Obscered by the passage of time. wrote on Apr 12, 2008 12:33 AM:The article does not mention the results of his blood test or the events leading up to the confrontation.

The truth wrote on Apr 12, 2008 8:41 AM:shall set you free.. A repeated offender was taken off the street and the cop goes home.....case closed.

Not obscurred wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:07 AM:The many articles before this mention all those events. The blood test will not be released because that is not public info yet. This article shouldn't have to re-cap the entire event to please people like you, it is simply giving the new info that has been released.

Joe wrote on Apr 12, 2008 10:42 AM:even if he was being attacked this is not the wild wild west.... what makes him think he can be judge and excuter

To "Obscered" and to Joe wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:06 AM: You just don't get it, do you?

First, 5 weeks for the conclusion of an investigation is not a long time. The events leading up to this article have been in the paper and on the blog.

Second, no this is not the wild, wild west. However, Shaun Vilan and his buddies decided it was. The ODO was defending himself. What would you have done?

I will venture to say that there will be an arrest and it won't be the ODO, it will be Taylor Willis.

Tyson wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:13 AM:Regardless if its the Wild Wild West or not if your being attacked and you're fearing for you life and the attackers are not stopping what is your intial reaction...just lay there and take!!No!!!you do anything necessary to save yourself. Turn the tables say the officer died from being beaten to death and the whole time he had a gun and didn't use it...what does that make him then?

LYN wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:23 AM:What was he to do? If he did not intervene, he could have been killed himself, and if you ask me, I'd rather have one less thug in this world than one less hard working officer.

Poster wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:25 AM:The officer was attacked, ID'd himself as a police officer and continued to be attacked by several individuals. Its not the "wild wild west", its self defense. I'm behind the officer 100%.

Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:31 AM:Old Town was crowded that afternoon, cops were all over, and opening fire into a crowd of people was reckless and showed poor judgement. No one should not have been killed. I am not convinced the cop's life was in danger.
I wonder of Deputy Dibble went to his van to retrieve his gun? I wonder if he was wine tasting all afternoon? I find sitting in a chair on the sidewalk to be suspicious, why not just sit in your car? or was he posting guard duty?!

No Joe wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:46 AM:Every movie I see about the wild, wild west involves fights with bad guys smashing chairs over the good cowboy's head. Maybe "Shauny the Villain" watched too many movies. Oh yeah, the Good Guy ALWAYS wins.

To Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 12:14 PM:I was working in Old Town that day and left work around 7:30 PM. Old Town was very empty compared to earlier in the day. The Rod Run was over by 4PM, with some stragglers. To say that it was "crowded that afternoon...and opening fire into a crowd of people..." is highly inaccurate. I believe that this shooting took place at least 2.5 - 3 hours AFTER the Rod Run was finished.
I will agree that it is odd that he went outside and grabbed a chair to sit down. I do wonder if the reason he was feeling bad was affects of alcohol. And I also wonder what provoked the fight in the first place.
If he was not drinking and was randomly attacked, then he has every right to defend himself. If the witnesses are correct and he was being beaten by several individuals, I don't blame him for taking out his gun. The officer didn't know when the group was going to stop. Wouldn't it cross your mind that you were going to die?
If he had been drinking, well then I think questioning his judgment may apply. But it doesn't change the fact that he was getting the **** kicked out of him, to the point where force had to be used. It doesn't matter if he was drinking, if the witnesses can corroborate the brutality of the attack.

samiam wrote on Apr 12, 2008 12:34 PM:I don't know that the officer was guilty or not that should be decided by a jury of his peers. What is very apperant is that this officer received special good old boy treatment that the average joe would not have. Also, how could the RCSO complete their investigation without the results of the blood test. I am sure they know, but it is probable not favorable to the officer therefore the results are being withheld? Look for the union lable.

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 1:02 PM:We share many of the same questions which hopefully will be eventually answered. In a public setting and not feeling well, a reasonably prudent person would likely prefer to sit in the comfort of a quiet vehicle, not on a lawn chair on a busy public street.
From the get go, I thought it was strange that the deputy chose to hang around in an area where he'd gotten into it earlier with another individual. And celebrating the ending of an event at which he hadn't even attended? Weird. Nevertheless, it's sad a life was lost that evening, regardless of who is eventually found at fault.

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 1:29 PM:The officer did not fire into a crowd, he fired into the the perps who were beating him up. Also, there were witnesses to what happened. As for the firearm being in his vehicle. I think not. Besides, you are a little late with all your speculations. That happened weeks ago. Now the truth is out. Bad guys lost.

Interesting... wrote on Apr 12, 2008 2:07 PM:I, too, see a different scenario and the fact that a life was lost should make it that no stone is left unturned. I find it highly likely that the officer left his group (were they dining? finishing up?) and went to his vehicle to retrieve his gun. I find it plausible that he set up a chair to wait for Vilan's party to exit, maybe wanting another confrontation. He could have easily found a local cop and said, hey, these guys may be rowdy, can you escort my group to my car? But instead, he drew his weapon. I bet if investigators tried real hard, they would find witnesses who said Dibble was acting like a jerk. I just hope they have conducted a truly unbiased investigation.

From Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 2:12 PM:Comments from police spokespersons are out, not necessarily the whole truth as evidenced by the fact that tox tests are not available, nor witness statements from Vilan's party or details of the verbal exchange that happened prior to the shooting. Besides, it will go to the DA to see if charges should be filed against the officer.
I would find it very interesting to see if he went to his van to retrieve his weapon or did he have it on him when he entered the restaurant?

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 3:07 PM:Most likely the ODO had his firearm on him. That would be the only safe place to keep it if he were to carry one off duty.

