Brandon Police
October 4th, 2007 by 
Alica
Let’s continue our discussion of the Brandon Police Department under this new heading instead of the old one.
Now that Wade Else has been made assistant interim police chief, what advice can you give him that will help him do the best at his job? He’s been a policeman for years, but does he have administrative experience? As a chief, he will need that. Will he even have his new job for very long? If the City Council hires a new police chief, where will that leave Wade Else? Still as assistant chief? These are questions that will be answered with time, I’m sure.
We must all support Wade Else, and all the members of the Brandon Police Department, so that they can do their jobs to the best of their ability. That is in the best interest of the citizens of Brandon. Certainly there will be concerns and criticisms along the way. That is part of life and would occur no matter who was on the department or who lived in the city. But it is always best to be polite no matter what our topic is.
Posted in Uncategorized | 
October 4th, 2007 at 10:26 am
I don’t care who has taken over, as long as they protect the citizens of Brandon. When a call has been made that one neighbor threw a metal sign at an 8 year old girl while screaming and swearing, that neighbor should be charged with assault or disorderly conduct at the very least. Why don’t our police care?
October 4th, 2007 at 11:47 am
Alica,
Isn’t it funny how when you try to direct a blog into a positive direction asking for constructive advice….you get one responder….hmmmmm. People are too quick to throw stones at the men and women who are out there trying to protect our citizens (and yes, this includes stopping speeders who don’t obey the speed limits set for our safety!) Come on all you wise bloggers…where are you now?
October 4th, 2007 at 12:24 pm
The wise bloggers are still around. I do agree we need to support our current police department. I also agree, we need to take a bi-partisan look at a contract with the county. Just because the BPD is here, doesn’t make them the best choice for our safety and security.
Here are some questions and observations I have:
If the city decides to keep the BPD:
1) Is the community of Brandon OK with your taxes going up to provide the necessary revenue to give the BPD adequate raises?
2) Is the community OK with the fact that by giving the BPD the necessary raise, it could actually cost more than contracting with the Sherriff’s office for the same coverage, safety, security?
3) Is the community aware that you already pay taxes to the county, some of which goes to the Sherriff’s office?
If the city decides to go with the Sherriff’s office:
1) Will the city be contracting for 24 hour/day coverage?
2) Does the community understand the Sherriff’s office can enforce both county and city laws?
3) Does the community understand the revenues generated from enforcing city laws should still go to the city? (This can all be set up in the contract)
As far as the meeting Monday night:
1) Why did the city council say that in there meeting they were going to discuss setting up a time for a public discussion of this event? Then turn around and never hold an open meeting.
2) Why did the city council ask the Sherriff’s dept. not to attend the meeting? (I called the Sherriff’s dept. and verified this myself)
3) Why did the city council ‘vote’ to keep the BPD, but has now apparently asked the Sherriff’s office to submit a proposal? (Call the Sherriff’s dept. and ask them yourself)
4) Who does the city council think they are by telling the community to mind our own business when it comes to our safety, just because they discussed this in ‘executive session’?
5) I won’t even begin to list the issues with the Reverend being a city council man. Telling the community to not call him reverend when he is on that seat, but then preaching from his pulpit on how we should all be ashamed of ourselves for taking part in these blogs.
October 4th, 2007 at 2:27 pm
Christine,
You should care who takes over, it’s like voting…if you don’t take an interest and vote you have no right to complain after the fact.
I noticed the ad in the paper. It’s requiring a Bachelor’s degree as it should. There isn’t many management jobs out there that don’t.
Buford
Why should our taxes go up? We’ve been paying for a PD on our own for years. That was Councilman Karbers typical retort. I’d be willing to bet if we audited the departments of this city we could trim enough fat to give our officers a raise.
October 4th, 2007 at 3:18 pm
I’m really glad they voted to keep the police department. They do a great job at managing speeders and keeping our community safe! I’m not too sure I like the idea of Wade being chief, but I guess we’ll wait and see!
October 4th, 2007 at 4:05 pm
Maybe we should look at getting a new newspaper in Brandon. It appears that the editors only like to create controversy in our public. If you spend as much time trying to make our community better as you did on the net Brandon would be a much better place to live. Constructive criticism?
October 4th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
The first thing Wade needs to do is adopt some of the good habits of the current chief. The second thing he needs to do is try to address some of the issues raised in the last blog. The biggest complaint I heard from within the department is a lack of training. Not all training has to be off site and expensive. Brandon has many officers that may all know different things. Mentoring might be an option. The biggest complaint I heard from the public was a lack of police presence on their side streets. Maybe he could come up with a route for each officer to follow that covers all the streets. If they do that now, maybe they should do it in the evening when people are home. Officers should be friendly and wave at people. Country people do it all the time – it gives one a feeling of community. He probably knows by now he can’t please everybody, but he must do what he thinks is right, not what is politically correct. He might want a police presence around the schools opening and closing to deter crime before it starts . They might even enforce some of the driving laws around the schools occasionally – people can be trained.
I thought I heard the council really didn’t vote on anything. They simply pacified an angry crowd by saying they weren’t getting rid of the police force - a true statement since they never entered a contract with the county. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds. Wade’s job is to make the police force so popular and effective that no one would replace them to save money - unless they all went to work for the county and provided Brandon’s coverage.
October 5th, 2007 at 12:41 am
To #6 Stirring the pot: I’m open to suggestions of how journalists can help make the city better. You can post your suggestions here or e-mail me at apthiele@argusleader.com.
October 5th, 2007 at 8:10 am
No. 6, I beg to differ about the paper creating controversy in this community. the public and local government is doing that on their own. The staff is only doing their job - reporting on the happenings of the community, which includes the good news and the bad news. If you look at the Challenger, there are stories in there week after week after week about good things, good people and the like. Perhaps you’re only looking for the bad news. Open your eyes and read.
