Milone Michael

From Sent To

Subject

Milone Michael Friday October 0220091229 PM Jim Sima (E-mail) Laura DeCaprio (E-mail) maltieriwallingfordk12ctus Matt Altieri (Eshy

mail) Matt Hall (E-mail) Michael Ecke (E-mail) sheldoncheshirechambercom sheldondsnetnet Tim Slocum (E-mail)TimSlocum(timhomefabricsnetnet) Tim White (E-mail) Tom Ruocco (E-mail) pOlice dept vote of confidence

Importance High

To All

Please keep in mind that this is a confidential document due to the sensitive personnel nature

of the content

Chief Cruess informed me that the Police Union has scheduled a meeting for this afternoon and are

planning to conduct a vote of confidence in the Chief When I asked union President Kerry Deegan directly

about the possibility of such a vote taking place he did not deny it

Regardless of the outcome of this vote this is an unfortunate development that we have worked hard to

prevent It is no secret that there has been tension between Chief Cruess and some of the rank and file and I

have discussed this issue with the Council in at least two executive sessions over the past 18 months We are

also planning to review the grievances filed by all unions at the Personnel Committee meeting of October 7

2009

Since the summer of 2008 Personnel Director Lou Zullo and I have had multiple meetings with the

Police Union Executive Board both with and without the Chief Additionally I have met individually with several

union members and executive staff and have had numerous meetings with Chief Cruess regarding this issue

As a result of these various meetings changes were instituted by the Chief to improve communication

increase the flow of information and expand the Deputy Chiefs departmental oversight to name a few The

Chief has made a concerted and tangible effort to address the issues raised by the union and I realize that

more work remains However the union continues to display an unwillingness to recognize these efforts and

has not demonstrated a strong inclination to work to improve this situation

At a meeting that Lou Zullo and I had with the Executive Board earlier this year the union president

began the meeting by stating that he wished the Chief were dead This incredibly unprofessional and hostile

statement cast a serious pallor over our discussions and brought into question the unions commitment to and

desire for a resolution to their concerns

1

I

middot

While we have achieved mutually agreed-upon grievance resolutions over the past year the union has

made the process challenging by frequently cancelling and delaying meetings I cant help but feel that there is

not a good faith effort on the unions part to bring about a resolution

Michael Cruess is an ethical hard working police chief who knows the operation of the department

most intimately However his management style has been at the center of the unions dissatisfaction he is

well aware of this and has been working on it Additionally the union has taken issue with the Chiefs cost

containment strategies implemented in response to my directive to all department heads to reduce

discretionary spending to the extent possible without compromising core services One of these cost

containment strategies was to eliminate swaps (officers swapping shift assignments) because it was creating

unnecessary and excessive overtime due to shift changes not because of a need for additional coverage The

union contract clearly states that approval of swaps is at the sole discretion of the Chief We attempted to

resolve this through discussions with the union by establishing some parameters for this practice as a

compromise but we have been unsuccessful One part of this matter has been mediated and arbitrated and a

second part is being negotiated The union president has indicated that this issue has become a major bone of

contention with the union

The Chief is trying to hold officers accountable and save money where possible just as the Council has

asked me to do he is not creating a hostile work environment as has been alleged I have been close to this

situation and would simply not tolerate this had I seen any evidence that a hostile work environment existed

In our attempt to maintain ongoing lines of communication we had a meeting scheduled yesterday with

the unions Executive Board but unfortunately this meeting was cancelled by the police union the day before

the meeting Nonetheless we will continue to meet and communicate with the union as frequently as possible

in an ongoing effort to resolve some of these issues Additionally and in an attempt to break through whatever

barriers continue to exist I will consider hiring a consultanVcounselor to work with our groups on continuing

reconciliation issues

Michael

2

CHESHIRE POLICE UNION INC AFSCME COUNCIL 15

LOCAL 1720 500 IDGHLAND AVENUE

CBESIDRE CT 06410 (203) 271-5500

May 21 2009

Mr Michael Milone Town Manager Town of Cheshire 84 South Main Street Cheshire CT 06410

Dear Mr MiJone

On behalf of the Cheshire Police Union Executive Board I respectfully submit this complaint regarding the performance and conduct of ChiefMichael Cruess We realize that the information contained herein is highly sensitive in nature and we ask that it be treated as confidential to the fullest extent possible

We also understand that this complaint and any testimony given in support of it will significantly and adversely impact our working relationship with ChiefCruess both individually and collectively as members ofthe Cheshire Police Union These fears have prevented similar filings in the past~ however attempts to reconcile these issues have failed to the extent that it makes this complaint necessary

The members of the Cheshire Police Union remain fearful that ChiefCruess will seek to punish those who he feels are responsible for this complaint However according to Section 31-51 m of the Connecticut General Statutes no municipal employer shall discharge discipline or otherwise penalize any employee because the employee or a person acting on behalfof the employee reports verbally or in writing to a public body concerning the unethical practices mismanagement or abuse of authority by such employer

The membership of the Cheshire Police Union fully recognizes the significance of this complaint and regrets the inherent and unavoidable unpleasantness associated with it We

t~oe Jjial investigation and appreciate your efforts on our behalfa full and

A- I~ Lieutenant erry Deegan President Local 1720

cc Union files

Cheshire Police Department Rules Regulations Duty Manual 1978

Foreward

While no compilation of rules regulations or procedures can provide a specific guide to actions to be taken in each and every uniquely different situation it is expected that the resultant response made by an officer of the Department in any incident not covered herein shall be in the best interests of the public he serves his Department and his profession

