New York State Police, Trooper Joseph M. Lofrese Letter of Censure, 2013
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LOFRESE, JOSEPH M TROOPER TYPE: Personnel CASE# 20130362 FINDING: Founded Complainant: BRENDAN CASEY INTERNAL AFFAIRS BUREAU PERSONNEL COMPLAINT TRACKING DCN: 20130362 CTV:lli§.2 TYPE: Personnel REGION: South LEVEL: .3. Subject(s): Troooer Josenh M . Lofrese Troop or Detail F Investigated by:Z/S~t James A . Whittel Staff Inspector:Georne Beach Date: 9/ 19/13 SUBJECT IDSTORY REVIEWED? IXl AUDJO? IX'.! ON PROBATION? I I VIDEO? 0 ALLEGATION: Im ro er Use ofTaser· SYNOPSIS: Trooper Lofrese failed to follow Taser Use Policy by firing his taser a fleeing suspect who was operating an ATV. Suspect subsequently fled scene and was not apprehended. Founded. 181 Founded D Unfounded D Unsubstantiated O Closed by Investigation Recommended Level of Adjudication: D Troop Level O Division Level Finding of Investigation: Adjudicated at TroopO Date: Date Forwarded to Assistant Deputy Superintendent - Finding oflnvestlgation: 'li(! Founded Recommended Level of Adjudication: O Unfounded t8(Troop Level O Unsubstantiated D Closed by Investigation O Division Level Direction: 0 Troop Level - Return to Chief Inspector O Division Level -- Forward to Division Counsel Date Forwarded to Counsel or the Chief Ins ector: D Troop Level · Rank/Name of Member Notified _ _ __ _ _ _ __ Date Notified: _ __ _ _ Notified by Whom: Complaint ofPersonnel Investigation 20130362 Type: Sub Type Personnel 8/14/2013 Incident Date/Time Report Due Troop: T CTV: 3 Commissioned Officer Assigned No fl Mode Rec. In Person 6:25 PM 9/16/2013 Level Inv. Status: F F3601 • C/MIDDLETOWN Report Location 10n/2013 IAB Synopsis: Trooper Joseph Lofrese deployed his Division issue taser against an unknown Individual operating an ATV (AMS# AMSM214234028). The use of the taser in the incident appears to violate Division Taser Polley forbidding the use of a taser against an individual operating a vehicle. Troop F to Investigate. C/assfffcatlon: USE OF FORCE Subjects: ···-,-·-·--·----···----- 111111111111111 Employee ID Finding: F - - -Rank LOFRESE Last Name 2/14/2005 Ml M ---- Locatlon MIDDLETOWN _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ __ CCC 2: DISOD CCC 3: j Complainants: Employee IDIIIIIIIIIIIIIII Shield 4117 DOE: TROOPER First Name JOSEPH . . _ ... . . -·- ·--··-- Troo~ CCC 1: TASEF - -- - -- Rank Last Name CASEY First Name BRENDAN SP Employee ~ SexM CAPTAIN Address City Home Phone WorlcPhone State DOE Ml R TZS F200 9/22/1986 Zip Administrative Personnel: Employee ID Last 111111111111111 Employee ID Last First CASEY · - - - - - -- ID ------ . 111111111111111 NUZZO ID First ID Last CASEY Employee ID Last 111111111111111 BEACH II Monday, October 07, 2013 .. .. . First ID First TZS F200 RECEIVING MEMBER BRENDAN Ml R Date/Time: 8/14/2013 7:00 PM .. .. ····· -··· ·-----MEMBER AT TR9OP NOTIFIED ROBERT Ml M Date/Time: 8/14/2013 MEMBER WHO NOTIFIED TROOP BRENDAN Ml R MEMBER AT DIV NOTIFIED GEORGE Ml P TZS F300 7:00 PM TZS F200 Datemme: 8/14/2013 7:00 PM TZS H132 Date/Time: 8/1 4/2013 7:00 PM Page 1 of 2 Employee ID Last 11111111111111 NUZZO ID First rzs MEMBER WHO NOTIFIED DIV ROBERT Ml M F300 Datemme: 8/14/201 3 7:00 PM -------···· ·----· ···-Employee ID Last WHITTEL Employee ID Last 11111111111111 11111111111111 BEACH II Monday, October 07, 2013 ID INVESTIGATOR First JAMES ID REVIEWER First GEORGE --- TZS F200 Ml A Date/Time: 9/4/2013 TZS H132 Ml P Date/Time: 10/1/2013 . ,, . :·, . Page 2of2 ·•, ; ; , JOSEPH A. D' AMICO SUPERINTENDENT MAJOR PATRICK J. REGAN TROOP COMMANDER STATE OF NEW YORK NEW YORK STATE POLICE TROOP "F" HEADQUARTERS 55 CRYSTAL RUN ROAD MIDDLETOWN, NY 10941 (845) 344-5300 December 18, 2013 Trooper Joseph M. Lo:frese New York State Police Middletown, New York LETTER OF CENSURE Dear Trooper Lo:frese: On August 14, 2013 you pursued an ATV that was driving on the roadways in the area of Mud Mills Road and Silver Lake Scotchtown Road in the Town of Wallkill. Upon locating the ATV, you ordered the driver to step off the ATV. The subject failed to comply and accelerated at you in an attempt to inflict bodily harm. You deployed your taser at the subject and jumped out of the way. The subject then fled the scene and was unable to be identified. In using the taser in this incident, you were in violation of Regulation 8A2, specifically the NYSP Taser policy, section E(h), which instructs members to not discharge an ECD against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion, or a vehicle that could be immediately put into motion. On December 18, 2013 you appeared before me, executed a waiver and requested that I adjudicate the discipline in this matter. Accordingly, it is my decision that you receive a letter of censure for your actions. I trust that you will not allow this to happen again. Sincerely, Patri Majo Troop Commander !WIHl!o! • PM Ml NEW YORK STATE POLICE MEMORANDUM Troop F Station Middletown Date To: Major Patrick J. Regan, Troop Commander From: Trooper Jo~eph Lofrese Subject: DISCIPLINARY ACTION November 5, 2013 /;:::?/?!~ I hereby request to have the above-captioned investigation adjudicated by the. · Troop Commander pursuant to Rule 3, Disciplinary Action, of the New York State Police Manual. I waive the following: 1. · The right to have. this matter disposed of by• the Superintendent or by a formal hearing. 2. Any right to appeal theTroop Commander's adjudication, which may be a determination of unfounded or, upon a finding of guilt, the imposition of the following penalties: · · i. A letter of censure and/or ii. An intra-troop transfer and/or 111. A fine to be expressed in the loss of no more than five vacation days to be worked by me with no additional compensation or overtime. NEW YORK STATE POLICE MEMORANDUM Troop F Station Middletown Date December 18, 2013 To: Deputy Superintendent Daniel R. Penny From: Major Patrick J. Subject: COMPLAINT AGAINST PERSONNEL - 20130362 - LEVEL 3 TROOPER JOSEPH M. LOFRESE, SP MIDDLETOWN Regf roop Commander Reference is made to the previously submitted Level 3 report regarding the above subject. On December 18, 2013, Trooper Lofrese appeared before me and executed his consent to have me adjudicate this matter at Troop level. Pursuant to Rule 3 of the New York State Police Administrative Manual, I have determined that he receive a Letter of Censure for his actions. I have attached a copy of the Letter of Censure and consent waiver. This matter is closed. Attach. NEW YORK STATE POLICE MEMORANDUM 'TROOP F STATION Middletown . DATE September 13, 2013 TO: Deputy Superintendent aniel R. Penny SUBJECT: COMPLAINT AG INST PERSONNEL- 20130362 - LEVEL 3 TROOPER JOSEPH M. LOFRESE, SP MIDDLETOWN Reference is made to the attached report of Zone Sergeant James A. Whittel and cover memorandum of Captain Brendan R. Casey regarding the above subject. I have reviewed the attached report and agree that it is founded. Trooper Lofrese violated Regulation 8A2, specifically .the NYSP Taser policy Section E(h), when he deployed a Taser against and individual who was operating a vehicle. Recommend appropriate administrative action at Troop level. Forwarded for your Attach. Genl.7 NEW YORK STATE POLICE MEMORANDUM Troop£_5tation SP Monroe Date_ _-=S-=e;.a;:;p..;.;te=m=b=er....9"""'"""'2=0......1...... 3 To: Major Patrick J. Regan Troop Commander, Troop F From: Captain Brendan R. Casey, Zone 2 C o m ~ Subject: COMPLAINT AGAINST PERSONNEL 2013-0362 TROOPER JOSEPH M. LO FRESE, EOD 02/14/05, SP MIDDLETOWN Reference is made to the attached Genl. 30 Investigative Report of Zone Sergeant JAMES A. WHITTEL, SP Monroe, dated September 4, 2013, regarding the above-captioned subject. I have reviewed the attached report submitted by Zone Sergeant WHITTEL and concur with his findings. On August 14, 2013, Trooper JOSEPH M. LOFRESE pursued an ATV that was driving on the roadways in the area of Mud Mills Road and Silver Lake Scotchtown Road in the Town of Wallkill. Upon locating the ATV, Trooper LOFRESE ordered the male subject to step off the ATV. The subject failed to comply and accelerated at Trooper LOFRESE in an attempt to inflict bodily harm. Trooper LOFRESE deployed the Taser at the subject and jumped out of the way. The subject then fled the scene and was unable to be identified. The use of the Taser in this incident violated the Division Taser Policy forbidding the use of a Taser against an individual operating a vehicle. Trooper LOFRESE violated the following Division Rules and Regulations: 8A2 - failed to comply with Rules, Regulations, Instructions, specifically: Trooper LOFRESE was found to be in violation ofNYSP Taser policy section E(h) where Members shall not discharge an ECD against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion, or a vehicle that could be immediately put into motion. Recommend this case be CLOSED- FOUNDED. Recommend appropriate administrative action for Trooper LOFRESE. Attachment • GENL .•30 (REV ~/00) NEW YORK STATE POLICE COVER PAGE TITLE OF CASE REPORTING TROOP MANAGING TROOP F DATE OF REPORT 09/04/13 F Trooper Joseph M. Lofrese EOD 02/14/05 SP Middletown DATE OCCURRED TZS 08/14/13 F221 CTVCODE F3666 INVESTIGATIVE PERIOD TYPED BY JAW 08-14-13 to 09-04-13 REPORT OF SHIELD 2461 Z/Sgt James A. Whittel V CHARACTER OF CASE - (CC CODE) STATION Complaint against Personnel SP Middletown PCT0100 CASE# 20130362 STATUS OF CASE ( ) CA ( ) C/EC ( ) C/INV ( ) C/UNF ( ) C/UNS ( X) C/FND () OPN Reference: Report of Personnel Investigation 20130362 Enclosures: To Division Headquarters and Troop "F" 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) Gen 34D and associated photographs AMS message AMSM214234028 SJS entry 5237279 Gen 89- NYSP use of Taser X26 Gen 91 - Pursuit Report Taser down load report Memorandum of Trooper JOSEPH LOFRESE FOR TROOPIDIVISION HEADQUARTERS USE ONLY ~,_ APPROVED: .J!;:i~::;:;,:~~ ~==~~~=---------- ZONE _ _ TROOP_.,E,-//_'1--+<'.((;~/i,r-"',/:::::~::·~_ _ _ _ _ _ __ DHQ /'/ / DESTROY IN 20 - - - INITIALS PERMANENT RETENTION _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ INITIALS _ _ _ _ __ RCN SYNOPSIS: On August 14, 2013, Trooper JOSEPH M. LOFRESE pursued an ATV that left the roadway onto railroad tracks. Upon terminating the pursuit, Trooper LOFRESE was able to locate the ATV operator again on the railroad tracks. The ATV operator stopped upon Trooper LOFRESE's verbal command, but then accelerated at Trooper LOFRESE in an attempt to inflict bodily harm. Trooper LOFRESE deployed the Taser at the ATV operator, but it was ineffective due to only one prong striking the ATV operator. Trooper LOFRESE was able to jump out of the way of the ATV. The subject then fled the s9en~ and was unable to be identified. Trooper LO FRESE was forced to make a split second decision as to whqre or not to deploy the Taser. The deployment of the Taser against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion, or a vehicle that could be immediately put into motion is a violation of the NYSP Taser policy. Trooper LO FRESE drew the Taser and pointed it at an individual that was in control of a vehicle that could immediately be put into motion. He then deployed it against an individual who was in control of a vehicle in motion. I recommend appropriate disciplinary action. DETAILS: RAILROAD TRACKS, MIDDLETOWN, NY: 1. On August 14, 2013, at approximately 6:25 pm Trooper JOSEPH M. LOFRESE (BOD 02/14/05 SP Middletown) had a pursuit and deployed his Taser against an unknown ATV operator on railroad tracks in the Town of Wallkill near the intersection of Mud Mills Road and Cottage Street One prong stuck in the unknown operator, and the operator was able to get away since the Taser had no affect. Sergeant JARED W. DUFFY (BOD 01/07/02 SP Haverstraw) was advised and responded to the scene. 2. On August 14, 2013, at approximately 6:45 pm Trooper LOFRESE was interviewed by Sergeant DUFFY. Trooper LOFRESE stated that he saw an ATV driving on the roadways in the area of Mud Mills Road and Silver Lake Scotchtown Road. The ATV went off the roadway then and up onto rail road tracks where Trooper LOFRESE terminated the pursuit. Knowing the area, Trooper LOFRESE was able to get up on the railroad tracks on foot and locate the ATV. Trooper LOFRESE ordered the ATV operator to stop. He ordered the ATV operator to step off the A TV where the operator failed to comply. Trooper LOFRESE ordered the operator to again step off the ATV while also drawing his Taser at the unknown operator. The operator accelerated at Trooper LOFRESE who deployed the Taser at the unknown operator and jumped out of the way of the ATV. Sergeant DUFFY secured the afids and Taser cartridge at the scene. Sergeant DUFFY photographed the scene. Gen 34D and associated photographs are enclosed as enclosure #1. AT SP MIDDLETOWN, MIDDLETOWN, NY: 3. On August 14, 2013, Sergeant DUFFY advised Captain BRENDAN R. CASEY of the facts surrounding the case. Since the incident involved the deploying of the Taser against an individual operating a vehicle in motion, which is in violation of the Taser policy, Acting Troop Commander, Captain ROBERT NUZZO, was advised and a complaint against personnel was initiated. Zone Sergeant JAMES A. WHITTEL (EOD 09-27-93 SP Monroe) was assigned to investigate. 4. On August 14, 2013, Sergeant DUFFY advised Trooper LOFRESE of his contractual rights and advised him to prepare a memorandum detailing the incident. Sergeant DUFFY also completed AMS # AMSM214234028 detailing the incident. Copy of the AMS entry is enclosed as enclosure #2. 5. On August 14, 2013, Trooper LOFRESE completed SJS entry 5237279 detailing the incident. Copy of the SJS entry is enclosed as enclosure #3. 6. On August 14, 2013, Trooper LOFRESE completed the Gen 89 (NYSP use ofTaser X26) form and Gen 91 (Vehicle Pursuit Report). Originals submitted through channels under separate cover. Copy of Gen 89 and Gen 91 are enclosed as enclosures #4 and #5 respectively. 1 7. On August 14, 2013, Sergeant DUFFY down loaded the Taser report. A review of the report shows only one 5 second firing of the Taser at 6:24 pm. Taser down load is enclosed as enclosure #6. AT SP MONROE, MONROE, NY: 8. On August 15, 2013, I advised Trooper LO FRESE that I will be conducting the investigation into the incident. I advised Trooper LOFRESE to submit his memorandum to me after consulting with his PBA delegate. AT SP MIDDLETOWN. MIDDLETOWN, NY: 9. On September 4, 2013, I interviewed Trooper LOFRESE about the incident. Trooper LOFRESE maintained the same version of events as articulated to Sergeant DUFFY. He saw the ATV operating recklessly on Silver Lake Scotchtown Road where he activated his lights and sirens in attempt to stop the A TV. The A TV made a U-turn and then proceeded onto Mud Mills Road where it eventually turned off the road and entered railroad tracks. The pursuit lasted only a mile. Trooper LOFRESE terminated the pursuit and went to a different area along the railroad tracks in an attempt to locate the ATV again. After being on foot on the tracks he located the A TV and ordered it to stop. The ATV stopped, and then the operator was ordered off the ATV which the operator failed to comply. The operator was now demonstrating numerous signs of aggression; thus Trooper LOFRESE drew the Taser and pointed it at the operator. He again ordered the operator off the A TV at which time the ATV suddenly accelerated at Trooper LO FRESE in an attempt to strike him. Fearing for his life, Trooper LOFRESE deployed the Taser at the unknown operator and also jumped out of the path of the A TV. The Taser was ineffective due to only one probe striking the unknown operator. ATV operator fled the scene. Sergeant DUFFY was notified of the incident. Trooper LOFRESE stated he was aware of the Division policy forbidding the use of the Taser against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion. He felt with the fear for his life and the rapid, aggressive actions on the part of the unknown operator necessitated the use of the Taser. Memorandum of Trooper LOFRESE is enclosed as enclosure #7. CONCLUSION: Trooper LOFRESE was confronted with a split second decision as to whether or not to deploy the Taser against an individual who was attempting to use physical force against him which could potentially have resulted in serious physical injury. A review of the photographs of the scene show that the incident occurred in an open area allowing for Trooper LO FRESE to get out of the way of the ATV. The subject then fled the scene and was unable to be identified. Trooper LOFRESE's memo indicates that he was able to get out of the way of the ATV even with the very short delay of deploying the Taser. Trooper LOFRESE's memo indicates that he was in fear for his life but section l 6C2d-2 does not allow the use of a firearm in these circumstances; consequently, the Taser should not be considered as an option. The investigation into the facts concludes that Trooper LOFRESE did violate the following cited Regulation of the New York State Police: 8A8(2)- It shall be the duty of all Members to sturdy and comply with the Rules, Regulations and Instructions and to require like compliance of all other Members under their supervision or control. Specifically, Trooper LOFRESE violated NYSP Taser policy section E(h) where Members shall not discharge an ECD against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion, or a vehicle that could be immediately put into motion. Trooper LOFRESE drew the Taser and pointed it at the unknown individual who was in control of a vehicle that could immediately be put into motion and then deployed that Taser against the same individual who had put the vehicle into motion. I recommend appropriate disciplinary action for Trooper LOFRESE. 2 /~,,,./JC L () su if .J:J I GENi.. 340 REV 10/99 ,I p1G1TAL PHo,:o RECORD I i ~. • Complete a separate form for each investigation recorded on digital media • Print or type all -tries INSTRUCTIONS: I • STATION AND CASE NUMBER ID LEAD# SP Middletown SJS# 5237279 DATE I 08/14/13 I INVESTIGATING MEMBER PHOTOGRAPHER'S NAME Sgt Jared Duffy Sgt Jared Duffy CRIME OR INCIDENT TIME Sil.GAN I 6:56PM I WEATHER Taser Usage Clear/Warm ADDRESS OR LOCATION COUNTY Cottage Street and Silverlake Scotchtown Rd (Railroad Tracks- T/Wallkill) Orange COMPLAINANT • DEFENDANT • DECEASED I NYSP VEHICLE (S) OPERATOR• GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SCENE IMAGE TYPE OR FILE FORMAT OJPEG OT1F IMAGE# I CAMERA Station DRAw I I ' 1104 05 06 07 08 09 ACTION REQUESTED 1 OF DESCRIPTION: RR tracks with ATV tire tracks Foot prints Aphids from Taser " " ATV tire tracks " " I I DsuRN TO co1ovo □PRINT DATE OF BIRTH X'S □RETAIN DATE SUBMITTED TO ID SECT:ElAMANN,ER SUBMITTED: (Check one) PAGEi/ vAMCI\A PHOTO ID# 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 COMPLETED 6:59PM 1 08/15/13 IMAGE# 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 vo PHOTO ID# □FLOPPY De-MAIL OoTHER DESCRIPTION: nRd 100,_1104.JPG 1/64/F2.7/1S0200 1/64/F2. 7/1S0200 1/84.5/FJ.4/1S080 ·100_1107.JPG 1/84.5/F3.4/1S0200 1/64/F2:7/1S0200 1/64/F2.7nS0200 Administrative Message Report Print\Run Date 08/15/2013 Date\Time Reported\Discovered 08/14/2013 18:25 Agency ORI TZS NYSP MIDDLETOWN F221 Message PURSUIT, TASER USAGE Investigated By SERGEANT JARED DUFFY Photos YES Units Responded UF Videotape NO (I\Jijrr-~tive On 08/14/13, at approximately 6:25 p.m., Trooper JOSEPH LOFRESE, EOD 02/14/05, was operating CITE vehicle F29 on Silver Lake Scotchtown Road in the city of Middletown when he observed an ATV traveling eastbound being operated recklessly. Trooper LOFRESE activated the emergency lights on F29 and the single occupant of the ATV fled continuing eastbound on Silver Lake Scotchtown for .3 mile at which point the ATV made a U-turn in the roadway, doubling back, traveling westbound on Silver Lake Scotchtown Road, making a right-hand turn onto Mud Mills Road, which he used to access railroad tracks. Trooper LOFRESE terminated the pursuit, and knowing the area, proceeding down Cottage Street into Woodside Knolls housing development where he accessed the railroad tracks, in an effort to stop the ATV. Trooper LO FRESE exited his vehicle and ran to the access area adjacent railroad tracks, ahead of the approaching ATV. The ATV, traveling westbound toward Trooper LOFRESE, came to a stop in front of him, at which point Trooper LOFRESE ordered the operator to step off the vehicle. The operator failed to comply with the order to step off the vehicle and Trooper LOFRESE pointed Taser (serial number X00-557375) at the ATV operator, issuing the order again. The ATV operator accelerated at Trooper LOFRESE and Trooper LOFRESE stepped out of the path of the ATV while simultaneously discharging the Taser cartridge, (serial number C4100EWYM). r, extencie~'.Na'rrative/1 '> r;;· ·• ·•.· · " ·." ···. •·. ·· . ·. .·. , I One prong struck the suspect and the Taser discharge had no effect. The operator of the ATV fled the scene and was not identified. The afids and Taser cartridge were secured at the scene. The pursuit lasted approximately 1 minute, traveling over a distance of approximately .5 mile with a top speed of approximately 30 miles per hour. Due to the short duration of the pursuit, no supervisor was advised or monitored it. Troop F Zone 2 Commander Captain BRENDAN CASEY notified. #Vehicles 1 # Injured 0 County ORANGE # Deceased 0 Apparent Cause PENDING INVESTIGATION Location\ Street Name \ Mile Post Marker COTTAGE STREET C/TNName MIDDLETOWN, CITY OF - 3601 Weather Conditions 1 -CLEAR Road Conditions 1-DRY Description of Damage NONE Criminal Action V&T Sent Date \ Sent Time 08/14/2013 21:44 Notification . ;, B.y ·. ·.·. ,.. CAPTAIN BRENDAN CASEY ZONE, TROOP Driver lnformatiort 1· Driver Name UNKNOWN, Address IA~~h~iii~,;r1 Sent By DUFFY JARED DOB Gender City License State State Page 1 of 2 Chemical Test NO Driver Charged NO Zip -----,--------------------------------------------Violations Driver Member? NO Member Rank Date of Entry Member Shield Member Shift Name (exactly as printed on registration) UNKNOWN, Address City State Zip Insurance Company and Code i.VjhIP,1~ :,ijfcjril\itjiJ,n,J>t ·· License Plate # UNKNOWN State Vehicle Year Make VIN# ABTR Van# Mileage School Bus Comm. Veh. NYSPVeh. NO NO NO Equipment Damage NO Front Airbags Deployed Side Airbags Deployed Fire Suppression Deployed Equipment Damage Description Page 2 of 2 NO NO NO 1. Ae;ency F2 TROOP F - ZONE 2 6. Incident No. 3. ORI 5. Case No. NYl350200 5237279 13,14,15. Occurred To (Day, Date, Time) 10,11,12. Occurred n/From (Day, Date, Time) WEDNESDAY 08/14/2013 18:20 WEDNESDAY 08/14/2013 18:24 2. Div/Precinct F221 7,8,9. Date Reported (Day, Date, Time) WEDNESDAY 08/14/2013 18:20 16. Incident Type VEHICLE-RECKLESS DRIVING 19. Incident Address (Street Name, Bldg. No., 17. Business Name pt. No. SILVERLAKE SCOTCHTOWN ROAD 20. City/State(Lip MIDDLETOWN NEW YORK I 0940 21. Location Code (TSLED) 23. No. of Victims WALL KILL TOWN 3666 24. No. ofSusoects 26. Victim also Complainant? 0 0 Location Type NARRATIVE Date of Action IDate Written 08/14/2013 los114/2013 I Officer Name & Rank I LOFRESE, JOSEPH (TPR) Narrative 1. While on patrol I observed a white male operating a ATV recklessly on Silverlake Scotchtown road traveling eastbound in the Town of Wallkill. I activated my lights and sirens and followed the atv for approx 3/10 of a mile when the ATV made a u-turn in traffic almost causing motor vehicle accident with other vehicles. ATV proceeded westbound on .Silverlake Scotchtown road and made right tum onto Mudmills road. ATV crossed over the roadway and entered entrance to railroad tracks. 2. Knowing the area I patrolled to the railroad tracks located adjacent of Woodside Knolls development. I exited my patrol vehicle and entered the railroad tracks when I observed same white male on the ATV traveling westbound on the shoulder of the railroad tracks. I entered the path the ATV was heading and gave a verbal command by putting out my hand to stop. ATV stopped in front of me approx 1Oft from me. I approached the ATV giving verbal commands to get off the ATV which the operator failed to comply. I was approx 3ft from the ATV when I pulled out my taser giving verbal commands to get off the ATV. ATV suddenly accelerated towards me when I jumped out of of the path of the ATV while simultaneously discharging the taser. I notified surrounding police departments off incident and description of subject. Sergeant was notified of incident and deployment of taser at scene. Checked surrounding areas for subject with negative results. ADMINISTRATIVE 74. Inquiries 77. Reporting Officer Signature (Include Rank) TPR~~ -r::, / 76. Complainant Signature 175. NYSPIN Message No. 78. ID No. 2435 80. IDNo. 79. Supervisor Signature (Include Rank) --- 81. Status"' CLOSED BY INVESTIGATION 182. Status Date 08/14/2013 83. Notified/TOT I Pagel of I Solvability Total 0 8/14/2013 23:5 I :25 f /V l L <JSt1.l2 c ti 'f Genl. 89 (1 1112> OC SPRAY NYSP USE OF CHEMICAL AGENT/TASER X26 i TASER X26 Serial Number xco- SS'9-3rt"' SUBJECT INFORMATION Name (Last, First, Ml) 2.Sex Lln"'{\ 0 W f\ D 6. Race ~ Combative □ Alcohol-Influenced □ Drug Influenced □ American Indian and A laskan Native □ Asian ( Asian Indians, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, Fillplnos, Indonesians, Polynesians, and other Non-Whites) JI! No 11. Injured >' Hostile o Mentally Ill o Suicidal )4 Failed to follow verbal directions □ □ □ Yes - - 7. Condition prior to use of Force (check all that apply) )'White □ White Hispanic □ Black □ Black Hispanic Unknown 8. Arrest - F 5. Wt. 4.Ht. 3.Age !)CM Other 9. Armed 10. Threatened Use of Weapon □ Yes w/ Describe: □ Yes ~No '6CNo 12. Injury Occurred: □ Prior to use of Force/ o During use of Force / □ After use of Force □Yes 14 No Describe: 13. Injuries (specify) o EMS Notified /Responded ,~ MEMBER INFORMATION 14. Name (Last, First, Ml) 15.Sex L o~r~E!..:-:Ios. ~M F IY} D 19. Station 20. Shield SP 23. Injured 18. a15 TZS orce □Yes o Describe: 25. Injuries (specify) INCIDENT INFORMATION 26. Date . 0£ /I</ /9013 27. Tour □1 2- 0 -· 29. Location County F- 30. Nature of Initial Incident Brand name 28. Time o A □ B o C 33. # Bursts of OC ~ay 36. Taser X26 37. # of ')GDeployed Probe Discharges □ Contact 40. Taser Cartridge Serial Number 31. Situation upon arrival 34. Distance from Subject --- 4 Secured ~e..c.\- )'.:I Oca Of:!:l c,c-. Ai\/ o.:+ n,e_mber 35. Was OC effective □Yes Describe reaction: □ No __. 39. Was Taser effective? s Describe o, Was a 2nd Cart . osition Ta □ Discarded Su 43. Additional Information ( Attach additional sheets as necessary) No ) Date SJS# ; . .NL-0i1 (9/00) •'NYSP VEHICLE PURSUIT REPORT DIRECTIONS: Member: Supervisor: Complete and submit by end of shift to Supervisor who monitored the pursuit. Review for completeness and sent through Channels to Zone Headquarters within 3 days of pursuit. Attach File 3, if applicable. MEMBER INFORMATION Member Involved - Name, Rank: Shield#: TROOPER JOSEPH M LOFRESE 2435 EOD: T/Z/S: 2/14/2005 F221 Station/Detail: Vehicle RIN: Sp Middletown F29 Other Division Members Involved (Include Passengers) - Name, Rank & Vehicle RIN: Supervisor Notified of Pursuit - Name, Rank & Station: JARED W DUFFY, SERGEANT & SP HAVERSTRAW Other Agencies Involved in Pursuit: (Include Names/ Car Numbers If Available) PURSUIT INFORMATION Date: Tour: 2-5 08/14/2013 8 A Time Started: C Reason for Initiating Pursuit: [&) VTL □ Penal Law □ Other Specify ✓- 06: 20pm Time Ended: Est. Speed of Pursued Vehicle: Distance Traveled: 40-45mph 1 Mile 06: 24pm Weather Conditions: Light Condition: Road Condition: [&) clear □ raining □ snow □ fog/mist [&) daylight □ dawn □ dusk [&) dry □ wet □ snow/ice □ other □ □ other darkness Type of Area: (Choose one or more) [&) Residential □ □ Commercial □ Industrial Urban □ Rural D Other (Specify) County: Location Pursuit Commenced: Orange Silverlake Scotchtown Road, Town of Wallkill County: Location Pursuit Ended: Orange Mudmills Road, which atv used access to railroad tracks. T/Wallkill Emergency Lights Used: [&) Yes □ No 0 N/A Was Pursuit Vehicle Video Emergency Siren Used: [&) Yes □ No □ N/A Spike Belt Tire Deflator Used: □ Yes !ID No Specify Type Was Pursuit Videotaped? Equipped? □ Yes □ Yes !ID No !ID No OPERATOR INFORMATION Vehicle Plate #: License State: Vehicle Year: # Of Occupants: Vehicle Make/Model: ATV -(unregistered) Driver Age: (Estimate if not Identified) 0 <16 □ 16-17 [&) 18-25 □ 26-35 036-45 □ 46-55 0>55 Driver's Name, If Known: (Last, First, Ml) UNKNOWN Reason Given By Driver For Failing To Stop: Impairment: unknown Sex: □ Alcohol □ Drugs □ Not impaired [&) Male □ Female Date of Birth: f □ Legal Intervention End o{Pursuit: □ Vehicle Stopped 00 Member Terminated Pursuit Number Killed Complete these boxes if pursuit resulted in Death, Damage or Injury. □ Vehicle Crashed □ Vehicle Lost □ Supervisor Ended Pursuit D Division Vehicle Crashed Number Injured Estimated Value of Property Damage Division Vehicle Pursued Vehicle - Third Party Description of Charges Filed: Synopsis of Pursuit: Trooper JOSEPH LOFRESE was working a schedule 2-5 shift out of Sp Middletown operating unmarked patrol unit F29 on Silverlake Scotchtown road in the Town of Walllkill. Trooper LOFRESE observed white male operating a ATV recklessly on Silverlake Scotchtown road eastbound. Trooper LOFRESE activated his lights and sirens and followed ATV for approx 3/10 of a mile when the ATV made au-tum in traffic almost causing motor vehicle accident with other uninvolved vehicles. ATV proceeded westbound on Silverlake Scotchtown road and made a right turn on to Mudmills road. ATV crossed over roadway and used access railroad tracks to elude member. Trooper LOFRESE terminated the pursuit at that point. Date: Mem~~ -r-:'. - / . ·- ~ #:J~-t e File3#: Case#: 5237279 08/14/2013 Pursuit Supervisor Comments: ~ u t Tb Pursuit Sup -E.-( s H-r1ll11 Au/J. ,+ Tlt1tV' gnature/ Ran t1. Zone Commander/ Second Line Supervisor Comments: Date: Of-/f·/j Q),TASER • """''"'"'' ,,t .. Taser Information Dept. Serial Model Firmware Version Device Name New York State Police X00-557375 TASERX26 Rev.22 F221-2 Health Active Report Generated by Name Badge ID Local Timezone Generated On duffy, Jared 2498 Eastern Standard Time (UTC-04:00) 14 Aug 2013 21 :05:15 Device (x26) Seq# Local Time [dd:mm::yyyy Hr:min:Sec] Event [Event Type] Duration [Seconds] Temp [Degrees Celsius] Batt Remaining [%) 1 14 Aug 2013 18:24:29 Fire 5 18 84 Genl. 7 NEW YORK STATE POLICE MEMORANDUM Troop Station SP MIDDLETOWN Date AUGUST 14, 2013 To: Major PATRICK J REGAN, Troop Commander, Troop F From: Trooper JOSEPH M. LOFRESE Subject: TASER DEPLOYMENT ~/?2--? I was advised of my rights to representation pursuant to Article 16.2 of the contract by Sergeant JARED W DUFFY. On August 14, 2013 I was a scheduled 2-5 shift out of SP Middletown. I was operating unmarked patrol unit F29. I observed white male operating an ATV recklessly on Silverlake Scotchtown Road traveling eastbound in the Town of Wallkill. I activated my lights and sirens and followed the ATV for approx 3/10 of a mile when ATV made a u-turn in traffic almost causing several motor vehicle accidents. The ATV proceeded westbound on Silverlake Scotchtown Road, then made a right turn onto Mud Mills Road, crossed over the roadway, and entered the entrance to the railroad tracks. Knowing the area, I proceeded down Cottage Street into Woodside Knolls housing development where I accessed the railroad tracks in an effort to stop the ATV. I observed the same white male on the ATV traveling westbound on the shoulder of the railroad tracks. I entered the path the ATV was heading on foot and gave a verbal command by putting out my hand to stop. The ATV stopped in front of me. I approached the ATV and gave the operator verbal commands to get off the ATV. At which time the operator failed to comply. Operator of ATV showed planned aggression, evidenced by standing on ATV while jumping up and down on ATV and clinching his fist. I pulled out my taser while attempting to effect an arrest on the subject. The ATV suddenly accelerated trying to strike me, causing me to fear for my life. I was able to jump out of the path of the ATV and simultaneously discharged my taser with negative results. I was unable to stop and identify the operator who continued in a westbound direction. I notified Sergeant JARED W DUFFY of taser deployment who responded to the scene. I am aware of the Division Taser Policy that "Members shall not discharge an ECO against an individual who is in control of a vehicle in motion." My initial intention was to effect the arrest on subject while the ATV was stopped. However, I took out my taser while the ATV was at a complete stop. ATV operator made aggressive actions toward me. These actions included: standing on ATV and clinching his fist toward me. Subject suddenly accelerated trying to strike me. I then felt fearful for my life. Therefore, I felt it was necessary to deploy my taser.