October 5th, 2007 at 8:17 am
#4 A Bachelor’s degree doesn’t mean the police officer has training or experience in mental health. They need it so they can spot the ones that are dangerous from the ones that just need prozac.
Also if I don’t have any idea who is better, then I don’t vote.
October 5th, 2007 at 8:49 am
Christine,
What in the world are you talking about? Mental health?? The statement I made was, I thought it was a good idea to require a bachelors degree for the new chief. I’m speaking in regards to the increased amount of administrative duties he will have.
If you don’t know who’s better are you taking advantage of the public forum the candidates offer? Do you contact them personally and ask your questions? This day and age, there’s no excuse for not being able to choose, and it’s your kind of thinking that maybe got us the council we have now.
October 5th, 2007 at 9:15 am
#4 Juliet
Why would our taxes go up you ask? The numbers I heard were around $200,000 to $300,000 increase in wages for the BPD. That would be money the city would have to come up with. We could cut $200,000 to $300,000 from the budget of the golf course if their budget is that big. Now, if the city council members are members of the golf course that might be tough to get passed. We could cut that amount away from the street dept., I’m sure we would all enjoy driving around potholes every day. Could we close the city pool to pay for this wage increase?
My point is, unless you know where our city is blatantly wasting nearly $300,000 our taxes will go up! Or does the city have a money tree?
October 5th, 2007 at 9:39 am
Buford, that’s kind of my point. Why can the county do it for a third of a million dollars cheaper??? No one can speculate until the services are compared SIDE BY SIDE. I don’t buy it. We need to know IF there’s waste and where. I’m just trying to ask pertinant questions.
If a car dealership is charging me twice as much to fix my car I want to know why. Are the parts better?, the warranty?, the mechanics? are they cutting corners? Or is it truly apples to apples?
October 5th, 2007 at 2:14 pm
Wade I dont think so. Barry should be Chief of Police. Barry has been around longer, and isn’t full of himself like Wade. Why dont you look into Wades work history or lack of. How do you think he got that fat ass. I will tell you it’s not from working hard for the city. Kissing the chief and city council ass shouldn’t get you the Chief’s Job, hard work and experience should get you the job. Please people open your eyes is Wade really the best choice for Brandon?????
October 5th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
241 - Barry turned it down.
October 5th, 2007 at 2:29 pm
I haven’t talked to Barry Williams, but I asked Wade Else and I asked Dennis Olson (on separate occasions) if Barry had expressed an interest or desire in the chief of police job. Both said no. I don’t know if Barry specifically had been asked or not, but apparently he didn’t come forward to express interest.
Just because someone is a great cop doesn’t mean they’ll be a good administrator. And likewise, just because someone is a bad cop (and I’m talking in general here, not about anyone in particular) doesn’t mean they’ll be a bad administrator. They’re two separate skill sets, even if they are in the same field.
Phil is still the chief until November, and since the assistant chief is a new position, I’m not sure what Wade’s job description is. It’s possible it isn’t even written yet. And if the city advertises for a new chief and hires someone else, it’s possible Wade wouldn’t be in charge of the department all by himself for only a very short time, if at all. Time will tell how it all plays out.
October 5th, 2007 at 3:40 pm
241…..Its people like you that give this blog a bad name!!! This forum is not for trashing individuals. You can disagree with people and still be respectful. I wonder if you would think the same of Sgt. Else at 2 in the morning when someone is breaking into your home??? Which, by the way, that doesn’t happen very often here thanks Sgt Else and the rest of the BPD. I just ask people to be respectful. We all are human and we all have feelings. Would you want Sgt Else’s kids reading what you are saying about him??? I would hope not!!!
October 5th, 2007 at 3:50 pm
I hope that the Council will take a good hard look at this. If they are set, and are not going to contract with the Sheriff’s Office than they need to bring in a new face to the Dept. Someone who can make some changes and bring in some fresh air. Promoting someone from within to the Chief’s position will do nothing for the moral of that Dept. They need a new philosophy and beliefs. By bringing in a good qualified candidate with fresh ideas on Community Policing will only make the Brandon PD a better place for all of the Officers. Sometimes change is good, even though we dont like it or we are afraid of the results. It is evident that there is a problem within that Dept. due to the fact everyone is leaving. You cant tell me that pay is the reason. Their benefit package is probably one of the best in the state. When you consider that they are compensated pretty well. I think a female Chief would be an excellent idea. I hope that the Council is smart enough to advertise nation wide and not just in our little world.
October 5th, 2007 at 4:31 pm
To #12 BUFORD, the $200,000 to $300,000 was the difference between the Sheriff Office and what it takes today to run the BPD if you were listening. I bet if the city did give those guys a raise that big there would be no turn over here! Support your local law enforcement…Thanks to all.
October 5th, 2007 at 4:34 pm
I hope the city gets a lot of applicants for the police chief job. No matter who the Council chooses for the job – from within the department or without – interviewing a variety of applicants will give councilors ideas of how the department might grow in the future.
Sometimes it’s difficult for a person to be promoted to be in charge of people he (or she – I’m speaking in general terms here) worked with on the same level previously. Sometimes the staff doesn’t give the newly-promoted person the respect his (or her) office deserves. (The office of boss deserves respect, no matter who has the job.)
Many companies do promote successfully from within, though, so it is possible. Still, my hope is that the city will take applications for a permanent chief and will interview a variety of people before making a decision, whatever that may be.
In the mean time, naming an interim chief from within is probably a sound plan, to provide continuity.
