When Penobscot County Sheriff Glenn Ross arrived atop the Penobscot Narrows Bridge around 5:30 a.m. on Nov. 13, he was met by Waldo County Sheriff Scott Story and the unsettling sight of his longtime friend’s abandoned car on the side of the road and just one of his shoes at the bridge’s edge.
Story had called Ross only about a half an hour earlier and explained that his deputies had found Bob Carlson’s car on the bridge and that they suspected he may have jumped.
On top of that bridge as they watched the search below, Ross said he told Story about the anonymous letter he had received days earlier alleging that Carlson had sexually abused “a young boy several years ago” and about the subsequent Maine State Police investigation. Ross said he also told Story that he had informed Carlson of both of those things at about noon the day before and that he had done so because he felt he needed to restrict Carlson’s otherwise unfettered access to Penobscot County Jail inmates as a member of the jail’s board of visitors.
“Then when they recovered the body, we went down to the water’s edge and we unzipped the bag to make sure it was Bob, and it was, and I went back up to the bridge and sat in my car,” Ross recalled Friday. “I asked if I could speak to an investigator then because I wanted to go home. I was crying. I’m not proud to admit that, but I was. I was extremely upset.”
It’s been made much of that the investigator who interviewed Ross that morning made no mention in his final report that the reason Ross had told Carlson of the investigation was to limit his access to inmates. Instead, the investigator wrote that Ross told Carlson about the case so the well-known and much revered community leader would not be “blind-sided” and because they were friends.
Quickly, however, Sheriff Story came forward and confirmed Ross’ account, saying he indeed had been informed by Ross on the bridge that night that he felt it had been necessary to inform Carlson because of his close contact with the inmates in the jail and that it was his responsibility as sheriff.
Ross is standing behind his decision to inform Carlson of the investigation. Deputy Attorney General William Stokes has said publicly that Ross did not break any laws and the Maine Sheriffs’ Association, of which Ross is president, is conducting an investigation that Ross said he welcomes.
Ross’ close and decades-old friendship and alliance with Carlson, his role as the sheriff having been informed of such a serious allegation and investigation by another law enforcement agency, and his decision to inform Carlson of it two days later certainly make for a bit of a sticky wicket, and the matter probably deserves to have some light shone upon it.
Why Washington County Sheriff Donnie Smith felt it was his duty to push forth that headline with late night emails to media outlets is another question.
Smith, of course, threatened to end his affiliation with the Maine Sheriffs’ Association if Ross continued as the group’s president.
The same day the Waldo County Sheriff’s Department report was released, Smith fired off the email to the sheriffs’ association — and the news media — saying Ross had “clearly violated ethical standards by tipping off a sexual predator.” In another email on Friday, Smith said members of the Washington County Jail’s board of visitors “cannot just enter the facility at will.”
Smith called Stokes’ explanation that Ross did not violate any criminal laws “beyond belief.”
So, first off, Sheriff Smith decides in one day, based seemingly on one report, that Ross’ conduct was unethical. He further decides, before the completion of another law enforcement agency’s investigation, that Carlson is a sexual predator, and he decides to share his views with the media. He also decides that the most professional way to present his concern to his professional colleagues is to threaten to leave the organization.
Of course, this is the same sheriff who shot off an email in the wee hours of the morning in 2010 to newly elected Gov. Paul LePage, calling on him to oust Maine Drug Enforcement Agency head Roy McKinney. He said if the governor didn’t do so he no longer would allow his deputies to work with the agency.
He also made that threat back in 2008.
It seems to be his modus operandi — his professional approach to things.
The case involving the questionable past and the suicide of the Bangor area’s well-known and respected leader has shaken the faith of some, challenged the senses of others, and saddened many.
There are many questions, including whether Carlson should ever have had such unfettered access to all inmates and their records. Probably not.
Should Ross have talked with the Maine State Police detective before telling Carlson about the investigation? Probably.
Is it good that the sheriffs’ association is looking into that? Yes.
Do we really want their actions or their decision to be based upon whether or not Donnie Smith will disengage from them?
Certainly not.
Ms. Ordway who cares what you think? I know i don’t. I would much rather read the results of the investigation than read your unwarranted dribble.
I care what Renee thinks – cause she can bring the “obvious” to light – in circumstances that are certainly confusing to most of us! The results of the investigation will be available to all to read soon enough — I can wait! But, lets not all jump to conclusions too fast. I need to believe that Truth will come out – and I am willing to be patient! And, pray for all involved!! This is a hard time for all involved.
I care what she thinks far more than I care what you think. She’s a professional observer. And you are someone who hasn’t even read the report that could prove her statements to be warranted…though you characterize her words of caution as “dribble” before the evidence is even gathered.
You do not care what anyone thinks, but of course you want us all to care what you think. You have no idea who has read the reports!! The dribble you continue to talk about is coming from you. Period.
