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Former Lodi police officer to get $100,000 after shooting himself in hand

By Maggie Creamer
News-Sentinel Staff Writer
Saturday, January 24, 2009 7:49 AM PST

Comments (94 comment(s))

A former Lodi Police officer who shot himself in the hand in March will receive $100,000 in a workers' compensation payment from the city.


Lance Hayden

Sgt. Lance Hayden accidentally shot himself while he was alone at a shooting range in the basement of the former police station at 210 W. Elm St. He will not be able to return to duty.

The Lodi City Council approved the settlement in a 4-1 vote Wednesday night in closed session. Councilwoman Susan Hitchcock was the dissenting vote.

The money for the payment will come out of the city's Workers' Compensation Insurance fund, city spokesman Jeff Hood said. As of Nov 30, the fund had a balance of $4.8 million.

The California Public Employees' Retirement System will determine his pension, and a CALPERS spokesman said it is not yet clear how much he will receive.

City attorney Steve Schwabauer said he could not comment on the specifics of the settlement because it is not public. It still has to go to the Workmens' Compensation State Appeals Board for approval.

Generally, the amount for workers' compensation payouts is determined by a state doctor who estimates the cost of future medical bills due to the injury, Schwabauer said.

He added that if an employee receives a settlement, the city does not have to pay for any future medical expenses. Also, if the medical care costs less than the settlement, the employee does not have to return it.

Hitchcock did not want to approve the settlement because she believes if a worker has unexpected medical expenses related to the injury, the city should be responsible for it.

Hayden started work with the department in 1987, when he went undercover for the department's program to combat drug use in high schools. The program resulted in numerous arrests.

He was one of the original members of the department's Gang Enforcement Unit and was on the SWAT team. He also received numerous awards for his work with police dogs.

Contact reporter Maggie Creamer at maggiec@lodinews.com

Reader Feedback

WY wrote on Jan 29, 2009 2:33 PM:

" What ever happened to Robert Paine and his hot legs? Is that man still around. I would love to say hi to him. What a good cop he was!

Thanks Robert, for watching over us down town! (if you're reading this ,you for sure know me an I hope you and your family are doing great!!!)God Bless :) "

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WY wrote on Jan 29, 2009 2:26 PM:

" I have been around guns all my life and have never heard of someone shooting them self at a range, but there were rules that were followed at all times. If he makes good choices, then he blew it that day. We all have our days, me too. I wouldn't want him watching my back in the "field". Stupid schit like this could be deadly in the field. Solid or not. And from what I understand it was a normal day for the man no more stress than any other day. I work up town...I remember that day perfectly well. I hear all the whoopla. I'm sure he is a nice guy, but I think his choice to take money for his blunder proves he's not so "solid" as you would like to think. I really am sorry he got hurt, but he didn't follow rules. Now look. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 28, 2009 3:18 PM:

" WY: Not to be disagreeable, but if the $*&! hit the fan, I'd take Lance in an ugly situation any day. He's a solid guy with good skills and he makes good decisions in the field. More importantly, he's FAIR. I would not be at all surprised if he was so stressed out by the jack@sses he works with that he lost his focus. Not defending the mishap, just saying... "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 28, 2009 3:12 PM:

" Here's the kicker, folks: This dude got FULL salary TAX FREE for the past year (well,since the injury) AND he now gets $100,000 AND his retirement, also tax free, for the rest of his life. He just hit the early retirement lottery courtesy of... YOU.

The thin blue line strikes again. Who is tired of this BS? Get in your council person's ear and go to it. If that doesn't work, start a recall or at the very least, get someone in who will listen to the citizens next time.

There ARE good officers at LPD, why aren't they being promoted? Why do we get stuck with guys who sew their sergeants stripes on UPSIDE DOWN when they get promoted? (True story and NOT Hayden. Hint: rhymes with shin...) "

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WY wrote on Jan 28, 2009 12:37 PM:

" anyone kinda glad he is off the force? I'd hate to see the antics in a stressful moment, under real fire. He's a rule breaker! A paid off rule breaker.

Nice leg up though. I would be SO embarrassed to except monies from such a stupid blunder, but in today's world that's how people are, right? What a man... "

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WY wrote on Jan 28, 2009 12:29 PM:

" the guy was stupid, and I mean STUPID, and gets cashed out.... What a great deal! "

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WY wrote on Jan 28, 2009 12:21 PM:

" I thought there were RULES in place and he broke them. why would someone who breaks the rules be rewarded this type of pay off? "

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reality1 wrote on Jan 28, 2009 9:54 AM:

" Lance should have stuck with the automotive classes at EG high school. It's safer. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 28, 2009 9:28 AM:

" buck: Actually Barney had so many mishaps with his pistol that Andy either kept ONE bullet in his pocket or in his desk under lock and key! He would never ever let deputy sheriff Fife get near a bulllet even if it were a blank for a starter pistol.