100 Definitions and Terminology

10050 Neglect of Duty Failure to give suitable attention to the performance of duty Examples include but are not limited to failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals These violations include but not are limited to

bull His inability to get along with others bull Pandering to public opinion bull Being ill-informed regarding Department Rules and

Regulations and his obligation to follow them bull Failure to update rules and regulations bull Failure to establish a clear-cut chain of command bull Being discourteous and disrespectful to subordinates bull Failing to remain cool and collected at all times bull Conduct unbecoming an officer bull Failing to maintain harmony within the Department

10051 Incompetence Incapable of the satisfactory performance of police duties The lack of any of the following qualities is evidence of incompetence courage honesty emotional stability sound judgment industry alertness decisiveness power to observe initiative energy intelligence ability to get along with people

bull Courage- famous quote you go in first I have more to lose than you

bull Honesty - rarely takes blame for anything if he makes a mistake it was somebody elses fault

bull Emotional stability - wild mood swings in a matter of minutes frequent outbursts over trivial matters vindictive nature

bull Sound judgment rules by emotion and as a result frequently reverses his own decisions

bull Industry - takes ownership of all good ideas and passes them off as his

bull Ability to get along with people - he simply cannot

200 General Rules for ALL members

20104 Officers will seek and preserve public favor not by pandering to public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolutely impartial service to law by ready exercise of courtesy and good humor

203

20301

206

20602

bull Pandering to public opinion - Underground Town Hall shyCindy Kliest has more input in the decision making process than his own staff

bull Impartial service - permits personal relationships to influence police decisions (Kurtz family - July 4thNyberg incident)

bull Preserve public favor by ready exercise of courtesy shyassailed Congressman Chris Murphy at the 08 Fall Festival on a number of issues including his residency By all accounts the uncomfortable encounter embarrassed everyone present (except the Chief)

Being Informed

Officers shall study and thoroughly understand the Department Rules and Regulations and the Duty and Procedural Manuals general orders town ordinances and State and Federal laws They shall obtain the assistance of their superior officer in the interpretation of any section that is not clearly understood They shall be especially well informed concerning the rules regulations procedures and duties governing their specific assignmen ts

bull Apparently unaware that he is also subject to the Department Rules and Regulations as evidenced by his failure to abide by them

bull Has failed to make changes to the Rules and Regulations which contain outdated and offensive language (which references and compares homosexuals to prostitutes and other sex offenders) Yet following his promotion to Chief he re-issued numerous memorandums and general orders in a move that was perceived as an attempt to purge Chief Walbergs name from said documents

Compliance with Orders

As a general rule a member will be required to take direct orders from and be directly responsible to one superior officer

bull Has blurred the chain of command creating confusion among subordinate officers at every rank

bull Chain of Command is only used at Chiefs convenience bull As Capt Marchand is fond of saying the department has

but 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49 officers bull Supervisors are often out of the loop

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

I

middot

While we have achieved mutually agreed-upon grievance resolutions over the past year the union has

made the process challenging by frequently cancelling and delaying meetings I cant help but feel that there is

not a good faith effort on the unions part to bring about a resolution

Michael Cruess is an ethical hard working police chief who knows the operation of the department

most intimately However his management style has been at the center of the unions dissatisfaction he is

well aware of this and has been working on it Additionally the union has taken issue with the Chiefs cost

containment strategies implemented in response to my directive to all department heads to reduce

discretionary spending to the extent possible without compromising core services One of these cost

containment strategies was to eliminate swaps (officers swapping shift assignments) because it was creating

unnecessary and excessive overtime due to shift changes not because of a need for additional coverage The

union contract clearly states that approval of swaps is at the sole discretion of the Chief We attempted to

resolve this through discussions with the union by establishing some parameters for this practice as a

compromise but we have been unsuccessful One part of this matter has been mediated and arbitrated and a

second part is being negotiated The union president has indicated that this issue has become a major bone of

contention with the union

The Chief is trying to hold officers accountable and save money where possible just as the Council has

asked me to do he is not creating a hostile work environment as has been alleged I have been close to this

situation and would simply not tolerate this had I seen any evidence that a hostile work environment existed

In our attempt to maintain ongoing lines of communication we had a meeting scheduled yesterday with

the unions Executive Board but unfortunately this meeting was cancelled by the police union the day before

the meeting Nonetheless we will continue to meet and communicate with the union as frequently as possible

in an ongoing effort to resolve some of these issues Additionally and in an attempt to break through whatever

barriers continue to exist I will consider hiring a consultanVcounselor to work with our groups on continuing

reconciliation issues

Michael

2

CHESHIRE POLICE UNION INC AFSCME COUNCIL 15

LOCAL 1720 500 IDGHLAND AVENUE

CBESIDRE CT 06410 (203) 271-5500

May 21 2009

Mr Michael Milone Town Manager Town of Cheshire 84 South Main Street Cheshire CT 06410

Dear Mr MiJone

On behalf of the Cheshire Police Union Executive Board I respectfully submit this complaint regarding the performance and conduct of ChiefMichael Cruess We realize that the information contained herein is highly sensitive in nature and we ask that it be treated as confidential to the fullest extent possible

We also understand that this complaint and any testimony given in support of it will significantly and adversely impact our working relationship with ChiefCruess both individually and collectively as members ofthe Cheshire Police Union These fears have prevented similar filings in the past~ however attempts to reconcile these issues have failed to the extent that it makes this complaint necessary