I couldn’t care less whether you agree with me or not.
The word is drivel not dribble.
She’s a professional observer who is incredibly biased when it comes to the likes of Bob Carlson.
All Ordway is saying is “Don’t rush to conclusions while the investigation is still ongoing.” Why is that an unsound principle, in your opinion?
but you did
If this is true, it was not a ‘sticky wicket (which makes it sound cute and childish)’, it was obstruction of justice (which is adult and serious). Here’s what should have happened:
Sheriff : “Bob, I need you let you know that I have to suspend your access to the jail while some issues get cleared up.”
Carlson: “What do you mean, what issues?”
Sheriff: “I’m sorry Bob. This is awkward, but I can’t discuss that with you because it is sensitive. In time, once things have blown over, we’ll be able to talk about it. For now, I just need you to understand that I can’t have you volunteering at the jail.”
That’s all that needed to happen to keep this in line with the Code of Ethics.
You are spot my friend spot on!
Fun fact, mustsuitup:
You don’t have to read articles if you don’t want to. Free country and all that. You can always go read Highlights.
haha, I thought the exact same thing! but, maybe they didn’t… I notice a lot of posts where the answer is right in the article! anyway, u made me smile this am
Wow- that’s a mature response to someone else’s opinion.
I think that we all need to hear about this issue. It was bad judgement on the part of the Shariff to say anything. He should resign is prosition since he can failed to follow procedures and give out confidential information. Who knows this may have lead to the suicide. Maybe a life would have been saved and the investigation continued. Now what there will only be more unanswered questions about Carlson.
Thank you Renee for an intelligent take on the situation.
How is that an intellegent take when all she did was deflect the true nature of the crime and criminal act. How can she say that what Ross did was ok, but not ok what the Washington County Sherriff did. makes no sense and not an intelligent take at all.
“… the true nature of the crime”
How do you know what the true nature of the crime is without having seen all the evidence yet. How can you be sure there has been a crime at all? The fact is… you claim a superior understanding of justice, yet you condemn people before the investigation is complete. How intelligent is that?
It doesn’t take a whole lot of intellegence to put two and two together. If he didn’t do it then why did he commit suicide? You will say next that the investigation is incomplete because we didn’t get the whole story. You can keep trying to hide behind due process, but he lost the right to that when he jumpee off that bridge. He condemned himself.
At this point, you don’t know for a fact why he jumped from the bridge. For all you know, he could have been an innocent man who didn’t want to face the fury of the ignorant mob which condemns before hearing all the evidence. At this stage of the MSP investigation, my speculation is as valid as yours.
Like watching TV, we all have the opportunity to either read or not read anybody’s column, either on the ‘net or on paper print.
Very funny, John. How could we know what’s in it until we read it?
I dunno…….friggin Mayberry with Andy and Barny seems much more tolerable day after day.
The very first thing that crossed my mind when I saw this opinion piece was what does Renee Ordway have to do with this case?
Should Ross have talked with the Maine State Police detective before telling Carlson about the investigation?
Maybe it’s the other way around. The state police should have inquired of Ross about any status or privileges Carlson had. Knowing that he is about to have privileges revoked by the sheriff is a good reason to bring him in for questioning right away.
good point. BUT, it seems that this is what MSP’s intention was. Did Ross contribute to Carlson’s decision to jump?…..who knows? But the argument can be made.
The state police would know they have to treat it the same way they would when a cop or school teacher is under investigation. It was their decision to put off questioning Carlson for the time being. Donnie Smith and the others should leave the matter alone as long as the state police aren’t complaining.
Neither Ross nor the state police expected him to jump off a bridge because they didn’t think he was guilty. That’s understandable because the investigation was just getting started.
I’ll add that I seriously doubt the state police thought they were keeping the investigation a big secret from Carlson. They would know better than that.
I agree, the state police would have had contacted him. Only if there was an impending investigation. The state police treated it as any other investigation, Glenn Ross did not.
Having said that. I am assuming (and that’s not a good thing to do) that both Carlson and Ross knew of the pending investigation. If that is indeed the case, why would Ross speak with Carlson regarding jail visitation?
If all three, the MSP, Carlson, and Ross knew…..what’s the purpose of redacting his visitation, and doing it personally? Here is the point, Ross knew it and so didn’t Carlson, but yet he still met with a person that is being investigated…..why?
I think that Sheriff Ross should take the high road. He’s an honorable and dedicated man that has served well. On the other hand, he compromised an on going investigation by his own volition, that cannot be allowed. He should tender his resignation and not let this go any further.
As far as Donnie Smith goes……he has enough worries, a primary contest, and then an election. The people from Washington County will take care of Donnie.
I think Sheriff Ross’ tenure should be determined by the voters of the county.
I agree. But I would hate to see an honorable and decent man get chomped through the political grinder for the sake of a personal relationship with a person who cared.
