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138 comments:
So Billy will take the bullet for Pope and the governor. He's probably not going anywhere, and the tax-payers will end up paying for his defense. This would be good news if it meant something was going to change for the better.
Sorry to be a pessimist, but even if we see Billy's demise, it won't change one damn thing as long as Pope's still in charge.
Alot of good all of those grievances will do...they will be found in favor of Mr. Humphrey. The more you complain, the more they retaliate....I learned that lesson the hard way. We also had people ask for demotions,stating retaliation and hostile work environment and absolutely NOTHING was done...so good luck!
I know of two staff one an Assistant (remain in his position) and the other a Superintendent who asked for a demotion to distance himself from this administration and they tried to fire them both, but according to all of the reports they received their wish and no discipline to boot.
But then again what rocket scientist would try to fire someone for not receiving a phone call and then state you should have known you were getting a phone call.
In the 1830's this disorder was called "moral insanity."
Profile of the Sociopath
I was only an Assistant Principal (Acting Principal), but when I left on August 3, I could see the handwriting on the wall. I agree daPope will find in favor of Bronco Billy, but public outrage may actually wind up and get this governor and his cowardly lege out.
One can only hope.
come on now...retaliation is widespread all across the agency. If the employees would rise up and express this to the right people, only then will there be accountability. As it is, the reason this happens is that there is no accountability for those above and the ones below stay quiet for fear of retribution. There are State Senators, EEOC, that can look into this and they should. I wonder what they'd find. The reason the Superintendents were reinstated was because they did something about it. Now I wonder if the same results would occur if a simple JCO complained. PLease! Who am I kiddin.
8:29, We did that!! We had Carlos Wilson go in front of Pope and the senators with a written statement that he was resigning so that he wouldn't be retaliated against....so they are aware!
TYC doesn't think laws of the United States apply to them, thats the problem!
8:29...how do you get retaliated against if you are resigning? I know that this is making the leg aware, but there must be more of an outcry other than just reading a letter. I too have been retaliated against and I am trying to brainstorm on how this can be fixed, but so far it seems that majority are complaining privatley out of fear.
If I recall everyone said how terrible the past leadership was prior to the Pope, I wonder if they still feel this way?
I personally knew them and I will honestly say they never came as close as being corrupt as the present ones.
Yes, they did not come forward when they should have, and yes our Executive Director walked out on us when the heat was turned up, but he had more morals/ethics, than what we have now!!!
9:23 Trust me, I know what you are saying is true. Many of the higher up's emulate the behaviors that the top administration. What goes around will come around...and hopefully soon they will be exposed for who they really are. I feel sorry for many of my peers that are being written up and disciplined just so others can justify their existence within the agency.
Teresa Stroud deserves major kudos for her bravery and willingness to speak out against Billy Humphrey's bullying tactics. She's displaying character that every TYC employee should be proud of -- regardless of whether or not you think it will actually result in any change for the better.
9:31...I am not saying that this will not work for the better. I applaud Stroud for her bravery. I am simply saying that there are countless others that have been victimized and are continuing to be victimized even as we type. I am simply saying that more needs to be done. Trust me, I was recently retaliated against and my grievance got no where. I am stuck and don't know where else I can turn to for relief.
Call your Senator
Wilson resigned because he saw what happened to those who spoke up and didn't resign...MANY incidents, MANY grievances and nothing was done! The louder you complained, the harder they came after you...it isn't just a coincidence that McFadden Ranch lost 7 employees in a 3 month period of time. The AG's office was aware, The rangers were aware...and still nothing was done about the retaliation and hostile work environment. So what can we do?
10:46
What should I call my Senator?
SOB?
10:19, I feel your pain...I filed 6 grievances before they terminated me! After I spoke to the AG regarding a crime that occured at the facility I worked at...they came after me with all they had. I was miserable at work and NOTHING was ever done about it...Nice to know Kimbrough had our backs, huh?
What I find puzzling amongst all this is when TYC was taken over by the current leadership the message was transparency. Apparently the previous administration did not practice this and according to all attempted to cover up or hide what was taking place in these Institutions.
But now when we have staff willing to speak out against corruption (ie the current administration) but they come out and state "what we have are a bunch of disgruntled employees trying to stir the pot".
This definitely creates a terrible precedent especially when other staff sees the retaliation and chooses not to speak out in fear of losing their jobs (fake bomb threat), moved to Vernon, and threatened to be moved if you open your mouth.
So actually we have taken two steps back and now fewer people will be willing to come forward because you will not receive any help. I know some of you will respond and state this is not true, if I see something wrong I will report it, don't kid yourself, look at your family and ask them, are you ready to move to Evins, or how about Al Price?
The ramifications that Pope and her entourage are creating will suppress the honest folks from coming forward, is this the intent of Conservatorship?
12:48 - short answer- Yes.
Conservatorship was pure reactivity. I'm not sure it had an "intent." I think that's certainly been its effect.
Also, I disagree with those who think nothing positive can come from this, though certainly recent history gives plenty of cause for pessimism. But this Dallas News piece on the Humpster (that nickname really cracks me up) is significant for being the first time the MSM has laid blame for any problem at the feet of the TDCJ transplants now running the agency. They've bobbed and weaved and blamed everybody else, but this one's both at the new administration's doorstep AND on the front page of the Dallas Morning News. That arguably hasn't happened since Dwight Harris resigned.
The National Guard will soon have to be called in.
I am surprised they haven't all ready.
What little control we had is gone and the pepper spray and shackles are not working.
We could go into the reason for the nickname "Humpster" but this is a family oriented blog site and could offend some. But I am sure for those that have come into contact with this man can visualize the purpose.
Grits,
The DMN has a listing of documentation indicating the nature of the TDCJ refugees now running TYC.
That may make an interesting post in and of itself.
can you add the link to see TDCJ employees that are at TYC now?
They say she is trying to increase the use of pepper spray....
Do a FOIA request of for the number of employees trained for use of spray prior to Oct. 1, 2007 and that have been trained now as of November 15, 2007. Lawsuits don't scare these cronies, just emboldens them more.
