Scribd Logo
Upload

Welcome to Scribd!

  • 21 045 Hanks - Final

    Uploaded by

    Jana Barnello
    6K views46 pages
    Internal SPD documents obtained by CNY Central

    Original Title

    21 045 Hanks_final

    Copyright

    © © All Rights Reserved

    Available Formats

    PDF or read online from Scribd

    Did you find this document useful?

    Is this content inappropriate?

    Report this Document
    Internal SPD documents obtained by CNY Central

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF or read online from Scribd
    Flag for inappropriate content
    6K views46 pages

    21 045 Hanks - Final

    Uploaded by

    Jana Barnello
    Internal SPD documents obtained by CNY Central

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF or read online from Scribd
    Flag for inappropriate content
    of 46
    1 Deputy Chief Deputy Chiefs Joseph Cecile Derek MeGork Richard F. Shoff, Jr. Richard H. Trudell SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT Kenton T. Buckner, Chief 01 July 202, Police Officer Brandon Hanks 511 South State St. Syracuse, N. Y, 13202 Dear Officer Hanks: 07 04 February 2021, you posted a brief social media video wherein you are wearing what appears to be garments of your duty uniform, with visible emblem/insigniautlized by the department, while music with racial slang (niggas) is being played, You also posted two other social media pictures with profane Song Ives in a caption. These posts occurred on March 21, 2020 and in December of 2020. Coples of the above referenced posts are attached to this document. Your actions, Officer Hanks, were in violation of the Departmental policy number 1030.§.1 (H4), “Prohibited Speech, Expression and Conduct” in social media. 't has therefore been determined that you will receive this written reprimand. You are reminded that future acts in violation of the above policy would bring discredit upon yourself and this Department and would be dealt with more severely. Respectfully, By the order of the Chief of Police Joseph Cecile 1* Deputy Chief of Police Personally served by: Uy & {2021 M05 pas. ate ime? 511 South State Street, Syracuse, NY 13202 315.442.5250 www. syracusepolice.org SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DISCIPLINARY ACTION REPORT A. Employee Information Date 05/01/2021 Delinquency # si27 ‘Name Brandon Hanks Rank Police Otier IBM 1099 LA.D.# 21-045 Bureau — Uniform Buresu Division/Platoon PattoVGVSD B. Violation ~ Date 02/04/2021 Time hrs. of violation Section of Rules & Regulations Violated: 1030.5.1(H1) Employee Code of Conduct Violation: Brief Statement of Violation (s): PO Hanks posted « brief social media video with him wearing what appears to be garments of his duty uniform with a visible emblenvinsignia utilized by the department, while music with possible racial slang (“nigga(s)") is being played. Also has two other posts with profanity by him and in song lytics in a caption. See my 10.1 Nane Sips TBM Rank Dae Lt. Donald Patt rly dae: 0434 (None) 05/01/2021 Ranke Daw Serie mM Lt. Donald Patt tr llftlich 0434 Lieutenant 05/01/2021 D. Bureau Chief Review re Pl Nape | rr ZB rh > 31 E. First Deputy Chief Review: Recommendation: Name Signature 1BM Daw vw F, Chi fof Police Review: Wr es ry dank “il “wil far ba G. Discipline Served by: wt Time hrs. Discipline Re-Served by: Dae // Time hrs. Reason: Arbitration Notice Received: Date _ orm 9.17A (Re. 122020) 4* Deputy Chief Joseph Cecile Deputy Chiefs Derek McGork Richard F. Shoff, Jr Richard H. Trudell SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT Kenton T. Buckner, Chief 10 June 2021 Police Officer Brandon Hanks 511 South State St. Syracuse, N. Y. 13202 Dear Officer Hanks: On 04 February 2021, you posted a brief social media video wherein you are wearing what appears to bbe garments of your duty uniform, with visible emiblem/insignia utlized by the department, while music with racial slang (nigga(s)) is being played. You also posted two other social media pictures with profane song lyrics in a catio. Your actions, Officer Hanks, were in violation of the Departmental policy number 1030.5.1 (H4), “Prohibited Speech, Expression and Conduct” in social media. It has therefore been determined that you will receive this written reprimand. You are reminded that future acts in violation of the above policy would bring discredit upon yourself and this Department and ‘would be dealt with more severely. Respectfully, Li Kenton T, Buckner Chief of Police Personally served by: Date/Time 511 South State Street, Syracuse, NY 13202 315.442.5250 www.syracusepolice.org sorz02 Loxpol KMS Home Manuals __OTBs__Help Hel 030 Speech, Expression and Social Networking | {TOH05.7 PROWIBITED SPEECH, EXPRESSION AND CONDUCT ‘MAM o met ne ste, pertoxmance ana publrust needs ofthe Syracuse Pole Department th following ae prehiited unless he spercn is of protected lor example, a member spening a priate sizenindusing ang a5 an auhorues member of3recopzd bargaining ui eran ema —= {rata of pub concer Seach or exoressin ie pursuant an ofc uy thatend to comprom or mag he mission unctn epuatlen or profesional Sepormantor members Spear eoresson ut wl not made pursuant to anol du, sigan nko, oft he Deparment ad ends cs rare be nbson uncon "epuatan or potessinaiom ofthe Deparment or fe members. romps ay nce "Poateerts hat noe dasa or tenor te ate US. Conan 2 gression hat omonsates usporfr ciins ey 5 Farapntonn sexy exp phtog ph or veo for compensation or sbuton «-Sogdh or expen hat co ensnaby ou fresen shaw shag peron he ce fhe mabe as wines For exore| ‘tebste statement or npeoson ar gvfleacr eauaes nes, unwl rman or ga beh a a. Speech orepresson oye tau eso oa orca ar hang age pat aly of te rerbes of be Depart trem on log at proves spec