News & Views: October - December 2022

ISSUE 4: OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022

NEWSANDVIEWS

RECOGNITION

QUARTERLY BRIGHT STAR AWARDS SERGEANT STEPHEN BERGSTROM, LAW ENFORCEMENT Sergeant Bergstrom was recognized for taking life-saving action when a subject was shot.

When he found the unresponsive subject he discovered a gunshot wound high on his thigh.

He recognized this as likely an injury to the femoral artery which, without emergency care, could lead to death. When he realized the wound was too high on the thigh to apply a tourniquet, Sgt. Bergstrom inserted his thumb into the gunshot wound and applied pressure on the artery. While maintaining pressure he provided directions to deputies to secure the crime scene and reduce foot traffic, and sent a deputy to escort rescue personnel to his location in order to ensure prompt emergency medical care. Detectives later learned from hospital staff that the victim’s femoral artery was indeed perforated. The victim survived largely to Sergeant Begstrom’s quick actions in providing emergency care to the victim and effectively managing the scene.

DEPUTY SCHENIQUE HARRIS, DETENTION While off duty and riding as a passenger in a vehicle, Deputy Schenique Harris was recognized for taking quick action and performing first aid on the driver who suffered a stroke while driving. Deputy Harris attempted to stop the vehicle, which was traveling at approximately 40 miles per hour, but the incapacitated driver was still pressing on the accelerator. Deputy Harris avoided five vehicles; three of which were in oncoming traffic.

Deputy Harris was able to gain control of the vehicle and pull over, where she removed the driver from the vehicle and administered CPR until he began breathing again. EMS arrived and the driver was transported to the hospital.

CHILD PROTECTIVE INVESTIGATOR SAMANTHA MCCANN, CIVILIAN Child Protective Investigator Samantha McCann was recognized for her investigation of a group home for teens. This investigation pertained specifically to three teenage males, who were permanently assigned to the group home. All three juveniles have severe mental health and behavior issues. There were concerns that all three juveniles were being physically abused by the staff. In addition, the staff at the group home had concerning criminal and DCF histories. CPI McCann acted quickly by contacting CPID Administration, law enforcement, DCF Licensing and case management. The juveniles were immediately taken away from the group home and placed in other facilities. At the conclusion of the investigation, CPID Administration and DCF Licensing closed the facility and did not renew its license. Due to CPI McCann’s work during this investigation, these children are now in a safer and stable environment.

NEWS AND VIEWS IS A PUBLICATION OF THE COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC EDUCATION SECTION OF THE PUBLIC RELATIONS BUREAU EDITOR RICKY BUTLER | ASSISTANT EDITOR/WRITER LAURA L. SULLIVAN DESIGN A ARON GRUDIS | PHOTOGRAPHY RYAN GORDON

RECOGNITION

COMMUNITY AWARDS PALM HARBOR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEO OF THE YEAR The Greater Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce honored four Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office deputies with the 2022 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award. The winners were Corporal Claudio Dimundo, Deputy William Byrd, Deputy Cristian Miller, and Deputy Cameron Frame. The award included a plaque and a gift card.

PCSO LITTLE STARS IN ITB

ADELYNN VINEETA ANTONY

PCSO MEMBERS SUPPORT RIDE & RUN WITH THE STARS Every year, Ride & Run With The Stars raises funds for the Sheriff’s Christmas Sharing Project to help children have the joyous holiday season they deserve. This year we raised more than $85,000 to help 289 families and a total of 741 children. Deputies, civilian members, and other volunteers gathered at a local Walmart to shop for more than 450 children, while other kids were adopted by corporate or individual sponsors. Thanks to all PCSO members who participated to help the children of our community!

Customer Support Technician Albin Antony and his wife Alyssa welcomed their daughter Adelynn Vineeta Antony on October 29, 2022. She weighed 6 pounds, nine ounces.

ETHAN MATTHEW MCWILLIAMS

Information Technologist Brandon McWilliams and his wife Jennifer welcomed their son Ethan Matthew McWilliams on January 5, 2023.

