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Wilson makes good on threat to withhold info
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Tuesday, February 5, 2008 10:33 AM EST
SHERIFF JON WILSON
CORUNNA - Shiawassee County Sheriff Jon Wilson is refusing to release information to The Argus-Press less than two weeks after a story was published concerning alleged wrongdoings within his department.
Before the story ran, Wilson threatened The Argus-Press, saying the paper wouldn't receive any information from his department if it was published. He also told a reporter to be prepared to “take some responsibility.”
Sheriff's officials confirmed a fatal traffic crash occurred Saturday morning but wouldn't release any information. Multiple officials said a recent change in policy instituted by Wilson prohibits anyone from giving any information.
Previously, department personnel who handled a crash or other incident would issue a press release in a timely manner or comment to reporters on scene.
Wilson refused Sunday to release information about the Saturday crash because he doesn't “work 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” He said it would be released at a later date.
He didn't return multiple calls Monday, but a story appeared on The Flint Journal's Web site that afternoon about the crash.
At about 4 p.m. Monday, a phone message was left for an Argus-Press reporter from an employee of the sheriff's department stating “...this message is to notify you that if you would like any information for the press releases or any type of article you will have to FOIA them to our department.”
FOIA, or Freedom of Information Act, is a law giving citizens and the media the right to request certain documents from public entities. The sheriff's department will now have five business days to provide the information, compared to the mere hours it took to receive it before Wilson's new policy.
A FOIA was submitted to the sheriff's department requesting information about the fatal crash Monday.
Comment on this Story
Anonymous wrote on Mar 18, 2008 12:11 PM:
" Sheriff Jon Wilson should most definitely be relieved from duty as Sheriff of Shiawassee County. He has done nothing good for this or any other county, and continues to annoy the county's residents. Who knows if he'll ever quit. "
Annie wrote on Feb 18, 2008 8:53 AM:
" While we have all had our say and the sheriff now knows that he's not God and he can't do what every he wants anymore because his every move is being watched, why not pack your little badge and gun in a very safe place and move on!! You have shamed this County, that Department,and your own family better then just about anyone could in one fell swoop. Tell me how do you sleep at night? We trusted you, we put our familys lives in your hands and this is how you take care of them? Mike Ash has been a great guy since we went to school with him. Alot of your voting public have grown up with him and know him for what he is. I truly hope somebody out there with some influance over him could talk him into running for Sheriff. He didn't need to raise the roof when Jon steped out of line. He filed a Grievance and followed the rules. Odd thing since from the looks his boss tryed teaching him how to make them up as you go.. Mike you run for office and I'll do everything I can to see to it that voting public knows who you are and what you stand for and I'll bet there is alot of other people who will too.. "
Rick Graim wrote on Feb 17, 2008 8:44 AM:
" Insubordination for what?? Not moving fast enough for King Jon? Minor incident? The Sheriff is above the law and can manhandle anyone including the staff? The Democratic party did not FOIA the letters nor did they generate the letters.
If the sheriff has a problem with the deputies there is a grievance procedure to follow. But the sheriff is on record stating that he wished the Lts were NOT union members, so no complaints would be filed for his misconduct.
Regardless, the sheriff has no right to physically, which is battery by the way, grab anybody let alone an employee of the sheriff's department.
If Dragoe condones this conduct, what would he think if the deputies treated him the same as the sheriff's example?
Why is it every time someone is caught doing something wrong, they play the race card, politics, Bush-haters, Clinton-haters, etc anything to take the focus off their misconduct? "
If the sheriff has a problem with the deputies there is a grievance procedure to follow. But the sheriff is on record stating that he wished the Lts were NOT union members, so no complaints would be filed for his misconduct.
Regardless, the sheriff has no right to physically, which is battery by the way, grab anybody let alone an employee of the sheriff's department.
If Dragoe condones this conduct, what would he think if the deputies treated him the same as the sheriff's example?
Why is it every time someone is caught doing something wrong, they play the race card, politics, Bush-haters, Clinton-haters, etc anything to take the focus off their misconduct? "
Dragoe wrote on Feb 15, 2008 11:21 AM:
" Sheriff Wilson's only "mistake" was in not following through on his threat to fire the lieutenant for insubordination.
As for the alleged "assault"....anyone filing charges for such a minor incident would be guilty of wasting the court's time. What a joke!
The entire episode reeks of dirty election year politics, courtesy of the Shiawassee Democratic Party! "
As for the alleged "assault"....anyone filing charges for such a minor incident would be guilty of wasting the court's time. What a joke!
