Jefferson officer on leave after fight

Wednesday, August 25. 2010

Jefferson police officer Stephen Taylor has been placed on administrative leave with pay after being involved in an altercation at Mike’s Down Under Monday night.

Jefferson police chief Joe Wirthman said he has asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to look into the incident.

Taylor and James Tyler Beck, 22, reportedly got into a shoving contest at the bar around midnight over comments about the color of Taylor's shirt. At some point, Taylor reportedly hit Beck in the face.

A blood alcohol test of both men taken by the JPD reportedly showed Taylor at .18 while the other man was .00.

Taylor was off-duty when the altercation occurred.

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#1 hank jr on 08/25/10 at 04:43 PM [Reply]

Is this a patrol officer or Sergeant?? If this is a Sergeant and if he is in the wrong how can he supervise his officer's. Just curious. Hopefully he did not do anything wrong. But the GBI?? Dont we have detectives? What about and internal investgation? Sounds like it is more than a shoving match if the GBI is looking into it.

#2 Theresa on 08/25/10 at 05:37 PM [Reply]

Seriously? The color of his shirt? That is so immature. I thought police officers, on duty or off, are supposed to set an example. They are authority, but when they do something this childish, it makes me wonder how they handle their on duty responsibilities. Police Officers are by no means perfect, but they are supposed to set the standard for everyone else. Lead by Example.

#3 clayton bigsby on 08/25/10 at 09:08 PM [Reply]

Wow, this is not the only time this has occurred there. This is the only time that it has been reported though.
Jefferson P.D. needs to do random alcohol and drug screenings on Officers, there is a few that has a more than "casual" drinking problem.

#3.1 informed person on 08/26/10 at 11:43 PM [Reply]

The Jefferson PD is a town of (nothing-to-do) Cops. They stop people for the heck of it and cover for each other. This officer should be treated just like any other person 100% of the time. If they dont, the JPD needs to test all employees for drugs ect. Some of them off duty seem to be under the influence.

#4 Bar Fly on 08/25/10 at 09:53 PM [Reply]

This guy has been involved in a bunch. He and the Chief are very good friends, let’s see what happens. The guy he struck was not drinking but he was, and when tested he was three times the legal limit. There is a lot more to this story but we will just what happens next, after all the GBI is investigating.

#5 Jefferson Citizen on 08/25/10 at 10:25 PM [Reply]

This comes to now surprise I am sure for many. I have seen this officer out on several occasions and he is known for having one too many drinks. He drives under the influence on several occasions. Guess his true colors have finally been shown.

#6 T. Chandler on 08/26/10 at 08:54 AM [Reply]

the paper only tells what they think makes a good story.
I have known this officer most of his life and if we had more like him, we'd all be better off! He was off duty and has a right to go out- the other person was continually provoking him by calling him a "pink Pig" . It would be childish to argue over the color of a shirt and that is not what happened. The other person also struck the officer first. All of this is on video and was wittnessed by numerous people. I don't know another officer in all of Jackson county who cares about his community as much and is as honest and fair as Stephen Taylor.

#6.1 Joe Delaney on 08/26/10 at 12:04 PM [Reply]

I'm with T. Chandler here. I've seen Officer Taylor in some terribly difficult situations yet keep as cool a head as you could imagine. There is a 99.9 percent chance he was provoked or touched prior to defending himself. Being an officer he obviously knows the boundaries and I have to imagine a boundary was crossed to have him engage in any physical altercation with this individual. Mikes Down Under has cameras, why don't we all reserve our judgement of this man until we see the crystal clear video.

I got a feeling that the only crime that should be investigated is rather or not the other party is a monumental jerk.

#6.1.1 just wondering on 08/31/10 at 06:17 PM [Reply]

Joe delaney, are you sure you wanna hook your cart to that lame horse? If it turns out stephen committed a crime and is arrested does that make you the monumental jerk?

#6.2 Bar Stool on 08/26/10 at 04:30 PM [Reply]

T, Chandler, were you there? Did you see this altercation? If so why haven't you come forward and contacted the G.B.I. to give your account of what took place or are you going on hearsay? Reason I ask is because you have the facts all wrong. Why not wait like the rest and see what the G.B.I. investigation reveals and the disciplinary action that will follow from the Jefferson Police Department's internal investigation. Regardless I am sure some policies were violated by this officer. I can appreciate you knowing the officer and being a friend, but unless you were there, you are doing him more harm than good with your statements.

#6.3 Carrie Vajda on 08/26/10 at 05:36 PM [Reply]

A "drunk" is a "drunk" no-matter what color his shirt is............... A drunk killed my mom, so if he is drinking and driving ??????? It all comes around in due time...........