He weighed 9 pounds, 4 ounces.

We’re here to help lessen the learning curve and keep you in the know.

So, if there’s a specific topic you’d like to see featured in a future edition of News & Views, submit your suggestions to proud@pcsonet.com.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022 | PAGE 3

FISCAL / HUMAN RESOURCES

Reviewing Your W-4 for the New Tax Year A W-4 form, formally titled “Employee’s Withholding Certificate,” is an IRS form that tells employers how much tax to withhold from each paycheck. Employers use the W-4 to calculate payroll taxes and remit the taxes to the IRS on the behalf of employees.

While you do not have to fill out a new W-4 form if you already have one on file, the beginning of a new tax year is a good time to review your withholdings and make any changes to ensure taxes are correctly withheld for your tax situation. Some examples of life changes that might impact your tax situation are: • Getting married or divorced • Having a child • Buying a home • Experiencing a significant change in income • Only working part of the year • Having a lot of dividend income • Doing any freelance work on the side

After any change to your W-4, please review your virtual check to ensure that the amount being withheld looks accurate and consult with your tax advisor if needed, as Payroll cannot provide recommendations on your withholdings.

To review your current withholdings or submit a new W-4 form, go to SONET aMember Gateway a Payroll a Current Payroll Services and review the options under My Account.

HUMAN RESOURCES WELLNESS FAIR This year, we’re hosting Wellness Fairs at both the Sheriff’s Administration Building and the jail.

There will be giveaways, vendors, and fun things for members. The event at the SAB will be Wednesday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the back lawn and in Room 180. The event at the jail will be Thursday, March 16 in the North read-off room. This year’s Wellness Fair will have a sports theme with the slogan: “LET’S RAYS AWARENESS! BUC UP AND BOLT TO OUR WELLNESS FAIR AND LET’S GET ROWDIE!”

PAGE 4 | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022

FISCAL / HUMAN RESOURCES

How to Fill Out a W-4 Step 1: Personal information Enter your name, address, Social Security number, and tax-filing status. When completing an electronic W-4 form, your personal information will be prefilled for you, and you only need to select a filing status.

Step 2: Account for multiple jobs If you have more than one job or you file jointly and your spouse works, follow the instructions to get more accurate withholding.

If you’re married and filing jointly, and you both earn about the same amount, you can check a box indicating this. Both spouses must do that on their W-4s. Along with Step 1(c), this determines the tax table to use for calculating the amount of income tax withheld from your paycheck. It is

important to consider the instructions when completing this step to accurately withhold income tax. Leaving this box unchecked will usually REDUCE the amount of income tax withheld from your paycheck.

Step 3: Claim dependents, including children If your total income is under $200,000 (or $400,000 if filing jointly), you can enter how many children and dependents you have and multiply them by the credit amount.

Entering an amount in step 3 will REDUCE the amount of income tax withheld from your paycheck based on the amount entered in this section.

Step 4: Refine your withholdings If you want extra tax withheld or expect to claim deductions other than the standard deduction when you do your taxes, you

can note that. Entering amounts in Step 4 (a) and 4 (c) will INCREASE the amount of taxes withheld.

Step 5: Sign and date your W-4 Once completed, press the submit button at the top right and enter the last four numbers of your SSN to digitally sign the W-4 form.

It’s also important to review your address in SONET as well as the address on your virtual checks in the payroll system to make sure your W-2 and 1095-C tax forms are sent to the right place. If you need to update your address, please follow the steps in Appendix 1A from the HR Employee Manual on SONET. If you have any questions on entering a W-4 form, please contact Payroll at 582-5885 or email Payroll@pcsonet.com.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022 | PAGE 5

SPOTLIGHT AUTOMATED RECORDS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (ARMS)

To ARMS! Report Writing at the PCSO

BY LAURA L. SULLIVAN

Report writing is one of the most important skills that a Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputy must master. Almost everything a deputy does in the course of their shift is documented in written form, from the simplest Miscellaneous Incident Report (MIR) that may just need a line or two, to the most complicated offense report narrative that may run dozens of pages. The Automated Records Management System (ARMS) is the team that enters law enforcement reports. It is an extension of the Augmented Criminal Investigative Support Systems (ACISS), the system manages most of the agency’s law enforcement records.

