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Oxnard police chief suspects a third officer involved in improper activity
Crombach worries about allegations affecting force's morale
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Joseph A. Garcia / Star staff On Wednesday, Oxnard Police Chief John Crombach confirmed a third officer was allegedly involved in the improper activity at the 3749 W. Hemlock St. substation. He would not identify the officer because it is a confidential personnel matter.
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More from County NewsTrying to boost morale in the wake of a sex scandal, Oxnard Police Chief John Crombach sent out a department e-mail last week reminding his officers that they should hold their heads up high.
"I wanted to give a word of encouragement," Crombach said.
The message went out soon after The Star reported on April 17 that a criminal rape investigation against Senior Officer Martin Polo uncovered allegations that he and his partner used a police substation for sexual encounters, including taking pictures of scantily clad women.
Since then, new information has emerged about the criminal case and substation allegations.
On Wednesday, Crombach confirmed a third officer was allegedly involved in the improper activity at the 3749 W. Hemlock St. substation.
He would not identify the officer because it is a confidential personnel matter but added that the substation allegations are confined to three officers. The trio includes Polo's partner — named by sources and previously confirmed by Crombach — Senior Officer Frank Brisslinger.
Polo and Brisslinger, who both had stellar reputations in the neighborhoods they patrolled, are on paid administrative leave.
"I do feel confident that no one that was involved with this conduct has gone undiscovered," Crombach said.
While not revealing what actions are being taken, he said, "They would be dealt with appropriately, and they're not in a position to do this again."
A veteran of more than three decades on the force, Crombach said he is working overtime to ensure that his department is not besmirched by the allegations. He also is trying to reassure the community the accusations are being taken seriously.
These are the kinds of charges that can damage the trust the department has spent years to build within the community, he said.
In his department e-mail, Crombach told his officers that he thought the information was leaked to make the department look bad. He also said he has received angry messages from citizens, and they likely would hear some of the same on the streets.
"Your morale gets impacted by something like this," said Crombach. "My message to the organization is to be professional, hold your head high and do not react to negative comments. Just do a good solid job every day."
There's a tendency among some people to use an incident like this to paint the whole department with a broad brush, he added.
He's seen it happen elsewhere, like to the Los Angeles Police Department after the Rodney King beating and the Rampart scandal. He thinks it's unfair.
"But that's just the way it is," Crombach said.
Allegations are taking a toll
Still, there are many people who have reached out to support the department and the officers named in the allegations.
At a community meeting a few months ago, while the internal investigation was going on, residents in the neighborhoods patrolled by the two officers caught up in the scandal said they wanted them back out on the beat, according to Crombach.
"Some of these people had tears in their eyes," he said.
Only one officer, Polo, is being investigated for a possible crime, but he has not been charged.
But the other allegations, while not criminal, are also troubling for Crombach.
Polo, 43, has refused to comment about the case, except to say that since the allegations surfaced last year his life has been a "living nightmare."
Brisslinger, 41, could not be reached by The Star but told a TV reporter for KNBC that he didn't know why he was being included in the stories about the sexual encounters at the police storefront.
Both officers were beat coordinators, overseeing patrols in two large swaths of the city.
Both men were known as aggressive cops who made a lot of arrests and responded quickly to neighborhood complaints.
According to court depositions taken last year in a separate civil case involving the two officers, Polo said he and his partner approached policing the same way.
"He's an aggressive officer," Polo said of Brisslinger. "He is very self-motivated. He's not the type of person to just drive past someone and not question it. I mean, he's good at what he does. His aggressive nature is something similar to what I do."
Brisslinger said he loved his job but took it seriously, too, according to the court records.
"It's always business. I mean, you know I mean we've had guys shot at I mean I am one of those guys who expect the unexpected," Brisslinger said. "So, I'm really on a heightened awareness. I am waiting for someone to pop me off and put a bullet in my head all the time. I'm just that way."
Careers take a turn
For a time, the two officers, who worked as partners for almost a year, were the faces of the department's community policing policy.
The goal of that program was to seek out crime and foster relationships in the community. To do that, the officers were constantly talking to people on the streets. They would push to quickly remove graffiti and staked out spots where prostitutes loitered or addicts tried to score drugs.
Talking about Polo, Brisslinger said in the deposition that every day he is "one of these guys who sends out e-mails to the community and keeps them apprised on what's going on."
Polo — a 20-year-veteran who oversaw Beat 21 on the city's southwest side — had once been nominated for Officer of the Year.
Brisslinger, who oversaw Beat 22, has been with the Oxnard Police for half as long as Polo but was considered a "golden guy," according to sources.
In 2006, Brisslinger was named Oxnard's Outstanding Police Officer of the Year. He also was known to be one of Crombach's favorite officers, according to a deposition.
Brisslinger was supposed to receive the outstanding officer award in June 2006, but just days before he and Polo accidentally ran over and killed an Iowa woman who was sunbathing on Mandalay Beach. Brisslinger didn't show up for the ceremony, which also recognized other community members.
Brisslinger, who was driving the sport utility vehicle that crushed 49-year-old Cindy Connolly, was devastated by the accident.
He described in the deposition what happened afterward as he sat in a department interview room.
"I just remember having my head on the table bawling my eyes out, arms in front of me and just you know, just — I mean if you can go back and I don't know if you can ever think up the worst day of your life and, I mean that was mine," he said.
Although Brisslinger and Polo were cleared of any wrongdoing, the city paid the woman's family $2.75 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit in November.
