Greetings my fellow Bossier Parish Citizens,
My name is Mike McConnell and I am running for Sheriff of Bossier Parish. I have over 20 years of Law Enforcement experience which includes patrol, two different Street Crimes Units and six years working as a Robbery/Homicide Detective.
I resigned from the Shreveport Police Department to pursue employment with the Bossier Sheriff’s Office where I patrolled the Benton, Haughton and Plain Dealing areas of the Parish. During this time, I began teaching Criminal Justice at Remington College in the mornings on my off time.
What makes me qualified to run for Sheriff of Bossier Parish is that I have the knowledge and the experience, dealing with crime and criminals, to lead this parish in the 21st century. I have what it takes to protect our city, towns and parish for all who live, shop, eat and visit here.
During my employment with the Bossier Sheriff’s Office, I observed things that were dishonest and illegal. One of the things that I did not agree with then, nor do I now, is the treatment of the Sheriff’s employees. Sheriff Deen has said that his employees are salaried and that is why he does not pay overtime. This statement is absolutely false. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Department of Labor (DOL), the law states, “Exemptions do not apply to police officers (sheriff’s deputies), firefighters, paramedics, and other public safety personnel (so-called “First Responders”).
In other words, “Exemptions” means that they are exempt from being salary employees due to the high propensity to work overtime.
“Those earning at least $100,000.00 a year will be exempt from overtime pay if they “customarily and regularly” perform at least one of the duties of an executive, administrative, or professional employee.”
Sheriff Larry Deen’s staff that makes over $100,000.00 is not exempt and is not eligible for overtime pay, thus they are salary. The only reason he has not been sued for overtime pay is because he is an “at will” employer, which means, Sheriff Deen can terminate an employee without reason.
Larry Deen is breaking the law and if you break the law, you cannot enforce the law!
Sheriff Deen robs his “low on the totem pole” employees and lavishes his upper management staff with extravagant and lavished salaries to the expense of the taxpaying citizens of this parish.
In the January 14-20, 2011 “Inquisitor”, it shows the top 200 salaries for the Bossier Sheriff’s office. On the first page of the salaries, the seventh line from the top, reads:
“N. Gregorczyk - Lt. Colonel - $114,834.15”
This shows the depth of the untruthfulness and deceit that runs through the veins of the Bossier Sheriff’s office with Sheriff Larry Deen in command. “Lt. Colonel N. Gregorczyk” is “Nita Gregorczyk” who is Sheriff Deen’s “personal secretary.” Sheriff Deen has disguised her true position in the department, from taxpayers, by giving her rank status. I know Mrs. Nita personally and know that she is a very kind and sweet woman and it is unfortunate that she is caught in the middle of this situation.
These are hard times and the citizens of this parish are struggling to keep their families fed due to unemployment, inflation and now even higher prices at the gas pumps. Sheriff Deen had the opportunity to ease some of the burden from the citizens of this parish by reducing property taxes and he did not. Sheriff Deen decided once again to be deceitful by attempting to pull the wool over the eyes of the citizens of this parish. By law, Sheriff Deen had to hold a public meeting for citizens to address the tax. He decided to stack the deck in his favor by holding the meeting in a small office instead of a venue that could hold a large crowd. He also stacked the deck by only allowing 15 minutes of citizen response, citing that a non-existent Louisiana Statute limited the duration, most of which was allotted to his cronies.
The operating budget for the Bossier Sheriff’s Office more than doubled itself in six years from $15 million in 2004 to over $35 million in 2009. As sheriff, my commitment to the citizens of Bossier Parish is to reduce the wasteful spending of the sheriff’s office and make all transactions transparent for all to see. Under my leadership, this sheriff’s office will once again be accountable to the people it serves.
This is my pledge.
To all the hard working citizens of Bossier Parish, stay Safe.
Mike McConnell
http://www.mikemcconnellforbossiersheriff.com/
I agree with everything that has been said here. You have my vote Mike!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI have personally experienced everything that Mr. McConnell has said. Larry Dean is not the wonderful man that alot of people think he is. He is very unfair to most of his employees, except the privileged few. The "regular deputy" never gets anywhere in this department. The same 10 people get to do all the things that everyone else wants to do. Go Mike McConnell!!!!
ReplyDeleteI may be mistaken, but didn't the Inquisitor publish the Sheriff's Dept salaries about 2 years ago and the sheriff's secretary made $90,000? If my math is correct, that's a $12,400/year raise. I have no doubt that this woman is a fine employee and citizen, but it seems to me that the men and women putting on the bullet-proof vests ought to be the ones bringing home such handsome pay. Doesn't she also drive a parish-owned vehicle that is fueled by parish-owned gasoline? Why would the secretary need a take-home car? Typing emergency? Mr Deen has been robbing our parish for 2 decades. His behavior, tactics, and policies are a slap in the face to Bossier Parish citizens and the deputies who serve under him. I certainly hope that the voters of Bossier Parish will stop drinking the Larry Deen Kool-aid and vote for Mr McConnell.
ReplyDeleteMike is saying what a lot of deputies would like to say but they know they world lose their jobs. Deen is not a good sheriff and should be defeated. I hope the people of Bossier Parish are paying attention.