Doe was identified in part due to a photo attached to a Field Interview Report (FIR).

Next comes the narrative portion, which may be written by the deputy and emailed to ARMS, or may be dictated over the phone – it’s a matter of personal choice.

“The only thing ARMS does in reference to the narratives is correct grammar and spelling,” Weschler said. “It’s the deputy’s name on the report, they’re the ones who are going to have to testify if it goes to court.” The reports are approved by the deputy’s sergeant.

“ARMS is a 24/7, 365 unit,” said Records Manager Tara Weschler. “So we, like the deputies, are here all the time. We never shut down.” ARMS has 26 members who work three shifts plus an overlapping Delta shift.

As soon as possible after completing a call (but more realistically, before the end of their shift) deputies call ARMS to build the report.

There’s much more than a basic narrative of what happened – ARMS Records Technicians build the cover which contains multiple

PAGE 6 | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022

Each deputy develops their own writing style. “Some are very brief and to the point; they get the facts and that’s it. But some of the deputies are natural storytellers.” Are any of them really creative and lyrical – it was a dark and stormy night? “No, but they layers of information that will fully capture will describe the weather conditions in as much detail as possible about each event. detail of some crash reports.”

Every person involved in a call – including suspect, victim, and witnesses – has their There may not be a lot of scope for literary contact and demographic information flair in an ARMS report, but the narratives added to the report. All vehicles or property aren’t meant for entertainment. “This involved also get their own record. The becomes a permanent public record that report might include supplemental material could be used in court. The public may too. Deputies could include receipts from request copies so it’s critical that the report an economic crime or a photo of a citizen is complete and accurate.” The reports contact. Even when a crime hasn’t occurred, are also used by other deputies to gather adding photos to the report can prove useful information on an address, subject, or old down the road. Just recently a deceased John case. Before they head to a call they may pull

SPOTLIGHT

up any reports about the people involved There’s a mix of employees who work as and arrive on scene armed with valuable ARMS technicians. Some have already background information. retired from one career, while others are students who like the availability of different ARMS technicians like feeling connected to shifts so they can attend classes. The unit the exciting world of patrol, investigations, has good retention and of those who leave forensics, and other areas of the PCSO that many go to other positions in the agency write reports in ARMS. “You’re part of the such as Information Technology, Property law enforcement process without being and Evidence, or Forensics. Working in on the scene,” Weschler said. “Unlike a ARMS gives them a lot of knowledge about dispatcher who is involved in the moment, the PCSO. in the middle of a crisis, we’re there afterward when things have calmed down.” ARMS technicians have a lot to like about ARMS technicians get the full story from their job. Records Technician Holly beginning to end and who doesn’t like to Rushofsky enjoys the family feeling of the hear exciting stories from Patrol? After unit. “Everyone is so nice and we are treated tough calls on a challenging shift, deputies with respect.” Senior Records Technician also appreciate having a sympathetic ear on Connie Ashcom says, “I love talking the other end of the line. “It’s someone who with deputies and hearing different stories understands the work of law enforcement every night.” to talk with about the hard cases.” As a result of this close connection, deputies tend to send the ARMS unit a lot of treats!

Talking over cases can also help deputies clarify details in their head and the ARMS technicians have heard so many reports that they know what questions to ask to elicit all the most important facts for the record.

Records Technician Karli Busch enjoys the way ARMS supports deputies. “Knowing I’m making the deputies’ day a little easier is my favorite part of my job. They have so much to do and keep track of on a day-to-day basis, so taking some of that stress off of them is rewarding.” She said that deputies who come here from other agencies always say how grateful they are for the PCSO’s ARMS unit.