csi ao Yow and when port worporsions ae ase ous ressorabybe foreseen Pl aug emloyee by hvoring cra ote col faa an eacpe or aang esp) « Spcchorexressn thm era tthe Sands t conau: ple orcanoreo ie aw vere cage of Ns a aopted by the {der sucoture rough whaterer mein, fy infrton photograph eso oer recor ang otaied or aces as ese Sepcnimentr thine Departnent or inacal or porsara ga or any ducosure or aucn mater wehou tn expres authoriaton fe fesuortes Serres - «Posto aruniting or seria ary photograph, deo aus easing Reese or mages of spares, emblem uno pate marks quent rater maar at spchealy Genes Sparse ole Deparnerton any posal er sean — [ter webtnor we pg seasonal be freseen shaving negsive mpc onths Poke Onpormenorsconvaryotvestar] MP {anda poly or onan othe Law Evrcomant Cove sf ew aco Sy the Duperar red — 1 vine sing scaled Deperinet personne shu be nnd thes Sesh ecmes pao he wore dato oma. Tes {oie bepervents cabo fonds requre inte prsoalus of soe meda nate Oxparment personel re prone Yom "ung spach onang obscene or sway expt anguage imoges or acs od steer ar oe farms of pees at ae, ‘roterwse cues Shs aga ny ace, egan Oa) grote cas nda Voltone the section i sun Sev SSandincaing eration 2. angepein ng hemes he Deparment prion efecigbeavr at would reasonably be corse Memes mustake reasonable and prompt action to remove any conan, incudng conten posted by others, hats Invibiaion of thi pai rom ‘weve asained byte employee fg soc or personal webste) hitps/pateytxipo.com " SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT Inter-Departmental-Memo 70: Chief Kenton Buckner DATE: 12May21 FROM: D/C R. Trudell SUBJECT: Police Officer Brandon Hanks chief, On or about Monday, 22Mar21 Deputy Chief McGork provided me with a video of P.O, Brandon Hanks that had allegedly been posted by P.O. Hanks to a social media platform. ‘The video appeared to be P.0. Hanks recording himself as he addressed certain people in the community that had criticized him for being a police officer. During the video, in which P.O, Hanks indicates he is a police officer, P.O. Hanks says something to the effect “I don’t want your opinion if you ain’t got shit’. Upon being made aware of the video by D/C McGork I brought the existence of the video to the attention of Lt. Patti who is P.O, Hanks’ command officer and asked him to conduct an investigation into it. Over the next several days Lt. Patti conducted his investigation and determined that P.O. Hanks had indeed posted the video to social media. At the completion of the investigation was my opinion that posting the video to social nedia ves SS video posting by counseling P.O. Hanks at the Unit level which did in fact take place. At some point the following week, I do not have the exact date, D/C McGork provided me a typed word document dated 26Mar21 with 11 bullet points regarding concerns with P.O. Brandon Hanks and his associations to the criminal element. The word document had no author and was not signed and was accompanied by several photographs which appeared to be social media postings by P.O. Hanks to Facebook. It was my understanding although I do not know if it was specifically stated that the word document came from Capt. Gay. In conversing with D.C. McGork about the word document I Signed Date. Page 1 Approved Date ee learned that the document was created in response to Lt. Patti requesting that P.O. Hanks be allowed to do a 30 day transfer to GVIF in SID to enhance his career. It was apparent that the author of the word document was attempting to prevent P.O. Hanks rotation in GVTF from occurring by citing and listing the “concerns”. In looking over 11 listed bullet points I noticed references to several social media posts, an older picture of P.O, Hanks with an individual I know to be MJ} ana several references to past events or concerns that I, Capt. Baratta and Lt. Patti had with P.O. Hanks. The word document was not accompanied with a completed investigation or supporting documentation to the alleged concerns aside from four pictures of P.O. Hanks in social media. Upon receiving the word document and pictures I notified you of the situation and based on our conversation I requested a memo from Capt. Gay through D/C McGork officially documenting the concerns over P.O. Hanks doing a rotation in SID/GVIF. I also provided the document and pictures to Lt. Patti and asked that he look into the bulleted points. I was clear that I was concerned with the questionable social media posts and that he and P.O, Hanks needed to address those specifically. I was already aware that many of the other points in the memo and word document were previously addressed and handled accordingly. On Thursday, April 8t* I received a memorandum from Capt. Gay which was dated 04/08/2021 and was authored and signed by him. The memo is attached to this file for your review. Upon receiving Capt. Gay’s signed memo I provided it to Lt. Patti for inclusion into the overall case file so that Lt. Patti could use it in his investigation. Over the course of the next month Lt, Patti completed an in depth investigation into Capt. Gay,s word document, signed memo and attached photographs. This investigation included obtaining memos from Sgt. Kritzer, P.O. Hanks and from Lt. Patti himself. In addition to locating and preserving video and photographs. On Monday, May 10 I received Lt. Patti’s completed investigation file. In reviewing the file, I determined that many of the items or bullet points (5,6,7,8 and 9 of the word document) that were listed by Capt. Gay were older and/or could have been easily determined to be unfounded or already addressed with Capt. Gay contacting P.O. Hanks’ background investigator, Capt. Baratta, Lt. Patti or Signed __ Date Page 2 Approved Date. 10.1 7/69 me. Instead, no