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Main Page Worcester PD goes Prime-time - COPS Told to Leave Worcester Combined Thread.
(Click here to view the original thread on the MassCops Message Board)

Posted by: PBC FL Cop

Thursday, July 20, 2006 ‘Bad boys,’ police to be in limelight

‘Cops’ in Worcester

By Scott J. Croteau TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
scroteau@telegram.com

A COPS TV crew films a trio of Worcester Police Department officers as they make a motorist stop on Green Street around midnight. (T&G Staff / STEVE LANAVA)

WORCESTER— “Bad boys, bad boys whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you?”

Whatever they do, it’s going to be on camera. The show “Cops,” seen on Fox, started filming in the city this week and plans to be here for several more.

A crew for the long-running and popular show that puts cameras right with police as they chase culprits, handcuff criminals and detain many shirtless perpetrators was at police headquarters Tuesday.

Jimmy Langley, a “Cops” producer, confirmed that crews would be riding along with the Worcester Police Department for several weeks. He said filming began Tuesday night, for future airings.

“No stories the first night,” he said in a brief interview yesterday. “They (Worcester police) welcomed us with open arms. We are happy to be here.”

Worcester police spokesman Sgt. Gary J. Quitadamo would not divulge what hours the “Cops” crews would be working. He said the crew would be with several of the department’s units but would not say which ones.

Representatives from the show called Worcester police about a year ago, Sgt. Quitadamo said. According to the sergeant, the show crews haven’t been in New England for a while.

“When they contacted us, we were thrilled,” Sgt. Quitadamo said. “It gives us an opportunity to showcase the men and women of our department.”

“Cops,” on the air since 1989, is in its 18th season.

Posted by: rg1283

I heard they are back in Lynn and Boston also. This is awesome that they are Worcester.

Posted by: girlcop21

COPS are currently filming in Lowell as well

Posted by: tazoez

LOL, they need to come to Springfield -- then you'll see some action.

Posted by: mr.anttrax

Kudos to Worcester!

Posted by: Deuce

Maybe we should leave them at the PIP...

Posted by: Tango

Quote:

Originally Posted by tazoez

LOL, they need to come to Springfield -- then you'll see some action.

If I remember correctly, I had heard years ago that COPS was interested in filming in Spfld but the brass said no way.....

Posted by: djgj200

Can't wait to finally see some up to date action in MA. All the shows I have seen from New England were from the early and mid-90's. Worcester is almost my second home so I will hope to see them on the show soon. Back in the 80's when Marlborough had stuff you see in LA today, as my dad would put it, COPS came to Marlborough but didn't get anything all that great. Oh well. MA representing on COPS.

Posted by: Irish Wampanoag

If they came to Brockton they would see a shooting every other night and A+B w DW every night!

Posted by: Irish Wampanoag

Quote:

Originally Posted by djgj200

Back in the 80's when Marlborough had stuff you see in LA today, as my dad would put it, COPS came to Marlborough but didn't get anything all that great. Oh well. MA representing on COPS.

You are kidding right!

Posted by: djgj200

Not as bad as LA, as in seeing that everyday but I guess back then the weekends were pretty bad with bar room brawls, or just big fights period, drive-by shootings, etc. It didn't happen everyday or in the volume that LA had, but I guess it was a pretty common thing back then to see that often enough. Today, I guess on Marlborough's worst day its not as bad as it was back in the 80's.

Reading the article I see there was a stop on Green Street. Usually everytime I go to Worcester, the trip wouldn't be complete without making a stop on Green Street. Hoping that makes the show so I can say that I was probably there, or at the least drove by there.

I guess there is a street off of Chandler Street which is known to be the worst street in the city for crime, especially with drugs. I bet you would see something from over there on the show.

I'm just pumped. haha.

Posted by: Tango

I guess there is a street off of Chandler Street which is known to be the worst street in the city for crime, especially with drugs. I bet you would see something from over there on the show.

I'm just pumped. haha.[/quote]

......My money is its Piedmont St

Posted by: mr.anttrax

Quote:

......My money is its Piedmont St

I was thinking the same thing!

Posted by: djgj200

I think that was it, sounds familiar. All I remember was it was off of Chandler.

Posted by: kmorrissey5

Doesn't matter where you go in the Main South area, it's all the same. Piedmont is known more for hookers but Main South as a whole is infested with drugs and crime.