October 5th, 2007 at 6:04 pm
#20 I agree with your logic. I hope that is truly how the process works, however the pessimist in me doesn’t think that it will. I think that most of the BPD members, the Council and Sgt. Else himself already see his name on the Chief of Police office door. I personally talked with Barry Williams about the Chief job over 2 years ago and think he would be a good candidate with his Military Administration background and his short-term left of service. He could re-organize the department, breath life into the organization and not simply create a new dipple in the chair in the Chief’s office. If you read this Barry, you might remember our talk….please consider applying.
October 5th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
I posted this on the other thread and I wanted to share it here as well:
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Juror…fellow bloggers! I am very pleased that so many people have shared their thoughts on this important issue. I think we’ve all learned that direct and open dialog is always the best course of action. I had a very good personal conversation with one of my alderman, Brett Karber, this afternoon (he came to my office) and I really appreciate him taking the time to share his views. Also, thanks for the kind words from many of you on this blog. For those of you who took shots, I could care less, be my guest. I know what is true and what is rumor and I also know that popular little phrase we all learned as little children, “..sticks and stones, may break my bones, but words will never hurt me…” I know my “house” is in need of re-organization and repair, but my faith in God, support from friends and family and love of this community will pull me through. Believe me, in spite of the topsy-turvy events of my recent past, I am approached on a daily basis to run for something…city, county, state, etc. I will follow my heart, head, and my faith, but I am not currently campaigning or considering a run for anything at this time. Finally, I want to be very clear…..I admire and respect every man and woman that puts on a uniform, vest and a sidearm and goes to work everyday and risks his/her life for mine and says nothing is going to happen to you while I’m on duty. They deserve and have my respect and admiration. Further, it takes someone of courage and character to serve in a thankless elected position, but it is a priviledge and one I hope is NEVER abused. My final thoughts on this subject are, I believe that both the ambulance issue and the police issue should be examined with all questions answered with all parties involved with the decision made that would be best for the City of Brandon. Also, Alica we’ve known each other for a long time. I think you would agree that the moderator of such an event should be someone who can control an emotional crowd, give everyone ample time to share their opinion, keep the conversation going, keep things positive and not display bias. I’m not saying that person is me. However, I would rather that Jill or you focus on covering the event and perform media functions. An ideal mediator in my mind (but I don’t think he’d do it) would be former Mayor Mike Schultz. However, I would again humbly offer my services to do so. I have nothing to gain except for what I have always strived for….the chance to serve my friends, neighbors, my community, my home.
October 5th, 2007 at 11:46 pm
Topel, you need to shut up. You have absolutely no clout anymore, if ever did. Everyone else, understand the mayor appoints the police chief not the council. If you were at the council meeting on Monday you would have heard Barry does not want the job, let it go. Wade wants it, why, I dont know, but he does. Be happy that someone who has put 15 plus years into his job is willing to take this on. Quit blogging about it, it is a done deal, Wade is the interim chief and I personally think it is a good choice. Not one person stood up on Monday at the council meeting and said anything bad about the BPD so everyone who is now bashing them, SHUT THE HELL UP!!!! If you had a problem with them you should have been there.
October 6th, 2007 at 6:37 am
The reason was the Monday meeting wasn’t supposed to be the open meeting to discuss what is going to happen with the BPD. It was the BPD Officers, friends and family that forced the council into making a decision. No one from the Coundy was even invited to the meeting to speak. That is why there is still the big debate still going on, because all the information was never put out.
October 6th, 2007 at 7:20 am
Just the Facts - Please go read the agenda for Mondays Meeting, this was on there.
October 6th, 2007 at 8:00 am
First, learn to spell my last name. Second, have enough balls to see your own name to your vulgar bashing post and finally, why are you so eager to sweep the issue under the rug if people obviously have questions?
October 6th, 2007 at 8:46 am
Now I need to learn to spell…. the previous post should read: “First, learn to spell my last name. Second, have enough balls to sign your own name to your vulgar bashing posts and finally, why are you so eager to sweep the issue under the rug if people obviously have questions? I could give a hoot less if Wade, “wants the job.” He should have to apply for it just like everyone else. As for him acting in the Interim, I think that is a wise decision, I have and still consider him a friend. Wade and I worked together on several issues when I was the Police Commissioner during my time on the Council. If he’s honorable, and you ask him he will confirm that to be true.
October 6th, 2007 at 10:17 am
Ok,Can this blog be done without name calling and putting people down by name?
I know these are heated issues, but nothing good can come from this. I think we can “talk” and ask questions and still get our points across without resorting to this juvenile way of getting back.
I feel like I am in elementary school watching a playground fight. We are all adults!!
October 6th, 2007 at 7:33 pm
From the council agenda at the Brandon web site:
‘Police Committee Report.
a) Resignation of Matt Sawh.
b) County Law Enforcement.
c) Interim Assistant Police Chief.
d) Shift Supervisor has completed the probationary period.’
From the minutes at the Brandon Council web site:
‘A discussion was held on County Law Enforcement options. After a lengthy and heated discussion, Alderman Kloster moved Alderman Rubin seconded that the Council affirm their intent to keep the Brandon Police Department and that the Council appoint Wade Else as interim Assistant Police Chief to continue until a permanent Police Chief is hired. Motion carried.’
What are we discussing:
1. what are the pros/cons of replacing the BPD with the county and is that still an option on the table?
2. Wade Else as interim Assistant Police Chief
3. Who should be police chief if we keep the BPD
Maybe we need 3 seperate blogs? I don’t see where the council’s vote to affirm their intent to keep the BFD means anything. Sounds a lot like that Senator’s intent to resign, well maybe resign, well why should I resign statements. It leaves the door open for public discussion. If they go with the county, the other two don’t matter so maybe the name calling should stop.I agree with #28, but I don’t want adults that act like 3rd graders to know where I live.