investigation was completed at all and a list of accusations were made requiring Lt. Patti and myself to address them. Furthermore, I have concerns about the manner in which all of this was brought to light and a “case” built against P.O. Hanks to essentially prevent him from going to SID/GVIF. I think the manner in which the videos and pictures were solicited in an anonymous fashion without a documented source or any degree of investigation prior to accusation is concerning. There were two items in Capt. Gay’s memo that Lt. Patti could not address. The first item being number 1 on page 2 of Capt. Gay’s memo which involved P.O. Hanks being tagged in social media post by i: capt. Gay states that these post may have been brought to the attention of Lt. Milana at the time and addressed. On 12May21 I Spoke with Lt. Milana on this issue and he was not aware of any specific issue that was brought to is attention during P.O. Hanks’ FTO period. He recalls social media posts being circulated informally around the police department members involving P.O. Hanks on social media but nothing was done by him. P.O. Hanks addresses this item in his memorandum. The second item, labeled as 2 in Capt. Gay’s memo indicts that P.O. ks was involved in a traffic stop in which he was in a r that was stopped with “others” believed to be gang members or convicted criminals who were drinking. There is no date, time, location or names provided. Capt. Gay indicates that a 10.1 was written to Lt. Turo, I conducted a search of P.O. Hanks Office of Professional Standards file through Lt. Izzo and the results of that were negative for dent. any memorandums detailing this in I do find that after L.T. Patti’s extensive investigation, P.O. Hanks has posted several videos and pictures to social media that are violations of Department policy. Those social media posts specifically being photographs 3 and 4 and video 1 as listed in this file. I requested that Lt. Patti mplete a Disciplinary Action Report regarding these three items and that report is attached. I am recommending that P.O. Hanks receive a written reprimand for the violations. IT am recommending I This inquiry was only Signed Date_ Page 3 Approved Date 10.1 7/69 initiated in response to P.O. Hanks wanting to learn new skills and go to SID/GVIF for 30 days. I suspect that we would not have heard anything on this had P.O. Hanks not made the request to go to SID/GVTF and I am unaware of this type of inquiry being done for any other 30 day transfers to any unit. As a byproduct of this there were determined to be violations of the Department’s social media policy, however, those posts could have been handled appropriately through the chain of command minus the inquisition. The level of informal discipline and humiliation that P.O. Hanks has gone through should be a factor in determining the appropriate official discipline P.O. Hanks should receive. In closing, P.O. Hanks grew up in the Syracuse Community and as such he had associations in the past that should not be held against him now. Those associations are not current and did not occur while he has been a police officer. Furthermore, P.O. Hanks has conducted himself with a high degree of professionalism and work ethic minus the social media posts for which he was counseled and will be potentially disciplined. I concur with Lt. Patti and find that all of the other bulleted points in Capt. Gay’s word document and memorandum have been addressed already or are unfounded. As previously stated, I also believe that the manner in which Capt. Gay and unknown parties conducted this inquiry needs to be fully investigated and addressed appropriately. Respectfully submitted by, DCF Twn 4505 p/c R. Peudell Signed Date. Page 4 Approved, Date. 10.1 7/69 Page 1 of 04 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT whe Tnter-Departmental-Memo TO: DC Tiudell DATE: 05/08/2021 FROM: Lt. D. Patti #0434 SUBJECT: PO Brandon Hanks Sir, was recently asked to investigate concems about the loyalty, integrity, and specific social media posts of an officer within the Syracuse Police Department under my command, PO Brandon Hanks. These concerns stemmed from me attempting to build on the career and morale of PO Hanks by attempting to provide him the opportunity to complete a temporary transfer with the Gang Violence Task Force. It should be noted that PO Hanks has worked under my command since September 10th, 2021 and has demonstrated exceptional work to include gun interdictions and an in depth follow up investigation that led to an arrest of a problematic individual in this community for possessing a firearm. He has arrested notorious gang members for felonies and is motivated to make the Syracuse community a better place through law enforcement and community engagement. It should also be noted that I recently allowed PO HERE the opportunity to do a rotation in the aforementioned UnitDivision. PO IE's opportunity to transfer there was not met with the resistance nor the vetting by that Unit/Division as PO Hanks' potential opportunity was. Iwas provided with what appears to be a text document that originated from the Special Investigations Division with some social media posts that listed concems thatthe said Division had with PO Hanks being assigned there, ‘The text consisted of a list of (11) statements highlighting that Division's "case" against PO Hanks. The author of the list was. unknown as well as the source of each of the concems listed. It was evident that the author of the document nor the agents behind the concems did their due diligence in vetting the concems or even doing a thorough investigation into concems that could affect confidentiality relative to law enforcement material within the Syracuse Police Department. The