A Big Oops! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 12:11 AM:This poor family! I can't imagine the terror they felt during this incident. It seems even if the police had been in the right house, there was an abuse of power going on. Unless the doors were locked upstairs, breaking them down was not called for. Also, why couldn't the officers answer this poor mom's question and let her know how her baby ,who was in the other room, was doing. That just seems like common decency.It also seems like law officers should not be spewing profanities at people who were cooperating.Overall, this was uncalled for and it seems a well deserved lawsuit is on the horizon!

Senior wrote on Sep 1, 2007 12:27 AM:How much compensation should the family would be fair besides repairs to their home? Would $1,000 for each adult and child be enough? I do not think so. Probably each child and adult should use $2,000 worth of psychologist trama counselling plus more for continuing pain for months to come every time the wind rattles the door. Besides that they should get a something extra for goodwill. I am saying this as a person who has had normally good relationships with the police.

That is the Riverside Sheriffs for you! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:36 AM:Temecula needs it's own real police department and not this contract police where a Sheriff's Captain calls himself Chief and everything goes through the Sheriff's department. Temecula needs and deserves more control of the police department and officers. We might think we are saving money, but this is crazy. Get a real PD in and this contract PD out!

Those cowboy deputies! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:36 AM:Riverside Sheriff's Department at its worst!

The Temecula Deputies used profanity? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:39 AM:They hiy the wrong house? Great where is the sheriff? Why isn't he doing something?

Here's a Start! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 6:19 AM:Why do police officers need to use abusive language during a raid and barge down doors when there isn't any resistence coming from the detainees? Ordering people to get on the 'f-ing' floor is not necessary, nor is breaking down inside doors and putting holes through doors. Are our police officers such uneducated,knuckle dragging goons that they don't have a sufficient grasp of the English language to use appropriate words in these circumstances? No one needs to be treated in this abusive manner regardless of the alleged crime. Until a person is found guilty by a jury of his/her peers, that person is presumed innocent and needs to be treated in a humane manner so long as they are cooperative and respectful to the officers, which occurred here. I suggest that the offending officers appear back at this residence and restore the home to its condition prior to their raid, with their own sweat and money. They can also deliver their apologies to this family in person rather than hiding behind their chief and the City. What cowards these officers are!

Hey it happens…. wrote on Sep 1, 2007 6:45 AM:I can assure you those officers are feeling pretty stupid right now and it’s not their fault. They were given bad information and planned their raid before executing it. Haven’t any of you ever screwed up at your job? As for the abuse of power, I guess it’s easy to say that if you’re from Mayberry! By the way, when did Temecula start a police department? Last I heard the Riverside Sheriff provided deputies to drive the city’s police cars, but they don’t have a police department.

one good thing wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:02 AM:Is that this is finally in the news, now people can see for themselves.

Fred H wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:19 AM:No excuses but: Cops are human (most) and it is very scary never knowing when it could be YOUR time to go. I hope the family gets a sleazy, aggressive lawyer that sues the hell out of them.

What? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:21 AM:Abuse of power. These guys are all about kicking in doors and busting heads. How much intel could they have collected if they didn't even know which house the parolee lived in? I have to believe that most officers are good people trying to help. However there sure seems to be a pattern of problems when they create these special squads.

Retired wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:26 AM:The ONLY mistake made was the address.

Criminals wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:04 AM:Mistakes happen on all jobs. The cops were doin their work the way they should when up against a bunch of low life murderers. The family will get restitution..which they deserve. Blame the stinkin CRIMINALS.

always two sides to a story... wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:17 AM:first of all, my heart goes out to this family who had their lives totally disrupted with this incident, however, if we look at it through the eyes of the officers who had to do the dirty deed, they truly felt they were at the right place (perhaps a little more research prior to the invasion would have corrected this error) & no doubt their adrenaline was pumped by the time they hit that front door...not making excuses for these officers, but if you have never been in their shoes, then you do not know what they go through in preparation for such tactics either. They never know what they are gonna find, let alone who, it is truly a very unfortunate situation that happened. I too would be infuriated if it were my home & they invaded my family/friends, I think they need to be more cautious when dealing with this type of scenario, making sure before they even approach a home that they are at the right place...this does happen more often than we want to think about, but it does sound like the police/city are willing to do whatever it takes to make it right...I hope they replace whatever they broke & an apology from those officers is also a necessity, as they are ones who actually committed these violations/intrusions on this family, not the department representatives or the city reps...there is no excuse for using vulgar language, especially when we try to teach our young people to respect the law enforcement, this type of situation makes that theory very difficult. Just like the criminals they chase, you do a crime-YOU do the time...now they need to make it right by these people...that would show true courage on their part. I hope this all works out for the best for all involved...Lord knows we need these special units in force in this day & age, just think how the house full of perps that should have gotten invaded are feeling right now...they think they have gotten away with something once again...

Ann wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:29 AM:In a word...lawsuit! Oh, but I forgot everybody said I'm sorry and that makes it all better..give me a break! That family was traumatized as it is by the murder of a daughter and then to be subjected to out of control, inconsiderate filthy mouthed idiots who got the wrong address! Who's paying for the damage they did in the house and the therapists for the children who were victims of these cops who are supposed to "protect and serve"? Hey Chief! "Reprimanded"??? I'd sleep better knowing cops like this are not being paid with my tax dollars and not have to wonder if I'll be the next innocent victim of your "gang".