Criminal case still pending
In August 2006 — a little more than two months after the beach accident — a 12-year-old girl with emotional and mental problems told her mother that Polo had raped her at a police substation on West Hemlock, according to the girl's attorney.
Her mother reported to an Oxnard Police officer within a few days of the incident that her daughter referred to Polo as a "child molester." A few weeks after that, the girl told two officers who had come to her home in response to a domestic disturbance that Polo had molested her, according to Etan Lorant, an Encino attorney representing the girl and her family.
Three months later, when the girl told her therapist about the attack, her therapist — who is bound by state mandatory reporting laws — submitted a formal report of the incident to the department, Lorant said.
The family has since filed a $10 million federal lawsuit against the Oxnard Police Department.
Chief Crombach said his department had spent more than a year investigating the accusations and turned the case over to the district attorney in February.
Chief Deputy District Attorney Mike Frawley said last week that his office is still looking in to the matter and will decide within the next few weeks whether criminal charges should be filed.
If charges aren't filed, the district attorney is unlikely to do anything more than reject the case. It's not like an officer-involved shooting, in which the District Attorney's Office releases a report that states if a shooting is justified and, if appropriate, clears an officer.
"It would be unusual for us to do more than reject it," Frawley said.
Two sources close to the rape investigation — which has gone on for more than a year — say that without corroborating physical evidence or a witness it's unlikely criminal charges would be filed.
Crombach previously said investigators took DNA samples from the substation and removed computers from Polo's home.
Polo was known within the department for taking pictures of women he spent time with, according to a city source.
Now 14, the girl — who has emotional and mental problems and is currently in a lock-down facility in Utah — has made similar allegations about another person in a position of trust, according to sources.
Lorant said his client was "victimized" by someone else after the alleged incident with Polo, but he did not reveal details.
'A dirty rotten shame'
Criminal defense experts say the case presents some troubling issues.
"The allegation of rape is very easily made," said Jim Farley, a Ventura criminal defense attorney. "If you just say it happened, it has to be investigated. Without any DNA or physical evidence and with the fact of mental problems and possible false accusations before, I'd be very surprised if it would go forward."
In a case like this, a police department will often do "cool calls," in which the victim calls her alleged assailant to attempt to get some sort of admission. But a seasoned officer is unlikely to fall for that, said Farley.
If this alleged attack did not happen or prosecutors decide not to pursue the case, he said, the one being accused is unfairly tarred.
"The officer's name and career has been ruined," Farley said. "That's the kind of thing you get labeled for that people remember no matter how it plays out, that's what people remember. It's a dirty rotten shame. I've seen this too many times."
But the girl's attorney said his case is strong. Some of the information that has come out since he filed the suit against the city shows a pattern of behavior that validates some of what his client alleges. It corroborates that the storefront was used for sexual liaisons, and shows parallels with what his client claimed happened to her long before that information was made public.
The attorney has also been contacted by a woman who said she had a sexual encounter with an officer at the substation.
As for whether or not Polo should be charged with a crime, Lorant said the investigation into the allegations shouldn't have been done by the Oxnard Police Department.
"My feeling is that this should have been investigated by an outside agency," he said. "I'm not saying that it is flawed, because I've not seen the whole investigation. I'm just saying it should have been done by an outside agency."
On this point, Crombach took issue, saying it is the job of his agency to investigate crimes that are alleged to have occurred in Oxnard.
The investigation included members of the FBI, who assisted with scanning Polo's computer for evidence, as well as investigators with the District Attorney's Office, Crombach said.
"We are absolutely capable of doing an investigation like this, and we did," he said.
Posted by newshound on April 27, 2008 at 7:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The defense attorney Jim Farley seems like the greatest voice of reason. To hear that the FBI is involved with this investigation is good. Outside agencies need to be brought in when there are major claims of misconduct in any organization. If the officers are cleared of wrongdoing after the FBI has looked at the allegations, everyone is much more like to accept the results. This is a good thing and the chief of colice should be complimented for this.
Ever heard of "where there is smoke there is fire?" Its a little strange that the victim said that Polo was the one who molested her and now there are other stories that he was fornicating in the police station with other women. A claim of child rape is so horrible that the chief of colice did the right thing to bring in the FBI. There is a reason that FBI agents always look like heros in the movies. They are the best and the brightest of all police officers. If the FBI clears Polo I think we can all accept their findings.
Posted by Ventura22 on April 27, 2008 at 8:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Seems like at this point if there was any solid, credible evidence that any crime was committed by any of the officers, charges would have been filed already by the DA's office. This looks more and more like a wild goose chase and a witch hunt all in one package. Enough time has already lapsed for a complete and thorough investigation, considering the agencies involved. DNA evidence? Not! If they didn't find any good evidence at this point; it's over, the case should be dismissed, officers cleared, reinstated and criminal perjury charges filed against the person(s) who fabricated the story. The girl and her family are beginning to look more and more like run-of-the-mill opportunists in the eyes of the public; out for some easy money.
Posted by CommandoAngel on April 27, 2008 at 9:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Chief: If you were consistent, the fact that there is a "confidential personnel matter" involved would have stopped you from making plenty of comments to the press about the others, yet you are happy to throw a certain officer under the bus. Oh, and many know the truth that your pious attitude is without merit. Those that do are patient in waiting for the truth to be revealed.