2 TEMECULA TAXPAYER wrote on Apr 12, 2008 4:14 PM:MY FATHER IS A PEACE OFFICER AND THEY CARRY THEIR GUNS ON THEM. USUALLY IN A FANNI PACK; AND YES, THEY ARE ALLOWED TO CARRY WEAPONS SUCH AS A GUN, KNIFE, OR PEPPER SPRAY. HE DIDN'T HAVE THE STRENGTH TO GO INTO HIS VAN HE WAS BEING ATTACK!!! WHAT MAKES YOU THINK THAT? AGAIN PEOPLE ASSUMING THINGS...THE OFFICER WAS SELF DEFENDING HIMSELF. I BET YOU'D DO THE SAME THING TOO.

terry wrote on Apr 12, 2008 4:27 PM:next time in old town maybe we should be able to carry a gun.then it would be a even fight....just like the old west...but the sheriffs would be on their own

WyattEarp wrote on Apr 12, 2008 5:13 PM:
taxpayer said
it will go to the DA to see if charges should be filed against the officer.

SORRY TO DISSAPOINT YOU, THRE REPORT IS GOING TO THE DA FOR CHARGES TO BE FILED ON THE OTHER THUGS THE CMPD OFFICER HAS BEEN CLEARED. RIGHTFULLY SO!
SOME OF YOU HAVE QUITE AN IMAGINATION (to spontaneously generate images within one's own mind) WHAT HAPPENED IS VERY CLEAR. GUYS TRY TO BULLY, OOPS ITS A COP, COP SAYS STOP, THEY DONT, MORONS GET SHOT END OF STORY

Colusion wrote on Apr 12, 2008 6:49 PM:I am absolutly certain that if the officers toxicolgy test favored him they would have been released within a week. Because they have not been released at this late date leads this common man to believe that either non was done or it did not favor the officer and needed covering up. A lie of ommission?

Felony Murder... wrote on Apr 12, 2008 7:21 PM:is what Taylor Willis and the other thugs should be charged with. If these creeps had not conspired with Vilan to use Officer Dibble's head as a soccer ball, then Vilan would be alive right now.

Officer Dibble, please feel welcome to come back and visit Temecula any time you would like. The vast majority of Temecula is law abiding and we welcome your presence in our town.

Overwhelmed wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:43 PM:Wow, I had been told the truth would come out and it is, slowly. Yes, Dibble was attacked. Yes, he was outside because he did not feel well. But why? He had been ill all day but put his best foot forward to have dinner with his family. He did not get a chair out of his van. There were chairs outside for people to sit while waiting for a table. No he did not go to his car to get his gun. If you read the other articles it also mentions that the officer was not alone. There were two of his family members who were also attacked. Why is this information just now coming out. To protect those who are the victims. Once the investigation was complete the truth can now be told. As for the blood alcohol, the officer was not drunk, nor consuming, hence the officer was sober. But when the shooting first took place, did you see blogs, comments from the officers family & friends? Did you see the officers family on TV crying about their family member getting beat up. NOPE. Because we knew the truth would prevail. There will be more to come and once the rest of the investigation is complete I say we interview Good Ol Boy Shaun's family & friends again.

Not Sure wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:50 PM:I understand a officer carrying a weapon off duty. What is the policy of his department about the use of alcohol while carrying his weapon? I haven't read that anywhere.

FASCINATING wrote on Apr 12, 2008 10:29 PM:The rampant speculations of guilt, despite the facts revealed to date, is indicative of the ignorance and hatred of those making the accusations. I have no doubt you folks are the same ones who stood by the side of the freeway cheering on a Bronco-riding OJ Simpson after he had nearly beheaded his ex-wife and her attractive boyfriend. The same ones who cheered when the beheader, OJ, was acquitted even though the DNA tests showed there was only a 1-in-100 million chance that the murderer could have been someone OTHER than OJ Simpson. I hope to God you NEVER serve on a jury.

It really has become... wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:42 AM:Moreno Valley. Just like many worried about for years. Temecula has become a ghetto, an unsafe place to be on the streets.

Ex Temecula Resident wrote on Apr 13, 2008 6:05 AM:Temecula is now in the real world where bad things happen to good and bad people. Unless we were there and saw everything that happened we cannot judge the officer involved. Put yourself in his situation. WWYHD?

Why don't we let it be? wrote on Apr 13, 2008 6:49 AM:There will be a day when off duty police officers will just sit back and watch becuase of the general public, who want to hang them! Remeber that all you tough cowboys. I know lets take the guns from the police and only the bad guys will have them. People really do hate the police and lawman. What kind of pathetic society do you all live in!

Like the hillbillies! wrote on Apr 13, 2008 7:01 AM:Most of you talking about the police officer like he is bad. I can only imagine the backgrounds of you all. Extremely liberlas, with a "Can't we all just get along and hope that everthing works out! But angry when an animal attacks and has to be put out of his misery! The police officer has to have an extensive background check, lie detector test, health test, pass a Dr. Shrink review and them a 7 month polcie academy. Then a year long internship and probation. Alot of time and money goes into it. Then if he makes it, he can enjoy fighting for his life as he cleans up the street while you rest. Only to beat up verball by the masses. Yeah that's a job I want to do! Hey I have an idea why don't you that have all the mnaswers, go become police officer and level the playing field. Oh what;s that? You can't because you make too much money doing what yo do, without the dangers of police work, or you can't becuase yu can't pass the background or physical requirements, or drug testing! Please people! There must be one of you who is willing to step up and stay out of trouble in highs chol and college, with a clean back ground! Oh and then when you do your job be ready for the public lynching! POLICE WORK IS ONE OF THE TOUGHEST JOBS TO GET, AND ONE OF THE FASTEST TO LOSE!