Speaking up about what you believe to be inappropriate or even illegal when you are not an administrator has earned staff retaliation and movement to a different shift/location for at least the last 10 years that I know of. When lower-on-the-ladder staff would try to stand up against it and file grievances, or go to the EEOC as has been suggested several times in this thread, TYC would simply portray them as disgruntled employees and somehow the documentation requested of the agency by those investigating bodies would be 'incorrect', 'missing', or even perjured. The only difference between then and now is that now the retaliation has moved higher up on the food chain than before. And no, pointing that out does not mean it is right at any level.
Some of us really had hopes the agency would finally be run correctly, but even the most optimistic person has to be doubting at this point.
3:24, You are speaking the truth!
It would seem to me that somebody needs to address these issues and soon! Look back at grievances and terminations and I am willing to bet that more then a few will point to retaliation for the grievances....which is against the law!
WHEN is somebody going to hold these people accountable for their actions??????
Time to Arm the Militia as our founding fathers put into our Constitution.
Thats what it will take at this point.
STAND UP AMERICANS
Let these lowly public servants know we have had enough.
If we only could get people to stand up without fear of what will happen to them when they do, we could change this agency for the better!
Tell me what needs to be done before more good employees are retaliated against?
And they thought they were un touchable!!!!! Look out Bronco Billy the Big Boys are gonna get ya !!!!!We always said they would get rid of Old Billy He was a Fall Guy for the Pope LOL....MAYBE THEY WILL GET ALL OF THESE TRASH ....And look out West Texas they are going to find out who made that call and whammo I bet the Billy was in on that one also!!!Can you spell Felony!!!Damn this is better than a HBO Movie...
Teresa Stroud will win this one !!!! She has to be the Best Supers Brownwood Has ever seen ,,,Hell She is the only one with Guts!!!! I have been through Four in Brownwood and She is the Best Yet,,, That includes Steen...
Go Teresa Go !!!!!!!!!!
They're up to something guys - if you're a JCO V or VI and have received any emails regarding carrying pepper spray, PRINT THEM AND SAVE THEM SOMEWHERE SAFE! I caught part of a heated conversation today about when and how JCO supervisors were notified they were to carry pepper spray. I didn't catch it all, and I may not have interpreted what I did hear correctly, but we need to watch out for each other and better safe than sorry.
Grits,
These depositions are for the pepperspray hearing on Monday. It is my understanding that Humphrey has a deposition tomorrow. This is not being played in the Central Office so it does not matter who is covering for him there or how the grievances turn out. DMN will have plenty of fodder for another story on Humphrey.
Howard A. Hickman
The dark cloud that has been hovering over TYC is starting to break. Today's DMN article should be a morale booster for all TYC staff in the field. I know it put a little pep in my step. I feel positive that this is going to turn out good for us.
Give them hell Teresa!
I was just informed that Humpster is having Wallace Brown (Superintendent at Sheffield Boot Camp) and Gwan Hawthorne (Superintendent (Gainesville) testify for him tomorrow. All of us saw this coming, when your allowed to place unqualified staff in these type of position they are expected to step up when the time comes. I guess it's their time to step up and perjure themselves for the good of the agency.
Howard....why would the AG ask Humphrey to hire an attorney?
The Texas Youth Commission needs some serious investigation. The agency is in worse condition than when the scandal orginally started. Employees are confused and can't question directives that violate policy. Jeffrey Berry has been stripped of his job, moved 270miles from his home and family (3 small children) because he dared to question his supervisor over a situation he felt was not right. He has shown to be a honest, dedicated TYC employee and deserved better treatment than he received. Why didn't someone in charge in Austin notice and question his treatment by TYC. It wasn't right.
someone should look at marty martin's hiring practices
Things were surely going downhill with the old administration, but I am stunned by how low morale is among staff now. I do not know anyone who is not looking for another job. If everyone in Austin disappeared tomorrow, the kids would still be taken care of. Just where would Pope and the Humpster be if the JCOs, case workers, psychologists, and support staff didn't show up for work? Wonder if they could watch all the kids?? Simple fact that they just don't seem to "get". Way to go Teresa....I always knew you had guts of steel and a low tolerance for BS.
6:44, it has happened to alot of us.
Its like somebody screaming for help, but knowing that nobody will ever come to save you.
I made a moral decision, should I speak up about abuse that I knew occured? Or shut my mouth and keep the peace. I chose to come forward...and I was terminated for my effort's.
Shouldn't somebody have noticed in CO that I had filed grievance after grievance on my treatment at the hands of my corrupt superintendent?? Shouldn't the AG's office have protected me, because its them I went to with the information? Of course, but did it happen? NO!!!
I did what was asked of me...report abuse, and My family paid the price.Doesn't seem fair does it?
With regard to your earlier posts regarding the TYC ship heading towards disaster...
Iceberg meet Ship.
We're there. What'll define the new TYC under its current leadership will most defiantly be defined by how Pope handles one of her own: Bronco Billy.
When a federal judge tells you to stop, don't just slow down, pause, and think about stopping.
Rather, hit the damn brakes because that ice is cold – and it’s rather slick.
Been there. Done that.
And you know, if Bronco Billy and this current administration don’t get it, then they can all kiss my ice. ;) I think I have better things to do than be involved in another round of this bullshit.
Maybe someone will question Bronco Billy for offering a Job to a TDCJ Satff during a meeting???? IOh wait it was on a sticky note Hmmmm Maybe thats what they call TDCJ Recruitment !!! Anyway if thats the way He offers these Jobs I would think the person who took the Job is a looser as He couldnt get a Superintendant, Job without kissing the ass of old Bronco Billy..
I bet this one will leak out as well as all of the other underhanded things these fools have done !!!!
Let's hope that the lege will sit up and take note!
Dementia & Dummies, they are playing your song, what you gonna do when they come for you.....la, la, la, la, dada, dada!!!!
Well if all the Humpster has going for him is Wallace Brown, then he might as well hang it up. I can't imagine what he'll want Brown to testify about - I sure as hell wouldn't hang any hopes on that testimony.
You could be right 6:08 - this might turn out to be very interesting at that.