Posted by West_to_East on April 27, 2008 at 10:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
note a CHP got into an altercation with a OPD officer CHP officers didnt do anyting. why would they go to FBI and not CHP hmmm. try to cover up something protect their own and CHP wont.
screw all cops anyway. except three realest in Ventura County
Posted by NothingButTheTruth on April 27, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Attorney Jim Farley said it best, allegations are easily made. If the D.A. does not prosecute, that decision will be made based on a review of the total investigative package. I'm sure even attorney Lorant would not like to be the subject of a rape "allegation" though unproven. I'm sure he'd tout that the accuser had made prior false allegations. If the three officers did violate Department Policy via improperly photographing women or having tryst at the substation, I trust that Chief Crombach will discipline accordingly. It seems many community residents who worked with these officers have a more forgiving attitude for whatever their reasons. I guess they must feel that though the officers were imperfect and did not violate a law, that they still want their protection and community concern. With the OPD investigators, FBI and DA investigators involved, I trust the outcome will be legal and fair. Chief Crombach as a bunch of hard working, great people working for Oxnard citizens and he is right in saying not to paint with a broad brush; just a little one will do.
Posted by adamrolandisawesome on April 27, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
west_to _east
The CHP Officer was involved with an altercation with a civilian, NOT an Oxnard Officer. Get your facts straight before popping off. Hope you don't need to dial 911 anytime in the future. Go ahead and call some Colonia Chiques if you are in distress
Posted by B8R_N4MD on April 27, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Great points made by Jim Farley, a voice of reason. With Brisslinger's comment to KNBC, it sounds like there is a possibility he wasn't involved at all but was implicated by someone else, maybe as retaliation or something. I hope the truth comes out and if any are innocent, the news will still be front page material and there are just as many comments praising them as there have been bashing them. If any of this is false, it needs to be more newsworthy than the accusations. The damage has been done, if corrections need to be made, front page it!
Posted by Jacksprat on April 27, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
When he ran over a wome on the beach, they should not have white washed that and taken a closer look. There was a problem there that was going to get worse. If the right step had been taken then maybe they would not have this problem now. There are good cops and some who think that they can do anything they want, it looks like this pair is that kind.
Posted by miawallace on April 27, 2008 at 12:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in the beat 22 area......and come to think of it when officer Brisslinger went out on "stress", his partner officer Robles disappeared at the same time.....hhmm....I strongly suspect this may be the unidentified third party....officer Polo's partner, officer Silva is still working....sounds like anyone that partners with Brisslinger is automatically guilty by association....I feel bad for all involved if this is true including the officers families.
I believe that Brisslinger has a brother that works for OPD....in fact I have seen him driving around with a police dog in his car. I had to take a double look because I thought that it was Frank Brisslinger back in a unit! Well, as they say, the apple doesnt fall far from the tree so we better keep an eye on that one as well.
Posted by Ventura22 on April 27, 2008 at 1:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
True, pogmothoin. If other misuses of the substation have been documented, action should be taken to correct that activity. I find it highly unlikely that a rape occured in that station. With all of the different agencies investigating it for this long, nothing has turned-up. Why is that? Hmmm... The accusor appears to have no credibility here; a mentally ill teenager with obvious emotional problems and a family that has issues with themselves as well as the law(we did read about responses to their home for domestic violence activity). This case needs to be brought to an end soon, as a lot of time and resources have been expended chasing this fairy tale.
Posted by gramagracie on April 27, 2008 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just a little info here...check out Gov. Code Section 3300-3301. Although Police Officers are Public Servants they are not SERFS! They do have rights that are being violated. This is a public forum governed by our right of free speech,nonetheless, we need to respect everyone concerned.
Posted by smithjc on April 27, 2008 at 2:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
btw, the fbi are not "the best and brightest"police officers. far from it. most of them that i have had contact with are a bunch of mindless morons who are only out to "get" the REAL cops. when you want a hatchet job done on the police, you call the "feebs". if they can't do it, there really must not be anything there.
Posted by miawallace on April 27, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
smithjc-
who are the "feebs"?
Posted by miawallace on April 27, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
gramagracie-
what are SERFS?
Posted by newshound on April 27, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Smithjc, you may hate the FBI but "we the people" have great faith in them. We certainly can't expect officers who work in a police department to go after their friends with any great effectiveness. This isn't a knock on the police department it is just reality.
Corrupt cops all over the country have been jailed by straight laced FBI agents. I believe that you have to have a college degree to be in the FBI. They also have a famous academy that has been featured in many movies and television programs because it does put out smart and well trained agents. Check this out: http://www.fbi.gov/hq/td/academy/acad...
I'm going to applaud the chief of police for bringing the federal authorities in to investigate his department. It's disturbing to hear that yet another officer may be involved in misconduct. There is no telling how deep this goes. Good for the Oxnard officials for admitting that they can't go at this alone. If the FBI clears officer Polo and the others, the city can go ahead and put this issue to bed because the police department has brought in the world's best police force to investigate them.
Posted by adamrolandisawesome on April 27, 2008 at 5:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey newshound
What about F.B.I. Agent Robert Hansen? Oh yeah, and they did a stellar investigation on the Olympic Park bombing as well (falsely accusing Richard Jewell when the real suspect is Eric Rudolph).
Newshound, the FBI is made of human beings like every other police department in the U.S.. Just because they are involved does not mean that this investigation is going to be flawless or protected from corruption. After all, when the FBI assembled a task force to find out who the spy was in their department, guess who was put in charge of the task force? Robert Hansen.