The members of the Cheshire Police Union remain fearful that ChiefCruess will seek to punish those who he feels are responsible for this complaint However according to Section 31-51 m of the Connecticut General Statutes no municipal employer shall discharge discipline or otherwise penalize any employee because the employee or a person acting on behalfof the employee reports verbally or in writing to a public body concerning the unethical practices mismanagement or abuse of authority by such employer

The membership of the Cheshire Police Union fully recognizes the significance of this complaint and regrets the inherent and unavoidable unpleasantness associated with it We

t~oe Jjial investigation and appreciate your efforts on our behalfa full and

A- I~ Lieutenant erry Deegan President Local 1720

cc Union files

Cheshire Police Department Rules Regulations Duty Manual 1978

Foreward

While no compilation of rules regulations or procedures can provide a specific guide to actions to be taken in each and every uniquely different situation it is expected that the resultant response made by an officer of the Department in any incident not covered herein shall be in the best interests of the public he serves his Department and his profession

100 Definitions and Terminology

10050 Neglect of Duty Failure to give suitable attention to the performance of duty Examples include but are not limited to failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals These violations include but not are limited to

bull His inability to get along with others bull Pandering to public opinion bull Being ill-informed regarding Department Rules and

Regulations and his obligation to follow them bull Failure to update rules and regulations bull Failure to establish a clear-cut chain of command bull Being discourteous and disrespectful to subordinates bull Failing to remain cool and collected at all times bull Conduct unbecoming an officer bull Failing to maintain harmony within the Department

10051 Incompetence Incapable of the satisfactory performance of police duties The lack of any of the following qualities is evidence of incompetence courage honesty emotional stability sound judgment industry alertness decisiveness power to observe initiative energy intelligence ability to get along with people

bull Courage- famous quote you go in first I have more to lose than you

bull Honesty - rarely takes blame for anything if he makes a mistake it was somebody elses fault

bull Emotional stability - wild mood swings in a matter of minutes frequent outbursts over trivial matters vindictive nature

bull Sound judgment rules by emotion and as a result frequently reverses his own decisions

bull Industry - takes ownership of all good ideas and passes them off as his

bull Ability to get along with people - he simply cannot

200 General Rules for ALL members

20104 Officers will seek and preserve public favor not by pandering to public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolutely impartial service to law by ready exercise of courtesy and good humor

203

20301

206

20602

bull Pandering to public opinion - Underground Town Hall shyCindy Kliest has more input in the decision making process than his own staff

bull Impartial service - permits personal relationships to influence police decisions (Kurtz family - July 4thNyberg incident)

bull Preserve public favor by ready exercise of courtesy shyassailed Congressman Chris Murphy at the 08 Fall Festival on a number of issues including his residency By all accounts the uncomfortable encounter embarrassed everyone present (except the Chief)

Being Informed

Officers shall study and thoroughly understand the Department Rules and Regulations and the Duty and Procedural Manuals general orders town ordinances and State and Federal laws They shall obtain the assistance of their superior officer in the interpretation of any section that is not clearly understood They shall be especially well informed concerning the rules regulations procedures and duties governing their specific assignmen ts

bull Apparently unaware that he is also subject to the Department Rules and Regulations as evidenced by his failure to abide by them

bull Has failed to make changes to the Rules and Regulations which contain outdated and offensive language (which references and compares homosexuals to prostitutes and other sex offenders) Yet following his promotion to Chief he re-issued numerous memorandums and general orders in a move that was perceived as an attempt to purge Chief Walbergs name from said documents

Compliance with Orders

As a general rule a member will be required to take direct orders from and be directly responsible to one superior officer

bull Has blurred the chain of command creating confusion among subordinate officers at every rank

bull Chain of Command is only used at Chiefs convenience bull As Capt Marchand is fond of saying the department has

but 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49 officers bull Supervisors are often out of the loop

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

CHESHIRE POLICE UNION INC AFSCME COUNCIL 15

LOCAL 1720 500 IDGHLAND AVENUE

CBESIDRE CT 06410 (203) 271-5500

May 21 2009

Mr Michael Milone Town Manager Town of Cheshire 84 South Main Street Cheshire CT 06410

Dear Mr MiJone

On behalf of the Cheshire Police Union Executive Board I respectfully submit this complaint regarding the performance and conduct of ChiefMichael Cruess We realize that the information contained herein is highly sensitive in nature and we ask that it be treated as confidential to the fullest extent possible

We also understand that this complaint and any testimony given in support of it will significantly and adversely impact our working relationship with ChiefCruess both individually and collectively as members ofthe Cheshire Police Union These fears have prevented similar filings in the past~ however attempts to reconcile these issues have failed to the extent that it makes this complaint necessary

The members of the Cheshire Police Union remain fearful that ChiefCruess will seek to punish those who he feels are responsible for this complaint However according to Section 31-51 m of the Connecticut General Statutes no municipal employer shall discharge discipline or otherwise penalize any employee because the employee or a person acting on behalfof the employee reports verbally or in writing to a public body concerning the unethical practices mismanagement or abuse of authority by such employer