Homeboy looked like a dear facing headlights today. Just to think, Bronco Billy has been here, what, four months?
There's your welcome to TYC square pants.
9:05 I just want to know when Bronco Billy will be suspended without pay pending termination since this is always his response to staff who allegedly violate policy. Who else has been employed for 3 months with TYC and has managed to be involved in a lawsuit. Congratulation Bronco Billy you have officially won the world's record on that one. Way to go Bronco!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"someone should look at marty martin's hiring practices"
WHAT IS THAT SUPPOSED TO MEAN? he's doing a great job leading good people trying to make training more meaningful.
Anybody think Teresa is now immune from being fired for fear of a retaliation suit, or is Pope really that stupid that she would?
Pope, Humpster, Neal, they are all brazen to the point they believe they are immune to any oversight. Why would superintendents just now send out e-mails telling staff to follow GAP.97.23 when this was settled back in August. Don't believe me talk to any staff tonight and they will tell you about the new directive that came down today.
9:24 Yes, Pope is that stupid!! Find out why auditors were on campus today . . . no major disturbance, but the ENTIRE campus is being audited!
You know this is just like the movie Shawshank Redemption,, I liked the ending to that movie,,Was that Broncos Brother that was crying like a little girl or was it Bronco???
TYC/Bronco Billy Redemption !
Now thats worth seeing......Maybe we can add D-Pope in on a special request ( Da-Pope Redemption II )Wow that may be one way to get the money back that these people have cost the State of Texas Tax Payers..
10:46 Maybe you have a Senator who has any brains ,, Our represenative in Brown County is a worthless person ,,many State Employees have contacted Troy Frasiers office and He never calls back.When Her runs for re-election I do not think He will carry Brown County.He Did nothing to help anyone!!! He wouldnt even listen to the very people who voted Him in Office............
WOW YOU PEOPLE SURPRISE ME. HAVE YOU NOT LEARNED THAT NOTHING WILL COME OF BRONCO BILLY OR DA POPE. ALL YOU DO IS WHINE. PEOPLE WILL BE DEALT WITH. SUB-PAR EMPLOYEES WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. FILE A GRIEVANCE IT DON'T MATTER. HAVE YOU NOT BEEN PAYING ATTENTION?
OH AND TO THE HEAD INSIDER/OUTSIDER WHO POST AND STIRS UP THE POT. WE HAVE YOUR NUMBER ALSO. ITS NOT CUTE TO PLAY BOTH SIDES. YOU ARE GOING TO PAY YOUR BILL REAL SOON.
WHAT A BUNCH OF MORONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
None of you could blow your nose better then you've blown the new pond scum administration!
Every one of your MORONICALLY filed grievances will be dismissed due to stupidity on your part. If you are going to screw with people then at least use or display a working brain pattern.
Oh my god, what a group of stupids!
They tell you how to correctly file a grievance on their web page. You MUST be on their "Intranet" page. Look at about the middle of the page.
You will see a link to a managers guide to grievances. Click on this link and it will take you to a page that guides their administrators on how to deny a complaint.
That's right.
A page on how to deny redress on a grievance. They don't guide their supervisors on doing the right thing at the right time because it's the right thing to do.
They guide them on how to deny redress due to time lines, redress requests that are contrary to their personal agenda, and redress that would require the agency to operate within the laws and stated guidlines of decency.
This is the old and new policy all wrapped into one. This gives the current admin an out when they screw the pooch. AND, THEY WILL USE IT.
If you don't follow through with a correctly filed grievance and jump through the Lege designated hoops then the law states that you lose all rights to redress. You must do every step in the order it is prescribed, and lose at those steps, before you can go to the next step.
If you give them any kind of mickey mouse "out" of any kind then they will string you along until they see the head lights coming at them.
Then they will jump off the train and leave you holding the bag of poop.
You have nothing to scream about and no way to go forward because you are the one that asked them to just "STOP THAT".
They stopped screwing you that way.
YOU, and THEY, agreed to stop that way of doing things.
They stopped lifting their butt to the left and farting because it offended your airspace.
You filed a suit, you groaned, and moaned, and wiped a time or two, butt!
Now they turned the right ass cheek towards you and farted with the same indignancy they did before.
Damn it!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You have to start that grievance process all over again.
Learn to work within their system. The worm eats from the inside out.
Most of all:
Know your strengths and weaknesses.
AND, Learn;
your opponents rules of engagement, tactics, strengths, and weaknesses.
If that doesn't work then learn how to write a damn grievance.
I.E. By their own policy, you can not write a grievance against a person. Only an incident involving a person. Also, you can't ask that someone be fired; only that action be taken.
I know it is assanine!! But that is their game. Learn to play it or you will lose every time!!!!!
Well I wasn't gonna do it but:
Ah Hell!
Sorry to have to tell you this but you've already lost.
Why?
Because this is the type of pond scum that can change the nature and RULES of the game at their leisure and flip you the bird if you don't like it!
What ya gonna do about it?
Bitch on a blogsite!
Whoop dee do!
9:59, this part of west Texas has you beat... Senator Uresti went into a law partnership with Hinojosa (supporter of Evins despite DOJ investigation, 'levendy seven superintendents, open bay dorms etc)... couldn't even wait for the end of the session before Uresti sold us out.
RETALIATION IS AGAINST FEDERAL LAWS PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!
I am sure its time to involve somebody OUTSIDE the state government, don't you think??
They are not going to listen to any of us until we make them...get the feds breathing down their back, things might start looking up!
Say the clever one who types in CAPS, read between the lines Brother, ya know the "BIRD". And by the way I'll give you my number if you will give me your address??
You heard it here. Bronco Billy will be headed back to TDCJ.
TJDO
He should 1st be going to jail for violation of a court order, then not be eligible for rehire after that. And if this happens what will become of the Chuck Jones at Al Price, Gwan Hawthorne at Gainesville, Laura Braley at Mart I?? He picked some winners!
Berry and Stroud are not being messed with by Bronco Billy, this is coming straight from Pope. She learned it from Kimbrough who did the exact same thing to some good Supts. and Asst. Supt. that are no longer with the Agency. Ask the folk at Crockett and Evins...
