Reader comments
Lawsuit filed over Uintah YouTube Taser incident
100 comments | Read story
- Page:
- < Previous
- 1
- 2
Common Sense and Self Control | 4:46 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Too many "average citizens" are lacking common sense on this issue.
When I was growing up you wouldn't think of running your mouth with a
police officer. All that's changed today. Massey's actions are just
a microcosm of a much larger problem the younger generation of America have
today: Zero repsect for authority (teachers, parents, and elderly included) and
being extremely egocentric. Argue all you want about how unprofessional the
officer may or may not have been, but Massey is the variable in this whole mess
that was the catalyst. Game over for Massey when he decides in his mind
HE'S running the show on the highway NOT the officer. If he was truly
honest with himself he would look in the mirror and acknowledge his lack of
common sense and self control got him tazed. Officer safety is the Number One
priority in this situation. The officer is making sure he's going home
that night.
Abuse of power | 4:57 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Great comment Leesa!
This revolting situation was simply a power struggle between 2 people and one happened to be a cop.
If issuing the citation had been the cops objective, he could have walked away without a signature. But instead, his need to prove dominance appears to have been more important.
He abused his authority and the public trust in order to "win". We all lost on this one. Police power over citizens MUST be tightly regulated.
Washington, Jefferson, Madison and the rest wanted to protect us from situations like this. Ours is one of the few countries where a cop isn't right just because he's a cop.
Rather than fighting back, a citizens only lawful defense against police tyranny is a lawsuit. Otherwise he ends up unconscious on the side of the road, bleeding from the head with a wife and child looking on.
Call him "sue happy", "immature" or "stupid", but Massey's lawsuit is a far less violent approach than the one chosen by "Utah's finest."
I'd rather be sued than tazered any day, and I'll trust a court of law over a power-blind "officer of the peace."
This revolting situation was simply a power struggle between 2 people and one happened to be a cop.
If issuing the citation had been the cops objective, he could have walked away without a signature. But instead, his need to prove dominance appears to have been more important.
He abused his authority and the public trust in order to "win". We all lost on this one. Police power over citizens MUST be tightly regulated.
Washington, Jefferson, Madison and the rest wanted to protect us from situations like this. Ours is one of the few countries where a cop isn't right just because he's a cop.
Rather than fighting back, a citizens only lawful defense against police tyranny is a lawsuit. Otherwise he ends up unconscious on the side of the road, bleeding from the head with a wife and child looking on.
Call him "sue happy", "immature" or "stupid", but Massey's lawsuit is a far less violent approach than the one chosen by "Utah's finest."
I'd rather be sued than tazered any day, and I'll trust a court of law over a power-blind "officer of the peace."
Comments continue below
what a waste | 4:57 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
of time for our legal system. this guy got exactly what he deserved!
Agit8r | 5:06 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Massey, after all of the hoopla, plead guilty to the ticket. Now, he's
going to spend his money and lose a court battle over the same incident. I hope
the defendants, UHP and/or Masssey can recoup court costs after the suit is
thrown out.
Let Justice be done | 5:13 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
-It is obvious that both were partially in the wrong, but that the officer used
force too readily.
-It is equally obvious that Massey was not injured in any way, other than his pride.
I hope the that the jury finds for Massey, then awards him one dollar. Thus he has the satisfaction of winning his case-less the 33 cent cut the lawyer gets-but also recieves an award commensurate to his damages-essentially none.
-It is equally obvious that Massey was not injured in any way, other than his pride.
I hope the that the jury finds for Massey, then awards him one dollar. Thus he has the satisfaction of winning his case-less the 33 cent cut the lawyer gets-but also recieves an award commensurate to his damages-essentially none.
Phil | 5:29 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
I have read all the criminal code, the only command you are suppose to obey is
the command to, "stop." When was that ever given? I love how the
media has report that you have to obey all lawful commands. Well there you have
it, the command as stated in the law that you have to obey or you are breaking
the law. I was having a conversation with a cop and I am afraid I had a better
understanding of criminal code after reading through it twice once a month ago
and another time 15 years ago.
To Phil | 5:56 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
You have not read the code completely, or maybe you are just not able to
understand it. You are required to obey an officer when you are pulled over.
No, you do not have to sign the ticket, but then you get arrested, that is the
way it is. Also, for those who say Mr. Massey's requests were reasonable,
the officer does not need to show you any sign. That is absurd. If you feel he
is wrong, you can contest the ticket and take pictures of the speed limit sign.
Also, the statement that Massey was not a danger is ignorant at best and a down
right lie at worst. Any person who when pulled over will not comply with the
officer's orders and walks toward the officer, is a potential danger. The
trooper used the appropriate level of force to defuse the situation and to do it
quickly without anyone else being hurt.
