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!!PLANET GETS EXCLUSIVE WITH CHIEF WYNN: WE SHARE THE DETAILS!!, plus BORING BROADSHEET SOILS ITSELF WITH WHITEWASH OF CHIEF WYNN’s STATEMENT … & LOTHROP, MARKHAM & DOYLE TAKE THE PLANET’s NAME IN VAIN

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BY DAN VALENTI

FIRST ADD APRIL 7

The Planet and The Chief, Man to Man

(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, APRIL &, ADD 1) — The Planet’s exclusive came this morning with Pittsfield Police Chief Michael Wynn. We called his office, and his secretary, Maggie (and one of the best in the business, by the way) put us through. The chief and I had a frank and businesslike exchange, and it’s fair to say we each left the chat with a greater understanding of the other’s position and with enhanced respect.

We thank the chief for taking our cold call. He could have ducked us. He didn’t.

Chief Wynn said he understands The Planet has a job to do. In fact, he paid a belated compliment to our job when he said our factual information has been accurate. We hope the chief’s remark will put to rest the grasping at straws argument that somehow, The Planet has made stuff up. Stuff — that’s a technical term.

‘We’re Not Looking for Your Sources’

When The Planet asked Chief Wynn if he knew we were talking to informants from within his department, he said “yes.” He said the department wasn’t looking to uncover who’s talking, but he did say that department regulations forbid unauthorized release of certain information and the material we were receiving could be taken that way.

When we asked Chief Wynn point blank if he was trying to find out the identity of our sources, he answered point blank, “We are not looking for your sources.” The chief, expressing a savvy understanding of the press-police relationship, said he would not ask me to reveal them. The answer would have been “no,” and he knows that. The sources are, he said “violating regulations.”

We asked Chief Wynn if he was aware that The Planet had attempted to contact him for information. He said yes. When asked why he didn’t return the call, he said it wasn’t deliberate. It was an oversight based on the many departmental matter he had to address in addition to SteroidsGate. He offered no apology, and we asked for none.

Asked why The Planet wasn’t included in his press tour and why we didn’t receive his press statement, he said he didn’t know, since he wasn’t responsible for the invitations or distribution. We asked who was. He said he thought it was Tricia Farley-Bouvier in the mayor’s office.

Q: How Can We Call When We Didn’t Have Your Number? A: How Could You Not Have Our Number When We’ve Left It Multiple Times?

The Planet has placed two calls into Farley-Bouvier about this. They have not been returned. Moments ago, we received this message from her saying she got the message that  we had called, but that it was relayed to her with no phone number. We clearly gave the phone number to the mayor’s secretary. There is no doubt of that. We were assured that Tricia would get the message that inculded the number. In addition, the mayor’s office has my number.

The Chief confirmed that there is an ongoing investigation of the PPD by “another local law enforcement agency,” not the PPD, that he would not name. He made clear when referring this other investigation (“other” meaning in addition to the PPD’s internal probe by Capt. Granger that named officer David Kirchner) that he wasn’t referring to the Postal Inspectors of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Thus there are three probes in connection with SteroidsGate: the completed PPD internal probe, an ongoing probe by a local police agency that is not the PPD, and the federal government.

‘Another Local Law Enforcement Agency’ is Investigating the PPD

When we asked if the feds were also looking at the PPD, the chief said he wasn’t aware that they were.  He says he has had no contact with federal investigators. We asked him if, to the best of his present knowledge, officer Kirchner is the only member of his 120-person staff who is involved with illegal steroids, he worded it carefuly, saying that “based on the information provided to us as a result of the ongoing investigation, yes.” That leaves a lot of wiggle room, of course.

The chief said he couldn’t “guarantee” that Kirchner was the member of the PPD involved with illegal steriods, but based on his present knowledge, “I have no reason to believe” there are any others. Again, there’s enough room in there to easily amend should new information prove otherwise. He knows that, given the rampant problem nationwide with athletes and police officers using steroids, it’s a reasonable question to wonder if Kirchner is the only one juicing.

IF PPD Didn’t Know About Kirchner, How Does It Know What Else It Doesn’t Know?