Good Work by this Officer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 7:04 AM:Officer Dibble, I commend you for a good job under tough circumstances! I am glad the good guy won! You and all the police officers and deputies have a tough job doing what you have and the life you have chosen to do. It's for sure not a 9 to 5 and seems to follow police because of your sworn duty to protect! Keep up the great work the most of us n the public support you!

To FASCINATING wrote on Apr 13, 2008 7:28 AM:It isn't "fascinating." It's pathetic and downright scary that even now so many people can think the cop was at fault. How dare he sit outside, challenging those nice people by just sitting there with his head in his hands? How dare he hit those people's feet with his face and ribs??? POLICE BRUTALITY! STRING HIM UP!!

To It really has become wrote on Apr 13, 2008 8:32 AM:Temecula is far from gettho! It is still a beautiful area to live in. Thank God you are and EX resident, I wouldn't want this kind a attitude living in my area.

I am glad this officer is back to work. I am sure that he is too. The good guys won in this.

I was there wrote on Apr 13, 2008 8:40 AM:good thing this cop had a gun on him or he could have been the dead one. thank god for cops.

Sam wrote on Apr 13, 2008 9:38 AM:Cops are cops 24/7 weather drunk are not. If he felt in fear of death or serious bodily harm, he should have shot.

Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:15 AM:Based on some of the comments, it would seem a cop can never be guilty of anything but surprise! even a cop can show poor judgement and make big fat mistakes. I am not convinced his life was in danger. I do not think it was necessary to draw his weapon. A life was lost and I hope an unbiased investigation was done rather than a knee jerk he-must-be-innocent-because-he's-a-cop mentality that seems to be exhibited here.

I know several police officers, Temecula is a public-sector type of town, and those I know are young, inexperienced, somewhat arrogant and self entitled. And if I were a cop and an out of towner drew fire on my turf, I sure as heck would want a complete fair investigation!

And I stand by my suspicion that he went to his van to get his gun.

Questions wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:25 AM:The investigation is complete, but there are still some unanswered questions. 1)Why did Dibble sit down across the street from the restaurant? It just doesn't make any sense why he should do that. 2)What was his blood alcohol level? I understand why ODO should be allowed to carry guns. On the other hand, they should NEVER be drunk while carrying a gun. Is there anyone that does not agree with that?

ThisIsNotAnExit wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:45 AM:To Questions:

1) I know when I feel like throwing up, I want fresh air, not a stuffy car.

2) I am pretty sure if his BAC was above .08 he would not be allowed to return to work.

Further more, I am sure once the DA is done with it, we will find out his BAC.

To Taxpayer:

I think it would be more irresponsible for him to keep his gun in his car. What if someone broke in and stole it? I am pretty sure he already had it on him.

So many dumb people....

I agree.... wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:00 AM:ODO should be allowed to carry guns off duty. But why would the comment come up about him being drunk? Not at anytime was it said that this officer was drunk. That statement was made by the family of the deceased. Remember them....they are the ones that hired a lawyer right away saying that COP started the whole thing. This is just like the off duty shooting of the oceanside story. They hired the lawyer right away, and eventually the truth came out on who started what and when. This is the same thing. I guess if people can go out and drink, being asked to leave several establishments that is ok, but if someone chooses to sit in a chair only to be hit FROM BEHIND.....then it's not ok. I am sure that this police vetren decided to take a chance to ruin his career and all by going outside to get his gun.....really. I am sure that his gun was on him. He would not take a chance of someone breaking in to his vehicle and stealing the gun....let's think people

Phil wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:01 AM:FBI needs to look at this cop. Coverup.

No mercy & no remorse wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:23 AM:If I was being attacked by multiple assaillants & I had a gun I`m sending them to hell. Do unto others as they do unto you. Those who live by violence shouldn`t be surprised when it backfires on them. I`m not violent & I attend Chargers v The lowly Raiders every year & I never even come close to an altercation.

Ford wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:30 AM:Great job Scott Dibble. This officer showed a lot more patience and diplomacy then most of us would have.

Spin wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:32 AM:The Cop washer is on spin cycle... That update is all bread... no meat... does not explain anything. Tox report, where is it... If it was favorable it would be in the release... Went outside to get fresh air.... why? Too much to drink? They still dont even know what he was struck with... chair OR hard object.... real good detecting.. We dont hate cops...

I'm a COP wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:34 AM:Ok, I am a police officer who lives in Temecula. Those who make their statements here know NOTHING and I mean NOTHING of police work this I know. How many fights, assualts, and shootings, deaths have you witnessed? I have 17 years of public safety service so I speak with a position of knowledge.
Second, I would be open to hear what many of you have to say if you could form a proper sentence and have proper spelling. Your ranting is uneducated and idiotic.
Third, Trust US, I don't want an unethical, unprofessional, wreckless officer working in my Hall of Honor. We DO weed out the bad apples, or they weed themselves out.
Also, if you don't know. We call Temecula "COPLAND". For the criminals and law breakers reading this. Remember, this is our town and we number plenty in this town. We are vigilantly watching ... Good Job Brother!

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:42 AM:How can you possibly say his life wasn't in danger??? He was struck in the head with a metal chair. Head wounds can be very serious and often fatal. Furthermore, it's apparent the only biased opinion is your own. You weren't there, but you continue to suspect something sinister just because he's a cop. Based on several independent witness statements, not only was he hit, he was kicked by numerous people while he was on the ground. It was completely unprovoked and therefore has actions totally justified.

Now go find a different article to blog where you can continue spewing your obvious hatred of the people who protect you day-in and day-out.

If wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:43 AM:he was drunk and used his keys to get into his van... should he not have been arrested for suspicion of drunk driving... Temecula cops are really good at getting some kind of probable cause... when they want to.

Cops and bad guys wrote on Apr 13, 2008 11:46 AM:have guns.... us mushroom sheep are in the middle... thanks Sheriff....for not letting us protect ourselves.

Need Answers wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:04 PM:What was Dibble doing prior to going to the restaurant (nobody drives from Costa Mesa just to eat at The Bank).
What was his BAL?
Did he carry his gun on him into the restaurant or did he leave it in his vehicle?
Did Dibble leave the restaurant before Vilan party?
Was there a second verbal exchange on the sidewalk?

Hey I'm a Cop wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:16 PM:Us good citizens know its Copland too...You have been preying on us for years, tickets and fines... Revenue baby, follow the money. Temecula PD.. turning good citizens into criminals, one ticket at a time.

Brandon wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:20 PM:Want to know the problem with all of the people that blame the officer, they do not believe in responsibility. It is always the governments fault, or someone else's fault. Grow up people.

To: need answers wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:35 PM:Good qustions, maybe I'm a Cop can write them down and take them back to the Chief... after he gets done swaggering around and declaring himself "King of Copland".

To: Need Answers wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:36 PM:God forbid he was in Temecula visiting friends or family and they decided to go get something to eat. Or...he went wine tasting and had 3 glasses of wine. By all means, he must have deserved to get hit in the head with a blunt object and then repeatedly kicked while he was on the ground. INDEPENDENT witnesses claim he was just sitting in the chair when he as attacked. ...

Good work Scott. There are a lot more of us here who do appreciate the work you do. The small handful who don't are the ones you know....from the backseat of your squad car. :)

No Tox report wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:48 PM:Well they got away again.... the P.E. has a better story... no tox report, his buddies did not do a BAC because he was considerd the victim... one dead guy and another shot, chaos on the scene, but they sure knew enough not to test his blood.... absolutely amazing... Good job temecula P.D. another win for Copland.

esteban wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:59 PM:Temec taxpayer and Joe...the ODO was in the right...deal with it.

To I'm a cop, wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:06 PM:thank you, thank you. My blood boils when I read some of the garbage on this blog. I worked with law enforcement as a records clerk for RSO, now retired. My son is also a cop, I know what it takes to do the job and I pray every day they all go home safe at the end of their shift. In my opinion you don't get paid enough to do the job you do. Thank you again for your service in law enforcement and I will venture to say that you also served in our military and if you did, double thanks.

To all the rest of the morons, no comment, your words speak for themselves.

To: I'm a cop wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:27 PM:We do not need cops like you out here. Cops take these dangerous jobs and get paid for doing so. If a law enforcement officer is doing his job right than he has all my respect but if he is NOT than he does not. Call me a moron if you wish but like you said your words speak for themselves!!!!

robert wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:29 PM:what has happen to temecula??? i havent been there in years it was such a nice little town what happen???

robert wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:31 PM:to all police officers how do i go about on a ride along

Max wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:36 PM:Everyone reading these posts knows damn well that if they were in the same position as Officer Dibble (being beaten around the head with a metal object, kicked and punched by an angry mob while on the ground), and they were legally carrying a firearm, they too would be in fear for their life. I guarantee they too would do what Officer Dibble did, shoot to protect themselves.

To "ThisIsNotAnExit" and others... being below 0.08% BAC is the legal limit for DRIVING a vehicle in California. It is NOT the determining factor to judge if someone is "drunk in public", or "intoxicated" to the extent that they cannot take care of themselves or others, it is only for DRIVING. When you receive a driver's license from the DMV, you are *agreeing* that you will not drive with a BAC at or above 0.08%, and if you chose to do so, you will face criminal charges. It is quite possible for someone to have a BAC that's double (or more) the legal BAC for driving, and still be a fully functioning individual, just not behind the wheel of a car. And since when does even a falling-down-drunk lose his/her right to self-defense from being ambused by a bunch of violent predators?

All of the above notwithstanding, there is still NO evidence whatsoever to show that Officer Dibble was in ANY way intoxicated, and lots of eye-witness reports to show that he was NOT.

Good job Officer Dibble.

from Temecua Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:40 PM:to: ThisIsNotExit if you think about it, it isn't a dumb question whether he carried his weapon into the restaurant. He was off duty, out of jurisdiction and out for a family day. Is it normally in a holster or waistband? I find it believable it could have been left in the vehicle and I think that's the reason he went to his van. When you feel like throwing up, do you get your beach chair and set it up on the sidewalk????

Let's face it wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:44 PM:cops think they above the law and above the peons they have sworn to serve. If this guy Dibble wasn't outside sitting in a chair waiting for the group to emerge then no one would have been killed that day. Unfortunately, he will never be charged but the injured guy will probably be charged with assaulting a cop and instead of going to trial, he'll cop a plea so he won't have to spend his life in prison. I just wish the REAL TRUTH would come out. Both parties were responsible that day and it got out of hand because one was ARMED.

To: From Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:51 PM:It's obvious you know nothing about law enforcement. The reason cops carry their weapons off-duty is for protection in case someone recognizes them from a previous arrest and possibly attacks either them or their family. If the gun is in the van, it doesn't do him any good.

Max - I couldn't agree with you more!

Difference wrote on Apr 13, 2008 1:56 PM:Why did they attack? From what I read, the Temecula and Oceanside incident are a little different. This cop identified himself first while the Oceanside cop didn't, instead flashed a gun. If this cop was being physically assulted then he had every right to defend himself. What would anybody have done?