ReplyDeleteI chose the wrong profession if secretaries are being paid $114,834.15 per year.
ReplyDeleteI'm a Bossier Parish voter, and I'm paying close attention. The high salaries published for certain Bossier Parish Employees is absolutely ridiculous.
ReplyDeleteWay to go Mike McConnell! you have my vote, you left out about how the Bossier Parish Tax payer's are paying for Larry Deen's church Business at the expense of our Bossier Parish Sheriff's Deputy's, instead of fighting crime and getting the bad guys off the street our Deputies are doing church erands for Larry Deen and his wife.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like an audit and change is long overdue. It's no wonder alot of things are put on the back burner with all of our parish dollars being spent on excessive salaries.
ReplyDeleteThey are probably not being paid for what they do, but for what they know. AND NOT TELLING!
ReplyDeleteAs a local deputy, I agree 100% with Mike McConnell. In my humble opinion, Larry Dean has not only deceived his department, but he has apparently misled the hard working taxpayers of Bossier Parish. As we must all know and understand, government is even more accountable today for decisions they make than ever before. Therefore, it's very important to put our best foot forward as responsible citizen's and put our trust in Mike McConnell. I wish you the best and know you will do a fantastic job as Sheriff of Bossier Parish.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing wrong with being religious or being an active member in the church. With that said, Deen is a religious fanatic and uses his church to advance his employs. From what I hear from other deputies if you are a deacon at his church, you get special treatment and promotions. A six year deputy promoted to undersheriff, are you insane. Has anyone paid close attention to Operation Exodus, again, are you insane. Deen is not who he appears to be, check it out. I will be voting for McConnell.
ReplyDeleteThis will be a good race. But it will end much like the shreveport mayors race. Our area covets corruption. The vote on increasing property taxes was big. Also, the big problem with big salaries is not paying the salaries, its paying the retirement. This race will be a barometer that all businesses will look at before they move here.
ReplyDeleteRidiculous excessive salaries to some who are undeserving are issues that just scratch the surface. Giving underqualified individuals positions because of their political affiliations is an issue in itself. Hard working, more experienced, front line Deputies continue to be passed over. There is no structured promotion system in place. The Larry Deen system is corrupt and wrong in so many ways.
ReplyDeleteIf McConnell would mail a copy of this letter to every household in Bossier Parish the people would wake up. But knowing Bossier politics I doubt it.
ReplyDeleteHow true this article is...As a citizen of Bossier Parish and someone who witnessess this first hand everyday I agree 100% with what Mike has written. So much goes on that the public is unaware of. I feel at your job you should be able to voice your opinion and thoughts without the fear of losing your job. I also think that every deputy should receive equal treatment and be able to advance in their career due to their experience and NOT because of who their father or uncle is. Deen has been here long enough and IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE. Let's get someone in charge that is going to be fair and not play the "good ole' boy" politics to benefit himself and his buddies. I vote Mike McConnell and support him 100%!!!
ReplyDeleteInteresting letter. I assume the platform Mike is running on is we should not elect Deen again based on his assertions. I have heard the same things about Deen, but I would like to know more about Mr. McConnell in regards to HIS qualifications. Why would you be any different from Deen or any other political puppet we have in office now?
ReplyDeleteI think the Bossier Sheriff's office overall does a great job, and I think some credit is due to Mr. Deen on the accomplishments.
The secretary issue is alarming at best. Makes one wonder if he is sleeping with her or she has so much dirt on him he doesn't have a choice, who knows.
alarming at "worst" I meant to say. Surely she is not just a "secretary"? For that much he could hire five of them.
ReplyDeleteI am a Shreveport police officer and a Bossier Parish resident. I know both the McConnells and was traind by Mike when I first came on as a rookie many years ago. I have only one thing to say... He is just about the best cop I have ever known and the most honest. He knows the law inside and out and that's the truth. Bossier Parish can't go wrong with electing him as sheriff.
ReplyDeleteIt's time for new leadership. We're with you, Mike!
ReplyDeleteMan what an article... its about time that someone stands up for whats right. looks like theres going to be a new sheriff in town.
ReplyDeleteI laugh at the last poster, "A new Sheriff", that's funny. One has to remember that Larry Deen has been in office for more than 20 years. I'm sure that his War Chest is fairly LARGE. Mike has to really convince a large number of voters to get behind him. Larry Deen has a number of old Bossier residents who are wrapped in Bossier politics. That being said, old Bossier politics are fading and the demographics are changing. The young professionals MUST get involved in order for change to take hold. From the posts, it sounds as if a number Bossier Deputies are very displeased with how the department is being run. Winning over the employees is key. I'm sure most are very unhappy with the whole secretary salary situation and who wouldn't want to rightfully receive their overtime pay.
ReplyDeleteI moved here last year from out-of-state and do not personally know the "history" of Bossier Parish Politics. However, as a new voter and very pro law enforcement, I am asking many questions and keep getting the same common denominator in that Larry Dean is corrupt and it's about time someone ran against him. I've had the distinct pleasure in meeting and knowing Mike and want him to know he has my vote. It takes courage to stand up against men like Dean and his cronies and usually signifies a man of truth and honor with nothing to hide. I want men like Mike to stand up for the men and women who wear the badge with honor instead of hiding behind the badge with no honor. I hope Bossier Parish is listening and will let their vote speak for a new Sheriff in Town like Mike McConnell.