The reference to “another local law enforcement agency” can means a couple of things, and we won’t speculate. It does indicate that the Pittsfield Police are saying they were not aware of Kirchner’s activities and only took action when informed by an outside agency.

This leads to an obvious question: If the PPD command it didn’t know about Kirchner, then what’s the reassurance that it knows there are no other PPD personnel involved in SteroidsGate? It doesn’t know that, and nowhere has the chief made that claim.

Put in the positive, what’s the assurance that if there are other offending personnel, PPD command would know about it? It missed Kirchner, and he was operating in drug enforcement! In other words, how aware is the department of any other possible activities relating to steroids? How scrupulously has it been policing this matter? Why DIDN’T it know about Kirchner?

We asked the chief about his reference to the BB’s quote of “other stories fueled by rumor, innuendo and speculation” about Kirchner’s case. Chief Wynn answered cagily that he wasn’t “necessarily” referring to the Planet.

Well, who else could it be? The local radio stations, where independent, investigatory news doesn’t exist? Berkshire Unliving’s blog, Cultural Pittsfield’s website? Fluff.com? TheManintheMoon.com? The Planet believes the chief was speaking in tongues, and we admire that level of gamesmanship actually. We believe he was giving us the wink-wink, nudge-nudge, and was saying, loose translation: “Of course I was referring to The Planet!!”

Second-Hand Planet

Chief Wynn said he had personally not been reading The Planet’s coverage of SteroidsGate but that members of his staff were reading it and providing him with digests. We respectfully suggested that the chief read for himself and make up his own mind, knowing, though, that he is an extremely busy man with lots on his plate. We ask that the digesters chew at least 35 times before swallowing.

We highlight this next tidbit because it’s important:

The Planet asked Chief Wynn if he disputed any factual information we had published. He said no, that our facts have been good.

Chief Wynn did that that he was “a little distressed about the implication that there was some cover up” going on. “The first information we got, we responded to.”

He said he hopes the public understands that SteroidsGate (our term, not his) has not been easy for him, the department, and its personnel: “We accept that this is a down moment. It reflects the actions of one member of our department.” Nothing more, he said, and nothing less.

He sounded definitive that as far as the PPD is concerned, “At this point, from an administrative point of view, the matter is closed.” To that, both The Planet and chief agree to add the asterisk for the ongoing probe by the other local law enforcement agency and the federal investigation into steroids.

Just One More Question, from Joe Pinhead

Another question left for another day was brought up in the comments section by “Joe Pinhead” concerning the feds:  “Can anyone explain to me the following: Why during these hard economic times both the DEA and the Postal Service would expend both human and financial resources on rumor, innuendo and speculation? Or is there more to the case?”

The Planet understands the delicate nature of being a police chief having to serve as front man for an embarrassing and likely criminal action by one of his trusted officers, a drug investigator, no less, who last year earned more than $30,000 in OT just on drug matters. There are two other ongoing investigations — one local and one federal — that could come back with additional evidence pertaining to the PPD.

We express the will of We The People when we write:

(a) We hope the probes are thorough and exhaustive, and

(b) We hope the information will be shared with the press on a timely basis.

———————————————-

The BB SteroidsGate Story Ranks Low, Even by It’s Low-ball Standards

It’s a busy season on The Planet, where the weather is balmy and a reliable 72 degrees … of separation.

(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, APRIL 7, 2011) — We begin first by letting you know that this morning, The Planet got an exclusive with Pittsfield Police Chief Michael Wynn. Yes, we had an informative and productive meeting of the minds. More on the details later.

First, a scotch of background on the chief’s busy day, but not before sharing this unrelated item, sent to us from one of our high-ranking spies — on The General Staff, no less. We submit for your approval, without comment. The General writes:

Markham, Lothrop, and Doyle: Dumber, Dumber, and Dumbest

I was entertained last night with the cable show of “Consider

This” hosted by [Lou] Markham and [Jonathan] Lothrop with special guest Gerry Doyle. I

would not insult Larry,Curley,and Moe by putting this trifecta in their

league. You have to catch it at some point, but bring a bottle of Malox

please.

Your name was mentioned in vain, naturally!! You have all these

knuckleheads attention, so keep up the good work and work the body before

going for the head. You’ve opened cuts above the eyes, Kid Gallant.