ThisIsNotAnExit wrote on Apr 13, 2008 2:03 PM:To Taxpayer:

Yes, if I had a choice of a lawn chair or a stuffy van, I would take the chair out. Like I said before, fresh air helps when you are feeling sick. Also, I think it would be incredible stupid to leave a gun in the car where criminals can steal it.

Kudos for Murrieta wrote on Apr 13, 2008 2:35 PM:The Murrieta PD didn't let an off duty cop get away with firing his gun drunk.... They actually did police work... and arrested the guy, and got a BAC.

FASCINATING wrote on Apr 13, 2008 2:37 PM:If this officer DID go to his car for a gun, it's a good thing. Otherwise, according to witnesses, he would be dead. COPLAND is exactly the reputation Temecula wants. Thugs, gangs, and perps stay away. To: "Us good citizens know its Copland too...You have been preying on us for years, tickets and fines..." First, it's "WE good citizens...", and if you're such a "good citizen", you shouldn't be speeding or violating the vehicle code. This article is about a COSTA MESA OFFICER, not TPD. But if you come to Temecula, don't break the law, and don't mess with the residents. It's a beautiful, quiet, and family oriented town, and we WILL keep it that way.

Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 3:02 PM:As I don't know all the details I am only commenting on what has been reported. I find it interesting one minute Dibble is butt-slapping a woman and the next he is sick and has to leave the restaurant. He had to pass a few park benches located on Main and Front to retrieve his special chair from his van, or was it because that chair was next to his service revolver?

I would like to ask police officers blogging today, when you're out wine tasting, do you carry your gun in your waistband or do you leave it in the glove box?

To I'm a Cop wrote on Apr 13, 2008 3:44 PM:Your whole position is one of arrogance. You are saying that if one does not have the proper degree of education to meet your standards then one has no right to give an opion on an open forum. A true hero is humble, NOT full of himself as you appear to be. Stick with your day(night)job, and don't attempet PR work.

Phil wrote on Apr 13, 2008 3:47 PM:I have info that might be helpful to the parents of the slain man, how do I contact them or their attorney?

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 4:24 PM:It has been stated previously that the ODO did not go to his van to get a chair, there were chairs outside the restaurant. Also, nothing was said about wine tasting. The "butt slapping" was mistaken identity and he apologized. The Vilan group were looking for trouble, that was their M.O. Cops don't keep their firearms in their vehicles. It is either on their person or left at home---locked up. End of story.

Wilson B. wrote on Apr 13, 2008 4:43 PM:I find it "interesting" that "Interesting" creates a scenario out of whole cloth that the officer went to his car to retrieve a gun, then "set up" a chair to prepare for a confrontation! The fool wasn't there--my cousin was, and was told to give a statement (which he did) about the incident (Ralph ... is his name) and he corroborated the police officer's statement. The person killed is no doubt mourned by the family--they can overlook his faults and violent past--but the officer had every right to defend himself, up to and including the use of a firearm. He identified himself prior to shooting and gave the ruffians a chance to cease their attack. They didn't, and one out of two died. Too bad it wasn't both of them.

To Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 4:55 PM:Read the facts and then come back. You're killing the rest of us with your uninformed questions. We realize you're reaching for anything you can, but you're in the wrong forum. Try the Oceanside ODO shooting, I'm sure you'll have much more luck over there.

To Phil... wrote on Apr 13, 2008 5:12 PM:Please contact the Riverside DA and give your info there. Or do they already have your contact info as one of the guys who jumped the officer. It would very interesting to see what your info is.
You have our attention, give it up.

Family of the Officer

joe wrote on Apr 13, 2008 5:17 PM:Now we can move on to the next sensible phase of this mess. Charge the other thugs with attempted murder against the officer and with being accesories to Vilan's death.

Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 5:53 PM:I've been very fair in my comments and have only questioned what really went down that day. Several things just don't sound right. I think it's inexcusable that Dibble was not BAL tested. He was off duty and instigated the exchange by slapping a woman on the butt. He decided to leave the restaurant and "get a folding chair out of his van" to sit across the street. That is odd. I suspect a second verbal exchange took place where he might have goaded the other party. I do not think the shooting was justified. A man is dead. We should all demand a fair competent unbiased investigation but it is obvious that a Cop is a Cop is a Cop and no hint of wrongdoing will ever tarnish their gleaming badges. That is not justice, that is preferential treatment.

Erik wrote on Apr 13, 2008 6:27 PM:There have been several nonsensical anti-cop postings, but I'll address the point that keeps getting harped on - the Blood Acohol Results. Yes, the officer's blood alcohol level should be looked at, but I keep getting the impression that he deserved to get beat to death if he had been drinking. OK, the next time a woman gets killed in a Domestic Violence Incident, let's check her Blood Alcohol Level to determine whether or not there's been a crime committed. Gee that makes perfect sense.

Phil wrote on Apr 13, 2008 6:38 PM:TO: Family of the Officer--Riverside, D.A.? No,I want the information to go to the family of the slain man. Anyone know who he is?

...and that's the truth... wrote on Apr 13, 2008 7:43 PM:First of all, the ODO in Murrieta was not defending himself. But it could go as evidence against "possible improprieties" of officers drinking in public.

2nd) Even if Dibble is a full blown drunk off duty, he still has the right to defend himself with a gun in public.

3rd) Even if he intentionally waited or even egged Vilan on, all the reports say Vilans group hit him first...that's cause for self defence.

4th) Cops can carry when they are drinking or even drunk,-some may make themselves bigger targets when they are drinking-, but the fact remains they are targets drunk or not.

5th)If you don't want cops to drink and carry (in public), then the public has to make a law against it. After-all there is a ruling in the federal court system that doesn't allow officers of the law to marry a person that owns a liquor licence because of POSSIBLE improprieties.