Michael | 5:58 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
After this village idiot (Massey) loses this stupid lawsuit, I hope the Officer
and the UHP file one against him.
And I think the village idiot should have his driver's license suspended indefinitely. He has NO business operating a motor vehicle that endangers my family.
And I think the village idiot should have his driver's license suspended indefinitely. He has NO business operating a motor vehicle that endangers my family.
bad authority | 6:15 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
What people don't take into consideration is that not EVERYONE goes along
being subject to authority uber alles.
Stop Fascism in its ugly tracks today!
Stop Fascism in its ugly tracks today!
protect our peace officers. | 6:19 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
I have watched the video like every one else; he was reaching into his pocket
and mouthing off the the cop while walking away; he could have been tasered or
shot with a gun as the cop could not know nor should he have to wait to find out
if the person is about to pull a weapon of his own.
Our police officers should be able to fire if the person they have pulled over is threatening.
Our police officers should be able to fire if the person they have pulled over is threatening.
re:daveescaped | 6:20 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Best post of the day. Thanks.
Police State | 6:23 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Good for Massey, its time the NAZI SS aka "Law Enforcement" Officers,
what happened to Police Officer, what happened to "Serve and Protect".
Now it's "LAW ENFORCEMENT".
Bye the way, it is easy to see from the post who the "LAW ENFORCERS" are, take Michael for example.
Time to pass legislation outlawing tasers, we have window tint laws (law enforement is exempt) imposed upon the public because saving one life is worth the imposition. Well saving one life is worth taking tasers from the NAZI SS.
Bye the way, it is easy to see from the post who the "LAW ENFORCERS" are, take Michael for example.
Time to pass legislation outlawing tasers, we have window tint laws (law enforement is exempt) imposed upon the public because saving one life is worth the imposition. Well saving one life is worth taking tasers from the NAZI SS.
Change in policy | 6:25 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Having watched the video, this incident clearly demonstrates that UHP needs a
change in policy.
We should take Tazers away from our highway patrol officers and give them real weapons.
We should take Tazers away from our highway patrol officers and give them real weapons.
Big Brother | 6:31 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
Don't let Big Brother do what it's doing.
Don't let Big Brother do what it's doing.
Massey's the bad guy | 6:47 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
He's lucky he wasn't shot, because he could have been as defiant as he
was being. What a greedy guy.
bad direction | 6:52 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Anybody that okays excessive force is the "bad guy"
"Massey's the bad guy" 6;47.
This not the direction you want society to be heading.
This not the direction you want society to be heading.
all those who want to sue. | 6:55 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
remember this is the UTAH highway patrol. who is going the pay the bill if this
sue happy man and his money hungry atorney. The innoccent tax payer. even if he
says he's sueing the officer himself it happened on the job the employer is
responsible for the actions of there employees.
Anonymous | 7:15 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Oh well. I guess the officer should have been better trained.
Stupid people Huh! | 8:11 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Abuse of authority by the officer. I've seen the video several times. The
officer needs to be fired.. Clearly he sees himself above the rest...
My Country | 9:31 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
I am truly saddened by what is going on in our country. I never thought I would
live long enough to see anything like this happening in America.
Taser can't be used on terrorist prisoners to gain compliance because it is considered torture. Yet some of you are saying it's ok to use them on a fellow citizen over a traffic ticket. Mr Massey was NOT violent or threatening. The trooper should have been fired. Shame on the UHP.
Taser can't be used on terrorist prisoners to gain compliance because it is considered torture. Yet some of you are saying it's ok to use them on a fellow citizen over a traffic ticket. Mr Massey was NOT violent or threatening. The trooper should have been fired. Shame on the UHP.
NY | 9:44 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
What a joke. I saw the video. This is just another millenial who thinks the
world revolves around him. This should be thrown out of court.
Craziness!!! | 9:46 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Just because a guy is lippy doesn't justify this kind of force. That's
the point. The force used was excessive. The public has absolutely no recourse
in situations like this except to sue. While most cops are amazing individuals
who do great work there are a few that are not fit for the job because they lack
good judgement and they let the authority that is granted to them by law and by
society to go to their heads. This officer acted as if he was the judge, jury,
and executioner.
All of the people on this forum who can't see injustice are the apathetic people that are forcing our liberty and our country down the drain. Use your heads! Don't just turn away and say that this motorist "should have just listened and he wouldn't have been tasered". If our founding fathers would have just listen to the King of England then that whole ugly revolutionary war thing wouldn't have happened. This kind of act against a regular guy out for a drive with his family shouldn't be tolerated. The bottom line here is that the force used was excessive.