Posted by: CEC

they should also swing by Lawrence and see how we do things

Posted by: fscpd907

Quote:

Originally Posted by djgj200

Not as bad as LA, as in seeing that everyday but I guess back then the weekends were pretty bad with bar room brawls, or just big fights period, drive-by shootings, etc. It didn't happen everyday or in the volume that LA had, but I guess it was a pretty common thing back then to see that often enough. Today, I guess on Marlborough's worst day its not as bad as it was back in the 80's.

2004 Crime Data

Marlborough:
Murder: 2
Forcible Rape: 13
Robbery: 19
Aggravated Assault 96
Burglary 130
Larceny Theft 625
Vehicle Theft 75

Los Angeles:
Murder: 518
Forcible Rape: 1131
Robbery: 14181
Aggravated Assault: 26956
Burglary: 23182
Larceny Theft: 72045
Vehicle Theft: 29973

REPORTED FBI MARLBOROUGH CRIME DATA TOTAL 1980-1989

MURDER: 3
FORCIBLE RAPE: 57
ROBBERY: 91
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT: 138

Posted by: PBC FL Cop

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deuce

Maybe we should leave them at the PIP...

Make sure to let us know which episode your in!!

Posted by: Tackleberry22

Ok Scooter, calm down. The hookers are all over South Main St. Main South is bad, but I think GBV is the worst. A majority of Worcester is a dump with the exception of the West side, and that to is dwindling.

Posted by: VTCOP

Let them come to Vermont! I'll show'em how to put deer down, and chase dogs, and write speeding tickets, and ummmm....ahhhh, o oh yeh and write speeding tickets, oh shoot i already said that...........

Posted by: thumper2168

GBV and south main are about the same just different beasts. GBV they can hide and get back into the houses easy while south main it's usually off to the races. My .02 cents. and this is just about buying dope not the rest of the stuff.
Brockton is the worst right now, Holyoke and Springfield next, Boston, on the contender list of course are the rest of the favorites.. Lowell, Worcester, New Bedfor/Fall River, actually the Lawrence guys have done a great jo, you used to be able to score dope in five seconds now you have to dig for it or go to Haverill. The Worcester gusy are first rate good for them...

Posted by: O-302

They are in Lowell now...will be for 8 weeks....

http://www.lowellsun.com/fastsearchresults/ci_4060101

Posted by: djgj200

YAY!!! I like to see more MA on cops. Its been mainly the lower half of the country with a few exceptions. I am gathering next we're gonna hear they're in Boston.

Posted by: mr.anttrax

'Cops' causing controversy in Worcester

For the next few months, the television show 'Cops' is taping in Worcester, Mass. NECN's Andy Lacombe explains why some residents are not happy about it.

http://video.necn.com/global/video/p...AdTag=homepage

Posted by: PBC FL Cop

Tuesday, July 25, 2006 Bad boys they aren’t

Protesters criticize police role in ‘Cops’ show

By Shaun Sutner TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

WORCESTER— Saying the presence of television cameras from the Fox show “Cops” encourages police harassment, protesters yesterday called on the Worcester Police Department to stop cooperating with the show.

About 75 people rallied in front of City Hall to decry the popular program, which they said is unfairly targeting the city and stigmatizes neighborhood residents.

The show, in its 18th season, depicts officers on patrol as they handcuff perpetrators and chase down suspects.

“They follow us, just to make a show,” said Norma Ruiz, 17, who said she saw officers harass youths in the Main South neighborhood over the weekend. “It’s just making us look bad.”

Ms. Ruiz, who was holding a sign showing “Fox Cops” with a slash running through it, was one of several dozen teenagers who hang out at the Worcester Youth Center on Chandler Street. They were told by neighborhood organizers about the rally on Friday, a day after the Telegram & Gazette reported that the Fox crews were filming in the city.

“They’re always harassing us. They’re putting on a show for the camera,” said Shane Jefferson, 17, who also goes to the youth center.

Rally organizers told the crowd that the police would be better off showcasing other aspects of their work in the community, such as running youth sports leagues.

“We feel the law enforcement in our city does some good work,” said Xavier Johnson, 33, youth program director at the youth center. “We want to build relationships with law enforcement. We don’t want them to go backwards.”

The rally was monitored by several uniformed and plainclothes police officers, none of whom would comment on the record about the program or the protest.

Police Chief Gary J. Gemme stood behind his department’s involvement with the show, saying he believes it is a largely positive undertaking, despite the recent complaints.

Fox film crews are accompanying several police units in the city for a few weeks, and Chief Gemme said there has been no increase in patrols to accommodate the needs of the show.