Angry Dad in Temecula wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:31 AM:These officers couldn't read the address printed on the warrant and match it to the the street sign and home address number? These simple reading skills used to be taught in elementary school. It looks like the police academy will have to institute remedial English and reading clasees to their police recruits. Maybe it is time for Temecula to terminate its police services contract with the Sheriffs Department and just create its own city police department. There would be better accountability if the officers who police Temecula are loyal to the city of Temecula and not to the Riverside County Sheriffs Department. These sheriffs deputies are serving two masters, the City of Temecula and Riverside County. If you live in Temecula, then Temecula should come first.

Greg in Oceanside wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:37 AM:Raid the wrong house? What a bunch of buffoons. Hmm, I guess these cops don't believe in conducting surveillance or accurate intel do they?

Bam Margera wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:43 AM:Another reason why I believe incorporated cities should have their own PDs and not contract with the County. Yorba Linda pays Brea for Police....maybe we should start thinking about seeing if Murrieta is interested.

hot rod wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:46 AM:...stay tuned for clips of next week's episode of the Keystone cops...

Tom R wrote on Sep 1, 2007 10:16 AM:What a complete outrage! Poor intelligence, poor fact checking, a failure to recognize the given intelligence, and an obvious lack of surveillance, an illegal search of a home without a warrant, police brutality, unlawful arrest, failure to read any rights, possible post-traumatic stress and so much more. Maybe these Super Troopers should spend less time at Chipotle and other fast-food places with their guns and gear and start sitting around a meeting room with actual plans and intelligence.

mistake wrote on Sep 1, 2007 10:44 AM:It was just a mistake; we should be grateful to have this type of police presence. If it happened to me; I'd accept the apology and move on. Big deal. Next time they'll get the right house and I'm just thankful they are here in Temecula taking a pro-active approach....

USMC Retired wrote on Sep 1, 2007 10:53 AM:Mistakes Happen. However, in this raid where was the small unit leadership? If you have a Sgt. and Cpl. on scene this should have never happened. The small unit leadership should have scouted the target residence before the raid. Even though houses in Temecula all look alike, there is a big difference between a single story and a double story house. Even if for some reason you miss that it is a two story when you approach, you need to realize when you see stairs inside you may be at the wrong place. I don't blame the officers; they are just following their orders. I blame the small unit leadership that is required to supervise the officers and make sure things like this don't happen. Semper Fi.

Me, Myself and I wrote on Sep 1, 2007 12:56 PM:Glad to see we have so many perfect people bloging here today. You know, sometimes plans don't go right and mistakes happen. You people complaining about RSO contracting the police services need to get a life, or go pin a badge on yourself...whiners

Hey Chucky! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 1:03 PM:You and the Chief need to step down. Now. Your failed leadership is obvious. You think you're "We're sorry" is going to cut it? I feel so bad for this family. I hope they remember that when your pitiful, token of a settlement is offered. Anything less than 7 figures is a joke. I'm sure the family has been contacted by high profile attorneys and rightfully so. I guess your Taj Mahal city hall will just have to wait now huh? Good job TPD! You guys are a joke!

Me, Myself and who? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 1:07 PM:You must be a cop. You can't even spell right. These people aren't whining. They're telling the truth about how much TPD is worthless. You can't take the criticism? There's a crossing guard job over by Pechanga that's available. Mistakes shouldn't happen in cases like this. All those involved have to be held accountable.

I walk the line. wrote on Sep 1, 2007 1:10 PM:Riverside county Sherrifs department at their finest. Of Course this will only be investigated by "Internal Affairs" and wil be found "Unfounded". The sherrifs department needs to be investigated by the attorney generals office. Temecula needs to have its own police force instead of the gang members hired by Riverside county Sherrifs Department. Stuff like this happens to often in Riverside County

esteban wrote on Sep 1, 2007 1:25 PM:A bunch of you ... sound like you think this was done on purpose. Do everyone a favor and don't call the cops next time you need them. I think the cops up there should stop working for one week and watch all you ... cry about it as you are getting your butts handed to you by the crooks you seem to love so much!!!

Denise in Temecula wrote on Sep 1, 2007 1:43 PM:Hey I feel bad for the family, but obviously it was an honest mistake. Frivolous lawsuit not required... We have enough in the world of war,drugs, and violence to worry about a wrong address. Was anyone hurt..? No didn't think so. I think we should be more worried about the real criminals. It's so funny how we always seem to have a ton to say about our law enforcement when they make a mistake. Why don't you become a cop and see how easy it is. P.S. whom ever told them to go into that house is to blame.

Preston L. wrote on Sep 1, 2007 2:40 PM:The blind pro-law enforcement comments here are disgusting. If you have a baby, teenage children, friends all cursed at and handcuffed and your house damaged, I bet you'd change your tune. I was recently pulled over and given a field sobriety test and I don't even drink. I asked the officer (CHP) what probable cause he had and he refused to answer me, ever. Of course, I passed the test (since I don't drink). The CHP officer refused to answer any question I had like why he pulled me over, why he thought I might have been drinking, etc. Totally illegal and unprofessional and people wonder why police are feared?

What? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 2:43 PM:To everyone who says it was just a mistake. I ask you what would of happened if the homeowner had tried to defend his property from what could be percieved as a home invasion robbery? It has happened and innocents have died because of this kind of mistake. There tare times when you need to use the jack booted thugs to serve a warrant. Homicide suspects, Armed robery suspects, major drug raids things were there is a good chance the people are armed. What was the warrant that they tried to serve for? The article only says that they believe it involved a parolee. The Chief really should KNOW what the raid was about at this point.

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 1, 2007 3:07 PM:Oh, I walk the line is in the house, with his blaaa, blaaa, blaaaa, post of utterly useless unfounded talk.

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 1, 2007 3:11 PM:Hey Chucky, get clue dude. The city is not liable one bit. CONTRACT POLICE....the Sheriffs' Department is where all the liability falls, so I guess they will get their city Taj Mahal anyhow.

