Debbie, I am a long time lurker but now I must come out of the shadows as EverVigilantSheepdog has challenged me. Lets cut to the chase; JOHN CHAKWIN JR. aka “Mister Be Safe” to your face “Stab You in the Back ASAP” is the infamous EVS. First of all, he is the most incompetent undercover agent to ever carry a Customs Badge. Second, he is the only SAC dumb enough write in one paragraph that he works for a great SAC and tell us in the next paragraph that he IS that great SAC! WOW, we here in Jacksonville & Atlanta feel for those guys/gals in Dallas. Unfortunately, we had a role in EVS being transferred to Dallas. As usual, Chakwin got out of JAX a step ahead of the EEO sheriff. I can’t post everything interesting and conflicting that Chakwin wrote but anyone who knows the most schizophrenic SAC in ICE knows he has a split personality. Chakwin tells every reporter that he can con, what a great dude he is and how much “his” sheep love him. Then he retreats to his office and screams and yells at ASACS & Group Sups and updates his retaliation plans against anyone he perceives to be his enemy. And believe me, this dog sees wolves lurking behind every other cubicle. Sorry Dallas, your loss is our gain! Maybe you will get lucky and Foreman will recall Chakwin to HQ when she discovers yet again, that the immature and insecure GS/15 Special Agent in Charge/Dallas is a huge liability. Below are a sampling of the split personality scribblings of the man himself. You be the judge. Take special note of the post where EVS gives mega props to his boy Isellers, and forgets to change personalities and signs as Isellers! EVS is not only John Chakwin who is also Isellers, but he can’t even keep track of all his personalities! Too funny..Be Safe and Stay Well
EverVigilantSheepdog in his own words:
“Thanks for your thoughts Gabe. The rank and file out here are doing the best we can, with the hand we’ve been dealt.”
“I know that my identity is driving some of you to distraction, and I think that is comical. I’ll restate some clues to help you try to solve this puzzle: 1. I don’t work in HQS though I know where it is, and 2. I’m not an SES.
I guess I would be considered part of the senior leadership team (or how would I know some of the stuff I’m talking about), but I’ve worked my way up the old fashioned way, and have no regrets as to how I got where I am. I do know Mr. Clark and Mrs. Forman, and I knew them before they were in the positions they currently hold, and I’ve had a number of contacts with both Michael Garcia and Julie Myers. Trained investigators that you all are, I’m sure you can piece it together now.”
“I’m starting to see the corner even now, as a bunch of other agency 1811’s are applying to leave their agencies to come to ICE. I’ve personally seen three applications in the last couple of weeks, two from FBI Agents, and one from an OIG type.”
“If I were your SAC, and standing in front of your all-hands meeting, I’d gladly answer all of these question to the best of my ability. But I’m not, so I won’t. Of course that would assume you would have the courage to ask these questions in a public setting.”
“I initially logged onto this site to take Debbie to task for her continuous bashing of Marcy and Company, but I must say, I’m enjoying the opportunity to bring a little clarity to those of you who will accept it. You may not agree with me and that’s fine. I know I’m right, and I’m confident that as you become better educated, you’ll come around to my way of thinking. Work safe”
“I’m glad there are some intelligent posters out there (gabe, Isellers, mgofca), and it appears we’ve run the “disgruntles” underground. Guess they can’t stand the heat.”
“I do know that the SAC NY is about to have an outstanding Special Agent in Charge, and my hope is that the agents will allow him to demonstrate his leadership skills, before the rocks and bottles start.”
“I know of a couple of acting GS’s getting paid “acting” pay in my SAC office, but can’t speak to the other SAC offices. It’s the right thing to do, if we have the money…no question. Be safe my brothers.”
“If you are doing your job, as a professional, why would anyone in your local management be pissed at you? I don’t work in this kind of environment, thank GOD!! Stay safe”
“I wish you did know Ray (Parmer). I think you would change your opinion. I’ve known him since he was a baby agent, and he’s a good man.”
“…but I can’t help myself when I’m attacked by stupidity like the Rastaman. I bet he gets tired of being told he’s stupid all the time. Alright boys and girls, I’m off on the road for a couple of days. Have fun, stay safe, and keep those cards and letter coming. Work safe.”
“I was always of the opinion that each Air Branch should be under the umbrella of the SAC O I don’t work in HQS, but I’d recommend that you spend a little time there my friend. Might not be able to stand the heat, but it would sure open your eyes to some real truth .I think Isellers and I speak for the silent majority. Work Safe”
” Hey marksman73, lsellers, aka CRACKsellers, has been around long enough to know that he was damn proud to get ANY 1811 job, even if it was Legacy INS, and he is sure as hell not going to let you bunch of whiny crybabies change that. I never took the DHS survey. Maybe it was offered and I just didn’t respond. If I had taken it, I will tell you that I would not have ranked job satisfaction as very high, but I would not have ranked it as very low either. Definitely above middle of the road. Why you may ask? Because for the most part, I have holidays and weekends off, I don’t have to work too many nights, I haven’t been shot at or assaulted yet, and I bring home a heck of a nice paycheck every 2 weeks. I can’t say that for the previous LE jobs I’ve had. I had one LE job I enjoyed a little more, and I’ve had several I hated a lot more. I guess I’m just lucky to work in a SAC office (no Rastis Ruiz it is not SAC Denver, much further east) where I can work criminal cases without any hassles. I think many of you guys are bringing up very good points (other than the frequent Kool-aid reference, grape is my favorite), and hopefully someone in HQ is taking notes. But things are going to have to get a hell of a lot worse for me to start heading for the lifeboats.” Posted by: lsellers at June 4, 2007 05:59 PM
CHECK OUT THE DATE/TIME on these Iseller/EVS posts. WOW, if only he had a brainÔø?
Have some courage Debbie, print the truth. I dare you.
E.V.S. (Ever Vigilant Sheepdog)
Posted by: EverVigilentSheepdog at June 2, 2007 07:38 AM
Thanks for the support EverVigilantSheepdog. To the rest of the crybabies, FU!!!! My opinion is just that, my opinion. I don’t pretend to speak for anyone else posting on THIS site, only the majority of the fellow agents I work with in MY office, and with which I have discussed the postings on this site at length. No I don’t work in a “po-dunk” office ICE4EVER, and I will identify my office Rastis Ruiz just as soon as all the other posters identify theirs. And I sure as hell am not PP, and have no idea where HQ is (except that it is in DC somewhere). I am not trying to defend upper management in any capacity. Sure there are a lot of things that could be done better. I am just providing a different opinion, and if you don’t like it, tough S##T!! Thinks are not as bad in MY office as apparently they are in others. If you other guys and gals really can’t do the job that you want, there is one simple solution. LEAVE!!!!! There are plenty of state and local agencies that need good people. And you won’t make near as much money, you will be in harm’s way a whole lot more, and you will see that almost ALL law enforcement agencies have problems similiar to ICE, and some much worse. I speak of this from personal experience. I didn’t come to ICE straight out of college, or after some cushy internship. I worked for local departments for 10 years before getting this job, and I am damned thankful for it. So don’t accuse me of sticking up for HQ, because that is not my intention.
Posted by: lsellers at June 2, 2007 08:12 AM
Isellers,
You and I may work out of the same office. LOL We damn sure seem to be in the minority here, but I think that’s because the agents that are pulling the wagon are busy doing the lords work, or have to get pissed (like I did) in order to take the time to respond.
Seems as if most of the crybabies on here work in the SAC/LA office, though I know there are some whineybutts in SAC/NY too. They are getting a new SAC real soon though, and hopefully the morale will pick up.
Keep the faith brother, it is still a great job, but it’s all what you make it.
Work Safe
Posted by: EverVigilentSheepdog at June 2, 2007 08:31 AM
YOU AND I MAY WORK IN THE SAME OFFICE- ROFLOL
LETS HOPE SO, SINCE YOU ARE BOTH JOHN CHAKWIN AND OBVIOUSLY OUT TO LUNCH…CAN YOU IMAGINE AN FBI OR USSS SAC PULLING THIS STUNT? WOW.

