clean, shiny patrol cars out there versus the pool vehicles all dirty and ragged out. Look at departments who share a car, and run them 24/7. Also it instills pride for the deputy/trooper /officer to take care of their car. It instills the sense of safety and professionalism to the public. Image this, the difference between a deputy/ trooper or officer who walks up to your home looking a mess, shirt out …you know what I’m saying. Then from the same agency another walks up, looking sharp, well dressed and projecting the confidence and pride? Who would you want helping you? I know you might think that’s a stretch, but it is true. The same rings true for the vehicle. The cars are scheduled for routine maintenance and is the deputies responsibility to have it done. Nobody will come take your car away if you don’t go to Jiffy Lube every three thousand miles…well maybe a tow truck. The deputies are subject to disciplinary action if they fail to do so. So all in all it’s saves the taxpayer money in that regard.
The collision while on the way to the movies…. The deputy is also subject to disciplinary actions if they are found at fault for the collision and it is deemed preventable. There are some, but not too many employees out there who would get in trouble at work if they collide with another car and it’s their fault, at the Regal?
One other point, how many times have you been driving down the road, a bit above the speed limit, see the patrol car and slow down? I have in my personal car, makes me check and aware of my speed. (Yup, I’m human, I exceed the limit every now and then… )
So there are pro’s and cons here, but it seems the residents of this county are getting the best of this. My neighbors love the patrol car parked in our neighborhood.
God Bless all of you.
I know someone who works within the Sheriffs Dept who is extrememly upset about the recent deaths of these officers. They are holding to together at work however at home its a different story. They are afraid if they seek help it will get back to the higher up and they will be looked down apon. Theres only so much I myself can do. What can I do to help them other than listen.
WDI TURN: Call the Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak to Sheriff Bane. Sadly, your friend is not the only one suffering. If the Sheriff gets enough of these phone calls, hopefully he will realize that CISM is not enough. The CISM deputies themselves need help. Someone earlier suggested calling mobile crisis. They automatically call whichever police agency is in their jurisdication, most likely HCSO, which further stresses out the deputies. All of Sgt. Loughran’s coworkers will be there for him on Wednesday but I know of many who are mentally exhausted just from thinking about 3 funerals in a week, worrying and wondering if they will all wake up on Thursday morning. All you can do for now is listen to your friend and please call the Sheriff’s Office administration NOT PATROL. I’d give the number but I myself don’t want to get into trouble.
Why would I use CISM? It is the same deputies that work with you? Do ya think I am going to tell them my problems…..HECK NO. It’s sad that the officers died, but I am not going to talk to a co worker about my problems, unless I am that persons friend. Why would I open myself up to an IA. This peer counseling thing needs to go away. There are professional medical providers, who have true confidentiality and not this made up we don’t talk about anything kinda confidentiality. There is a thing called a court order that can make the officer’s talk and just saying that we won’t say anything doesn’t work.
Familia,
Your assessment is right on. Peer counselors would not enjoy the same privileges with regard to client/patient as certified professionals.
Gone for a Time and others,
We are all about on the same page here. The officers involved, all departments may need help. Now I can’t speak for the other departments other than the Sheriff’s Office, and I would feel uncomfortable making any assumptions for them.
As I see it, this is a society problem as well. And NO I am not attempting to make this a political issue or topic. But in my many years of life and law enforcement the officers were seen as weak if they sought psychological help for issues. This was by society and their peers. They were supposed to handle all the death , destruction and unpleasantness of life, come home and cut the lawn, have dinner and play with the kids.
It wasn’t until post 9/11 events that the public seemed to change their perspective of rescue workers, fireman and yes police officers. If we stay this course, I feel we are headed in the right direction.