Oh and by the way, they eventually figured it out for themselves and arrested Hansen. Why don't you show the same courtesy to the OPD and let them sort out their problems like the FBI did?
Posted by gramagracie on April 27, 2008 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
miawallace, "they were mideval class of laborers bound to, and transferred with the land".
Posted by gramagracie on April 27, 2008 at 7:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oops, I meant Gov Code Sections 3300-3311, sorry..
Posted by zulumaster on April 27, 2008 at 7:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Polo did not rape the 14 year old nut job, he probably did mess around with some girls on duty and thats it!! oh he took pictures, wow is that a crime, between 2 consenting adults???
and yes, the FBI are not the brightest, yes they have college degrees, but you cant teach common sense in law enforcement.
Star, lets move on to the next story
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 7:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
there is no proof yet that officer polo has done anything. He probably touched her on her arm or hand or shoulder and the parents are taking this all wrong and they are just looking to get some money, everybody sues over anything now days just to get some easy money. The parents probably asked there daughter if he touched her and she said yes but they didn't ask her where and assumed he raped her...My family knows the Polo famil since my kids were little and I trust him completely, people act like that the OPD are the only people who do this kind of things...seems now that the preists are doing it alot more..so I would say until there is proof of officer polo of doing what he is accused of we should all stop assumming he is guilty.
Posted by JC on April 28, 2008 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Just as I suspected. That young lady is lying about the rape and now is accusing another person of rape. I'd be angry at her, but she's obviously deeply disturbed and unable to control herself.
Now, did they do some hanky panky at the Substation? Probably. They should be disciplined for it, but I think job loss is a bit much. I know many other people who've committed in appropriate behavior in the work place an never been fired.
Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 9:24 a.m.
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Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 9:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Listen to all these perverts defending these guys it must be them posting those comments because who else in there right mind would make it seem like no big deal... Gross....I has been known in the past that sometimes women make up these sort of things but when youve got all these things pointing at the same people over and over youve gotta know these guys are guilty...
Posted by ripley on April 28, 2008 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
newshound, I agree with you 100%. Poor kid has probably been abused and victimized by authorities that she's supposed to be trusting and now in lock down. Yes, where there's smoke there's fire... FBI should always be involved where there's a conflict on investigating your own department. Whether it's rape allegations, a police shooting, racial injustices, etc. just to have an uninvolved outside agency involved. I also agree that Farley is the most reasonable voice so far. I strongly disagree with crombach though. If there's a third officer involved, it's not just a personnel problem - more like another perp who may want to strike a deal to save his butt. Guess we'll be finding out soon.
As far as the "hanky panky" at the storefront, none of that should be allowed and they should loose their job. That's just as off-limits as the oval office was - and that was a witch hunt. Police officers are SUPPOSED to be as trusted as priests, and you know what's happening to those "holy" men that go around "forgiving" sinners!
Posted by janabanana71 on April 28, 2008 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
jmcgaw3046: The accident involving the woman on the beach was just that, an accident. How you managed to tie the two incidents together is beyond me. I'm still trying to figure out how you managed to put the accident as a precursor to some sort of sexual activity! Nothing like jumping to some really unfounded and unreasonable conclusions! Those officers, guilty or not of sexual misconduct did not plan to hit the woman on the beach, nor, I'm sure, did they think they could "do whatever they want"! As for miawallace, if you accidentally kill someone in your car, let's see if you don't feel a little "stress"!
Posted by StayInSchool on April 28, 2008 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
If a 12 year old accused you or me of rape, they would arrest first and investigate second. The officers should hold their heads down in shame. They are as guilty of any wrongdoing when they choose to ignore illegal acts of their fellow cops. The silence has to end. Police need to live up to a higher standard due to their positions of authority and trust in the community. Mandatory drug testing and lie detector. They use them on suspects and trust their accuracy on them.
Posted by ripley on April 28, 2008 at 10:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The "accident" at the beach was not JUST and accident. It was gross negligence "vehicular manslaughter"! These guys got off scott free. No body else could have gotten off like they did.
Posted by pleasantville on April 28, 2008 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ripley, you have some serious (stuffs) goin on in that head.GET A JOB! one that you can be proud of.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
all i hear on these comments are blah, blah, blah, everyone already to say they are guilty when you don't even have any facts you are only getting bites and pieces..how do we know the 12 year didn't start it first... how do we know the parents didn't tell her to say she was raped so they can sue the city for some money....OPD does have a thankless job..when they do, do their jobs people complain, but who do you call when you need help OPD.
Posted by ripley on April 28, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
No confusion here. Just because I agreed with somebody's words on a blog doesn't mean that I'm joined at the hip. I usually don't agree with anyone! As far as self-esteem, that's what this blogging is for and you are entitled to my opinion!
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
on ripley's comment about the accident on the beach..it was an accident she was lying where she couldn't be seen..you act like they did it on purpose...usually people who talk like this about police officers are usually people who have been in trouble with the law before and they are angry because they got caught.
Posted by ripley on April 28, 2008 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey bud, there's nothing usual but human behavior. And there's such a thing as GROSS NEGLIGENCE. If you're going to be patrolling the dunes, you obviously need to take extra care, especially in the summer months, like June. I'm sure it wasn't done on purpose, but if you were the one behind that wheel, you'd be facing some form of punishment, think? The family didn't get a settlement of 2 plus million for a wrongful death suit for nothing!