Can you imagine the disaster if they started "misfiring" riot guns loaded with buck shot? Just keep them away from the H&K MP5's. "

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dyan wrote on Jan 28, 2009 7:14 AM:

" Bottom line: It financially pays to be dumb in America! "

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Twist wrote on Jan 28, 2009 5:56 AM:

" OOPS TO READ MY COMMENTS PLEAS START THIRD DOWN AFTER THIS ONE AND WORK BACKWARDS LOL "

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Twist wrote on Jan 28, 2009 5:54 AM:

" OR ONE OF YOURS FOUND AWAY TO STICK IT IN YOUR POCKET WELL YOU TELL ME GUYS I STICK MY HAND IN A SINK OF WATER NEXT TO A PLUGGED IN TOASTER AND ACCIDENTALLY PULL IT INTO WATER BURNING MY HAND SEVER LIE AND CAUSING NERVE DAMAGE FROM "ELECT" JOLTS ANYONE GONNA CARE OR ARE THEY JUST GOING TO LAUGH AND SAY WHAT A DUMB AZZZZ!! "

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Twist wrote on Jan 28, 2009 5:50 AM:

" the very first thing your tot when learning to handle a fire arm and checking to make sure it isn't loaded and caulked to be thrown rite along in there with the safety button is to prevent accidental discharge of a fire arm my 11,15,and soon too teach my 4year old all know this very well ??why didn't he and yes i realize accidents happen and sometimes guns miss fire and back fire and all the other things that take place in using a firearm but come on hes trained to now not to step in front of a moving train he should have common enough sense not to place hand over barrel of loaded gun what is he Elmer FUD or daffy duck thought if he stuck his finger in the hole it would just make him look like he was wearing a flower costume and were suppose to feel safe lpd here to protect!!:(...OH AND CONGRATS LODI CITY OFFICIALS YOU HAVE FIGURED OUT ANOTHER REASON WHY YOU WANT TO RAISE OUR ELECTRIC WATER AND TRASH BILL BECAUSE KINDA LIKE THE MONEY THAT'S ALLOTTED TO YOU FOR STREET REPAIRS CITY CLEAN UP AND PUBLIC WELFARE YOU!MORE2COME>> "

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Twist wrote on Jan 28, 2009 5:35 AM:

" you know its funny that someone that is supposed to be highly trained in weapons handling and safety shoots himself in hand and its not as if he were in pursuit or anything even remotely close!.."(could you imagine")i can hes actually in a hurry to protect himself or stop a robbery and pulls gun fast and fumble hopefully its not automatic because he would be standing thee most likely UN scared from butter fingers but yet all the people around he was supposed to be protecting lying on the ground injured or dead while Criminal takes off!!!...(or scenario two)"he pulls gun dont drop it but like barney its not loaded and criminal kills us all"of course then there's just common sense when it comes to weapon handling that is very well known by most and that's you don't point a weapon at anyone unless you intend too use it and you never take gun off safety before checking too see if loaded and you sure as hell don't place body parts on over around in front of the barrel unless you are positive that there is no bullets in the gun and like i said above the safety is probably>more2come "

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buck wrote on Jan 27, 2009 10:13 PM:

" Hey Barny,

We told you to keep your bullet in your pocket "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 27, 2009 2:51 PM:

" Edumacation, TJ - enjoying the enlightened commentary and dialogue. The Noble Lie is a perfect fit for the nearly indescribable state of LPD and it's "private club" atmosphere. Review the minimum standards for their entry level officers. Many municipalities & states have set higher standards for those in such a position of public trust. How about requiring at least a 2 year degree? Many places require a bachelor's degree. Admittedly, you cannot teach common sense, but perhaps it would weed out the truly obtuse. How many officers currently at LPD would that disqualify? How many members of their command staff would be looking for work next week if that were the new standard? Does a high school education really qualify these men and women to make the decisions they do? Could that be why the culture within LPD is so juvenile? (Much like a high school.)When faced with a mistake, they close ranks and deny, deny, deny & make counter allegations. It's time for Lodians to speak up and demand better than the elitist attitude they are getting from LPD right now. It's past time for an outside chief. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 2:23 PM:

" Riverside County- The Injunction's Reach:

Effects on the 114 East Side Rivas gang members and its 10 factions:

No associating with any East Side Riva member

No blocking access to any vehicle, building, walkway, street, etc.