It seems that the state of texas is letting us implode. Could they actually want TYC to disappear and get this monkey off the lege's and gov.back? Just do away with the system all together and let private companies and the counties take over and pick up this tab?
As far as the federal gov. coming in to save us, not happening. They have done nothing but continue to allow this abuse of the tyc state employee's continue. They (EEOC) is aware of the retalation and discrimation charges and they have done nothing about it. Sold us down the river.
Better read the Da;;as Mprning New s this morning,,, Looks like they have brought in another criminal to run TYC.. Wow it is just like Pimps......You know one thing we can all do and I have already done.. quit the stupid Employees Union ,, whathave theydone for us ??? Not a thing lets get someone with some guts in here ....
If Chuck Jones is one of the brains in TYC we are all doomed ... No wonder Bronco passed love letters to Him to offer Him that Job....
Did you notice that Jim Hurley told the DMN that the grievances were being investigated fully, does anyone know what investigation took place? Or is Jim Hurley in Humphrey and Pope's back pocket?
6:56,
He's not in their back pocket, he is in the crotch of their pants. I filed several grievances before I was forced out of TYC, none were answered.
How unprofessional is it for Kimbrough to say that he did not care if the guy they put under contract with the shady background was "on the grassy knoll in Dallas"? Is he saying that he doesn't care if this guy murdered a President, he would still offer him a contract if it helped TYC youth? Gosh, it's a shame that he did not have the same sympathy for the employees that he forced out of TYC that were hired by TYC knowing that they had prior conviction(s). And what about Pope's comment, referring to the same guy, "he's got it going on"? Is it really appropriate to use this type of ghetto street slag when discussing TYC with the media? Makes me wonder what the guy did to get the contract from Pope... Both are class acts. Every State Agency needs a couple of well spoken leaders like Pope and Kimbrough.
I was there the day that Jeff Berry questioned Bronco-Billy and Mr. Berry had every right to question actions that were in direct violation to written policy. We locked all the youth at the facility (Mart-II) in their cells for days, and for no reason! The youth that were locked in their cells did nothing. The youth were not allowed to leave their cells, even to exercise!
Where was Will Harrell then?
What bothered us all was that the youth's due process rights were violated. But, unlike Mr. Berry, no one spoke up. Which is wrong.
I give kudos to Ms. Stroud and Mr. Berry for speaking out. What was done to Mr. Berry was retalitory, and,I would think, is against the law. Well, if Bronco-Billy has no problem with violating TYC poicy and opposing a court order, then I am sure that he has no problem with breaking federal laws.
Wrong, well the staff at WTSS would still like to know who called in that fake bomb threat over a month ago. I can still remember the day Ms. Pope, Mr. Humphrey, Ms. Neel, and Ayo came on our campus and walked Mr. David and Mr. Hollis off the campus. And for what, nothing, neither man received a phone call but they were both hung out to dry. As of this date no one has mentioned who called in this bomb threat or why Davis and Hollis were the first two administrators walked off campus on leave without pay.
The press release from the Dallas Morning News said they were negligent in their duties but after they were brought back have you seen another press release stating we screwed up? You will never get these people to admit they screwed up even at the cost they are extracting from the employees and their families who have to carry this burden every day. We will continue to carry on out here and hope our leadership has no other surprises for us anytime soon.
Interesting!
Hawthorne and Braley are old TYC -- Gwan came up through CRTC and learned to politic sexually from an ex Arp Superintendent. Braley learned it from her former Crockett Boss Brantley. Chuck never had a place to live unless he was with a woman at San Saba.
Yep, I know those winners. I wouldn't give you a nickel for the three of them. And I remember when Kim was fired at Al Price and replaced with Chuck. BTW Kim was never much anyway.
So we go from bad to worse. To all those who wanted Dwight out of there. Better the devil you know than the one you don't.
11/15/07 11:16 am
I wouldn't put the former Supt. and Assistant Supt. of Crockett int he category of former "good Supt." In fact they are of the same ilk as the current administration. Not much difference between the Clay/Banard cronies and the Pope/Humphrey clan. Different performers, same song and dance. Freeman meglomaniac conrol freak...Pope nuff said!
On the pepper spray issue, Evins just dropped the list on who can carry pepper spray.
Security, Program Specialist (Who are never around) and the On duty campus supervisor. JCO V's are not allowed to carry on the dorms any more.
Any other institution going through this as well?
Are we going against Billy's directive? Someone may have seen the light, naw just kindin'.
@6:49 PM, 11/15/07
Can you give a little more info about Marty Martin's hiring practices? Why do they need to be looked into? I'm genuinely curious.
10:19,
No matter how you slice it, those two were done wrong by the Kimbrough/Owens/Pope regime. Neither of them did anything to get done to them what happened.
I have to agree with 12:24, the former Supt. and Asst. Supt. got a raw deal at Crockett. Not to mention the former Supt. at Evins. Those guys might not have been liked because they held employees and youth accountable. TYC could use someone like them now to pull it out of this mess.
11:15- All of TYC's hiring practices need to be looked into because they are not following any policy and they are hiring in all of there buddies from TDCJ.
Grits, do you happen to know:
1. Is Will Harrell reading this?
2. Is John Whitmire reading this?
3. Are any of the Legislators supremely pissed at being ignored by these TDCJ rejects?
ATTICUS
Will Harrell does read this, he is listening and he has been fighting for what is right nonstop since he was hired.
Despite what all of his critics think he is working his butt off for both the kids and the staff. We should not assume that nothing is getting done because we don't hear him constantly tearing people down, that is not his style.
Will does, Atticus, and I know Whitmire's staff does, at least (he sees some of it because he's called me before, unhappy, and mentioned the blog when I testified at the last senate hearing).
I think most legislators just wish it would go away, but are starting to realize it won't. Everybody at the Lege is taking cues from Whitmire and Madden, and I don't know who Perry is listening to (apparently Arlene Wohlgemuth). Bottom line, Whitmire has been Pope's legislative champion, and Madden her critic. Perry could and hopefully will break up the problem with the appointment of a new conservator and, one hopes, that person will just sweep out the current rats nest and take another stab at it, would be the best outcome.