ReplyDeleteJust an observation, but I've been a reader of MyBossier for a couple of years, and I can't remember even one other post which has received such unanimous acclaim.
ReplyDeleteMike is the new age sheriff we need. We need a law man not a man thats about the votes. Mike has experience with the law so he can enforce it. Its time for a change and we as voters should give Mike a shot. Mike for Sheriff!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteWhy all the need for a new sheriff? Dean has done nothing but taken a backwoods department and turn it into a first class professional organization. Dean has had a remarkable career without the scandals of other similar elected officials and law enforcement heads in our area. He has placed professionals in administrative positions that have helped him put the Sheriff's office on good financial ground, while other public agencies have bankrupted their system forcing layoffs and early retirements. While other public agencies are forcing employees to pay extravagant increases to cover those mistakes, Dean has been able to shield his employee's from that. All of these things have been done while keeping Bossier a safe and respected place. The disgruntled always scream the loudest, but the majority will re-elect Dean based on his past accomplishments and future promise.Bossier Parish really does not need a "new" sheriff? One that has bounced from job to job and been unhappy everywhere he has been.
ReplyDeleteProBossier
ReplyDeleteIt is evident you know nothing of what you speak. The name is "Deen" and he has been shrouded in "scandal" and controversy for many years; taxes, overspending, discrimination, women and many other things. He has placed his friends in administrative positions within the department and his own couisin is third in command. It is also evedent in your comment that you know nothing about crime because you would know that "Deen" has done nothing about crime. Crime in an area is due to demographics and nothing more. And, what jobs has Mike McConnell bounced around from where he was unhappy? Sounds as if you have an axe to grind. He arrest you or something?
i know Mike and I know what kind of person he is. He helped me out many times "on the job" and his advice was always welcomed and correct. The only thing I ever got from the S.O. was a hard time. Not the regular guys/gals mind you but the fat and overloaded "head of the administrative snake". GO MIKE
ReplyDeleteWhat's going on with Sheriff Deen? Why has he not announced his run since he has a contender... he planning to hang up the gunbelt? Anybody got any info?
ReplyDeleteI was speaking to a Bossier Deputy of mine who said that Sheriff Deen has been spending my tax dollars on Stetson cowboy hats for his deputies to the tune of $250 each!! He said that Deen bought summer and winter hats for them to wear. Mike McConnell has got to do something about my money being wasted. I hope he is reading this! My vote is for a new Sheriff!
ReplyDeleteIn rebuttal to all the negative comments on this site let me say this.
ReplyDeleteWhen Sheriff Deen took office, the department was still in the dark ages. Since 1988 he has brought the department and Bossier Parish into the 21st century. Every division within the agency is first class, second to none. A lot of these complainers must still think it is 1980. First Class is not cheap but nothing worth having is.
When Sheriff Deen took office patrol deputies had to share patrol cars and the department had to buy used vehicles from other agencies.
Bossier Parish now has state of the art correction facilities as well as a P.O.S.T. certified training academy complete with state of the art firearm ranges. The Sheriff's Office is more accessible to everyone in the parish with substations north and south of the parish seat. I could go on and on about the improvements Sheriff Deen has made for the department and for Bossier Parish.
All the comments about terrible and illegal things Sheriff Deen has done - name one.
Is it illegal to pay employees a livable wage? No. Is it illegal to provide his executive assistant with a vehicle? No. Is it illegal to expect loyalty from his employees? No. If he had done so many illegal and terrible things he would have been in jail already.
The Sheriff's Office is audited on a regular basis by State and independent CPA's. If anything irregular was found it would have been on every television station and in the newspaper as well.
Buy the way, I do not attend his church and am not one of his "privileged few" as you put it.
Mr McConnell and his supporters need to stop trying to tarish Sheriff Deen with their water fountain gossip and if ya'll know so much about the Sheriff why can't you spell his name correctly?
I agree with you sir..thanks for posting some common sense...20 plus years one is going to have some disgruntled folks...am glad a secretary is finally paid her worth...she does a great job as well...I will vote for Sheriff Deen....I know nothing about the other candidate and dont think anything is broken that needs to be fixed...
ReplyDeleteMatt,
ReplyDeleteYou are either very old and one of King Deen's high payed administration, which I belive you are because of the inside information about the sheriff's office that you have, or you are on of his poison kool-aid drinkers. You said to name one thing that Deen has done that is illegal... well here are several... He settled out of court with a female deputy for his practice of discrimination. He did not want to got to trial on that now did he. It is a well known fact that Deen does not pay overtime which McConnell brought out in his article...oopps, you missed that part now didn't you. You talked about Deen's personal assistant having a take home car... who gives a crap, but you didn't even say anything about her pay. How in the hell did you miss that. The builders who built his prisons and sub-stations had to give his "church" donations to even build. He is sly like a fox just like Edwin Edwards and may never go to jail, but there is one thing for certain, McConnell must have a set of brass ones if he is even attempting to go against the "machine". No else has. So crawl back under the rock you pulled yourself out of and go shine Deen's shoes some more. He probably paid you to write your blog anyway.