With all due respect, it’s not your place to make the decision. Let the Sheriff and the voters decide what will become of his career.
Even better – let the state police speak up if they think Ross compromised their investigation. The people running the investigation are the first ones I would be looking at. I’m sure they knew Carlson would learn of the investigation. Maybe they didn’t want to interview Carlson until he was already “feeling the heat”. I do wonder about that sort of thing.
Good point.
The Sheriff made his decision. It’s up to the voter’s now
A twice-removed defense of her family friend, Carlson. Transparent as it gets.
Hard to believe that 2 months after Bob’s death, we’re still hearing about pieces of Bob’s life in ME. Stay tuned once they start investigating his life in MA.
I am thinking the same…
The heads up allowed him to control the way that he was going to be punished for his acts. I am sure most people in that have commited the types of crimes and are looking at there image being torn down and jail time would love the chance to run and hide.
Excellent article. Thank you, Renee. You had courage to write it seeing all of the cynical comments that have been written the past few days. My prayers are with Sheriff Ross. It is a shame that most people seem to negate all of the good that Bob Carlson did over the years. As Jesus said, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”
If he did what is said that he did, no amount of good will undo that. period.
Would Jesus have approved of a child molester if that person also worked with the poor and infirm? If he would have I think that you might want to rethink your devotion to someone that preys on the innocent.
This is just what I meant when saying Renee had courage to write the article. :)
Yes, she has courage to write the article…. what about the victim(finding the courage)? He tried… but no matter the relationship he was in, he was so groomed and dependent on Bob Carlson, so many years of dependency, he would never escape…He told me that he knew Renee Ordway, and all he had to do was write a letter to her, and Bob would fall from that pedestal he created for himself …. I so wish he had listened to me, and written that letter.
Yes, what about the victim. We know nothing about this person’s dependability as a witness, at least not yet.
Are you casting judgment on the victim?
No we know nothing of the accountability of BOB, or the VICTIM.
Bob has done a lot of good things.
He was a pillar of the community.
I also think if Bib was NOT guilty he would have done the right thing, he would have fought for what was right.
No one here is proclaiming to be SIN free.
You seem to be a bit bias to child molesters?
Just my opinion, I dont care if you like it or not!
You can bet that the MSP is interested in the credibility of the alleged victim and are examining that part of the case in depth. Also, until the facts are released by the MSP, your speculation is nothing but speculation. You seem to be a bit biased toward witch hunts and condemning people before all the evidence is in…just my opinion, I don’t care if you like it or not.
Read your words and apply them to yourself.
You can bet that the MSP is interested in the credibility of the alleged victim and are examining that part of the case in depth. Also, until the facts are released by the MSP, your speculation is nothing but speculation. You seem to be a bit biased toward witch hunts and condemning people before all the evidence is in…just my opinion, I don’t care if you like it or not.
Certainly not if you were to defend him in court. Do you know him, do you know of his reputation? Of course you don’t, but your opinions of other posters ask the same questions as you ask of this last comment of yours.
Would you care to try again to make sense… I didn’t catch the meaning of your last post.
Not “WE”…..you. I do know.
Then we will all know the facts when the results of the investigation are released. Until then, the public doesn’t have the benefit of your facts.
Then perhaps you should tone down your assumptions and opinions. You seem a bit biased.
All I’m saying is: We don’t know anything for certain until the MSP releases the results of their investigation. Yet, there are uninformed people here who speak as if they know the whole truth, and are condemning other citizens before all the facts are out in the open. For what it’s worth, I am indeed biased against that course of action.
It is still not too late to write Renee a letter and may be healing.
Jesus would have looked at you and said, “If you are without sin, cast the first stone.”
How do you know what Jesus would have said…aweful PRESUMPTIOUS of you! Isn’t that what you have been saying throughout these posts. Is it a FACT that Jesus said that or would have said that to this person. Hypocrit.
What do you care about presumptuous behavior? It’s your favorite tool. I’m surprised that you aren’t patting me on the back. By the way, work on your spelling skills if your opinions are to be accepted as coming from a relatively educated person.
You just enjoy being an antagonist. It is so easy to argue on the side of “that’s you opinion.” You are taking a position that allows you to never be wrong in your eyes. In reality you are making yourself look like someone that is just arguing for the sake of it. You must be a Republican. You resort to name calling and picking at my spelling. I am hitting wrong keys because I am trying to type with a bum hand. You take a stance which puts you in a position to say I told you so, but when you are wrong, people forget what you said because it is insignificant.
Get over yourself. If you don’t like my points, don’t read them, or refute them. Bottom line is: It’s a deeply held American tradition to wait until all the evidence is in before you condemn the accused. You argue against that principle. Fine. I think you’re wrong.
“It is a shame that most people seem to negate all of the good that Bob Carlson did over the years.”