Or Perry might coast with Pope and Co. or even appoint some Gregg Phillips wannabe and make things worse. If things keep on the current track, by my estimations, before the next session in the summer or fall, the staffing crisis will become so acute the agency just implodes. Maybe sooner, at some facilities, but certainly agency wide before 2009.
That's why I predicted in "TYC Meltdown" they're going to shrink inmate populations a lot more. They almost have to. They've run through most of their overtime money. They're paroling kids as soon as they're eligible with no rehabilitation goals met now. Who knows what they'll do when there's nobody left to guard or teach the ones left?
For 11/15/2007 05:50:00 PM Many of us have been worried enough to keep copies of memos for years because we knew there was a good chance we would be thrown under the train by admin sooner or later.
For those of you still fighting the good fight, watch out for each other. Nobody else will be doing it for you.
What happened to Berry wasn't any more ethical than all the times it was done to multiple other staff over the years.
Will Harrell seems very sincere and well meaning, but I wonder about how he phrased what he told the lege about 'the kids knowing he was on their side'. It concerns me that the phrasing sounded like unbiased impartiality might be at risk during his investigations. I hope not, and am willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.
Bronco Billy has let his position go to his head. He believes he can steamroll over his subordinates at will and so far by all indications he has accomplished this. Hopefully, "what goes around comes around."
Hell, did they get you an office at the BHB or what? You’re right on target.
Someone should tell Elmer and company that as far as this blog goes, TYC staff don't cry. They multiply, and they’ll just keep coming and coming. Everyone in this agency has heard about GFB, and well, it's like CNN to us, fair and balanced.
We all know Bronco Billy let his position go to his head. It's just too bad that he thinks with his little head and not his big head.
We haven't heard the results of his deposition - yet. Court is Monday. I’d love to hear what the hell he was thinking.
I think TJDO called it. His ass will be back in TDCJ which is where his square ass belongs – if not jailed for contempt.
As must be evident, TYC is not at all happy with this guy, as he's embarrassed us once again.
A message to all: No more TDCJ in the Juvenile Justice arena please. TYC staff may be on the brink of bringing down one of “them,” using “their” language. This we v. them is also a problem, Gov. Perry. Relay it to him Alfonso…..
Thank you for this site.
I have said it often in the past - what all of TYC is getting at the hands of daPope and crew is just an expansion of what Crockett employees got under Freeman and his crew. Sure, Freeman held employees accountable - unless of course, they were on the "team". Sure, kids at Crockett walked like automatons under Freeman - and youth and staff injuries went through the roof. Crockett went from having the lowest lost time injury rate in the agency to one of the highest, and from one of the lowest turn-over rates to one of the highest. Yeah, we need to bring Freeman back to straighten out the agency. Oh wait, we have his clone - Bronco Billy.
TYC Gritsers aren't going anywhere and we are gonna keep on bloggin. I know grievances are the primary motivator but i think the legitemacy of the complaints was established in parts through posts and comments on GFB. Addicted man.
Keep writing your legislators. Give them the daily rundown if you have to. I have almost lost track now but could someone put together a list of the gaffs since conservatorship.
And whatever happened with that crazy principle they were going to hire at Crockett?
9:08 they hired his goofy azz.
you have got to be kidding...
that sure went under the radar fast
8:36,
You better check those stats again, Crockett had one of the lowest incident and use of force rates in the Agency. The injury and turnover rates were identical to the rest of TYC. Get the facts straight. You were probably one of those sorry staff that refused to follow policy and were held accountable. Freeman and his "team" ran an excellent program especially in comparison to the fools running the show now.
HMMM, a lot of interesting stuff here!
I worked as a math teacher at VFCA. I am certified in Texas for all level special education and secondary math. Most math teachers won’t touch a special education certification. I did, but I’m a rarity, and I’m effective.
After starting to teach at TYC 7 years ago, (Vernon), I inquired as to why I was not getting paid holidays as stated in the state employment agreements and brochures. After talking to the local HR and obtaining no reasonably acceptable answer, I called central office as they directed and discussed the matter with a “Lisa Anderson Harrell”. She was A-typical of the trash at CO at the time and typical of the human garbage that procreated there until this whole fish stew began.
I was not happy about the mistreatment so I filed a grievance. I followed the correct procedures in the correct steps while other teachers at our facility filed their grievances based on emotional vagaries. Most of their grievances were summarily dismissed due to technical errors and all but one was dismissed because of in-effectual grievance writing skills.
The one grievance that was not dismissed was mine. I received a call from CO. One of their lawyers called and left a message stating, “I needed to call him back.” Oh, I called him back, all right.
He attempted to question the validity of my grievance through intimidation and legalese but it backfired. When questioned, I responded with the exact PRS and line within that PRS that validated and verified my position and the accompanying logic given by them as to the propriety of my position.
He acquiesced to my claims after realizing he had no way of intimidating, bullshitting, or scaring me into submission. He then stated “Your right, but your going to have to take us to court to get us to pay you”.
This taught me a few things and brought a few old thoughts to mind.
1. The people in CO are political.
2. They don’t care about anyone, any thing, or any right.
3. Just because they know what’s right doesn’t mean they are going to do what’s right.
4. They are the worst kind of hypocritical human waste to ever evolve.
A few questions arose in my mind when “Will Harrell” was “hired” (so to speak) as the “Ombudsman”.
1st Is his wife’s name? Lisa (Anderson Harrell)—If so, then isn’t some cronyism hanging around. Can anyone say “conflict of interest” or “How do you pay some one off”!
2nd –Wait just a minute! Isn’t “Howard Hickman” one of those human pieces of waist that was screwing us in the backside until he got downsized? Nice try for cover Howie, but I’m not buying!
I guess the old trash; outside the house, is accusing the new trash; inside the house, of creating the stench that is being noticed.
Hell of a smoke screen!
Talk about being between a Humphrey and a hooter!
Good luck real people: AKA Field Staff!