This response is to the person who said that he is glad that the sheriff's secretary is being paid what she is worth. My wife works as a secretary at the court house and makes less than $30,000.00. If Sheriff Deen's secretary is worth it, than so is my wife. Where is her pay raise? She is very good at what she does. What's fair is fair.
ReplyDeleteI find it interesting that all of the negative comments come from one person. Anonymous. How classy is that. I will address the matter of overtime. All of the deputies are salaried employees, and as far as I know they are all compensated with comp time. I don't know of a law that requires an employee to be paid for overtime work, as long as they are compensated, in kind. Builders donatating for contracts?? Give me a break. All bids for goods or services over $10,000 have to be submitted under the sealed bid laws, and in case you didn't know the Maximun prison and the courthouse expansion were bid and built by the Police Jury, not the Sheriff's Office. Again, and I will go real slow, it is not illegal to pay an employee a liveable wage. It is so illegal, that everyones salary is posted on the wall at every office, as well as the newapaper. Do a little research and find out what other government employees with 34 or 35 years of service make. Nita has worked more hours in a year than most of any of the Anonymous's have in their lifetime of working, if they have ever WORKED. Ya'll or you keep hollering about " The Church" Anybody have proof that a penny of tax dollars was used to build it, or operate it. Didn't think so. Can we get off the church thing. Everyone chooses the church the attend for their own personal reasons. Attacking someone because of the church they go to sounds alot like you need to spend more time in yours, and listen to your pastor a little closer.
ReplyDeleteDiscrimination? An entity as large as the Bossier Sheriffs' Department experiences lawsuits all of the time. People, employees included, see them as deep pockets. Instead of doing the job they are given, some people "worm" around looking for a fast buck or any solution for their inability to do the work they are given. Most of the time it is a good business decision to settle out of court, as opposed to spending more of the taxpayers dollars on attorneys defending a frivolous claim.
No Depties working at night? Have any of you Anonymous's seen any crime statistics? How many daytime burglaries occur at night?? Check any law enforcement agency and you will discover that most of the resourses are dedicated to the day shift. Heck, the almighty FBI doesn't have a night shift, and they are supposed to be working to keeping our whole country safe.I will close by saying that not ONE employee at the Bossier Sheriffs Office was forced to apply there for a job. Not one of them is forced to stay there, if they don't like it, they can quit. Let me slow down again so you can understand. I was not paid to comment on this matter because the Sheriff would not stoop down to this level, and he would not approve of me doing so. I don't care because I don't work there and if Mr. McConnell approves of the junk that anonymous' are putting on this blog, he sure won't be a wise choice for any office.
The average annual salary for a secretary in the private sector is below $40,000 per year. It is not terribly demanding work, doesn't require higher education, etc..
ReplyDeletePaying $100,000+ is unjust and is an abuse of taxpayer funds. $100,000 is far above and beyond a "liveable wage", especially at taxpayer expense. Using the table of averages for government salaries only hurts your argument as government has long abused the public trust by pillaging our pocketbooks. Now there's an entire nationwide Tea Party movement to end the abuse and bring government back into accountability.
What it comes down to is the people haven't seen the return on their $35 million per year.
MAT said: "Do a little research and find out what other government employees with 34 or 35 years of service make.--- Nita has worked more hours in a year than most of any of the Anonymous's have in their lifetime of working, if they have ever WORKED".
ReplyDelete-----------------------------------
Your comment @ 11:48 is just plain ridiculous MAT!!! How many of these deputies drawing big salaries have worked 34 or 35 years? You can probably count them using your fingers on just one hand. And his secretary has worked more in one year than most people in their lifetime? Please at least use common sense which you are severely lacking. Even though it might not be illegal for her to be furnished a vehicle to use at her pleasure it is ethical? No it is not, just plain favoritism. Try again because your post only confirmed all the negative comments about Deen.
From MAT @ 11:48...I find it interesting that all of the negative comments come from one person, Anonymous.
ReplyDelete----------------------------------
MAT: There is NO profile and NO info on who you are. So like the majority of posters you also are "anonymous". Welcome to the club!
I would bet that these Bossier Parish employees making such outrageous salaries have little more than a high school education. It also seems that they are getting these huge raises so soon to their retirement age.
ReplyDeleteReverend Ed Baswell works for the Sheriff as the public information officer. This means he answers questions from the media which probably takes a few hours a week. And now he has an assistant! I wonder which of her kin knows Deen?Just more taxpayer waste of dollars and more favoritism.
ReplyDeleteI'm voting for Mike, I think Deen is crazy, and yes I mean the medical term.
ReplyDeleteYou know what is so funny. Its people talking about Larry Deen.
ReplyDeleteWell, everybody, he was the only one to stop the fraud at the School Board we call "Air Repair".
He stopped a 10million dollar fraud cold. While others didnt want him to, he did it anyway.
Also, all the waste that goes on at other agencies is outta control - and you guys are bitching about a few salaries. Typical dumbasses - look at one hand while the other hand is robbing us blind., ie all the other government agencies in Bossier Parish - that like to build things and issue bonds.
I hope Deen beats this guy like a drum in the ballot box, then gets turns his attention to investigating every agency in this Parish.
Dear Matt...