It could be prohibited for their health, safety, and welfare, as city, county, and government employees. Their unions will fight it though.

Possible Improprieties in the key.

By the way complaining never solves an issue. Solutions do.

to the officer and his family wrote on Apr 13, 2008 8:38 PM:Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Taking a life is never easy even when it is the right thing to do.
I hope you and your family can find peace and happiness inspite of this situation.

We support the PD. They do a tough job that I know I could not do and I am grateful.
May you always walk in sunshine.

Bob wrote on Apr 13, 2008 9:12 PM:In Florida and most states it is Illegal for anyone with weapons permit (off duty LE included) to bring a firearm into an establishment that serves alcohol...I am curious what California law is...?

Curious wrote on Apr 13, 2008 9:33 PM:How come there was has been no mention of witnesses to the beating this officer was receiving that tried to intervene on his behalf? The area may not have been crowded but it sounds like the restaurant was, and with all the copland comments I amsurprised that if bustanders heard the officer ID himself they wouldn't have stepped in to help him.

79 south wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:19 PM:If a normal person shoot two people in self defense they would still be in jail,Im positive of that.Secondly ,how bad could he getting beat up if he could get his gun out and fire 5 shoots?Also if his whole family was invovled in the fight it doesnt sound that uneven,are we forgetting that he sexaully assaulted a woman by slapping her butt,get real he wanted a fight.

ModernRock wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:06 AM:There is no California law that specifically says that law enforcement officers cannot use their weapons after consuming an alcoholic beverage. The CMPD officer had the right to use whatever means to defend himself if he felt his life was in danger.

To I am a cop wrote on Apr 14, 2008 6:25 AM:Please don't let the negative uneducated posting by morons deter you from what you do. Most of the people your protect appreciated all that you do. Yes, you do give tickets to gee.....people who are breaking the laws of the road. I just don't get why is that your fault? Cop haters are busy putting on the negative blogs here. They do not represent the majority.....the are the little people of society. Stay safe

Phil wrote on Apr 14, 2008 7:27 AM:There are good cops and bad cops. Some bigots on here don't seem to understand that and support bad cops just because they're cops. Anyone know the lawyer for the family of the slain man?

to:Curious wrote on Apr 14, 2008 7:39 AM:You can't go anywhere in this town without running into off duty cops so I'm sure a few were at the restaurant that day... by making witness statements in his favor. They all cover for each other, you know. Would be interesting to see how many of these unbiased accounts were supplied by fellow law enforement brothers.

ModernRock wrote on Apr 14, 2008 7:49 AM:There is no California law that specifically says that law enforcement officers cannot use their weapons after consuming an alcoholic beverage. The CMPD officer had the right to use whatever means to defend himself if he felt his life was in danger and grabbing a womans butt.

Bob wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:24 AM:Based on the officers shooting skills he must not have been that impaired. And if he were? Why are people so hung up on the officer's BAC? It's going to show he was drinking or not drinking. He protected himself and that's that. Good job!

Bobier Drive wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:25 AM:The whole outcome of this matter has to be a positive one as a violent person with a long history of seriously hurting people has been eliminated. Everybody reading these posts should once and for all realize that it was not how Shaun died but how he lived his life. Enough said..Officer Dibble did the right thing..case closed!!!

How do we defend ourselves from the Cops???? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:42 AM:What about us regular folk? Do we have the right to use a weapon after consuming an alcholic beverage or two? Do we have the right to use whatever means necessary to defend ourselves? How do we defend ourselves from ODO and on duty officers?

Another Point of View wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:46 AM:Phil, maybe you could contact John Hall, NCT reporter to see who is representing the victim. Would be interesting to hear your info, especially if it gives some perspective rather than the Police SpokesMan Spin we are getting now.

Oh Geez!!!! wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:46 AM:"Dibble was initially placed on paid administrative leave. He had returned to work recently, according to the Costa Mesa Police Department." Back to work oh geez. How can this man have KILLED a person and less than 45 days later be cleared for duty!!! What the heck is going on here. ... Many people say when a criminal is arrested that the book should be thrown at him to teach other criminals a lesson that will not be tolerated. What message are we sending here!!! UUURRRRGGGGHHHHHH!!!!

To Erik wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:53 AM:In your comment you say "I keep getting the impression that he deserved to get beat to death if he had been drinking." Don't muddy the waters with your domestic violence incident scenario lets stick to this case, did Shaun Vilian deserve to get killed because he had been drinking? That makes a little more sense.

esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:01 AM:To the 8:42 post. Yes, you can use whatever means necessary to defend yourself. Having a drink or two doesn't matter because unless you have a CCW, you can't carry in public. You don't need to worry about defending yourselves from ODO's. In fact, you can rely on them to protect you. You do need to worry about people like vilan and Silva. They are the danger to people.

esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:16 AM:To "oh geeeez!!!!"...the message we are sending is this: Do not try to harm other people. Some of them may be armed and you'll get what you ask for.

kathy wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:20 AM:Whether Shaun was drinking or Scott was drinking; whether shaun instigated or scott instigated. Bottom line: Shaun bit off more than he could chew.

Funny wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:28 AM:States back east have enacted laws to keep guns out of drunk cops hands... but gun hating California ... stays quiet on the point....

what could possibly wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:32 AM:be the reason to test the cops blood? let's see... in a bar, grabbing unknown womens bottoms, starting a fight, outside feeling sick, shooting 2 people.... yep facts dont add up... no reason to check him.... Hey Barney, put your bullet back in your pocket and get Aunt Bee some lemonade. I'm makin Otis the new deputy.

esteban is right wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:35 AM:Deputy Graves was out to protect and serve that night also... let him out and give him his gun back... send him over to estebans... drunk... so he can "protect" him.