A scholar wrote on Sep 1, 2007 3:26 PM:Me, Myself and who, you really need to watch how you judge others, because your punctuation is a bit lacking.

finally! wrote on Sep 1, 2007 3:52 PM:I'm glad this made the news! I'm sure the Temecula police were hoping this was going to be kept quiet. I agree that it was a mistake, but this family has been traumatized by this. If you don't think they have, go back and read about how agressive their language and behavior was towards this family. Even though it was a mistake, it was a pretty major one. I have a feeling this wasn't the first time, either!

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 1, 2007 4:41 PM:To What? your blog, "From what could be percieved as a home invasion robbery" Oh come on...they knocked, gave notice (as required by law) and THEN entered , wearing, oh I don't know,... vests that had POLICE written on them. Your lack of intelligence in your blog is amusing

A scholar wrote on Sep 1, 2007 4:43 PM:To finally, oh yes, I'm sure a cover-up was in the works,...until it was leaked out...duhhhhhh

Typical wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:34 PM:While my interaction with San Diego County Police has been limited ... it has also been consistent. These guys are (at best) a bunch of uncontrolled bully's who think they can do anything they want regardless of the consequence. I sympathize with the family who subject to these illiterate morons who couldn't so much as locate an appropriate address when it's given to them. I'm sure there are a lot of cops out there with the best of intentions who are working hard to do their jobs ... But there is also an over-abundance of the idiocy exampled here. We need to expect more from our public employees. This should not get brushed under the rug. I hope there is a lawsuit even if they only point is to bring further attention and clarity to such ridiculous situations.

??? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:39 PM:Cops on their ego trip as usual using their filthy mouths thinking they are somebody

Easy people wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:46 PM:If the search involved a parolee, no warrant is needed. Parolee's give up there 4th amendment rights...As do the people they live with, at least in the common areas. Cops can enter the house at any time. Do these fourth waiver searches happen at the wrong houses, yes they do. Parolee's move, lie about there address, informants give the wrong address...It happens amd it's not good for anyone involved...However on the flip side you could not have proactive policing. You could tell your department not to do these searches. If they city told the Sheriff's Department we don't want proactive policing just respond and write reports after the fact. That's what they are going to do. And forget about getting your own department. Thats crazy...You get better services with the Sheriff's. I know I live in Murrieta and they are way understaffed. A police department costs and a third more and gives about probably about half the services.

Anti Police up here wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:49 PM:I guess the cops should have just minded there own business, done surveillance of the local donut shop and called it a day. I mean if you don't try and catch criminals you never make a mistake you can just respond and clean up the pieces after a crime occurs, keeping the ignorant happy!

Kent wrote on Sep 1, 2007 5:52 PM:These cops seems like they are right out of the comic book pages of 'The Punisher.' A comic book 'hero' that takes the law into his own hands and is judge, jury, and executioner. I know that it is not easy being a cop, but for those of us who have ever been written a ticket by a cop who is having a bad day, and we are just sitting there and taking their condescending attitude and willing to take the ticket and move on, there is a bit of compassion for what these poor folks went during an obvious case of mistaken identity

Anti Cop wrote on Sep 1, 2007 6:05 PM:You would think they would have the address correct going in someone's house like that. It amazes me how they think they can ride around on their motorcyles and police cars racing thru traffic disregarding speed limits. I guess the donuts are calling!!!

What? wrote on Sep 1, 2007 6:30 PM:Easy, the courts have overturned at least one conviction that was based on evidence collected on a search on a waived 4th amendment of a parolee. There is some expectation of privacy even for parolees. Law enforcement needs reasonable cause to search, even a parolees house.

Ted wrote on Sep 1, 2007 7:15 PM:Those people whos say "Everyone makes mistakes" should realize that the next "mistake" could have them handcuffed on thir living room floor. The thought of my baby comforted in the soft folds of a bullet proof vest next to the ever present rifle, is hardly comforting. I do applaud the officer who showed an act of decency among so many who were crass and indifferent. I believe most people are able to discover the difference in the profie of a two story house versus a one story house. [Does the Riverside County Sheriff include pattern recognition in his entrenace requirements?] "Oops it's a one story house" does not seem adequate supervision.I hope "wanton disregard" fits here. The family should sue for every last dollar it can. It would be pleasing if Temecula and Riverside County would have to close down some services to pay the tab. This is merely to make us feel safer. The family can never feel safe again. "Dare we leave the door open?" "What is that sound?" The Riverside County Sheriff has traumatized two generations. Life will never be the same for them or for us.

To what wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:15 PM:Actually the ninth court of appeals was overturned in that case..No reasonable suspicion or probable cause needed...

Amazing wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:18 PM:Lots of anti cops out there...It must take a special person to do the job, I can't beleive they do anything anymore...Whats even more pathetic is the people talking about the requirements to get hired...Only 3 out of 100 applicants ever make it...Just a guess but most here wouldn't come close...

Sheriff haters wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:20 PM:Anyone know who Murrieta PD calls when they can't handle something???Oh yes RSO!!!

JD wrote on Sep 1, 2007 8:26 PM:This isn't the first time this has happened... similar thing happened to a friend of mine a year or so ago. In fact, rereading his blog on the incident, some of the descriptions of actions are IDENTICAL. His "crime"? Robbery of a Carls Jr. Unarmed, if I do believe. Of course, it wasn't him, as they found out once they bothered to actually look into the incident.

to hey it happens wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:15 PM:Why the need for the cursing and threatining to kill the lady, isn't that a "terrorist threat" anyone else would be arrested, so if you want us to feel sorry for the cops please explain the language and DEATH threat.

to retired wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:17 PM:same question I asked to hey it happens would YOU like to answer it?

to Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:26 PM:Are you reading a different story that I am or do you have inside info as nowhere in this story does it mention knocking or announcing what the cops were there for before they barged in. Maybe you're sure that they did that just because they're susposed to.