The membership of the Cheshire Police Union fully recognizes the significance of this complaint and regrets the inherent and unavoidable unpleasantness associated with it We

t~oe Jjial investigation and appreciate your efforts on our behalfa full and

A- I~ Lieutenant erry Deegan President Local 1720

cc Union files

Cheshire Police Department Rules Regulations Duty Manual 1978

Foreward

While no compilation of rules regulations or procedures can provide a specific guide to actions to be taken in each and every uniquely different situation it is expected that the resultant response made by an officer of the Department in any incident not covered herein shall be in the best interests of the public he serves his Department and his profession

100 Definitions and Terminology

10050 Neglect of Duty Failure to give suitable attention to the performance of duty Examples include but are not limited to failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals These violations include but not are limited to

bull His inability to get along with others bull Pandering to public opinion bull Being ill-informed regarding Department Rules and

Regulations and his obligation to follow them bull Failure to update rules and regulations bull Failure to establish a clear-cut chain of command bull Being discourteous and disrespectful to subordinates bull Failing to remain cool and collected at all times bull Conduct unbecoming an officer bull Failing to maintain harmony within the Department

10051 Incompetence Incapable of the satisfactory performance of police duties The lack of any of the following qualities is evidence of incompetence courage honesty emotional stability sound judgment industry alertness decisiveness power to observe initiative energy intelligence ability to get along with people

bull Courage- famous quote you go in first I have more to lose than you

bull Honesty - rarely takes blame for anything if he makes a mistake it was somebody elses fault

bull Emotional stability - wild mood swings in a matter of minutes frequent outbursts over trivial matters vindictive nature

bull Sound judgment rules by emotion and as a result frequently reverses his own decisions

bull Industry - takes ownership of all good ideas and passes them off as his

bull Ability to get along with people - he simply cannot

200 General Rules for ALL members

20104 Officers will seek and preserve public favor not by pandering to public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolutely impartial service to law by ready exercise of courtesy and good humor

203

20301

206

20602

bull Pandering to public opinion - Underground Town Hall shyCindy Kliest has more input in the decision making process than his own staff

bull Impartial service - permits personal relationships to influence police decisions (Kurtz family - July 4thNyberg incident)

bull Preserve public favor by ready exercise of courtesy shyassailed Congressman Chris Murphy at the 08 Fall Festival on a number of issues including his residency By all accounts the uncomfortable encounter embarrassed everyone present (except the Chief)

Being Informed

Officers shall study and thoroughly understand the Department Rules and Regulations and the Duty and Procedural Manuals general orders town ordinances and State and Federal laws They shall obtain the assistance of their superior officer in the interpretation of any section that is not clearly understood They shall be especially well informed concerning the rules regulations procedures and duties governing their specific assignmen ts

bull Apparently unaware that he is also subject to the Department Rules and Regulations as evidenced by his failure to abide by them

bull Has failed to make changes to the Rules and Regulations which contain outdated and offensive language (which references and compares homosexuals to prostitutes and other sex offenders) Yet following his promotion to Chief he re-issued numerous memorandums and general orders in a move that was perceived as an attempt to purge Chief Walbergs name from said documents

Compliance with Orders

As a general rule a member will be required to take direct orders from and be directly responsible to one superior officer

bull Has blurred the chain of command creating confusion among subordinate officers at every rank

bull Chain of Command is only used at Chiefs convenience bull As Capt Marchand is fond of saying the department has

but 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49 officers bull Supervisors are often out of the loop

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

Cheshire Police Department Rules Regulations Duty Manual 1978

Foreward

While no compilation of rules regulations or procedures can provide a specific guide to actions to be taken in each and every uniquely different situation it is expected that the resultant response made by an officer of the Department in any incident not covered herein shall be in the best interests of the public he serves his Department and his profession

100 Definitions and Terminology

10050 Neglect of Duty Failure to give suitable attention to the performance of duty Examples include but are not limited to failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals These violations include but not are limited to

bull His inability to get along with others bull Pandering to public opinion bull Being ill-informed regarding Department Rules and

Regulations and his obligation to follow them bull Failure to update rules and regulations bull Failure to establish a clear-cut chain of command bull Being discourteous and disrespectful to subordinates bull Failing to remain cool and collected at all times bull Conduct unbecoming an officer bull Failing to maintain harmony within the Department

10051 Incompetence Incapable of the satisfactory performance of police duties The lack of any of the following qualities is evidence of incompetence courage honesty emotional stability sound judgment industry alertness decisiveness power to observe initiative energy intelligence ability to get along with people

bull Courage- famous quote you go in first I have more to lose than you

bull Honesty - rarely takes blame for anything if he makes a mistake it was somebody elses fault

bull Emotional stability - wild mood swings in a matter of minutes frequent outbursts over trivial matters vindictive nature

bull Sound judgment rules by emotion and as a result frequently reverses his own decisions

bull Industry - takes ownership of all good ideas and passes them off as his

bull Ability to get along with people - he simply cannot

200 General Rules for ALL members

20104 Officers will seek and preserve public favor not by pandering to public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolutely impartial service to law by ready exercise of courtesy and good humor

203

20301

206

20602

bull Pandering to public opinion - Underground Town Hall shyCindy Kliest has more input in the decision making process than his own staff

bull Impartial service - permits personal relationships to influence police decisions (Kurtz family - July 4thNyberg incident)

bull Preserve public favor by ready exercise of courtesy shyassailed Congressman Chris Murphy at the 08 Fall Festival on a number of issues including his residency By all accounts the uncomfortable encounter embarrassed everyone present (except the Chief)