The evidence is showing that the “good” was nothing more than a premediated defense on Carlson’s part, a way to avoid detection. That was part of his evil conduct. Therefore, it does negate the “good.”
“The evidence is showing …”
What do you know about the evidence? The investigation hasn’t been completed and/or released. Does the fact that you are willing to convict people before all the evidence is in negate your past good sense with regard to justice?
The evidence that we, the public, have is: (1) Various law enforcement officials received an anonymous letter accusing Carlson of sexually abusing a boy when the boy was 11 years old back in the 1970s; (2) a woman claiming to be the boy’s sister has corroborated allegations in the anonymous letter; (3) Carlson committed suicide shortly after being told that he was being investigated by the State Police for sexually abusing an 11-year-old boy in the 1970s and shortly after meeting with the boy, now an adult; (4) Carlson’s resume was riddled with fabricated credentials.
Had Carlson not fabricated his resume, you could argue that he tried to “make right” his evil deeds. Had Carlson not killed himself, he would be able to defend himself. But Carlson killed himself so he could never be questioned about the allegations.
Carlson never would never have been able to assume the positions he did in the community without fabricating his resume. Therefore, he never would have been in a position to benefit from anybody’s doubt about any claims against him. He built up his false credentials for no reason other than to appear to be a good person incapable of sexually abusing children. He had to become part of the “in” crowd so he could last as long as he did.
You assume that what was said in the anonymous letter is true. You also assume that what the “sister” claimed to know is true. You have no way of knowing whether she is mistaken, or worse, because the investigation is not complete and has not been released yet. Justice in the community is not built upon the uninformed assumptions of the mob.
Some of us don’t have to assume. We lived it!
So it just so happens that Carlson made up his credentials so he could take charge of a church and then found himself falsely accused of sexually abusing a kid, a child whom he befriended while in charge of that church? Then, instead of defending himself, he decided to kill himself, only hours after talking with the man he is accused of abusing as a child?
Who knows? Do you know all the FACTS? If so, perhaps you should be speaking to the MSP, rather than releasing your facts on this blog prior to the completion of the investigation.
Much more than you do or you would not be so ignorant with your statements.
So, you are privy to the investigation, hmm? Why don’t you tell us all about it? Maybe in your zeal to crucify the Sheriff, you have done what you are accusing the Sheriff of doing…releasing information about the case before the MSP is ready to issue the results of their investigation.
The influence that Bob Carlson had on the law enforcement profession in the State of Maine goes back several decades. Carlson was a faculty member at the Municipal and State Police academy in the 80’s-2000’s in which he had an influence on how the new police cadets approached their job and how they communicated. I have several friends in law enforcement who have told me that Carlson gave an in depth class on interpersonal communication, which consisted of telling each recruit what type of person they were and why they were in the field of law enforcement. This influence and power that he had with police officers for decades was very evident with his violations of parking laws throughout the Bangor area, the speed violations with the vehicle from the East Orrington Congregational Church and the vehicle the Penobscot County Sheriffs Department allowed him to use equipped with lights and siren as he drove around exceeding the speed limit without responding to an emergency calls. His influence was deeply ingrained not only in the Bangor area law enforcement profession, but across the state. This was a well developed plan by a manipulator who had access to the minds of young cops as they began their training. He would always end his trainings with them, by Printing his name in bold letters on a board in front of the class of new police officers and state “ when you see this name on a license or other related business, remember It’s God helper, let him go” which was always received with a laugh. However the message was placed in their minds with a purpose. Where was the checking of Carlson’s credentials by the criminal justice academy prior to letting him be an instructor there? If they had done their job, he may have not have had the influence that he did for over three decades. They too have to answer for their mistakes and the fact that they were allowed to be duped, when they are the ones who are supposed to be on the front lines of teaching the public of how to prevent fraud. There needs to be a lot of answers before thing are to get better and trust restored.
I keep thinking about the comment a PCHC official made in the BDN recently when asked if the healthcare company had checked Carlson’s credentials. Paraphrasing: “it was Rev Carslon, why would we?” Sentiment llke that is what opened many doors for the man – unfettered access. Let it be a lesson to us to not blindly follow any man who is merely human.