JaxBeachBum on June 6, 2007 at 12:27 am

Debbie, I am a long time lurker but now I must come out of the shadows as EverVigilantSheepdog has challenged me. Lets cut to the chase; JOHN CHAKWIN JR. aka “Mister Be Safe” to your face “Stab You in the Back ASAP” is the infamous EVS. First of all, he is the most incompetent undercover agent to ever carry a Customs Badge. Second, he is the only SAC dumb enough write in one paragraph that he works for a great SAC and tell us in the next paragraph that he IS that great SAC! WOW, we here in Jacksonville & Atlanta feel for those guys/gals in Dallas. Unfortunately, we had a role in EVS being transferred to Dallas. As usual, Chakwin got out of JAX a step ahead of the EEO sheriff. I can’t post everything interesting and conflicting that Chakwin wrote but anyone who knows the most schizophrenic SAC in ICE knows he has a split personality. Chakwin tells every reporter that he can con, what a great dude he is and how much “his” sheep love him. Then he retreats to his office and screams and yells at ASACS & Group Sups and updates his retaliation plans against anyone he perceives to be his enemy. And believe me, this dog sees wolves lurking behind every other cubicle. Sorry Dallas, your loss is our gain! Maybe you will get lucky and Foreman will recall Chakwin to HQ when she discovers yet again, that the immature and insecure GS/15 Special Agent in Charge/Dallas is a huge liability. Below are a sampling of the split personality scribblings of the man himself. You be the judge. Take special note of the post where EVS gives mega props to his boy Isellers, and forgets to change personalities and signs as Isellers! EVS is not only John Chakwin who is also Isellers, but he can’t even keep track of all his personalities! Too funny..Be Safe and Stay Well
EverVigilantSheepdog in his own words:
“Thanks for your thoughts Gabe. The rank and file out here are doing the best we can, with the hand we’ve been dealt.”
“I know that my identity is driving some of you to distraction, and I think that is comical. I’ll restate some clues to help you try to solve this puzzle: 1. I don’t work in HQS though I know where it is, and 2. I’m not an SES.
I guess I would be considered part of the senior leadership team (or how would I know some of the stuff I’m talking about), but I’ve worked my way up the old fashioned way, and have no regrets as to how I got where I am. I do know Mr. Clark and Mrs. Forman, and I knew them before they were in the positions they currently hold, and I’ve had a number of contacts with both Michael Garcia and Julie Myers. Trained investigators that you all are, I’m sure you can piece it together now.”
“I’m starting to see the corner even now, as a bunch of other agency 1811’s are applying to leave their agencies to come to ICE. I’ve personally seen three applications in the last couple of weeks, two from FBI Agents, and one from an OIG type.”
“If I were your SAC, and standing in front of your all-hands meeting, I’d gladly answer all of these question to the best of my ability. But I’m not, so I won’t. Of course that would assume you would have the courage to ask these questions in a public setting.”
“I initially logged onto this site to take Debbie to task for her continuous bashing of Marcy and Company, but I must say, I’m enjoying the opportunity to bring a little clarity to those of you who will accept it. You may not agree with me and that’s fine. I know I’m right, and I’m confident that as you become better educated, you’ll come around to my way of thinking. Work safe”
“I’m glad there are some intelligent posters out there (gabe, Isellers, mgofca), and it appears we’ve run the “disgruntles” underground. Guess they can’t stand the heat.”
“I do know that the SAC NY is about to have an outstanding Special Agent in Charge, and my hope is that the agents will allow him to demonstrate his leadership skills, before the rocks and bottles start.”
“I know of a couple of acting GS’s getting paid “acting” pay in my SAC office, but can’t speak to the other SAC offices. It’s the right thing to do, if we have the money…no question. Be safe my brothers.”
“If you are doing your job, as a professional, why would anyone in your local management be pissed at you? I don’t work in this kind of environment, thank GOD!! Stay safe”
“I wish you did know Ray (Parmer). I think you would change your opinion. I’ve known him since he was a baby agent, and he’s a good man.”
“…but I can’t help myself when I’m attacked by stupidity like the Rastaman. I bet he gets tired of being told he’s stupid all the time. Alright boys and girls, I’m off on the road for a couple of days. Have fun, stay safe, and keep those cards and letter coming. Work safe.”
“I was always of the opinion that each Air Branch should be under the umbrella of the SAC O I don’t work in HQS, but I’d recommend that you spend a little time there my friend. Might not be able to stand the heat, but it would sure open your eyes to some real truth .I think Isellers and I speak for the silent majority. Work Safe”
” Hey marksman73, lsellers, aka CRACKsellers, has been around long enough to know that he was damn proud to get ANY 1811 job, even if it was Legacy INS, and he is sure as hell not going to let you bunch of whiny crybabies change that. I never took the DHS survey. Maybe it was offered and I just didn’t respond. If I had taken it, I will tell you that I would not have ranked job satisfaction as very high, but I would not have ranked it as very low either. Definitely above middle of the road. Why you may ask? Because for the most part, I have holidays and weekends off, I don’t have to work too many nights, I haven’t been shot at or assaulted yet, and I bring home a heck of a nice paycheck every 2 weeks. I can’t say that for the previous LE jobs I’ve had. I had one LE job I enjoyed a little more, and I’ve had several I hated a lot more. I guess I’m just lucky to work in a SAC office (no Rastis Ruiz it is not SAC Denver, much further east) where I can work criminal cases without any hassles. I think many of you guys are bringing up very good points (other than the frequent Kool-aid reference, grape is my favorite), and hopefully someone in HQ is taking notes. But things are going to have to get a hell of a lot worse for me to start heading for the lifeboats.” Posted by: lsellers at June 4, 2007 05:59 PM
CHECK OUT THE DATE/TIME on these Iseller/EVS posts. WOW, if only he had a brain�
Have some courage Debbie, print the truth. I dare you.
E.V.S. (Ever Vigilant Sheepdog)
Posted by: EverVigilentSheepdog at June 2, 2007 07:38 AM
Thanks for the support EverVigilantSheepdog. To the rest of the crybabies, FU!!!! My opinion is just that, my opinion. I don’t pretend to speak for anyone else posting on THIS site, only the majority of the fellow agents I work with in MY office, and with which I have discussed the postings on this site at length. No I don’t work in a “po-dunk” office ICE4EVER, and I will identify my office Rastis Ruiz just as soon as all the other posters identify theirs. And I sure as hell am not PP, and have no idea where HQ is (except that it is in DC somewhere). I am not trying to defend upper management in any capacity. Sure there are a lot of things that could be done better. I am just providing a different opinion, and if you don’t like it, tough S##T!! Thinks are not as bad in MY office as apparently they are in others. If you other guys and gals really can’t do the job that you want, there is one simple solution. LEAVE!!!!! There are plenty of state and local agencies that need good people. And you won’t make near as much money, you will be in harm’s way a whole lot more, and you will see that almost ALL law enforcement agencies have problems similiar to ICE, and some much worse. I speak of this from personal experience. I didn’t come to ICE straight out of college, or after some cushy internship. I worked for local departments for 10 years before getting this job, and I am damned thankful for it. So don’t accuse me of sticking up for HQ, because that is not my intention.
Posted by: lsellers at June 2, 2007 08:12 AM
Isellers,
You and I may work out of the same office. LOL We damn sure seem to be in the minority here, but I think that’s because the agents that are pulling the wagon are busy doing the lords work, or have to get pissed (like I did) in order to take the time to respond.
Seems as if most of the crybabies on here work in the SAC/LA office, though I know there are some whineybutts in SAC/NY too. They are getting a new SAC real soon though, and hopefully the morale will pick up.
Keep the faith brother, it is still a great job, but it’s all what you make it.
Work Safe
Posted by: EverVigilentSheepdog at June 2, 2007 08:31 AM
YOU AND I MAY WORK IN THE SAME OFFICE- ROFLOL YA THINK? HELLLLLO…YOU ARE BOTH ONE IN THE SAME & OBVIOUSLY OUT TO LUNCH…CAN YOU IMAGINE AN FBI OR USSS SAC PULLING THIS STUNT? WOW.

JaxBeachBum on June 6, 2007 at 12:34 am

Hey JaxBeachBum, are you an 1811? If so, it’s amazing you could investigate your way out of a closet!! I assure you I am not EVS. If you read his posts, you will see he is much more “in the know” than I am. I respect EVS for his courage to speak his mind, but I don’t necessarily agree with all his points. My point from my first post until now is that I don’t feel as disgruntled as many of you. I am a Legacy INS agent, so I didn’t have the experience most of you guys had with US Customs. If I did, maybe I would be as disgruntled. Sure I wish many things were different, but I am not going to let that get in the way of doing my job. Thankfully I am fortunate enough to work in a SAC office where I can do my job, and it is surely not in EVS’ office. And EVS is much more polite than I am, because I have no problem telling all you whiny bitches to go F yourselves!!!

lsellers on June 6, 2007 at 8:55 am

Pls pass to FormerICE: feel free to contact me offline re: your 6/4/07 post.
//FormerUSCSSSA//

FormerUSCSSSA on June 6, 2007 at 9:07 am

To FormerUSCSSSA: 571-451-6832 (my cell).

FormerICE on June 6, 2007 at 12:38 pm

…Being lied to by upper management. Now that is irony in motion. Damn, this whole time I thought he was a sh%tkicker, out bustin’ perps and squeezing stoolies. He even threatened to beat-down the Rastaman! Turns out he is just a lapdog punk-ass biyotch. What little credibility that guy had went out the winder. Jaxbeachbum, you ROCK! Way to expose the guy for what he is. A feeble attempt by the propaganda machine to harsh up our deal with “truth”. I’ll bet his bonus won’t be quite so lush this year. If that guy is the best they’ve got, then IcE is in worse shape than I thought. Send in more flying monkeys with nothing to say!! This is gettin’ funny.
BTW, you never tell true warriors to ‘be safe’. It’s a curse. If we wanted to be safe, we’d be accountants.

q2thecore on June 6, 2007 at 12:47 pm

Ok, I wasn’t going to respond to any more posts until the weekend, as I’m on the road, and away from my computer. Good thing that they have computers in the lobby of hotels I suppose.
I’m only writing to tell you all that my name is not John Chakwin, I don’t log on as Isellers, or any other name other than EVS, I’m not an SES, or SAC, and have no intention of being one, even if it was offered. I’m right where I want to be, and don’t plan on moving again.
Investigators some of you are not!! JaxBeachbum, did you get one of those welfare 13’s when they were handed out? I bet you did. LOL
I’ve never been assigned to any office in Flordia, though I’ve worked a number of cases there, both undercover and as the case agent or as the supporting cast (cover team, surveillance, etc.)
I’ve been drunk a few times in Jacksonville, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and points in between, but that’s a whole different story.
Why, if I may ask, are you so determined to learn my identity? I’ve been truthful and forthcoming, and haven’t once attempted to identify anyone else on this site, even those few that agree with me.
I’m guessing it’s so you can begin the campaign of character assasination, like beachbum tried with the Special Agent in Charge from Dallas. Shameful way to do business in this man’s opinion.
Some of you are very worried that someone in the ICE hierarchy is concerned about your identities, but it simply isn’t true.
You have the right to contribute your thoughts (and some poor attempts at humor) to this and any other site you choose.
q2thecore,
I never said “be careful” I said “be safe” or “work safe”, and that’s a big, big difference in this man’s opinion. You can’t be a warrior and be careful. Careful is for little girls, and sheep. But you can damn sure work safe. I think you have your “warrior credo’s” mixed up there q2core. I tell my troops and my friends to work safe or be safe all the time, and your idea that it’s a curse is just wrong.
And again, I’ll put my work record and accomplishments up against any, and feel confident that I’ll measure up.
You see, I was promoted in the field, not in HQS, to each and every level I’ve attained. Not because I was somebodies “boy” or someones “buddy”, but because I was the best qualified candidate.
Alright, you sleuths get back to the drawing board if you want to know who I am, or we could redirect the conversation back towards something productive. Your choice.
Work Safe q2thecore,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 6, 2007 at 3:44 pm

I don’t know the identity of EverVigilantSheepdog but I sure hope he keeps posting. He’s already triggered the “outing” of two of the most notorious ICE Suck Azz SACS. I’m confident the rest off ” The Usual Suspects” of ICE CHIT SACS will be outed before EVS is transferred to a padded office deep in the bowels of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. Can you think of a better location for DHS HQ?
Is it just me or is EVS one really sick puppy? How did THAT one slip pass the shrinks? I can’t think of anything more scary than EVS hanging around hotel lobbies armed with his GLOCK, a laptop & a shitload of extended magazines. What a creepy dude!

DeeIced on June 6, 2007 at 11:48 pm

Deelced,
I was thinking the same thing. “good thing they have these here free computers in hotel lobbies.” WTF? I’ll bet that dude was running to see what kind of sh$t he stirred up. Hey lapdog, get over yourself. And I don’t need some punk a$$ lecturing to me about working/being/acting/safe. I’m a grown-up. I may not have seen as much action as you, cuz you are the shiznit according to your posts. Damn it must be hard to be humble when you da EVS. “Okay, people, work safe out there. It’s a damned jungle. Reminds me of the riots in ’93. Get me Marcy and John on the phone.” (after a fraud briefing).

q2thecore on June 7, 2007 at 1:31 am

Ok boys, you got nothing but insults again. Go figure. Pitiful!
I only logged on to comment, because you were wrongly identifying me, and frankly I don’t think John Chakwin or Jerry Robinette deserve your angst and neither one of them have anything to do with what I’m saying. I sense some jealousy and envy maybe?
You guys were quick to give props to the terminal 12 (Jaxbeachbum) when you thought he’s outed me. Where’s the condemnation when he’s wrong? Sloppy work here, hope it doesn’t carry over to your real work.
q2thcore,
You oughta consider getting some therapy brother…you got some real issues.
I’ll be back on my computer soon, and I’ll try to get to some of your relevant questions at that time.
Work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 7, 2007 at 6:56 am

EVS, you are either the most ignorant agent in ICE (and believe me you have a lot of competition for that honor)or you are the best UC agent in history. Its your arrogant latent homosexual postings that have exposed the likes of Chakwin & Robbinette. But thank you for your support. You are helping us out. Marcy may be a problem but SACS like you have mentioned are much bigger problems.They affect daily operations or should I say, the lack thereof. But fear not my delusional friend. Their day will come just like it always does. Just ask John Hensley next time you get on your knees to please.

DeeIced on June 7, 2007 at 8:45 am

Deelced,
You are new to the party huh? Probably the “terminal 12” Jaxbeachbum changing his name since he was called out recently. LOL Could you expound on your “arrogant latent homosexual postings” comment? I’m not sure I’m smart enough to follow your logic.
You have nothing to say, but you must post to throw rocks at men and women that are doing the job, all because your little feelings are hurt.
Get a life, some self-esteem, and then come back and talk with the grown-ups.
What a joke.
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 7, 2007 at 10:16 pm

Sorry EVS, I have been busy working and missed the memo officially naming you HMFIC. But now that you have made me aware of your official position, I do have something to bring to the party. GO F*** YOURSELF.