“I didn’t foresee some of the reaction,” the chief said. “My initial thought is that this would be a way to showcase the Worcester Police Department.”

Not everyone at the rally was displeased with the show.

One onlooker, Charles Chapman, a Worcester custodian, says he likes “Cops” and watches it often. “Doesn’t it always show police officers out there taking drug dealers off the street and dealing with domestic violence?” he said. “I don’t think it’s bad.”
Contact Shaun Sutner by e-mail at ssutner@telegram.com.

Posted by: djgj200

I wonder if this protest will make the show??? haha.

Posted by: tazoez

Quote:

Originally Posted by VTCOP

Let them come to Vermont! I'll show'em how to put deer down, and chase dogs, and write speeding tickets, and ummmm....ahhhh, o oh yeh and write speeding tickets, oh shoot i already said that...........

I thought they already did ---- OHH WAIT, that was Super Troopers.

Posted by: Gil

Quote:

“They’re always harassing us. They’re putting on a show for the camera,” said Shane Jefferson, 17, who also goes to the youth center.

If they (the good guys) are always harassing this fine upstanding citizen, whats the difference if there is a camera crew present. And it's not called harassment, it's called pro-active policing.

Posted by: Tackleberry22

I read the article and a quote came to mind from one of my CJ undergrad. professors, "The masses are asses." and oh ain't it true.

Posted by: HPD104

"Cops" told to leave town

By Telegram & Gazette Staff

WORCESTER— Police Chief Gary J. Gemme said today he has ended the Police Department’s relationship with the “Cops” television show.

The Police Department has been criticized by some in the city for allowing television crews to tag along with officers. Some detractors of the arrangement, including leaders of a protest at City Hall Monday, raised the possibility of harassment by overzealous officers. They also said they were wary of Worcester being portrayed in a negative light.

“Cops” crews had been filming for a week and expected to be in the city for more than a month. The chief had defended the arrangement as a chance to show the nation that Worcester has a solid Police Department.

In a statement released by the Police Department today, the chief said he asked the show to discontinue filming in the city in part because of conversions he had last night with local clergy and leaders of the minority community.

A statement from the department reads: “However, ultimately the chief’s decision to terminate the “Cops” filming was based upon two factors: First, empathy, understanding the issue from the perspective of those who articulated the negativity of the program; and second, when asked to balance the perceived negative aspects of the program with positive stories of the community work that is taking place at all levels of this department, “Cops” producers stated that those stories are not the premise of the show and do not resonate to their target audiences.”

Posted by: mr.anttrax

They might as well leave all the dealers and prostitutes alone as well. We would not want them to be portrayed in a negative manner.

Posted by: Wiggum_1

COPS may show the bad side of the city, but it would portray the Worcester PD in a positive light, showing how hard their Cops work to protect the city.

And this is only the second time the show has been thrown out of a city, the first being Albequrque, NM.

Posted by: bbelichick

Quote:

Originally Posted by HPD104

In a statement released by the Police Department today, the chief said he asked the show to discontinue filming in the city in part because of conversions he had last night with local clergy and leaders of the minority community.

Translation: He's soft.

This and his stance on making the PT test easier for females brands him as weak.

Posted by: djgj200

Quote:

Originally Posted by bbelichick

Translation: He's soft.

My thoughts exactly.

Posted by: Wolfman

If I'm not mistaken, wasn't he also one of the ones defending illegal immigrants not being locked up, claiming they may not report crimes if they were to be held accountable for their own criminal acts?

What a WUSS.

Posted by: Gil

What's next?

Next suggestion from the masses...

"Hey Chief, can you have your officers not wear those black BDU's when conducting SWAT operations, the hostage takers feel intimidated by the command presence. We were thinking more along the lines of earth tones"

Posted by: djgj200

I think he just slapped his own in the face with that one. Its a strong example of the character that the leadership in that police department has.

Posted by: KozmoKramer

Only in f'ing Massachusetts...
Those of us that watch the show; how sick are you of seeing Metro Dade FL, or Kansas City, or some bum-fk county outside Seattle or Spokane...

This was a nice chance for us to see Massachusetts LE in action.

God knows we wouldn't want to stifle that inordinate influx of new home buyers into Worcester County...

Posted by: djgj200

Quote:

Originally Posted by KozmoKramer

Only in f'ing Massachusetts...
Those of us that watch the show; how sick are you of seeing Metro Dade FL, or Kansas City, or some bum-fk county outside Seattle or Spokane...