Must obey 10 p.m. curfew

Not allowed to act as a police lookout

No reckless driving

No giving false information to police

No intimidation, including displaying East Side Riva tattoos

No public consumption of alcohol

No loitering

No gang signs

No breaking the law

No graffiti or vandalism

It worked by reducing street crime 90% in the first year. As the "homies" move into other areas they add more injunction areas. This is what our police need to do. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 27, 2009 2:21 PM:

" indianmc: Re-read the posts. (Go slow and contemplate the meanings.) I didn't claim any specific profession, you assume too much. But, to put you at ease, yeah, I am an expert recognized in several states on a variety of subjects. Get over it. You should see a counselor for the us vs. them mentality you have cultivated as well as your hostility towards civilians. It's unhealthy and I wonder if you are fit for duty. I hope you are retired because it's officers like you who make poor judgment calls in the field and injure themselves, other officers or innocent citizens. I don't know about your credibility, but it's clear that you are an incredible liability. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 2:16 PM:

" T Jefferson: Good comments. Its curious how those were were hired by us think that somehow they are "better". When I think of the tens of thousands of state workers whining about "no money", I wonder what these people do all day? I have a neighbor who works for the state and he drives to his office in his state vehicle. No one bought me a car for personal use. I had to buy it. Local government employees are all similar. If we have a police department that does not want crime, why do we have so many gangbangers? They refuse to answer! Visit Folsom, California to see how those police respond to criminals. Riverside county has a gang injunction area. ANY gang member found in the area goes directly to prison. We need that here. The probable cause is being a known gang member or wearing gang identity clothing. Repeat ofensses of the injunction are felonies. We need to clean up the area and send them back from their "hood" of origin. "

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sven31 wrote on Jan 27, 2009 2:06 PM:

" Let's not speak ill of Gaston Glock's wonderful design. Glock owners know never to do two things: 1)Don't shoot lead cast bullets (at least until a few years ago);2)never stick a Glock into your pants unless you want to go into gender change. Responsible shooters also know to never put something in front of the barrel with a round chambered, maybe never.

We never blame the gun, we blame the operator. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 1:28 PM:

" DEA Agent teaching gun safety to KIDS in a classroom video: He shot himself in class.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DS9JiPSXwwc

He continued the demonstration with an automatic rifle and the kids yelled "PUT it down!"

"Never play with guns"

Typical for a GLOCK. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 1:20 PM:

" dyan: Good point! I was talking to a homeless I saw ata park and asked them about why Lodi gangs were so entrenched, since the LPS has no clue. He told me that "nothing' will happen to bangers in Lodi, so they move here from Fresno and Stockton. Perhaps the LPS can hire this guy to tell them about the Lodi gangs? Instead we play shoot em up with our extremities and collect disability? Why can't the LPD hire him back to answer the telephone using the other hand. In that way we save $100,000, he keeps busy and away from guns? You don't need both hands to answer the telephone-try a speakerphone. But the suggestion is too simple. Maybe he wants to avoid station Barney humor?
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=291616

Fife gun Safety video. "Removing the gun froom the holder you do it smoothly and safely"----BANG! Hand me the gun Barney and wait in the car. "

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dyan wrote on Jan 27, 2009 1:09 PM:

" I suppose if he had shot himself in the head, he would have gotten a million! "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 12:38 PM:

" imndianmc:

1)I am not in line waiting for a government check, I work for living.

2) I am not an expert in law enforcement, but I know how to count: One officer, one gun, one bullet, one hole in one hand. If even 1/100th of the tens of thousands of police officers in this country accidentally fired a gun, we could fill a stadium of injured officers. But Lodi is unique. We have TWO officers who shot themselves!

3) I have no grudge against law enforcement. NO DESK JOCKEYS allowed. If a banger flashed a gang sign at a Stockton cop, they would be hooked up. The Penal code specifically defines a gang sign and membership: Both illegal. Why so many gang bangers in Lodi? Hook them up!

4) Name calling? bright? I recommend that the minimum intelligence score for LPD be raised above room temperature. Qualify?

5) Maybe if the department used the SIG P229 or .357 SIG they would have fewer "accidental" firings? I have never met a person who misfired a pistol. How can that happen for someone who is trained? "

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t jefferson wrote on Jan 27, 2009 10:51 AM:

" Wow indianmc, your prove Plato's point to a tee. I see the "Nobel Lie" is alive and well in Law enforcement today. If you don't know what I am taking about, educate yourself...
Most people here make comments based on life experiences and common sense, on the govt employees claim expertise in anything. I guess your 29 years in LE have done nothing to improve your common sense, just embuded you with the US v THEM mentality common in LE now...we are quickly moving to the eighth stage of democracy and people like you are leading the way. "

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t jefferson wrote on Jan 27, 2009 8:56 AM:

" ed - what I post usually goes over the heads of most of the readers here ask Leonard. I don't blame anyone just the school system. "

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indianmc wrote on Jan 27, 2009 8:52 AM:

" I normally don't write comments but the comments by a few "experts" have compelled me to do so.

Edmucation: Your comments make it obvious you are nothing more than a person with a grudge against any goverment entity. When it comes to law enforcement, you have no expertise on the subject matter. You are an idiot.