TYC needs some attention from the National News Stations such as an Investigative Report since it seems the Texas Senators and Representatives are ignoring whats happening at TYC. How can everything mentioned on these Blogs not interest someone who has the power to help??????? So many reports of wrongdoing and no actions on them. It's so frustrating just reading them all.
10:29
Lisa Anderson Harrell is not married to Will Harrell. She is married to Peter Harrell, who was a CO trainer.
Can I hear "What a Dumbass?"
Lisa and Will? Man that's one generation apart you idiot!!
Good thing you don't teach history!
Whadda fudge brownie bowel movement.
Teachers in T.Y.C. can get no more benefits than local teachers in their district.Public teachers do not get paid holidays. Pick the right fights,quit whinning. The core staff at Gainesville keep us running . You short timers and know it alls ,will leave before long. Have seen this for almost 20 years. Those of us who care about the kids and good staff will be here when you are gone. Respect is EARNED not demanded.The core of our campus is solid regardless who holds the leadership reins. We put up with Jerry Day and his rants and "ideas". Austin is not going to change ,just the names will. To those who do their jobs well, you are heros keep up the good fight.To the others quit wasting your negative energy,and do the best you can with what you can control.Leave the rest to a higher power.
Note: not 8:36pm.
To: 9:56 p.m.
Though stats may be true however he did so through abuse and intimidation of both staff and students. Now, that the BIG GOON (and many of his lackeys)is gone it is not surprising that things went south.
That is what is inherently wrong with fear and intimidation as a means of control. It not only teaches the wrong values (incidently same values that many youth learn on the street), it tends to explode back in your face in the long run.
Mr. throw the f@#$ing kid off the roof got just what he deserved, call it KARMA. Problem with being a Shark is, once you start to bleed then the other Sharks may turn on you!
9:26,
You have no evidence to back your claims, that makes you as bad or worse than the current TYC Central Office Administration, i.e. throwing people under the bus because you believe a certain way or think they did something wrong when you have no proof. You probably are someone from Central Office.
Just give him "ice cream" chocolate or vanilla, he will come down. And throw him off the roof, I am sure you were right there when that was said, once again throwing stones at the wrong person and or direction. Our problems are in Austin know where else and sooner or later all of you stone throwers will realize this unless of course your ran over by the Pope Express.
Spoken like a true Central Office staff that has been or is about to be ran over by the Pope train.
12:32 I like your post and agree with you, but.....you must know that not all facilities still have solid "core staff" left. In fact, I wonder if many do, my facility for sure does NOT!!! I am somewhat encouraged though that you do there in Gainesville and commend you.
Actually, 9:34 a.m.
I do have evidence and there was even a couple of articles in the DMN about it.
There were many witnesses to Mr. Freeman's comments the night he told staff to throw the kid off the roof.
This is not a baseless claim.
As far as his involvement and/or covering abuse I do have in my possession a letter from Emily Helm to Mr. Freeman and Mr. Nicholson that is he failed to take appropriate disciplinary action against several staff confirmed to have abused youth in Crockett in 2002 (he wanted to punish on staff by temporarily putting him in a desk job) then the TYC legal department would not support him in any ensuing lawsuits.
I don't like the new administration in Central Office but Clay, Banard, and Freeman needed to go.
okay, 10:52, then why didn't the numerous investigations confirm this against Freeman? In regards to the document that you have, it is common knowledge that Supt. and Asst. Supt. get advice from legal on discipline for staff. However, it has always been the final say of the Supt. to decide what type of discipline to issue. I know who you are talking about, and I promise you that compared to the rest of the Agency, the discipline issued to that JCO VI was consistent to the discipline being issued to others in the Agency for similar policy violations. In regards to the DMN, there was not a shred of evidence put forth by those employees that came out and complained. I have an email from the investitgator that said none of those people had any evidence to support their claims. I also know that Nicholson passed a polygraph on all of this crap, but he was still thrown under the bus. Once again, get your facts straight.
This is the story of Crockett, Freeman went there in 2001. A handful of employees who couldn't or refused to do their job got pissed off because he held them accountable. Those people complained, so TYC investigated and Freeman was exonerated. In 2007, those snakes came out of the woods again and find a fool (JK) willing to listen to them. JK thought Freeman was in the grassy knoll in Dallas in 1963 becasue he had heard Freeman was a black panther, so he enlisted the help of some TDCJ snakes to take Freeman out. Freeman is now enjoying retirement. Unfortunately for them, they unjustly took out an innocent person, the Asst. Supt.
Many investigations were confirmed against Freeman and Crockett (he was captain of the ship so he is responsible) but there was a lack of follow up afterward. The information/Investigations went to central office who knows how they were redacted or dealt with after the fact.
Please, that discipline was not consistent with other discipline in other institutions. Fact is there was very little consistency in TYC discipline. And the memo was more of a rebuke and warning, not advice.
You put more spin on the facts than the Bush Administration. Freeman needed to go, he is gone. TYC is better off with out him.
For the record, I think Blu got the short end of the stick. I had no complaint against him other than not having much back bone but he did eventually develop a spine and was doing good things.
TYC is not better off. I would take Freeman and 50 others like him over what we currently have.
11:52,
Nicholson stood up to Freeman throughout his career at CRTC, Mart, and Crockett, but he was one voice crying in the wilderness.
Blu Nicholson was offered an Asst. Supt. job at Sheffield Boot Camp once this was all said and done and refused the assignment. He had choices and choose another path, dont feel sorry for him.
About getting facts straight - the incident with the youth on the roof at the education dept was during the daytime, not at night. Second, it was the chaplain, who was standing next to Freeman, who made the comment. He admitted as much, saying he said it as a joke. Third, he did get rid of a bunch of folks who were abusing the sick leave system.
Now that I have said that in defense of Freeman, there was plenty that he was guilty of - particularly his rule by intimidation, and his hiring of goons to maintain order on the dorms, and his use of selective discipline against staff who reported abuses to investigators.