Hey fellas: consider THIS .

—————————————-

Chief Meets with BB and Gazette: The Planet Calls it Right, Again

Yesterday, Chief Wynn visited the Boring Broadsheet in over at the Crock Tower (not a typo) and then with Jonathan Levine at the Pittsfield Gazette, at city hall.

The Planet was not invited nor notified of the times and places, although, ironically, we posted word of the chief’s press action more than a day before it happened, despite NO official announcement. We will add that we placed two phone calls to Tricia Farley-Bouvier in Mayor Jimmy Ruberto’s office, seeking information about this, and she did not return the call.

So how did we know a couple days ago that Chief Wynn would be meeting with SOME of the press (we even reported that!). We credit the good work of our gumshoes, including those with close city hall and PPD connections, for the tip. Once again, our reporting on SteroidsGate proved accurate and reliable.

The Planet will take credit for this but share it generously with our sources on this story, who, in some cases at considerable risk, are sharing information. Our credit only comes from cultivating sources. They don’t occur out of the blue or drop in our laps miraculously, like manna from heaven.

The Planet believes we have a reputation for hard, but fair, journalism, and this has encouraged many good people on the inside, who have serious concerns about the management of the city and its departments, to share what they know. We love it when we can apply good, old-fashion reporting techniques and marry it with the dizzying pace of cyberspace.

Coverage? We Don’t Need No Stinking Coverage

Now that Conor Berry rode off east into the sunrise at the Springfield Republican, the Boring Broadsheet has no one covering crime and cops, one of the most important beats at any so-called newspaper. Filling in, they’ve thus far used Tony Dobrowolski and Clarence Fanto, who was already filling in for Derek Gentile. You get the picture: The BB is down to seeds and stems. Any storm in a port, as Popeye says.

Their white-washed coverage today, written by my part-time broadcasting buddy Fanto, begins with a headline that’s pure editorializing of a kind that would not have passed muster at the Le Moyne Dolphin, the student newspaper of Le Moyne College, back in the day when The Planet was a prof in Le Moyne’s English department and served as newspaper adviser.

“Wynn sets record straight over officer’s probe.”

(1) How did the headline writer know, and how could he or she judge, that the chief’s statements “set the record straight.” That’s pure speculation. We don’t have enough of the facts to know if Wynn did that. This is a headline that came straight from Kevin Moran, who got it straight from Tim Farkas, who got it straight from Andy Mick, who got it straight from Paul Winchell, Buffalo Bob, and Sherrie Lewis.

Other Ways in which the BB Story is a Whitewash

(2) Again with the headline: It was not an “officer’s probe.” The possessive case here reads as if officer David Kirchner investigated himself. It was the PPD’s probe, and an 8th grade knowledge of possessive case and usage would have informed. Embarrassing. That’s why we have heard from five people this morning who have cancelled their subscriptions (circulation as of two months ago, under 18,000 and falling).

(3) It shows that Fanto has been hired by the BB. Initially, he was filling in for Gentile. Now, it looks as if he’s lowered his standards in agreeing to become a full-time staffer. We offer our sympathy. We can also suggest there might be ditch digging, pumping gas, and signboard job opportunities that would supply more dignity.

(4) Fanto’s story give no indication that one tough question was asked. One of our newsroom sources at the BB says he (Fanto) hardly said a peep and let it to the “reporters and editors” to toss the softballs. In fairness to my good friend, that remains unconfirmed.

(5) The BB did, however, have this paragraph: “The chief expressed his frustration that such ‘stories’ [‘fueled by rumor, innuendo and speculation’] — though not in the Eagle, he emphasized — have persisted ‘despite the department’s efforts to remain above the sensationalism …” Really? Did Fanto press the chief about this? Did he ask for specific examples. Did he ask to whom the chief was referring (as if we didn’t know!). The Planet asked such questions of the chief in our exclusive this morning.

(6) A self-respecting newspaper would have quickly realized the back-handed insult Chief Wynn had just given it. By exempting the BB from “stories fueled by rumor, innuendo, and speculation,” Wynn is basically saying that the paper has been emasculted — like a pinball machine rusting in a junkyard, it has no balls. Everyone with honesty knows this, of course, but it’s fun to see an important figure like the police chief give them one.