As far as the HCSO is reflected to this, there are some who still feel and live in that prior mindset I spoke about. Too often the administrators, whoever they may be are separated from the streets for so long they lose perspective of what’s going on there for their Deputies. The same seems to be true here. Somewhere is that secret list of who needed help and bam you’re on it. I understand both sides here, as the department wants to cover themselves , but shouldn’t something be worked out. Compromise on both sides would go a long way. Maybe some people can change their minds, and remember that they haven’t worked the road in over 30 years. Again, my intent is not to politicize this post, slam anyway, or criticize their management style, maybe just open their eyes to another view?? Help the Deputies….they/we should not be afraid to seek professional help. As people have stated, the peer counselors are or maybe in the same shoes…..
May God watch over us all…..
Then seek the help on your own. I understand how you feel but if anyone in the office is trying to fix this problem on their own in the normal ways cops do, then you will only lose and lose big. You have to make sure your head is screwed on right and by trying to screw it back on yourself will only hurt yourself more in the long run. Don’t be a bad statistic, please. You’re human, not Superman or Superwoman!
Does anyone but me find these Heart Attacks suspicious? I think its time a toxicology report should be requested to see exactly what is causing all this. Quite frankly, it sounds like JWH or a derivative of JWH is the culprit. Notice to cops, smoking SPICE or whatever herbal incense your buying is not a healthy alternative to marijuana. I am sure that some sort of abnormality will come up in the toxicology reports. I may be wrong about the JWH thing, but the symptoms ending with a Heart Attack is exactly what is happening on military bases all over the country to our troops who are getting high on JWH as an alternative to using marijuana that would come up in urine tests. Coincidence? Don’t You BElieve IT!
You’re a fucking idiot.
And to everyone else, sorry about the language.
I may be critical of some things, but you were right on! He is an idiot.
wow!! i kept out of this whole thread till i saw this “moronic” comment!! i agree with the others….you are an IDIOT!! please go back to tapping that vein and inject the rest of that hot shot!! ive grieved too much this week to sit here and see a horribly outlandish statement as this!!
I appreciate your comment and consider the source. Are you one of them SPICE smoking Deputies? Whether you like it, or don’t like it, you have to admit that there is an awful lot of Heart Related deaths here recently and I believe that its not because of stress or pre-existing ailments. I think each and every deputy should consider that maybe you have been poisoned or contaminated at the funeral. Personally, I think you are naive if you don’t consider even requesting toxicology reports on the deaths to see if there is a link.
One heart related tragedy does not equal an awful lot. Are you certain your butter is clarified, or are you looking through a frozen block. Maybe you are looking at this through butter burnt black. That’s catchy….
I’m curious about the root of your hatred for police in general. To come on a open forum and make such accusatory slanderous, and degrading remarks about the first people you turn to when TSHTF is really sorry.
Butter, you sir are a piss poor forum troll. Your game is up. It’s time to change your handle. Try BBB, it’s catchy.
THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK…….
To all the misguided people who think it is necessary to try and hurt family members of my fallen brothers I ask you to read the following and then post your comments:
Apply for the academy and complete a six month training academy. Now put on the uniform and do the job. Then and only then can you have an opinion on what police officers endure and how we live our lives (or how we die.) Stand and listen while final call is given. Have your knees get week and your emotions overwhelm you when you realize you will never hear that ID number or voice again. Watch as the widow and her small child sit as the flag is folded and it is presented to her. For most of you it ends after reading an article or watching a news story. For my fellow officers it will continue for years because everyday it is a reminder that their brother or sister is gone. They will live with guilt wondering if there was something they could have done to save their life.
To add insult to injury many of us can’t even take off to mourn because protecting the community continues.
A police officer is not super human. He or she is just a human who has dedicated their life to serve and protect people. A six month academy is just training in order to do the job. All police officers are continually training and learning new things. The uniform does not give any of us super human strength or extra wisdom. You don’t do it for the money because the pay is not worth the job. What do you think a fair wage would be knowing when you kiss your family goodbye it might be the last time? Police Officers do this job for one reason: To serve and protect and hope that you can change someones life by saving it.