Blu Nicholson did not stand up to Freeman for the first two years he was at Crockett. In fact, he was Freeman's henchman. Then, Blu had a religious conversion (really) and began standing up to Freeman. Freeman used to regularly and publicly make fun of people who had any kind of religious convictions. For over a year, Blu tried desparately to get transferred to another facility. He was initially offered the Supt. position at Sheffield, but he turned it down because of serious family considerations. Then, they came back and offered him the Assistant Supt. position at Sheffield. So much for his having choices.
I'll stand up for Blu as well. They did him wrong, and they really need to make it right. He got railroaded.
Hey has anyone heard anything about Ron Jackson II Closing doors. Just heard at Wall Mart with some Staff that work there that they are so short and several JCO VI have resigned!Maybe it will happen you know what makes me mad as Hell our great Represenatives in our district are watching this unfold and are doing nothing to help the workers...
I would have Freeman back in Crockett any day. The dumbazz they have there now is running things by the seat of his britches.
"He's a loose cannon." Paul B. the new RD over the east region said so last week!
Blu dedicated 9 years to TYC, and all TYC did was offer him a transfer to BFE with everyone knowing that Sheffield is about to close. Blu tried to get to another facility so he could maintain regular contact with his child, but TYC screwed him. Blu chose his family over TYC. Good job, Blu. TYC should be ashamed of themselves for doing this to such a wonderful man. I don't know if he had a religious conversion or not, because every since I've known him, he has been a Christian man.
I know! We should get Freeman back as RD. Paul Bartish don't know nothing. He only got to be RD by sucking up to the Humpster.
Do we have any superintendents left who were in place when the new administration took over?
I met that little skinny Business regional director the other day (I don't remember his name) for the North Region. He is one pompous ass. Listening to him talk, or should I say brag, you could swear he runs the place. He's always talking about what he "ain't gonna do." I think he came from Gainesville. They sure know how to grow them up there. Is he a TDCJ transplant?
10:35pm, your answer is Stroud, Thomas, Walters and Brooks. Bartush was a Superintendent when the take over occurred now he is a Regional Director. Their are not many left and the new administration is proud of that, they list the turn over in reports to the legislature as an accomplishment for them. The shame is the remaining Superintendents have more talent than Pope, Neal and Bronco combined.
10:35...Lisa Cooke is still in her position as a Superintendent, because they can't remove her without admitting guilt and having to settle several lawsuits against her. She has been suspended once, faced medical neglect charges numerous times, she may also be facing criminal charges anytime now as a result of her incompetence. But lets get those damn "postage" superintendents fired first...and leave her in place. She will get one of those kids killed yet...give her time.
Hell, they left her in place to bully and manipulate that youth she poured bleach on until he signed a statement saying he was satisified with HER findings on the issue!!! CORRUPTION CONTINUES...
Didn't they arrest a sup for shredding documents? But they allow this to continue???
10:29,
What are you talking about?? If you think I did something, then I demand to know what you are talking about. I suspect that you are just full of hot air. Put up or shut up.
Howard A. Hickman
Howard,
My suspicion is that 10:29 is someone who is convinced that anyone and everyone associated with Central Office is clueless and has no idea of the endless suffering persons in the field must endure (I'm a field person.)
Unfortunately, TYC breeds an almost sociopathic self-righteous contempt and arrogance towards fellow employees. Everyone is so sure they are right they can no longer see the forest through the trees.
Remember rumors, innuendo, and uniformed opinions (often because people remain tight with info) abound.
Everyone is sleeping with someone, or is the second cousin college buddy who was his grandmothers uncle!
So ignore the rants and ravings of some traumatized ex-employee!
Hey Howard -
No one ans. this at the other string, maybe you know. What are the possible outcomes of Pope/Billy et al., violating that pepper spray agreement? If the advocates prove TYC was in contempt, who gets it, Pope, or Billy? What do you think will happen?
I don't recall this ever happening in the agency, so this is a first.
11:28 and 12:12,
I learned long ago the best approach on unsubstantiated comments is to call them out; otherwise some people think they are true on the theory you did not respond.
As to what is going to happen on Monday, that depends on what the Plaintiff's are asking for and how angry the judge is over what Humphrey and Pope, et.al. did. Jail and fines for contempt are a possibility.
If I were the judge, I would refer the matter to the DA for child abuse prosections.
Howard A. Hickman
"That's the sound of the man..... working on the chain.... ayye ayye"
I do believe that'd send a strong message to these TDCJ transplants.
Ronnie Earle, Travis County DA, might be a better solution to the retaliation and other criminal offenses of the Pope and her cronies than waiting for Governor Goodhair to do anything.
I think that the reason that bloggin GFB is because it helps many of us relieve the stress which is a result of the frustation of having no voice at work. I know it makes me feel better whether it makes a difference or not...and I believe it may, but then I am a hopeful person (or maybe just naive).
I think Will Harrell is a good guy with good intentions, but I know of an incident where he demanded a student be released from security without even looking at why he was in there, and the student returned to the dorm and assaulted staff. He was in there for multiple assaults on other students and staff. EVERYONE needs to be kept safe. That is our job.
Will needs to hire a deputy who has experience on the inside, but still has compassion for the kids. I think he can do a lot of good for both staff and kids to make TYC a better place, but he needs to get himself someone he can trust who knows TYC from the inside out.
The DMN ought to do an open records request on all of the other grievances filed against Bronco Billy. There are more interesting things afoot and many of the grievances are interconnected. They would definitely paint a more vivid, accurate portrait of the unethical, unprofessional, immoral and illegal activities of Bronco Billy. I wonder if the next time TDCJ is in the crosshair if the lege will import ex-TYC staff to try and right that ship? Man, I gotta give up dope someday real soon!
We all need to wake up a smell the roses. None of this "reform" has anything to do with the WTSS scandal - that was just the excuse our elected criminals used to line their own pockets. Goodhair has been blatantly crooked from day one, and thumbs his nose at those who would call him to account. Don't even get me started about that arrogant crook Elmer. The problem is that Texas voters don't care. Just look at the sorry turnouts for elections! So, the Humpster violates court orders and illegally harrasses employees? Small potatoes! It's all about money! People don't count.
http://www.hss.caltech.edu/
~mcafee/Bin/sb.html
Profile of the Sociopath
What rises to the top of social empires? (Politics)
Does anyone know what happened in court today?