ME!!!! Actually the fairly recent episodes (filmed within the last few years) are pretty interesting. Ft. Worth and Paisaac Cty, PA has some decent stuff too, but I wish I could have seen some good stuff from MA, stuff that happens 15 miles from my house.

If the residents were so worried about Worcester being shown in a negative way, then that should have been their hint to clean themselves up. Maybe there was a reason COPS decided to go to Worcester to begin with.

Posted by: SinePari

There aren't too many episodes from North East cities around. As a matter of fact, the only episode I've seen a cop shoot somebody was from an old episode in Lynn I think. Dude with the knife gets boxed in by a statie and the Lynn cop pops one. As a resident of Worcester, and close personal friends with several WPD guys, the Chief has a lot of work to do if he wants to keep his job.

Too bad, because being a Worcester transplant, I used to think "Worcester, what a shit hole." But being here for the last few years in a great neighborhood for about 1/3 the price of homes inside 495, and seeing the progress and money being pumped into the city, I think it's come a long way and deserves to be showcased.

Every city has its GBV, and you could get some good footage in those areas, but skip to Mayor Tim Murray running for Lt Governor not wanting COPS to show Worcester in a bad light, and there-in lies the real deal.

Posted by: thelastsamurai

Quote:

Originally Posted by KozmoKramer

Those of us that watch the show; how sick are you of seeing Metro Dade FL, or Kansas City, or some bum-fk county outside Seattle or Spokane...

This was a nice chance for us to see Massachusetts LE in action.

lol Kozmo your right.. I'm also sick of watching the same cities and counties... I guess everyone remembers that knife standoff on Marsh Rd with Lynn & MSP..

COPS actually shot in Lowell this month... and it seems that on the Sun they are trying to make it a positive thing.. hoping alot of crime will happen so that the crew can get juicy footage... anyone know the outcome?

Posted by: Nachtwächter

Jul 28, 2006

Chief says ‘Cops’ not good for city

Television show pulls up stakes

By Scott J. Croteau TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF
scroteau@telegram.com

WORCESTER— The perceived negative light the city and its residents could be placed in was one of the reasons Police Chief Gary J. Gemme gave for stopping the television show “Cops” from filming in the city.

Wednesday night the chief met with a group of respected community leaders who voiced concerns about the show being in the city. The group, including local clergy, the minority community and the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, were concerned the show would cast residents who are in lower socioeconomic levels or struggling with addictions in a negative light.

“It exploits some people with some challenges,” Chief Gemme said. “I just believe it is in the best interest to ask ‘Cops’ to leave.”

A protest this week claimed the television cameras encouraged police harassment and unfairly portrayed residents. About 75 people gathered at City Hall to protest.

“That protest had absolutely zero effect on my decision,” the chief said yesterday. “I’m trying to be chief of police for everyone in the community. Some people are going to think I caved in under pressure. So be it.”

Bringing the show and its crew into the city was a sound decision at first and would have showcased the officers of the department and their work, Chief Gemme said. He added he had received support for having the show in town from city officials. He admitted yesterday he had only caught a few episodes of the show here and there and wasn’t a regular viewer.

“I should have done my homework,” said the chief. “I should have understood what they were really about.”

John Langley, creator and executive producer of “Cops,” said it is unfortunate the crew was asked to leave after filming in the city for just over a week.

“We are documentary filmmakers,” he said. “We go out and show what it is like to be a cop. That’s all we do. It was unexpected.”

People arrested in public places can be filmed, he said. Having the police department on television lets people see what’s happening in their neighborhoods, he said.

“I like a transparent police department and to see what’s going on in my community,” Mr. Langley said.

Chief Gemme said he spoke to Mr. Langley Wednesday night and asked if the producer would show positive stories as well. The producer rebuffed the request, stating the audience didn’t watch the show for that, the chief said.

This is only the second time a city has reversed its decision to have the show film its officers. Cincinnati officials decided against having the show in their city in 2004, according to Mr. Langley. The “Cops” crew went back after the officials changed their minds, he said.

“Maybe Worcester will change its mind,” he said. “We’ll be happy to film there.”

For now the show will have to find another community to film in, he said. The show is currently filming its 19th season. “Cops” had not been in Massachusetts for some time, Mr. Langley said, recalling Lynn and Boston as the other cities where crews filmed officers.

The community leaders gave Chief Gemme a perspective he didn’t have. He said there are people in the city suffering from alcoholism or other vices that force them to work as prostitutes. The community leaders discussed how those people would be exploited.