HRH6S1: I really question if you are in law enforcement as you claim. If you are, I question the type of officer you are. Do you think you are better than any of the officers at LPD? If so, you are an arrogant SOB.

Both of you try to pass yourselves as experts on many issues but are nothing more than keyboard bullies. Were you both picked on as children and are trying to make up for it now by making fun of Sgt.Hayden's misfortune?

I never claim to be an expert. But as far as law enforcement goes, I would say 29 years as a police officer makes my opinion credible.

I have no connection to LPD. I do think they are doing a fine job and I commend Sgt.Hayden for his years of service. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 8:19 AM:

" Continued: The city of Stockton takes the first steep by acknowledging the gang problem and attempts to enforce California anti gang laws. From the Stockton PD website only a few miles away.
http://www.stocktongov.com/police/pages/tipsaboutgangs.cfm

What is a gang?

Section 186.22 of the California Penal Code defines a "criminal street gang" as: "Any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of... criminal acts... having a common name or common identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in, or have engaged in, a pattern of criminal gang activity."

Where are the areas with high gang activity in Stockton?

Gangs today are extremely mobile and are not turf oriented as in the past. There is not one neighborhood that is completely free of gang members or gang activity.

The Stockton PD will stop a gangster and ask them questions. In Lodi, they will ignore them and hope they won't have to deal with them. This attitude of acceptance attracts them to Lodi.

Ahhh the diversity of gangs? "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 27, 2009 8:12 AM:

" t jefferson 7:21- I was at first amused by all your generalizations, so I started thinking about it. Unfortunately, I agree with you on most of your observations. The only question now is why is the LPD run like a private club? I have observed gangbangers in all their flying colors in a cluster of human trash near a local retail store. Pardon me, I won't ship at that store. But at the same time, I noticed an officer sitting nearby drinking coffee totally oblivious. Did he have more important things to do? Was he dreaming about his pension? I know, its freedom of speech to wear (I won't say the color--it will only encourage them) a brightly colored shirt, belt, jacket and bandana. see next "

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t jefferson wrote on Jan 27, 2009 7:21 AM:

" Cont and Jb - Police are a reactionary force, they are not for crime preventions they are for control after the fact. Police have no obligation to protect anyone (GC 845 and multiple court cases) on keep the general peace. To prove my point, how many crimes are actually stopped by police, less than 1%, vs investigated later 99%+. You are responsible for your own safety, unfortunately the police don't allow you to protect yourself.

As far as respect, that has to be earned and what has LPD done to earn respect? If you are in the inner circle then things are great, everyone else is a criminal. For some reason LPD has a mentality that harasses normal people and looks the other way at real criminals, probably started back when Hansen was chief. "

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Xerious wrote on Jan 27, 2009 4:23 AM:

" Lance!
We love you brother! Hope your healing well,we miss ya! "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 26, 2009 6:45 PM:

" Contrapasso: I never insulted Lance or would ever try to undermine a police agency. THE FACTS speak for themselves. One officer, one weapon, and one hole in the hand. You try to explain it anyway you can. But a trained officer knows that a loaded weapon fires when the trigger is off safety and it is pulled with sufficient force to cause the weapon to discharge. A prudent person would not point the weapon at any object that they do not want to destroy.

I see NO "accident". Its called accountability and responsibility. If you are driving a car and "accidentally" step on the gas instead of the brake and kill someone--ITS CALLED MANSLAUGHTER. What would you say if the weapon was "accidentally" fired at someone and it killed them? Thats called manslaughter, but you may call it an "officer involved shooting". "

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Sven31 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 6:37 PM:

" I would just like to clarify, I don't know Lance Hayden. I'm sure he is a fine police officer. And contrary to recent history, probably very safe around firearms. If he has so severely injured his hand he can't return to work, than that is unfortunate. Loosing the use of a hand is an extreme handicap. Loosing partial use is an extreme handicap. My point is that if this is the program LPD uses to clear/check/ and safe a Glock handgun, they might want to modify the procedure. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 26, 2009 6:33 PM:

" Contrapasso: "There once was a deputy called Fife, Who carried a gun and a knife. The gun was all dusty, And his knife was all rusty, Because he never caught a crook in his life." "

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Sven31 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 6:06 PM:

" In over 40 years of shooting, I have had 3 "accidental discharges". Everyone of them was my fault. Regardless of the circumstances, I allowed the hammer to fall when I wasn't intending to shoot. Fortunately, no one was ever hurt. When you are handling a gun, you are the one responsible for what happens when that bullet leaves the muzzle. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 5:35 PM:

" It's time for a new chief from outside to restore trust from the community and foster integrity. It may take a thorough house cleaning to attain that, but it is long over due. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 5:34 PM:

" Oh, jb, you just make it too easy... I don't feel excluded, nobody cleans my *house* but me, and it's not my fault that you can't put together a coherent response or comprehend what you read.