October 6th, 2007 at 7:59 pm
Nicely written, and good questions all. Thank you for the research. I know hope someone who has the power to answer those questions will take the initiative to do so. I am NOT going to ask each Alderman and Mayor individually in private…..I know most of them read this blog. I’m asking them all right now. What do you think? Thanks in advance for answer. Also, does anyone know the process being used in hiring a department head (new police chief)? I assume our city HR Director and City Administrator would play an extraordinarily large roll in that process and then the council/Mayor would hear their recommendations? Just curious?
October 6th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
To #29 Anonymous: Can do. I’ll post three separate headings, using the three questions you listed. Let’s discontinue using this thread and begin using those three threads instead.
So, everybody, stop and focus a minute, take a deep breath and we’ll all start fresh on the new threads.
October 6th, 2007 at 10:44 pm
#17 typed : ‘You can disagree with people and still be respectful. I wonder if you would think the same of Sgt. Else at 2 in the morning when someone is breaking into your home??? Which, by the way, that doesn’t happen very often here thanks Sgt Else’ My question to you #17 would be when was the last time you saw Sgt. Else patrolling the city at 2am or on a weekend??????????if you have any answer but NEVER, I will be surprised.
October 7th, 2007 at 7:58 am
#32
Firstly let me say I don’t in any way have an affiliation with the Brandon PD. ( so I’m impartial)
To answer your question….What does that have to do with anything? But I do understand the concept of seniority. I’m assuming Mr. Else has paid his dues in respect to nights and weekends. You my friend, have sour grapes. Pay your dues with 15-20 years of service and you won’t be working nights and weekends either.
October 7th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Ok I see people are talking about Wade working for the PD for 15 years SOOOO what. 15 years dosn’t mean he will be a good police chief. I think oncy Wade takes over the city will see a big turnover. The power will go right to his head. The city needs to take applications and hire the best man, or woman for the job not just the officer who said he will do it. Any dumb ass can work for a small town PD, and takes someone special to be a chief who the city, and city officers can look up to. Wade puts stuff of never et back to you, and I see someone said when someone is breaking into your house at 2AM Wade will save you??? Please he has worked dayshift for years M-F. People Wade is a great SGT but come on just because Berry didn’t want it you would take second best because he has been here for 15 years.
October 7th, 2007 at 10:02 pm
Consider this:
The city should hire the best person to be the new chief, even if it takes a while to find a suitable candidate.
In the mean time, the city will need an interim chief.
It makes sense to appoint someone who has been on the force for a long time, because they will have the background to provide continuity.
Phil Youngdale, the current chief, is highly respected. It seems reasonable to accept his recommendation for interim chief.
If the interim chief wants to be the next chief, he can apply for the job along with any other applicants.
I’ve not heard any talk in or out of City Council meetings to indicate that the interim chief is a shoo-in for the new chief job.
Perhaps some people are getting ahead of themselves in their arguments. No offense, but I’m tempted to say some people are jumping to conclusions.
My question is this: What is your recommendatipn to the City Council on how to proceed as they look for a new chief?
If you would, please post your comments on the new blog header on this topic.
Thanks for blogging.
October 8th, 2007 at 2:19 pm
Posted Argus Leader 10/08/2007
Heath Earl Tople, 37, Brandon Plead guilty to violation of protection order, stalking, physical injury; sentenced to 365 ddays jail time, 275 days suspended.
Have fun in jail Heath! No blogging for you for awhile.
October 8th, 2007 at 10:13 pm
Alica…here is one reason why there are people questioning the appointment of Sgt. Else. You have other posts talking about the good old boys, well here is another example from our council. First lets look at the Mayor. He happens to be good friends with Wade. Secondly Wade has worked for Steve Rubin at Husets for several years as a security officer. Next you have Wade attending Kevin Klosters church…hmm talk about the good ol boys taking care of one of there own. I am sure that other people could comment on Wades relationships with the other council members that I did not mention. I am just speaking from my knowledge. So you can see why alot of people have no faith in the way things are being dealt with.
October 9th, 2007 at 6:56 am
Community Advisor……lets stay on topic and stop trashing other people. We need to stay respectful. And 241….I KNOW for a fact that Sgt Elses phone rings a lot at 2am in the morning. Thats part of being a Sgt. Again, he has had plenty of 2am calls in his 15 plus years on our force. If he is best qualified person, I believe he should get the job. If someone more qualified applies…Great!! I would hope that “the good ole boys” theory wouldn’t happen. I hope the council has learned their lesson with this.
October 9th, 2007 at 10:51 am
Thank you #38, I appreciate the common sense…….Now, “Community Advisor”, show an ounce of courage and either call me (366-7057 / 582-7151), meet me face to face or identify yourself. You’ve made this personal and ugly. It didn’t have to be….by the way, I am NOT in jail, have NOT been in jail, am NOT going to have to be in jail, and I “honestly” sign my own name. Finally, I have NEVER tried to be a politician, but have had the good fortune to be able to serve the people of my community….and will always serve when I am asked. Can you give me any redeeming qualities you have, other than that you provide plenty of carbon dioxide to our atmosphere and fertilizer to our lives.
October 9th, 2007 at 4:18 pm
So have you already done your 90 days or are you doing work release?
October 9th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
….so are you just that big of an ignorant ass? Did you read what #38 and eveyone else said about staying on topic? I’m still waiting for you to come out from hiding you gutless wonder!! FYI - Neither!
October 10th, 2007 at 11:07 am
Heath,
Again don’t know what he is talking about. Police Officers have 12 months to get certified from the time they are hired with a department if they are full time. Yes, I think Brandon has some uncertified officers, but they are not given weapons until they are qualified to use them. I think Barry is a certified instructor and does qualify them before they are handed a weapon, use some common sense. That’s why this BLOGGING is a load of crap because people like you get on here and publish non-sense and don’t have all the facts either. The academy does not cost the department anything but the hourly wage for the person attending; it is funded by the state. Get the facts before you start printing stuff.