#6.4 hank jr on 08/26/10 at 05:49 PM [Reply]

If there behavior at the police department is so bad why dont the two in charge at the police department have a policy against officers going to bars in the city???? After all this is a small place and the Officers do not need to be geting drunk off duty in the same place they work and arrest people from the same bar. Sounds like a lack of leadership within the department. If the officers need to drink go outside of the area you work. A little common sense would work!! And yes for you liberals you can restrict them for going to the bars where they work.

#6.5 youdontknowanything on 08/29/10 at 03:58 PM [Reply]

Chandler if your standards are Stephen Taylor then I truly feel sorry for you. This guy has shown up drunk at events all the time. What is he doing at a bar that time of night in that condition....I guess waiting to do a good deed so we can all be better off, give me a break!

#7 Are you kidding? on 08/26/10 at 12:32 PM [Reply]

Maybe it would make sense for Police Officers, Firefighters, EMT's, City Council, etc. to NOT drink in town. How stupid can you be? They have Athens and Atlanta so close and yet they choose to get drunk (not just have a drink) in the very city they work in. If anything, he sure as heck has no respect for his PD. Get drunk there tonight, go there and get another drunk tomorrow. Not thinking at all... How can he have the moral ability to perform his job when he does the same thing at the same place?

#8 Sweet Tea on 08/26/10 at 07:37 PM [Reply]

Everyone officer of the law deserves time off duty and when that times comes if an altercation arises (and especially in this case when Mr Taylor was NOT in the wrong) as a police officer you still obide the law. The newpaper does only tell what it wants, just like the ones judging and making up stories that do not know Mr Taylor directly. The truth will always speak for itself and Jefferson PD is fortunate to have this man on their force! There are plenty officers on this PD and ALL PD's around the world that are only work for the paycheck and truy enjoy playing te punk role, but Mr. Taylor is not that way and has always been well respected and that speaks volumes! Bottom line is he was off duty #1 and #2 you always have the right to defend yourself when you are hit! I pray for strength and courage for all involved and especially for Mr Taylor to come out of this stronger and head held high!

#9 JAUTRY on 08/27/10 at 06:22 AM [Reply]

This is exactly why alot of agencies have policies requiring law enforcement employees not to drink in establishments in their own jurisdiction. With some officers, as with all people you will occasionally find those that just "don't know how to act". That would appear to be the case here. Held to a higher standard,, he really stood up to that one didn't he! Do the words "conduct unbecoming" mean anything to anybody!

#10 bigdragon on 08/27/10 at 06:29 AM [Reply]

This man has been paving his road for a long time now. I don't see why anyone should be surprised that he's being ran over by the bus coming down it! He has bullied and ran over people for a long time. He has said whatever it took to make himself look good at someone else's expense, and now it's coming home to him. With the GBI investigating maybe he will get what he deserves.
Chief Wirthman, clean up your department.

#11 Not surprised on 08/27/10 at 11:27 AM [Reply]

I am not surprised Stephen Taylor was involved in a alcohol related . I live in jefferson and I am about Stephen's age and I see him out. I think it is not a secret that Stephen likes his booze. I was not there but if Stephen was as drunk as I have heard and punched a person because he was called a name how immature is that. Sounds like Stephen is a bully and a punk. I would hope a Sergeant in the police department would have more self control and have the ability to defuse a situation not excalate it. From what I have heard Stephen was fired from the Jackson Sheriff's office, was that because of bad judgement too. I would definitly question Stephen's decision making ability. Plus How responsible is it for a police officer to be extremely drunk on a monday night at a bar in the very town he is expected to police in. What if next monday Stephen is on duty and is called to handle a situation involving a drunk at Mike's down under. Would he even have a shred of credibility? We hold our police to a higher standard and we should! If this is the standard of a jefferson police officer let alone a police sergeant we need be concerned and rethink the P.D.'s leadership. Yes, off duty cops can go out and and have a few drinks but no they should not be allowed to get extremely intoxicated in a local bar and punch a person even if he was provoked. does being called a name justify a punch. I believe we all learned in day care that no you dont hit because you were called a name. lets say he was even pushed. does that justify punching a person. Nope your a cop walk away defuse the situation and set an example. The bottom line is Stephen was wrong! anyway you cut it Stephen crossed the line! Do the right thing Chief Wirthman and fire Stephen!

#12 What a joke of a PD on 08/27/10 at 11:50 AM [Reply]

I saw this nice article in the Athens paper how Jefferson was awarded for rebuilding its reputation. Can the PD give that award back? Nice work on rebuilding the reputation there Chief! Maybe not firing this joke of a police officer will even further that stellar reputation. Jefferson P.D where sub-standard is just fine. Guess who I saw at Mikes down under the day after this incident. you guessed it Stephen Taylor! When the going gets tough jefferson cops go drinking. Hold your heads high jefferson our p.d. is the laughing stock of the law enforcement world.