Being Informed

Officers shall study and thoroughly understand the Department Rules and Regulations and the Duty and Procedural Manuals general orders town ordinances and State and Federal laws They shall obtain the assistance of their superior officer in the interpretation of any section that is not clearly understood They shall be especially well informed concerning the rules regulations procedures and duties governing their specific assignmen ts

bull Apparently unaware that he is also subject to the Department Rules and Regulations as evidenced by his failure to abide by them

bull Has failed to make changes to the Rules and Regulations which contain outdated and offensive language (which references and compares homosexuals to prostitutes and other sex offenders) Yet following his promotion to Chief he re-issued numerous memorandums and general orders in a move that was perceived as an attempt to purge Chief Walbergs name from said documents

Compliance with Orders

As a general rule a member will be required to take direct orders from and be directly responsible to one superior officer

bull Has blurred the chain of command creating confusion among subordinate officers at every rank

bull Chain of Command is only used at Chiefs convenience bull As Capt Marchand is fond of saying the department has

but 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49 officers bull Supervisors are often out of the loop

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

200 General Rules for ALL members

20104 Officers will seek and preserve public favor not by pandering to public opinion but by constantly demonstrating absolutely impartial service to law by ready exercise of courtesy and good humor

203

20301

206

20602

bull Pandering to public opinion - Underground Town Hall shyCindy Kliest has more input in the decision making process than his own staff

bull Impartial service - permits personal relationships to influence police decisions (Kurtz family - July 4thNyberg incident)

bull Preserve public favor by ready exercise of courtesy shyassailed Congressman Chris Murphy at the 08 Fall Festival on a number of issues including his residency By all accounts the uncomfortable encounter embarrassed everyone present (except the Chief)

Being Informed

Officers shall study and thoroughly understand the Department Rules and Regulations and the Duty and Procedural Manuals general orders town ordinances and State and Federal laws They shall obtain the assistance of their superior officer in the interpretation of any section that is not clearly understood They shall be especially well informed concerning the rules regulations procedures and duties governing their specific assignmen ts

bull Apparently unaware that he is also subject to the Department Rules and Regulations as evidenced by his failure to abide by them

bull Has failed to make changes to the Rules and Regulations which contain outdated and offensive language (which references and compares homosexuals to prostitutes and other sex offenders) Yet following his promotion to Chief he re-issued numerous memorandums and general orders in a move that was perceived as an attempt to purge Chief Walbergs name from said documents

Compliance with Orders

As a general rule a member will be required to take direct orders from and be directly responsible to one superior officer

bull Has blurred the chain of command creating confusion among subordinate officers at every rank

bull Chain of Command is only used at Chiefs convenience bull As Capt Marchand is fond of saying the department has

but 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49 officers bull Supervisors are often out of the loop

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

20900 Relations with Others

20901 Officers shall be courteous civil and respectful of their superiors associates and other persons whether on or off duty They shall be quiet orderly and attentive and shall exercise patience and discretion in the performance of their duties They shall avoid answering questions in a short abrupt manner they shall maintain an even cheerful temper regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times They shall refrain from harsh violent coarse profane sarcastic or insolent language

bull Discourteous - refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper although he is equally quick to label someon~ elses tone or objections as insubordinate

bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper despite numerous

warnings mandated training etc

21000 Demeanor

21001 Members shall not conduct themselves in an immoral indecent lewd or disorderly manner or in a manner that might be construed by an observer as immoral indecent lewd or disorderly They shall not be guilty of misconduct neglect of duty conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman or acts tending to discredit the Department even though such conduct is not specifically set forth in these rules

bull Neglect of Duty - failure to perform duties prescribed in the police manuals

bull Conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman 1 failure to be courteous civil and respectful 2 failure to maintain an even cheerful temper

regardless of the provocation remaining cool and collected at all times

21006 No member shall be guilty of oppression favoritism or willful wrong or injustice

bull Oppression vindictive as he readily admits he never forgets

bull Favoritism

- shows preferential treatment with regard to assignments (eg light duty)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment with regard to disciplinary action (eg former Dispatcher Rosario Leiva)

bull Favoritism - shows preferential treatment to businesses and other organizations (Barrys AutomotiveCHS Band)

bull Injustice - refuses to acknowledge or correct the wrongs of his command staff

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

211 Harmony

21101 Members shall avoid conduct or speech that is subversive to good order and discipline They shall treat each other with the utmost courtesy and respect They shall direct and coordinate their efforts to establish and maintain the highest level of efficiency morale and achievement They shall conduct themselves in such a manner as to bring about the greatest harmony in the Department Grouchiness wisecracks and flares of temper shall be avoided

In addition to what has been said Chief Cruess bull is a shameless self-promoter reminds everyone of how

hard he works He has repeatedly stated that he is ~the only person who is overworked in the entire organization

bull frequently complains about his low pay and implies that everyone else is either overpaid or greedy He openly resents the fact that other employees have earned more money (ignoring the fact that those employees worked substantially longer hours with femiddotwer days off in between)

bull has bragged that he squashed the early retirement incentive for police officers because it did not benefit him in any way

bull is generally unappreciative and rarely recognizes individual achievements (but lays claim to any successes

bull has claimed that the Department would be lost without him told staff members that the next Chief will have to be recruited from outside the Department because there are no viable candidates from within (he does not realize that if true it would be his failure - not ours)

bull speaks of Chief Gary Walberg with disdain and when countering past practice claims asserts he is NOT Gary Walberg

bull requested a double digit raise for himself and ONLY himself

243 Violations (PENALTY)

Failure of a member either willfully or through negligence incompetence or cowardice to perform the duties of his rank or assignment l or violation by a member of any department rule duty instruction or order or conduct prejudicial to the good order and police discipline of the Department may be considered sufficient cause for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