Tired of whiners wrote on Sep 1, 2007 9:45 PM:How do any of you know the officers weren't handed the wrong address? Maybe all you complainers out there should write in to the RSO and ask for your address to be listed as one who does not need or ever want help in case of distress. It would make the rest of us, who allow for simple mistakes, to have better police protection for in case a real incidence occurs. I dare any of you to put your life on the line, to protect people who only complain that you even exist. I do agree though, the family should have the repairs fixed, and probably some sort of compensation, but not some unheard of amount. It was a mistake.

Jeff wrote on Sep 1, 2007 11:00 PM:I bet this unit was pretty effective at their job. It is too bad they had to screw up like this. The only winners are the criminals who will no longer have to fear them. What a shame.

soon to be blacklisted wrote on Sep 2, 2007 1:03 AM:yeah this happened to a friend of mine in town too, the cops just walked in to his house and threw him on the ground holding guns to his head. They told him if anyone else was in the house they would shoot them and it would be his fault. These guys really need to get their act together.

Zygo wrote on Sep 2, 2007 7:57 AM:Two mistakes were made. Wrong address by the deputy who had that has his responsibility and failure of the supervisor to make sure the address was correct. The use of force, both physical and verbal was necessary - not in light of the innocent family where it seems overwhelming, but in light of the parolee who they were after. Forceful taking charge of a situation, where the targets are immediately made to think there are no fight or flight options, while seeming abusive actually save lives. Yes, mistakes are made, but some mistakes are unacceptable and consequences suffereed when they are made. The address, and location description, should have been checked multiple ways prior to the raid.

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 2, 2007 10:59 AM:Serving a warrant, it is requried by law to give knock and notice before entering. You can't just walk in unannounced.

Oh Please!!! wrote on Sep 2, 2007 2:13 PM:Yes, what happened to this family is awful and shouldn't have EVER happened but you can't blame the whole Sheriff's department. There are good ones out there protecting our community. Without them this place would be a bigger mess. The whole police department shouldn't be judged by a few bad apples.

What? wrote on Sep 2, 2007 2:14 PM:The thing I find interesting about the posts that say this wasn't a real problem is that they frequently also say quit complaining, support the officers or do without them. Well we all know that law enforcement isn't going anywhere. But the posters seem to feel that we should never criticize law enforcement merely because they are law enforcement. I disagree with that whole idea. They are given power over our freedom. They are given power of life and death. With that power comes a huge responsibility. As citizens we have the right of oversight on their every action. If anyone has a problem with that they need to find another line of work.

To What? wrote on Sep 2, 2007 6:50 PM:Absolutely 100% well said!!!!!

Susie wrote on Sep 2, 2007 11:47 PM:To people who support the law officers are way off base. How would you like to be put on the floor with a pistol stuck in your face? I think your tune would change. Big compensation deserved.

Nigel wrote on Sep 3, 2007 7:50 AM:The root of this problem is the militarisation of the ordinary police. Leaving aside SWAT teams and the like, police should not be soldiers. Fatal mistakes have been made across the country when flash bang grenades, assault squads and desk jockeys wanting a bit of "action" have stormed the addresses of non-violent offenders and, in some cases, innocent victims of police error. What took 2 police officers to peacefully handle 10 years ago, now takes a pseudo military battle group.

To what wrote on Sep 3, 2007 8:08 AM:If you want to criticise you should educate yourself about the actual job rather than just spouting off comments without knowing anything...I think that is what irritates cops most. Ignorant comments like "why didn't they shoot the knife out of the criminals hand." Or making comments about why they went into a particualr house before anyone even knows anything about the situation. If it turns out they screwed up then yes they should be disciplined. So yes you have the right to criticise but that comes with some responsibilty if you have any morals. Making false acusations even in a blog makes cops jobs much more difficult and dangerous than it already is...After all they are the ones keeping you safe to criticise from your computer even though you would never admit it!!!

Interesting wrote on Sep 3, 2007 8:17 AM:Now I know why cops don't read the paper. Why do your job when 50% or more of the people out there don't like you or even have a clue what or how much you do...The ignorance is amazing...I guess the fact that they saw it on TV makes them experts...The hours they make boardroom deals and computer work are tough jobs!!!lol.. I think if the cops read the paper they would put the blinders on...I mean if the public doesn't want them to catch criminals don't complain when they don't...

DB wrote on Sep 3, 2007 9:34 AM:WTH??? Threatened with BEING SHOT IN THE HEAD, and this family gats only an APOLOGY?? OMG.

patriot wrote on Sep 3, 2007 9:43 AM:Nor is there any explanation of why the cops thought the "parolee" they were investigating would require such a display of excess force. That's the trouble with cops. If a banker commits a crime, they treat him with kid gloves. If it's you or me -- even if we're innocent -- it's abuse and rage and bullets. Wake up, officers, and realize who your fellow citizens are.

not surprised wrote on Sep 3, 2007 9:49 AM:having lived in SoCal during the reigns of Ed Davis and Darryl Gates, having seen the SD sherrif's office excuse 6 officers who, collectively, shot and killed a man who was threatening them with a short bamboo garden stake, having lived through the 70's fbi raids on many wrong houses, having seen police drag a 65 year old peace protestor 35 feet across the asphalt, pulling off her pants and causing multiple abrasions, having seen the Houston PD exonerataed for drowning a handcuffed suspect--I am not impressed with the "chief's" apology, nor the comment that the unit would be reconstituted after the investigation. I hope this family sues the hell out of everyone involved--and if the officers involved cannot read addresses, cannot tell the difference between single and double-story houses, they are too damned stupid to be on the force. As for those of you who say, if you have complaints, do without police protection, you are apparently incapable of comprehending the situation, and I recommend that you withdraw to a logic course, or stay out of public discourse.