#12.1 Proud citizen of Jefferson on 08/28/10 at 07:44 PM [Reply]

What a joke. Mr. know it all let me just say that it is because idiots like you, make this world a bad place to live. The Jefferson Police Department has made major changes and thats not to says its perfect. We worked hard to get an award and build a better reputation, which I'm sure you don't know a anything about that. All you want to do is criticize the entire department for one person's actions. Hardly justifiable. I do not agree with this officer's actions, but I am smart enough not to judge the entire department over one person either. Maybe you need to look in the mirror joker.

#13 Danielle Austin on 08/27/10 at 01:36 PM [Reply]

No, I wasn't there. No, I don't know both sides to the story. I do know Stephen, though. I know he is wonderful guy. I know that NO WHERE in the article did it say he was DRIVING while intoxicated.... (where did that come from, Carrie Vajda?) I also know that officers who are off duty are just that...OFF DUTY. They deserve to be able to go out and have a good time just like everyone else. Maybe he did do something wrong and made a mistake. IF he did, then so be it. No one is perfect. He was OFF DUTY. Deal with it and move it. All this drama needs to stop. You people are making it out like it is much bigger than it is. What if someone took you and put your life under a microscope? What would it look like? Would you be willing to be so vocal under an anonymous name on a blog then?

#13.1 somepeopleshouldnotblog on 08/27/10 at 06:12 PM [Reply]

So committing assualt while drunk is okay as long as your off duty! Yeah who cares we should just forget it. drunken fighting by a police supervisor no problem. I bet a vast majority of people if you put there life under a mircoscope would not be in drunken bar fight. And those who were involved in drunken bar fights went to jail for it. Stephen blew a .18 which is over twice the legal limit and the guy he punched blew a .00! HMMMMM sounds like a case of the drunken idiot. I wonder how wonderful his wife thinks he is when the video shows him making out with a girl at the bar. Yes, I was there. Time to grow up stephen your what 30 years old married with kids. Can we not agree we should expect more from our police.

#13.2 bigdragon on 08/28/10 at 07:21 AM [Reply]

Danielle, when you are a cop your life is under a microscope. You are told that from the beginning. YOU deal with it. If Stephen can't deal with that the HE needs to move on!

#14 get over it on 08/27/10 at 07:46 PM [Reply]

HEY WHY DON'T ALL OF YOU GET THE FREAK OVER IT...SOUNDS LIKE ALL U HATERS ARE JEALOUS OF STEPHEN!! SORRY U HATE URSELF AND WANNA BE LIKE SOMEONE ELSE BUT COME ON REALLY? STEPHEN TAYLOR UR FREAKIN AWESOME!! ALL U HATERS..WELL KEEP HATIN!!

#15 youranidiot on 08/28/10 at 11:49 AM [Reply]

Yes, I hate drunk cops punching citizens in the face! So I guess I am a hater then.

#16 Shoe Fits on 08/29/10 at 06:32 AM [Reply]

The real question here, is when will our elected officials exert some authority over the police chief they hired? Not anytime soon it appears. After all, wasn't the mayors son involved in an altercation at the civic center earlier this year? Come on people, we finally have enough newcomers around here to get rid of the good ol' boy system in Jefferson (and Jackson County). It's not 1957 anymore.

#16.1 shoesright on 08/29/10 at 04:41 PM [Reply]

Shoe your right, the mayor’s son was drunk and caused a big scene but a blind eye was turned to it. The GBI has plenty of evidence to make an arrest let’s see if they have the guts or will they try to lay it on someone else to make the decision.

#16.1.1 Michael McCarthy on 08/30/10 at 10:03 AM [Reply]

The G.B.I. is extremely thorough in these matters. If a crime was committed, the guilty will be dealt with. The chief seems to have taken the appropriate action. Let's not all jump to conclusions. If this were me I would want due process. Let's be fair so that in the future we can expect fairness should something unfortunate happen to us.

#16.1.2 how it works on 08/30/10 at 03:20 PM [Reply]

This is what will happen, the GBI will turn their findings over to the DA's office and HE will decided if he wants to go foward. Don't blame the GBI.

#16.1.3 unreal on 08/30/10 at 09:52 PM [Reply]

Mr. Shoesright, how do you know what kind of evidence the GBI has? Are you an agent or a JPD employee that is "in the know"?

#16.1.4 COURIOUS on 08/31/10 at 01:01 PM [Reply]

I have a friend who use to work for Braselton Police Department. He no longers works there because he shoved a drunk guy down, while off duty at his apartment complex (and he was sober) the guy kept getting in his face and natural recation was to push him away. GBI brought battery charges against him. Lets see if the system is fair.........

#16.1.4.1 Michael McCarthy on 08/31/10 at 08:50 PM [Reply]

"Natural reaction is to push him away"?

Uh, excuse me. That IS battery. You are not allowed to respond physically to someone verbally accosting you. Period.

Verbal is legal in the USA. At least for now.