(7) Did Fanto press the chief to name one reported significant fact in non-Eagle stories (read Planet Valenti Dot Com) that proved not to be true? No. We did. The chief could not name one, and essentially told us our reportage has been factually accurate. That’s why you’re reading the truth here, and not in the Boring Broadsheet.

(8) The BB story falsely implies that the paper had the exclusive with the chief. It did not. The chief, to his credit, also met with Levine of the Gazette. That item should have been included in the story, but the BB has orders — no reference to the Gazette, and ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, no reference to The Planet. That’s a capital offense over at Crock Tower.

(9) The Planet realizes that any BB reporter labors under adverse conditions — overworked, underpaid, with had-fitted muzzles to keep out any discouraging words (“Home, home on the range, where they deer and the antelope play, where never is heard …” but to use so much of Chief Wynn’s press release and just go with it, word for word … uh, isn’t that a bit much?

—————————–

MORE TO COME

We leave for the moment to take care of other deadline matters, but fear not, our intrepid explorers into the dark recesses, where THEY want eternal cover of night and do not want the sunshine to penetrate. We shall be returning several times during the day and this evening, because things are a popping. In our “FIRST ADD,” we will share the details of Chief Wynn’s EXCLUSIVE with The Planet. Open the window, Aunt Millie!

LOVE TO ALL.

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Jim Gleason
Jim Gleason
12 years ago

Markham, Doyle and Lothrop, two has-beens and a soon to be has-been. Not even worth paying attention to, but they usually bring a few chuckles with their stupid, sycophantic remarks. I think all three have had their noses surgically attached to ruberto’s ass.

rick
rick
Reply to  Jim Gleason
12 years ago

jim … lews had his nose some where.

marcus Borealis
marcus Borealis
Reply to  rick
12 years ago

Yeah in a meat grinder after way too much Ten high and cigarettes

Brian Gilbert
Brian Gilbert
12 years ago

Jimbo Why don’t you do your own show? Then we can see how really smart you are. You seem to have alot of time on your hands..

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Brian Gilbert
12 years ago

@Brian Gilbert:
Your ad hominem attack on Jim Gleason is off-topic.

Brian Gilbert
Brian Gilbert
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

Whats your point?

NFM
NFM
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

@GM HELLER, Brian Gilbert’s comment are on topic as they lend to identify the credibility of a “never-was” that suggests he is smarter than ex- and current elected officials.

In this instance it is particularly relevant because Mr. Gleason has proven himself to be inflammatory on repeated occasions.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  NFM
12 years ago

@NFM,
Jim Gleason inflammatory?
Maybe to the extent that truth is inflammatory.
But not only is Jim Gleason one of the few here and on Topix who has the stones to post his real identity (something you obviously feel constrained to do), but Mr. Gleason’s observations are more often than not right on the money as well as based on fact.
Can you say that for any of carping and ad hominem attacks continually be posted by Brian Gilbert (if that is even his real name)?

Nichols for mayor
Nichols for mayor
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

“I think all three have had their noses surgically attached to ruberto’s ass.” – James Gleason

That is inflammatory. That is juvenile. That is embarrassing.

Why would I post my real name and be associated with people like you and Gleason and Vincellette? Do you really think people want to be at a cocktail party and say “gee, I saw that you were having a discussion with Glen Heller.” I mean, that’s just embarrassing.

Brian Gilbert
Brian Gilbert
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

Whats wrong with asking Jimbo to do his own show? Dan has his blog and he also had a radio show. Even you Heller have your own blog. So whats wrong with asking Jimbo to have a show so people can call in and have a discusion about what ever topic Jimbo is talking about that day? I even agree with Jimbo some times..

NFM
NFM
Reply to  Brian Gilbert
12 years ago

NFM it is. I WILL be voting for Joe Nichols.