The silly thing is, we were originally on the same side of this issue - before you started your circular arguments and ramblings. The only thing worse than an inept police department are the law enforcement groupies and wannabes like you who proceed on blind faith and defend them at all costs.

Refusing to view police officers as what they are - fallible human beings, just like anyone else, is dangerous. Lodi has projected that it's officers are above reproach for far too long. The only possible result is that those chickens will come home to roost.

Not all cops are badge heavy or unfit to serve but LPD has a higher than average percentage of those who are. Denying that there is a problem here will not help anyone. That's what got this department into this trouble in the first place. "

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Robb wrote on Jan 26, 2009 5:34 PM:

" Again, there is NO possibility of this being an accident...Period "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 26, 2009 5:13 PM:

" HRH Sez: ..get your fill of rainbow sprinkled BS
Man.. you sound like another angry old man. I couldnt' care less who you are - you self important doofus! Everything needs improvement. You and I are not excluded from that remark. But if you think you or anyone else here, i.e those passing judgment on people cleaning up ->Your house<-, can do any better and do it without mistakes then you are in denial. I am quite sure I have seen you or at least your type at many meetings here in Lodi. That is why you feel excluded - nobody wants to hear your whining. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 4:06 PM:

" jbhiker, re-read the post you are responding to. I KNOW law enforcement prevents crime. I get that. My point is, that is their job. That's what they are supposed to be doing. Hence, the marked units and easily recognizable uniforms... one primary goal of law enforcement is to promote voluntary compliance with the law by flying the colors. You misunderstood what you read. I'll try to keep it simple for you next time. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 3:59 PM:

" jbhiker, did you seriously just resort to calling me a doofus? How mature of you. I pray you are some private citizen and not employed by LPD, but then, if you were LE, you might have guessed my profession by my moniker. It wouldn't surprise me either way. Come ride with me. "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 26, 2009 3:55 PM:

" Or rather if you think they DO WAIT for a crime to happen. My typeo "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 26, 2009 3:54 PM:

" Well HRH6S1 you will never win a prize with that kind of thinking. You should try a ride along if you don't think the Police "wait" for crime to happen. Man.. what a doofus! "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 3:09 PM:

" PS: Contrapasso, I DO know Lance and I have said he is one of the better officers down there. Here's the problem: He's a nice man, but he made a serious error. There is NO SUCH THING as an accident, only operator error or negligence.

You throw out a caveat that you are no sociologist or criminal psychologist but then you ramble on offering opinions you have already admitted you are not qualified to give.

jbhiker: WHY on earth would you hear about a crime that never happened? Because it doesn't exist. In law enforcement & the military, there is a saying: "One aw shoot cancels out 3 atta boys." That's why there is such interest in this forum. Crime prevention is LPD's job, that's what they are supposed to be doing. I'm sure LPD as well as the FBI and other agencies would welcome your ability to prevent 100% of crime. You'd win a Nobel prize for that if it were true.

If all you want to hear is how great the coppers are, go to a staff meeting and take a big spoon - you're sure to get your fill of rainbow sprinkled BS. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 2:58 PM:

" Contrapasso, do you work for the city? You spew the same garbage they do. EXAMPLE:"...I do feel that publicly insulting and undermining the police force probably engenders a lack of respect for law enforcement in the population, which, in turn, could attract a criminal element..." And then: "I am all for public debate about crime."
So, by your way of thinking it is the COMMUNITY'S fault that criminals are "attracted" to Lodi because we "undermine" the police by publicly talking about their shortcomings, but then you think you're "all for" public debate?
You can't have it both ways, is debate okay only if it involves fawning all over LPD for how wonderful they are? That's not debate, that's censorship and borderline socialism. Aside from which, what other forum do you recommend for citizens to communicate about our police force? "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 26, 2009 2:17 PM:

" Well said Contrapasso. There are some here who always blame everyone else. I think the Lodi Police are doing a pretty darn good job. Accidents with guns are all too common. Edumacation does not realize that most of the crime in the area (100% of the ones I know about) were preventable. We rarely hear of the things the LPD prevent. And we rarely hear about the compassion LPD Officers have dealing with a public that, frankly, is 3rd world in their behavior (I have seen these last 2 vignettes myself more than once). More people need to think before they put their foot in their mouth. Edum... stop being an angry old fart and find some solutions in that head of yours. "

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Contrapasso wrote on Jan 26, 2009 12:41 PM:

" Sorry---typo in the first sentence! I want to know if you know him personally. "

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Contrapasso wrote on Jan 26, 2009 12:40 PM:

" I want to know is if you know him personally. I get so tired of people making ridiculous statements about people they don't know. Lance is in no way a "Barney" type cop. He is a good man and he has served the community for years.