To Wizard of OZ wrote on Sep 3, 2007 10:40 AM:Google the term "no-knock warrants" and then get back to us. There's something important you need to know. Go learn something new. To all the police apologists on this page: I should think knowing the difference between a one-story house and a two-story house would be something of a requirement for ANY police work. Just like raiding Apartment 201 instead of 101; if they were told "first floor" (which the number does tell them) then there is no excuse. Knowing what the actual house numbers were would help a bit, but that's really not necessary, because of the multiple-floor issue. Two floors are, believe it or not, visible from the outside of the home! Imagine that. This family deserves between ten and fifteen million bucks for this absolutely unconscionable, severe violation of their 4A rights. This is precisely why so-called "no-knock" warrant services should be banned; it happens far too often (even once is too often) and, as someone upthread has pointed out, people have died in the past during these. *Even after being served a warrant*, there is still a presumption of innocence for the crime committed. That the officers were in the wrong place makes the family's innocence fact, and not theory. How much money is a Constitutional right worth when it is this severely violated? We'll let a jury decide that, if the family chooses, but I'd put it up into the eight-figure range.

What? wrote on Sep 3, 2007 11:32 AM:Interesting does it again!!! And I quote. "I mean if the public doesn't want them to catch criminals don't complain when they don't..." Carte blanc or the police won't play. Thpppt.

What? wrote on Sep 3, 2007 11:44 AM:To what wrote on Sep 3, 2007 8:08 AM: Are you kidding? If it turns out they screwed up? Please reread the second paragraph of the article. They screwed up. So what false accusations did I make? I support and respect the people who do this very difficult work. That does not mean that they are above the criticism.

gesellschaft wrote on Sep 3, 2007 11:49 AM:Compensation should NEVER come from the taxpayer. An effective way to thwart these common illegal home invasions would be to award damages to the victims as a fixed on salary and percentage on O.T. of each offending officers paycheck the same way that is done with child support. An officer would pay more attention to their duty if their negligence could directly affect their own income instead of the business as usual of the paid vacation (I'm sorry, removal from active duty with pay) while a way to settle out of court, let the officers free etc.

Ari wrote on Sep 3, 2007 11:49 AM:Brownshirts. Even if they were at the right place, they were only after one guy. Obviously, teenagers and women are not the guy. Threatening to shoot a woman in the head for worrying about her crying baby crosses a huge line. Cops have turned into worse than thugs, they watch the tv programs with all the screaming and shooting and think that's how they should act.

nobody wrote on Sep 3, 2007 12:54 PM:It's worse than most people here suspect it is. Other than morality about taking part in such a team, we mostly can't blame the members of such a SWAT team. It's the design, training and usage of such a team which is deplorable. The teams are trained to be a cold blooded killing machine that does not even react to the victims of such a team. It just does it's thing and kills all that does not conform with their commands. these teams are designed this way to give it's users maximum output. The users of such SWAT teams however are the lowest scum on this earth, they use these teams mainly for political gain (look tough and be re-elected) or personal grudge against individuals or groups of people.

Noname wrote on Sep 3, 2007 12:56 PM:Perhaps it's time to start building police-proof homes. Suppose the city building departments will add that to the building code? This warrantless searching has to stop! Oh, goody, they allegedly knocked, notified, THEN entered. I bet that took all of a few fractions of a second. When was the last time you heard of police making these kinds of mistakes at corporate headquarters when serving a warrant, or at a government office? I haven't heard of one mistake for those places, the prosecutors seem to get all tipsy toesy 'walking on eggs' for them -- they serve a letter in advance, discussing the need for 'an investigation' -- the media and politicans get involved.... No bashing down of doors, no storm trooper tactics. When are the police going to start these tactics with the elite corporate criminals? Remember Deukmejian's "Use a gun and go to jail"? It rarely seems to apply to the police when they've exceeded their lawful authority. Another hypocritical Republican law. With respect to common citizens: I swear that the many cases I've read of in my years leads me to believe police are doing exactly what they're told to do to, mostly likely to create FEAR: After all, YOU, dear law abiding citizen, might be NEXT. Afterward, police can claim 'mistake' and rarely do they get 'real punishment' like jail time for disturbing the peace, breaking and entering, willful destruction of property, committing a crime with a gun, etc.

R.W. wrote on Sep 3, 2007 1:04 PM:I don't fear criminals busting into my house....I can at least try to protect myself from them. I fear cops busting into my house....there is no self defense against the cops. Cops all over this country are out of control.

BobDobalina wrote on Sep 3, 2007 1:49 PM:"Mistakes Happen" It's one thing to screw up an order at a fast food restaurant, it's entirely another to raid a house with guns drawn without checking the address. These guys are lucky the homeowner wasn't packing heat or someone probably would have died. Heads should roll.

johnsmith wrote on Sep 3, 2007 1:59 PM:Did anyone else find that last quote strange? "I want to get to the facts or get them exonerated, I think we owe it to (the officers)," the chief said. If you parse that "OR" (get to the facts OR get them exonerated), it seems like a troubling statement. Even if the chief said such a thing, I can't imagine him saying it, and assume he was being misquoted.