And I’m confident that other people who find sanity in Heller and Gleason and Vincellette to also vote for Nichols.

rick
rick
Reply to  Brian Gilbert
12 years ago

brian ….u dont have to be smart to have your own show, and lew proves it.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
Is there any doubt, after reading acting police chief Michael Wynn’s press release, that had it not been for PlanetValenti’s revelations and for Berkshire Blog’s initial report confirming the fed’s anabolic steroids probe, that this entire matter would NEVER have seen the light of day, let alone be now the subject of a press release from Chief Wynn.
Does anyone seriously think the Chief would have unilaterally issued this statement on his own?
And does anyone seriously think The Berkshire Eagle would EVER have reported any of this had the newspaper not had to play catch up with the riff-raff on the Internet?

Ed Shepardson
Ed Shepardson
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

And what would a boycott achieve? If successful, which is unlikely, it would probably result in more Eagle employees, with no real stake in the game, to lose their jobs.

Joe Pinhead
Joe Pinhead
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

A boycott of the Eagle wouldnt be worth while. Boycott those that advertise and see how fast they respond. All we are asking for is investigative reporting unbiased and factual. Is that asking to much? And the employyes have a stake in the game, do you think a community can survive on propaganda?

Ed Shepardson
Ed Shepardson
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

How many pressmen, inserters and drivers do you think you’ll be needing?

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

Doubtless The Planet would pay union scale.

Ed Shepardson
Ed Shepardson
Reply to  Ed Shepardson
12 years ago

And again I have to ask, what would a boycott of the Eagle achieve? And to Joe Pinhead, I will not respond to
those who do not have the courage to use their real names.but your methodology is severely flawed and now I’m done with “Joe Pinhead.”

Joe Pinhead
Joe Pinhead
Reply to  Ed Shepardson
12 years ago

Agreed it wouldn’t be hard to find dissatisfied consumers of the Eagle. With social media it wouldn’t be that hard to organize either. However with so few readers I wonder what percent of revenue is derived from daily circulation and what percent comes from advertisers? Ed asks what of the pressmen, drivers etc? do we the consumers owe them something? Or is it the management of the paper that has failed both us and them? Now I wonder if Ed is really done with me? a nickle says no

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
The Berkshire Eagle’s ace crime reporter, Clarence Fanto, did indeed attach Chief Wynn’s entire statement to the end of his report in today’s Eagle.
SEE:
http://www.berkshireeagle.com/ci_17789149

Ed Shepardson
Ed Shepardson
Reply to  danvalenti
12 years ago

It would have the same result. The people with no stake in the game would suffer and the coverage would not get better. Boycott is a dangerous game. Go back in time to post war Germany to examine the results. Glenn, how are you?

Joetaxpayer
Joetaxpayer
Reply to  Ed Shepardson
12 years ago

Thats the way economics work,if someone supplies a service and after many years they start to deliver sub-par crap,they go out of bussiness.Then ussually someone else takes of the market share that is left behind.

Scott
Scott
Reply to  Joetaxpayer
12 years ago

What about putting forth monetary gain over the well being of humans and nature making it more and more difficult to sustain life on this planet?

Joetaxpayer
Joetaxpayer
Reply to  Scott
12 years ago

Climate change junkie

Scott
Scott
Reply to  Joetaxpayer
12 years ago

Forget about the environment for a second are you saying that there are no directly related health hazards to the majority of people in their work environment? Do corporations not over look these health hazards for the sake of monetary gain? What about officer Kirchners abuse of steroids to give him an edge for monetary compensation ultimately? I’m guilty myself of it most of us are weather it’s smelling toxic fumes we know are harmful, taking drugs to enhance performance or lying to employees about substances and their impact on humanity and the earth it’s all the same really.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Ed Shepardson
12 years ago

The only Ed Shepardson I know is the hairy guy who used to sell used washing machines across from Belcher Square in Great Barrington.
Hey Ed, that old Kenmore you sold me with the wringer gave out after just three loads.
You owe me $75 plus one dress shirt; you can’t hoodwink people and think you can get away with it.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
Also note that The Berkshire Eagle’s report today by ace crime reporter Clarence Fanto about “The Chief’s Speech” confirms what Berkshire Blog had initially alleged weeks ago, that it is US Drug Enforcement Administration that is the “other” federal agency (along with US Postal Inspection Service) involved in the fed probe into anabolic steroids dealing and usage in Pittsfield.

And further (and given little notice in reporter Fanto’s report), the Chief confirms, that, contrary to rumors posted by anonymous SEIU-affiliated union hacks on Topix, the federal probe IS still “active” and “current”.