ReplyDeleteYOU are a sinner, you stand behind the corruption in this parish and you sir, should be ashamed. You make excusses for it and condone it as if it is your right. My family struggles to make ends meet while you and those like you live high on the hog off my taxes. This is why the "Tea Party" was revitaliized. Long live FREEDOM! I hope Mr. McConnell fires everyone off the top when he makes Sheriff. I bid him good luck.
To Anonymous@6:45 So you are saying that in ONE instance involving Air Repair Deen did his job so we should forget about everything else? If other Parish agencies are guilty of fraud and waste (as you implied) and Deen is doing nothing about it you are just confirming he is NOT doing his job! And people are not bitching about a "few" salaries but MANY outrageous salaries. It would be good if you had knowledge before you post instead of showing your ignorance of the situation. The only "typical dumbass" post I have read is yours. Give me a break!
ReplyDeleteAnonymous@6:45 said: I hope Deen beats this guy like a drum in the ballot box, then gets turns (sic) his attention to investigating every agency in this Parish.
ReplyDelete---------------------------------
If other agencies need investigating why should he wait until after the election? What's wrong with starting tomorrow morning?
My Bossier Parish Friends,
ReplyDeleteLittle did I know that by writing the truth I would have raised such turmoil. All of my life, I have met opposition head on and have always stood up against those who whould trod on those who could not defend themselves.
I have spent my life in the service of others, and, this will be no exception. I will represent ALL Bossier Parish residents equally without bias. The job of Sheriff demands it. I will never tarnish my family name nor the high office of Bossier Parish Sheriff.
I will run the Sheriff's office like a business and spend the tax payers funds as if it were my own. I will be frugel and thrifty.
My friends inside the Bossier Sheriff's office have been threatened with their jobs if they have any contact with me. They have warned me of pending evil that heads my way. They give me this information even though they risk termination. I ask, is this the dealings of an honest man or Sheriff's office? Every answer should be "No!"
I stand by my article because it is the truth, and , I will be forging ahead with more things that I observed while employed by the Bossier Sheriff's office that are dishonest and illegal. I stand for truth and justice and even though I will be persecuted for it, I know it, and I know that God knows it, and I will not deniy it.
I appreciate all who stand for justice and stand behind me, and, I hope all those who stand behind Sheriff Deen would take a step back and observe the true man that he is and truly ask yourself the honest question, "Is he the man I want to follow?" If Deen is, by all means, follow him. If not, then let me prove to all that I AM the right man for the job. I again pledge that there will be honor and integrity within the walls of the sheriff's office when I am elected on October 22nd.
Thanks,
Mike McConnell
Hey Anon 8:08 and 8:30 It looks like ou are the same person, and no doubt work for a Bossier City/Parish gov't entity.
ReplyDeleteMaybe Anon 6:45 is on to something.
Dear Sheriff Deen -
ReplyDeleteIf other agencies need investigating, would you please start tomorrow morning as Anon 8:30has requested.
Hey Anon 8:08 and 8:30 It looks like ou are the same person, and no doubt work for a Bossier City/Parish gov't entity.
ReplyDeleteMaybe Anon 6:45 is on to something.
February 4, 2011 10:45 PM
Dear Deputy: I am one but not the other but I know when to use "you" instead of "ou". I hate to burst your bubble but I'm retired & not from any government agency. I'm just stating the facts about Deen which really seems to bother you.
Seems to me that the Dean administration and the Obama administration have something in common. Both are using taxpayer money like there is an endless supply.
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly, crime is much lower here in Bosser Parish, which in my opinion has little to do with this race, but more to do with the accountability of where my money is going.
I work long hours of over-time with the company I work for and sacrifice nights and weekends to provide for my family, but I make nowhere near 100k.
I happened to see that the Inquisitor posted the Bossier Sheriff's Office pay scale and noted that the top 8 ranked employees are paid roughly $1.5 million collectively!!!!! To say that I was in awe was an understatement.
In a time when we as a parish and nation should be seeking ways to spend less, conserve more, and save for our children's future, there is no reason why we cannot begin here and now by making our vote count for Mr. Mcconnell.
This is not the time to eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die. I agree with the poster who said that this is one of the reasons the Tea Party was revived.
Mr. Dean, I appreciate your efforts of the last two decades. You have done well, but somewhere down the line you have lost focus on the goal and our needs as a society and parish. You have especially lost focus on who it was that elected you.
With all due respect sir, it is time that you stepped down and do so gracefully.
Hi, I'm new to the forum, but read early in the thread that a Shreveport Police officer wrote that he "knows both the McConnells". Anybody know who the other one is and what he does?
ReplyDeleteFinally a Man who will stand up to the "good ole' boys"and run the Sheriffs Dept. like a true business, of the people, for the people, by the people. I know Sheriff Dean has threatened people in the past who try to stand up to him but I think we have finally found our true Public Hero who is not afraid and has an honest reputation. I am behind Mike McConnell 100%
ReplyDeleteIn answer to "who the other McConnell is", he is a Shreveport police officer and Mike's twin brother. I have known both of them for many years and they are 2 of the finest individuals that you will ever be lucky enough to be associated with.