All of the people on this forum who can't see injustice are the apathetic people that are forcing our liberty and our country down the drain. Use your heads! Don't just turn away and say that this motorist "should have just listened and he wouldn't have been tasered". If our founding fathers would have just listen to the King of England then that whole ugly revolutionary war thing wouldn't have happened. This kind of act against a regular guy out for a drive with his family shouldn't be tolerated. The bottom line here is that the force used was excessive.
mama mia | 9:51 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
How did he get the video of himself being tassered? I watched the video a couple
of times and what I saw was a man walking away from a UHP officer who was
telling him to stop. The man had his hands in his pockets and didn't follow
instructions. Now tassering may have been a little harsh, but come on people,
how often have we seen videos of any highway patrolman being the victim because
the citizen didn't follow instructions and had something that could be used
as a weapon hidden on the personage. Cut the officer some slack. Shame on
Massey! He should have followed instructions. I'm pretty sure that's
something we have all been taught since we were little kids. Maybe he missed out
on that life lesson. I'm not really impressed with either party in this
situation.
Not in Law Enforcement | 10:27 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
What is all this flap about police brutality and abuse of authority? After
seeing the video, I opined that the officer had a bit of an attitude and may
have got under Massey's skin. But where do these pinheads get off thinking
that when you defy the law and those who try to enforce it, that you are
entitled to some kind of red-carpet "feel-good" treatment. Officers
put their life on the line every day they go to work. Tasering was a humane and
appropriate way to deal with an irrational person who could have been drawing a
weapon.
To those of you using your freedom of speech to insinuate that "big brother" is robbing you of your freedoms: Most of us in this country don't equate freedom with belligerent anarchy.
To those of you using your freedom of speech to insinuate that "big brother" is robbing you of your freedoms: Most of us in this country don't equate freedom with belligerent anarchy.
Finally Facing a Reckless Act | 10:33 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
I mentioned a few weeks ago that this was coming and I'm glad to see that
Massey is following through. Gardner committed a reckless act by leaving Massey
in cuffs, and laying on the side of the road next to oncoming traffic, AFTER the
arrest. That's more than just a violation of proper procedure, it's a
violation of the law. Gardner had the legal responcibility to complete the
arrest and remove Massey from the side of the road right after cuffing, and
arresting him.
UHP never addressed this part of the video in their investigation because they KNEW that if they had, they could never have returned a finding of legal and reasonable conduct on Gardner's part. Massey will win this lawsuit, because UHP will most certainly prevent the case from seeing the inside of a courtroom. They will NEVER run the risk of having a civil jury assign wrong doing to their organization, and it's also much less expensive than taking it to court. Massey paid his ticket without putting up an argument in court, and UHP will handle this lawsuit in the exact same way, and, to a certain extent, for the very same reason, because it's cheaper.
UHP never addressed this part of the video in their investigation because they KNEW that if they had, they could never have returned a finding of legal and reasonable conduct on Gardner's part. Massey will win this lawsuit, because UHP will most certainly prevent the case from seeing the inside of a courtroom. They will NEVER run the risk of having a civil jury assign wrong doing to their organization, and it's also much less expensive than taking it to court. Massey paid his ticket without putting up an argument in court, and UHP will handle this lawsuit in the exact same way, and, to a certain extent, for the very same reason, because it's cheaper.
Phil | 11:57 p.m. Jan. 18, 2008
Okay, a cop can arrest you for anything. Even for less then not signing a
ticket. Just because you are arrested doesn't mean you broke criminal law.
Mitt Romney was arrested for supposedly not having his registration sticker put
on his boat to some cops liking. With how the system works when a cop starts
doing things like that the cop should get fired. If you have elected officials
in your executive branch of government that are worth a nickel. Not that Utah
does. And in some cases the government gets sued for damages and loses tons of
tax payers dollars.
The whole video | 1:26 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
For those of us who have seen the entire video, we know that the only thing cut
out of it is a long period of waiting time while the officer is in his car,
presumably waiting for information from dispatch about Jared. Also, there are
many comments at the end that are not heard that would be very damaging to
Officer Gardner. Jared's cell phone was in his pocket. His wife got out of
the car to get it from him. He can be heard saying the cell phone is in his
pocket. He was reaching for it, which was not wise as the officer didn't
know what Jared was doing. I see fault on both sides: the officer did not inform
Jared that he was going to arrest him when he told him to get out of the car,
and he didn't get Jared out of harm's way once he was on the ground.
And Jared should have been more respectful to the officer, even if the officer
was not respectful to him. Fault on both sides, but unnecessary use of force on
the part of the officer, who then lied about it to another officer.