DeeIced on June 7, 2007 at 10:21 pm

Deelced (AKA Jaxbeachbums)
I told you once to come back after you gained some self-esteem if you want to talk with the grown-ups. Learning swear words does not make you a grown up.
“I’m going to call you names because it’s all I got”. Maybe you should start out with that line & save us all some time.
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 7, 2007 at 10:44 pm

EVS, you need to find a hobby. Aren’t there some senior agents in your office who are being way too productive? If anybody can figure out how to get less work out of them, you can. This blog seems to be taking up way too much of your very valuable time. I hear SAC/El Paso is looking for volunteers for a 30 day TDY. Why don’t you put out a memo recruiting volunteers and then send an agent who did not volunteer and has no training or experience suited for the assignment? Aren’t there some sick group reassignments that you can make? Its been way too long since you be filed on!

DeeIced on June 8, 2007 at 1:11 am

“Its been way too long since you be filed on”. LOL
I hope you aren’t an ICE agent, and if you are, I’d wager that your GS has you still printing out your ROI’s in hard copy so he or she can correct them, again, and again, wasting their valuable time.
At least you didn’t swear and call names. Perhaps there is some growth happening right before your eyes boys and girls. 🙂
I borrow a little slogan from the U.S. Navy Seals when it comes to TDY assignments. It goes something like this:
“You volunteered to join this outfit, after that, everything is mandatory”.
I always solicit volunteers for TDY’s, and send them first, assuming they have the proper skill sets for the particular assignment.
People that volunteer are usually more productive while on TDY. Can’t always do this though, as some of the same people volunteer for everything, and it’s only fair to spread the wealth around.
If you think you are accomplishing something filing EEO’s based on group reassignments, you need to move on. It’s a non-starter every time. You aren’t going to win, just waste some more time. Seems like a theme with you.
Have a wonderful day and work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 8, 2007 at 7:38 am

ICEDover,
I promised you I’d reply to your questions by the weekend, and for various reasons, I haven’t had the opportunity to speak with the seventh floor this week. I’ll continue to try and get them to answer your questions, but in the meantime, I’ll give you my take, for what it’s worth.
If I miss any of your questions, please feel free to point it out to me, and I’ll reply.
1. “First off, ICE HQ management fails to admit, recognize or address the existence of a serious morale problem which is causing seasoned agents to bail out. The majority of the agents I work with (on both sides of the legacy fence) are generally not satisfied with the way the agency is currently run and are disgusted daily with the sophomoric HQ mandates.”
I couldn’t disagree more. I believe ICE HQS understands and recognizes the serious morale problems within the ranks, as they are dealing with having to replace these people that are bailing out.
What you might not see, is that some of the people that are bailing, are bailing for their own personal reasons, i.e. going to DRO because they don’t have a mobility agreement, or to continue working within their personal “comfort zone”. Many of these people have homesteaded in a particular area for their entire careers, and don’t like the idea of moving, or being forced to move “for the good of the service”.
I’m sure some agents are leaving because they think ICE isn’t their fathers Customs Service, and there is not a whole lot anyone can do about this. Offer some solutions, and I’ll see that they are condidered.
2. “Second, there is no means of useful or meaningful communication between local and HQ management and field agents.”
I agree that this is a problem area. The way the system is set up now it’s imperative that your SAC take your message forward, and if your SAC doesn’t agree with your point of view, it probably won’t go anywhere.
I don’t know what the answer to this is. HQS has plenty of conference calls, so HQS management and local management are talking all the time. The disconnect is at the field agent level, in my opinion. Of course I don’t know that the army staff sergeant ever gets to talk to the generals in the pentagon, but maybe they do.
What I’d like to see is a forum like this one, sponsored by ICE, but managed by volunteers like you and I, so that people would have a place to ask questions, get answers, and yes, even vent if you feel the need. What I don’t like is the fact that Debbie could pull this at any moment, and you and would be cut off from this comm’s channel. I’m going to float the idea & see if it can get any traction.
3. “ICE lacks a CLEARLY stated mission or direction”
I think ICE has a clear mission, but unfortunately, the goal posts continue to be moved as we’re marching towards them.
We are to use all the tools at out disposal to do the jobs that legacy Customs and legacy Immigration agents have always done.
I won’t bore you with the “Company line” as you can find it on the website if you are interested.
The problem is, and what frustrates many, is the extra-ordinary emphasis on the immigration side of the house. It’s where the attention from Congress is right now, and until that changes, we’re going to continue to work WSE investigations. In my AOR all the other case categories are continuing to be worked as well.
4. “The information we hear is coming from disgusted agents in HQ!!!! We aren?t making this stuff up. This is what?s coming out of HQ.”
This is a true statement, and unfortunately, the only way this is going to be remedied, is for those disgruntles to be moved out of HQS and into your office and mine.
This will happen in time, but you must understand that there are always going to be people that aren’t happy with their current situation. I think there are a large number of agents that if you sent them into a room full of naked blondes, they’d be bitching because there were no red heads. All this to say that some people aren’t happy unless they are bitching.
The unfortunate part of this, is these people are not on the inside. Yes, they are in the building, but not within the inner circle.
They pass on what someone overheard someone else talking about, never fact checking or corroborating their information. Sad.
5.”Is there ever going to be MEANINGFUL cross training of agents, especially veterans”
Good question. I don’t share the view of many that everyone who hasn’t had it, should be compelled to complete CITP or the FLETC basic criminal investigator training. It’s too costly, time consuming, and most of our agents have the basics already. I whole heartedly agree that the 2 weeks of cross training for legacy Customs agents was woefully inadequate.
I know there is some mandatory ENFORCE training being conducted in the field as we speak, and I believe everyone has to have this training by the end of the month. Each SAC office sent a “train the trainer” candidate to training, so we could train the folks in the field. It’s a start.
ICE Training Division is offering advanced training at the academy again, in an number of important areas, and that’s a good thing.
6. “Should family members be in the same chain of command??”
Quick answer is No. I don’t think it’s appropriate for a family member to directly supervise another family member.
There are ways to seperate family members chain of commands, but you must be in a large enough office to accomplish this. I’ve seen it work, and I’ve seen it fail.
I think the lines of authority need to be transparent, so there is no appearance of impropriety or favortism. I also know that most subordinate family members end up getting the short end of the stick so to speak, in order to make double damn sure that nobody thinks the family member is getting any unfair advantages.
Having said that, I think it’s a good thing when a son or daughter wants to follow their parent’s footprints, and apire to a career in our agency.
We also have a number of married couples within ICE. Every other agency has this same issue to deal with. It becomes very difficult for a “package deal” to find a home for this reason, particularly when one or both of them become supervisors.
It’s doable, just takes more effort.
7. “Do you feel that an agency?s management has any obligation to clearly communicate agency intention, direction, and overall ?state of the agency? to it?s employees??”
I’m not sure I would say the agency management has an obligation to do so, but to be most effective they certainly should take every opportunity to do so.
8. Does experience ever enter into selections??
I think experience does enter into selections, however if you don’t score well enough on the test and interview, sometimes you can’t be reached, even if the supervisors are trying to pick you.
I also disagree with any sugesstion that we promote based on seniority. In case you haven’t noticed, we have a lot of people with one years experience time fifteen years, and other with fifteen years of experience. There are some agents that will remain unnamed, that can barely find their way home each day. Am I to promote them, just because they’ve managed to hang onto their job for fifteen years? I think not.
Selecting officials should be striving to put the best qualified person in the job, period. Contrary to what you might think though, the best candidate may be someone with less experience, but with better education, better people skills, and/or potential. It’s not a perfect science by any means.
I’ve always marveled at how we promote agents to the first line supervisor position, based solely on their productivity as a case carrying agent, without any regard to their ability to manage programs, and more importantly, their ability to lead people. Interpersonal skills are more important in my view than technical job skills. You must know how to talk to people, to get them to want to do the task at hand. You can order it done, but it’s a lot better if they want to do it.
Alright, I have to get to work. ICEDover, you may not be satisfied with my answers, but you gotta admit that at least I tried.
Work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 8, 2007 at 8:41 am

I sure hope you LISTEN better than you read. You make a lot of ASSumptions and jump to conclusions. You must be an ICE manager! Most of you guys couldn’t find your ass with both hands. Suck up to move up is the preferred career path in ICE. I’ve never filed a complaint nor written a letter. I’ve learned a lot about the system in 30+ years of of federal service. KARMA takes care of all the problems if you just let nature run its course. Just go back and read your many posts. I won’t retire because watching assholes like you crash and burn is worth more than the price of admission! You guys NEVER disappoint me. Besides, guys like me are a much bigger pain in your ass than you are in ours. I’ll let you get back to your free pancakes and Catholic Digest. I’ve got some serious GS/2 work to do.

DeeIced on June 8, 2007 at 8:52 am

Let’s stop the name calling and try to appear professional. Some issues need to be addressed. Both sides of the house are not happy with the merger; however all will have to deal with it.
As my sign-in name implies I am just a working agent with no agenda. I would like to offer the following thoughts:
Do not blame Marcy for this mess- Bill Gates could not make this work.
Experienced supervisors(1st line; 2nd line and even ASAC’s & DSAC’s and SAC’s) are a thing of the past- I blame the transfer to DC policy where you can get a GS-14 after 4 years on the job with no cases indicted and no real investigative experience. Spend your 2-3 year HQ rotation and come out a first or second line supervisor. A Program Manager in HQ is not a supervisor in spite of what these Section Chiefs and Unit Chiefs believe. We all know of people who fled to HQ because they could not handle the pressures of the field. Sad for the new agents looking for guidance. Perhaps this lack of experience in upper management is the reason HQ gets so involved in our cases.
I put this out for some dialogue on this blog. What are some remedies for the lack of experience in the field? LetÔø?s keep this blog clean, vent if you wish but using cuss words that the public reads does not give a good impression of Federal Agents.

managerofone on June 8, 2007 at 9:42 am

Managerofone,
Your attempt to keep this professional is music to my ears, but you’ll find yourself in the minority on this blog I’m afraid. I’m with you though.
You have some valid points, but I will disagree with your position that “Experienced supervisors(1st line; 2nd line and even ASAC’s & DSAC’s and SAC’s) are a thing of the past”.
Where I am, we have experienced leaders in those positions, and everyone is pulling in the same direction. Most have completed HQS tours, but all went to headquarters having already served as first or second line supervisors in the field.
We don’t have a great deal of immigration experience however, and we’re attempting to get that, any way possible.
We also have a great number of new ICE agents, without any baggage, and they are doing a wonderful job, as they start their careers with this agency. They are the future of ICE.
Work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 8, 2007 at 2:07 pm

Hey, there. New here to the blog. Read a few and can’t say it has been interesting. EVS my man, you must have nothing to do at work or at home to vent for so long. If I wanted to read a novel, Gone with the Wind would be more interesting. All I hear is petty complaints. You want to hear complaints, at least let them be good ones.
For instance, the Border Patrol MONSTER DHS created. The sad fact is that they do whatever they want and get away with it. Since they have taken over Air, they would rather have million dollar aircraft pickup aliens than assist agents in ICD’s. They are even starting their own investigations unit. Go figure.
DRO calling themselves ICE Agents and kicking down the wrong door to find a fugitive and ALL ICE is blamed, including OI. Did you know that in San Jose, CA, there is actually a city ordinance that ICE agents cannot wear their ICE raid jackets out in the city. Why? Because of DRO. They get all the money and we get the blame.
OPR, who are now 14’s. Remember when OPR (IA back then) was the bucket that Customs sent all the slime agents they did not want. And, now they are 14’s. I guess they got the last laugh. That was a response to CBP’s new Investigator position, which are 14s.
Dealing with Legacy Immigration agents that have a whole different idea on how much and how hard and agent should work. Compare one to a Legacy Customs Agent, and well, there’s no comparison. They drag their feet, complain about AUO (where’s the overtime?), what me work weekends and holidays?. Now you have Legacy Customs agents doing Immigration, and a heck of alot better. Why is ICE getting better at Immigration? Because of the Customs guys, that’s why.
One of the worst things though is that CBP gets all the funding. They don’t see that for every 10 aliens that BP catches and sends back, 6 come return to be re-caught all over again (another stat, but same fish). But, yet they still get all the money – driving Tahoe’s, Yukons, and we get the leftovers. Remember when Investigations ment that you disrupted and mismantled organizations?
I’m not going anywhere. I’m just tired of being an obsolete ICE agent, and that’s an OI Agent. I hope there’s is a light at the end of the tunnel.