Keesha M. LaTulippe, assistant to the executive director at the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, said the community leaders were not criticizing the police in the meeting. Several officials believed the program would not showcase the city in a good light, she said. Police officers in the department offered their pros and cons to the chief as well.

“He heard the concerns of the people and was sensitive to that,” Ms. LaTulippe said. “I think it is amazing the chief decided to pull ‘Cops.’ ”

Xavier A. Johnson, program director at the Worcester Youth Center, was one of the protesters at City Hall earlier this week. He said he shared the chief’s sentiment. He and Chief Gemme said having “Cops” film here does not outweigh the positive relationship the police and community have formed over the years.

“Why would we put those great relationships at risk for something like that,” Mr. Johnson said. “We want to build the relationship with the chief of police.”

Mr. Johnson said if the chief had final say on what would be shown on the air, he wouldn’t have had a problem with the show.

“ ‘Cops’ is out to do one thing; show the bad stuff on television,” he said.

The crew was scheduled to be in the city for eight weeks. Chief Gemme said that shows “Cops” is not invested in the community and there is a larger agenda to deal with. There are other ways to showcase the positive work of the department, he added.

“This was not an issue where we wanted to divide the community,” Chief Gemme said.

Posted by: bbelichick

I'm curious, Chief...How would the show "cast residents who are in lower socioeconomic levels or struggling with addictions in a negative light" if they weren't committing crimes??

How do you cast those "struggling with addictions" in a positive light? SHOULD you?

Quote:

The community leaders gave Chief Gemme a perspective he didn’t have. He said there are people in the city suffering from alcoholism or other vices that force them to work as prostitutes. The community leaders discussed how those people would be exploited.

That statement is so soft and messed up I just don't know what to say. This Chief is a soup sandwich.

I didn't know that I was "forced
to take drugs and commit crimes. I thought there was a choice involved somewhere.

Anyone else have a problem with any political official, especially a Police Chief listening to "clergy"? What if the "clergy" in question aren't MY religion? Should political decisions be made with religious influence? I know in Springfield, the "clergy" are always getting involved in city issues and many of them are no better than common street hustlers.

Posted by: mikey742

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wiggum_1

COPS may show the bad side of the city, but it would portray the Worcester PD in a positive light, showing how hard their Cops work to protect the city.

And this is only the second time the show has been thrown out of a city, the first being Albequrque, NM.

Why were they thrown out of Alberqurque?

Posted by: Dane

Maybe if Cops aired some the stuff that goes on in Worcester, the "clergy" would be more aware of what the flock was up to. Then, they might be better able to address the needs of their people. But oh, no! Let's hide that under a rock.

Posted by: bbelichick

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dane

Maybe if Cops aired some the stuff that goes on in Worcester, the "clergy" would be more aware of what the flock was up to. Then, they might be better able to address the needs of their people. But oh, no! Let's hide that under a rock.

`

I think they know damn well what their "flock" is up to. Unfortunately, they enable that behavior by making excuses about "struggling with addictions" and other such responsibility waiving bullsh*t.

Then the innocent, good people in their community become victimized by the poor, addiction fighting misunderstood DIRTBAGS.

Posted by: PBC FL Cop

Friday, July 28, 2006 Chief says ‘Cops’ not good for city

Television show pulls up stakes
By Scott J. Croteau TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

WORCESTER— The perceived negative light the city and its residents could be placed in was one of the reasons Police Chief Gary J. Gemme gave for stopping the television show “Cops” from filming in the city.

Wednesday night the chief met with a group of respected community leaders who voiced concerns about the show being in the city. The group, including local clergy, the minority community and the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, were concerned the show would cast residents who are in lower socioeconomic levels or struggling with addictions in a negative light. (too bad they are unable to show the drug addicts and the criminals in a positive light, thats just unfortunate)

“It exploits some people with some challenges,” Chief Gemme said. “I just believe it is in the best interest to ask ‘Cops’ to leave.”

A protest this week claimed the television cameras encouraged police harassment and unfairly portrayed residents. About 75 people gathered at City Hall to protest.

“That protest had absolutely zero effect on my decision”????? the chief said yesterday. “I’m trying to be chief of police for everyone in the community. Some people are going to think I caved in under pressure. So be it.”

Bringing the show and its crew into the city was a sound decision at first and would have showcased the officers of the department and their work, Chief Gemme said. He added he had received support for having the show in town from city officials. He admitted yesterday he had only caught a few episodes of the show here and there and wasn’t a regular viewer.

“I should have done my homework,” said the chief. “I should have understood what they were really about.”