Opine this: He could have died | 3:19 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
"Not in Law Enforcement," I don't know where you get off saying
that Massey was defying Gardner since he was merely attempting to reason with
him.
First, Massey basically said, "why waste my money either through paying the citation or taking time off from work to contest it" and "our tax dollars on me having to contest a citation that I shouldn't receive." Gardner had every opportunity to end the discussion on a civil note without putting Massey's life in danger by saying "signing the citation isn't an admission of guilt and refusing to sign will result in me placing you under arrest. Do you wish to sign" but chose not to and the outcome of his tasering Massey could have been fatal.
Second, as the article noted. Massey never made any move towards a weapon and his hands were "outside of his pocket." He didn't know he was under arrest and was only attempting to reason with the officer. Tasering also could have killed Massey but that was the humane way of doing things when simply telling Massey that "if you don't sign the citation I will arrest you" would have sufficed (note the sarcasm).
First, Massey basically said, "why waste my money either through paying the citation or taking time off from work to contest it" and "our tax dollars on me having to contest a citation that I shouldn't receive." Gardner had every opportunity to end the discussion on a civil note without putting Massey's life in danger by saying "signing the citation isn't an admission of guilt and refusing to sign will result in me placing you under arrest. Do you wish to sign" but chose not to and the outcome of his tasering Massey could have been fatal.
Second, as the article noted. Massey never made any move towards a weapon and his hands were "outside of his pocket." He didn't know he was under arrest and was only attempting to reason with the officer. Tasering also could have killed Massey but that was the humane way of doing things when simply telling Massey that "if you don't sign the citation I will arrest you" would have sufficed (note the sarcasm).
This didn't have to happen. | 3:48 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
Michael, "After this village idiot (Massey) loses this stupid lawsuit, I
hope the Officer and the UHP file one against him." That's exactly
what you type of people do and Masey is more intelligent then you and Gardner
put together. His attempt to resort to reason could have saved him and taxpayers
money by avoiding an unnecessary appearance in court.
I don't see any reason for Massey's license to be suspended since he didn't do anything wrong. His actions are those of a reasonable person who hoped to avoid an unnecessary ticket or the hassle and loss of income in contesting it.
Do you beat your kids when they ask you "why do I need to go to bed daddy. Can't I stay up an extra 10 minutes?" Do you slug them in the face when they say "do I really have to mow the lawn. Couldn't I instead clean the bathroom?" Do you taser them when the say "I didn't do it daddy. I wasn't even home when it happened." Of course you do since you have a Gardner personality. Mrs. Massey was right when she said they would have signed the citation if Gardner had explained the situation.
I don't see any reason for Massey's license to be suspended since he didn't do anything wrong. His actions are those of a reasonable person who hoped to avoid an unnecessary ticket or the hassle and loss of income in contesting it.
Do you beat your kids when they ask you "why do I need to go to bed daddy. Can't I stay up an extra 10 minutes?" Do you slug them in the face when they say "do I really have to mow the lawn. Couldn't I instead clean the bathroom?" Do you taser them when the say "I didn't do it daddy. I wasn't even home when it happened." Of course you do since you have a Gardner personality. Mrs. Massey was right when she said they would have signed the citation if Gardner had explained the situation.
The Gardners on here are wrong | 4:15 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
"To Phil (5:56 p.m.),"You are required to obey an officer when you are
pulled over. No, you do not have to sign the ticket, but then you get arrested,
that is the way it is."
There is no disagreement on my part except Massey wasn't given the opportunity to sign or knowingly choose to be arrested or tasered since Gardner never told him that not signing would result in him being arrested and that non-compliance would result in the use of the taser.
Furthermore, Massey's requests were reasonable. It's true that Gardner didn't have to show him the sign but simply stating so would have sufficed and Massey was correct to see if he could resolve the issue without lost of income or time contesting the citation in court.
I don't appreciate being called a liar or ignorant but let me address your comment that Massey was a threat. Nothing in his actions indicated he posed a danger. As for the situation needing to be defused. It could easily have been defused since Mrs. Massey said "if we were wrong we would have signed." Had Gardner told them that signing didn't mean they agreed would have defused the situation.
There is no disagreement on my part except Massey wasn't given the opportunity to sign or knowingly choose to be arrested or tasered since Gardner never told him that not signing would result in him being arrested and that non-compliance would result in the use of the taser.
Furthermore, Massey's requests were reasonable. It's true that Gardner didn't have to show him the sign but simply stating so would have sufficed and Massey was correct to see if he could resolve the issue without lost of income or time contesting the citation in court.