October 10th, 2007 at 12:17 pm
Who’s full of crap…..I personally spoke with your new female officer within the past few months….she HAS NOT been to the academy and is carrying a sidearm! You are a lying SOB! We may disagree, but don’t just out and out lie! Also, the FACT remains we have 40% of our officers who are NOT certified….you show me otherwise and if they are NOT carrying weapons. I spoke with Barry several times as the former Police Councilman about weapons certification. He is qualified to do so, but very ofen the department would use Canton Police Chief Al Wornok. He also spoke of veterans who would evade his insistence on getting their certification up to date regularly. Listen to yourself, “the academy doesn’t cost the department anything but the hourly wage of the person attending….” IT COSTS THE CITY SOMETHING, by your own admission we are spending money from the city and receiving NO service. Why don’t YOU get the facts before you go spouting off!!
October 10th, 2007 at 12:33 pm
It appears as though people who read a thread on a certain topic also read other threads on that same, or similar, topics.
Therefore, I’m requesting that people post any particular comment to one thread only and not post the same comment on multiple threads.
Many thanks.
October 10th, 2007 at 3:37 pm
Why must you resort to calling people names? Grow up Tople tell the facts.(90 days) If you were so great on the council what happened? Go back in the closet and shut up for awhile.
October 10th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
I am sorry about the bickering. I just don’t like it when people get on here and don’t know what they are talking about and try and sway a person opinion. I would like to say just attend the meeting and find out the facts for yourselves. I have been to them all and have not seen Mr. Topel at any 1 of them. Officers have to qualify with their firearms once a year, that’s it. State standards! I know the city has a field training program, may not be as good as the counties or the city of Sioux Falls but if you think for 1 minute that the city would allow the police department to turn a guy or gal loose with a loaded weapon and not be trained how to use it you’re crazy. The only costs to the city for getting a officer certified is that officers wages, ask they will tell you. The county and Sioux Falls have the same programs; they do not send officers right away to see if they are going to make it in the field. Some decide that police work is not for them and change their minds after they get on the street for awhile, so why send them to the academy right away? Makes sense to me. I just ask to get the facts for yourselves and don’t listen to the bags of hot air on this blog. Thank You!
October 10th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
All I can say is I am done trying to convince someone so unbelievably ignorant and who blatantly LIES!!! I was at every City Council meeting for over 4 years….where you? I spoke with an armorer for the County Sheriff’s Office as well as for the SF PD. State Law requires you to be certified TWICE within 12 months. You’ve been to all of the meetings…since when? I too agree…get the facts from those who have the courage to say who they are and attribute their source, not some HOT AIR BAG who STILL is too much of coward to come out from hiding behind a false name. I also find it interesting that the only thing you can seem to find to throw back at me is some 90 days nonsense. I renew my challenge…..call me or meet me face to face anytime if you have the courage! To everyone else…..I’m sorry you have to endure the attacks and lies.
October 10th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
I will be nice and not touch Mr. Topel’s ignorant message. So are you saying you have not been charged with the crimes I have mentioned? Honest now, Mr. Topel. Where you at the last few meetings, that’s what I thought! Now, Shut up! Sorry everyone, I had to vent 1 last time. It won’t happen again, on to positive things.
October 10th, 2007 at 7:44 pm
GOD Community Advisor you’re a dick! You first insult someone and then say you’re sorry to everyone. I’ve just re-read all 48 posts on this thread and all of the other related threads. Maybe you should just shut up, that would definetely be on to positive things! By the way, I know Heath Tople and he can spell his name. That’s probably why he uses it when he sends messages, and why you don’t.
October 10th, 2007 at 8:00 pm
You people are really amazing. You are upset at insults but then again you call someone a dick. Very mature yourself OUTSIDER. You just fell in the very trap that you are lecturing to COMMUNITY ADVISOR.
Also…..I do not get why those who use their real names are always whining and calling other anonymous bloggers cowards.
October 10th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
Yea, #49, what #50 said, why don’t you, America the FREE!
October 10th, 2007 at 11:18 pm
I love how the city council in the name of “money” start contract talks with the county. Granted in their position they have the power to do so, and it would take the power of the people to start a petition to take it to a vote .Then and only then does the City “leaders” have to abide to the wishes of its citizens.
The council says it has no money to pay the officer’s what they deserve to earn. Meaning, like everything else in this great state, it is dead last when it comes to pay scale for law enforcement. Yet somehow have the money to renovate the old fire hall to allow more people to attend their “open (term used very loosely)” meetings, when the new fire station was half paid for by the city,wasnt it? why not use that meeting room, or purchasing GPS for all the golf carts at the municipal golf course, that is a wise purchase. Kind of takes the skill out of golf when a machine tells you what to do, ( @ 250 per cart x 60 carts =15 thousand) Granted there is a lot of infrastructure that need’s attention. But honestly space it out no one can do everything all at once. Seems like individual agenda’s are at work here. Or how can the city justify paying a just starting street department person more than the starting police officer receives? I don’t think getting a commercial driver’s license take’s twelve weeks of training, nor get sprayed by mace and or pepper spray; just to know what its like to make you think before you use it. Or does the street department personnel have to train how to handle domestic situations? The street department doesn’t have to come out and clean the streets as soon as it snows they wait until it quits snowing, or if it’s to dangerous for them to be out they are pulled off the streets, not the officer’s. So tell me, how can that kind of biased pay scale be justified?
If on the off chance that the deputies DO come in, then it should be that all of the certified officer’s be absorbed and hired by the county, with NO contingencies like they did with Garretson. Its lip service saying “we will take them all, BUT they have to pass our test’s first.