Big Richard wrote on Sep 3, 2007 6:56 PM:To Hey It Happens... Maybe if this had happened to your family and home you would not have such a casual attitude about it. This is what happens when you have a police force trained as a paramilitary unit dealing with the public. They need to understand unless they have declared war on the citizens of the untited states then we have a right to be treated with dignity. I hope the officers are made an example of. enough of these excuses for acting the way they do.

Bill wrote on Sep 3, 2007 9:27 PM:If we, the public, make a "MISTAKE" and go a little faster than the posted speed limit, we get a ticket with a heavy fine attatched with it. So absolutetly these "boys in blue" should be held responsible for the damage done. Lack of communication and inproper planning makes for an accident waiting to happen. Thankfully no one was hurt.

Hey Bill wrote on Sep 3, 2007 10:16 PM:You said that perfectly.

Criminal wrote on Sep 3, 2007 10:56 PM:Yeah, bust those cops...Ha ha...Makes it easier for me to be your neighbor and break into your house...Scare em so bad they don't want to chase after me. They should be so afraid of the citizens who do nothing important in their lives but criticise the few who would actually become cops... At least in Tememcula I know they won't rush anything anymore, better to let the criminal go than have the fury of ignorant citizens posting on a web site...Yaa hoooo...

Victor wrote on Sep 4, 2007 8:37 AM:What a bunch of rookies. Fire the whole lot.

KING KOP wrote on Sep 4, 2007 9:34 AM:I feel bad for the family, but mistakes DO happen. Oh well!!!! We dust them off and say, "Ooops!". But folks (uh, I mean crooks), we are NOT going away. HAHAHAAAAAAA. We will be proactive and enforce the law. We will rid the world of bad guys. We will not stop doing our jobs. And we are human so we will make more mistakes. I'm not going to stop just because a bunch of people who know nothing about my job complain and belly ache (although they pretend to know because they read a book on cop capers or they saw LAPD once). Remember, until you are willing to walk the point, ...

Green Eggs and Ham wrote on Sep 4, 2007 9:35 AM:I think there is a cover up. I had a hard time finding this story. It should be right out front.

...People of Temecula wrote on Sep 4, 2007 9:58 AM:I agree that the police made a mistake and don�t worry the family will get compensation. The doors and walls will get repaired at the expense of RSO. The homeowners will not have to pay for it. Now to all of you ... who say get a sleazy attorney, as one said, guess who is going to have to pay for that.... If you have 1/2 a brain you came up with the correct answer. YOU!!! Yes, the taxpayer who is so upset, WILL pay the bill. So think about where your taxes will go, when you say file a frivolous law suit, because you are going to be writing that check yourself. Also you all complain about the COPS but are the 1st one to call 911 and yell to �GET THE COPS HERE!� when you have an argument with your neighbor or the music is to loud, or the car cut you off, or you were involved in an accident, or when someone breaks into your car, or your out of control juvenile runs way again or is not listening to you, etc. It was mistake and we all make mistakes deal with it!

To Bill wrote on Sep 4, 2007 10:03 AM:Have you ever received a ticket for only going a little faster that the speed limit? Let me see a little to me is 5 MPH. Have you?? NO you get a ticket for 15 MPH which is not a little. Give me a break. I wish all of you people held the same standards at your job and when you make a mistake they FIRE you or Don’t pay you for numerous hours at a time. So you and your family don’t have a paycheck for every little mistake you make!

SD wrote on Sep 4, 2007 10:17 AM:We should all carry guns! That way the cops might do their homework before the bust into someones home at night. As for this family, they need sue ... Saying sorry doesn't do justice in this case. Sue the hell out of them!

libertysilver wrote on Sep 4, 2007 10:48 AM:Were these "private contract Police'? If so, then therin lies the problem, at least part of it. My first question would be, 'What company do they work for? The tactics used here are how they are trained. Local police officers were never trained to do things like that. Local police were "peace officers". What needs to change here is the intent behind their training. The Patriot Act and the Military commissions act has made this behavior come about. This is America people, and this type of behavior should be rejected.

Gov 101 wrote on Sep 4, 2007 12:02 PM:its sad to read the comments written here. Freedom isn't free, it does cost once and a while. We've come to a point where we expect protection from our government yet yell "lawsuit" or "fire the officers" when they make a mistake. Should the police have knocked first? Should the police (who deal with scum most of the time) politely ask the people to lay gently on the floor? If this was the right house, we would be praising these officers, GIVE THEM A BREAK! So again, freedom isn't free, it does cost once and a while.

Alf wrote on Sep 4, 2007 12:50 PM:A fool and his Constitutional rights are easily parted if he believes "for National Security" or "for ????". The price of freedom can NEVER BE THE LOSS OF CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS, NEVER. That is a price that is, in fact, too high. ANYONE claiming to need to usurp Constitutional rights for their given "National Security" or any other cause is violating the Constitution and therefore violating people of the United States of America. Regards, Alf.

It is what it is wrote on Sep 4, 2007 12:55 PM:Does anyone know the amount that is usually paid out for the emotional stress the victims of these botched raids go through. Hopefully there is a capped figure that should not exceed more than 20,000 per victim taking into account no one was actually injured. These mistakes will happen from time to time. Our police departments don`t have the smartest recruits to choose from. Think about it, who would want to be a cop. It is a horrible job with odd hours & low pay. They have to deal with the violent culture of todays youth. So we need to be a little understanding if they`re a little rough around the edges.

Anti Cop wrote on Sep 4, 2007 1:19 PM:I see cops like a bit bull. Just a different breed

Jason wrote on Sep 4, 2007 2:01 PM:This isn't an isolated incident. This happens hundreds of times a year all over the country and many times they turn out much worse. On many occassions innocent people die because of "mistakes". As long as we American's continue to put up with militarized police, it will only get worse.