#16.1.4.1.1 8 on 09/08/10 at 09:21 AM [Reply]

I don't think this was just verbal. I do believe Tyler put his hands on Taylor first.

#16.2 hank jr on 08/30/10 at 12:52 PM [Reply]

When did this occur with the Mayors son? I will do an open records and look into this. But a date will help. What happened do you know? Also, is our Chief on a contract or does he work at the pleasure of the city council??

#16.2.1 yes i will on 08/31/10 at 05:30 PM [Reply]

It happened the night that Jefferson High School hosted the" lucky night" out earlier this year, There was a police report filed but no arrest were made even though one should have been. Jay Joiner look it up.

#17 Michael McCarthy on 08/30/10 at 03:56 AM [Reply]

Clarification: 0.18 is not three times the legal limit. That is only for driving, not drinking in a bar.

#17.1 Unreal on 08/30/10 at 07:00 PM [Reply]

Mr. McCarthy, were you going to drive Stephen home in his truck that was in the parking lot? Or was he going to do that himself after he sobered up?

#17.2 JAUTRY on 08/30/10 at 09:29 PM [Reply]

Michael, you are right,,,, but in an alchohol related incident,,,,which this is,, it's a good standard to use as a starting place. Like it or not,,, in Law Enforcement,,, we all know better!

#17.2.1 Michael McCarthy on 08/31/10 at 10:32 AM [Reply]

Unreal: I would hate to be arrested for intent to drive home drunk.

Jautry: I respect your opinion. Of course a police officer shouldn't find himself in this situation in his own jurisdiction. That's common sense. But the alleged acts should be judged without measuring someone's bodily chemistry. It is possible that the drunk man was in the right. Why skew the facts? A crime is a crime whether the man, or men in this case, had a certain alcohol content. Nothing makes me more furious than a police officer abusing his power except perhaps someone picking on someone simply because they are a police officer.

#17.2.1.1 JAUTRY on 09/02/10 at 08:30 AM [Reply]

Michael we are not really very far off in our opinions. My problem is that according to another article I read Tyler Beck got up to leave and Stephen Taylor confronted him. Not smart for man in his position. He should have let it go. I can assure you as a Police Officer he has had worse things said than a comment about the color of his shirt, and has let them go! He did the very typical thing that you can expect when a person is drinking, he exercised VERY poor judgement. While you may find ways to overlook that with some people in some situations you cannot overlook it with a Officer of the law, especially in the same town he works in!

#18 Jessica on 08/31/10 at 04:57 PM [Reply]

It comes as no suprise to anyone that Stephen was at Mikes drunk.. he's there all the time and gets away with it on the "Good Ol' Boy" mentality.. I have known Stephen for a long time now, ya hes a nice guy but he has a major drinking problem.. He has shown up drunk to many different events.. I think its about time they have something they could use on him.. That guy is a sorry excuse for a cop he might have put in time before but now all he does on duty is drive to his many girlfriends house and hang out.. It amazes me the way he shows no regard to his positon or family..
When your an officer you understand your life is under a microscope your supposed to lead by example.. lets hope someone gets rid of this guy

#18.1 Super 8 on 09/01/10 at 11:19 AM [Reply]

Jessica,
Why are you always at the same places Taylor is? Are you just following/stalking him. Are you a Mikes drunk too?

#19 lets wait and see on 08/31/10 at 05:05 PM [Reply]

I think within the next 48 hours the outcome of the GBI investigation will be public. The athens paper reported that the GBI says they are close to wrapping the case up. What do ya'll bloggers think? Is stephen guilty or not. I am on the fence. If the GBI finds he did something criminal then he should be prosecuted to the fullest extent. And if he did nothing wrong then the other guy needs to be prosecuted. I will trust in the GBI and what their decision is we should stand behind it!

#20 Iknowsomethingyoudontknow on 08/31/10 at 05:11 PM [Reply]

Dear Mr. How it works, If it ends up not working that way does that mean you are a fool? What if the GBI decides Steven committed a crime wont they just issue a warrant?

#20.1 how it works on 09/01/10 at 06:41 PM [Reply]

I will take another fool route, since this is not a felony, the DA won't see anything. It should be handled in state court. So forget it. But I would rather be wrong than a fool.

#21 Joshua on 08/31/10 at 09:03 PM [Reply]

Okay. So heres the deal. Tyler Beck is an instigating son of a *****. He always has been. What it boils down to is, Tyler beck started something he could not finish. Stephen finished it and Beck wants to call the police after he lost. End of story!

#21.1 Super 8 on 09/01/10 at 11:24 AM [Reply]

Beck should have never put his hands on Taylor. I can see a self defense issue. Police Officers are trained to have quick reflexes for their own protection. This was an act of self defense no matter how you look at it!