ReplyDeleteDeen is outta control, he is overly paranoid. Deen promotes according to how well you know your scripture and how well you suck up. Time for a change, time for good ole boy politics to go bye bye. The old Bossier Political machine needs to break down, time for some new blood. Its sad when elected officials do not fear those that they serve, those that voted them into office. Mat, your a moron.
ReplyDeleteGood luck Mike
ReplyDeleteHope you win - just hope you dont sell your soul to do it.
Lotta bad folks in this parish- and I aint necessarily talking bout deen,
watch out - or you may get something on you
Once they have something on you , they control you and that is not a good thing
ReplyDeleteJustice gets twisted and denied.
it goes on now - it goes on now
Hey, I read in your post Mr. McConnell that you will represent all the people of the parish. I hope you do. I see deputies all over north of I-220, but never see them writing tickets to anybody. I wish you would have the deputies that patrol in south bossier start writing tickets too. I live in south bosser parish, but work in north bossier and never see the deputies doing anything. People blast past me going to work and coming home like its a speedway and I never see the deputies doing anything about it. I have heard that the deputies don't do much is because Sheriff Deen tells them not to becuase he wants to keep getting elected. I hope if/when you become the Sheriff, you have your men enforce ALL the laws of the state and not just spend my tax dollars ($3 a gallon) riding around doing nothing. And another thing, my neighbors and I have grown tired of north Bossier being doted on while south Bossier gets shunned. When we had the flooding a while back, it was all about saving north Bossier from the high water while those of us in south Bossier had to swim for it. I'll vote for you, Mr. Mcconnell, if you will give us equal representation and not the cold shoulder as what we've had to endure in the past by Deen. If you can't promise that the laws will be enforced and south Bossier will stop being neglected, my vote will have to be for Deen. i hope you read this and will reply to it becuase I'd like to know your thoughts on these subjects. I'm sure others would too.
ReplyDeleteMcConnell has a twin brother?Are they identical or fraturnal?I have an idea!If McConnell is voted in as Sheriff, if he gets sick and can't make it to work, he can send his brother instead.Nobody would know the difference!That way he could be on the job 24 hours a day! LOL
ReplyDeleteHa!Sheriff and Under Sheriff all in one family.The parish gets a two for one deal!
I know them twins. They done a good job in sheveport adn will do a good job here in bossier. They both was detectives over there adn got plenty of experience and knowlege about policing. Both woud do a great job for us here in bossier.Both of them has more knowlege about the laws than all of Deens men put together. I'm telling all my friends to vote for the twin.
ReplyDeleteWell I can see this is going to be a long race for the office of Sheriff in Bossier. The same twelve people that get up on their soapbox, for any election, are already spreading gossip about the incumbent. Happens every time, in every political race. I just wish that elections could be run without mud slinging and gossip. Momma always said, if you don't have anything good to say, then don't say anything. In politics, if all you can do is talk bad about your opponent, you don't have much to say. Just sayin.
ReplyDeleteAnon 4:10
ReplyDeleteWhat exactly are you speeking of? I haven't heard one word of mud slingging from McConnell towards Deen. It looks to me as he is attacking his policy. You can bet that Deen will attack McConnell's character before this is over because he is scared.
I'm just sayin, all of the supporters of one candidate always bad mouth their opponent, but never offer any concrete proof that the other guy will be any diffrent.
ReplyDeleteI don'tr think Sheriff Deen is scared, he has been there long enough th retire with a good salary, a ton af accomplishments and a department that is light years ahead of where it was when he started. I just wonder if there is a live debate down the road for these two candidates?
I worked with Mike for many years at the Shreveport Police Department. He is by far one of the most professional men I have ever worked with. I live in Bossier Parish and have friends on both departments. What some of you need to also know is why I, as a female officer, would never consider working under Sheriff Deen. Female Deputy's are a joke in Bossier Parish. Females are allowed to attend the academy (to receive State Pay) and graduate as POST Certified Officers. These girls then return to work at desk jobs or with female inmates. That's it. No other choices. Want to be really punished? Get pregnant. When you return to work, you will be transfered to a lesser position ~ guaranteed. There are two females on the streets of Bossier Parish, but I assure you, they won't be seen enforcing arrest. They are allowed to deliver Civil Papers. Nothing more, nothing less. Females are considered second rate by the Sheriff. And the reason that poor Secretary gets such a great salary is because she is at his call 24/7. When he calls, she jumps. And I have heard that he talks down to her and expects everything down to his coffee on demand. If you are a female and want a career in Law Enforcement, you need to swim over here to Shreveport ~ where women have equal rights. OR, wait till Mike McConnell makes Sheriff so you will be treated fair. Bossier Parish Female employees ~ I feel for ya sisters!
ReplyDeleteI am a former BSO Deputy, and I am glad to see the truth rise to the top. If the residence of Bossier Parish think your statistics make you safe, guess again. Those are padded dang nice. We were taught and told to write things such as a burglary (for example) as an unaruthorized entry because you see, one is a felony and one is a misdeameanor. Bam, no burglary problem. Everything looks nice and pretty, even though it is a lie to you. Your tax dollars buy the biggest and best of everything, FOR SOME, I assure you. And those $250 hats that "some" Deputy's got, that is true. That was for the road guys and the "pretty boys." What is also true is that corrections deputy's are running around in boots and shoes that are 2 years old and told that if they need new ones, open your billfold. Some are special, and some are not. The employee turn over rate is high and most people hired are because their daddy or family member is a friend of Larry Deen. When I addressed corrupt wrong doings at work, I was told that if I didn't like it, interviews were held every week. If I didn't like my job, someone else would. The happiest day of my life was the day I turned in that 2 week notice. The only reason I am not leaving my name, is because I know my friends that still work there WOULD CATCH HELL and ordered to quit talking to me. Think I am kidding? Haaaa ~ that is THE TRUTH!