How can a city go from being good financially to empty pockets with in the past 2 years? POOR POOR POOR spending.. Glad to see some people noticed the good old boys club nominated Sgt Else for interim ass chief. Which makes me wonder, with the personal connections he has to BOTH Rubin and Kloster. Why did they not exclude themselves from that vote? I would most definitely put that under the conflict of interest category. And BOO mayor for not recognizing that the regulations of conducting a meeting might be violated when this topic was brought to the table. Kloster nomination to “reaffirm the city’s INTENT to keep the police department and Rubin’s second with an amendment to appoint Else as interim ass.chief ARE 2 separate issues. Way to piggy back that one on Rubin. Talk about a “pork belly”, that’s how so many special agenda’s get added into bills.
So the city approved the purchase of a new sewer truck, that was approved in August 7,2006 with the public works director stating “ buy it now save us later due to epa emission standards” it was planned to be requested for in the 2007 budget but would save money if bought now. Would take 300 days to deliver. The model can be purchased from a bid with the city of Sioux Falls for 242,392.37 and funded over 5 years through the sewer department. Karber moved Rubin seconded. Motion carried. Flash forward to aug 30, 2007 meeting. .Karber moved, Hammond seconded motion carried to approve financing of the new sewer truck with Kinetic leasing.(info gained from reading published city meeting minutes via the internet )
So I’m confused as to how many new sewer trucks do you need or exactly how many where purchased? 1 final note I’m still pondering. Is it true harry buck gave gift certificates to sewer worker’s for a job well down? Did this come out of the city budget? Or his pockets? If city paid for those is that not wrong? Sure they do a fine job, but to reward them and no other city employee? With reading the city minutes over the past 2 years, I would think when Ofc Palmer and Smidt where commended in saving a suicidal male would warrant something, or when Ofc Sawh helped bring a new child into this world, or OFc Walton also getting a commendation for saving a life. Where’s the city gratitude in a job well done there?
October 11th, 2007 at 8:00 am
Very good points Watchdog!! I hope that our council members read your post. Maybe it will get them thinking!!
October 11th, 2007 at 8:47 am
Amen on that one Watchdog.
October 11th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
thank you watch dog #52…I hope people really take that one in
October 12th, 2007 at 10:47 am
The city has yet to look inside the department for its problem. I feel some more resignations coming down the pipe? Mark my word on that 1! Its more than money but they refused to address it I guess. Soon Brandon will have to go with the county for lack of officers.
October 12th, 2007 at 3:25 pm
community advisor,
STOP COPYING AND PASTING TO EVERY TOPIC. We can all READ.
October 12th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
Julie who made you the BLOG police, Topel?
October 12th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Hey Julie!! I think you should tell Community Advisor to go pound sand!!! If not, I will! Again, jerk…my name is spelled, T-O-P-L-E. Still too timid to give your real name, but full of hot air and advise for everyone else? Do everyone a favor and stop “advising” and start hold your breath until next January.
October 12th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Community advisor,
If you read post #44 by Alica the moderator of this board, she kindly asks you to stop copy/pasting. You are too rude to oblige her.
So to answer your question, I appointed myself as the blog police.
You act with no regard to anyone but yourself. You’re showing your immaturity.
October 12th, 2007 at 8:15 pm
Forgive my dumb question, but isn’t Sgt. Else paid in part by the school system for being the school officer? If so, I assume that the school position will be given to someone else (no pun intended). Am I correct or is my memory shot like the rest of my mind?
October 13th, 2007 at 7:44 am
No, Sgt Else is not paid in part by the School, he is no longer a school officer.
October 13th, 2007 at 12:47 pm
T-o-p-e-l, go back into hiding or your cell block. I guess by calling names makes you feel like a bigger person? I suppose the rest of the people on this blog who post anonymous are timid to you also? I wonder if Julie is really your friend and would be if she knew how you REALLY treated women. Don’t make me pulled out the can on your a@#. I said I was going to try and be positive. God Bless and Happy Blogging!
October 13th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
“….I’m going to be positive…God Bless you….kisses, hearts and rainbows…..” People who have any intelligence can see right through your load of crap. You claim to want to be positive, but yet you still feel the need to take unprovoked digs at me or others (ie. #58) I’m not addressing the other “no-name” bloggers, because they’re not attacking me..you are! See the diffence? How I REALLY treat women? Oh, please enlighten me and all the others on how I treat women?
October 13th, 2007 at 3:41 pm
community advisor,
Given the choice, and not knowing either of you other that your blogging, I’d choose Tople. You’re a schoolyard bully.
October 13th, 2007 at 4:16 pm
T-O-P-E-L explain your charges that you pled guilty to? I see you were a politician, so whats ok for one NOT ok for others? You would fit well in the “Good ‘OL Boys Club”. This is not the forum for this, sorry. Hugs and kisses.
October 13th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
Don’t answer, ignore him, if he doesn’t have an audience he’ll stop. Just like a 2 yr old
October 13th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
Julie and Juliet….thank you both. Good advice. Besides, if he truly wanted to know, he’d call me and ask me directly…it IS NOT the forum for this and I’ll hope the 2 yr old will leave us all alone.
October 13th, 2007 at 10:44 pm
More thoughts to Ponder. Sgt Else, now Ass cheif..is NOT the school resource officer. He’s there enough he should be. That now falls upon Ofc Struble. You know the one, that was recently bumped up in pay to be a shift supervisor? Supervisor of what? the SCHOOL??!! I think the grant pays for the SRO??!!! Now what’s wrong with that math? hmm And I whole heartedly agree there is more going on INSIDE that PD dept that has reached critical status and MUST be addressed. As Mr. Jones said. The problem that was there 5-6 years ago are still there. the unfortunately sad part of this whole story, is because it Brandon are loosening very good and respected officers. Money has a small part to do with it. The ongoing BS that is allowed to continue (I THINK ) is what sets those that has less internal problems..