PepeLePew! on June 9, 2007 at 1:54 am

PepeLePew!,
Welcome to our little com-shack Pepe.
“Read a few and can’t say it has been interesting. EVS my man, you must have nothing to do at work or at home to vent for so long. If I wanted to read a novel, Gone with the Wind would be more interesting. All I hear is petty complaints. You want to hear complaints, at least let them be good ones.”
That quote is how you start your post, taking shots at posters and myself, and then venting or asking your own questions.
If you had read the entire comment section, on this particular thread, you might see that I’m not the one venting here, merely trying to offer commentary from an opposing perspective. I’m guessing you’d like a response from me to your questions? You have a funny way of asking Pepe.
Border Patrol was a monster before DHS was created, and because they look good in their pretty uniforms, and have all the toys to show during their “dog and pony” shows for congress, they get more toys.
I have worked along the southern border, and they have been the proverbial “500 pound gorilla” for some time now.
DRO is part of ICE, and there isn’t anything we can do about that, or should, in my opinion. We need DRO doing their job, which is transporting, detaining, and removing aliens. They are being “plussed up”, and it’s a good thing. You might have noticed that they took over sole responsibility for ACAP on June 1. That’s huge. It frees up Investigators to investigate, which is what we’ve all been bitching about since the creation of ICE.
So they made a mistake, and hit the wrong house. Not the first, or last time that’s going to happen. When you are working, mistakes happen. You do the best you can to be professional, and get ready for the shit storm that is headed your way.
As to not being able to wear your raid jacket, I’m afraid I have to throw the Bullshit Flag. Your city may have passed an ordinace, but it doesn’t supercede our authority, and I’d be damned if I’d stop having my troops wear the appropriately marked clothing when working enforcement operations.
Their objection is probably like other cities, to the word “POLICE” on the jacket. Tough shit, I say. POLICE is universally recognized as Law Enforcement, and the new ICE approved Raid Jacket will have that word prominently displayed on the back, and any city that doesn’t like it, will just have to go to court over it. Officer safety is our concern, not political correctness. Won’t change a thing.
OPR getting NTE 3 year GS-14’s don’t bother me. Way, way back OPR, then IA was used as a dumping ground by OI, but it hasn’t been the case for many years.
I too remember when some agents went to IA to get their 13’s, but that’s ancient history. It’s always been my opinion that we need good agents in IA/OPR, because they need to be able to clear your name when you are falsely accused, as well as gather the evidence that will stand up in court, when someone is violating the law. I think this is a non-issue frankly.
I’m not going to concede your point on legacy Immigration agents. INS was a different culture no doubt, but if you are fair, you’d agree that we’ve always had our share of lazy agents too.
I think the cases are getting better, not because of the “customs guys” as you sugesst, but rather because we are using all of the tools at our disposal, that legacy INS guys didn’t have, to prosecute these investigations. We also have adult, law enforcement leadership, where legacy INS never did. That’s probably the most important reason that the cases are better.
“One of the worst things though is that CBP gets all the funding” This statement is false. CPB gets adequate funding, and because congress sees Border Patrol as the answer to immigration enforcement, they get more and more.
This doesn’t mean that ICE isn’t adequately funded. The first year or two was lean, no question. The last two years, we’ve been fat. I don’t remember a time, when we were Customs, that we had a healthier fleet of vehicles. Everyone is driving a nice, newer car today, than they were back then. Nobody want’s to acknowledge this, but it’s true.
We’ve plenty of money for supplies and equipment, and travel. We never disapproved operational travel back in the lean days, and today travel for training and special emphasis training conferences and other training is being approved routinely.
OK PepeLePew, I think I’ve hit all of your questions. Hopefully you’ll see that it takes more words to answer questions than it does to ask them. Just trying to provide a service here. 🙂
Work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 8:48 am

EVS – hope you are still checking in on this posting. First off just want to say that I am one more person who disagrees that there is a “silent majority” happy with the situation at Ice. Also in your last post you said that operational travel was never disapproved back in the “lean” years. That is untrue as well.
Regardless here are my questions:
1) Is Ice going to keep customs authorities, specifically strat and financial?
2) Though there was progress in having DRO take over ACAP (although DRO is fighting this in my AOR – saying they will only do certain jails); is there a plan to move response to state and locals to DRO? Also in my AOR, DRO is refusing to do aliens with outstanding immigration warrants. Why is OI unable to resolve these issues with DRO? Why is DRO not under the SACs? In my opinion a SA should never process an alien.
3) Why do I have to go to a blog to ask these quetions?
Thanks for any response that you can give.

Mrobson on June 9, 2007 at 11:49 am

Mrobson,
Sir, I don’t recall ever saying that the silent majority was “happy” with the situation at ice, rather I said that the moaners, groaners and people who tend to voice their displeasure are in the vocal minority. I think the bulk of our employees are on the fence, waiting to see what this agency is to become. That’s different than being a bottle thrower, as many on this blog are.
Operational Travel was NEVER disapproved in my AOR, period. I can prove it, and I’ll bet you a paycheck on it, if you’d like to make a wager.
It might have in yours, but it never, ever was in mine. Travel for training, and training itself is always the first casualty of lean budgets, but we still did the job, never parked any cars, etc…
Now I’ll try to answer you questions.
1. YES, ICE is keeping it’s customs authorities, including strategic and financial.
Whoever keeps the rumor alive about us losing these important parts of our authority as ICE agents should be taken out and thumped!!
There has never been a move, by any other agency to take these authorities, and ICE is strong enough to fight them off if they were to try.
Justice recently tried to get us to give FBI, DEA, and Postal bulk cash authority which was granted to us exclusively in the Patriot Act, and ICE, including Marcy Forman and John Clark, shut them down cold! We’re also fighting for independent/statutory T-21, something that Customs never wanted to seriously do battle over. Regardless how that fight ends, you should know that the battle has been joined.
2. DRO can’t fight it, because it’s a done deal. All you SAC has to do is report their lack of compliance (after attempting to work it out) to HQS, and DRO/HQS will be called on the carpet. It is their baby now. I think all but 2 SAC offices were reporting 100% compliance as recently as two weeks ago.
When ICE was first created I felt the same way about DRO as you do (DRO under the SAC) but I have a new appreciation for the work they have to do, and I frankly wouldn’t want the headaches of detention if I were a SAC.
As for processing aliens, I’m afraid that’s never going to ease up. I think there will come a time when state & local law enforcement call DRO when they need immigration help, and we’ll only roll when there is an investigative angle to the load. I think the SAC Phoenix and DRO out there are already working on a pilot of this.
I’d like to see a new job series, or a bunch more investigative assistants hired, and have them do nothing but process aliens for the administrative arrests we make. Anything that frees up 1811’s to do 1811 work is a plus in my book.
3. You don’t have to go to a blog to answer your questions, if you can talk to the leadership of your office. If you can’t, it’s a shame, but I’m here for you brother. I’ll answer any question you have, honestly, and to the best of my ability.
Work Safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 1:21 pm

EVS,
I’m really glad that you have continued to fire back response after response, and I’m sure you are getting a big kick out it too! You are in fact doing everyone here a service, as you are telling it as you believe it to be, and that’s probably about 80% accurate. You, me, everyone posting to this blog has their own sets of truths and their own sets of filters. My truths and filters are necessarily going to be different than yours and yours different than mine. Doesn’t make them any less true, just shaped by different forces and experiences.
The semi-trained investigator that I am is fairly certain that I have identified you, or rather you have revealed yourself. I won’t out you in this forum for a number of reasons. Chief amongst them is that if I am in fact correct; I know you to be a good guy, and that you did come up through the ranks. I know that you are trying very hard to have a positive impact in your AOR and that you do in fact care about your Legacy Customs Roots and that legacy mission. You are also shrewd enough, polished enough and politically savvy enough to have in fact thrived not just survived in this New World Order we call ICE. Some is talent, some is drive and determination, some cerebral capacity and some just dumb luck and good timing. That’s true of most of us, and I don’t begrudge anybody getting anything they worked for, and wanted. I know you didn’t get where you are by being on your knees as some of suggested.
I do have to take you to task a bit though. You have thrown some red herrings into this blog, and that’s not really fair. You lose some of your credibility when you claim to have had a certain set of experiences that you haven’t had in order to strengthen your arguement, hide your true identity or belittle the embittered.
You have made several allusions to a push-back taking place at HQ relative the traditional customs authorities and mission. Wish to hell you, Marcy, John, Julie or Chertoff would expand on that some. I have seen nothing of the kind. Just accretion and impotent cedeing of our authorities. I also think that there has been very little support for those traditional Customs cases, or interest in them.
There was a time when we all worked dope. As agents we talked together as to how big a case it was, saying things like “it’s a good case, but it’s not like we are bringing down the Cali Cartel or anything”! Guess what, it went almost unnoticed by the press and there was very little fanfare coming out of HQ, but legacy Customs actually had an agent that did bring down the Cali Cartel! Not solely by himself, but with one hot-shot AUSA, 13 years of perserverance and the loss of his marriage and family….He brought down the Cali Cartel! That Cartel once controlled 80% of the worlds cocaine trade. He brought their leaders to justice in the U.S. and retired without much fanfare either and precious little management acknowledgement of that accomplishment. ICE will soon reap the rewards of his efforts with a prestigious award. Do you think he’ll be invited to attend?
See ICE leadership is lacking in many areas. Management isn’t rocket science and the best agent isn’t always the best supervisor or vice versa. Still, it’s pretty simple really. At the top you communicate the vision, direction and values. Then you trust and empower the people working for the organization and the goals (see I didn’t say working for you, although if you do it right, they will walk through fire for you) then you tell them to go forth and do good work. Strive for the best result, just don’t lie, steal or cheat. Then you tell them if they hit a roadblock to let you know, and you’ll knock it down for them. You ask them what they need to get their jobs done, and then you get it for them. And you NEVER LIE to them or pull any back alley, back channel, back biting, back-stabbing bullshit on them. They’ll die for you and the mission, and with a smile on their faces.
I wish everyone would just man-up and quit beating the shit out of each other. It will either get worse, or it will get better. We can contribute to the organization in either way. Make it better, or f— it up more. I want to make it better. I don’t want to leave. I want to be able to do my job, be proud of my job and my leadership. Hopefully, they’ll give us all some reasons to be proud. And maybe, just maybe, we won’t have to learn of it on Debbie Schlussel before we hear of it from our management.