The entire episode reeks of dirty election year politics, courtesy of the Shiawassee Democratic Party! "
Rick Graim wrote on Feb 15, 2008 7:11 AM:
" With all due respect Mr Curwood, the real story is the cover up by the sheriff and county adninistrator. An independent investigation is what is needed. The signed complaint and witness statements are hardly rumors. Why the county administrator did NOT report to the commissioners suggests her role in the cover-up. The only one to be embarrassed is King Jon, who's bullying tactics should never be tolerated. If this conduct by the sheriff is condoned, than what conduct can the average citizen expect from an abused staff? "
James Curwood wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:29 PM:
" why would Liz Shepard think that Lt. Ash received financial compensation for insubordination? Didn't it dawn on Liz that there are no police reports because it would look bad if the deputies filed false police reports. If there was an investigation and the Sheriff truly assaulted his deputy then wouldn't the county commissioners do something? The real story is that there is no story. I kind of feel embarrassed for the deputies that their stunt didn't work. "
concerned voter wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:32 AM:
" To be fair to the department, taxpayers and voters why not do an independent investigation into this situation? "
ShowMe wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:09 AM:
" Did you get the FOIA results? (Editor's Note: FOIA results have been trickling in) "
OutofTouch wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:39 AM:
" I keep hearing about this, but after reading the two articles, it is amazing that this has been kept a secret for so long.
I am glad that this is an election year, because it is time for a new sheriff.
Thank you to Liz Shepard, and the Argus. "
I am glad that this is an election year, because it is time for a new sheriff.
Thank you to Liz Shepard, and the Argus. "
Rick Graim wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:15 AM:
" So Wilson's supporters defense is that it'a all "rumors" and "alleged statements", and a plot by the Shiawassee County Democratic Party? Documents obtained thru FOIA are hardly "rumors" nor "alleged statements". The documents quite clearly show actual physical battery with a signed complaint and signed statements from witnesses. And to question how the information was "leaked" is nothing more than an attempt to take the focus off the actual battery by the sheriff. Knowing the reputation of the witnesses, I have no reservations concerning their creditablity. Wilson on the other hand, continues to bring into question his creditablity by his childish actions.
As citizens, we should all be concerned that if this type of conduct by the sheriff with his staff is condoned, then what kind of conduct can we expect from the staff with Wison's example? "
As citizens, we should all be concerned that if this type of conduct by the sheriff with his staff is condoned, then what kind of conduct can we expect from the staff with Wison's example? "
3familyvoters wrote on Feb 9, 2008 8:11 PM:
" Thank you Argus!! We do need information so we can make some changes in the Nov. election, I nominate Lt. Dave Kirk for Sheriff. He could help us out of this slump and bring the morale back!! "
Maggie Fisher wrote on Feb 9, 2008 12:47 PM:
" Marco, who wrote in Feb 9th Argus that
the Argus waited too long to relate the
threat of Wilson. Actually , they were way, way ahead of the sheriff. Because, had they printed the story, he would no doubt have denied it, and who would cross him? Instead, they did what was wise. Waited until an event occurred that needed information. So
why on earth would that be wrong? And
why support someone who cannot be trusted to care for our community? "
the Argus waited too long to relate the
threat of Wilson. Actually , they were way, way ahead of the sheriff. Because, had they printed the story, he would no doubt have denied it, and who would cross him? Instead, they did what was wise. Waited until an event occurred that needed information. So
why on earth would that be wrong? And
why support someone who cannot be trusted to care for our community? "
Yikes! wrote on Feb 9, 2008 8:34 AM:
" This man is frightening.
Are the employees of the department safe? This man carries a gun, what if he decides to take out some of the county's Finest? I don't want to read about this in the paper 5 days later.
He has too much authority. "
Are the employees of the department safe? This man carries a gun, what if he decides to take out some of the county's Finest? I don't want to read about this in the paper 5 days later.
He has too much authority. "
Christine Barry wrote on Feb 8, 2008 3:50 PM:
" Marco, the Argus article was about the bumper stickers and the working conditions at our Sheriff Department. The assault is simply the best documented example of the conditions there.
Margaret, there are no "alleged statements," just real ones.
"
Margaret, there are no "alleged statements," just real ones.
"
just curious wrote on Feb 8, 2008 11:58 AM:
" is this sheriff a short guy?
cuz he sure seems defensive to me. "
cuz he sure seems defensive to me. "
Nichole Ruggiero wrote on Feb 8, 2008 11:44 AM:
" The OAP wouldn't do a story on this incident before 2 weeks ago. A few intelligient, voters decided to get the information ( proof) needed for the OAP to do their story.