The Cheshire Police Union maintains that Chief Michael Cruess willfully andor through his own incompetence failed to perform the duties of his rank as outlined in this petition and that sufficient cause exists for discharge demotion suspension or other penalty

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

301middot DUt1eof the Chief of Police

30103 Org-uisirig

P TheCl)iefof Policeshall estaplisha logical an~ clear-cut chain ofconunandwithdefinite channelsof communication responsibility andautho+plusmnty

eRoutinely works otitsideof theestitijlished chainbf command thus weakening the entire chain

Chain of comrnandismorecbmffibnly used aSHan excuse when problems arise (e g thatitwasri t followed)middot

eChahnelsmiddotof communication flow one way- upthe c~ain

e Responsibility does nomiddott conunensurate with authority

3015 Delegati-tiS bircentUnq uc Cootdllla1l11q n

Amiddot TheChlef of Police shall delegate tohis~ubordinate officers an authoritycommen$uratewiththeir re8pon~ibil~ties

ChiefCruesshas become the only decisiori maker Again CapL Marchand is fond of Saying the department has hut 1 supervisor (Chief) and 49

officers

bull Assig~s 1esponsibility with absbl~tely no correspondingauthorityto complete the task

bull Supervisors are constimtly second-guessed Chief Cruess is the ultimateMonday morning quarterback

bull sup~rvisors are not allOwed 16 make even the most bastc decisions (Capt Marchand recently advised a Sergeant that holding a shitt ~eeting exceeded the scope 6f his authority)

C He shalL assure that~ach member of the Police Department isdirectlyresppnsibletobut one superior offider

bull ConSilrnrnatemicromanag~r~middotsubordinates repoitto multiple supervisors up to and including tl)eChief

D He shall re~ise the poG~dures and duty assignmentsmiddot as needed to maintain a high level of effective operation

bull Revising dutya~~ignments -~ct~ without regard to the impact - eg implementingdiscipline (Oaly) schedule chimges without notice (0 Giampietro)

e Does not invitedis~ussionon pending matters which actually REDUCES the levelof effectiveoperation

bull As a result he wastes money on ill-conceived ideas and equipment (alcohol sensorsgun cabinet)

bull Ignores Union right to bargain changes (creation of job descriptions involving significant changes)

bull Does not support new ideas (or current ones) with appropriate funding (MC patrol carSeatpr~gram)

30106 Controlling arid Inspectinq

CHe shaii instituteastudofobstaciesmiddotthatpretent the Department fro~ functioning efficientiy bulland other morale-destroying situations

bull Hasn~t m~t wit~ su~ervi~~r~ bull Hasnt held aD~partment ineeting Hasn tco~unicated our missionmiddot staterite~t bull

bull Ou~ ~uleS an~ Regulationsa~e3~ye~rS91~ bull Inconsistentappllcation ofthbse rules and

regulations

~Union membe~shipwoulq weic~me ainoreacenttive n6np~rtisan roiein~evelopingpolicyandpr6cedure

E middotHe shallprepaIe sign~ and present an official commendation for meritorious serviltje to any worthy of1ice~ Fails to recogniZemiddotexemplary w~rk although he often

tries to compare such effortso hismiddot own (more significant of course ) accornplishritents

bull Di~contli1Ued the employee recogni tion program bull Generally perceived asmiddotmiddot unappr~ciative

30301 Leadership

A Leadership of personnel is the primary function of a superior officer He must realize that command imposes grave responsibilities principal among which is accepting responsibility

bull Chief Walbergs death - ordered responding officers upon their return from the hospital to get back on the road you still have a job to do

bull Chief Loudons death - failed to address Department members - NO supervisor or department meeting

bull Winiarski murders shy1Happened to arrive at headquarters as

event unfolded and retreated to his office

2Refused to release Meriden officer from traffic duties to save (CPD) overtime

30rdered SRT members who just experienced a critical incident back to routine patrol duties

bull Petit murders shy1 Argumentative and insensitive comments

while touring active crimeaccident scene (concerning the investigation opening the roadway salvaging tires from wrecked cruisers etc)

2 Failed to acknowledge efforts of responding officers (while heaping praise on State Police)

3 Failed to attend critical incident debriefing in support of officers

4 Jeopardized investigation by releasing classified information

bull Readily assigns blame for failures but accepts credit for successes

B The character and ability of a superior officer is reflected in the efficiency discipline and morale of his subordinates General laxity indifference incompetence and ineffectiveness on the part of a subordinate shall be deemed evidence of incompetence and neglect of duty on the part of their superior officer

bull Plummeting morale growing indifference- and ineffectiveness are a reflection of Chief Cruess management style

C The superior officer is not only respdnsible for his _own conduct and performance of police duties but for that of his subordinates as-well He shall set an example to all subordinates in sobriety dignity courtesy discretion initiative industry diligence truthfulness courage painstaking attention to duty and the observance of proper discipline

bull Does NOT lead by example Do as I say not as I do management style

bull See Section 10051 entitled Incompetence Examples cited would not be tolerated at any other rank

bull Preaches sacrifice however fiscal responsibility does not apply to him personally - eg 2 new cars in 2 years (with custom grill lights new radios etc when used equipment was available) new office furniture $500 lobby photo

bull Requested double digit raise for himself but maintains everyone else is greedy