“Report writing takes up such a huge chunk of time, a lot of times hours after their shift is over, so having ARMS available makes it a lot faster and smoother than if they were doing everything on their own.”

Weschler has been with the PCSO for 25 years. “I’m still having a great time here,” she said. “I’ve never been bored. There’s something different every day. That’s what everyone loves about this job.”

Almost everything in every report is public record. “Florida has the broadest public records law in the country,” Weschler said. “Absent a statutory exemption, the information goes out to anybody who requests it.” Citizens can request such things as incident and offense reports, crash reports, arrest affidavits, or booking photos by coming to the Sheriff’s Administration Building, North District Station, or by phone, fax, email, or on our web site.

Most requests are handled by Records, but there’s a second unit that also handles records requests: the Public Records Processing Unit (PRPU). PRPU handles requests that cover multiple areas of the agency such as Department of Detention and Corrections, contract bids, forensics photos, internal affairs, and employee files.

Many PRPU requests come from the media.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022 | PAGE 7

HEALTH & FITNESS

BY JUSTIN WALSH, FITNESS SPECIALIST

Personalized Training to Fit Your Fitness Needs They say variety is the spice of life, so I guess my fitness classes are a little spicy! Just ask Alternative Sentencing Unit Technician Dorris Scharmer who has been participating in my workouts for more than a year now.

“We meet as a group three days a week and every session is different,” Dorris said.

“I guess you could say the variety is what I really enjoy – unlike when you go to the gym and the instructor only changes the workout every few months. The variety with Justin makes it fun and exciting.”

Working out is mental as well as physical.

You have to overcome the mental barriers to starting a new routine and then psych yourself into continuing it. The exercises themselves have their own mental challenges too. “The hardest part has nothing to do with the exercises – it’s the mental aspect of pushing yourself through the most difficult parts of the session.”

Dorris said the pushups, burpees, and situps are the hardest to do but also the best for her.”

My on-site classes make it easier to not give in to the temptation to slack. “Skipping is not an option,” Dorris said. “I have to come to work Monday through Friday so why not just continue my day-to-day routine? Trust me, there are days when I don’t go as hard as I should, but my thought is hey, I’m here, and that’s the first step. I only wish I was as disciplined on my weekends.”

She finds that taking my class has had a positive effect on her work life. She’s sleeping better and during the day she’s more focused and has a lot more energy.

“My workouts are done first thing in the morning and because of this I’m much better throughout the day.” She likes that I offer the option of an early morning class because she wouldn’t be able to make herself go after a long day at work. “I’d come up with a thousand and one reasons not to.”

I can tailor workouts to your specific needs and push you to try new things to maximize your fitness. “I LOVE cardio, such as running,” Dorris said, “but Justin has taught me that cardio is not enough. I needed to add strength training and more variety into my daily exercise routine. I’ve become stronger, leaner, and developed To find out more about my classes or to more endurance.” The only downside is schedule one on one training, contact me at that on leg day it can be hard for her to sit at jwalsh1@pcsonet.com. a desk for eight hours!

I may not have weekend classes, but don’t forget that members have 24-hour access to our three gyms so if working out on a 2 a.m. lunch break fits your schedule, go for it! Dorris urges other members to try out my classes. “He offers personalized training specifically to meet each individual’s needs, and variety. And it’s free! Why would you not take advantage of that?”

Justin Walsh has been the PCSO’s fitness specialist for eight years. He has a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Sport Science and certifications in Law Enforcement Fitness from the Cooper Institute and CrossFit Levels 1 and 2.

To schedule a personal health and fitness consultation with Justin, send him an email at jwalsh1@pcsonet.com, or call him at 727-410-0025.