ReplyDeleteHey it looks like Sheriff Steve Prator endorses McConnell for Bossier Sheriff. Check out the article about the two Bossier Parish girls that ran away over the weekend with a 19 year old male. Read the comments. Now I know why Sheriff Deen never came out and said he was running.
ReplyDeletePlease share. What article are you talking about that that made it look like Prator was supporting McConnell?
ReplyDeleteThe name of the article on KTBS 3 news is: Missing Girls Located; Young Man Arrested for Contributing and Obstruction of Justice.
ReplyDeleteRead the reader comments at the end of the article. Sheriff Steve Prator is the first one.
It's powerful!!!
It seems like 20+ years is too long for anyone in an elected position especially when you have become drunk on your own power and ego, and that seems to be the case in Bossier Parish.
ReplyDeleteIt is time for some fresh blood in the office. It is time to move away from the Bossier Sheriff's Office being the land of the "golden ticket" for a select few while the majority of the parish's citizens (and sheriff office employees) are treated like second class citizens.
Elected officals are supposed to be public servants, but it seems like in Bossier Parish the system has been turned inside out.
Sorry folks, the comment from Prator was removed. It was really hard on Deen. It was true though!
ReplyDeletePadding the statistics???? Really?? I have never heard of a deputy being told to downgrade a charge. You must have worked corrections. Most of the disgruntal employees are that way because they are too lazy to do their jobs. Mad at others that do their jobs because it makes them look bad. If you have common sense, a level head and can keep your mouth shut and do your job, you will be fine. Stop being jealous and get to work....
ReplyDeleteAnnon Feb. 8, 8:35
ReplyDeleteIt is true that the Sheriff's Department "cooks the books" and you know it too. So don't point the finger at anyone except yourself. Sounds like you are an administrator, which also makes you a lier. I am sure that when someone else becomes sheriff, they will expose the current adminsitration for what they really are. People only hang their heads in shame when they have been caught. Your day is coming. Prepare yourself now... sinner!
Im for Mike if he is for cleaning up these boards and councils in this Parish
ReplyDeleteCurrent sheriff is doing a nice job about School Board / Air Repair connections - keep up great work Sheriff -
but hope he continues or should get outta of the way and let Mike try
Liar is spelled "L-i-a-r" not Lier. No wonder you don't work for the S.O anymore!! Sounds like we needed to run you off!
ReplyDeleteMike and his brother are simply two wanna be police officer's with a very bad case of "little man" syndrome. Mike's experience as a police officer is crap...yea he was employed for some time as a cop but that doesn't mean he was any good at it. He finally went to the place that exposed his inability and he didn't work there too long did he? If he hadn't have quit, I'm sure they would have eventually gotten rid of him. I heard they were moving him back to the jail when he quit, apparently he was better at walking halls then policing.....The truth hurts.
ReplyDelete"Mike's experience as a police officer is crap"
ReplyDeleteThe above sentence was posted at 11:26by an anonymous commenter and I feel obliged to address that falsehood. I am not a resident of Bossier Parish and cannot speak about anything at the Bossier Sheriff's Office because I just don't know much about the goings on at that agency. However, I have known Mike McConnell since 1994 when we were both young officers at the Shreveport Police Department. Over the course of several years I have had the opportunity to work very closely with him. I have laughed with him, cried with him, and learned from him while riding the roller coaster of life called Law Enforcement. I have seen him fairly enforce the law and have seen him fearlessly confront and take into custody violent felons twice his size. When I worked with Mike I had no doubts or reservations about the success of our enforcement endeavors. He always had, and continues to have, my utmost confidence. Simply put, Mike is a cop's cop. He's pretty darn good at it and I personally wish we had more officers like him (and his brother, too).
To the February 9, 1:30pm poster:
ReplyDeleteI support your post 100%!!!
I too, am a Shreveport Police Officer, and unfortunately due to Civil Service Law, we cannot give our names or we will be fired from our jobs.
Having said this, I have known the McConnell's for almost ten years and there are few officers anywhere that are as knowledgable as them. Be it traffic, criminal, or civil law, they are always available to answer questions that others scratch their heads over. Their knowledge concerning law enforcement is unequaled by anyone that I know, save a few.
Many times I have called Mike's brother, Pat, at all times of the day and night to find an answer to a question about a call that I am on and he immediately and always answers his phone. He always ends his calls with, "Call me anytime. My phone is always on for my friends!" If either of the McConnell boys says it, it's the god-awful truth!
The posters that have been voicing negatives about them have an axe to grind!
I do know this. I see that there are many, many more positive comments in this thread than there are negatives. That speaks volumes.