Excellent post. Completely true and verifiable with any MCJA Cop in the area and outside the area. This collar wearing, improper parking miscreant had every angle covered from the robe to the badge. His congregation didnt ask and he didn’t tell. Glenn Ross was quoted in an article yesterday saying he still didnt believe Carlson was a criminal until the reports were in. Whhaaaaat? He took a a Greg Louganis over allegations? Does Ross live in a brown clad bubble of denial? He is the only law enforcement officer in the area that isnt sold on the phony speeding samaritan. Check a few records in the local law enforcement records system of some of Carlson’s antics using his Sheriff’s Department issued and installed PA speaker to gather kids around his car in order for him to counsel them in stranger danger.., Oh yeaaaahh. He was a helpmate to the God above. Renee’, get off the couch and dig around a little and you will find what others know. All doubters should read a book called “The man in the Rockefeller suit: the astonishing rise and spectactular fall of a serial imposter”. Carlson duped an entire community and destroyed the first line of defense, then moved on to do bad things to its most vulnerable. I cannot believe that a Sheriff who continued to facilitate this ongoing fraud is standing by his man. If he doesnt believe it; shame on him. If he does believe it and is not being completely truthful; shame on the voters of Penobscot County next time around. Ross admitted in earlier articles that Carlson was his wise counsel at least two times a week. He will never step down because of this shake up. Carlson was not a threat to adults in jail and when Ross said he told him about the investigation because of this fact, it cannot be true. Ross may not have lied everytime he has spoken lately, but it is apparent that he lied at least once because the story changes daily.
Where were you back in the day when you could have put an end to Carlson’s sham? Apparently, you didn’t think badly enough of the circumstances to launch an effort to out Carlson.
Did we get up on the wrong side of the bed? Why are you arguing with everybody today?
What’s the matter with you? I’m simply offering opposing viewpoints to the know-it-alls here who have decided to condemn people before the facts are out. What’s so unusual about that?
you are ridiculas.
The all-knowing, misspelling judge speaks…
For an investigation of this sort to begin, you NEED a victim. If a VICTIM had come forward years ago, an investigation WOULD have been opened. A victim did come forward, finally. The rest of the story is clear. The suspect was tipped off about the investigation by the same person that provided the suspect with a credentials, a badge and a set of blue lights. Those items are usually reserved for POLICE OFFICERS who have had an extensive background check that would include a trip to their hometown to speak to those that know them. They would also have their diplomas, high school and college, reviewed to make sure they were not fraudulent. The officers would then have a polygraph examination in order to make sure they were telling the truth about their accomplishments and background. If even one of these steps were followed Carlson would have been “outed” a long, long time ago. Sadly, none of these things were done. He didnt have a badge from Hampden, Orono, Bangor, Brewer, Holden, Veazie, Ellsworth or any other town. He carried a badge from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office. Who do you think hold some responsibility for that? Me? Nope. Good guess. Hint: The same guy who told him he was being investigated for sexually abusing kids. This information allowed Carlson the opportunity to kill himself before being spoken to by the State Police. Did Ross notify the State Police that he let Carlson know? Nope. In other words, he was asked to keep it confidential and then realized…….wow….my prisoners might be at risk, OMG, I’d better tell Carlson to stay out of the jail. The bottom line is Lifetime_Mainah, if a victim had come out long ago about what Carlson did, police would have investigated and probably could have put on a good case. Victims fear reprisal from their abusers. If you abuser had blue lights, a badge and a robe, the fear of coming out might be too much. The cover for BOB CARLSON (if that is his real name) was provided by Sheriff Ross and his ability to avoid prosecution or at least an intial interview was provided by……drum rolllllll, Sheriff Ross. He might not have broken the law, but he allowed the law to be broken.
Some stones are bigger than others. You need to come to terms with the fact that his acts were false acts predicated on a false image.
I believe this is an opinion piece (editorial) not an article (facts).
Give Sheriff Ross the benefit of the doubt. No laws were broken, as for Smith leaving the MSA? Buh-bye…
It’s not that he broke the law……he broke the trust. The benefit of the doubt is an argument used in court, not law enforcement.
“he broke the trust.”
That’s an opinion, not necessarily the truth.
If you were a maine state trooper…..would you tell the Sheriff who you are investigating after this incident? Seriously, would you? I wouldn’t, that’s trust, like it or not. There’s thing called investigation….they do it without the suspect not necessarily knowing about all of it.
You can’t do that when the Sheriff tells you that you are being investigated, that makes it kind of hard. So the next time you investigate, do you tell the person that told the suspect that they are being investigated? …..NO
If you wish, I’ll say the same thing in french or spainish. but the fact of the matter is, he compromised an investigation, he did it knowingly and willfully.
The second highest ranking prosecutor in the state says that the police tell suspects of investigations all the time. Your hind sight is 20/20, but you don’t even know at this point whether the MSP has a gripe with what the Sheriff did, or how big a gripe if one exists at all.
That is the prosecutors opinion, not necessarily the truth. Prosecutors make mistakes like the rest of us. If a mere mortal such as you and I engaged in similar action, I am sure “the second highest ranking prosecutor in the state” would term our actions as obstruction of justice. Our elected officials are by the very nature of their position held to a higher standard than the rest of us. They asked to be placed in the position of public trust, they should behave in a manner beyond reproach. Taking the legality off the table,common sense and ethical standards would dictate that if they are not able to conduct themselves in such a manner due to personal relationships, they should ask a colleague to step in and deal with the situation at hand on their behalf. This is called leadership, the ability to delegate tasks to others more suited to conduct the business at hand. If we are to believe the sheriff acted in good faith like many of the posters on here purport, perhaps he should allow an independent outside review board to examine his actions in stead of people he deals with on a daily basis such as “the second highest ranking prosecutor in the state” if he is then found to be without fault, perhaps the populace would let it rest. As it stands now there is an appearance of improper behavior strongly believed by some. All of us, no matter where we stand on the issue are the “public” and we are ones the sheriff answers. This cloud cannot hang over the Sheriff’s office. It will taint any action he may engage himself in.