#21.1.1 JAUTRY on 09/01/10 at 02:16 PM [Reply]

Police officers are also trained that when you are drunk the first thing effected is your judgement! Taylor's actions will be hard to defend because they were wrong from so many different directions.

#21.2 I hope you get yours someday on 09/01/10 at 11:56 AM [Reply]

I am very proud for the way Tyler handled himself. It shows that he is not white trash like Stephen Taylor. Keep your comments to yourself. IF the GBI found wrong doing then they did a thorough investigation and that is the end. I feel sorry for you if you take up for the likes of Stephen Taylor.

#21.3 Cops on 09/01/10 at 03:54 PM [Reply]

I would like to thank all of you who are stating true facts and standing up against the Jefferson PD. No matter who you are..this situation wasn't handled correctly. I am a citizen of Jefferson and I was there at Mikes the night of the incident....with NEITHER party..so my opinion doesn't weigh from either side. Stephen Taylor was there very, very intoxicated as he is A LOT of nights with his girlfriend of the week. He sat at the bar and drank himself into a drunk stupor. Tyler Beck never said anything to Taylor....the "here-say" of the pink pig shirt was through Taylors younger girlfriend trying to be funny..from what I saw. Stephen approached Tyler and provoked the whole incident. Screaming..."I am the police!!" Any of you, whether you know Stephen are not..know Stephen handled himself incorrectly in this situation. It is never okay to put your hands on another person. He was drunk and crossed the line and he needs to pay like any other citizen would have to. If Tyler had of hitten Stephen he would have been in the back of that car.

Steven Bannister didn't choose to handle the situation correctly and I feel he should be behind bars along with Taylor. He let this happen so he enabled Taylor to behave this way along with the Chief who claims he is for the people. I myself am proud that Tyler is a citizen that has had enough and will actually stand up for himself and everyone in JEfferson in the long run. Taylor went around town telling he was drunk and was behind the wheel going to drive home!!!! People....what if you and your family are on the roads???? We have to protect our community.

And to Joshua...calling people SOB's is only stooping to your friend Stephens level!! And to the girl calling everyone haters..I saw you that night....BELIEVE me when I say...NOBODY is hating on you.

The GBI found Stephen guilty...ENOUGH said!!

#21.3.1 Worlds scariest police videos on 09/01/10 at 05:56 PM [Reply]

I have to agree with you, Lt. Bannister dropped the ball. He should have called the Sheriff's Department in to investigate the incident or why not his own C.I.D.? If this had been the average Joe citizen an arrest would have been made on the spot that night. He didn't call his C.I.D. because he knows the two in there now don't cover the facts or for other officers, they enforce the laws. I know this because of how they handled my case. He was covering for a friend and fellow officer. Lt. Bannister couldn't investigate his way out of a paper bag or make an administrative decision, so how in the heck do you expect him to do the right thing here. Bannister is nothing more than an administrator (paper pusher) for the Chief and Major. He can not supervise his troops, he relies on other supervisors to make him look half way decent. I am not trying to turn the tables from Taylor to Bannister, but the current administration really needs to look at who they have on their command staff and is he really the right man for the job? After this decision I would say, NO he is not!

#21.3.1.1 crazy eye one nut on 09/02/10 at 12:23 PM [Reply]

James Mcnatt is this you? Your regular back stabbing ways are getting very obvious.

#21.4 Bet you wouldnt say it to his face on 09/01/10 at 06:09 PM [Reply]

I know Tyler Beck,he's been a bouncer for 4 1/2 years.He could take Stephen Taylor in his sleep,if he had he wouldve been arrested and put under the jail!I bet you wouldnt tell him to his face he is an SOB Joshua lol

#22 John on 09/01/10 at 04:24 AM [Reply]

Stephen Taylor has been getting away with things that other officers cannot. Recently an Officer in February was forced to resign, Steven Taylor has done the same thing this officer did but several times, but for some reason the Major David Hill, and Chief Joe Wirthman felt the a retired military veteran did not have the intergrity or honor that Sgt. Steven Taylor did. This is what is leading your Jefferson Police Department. They are very biased and selective. Steven Taylor has only gotten away with his antics because the leadership allows it. They are directly responsible for prommoting and hiring these incompetent officers, starting with Steven, Lt. Bannister, MAJOR Hill, and of course the head of the snake..

Those three in paticular eptomize what is so wrong about the department!!! Favoritism is more rampid than ever within Jefferson. I don't see how this administration is any better than the last.. they are still hiding stuff. There just now more covert than ever. Sgt. James McNatt would make a outstanding and fair Chief the rest of the three in charge are worthless Wirthmans!!!!
They all three lie, because its in their nature to. Its very Sad....that we are paying them a salary....I would take the military veteran over those three any day. He was one off the few that showed integrity and proffesionalism all the time... what your excuses...? Wirthman? Hill? Bannister..