document, frankly, was completely unprofessional and baseless, especially coming from a Division that's scope is investigations. It appeared impulsive, desperate and rapidly put together due to the incompleteness of it and lack of substance. As a result [ have been ordered to look into the Special Investigations Division's concerns about PO Hanks due to that Division's lack of information provided. It should be noted before conducting this investigation PO Hanks has been through a thorough background investigation conducted by a detective within this department, a polygraph conducted by a detective within this department, a brief background during his application period for GVSD, and an interview with myself and you that appears to not be suitable enough for the Division in which these concems stem from. Furthermore, PO Hanks has been utilized in numerous SID warrants/takedowns previous to this complaint where sensitive information was provided that he was privileged to, and the aftermath of these investigations yielded no suspicions of nefarious information sharing. Moreover, SID and GVTF have had the opportunity to debriefproffer numerous gang members and other notorious members of the community and during these debriefs/proffers there has yet to be information provided that PO Hanks facilitates crime and the criminal element. This memo is being drafted to respond to the concems provided by SID. 1. PO Hanks was depicted in a social media post on | December 2019 with] who was said to be a target in an investigation conducted by Det. Babbage and the DEA (REFER TO ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPH #1). IT WAS DETERMINED THAT PO HANKS WAS AT A RED CARPET EVENT IN WHICH NUMEROUS PEOPLE RANDOML’ JRES NEXT TO HIM, ONE BEING) PO HANKS DOES NOT KNOW WHO| Is. Signed _LT-. My, Ze pae SIL Approved Date 10.1 7/69 Page 2 of 04 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DRE - Inter-Departmental-Memo PO Hanks was captured on| gang member, s Snapchat on 10 September 2019 depicted with Jgang member (REFER TO ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPH #2). PO HANKS WAS RAISED. IN THE SYRACUSE COMMUNITY AS A YOUTH. WHILE BEING RAISED IN THE COMMUNITY HE BEFRIENDED OTHER YOUTHS AT A YOUNG AGE THAT ULTIMATELY GREW UP WITH HIM. AS THESE YOUTHS GOT OLDER THEY BEGAN DEVELOPING DIFFERENT INTERESTS. PO HANKS HAD AN INTEREST IN BECOMING A PRODUCTIVE MEMBER OF SOCIETY WHILE SOME OF HIS FRIENDS TOOK THE PATH OF CRIME AND GANG MEMBERSHIP SUBSEQUENTLY FALLING TO THE NEGATIVE INFLUENCES WITHIN THE COMMUNITY. DURING THE APPROXIMATE AGE OF 16 PO HANKS WAS FRIENDS WITH [iii AND RECEIVED IDENTICAL TATTOOS DUE TO GROWING UP AS BES SIL WAS AROUND THAT TIME PO HANKS CONTINUED ON A RIGHTEOUS PATH AS| PURSUED THE GANG LIFE, THEY BOTH GREW APART T AGE. AS FAR AS THE POST, IT APPEARS THAT iii WAS MOCKING JBECAUSE HE'S A GANG MEMBER THAT HUNG OUT WITH SOMEONE WHO BECAME ‘A POLICE OFFICER, WHICH IS AN EXTREMELY UNSAVORY ASSOCIATION TO HAVE AS A GANG MEMBER. THIS PICTURE WAS LIKELY TO ATTACK SEE CREDIT IN THE GANG LIFE, THE PICTURE APPEARS TO BE A PICTURE WHEN PO HANKS WAS A TEENAGER. 3 AND 4. PO Hanks posts related tol REFER TO ATTACHED PHOTOGRAPHS #3 AND #4). IS AN ENTREPRENEUR IN THE SYRACUSE COMMUNITY THAT SELLS CLOTHES. PO HANKS WEARS SOME OF THE CLOTHING LINE AND TAGGED] WHEN HE WAS WEARING SOME OF BETTS' LINE (POST ON 2iMARCH20). THE POST HAD THE CAPTION, "THE HARDEST THING TO DO IN LIFE IS TO REFRAIN FROM SLAPPING THE SHIT OUTTA SOMEBODY THAT DESERVE ITH!" THIS CAPTION is rap lyrics from who j ANOTHER POST WAS POSTED ON 13 December 2021 WHERE PO HANKS TAGGED] SUPPORT BETTS’ CLOTHING LINE. THE PICTURE WAS CAPTIONED WITH THE LYRICS FROM AN ALLEGED NUMBER ONE TALKED ABOUT FREESTYLE SONG AT THE TIME. THE LYRICS WERE, "I WOULDA KILLED FOR YOU BITCH... NOW IT'S GONNA COST YOU A BRICK TO GET CLOSE TO MEW!!1!" IT IS PART OF A POLICE OFFICER'S JOB TO POSITIVELY ENGAGE IN THE COMMUNITY TO BRIDGE A PERCEIVED GAP. KS RECEIVED NO DISCOUNTS TO DO WHAT HE DID AND STATES HE DOESN'T EVEN nv PHONE NUMBER IN HIS PHONE. PO HANKS POSTED ON HIS PERSONAL ACCOUNT AND BASED ON THE EVIDENCE I HAVE THERE IS NO ASSOCIATION TO THE SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT IN THE AFOREMENTIONED POSTS. 5. It was alleged that I would not allow PO Hanks to work details for GVTF while I was the supervisor. [RECALL THAT THE MEMBERS IN GVTF HAD CONCERNS WITH PO HANKS IN GENERAL; HOWEVER, I DON'T RECALL IF IT WAS EVER AN ISSUE OF ME HIRING HIM BECAUSE I DON'T RECALL HIM ASKING TO WORK ANY DETAILS, I ASKED PO HANKS IF HE EVER REQUESTED TO WORK ANY DETAILS WHILE 1 WAS THE SUPERVISOR AND HE RELAYED THAT HE DIDN'T REMEMBER PUTTING IN TO WORK ANY DETAILS WITH GVTE. er given by SID references you having concems with PO Hanks’ hiring due to presence/proximity at incidents while assigned to InteVGVTF. I BELIEVE THAT THIS WAS THE TIME YOU AND I OBSERVED PO HANKS DRIVING DOWN W. CALTHROP AVE. THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY ASSOCIATION TO ANY WRONG DOING, AND AGAIN PO HANKS GREW UP IN THE COMMUNITY. IT WOULDN'T BE OUT OF THE ORDINARY FOR HIM TO SPEND PERSONAL TIME IN THE COMMUNITY. Signed LE by Wf a pate S-//-2) _ 10.1 7169 Approved —_________ Page 3. of 04 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DR# - Inter-Departmental-Memo 7. ‘This was a general statement that there was an investigation of PO Hanks by Capt. Baratta, I BELIEVE THIS WAS REFERENCING A SHOTS FIRED ON TURTLE ST. THAT PO HANKS WAS ALLEGED TO BE PRESENT FOR WHILE OFF DUTY. UPON SIMPLY FOLLOWING UP WITH CAPT. BARATTA IT WAS DETERMINED, THAT THIS ALLEGATION WAS UNFOUNDED. 