One tidbit that didn't make it into the story: I might consider this a bigger deal depending on the circumstances. For example, a gun stolen from a vehicle is one thing, guns stolen from law enforcement evidence lockers are quite another. The 22 guns stolen in 2 years from DPS strikes me as a de minimis number, with thefts of laptops, badges and other equipment probably raising more serious red flags.
Via Texas Watchdog
This is a little off topic but does relate to DPS. There has recently been a big deal in Arkansas over state officials driving state owned vehicles to commute back and forth to work and other personal use. I saw a headline this morning where 63 employees of the Fish and Game commission were giving up state vehicles used for commuting.
ReplyDeleteI recall several years ago, in Texas, I heard that a lot of high ranking DPS officials had state vehicles that were fully equipped police vehicles that they used for commuting. These officials had no patrol duties and did not respond to calls. I'm wondering if this is still the case. If so, that would be a good place to start budget cuts.
lol cops acting like CROOKS who woulda though! ha!
ReplyDeleteYou mean to tell me this trooper had his trooper truck stolen? You'd think all the DPS vehicles would have GPS tracking devices and they'd be able to locate this vehicle immediately. Evidence stolen out of an evidence room demonstrates a lack of control systems to prevent this from happening. Not good.
ReplyDeleteScott - I think you have a future in talkingheadism. Maybe MSNBC is in your future but first, work on that Smith County accent.
ReplyDeletePlato
There was an incident (I believe last July) when a whole class of CHL instructors met in Austin to hold and test for CHL instructor certification. Many of these people were DPS officers and other peace officers from across the state. While they were in class in the middle of the day, several of their vehicles were broken into in the parking lot, and several weapons were stolen. It took several hours for Austin PD to respond.
ReplyDeleteSo, yes, for some reason, it would seem that stolen guns in Austin aren't a big deal.
You're right, Plato. Especially outside the state, people hear that East Texas accent and immediately deduct 20 point off your perceived IQ. I've been blessed with a face made for radio and a voice made for print. :)
ReplyDeleteKeith Olberman spot at MSNBC is vacant.
ReplyDeleteThe DPS is full of embiziles. Cut their funds and force them to act like adults and earn a living.
ReplyDeleteHey Scott, great piece!
ReplyDeleteFunny seeing that vid, I've been reading your blog all these years and built this mental image of what I thought you looked like. Boy, was I way off.
ReplyDeleteYou look even dumber than I imagined.
LOL, I'm just kidding, Scott. You know I love you.