I cannot answer any of your questions about crime in Lodi. I am not a sociologist or a criminal psychologist. I wish I did have solutions. However, I do feel that publicly insulting and undermining the police force probably engenders a lack of respect for law enforcement in the population, which, in turn, could attract a criminal element to the area. Some people just have a problem with authority figures, so they have to concentrate on the negative stererotypes instead of focusing on the positive things the police force does for us. I am all for public debate about crime, but calling an officer an idiot because of an accident or immediately making assumptions that he is out for the money is unfair. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 26, 2009 11:41 AM:

" Contrapasso: Was I a little harsh about the officer who shot himself? I am sorry to "offend" the LPD.

1) Tell us about Lodi street gangs, burglary, murder, home invasion and rape. Criminals arrive in lodi as a "destination city" . WHY? Does Lodi welcome the poor little gangbangers for a reason?

2) Lodi-Stockton is again on the FBI top ten list for auto theft crimes. Why?

3) If it's true that some police officers care about crime, please explain why we have such high crime rate for so few people? Is that a "good" thing? What can we do to change the fact that gangs AND nationals from other countries use Lodi as a sanctuary from justice?

4) LPD would get more citizen support if we knew that we didn't have to constantly be on the look out for muggers or gangbangers when we go shopping. It's NOT SAFE! Why?

5) Is your view of Lodi a "lala land" of no crime? or the sister city to Stockton with a bloated crime problem?

In this light, sarcasm about "Barney-type" cops can expected. "

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Contrapasso wrote on Jan 26, 2009 9:49 AM:

" My goodness.....do any of you know Lance? Well, I do and he is an honest, conscientious person. Give him a break, will you? Accidents DO happen! It's sad that people are so cynical. I'll bet Lance would rather have the use of his thumb than any amount of money. Lance helped make our community a safer place for 20 years. We owe him our thanks, not our sarcasm. "

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gail1 wrote on Jan 26, 2009 8:17 AM:

" why should the city of lodi have to pay this idiot...get another job I sure wouldn't want you to come to my house for any reason you should look for another job but they with all the money you cheated the city for you shouldn't have to work... no wounder lodi has some much crime lol "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 25, 2009 7:16 PM:

" Always and never as well as NO possibility are slippery slopes by definition... unfortunately, injuries from Glocks are very common. I suppose that is why in figure 2 of the Glockmeister instruction manual it says to check the chamber visually to verify that it is clear, it literally says "check three times." Gun safety is the responsibility of the gun owner/handler. Maybe someone should have drawn pictures for those who cannot read "to gud." Can you imagine hooked on phonics as advanced officer training?! That would be "assome!" Now, they'll just need a few good hands to help out with that. Volunteers? "

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sam wrote on Jan 25, 2009 6:30 PM:

" Robb, how many people do you know would put one hand over the muzzle of a loaded gun and pull the trigger? "

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Robb wrote on Jan 25, 2009 6:26 PM:

" There is NO possibility that this was accidental.. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 25, 2009 4:40 PM:

" HRH6S1: I agree! The lodi police Department is not the FBI. We have toonerville cops in Toonerville, what else is new. Criminals are attracted to a vacuum of law. Thats why we have the gangs, the blight, the third world culture especially on the east side.

I repeat" "Barney leave the bullet in the desk" someones going to get hurt. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 25, 2009 2:06 PM:

" Tired, don't be so sanctimonious - you and I both know that there are a lot of officers at LPD who can't pass a background now. Just because you may have passed it once doesn't mean you could again. It's a top heavy department with a history of bad decisons and back door good ole boy deals. Sadly, Hayden was one of the better guys down there. In any case, $100,000 is still better than buying a pig in a poke. Whether you liked SGT H or not, the road he has ahead of him is not a smooth one and but for the grace of God go you or I.

Warvet & SSG, don't take it personally, you have more courage than you will find in most at the pd. They travel in packs like cliques of little school girls for a reason. Thank you for your service, you are heroes. (Assuming, of course, that you didn't stab yourself in the foot...) "

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t jefferson wrote on Jan 25, 2009 1:54 PM:

" pass the background, you mean the subjective check to see if you are liked by the investigator. If those vaunted backgrounds were worth anything, how have we ended up with the police we have? They for the most part are good people but they have their 5-15% who are dirtbags, just like the GP. Guess the background must be for something else. You can figures it out - it deals with scarcity, perception and pay - nothing to do with abiliity or job performance. "

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warvet wrote on Jan 25, 2009 11:01 AM:

" Hey tired if you knew my profession you would know your questions were foolish. What saddens me is what disrespect you have for SSG and myself and also the Military men/women who serve our county with honor to ensure the very freedoms you have today. Most people support their troops but I guess you're not one of them. How about you? Could you pass the background check? "

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samiam wrote on Jan 25, 2009 10:39 AM:

" I think 100k (about a years salary) is not that much. Plus, its coming from an insurance fund, not a lot for the city to pay. "

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tired wrote on Jan 25, 2009 9:47 AM:

" SSG and warvet, have you ever applied to be in law enforcement? Can you even pass the background check? "

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Cogito wrote on Jan 25, 2009 1:03 AM:

" Hey I remember when the SWAT officer shot the other SWAT officer in the back trying to kick a door. Maybe these guys should ask for the Sheriffs SWAT team to take over from now on. The LPDs recruiting seems to lack just a little something. "

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HRH6S1 wrote on Jan 24, 2009 11:56 PM:

" Well, it can now be said they both know their guns like the back of their hands. For those of those really keeping score, Hayden is a prince compared to Oden. How Oden managed to promote to a position that requires him to approve reports after he was fired for poor report writing (and sent back to school to learn how) is beyond me. At least Hayden was brave enough to work the streets without a dog, Oden had to go inside. "

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ilikechicken wrote on Jan 24, 2009 10:15 PM:

" Hayden was on the range alone because SWAT team members are allowed to use the range alone. SWAT is the only group allowed to do this.
And for those keeping score Hayden is the second LPD officer to shoot himself in the hand. SGT Oden had an accident several years ago but returned to duty. Oden is also on SWAT.
Maybe this is a training issue? "

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warvet wrote on Jan 24, 2009 7:38 PM:

" I think he would like for us all to think he's an incompetent person. Looks like he planned this whole incident he knew exactly what he was doing.He's good I'll give him that. It's sad that nobody will ever figure out what he did. I mean the evidence is there the LPD catch criminals all the time but they either can't see this one or don't want to. Well I guess he gets the last laugh oh and 100K plus benefits. "

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educator wrote on Jan 24, 2009 7:17 PM:

" http://www.darwinawards.com/

Looks like we have Darwin runner-up. "

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Cogito wrote on Jan 24, 2009 6:46 PM:

" Sic em Sam. This was nothing shy of idiotic. But, if the city decided to to fight the guy, they'd probably spend more on court costs, and have to pay all the stuff his union promised anyway. If you look on it pragmatically, would you want someone this incompetent protecting you? The LPD is better off without this guy. "

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sam wrote on Jan 24, 2009 6:14 PM:

" jbhiker, how could you have missed the story in the paper about the accident when it happened?

Seriously, he was off duty, went to the shooting range alone (which is against the rules) and shot himself in the palm of his hand.

Why the need to investigate?

And now Lodi is giving him $100,000. That is what needs to be investigated. Why the payoff for doing something stupid, while breakibng the rules? "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 24, 2009 6:00 PM:

" It never ceases to amaze me how bloggers have all the answers. You are a funny bunch of detectives. I seriously doubt any of you ever solved a single problem without help. Keep up the intelligent conversations. We in Lodi are mildly amused. "

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LODI-LAW wrote on Jan 24, 2009 5:35 PM:

" I would shoot my hand for 100k. Oh and the police and fire unions are the big supporters of the councils campaign funds. scratch my back..... I would like to know why LNS or John Johnson hasn't mentioned LPD's raise of over 19% at a cost of over 3mil to the city "

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wowlodi wrote on Jan 24, 2009 4:53 PM:

" Next! "

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warvet wrote on Jan 24, 2009 4:29 PM:

" I agree with SSG Jeremy, I was stabbed in the foot when I was in Iraq and I didn't get any money for it. Maybe I should have joined the LPD instead. Did a little research on what I could get if I accidentally shot myself,realized it would be a sweet deal if I went through with it,did it and WOW! It paid off they fell for it. Maybe he felt he wanted to retire early, his way. INVESTIGATION??? "

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WCPatty wrote on Jan 24, 2009 4:07 PM:

" And this accident conveniently happened when he was alone.

I remember that drug bust back in '87. It seemed to many of us at the time that only one segment of the student population was targeted, and not the "darlings" of the Lodi Elite who were known users. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 24, 2009 2:21 PM:

" He is lucky he didn't use a shot gun! I can see the headlines now! "Officer blew head off while looking into barrel while cleaning shotgun". That sounds about as smart. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 24, 2009 2:17 PM:

" The answer is obvious: Andy should have hidden "the bullet" so that Barney couldn't get hurt with it. Ah Gee Aunt Bee! I see Barney in that photo. "

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DeltaPenguin wrote on Jan 24, 2009 1:52 PM:

" jbhiker: I digress...A hypothetical for you.....

It is very possible that a rabid sewer rat stormed the basement, overpowered the sergeant and disarmed him. The sergeant fought back valiantly. In the skirmish however, the rabid rodent, under stress ran and with no ill intention accidentally caught his prehensile tail on the trigger and discharged the firearm.

Had the sergeant revealed this information, he would have been labeled crazy.