Kathy wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:40 AM:To "oh geeeez!!!!"...the message we are sending is this: Do not try to harm other people. Some of them may be armed and you'll get what you ask for.

Ya, especially if your target is a cop and he warned you he was a cop.

To: Bobier Drive wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:56 AM:... ridiculous...case closed.

To the General Public wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:59 AM:AHA!!!! just as I thought esteban uses different names to get his opinion posted. There is a strange similarity I mean they are identical comments made by esteban and Kathy peculiar isn't it??

esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 11:47 AM:To "to the general public"...I think she (Kathy) was just adding to a point I made. There are many people out there with common sense that have views like mine....I know that bothers you and you don't want to believe it.

George wrote on Apr 14, 2008 11:55 AM:To all the cop haters that are trying to spin this away from the fact that the Vilan group attacked a person, the bottom line is this:
1. Dibble was hit from behind by a group of cowards, which was alays Vilan's MO for fighting.
2. Dibble identified himself and the cowards kept beating him.
3. Dibble defended himself and the cowards got what they deserved.

Get ready Vilan group, the rest of the cowards will be charged accordingly.

To esteban and Kathy wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:12 PM:Sorry esteban but your comment and her comment both appeared on the blog at the exact same time. She could not be responding to your opinion because your post had not been displayed yet. No, I'm not buying it buddy you are both persons. You just want people to think the majority hold your opinion which is not true. You are such a sad little man.

To George wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:17 PM:Let me put it to you this way:
Dibble the coward assaulted a woman.
Dibble the coward picked a fight knowing he had the advantage, a loaded weapon.
Dibble the coward did not fight fair in a fight he instigated.
Dibble is the coward.
We are ready for the coward to be exonerated as always. Nothing is different from this Officer related shootings than the many of the others, Just the names of the officers and the victims.

Double Standard wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:19 PM:If having a drink or two doesn't matter with Dibble, meaning his judgement was not impaired, then why is it the major argument regarding Silva, the O'side woman who police say had impaired judgement when she was shot?

Injun wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:47 PM:sometimes the cops Are the bad guys. You say innocent untill proven guilt.. But the dude who died You say was a thug.. he dont get the same presumption of innocence.. Let me tell you all cops are not good I used to think Rodney king proably deserved what he got.. Untill my retarded nephew got stomped in the head and recieved a brain bleed . Oh but since all cops are saints who cares if they beat the crap out uf retards shoot some dude dead..

esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:58 PM:To "double standard"...because Silva was the aggressor.

estebanq wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:59 PM:To "to esteban and kathy"....uuhhhh ok. Don't you have to go watch X Files or something?

esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:00 PM:Injun you don't sound any smarter than your nephew.

Cali wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:00 PM:You bet there are unanswered questions here, for instance:

1) What was Vilan doing drinking with his minor son in tow? (child endangerment, contributing to the deliquency of a minor)
2) How many establishments had the Vilan party been kicked out of?
3) Why didn't these establishments report this to the police, so they could keep an eye on a rowdy group?
4) Why would a man who's getting his life back, go out drinking while on parole, with his son?
5) Why was Vilan defending his friends, girlfriend?
6) What does it matter what kind of car he drove? (according to previous articles he drove a BMW)
6) Who had more to lose by escalating this incident? (Vilan, he was on parole)
7) Did the ODO make some poor choices that day? Yes, and he apologized
8) Did Vilan make poor choices that day? Yes, and he paid the ultimate price.

The people who are defending Vilan should have taken a look at what he was really like, that does not mean they loved him any less. He was a violent young man with a troubled past. If he had assaulted a regular citizen, he would have sent himself right back to prison. He assaulted the wrong person and would've become a repeat offender, and his son would have been witness to that as well.

Vito wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:10 PM:To Injun: The term is mentally disabled, not "retard." I'm sure if your cousin is truly mentally disabled he would love to hear that you are referring to him as a "retard." Class act all the way my friend.

Concerned-1 wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:19 PM:Justice was served. Now arrest the rest of the thugs that were involved beginning with Willis. They need to be shown that there are consequences for their type of thug mentality.

Vito wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:23 PM:To George
[-] wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:17 PM:Let me put it to you this way:
Dibble the coward assaulted a woman.
Dibble the coward picked a fight knowing he had the advantage, a loaded weapon.
Dibble the coward did not fight fair in a fight he instigated.
Dibble is the coward.
We are ready for the coward to be exonerated as always. Nothing is different from this Officer related shootings than the many of the others, Just the names of the officers and the victims.

I don't know about the rest of you but whoever wrote this must be a genius..=)

Max wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:32 PM:To "Temecula Taxpayer"...

You're really trying to spin things. why not take a chill pill, relax, and stop seeing conspiracies where none exist. Dibble *was* tested for alcohol. It clearly says so. He was tested by CMPD. The "butt slapping" was accidental (the independant witnesses said so, and also said that Dibble's family member looked a lot like the girl he pat on the butt), and he apologized IMMEDIATELY for it -- again, per independant witnesses. Other independant witnesses also said there was no second verbal exchange... members of Villan's party ambushed Dibble, hitting him over the back of the head with a metal chair while Dibble's head was in his hands.

The ONLY thing you have right, is that a man is dead.

A cop is a cop, and a bad cop will be caught. It was pretty obvious from the beginning, based on the accounts of the event by independant witnesses, that Dibble conducted himself with 100% decorum, unlike his ambushers. It is also obvious that there was a full investigation, and that Dibble was exonerated because of the FACTS. Dibble was not given any preferential treatment... he was a victim. Cops don't arrest the victims of crimes.