Joe Pinhead
Joe Pinhead
12 years ago

Can anyone explain to me the following: Why during these hard economic times both the DEA and the Postal service would expend both human and financial resources on rumor, innuendo and speculation?
Or is there more to the case? I don’t know but don’t we the people deserve the facts? All of them ,not just the ones that paint the picture of on rouge officer? What do we tell our children as they complete the DARE course this spring? DARE (Double standards Are Really Expected ).
Chief Wynn no disrespect but we the People also participate in the community via little league, church groups, scouts etc . does this exempt us from standards that should be used while involved in those activities? Or does it heighten our very conduct due to the fact of the position it puts us in as role models? As examples? Our children that participate on teams, groups etc have the right to clean drug free environments. I hope upon the conclusion of the on going investigations no other officers are found to be involved. However due to the leadership or lack there of in this case I for one will remain skeptical. I am open minded and hope to be converted.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Joe Pinhead
12 years ago

@Joe Pinhead,
The best way to address these concerns if the city to mandate on all city employees in ALL departments random mandatory drug testing.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Note the paragraph buried deep in ace crime reporter Clarence Fanto’s report: “Wynn cited official documents about the probe made available to The Eagle, which provided information about the departments internal investigation of Kirchner. The documents were heavily redacted, he explained, because there is ‘active, current investigative material contained in them.’ “

m Wood
m Wood
12 years ago

How can the Chief punish anyone if the investigation is not complete? Can the Officer involved claim he was punished twice for the same crime upon conclusion of the investigation if it shows further wrong doing? So the Cheif since he doesnt have all the facts dealt with the officer using what? Rumor? innuendo? speculation? The Cheif could have gotten as much evidence as he wanted. Did he order a urine test? they dont lie nor are they based on rumor innuendo or speculatiuon. I bet the FEDS can get one if they so desire.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

@m Wood,
Excellent points.
Note too that Chief Wynn has totally punted on the matter of random mandatory drug tests for all those who are employed by the police department.
Would the police department be in its current situation had it mandated drug testing a year ago?

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valeenti:
You write:Yesterday, Chief Wynn visited the Boring Broadsheet in over at the Crock Tower (not a typo) and then with Jonathan Levine at the Pittsfield Gazette, at city hall.

The Planet was not invited nor notified of the times and places, although, ironically, we posted word of the chief’s press action more than a day before it happened, despite NO official announcement. We will add that we placed two phone calls to Tricia Farley-Bouvier in Mayor Jimmy Ruberto’s office, seeking information about this, and she did not return the call.

It is quite telling, Mayor James Ruberto and his acting police chief Michael Wynn, two public officials totally afraid to field simple questions from a lone online journalist not beholden to The Berkshire Eagle or the local Democrat political machine.
It would be funny if it were not so serious and if the public were not paying through the nose to subsidize the circus these two top-level officials are putting on.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Further, where are the questions to the new Sheriff, Tom Bowler, about the alleged steroids problem within BCHC?

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
Gotta agree with ‘Ed Shepardson’.
Boycotting the newspaper is not the way to go.
Better to contact those paying the freight at The Eagle.
Just go down the list of advertisers in the The Eagle and make it plain to those advertisers that something has to give.
Recommend to merchants that they decrease the size of their ad buys until The Eagle shapes up.

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
Based not only on Chief Wynn’s carefully-worded statement, itself likely the product of city solicitor Richard Dohoney; and based also on the fact that you were intentionally left out from the question and answer session held with The Berkshire Eagle’s ace editors and reporters (thereby assuring that no answers from any of your questions would get published in The Eagle), it is quite obvious that this entire circus of how publicly to deal with the federal steroids probe is being run out of and by the Mayor’s office.
Given that, it seems high time to address some pointed questions to Hizzoner himself.
Like what’s his stand on random mandatory drug testing for all employees, and when does he intend to make it official policy?
Given that the president of the police union local and a union official with the firefighters (on PlanetValenti some days ago) both expressed positive views on the subject, it is fitting to get the Mayor on record as to just what he intends now to propose.
If the City of Pittsfield goes along with mandatory random drug testing for all municipal employees, can Sheriff Bowler and his crew over at BCHC be far behind?