I believe the Sheriff has said that he welcomes the scrutiny. He also didn’t have to reveal to investigators that he spoke to Carlson. Yet, he chose to do so, ostensibly to conform to the code of honesty expected of law enforcement officials. Also, the legal opinion of a Deputy Attorney General with the decades of experience that William Stokes has accumulated should carry some degree of credibility.
I agree is should/would in many situations. Would it not possess more creditability if some group of people as opposed to a single person who is closely associated with Sheriff Ross removed from the situation facilitated a review of the Sheriff’s actions?
Again, I have not heard that Sheriff Ross is expressing any objection to a full and impartial examination of the circumstances.
He compromised his legitimacy with the public, that’s enough scrutiny for any one.
So, you’re speaking for all the citizens in Penobscot County now, hmm? Good luck with that.
I’m not speaking for anyone…..are you? You seem to think that whatever goes on doesn’t involve anyone else but you. Good luck with that right back at cha
“…that’s enough scrutiny for anyone.”
That sounds an awful lot like you’re speaking for me, and everyone else, Jack. Just so you know, I don’t agree with your position. So don’t go on record speaking for me.
He did so because he knew what he did wasn’t right. And he may also feel a bit guilty about Carlson’s subsequent action.
It’s not what the AG thinks, no law was broken, he’s out. It’s what the people that elected him think.
“It’s what the people that elected him think.”
Precisely. And I believe the jury is still out on what the people of the county think.
You are full of it on this case.
You can only see things your way.
A lot of people dont like my post.
I read the responses, sometimes, and it opens my mind.
You are caught up in ONLY what you think.
You are not wanting others to judge, but that is what you have done ALL through this post.
KEEP IN MIND THIS IS OPEN POST.
That is what keeps it fun.
If you are right fighting you will be upset.
I have no idea what you’re trying to say. This is all just a lot of fun to you? Thankfully, the justice system is not run by people like you.
The elected Sheriff do not end up on court much to testify. But, I see you point
Give Sheriff Ross the benefit of the doubt, no laws were broken and an investigation is underway. As for Smith leaving the MSA? Buh-bye…
I understand that you are urging patience, practicality, and thoroughness. I agree with you, Donnie Smith just seems to want to jump into the spotlight for some reason, and that will reach back and bite him. Those that seek the attention, will get it; more often than not, it’s not the kind that they desire.
However, Sheriff Ross has compromised his principle and duty. He knows that he should have contacted the MSP, he knows his discussion with Deputy Story wasn’t the right way to approach it. He also knows that he did not need to provide any reason to the reverend as to why he was interrupting his jail visits.
Having said that, Sheriff Ross’s reputation is questioned, his ability to make sound law enforcement decisions are also questioned. Donnie Smith will crash and burn, Glenn Ross doesn’t need to do that, he was being human. But he ought not to be the Sheriff any longer. The honorable thing for him to do would be to resign.
That’s your opinion. We’ll see what the public says at the next election.
Are you part of the “good ol’ boy network” that is going down faster than a burning bush?
Can’t stand to have your premature assumptions challenged, hmm? Tough.
In all honesty I think the maine sherriff assosciation should get rud of donny smoth he is nothing but a spoiled papmpered lil kid who just got lucky and got a law enforcement job.He has cut back on sherriff patrols in washington county and if it’s run his way he dosen’t want no part in the matter.
So we shouldn’t jump to conclusions, but you may? I wish there was an independent review panel.
Ross had no right to even speak to Carlson, NONE. And by choosing to do so he put everyone connected in danger. Ross obviously didn’t really KNOW Carlson. Carlson could have gone and killed his victim, the victims family….who knows!! Yet Ross seen it his duty to give him a heads up????? The good ole boy club has gone to hell. I agree with Ross should be very ashamed of himself and resign. The trust is gone.
“Ross had no right to even speak to Carlson, NONE.”
First, the Deputy AG has said that police tell suspects of investigations all the time. Second, Ross didn’t have to tell investigators of his conversation with Carlson about the investigation. But Ross volunteered that information. That sounds like honesty to me.
“First, the Deputy AG has said that police tell suspects of investigations all the time” Mr. Stokes is correct but neglects to mention that it is the investigating officer or agency that makes these facts know to suspects, not someone outside of the investigation like Sheriff Ross.