Something to Ponder wrote on Sep 4, 2007 2:57 PM:to all the people who think that the police were innocent and we need to deal with this because they protect us from crooks.. a quote from one of the founding fathers of this country: Those who sacrifice liberty for security deserve *neither*. - Benjamin Franklin

...fedup wrote on Sep 4, 2007 7:01 PM:was this family white or black? wait, I know the anser, they were white... if this family were black, this story would never have happened. NEVER. there would be no apology, no contrite Chiefy, no "threat of further action". this family would have been kicked, abused, and forgotten; because they were black. They weren't- they were white- that's why this made the news at all.

Big Richard wrote on Sep 4, 2007 7:16 PM:It makes me sick to see people twist things around . there is absolutley NO excuse to put a gun to a womans head and threaten to shoot her. especially an obviously unarmed one. I can understand the need for complete control of a situation and shock tactics work great but there is a point where it is abuse. If people continue to use the same old excuse then there will be no boundries and our rights are then gone. All the police need to say whenever they have stepped beyond the rules is it was for the safety of the officers then everyone is supposed to say ok. Eventually it will be like crying wolf and everyone will suspect that they are hiding something anytime something happens. Oh wait a minute thats how it is now.

The Wizard of Oz wrote on Sep 4, 2007 10:23 PM:Uhhhh, no knock warrants are NOT given for every situation, it IS required by law to knock on all most all warrants. You need to go to a Post academy and get back to us.

SawthisComing wrote on Sep 5, 2007 1:44 AM:You allow police to do what tehy want day in and day out because your "not doing anythign illegal" but little do you know your already guilty untill you prove yourself innocent. SWAT teams arent needed in every town but they are there and have to justify the guns and gear costs by brekaing in peoples houses. Its not just a matter of time before facists kill innocent citizens in their beds. They already have!

Dave wrote on Sep 5, 2007 5:34 AM:I only have one thing to say ... The American Taliban at work

Sam wrote on Sep 5, 2007 5:42 AM:Gov 101 wrote on Sep 4, 2007 12:02 PM: " its sad to read the comments written here. Freedom isn't free, it does cost once and a while. We've come to a point where we expect protection from our government yet yell "lawsuit" or "fire the officers" when they make a mistake. Should the police have knocked first? Should the police (who deal with scum most of the time) politely ask the people to lay gently on the floor? If this was the right house, we would be praising these officers, GIVE THEM A BREAK! So again, freedom isn't free, it does cost once and a while. " I don't think you would say that if it would have been your house .. Freedom isn't free, you don't mind that as long as your not the one doing the paying.

esteban wrote on Sep 5, 2007 7:46 AM:To fedup...well, if they were black, this article would have been screaming about the racist cops at work. Then the minororities would be saying, "If they were white, this wouldn't have happened!" So now they were white this time and now you say, "If they were black you wouldn't have heard about it..." So which is it? Ya see, cops are damned if they do, damned if they don't. I would love to see them go on strike for one month and watch all you naysayer wimps screaming for help when the crooks come for you. HAHAHAAAAA!!!!!

MondayMorningQB wrote on Sep 5, 2007 8:46 AM:Temecula need its own PD. The RSO does the best they can, but are too short to provide quality services to Temecula. To all you idiots who have tried, convicted and sentenced these deputies soley from the facts in the completely "neutral" NCTimes...Pull your heads out of you @#$!! These deputies were following orders. The command staff needs to be held responsible; not the deputies. Walk a mile in thier shoes (I have) and your tune will change. Peace and Love!

noblesse oblige wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:42 AM:Cops take one day a week off? I'd relish it. Give me the opportunity to defend myself in equal force as the criminals and politicians are working to take it. Too many sheep- no noblesse oblige left in this world.

Greg wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:51 AM:The police are the same everywhere...give them a badge and they let it get to there heads. they seem to think they don't haveto answer to anybody..i think as long as they can disrupt your life they are happy.. they like to leave anybody wondering what is going on.. i think a reasonable compensation for this family would be about 50,000.00 first as a down payment..that should take care of all the counselling eveyone will have to go through to get ove this..then another 50,000.00 for the inconvenience,, make it come outta the officer's salary who threatened there life with a bullet to the head. there should be a seperate charge for that...any regular person would be charged..

MondayMorningQB wrote on Sep 5, 2007 10:44 AM:Your all Lemmings....Sheep! Just making decisions off of what the NCTimes says. You actually believe ALL the statements this family made are 100% true? Why don't all you fools wait until the investigation is done.

Limit the payout wrote on Sep 5, 2007 11:44 AM:I really don`t think this family will need counseling to get over this. None of them were brutalized. Sure the cops were wrong & should have done a more thorough investigation before storming into the wrong house, but do we really want to over pay this family with taxpayer dollars? With their lawyers taking a big chunk of OUR tax dollars. Toughen up people we live in an over populated melting pot, as Forest gump says "it happens" Its never going to change so deal with it or move to Utah. Chargers 27 Bears 13

Big Richard wrote on Sep 5, 2007 12:40 PM:And we are supposed to take the cops statements as being true? just who are the lemmings here. One day a week without cops would be fine with me. That would give us one day a week to sort out and take out the garbage.