Posted by NothingButTheTruth on April 28, 2008 at 1:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree there are too many Commenters jumping to conclusions when the D.A. hasn't even ruled on the "alleged" rape. As far as what punishment should be dished out for their fooling around at the sub-station, that is up to the Chief and what he is hired to do. I'm sure he will consider that President B.J. Clinton was not fired from his job and HE is the TOP Law Enforcer in the nation!
Posted by josess on April 28, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not feel sorry in any way for what officer polo is going thru. He should get treated the same way as any of us would. Just because you have a badge and a gun does not exclude you from any wrong doings you do. I bet if i was being charged for having something to do with a minor I would be in jail or been out on bail.In no part of the story states that officer polo was ever detained for questioning. The way things are going It seems he's going to get off with a slap on the hand just like when they ran over and killed the woman that was laying on the beach. I
bet they were looking at girls to see who had on the best bikini on the beach, that's probably why they did not see the woman laying there.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
RIPLEY, LIKE I SAID BEFORE THERE HAS BEEN NO PROOF OF ANYTHING YET...AND LIKE I SAID BEFORE EVERYONE WITH ALL THE ANGRY COMMENTS ON OPD ARE USUALLY PEOPLE WHO HAVE BEEN IN TROUBLE WITH THE LAW BEFORE...AND THE LADY AT THE BEACH SHE BURIED HERSELF IN SAND UNDERNEATH A DUNE WHERE SHE COULDN'T BE SEEN..THIS WAS AN ACCIDENT. I TOTALY SUPPORT OPD..AND FOR RIPLEY AND POGMOTHOIN YOU ARE VERY ANGRY WITH OPD MAYBE YOU HAVE BEEN IN TROUBLE WITH THEM BEFORE OR PULLED OVER FOR A TICKET...KEEP DOING A GOOD JOB OPD THE CITY OF OXNARD REALLY NEEDS YOU..THE CITY IS ALL MESSED UP..GLAD I MOVED AWAY AND OUT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Posted by josess on April 28, 2008 at 1:55 p.m.
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Posted by josess on April 28, 2008 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
mmshoot, i think you right.
1 down many more to go.
Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 2:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
all of these users condoning these alligations or even trying to make excuses for these scum bags must be from the OPD or are the Scum bags themselves because after all im sure that out on admin. leave and sitting at home on there computers im at work thinking this has been going on between the two of these officers since 2006 when the woman was hit and still believe it was a cover up...If anyone has ever seen a police cruiser cruise the beach they know it moves about 2 mile's per hour...Wich is plenty slow enough to realize youve hit something this woman wasnt sun bathing in the dark..Hello McFly's
if anything gross neglugence is right...
Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
THIS GUYS NAME IS BUD MAN ANDY ...
TO ME THAT MEANS ILLEAGL ACTIVITY ??
THIS GUY HAS SOME NERVE DEFENDING THE 5.0 WITH A NAME THAT REFERS TO HERB...IF YOU KNOW WHAT I MEAN...
Posted by josess on April 28, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
schmiddl, i agree with you 100%
think about it:
june + beach + girls + bikinis = 2 idiots running over an innocent individual.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 2:39 p.m.
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Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
pogmothoin...your comments and ripleys are not intelligent, both of you just think that OPD is a joke...if you think you can serve the city better why don't you become an officer,or maybe you have a bad past where you wouldn't pass the background check...everyone is quick to take the victims side before hearing the whole story, kids these days in that age group know what they are doing alot of them are getting sexually active at that age..but i also think the parents are telling her what to say.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
pogmothoin is sounding like a moron...don't have time to talk to stupid people talking out of their %^%
Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I never said anything about OPD just the guys involved ... again i think hes one of them...lol
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 3:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i could be one of them, you never know...lol
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Go OPD..You guys are the best.
Posted by josess on April 28, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
don't blow your cover budmanandy,
even if your still in witness protection the past can still catch up to you
Posted by schmiddl on April 28, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
lol this has been a great debate thanks for helping the boring parts of my day here in ACCT'S Payable so interesting...We will all be waiting to see what truly comes of this i hope to here from all of you when that day in the star comes...lol good day to all and to bud i hope its nice where you are cause one thing it is in oxnard right now is beautiful..."for the record im from Pt Hueneme..."
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
josess...what makes you think i'm in the witness protection program...again assuming and you know what they say about that it's the mother of all F ups. since you keep talking about sounds like maybe you were in the protection program
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 28, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oh it's beautiful here in arizona and it's a wonderful day in Acct's Payable as well..pt hueneme isn't any better.
Posted by BeaHappi on April 28, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Good people can make very bad decisions. I'm sure that throughout their careers Officers Polo & Brisslinger have made some very valuable contributions in regards to public safety.
Unfortunately, if the allegations about the substation "activities" are true, that's what they will be remembered for. That and the horrible & tragic beach accident.
It's unfortunate for the OPD that many people will judge the entire department on the actions of a few. That's really too bad because these officers put their lives on the line everyday for our community.
I've said before that you couldn't pay me enough for that job. I hope that the rest of the department holds their heads up high.
Eventually the truth will come out, decisions will be made, and we'll all move on.
Thanks OPD for the work that you do.
Posted by B8R_N4MD on April 28, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What is even more sad is if the allegations are false, they will still be remembered for them. The black mark will never go away. Let's not forget only one person is being investigated for possible criminal acts and prosecution. The other two have been named for violating department policy. None of the accusations have been proven. Trying anyone in the press is not fair. Once again I hope the Star will give just as much press if any of them are cleared as they have for the allegations. If there was a crime, there will be justice.