“Second, Ross didn’t have to tell investigators of his conversation with Carlson about the investigation. But Ross volunteered that information. That sounds like honesty to me.” You are right, Sheriff Ross didn’t have to tell investigators about his conversation with Carlson, but I’m pretty sure the moment Ross learned the news that Carlson had committed suicide the Sheriff knew he was in trouble. Sheriff Ross had no way of knowing who Calrson may have told about their meeting and knew that he had to try and get in front of the impending train wreck that was coming his way. That’s not honesty, that’s self]preservation.
Condemning a man based on a “pretty sure” is a pretty shaky leap.
So I’ll change the sentence to read, “Sheriff Ross knew the moment he learned the news that Carlson had committed suicide that he was in trouble”. Does that make you feel better?
How do you know what Ross knew? Are you a mind reader? The fact is that you don’t know anything for certain on this count. Maybe you’re a convict that Ross housed in PCJ at one time, and you’ve harbored a grudge against him ever since. Who knows? I can speculate more, but without your ability to read minds, it’s probably wiser for me to wait for the investigation to run its course, at which point we can all look at the facts instead of exercising our voodoo powers.
Ross would have immediately suspended his officers for conduct unbecoming until a hearing if they had done that. Talk to former employees to see how ruthless he is. And you have always been a hack for police administrators who will feed you information. Your credibility just sinks lower and lower
I have concerns on Ross and his reasons for going to Carlson. Because his first question to carlson as his friend and his first answer to the sheriffs Dept. wasnt. What the heck is all this stuff about you and boys and my Jail. please tell me its not true. And I havent read all the papers, but is there something I missed. To me that would be the only reason to speak to someone accused of being a pedophile as a sheriff in a investigation.(am i wrong) It wouldnt be to give a heads up to on why you cant come to visit juveniles locked up. Really
Donnie Smith is a dangerous man.
I wonder if all the people sticking up for Ross still would be if Colson had murdered the abuse victam, considering his deviant behavior, it definately was a possiblilty. What Ross did was extremely wrong and he should step down. I am appalled by the arguement that Colson would have killed himself a few weeks later when he then found out, that is just pure speculation.
You don’t even know the names of the people involved. And until the results of the investigation are released, you don’t know the facts of the case. That’s why some people are not rushing to conclusions.
I am not sure what you mean, are you saying that Ross did not talk to Colson and Colson did not then got to see the victim? These are the facts I based my statement on. I would come to the same conclusion even if he did not see the victim, and Ross himself has said he told Colson, I am not sure there is anything else that could come out that would make it “right”
The name of the suspect in question here is “Carlson” not “Colson.” Please check what few facts we do know before indulging in speculation. Otherwise, all of the Colsons in our community might decide to murder the abuse victim (just speculating). Secondly, until the investigation is complete and the facts are released, you don’t know why Carlson went to see the alleged victim. I could offer plenty of speculation that would counter your speculation, but what is the sense of that? The results of the investigation will go a long way toward clarifying the truth for everyone.
I am much more concerned about the “unfettered access” Bob Carlson had to children who were at PCHC and Penobscot Pediatrics. I know parents who were told they would not be allowed to stay with their children getting dental services. They found another dentist.
If Sheriff Ross was so concerned about others, did he call Ken Schmidt and give him a heads up too?
It seems to me that Sheriff Ross’s priorities were contrary to his call of duty.
His explanation for alerting Carlson of the investigation was to provide a reason for restricting his jail access. Would anyone else receive this sort of preferential treatment under these circumstances?
Being more concerned about the well being of the inmates under his jurisdiction over that of innocent children who were or might have become victims of the Reverend in his final days is absurd!
The Sheriff acted unethically and must pay the consequences!
If there is one person on this planet more incredulous than Bob Carlson, it is Donnie Smith. And that’s a fact, Jack! Carlson stole the “above the fold” spotlight for a couple of months, now Sheriff “Fife” wants it back.
Carlson you have missed up alot of lifes and taken alot of faith away from people how trusted you. You where a big part of of 1000’s of lifes including mine. Someone that we thought we could share things with and look up to and be proud to know that Bob would listen and help. But little did we know how wrong we where. Glenn Ross did the right thing by telling him something. Did you think that Glenn wanted him in the jail around the inmates. The Maine State Police should have interview him on Friday when the story broke. McCausland should have not waited but he did and know I would think Ross career is over. Ross has been a great Sheriff over the years its a thankless job. Damn if you do and damn if you don’t. Carlson was someone that Ross trusted and thought as a great friend. What shock it must have been to Ross when he found out after 33 yrs. of friendship.