An Austin judge tells a children's advocacy group and the Texas Youth Commission to work out an agreement on when and how TYC can use pepper spray against inmates.
Texas Appleseed claims TYC was only using pepper spray against inmates between 30 and 80 times a month before August.
"After the directive, it went up to 250 times a month," the group's Rebecca Lightsey says outside the courtroom this morning.
The group claims TYC still hasn't lived up to a bargain to cut back on pepper spray use, a rule Lightsey says was adopted illegally.
"Then they entered into a settlement agreement with us that they could go back to the old rule," Lightsey says, "but unfortunately in the last two months, it's been over 200 times they've used pepper spray."
Judge Giesla Triana orders the two sides back into court Wednesday with framework language on when and how TYC can use pepper spray.
Does this mean Judge Triana is letting them off the hook? TYC employees can't take another blow below the belt. As it is, there is no shred of respect for Dementia and the Humpster. This will just do them in! The mob will be at central office waiting on them if they aren't found in contempt and jailed.
If they get off the hook, it'll just reinforce their feeling that laws don't apply to them. What role models for the TYC kids.
I'll heat the TAR if you bring the Feather Pillows.
Been over 100 years since a public servant has been tared and feathered but the time has come...
They will walk away scott free!!! Read between the lines if the Judge was so bent on doing anything to these people they would have done it today and not let them get out of the courts sight..
Man this is so Political what will it take to open the publics eyes that these people are no good...
Man I tell you when I vote the next time it will not be for a Republican or Democrat ,,,,I will vote for an Independant maybe by taking some money away from these Folks they will get an Idea what they have done to us...I agree with what the other message said let the State Troopers deal with these Lovely Children as little Chewey calls them...
I'll bring the feathers, you have the tar ready! Politics suck!
I was reading the Law Suit where Da Pope is being Sued so If they Win will She have to pay any of that Settlement?? Ill be dammed if any of my Tax Dollars go to settle a Law Suit which She caused and I bet I can get more people who think that way as well.
I was told Several years ago that if an Individual is named in a suit they are on there own is that the case here or is She exempt?I remember years ago I was told by a TYC Exec that if a TYC Staff is named they are on there own..So is Da Pope on our meal ticket or what?
the core is strong at Gainesville but with Haider and Hawthorne running the show it will soon be gone.The morale at Gainesville is so bad that long time vetrans are looking for other jobs. Gainesville has been sent all over Texas helping others out. We have had senators , officials from Austin and even Will Farell. All have said great job but our supt and asst. treats and talks to staff like dogs. THEY WILL BE THE FALL OF GAINESVILLE.
Is there anyone in Texas politics who cannot be bought? First and foremost, we have Governor Goodhair, a do nothing blowhard more concerned about hair care products and a possible VP nomination than with honesty, integrity and ethics. Next, we have the lege, a collection of self-serving, money grubbing, morons, who feign moral outrage at what's happened in TYC, but whose sole purpose in to make a fast buck at the expense of a floundering agency and the taxpayers of the State of Texas. And then there's Jay Kimbrough. Now there's a piece of work. He fires so-called "criminals" from TYC and then influences the award of a high dollar contract to a guy who is a recognized crook in two states. And now, Judge Triana, who apparently has no interest or concern in Dementia and the Humpster violating the settlement order on pepper spray. Her solution is apparently to have the two sides come up with "framework language" by Wednesday. I wonder if she'll send both sides to bed without supper if they don't? With such stellar examples of morals and ethics, is it any wonder that we're in the shape we're in? The court has an opportunity to send a positive message to the likes of Pope and Humphrey that they are not above the law and that they will be held accountable. But unfortunately the main concern of our elected officals is not the good of the people of Texas, but rather getting re-elected. Perhaps "sunsetting" is the bullet in the brain that will end the suffering of TYC. In the end, the kids and the dedicated juvenile corrections professionals who have tried to make a difference in their lives, are the ones who will pay the price for the arrogance and stupidity of a state government that has become so callous and so corrupt that it is willing to sacrifice the futures of more than 3000 kids currently incarcerated in TYC.
I'm sick and tired of hearing about Gainesville. What makes what you guys do so much better than anybody else? The Super you had that was promoted to RD was no better that what you have now. Everybody knows he got the job in the first place because of Brit Canary. He didn't and still don't tell it straight. He went along with anything you guys wanted to do whether it followed policy or not. You know it. That's probably why you're so messed up that you got somebody who will make you follow policy.
Well put, 6:11
I don't understand the 11/15/2007 10:16:00 PM post. Grits, I hope you are watching for things that sound like threats of harm.
11/15/2007 10:31:00 PM has a point. In order to successfully grieve an incident in TYC you must play by their rules. That is why every JCO should know the PRS, GAP and INS policies better then their supervisors. It is the only thing that can possible save you from admin placing a bulls eye on your back.
Please tell me what the BHB is? And Ron Jackson is closing???? Where did that come from?
I never had much respect for Berry, but what happened to him was WAY wrong. It sounds like he really stepped up for the right reason and then got stepped ON for it. I wish him luck if he pursues litigation, but Dewey Poteet and some others in CO Legal do NOT play fair once they know you won't back down. Berry can expect a personal smear campaign from that quarter. Stroud sounds like a girl with some real courage. Kudos to her. Walters has some faults (don't we all?) but there were several things I really respected about him in the workplace. I hope he can stay out of the crosshairs of the current leadership.
Mr. Hickman, you are spot on about "I learned long ago the best approach on unsubstantiated comments is to call them out; otherwise some people think they are true on the theory you did not respond." It is a pain to have to make the effort, but you are right to do so.
Last, but definitely not least, is the observation that as a JCO who sat through countless Behavior Groups, I sensed during lege hearings something in the communication (both verbal and non-verbal) between Pope and Whitmire that made me uncomfortable. I may not know what the sub-plot is there, but it doesn't pass the smell test. Am I the only one who got that feeling?
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