Stay strong OPD.
Posted by Face on April 28, 2008 at 5:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am getting VERY tired of lazy posting in CAPS! The Star should have a CAPs filter!! It is inconsiderate and considered yelling and banned in all other forums etc.
Posted by bigrvman on April 28, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"janabanana71" That incident involving the lady getting run over has a lot to do with this case both officer thought they where above the law while not using common policy, why do you think that ladies family got millions of dollars because that vehicle was not suppose to have been used on that particular part of the beach, now this incident with the young girl, I'm sure they are several other incidents that happened in the past.
Posted by bigrvman on April 28, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"janabanana71" That incident involving the lady getting run over has a lot to do with this case both officers thought they where above the law while not using common policy, why do you think that ladies family got millions of dollars because that vehicle was not suppose to have been used on that particular part of the beach, now this incident with the young girl, I'm sure they are several other incidents that happened in the past.
Posted by bigrvman on April 28, 2008 at 6:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"NothingButTheTruth" are you insane comparing Slick Willie to these officers. First of all William J. was involved with a grown woman not a child second of all he paid for it dearly he was impeached by congress.
Posted by gramagracie on April 28, 2008 at 7:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
budmanandy1, yeah life is great here in Arizona, this is the real USA. Where Joe Arpaio will have youd head and no one questions him and he is an elected official. We the people for the people.... We can carry guns in plain view, this way there is no question, mess with me and guess what. Crime is low here because everyone respects each others right because we carry guns to protect ourselves, and don't totally rely on the police to take care of my problems. I live in a gated community and the police do not have to patrol our area unless we call them.
I will continue to remind everyone that NO ONE has been charged here. It has been 3 months since the DA has had the info and nothing has been done. If the DA had anything they would have already acted. Maybe they are acting on the side of caution. We should too. You are messing with lives of people, the hatered spewed for the OPD is horrible, come on people, are you perfect? Is your closed so pure that you are able to condem these officers. (Here I go the religous fanatic) even God waits 'til we die before he judges us. Let's not play God..we can get in alot of trouble with the big guy.
God bless you Martin and Frank, our prayers are with you, no matter what you can count on us, and the majority of the Oxnard Citizens.
Posted by B8R_N4MD on April 28, 2008 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bigrvman, your facts are skewed regarding the beach incident. Patroling that area of the beach in that vehicle was commonplace and was not against policy. A settlement was reached with the family of the deceased due to a terrible accidental death that occurred on city property by city employees in a city vehicle. If there was a policy violated the officers would have been charged and/or disciplined. That incident has no connection to this article.
Posted by AnnaWhaat on April 29, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Oxnard police chief suspects a third officer involved in improper activity........This is what concernsme is the chief suspects another party also being involved in improper activity. So I do believe something is going on. Hidden in a closet!
As far as the beach thing I still believe it was an accident. JanaBanana is correct.
Posted by ripley on April 29, 2008 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Buddddddie! you can stay in AZ. You just might not like Californians since you seem to think you're better than all of us and we're crooks just because we disagree with dirty cops!
If I can remember correctly, that poor woman on the beach, who was going to see her son get married the very next day, was run over twice by the OPD vehicle. I don't think she would have "buried" herself in the sand, and I still can't believe that police just roll over her, not once, but twice. And now, there's a sex scandal involving the same two "partners in crime". AND, there's a third. I'd like to know why it's not made public - more to hide, that's why.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
AnnaWhaat..I think the third officer involved is no longer on the department.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 8:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ripley...i feel sorry for the woman on the beach and her family, but don't lay on the beach where you can't be seen...and again reading what the paper wants you to read...
Posted by BeaHappi on April 29, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
ripley - actually her son was married the day before so she was at his wedding. And she was run over twice; the 2nd time being when the vehicle backed up.
It was a horrible accident and I feel bad for all involved.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
pogmothoin...like you are such an angel lol...never said it was the 12 year olds fault, i said maybe..OPD does a great good protecting your community that have to with some of the idiots who live there..alot of them have no respect and that could be from the way they are raised...sounds like you are bitter...we all have our faults including you. I stand behind OPD 110%..i don't like what the two officers have done, but i do respect the job they have to do.
Posted by pleasantville on April 29, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
josess.you said one down many more to go.Who do you plan to call when you are in need?.Put a sign on your fence "Not police patroled" I bet you to will be dailing 911.I think they should put a block on all yours and ripleys phones!!!now thats funny.
Posted by SoCalArmyBrat on April 29, 2008 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
miawallace ...
It was truly despicable for you to assail the reputation of Officer Brisslinger's brother without proof. Are we all to assume that your relatives are as judgmental as you? No. That would be a sweeping generalization, just as the generalizations and stereotypes are flying around in here that "all cops are bad," etc.
As I've said before in other articles, I live in Officer Frank Brisslinger's area. He assisted my mother with a dangerous situation, and always showed professionalism and dedication to the citizens and his job.
The accusations brought against him sound like "payback" for something he did or didn't do, or for associations with other officers. Were those other officers "dirty," in the street vernacular? That will bear out through the investigation. However, the rape allegation against Polo reads like a fairy-tale from the mind of some kid who can't keep her story straight and gets off on accusing authority figures of rape. I agree with Jim Farley. He has been the greatest voice of reason in this whole debacle.