Wolf is sheeps clothing "
Wolf is sheeps clothing "
InThe Know wrote on Feb 8, 2008 10:42 AM:
" As a person that has been involved in Shiawassee County politics since the early 70's and know all the players personally that have been mentioned in the blog concerning Sheriff Wilson, I have one question to ask. Where was this information gathering prior to his election?
People tend to take this office for granted but the Sheriff's position is one of the most important office in our political structure.
John Wilson always has been and always will be a obsinate and vindictive know- it-all. He will not change, it's his nature.
Whoever is the Sheriff to follow Wilson will have the monumental task of putting Humty Dumpty back together again, it will not be something that will happen overnight. The dedicated members of our Sheriff's Department deserve a leader who has a vision for the good of all. Voters, do your homework, choose wisely.
I've seen other names bantered about, be careful watch you wish for. In my experience there is only one person that is capable of getting this done and it is Lt. Doug Powell. Sheriff Wilson if you're reading this this, this was not solicited by Doug. Doug is knowledgable, will develope a core team to make the transition and above all, will listen and choose wisely in the decisions he makes.
As for the FOI request's that Wilson is making the Argus fill out, he is well within the law to follow this practice, the reason he is doing so is in question. Vindictive fimiliar? "
People tend to take this office for granted but the Sheriff's position is one of the most important office in our political structure.
John Wilson always has been and always will be a obsinate and vindictive know- it-all. He will not change, it's his nature.
Whoever is the Sheriff to follow Wilson will have the monumental task of putting Humty Dumpty back together again, it will not be something that will happen overnight. The dedicated members of our Sheriff's Department deserve a leader who has a vision for the good of all. Voters, do your homework, choose wisely.
I've seen other names bantered about, be careful watch you wish for. In my experience there is only one person that is capable of getting this done and it is Lt. Doug Powell. Sheriff Wilson if you're reading this this, this was not solicited by Doug. Doug is knowledgable, will develope a core team to make the transition and above all, will listen and choose wisely in the decisions he makes.
As for the FOI request's that Wilson is making the Argus fill out, he is well within the law to follow this practice, the reason he is doing so is in question. Vindictive fimiliar? "
Dragoe wrote on Feb 8, 2008 10:21 AM:
" The Wilson "story" is just another political smear campaign by liberal Shiawassee County Democrats.
The SCSD Deputies need to stop their hour-long coffee breaks and get back to work.
Kudos to Sheriff Wilson for making them do their jobs! "
The SCSD Deputies need to stop their hour-long coffee breaks and get back to work.
Kudos to Sheriff Wilson for making them do their jobs! "
Fed up wrote on Feb 8, 2008 10:20 AM:
" Wilson is obviously a small-minded. Maybe he wants to be named editor of the Argus? He is out of bounds. His job is to put out the information. What the Argus reports is none of his business.
Another John Wesley AWB. Quite disappointing. "
Another John Wesley AWB. Quite disappointing. "
Marco wrote on Feb 8, 2008 8:25 AM:
" OAP, why are you so concerned about filing a FOIA & getting information from the Sheriffs Dept. 5 days later, when you thought it was okay to publish a story about the Sheriff that was a year old? Quess the road goes both ways! "
RUDelusional? wrote on Feb 8, 2008 8:18 AM:
" This story has been picked up by the APwire, and is now in papers outside of Michigan. I have more faith in the Argus than in a lying Sheriff. They have reported a story that they have investigated, and proven to be true. Thank you to the Argus Press! We, as voters,deserve the truth of what a bully the sheriff obviously is. "
grave digger wrote on Feb 8, 2008 7:06 AM:
" The forum at http://www.shiawasseecounty.net/forum has all kinds of DOCUMENTED proof that our sheriff does not deserve to hold that title/position.
WNEM TV5 reported on it this morning. The Associated Press has picked up the story and we are now a national disgrace thanks to this man. Too bad there isn't enough time for a recall!
I'm supporting George Braidwood and hope that he will announce his candidacy SOON! "
WNEM TV5 reported on it this morning. The Associated Press has picked up the story and we are now a national disgrace thanks to this man. Too bad there isn't enough time for a recall!