This is in response to the McConnell's being "Wanna Be Cops". I can tell you are ignorant of what you speak. I too, am a Shreveport cop and I have worked with both. I do not know what Mike McConnell's brother has to do with any of this other than to destroy their good name. I would go through the doors of Hell with eigher one of them because they are that good. I would not, on the other hand, go into hell with any of the "wanna be" cops of the Bossier Sheriff's Dept. Every cop in the two parishes know that BPSO is "all show and no go".
ReplyDeleteBPSO has some very good deputies, hard working and conscientious. That's a cheap shot.
ReplyDeletecheck out monroes newstar paper -
ReplyDeletesherrif in monroe area had an fbi raid on his office yesterday
Hey man - its Sheriff. And yes, I saw that - FBI did a raid on his office
ReplyDeleteMakes you wonder what the FBI is investigating over here on the North Eastern Side of Louisiana.
or should we say North Western side of the State
ReplyDelete--continuing to investigate
Replying to anonymous @ 8:01
ReplyDeleteYou stated "I would not, on the other hand, go into hell with any of the "wanna be" cops of the Bossier Sheriff's Dept. Every cop in the two parishes know that BPSO is "all show and no go"."
I've always heard that the BPSO guys took all the awards (academic, PT, shooting, etc.) at SPD's academy before they opened up their own. Knowing that, I'm curious why you feel that way or have I been misinformed?
Also, since you feel that way, why on Earth would Mr. McConnell have left SPD to go and work with a bunch of "wanna be" cops
The previous poster makes some very good points. From what I hear, it's not only McConnell but that over the last few years there have been a number of SPD officers resign and go to work for BPSO. Why would these officers (one or more detectives I've been told) leave SPD to work for Bossier if it is an inferior department with all of this corruption?
ReplyDeleteLet me state that I've never met Mike McConnell nor am I familiar with his law enforcement career other than he being one of those who chose to leave SPD to go to work for the apparent corrupt Mr. Deen.
Mr. Deen is not Corrupt.
ReplyDeleteLook other places in this area, not Larry Deen's office.
Anyone want to start a list?
I wouldn't say Larry Deen is corrupt, because I have no knowledge of it. I do think believe he is arrogant and holds the public in contempt when it comes to handling the public's money to build his empire. This was very evident in the way that he handled the tax increase issue. It is also evident when his secretary/PR person makes over $100K a year when the average for a similar position for private business in the area is ~$60K.
ReplyDeleteLarry Deen is NOT corrupt? You must have NEVER worked for him because I can assure you...if you had you wouldn't be singing that tune!
ReplyDeletePoster from 2/10 11:28am here
ReplyDeleteI haven't worked for him, so I can't, from first hand knowledge say he's corrupt. Some in this thread seem to have worked in the BPSO, so I'll leave the corruption comments to those who have seen it first hand. I can say from the crap he pulled when he raised taxes last year is that he's an arrogant jerk who thinks he is above answering the publics concerns. Needless to sat, my vote is going to McConnell.
I agree with the last comment except that I supervised Mike McConnell when he was employed with SPD. He was, if not the best, patrol officer that I had. Sounds as if the BPSO Administration is trying to slander his name, and what has his brother Patrick got to do with anything?
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteCome on now, no need to insult the lady - she's just doing her job.
ReplyDeleteI have to say..the wagons are circling . I've known and worked with Mike for years while he was at SPD. he is tenacious , intelligent, and fair. You wonder why people leave other departments to go to BPSO? Bottom line...money. It's no secret the starting salary is more. But, once in, unless you have connections, you will spend your career in the max or another one of the prisons. You can slam Mike all you want, but I can assure you, you will never hear him take a personal jab at Deen. The facts are the facts. It's time for new blood in Bossier Parish. Maybe by starting with the S.O., people will continue to call for change and remove that horrible excuse for a district attorney.
ReplyDeleteI don't live in Bossier Parish however, I do have family and friends there. I agree that Bossier is way Past Due for "Clean Up On Isle Corruption"
ReplyDeleteWhat kind of Man is Mike McConnell?
I don't Know him yet I have encountered him. I was in a parking lot in Shreveport headed to my car. I saw a Police car on the road nearby with lights on, pulling someone over. I proceeded to my car only to find I had a flat tire, by this time it was misting rain. Officer McConnell is who approached me and said "Let me write out this ticket and I will change that tire for you." I told him it was ok he didn't have to bother I could call Roadside Assistance. He then said "I can have it changed before they get here, it's not a problem." After he changed my tire I offered to give him a few dollars for his assistance. He refused my money and said "I'm here To Serve and Protect, you take care ma'am."
Needless to say that isn't enough reason to Vote someone in as Sheriff but it does say something about the Devotion to his Badge! He is a Genuine person!
Furthermore, I am encouraging everyone who can Vote in Bossier to Vote for Mike McConnell! I honestly believe he will make Great changes. I would Vote for him if I could!
Geaux Mike!!!
Seems to me this McConnell fella is wasting alot of time and effort to enter a race he can't possibly win. It also looks like he has probably written alot of these post himself. If he were truly that great of an employee, why could he not rise and achieve great things at not 1 or 2, but 3 diffrent law enforcement agencies?
ReplyDeleteWhy are you still commenting on a archived blog.... idiot...
ReplyDelete