30302 Orders

B (He) shall issue clear concise and definite orders to his subordinates Vague ambiguous and ill-defined orders and commands that cannot be executed are confusing and prejudicial to the efficiency good order and morale of the Department

bull Issued a series of conflicting orders regarding the removal of signs mounted on telephone poles When these orders ll werent carried out to his satisfaction he sent an email to all supervisory

personnel berating their lack of effort Members also took exception to his complaint that they havent arrested anyone for a real crime in months or years apparently forgetting many notable arrests including those following the brutal Petit murders the year before

bull Often blames inconsistent orders written in the shift corrunanders Red Book (a daily logbook) on miscommunication with patrol division commander

30303 Performance of Du~ies

B He shall not perform the duties regularly assigned to a subordinate when the subordinate is available to perform them

bull Controls decision making at all levels (micromanagement)

bull On or off duty usurps authority of on-scene supervisor(s) regardless of the event

1 disrupts routine events (eg Fall Festival accident scenes etc with unnecessary orders)

2 disrupts critical incidents - -attempted to dictate (incorrectly) how highly trained SRT commanders should handle Winiarski murder scene (eg when to make entry into the house)

bull As soon as Chief Cruess learned that the recently formed Underage Drinking Task Force which has 3 supervisors (I Lt2 Sgts) would be at a high school dance he immediately dictated what would be done and how

bull Personally handles disciplinary matters

30304 MORALE

A A supervisor shall give particular attention to the morale of his subordinates and shall immediately eliminate any friction or jealously which exists in his ranks He shall require his subordinates to maintain an even temper and cheerful disposition

bull Does not recognize or acknowledge low morale bull Does not recognize or appreciate hard work (except in

his own deeds) bull Discontinued the employee recognition program bull Knee-jerk reactions to small problems (eg suspends

motorcycle and bike patrols at the slightest provocation)

bull Poor UnionManagement relationship bull Issues idle threats (eg closing the Traffic

Division)

bull Friction and jealousy arise from disparate treatment (eg favoritism)

bull Does not require of himself an even temper and cheerful disposition

B He shall constantly strive for harmony among all employees of the Department and a spirit of good fellowship among his subordinates

bull Rarely takes the high road - rather than address an issue on merit he makes it personal

bull Refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper bull No sense of loyalty Im NOT one of the guysH bull Pits one supervisor against another bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues

opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper himself

D He shall exercise his authority with kindness firmness justice and reason

bull He relies on coercion (bullying) close supervision (micromanagement) and threats to get the job done which results in hostility low morale and increased management-union conflict

Fmiddot He shall not injure or discredit those under his authority by unreasonable unjust arbitrary capricious or tyrannical conduct or by abusive language

bull At the very least Chief Cruess tyrannical conduct has transformed the Cheshire Police Department into an uncomfortable unpleasant workplace At most it has adversely affected the health and welfare of its employees and reduced the level of effective operation at the expense of officer and public safety

2 Failed to acknowledge efforts of responding officers (while heaping praise on State Police)

3 Failed to attend critical incident debriefing in support of officers

4 Jeopardized investigation by releasing classified information

bull Readily assigns blame for failures but accepts credit for successes

B The character and ability of a superior officer is reflected in the efficiency discipline and morale of his subordinates General laxity indifference incompetence and ineffectiveness on the part of a subordinate shall be deemed evidence of incompetence and neglect of duty on the part of their superior officer

bull Plummeting morale growing indifference- and ineffectiveness are a reflection of Chief Cruess management style

C The superior officer is not only respdnsible for his _own conduct and performance of police duties but for that of his subordinates as-well He shall set an example to all subordinates in sobriety dignity courtesy discretion initiative industry diligence truthfulness courage painstaking attention to duty and the observance of proper discipline

bull Does NOT lead by example Do as I say not as I do management style

bull See Section 10051 entitled Incompetence Examples cited would not be tolerated at any other rank

bull Preaches sacrifice however fiscal responsibility does not apply to him personally - eg 2 new cars in 2 years (with custom grill lights new radios etc when used equipment was available) new office furniture $500 lobby photo

bull Requested double digit raise for himself but maintains everyone else is greedy

30302 Orders

B (He) shall issue clear concise and definite orders to his subordinates Vague ambiguous and ill-defined orders and commands that cannot be executed are confusing and prejudicial to the efficiency good order and morale of the Department

bull Issued a series of conflicting orders regarding the removal of signs mounted on telephone poles When these orders ll werent carried out to his satisfaction he sent an email to all supervisory

personnel berating their lack of effort Members also took exception to his complaint that they havent arrested anyone for a real crime in months or years apparently forgetting many notable arrests including those following the brutal Petit murders the year before

bull Often blames inconsistent orders written in the shift corrunanders Red Book (a daily logbook) on miscommunication with patrol division commander

30303 Performance of Du~ies

B He shall not perform the duties regularly assigned to a subordinate when the subordinate is available to perform them

bull Controls decision making at all levels (micromanagement)

bull On or off duty usurps authority of on-scene supervisor(s) regardless of the event

1 disrupts routine events (eg Fall Festival accident scenes etc with unnecessary orders)