John Langley, creator and executive producer of “Cops,” said it is unfortunate the crew was asked to leave after filming in the city for just over a week.

“We are documentary filmmakers,” he said. “We go out and show what it is like to be a cop. That’s all we do. It was unexpected.”

People arrested in public places can be filmed, he said. Having the police department on television lets people see what’s happening in their neighborhoods, he said.

“I like a transparent police department and to see what’s going on in my community,” Mr. Langley said.

Chief Gemme said he spoke to Mr. Langley Wednesday night and asked if the producer would show positive stories as well. The producer rebuffed the request, stating the audience didn’t watch the show for that, the chief said.

This is only the second time a city has reversed its decision to have the show film its officers. Cincinnati officials decided against having the show in their city in 2004, according to Mr. Langley. The “Cops” crew went back after the officials changed their minds, he said.

“Maybe Worcester will change its mind,” he said. “We’ll be happy to film there.”

For now the show will have to find another community to film in, he said. The show is currently filming its 19th season. “Cops” had not been in Massachusetts for some time, Mr. Langley said, recalling Lynn and Boston as the other cities where crews filmed officers.

The community leaders gave Chief Gemme a perspective he didn’t have. He said there are people in the city suffering from alcoholism or other vices that force them to work as prostitutes. The community leaders discussed how those people would be exploited.

Keesha M. LaTulippe, assistant to the executive director at the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, said the community leaders were not criticizing the police in the meeting. Several officials believed the program would not showcase the city in a good light, she said. Police officers in the department offered their pros and cons to the chief as well.

“He heard the concerns of the people and was sensitive to that,” Ms. LaTulippe said. “I think it is amazing the chief decided to pull ‘Cops.’ ” So did COPS!

Xavier A. Johnson, program director at the Worcester Youth Center, was one of the protesters at City Hall earlier this week. He said he shared the chief’s sentiment. He and Chief Gemme said having “Cops” film here does not outweigh the positive relationship the police and community have formed over the years.

“Why would we put those great relationships at risk for something like that,” Mr. Johnson said. “We want to build the relationship with the chief of police.”

Mr. Johnson said if the chief had final say on what would be shown on the air, he wouldn’t have had a problem with the show.

“ ‘Cops’ is out to do one thing; show the bad stuff on television,” he said.

The crew was scheduled to be in the city for eight weeks. Chief Gemme said that shows “Cops” is not invested in the community and there is a larger agenda to deal with. There are other ways to showcase the positive work of the department, he added.

“This was not an issue where we wanted to divide the community,” Chief Gemme said.

Posted by: Mortal knight

What's next stop making arrest so the misunderstood criminals doesn't get a record?
The Chief stated he didn't know what COPS was really about?!?! A) where has he been for the last 20 years? B) He alowd "strangers" to ride in his cruisiers with his officer and he didn't "really" know? WTF !

I don't know the guy but I hope you WPD guys atleast have a strong union or you'll be patroling in suit coats with fuzzy handcuffs soon.

Posted by: djgj200

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nachtwächter

“That protest had absolutely zero effect on my decision,” the chief said yesterday. “I’m trying to be chief of police for everyone in the community. Some people are going to think I caved in under pressure. So be it.”

He did. He's in denial.

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikey742

Why were they thrown out of Alberqurque?

The article from yesterday said Alberqurque, then the one today said Cincinnati. WTF?

Posted by: SGT_GRUNT_USMC

ready for another of "COPS Las Vegas"?.......As a Vegas cop (MA transplant from Metro West) It though, would be interesting to see Worcester, Lowell,and Framingham PD's in action on COPS.God knows they're busy.Maybe not as busy as LVMPD but busy just the same.

Posted by: USMCTrooper

“The View” to tape in Massachusetts.

Popular ABC Show will feature city of Worcester

July 27, 2006

AP New York- ABC has announced that its hit show, “The View” will tour New England beginning this fall. Among the cities to be featured are York, Maine; Jamestown, Rhode Island; Podunk, Vermont and Worcester, Massachusetts. “These locations represent true new England charm” Bob Goldbaum, executive producer of the show said. “We were draw to these various places based on their quaint persona, kindness to character and ability to diversify culturally in this post 9/11 world”. When asked about choosing a third rate industrially depressed city like Worcester instead of Boston Goldbaum acknowledged it wasn’t their first choice. “Boston is like any other thriving coastal city. Worcester however lobbied hard for us to come there and cast their city in a positive light. In fact, the Chief of Police and local clergy insisted we do a feature on Worcesters’ underprivileged people whose socio-economic status constantly subjects them to criminal prosecution and oppressive rule”. Insiders have hinted that crews will begin filming in September when the show’s new host Rosie O’Donnell assumes the helm. It is expected she will speak with the local GLBT community who are suing the city after being denied the right to paint the streets in rainbow colors and declare “kumbaya” as the city’s official song.