Kris Knutson
Kris Knutson
12 years ago

I informed Tom Bowler that as of febuary 2009, Captain NAME REDACTED was offering steroids to officers at the jail. I had a conversation with an officer that I worked with at the jail and he told me that he was personally offered steroids. NAME REDACTED told me that his favorite cocktail was Jack Daniels and steroids. Tom Bowler was not interested in my info at all. He blew me off. So did Jack Quinn. I was not surprised as Carmen is good friends with mr. REDACTED parents, who ran the Christian Center in Pittsfield. Tom and Jack probably figured they didn’t want to upset the old man.

Dee
Dee
Reply to  Kris Knutson
12 years ago

@Kris Knutson
Hearsay is inadmissible in court and likewise should not be allowed in an open forum such as this comment section.

I don’t know this Captain but I would imagine that you could probably find 10 people out of a hundred who could or would say something inflammatory about nearly anyone.

You might not like Joe Blow and tell a ‘friend’ of yours that Joe slaughters puppies on the weekends for fun. Just because you say it, based on your dislike of Joe, does not make it factual.

Bonnie
Bonnie
Reply to  Dee
12 years ago

Many of us believe it is factual and not just because he said it. There have been rumours for years about drug use in both PPD and BCHC.

Kris Knutson
Kris Knutson
Reply to  Dee
12 years ago

Who is Dee? I am Kris Knutson. I that heresay too?

Bonnie
Bonnie
Reply to  Kris Knutson
12 years ago

Kris,

Have any investigators come to talk to you? We folowed you on the Pittsfield Forum and much of what you said we believed. All those idiots that were saying stuff are guilty cowards.

Kris Knutson
Kris Knutson
Reply to  Bonnie
12 years ago

No investigators have contacted me. I’m not holding my breath either.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Kris Knutson
12 years ago

@Kris Knutson,
You might want to consider sending — via certified mail return receipt requested — a letter to Michele M. Leonhart, Administrator, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in Washington D.C. detailing exactly what you know about use of anabolic steroids and other drugs at Berkshire County House of Correction.
(Do NOT send your information to USDEA-Springfield, let actions percolate down from DC).
Recommend also you mail a carbon copy to Mass. AG Martha Coakley, and to Berkshire DA Capeless.
You should also send a courtesy copy to Sheriff Bowler.
Include in your letter to Ms. Leonhart that it has been reported in The Berkshire Eagle that there is a USDEA probe into anabolic steroids dealing and usage in Pittsfield, MA and that you believe your information may be of use and that you are willing to testify and to sign affidavits.
Send all those copies certified mail.

Scott
Scott
Reply to  Kris Knutson
12 years ago

If you weren’t offered steroids directly from REDACTED I’d tread lightly.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Scott
12 years ago

@Scott:
If what Kris Knutson states are facts then he need not tread lightly at all.
The best defense against accusations of libel and slander is truth.

Scott
Scott
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

True but right now he’s only contributing he said she said I know REDACTED and I know he doesn’t drink so his statement is a little off.

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Kris Knutson
12 years ago

@Kris Knutson
When specifically did you give Sheriff Tom Bowler notice that “Captain REDACTED was offering steroids to officers at the jail”?
If you can recall the date that would be helpful.
]Also, did your conversation with Sheriff Bowler take place via telephone or in person?

Kris Knutson
Kris Knutson
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

It was later that same year and it was on the social network forum facebook. I talked to Jack Quinn over the phone.

Bonnie
Bonnie
12 years ago

Tom Bowler.

I voted for you because you made me believe you were different from the GOB. I am still waiting as are many for your comments and stand on this SteriodsGates. What will you do?

Bonnie
Bonnie
12 years ago

Does anyone have the link to this? I keep reading about it and I thought I saw a link somewhere and I would really like to know the story on this.

Delmont T Keyes v. CITY OF PITTSFIELD, and it may not have it all but it’s got enough sordid dirty details and players, an alleged cops “girlfriend” suspected of involvement in the illicit drug trade

Scott
Scott
Reply to  Bonnie
12 years ago

Yeah thats a juicy one enjoy!!!