PAGE 8 | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022

HEALTH & FITNESS

BUFFALO CHICKEN STUFFED SPAGHETTI SQUASH INGREDIENTS 1 ¼ lbs chicken breast, cooked and shredded | 1 medium spaghetti squash (2– 2 ½ lbs) 2 stalks (ribs) of celery, thinly sliced | ½ cup of diced red bell pepper 2 green onions with both the white and green parts thinly sliced | ½ cup of buffalo sauce ¼ cup of creamy ranch dressing | ¼ cup of crumbled blue cheese (optional)

TO COOK THE SQUASH Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice both ends from squash and discard. Stand squash up on one of its cut ends and use a large knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise.

Scoop seeds and stringy insides out using a large spoon. Place squash cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Bake for 30-40 minutes or until squash is tender. Baking time will depend on the size of your squash. Allow to it cool slightly before using a fork to gently scrape the squash flesh into a large bowl. Reserve the squash shells.

Microwaving: Microwaving greatly reduces the cooking time but makes the squash strands a little softer and also makes the seeds a little harder to separate from the strands. Deeply pierce the squash several times so it doesn’t burst. (Pierce along the line where you will halve it later to avoid holes in your serving shell.) Place on a microwave safe dish and microwave in five-minute increments until the squash can be easily pierced with a knife. Depending on the size of the squash this should take 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool slightly and then cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds and fibers, being careful not to discard the edible strands. Reserve the squash shells.

While preparing the squash, cook the chicken.

TO COOK THE CHICKEN Using Instant Pot: Insert the rack into the inner pot. Add 1 cup of water or broth. Lay the chicken on the rack. Secure lid and select the ‘Poultry’ setting and increase time to 17 minutes (19 minutes if the breasts are very thick). At the end of the cooking time, allow pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes then flip the vent valve and release any remaining pressure. Move chicken to a cutting board to cool slightly before shredding with two forks.

Stovetop: Place a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon avocado oil, olive oil, or coconut oil and swirl the pan to coat with the oil. Add chicken and ½ cup water.

Once the water begins to simmer, reduce heat and cover. Cook chicken for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through. Move chicken to a cutting board to cool slightly before shredding with two forks.

TO ASSEMBLE THE STUFFED SQUASH

DAILY MINDSET “WHAT LOOKS LIKE TALENT IS OFTEN CAREFUL PREPARATION. WHAT LOOKS LIKE SKILL IS OFTEN PERSISTENT REVISION.” - James Clear

We won’t be fooled by how easy it can look for some.

AS VINCE LOMBARDI ONCE SAID, “THE MAN ON TOP OF THE MOUNTAIN DIDN’T FALL THERE”.

Our greatest achievements in life will not happen by accident, but through disciplined effort.

SOMETIMES WE’LL NEED ACTION. SOMETIMES WE’LL NEED PATIENCE. Sometimes we’ll need to go back to the drawing board, and sometimes we’ll need to throw the Hail Mary.

But everything we do – every rep – has a reason behind it.

We may not control the outcome, but the manifestation in front of us is dominantly controlled by two things: where do we want to go (focus), and how hard do we want to work for it (effort).

BEGINNER CARDIO & STRENGTH JAIL GYM Tuesday & Thursday at 6 a.m.

BOOTCAMP SAB GYM Monday & Friday at 6 a.m.

Wednesday At 11:30 a.m. & 4:30 p.m.

In a large bowl, place squash strands, shredded chicken, celery, green onions, bell pepper, and buffalo sauce. Toss until well mixed. Spoon the squash-chicken mixture into the reserved squash shells. Place the stuffed shells on the baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

HEALTH & WELLNESS CONSULTATION SAB GYM Monday & Wednesday from 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

Serve with drizzled ranch dressing and top with crumbled blue cheese

JAIL GYM Tuesday & Thursday from 12 p.m.-1 p.m.