I don't appreciate being called a liar or ignorant but let me address your comment that Massey was a threat. Nothing in his actions indicated he posed a danger. As for the situation needing to be defused. It could easily have been defused since Mrs. Massey said "if we were wrong we would have signed." Had Gardner told them that signing didn't mean they agreed would have defused the situation.
TX | 6:50 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
Police officers put their lives on the line every day. It is obvious from the
video that Massey was disobeying the officer. You can't just ignore an
officer and walk back to your car! Massey is nothing but an irresponsible,
spoiled kid who never learned what respect really is.
Uh huh, sure | 7:41 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
"There was no need for Gardner to Taser Massey because Massey was
non-violent, not threatening in any way, not fleeing and not resisting
arrest," the lawsuit states.
Where does Massey get off thinking that he was not resisting arrest? When he defies Officer Gardner after being ordered to turn around and place his hands behind his back, he was resisting arrest. As soon as he turned his back on the officer with his hand in his pocket, even if it was only partially, he assumed a threatening posture to the officer. Even if his hand was not in his pockets, is the officer just supposed to let him refuse arrest and drive away? Wake up people. Also while the officer may have never said "I'm going to taze you.", it was obviously implied when Massey saw it pointed at him. At that point he needs to think, "Alright, I need to comply with the officer or I'm going to be in a world of hurt." He can't honestly think that the officer is going to just sit there pointing it at him until he gets back in his car and drives away. Some people need to wake up. Geez.
Where does Massey get off thinking that he was not resisting arrest? When he defies Officer Gardner after being ordered to turn around and place his hands behind his back, he was resisting arrest. As soon as he turned his back on the officer with his hand in his pocket, even if it was only partially, he assumed a threatening posture to the officer. Even if his hand was not in his pockets, is the officer just supposed to let him refuse arrest and drive away? Wake up people. Also while the officer may have never said "I'm going to taze you.", it was obviously implied when Massey saw it pointed at him. At that point he needs to think, "Alright, I need to comply with the officer or I'm going to be in a world of hurt." He can't honestly think that the officer is going to just sit there pointing it at him until he gets back in his car and drives away. Some people need to wake up. Geez.
Re.The Gardners on here are wron | 9:50 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
Where is that in the code?
Officer Friendly | 9:53 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
We, the public, employ you, the cops - We employ you as PUBLIC SERVANTS not
DICTATORS - I'd like to citations that the public can have that a cop has
to sign stating that they've done everything they've been told, and
that they have provided me ample and substantial EVIDENCE that what I've
done has been a wreckless act against society that if not enforced could harm
the public welfare. If the cop refuses to sign that document then we ought to
have the right to put him under arrest. If he gives us ANY FLACK WHATSOEVER OR
QUESTIONS OUR MOTIVES then.... WE TASER HIM!!!! I think Massey and this cop and
maybe their wives and of course Massey's new child need to go spend some
quality time together in a Jacuzzi. That's what I think. Speedos
enforced. - - -
Re: TX | 10:52 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
Police officers don't put their lives "on the line" everyday.
EVERYBODY does! WE (the public) employ police officers as public servants to
protect us from criminal, wreckless, threatening acts against us. WE don't
employ them as dictators that are supposed to burden us ignorant acts of
brutality. - This cop needs to 1. apologize to this guy AT LEAST and 2. take a
chill pill. - 3. I think the public ought to have a document that a cop signs
that states that they've supplied enough information to us, and that
they've done their duty in giving us security in knowing that they're
there to protect us and watch out for us - not taser our bloody behinds at the
drop of a hat. If they refuse to sign we should have right to taser them.
Concerned | 11:13 a.m. Jan. 19, 2008
I tasered you for "not following my instructions".
I tasered you for "not following my instructions".
I tasered you for "not following my instructions".
Trooper Gardners words.
Is it sinking in yet folks? Is this accepted in America? Is this the beginning of the new world order? Should I fold my flag and put it in away?
Should I be afraid to ask questions of a law enforcement officer?
Excuse me while I drop to my knees and weep.
I tasered you for "not following my instructions".
I tasered you for "not following my instructions".
Trooper Gardners words.
Is it sinking in yet folks? Is this accepted in America? Is this the beginning of the new world order? Should I fold my flag and put it in away?
Should I be afraid to ask questions of a law enforcement officer?
Excuse me while I drop to my knees and weep.
Anonymous | 7:33 p.m. Jan. 19, 2008
The initial tasering MIGHT be justified but the second one definately was NOT.
This is why I think the Jared does indeed have a case again the officer. Why
was he tasered a second time just after being tased the first time? If the
officer was indeed concerned about public safety he would have known that
because Jared was lying on the ground he was not a threat. But the officer had
to be right in my opion abused his authority and went too far.