I'm glad that Steven Taylor gott arrested....
and I hope you get removed from your positions of leadership as well.. I find it funny that not only in the past that David Hill has done his only internal investigations on people he wanted to get rid off, but that Jackson county was not called to the scene...Hint!! Hint!! when the leadership new that Steven Taylor was involved.... This is standard protocal at a normal department that is not trying to hide something!!!

Unfortunately Steven is not differnt than his leadership...he is just following suit!!

Leadership by example... City Council...Mayor,,,John Ward.. when are you guys going to get it.....I will see you at the poles....

#23 The Dude on 09/01/10 at 09:07 AM [Reply]

This is the same guy that goes out drinking with Chief Worthless all the time. I guarantee nothing will happen, even though they should both be fired. If this town had any since at all they would see to it that the goof balls who hired this ignorant Chief from Florida were fired as well. What a bunch of retards! "This aggression will not stand man" some one needs to get a grip on this town, it has become the laughing stock of the law enforcement community, and the armpit of North Georgia. Good luck with your firings.

#24 morals on 09/01/10 at 09:16 AM [Reply]

I think the whole Jefferson Police Dept. has Moral issues. What about the detective and the female officer who both worked at the JPD that hooked up. You need to clean up the whole department Chief !

#24.1 .stoptherumors on 09/01/10 at 05:26 PM [Reply]

Why do we have to bring this subject up? It has no bearing on the article. The two officers did not violate any policies or morals. They are both adults. There private life is none of our business. The Detective you speak of is a good friend and so is his girlfriend, whom was a Jefferson Police Officer. Stop the mud slinging to make Taylor look better. He violated the law, policies of the department and the respect and trust of his colleges and citizens of Jefferson. Chief Wirthman has not always made the best decisions and he is the first to admit it, but hey haven't we all made decisions that weren't for the best? He has turned his department around and continues to look out for the best interest of the department and his officers. I would be honored to be under his command.

#24.1.1 iagree on 09/02/10 at 08:02 AM [Reply]

I agree with stoptherumors why are u trying to cover up Stephens mistake with old gossip. The detective and his girlfriend are good people and there realationship did not affect there job. If you have ever seen them together in a working enviroment you know that they were very professional. There private life is there business and they make a great couple. So lets focus on the real story here. What should they do with Stephen Taylor.

#24.1.1.1 leavethemalone on 09/02/10 at 01:16 PM [Reply]

I agree leave the Detective and his girlfriend out of this they didnt do anything wrong. I know them personally They make a great couple who really love each other. Besides that they dont even work together anymore.

#24.1.1.1.1 areukiddingme on 09/07/10 at 07:14 PM [Reply]

Why is everyone stepping around the issues, this man was her FTO and that means he was her supervisor. I will tell you what needs to be done; someone at that place needs to explain sexual harassment to Ms. Springer just in case things don't work out for her. Mr. Foster was this woman's direct supervisor and if she ever changes her state of mind she would have a great lawsuit against the city. If you look at her evaluation, it would be interesting to see how he SCORED her, if it was good and they were having an inappropriate relationship then the findings come into question and if it were bad and they were having a relationship then Ms. Springer you know what you can do. This is really cleaning up the department, making it more professional don't ever say that again, I get sick just hearing it!

#24.1.1.1.1.1 8 on 09/08/10 at 12:24 PM [Reply]

Actually, Mrs. Foster is the real winner. She could sue Springer for "Alienation of Affection". I think there's enough evidence to support this!

#25 Agasp in Athens on 09/01/10 at 11:52 PM [Reply]

I used to be a regular at Mike's up until last Halloween. Let me start by saying that this would never have happened where I work because we would have put a stop to the situation as soon as we saw it spiraling out of control. The problem is that the people who dispense alcohol should have just as much responsibility in the situation as the people who drink it. But, if the bartender in charge is just as drunk as the patrons then how can he be expected to do anything but snicker and joke about the incident as it happens. This incident didn't happen all of a sudden it supposedly escalated over time and nothing was done to stop it. The officer in question should have shown better judgement, but there has got to be someone keeping a constant eye on the mood of people who are getting intoxicated. I can't help but feel that if there was some decent management at Mike's that this might not have happened. I can honestly say I believe it would not have happened at my place of business. We believe being in control of our bar is our job and responsibility. I hope this can be sorted out, but am saddened that it was allowed to get so out of control. Guess that's what happens when the fox is guarding the hen house.

#25.1 Michael McCarthy on 09/02/10 at 05:25 AM [Reply]

Funny. When we're in a bar we need supervision. When we're home we do not. I think it's fair to say that people old enough to drink should be solely responsible. I know bars have been sued and have had judgments against them for serving alcohol to someone who misbehaved afterwards but I believe this is wrong. It can't always be someone else's fault. People need to focus on the guilty party and leave it at that. The best bartender allows people to become inebriated in his place of business.