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022 | PAGE 9

TRANSITIONS CHANGES IN THE TROOPS LENGTH OF SERVICE Deputy Jean Adolphe.............. 10 Years Thomas Anderson................... 10 Years Deputy Eniko Bono.................. 10 Years Corporal Josue Cordero.......... 10 Years Deputy William Corser............ 10 Years Jennifer Crockett.................... 10 Years Stephanie Erwin..................... 10 Years Corporal Kevin Fey................. 10 Years

Deputy Lyndon Kirkland.........20 Years Deputy Angela Messina..........20 Years Sergeant Alan Clark................25 Years Corporal Theodore Thompson.... 25 Years

Tara Weschler.........................25 Years Brian Egnatuk.........................30 Years Dawn Gibney...........................35 Years Carolyn Motsch.......................35 Years Linda Scire..............................35 Years

Sergeant John Fischer............ 10 Years Giovani Gomez........................ 10 Years Deputy Christopher Hink........ 10 Years Susan Krause.......................... 10 Years Lieutenant John Luckett......... 10 Years Sergeant Edwin Martinez....... 10 Years Deanne Ondrovic.................... 10 Years Corporal Nicholas Ramasanto.....10 Years

Laura Ready............................ 10 Years Corporal Mark Reeves............ 10 Years Carol Richardson.................... 10 Years William Rogers....................... 10 Years Angela Royce.......................... 10 Years Kathleen Rulison.................... 10 Years Sandra Russell....................... 10 Years April Smith.............................. 10 Years Deputy Jayson Young.............. 10 Years Irene Ahonen.......................... 15 Years Samuel Anes........................... 15 Years Velma Aquino.......................... 15 Years Deputy Sharif Dorrell.............. 15 Years Mary Ellis................................ 15 Years Deputy Yashica Green............. 15 Years Corporal Trina Landrum-Black....15 Years

Shannon Lockheart................. 15 Years Eileen Long............................. 15 Years Deputy Gary Paxson............... 15 Years

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD Irene Ahonen Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Nicole Akers Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Deputy Jamal Alderman Department of Detention & Corrections South Division Samuel Anes Department of Detention & Corrections Classification Section Zorina Angeles Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Corporal Lisa Archibald Department of Detention & Corrections North Division Corporal Betty Belton Department of Detention & Corrections North Division Kathy Bordner Community Policing Section Central District Sergeant Kevin Boulton Investigative Operations Bureau Child Protection Investigation Division Deputy Brian Camadeca Community Policing Section North District Christi Carter Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Jeffrey Sanders...................... 15 Years

Michele Carter Department of Detention & Corrections

Deputy Shyzzam Shackelford......15 Years

Medical Division

Allegra Thomas...................... 15 Years

Tanya Carver Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Kathleen Yeo............... 15 Years Deputy Shawn Atkinson..........20 Years Corporal Iliano Caminero Jr....20 Years Jane Desanto..........................20 Years Deputy Michael Godin.............20 Years Chad Hollis.............................20 Years Deanna Hunt...........................20 Years Sergeant Michael Johnson......20 Years

Corporal Anthony Clark Department of Detention & Corrections South Division Annette Creedon Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Veronica Cruz Department of Detention & Corrections Inmate Records Section

Mark Dailey Support Services Bureau Property & Evidence Division

Deputy Abraham Joseph Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Corporal Paul Deboy Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Lieutenant Kimon Koungras Patrol Operations Bureau Central District

Deputy Rosebert Ecxat Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Deputy Frank Kroll Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Les Emanuels Department of Detention & Corrections Classification Section

Melissa Landry Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Stephanie Erwin Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Sergeant Paul Langlais Community Policing Section North District

Deputy Doreen Ferrio Department of Detention & Corrections North Division

Teaundra Lee Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Corporal Kim Fields Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Melissa Levine Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Giselle Fonte Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Eileen Long Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Kendra Ford Department of Detention & Corrections Inmate Records Section

Deputy Blaine Loring Patrol Operations Bureau Major Accident Investigation Team

Deputy Jason Frederick Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Jen Luciano Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Sergeant Doug Gettmann Judicial Operations Bureau Alternative Sentencing Unit

Corporal Ryan Maglio Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Giovani Gomez Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Kris Mohr Judicial Operations Bureau Criminal Court Squad