zambonifed on June 9, 2007 at 2:10 pm

zambonifed,
As usual, your post makes a lot of sense. More like this, and we might begin to make some progress my friend. I appreciate the kind words, even if I’m not who you think I am. 🙂
If, as you say, you think you have me identified, I’d appreciate a call, so we can talk candidly. You have my word that I won’t give up your identity on here or anywhere else.
I honestly don’t think I’ve said anything on this forum that isn’t true, to the best of my knowledge.
I’m not overly concerned with being “outed” as I’m confident I could continue to battle with the disenfranchised out in the open, however using the EVS identity allows me to try to keep the focus on ICE instead of me.
You may have noticed the arrows that were directed to a couple of our SAC’s when readers thought they had me figured out. All of that is a waste of time in my opinion.
I actually started this endeavor, a week ago today, because Debbie pissed me off taking shot after shot at Marcy Forman, knowing that Marcy can’t fight back. I think it’s cowardly, but it’s her site, and I guess she can do what she wants.
I was hoping that Debbie would respond, but instead, everyone else did. That’s fine too, and you are right, I have enjoyed it.
I think your views on mangement (I prefer leadership) are dead on target. As I said before, if you take care of the people, the people will take care of the job. It’s really that simple.
I had a supervisor once (who will remain nameless) that told me “As long as you are putting dope on the table, and bad guys in jail, I’m behind you 100 %. But if you f@ck up, it’s your ass”. I don’t need a supervisor when everything is going good, I need him when I stepped in a pile, trying to do what I thought was right.
I have also told agents that worked for me, that I would stand between them and the “heat” if they were doing what they thought was right, and they stepped into a pile. In those instances, the higher ups would have to come through me to hurt one of mine.
We all know you’ll never get in trouble if you aren’t out there working. It’s the working agents that do step in it from time to time. Those are the guys and gals that need experienced leaders to go to battle for them. It’s the right thing to do.
I told them that I wouldn’t stand up for them though, if they did something they knew was wrong, but they did it out of laziness, or to expedite their investigation by taking short-cuts, or to get around a notification process or policy requirement.
Short-cuts don’t cut it, in my book. We have to do the job right, or we aren’t any better than the subjects we are investigating. All those policies and procedures are in place for a reason; because someone else screwed up and forced a policy to be drafted.
We have a lot of managers, and supervisors, but a shortage of real leaders in ICE right now, and it’s our own damn fault. We need to mentor and grow the SSA’s that already possess unquestioned integrity, that have potential, and work on developing their interpersonal skills, to match their case making abilities. Then we’ll have some leaders. It’s often not what you say, but how you say it.
“You have made several allusions to a push-back taking place at HQ relative the traditional customs authorities and mission”.
I agree that ICE leadership needs to more effectively communicate to the field on these issues. I know that it’s happening, and I know it would resonate with those “fence sitters” if they knew, and were told by Director Forman that these things are taking place. I’ve made some recommendations directly to Marcy Forman, but she has yet to act upon them.
As I’ve said before though, her plate is full and running over, so I understand why she hasn’t had the time to act on my ideas.
I’m also going to suggest that we (ICE) start up a message board/forum, or whatever you want to call it, where people like you and I can exchange ideas, and ICE agents can ask questions, offer solutions, and hopefully enhance communication.
I’m going to ask our ICE leadership to not turn it into another “ICE Clips” run by Public Affairs, but to allow volunteers who want to see this agency succeed, moderate the board. Wouldn’t be any heavy lifting, and we could log on whenever we had the time.
I think some of the exchanges that have been taking place on here are healthy, and I’d like to see it continue. I don’t like the fact that Debbie Schlussel could pull the plug on us at any time.
What do you think of that idea? I think it would help facilitate the rapid exchange of information, and if people would “play nice” we might even encourage Marcy Forman or Ray Parmer to weigh in from time to time.
Enjoy your weekend zombonifed & please work safe.
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 4:02 pm

Sorry I misspelled your name Zambonifed. Damn I miss spell check!! LOL
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 4:04 pm

EVS,
Appreciate the response. I’ve been at the border for a long time, Customs and now ICE, and the frustrations still continue. You’re right, shots are cheap. Wherever you are, I’m sure you have different issues and non-issues than mine. And that, we can agree that we disagree.
My office is a very busy one and the headaches just continue. When you say that Border Patrol was a monster prior to DHS, well, I’m sure that they were, I just never had an issue with them until DHS. They just caught aliens and did not, for all that I could tell, meddle with investigations. If you take a good look at our MOU with BP you will see that HQ basically gave them the farm as far as notifications go. They want to be notified of everything eventhough it does not pertain to their mission.
BP Corruption is rampant, and it has always been that way. Now, unfortunately, they have access to TECS and our cases. Also, they have our same radio freq’s and that is a mess of an integrity problem.
They are the bully on the block and although our office tries to fight them, we have absolutely no support from our main upper management. We, unfortunately, have immigration upper management and they don’t want any problems nor want confrontations with anyone and so, they give in. They will hand our heads to BP on our silver platter.
It seems that the former INS leadership are our leadership now. But, you hit it right on the head, the dog and pony shows bring in bucks for BP, and that’s what matters to them. Investigations takes time and that doesn’t sit well with our “where are the stats” untalented rookie 14 HQ paper pushers. Whether they are admin arrests or criminal, sometimes, I’m convinced that they don’t know the difference between either.
TECS, it was nice when we were all one. It belongs to CBP now, and I’m just wondering how long it’s going to take until we have access no more. We no longer have Silent Hits, they are ALL visible on primary.
Well, I guess I could go on and on. You all take care.

PepeLePew! on June 9, 2007 at 4:55 pm

Pepe, where is this place where INS managers are running the show? In my case, I don’t have one legacy INS manager in my entire chain of command. Not the GS, the ASAC, the DSAC, the SAC, or anyone in OI HQ or ICE HQ. There are a few Group Sups and RACS in the SAC area, but they seem to be at the end of their upward mobility.
The purge is complete here, and likely is coming to a location near you soon. As EVS said, “We don’t have a great deal of immigration experience however, and we’re attempting to get that, any way possible.” I guess the way they tried it was like in my AOR. Run off the legacy INS management then don’t promote any legacy INS agents and Group Sups into those vacant positions. Wonder why it didn’t work?

INSNOWICE on June 9, 2007 at 7:00 pm

INSNOWICE,
I can’t rebut your allegation without identifying my office, and myself, so I won’t go there.
I can tell you with absolute certainty, and the legacy INS agents that I work with would tell you (if you knew who to ask) that within our AOR we have done everything possible to promote legacy Immigration Special Agents.
It’s about getting the experience where you need it, and we’re all about doing just that.
We are not going to promote someone though, just because they used to work for INS. We are still looking for the best qualified candidate, to fit into our leadership team.
What we need is for more legacy INS senior people to step up to the plate, take the test, do the interview, get your name on the BQL so we have more to choose from.
You don’t have to belive me, but it’s true.
Work safe,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 7:40 pm

EVS,
Thanks yet again for responding so quickly. I too first posted because I was sick and tired of seeing this blog filled with Legacy USCS or Legacy I&NS agents beating the hell out of each other and the agency. See, to me, we the agents are ICE. I’m one that mourns Customs, but the legacy I&NS men and women are not the problem with ICE. So I really just wanted to try and promote a sense of cohesion and TEAM because we all have enough threats from outside that we really don’t need to threaten each other from within. I may have an intense dislike for someone I work with, but I have their back no matter what when we are going through door.
I was especially embittered by my personal experience crossing over into ICE from Customs. My management failed me. If I am correct as to your identity you failed me as well. I will address you as EVS the next time I see you. I hope you will respond “hello zambonifed” and that it will be okay.
My purposes on this forum were to try and instill a little civility into this discourse and to encourage our agents to band together for the common good. Never bashed Marcy or John, and if you re-read my post, I wasn’t taking a shot at Parmer, I don’t even know him. The problems stem from a too hastily cobbled together department. Not from the career people that make it up.
I don’t know Julie and will almost certainly last past her tenure with ICE. She’s probably a well intentioned civil servant, but has no real sense of what we do and probably relies far too heavily on personnel (mostly lawyers) she brought with her. That’s a shame. Our charter is to protect the homeland. Unfortunately, our authorities and legacy skills have been eroded by several means. We really have nothing to do with terrorism and combatting it. That’s a real shame for us and a near tragedy for the country. Our (USCS) management, even at the local level was cowardly (one man’s opinion) leading in to the merger and long after it. Do nothing, and you won’t be punished or left without a chair when the music stops. That’s reprehensible.
I too, am not without blame. I let my experience embitter me and was unwise as to my choice and timing of my words. So, I sat on the sidelines for two plus years bemoaning what had become of me and my beloved Customs Service. Shame on me for that. Shame on you for your reliance on the word of men you didn’t really know and should not have trusted so implicitly.
I’ve got too long to go, and tend to always right my own ship given enough space and distance from that which provokes the anger and resentment.
I want ICE to succeed and I want to get back to loving my job. You know, if you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your career. I had that for 12 and half years. Thank God for a legacy I&NS supervisor. Funny thing about redemption…you can’t redeem yourself if no one will let you.

zambonifed on June 9, 2007 at 7:40 pm

Seth Leibsohn is a fellow of the Claremont Institute and the Producer of Bill Bennett’s Morning in America. A previous version of this op-ed ran on National Review Online last month.
“Take just the recent stories of the past three weeks: Of the six alleged terrorists who were plotting to attack US Soldiers at Fort Dix last month, three of them were illegal aliens who lived in the United States for years. The tuberculosis patient who has traveled internationally, exposing untold numbers of people to a particularly difficult strain of the disease and is now under quarantine, entered the United States even though US Customs and Border Patrol was instructed to bar him from entry.
And with these stories, we are poised to pass an immigration bill that would flood the already-broken immigration, border, and legal system with a minimum of 12 million illegal aliensÔø?granting them legal status. Is it not clear that the newly formed US Immigration and Customs Enforcement office of the Department of Homeland Security is already broken, unable to carry out its fundamental and basic functions? And if it is clear, is it not folly to further overwhelm that office thinking it will keep America safe and protect us from further internal lapses and chasms in our ability to track illegal entrants into our country who can do us great harm?”
Dog,(EVS) you are wasting your time. ICE was DOA over 4 years ago. ICE WILL NEVER WORK. PEROID. BTW, the name ICE like the agency does not work. The name like the agency is a joke. ICE is frozen water. ICE is crystal meth. ICE is a stock exchange for international traders. Now, ICE is also one mucked up agency of depressed square pegs that morons like you keep trying to stuff into round holes. Blow it up. Bury the rotting, stinking carcass and start all over. It case, you missed the memo while you were on here spinning your wheels; ICE IS NOT WORKING. GIVE IT UP PUP!