I'm supporting George Braidwood and hope that he will announce his candidacy SOON! "
Margaret wrote on Feb 7, 2008 9:34 PM:
" I am really surprised that so many readers of the OAP and its employees have missed what appears to really be going on, in regards to the articles about Sheriff Wilson. There is another story out there that everyone seems to have missed! Have any of you asked yourselves who leaked the story that none of the concerned parties wanted made public? Why the story by Liz Shepard was made up of "RUMORS" and "ALLEGED STATEMENTS"? It was very obvious that Commissioner Dan Stewart is not very knowledgeable about how the Sheriffs Dept.works. Sheriff Wilson showed responsibility and respect for his deputies and his office by not responding to the misinformation when questioned. He was left no choice but to order a ban on information leaving the sheriffs office. If information is going to be used in a wrong and hurtful way, then he used better judgement than anyone else involved in this "ALLEGED" story. He used the best tool he had to prevent that from happening again. The Argus Press has a responsibility for printing facts not "RUMORS & ALLEDGED INFORMATION". Mr. Basso, your paper did Sheriff Wilson and our Community a huge injustice. Why are you so mad? Is it because you know the paper was wrong in printing a story without merit. If it was no big deal to submit a FOIA to the Sheriffs Dept.,then why did you go on and on about it in your article last night. I don't think it's a coincidence that this "old & over with" story is coming out now, just when it is time for interested parties to announce their election intentions. I think everyone needs to wake up and see what is really happening here. Thank you Sheriff Wilson for standing proud and doing what is right. It would be very easy to take the low road like so many others. "
had it2here wrote on Feb 7, 2008 7:46 PM:
" "just wondering" wrote:
we were not there to see or hear... what happened, and it is NOT up to us to judge him. "
And to that I say ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
what an ignorant comment! The report was filed officially, so Deputy Ash was as good as under oath when he wrote his report.
For pete's sake, we could NEVER try anybody for a crime if we all had to BE THERE when/where it happened, and could not accept sworn testimony.
Besides there WERE others in the public establishment but they are AFRAID to come forward and verify what they saw because THE SHERIFF USES THREATS to get out of trouble!
As for judging the Sheriff, you make judgments about people at every election, and in every case where you are looking for right vs. wrong, good vs. bad. For pete's sake that's not a smart thing to say. Nobody is judging the man's soul but his actions. And yes, we ARE supposed to judge a man's actions, especially when he is on the PUBLIC payroll!
"
we were not there to see or hear... what happened, and it is NOT up to us to judge him. "
And to that I say ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
what an ignorant comment! The report was filed officially, so Deputy Ash was as good as under oath when he wrote his report.
For pete's sake, we could NEVER try anybody for a crime if we all had to BE THERE when/where it happened, and could not accept sworn testimony.
Besides there WERE others in the public establishment but they are AFRAID to come forward and verify what they saw because THE SHERIFF USES THREATS to get out of trouble!
As for judging the Sheriff, you make judgments about people at every election, and in every case where you are looking for right vs. wrong, good vs. bad. For pete's sake that's not a smart thing to say. Nobody is judging the man's soul but his actions. And yes, we ARE supposed to judge a man's actions, especially when he is on the PUBLIC payroll!
"
A new voter wrote on Feb 7, 2008 7:14 PM:
" Wow, after reading many blogs, and hearing what a devout and religious man the sheriff is, I find it hard to believe that he is telling the truth in this case. I have inquired as to his characater, and find it is not the truthful, caring man we all thought we were getting. (per my parents).
No way will I vote,(for the first time,)
if he is the only candidate. "
No way will I vote,(for the first time,)
if he is the only candidate. "
Maggie Fisher wrote on Feb 7, 2008 7:08 PM:
" I cannot believe that an assault on an
employee , with witnessess, could be questioned . Doesn't this wreak of complete control of the department.? Has anyone ever questioned the employees of the sheriff's dept?,
and found that no one would say one word against their boss? Do they know their job could be in jeopardy if they told the truth?
We. the people of Shiawassee , put the present sheriff into power. And Mike A. is probably ONE of the best employees that this sheriff could have.
We fire, or sue teachers or bosses who touch , let alone abuse another.
How many lies can this man tell, to save his bacon???,
"
employee , with witnessess, could be questioned . Doesn't this wreak of complete control of the department.? Has anyone ever questioned the employees of the sheriff's dept?,
and found that no one would say one word against their boss? Do they know their job could be in jeopardy if they told the truth?
We. the people of Shiawassee , put the present sheriff into power. And Mike A. is probably ONE of the best employees that this sheriff could have.
We fire, or sue teachers or bosses who touch , let alone abuse another.