#25.2 Cops on 09/02/10 at 03:06 PM [Reply]

agasp:

I completely agree with you. The management at Mikes is not fit to watch over patrons while getting beyond intoxicated themselves. The owner there knows what goes on there and still lets it go on?? I would think an intoxicated bartender is a liability. I agree...grown ups SHOULD be able to have fun without supervision...but some people just don't know when to quit. Stephen is a prime example.

#25.3 someonefinallygetsit on 09/04/10 at 08:39 AM [Reply]

You have the best comment of all. I have been reading this for days just seeing everyone go off about the whole situation and you are right on target. The whole situation goes back to the management and their lack of responsibility as well as the owner of Mike's Grill. If I owned the establishment I would make random visits or have a running camera that I could monitor my help. Running a bar is a huge responsibility and can put people in a life or death situation. To have your managers or bartenders intoxicated while on the job is not only illegal but could really put the owner in a major lawsuit for anything that goes on... I was there earlier and can attest to the 22 year old involved as not having a single thing to drink. No one is bringing up the comments that he took good heartedly from Stephen Taylor. But that just shows you what alcohol can do to your rational thinking. I hope that the owner of Mike's really looks at this seriously because it could have been a lot worse for everyone involved. I personally would close Mike's Down Under and concentrate on a family business with no drinking!

#25.3.1 Cops on 09/08/10 at 07:45 AM [Reply]

To someonefinallygetsit:

You are 100% correct along with many others. Mikes Down under owner and management needs to be looked at very seriously. I myself was there with neither party and heard Stephen Taylor say many things to Mr. Beck and as you said...it was supposedly just "good hearted" comments and fun among guys. Stephen Taylor was drunk and was the one out of control and instigating the situation. All of these people keep saying "IF" the GBI will find reason....the GBI watched the "TAPE"....maybe Mikes owner needs to open her eyes and watch the "Tape"!!!

#26 afdfsjkdsaljk on 09/02/10 at 07:36 PM [Reply]

The cold reality is this! Jefferson will never improve its reputation until the three at the top are gone. They have not reversed anything, they still have trouble telling the truth. Chief does things that are irresponsible, like spending $20,000 on a golf cart that gets used once a year. Spending another $40,000 on a Tahoe for the Major because he was too fat and big to fit in a very new crown victoria, and of course he deserves it.. The reality is the two at the top are very arrogant in their demeanors and actions....and Lt. Bannister he just a survivor. Its truly sad if you ask me!!! When Jefferson is ready to change its good old boy politics. I will then apply for them. If you guys only new the dirty ways of that department!!!How often do you seen the K-9 team within the city? they are always on the highway... oh.. Why are we still paying for Steven Taylors Salary? CHIEF!!!!!! he should have been gone the day he was arrested by GBI!!!Oh wait you three are drinking buddies...

#26.1 hmmmmmmmmmmmmm on 09/03/10 at 06:29 AM [Reply]

afdfsjkdsaljk,

Wow, I guess you really DON"T know what you are talking about...CORY SMITH paid for the golf cart with the proceeds from the concert he did at the high school. and as for the tahoe that was bought with drug money (seized by the K9 team on 85) NOT CITY MONEY (as was the chiefs and the 2 k9 units) and on a side point the Tahoes probably get better gas mileage than the crown vics. Oh and I guess you also didnt know that I85 does run through Jefferson so the k9 officers ARE IN THE CITY.

Please get your facts straight before you point fingers, remember when you point fingers 3 are pointing back at you

#26.1.1 Cops on 09/03/10 at 12:34 PM [Reply]

hmmmmmm:

Are you serious?? A Tahoe gets better gas mileage than a Crown Vic??? lol Maybe you are one of the ones riding around in the Tahoe..so yes, it probably doesn't bother you!!

#26.2 Loretta L on 09/03/10 at 10:36 AM [Reply]

Why is it a problem that the K-9 officers are on the highway? I think keeping the drug traffic out of Jefferson City is a fine thing!

#26.2.1 Michael McCarthy on 09/03/10 at 01:09 PM [Reply]

Because it has been ruled unconstitutional to routinely block the road and sniff innocent people with dogs. Why do you think it normal for the government to be setting up roadblocks with dogs? So we can lose our freedom to hopefully stop all this pot smoking? Which is worse?

#26.2.1.1 Unreal on 09/03/10 at 08:25 PM [Reply]

The K-9 officers working I-85 do not "block the road to sniff innocent people". They conduct traffic stops on vehicles they observe violating a traffic law. Whether you people believe in it or not, laws are made for a reason and just because you don't agree with it does not give you the right to verbally attack police officers for enforcing the law. Stephen Taylor was in the wrong that night. No doubt. By calling in the GBI, the chief was showing that he was not going to cover anything up. If JPD had worked the case, everyone would be saying cover up. As for calling in the Sheriff's Office, alot of deputies also work closley with all city officers so that could have created a conflict also. By calling in the GBI the chief did the best thing. As for Taylor beiong suspended without pay now that he's been arrested, until the outcome from the courts, the chief is doing what John Ward ordered because Mr. Ward is trying to do what's right after the Glenn fiasco. Taylor being suspended without pay IS disiciplinary action. That shows that the city is not just letting this go. They are being advised by the city attorney and are making their decisions based on laws and policies, which most of you probably have no idea about.