DeeIced on June 9, 2007 at 8:19 pm

zambonifed,
I believe the things we have in common are great, and our differences are really insignifigant. I’ll be waiting for your approach. 🙂
I hope you are wrong though, because I hate to think I failed you. I’m human though, and I guess anything is possible.
“Our (USCS) management, even at the local level was cowardly (one man’s opinion) leading in to the merger and long after it. Do nothing, and you won’t be punished or left without a chair when the music stops.”
If you saw what happened, close up and personal, your opinion on this would be different.
Some legacy USCS SAC’s attempted to reason with Mike Garcia and his trusted few early on, only to be handed their heads.
Garcia’s right hand man, can’t spell his name, was a grade A asshole, who basically killed anyone who had a different opinion then his.
He was absolutely consumed with his new found power. Unfortunately, there wasn’t anything anyone could do but give him enough rope to hang himself, which happened, but not soon enough. The damage was already done.
I’ll not say anymore on the topic, as to do so, would be to further identify myself. If we talk in person, I’ll tell you the rest of the story in confidence. Deal?
Deelced,
I’m not sure what you are trying to say when you said ” Now, ICE is also one mucked up agency of depressed square pegs that morons like you keep trying to stuff into round holes.”
Are you a depressed square peg sir? I don’t think I’d like being called a depressed square peg. Is that what “Deelced” means? LOL
“Blow it up. Bury the rotting, stinking carcass and start all over. It case, you missed the memo while you were on here spinning your wheels; ICE IS NOT WORKING.”
No sir, I’m not a quitter, and I know a lot of the guys I work with aren’t either.
We’re going to make this thing work, while you sit on the sidelines, pissing and moaning, and calling people names like “moron”.
If I was mean spirited, I could reply in kind, but I choose to stay up here on the high road, where your kind are not likely to tread.
I don’t think I’m wasting my time, and I’d say that others on this forum would agree with me.
“GIVE IT UP PUP!” Not a chance.
Enjoy what’s left of the weekend,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 9, 2007 at 9:01 pm

Boy, DeeIced really opened my eyes!! “GIVE IT UP PUP!” is as profound a statement as I have seen yet on this blog. You are worthless and weak DeeIced if that is the attitude you go to work with everyday, so do us all a favor and take your tired ass to Walmart and get hired as a door greater. I’m sure with that great personality, you’ll fit right in. As for EVS and I, we will fight on!!!

lsellers on June 9, 2007 at 9:12 pm

Just some quick observations/comments/opinions, etc …
Garcia’s right hand was Mike Doherty, and, yes, my sources at HQ have told me that, if you were on his s**t list, you were DONE! Another loser sycophant at HQ was Victor X. Cerda, but, since Garcia was legacy INS and so was Cerda (as was Doherty), Cerda basically got DRO all the juice, while OI (legacy Customs management) got the rancid pulp and rind – How else can you explain that, for almost 3 years, a GS-15 (Mike Rozos) effectively dictated unilaterally to an SES SAC (Jesus Torres) how DRO was going to conduct business on their terms in Miami? My sources there had a devil of a time with that, but they hope that Tony Mangione and the new management team can turn things around.
I am hopeful that what is being stated about ICE’s authorities is true; while circumspect, I was pleased to see the new directive the other day giving ICE some new arrest authorities by policy (18 USC 1073 – Unlawful Flight). It was quite refreshing for a change to see a BIG positive comparted to all the recent negatives.
However, for this ALL truly to work, Chertoff and Myers have GOT TO GO – THEY ARE KILLING US with their mindless banter about immigration enforcement ALL THE TIME; it’s in ICE Clips and in all the press releases that PAO puts out. Furthermore, Clark, Forman and Parmer, along with the SACs, have to communicate to the field agents the positives, and the field needs to know that management HAS THEIR BACK when making TOUGH, but WELL THOUGHT OUT and CALCULATED decisions; risk management is a huge part of law enforcement, and its something that legacy Customs did very well.
Good night, and G-d bless.

4EVERCUSTOMS on June 9, 2007 at 11:00 pm

The DOG says, “Garcia’s right hand man, can’t spell his name, was a grade A asshole, who basically killed anyone who had a different opinion then his.” SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT MARCY AND 80% OF THE CURRENT SACS
The DOG says,”Are you a depressed square peg sir? I don’t think I’d like being called a depressed square peg. I’m not a quitter, and I know a lot of the guys I work with aren’t either.”
UH, NO SIR, NO DEPRESSION HERE. $130,000 PER YEAR + CSRS + A BOATLOAD OF CASH IN TSP KEEPS ME SMILIN. NO QUITTER EITHER. BEEN ELIGIBLE TO GO FOR 3 YEARS. 4 YEARS OF ELIGIBITY LEFT- STARTED WHEN I WAS 21- 53 NOW. GS13/STEP 10 YOU DO THE MATH, MORON. ITS A BEAUTIFUL THING! I’M NOT GOING ANYWHERE. ITS THE REST OF THEM YOU NEED TO WORRY ABOUT. YOU KNOW, THE FUTURE OF THIS DEAD IN THE WATER AGENCY THEY CALL ICE. WE ACTUALLY HAD TO DO AN ENTIRE CUSTOMSHOUSE BROKER BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION LAST MONTH. ALMOST WORE ME OUT BUT SOMEHOW I MUDDLED THROUGH! I’M THE HAPPIEST AGENT IN MY OFFICE. HELL, I’M THE ONLY HAPPY AGENT IN THE OFFICE! THE REST THAT ARE ALL DEPRESSED. CAN YOU BLAME THEM? ALL THEY HAVE TOO LOOK FORWARD TO IS YEARS OF WORKING FOR JERKS LIKE YOU IN AN AGENCY THAT IS GOING NO WHERE FAST.
All of us in the field work for the SAC. Its up to him/her to decide how to best utilize our talents. They don’t even come close to getting that right in all the offices that I am familiar with in ICE/OI. In over 30 years of service, I have never seen less talented and more inept managers than are currently running ICE. Period.

DeeIced on June 9, 2007 at 11:10 pm

“Boy, DeeIced really opened my eyes!! “GIVE IT UP PUP!” is as profound a statement as I have seen yet on this blog. You are worthless and weak DeeIced if that is the attitude you go to work with everyday, so do us all a favor and take your tired ass to Walmart and get hired as a door greater. I’m sure with that great personality, you’ll fit right in. As for EVS and I, we will fight on!!!
Posted by: lsellers [TypeKey Profile Page] at June 9, 2007 09:12 PM”
DUDE, YOU REALLY NEED TO GET OFF THE CRACKPIPE. I’M NOT IN THE ‘DOING FAVORS’ BIDNESS. THIS OLD TIMER GOT MORE ENERGY THAN YOU WILL EVER HAVE. WE’RE NOT GOING ANYWHERE. ITS THE REST OF YOU THAT NEED TO HIT THE EJECT BUTTON BEFORE ITS TOO LATE. WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE KNUCKLEHEAD. THERE IS NO FUTURE AT ICE.
ice IS a retirement JOB now !
DON’T KNOW NUTTIN ABOUT WALMART BUT THE CHICS WORKING AT NEIMAN MARCUS ARE REALLY HOT. WE’LL STOP BY THE MALL ON MONDAY AND TRY TO FIND SOME CUSTOMS VIOLATIONS. THOSE ARE THE ONLY VISA QUOTAS THAT ARE ACTUALLY ENFORCEABLE!

DeeIced on June 9, 2007 at 11:23 pm

DeeIced, my man, I don’t think there’s one ICE agent out there that wouldn’t love to wake up in a cold sweat and say “Wow, this whole ICE thing was all a damn nightmare!” Wouldn’t it be great. But, reality is that it will never be undone. We just have to find a way to make it better, although most times we feel we’re swiming against the tide and with sharks waiting to take a chunk of our guts.
I’m glad I don’t have you in my office. But, tell me, how can you be so negative and be the happiest agent in the office? Do you have a double personality? Or are you smelling the weed on a drug burn.
Do the agency a favor, keep away from the rookies. They have a tough enough time as it is.
Oh and INSNOWICE, count yourself lucky you have no INS management. Can’t tell you who we have without giving you my office.
Good nite all!

PepeLePew! on June 10, 2007 at 1:17 am

Appears to me that the positive thinkers and optimists have taken over here, and run most of the bottle throwers underground. Or maybe they are just reloading? LOL
4EVERCUSTOMS,
I can’t disagree with anything you said in your last post. Miami has been hurting for a while, for a number of reasons, all directly related to leadership, or lack of same.
One only needs to reflect on history to know that in the presence of a leadership vaccum, the sheep will follow the strongest leader available to them. This certainly was the case in Miami. Tony will right that ship, and get it steaming in the correct direction.
Give em hell lsellers. LOL I’m not sure Sam Walton would approve of DeeIced’s attitude any more than we do though. You see in the private sector they fire people that are just along for the ride, and particularly those that are an unwelcome disruption to the work force. All DeeIced has is insults and name calling. Surprised we didn’t get some “kool-aid” references again. Damn glad he’s in the minority.
PepeLePew my friends is a fighter.
“We just have to find a way to make it better, although most times we feel we’re swiming against the tide and with sharks waiting to take a chunk of our guts.”
With that attitude, how can we lose?
“Do the agency a favor, keep away from the rookies. They have a tough enough time as it is.”
Amen brother, Amen. The new ICE agents are the future of this agency, and the last thing we need is the disgruntles filling their heads with all that negativity. The only thing a baby agent can bring to the table is a good attitude, and a willingness to work. I remember back in the day, when I would have paid Customs to do this job. It was fun, exciting, challenging, and rewarding. One day ICE will be that way too, and the sooner everyone starts pulling in the same direction, the better.
Thanks guys,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 10, 2007 at 10:03 am

EVS
I hear a great sucking sound. What you have done here is break open the clogged communication flow that was blocked for various reasons. You should be commended for that. It is too bad that it took an anonymous posting to gain the trust of SOME (for those not agreeing) of the frustrated who want either to be heard, or just want answers from someone ‘in the know’ they feel is not just giving them the ‘company line’.
I agree with your approach of going to your first line, etc. with complaints, but it is obvious by the posts, that has already happened with negative results (or possibly there was not any respect/belief in to begin with).
A Blog site about ICE’s issues is a good idea (as you already know), but the troops would need to have at least 10 more anonymous EVSs initially, jsut to keep up. That and with no ability for those posting (either way) to be able to be identified because of preconceived notions/rumors which may taint one’s view of someone. I understand it can possibly enhance a view also, but that is always a two-edged sword which would work against productivity in this situation (IMHO).
It also seems, for those wanting answers on this site, the faith in those at the top of ICE is already lost. Having them post directly would be an incredibly hard road to climb, but not impossible. It also may have a negative impact on the productiveness of the site.
Personally, I don’t see knowing your identity as a necessity. If you are found out, you are either going to be a hero amongst the troops (if what you are doing/have done builds momentum and succeeds) or if not, most likely, will have lived up to your reputation.
Good Luck!
True American

True American on June 10, 2007 at 10:30 am

Pepe writes, “I’m glad I don’t have you in my office. But, tell me, how can you be so negative and be the happiest agent in the office?
DUDE CAN YOU READ? THERE IS NOTHING POSITIVE ABOUT ICE EXCEPT THE PAY AND BENEFITS. I DID MY TIME AND NOW I’M ALONG FOR THE RIDE. I AM HAPPY AS A RETIRED SAC LIVING THE GOOD LIFE FISHING IN THE GULF. YOU SEE, THE NEW BREED OF SACS DECIDED TO MOVE THE VETERANS OUT TO MAKE ROOM FOR “PURE ICE” AGENTS. AS ONE PREVIOUS POSTER SAID, “THE ONLY AGENTS THAT ARE STILL AROUND ARE THE ONES TOO STUPID OR TOO OLD” TO FIND A JOB WITH ANOTHER AGENCY. WELL, GUESS WHAT, THATS FINE WITH ME. I WAS ONE OF THE MOST PRODUCTIVE AGENTS IN THE OFFICE BOTH PRIOR TO AND AFTER THE MERGER. BUT ONE OF THE GENIUS SACS LIKE YOUR DAWG, EVS, THOUGHT THEY COULD RUN ME OFF BY MOVING ME TO A GROUP THAT ENTERS TECS RECORDS FOR THE US PROBATION OFFICE. NO PROBLEM. PAY ME 13 STEP 10 PAY TO DO A GS/2 JOB. THERE’S DIGNITY IN ALL WORK BRO. CHA CHING, RING THE REGISTER AND PRAISE THE WORLD WIDE WEB AND BOOKS ON TAPE (IPOD). PEPE, YOU DON’T GET IT JUST LIKE THE SAC DON’T GET IT. OH WELL. BUT DON’T WORRY PEPE, I HAVE TO GO AT 57 ( 4+ YEARS), THE TIME WILL FLY BY. I’LL STILL BE AROUND WHEN EITHER ICE IS JUST A BAD MEMORY OR IS NOTHING BUT DRO. I CAN “ENFORCE” WITH THE BEST OF YOU. SET A VR PROCESSING AT 15 MINS AND THE SMART MONEY TAKES THE UNDER FOR OLD DEE. AND YO DON’T EVEN HABLO ESPANOL. AND PEPE, STOP WORRYING ABOUT THE ROOKIES. THEY STAY WAY CLEAR OF ME! GO CAVS & TAKE THE UNDER.