How many lies can this man tell, to save his bacon???,
"
D Scully wrote on Feb 7, 2008 5:27 PM:
" Maybe R.Colbry and M. Ash let Wilson "get away with" Something that really never happened. I heard that the State Police came in to investigate, and found the whole thing to be a crock. When the "witnesses" were going to be questioned by the State Police they decided they didn't want to get caught lying. Sounds like a bunch of upset people who got caught not working on the tax payers (yours and mine) dime. "
James Curwood wrote on Feb 7, 2008 3:48 PM:
" Are you kidding???? George Braidwood???? James LaJoye???? The Durand mafia restored to power???? Just what we need a Sheriff that drank at lunch everyday and a past candidate that is at the drinking well every thursday night "
Taz wrote on Feb 7, 2008 3:37 PM:
" It seems to me that we have Hitler as our Sheriff! Take it easy on our guys, remember that they would have your back out in the field. You have the best guys around! What I can not believe is the way you treat our officers! These guys are heros. Mr. Hanson and the rest of your crew deserve the best! "
Annie wrote on Feb 7, 2008 2:22 PM:
" Whooooa stop right there. While yes there are a few Deputys that tend to live life as jerks, there are some truly good ones too. They have familys and homes to take care of just like the rest of us. Don't blame them for taking orders from sheriff DingBat! They have mouths to feed too. I do have a major question though, Why did Colbry let sheriff DingBat get away with what he did to Mike Ash and why did Mike let him get away with it? There are laws on the books preventing that sorta crap from happening. "
we need BRAIDWOOD wrote on Feb 7, 2008 2:11 PM:
" would this be a good time for the Argus to interview GEORGE BRAIDWOOD? "
Just Wondering ... wrote on Feb 7, 2008 10:16 AM:
" Has anyone given any thought to the idea that Mr. Wilson stopped freely giving OAP information because somewhere between the words that come out of Mr. Wilson's mouth and the words we eventually read are two totally different stories? Somewhere in between that time OAP manages to get his words twisted around to make the event appear more than what it actually is. I am speaking from experience. Granted, I do not approve of his physical actions towards his fellow co-worker, but then again, we were not there to see or hear, let alone actually KNOW what happened, and it is NOT up to us to judge him. "
Andy wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:43 PM:
" I would say we hired Barney Fife, instead of the Andy Taylor, type as was mentioned above in a earlier comment. I hope this bumbling poor excuse of a sheriff, reads all these comments, and realizes the career suicide he has just
fulfilled in his actions. Lets all rally at Curwood this year, and boo him the entire parade route.
"
fulfilled in his actions. Lets all rally at Curwood this year, and boo him the entire parade route.
"
had it2here wrote on Feb 6, 2008 9:14 PM:
" I hope Prosecutor Colbry answers for how he can allow this bullying to be the norm in the Sheriff's office.
That Deputy office is a HOSTILE work environment. Some investigation needs to be done.
Nichole is right! COLBRY is up for election too! "
That Deputy office is a HOSTILE work environment. Some investigation needs to be done.
Nichole is right! COLBRY is up for election too! "
hlluey wrote on Feb 6, 2008 7:18 PM:
" Like I said at MY retirement party last February, no one has respected a Sheriff in Shiawassee County since the day Sheriff Jame A. LaJoye retired...I said that from my heart, NO ONE made me say those words -- NO ONE.. The one that was accused of supposely telling me to say those words had no ideal what I was going to say !!! Sorry Doug for the trouble you had to go through about this...you are a great man and it should be you and GEORGE BRAIDWOOD sitting in the two office's there at SCSD..... and Shiawassee County would be proud once again of their sheriff and undersheriff !!!!!!!!! "
amazed and shaking head wrote on Feb 6, 2008 7:06 PM:
" http://web.mac.com/waltersorg/iWeb/amLansing/Campbell%202.6.2008.html
Talk Radio now knows about this!
Mr. Campbell took his story to WILS! Link above is the link to the audio.
Mr. Wilson declined to be interviewed.
Obviously he's a coward hiding behind his badge.
I support the freedom of the PRESS
WHY doesn't the SHERIFF?
WE NEED A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN!! "
Talk Radio now knows about this!
Mr. Campbell took his story to WILS! Link above is the link to the audio.
Mr. Wilson declined to be interviewed.
Obviously he's a coward hiding behind his badge.
I support the freedom of the PRESS
WHY doesn't the SHERIFF?
WE NEED A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN!! "
Carol wrote on Feb 6, 2008 6:56 PM:
" Now I know why I didn't vote for him, wasn't sure till now, tho "
Nichole_Ruggiero wrote on Feb 6, 2008 2:46 PM:
" One More thing. The top law official for your county is Randy Colbry. Make him answer for his Sheriff. The prosecutor is his BOSS!!!
The prosecutor has every right to open independent investigations amongst his employees. i.e. Mike Ash. Why didn't he make the Sheriff accountable? Why did he turn his head the other way? I wouldn't be re-electing him either. I would be questioning this man.
Voters are the only voice. If you do not vote you CANNOT complain!