Mr Topel..Tople..however you spell it. I read those same charges in the paper about you also. And in my eye’s you’re off the deep end rants and raves looses a lot of credibility in my eyes. Most definitely NOT public servant worthy…..tsk tsk tsk
October 14th, 2007 at 1:35 pm
T-O-P-E-L, I don’t need to call you, I know what they were so quit trying to be the Good Samaritan. If you were such a nice man your wife would still be with you. As far as you go, I find it hard to give 1 ounce of sh@# of respect to a man who thinks they can beat and bully women! SO SHUT UP!
October 14th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
I’m done being nice, and I’m sorry Julie for not taking your advice, regarding Community Advisor, unfortunetly some people are just too ignorant to get it and have to bash others to make themselves feel better about their loser existance! CA and WD, neither of you have ANY IDEA what happened, and if you think what supposedly was in the newspaper is accurate you’re WRONG. I don’t care if you have any respect, because you’ve lost mine and many others along time ago. I have NEVER beaten or bullied any woman ever! The relationship with my wife and I is much like many in this world…filled with difficulty…good times and bad times. Have I made some bad decisions regarding our relationship….yes, but hopefully, we can work through them. If you have any balls and want to discuss it rather than continue to slam me with only a sliver of fact and pounds of rumor…so be it. Have the courage to talk to me and quite hiding like the coward you appear to be. Otherwise, as Jack Nicholson said in “A Few Good Men,” “….I don’t give a damn what you think you are entitled to!” You’re repeated attempts at telling me to shut up, simple reinforces your whiny 2yr old image that was talked about early. You obviously, DON’T know me.
October 14th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
DING DING.
The bell has rung. Guys, go to your corners.
After 4 rounds of sparring, I have got the scoring EVEN with two rounds to “Community Advisor” and 2 rounds to “Mr. Tople” (note spelling).
In Summary:
Seems like both bloggers have gotten in good shots at each other. CA has repeatedly jabbed HT with his arrest record in the Argus.
But HT has gotten some great shots in himself by intimidating CA somewhat through his courage of revealing his real name. As well as throwing some witty names back at CA.
Should be a good match. Stay tuned.
Now for a commercial break. Please support our sponsors “Buy Brandon!”
October 15th, 2007 at 10:25 am
so Heath in #71 are you saying that what our papers report is wrong???? They dont print that stuff unless proven guilty, so just stop the fighting and quit trying to blame everyone else for what you have been proven to have done….finished….I like watchdogs comments, they seem to know what they are talking about
October 15th, 2007 at 1:55 pm
#69, now they are going to throw more money at the BPD and they think this is going to solve all there problems. There are still problems within the BPD and until they are looked at and fixed all the money in the world isn’t going to change things.
October 15th, 2007 at 2:25 pm
There have been lots of references to problems in the Brandon Police Department. What kinds of problems, exactly? The only one I have heard is that the officers don’t make enough money. I’m sure they are worth more than they are being paid. But what other problems are people referring to? We can’t offer suggestions unless we know more details.
October 15th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
First, I really enjoyed the wit in the comments from Karnack. Nicely done, however I have faith when we go to the third judge’s card it he will score all 4 rounds to me. Enjoyed the chuckle. . .happy to spar with the dim witted, but it gets tedious. Second, Ann…yes I am saying that what was in the paper was wrong! I was NOT proven guilty of any charges, however I chose to plead guilty to lessor charges and will pay whatever penalty due. However, the charges that were reported in the media were NOT accurate and I wasn’t proven to have done anything. I am, however, man enough to admit that I made some bad decisions that led me to make worse mistakes and will pay the penalty. As for watchdog, I respect anyone’s opinion, yeah I can see were I wouldn’t have the credibility as a public servant like such upstanding public servants like, Bill Clinton, Sen. Larry Craig, Rep. Dan Sutton, Richard Nixon, NJ Gov. James McGreevey, etc. etc. You’ll never know until you’ve actually served and it starts with having the courage to stand behind your statements with your own name.
October 15th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Maybe someone should talk to the good Police Officer that have left, I know Blaine Jones know the issue, wonder now if he will talk about them.
October 15th, 2007 at 3:23 pm
Yes, Yes, Yes, T-O-P-E-L finally admits to the charges against him, well almost. Just like a politician. “I chose to plead guilty to lesser charges” now we are getting somewhere. The penalty due is the 90 days you have been denying? Maybe a few less for time served?
Really,continue to call me a 2 yr old, in your post #22, “Sticks and stones will break my bones”, Wow how elementary. Name calling, you started post (#41 & #59), worried how others spell your name, why do you think I do it? Also in post #22 you say “I am approached on a daily basis to run for something”, I can tell you what to run for…..the hills you idiot. I bet you were bullied as a kid and others took your lunch money for fun. You saw only one way to MAYBE get some respect as to become a politician and that did not work either. If you were half the man you try and portray you would stand up to your actual charges and fight them, if not guilty, that’s what REAL men do! I think you continued to get bullied all through your years so you saw only one way to try and be a man, and decided to beat and harass women. In your last post you really look up to some respectful people, Clinton, Craig and Sutton all having to do with some sort of sex scandals if I remember right. Yea, right up your alley. I bet you have a season pass to the glory hole at Annabelle’s Adult Supercenter, little man.
Now the score should say 4th round KNOCK-OUT by Community Advisor!
Hugs and Kisses ;}
October 15th, 2007 at 3:41 pm
I feel compelled to point out that the Argus printed, in the Oct. 8 Magistrate Court listings, only what the county courthouse provided. The listing did not say that Heath was found guilty of anything. It said only that he had pleaded guilty to a series of charges.
Heath says the charges listed in the paper were not accurate, but he says also that he pleaded guilty to lesser charges. That confuses me a bit. Is Heath saying that the charges listed in the paper are not the ones to which he pleaded guilty? Or is he saying that those are not the charges with which he was originally charged? Again, I must point out that the listing in the Argus did not say he was originally charged with certain things; it says he pleaded guilty to certain things.