On the last note, since when did a double standard go into effect at the City. If I remember correctly, when Burnham had her crybaby "issue" with Tim Flynn comments weren't forthcoming because it was a "personnel matter." All of a sudden OPD Chief Crombach can speak at length about selective OPD personnel matters. What gives?
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 11:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
pogmothoin...bet you don't have kids some are not innocent and some never tell the truth..socalarmybrat...i agree with you 100% on your comment
Posted by gramagracie on April 29, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe they should bring in the "FBI" to investigate the source who is leaking the information to the press. Leaking information in an on going "internal investigation" is violating the public servants rights, not to mention printing a picture of the officer, without the officers consent.
Posted by gramagracie on April 29, 2008 at 12:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Pogmothoin, do you know something we don't?
Posted by SCfan01 on April 29, 2008 at 12:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sounds like some disturbed little girls family is trying to make some money. I bet the girl was arrested and now is trying to get some payback. Don't you think if these officers were "rapists" this would have come out alot sooner than this? They have been on the job for years and all of a sudden someone cries wolf and low and behold, everyone sways the way the wind is blowing.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 12:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oldoxn01..good comment..a family looking for some easy money
Posted by ripley on April 29, 2008 at 12:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Pog, I'm on your side, but please stop listening to Bud. He's nuts, in Arizona for a reason... he can't type and has to use caps, blames sunbathers for being at the wrong place at the wrong time, blames children at the hands of elders for being too available, had one of his postings deleted (as was Shoots) and obviously doesn't appreciate us Californians cuz we're crooks since we condemn what OPD did. What he really needs to do is go to confess to whichever pervert priest he finds in Arizona, since we're all so rotton here, maybe they'll listen to him and make him feel better? Oh, and all cops are saints, in his eyes.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
pogmothoin..your kids have you fooled if you think they are innocent and honest...in arizona cuz the housing in california sucks..i used to live in oxnard. But getting off track of the article...seems like everyone is quick to blame the two officers there is two sides to every story we are only hearing one side and that's the 12 year olds..we don't even know for sure if Officer Polo even touched her...i have knowen Polo's family for a long time and I hope him and his partner both get a fair decision and support them 100%
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Berkley huh nice party school..new baby congrats..still doesn't mean the one going to Berkley was always honest with you..oh and 110% lol..oh if they are innocent and honest why would you have to make they don't throw themselves under any patrol cars...you sound a little concerned about that
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 29, 2008 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
No i know what you mean..and babies do get into things, they are curious, they will always be curious...but on the issue it is what it is and we can't change the way the two officers have acted..but we just have to support the other officers in the department who do go out and do a good job, without them we would probably be in a war with ourselves like Iraq.
Posted by SoCal4Life on April 29, 2008 at 9:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Lot of people throwing stones on this site without having all the facts. I have known Martin for over 20 years. I went to high school with Robles and Frank and we have been friends for over 25 years.I think they are all good men and hope they did not participate in these crimes, but let's wait till all the facts are reviewed. I have been on the wrong side of the law and these men have still been my friends and treated me with respect. I hope you all can do the same and just wait until the investigation is over. KEEP YOUR HEADS UP, GUYS!!!
Posted by jamaro099 on April 29, 2008 at 10:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
no way I'm way reading all the posts so apologies if this was already noted....but I from the story I think it is hilarious that "They ..... staked out spots where prostitutes loitered...." roflmao :-)
Posted by B8R_N4MD on April 29, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you want the truth on how the accident happened on the beach, read the report and stop posting mistruths about it to be sensational. The officers did not back up over the victim on the beach. She was run over twice because first the front tire went over her, then the rear tire went over her. The vehicle only moved in a forward motion. She was run over twice by the tires but only once by the vehicle. Also, she wasnt buried, but was laying against a berm not visible from the backside of the berm.
Posted by StayInSchool on April 30, 2008 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A lot of good men have made "mistakes". Does that mean they should be immune from arrest and prosecution since they were good men?
Posted by BeaHappi on April 30, 2008 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
B8R_N4MD...thanks for the clarification on the beach accident. I mistakingly said that they backed up...my bad.
In any case, it was still an accident.
And regarding this current issue - I believe that the only arrestable charge would be the allegation made by the young girl and her family. If the other allegations are true, they could be disciplined and possibly terminated from OPD, but not arrested for those.
Posted by BeaHappi on April 30, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
mmshoot - I was responding to StayInSchool's question about immunity because they are nice guys.
I don't think that hanky-panky at a substation (if it took place) is something that you can be arrested for. Unless the hanky-panky involved someone who was underage or was of age but not willing.
Not the best judgement...yes.
Illegal...no
Posted by ripley on April 30, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
FYI- it's OPD's written (or unwritten, I'm not sure) policy- no sexual hanky panky - with wives, girlfriends or whomever - is allowed during work breaks or lunch breaks. Having said that, what makes it "O.K." to do it while on duty, getting paid, sometimes even overtime. Isn't THAT illegal, falsifying timecards while playing around, let alone it's taxpayer money!
Posted by SCfan01 on April 30, 2008 at 12:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sounds as if alot of the people have a personal beef with oxnard pd. Maybe they should stop patroling the city and let people do whatever they want. It appears in this city, if you are a cop, your damned if you do, and damned if you dont. So dont, than the citizens who think so highly of their police force, can figure out how to keep the city safe on their own. Usually the ones who break the law cry wolf the loudest.. We need to fight the war on terrorism in our own country! Alot of it here with these gangbangers who have no repect for life!