DeeIced on June 10, 2007 at 11:23 am

Hey EVS, I have enjoyed your postings. You have dropped to many clues to your identity….Go Buccaneers/Texans!

LegacyUSCS on June 10, 2007 at 11:48 am

EVS posted,”Give em hell lsellers. LOL I’m not sure Sam Walton would approve of DeeIced’s attitude any more than we do though. You see in the private sector they fire people that are just along for the ride, and particularly those that are an unwelcome disruption to the work force. All DeeIced has is insults and name calling. Surprised we didn’t get some “kool-aid” references again. Damn glad he’s in the minority.”
AND GUESS WHAT, EVS, I AIN’T IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR AND WILL STAY HERE UNTIL I AM 57 SO I NEVER HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT WORKING AGAIN. HOW WAS YOUR VACATION IN GULFPORT BTW? I MIGHT TAKE A FEW OF MY 26 DAYS OFF AND HEAD DOWN THERE TO HIT THE POKER ROOM. TRUTH IS, YOU DON’T KNOW A MUCKING THING ABOUT ME. AND BTW I HAVE NEVER USED THAT KOOL AID REFERENCE THAT GETS UNDER YOUR SKIN SO BADLY. TRUTH HURT? I WAS AS PRODUCTIVE A STREET AGENT AS ANYONE IN MY OFFICE UNTIL ICE CAME ALONG AND RAN OFF WHAT WAS LEFT OF THE COMPETENT MANAGEMENT. YOUR A-HOLE BUDS ARE THE ONES THAT LOWER MY PRODUCTION AND ARE NOT UTILIZING MY TALENTS. IF MY SAC EVER GETS HIS HEAD OUT OF HIS ARSE AND PUTS ME BACK ON THE STREET, I WILL DO WHAT I’M PAID TO DO AND DO IT WELL. BUT RIGHT NOW I’M PAID TO SORT PAPER CLIPS SO THAT’S WHAT I DO.
BTW, JUST BECAUSE YOU DON’T WELCOME ME, DOESN’T MEAN I AM NOT ACCEPTED AND WELCOME BY THOSE WHO KNOW A LOT MORE ABOUT ME AND MY WORK THAN YOU DO. YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT ME EXCEPT WHAT YOU HAVE ASSUMED FROM POSTS HERE. AND EVEN THEN, YOU ATTRIBUTE POSTS TO ME THAT I DID NOT MAKE. IF I JUDGED YOU SOLELY BY YOUR POSTS HERE, I WOULD THINK YOU WERE A TOTAL A-HOLE. BUT I AM TOLD BY OTHERS WHO KNOW YOU, THAT YOU HAVE SOME REDEEMING QUALITIES. IF YOU WERE TO TALK WITH AGENTS WHO KNOW ME AND YOU WOULD FIND OUT THE SAME THING ABOUT ME. I AM PROUD OF MY RECORD AS A SOLID AND PRODUCTIVE CASE AGENT BOTH WITH CUSTOMS & ICE FOR THE FIRST COUPLE OF YEARS. BTW, NOT ONLY DID I NOT RECEIVE ONE OF THOSE WELFARE PROMOTIONS, I WAS DESK AUDITED TO A 13 AS A STREET AGENT, WHEN THE ONLY OTHER 13 IN MY OFFICE WAS THE RAC. THAT WAS WAY BACK WHEN, AS I REACHED MY HIGH 3 AS A STEP 10 MORE THAN FOURS YEARS AGO. I DID NOT BRING THIS AGENCY DOWN. I AM HERE READY AND WILLING TO WORK COMPLICATED CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS AS I DID FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS WITH THIS OUTFIT. BUT THE MANAGEMENT IN MY SAC OFFICE SUCKS AND 75% OF THE AGENTS IN THE OFFICE ARE WORKING AN AREA HE/SHE DOES NOT HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE, EXPERTISE, TRAINING AND/OR ABILITY TO WORK PRODUCTIVELY. YOU SEE IN MY OFFICE, THE SAC ASKS YOU WHERE YOU WANT TO WORK AND IF YOU ARE DUMB ENOUGH TO TELL HIM, OR HE THINKS HE HAS FIGURED YOU OUT, HE MOVES YOU AS FAR AWAY FROM THAT GROUP AS HE CAN. CUSTOMS GUYS ARE SENT TO IMMIGRATION GROUPS AND VICE VERSA. OR CUSTOMS GUYS WITH STELLAR RECORDS IN AN AREA OF EXPERTISE ARE SENT TO GROUPS THEY HAVEN’T HEARD ABOUT SINCE THE ACADEMY, JUST BECAUSE THE SAC, CAN DO WHATEVER HE WANTS AND SUFFERS NO ILL CONSEQUENCES, SHORT TERM. HIS DAY WILL COME BUT WHO KNOWS WHEN. OUR SAC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY HATER WITH THAT RARE COMBINATION OF EGO AND INSECURITY THAT SERVES NOBODY (INCLUDING HIMSELF) WELL. YET HE IS ALLOWED TO CONTINUE BECAUSE NOBODY IN HQ COULD GIVE A FLIP ABOUT OUR OFFICE. THERE ARE JUST TOO MANY OTHER PROBLEMS THAT NEED ADDRESSING. TOO MANY BIG FIRES TO PUT OUT. DO THE AGENTS SUFFER BECAUSE OF THIS? MANY DO. BUT MANY DON’T. THEY EITHER LEAVE OR THEY ARE ABLE TO ADAPT LIKE I DO. DHS, ICE, THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT, THE TAX PAYERS AND CITIZENS SUFFER FOR SURE.
BUT THE EAGLE FLIES TO MY BANK ACCOUNT EVERY OTHER WEEK NO MATTER WHAT GROUP THE SAC PUTS ME IN. BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY, I AM THE HAPPIEST AGENT IN THE OFFICE. I HAVE AN OUT IF I NEED TO TAKE IT. I ALSO HAVE A LONG STANDING POLICY OF NOT LETTING ANYTHING THAT I CANNOT CONTROL AFFECT ME IN A NEGATIVE WAY. LIFE IS TOO SHORT AND LIFE IS TOO GOOD. I HAVE MANY OTHER OUTSIDE INTERESTS. THIS JOB IS NOT MY “LIFE”. I DO LIKE THE EASY MONEY, HONEY! IF THE SAC COULD RUN ME OFF AND GET AWAY WITH IT, HE WOULD DO IT IN A NEW YORK SECOND. BUT I DO WHAT HE TELLS ME TO DO. AND SINCE HE TELLS ME TO DO VERY LITTLE, THERE IS REALLY NOTHING FOR ME TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OFFICIALLY. SHOULD I SEND CARDS AND LETTERS TO MARCY AND JULIE? DEAR MARCY, “I HAVE A REALLY EASY JOB. YOU COULD PAY SOMEONE $22,000 A YEAR TO DO MY JOB AND SAVE THE AGENCY OVER $100,000. PLEASE TELL MY SAC TO MAKE ME WORK FOR MY SALARY.” YOU THINK I DON’T KNOW WHAT WOULD BE THE CONSEQUENCES OF WRITING A LETTER LIKE THAT AFTER BEING AROUND FOR 30+ YEARS? LOL
I HAVE HEARD THAT YOU DON’T TREAT AGENTS IN THAT MANNER. YOU HAVE A CONSCIENCE APPARENTLY. SOCIOPATH SACS DON’T SHARE THAT ADMIRABLE TRAIT. MORE THAN A FEW ICE SACS LIVE TO MUCK WITH AGENTS. THAT IS ONE OF THE KEY REASONS ICE HAS NO CHANCE. ICE IS DEAD IN THE WATER. THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY FOR ACCEPTANCE HAS CLOSED FOR GOOD. THE TRAIN HAS LEFT THE STATION. YOU AND YOUR WORDS OF WISDOM ARE LATE TO THE PARTY. DO YOU GET THE PICTURE OR DO I NEED TO FIND MORE CLINCHES TO GET THAT ACROSS? BLOW UP ICE AND START ALL OVER IS THE ONLY OPTION. ANYTHING HAS GOT TO BE BETTER THAN THIS ILL THOUGHT OUT AND POORLY EXECUTED OPTION.
HAVE A GOOD LIFE OLD TIMER. MY WORK HERE IS DONE. IN CASE YOU HAVEN’T NOTICED, ONCE THESE POST DISAPPEARED FROM THE FRONT PAGE OF THE DS WEB SITE, THE AUDIENCE FADED TOO. WE ARE TALKING AMONG OURSELVES(MAYBE 5 GUYS?) AND NOBODY ELSE GIVES A RATS REAR. STAY SAFE YOURSELF. AND GO COWBOYS!

DeeIced on June 10, 2007 at 5:36 pm

Dear “DeeIced”
I want to make sure I understand what you’re saying here, because it’s very important for senior managers to understand it through the grief and pain that you, as well as many of us, have expressed on this site.
The problem is that there is a perception, that is quickly becoming reality, that managers do not recognize the contribution of quality legacy agents on either side of the house, and are content to either run them out of town (i.e. the agency) or render them irrelevant; they are putting their faith and hope in the “newbies” who have no such legacy “baggage”.
Unfortunately, the problem is who will teach the new generation of agents? Who will pass down the institutional knowledge from the old guard to the new? In my office, proportionate to the entire office, we inherited about 20% of our FTE in legacy INS agents in 2003; we are now down to probably 10% due to retirements, resignations, etc. As for the legacy Customs side, people who would have once waited until 57 to be dragged out the door kicking and screaming like Paris Hilton can now not get their papers in fast enough to leave at first available opportunity – in some cases 5 to 7 years short of that maximum age.
So, that leaves me – all of 40 years old and 5 years as an agent (plus 12 as a legacy Inspector) to try to gather as much as I can from the old warriors before I am the one “walking point”. Truth be told – it’s scary to be 5 years in as an agent, 15 years to go and have rookies looking to you for answers you don’t even have yet yourself.
Therefore, I implore any manager reading this blog to carefully consider my comments and realize that, without a clear mission that is clearly communicated to the field agents, all the newbies represent is mush that will have a hard time performing in mission-critical environments and situations; it’s hard to excel when you don’t know what’s expected of you.
DeeIced and others – I welcome your feedback.