I don’t mean to belabor the point, only to clarify it for accuracy’s sake.
October 15th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Isn’t this blog supposed to be about the police dept?? We certainly have gotten WAY of topoic. Lets stop the mudslinging and get back to talking about the PD.
October 15th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Time for a change in the leadership at the BPD
October 15th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
You would think you would learn your lesson jerk! Recognize sarcasm, or are you to stupid? I would bet the latter. The moderator of this blog, several bloggers, and I have all repeatedly plead with you to remember this is NOT the topic of this thread. I tried to be nice, certainly didn’t start the ugliness….check your facts who threw the first stones dumbass. I have NEVER beaten or harrassed any woman ever. Again, you would know that if you actually talked to me, my attorney, the Minnehaha County Clerk of Courts, the Minnehaha County State’s Attorney’s office, any number of folks who are actually in the know. I once again refer to the “sliver of fact, combined with the pounds of rumor.” Go back and read #39…or have someone who can read, do it for you. I will type this next part e-x-t-r-a s-l-o-w s-o y-o-u c-a-n u-n-d-e-r-s-t-a-n-d. I listed those who are, or were public servants with less than sterling credibility. Maybe you and I can get together and I can teach you colors and numbers and maybe how to tell time too? As for Annabelle’s, it doesn’t surprise me that you’re familiar with that establishment….I’ve never been there…you probably are nameless in your “business transactions” there as well. You want to go for the KO, chump…you know how to get ahold of me…..but in case you don’t it’s listed in the book. Anytime you want, jump squirrel.
Alica, to respond to your question: Yes, I am saying the charges in the paper were NOT accurate as to what I plead to, nor were they accurate as to what I was alleged to have done.
Finally, I would be happy to have people who I respect and I believe are highly respected in Brandon speak to my character…..(Mike Schultz, Dennis Olson, Judy Jacobs, Dan & Barb Colter, Gene Johnson, Blaine Jones, Chris & Kim Comeaux, Randy Marso, Penny Paclik, Curt & Barb Strom, and the list goes on….) Now, poster #80, I will stop the mudslinging unless I am forced to defend myself any further.
October 15th, 2007 at 6:30 pm
I agree with Heath, lets get away from the name calling and back to the issues. I agree with #81, it is time for new leadership in the BPD and I don’t mean Sgt. Else. I know Wade and he is a nice guy, but he is not a leader and not ready for to lead this Department into the new area in which we find ourselves. We need some new ideas and new direction.
October 15th, 2007 at 7:53 pm
Oh, my goodness what great timing;Third Offense..LOL This squirrel ain’t afraid.CHUMP!! your funny!!!!
October 15. 2007 4:09PM
A felony stalking charge against a former Brandon city councilor has been dismissed.
Heath Earl Tople, 37, of Brandon was charged in September with violating a protection order. The charge would have been his third offense, making it a felony, but the case was dismissed Friday without prejudice before a preliminary hearing.
The complaint alleged that Tople violated the court order by calling a woman and driving by her house.
October 15th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
Hey Community Advisor, I understand you have a bone to pick with Mr. Tople, but what are your thoughts about the Police Department. I agree with #81 and #83, the Brandon Police Department needs a new vision for the future.
October 15th, 2007 at 8:51 pm
Mr. Tople
Ref #59 “Hold your breath till January” does that mean your going to run for office again?
October 16th, 2007 at 10:12 am
I do agree that the BPD needs a new direction. Someone from the outside that can take the department to the next level. Someone to look forward to the growth they will need to cover Brandon as it continues to expand. Someone other than a Good Ol’ Boy.
October 16th, 2007 at 10:50 am
I agree, a new direction. I see they extended the application close date, what do you suppose is up with that, do you spose waiting for a Good Ol’Boy to put his application in.
October 16th, 2007 at 11:13 am
Good Morning Brandon Community I was just informed that I was listed on the Brandon Blog so I came to see what it was all about. I really am quite distressed that my community communicates in this manner. I think we are all better than this. I am also concerned that Heath Tople used me as a character reference and now I am forced to defend that. Should I just call Tople and tell him personally…. probably… but now that I have to be public about it: Tople you know that I don’t agree with what has been going on with you in. I have contiually distanced myself from you because of your choices. I suggested you move out of town and start a new life and get away from all of this, work on your family and find your faith again. People fall on hard times and we can all just hope we don’t but it also all about choices. I also think you knew that if you put me in this position that I always tell the truth and I think you have respected me for that. My suggestion here is that nothing positive is coming from this blog and not to participate in it.
October 16th, 2007 at 11:15 am
# 89 I’m not anonymous…. I just don’t know how to blog! haha
October 16th, 2007 at 12:46 pm
#88 I wish Sgt. Barry Williams would throw his name in the bag. I have never heard 1 negative thing about him. I believe with all his military years and years with the BPD he has leadership that would take the PD into the growing years to come. Come on Sgt. Williams, as Nike says; “Just Do It”.
October 17th, 2007 at 10:36 pm
Obviously somethings up. You hit deadline, review your current applicants pool and dont see the name you were looking for - so you ‘extend’ it another week
October 29th, 2007 at 10:08 pm
Bret Farve should be inducted into the Hall of Fame while still actively playing…
I figure a comment like this might get the focus off of the slanderous comments and back to the issue at hand.
I feel sorry for Alicia…trying to organize this blog (and others) and ending up with a forum for bickering and personal attacks.
Might I suggest that those of you that insist on airing your personal vendettas on a PUBLIC blog like this find a good counselor and work your way through your issues. I mean, really…it is rather nauseHereating.
October 29th, 2007 at 10:11 pm
…nauseating