8. There is an internal investigation being conducted on a social media post that PO Hanks posted voicing his displeasure with individuals who take issue with him being a police officer. In this post he uses profanity (REFER TO ATTACHED DISC/FILE LABELED VIDEO 2). THIS HAS BEEN ADDRESSED WITH PO HANKS BY THE SUPERVISORS IN GVSD. PO HANKS HAS PULLED THE POST OFF HIS SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM. 9. There was a brief video that was submitted to you by Capt. Gay with PO Hanks looking into the camera (REFER TO ATTACHED DISC/FILE LABELED VIDEO 1). THIS POST DEPICTED PO HANKS LOOKING INTO THE CAMERA AS WHAT SOUNDS LIKE AN UNKNOWN RAP SONG IS BEING PLAYED IN THE BACKGROUND. PO HANKS APPEARS TO BE WEARING GARMENTS INCLUDED IN HIS DUTY UNIFORM WITH A VISIBLE EMBLEM/INSIGNIA UTILIZED BY THE DEPARTMENT, THAT BEING THE LETTERS "SPD" ON WHAT APPEARS TO BE A MOCK TURTLE NECK. THE LYRICS IN THE SONG PLAYING IN THE BACKGROUND POSSIBLY CONTAINED THE WORDS "NIGGA/NIGGAS". UPON INVESTIGATION INTO THIS POST IT WAS DETERMINED THAT PO HANKS WAS DISPLAYING HIS HAIRCUT TO PROMOTE HIS FRIEND WHO IS A BARBER IN SYRACUSE. PO HANKS INDICATED IN AN INTER-DEPARTMENTAL MEMO THAT THE MUSIC BEING PLAYED WAS RANDOM AND HE. DIDN'T CONTROL WHAT WAS BEING PLAYED. IT APPEARS THAT HE HAD NO ILL INTENT OR MOTIVATION TO OFFEND ANY PERSON OR GROUP AFTER THE INVESTIGATION INTO THIS POST. 10. Here, the author of the text document being vetted states that they did not make an OOPS inquiry regarding PO Hanks relative to any areas of concer that would impact an SID assignmentitestimony [AW with 50A and current directives, THIS STATEMENT IS HYPOCRITICAL IN NATURE BECAUSE THE DOCUMENT AND THE SUBSTANCE OF IT THAT | AM VETTING WAS SUBMITTED TO DIRECTLY IMPACT PO HANKS ASSIGNMENT IN SID. IT ALSO DEMONSTRATES A FAILURE TO ACT BY THE AUTHOR IF THE AUTHOR BELIEVED THERE WERE LEGITIMATE CONCERNS WITH AN OFFICER ACTING CRIMINALLY OR INSINUATING THAT INTELLIGENCE CAN BE JEOPARDIZED WITH THE PRESENCE OF PO HANKS BEING PRIVILEGED TO CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION. IT ALSO APPEARS THAT THE AUTHOR OF THIS IS TRYING TO MAINTAIN OR SALVAGE A SENSE OF BROTHER/SISTERHOOD WHEN IN FACT THE VERY PULSE OF THIS DOCUMENT WHICH WAS SUBMITTED WAS QUESTIONING THE LOYALTY AND INTEGRITY OF AN OFFICER. AN INVESTIGATION SHOULD HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED BEFORE THE SUBMISSION OF THIS DOCUMENT TO ENSURE THE, INTELLIGENCE AND WORK BEING CONDUCTED IN THIS DEPARTMENT ARE NOT COMPROMISED AS THIS DOCUMENT SUGGESTS IF PO HANKS WAS TO BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK FOR GVTF. 11. This was a general concern over PO Hanks personal associations and social media practices. THIS APPEARED TO BE AN ATTEMPT TO MAKE THE LIST BIGGER THAN IT ACTUALLY NEEDED TO BE BY ADDING ANOTHER NUMBER. THIS CONCERN WAS ALREADY EXPRESSED IN THE PRECEDING CONCERNS. AND ALSO ADDRESSED. Next Page Signed Tr. _ 10.1 7169 Approved Page 4 of 4 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DR# - Inter-Departmental-Memo In addition to the aforementioned text document, Capt. Gay submitted an Inter-Departmental Memo referencing previous investigations into PO Hanks by previous commanders to include retired Lt, Turo and possibly Lt. Milana These investigations have allegedly been completed by other commanders so I ask the administration to look into those results as Ido nothave documents or case files for those. One of the investigations was regardin tagging PO Hanks in a social media platform stating "Come pick up your shitt". This incident is also explained by PO Hanks in his Inter-Departmental Memo relative to this entire investigation. PO Hanks indicated that he did not buy a shirt from him and Blunt reached out to him by tagging him. For further information refer to the aforementioned memo. It is my determination through my inquiry into the various concems and the investigation into his social media posts in question that the insinuations behind these concems relative to PO Hanks from SID/Capt. Gay are unfounded and ‘unsubstantiated at this time. PO Hanks is an outstanding worker with no ties to nefarious activity. Regarding the specific content of the social media platform posts relative to PO Hanks, [ advise of the following. ‘There was one post related to PO Hanks that is questionable in my opinion. ‘The post I am referencing is the brief video of him depicting his haircut with a rap song playing in the background. The song possibly uses racial slang (“niggas/ nigga") that may or may not be offensive to people as itis common and acceptable for those who subscribe to the rap genre of music to listen to lyrics like the ones played in PO Hanks’ video. in addition to that, the song was randomly playing in the background and PO Hanks’ intentions were good as he was trying to promote his barber's work. PO Hanks was wearing what appeared to be an identifying acronymic symbol of the Syracuse Police ("SPD") during this post; however, based on the song being random and the fact that PO Hanks' intentions were good, it is my opinion that no disciplinary action should be issued. PO Hanks has been verbally counseled on his usage of social media in the midst of this entice investigation. PO Hanks will be reminded and addressed again in one way, shape or form regarding his social media usage upon the Chief's final decision. Please refer to the Disciplinary Action Report bearing Delinquency # 5127 and LA.D. # 21-045. Regarding PO Hanks’ content in the other posts, I direct you to the first sentence of the Speech, Expression and Social Networking policy (SEC. 1030.5.1 Prohibited Speech, Expression and Conduct). It states, " The following are prohibited UNLESS the speech is otherwise PROTECTED (for example, A MEMBER SPEAKING AS A PRIVATE CITIZEN, including acting as an authorized member of a recognized bargaining unit or an employee group, on