How do you write new policies based on your own ego, Sheriff? "
The prosecutor has every right to open independent investigations amongst his employees. i.e. Mike Ash. Why didn't he make the Sheriff accountable? Why did he turn his head the other way? I wouldn't be re-electing him either. I would be questioning this man.
Voters are the only voice. If you do not vote you CANNOT complain!
How do you write new policies based on your own ego, Sheriff? "
Nichole Ruggiero wrote on Feb 6, 2008 2:35 PM:
" This is the thing I am worried about. How is this sheriff controlling his staff from reporting to the press? Is it with his threats per the usual?
Would that fall under Quid Pro Quo?
The term may also be used to describe blackmail, where a person offers to refrain from some harmful conduct in return for valuable consideration.
If you report information to the press you will lose your job?
How can a public office that we as tax payers ( we meaning anyone in Shiawassee county) support withhold information out of spite? "
Would that fall under Quid Pro Quo?
The term may also be used to describe blackmail, where a person offers to refrain from some harmful conduct in return for valuable consideration.
If you report information to the press you will lose your job?
How can a public office that we as tax payers ( we meaning anyone in Shiawassee county) support withhold information out of spite? "
Christina381 wrote on Feb 6, 2008 2:00 PM:
" I am impressed with the argus for publishing this and not being bullied into holding back.. Bravo Argus for not being corrupted!!
"
"
Nichole Ruggiero-Leck wrote on Feb 6, 2008 1:55 PM:
" Poor Poor Sheriff! He is having a temper tantrum! I find this hilarious! What other way can you think of that he can oust himself? This is perfect! I can't wait until I can Heckle him during the Curwood parade! I am not even a resident of the area and I can't stand the crook! GOOD JOB ARGUS PRESS! You are finally doing your job and reporting what you should. Like the Flint Journal really cares what happens here in Shiawassee county. That would be like reporting it here in the Detroit News. I am still laughing! HA HA HA "
Joe M. wrote on Feb 6, 2008 12:55 PM:
" I have lived in Shiawassee county over 60 years, and the way things are run now in Owosso, and corunna and the county, I WOULD NOT MOVE HERE TO RAIS MY FAMILY AS I DID YEARS AGO.
This is not even close to the type of enviorment it once was for raiseing children and grand children.
Thing are suppose to improve when change is made! "
This is not even close to the type of enviorment it once was for raiseing children and grand children.
Thing are suppose to improve when change is made! "
NewLeadershipNeeded wrote on Feb 6, 2008 12:48 PM:
" Leadership - The ability to lead, including INSPIRING others in a SHARED vision.
Does Sheriff Wilson fit this description?
Only those with these qualifications need apply. "
Does Sheriff Wilson fit this description?
Only those with these qualifications need apply. "
Maggie Fisher wrote on Feb 6, 2008 12:47 PM:
" After reading the column about our sheriff, (notice I did not capitalize),
I was outraged at the out and out refusal to our newspaper. Do you really think that Wilson knows about the constitution? Has he read the part about freedom of speech, and freedom of the press?????
Do we really need a man who thinks he can control the press, (Argus)
and the news? Better think about this,
people. "
I was outraged at the out and out refusal to our newspaper. Do you really think that Wilson knows about the constitution? Has he read the part about freedom of speech, and freedom of the press?????
Do we really need a man who thinks he can control the press, (Argus)
and the news? Better think about this,
people. "
Complety Puzzled. wrote on Feb 6, 2008 12:44 PM:
" I have always been under the impression
that public officles WORK FOR THE PEOPLE!
This does not seem to be the case, especialy in Shiawassee county. "
that public officles WORK FOR THE PEOPLE!
This does not seem to be the case, especialy in Shiawassee county. "
SISTERSISTER wrote on Feb 6, 2008 12:32 PM:
" Well looks like we all have the same feelings.
We need a new Sheriff.
What do you say, George Braidwood?
"
We need a new Sheriff.
What do you say, George Braidwood?