THE ABOVE COMMENTARY IS PURE FICTION AND IN NO WAY REFLECTS THE VIEWS OF MASSCOPS; ABC OR ITS EMPLOYEES; OR THE CITY OF WORCESTER, MA. IT WAS WRITTEN AS COMEDIC SATIRE ONLY.

Posted by: Wiggum_1

I might be wrong, but if I remember right, when COPS came back to do a second batch of episodes in Albequrque the Mayor said "No way !!" for pretty much the same reasons they were kicked out of Worcester.

As far as Cincinatti, they eventually did shoot some episodes there.

Posted by: bbelichick

Chief says ‘Police’ not good for city

WORCESTER— The perceived negative light the city and its residents could be placed in was one of the reasons Police Chief Gary J. Gemme gave for stopping the Police from patrolling in the city.

Wednesday night the chief met with a group of respected community leaders who voiced concerns about the Police being in the city. The group, including local clergy, the minority community and the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, were concerned the Police would cast residents who are in lower socioeconomic levels or struggling with addictions in a negative light.

“It exploits some people with some challenges,” Chief Gemme said. “I just believe it is in the best interest to ask the Police to leave.”

A protest this week claimed patrolling encouraged police harassment and unfairly portrayed residents. About 75 people gathered at City Hall to protest.

“That protest had absolutely zero effect on my decision,” the chief said yesterday. “I’m trying to be chief of police for everyone in the community. Some people are going to think I caved in under pressure. So be it.”

Bringing the Police into the city was a sound decision at first, Chief Gemme said. He added he had received support for having the Police in town from city officials.

“I should have done my homework,” said the chief. “I should have understood what they were really about.”

The community leaders gave Chief Gemme a perspective he didn’t have. He said there are people in the city suffering from alcoholism or other vices that force them to work as prostitutes. The community leaders discussed how those people would be exploited.

Keesha M. LaTulippe, assistant to the executive director at the Henry Lee Willis Community Center, said the community leaders were not criticizing the police in the meeting. Several officials believed the Police would not portray the city in a good light, she said. Police officers in the department offered their pros and cons to the chief as well.

“He heard the concerns of the people and was sensitive to that,” Ms. LaTulippe said. “I think it is amazing the chief decided to pull the Police.

Xavier A. Johnson, program director at the Worcester Youth Center, was one of the protesters at City Hall earlier this week. He said he shared the chief’s sentiment. He and Chief Gemme said having Police patrol here does not outweigh the positive relationship the Chief and community have formed over the years.

“Why would we put those great relationships at risk for something like that,” Mr. Johnson said. “We want to build the relationship with the chief of police.”

Mr. Johnson said if the Clergy had final say on who would be arrested, he wouldn’t have had a problem with the Police.

The Police are out to do one thing; show the bad stuff.

Chief Gemme said that the Police are not invested in the community and there is a larger agenda to deal with.

“This was not an issue where we wanted to divide the community,” Chief Gemme said.

THE ABOVE COMMENTARY IS PURE FICTION AND IN NO WAY REFLECTS THE VIEWS OF MASSCOPS OR THE CITY OF WORCESTER, MA. IT WAS WRITTEN AS COMEDIC SATIRE ONLY.

Posted by: USMCTrooper

Worcester Police Chief Gemme speaks to producers of 'COPS' television show asking them to leave.

Posted by: SOT

They should do some with the MSP,on the pike and out here in the wilderness.

Posted by: djgj200

Quote:

Originally Posted by USMCTrooper

“Boston is like any other thriving coastal city. Worcester however lobbied hard for us to come there and cast their city in a positive light. In fact, the Chief of Police and local clergy insisted we do a feature on Worcesters’ underprivileged people whose socio-economic status constantly subjects them to criminal prosecution and oppressive rule”.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SOT_II

They should do some with the MSP,on the pike and out here in the wilderness.

I was thinking that, but I don't remember seeing any episodes where they went with State Police or Highway Patrol in any state. I think they try to keep it local with Municipal and County agencies.

Posted by: fscpd907

I remember seeing the MSP in action on “Real Stories of the Highway Patrol” which in my opinion was a much better show than “COPS.”