a matter of public concern), and follows with all the prohibitions set by the department. In PO Hanks’ other posts with rap lyrics in the captions or profanity in any of the content, although frowned upon by some individuals, PO Hanks was using his personal account(s) and did not specifically articulate that he was a "Syracuse Police Officer” or member of the same. PO Hanks did not have any discernible Syracuse Police emblems, identifiers or insignia depicted. It is my opinion that the speech/expression he was using is PROTECTED and he was acting as a PRIVATE CITIZEN due to his use of his. personal account(s). Therefore, due to the manner in which the policy is articulated, PO Hanks is acting in accordance to the aforementioned policy in those instances. Respectfully Subynitted, bn Wd He Signed = _LT- bol Lb *LY de Sal 10.1 1169 Approved Date — Boge ote SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DRH - Inter-Departmental-Memo TO: Chie K. Buckner DATE: 05/07/2021 FROM: D.P. McGork, #248 SUBJECT: Police Officer Brandon Hanks Chief, On Mon 22 Mar 21, I received a telephone call from Capt. Gay regarding a social media video that he had been made aware of. The video had reportedly been made by, and posted to social media by P.O. Brandon Hanks, Per Capt. Gay, P.O. Hanks identified himself as a police officer in the video, used vulgar language, and he believed it was something he should make me aware of, given that the video was believed to be circulating widely on social media and because the department had recently experienced a number of social media policy violations by department members. Shortly thereafter, he forwarded the video to me. Upon review of the video, it appeared to me that P.O, Hanks likely posted the video on social media in response to people who had criticized him for being a police officer. My assessment of the video was that it was likely posted out of frustration by P.O. Hanks, who had apparently been criticized for his career choice and for policing a neighborhood that he grew up in. In that context, and recognizing that P.O. Hanks faces unique challenges as a black police officer policing neighborhoods he grew up in - which already have a strained relationship with the police - 1 viewed itas relatively benign, albeit a lapse in judgement that was likely to make the social media criticism worse, not better. Nonetheless, given that the video was reportedly circulating widely on social ‘media and had drawn attention, | advised Deputy Chief Trudell of Capt. Gay's phone call and the video, and forwarded the video to him. On 25 Mar 21, I received another telephone call from Capt. Gay, who advised that Lt. Patti had submitted P.O. Hanks! name as a candidate for a 30 day rotation in GVTF earlier that day. Capt. Gay explained that GVTF personnel had expressed concer about P.O. Hanks rotating through GVTF, because on a number of occasions, while mining social media investigations pursuant to routine gang investigations, they had observed that P.O. Hanks had posted photos with, ‘or messages to social media pages belonging to known or former gang members and other convicted criminals, In other instances, known gang members had posted photos of P.O. Hanks to their page. ‘Their concern was that without knowing the extent of the relationship that he had with those individuals, there was potential for an investigation to be ‘compromised if P.O. Hanks worked cases with GV'TF and those cases involved someone with whom he had a close relationship. Capt. Gay also recalled a prior concer that had been relayed interdepartmentally, regarding P.O. Hanks having been present for at least one shots fired or shooting investigation. It was Capt. Gay's recommendation that for those reasons, P.O. Hanks not be assigned to GVTF on a rotational basis. 1 inquired with Capt. Gay as to whether or not GVTF had ever uncovered any evidence during any of their debriefs or investigations that would tend to suggest that P.O. Hanks had ever actually done anything illegal on this job, or if his name had ever surfaced as part of any criminal investigation; he indicated that he did not believe so. I also inquired as to why these social media observations and concems had not been raised or brought fo my attention prior to Lt. Patti's request, if they believed there were potential issues with P.O. Hanks. Capt. Gay advised that GVTF detectives had, i fact, raised those concems to P.O, Hanks’ supervisors in the past, but they did not know for sure whether or not they had been addressed. However, it was their belief that they had not been addressed, since there was no follow-up with them. Tasked Capt. Gay to forward me examples of the social media posts and anything-¢lse that the GVTF detectives’ Date _gS\\or Approved Date Signed 10.1 7/69 Page of 2 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT OR Inter-Departmental-Memo concerns were based on, and advised him that without concrete examples and further investigation, I would not decline Lt. Patti's Offer. ‘On 26 Mar 21, I met and spoke with Capt. Baratta about the shots fired/shooting investigation(s) where P.O. Hanks’ name surfaced. 