"
Local wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:57 AM:
" Let's get this power-hungry office holder out of a job and let a responsible citizen fill those shoes. "
Pete Michailo wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:42 AM:
" As a prior resident of Shiawassee County and current North Carolina resident that has recently experienced the Davidson County debacle of Sheriff Gerald "Top Cop"
Hege's fall from grace, I ask if the problem is endemic? The powerful cocktail of politics,power,crony'sm and law enforcement can cloud the senses. "
Hege's fall from grace, I ask if the problem is endemic? The powerful cocktail of politics,power,crony'sm and law enforcement can cloud the senses. "
Solomon Horn wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:30 AM:
" I think the Sheriff is still pouting because the county didn't give him the raise, to which he thought he was entitled. As for the County Commission doing anything, you can forget that because he is an elected official and they don't have much power over him. So, I would say, that I hope the electorate has a memory like an elephant when this November rolls around and we have the chance to replace him. Better yet, why wait for November. There is always the August Primary. "
Joe wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:11 AM:
" Why is it that all public school administrators have to have a Master Degree in administration.......but our sheriff and police chiefs only have to have a high school education? Please don't tell me that 30 years beat cop police experience is all you need. If you want uneducated police managers.....then thats what you will get. "
not surprised wrote on Feb 6, 2008 8:25 AM:
" the more i thought about this, the more angry i got at the audacity of that jerk!! i cant wait until todays (or tomorrows paper comes out with the headline "wilson resigns" "leaves town" i will be waiting. "
hubob wrote on Feb 6, 2008 8:13 AM:
" I recall Wilson being refered to as an Andy Taylor (Mayberry)type during his first run for office, He has made a real idiot of himself, anyone who knows Mike Ash knows that he is as straight up and decent as they come. "
Patty Fraser wrote on Feb 6, 2008 7:32 AM:
" What we have here is an abuse of power. There have been others throughout hisory who tried to do the same by controlling everything and everybody. I don't need to tell you what happened to them. It sounds like this man has some mental issues and needs to step down before someone kicks him out. This makes me very nervous to think he is in control of protecting our county and it's citizens. It's time to take a hike, Mr. Wilson. "
I-Vote wrote on Feb 5, 2008 10:47 PM:
" Well, as a voter, I am definteily going to remember this guys name... and put a check next to someone else's name when ballot time comes around. Don't abuse your power Mr. Wilson; your actions are those of a tyrant, not a public servant. "
Janette wrote on Feb 5, 2008 9:37 PM:
" This CREEP has crossed the line, let us Come together as a community and take the wind out of his sail! LET us get petitions signed and RECALL Wilson. He is NOT worthy to represent us in Shiawassee county. "
Another disappointed voter wrote on Feb 5, 2008 7:42 PM:
" Keeping the news from the public is a poor way to throw around the weight Sheriff. Does that mean when there is a threat to the public we will need to use FOIA? This is not your finest hour. Your conduct will cast a shadow upon the fine community I call home. I'd say you have cast a bad light on your own name and your own reelection. "
Anne wrote on Feb 5, 2008 7:21 PM:
" Well one good thing has come of this... The sheriff's time in office will now be as brief as possible. He stands no chance whatever of re-election. "
Tax payer wrote on Feb 5, 2008 6:14 PM:
" All I can say is good going Sheriff Wilson and keep up the good work. The more he does that hurts our community will get more and more people to realize to NOT vote him back into office. He is the one that is causing the problems here not The Argus-Press. "
NOT HAPPY wrote on Feb 5, 2008 5:43 PM:
" Its been said before and I will say it again for everyone... To know whats happening in Owosso READ THE FLINT JOURNAL "
LIKE IVE SAID BRFORE wrote on Feb 5, 2008 5:41 PM:
" If you want to know whats happening in Owosso read the FLint Journal "
Sorry..... wrote on Feb 5, 2008 5:37 PM:
" I too voted for Jon...but everyone knows that once someone gets elected for a office...school board, sheriff, county job, whatever...they turn into a jerk! Power does this for most good citizens! "
phred wrote on Feb 5, 2008 5:36 PM:
" Thought we elected him to serve "24 hours a day seven days a week." Typical Jon Wilson. He was a lousy deputy and carried it over to being sheriff. Get rid of him next election. Whatver happened to Keith Kewish? "
Roger wrote on Feb 5, 2008 4:47 PM:
" I would expect more from an elected official in a community that is hurting for employment. Does the sheriff really think he is hurting the press? He is hurting the community that he is sworn to protect. If the Argus is unable to report on local events then subscriptions change to non local means. What happens to local advertisers/local business, local employees... Come on Sheriff don't you think there is enough negativity out there for Shiawassee county without you and your thoughtless (not fully thought through) knee jerk reaction. Stop hurting the county that you swore to protect and help support the positives of the county. "
my2cents wrote on Feb 5, 2008 4:29 PM:
" This just doesn't surprise me. I am so thankful to the Argus Press for printing what we've been trying to tell people for a long time. Wilson is a unprofessional bully.
How can he deny us the right to know what is happening in our county?
Is there legal ramifications to this action?
"
How can he deny us the right to know what is happening in our county?
Is there legal ramifications to this action?