As I read these comments it angers me. Its hard for me to comprehend that I gave 22 years and would have risked my own life to save yours. Is this truly your ‘thank you note” to my fallen brothers? Is this really the very best that you can do? Maybe a cop never pulled you out of a burning vehicle. Maybe a cop never was first on the scene to your drug overdose. Chances are good that your life has been affected by law enforcement in a positive way, but you never knew it. Many of you count speeding tickets and those are the stones of hate you throw at us. Maybe that DUI that cost you $5,000 in lawyer fees has your britches in a knot. Truth? I don’t care! I was not only saving you the day you were locked up for reckless driving I was trying to save the family of 5 in a mini van that you would have killed!
We are a brotherhood and we stand together in good times and bad. We are strong and we will endure as we always have. We will always support each other. No matter what some of you think about us we will protect you with our lives. We are proud.
We are that “thin blue line” and we are forever strong.
Marc A Eaton, R189
Retired Deputy Sheriff Harford County Maryland
Owings Mills Maryland.
Finally, the leadership and enthusiasm that you could have shown for the last 2-3 weeks. Marc, your post was meaningful and full of passion. I’m truly moved. I hope you continue in your new found positive reinforcement of the Sheriff’s Department.
From what I have read Marc has always been supportive of the deputies in HCSO. His issues seem to be with the current Sheriff and some of the senior leadership. I don’t denote a change of Marc’s sentiments regarding those issues in his comments above.
I think I have seen it all. Clarified Butter what are you smoking with comments that you make like- “spice smoking deputies”. Please seek mental health help as you really need it. You are about as radical as radical gets and what little credibility you had prior to this thread has withered away. You are a tool.
I don’t need credibility. I don’t need your approval. Anything I can do to make life harder on you thugs, I will do. Each and every member of the HCSO is my enemy. Always been that way, always will. When you wrong a citizen based on lies, the citizen sometimes takes it very personally. In my opinion, the best thing that could happen to Harford County is that each and every one of you whining little panty wastes should go home, take your service weapon and shoot yourselves in the head. Or you could just wait around and have a Heart Attack like the rest. I hate each and every one of you and I want you to know it. That being said, I appreciate all the anger and seriously hope your tickers blow out…….
You truly need help. To say that and think you are sane is wrong. I am sure you would call 911 if an emergency happened and want the police to respond. I may disagree with some of the policies of the HCSO, but I would never go as far as you have. My only hope is that you find some peace and when you need the police you don’t act like that. The police are here to help you and yes even you. You make me look like a saint….Just remember one thing….the police may not like your statement and could want to just ignore you on a call, but will save your life, if needed. That makes them professionals.
Brian & Aaron: Clarified Butter needs to be banned from the Dagger and this post needs to be removed. Like Monster said, we may butt heads from time to time, but nothing as far gone as this.
Clarified Butter, I complimented you when you made some earlier comments. I now regret that. I believe that you are a sick person who needs professional help, maybe more so than some of the deputies that have posted. While I have disagreements with many posters, I want to make it crystal clear that I do not share CB’s twisted views of the value of the HCSO and the deputies who serve. I thank them for their past and future service, and they have done a great job. I do not want to ever appear that I support a crazy person such as you.
Monster
a.) I am glad we both see how delusional Clarified Butter Is
b.) Thank you for keeping politics out of this so far
We dont really ever see eye to eye but never take things to the level that Clarified Butter has. He/She is a sick person that needs help.
RIP Sgt Loughran # 463
Marks 8th cousin in-law, the deaths of these public servants puts things in perspective very quickly. I respect those who serve to protect and am sorry that I have made fun of Marc Eaton, you, and others who offer opinions different from mine. We have more in common than we have in differences. My apology to you all, and I will most likely not comment in the future on the HCSO.
Monster, it takes a big man to say that. I appreciate it very much. Maybe one day after all this is over you and my cousin can have a beer together. Thanks again. Your words have taught me a lesson also. I know I can do better also. Sorry for any cruel comments, never to late to start over.
Thanks, Marc, Best wishes to you and your family.
Bravo. Well said.