2 disrupts critical incidents - -attempted to dictate (incorrectly) how highly trained SRT commanders should handle Winiarski murder scene (eg when to make entry into the house)

bull As soon as Chief Cruess learned that the recently formed Underage Drinking Task Force which has 3 supervisors (I Lt2 Sgts) would be at a high school dance he immediately dictated what would be done and how

bull Personally handles disciplinary matters

30304 MORALE

A A supervisor shall give particular attention to the morale of his subordinates and shall immediately eliminate any friction or jealously which exists in his ranks He shall require his subordinates to maintain an even temper and cheerful disposition

bull Does not recognize or acknowledge low morale bull Does not recognize or appreciate hard work (except in

his own deeds) bull Discontinued the employee recognition program bull Knee-jerk reactions to small problems (eg suspends

motorcycle and bike patrols at the slightest provocation)

bull Poor UnionManagement relationship bull Issues idle threats (eg closing the Traffic

Division)

bull Friction and jealousy arise from disparate treatment (eg favoritism)

bull Does not require of himself an even temper and cheerful disposition

B He shall constantly strive for harmony among all employees of the Department and a spirit of good fellowship among his subordinates

bull Rarely takes the high road - rather than address an issue on merit he makes it personal

bull Refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper bull No sense of loyalty Im NOT one of the guysH bull Pits one supervisor against another bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues

opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper himself

D He shall exercise his authority with kindness firmness justice and reason

bull He relies on coercion (bullying) close supervision (micromanagement) and threats to get the job done which results in hostility low morale and increased management-union conflict

Fmiddot He shall not injure or discredit those under his authority by unreasonable unjust arbitrary capricious or tyrannical conduct or by abusive language

bull At the very least Chief Cruess tyrannical conduct has transformed the Cheshire Police Department into an uncomfortable unpleasant workplace At most it has adversely affected the health and welfare of its employees and reduced the level of effective operation at the expense of officer and public safety

personnel berating their lack of effort Members also took exception to his complaint that they havent arrested anyone for a real crime in months or years apparently forgetting many notable arrests including those following the brutal Petit murders the year before

bull Often blames inconsistent orders written in the shift corrunanders Red Book (a daily logbook) on miscommunication with patrol division commander

30303 Performance of Du~ies

B He shall not perform the duties regularly assigned to a subordinate when the subordinate is available to perform them

bull Controls decision making at all levels (micromanagement)

bull On or off duty usurps authority of on-scene supervisor(s) regardless of the event

1 disrupts routine events (eg Fall Festival accident scenes etc with unnecessary orders)

2 disrupts critical incidents - -attempted to dictate (incorrectly) how highly trained SRT commanders should handle Winiarski murder scene (eg when to make entry into the house)

bull As soon as Chief Cruess learned that the recently formed Underage Drinking Task Force which has 3 supervisors (I Lt2 Sgts) would be at a high school dance he immediately dictated what would be done and how

bull Personally handles disciplinary matters

30304 MORALE

A A supervisor shall give particular attention to the morale of his subordinates and shall immediately eliminate any friction or jealously which exists in his ranks He shall require his subordinates to maintain an even temper and cheerful disposition

bull Does not recognize or acknowledge low morale bull Does not recognize or appreciate hard work (except in

his own deeds) bull Discontinued the employee recognition program bull Knee-jerk reactions to small problems (eg suspends

motorcycle and bike patrols at the slightest provocation)

bull Poor UnionManagement relationship bull Issues idle threats (eg closing the Traffic

Division)

bull Friction and jealousy arise from disparate treatment (eg favoritism)

bull Does not require of himself an even temper and cheerful disposition

B He shall constantly strive for harmony among all employees of the Department and a spirit of good fellowship among his subordinates

bull Rarely takes the high road - rather than address an issue on merit he makes it personal

bull Refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper bull No sense of loyalty Im NOT one of the guysH bull Pits one supervisor against another bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues

opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper himself

D He shall exercise his authority with kindness firmness justice and reason

bull He relies on coercion (bullying) close supervision (micromanagement) and threats to get the job done which results in hostility low morale and increased management-union conflict

Fmiddot He shall not injure or discredit those under his authority by unreasonable unjust arbitrary capricious or tyrannical conduct or by abusive language

bull At the very least Chief Cruess tyrannical conduct has transformed the Cheshire Police Department into an uncomfortable unpleasant workplace At most it has adversely affected the health and welfare of its employees and reduced the level of effective operation at the expense of officer and public safety

bull Friction and jealousy arise from disparate treatment (eg favoritism)

bull Does not require of himself an even temper and cheerful disposition

B He shall constantly strive for harmony among all employees of the Department and a spirit of good fellowship among his subordinates

bull Rarely takes the high road - rather than address an issue on merit he makes it personal

bull Refuses to acknowledge anyone he encounters upon entering a room hallway etc

bull Displays a quick temper bull No sense of loyalty Im NOT one of the guysH bull Pits one supervisor against another bull DisrespectfulDismissive - devalues

opinionssuggestions bull Unable to maintain cheerful temper himself

D He shall exercise his authority with kindness firmness justice and reason

bull He relies on coercion (bullying) close supervision (micromanagement) and threats to get the job done which results in hostility low morale and increased management-union conflict

Fmiddot He shall not injure or discredit those under his authority by unreasonable unjust arbitrary capricious or tyrannical conduct or by abusive language

bull At the very least Chief Cruess tyrannical conduct has transformed the Cheshire Police Department into an uncomfortable unpleasant workplace At most it has adversely affected the health and welfare of its employees and reduced the level of effective operation at the expense of officer and public safety