Mikiesha Green Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Luda Moody Office of the Sheriff General Counsel

Dee Greening Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Captain Amy Moyer Department of Detention & Corrections Custody Management Division

Deputy Shannon Grill Investigative Operations Bureau Crimes Against Children Unit

Corporal John Mullins Patrol Operations Bureau North District

Elizabeth Guzowski Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Robert Narzinsky Department of Detention & Corrections North Division

Tricia Harrell Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Christopher Nault Investigative Operations Bureau Threat Management Section

Corporal Kevin Harritt Department of Detention & Corrections Central Division

Maribeth Nelmida Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Peggy Henderson Department of Detention & Corrections

Deputy Brian Oakes Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

North Division Darlene Hilery Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Alice Hyman Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Ashley Pagan Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Edie Patrick Department of Detention & Corrections Inmate Records Section

Due to the changing number of entries in this edition, we apologize for any unintended omissions. For promotions, transfers, and new hires, go to SONET, “Administration,” “Human Resources,” “Changes in the Troops.”

PAGE 10 | OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022

Deputy Greg Peck Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Eden Ubas Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Ryan Anderson Registered Nurse Support & Health Services Bureau

Stefanie Menendez Administrative Assistant Judicial Operations Bureau

Janna Puig Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Christopher Viaud Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Anida Caca Criminal Justice Specialist Department of Detention & Corrections

Becky Plank School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Arcelius Pulido Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Meloney Washington Department of Detention & Corrections Central Division

Philip Benoit Warehouse Operations Technician Support Services Bureau

Breanna Portugal Law Enforcement Analyst Investigative Operations Bureau

Deputy Vassil Raytchev Department of Detention & Corrections North Division

Norma Watson Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Charlotte Campbell School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Michael Price Jr. Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Sharissa Reeves Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Robert Weil Investigative Operations Bureau Threat Management Section

James Cohen School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Parker Ramos CPI Case Assignment Technician Investigative Operations Bureau

May Reyes Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Jessica Werner Department of Detention & Corrections Inmate Records Section

Tina Eramo Buyer Support Services Bureau

Robert Rathbun Jr. Deputy Department of Detention & Corrections

Deputy Torey Rhinehart Department of Detention & Corrections South Division

Sergeant Keith Williams Patrol Operations Bureau North District

Kathryn Fox Registered Nurse Support & Health Services Bureau

Reghan Resto Court Processing Technician II Judicial Operations Bureau

Tabatha Ribich Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Deputy Johnny Willmore Investigative Operations Bureau Tactical Investigations Section

Patricia Frankoski Records Technician I Support Services Bureau

Ricardo Robalino Criminal Justice Specialist Department of Detention & Corrections

Dave Richardson Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Sylvia Winrow Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Pearl Gardner Inmate Records Specialist I Support & Health Services Bureau

Colton Roland Law Enforcement Analyst Investigative Operations Bureau

Christina Robinson Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Ethel Wright Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Vernon George School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Frank Rubin School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Christina Rodgers Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Laura Yale Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Michael Golden Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Christopher Sloane Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Jeff Sanders Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

RETIREMENTS

Alicia Grann Public Safety Telecommunicator Support Services Bureau

John Stilwell School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Vera Hancharova Administrative Assistant Judicial Operations Bureau

Kelley Taman Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Jacob Holcomb Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Carrie Valdes Alternative Sentencing Specialist Judicial Operations Bureau

Paul Kelly Jr. Crisis Response Specialist Patrol Operations Bureau

Michael Valenti Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Valerie Kernaghan Inmate Records Specialist III Support & Health Services Bureau

Sherry Valentine Administrative Assistant Judicial Operations Bureau

Barbara LaBarge School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Bearry White Criminal Justice Specialist Support & Health Services Bureau

Angelica Lainez CPI Investigator (Trainee) Investigative Operations Bureau

Mahaley Wixey Inmate Property Technician Support & Health Services Bureau

Richard Leist School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Michael Zimba Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Amy Sapanara Investigative Operations Bureau Economic Crimes Unit Stacie Schwab Support Services Bureau Forensic Science Division Deputy Michael Smith Department of Detention & Corrections North Division Penny Smith Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Deputy Robert Smith Investigative Operations Bureau Crimes Against Children Unit Jordana Standiford Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division Sergeant Robert Staples Investigative Operations Bureau Burglary & Pawn Unit Denise Thomas Office of the Sheriff General Counsel

Eric Snowden 10/3/2022, 20 years of service.