1 did recall having heard about that prior to Capt. Gay's telephone call, but it was before my current assignment and I was unaware of the details of those investigations. Capt. Baratta recalled two instances where P.O Hanks' name had surfaced in shooting investigations. In the first case, it was determined that P.O. Hanks had not been present for, or otherwise involved in the shooting; it was rumor only. In the second case, which was early in his career P.O, Hanks had proactively contacted Sgt. J. White in CID and advised him that he had just picked up (or just dropped off) friends at a party where shots were fired. At that point, P.O, Hanks was looking for guidance as to how to proceed in an off-duty capacity, but there was no impropriety on P.O. Hanks’ part. On that same day, I received a folder from Capt. Gay that included the above-referenced social media posts and a police report relative to a DEA investigation, wherein an associate of P.O. Hanks was listed as a target. For further details, please see those documents. While 1 am not privy to the details of past complaints regarding P.O. Hanks or the present intemal investigation, | am not personally aware of any instance where P.O, Hanks has actually engaged in any activity that has, or had the potential to jeopardize an investigation. Furthermore, one of the pictures posted on social media that was a source of concern in this investigation was taken and posted by someone else, long before P.O. Hanks was a police officer. I would agree that some of his social media posts indicate poor judgement and that some are inappropriate, given his position as a police officer. And, that should be communicated io him, However, I believe that the following information is relevant: ‘As L understand it, P.O. Hanks grew up in a neighborhood where poverty and gang violence were/are prevalent. Not surprisingly then, some of the friends that he grew up with found themselves immersed in a lifestyle characterized by drugs and gang violence. Fortunately, P.O. Hanks chose a different path, and by all accounts, has done a very good job at the Syracuse Police Department. I understand the concern raised by GVTF detectives based on ce, and Capt. Gay is correct that by associating with some of the people he currently associates with (e.g, —_ P.O. Hanks is in violation of current Rules and Regulations (V1A4S1.16(D) - Personal Associations). However, to my knowledge, none of P.O. Hanks current associatesifiiends, who may have been convicted of various crimes at one point in their lives, are currently involved in any criminal behavior. As the Syracuse Police Department continues its efforts to diversify its ranks and recruit City residents, this is likely to be amore commonplace occurrence. Future police officers recruited from neighborhoods similar to the one P.O. Hanks gtew up in - which has demonstrable benefits - will undoubtedly have grown up with friends, and perhaps family, who have chosen a different path in life. Holding them accountable indefinitely for associating with childhood friends who ‘may have been convicted of crimes at some point in their life, but who have since moved on and no longer commit crimes, is problematic and would be unfair. We certainly can't, and shouldn't condone any association with people currently engaged in criminal activity, but we may need to revisit our current policy on Personal Associations moving forward. Respectfully Submitted, WO MK ay Deputy Chief Derek MeGork, #248 sins SIE Qos ove oslerbee 10.1 7169 Approved Cate inna WC SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DRE - Inter-Departmental-Memo. TO: Deputy Chief Trudett DATE: 04/08/2021 FROM: Captain Gay #246 SUBJECT: Police Officer Brandon Hanks Sir, My recent involvement with PO Hanks began the moming of 20 or 21Mar21 when I received a social media video posted by him in which he identifies himself as a police officer and ends his message by stating that, "I don't want your opinion if your ain'tgot shit" The video was forwarded to DC MeGork on the same date, Itjs my understanding that this video was given ee a SWAT training session. On OSApr2 EM old me that he had, in fact, been given the video and that he had brought it to Lt. Patti's attention, ‘On 25Mar21 at 1913 hours I received notification that Lt, Patti had offered PO Hanks for a 30 day, temporary transfer to GVTF. GVTF personnel voiced their concern about accepting the offer due to known associations with gang members and convicted criminals. I was told that PO Hanks has a matching tattoo with] @ known gang member. |, too, had reservations based upon concerns you expressed years ago to DC Broton about Hanks being present at or near to SHOT incidents, In addition, I had just recently forwarded to DC McGork the social medi [had heard rumors of a second social media video - now confirmed - in which PO Hanks was in uniform and a rap song, was being played. On 25Mar21 at 1958 hours I called DC MeGork and advised him of both Lt. Patti's offer and SID's concems about granting the request, DC McGork acknowledged the concern and said that corroboration would be required to act on those concems and dectine Lt. Patt’s offer, On 26Mar21 approximately 1030 hours I met with members of SID - both Narcotics and GVTF - and solicited any and all information and media they may possess relative to PO Hanks. Clearly, the detectives were reasonably uncomfortable as they recognized the sensitive nature of the issue and were fearful of the potential repercussions. However, | later received the short social media video clip of PO Hanks seated in a police car in uniform with a rap song playing. This second video was forwarded to DC McGork. In addition, four sereen shots of social media posts of PO Hanks and a copy of a police report were left on a desk. I was told that the social media posts were taken from PO Hanks’ social ‘media page(s) on 26Mar21 after my request. These documents were included with my bullet memo (attached) that I hand delivered to DC MeGork on 26Mar21 Signed ot date CEMA) A 10.1 7/69 proved Date Pee cee SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DRE - Inter-Departmental-Memo On 02Apr2I I received an e-mail from DC MeGork (attached) stating that you had directed Lt. Patti to investigate PO Hanks’ social media activity and to address the concerns relayed by GVTF, i. that they have forwarded concems in