#26.2.1.1.1 Michael McCarthy on 09/03/10 at 10:41 PM [Reply]

Why do they need dogs if they are not sniffing people?

Is there a law stating police have to use these dogs?

How about trying something that hasn't been tried in a while: Respect us as American citizens. We want to breathe free in the land of the free, not be oppressed by your silly drug war. Prohibition was tried before. It causes violence. When will we learn?

#27 Super 8 on 09/03/10 at 10:32 AM [Reply]

Even if Stephen Taylor's Blood Alcohol was over the legal limit for driving, he wasn't driving. Also, alcohol consumption affects individuals according to their body type and weight. Perhaps Stephen is a larger person and he wasn't affected the same as an average person?

#27.1 Michael McCarthy on 09/03/10 at 12:58 PM [Reply]

Blood alcohol is blood alcohol. It may take a larger man more drinks to get there but 0.18 is what it is. It is an objective measurement of how impaired a person really is.

#27.2 REALLY?? on 09/03/10 at 01:01 PM [Reply]

Really?Drunk is drunk,the man blew a .18,and thats after the officers allowed him an hour and a half before that gave him the test.I know everyone wants to defend their beloved friend Mr.Taylor,because he probably has fixed a ticket for you in the past or bought you a shot to take with him.But just listen to reason,he clearly did something wrong if the GBI found him at fault and put a warrant out.The real question is,if you blew a .18 and assaulted him,would you be in jail?If you answered no,then go home and let your mommy read you a bedtime story,because you are clearly as naive as a 2 year old.

#28 Cops on 09/03/10 at 12:18 PM [Reply]

Super 8....you obviously weren't there the night of the fight to see Stephen Taylor START the fight. Stephen approaced Tyler. Many witnesses heard Tyler say to Stephen...Man, I have no problem with you!! Stephen Taylor was there drunk and he broke the law. He needs to be punished accordingly. Also...Stephen did get behind the wheel of his vehicle and start his car and bragged to people later that he was going to drive himself home if allowed!! That would be a D.U.I for anyone else.

#29 hmmmmmmmmmmmmm on 09/03/10 at 06:23 PM [Reply]

Cops,
If you go to the chevy web site the tahoe is rated at 21 mpg not to bad for an S.U.V. you will also find a lot of police agencies are going to larger vehicles due to good gas milage of the new vehicles

#29.1 JAUTRY on 09/04/10 at 06:14 AM [Reply]

Just for grins I went to www.fueleconomy.gov and checked it out (I was bored). Assuming it is a 2WD the Tahoe is rated at 15 city and 21 highway with a combined rating of 17 miles per gallon. The Crown Vic is rated at 16 city and 24 highway with a combined 19 miles per gallon.
I would guess that these guys don't do alot of highway driving, so there you have it.

#29.2 JAUTRY on 09/04/10 at 06:17 AM [Reply]

Now go compare the price of the two vehicles! I think you will find a little more impressive spread!

#29.3 8 on 09/08/10 at 12:18 PM [Reply]

Who cares! Cops and Michael didn't pay for the vehicles! Michael would much rather spend money in research to try to find a way pot can be used as fuel!

#30 concerned taxpayer on 09/04/10 at 06:55 AM [Reply]

aren't bars required to stop selling alcohol to someone who is obviously drunk? you can't blow a reading that high and not be plastered. maybe we should look into the operations at this bar as it has been the scene of several altercations since it opened.

#30.1 bigdragon on 09/06/10 at 01:39 AM [Reply]

That would simply be trying to divert attention from the real problem. The problem here was not the bar, or it's employees. It is a person who acted like a fool, whether he had too much to drink or not.

#31 Kayjay on 09/12/10 at 07:49 PM [Reply]

I am interested in what kind of an officer/deputy this guy was....Was he good at his job, did he have a reputation of going on 'power trips' at times, you know...things such as that; or was his reputation as a fair, honest man. I'm not sure if anyone knows or can answer, but that would certainly be of great interest if it could be known.

#32 Kayjay on 09/12/10 at 07:54 PM [Reply]

...And I'm not sure what surprises me more....The fact that this incident happened, or the fact that they have a night club in Jefferson....?

#33 alex porter on 09/13/10 at 02:03 PM [Reply]

I agree with #32.

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Jefferson officer on leave after fight

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Jefferson officer on leave after fight

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