I'm sorry, "Temecula Taxpayer", that you think your comments are fair, but it's obvious that you're only trying to tarnish the reputation of a good police officer based on your own biases. Why not give it arrest and work on your own issues? You obviously have many to work out.

TO PHIL wrote on Apr 14, 2008 1:58 PM:I know how you can get a hold of the family. I don't know how to give you the info because they won't let me post it.

Fuzz5-0 wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:11 PM:In my 10yrs of policing in San Diego, I make it a point NOT to bring a firearm with me when I KNOW I'm going to consume alcohol. Booze+guns=trouble. I'm not second guessing Dibble. No one know if was drinking or not. For all you rookie cops, leave the heat at home if your going to drink. I've seen many good cops get fired for stupidity due to the liquid courage. Also, ask yourself this. How many times in your life have you needed to use a gun??

100% support wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:37 PM:What makes anyone believe that they can lay their hands on ANYBODY at ANYTIME??? Let alone slam a chair into someone's head. This was an unprovoked ASSAULT on a man that just happened to be an ODO that just happened to have a gun. Thank God for that.
I support him 100%.
Too bad his FRIENDS didn't pull him off the VICTIM when they realized he was experiencing another one of his RAGE issues...
Couldn't control it in front of his son...
So who picks up the pieces because he couldn't control his anger...very sad

Cover Up! wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:43 PM:I was one of the "unbaised witnesses" that they are claiming made the statments. But my statement is nothing close to what I've read. Definatly a cover up, I didn't realize that these actually happened until now.

Max wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:47 PM:To Fuzz5-0: If Dibble had left his gun at home that day, the chances are he would have been even more seriously injured, or even killed.

Kathy wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:52 PM:AHA!!!! just as I thought esteban uses different names to get his opinion posted. There is a strange similarity I mean they are identical comments made by esteban and Kathy peculiar isn't it??

I assure you, I am my own person.

I retired from the District Attorney's Office and the one thing I did learn while working there is that jo public does not know the full details behind most crimes that are reported in the newspaper. The anti cop people are always quick to play the Monday morning quarterback game. Second guess the cop and if the suspect's not white, throw out a couple of race cards while you're at it. All of this before the case is even investigated.

Fuzz is right wrote on Apr 14, 2008 2:53 PM:My GF is a cop. Guess what, when we go out on a getaway, no weapon. If you go out looking for trouble... you can usually find it. Cellphone calls to 911 and a badge # get the guys in the black and whites there pretty quick.

Kathy to Esteban wrote on Apr 14, 2008 3:03 PM:Sorry esteban but your comment and her comment both appeared on the blog at the exact same time. She could not be responding to your opinion because your post had not been displayed yet. No, I'm not buying it buddy you are both persons. You just want people to think the majority hold your opinion which is not true. You are such a sad little man


Esteban, just ignore the above nonsense. It's just too stupid to respond too.

Phil wrote on Apr 14, 2008 3:15 PM:TO: To Phil, just post name of their attorney.

to Cover Up! wrote on Apr 14, 2008 3:54 PM: What did you see?

Temecula Taxpayer wrote on Apr 14, 2008 4:09 PM:You know, some of you "pro cop" people are very cold hearted. A human being lost their life that day because an off duty cop took the law into his own hands. I do not think this shooting is justified and based on what has been reported, it does not add up.

Max wrote on Apr 14, 2008 4:31 PM:To "Fuzz is Right": Are you seriously suggesting that a call to 911 and dropping your badge number is a viable option when you've just had your head smashed with chair, are bleeding from the head, are lying on the ground and being stomped on, punched and beaten by 5 guys? No, officers are permitted to carry guns off duty for a reason. Officer Dibble did not go out looking for trouble... trouble found him, and it was called Vilan.

C-1 wrote on Apr 14, 2008 4:41 PM:Yeah "Cover Up" we believe you. Sure thing.

to How do we defend ourselves from the Cops???? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 5:35 PM:Try not breaking the law. Its always worked for me.

There is no cover up. Vilan and Willis could have stepped off and not hit this guy. If the ODO did "assault" this woman then they should have pressed charges not attack someone.
c'mon people, even if the cop was provoking something (which I doubt) then just walk away. It is the advice my old daddy gave me and it is the advice I give my kids. Best to just walk away from trouble, not run towards it.

citizens involved shootings wrote on Apr 14, 2008 5:41 PM:There are lots of stories of armed civilians shooting criminals and not going to jail. If it was justified, then there is no reason to press charges. recently a civilian stopped a shooter at a church in Colorado. She never was taken into custody. Witness' account showed she acted appropriate. Alcohol, while a factor, is only part of the story. More importantly, who was the aggressor? Who swung first? Even if it is one on one, you can defend yourself with deadly force as long as it is justified.

to phil wrote on Apr 14, 2008 5:51 PM:I bet the author of the article would know. Call the paper tell them you know something. Heck call all the papers and the TV stations. Any good reporter would love to talk to you, as long as you can back up your statements with facts.

to vito wrote on Apr 14, 2008 5:58 PM:a slap on the bottom is not assault unless you really lay into it. If it was assault, then press charges not fight.
Vilan and Willis could have retreated and all would have been well.
As for a fair fight, when is 2 on 1 fair? Even if he was a very mean cop and said some nasty things to them, they had no right putting hands on him. If the cop slapped the woman its assault. If Vilan and Willis both attacked with an improvised weapon, it is a life threatening situation and fairness is out the door. Its a question of survival at that point.
violence begets violence. Bet both the officer and the dead guy wish they had turned the other direction.
It's better to follow Ghandi thant Tupac. One is noble and the oth