the past that were never addressed. He also stated that you needed the videos and social media posts sent to you digitally and information regarding any notifications made through the chain of command. (On 02Apr21 at 1626 and 1634 hours I sent you two e-mails containing the two social media videos I had been given. I have been told that the social media posts are no longer available because PO Hanks’ social media page(s) had been taken down and, therefor, cannot be transmitted to you digitally at this time. The best, clearest pictures of the post were given to DC McGork and, | assume, you have them now. On 07Apr21 at 1400 hours | met with GVTF. I was assured that there are no other videos or screen shots available. Afier speaking with them at length I am, also, confident that their concems are no different than my own. ‘The additional information I received is as follows: 1. During PO Hanks’ PTO training a social media post by] was observed that "tagged" PO Hanks with the statement, "Come pick up your shirt." This led to PO Hanks’ social media where other gang members were observed asking PO Hanks questions about police related topics. These posts were given to the FTO supervisor - possibly Lt. Milana. 2. There was a Patrol traffic stop of a vehicle that was occupied by PO Hanks and others believed to be gang members or convieted criminals who were drinking. One may have had a felony warrant, Upon recognizing PO Hanks the stop was terminated and all occupants were allowed to leave. A 10.1 was written and given to Lt. Turo. 3. PO Hanks was allegedly present at a SHOTS incident on Turtle St. while off duty. T} Captain Baratta to investigate. information was given to 4. GV'TF personnel spoke with Lt, Patti about their concems relative to PO Hanks participating in street ops details, though Hanks never applied. 5. Of the limited number of commanders and supervisors who have been assigned to GVTF some may be aware of Hanks’ associations and social media activity. PO Hanks’ association with known gang members, convicted criminals - felony and RICO - known to be involved in gangs, narcotics trafficking and other criminal activity are cause for concem when considering a transfer to the Special Investigations Division. Additionally, these associations are in violation of the department's code of conduct. His related social media activity is, also, cause for concer and in violation of our rules and regulations. ‘These behaviors also speak to Hanks’ judgement and professional/personal decision making, Based upon the totality of the circumstances, inding PO Hanks I have founded and reasonable concerns that allowing him access to the Special Inv jon may result in compromised investigations, CRIs, TTPs, confidential vehicles and covert equipment. Furthermore, we would expose our partner agencies - DEA, FBI, HSI, NYSP VGNET, OCSO SIU, etc. ina similar fashion, Certainly justifiable caution would be expected, igations Respectfully submitted, ore Cf. cthiedl 10.1 7/69 Approved A ate 26Mar21 1. [IRBIB- 010219 social media post MF Wwas a target of an investigation conducted by Det. Babbage and the DEA. Notified today. 2, [REI copturec rom ISnapchat on 205ep19 was a target of the recent Uptown federal T-I, Held due to frustration with no result from previous notifications. 3. BEE sociai media post from 21Mar20 [fiwas a target of the first Bootcamp RICO. Held due to frustration with no result from previous notifications. TERRE social media post captured 12/2020. Set. Hillman notified during SWAT training. 5. Members of GVTF indicate that Lt. Patti, while assigned to GVTF, would not allow Hanks to participate in details because of concerns. 6. DC Trudell’s concerns of PO Hanks hiring due to presence/proximity at SHOTS incidents while assigned to Intel/GVTF. : 7. Captain Baratta’s investigation of PO Hanks. 8. Current social media video investigation. 9. Acquisition of short social media rap video of PO Hanks in uniform provided today’s date. 10, | DID NOT make an OOPS inquiry regarding PO Hanks relative to any areas of concern that would impact an SID assignment/testimony IAW with 50A and current directives. 11, Concerns over PO Hanks personal associations and social media practices.._ . Page 1 of 5 SYRACUSE POLICE DEPARTMENT DRH .- Inter-Departmental-Memo TO: Sgt Kritzer DATE: 04/29/2021 FROM: P.O. Brandon Hanks #1099 SUBJECT: Social Media Posts ‘The purpose of this memo isto address several photographs as well as other allegations that have surfaced yet again, during my tenure while employed with the Syracuse Police Department. It should be noted that during my career here with SPD, have viewed one ofthe (4) four photo(s) on approximately (3) tre separate ozasins | wll enpin them allin detail below. Its to no seeret or surprise, that use, where Lhave lived on every side of town, When I was bom, my parent located a Syracuse, NY. We then moved Fwhere [lived most oPmy Me. My house OnE is in the center of [gang territory. Several of the gang members I grew up with and went to school with still reside inthe area, (How many members in the Syracuse Police Department have resided in a neighborhood heavily populated m ii members)? Sticking to the subject at hand, photo-#1 is a photo from 2011, with a former friend of min In the photo, we are at the Denny's restaurant in Syracuse, NY which has since been closed and - ed with the now Byme Dairy. This photo is shortly after we got a matching tattoo together which states| on our The photo showed Patt, which Ido nothave a copy of, screenshot of that picture of fand I, by a gang member known as i picture with "SME" which means "shaking my head" as he igmoeking rival gang men 9icture with ice Officer Brandon Hanks| is a well-known and documented’

    You might also like