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 12:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ripley...once again assuming they do this..and if they do what do you care? But it's ok for taxpayers money to pay for the nice life style the people in the jails have.
Posted by BeaHappi on April 30, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I've fired people for falsifying timecards but I've never had them arrested.
People do all kinds of not work-related things while they are at work. Doesn't mean that they should be arrested.
oldoxn01...you are absolutely correct. Some people definitely seem to have an axe to grind.
Posted by ripley on April 30, 2008 at 12:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't personnaly care that they do it and I sure don't have an axe to grind, and I don't have any problem breaking law myself. But, the Star on Sunday, in case you didn't read it, reported that the OPD Chief Chrombach, sure cares! And, believe me he cares alot! He's NOT trivializing this story, like some of you are here. He's taking it quite seriously, as he should. That's the problem anymore these days - people DON'T care (BUD)! Those are the ones that would just as soon run over some one and just leave them there! Or, maybe tell a young victim of molestation that it's all ok and just to "Get Over It"! What skeletons do you have in your closets??????
Posted by SCfan01 on April 30, 2008 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am getting really tired of paying for lawsuits against the police period. There has got to be a way to stop friviolous lawsuits. Especially the ones were a criminal is shot by police for breaking the law, than the family sues for wrongful death, how do they figure? We all hope for this citys sake, this turns out to be yet another bogus claim by some money sucking family seeking a way to become rich without working.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ripley..it seems you don't care either stating that you don't have a problem breaking the law..what skeleton do you have in your closet. If OPD wants to go home for lunch they are most certainly allowed to..just like BeaHappi said people do all kinds of non related things at work.
Posted by ripley on April 30, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I will clarify my statement: I don't have a problem with breaking the laws because I don't... and obviously some employers/supervisors let their favorite employees get away with murder. And, heaven forbid, did anyone ever stop to think that maybe there are actually victims at the hands of some cops that you glorify so much? Right Pog! It's their hormones! Then they believe they can get away with it, and for a while they actually do. Just some get caught and some don't. So, BUD, sorry to disappoint you - I'm a law abiding citizen who actually likes police officers.
And, FYI, I think the recent recipient for Officer of the Year at OPD, Alex Rangel, is a SAINT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 2:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ripley...don't think it has anything to do with favorites...and for Pog assuming the pics are nude..jealous are you that you don't have any? And I agree with the person who said that people sue over for the dumbest things just to get a few bucks...OPD should go on strike and let the citizens of Oxnard run the city..if that would happen the city would go to crap more than it is now..so thank GOD for OPD..You guys are awesome keep up the good work, and for ripley you have issues you say you are a law abiding citizen but you don't have a problem breaking the law LOL..so you are not a law abiding citizen make up your mind.
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
whatever you want to call it mmshoot..he's jealous LOL
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 2:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OPD i'm on your side, there is no proof yet what so ever this 12 year old was raped it is just her word against Polo's word and if that's all there is so much for the parents trying to sue. Officer Polo would not take advantage of an under aged girl maybe the 12 year old needs to learn right from wrong.
Posted by SCfan01 on April 30, 2008 at 2:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
How about the city sue every gangbanger for every crime they commit within the city limits , and add the law they must leave the city and never come back, would'nt that be great! We would actually have a decent place to live and maybe those who moved away so their children can grow up without fear of being shot in their front yards can come back and enjoy life! Why would anyone want to be a police officer in this city? Thanks to you who do, I know quite a few of you, and as far as I know, I think you are getting a bum rap!
Posted by budmanandy1 on April 30, 2008 at 3:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oldoxn01...i totally agree with you 100%..you rock.
Posted by Inocent2 on May 1, 2008 at 8:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Personally "I" don't believe the Oxnard Officers
did what the subjects said they did !
I have my reasons for saying what I believe!
I was accused of the same type of thing in my life and it sent to court here in this county &
the court system through it out!
The Attorneys just want to make Money their really not interested in real justice!some attorneys don't like police officers as well as the subjects that accuse officers of the wrong
doings.
I would like very much to meet a real attorney
that really truely is interested in justice for
all not just making Money !
I guess I sound like I am Venting and I guess I am just alittle!
it's really madding to have someone anyone start
pointing their fingers at you and say thing to hurt others just because you do your job etc.
anyway "I" am a believer that these officers are
inocent as well.
Posted by budmanandy1 on May 1, 2008 at 9:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
inocent2..i agree with you...
Posted by SCfan01 on May 1, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not believe he would get excited over a 12 year old if he had access to grown women and a place to play. I still thinks its a way for the family to make money!
Posted by SCfan01 on May 1, 2008 at 10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not believe he would get excited over a 12 year old if he had access to grown women and a place to play. I still thinks its a way for the family to make money!
Posted by SoCal4Life on May 1, 2008 at 7:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just a test because my comments never show up. Yet they are all non degrading.
Posted by coastalslinger on May 3, 2008 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have had an incident with Polo. I don't think he's such a great cop.
He banged on our door. When my husband asked who it was he said "police, open up". We did, and had the nerve to ask what was going on. He shoved passed my husband as he spat that he was looking for the marijuana we had growing on our patio.
As my husband was trying to tell him we had no marijuana growing on our patio, he told him to shut up, and just stand there with his mouth shut.
It took just a second for Polo to realize there was no weed there. Instead of apologizing for his actions, and words...he shoved by my husband, and stormed out the door.
We were left behind with our mouths gapping open.
Good cop? I think not. None of this surprises me in the least.
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