*****It’s been made much of that the investigator who interviewed Ross that morning made no mention in his final report that the reason Ross had told Carlson of the investigation was to limit his access to inmates. Instead, the investigator wrote that Ross told Carlson about the case so the well-known and much revered community leader would not be “blind-sided” and because they were friends.Quickly, however, Sheriff Story came forward and confirmed Ross’ account, saying he indeed had been informed by Ross on the bridge that night that he felt it had been necessary to inform Carlson because of his close contact with the inmates in the jail and that it was his responsibility as sheriff.*****
Sheriff Story…that is a pretty BIG “mistake’ for an official police report. Doesnt do much for YOUR credibility in past or future reports.
Ross was very distraught (crying) that night. He could have told Sheriff Story one thing that night and the detective something else.
It sounds to me that it is a good thing that Sheriff Smith did what he did as people now know what Sheriff Ross did. Maybe Sheriff Ross did not break the law but it seems to me he should of let the State Police know that he was going to tell Carlson. And how often did Carlson actually go to the jail is another question in my mind.
Renee: Your chronically weak judgement has been bought and paid for by your long-term professional and personal relationship with these people and reeks of hypocrisy.
Renee………………excellent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
When things like this happen, and the public finds out about it, it does nothing but sow the seeds of mistrust between the public and the people paid to protect the public. If law enforcement would get it in their heads that, like it or not, they live in a glass house. And they need to conduct themselves accordingly. Then things like this wouldn’t happen. And, these boards wouldn’t be full of police bashing. A little common sense and a call to the investigators for advise would have avoided this situation. But… sometimes people in high ranking places get to the point were they think that they answer to no one. Even the people that elected them.
Everyone is arguing about facts here. The facts I see are: 1 MSP and others received letters about Carlson doing some unspeakable things to an 11 year old child. Fact 2: MSp. told Glenn Ross about an investigation into the letter. Fact 3: Ross told Carlson Fact 4: Carlson jumped from the Narrows bridge. Fact 5: Carlson’s credentials were falsified. Those are the facts that are known for sure. Everything else is speculation. The only other fact is one of my own: Carlson always gave me the creeps but, I could never put a finger on why.
Smith thrashes Ross, so Ordway smashes Smith!? Donnie Smith is not the only person who feels there ought to be an unbiased investigation regarding Ross’ actions. People, who have made comments on the articles about Ross, have suggested it as well. Why attack Smith?
It gives me great relief to know that so many posters on this forum know so much more than the Deputy Attorney General. I agree with Ordway’s point. Sheriff Smith’s handling of his concerns was childish and has no place in a professional organization.
Donnie Smith? This guy has an obvious obsession for attention and a need for power! He needs to concentrate on a county and department that are riddled with controversy, crime and many would say corruption. The press needs to stop printing his “late night e-mails” ignore him as that will drive him crazy and hopefully make him fade away as a bad memory. Ask yourself has he been in the press for anything positive? Has he and “his department” made progress in bringing down the crime rate in that county?
ohh but according to him his ratings are the best in the state….what a joke!
Ms. Ordway, the one thing these sheriffs have in common is the inability to keep their mouths shut.
Renee Ordway,
Who are you trying to convince…the readers or yourself? This entire article offers nothing and is a waste of space in the BDN. Quite frankly, Im upset at the fact I wasted 10 miutes of my life reading it!!!! Thats 10 minutes Ill never get back…
If this reporter does not see the ethical implications of Sheriff Ross’s actions she should maybe consider investing in an ethics class for herself. If it were not for people like Sheriff Smith the world would go to hell in a hat basket.
The following quote from the article says it all: “Ross’ close and decades-old friendship and alliance”. GOOD OLDE BOYS CLUB AT ITS BEST.
If a trooper had taken the action that Sheriff Ross took he would have been suspended immediately. I can appreciate the position Sheriff Smith took and my hat is off to him. We need more people to stand up, intervene to stop a mugging or beating and not just look the other way. We need law enforcement personnel that truly represent the law and the citizens they are sworn to protect and when they see a wrong make an effort to right it, even if it was caused by one of their friends or employees. The actions taken by Sheriff Ross is the same sort of nepotism that brought about the Penn State scandal and ruined so many lives for a decade or more.
Now I hope that you as a reporter can understand that and that you become part of the solution and not part of the problem. I am of the old school when reporters just delivered the truth with out personal agendas. It almost sounds as though you may be either a member of the GOOD OLDE BOYS CLUB or a cheer leader for them.
You kidding right. Smith is a joke and Sheriff Storey put him in his place. Thank you Sheriff Storey!!
LOL
if you say so Renee
thanks for the infomercial
a species that hires bodyguards to protect them looses the ability to protect itself and is doomed to extinction
JPD officer pleads to federal charges
see link for full story
http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20120114/NEWS01/201140307/Local-Briefs-Trooper-injured-ex-officer-pleads-guilty?odyssey=obinsite
A former Jackson police officer pleaded guilty Friday to conspiracy to violate the civil rights of a robbery victim regarding an incident where he is accused of stealing money from the victim’s home.
Marvent Brooks, 36, also pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered short-barrel shotgun as part of a plea agreement