Charley Street 10/4/2022, 27 years of service.

Brad Byers 10/4/2022, 21 years of service.

Archibald Cowans 10/17/2022, 3 years of service.

Gregg Appel 10/31/2022, 22 years of service.

Susan Smith 11/21/2022, 8 years of service.

Jimmy Nettles 11/28/2022, 6 years of service.

Shirley Tippit 12/9/2022, 8 years of service.

Dawn Gibney 12/16/2022, 35 years of service.

Nelvy Kenny 12/22/2022, 24 years of service.

Karen Cole 12/22/2022, 3 years of service.

Kristine Lombardo Senior Administrative Assistant Information Technology Bureau

Tara Trivinia Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

NEW HIRES

Axel Lugo-Rivera Media Forensic Specialist Investigative Operations Bureau

Elizabeth Trout Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Madison Ackermann CPI Case Assignment Technician Investigative Operations Bureau

Colleen Mazzo School Crossing Guard Patrol Operations Bureau

Ashleigh Troy Department of Detention & Corrections Medical Division

Joshua Adams Deputy Patrol Operations Bureau

Samantha Mendenhall Research Specialist Professional Standards Bureau

OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2022 | PAGE 11

Who would have known when I wrote two articles about our bloodhound legacy in 2018 and 2019, that we would actually acquire two new bloodhound pups to continue that tradition? Welcome Duke and Holmes!

Our first two bloodhounds were named Spotlight and Blackjack. They were born in Pinellas County at the ranch of Captain Carl McMullen. The father who sired them was named Bimbo and he was a champion tracker at a prison in North Florida. Bimbo was dognapped by two escaped inmates who had the bright idea that if they took the champion tracker with them, they’d never be found. They drove a stolen car to Pinellas County, then abandoned both the car and Bimbo. The bloodhound ended up at the McMullen ranch where he met Captain McMullen’s bloodhound Peggy and nature took its course. The resulting puppies were trained by Captain McMullen, his stepson Deputy Gary Stevenson, and Deputy Don Anderson. Most of the McMullen cousins remember being used as subjects to teach those dogs how to track and become the great resource that they were.

It is important to remember that Pinellas County looked a lot different in the 1960’s than it does today. There were orange groves, open areas, and lots of mangroves. The bloodhounds were the only K-9’s we had back then, and they were used alone or in conjunction with our Mounted Posse. If they were needed at a scene, a deputy had to go by Captain McMullen’s ranch on Whitney Road, retrieve the dog from the pen and put him in the cruiser to take him where he was needed. We don’t have many pictures of the dogs at an actual crime scene or in service, so we treasure the ones we have!

In an article in the Floridian magazine in 1967 titled “Master of the Manhunt” Captain McMullen said “at times, in deep water, muck, heavy palmettos, we pick Spot up and carry him. All 75 pounds of him.

We don’t use commands, don’t need to. He doesn’t bark on the trail, doesn’t make a sound. It’s all a game to him.” He added that bloodhounds are by nature, friendly, affectionate, and even a little timid.

“If he was loose, he’d probably walk right up and kiss him in the face.” Some criminals back then tried to disguise their scent with turpentine or black pepper, climb a tree or drop from a limb. But a bloodhound’s nose is hard to fool!

We can’t wait to see the training this new generation of PCSO “deputy dogs” encounter. They have a treasured history to follow and I’m sure we can’t wait to see them in action! Good luck to Duke and Holmes!

Information/photos provided by PCSO Archive Historian Penny Cooke.