ATV Granny | 1:36 p.m. Jan. 20, 2008
The UHP have tried to "cover-up" this taser incident.
Rather than accepting Officer Gardner was wrong for using too much force, they have tried to push everything under the rug, hoping this incident would fade away.
It is difficult to teach our children respect of police officers, when we see incidents such as this. Jared did not deserve the brutality of Officer Gardner. The UHP seems to appear to lack the ability to punish an officer for horrible behavior. Why not admit a terrible mistake was made and try to improve the image of the UHP. This whole incident has given the UHP a huge black eye!
I stand behind Massey 100% and wish him luck in fighting "police brutality" and lying! He deserves justice. We, as citizens should stand up for our rights!
Officer Gardner knowingly lied to his fellow officer. Watch the video. Officer Gardner's superiors have also been part of the problem. Don't give Gardner a "free pass"!
This video coud and should be used to train police officers "what not to do"! Gardner's behavior was deplorable!
Rather than accepting Officer Gardner was wrong for using too much force, they have tried to push everything under the rug, hoping this incident would fade away.
It is difficult to teach our children respect of police officers, when we see incidents such as this. Jared did not deserve the brutality of Officer Gardner. The UHP seems to appear to lack the ability to punish an officer for horrible behavior. Why not admit a terrible mistake was made and try to improve the image of the UHP. This whole incident has given the UHP a huge black eye!
I stand behind Massey 100% and wish him luck in fighting "police brutality" and lying! He deserves justice. We, as citizens should stand up for our rights!
Officer Gardner knowingly lied to his fellow officer. Watch the video. Officer Gardner's superiors have also been part of the problem. Don't give Gardner a "free pass"!
This video coud and should be used to train police officers "what not to do"! Gardner's behavior was deplorable!
RedLava | 12:06 a.m. Jan. 21, 2008
I can't believe the number of people saying the officer was in danger
because Massey got out of the car. He TOLD Massey to get out of the car, never
told him he was arresting him, appeared not to fear Massey because he turned his
back to him as he told him to get out, then immediately reaches for his tazer
before issuing a single command. This is what caused Massey to start backing up,
because Gardner was scaring the living crap out of him by pointing what he
thought was a gun at him without warning or reason. This officer is a textbook
rage addict... first the anger escalation, then the shouting, then the assault,
followed by the realization of what he's done and just like a husband who
just beat his wife, the afterward rationalizing and sweet talk (in this case
towards Massey's wife). This guy should not be on the force with that kind
of inability to handle a little lip-service from a pissed off motorist who
doesn't want a ticket.
Anonymous | 12:05 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008
Too much power in the hands of some is not good.
cover-up | 9:26 a.m. Jan. 22, 2008
Why haven't the results of the Internal affairs investigation been released
? This travesty occured over 4 months ago and the only action taken is a
rubber-stamp UHP investigation . The longer it takes to release findings , the
more it looks like something is being covered up . This case is not that
difficult to examine , There is a video tape ,
an audio tape , and an incident report . What is being hidden?
an audio tape , and an incident report . What is being hidden?
Tom | 1:49 p.m. Jan. 22, 2008
Cover-up asks the question that's been on my mind too. The IA
investigation was supposed to be released last week, and yet, the wait
continues. It makes you wonder if their findings don't match those of
UHP's. Perhaps that would be because IA chose to investigate the entire
event.
As was pointed out by an earlier poster above, Gardner did indeed leave Massey laying on the side of the road AFTER cuffing and arresting him. That cannot be reasonable conduct by any police officer. If a truck had passed by and killed this man, Officer Gardner would be in serious trouble. Maybe IA's investigation, unlike UHP's, included a look at that act of endangerment, and as you'd expect, didn't find Gardner's actions to be at all reasonable, or even legal. Hopefully these findings will be made public soon.
As was pointed out by an earlier poster above, Gardner did indeed leave Massey laying on the side of the road AFTER cuffing and arresting him. That cannot be reasonable conduct by any police officer. If a truck had passed by and killed this man, Officer Gardner would be in serious trouble. Maybe IA's investigation, unlike UHP's, included a look at that act of endangerment, and as you'd expect, didn't find Gardner's actions to be at all reasonable, or even legal. Hopefully these findings will be made public soon.
Concerned Citizen | 10:53 a.m. Jan. 26, 2008
I agree with the comment that this will probably be settled. I suspect that the
UHP does not want Gardner to undergo a deposition for the lawsuit, and then
possibly a cross examination.
In some ways, I hope it does go to court so that there is a federal ruling on the use of tasers. In Minneapolis, the highway patrol tasered a man for being "uncooperative". The man died. It would be nice to know what the threshold is for using a weapon that can result in a death.