Bonnie
Bonnie
Reply to  Scott
12 years ago

OMG. That is juicy. Shines a whole new light on PPD.It make me more convinced thart they are hiding alot of juicy secrets.

Dusty
Dusty
12 years ago

Dan, by not inviting you they showed a couple of things. One is that they wanted to bitch-slap you to show you that they hold the power. And the other is that they are deeply afraid of the truth. They have been spoiled by being able to control the radio and newspaper media for some time now and along comes Dan Valenti to spoil their party again.

It shows they are sweating….they are losing sleep….except for Ruberto of course…….who just doesn’t give a damn who gets trampled along the way

GMHeller
GMHeller
Reply to  Dusty
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
Call me suspicious, but the chief of police holds a so-called press conference where by design (his) the only media people present are those employed by the news org which originally had to be brought kicking and screaming even to report the story and which even then did its best to keep the story buried after it was published — and which media org we both agree would NEVER have reported the story had it been left to its own devices.
So what other information did the chief and his soul-mates at The Eagle share which may not have been appropriate for Dan Valenti’s ears?

GMHeller
GMHeller
12 years ago

Mr. Valenti,
The fact that you were intentionally left out of the original press conference after making a bona fide request to attend indicates just how unprofessional these bozos who run City Hall and the Police Department actually are.
This includes the unprofessional Mayor, his unprofessional Police Chief, and the unprofessional city solicitor from whom both Mayor and Police Chief are getting their legal advice.
It also is an indication of the real effect PlanetValenti is having on political life in Pittsfield.
These city hall characters won’t tell you to your face, but they fear what you are doing with your web site.
You err thinking you can make nice and be friends with any of these incompetents.
For example, you write:
“The chief and I had a frank and businesslike exchange, and it’s fair to say we each left the chat with a greater understanding of the other’s position and with enhanced respect. We thank the chief for taking our cold call. He could have ducked us.”
Also, the other day you made reference to the chief being a ‘nice guy’.
Mr. Valenti, would someone who is a ‘nice guy’ intentionally leave you out of a press conference to which you specifically requested to be present?
The sooner you realize you are dealing with real bastards, the better off you will be — and your readers will be the ultimate beneficiaries.
Remember, you pose a threat to the status quo.

Still wondering
Still wondering
Reply to  GMHeller
12 years ago

Heller is right about who you are dealing with Dan. They really are bastards.

Joe Pinhead
Joe Pinhead
12 years ago

Ok some questions for the Chief and everyone involved, We know at least one officer was involved and has presumably given up steroids. Is he currently under the care of a medical professional ? Is the department physician involved? Has a urine test been requested now or ever? Not to aid in a conviction but to assist in withdrawl symptoms? Withdrawl from anabolic steroids can be extremely dangerous and can include reduced blood pressure resulting in dizziness and can include fainting. I’m not certain the midnight shift in a police cruiser is the safest spot for this individual. The mayo clinic suggest not going cold turkey on them but weening off of them to allow the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to recover. Another potential side effect is unfortunately suiside I implore those in charge to ensure a mental health professional is involved in both the recovery and the exploration into the addiction.

http://www.medicinenet.com/steroid_withdrawal/article.htm
http://b4tea.com/food-health/anabolic-steroid-withdrawal-symptoms

marcus Borealis
marcus Borealis
12 years ago

i think dan has the right approach. he’s not afraid to give credit where it’s due like to chief wynn for their phone call. at the same time he’s not afraid to rattle the windows and tear down the walls. valenti has got the times a changing in p[ttsfield. Most of the people trust him, and know he’s on the side of right He is changing to nature of politics in pittsfield. because pf planet valenti, this is going to be a campaign like no other. people for the first time will be going elsehwere than the boring eaglesheet for coverage. They will be going to teh planet. what chew think about that Lew>

arpaint
arpaint
12 years ago

Dan you are really kind when writing about the mayor’s office. I have only had one experience with them in all the years that I have lived heir and it was less than pleasant. So I am not surprise that Tricia Farley Bouvier did not return your phone call. As for the steroids investigation I am glad to hear that there is an outside investigation. But I see no reason not to say the agency name. I would like to see this officer treated the same way as a privet citizen would be treated.