Posted by: SOT

Then they should do Pittsfield, want to paint minorities and addicts in a bad light, Pittsfield is the poster child for that.

Quote:

Originally Posted by djgj200

I was thinking that, but I don't remember seeing any episodes where they went with State Police or Highway Patrol in any state. I think they try to keep it local with Municipal and County agencies.

Posted by: Dane

Quote:

They should do some with the MSP,on the pike and out here in the wilderness.

Not since Maury Hannigan got out of the business. "Real Stories of the Highway Patrol" spent a lot of time riding with the MSP in the early 90's.

Posted by: djgj200

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dane

Not since Maury Hannigan got out of the business. "Real Stories of the Highway Patrol" spent a lot of time riding with the MSP in the early 90's.

Its on Fox Reality a lot. Almost every episode has at least one incident with the MSP in Boston. It is a good show.

Posted by: Robert35

The Cops' Crew are some of the Best to film Events. In Boston when they came to town they filmed some great shows, some Funny Arrest and some great PR for the City of Boston. They also have all of their work looked over by the Chief in our case Commissioner before any of the film is shown to the public. COPS do a great job and in many cases they see things out on the street we might miss. They road with us for 1 month and got some good, and funny events.

Posted by: 48Weeks

Is the concerned clergy a Roman Catholic Priest, a Protestant Minister, or a Jewish Rabbi or something similar OR one of these ex-con frauds who suddenly become "clergy"? I think I know the answer..... what a joke that Chief is giving in like that. Stay safe.

Posted by: KozmoKramer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dane

Not since Maury Hannigan got out of the business. "Real Stories of the Highway Patrol" spent a lot of time riding with the MSP in the early 90's.

I remember that Dane. There was one episode in particular where this big bald-headed MSP Trooper had like 40+ Hells Angels or Outlaws bikers lined up on their bikes somewhere in the Boston-Chelsea-Revere area at 2 in the morning... He gave em a ration of shit for riding parade style through the intersection. It was a great scene...

Posted by: SOT

Hey if I have a real production type video camera, can I have one of my guy do a ride along and film it? Then put it up on my local cable channel?
Does anyone think this would be feasible?

Posted by: bbelichick

Quote:

Originally Posted by KozmoKramer

Trooper Mike Fiore K-9

Posted by: SinePari

Quote:

Originally Posted by SOT_II

Hey if I have a real production type video camera, can I have one of my guy do a ride along and film it? Then put it up on my local cable channel?
Does anyone think this would be feasible?

Better run that through your bosses first. Liability, electronic evidence, etc.

Posted by: Tackleberry22

He caved in, plain and simple.

Posted by: SOT

Sorry, if that didn't come out right. I mean can I have one of my employyee's team up with someone from a local police department and do a ride along with the police.

Posted by: SPO123

I heard Guy Glodis invited them to film with his guys and his Winnebego Tac Unit???

Posted by: PBC FL Cop

Quote:

Originally Posted by SPO123

I heard Guy Glodis invited them to film with his guys and his Winnebego Tac Unit???

I'm sure he did, any chance to get in front of a camera and have his cruisers, all of which have his name on them, hit primetime.

Posted by: mikeyd1313

This is the same Worcester Chief who had an article in the telegram a couple of weeks ago saying that he will not have his officers arresting illegal immigrants because it will damage worcester residents "view" and perception of the police. I can't figure out where this guy is going with his policies. Didn't he have an issue a few years ago with a missing gun at the police station???

Posted by: kwflatbed

In plain english the Worcester Chief has no balls at all and will never stand tall.

Posted by: mikeyd1313

Couldn't have said it better myself.

Posted by: dave7336

Quote:

I should have done my homework,” said the chief. “I should have understood what they were really about.”

the show has been on tv for close to 20 years,,,what the hell has the chief been doing? living in a cave!!!!

Posted by: Deuce

He's an egotistical sackless assclown. I took it as a big slap to the face as did others. Kicked us under the bus to pander to these clueless tards. But this is what's expected from someone who has systematically turned a police dept into a bs social service agency. Maybe this wouldn't have happened if we had a chief who was a street cop...

Posted by: Tackleberry22

I was going to go with something more subtle, but well said Deuce. Been backing the wrong horse since he took the job. Kinda makes you wish Gardella was back.

Posted by: Deuce

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tackleberry22

I was going to go with something more subtle, but well said Deuce. Been backing the wrong horse since he took the job. Kinda makes you wish Gardella was back.

That sent shivers down my spine, unfortunately I think you're right. How pathetic....

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