BARBIE wrote on Sep 5, 2007 3:51 PM:HEY I AGREE WITH ESTEBAN...WHY DONT YOU PEOPLE GO ON A RIDE WITH A COP ??? AND SEE ALL THE HELL THEY HAVE TO GO THROUGH DAILY...THE PEOPLE THAT PULL GUNS AT THEIR HEADS THE DRUGS...THE PURE EVIL THAT EXISTS...BIG DEAL THEY MADE A MISTAKE! NO ONE WAS HURT...SO LET IT GO!!! WHY DO YOU BABIES QUIT WHINING!!!!GET SOME HOBBIES OR SOMETHING!!

Alf wrote on Sep 5, 2007 4:45 PM:"Limit the payout", I guess you think that it is no big deal to be handcuffed, on the floor and have a cop tell you that if you moved he was going to put a bullet in your head. I disagree quite strongly. Most civilians would find that to be a BIG deal. If these people settle for only the repair of their damaged house and some counseling, the police should count themselves very lucky. If it was my wife and kids, I'd go no lower than 7 figures and a few heads on platters. Regards, Alf.

What? wrote on Sep 5, 2007 8:19 PM:Um Barbie, no need to shout. By the way they know what they are signing up for. Just because they deal with lots of scum everyday doesn't mean they get to treat everyone like scum.

Steve wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:05 PM:Ridiculous. There is no reason for such no-knock tactics unless life is in immediate danger. The vastly increased use of violent entries by the police is a danger to all free citizens. I hope the family wins a big pile of money in compensation.

to King Kop wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:11 PM:Do you threaten to KILL (put a bullet in your head) un-armed mothers asking about their babies. Color it anyway you want, that is way beyond reason and I believe a crime ie. terrorist threat.

Hey Barbie wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:14 PM:Is anyone holding a gun to their heads?

L wrote on Sep 5, 2007 9:19 PM:I live on the other side of the country, and although there are bad people out there in law enforcement I have no particular experience with that end of the country. I'm sure there are both good and bad apples every where, in every profession. This being said, I noticed no one has pointed out, that you can only see the families comments. I'm not saying they are false or that it wasn't a traumatizing experience, but until the investigation is over and all the facts come out it is hard to judge what truely happened. I'm sure the officers involved were advised by their counsel and administrators to keep their mouths closed for the time being. We all know the media likes to stir things up as well. It doesn't get ratings unless it envokes an emotion. I hope everyone keeps this in mind as they choose sides... and insult others with opposing views.

Steve wrote on Sep 5, 2007 10:04 PM:I know if I were in the law enforcement field I would not be defending these officers of their half-cocked attempt of a raid. These are people who are supposed to have your back in times of crisis. It states that this is not the only complaint that these officers have received. It should not have taken an innocent families wrongful raid to finally get these officers investigated. They have evidently made more than just this mistake. The quality of these officers is obviously sub-standard. If I had co-workers like that (in any field) I would want them to be retrained or dismissed. I wonder what happened to the parolee that they were attempting to arrest. To the rest of the cops who are doing a good job, please keep up the good work and don't let the bad apples spoil the crop.

Bill wrote on Sep 5, 2007 10:57 PM:Steve, I have a background in law enforcement. The officers involved obviously erred and did not follow up on intelligence, this was their first mistake; however their acts were not malicious. I'm confident the County will make a settlement agreement with the family and the deputies involved, and many other deputies will learn from this experience. Once entry was made inside the house officers are trained to ensure their safety by securing any possible threats, this includes handcuffing, etc. While the world is not black and white, the deputies could have used some discretion on how the family was treated. I'm sure it was obvious they were in the wrong location within a few seconds after they made entry. Despite this incident, RSO is a fine organization with many dedicated men and women, despite the resignation of the Sheriff and the recent transfer of Chief Alm. However the City of Temecula is nearing 100,000 people with plans to annex another 50,000 residents. It is time to start our own municipal police department, and hire experienced officers like Murrieta does. It seems odd to me to not have a police station in the city and the Sheriff's station is in Murrieta. What's up with that? Sheriff's deputies can work Temecula one day, and Palm Desert or Moreno Valley the next because of promotion or transfer. There is no loyalty or vested interest to our fine city! Mayor Washington and City Manager Nelson are you listening?

to libertysilver wrote on Sep 6, 2007 3:15 AM:Re: your Sep 4 10:48 AM post. These are regular Riverside County Sheriff deputies. (RTO). Temecula has grown very fast from small city to over 90,000 population in a few years. So there were contracing with the county for deputies. Maybe they have a few of their own police. "Street Enforcement Team" = some members are given a special assignment and hopefully training to fight against gangs and more serious criminals anywhere, mostly in the part of the county about 40 miles north of here.

to esteban and fed up wrote on Sep 6, 2007 3:26 AM:re: your posts at Sep 5, 7:46 AM and Sep 4 7:01 PM. The paper did not state the race of the victims. In Temecula in this event I think it would not matter. Most people are white or US citizen mexican. The mayor is black. It did not say what race the officers were.

Observer_1 wrote on Sep 6, 2007 5:09 AM:Some posters above were saying that we should not criticize the police in the news article, we might want help some day. I have done both. I have had some small amount of interaction with 40 or 50 policemen. All of the 40 or 50 or more except one acted professionally. I had very few traffic tickets driving over 60 years now. And I was never arrested for anything. The CHP officers were especially polite and helpful even when writing tickets. On other occasions I stopped and gave witness reports after seeing traffic accidents. I reported events to several police for their investigation when I was nearly killed as the victim of a very violent crime. Another time when police checked out my house after it was broken into, another time when a car of mine was stolen, then recovered. Several times I tried to help provide clues to detectives when they asked for help in newspaper articles. Even when three police cars stopped me, incorrectly thinking I was driving a stolen car, the officers were polite. The other occasion was a traffic officer who was not OK. He was so angry his nose was flaring when he stopped me. It was late at night and I was a little a