"
There's more to read wrote on Feb 5, 2008 4:17 PM:
" If you think this story's cool, you should see the editorial on page 4 of the newspaper's print edition "
another disappointed voter wrote on Feb 5, 2008 4:06 PM:
" Sheriff Wilson is acting as if he is voted into his position for life. The people have a right to the information and the Argus is the primary way we get that information in our community. His method of "getting even" with the Argus is immature, class-less, and enough proof for me that he is hiding something. How do we start a recall? "
jeepers1925 wrote on Feb 5, 2008 4:06 PM:
" remember the good old days when elected officials ment public servant and they worked for us rather than rule us. the brotherhood of the sheriff dept didn't exsist.we all know Wilson is power drunk. "
Terri Graim wrote on Feb 5, 2008 3:49 PM:
" I usually do not comment on these things. My husband does enough for both of us. I am astounded at Sheriff Wilsons actions. I have voted in every election since 1976 and can assure you he will not get my vote. I cannot believe his childish actions. I have read the reports on Ash's firing and am also appalled at that and the way he spoke about his rights within the union. "
Christine Barry wrote on Feb 5, 2008 3:41 PM:
" I SUPPORT FREEDOM OF THE PRESS
WHY DOESN'T THE SHERIFF?
(New bumper sticker!)
"
WHY DOESN'T THE SHERIFF?
(New bumper sticker!)
"
Just Amazed wrote on Feb 5, 2008 3:33 PM:
" Well, that's what we get for elected officials, such as the Sheriff's Department. There should be a investigation into the Sheriff's Departmenat as to all the wrong doings going on in that facility. The Deputy's are as much to blame as this so called elected official. "
not surprised wrote on Feb 5, 2008 3:06 PM:
" i have seen over the years, repeatedly, a serious gross abuse of authority and power in this city (and county) at the expense always of the tax payers and locals who are at the mercy of such heinous actions by elected officials. unless people get sick enough of it to do something about it it will continue. hes abusing his authority?? get him out of there!!! "
had it2here wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:52 PM:
" My experience is that in our lives we use whatever works for us. It seems to me it would be sad but enlightening to find out how these kinds of threats have been made in the Shiawassee County Sheriff Dept and across the county at large. "
concerned voter wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:44 PM:
" Well, the sheriff will not get my vote in November. We do not need another bully in this town. I guess Deputy Ash was right after all. It is time to get someone in office who actually cares about the community and not himself. This all started because he did not get the MIGHTY raise he wanted that we all have to pay for. Keep up the good work Argus. Your readers want to hear the truth!!!! "
Guy wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:37 PM:
" This is just another example of how the Sheriff acts like a bully. Do the residents really want a person like this in charge? The cheif law enforcement officer should embody justice and safety not the opposite. "
grave digger wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:28 PM:
" Mr. (I use the term loosely) Wilson doesn't want to be sheriff any more, obviously. What a mistake that was electing him in the first place! "
Time4Change wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:25 PM:
" I guess it is time for change with our Shiawassee County Sheriff.
All the allegations must be true. It seems he is burying himself over and over.
Thank you to Liz Shepard for staying on the story and keeping the public informed. "
All the allegations must be true. It seems he is burying himself over and over.
Thank you to Liz Shepard for staying on the story and keeping the public informed. "
amazed and shaking head wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:15 PM:
" I hope Ms. Shepard will interview the family members left behind from this tragic crash incident and convey our community's condolences since their information and the report of this awful-sounding accident is being held hostage due to a personal grudge the Sheriff is holding against his own local paper. "
Amazed and shaking head wrote on Feb 5, 2008 2:11 PM:
" Well, isn't this special!
The Sheriff makes threats and follows through on them! Isn't that what Deputy Ash's abuse and firing was, as well?
If the Argus (or anyone) wanted proof that Wilson IS a bully who makes threats and means them, I guess the OAP has its own proof now. "
The Sheriff makes threats and follows through on them! Isn't that what Deputy Ash's abuse and firing was, as well?
If the Argus (or anyone) wanted proof that Wilson IS a bully who makes threats and means them, I guess the OAP has its own proof now. "
DisappointedVoter wrote on Feb 5, 2008 1:58 PM:
" I can't believe that an elected official of our county would act in such a childish and immature manner. The paper has a responsibility to report the facts. Evidently because the sheriff assaulted one of his officers and the paper reported it, now the sheriff wants to punish the paper?
I am happy that the Argus continues to offer the voting public information. "
I am happy that the Argus continues to offer the voting public information. "
Wowza wrote on Feb 5, 2008 1:22 PM:
" Talk about putting your foot in your mouth. I would think that during an election year the Sheriff would want to be in good graces with the press. I guess I was wrong. I wonder if this is because he knows that there is truth to what was written and he is upset that it got out?? "
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Anti-Wilson person wrote on Mar 18, 2008 12:18 PM: