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Political homework: Read these Web pages

Location: Blogs Marion Politics
Posted by: Ocala.com Election Coverage	1/18/2008 2:26 PM
The political Web pages of Marion County's early candidates for sheriff are as different as the two men themselves. And they are certainly worth checking out. The campaign Web pages for Ed Dean and Paul Truesdell, candidates for Marion County sheriff, are a study in contrast. Dean, the Democratic incumbent, has a traditional political Web site that presents him as "a proven sheriff" with many accomplishments and success fighting crime. Truesdell, a Republican, has an elaborate site loaded with multimedia - audio, a blog, an interactive quiz, a slide show - and the story of life. He has been on the attack against "Attorney (Sheriff) Horace Edward Dean, Jr." for months. Both sites give Web visitors the opportunity to sign up for campaign newsletters. - Joe Byrnes

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Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Sally Ann Perkins on 1/23/2008 9:43 PM

You are correct the websites are NIGHT and DAY, but the Republican Paul Truesdell has certainly brought many issues to the forefront that we as taxpayers need to be aware of. We need new blood in the department and NOT the same ole same ole stuff!!! We also need a new Sheriff with law enforcement experience!!! Mr. Truesdell has that experience that this department is seriously lacking. Mr. Dean is just a slick "good ole boy" running a typical southern sheriffs department. Look what happened to Ken Jenne a few months back, look what happened to Ken Ergle and now it seems it is only a matter of time before we pick up the morning news and read about Ed Dean. Its a crying shame they always let the greed and BMOC get the best of them. Perhaps if he had not run for reelection 4 years ago things would not have gotten out of hand. What a shame! TERM LIMITS NEED TO BE SET!

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By IWishIKnewToo on 1/23/2008 11:25 PM
http://www.truesdell4sheriff.com/video/01-22-08/01-22-08.html<br>

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By IWishIKnewToo on 1/23/2008 11:35 PM

I'm so glad to finally see the Star Banner place both on this site. I sincerely hope and desire that several debates be scheduled so we can really get a glimpse of what Truesdell has to say when he is face to face with Dean. If the videos that Truesdell has put up on his web site are any indication of what things will be like, then we will have a lot of fireworks between now and Nov. 04. From what it appears, looks like Truesdell has a team of investigators getting everything they can get their hands on to really see what is going on within and inside the MCSO. I also just watched the newest video he released today, Janaury 22, 2008, and it looks like a bomb shell has been dropped square in Dean's lap. This will surely be the race in Marion County to watch for 2008. DEBATES..........we need DEBATES.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By IWishIKnewToo on 1/24/2008 12:07 AM

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Gary Borowski on 1/24/2008 10:34 AM

Obviously Paul Truesdell has spent money oh hiring a professional media firm to get his message out on his web page . I certainly respect someone that uses new technology to reach voters . His messages certainly give one food for thought . I would love to see a seies of debates between Truesdell and Dean dealing with the issues he raises. Incumbents very often get comfortable in their positions and forget the people that got them into office in the first place . Money can't buy votes . Where you stand on the issues should .

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By FormerMCSOemployee on 1/24/2008 8:43 PM

I'm gald to see someone with police experience, education, and common sense seek the office of sheriff here in Ocala. Mr. Truesdell, you will have your hands full when you take office next January, if not sooner. Just so you know, I belong to a group of former MCSO employees (who meet monthly at a local rest.), who have decided to support you, even though we have never personally met you. I think you might have showed up one time for our monthly morning breakfast, but only a few were present. We have done our homework, and we are behind you. Also, we will, when the time is right, send an individual to meet with you and turn over information that will give you a great glimpse into how, as you say, the Dean Machine, actually works. The current sheriff and upper command staff forgot that the people they screw with might, one day, have a chance to vent and be heard. Now that day is nigh and we will be heard, and we will have a loud voice. We wish you God Speed Mr. Truesdell and look forward to calling you our Marion County Sheriff.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Ocala-Marion County small business owner on 1/24/2008 8:52 PM

I have been reading the Truesdell blog, all of the stuff he is, or his staff is posting for him and decided to enter my comments here. I run a small business here in ocala, and wanted to state publicly, that the answer is "yes" I have been approached by a marion county sheriff's deputy (capt.), who was in duty and also in uniform, who tried to sell me a Dean bbq ticket for $50. I was somewhat taken back by this, that a high ranking deputy would actually sell these tickets on duty. I questioned the captain, and he said that it was ok, as he was acutally checked out on his "break" and was technically on-duty time. I almost bought a ticket, and then decided not to, as i did not feel comfortable in doing so. This just does not seem ethical and right. after reading Truesdell's web site, i did not know this was illegal. i'm thinking in filing a formal compaint, but my business associates hace told me not to, as we do not want any problems with deputies giving us a hard time. WE NEED TO LEADERSHIP AT THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE SO THIS NEVER HAPPENS AGAIN, I JUST HOPE THAT MR. TRUESDELL WILL STAY TRUE TO HIS WORD AND NOT ALLOW THIS IN THE FUTURE WITH HIS DEPUTIES.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Ocala-Marion County small business owner on 1/24/2008 9:08 PM

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By in the dog house on 1/24/2008 10:46 PM
i do not know truesdell but he has a death wish. they will never let him become sheriff. never.

OPEN MEMO TO ALL MCSO EMPLOYEES

By The Untouchables on 1/24/2008 11:36 PM

This memo is written by and on behalf of a select group of current, and previous, MCSO employees to all MCSO personnel. First, we must inform you of the following. Following the last election in which Robert Douglas narrowly lost to Sheriff Dean, and after the dust had settled, a few of us formed a unified organization, with the goal to not let Dean win another election. We have been working tirelessly ever since 2004. We have frequently met secretly, and discussed ways to bring down the dean administration because we sincerely believe that what he is doing is morally and ethically wrong, and illegal. We have thoroughly analyzed Robert's election results and tried to find way to capitalize on Robert's strengths and weaknesses, since he came so close to upsetting Dean. Within about a year, we had drafted a strategic plan and then began to implement same. Since we, the still current former employees, had access to much inside information, we began to acquire copies of internal e-mails, memos, letters, restricted access reports, confidential reports and memos, internal affairs memos, and other specific detailed documents. We have now acquired volumes of unbelievable material, wherein three separate and complete copies are secured in different locations, all outside of the State of Florida. Knowing full well what we were up against, we also began to monitor certain ranking officers behavior, both personal, extra marital, extra other-wise, professional, and now have enough evidence to neutralize their attacks on us, should they really be stupid enough to try and take us down, once we go public with what we have. Sheriff Dean, and his inner circle of puppets, will not have enough money (no matter how Dean raises or borrows from his wife's family) to fight this battle, nor can their marriages, families, take this kind of hit. Our group has acquired enough information that will completely silence them and their assault on us when we go public with our support of Paul Truesdell in the summer of 2008, and if they try some of their inside political tactics, then we will play our lawyer card, which is cocked and ready to go. This past weekend, our group met in Sarasota, and all 12 of us voted unanimously to draft this communication and post it on several blogs to ensure that our message was heard. It is also out intention to let the cat out of the bag so we can now move into the next phase of our campaign to set the stage for Dean to be removed from office. We know of the activities that have taken place over the last 4 years specifically, and we have the necessary information documented to support same. It is safe to say, that many from the rank of Lieutenant and above, especially Dean will be shocked what we have been able to accomplish, secretly and silently. Also, we know, that once Paul takes office, either in January, 2009, if not sooner, our organization will turn over to him, enough information that will permit him to terminate many, especially those with the rank of captain and above. What many of these guys, and gals, have done, on and off duty, will be disclosed completely without reservation. We believe it is time to clean house and the cancer needs to go and that is what we have done. We have numerous agency policy violations well established and documented, as well as criminal violations as well. We have left no stone unturned, as we know the house needs completely cleaned out of the undesirables, who are hiding behind the badge of authority. Those of you who now have knots in your stomach, you know who you are. You have screwed with us for the last time. This is your last year, so enjoy now what you can. Concerning Paul Truesdell, we have not permitted him to become part of our efforts, but have on several occasions, our agent has had conversations with him to see where he stands on many issues, so we can make a decision whether or not to publicly support him in his efforts to unseat Dean in November. Our organization is now steadfastly behind Paul and will be supporting him publicly and financially within the next few weeks. This if the first of several posts, and we will, soon, be releasing a few things to let those of you know, who think we are bluffing, just how serious we are in this matter. Our biggest debate inside is, which captain do we burn first, as we know we have to lay a card on the table. We have a short list narrowed down, and we are looking at a specific captain who has been 25 and 35 years of service, so that is a hint. You will NO longer terrorize us with intimidation and subtle threats. The Untouchables

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By in the dog house on 1/24/2008 11:36 PM
i do not know truesdell but he has a death wish. they will never let him become sheriff. never.

Hey Ed....is this really true?

By The greenbear on 1/26/2008 12:51 AM

PLEASE tell me this is NOT true. I just heard this evening on a local call-in radio talk show, that dean's troops are delivering ribs to people who buy five or more slabs!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Is Ed really having his deputies deliver slabs of ribs while on duty?????????????? I'm so embarassed.......... oif this true. I was a state cop up north and we'd never do this. Don't get me wrong, i support many charities, but do not think a policeman should be making the deliveries on duty. Ed, if this true, you need to go and be a chairman of a charity and leave police work to real policemen. How many slabs did YOU buy? Did you have any delivered to your castle?

FYI

By ockalwaha rancher on 1/26/2008 1:03 AM

An opinion for whats its worth. Ive looked at both sheriff's candidates web sites, and i was done with Sheriff Dean's in about 2 minutes; and Paul's, well, it took me a while. I went through a pot of coffee before i had watched everything posted. ive been sitting on the fence but listening and reading, i'm falling on the side of mr. truesdell. looks like it really is time for a change. ive been friends with several deputies over the years and have heard the stories they tell about the way people are treated within the organizational struture. I'd never work there, as Id jack slap some of them for the stupid stuff they do to each other. i hope truesdell can clean up the mess dean has created. Mr. Ed, whatya gonna do when they come for you, bad boy bad boy :) my deputy friends tell me that you are looking at some problems from within that could cause you some problems....

sheriff's obstacle course...check the records...

By Papa Bear on 1/26/2008 1:12 AM

Hey Paul....for whatever it is worth, you can check this out, or have someone do it from your camp, as you can use this in your campaign. no one in the sheriff's command staff went through the mandatory physical agility course for 2007. The Sheriff crams this core value stuff down our throat, and how they lead by example, but if you get the records from training, you will see that no one, i mean NO ONE, even showed up to run the course from the dean inner circle. i'll be happy when we get a sheriff that will truthfully and honestly lead by example, and not just talk it, especially out of both sides of thier mouth. Mr. Truesdale, you have my vote, and my family's vote as well.

bbq ticket

By Anonymous on 1/26/2008 1:25 AM

concerning one of the previously posted blogs on the sheriff trying to sell a bbq ticket on duty. Like the previous poster, i was also asked to buy, but did not. i remember several months back, i had just opened up my shop, which is located on 27 just west of the interstate, when a captain and a major, whom i both know, walked into my store and after a few minutes of chit chat, asked if i'd buy a ticket for deans reelection. i had to tell them no. i'm a business owner like the previous poster, and did not complain on these guys. they are really good guys, and were doing what they were told to do, so i do not fault them to much. i just to now want to see them get into trouble, but did want to post my comments that they came my shop too on duty and were trying to unload the tickets. i'm hopeful in nov. that voters put in a new person to lead the men and women at the sheriffs department, God knows they need it.

Lets get back to the basics and do police work

By Retired on 1/26/2008 1:34 AM

Having worked under the Moreland administration, and now seeing what is going on at the sheriff's office, I just hang my head in shame. With all due respect to Sheriff Ed Dean, he has not a clue on what he is doing as sheriff, nor what his deputies are doing under him. I worked as senior deptuy sheriff under sheriff Don R. Moreland, and moved up to command staff level before i retired many years ago. Sheriff Dean has turned the sheriff's office into nothing more than a social service agency and this is so sad. Marion County needs a new leader for its sheriff's office, as it is oh so obvious, they have none now. I'm hopeful that one day soon, the sheriff's office will return to an organization that will shine with pride, and be a law enforcement agency second to none.

Place the blame on OUR shoulders...we are many and strong

By The Untouchables on 1/26/2008 12:04 PM

Open note to Sheriff Dean and Marion County voters: You might have had this brought to your attention already, but since you let the www.eddeanforsheriff.com expire, our organization took the responsibility of maintaining this domain name, with our own money. We saved the money to purchase this by NOT buying any of your BBQ tickets from our district commanders, whom you have and continue to have them placed in difficult ethical situations. We believe it be fitting for everyone to see what this URL links to, when it is clicked on. Even though many will find this rather amusing, we believe a few will take the opportunity to provide and forward information to this group on how you run our department..............which smells, and in turn it will be forwarded to the people it needs to get to. DO YOU CATCH OUR DRIFT? I bet your are just wondering, has anything been forwarded to them yet? What do you think? Tuesday morning, you all can discuss this issue if you want. Open note to ALL Marion County readers who read this blog: Please visit: www.eddeanforsheriff.com

Last post for this week, two more coming next week...but only better:)

By The Untouchables on 1/26/2008 12:28 PM

Sheriff Dean: Not to long ago, one of our most elite members of the Untouchables, (one that you unknowingly talk to on a daily basis and sometmes will break bread and pray together with), just happened to take a peek into a location where all of your signs are stored. As you know, these are the signs used by you for the 2000 and 2004 elections. Please feel free to leave the www.eddeanforsheriff.com if you want. We know this has caused you just a little discomfort, as you have to spend money and time in getting new stickers with the right website address. If you run short, just have another BBQ cookout. But oh well, to bad so sad. After the election, you can then use these sign for wood to fuel the campfire, and have a farewell BBQ. Oh, by the way, Mr. Truesdell has digital photos of these signs and knows just how many signs you have. Hey, when is the last time YOU have taken a good look at ALL of these signs???? Remember...........we are the few, the proud, and we are the UNTOUCHABLES

Last post for this week, two more coming next week...but only better:)

By The Untouchables on 1/26/2008 12:47 PM

Place the blame on OUR shoulders...we are many and strong

By The Untouchables on 1/26/2008 1:42 PM

Place the blame on OUR shoulders...we are many and strong

By The Untouchables on 1/26/2008 1:58 PM

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Interested voter on 1/27/2008 3:39 PM

As one who attempts to stay on top of the local political landscape, and who is a current law enforcement officer in the area, I find it interesting the LACK of public support being offered Dean on this blog. Perhaps Dean's sway is not nearly as overwhelming as many in the community believe it to be. By reading the Star Banner's printed version, one would not know that there is such a ground swell of support bubbling out there for Paul Truesdell. This blog certainly paints a different picture of how many in our community, even those current and former employees at MCSO, view our current sheriff. I personally have witnessed the heavy handed, fear mongering style of leadership that currently exists at MCSO and am glad to see that so many others are speaking out. With nearly seventeen years in law enforcement at several different levels, it is clear to those of us in the field that what has been happening over at MCSO needs to end. Law enforcement officers need to know that when they are on the job, their leaders support them and the truth. That is what the job is all about, the truth! All law enforcement officers should work and go about their daily duties with that goal in mind. None of them should be worried about how the truth will effect their career, unless they have violated a policy or law. For those of you reading this that are not familiar with any way of leading and being sheriff other than Dean's political way, I suggest you visit Paul Truesdell's web site, or talk to some law enforcement officer that you know that does not work at the Marion County Sheriff's Office and ask them about what goes on at the sheriff's office from the top down. I recommend that we let the real politicians, of which Dean is one, battle for positions in Congress, the state legislature and other truly political positions throughout our community, state and nation. As for the law enforcement profession, let's put Police Administrators and law enforcement professionals in charge of our law enforcment organizations. Good Luck Paul Truesdell and I look forward to the debates that you and Dean will hopefully be having in the months to come. Unless of course, Dean is not around then to have the debates!!!

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Gammy & Papa on 1/27/2008 7:30 PM

We are long-time Marion County residents with a family member employed by the MCSO. We were directed to Paul Truesdell's website and it took us HOURS to go over every posting, video and the blogs. We were shocked to read about some of the terrible things going on (at the MCSO) - right on Mr. Truesdell's website. We already knew about some of them, however, there is no way he could know these things - unless some of the employees have finally had enough of the poor leadership & unethical tatics being used these days, and finally started talking. Our family member has said that when Dean first took office - he did seem to help boost moral (Ergle had been arrested and MCSO was in a disarray) and get them back on track. We think Dean has become like most politicians - all the power has gone to his head and now he thinks that he needs to run EVERY ASPECT of Marion County. He should think long and hard about continuing to run for re-election and consider running for a House or Senate position where his "do good" actions would be appreciated. When you are the "Commander In-Chief" of a law enforcement agency - that is what you should ACT like. NOT a social service coordinator! Our prayers are with all of you that have continued to work at MCSO these past 4 years - we know for a fact that unless you ARE on the Dean-Team - you do have to pretend to be on the Dean-Team or be demoted or even worse, lose your job altogether. Keep your chin up Marion County - there WILL be a NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN - VOTE Truesdell, Nov. 4, 2008 if you think enough is enough and our men and women of law enforcement should be out arresting criminals and NOT delivering ribs!

Hacking Democracy

By In the Know from Citrus County on 1/27/2008 8:56 PM

TRUESDELL - PAY ATTENTION THIS CONCERNS YOU ALL MARION COUNTY RESIDENTS NEED TO LISTEN UP TOO Paul, several months back you and I had a conversation at a local Dunnellon eatery that was on the Citrus side of the county line. We had a rather intense discussion about the 2004 election results wherein Mr. Robert Douglas narrowly lost to Sheriff Dean. You and I also discussed why I believed Douglas should have asked for a recount, as rumors of voting irregularities were floating through the air in our part of the county. Today, I still vividly recall you being adamant there was no way that could happen in Florida, or even in Marion County. You need to understand, that "yes" things like this can happen. You need no listen to what I am saying, and you need to listen carefully at the information contained at the following links. Your inner circle people, and legal staff that I just found out that you now have, need to pay close attention as well at the information contained at the following links. After you have watched all nine clips, I know for a fact that your eyes will roll backwards like mine did. I have taken the liberty and down some work for you and Marion County residents and have learned the following. Paul, you have to take Ed seriously, he will do anything to win and has all the cards. Most voters don't care or dig into the issues. My hat is off to you, but even the reporters will never digest your investigative type campaigning. Voting and tabulation equipment made by DieBold and ES&S (Election Systems & Software) http://www.essvote.com/HTML/home.html is used in about 80% of the places in the US for elections. Marion County, Florida, uses ES&S and it appears that ES&S has significant problems with their equipment throughout Florida. I suspect that you, like Mr. Douglas, will lose by a narrow margin. I also suspect voting irregularities, fraud, will fill the air. YOU can not turn your back on this and YOU need to have a highly trained technical staff to inspect the machines before they are deployed for voting. Even though I have shared this with you, YOU still don't get it. YOU have no idea how much influence and power Ed throws around the county and in other parts of the state as well. I know that fraud is very possible, and YOU need to know how to quickly ask for and preserve ALL evidence for a legal recount that is not cloaked in fraud. Do not turn you back to what I am saying. For you to turn your back on this will spell doom for your election dreams and the welfare of Marion County voters. Check out the following site: http://www.blackboxvoting.org/. This is a watchdog group for election and voting fraud. Hacking Democracy 1 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzPXer7946E Hacking Democracy 2 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eopnvw7mh_8&amp Hacking Democracy 3 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxGSXYUkplA&amp Hacking Democracy 4 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ9UuXF1hkA&amp Hacking Democracy 5 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht7fqoGUfS0&amp Hacking Democracy 6 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3zp80H3pN0&amp Hacking Democracy 7 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VoEVvR60Sg&amp Hacking Democracy 8 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSvhnXtogQ4&amp Hacking Democracy 9 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J36Jfkxd1vA Truesdell, you need to listen to what I'm saying. I know more than what you think I do on this matter. I have a few friends, inside the Marion County Supervisor of Elections Office and I know what I am talking about. I wish you the very best and I look forward to seeing you unseat Ed Dean. By the way, how did you ever find out that he was a Jr. He has tried to hide that for years. I heard you had a team of private investigators doing deep background on everyone in the wired halls and that you are ready to unleash everything if they go negative. I hope you do and I hope you are ready to challenge the results as your support is so widespread. President Obama and Sheriff Truesdell. Who would have ever figured?

Laugh a little...it does the soul good	By Pampers on 1/27/2008 9:15 PM
These blogs are way to serious. You all need to lighten up..but also remember....<br>Politicians are like diapers, they need to be changed frequently and for the same reason. The sheriff's office needs it diaper changed.<br>

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Another former MCSO deputy on 1/29/2008 10:16 PM

(Is this blog for real? I just found it.) I also worked for the MCSO--until the 2004 elections. Like countless other patrol deputies (more than anyone realizes), I had to leave the MCSO after the elections, or face having my reputation/career/family destroyed. I'm still in law enforcement, but it's in another county. For some of us, the nightmare never ended. For example, I was told I'd be found dead and it would look like an accident, because I was going to the governor's office to file a report. Those of us who didn't support the sheriff were NOT troubled employees, like we were labeled. We were the best of the best, trying to "protect and serve" our community...from the inside! As for the influence exerted...I have my own box of documents that I've collected...that I don't keep anywhere near my house...(I really do ask myself....am I paranoid, or are they really out to get me???) And in response to "Gammy and Papa:" When Dean first took over after Ergle was arrested, our morale was NOT low. We were disappointed and embarrassed about Ergle's arrest, but we STILL PROUDLY SERVED OUR COMMUNITY, and we continued to work hard keeping your neighborhoods safe. We did NOT need a commander at the helm to keep the ship floating. And if you have a family member currently employed by the MCSO, please be careful. I found out the hard way that there's no such thing as staying "anonymous."

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Another former MCSO deputy on 1/29/2008 10:19 PM

Hello Horace - I used to work for you

By Living & working in Gainesville & loving it... on 1/30/2008 1:20 AM

Late this evening I received a telephone call from a friend of mine who is still employed as a Marion County Sheriff’s Corrections Officer, and, I might add, a very dedicated veteran with more than 11 years of corrections experience. This officer told me that there is a lot of disgust within the rank and file patrol deputies as well as correction officers, and that these officers are utterly disgusted at the leadership displayed by Sheriff Dean, and his three so called chiefs of staff, and others too. I was also told to look at the Truesdell for Sheriff Website and the Ocala.com blog as many are letting their opinions be heard about how they feel about Dean’s leadership. WOW, after reading Truesdell’s web site, which went on and on, and then the ocala.com site, I have to admit that country boy Dean might not have as much support as he thinks. Just who does he think he is? Truesdell has certainly got his number. If what Truesdell said is even close to being true, then Dean’s days are numbered in office. If I was to bet, I bet Dean will not be around to even run for sheriff, that he will be removed from the office by the governor. There is simply no way the honorable governor Charlie Crist will stand for this, form a fellow elected official. I used to work at the jail here in Ocala, and only lasted for a few years until I had had enough. I actually was hired shortly after Ergle got arrested and worked under interim Sheriff Binegar until Dean got the job. I, like everyone thought Dean would do a good job, but it did not take long to see that Dean had not a clue what he was doing, as was so obvious by the promotions he made. I, like many others who worked at the jail, felt that he treated us like a red headed step child and hardly ever did he step foot in the jail. I worked for a few more years under Dean and finally, had enough and quit just after the Douglas election. So many people at the jail were praying that Douglas would win so we could get rid of Dean and his self-righteous attitude, and also so he could take his inner circle of people with him. I write this letter to the paper because I wanted to get my two cents worth in and make it clear that I am not a Dean supporter at all. If Donald Duck was running against Dean, I’d vote for Donald Duck. Dean has ruined this agency and he has done absolutely nothing for the very fine men and women that work at the jail. Now that I have had my two cents put in, I’m going back to Truesdell’s web site, to watch the videos he has posted. I’m not yet completely convinced that Truesdell will get my vote, but I’m leaning his way, as it looks like he is the better of the two running. Hey Horace, do everyone a favor and go back to Townley Manufacturing and run that place. You need to leave law enforcement and corrections work to real professionals. And, by the way, take your three good ole boy chief deputies with you, as it looks like that whoever the heck the Untouchables are, they have your number painted on the wall as well. YOU GO BOYS---WHOEVER YOU UNTOUCHABLES ARE.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Another Former MCSO Deputy on 1/30/2008 5:41 AM

We went to the governor's office (Bush), and we went to Crist when he was the Attorney General. We also went to the FDLE, the county commissioners, and the Florida Elections Commission. All with documented instances of criminal activities and election fraud. Brad King had to step in on behalf of one deputy whose family member was being harassed by a member of the upper command staff (stalked actually). No one would touch the sheriff, and we couldn't figure out why. Last election, businesses were targeted and the owners threatened that they wouldn't receive police protection if they didn't support the sheriff. One business that I know of ended up closing. All were scared to death to report the events. I worked there for many years, and NEVER would have left, but had to leave after being retaliated against...and I'm talking major retaliation. I was NEVER a disgruntled employee...always had high stats, letters of thanks from the community, and AWARDS from the sheriff himself. With my new agency, I have a wall filled with plaques for achievements and doing a great job. I'm intelligent, hard-working, and dedicated to serving my community. I have good Christian values and live an honorable, moral life. We were so trashed during the election and made to look like a group of misfits who weren't cut out for law enforcement! I talked a few weeks ago to two new deputies. They'd been there less than a year. They were already so discouraged they were looking for other jobs. These brand new guys had no support, and no one to take them under their wings and mentor them...most of the senior deputies are GONE. They were so short-staffed it was dangerous for them. This is from THEM...brand new rookie officers...not me or another "former deputy." People have absolutely NO CLUE WHY more than 3/4 of the sheriff's office DID NOT support Dean during last election. I also know for a fact that patrol/command staff members were forced to sign up for campaign events...I heard them grumbling about it myself. They HAD TO CAMPAIGN for him or their jobs were in jeopardy. Citizens don't realize that many who work for the MCSO now can't publicly support any candidate because of the bloodbath during last election. Many wonder why...if it was so bad...we didn't we go to the media, or file civil suits, or something!? They don't realize that, in law enforcement, you CAN'T have the reputation of being a whistle blower. If you take your agency to court or shed a bad light on it, you WON'T get hired anywhere else! And another thing...if we put the word out that there weren't enough deputies on the streets, what would the criminals do with that information? Marion County residents really really need to open their eyes. Those who needed help from the sheriff's office and didn't get it? They need to spread the word to others.

Challenge to the Star Banner

By Onlooker on 1/30/2008 7:03 AM

Having read all of these blogs, and knowing several of deputies at MCSO personally, it is a travesty what is happening to them in their work environment. It would seem like there is an investigative story somewhere in there that could serve the community well here in Marion County. The reporting regarding the MCSO by the Star Banner is always one sided about the fine work that department is doing, and those deputies deserve those fine words of encouragement when they make good cases and keep us safe. However, if the Star Banner truly cares about the men and women of the MCSO and not just the Sheriff, then they will act and report the truth about the circumstances under which those men and women work. It would not take much digging on the part of a reporter to find a few former employees (I know they are all "disgruntled") and even current deputies and civilians that will gladly report to you what is happening. Ninety five employees left, resigned and/or got fired after the last election. That is a signal that the department is purely run by a political machine. I challenge anyone to find another sheriff's office in the state of Florida, that lost that percentage of its employees after an election year. It doesn't happen, except here in Marion County and the paper does nothing to let the public know what is going on over there. The community deserves to know how these fine county employees are being manipulated and threatened just to keep their careers. After the election in 2004, Chief of Staff Bigalow used a copy of an issue of your paper to threaten and document the employees at MCSO. If you recall you published an article with the pictures of many of the current deputies at the time that were supporting Robert Douglas. Bigalow kept that page of the article on his desk for many months afterwards and would individually "X" out the faces of those Douglas supporters when they were fired, forced to resign or quit the MCSO. That's the type of leadership that Ed Dean has fostered at the MCSO and it is high time that the Star Banner starts taking care of the community and employees at MCSO instead of the just the Sheriff and his command staff. By the way, forget how much taxpayer money he has wasted on the Sterling Award, why did not the Star Banner report that he failed to get it after spending that money??? I bet that if he gets it this year there will be a big fat glowing article on the front page or at least on the front page of the "Local and State" section. No mention of the waste in the previous year.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Another Former MCSO Deputy on 1/30/2008 8:50 AM

We heard that the last reporter who tried to write a TRUE story about what was really going on nearly lost his job and was transferred. People do need to speak up though. Where's the business owner whose business marquee sign burned, and an MCSO detective allegedly threatened him with arrest for trying to put the fire out (the marquee sign was next to the Douglas for Sheriff campaign sign). What about the businesses who were visited by upper command staff--in uniform--who were threatened if they didn't support the sheriff they would lose business from the MCSO, but when I talked to them later they were too scared to file a complaint. What about the business that received "anonymous" phone calls if they didn't support the sheriff they wouldn't get police protection. That was during the election. What about within the past year or so....What about a local police officer who had someone set a fire in his yard (at his home!) TWICE--once under his baby's window--and no one from the MCSO would respond to his house. That officer finally had to move to protect his family. What about the citizen who made a 9-1-1 call from a shopping center to report that another shopper was being attacked in the parking lot, and the dispatcher advised the caller they didn't respond to things like that, then said if the victim wanted to report it, he would have to call himself (I guess if he survived the attack??). How about the young female who was sitting on her kitchen floor sobbing on the phone to her mother because a strange man was banging on her front door, screaming at her. She called the MCSO and asked for help but was told it would be awhile before someone could come out. Family members finally got to her from many miles away--they beat the MCSO there. What happened to "serve and protect" ????

Try this one on for size

By msbehavinfl on 1/31/2008 8:00 AM

Ed Dean married to Sara Townley, whose brother, Parnell Townley ran for County Commissioner at the same time Ed Dean ran for Sheriff, both won. By reverse par voting per affiliation? Next time a candidate loses and is told they need a recount, THEY NEED TO CHALLENGE DEE BROWN. Check these out for sure...I've seen these well before reading this blog. Democracy 1 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzPXer7946E Hacking Democracy 2 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eopnvw7mh_8&amp Hacking Democracy 3 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxGSXYUkplA&amp Hacking Democracy 4 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ9UuXF1hkA&amp Hacking Democracy 5 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht7fqoGUfS0&amp Hacking Democracy 6 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3zp80H3pN0&amp Hacking Democracy 7 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VoEVvR60Sg&amp Hacking Democracy 8 of 9 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSvhnXtogQ4&amp Hacking Democracy 9

Try this one on for size

By msbehavinfl on 1/31/2008 8:43 AM

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By Gammy & Papa on 1/31/2008 8:41 PM
“The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.” —Albert Einstein <br>It is time for our good people of Marion county to STOP looking on and doing NOTHING. GET involved, get the word out - IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE!

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Inquiring minds want to know on 2/1/2008 2:11 AM

How many co-conspirators are involved with the so-called "Dean Machine"? ? ? Allready, we have learned that this chain could possibly go all the way up to the Governor's office, (which originally appointed Horace Dean Jr sheriff, under the Lawton Chiles and Buddy McKay regime). Both Gov. Bush and then Attorney General Crist seemed to have done nothing when confronted with the wrongdoings of "Horace Jr" by some of the staff of MCSO. Quote from blog dated 1/30/2008 5:41 AM: "We went to the governor's office (Bush), and we went to Crist when he was the Attorney General. We also went to the FDLE, the county commissioners, and the Florida Elections Commission. All with documented instances of criminal activities and election fraud. Brad King had to step in on behalf of one deputy whose family member was being harassed by a member of the upper command staff (stalked actually)." When all of the above officials were approached with documented crimes, they were required by law to expose and investigate those activities. I want to know why they did not follow up with a grand jury investigation immediately! So, now we have: Governor Bush, Governor Crist, Marion County Commissioners, Florida Dept of Law Enforcement, Supervisor of Elections and last but not least Brad King from the State Attorney's office of Marion County involved in this "Dean Machine" (who is financing all of this protection and service that the "Dean Machine" is receiving?) Are these people all co-conspirators allowing this Sheriff and his top administrators to create a police state? Are other government offices, such as the state and federal judges, clerk of the court, property appraisor's office, tax collector, division of child and family services participating by remaining silent by choice or are they victims of his heavy handedness? Does one hand wash the other? Does this chain continue up to the Federal Government? How much cancer is really in this "sleepy town" which we call home? Inquiring minds want to know

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Another Former MCSO Deputy on 2/1/2008 3:48 PM

We were told we had to bring more evidence. We told them we had no means of going into file cabinets and computers, conducting interviews, and forcing testimony via subpoenas, etc. We asked them--begged them--to conduct an official investigation themselves. County Commissioners advised they could only review budgetary concerns. Attorny General advised that election-related retaliations weren't their responsibiliity. And on, and on, and on.

We have played out first card....:)	By The Untouchables on 2/4/2008 11:56 AM
Deleted by Administrator. The comment did not meet blog standards.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By New resident from MO on 2/1/2008 9:31 PM

My wife and I just moved to florida from Missouri and we are a retired law enforcement family. Also, both of our children are still on the job, one in Columbia, MO and the other in KC,MO. As we were driving out SR 200 the other day, we noticed s rather small group of people holding signs for the sheriff's election. At first we thought they were protesting or picketting a store or something, as we see this all the time in MO. After we figured what this was, we thought this was kinda odd, as the main election is not until November. Well, we went home, pulled up the this Truesdell's web site. Lets just say, it took all night to read the darn thing, and my spouse and I can testify, we were enlightened. if this is true, what Truesdell is declaring, in our state, this power hungery Hazzard County boss hog type Ed Deen would have been removed from office already and run out of town on a wagon. We are both somewhat politically active, and just found this web blog so we added our two cents in. What we found completely strange though is, why is there no supportive blogs on this page for the this Deen guy? Isn't this really strange? We think so. Maybe he, as previous posters are suggesting, he empire is crumbling quickly and the fat cats are jumping ship. We found his web to, and it we did not see anything good, excpet that he belongs to every club in the state of florida. If he is in all these clubs, who is running the sheriff's office?

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By Onlooker on 2/4/2008 11:58 AM
Deleted by Administrator. The comment did not meet blog standards.

Had enough

By Ticked on 2/3/2008 12:53 AM

over the last few weeks, all we've seen on this stupid blog is anti-dean and pro-truesdell. just once i'd like to see someone say something good about a deputy sheriff. Since no one has, I will be the first. i happen to know a few and these are guys/gals who are hard working men and women, but it seems they are unfortunately getting caught up in politics as it seems. politics really sucks these days. i liken most politicians to most lawyers who share the same gene pool of sharks. You know something, the more lawyers and politicians we get rid of, the better off society really will be. To all Marion County Deputies, and jailers, keep up the good work, I’m proud of all of you for what you do to keep us safe. Just wish we had more of you.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Just a blogging snow-bird on 2/3/2008 1:27 AM

Even though I’m retired and spend only the winters in Ocala, (going back north the first of March actually) I can’t help but to try and figure out, what the heck is all this fuss about with this upcoming sheriff’s race. Looks like the gloves are off already. I’m still trying to figure out, who is the best person for the job. I’ve talked to a few people and most everyone seems to know something about Dean and only a handful know anything Truesdell, but then again, I live in Salt Springs so we are in the BFE. I’ve been following the blogs, and just today spent some time surfing their web sites. Whoever this Truesdell guy is, looks like he is fighting bare knuckled. Quite frankly, I like that and can’t understand why Dean has not come back with anything on his web site. Initially I was wondering why Truesdell was not slinging mud since he is the challenger, then it finally hit me, he is just throwing facts and figures out like they are grains of sand that are stinging Dean, so there is no reason to mudsling. For this alone, if I were to vote in this election, which I can not because I’m still registered in Michigan, I’d vote for Truesdell because he is coming across as genuine and sincere and that he really wants to make a difference for the better and he is only using facts and verified figures it appears to take out his opponent. To me, and this is just my opinion, but if I were betting, I bet Truesdell has hired several investigators, or some detective firm, to dig up all this stuff he claims he now has, (as there is no way anyone can do this by themselves and hit the campaign trail everyday like he claims) and then he has hired a consultant to assemble this stuff for web distribution and debate review. I also wonder, how much he has spent on his web site (because his campaign contributions are not very much and nothing shows who he paid to build his site) as it looks rather complex. There is no way he can do all of this himself either, so I’m betting my Michigan retirement check he has had to have hired a large firm to run his web site, and this has to be extremely expensive so this is where all of his campaign dollars are going. Looks like to me, but based upon only my observations, he really knows how to manage his time and he is doing a good job with that. Now he can get out and go door to door so people can get to know him better. Right now, it looks like Truesdell is the better of the two choices, but that is just my opinion. I’m going back to MI in March and I’ll catch the rest on Ocala.com or CNN, if this Dean guy gets nailed as it appears it could happen, if what Truesdell is saying is only half true. OH, I almost forgot, how come I did not get a Christmas stocking delivered to my door for Christmas? Was it because I live to far out in the woods, or I was just not a registered voter in Marion?

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By Wondering on 2/3/2008 1:38 AM
I'm wondering why there is not a competent female or a competent minority member who is either a chief deputy or major in the Dean administration. Just curious is all. Looks like a good ole boy southern mentality to me. Truesdell, I suggest you learn from Dean's lack of judgment on this issue. You will need to surround yourself with honest and credible and competent diversity leaders.

To the Untouchables

By Amazed on 2/3/2008 1:57 AM

Whoever the heck you boys (or girls) are, you all have a set, a big set. I’d suggest that whoever is in charge of your organization to keep a manifest of what you all have done, are doing now, and will do in the future, and if you are successful in your mission, contact Hollywood so they can get a piece of this action. This has feature movie of the week for NBC written all over it if you can take down Dean. But then again, if you all get caught and fired, then maybe a self-made movie and sold on e-bay will profit you something while you bag groceries at Winn-Dixie or ask, “hey, would you like fries with that.” I will have to give you all credit, you all got guts. I wish you the best as your mission is a noble one. As to who I will vote for, well, that is my secret and I will cast that at the voting booth. However, I will tell you that I used to be a deputy here in Marion and worked under Moreland as well as Ergle so I know what you all are going through since this is an election year. I still keep in touch with quite a few of the more senior (close to retirement type deputies) and they tell me that you all are causing many to pee their pants daily as no one has a clue to exactly who you are.

Suggestion	By Hoping for positive change on 2/4/2008 11:59 AM
Deleted by Administrator. The comment did not meet blog standards.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Wanting a FREE ride too on 2/3/2008 2:45 AM

Hey Ed, is there a reason why so many off duty deputies use their marked uniform patrol cars to take their spouses, children, and others everywhere out to eat, shop, to and from school, and run errands all over the county. I think this sucks that they are allowed to do this. My God, gas is at $3.00 a gallon and I wish I had this luxury provided by my employer. And what really gripes my butt, is that just next door to me is a MCSO employee, one that I know for a fact is not a sworn officer, just a civilian, a highly payed civilian too I might add, and they use the county car for everything. As a taxpayer, I’m thankful the MCFR does not allow their people to have take home firetrucks, as that fuel bill would bankrupt the county if they were used for personal pleasures just like MCSO people do all the time. I'm waiting for Truesdell to offer up a comment on this issue to see where he stands. Looks like is a pretty squared away on being a tax conservative so he gets my vote. I have a gut feeling he will knock this stuff off.

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages

By Wanting a FREE ride too on 2/3/2008 8:47 AM

Censorship in Action	By R U KIDDING ME?? on 2/4/2008 4:46 PM
A newspaper is supposed to be one means of safeguarding our right to free speech. Now I see a few blog entries that say "Deleted by Administrator. The comment did not meet blog standards." <br><br>I read those entries...some were a little "in your face," but not anything that required deleting. Why is Ocala.com censoring this blog?

OPIE

By PeopleWhoKnowTheTruth on 2/4/2008 7:52 PM

This is a pathetic story concerning an even more pathetic former Deputy. To spare him much public humility, lets just call him OPIE. He was a soft and rather timid fellow that had no business being a law man. Even so, like the little engine that could, he gave it his best shot. Needless to say, he couldn't hack it on the road and opted for a more suitable position behind a desk. After years of trying to excel in a mans world, Opie finally threw in the towel. The Little Engine That Couldn't make it as a cop decided to attend law school. He had worked out a deal with his buddy Ken, and wanted to be the Staff Attorney. Unfortunately for poor, poor Opie, his law school was not accredited and Ken got arrested. After struggling in the real world for several years, he has recently resurfaced in the form of a public information request. He spends most of his time driving around and soliciting useless information from disgruntled and former employees. He then creates requests that a second grader wouldn't even dare to turn in to their teacher. I guess Opie hasn't discovered the Spell Checker on his computer yet. To Opie's credit he has uncovered some real Conspiracy Theory stuff. A paperwork error which revealed a SWAT guy didn't participate in our annual firearms qualification. That's because Opie didn't know that our SWAT guys qualify four times a year. Other than killing a few hundred trees with all the worthless paperwork he has generated, that about sums up his quality investigative work. Nobody cares what Opie has to say. He was a nobody then and he's a nobody now!

Re: Political homework: Read these Web pages	By Interested Voter on 2/4/2008 7:57 PM
Perhaps the Star Banner Editorial staff would like to post the "Blog Standards" somewhere on their site so as to provide guidance to those posting comments. That is unless they simply want to apply whatever standard fits their motives or opinions, and thus do not want to lock themselves into any particular set of standards!!!

I know that guy	By TAY on 2/4/2008 8:01 PM
I remember Opie! He was the Detective that always use to look down at his shoes when you passed him in the hall. I miss that guy! That weird comb over hairstyle and those cheap double knit suits use to make me laugh. <br>Staff Attorney....LOL.....please tell me you're joking.

Opster	By TACO on 2/4/2008 8:09 PM
After years of other kids stealing Opie's lunch money where could he possibly<br>be safe.....................Welcome to Moe's

Untouchables

By donuthole on 2/4/2008 8:26 PM

Hmmmm sounds like another group from the last election which began with an "M". I guess the reason you are the UNTOUCHABLES now is because you have all quit and no longer work at the Sheriff's Office. You guys are soooo scary. All those deep dark secrets you possess are truthfully frightening. Please spare us all, for we seek forgiveness for our sins! If you chumps had any real dirt you'd still have a job. TIME TO MAKE THE DONUTS

Interesting

By ridingout on 2/4/2008 8:40 PM

I had heard the stories about being followed by some of the Moe's crew,but I thought it was BS. That was until I spotted a big white SUV following me around after a call for service. I took him down a dead end and whipped around on them. Upon being burnt, they pulled into a driveway and crouched down in the seat. The funny thing was it was actually two guys in the front. A kid had pulled up to the house next door and began to honk his horn. A homeowner came out and approached the SUV and caught them perched over each other in the front seat! As I tried to get my breath back from laughing so hard, I saw that Opie guy pop his head up. I wish I had my dash cam on....or did I ?

Election	By RD on 2/4/2008 9:11 PM
Paul, take it from someone who has been there and done that. We gave it our best last time and we came up short. We had support from the majority of the department and a l