In some ways, I hope it does go to court so that there is a federal ruling on the use of tasers. In Minneapolis, the highway patrol tasered a man for being "uncooperative". The man died. It would be nice to know what the threshold is for using a weapon that can result in a death.
Grand Danois | 3:27 p.m. Feb. 2, 2008
The trooper acted like a bully using his weapon as a means of convenience rather
than for protecting himself or others in a life threatening situation.
The "cover my derriere"-argument: "I feared for my life is ridiculous". If he perceived his life was in danger, he lacks common sence and good judgement.
There was NO threat!!
Jared Massey asked for his rights, in this case to know what the specific charge was and what he was asked to sign for.
The sob argument: "Cops put the lives on the line every day" is a bit overblown. Cops' profession is low on the list of dangerous jobs. Many workers in industry face much higher risks on a daily basis.
Cops are not entitled to anybody's respect, they earn it by being fair and reasonable. I hope the trooper and UHP will loose big and that police in general will take note in regard to how not to behave. Tasering massey while he is down was mean.
Threatening his wife and accessing his/her car appeared rather quetionable.
John Gardner should look for another profession.
The "cover my derriere"-argument: "I feared for my life is ridiculous". If he perceived his life was in danger, he lacks common sence and good judgement.
There was NO threat!!
Jared Massey asked for his rights, in this case to know what the specific charge was and what he was asked to sign for.
The sob argument: "Cops put the lives on the line every day" is a bit overblown. Cops' profession is low on the list of dangerous jobs. Many workers in industry face much higher risks on a daily basis.
Cops are not entitled to anybody's respect, they earn it by being fair and reasonable. I hope the trooper and UHP will loose big and that police in general will take note in regard to how not to behave. Tasering massey while he is down was mean.
Threatening his wife and accessing his/her car appeared rather quetionable.
John Gardner should look for another profession.
Concerned Citizen Scared of Cops | 12:09 a.m. Feb. 5, 2008
I am a concerned citizen that is afraid of police. I am 6' 2" tall and
around 280 lbs. Every time I have been pulled over by the police, they call for
backup due to my size. I was given a ticket falsely once and got out of the car
to discuss it with the 5' 6" officer and immediately had a 9mm pulled
on me. I told the officer there was no need for that and that I wanted to simple
discuss the ticket. Thank God he didn't have a Taser. This was on a busy
freeway and I could have fallen into rush hour traffic. I survived, but was left
with my head shaking and nerves tense after this ordeal. These cops today do not
respect the constitution and tickets are a violation of the fifth amendment.
This cop deserves to have the book thrown at him and this kid deserves a good
payday. The trauma to this guy's wife and child must have been horrible. I
cannot express the level of digust and contempt I have for this officer and his
ilk.
Concerned | 11:03 a.m. Feb. 5, 2008
There is something wrong with the administration of the UHP. The trooper should
have been fired. He clearly used excessive force for the circumstances. The
second zap while the guy was on the ground was clearly excessive force. Leaving
a citizen in restraints lying near the traffic lane was endangerment. The UHP
put him back on the road knowing all of this. He is a libility. Lack of common
sense must go pretty high up in the UHP agency.
Not impressed. | 1:04 a.m. Feb. 14, 2008
I'm surprised at the number of people thinking that the UHP officer in this
situation was all about truth, justice and the American way. Certainly Jared
was belligerent about signing that ticket. When the officer decided to order
him out of the car, Jared got out and began pointing at the roadsign they were
discussing. The UHP officer then pulled a weapon on him without warning. Jared
indicated in later interviews that he did not know it was a taser, but thought
it was a firearm being pointed at him - thus the "what's wrong with
you?" and backing away reaction. It went completely downhill from
there.
This "law enforcement professional" managed to escalate a simple conversation with an opinionated motorist into into a violent confrontation in less than 7 seconds. The motorist ends up squirming in the roadway getting multiple shocks, the wife is running around screaming in terror, the cop is freaking out and yelling that everyone is going to jail. Real bang up job there.
The fact that he lied about what happened to his supervisor on the tape afterwards completely destroys his credibility. That officer is a danger to himself and those around him.
This "law enforcement professional" managed to escalate a simple conversation with an opinionated motorist into into a violent confrontation in less than 7 seconds. The motorist ends up squirming in the roadway getting multiple shocks, the wife is running around screaming in terror, the cop is freaking out and yelling that everyone is going to jail. Real bang up job there.
The fact that he lied about what happened to his supervisor on the tape afterwards completely destroys his credibility. That officer is a danger to himself and those around him.