The manner in which it has unfolded only labels him as irresponsible (among other things, but not crazy). "

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sam wrote on Jan 24, 2009 1:04 PM:

" An off duty cop breaks the rules by going into the shooting range alone, puts his hand in front of the
muzzle of his gun and pulls the trigger.

And Lodi rewards him with $100,000??? RU kidding?? "

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DeltaPenguin wrote on Jan 24, 2009 12:55 PM:

" jbhiker: I can tell you what happened.

He had a gun. It was loaded. He put a hand in front of the barrel. He pulled the trigger.

There is only one way that their issued firearms will fire. And there is only one way that a person will get shot. This involves a trigger, a finger and someone putting something (ie: a hand) in front of the gun.

Case solved. "

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dogs4you wrote on Jan 24, 2009 12:22 PM:

" I was under the impression that Plaxico Burress would be the only moron that would shoot himself, evidently not. For a well trained officer to shoot himself in the hand makes me wonder how that happened. Perhaps the CC should be recalled for making such a stupid decession, and I suggest when the next election comes up, the members of the CC that made this dumb azz decession look for other means of employment, this was a very bad decession. "

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OTH wrote on Jan 24, 2009 12:13 PM:

" jbhiker

It is my understanding he was at the range alone which is against dept policy. "

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loadeye wrote on Jan 24, 2009 11:23 AM:

" How about workman's comp? Did the LPD qualify him for permanent disability? There's more to this story than Marty and Richie want us to know. "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 24, 2009 10:11 AM:

" Hey Goober! Where is my gun? "

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edumacation wrote on Jan 24, 2009 10:06 AM:

" Andy: "...Barney I told you not to take the bullet out of my desk..., guns are dangerous". LOL Welcome to Mayberry RFD! "

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jbhiker wrote on Jan 24, 2009 9:51 AM:

" The reporter fails to report the circumstances of the accident in the first place. How are any of you to know how the accident happened? Maybe he was using a department issued firearm. A good lawyer can make anything look like the other guy's fault. The money used out of the Worker's comp fund is withheld no matter what. The State sets the amount. "

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SSG Jeremy wrote on Jan 24, 2009 9:50 AM:

" Wow, I need to get out of the military and Join the LPD, guaranteed retirement money for being stupid. "

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boonablis wrote on Jan 24, 2009 9:19 AM:

" This dude smokes his own hand, and we pay? F'ing unreal.

Looks like he needs some more "hands on training"

what a friggin joke "

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hellsbells wrote on Jan 24, 2009 9:13 AM:

" With his poor shooting skills, we all should be happy he won't be around to shoot an innocent bystander, costing us more money than 100g. "

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LodiJoe wrote on Jan 24, 2009 9:05 AM:

" Maybe he should take acting classes, you never know when they will revive the Andy Griffith show and need a Barney Fife character. "

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DeltaPenguin wrote on Jan 24, 2009 8:31 AM:

" The American Police Hall of Fame offers the Law Enforcement Purple Heart for all police officers who are injured in the line of duty and as a result of that injury are rendered medical attention that keeps them off-duty for three or more days.

http://www.aphf.org/legionm.html

I nominate Lance! "

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T jefferson wrote on Jan 24, 2009 8:13 AM:

" He's former public safety - 20 years - the state pays his medical bills regardless of what happens, this is just icing on the cake, so to say. And he probable get a 60%+ pension and I am guessing he is around 40 to 45 years old, so will be collecting that for the next 40 or so years, great use of taxpayers money.... "

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reality wrote on Jan 24, 2009 7:47 AM:

" re-read the article. it seems to say that the council tossed a coin. they were trying to cut potential future expenses by settleing with this sharpshooter rather than facing a long list of medical bills down the road. either way they could make a poor decision. "

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effa56 wrote on Jan 24, 2009 7:46 AM:

" you shoot your self get big pay out and get a new job to boot where is the justice here "

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T jefferson wrote on Jan 24, 2009 7:18 AM:

" OPM = other people's money. Think about government money - it is really the people's money through taxes, yet our politicians spend it wantonly and the people have no say. Think about that anytime the government talks about spending money, it is really your money (if you pay taxes) "

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radone wrote on Jan 24, 2009 6:51 AM:

" TJ,pardon my ignorance but what does OPM stand for? I've seen it used a few times lately.
In a controlled gun range/experienced officer/shoots hand off...idiot... "

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t jefferson wrote on Jan 24, 2009 6:35 AM:

" Are you F******* kidding me? SWAT team member shoot self in hand and get 100K. At the same time I bet he has a huge pension, plus disability. Guess this is the danger of being a cop - making a mistake and cashing in huge. Great work city council, can't wait to see the rash of - "Oh my gun went off and grazed me leg, where is my check and disability pension." This is stupid and crazy....terrible decision, but hey it's OPM "

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