Reality Check | 4:18 a.m. March 9, 2008
"There are few thing worse for liberty...of a public thought to be
free...than to be abused by the arm of authority they as guardians of that
freedom grant...and that is the sanctioning of their abuse...and impunity given
their abusers."
Every time a member of law enforcement to shown to abuse their authority it further erodes the confidence of those who might otherwise support their efforts.
This was a "traffic stop"...in broad daylight..the driver pulled over and didn't atttempt to flee.not a fugitive from justice/bank robbery/car chase scenario.
You have a right and obligation to ask questions about the nature of your being stopped...did not raise voice or use profanity.
Was ordered from vehicle...complied..oblivious to Police intentions...trying to state his case regarding traffic sign...didn't make any sudden moves.
This was an engineer...not a street smart thug...was shocked to find a gun pointed at him...backed away scared.
Tasers used for ending aggression...preventing attack..NOT for compliance...tasered 2nd time while prone...cruel and unusual punishment.
Circle the wagons..minimize damage...video released only when obvious UHP was going to sweep under rug...now they cannot hide the truth... so instead they stonewall.
Shame on citizens of Utah. Are going to let those at the top bury this?
Every time a member of law enforcement to shown to abuse their authority it further erodes the confidence of those who might otherwise support their efforts.
This was a "traffic stop"...in broad daylight..the driver pulled over and didn't atttempt to flee.not a fugitive from justice/bank robbery/car chase scenario.
You have a right and obligation to ask questions about the nature of your being stopped...did not raise voice or use profanity.
Was ordered from vehicle...complied..oblivious to Police intentions...trying to state his case regarding traffic sign...didn't make any sudden moves.
This was an engineer...not a street smart thug...was shocked to find a gun pointed at him...backed away scared.
Tasers used for ending aggression...preventing attack..NOT for compliance...tasered 2nd time while prone...cruel and unusual punishment.
Circle the wagons..minimize damage...video released only when obvious UHP was going to sweep under rug...now they cannot hide the truth... so instead they stonewall.
Shame on citizens of Utah. Are going to let those at the top bury this?
NoWayJose | 4:08 p.m. June 22, 2009
Jared is not at fault. Noone seems to remember the spiderman quote "with
great power comes great responsibility" that cop should be demoted to a
crossing guard. The cops work for us. The government works for us. I hope Jared
wins his lawsuit. I was arrested because I complained a cop was mistreating
someone he was arresting. I went to court. I won.
- Page:
- < Previous
- 1
- 2
Add your comment
Comments are monitored. Any comments found to be abusive, offensive, off-topic, misrepresentative, more than 200 words or containing URLs will not be posted.
Words Remaining
E-mail address: For internal use only. We may want to contact you to publish your comment (not your e-mail address) in the newspaper or for a separate story idea.
- Snowy roads cause accidents, delays 10:15 p.m.
- Another probe at Layton High 10:12 p.m.
- Single moms get early Christmas 10:12 p.m.
- Photos: Santas run for fun 10:10 p.m.
- Concert to benefit kidney patient 10:07 p.m.
- Sheepman fighting to save flock 10:07 p.m.
- Prescription drug abuse targeted 10:07 p.m.
- Utahns in giving mood 10:06 p.m.
- National news briefs 10:06 p.m.
- Charities costing U.S. billions 9:57 p.m.
- Why is Y. ignoring spew of hatred?
307 - Letters: Liberal because LDS246
- 2 citations issued at Y.-U. game189
- Hate not limited to 1 in-state rivalry188
- Y. profs: Beck not all-knowing187
- Aggies shoot past Cougars179
- N.Y. Senate rejects gay marriage128
- Unbeaten BYU takes trip to Logan105
- George lost in rivalry hatefest104
- Harpring's NBA career is over94
Trolley Square's annual Holiday Open House will feature visits with...
That does it — I'm having an affair! Thanks to Tiger Woods, David...
First, a big thank you to all who posted questions here for me to ask...
Latest comments
You can accuse MITT of being a flip flopper all you want......but you can...
Memo is sooooooo sloooow. When we were trying to make our run towards the...
Stopping people without cause. Let freedom ring.
i have lived in the area of thomson for nineteen years i don't see what the...
Maybe its time I warned you of this: Sloan STINKS This is worse than...
My prayers are with the Vigil family. I'm so sorry this tragedy has...
The 9:56 commentator gets the award of being the first person to call the...
Let the Utes play the better Pac 10 school, whoever and wherever that will...
7 DUIs out of 259 vehicles at garbage time on a Friday night? Seems safe...
Worst officiated game in a long team. Still have our chances to win by blew...
Advertisements
And if this happens again - Sue 'em again.