4EVERCUSTOMS on June 10, 2007 at 6:15 pm

True American,
I appreciate your words of encouragement.
We desperately need better communication, in all directions if we’re to make this thing called ICE work. Whatever form that takes, I’ll support, as I know that if I were a “street agent” I’d be asking these same questions.
I’m hopeful that our senior managment at ICE are taking the time and trouble to read some of the posts, because a bunch of you guys really have something worth saying.
Thanks for your contribution sir.
4EVERCUSTOMS,
“The problem is that there is a perception, that is quickly becoming reality, that managers do not recognize the contribution of quality legacy agents on either side of the house, and are content to either run them out of town (i.e. the agency) or render them irrelevant; they are putting their faith and hope in the “newbies” who have no such legacy “baggage”.”
The may be reality in some places, but it certainly isn’t in my AOR. We value the experience that each side brings to the table, and do everything in our power to recognize, reward, and respect those outstanding agents for what they bring to the party.
The problem is, where I am, there aren’t enough legacy INS guys to “level the playing field” so to speak. If it were up to me we’d have each legacy Customs agent matched up with a legacy INS partner, and we’d then start growing some relationships and trust, that would carry the day.
We are trying to promote legacy INS guys, everytime we have a vacancy, but as I said before, we won’t put someone in a job, just because they have INS in their resume. We have to put the best qualified applicant in the job, or we’re doing that person no favors, or the agency.
I know a bunch of folks that have left when they were eligible, but there are also a bunch of us that could retire, that haven’t. It’s not because we have “cushy jobs”, or just can’t pull ourselves away from the kool-aid :), but rather because some of us still enjoy our jobs, and feel like we are making a positive difference, even if it’s just in our little piece of the world.
I love the guy I work for, and most of the people that work for me I’d feel like I was letting them all down if I punched out, and rode off into the sunset. I’ll go when the time is right, but not anytime soon.
I appreciate your feedback 4EVERCUSTOMS. You may only have 5 years as an agent, but I sense you are wise beyond your years. Keep the faith brother, the worm will turn!
LegacyUSCS,
“You have dropped to many clues to your identity….Go Buccaneers/Texans!”
Sir, I sure hope you aren’t making the same mistake that Jaxbeachbum/Deelced made, thinking that I’m John Chakwin, because you would be incorrect. John’s a nice guy, but he’s not near as clever as I. LOL Besides, he’s a SAC, and SAC’s are waaaaay too busy to write in here like I do (ask them, they’ll tell you). LOL Thanks for the guess though, it keeps people wondering.
Deelced,
I’m not going to take a lot of time responding to your SCREAMING POST, because it’s hard to read, and also hard to follow. If you’d take the caps off, and make a few paragraph breaks the rest of us would appreciate it.
“THERE IS NOTHING POSITIVE ABOUT ICE EXCEPT THE PAY AND BENEFITS.”
You must not have read my first or subsequent posts, or any that the other people who don’t hate the job or themselves have written. I have a hard time believing you are “all that” and your SAC relegates you to a menial assignment. Maybe you are just misunderstood?
“HOW WAS YOUR VACATION IN GULFPORT BTW?” Huh? I’m guessing you think you know who I am, and that I vacationed in Gulfport? Need a little more help with this clue.
“ICE IS DEAD IN THE WATER. THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY FOR ACCEPTANCE HAS CLOSED FOR GOOD. THE TRAIN HAS LEFT THE STATION. YOU AND YOUR WORDS OF WISDOM ARE LATE TO THE PARTY. DO YOU GET THE PICTURE OR DO I NEED TO FIND MORE CLINCHES TO GET THAT ACROSS? BLOW UP ICE AND START ALL OVER IS THE ONLY OPTION. ANYTHING HAS GOT TO BE BETTER THAN THIS ILL THOUGHT OUT AND POORLY EXECUTED OPTION.”
I think I need more “CLINCHES” because I certainly don’t get it. LOL You are entitled to your opinion sir, but I don’t share it, and thankfully, 98% or so of the people I work with don’t either. Sounds like you need a change of scenery. Have you applied for the HQS 14’s that are being advertised? You could go up and help us fix what’s wrong with ICE. You interested?
Work Safe Folks,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 10, 2007 at 7:09 pm

EVS, I appreciate your response to my post from several days ago. I did read your response, but I was intrigued by the posts that followed. I also must commend you on your continued optimism. However, I feel that we are destined to agree to disagree for the most part. You and I do seem to share the same thoughts about what is probably the most serious problem facing ICE.
If you read ALL off the posts that accompanied this article, I feel that anyone will see a re-occurring theme that I believe is at the heart of the current problem with ICE. That problem is the lack of meaningful communication between the employees and upper management, both at the SAC and RAC levels and HQ.
We all must agree on several items. First off, everyone?s office is different. While some offices may be doing a spectacular job with cross training and integration, others are nothing short of a train wreck.
Second, unless we personally know those of whom we speak about, we really can?t be sure what their loyalties and motives are. As an example, I am sure that Mr. Clark and Director Forman are dedicated, veteran civil servants who have this agency?s best intentions in mind. BUT quite frankly, from my seat, I don?t know what goes on in HQ. BUT, based on the stuff that comes out of HQ, I really do have to wonder about the decisions and priorities that dribble out of the ICE palace. Mr. Clark and Director Forman may be on the bridge at the wheel, but someone should check and see if the wheel is connected to the rudder and the chart their using was filled out by someone who has no experience in plotting courses.
And third, EVERYONE has an opinion.
Let me site for you a few examples which I believe illustrate a few of my points. A few months ago a newly appointed ASAC in my office has a meeting with the groups under him. The discussion was open and frank. The ASAC asks for suggestions, comments, etc.
The suggestions that were thrown out at him were (among others), would it be possible to get a legacy INS agent in our group in order to instruct the group on how to handle INS matters. The ASAC advises the group that he is aware of legacy INS agents who might like to come to our group. The group assures the ASAC that the legacy INS agents would be a welcome addition, and assist the group in accomplishing the new INS tasks.
The newly appointed ASAC tells the group that in NO WAY will a particular legacy INS ASAC give up any of her agents.
The open and frank discussion continues and one of the group asks why is everyone so afraid of this legacy INS ASAC. The response from the newly appointed ASAC was, ?because of who her sister is.?
This is the same legacy INS ASAC who, when sent to act as DSAC at another office and one of the first things hit upon was a ?dress code?. A few weeks later, the infamous ?tie? memo comes out.
This leaves people to wonder, if info going up and/or down outside the chain of command?
This is the same legacy INS ASAC who watched (or actually didn?t watch, she hid in her office) as her legacy co-workers were ?escorted? out of the office as part of an operational debacle which she oversaw.
As an aside, there are numerous agents from both legacy agencies within our office pulling for a positive result for most of those involved in this disaster.
This example highlights several problems within ICE. Now maybe you understand the ?family member? question I asked last week. There also is a husband/wife matter in there, but we will leave that for another day.
When I speak about training veteran agents, I am not talking about the full 6, 8 or ten week training in FLETC. It is my firm opinion, that if an agent performs a task for which they are not properly trained, the liability door is open so wide that an elephant can get through. According to ICE clips, we are sending agents out to train local PDs on how to enforce immigration laws. Here?s an idea, TRAIN SOME OF YOUR OWN AGENTS!! Hold meaningful classes within SAC offices.
Absolutely ridiculous rules and SOPs have to be examined and changed. For example, if an agent is sitting at the duty desk and a member of the public calls with an immigration matter, we are supposed to tell them to write us a letter. I?m sorry, if a member of the public took the time, effort and energy to alert a government agency about a matter, telling them to send us a letter is a disgraceful response. On the same note, asking a legacy Customs agent to intelligently respond to immigration matters is another accident waiting to happen.
I just hope that an astute Senator or Congressman or member of the press doesn?t call our office testing our knowledge, because the result may be embarrassing of they get the wrong person.
Having said all that, this all comes back to one point that I think we all can agree upon; there have been numerous reports, there have been numerous hearings, website and posts like this abound which scream the problem from hill to dell ?there is no communication mechanism from the bottom to the top!!!?
The simplest example I can come up with is that an agent who took the GS 14 test could not get an answer from management when he inquired what the cut-off score was for selection. Uuummm, that?s pretty SAD.
As for communication with local management, maybe an agent can get to his ASAC, but in my office that?s as far as it goes. The SAC in our office recently retired, and quite frankly, you wouldn?t notice the difference. He was a non-entity. As for the new guy coming in, we hear that he is truly one of the nicest guys in the world, but that he was forced to come down here and is coming without his family. What does that tell you???
However, NOTHING can be accomplished as long as HQ remains oblivious to what?s happening around them, and deaf to cries for help from the field. Management responds with ?we?ll check it out and get right back to you?, or ?good point, we?ll check it out?. Or maybe, we?ll conduct a survey or a study and see what the results are. Of course, no one ever gets back to you.
I don?t want to seem like the eternal pessimist without a few words of suggest. Those who know me, know that I am actually an optimist and I do sincerely hope that this agency can pick it self up out of the mud, dust itself off and kick some ass!!! So, if I were king, how would I do that;
1. FIRE ALL OF OUR PRESS PEOPLE. It is more than apparent that none of these people has any idea of what law enforcement is or how it is accomplished. If you don?t want to get rid of all of them, get rid of half and replace them with S/As who know what LE is all about. Furthermore, our current press corps has never been bright enough to capitalize on REAL events or issues which can be used to further ICE?s image.
2. PUT TOGETHER A TRAVELING CROSS TRAINING PROGRAM. If we can send ICE instructors around the country to train local police officers, we can train veteran ICE agents in cross agency laws, SOPs, etc. If not, stop assigning agents in areas they have NOT received training for.
3. CONTINUE WORKSITE ENFORCEMENT. Please tell me that HQ is aware of the direct relationship that worksite enforcement raids are having on immigration reform!! Senators and Congressmen really seem to want to jump on the immigration reform bandwagon, when one of those raids is in their district. A few more raids across the country in various districts will continue to put immigration reform on the front page. Furthermore, this is the ?spin? the ICE press people should put on this; right now it is illegal to employee an illegal alien both on the employer and employee end. ICE will continue to enforce these laws and arrest offenders until the law is changed!!! No excuses!!!
4. To ICE Management: SAY WHAT YOU MEAN, MEAN WHAT YOU SAY!!!! Our SAC office put out a memo a while back asking which agents wanted to make a swap between nearby SAC offices. A number of people put in requests. After those requests were not addressed, at least one agent said ?enough of this, I?m outta here.? ICE management, on both the local and HQ levels seems to put things out there, then nothing happens. As another example, several months ago, HQ as part of an office survey/inspection sent some surveyed some agents relative to morale. The reason for this, we were told, was that HQ management wanted to know what was going on, specifically the Assistant Secretary?s office. I for one answered the questions. Several months later, it seems that HQ is still wondering what the morale problem is all about. Come on folks, get your heads out of the sand, and take a look around!!!
5. HAVE AN AGENCY WIDE SOP WHEN DEALING WITH DUTY CALLS. Some of the local duty agent procedures are ?accidents waiting to happen.?
6. CBP & ICE SHOULD BE MERGED!!!! I know some people say this will never happen, but I still feel it should. Failing that, ICE and CBP management should get together to figure out an SOP for the exchange of information and coordinate enforcement activities.
7. CONDUCT EXIT INTERVIEWS. Any and all employees who leave this agency, either retirement or employment should be interviewed. On at least one occasion an agent departed ICE for employment with another agency. Our SAC and DSAC declined the agent an exit interview.
And I could go on and on, but serious matters need to be address shortly. What?s going to happen to Tony, AJ, Meadow and Paulie Walnuts??? Should my work cell phone ring, I will answer it. Tomorrow morning I will go to work and join my fellow agents in our continuing effort to enforce the laws we are charged to enforce.
Oh and as I previously stated, a veteran agent took and passed the GS 14 test with a mark in the mid 80s. Did he get a call from HQ??? Nope! Why should a veteran go through this garbage again if their experience is discounted?
Those I work with and myself will continue to do our jobs as we have sworn to do. I will not leave. I will stand around and watch this agency collapse in upon itself. If we continue along this route, that?s exactly what?s going to happen.

ICEDover on June 10, 2007 at 7:31 pm

EVS,
No, I don’t think you are the SAC in Dallas. If I am correct, you are a GS that will soon be promoted and heading to TX to be at the office where you started your career as an agent and from what I hear, you were a good agent. Not Dallas, but about 300 miles south on I-45 (hence the reference to the Texans football team). I am probably wasting my time, because if I am correct, I doubt you will post here and state, “You pegged me.” I will talk to you when you get to your new assignment.

LegacyUSCS on June 10, 2007 at 8:01 pm

“…Have you applied for the HQS 14’s that are being advertised? You could go up and help us fix what’s wrong with ICE. You interested?”
Work Safe Folks, EVS
ROTFLMAO!!!!!!!!!

DeeIced on June 10, 2007 at 9:04 pm

Can anyone explain to me why Mitch has a proclivity to float six inches above the ground every once in a while?
That’s an ENDER.

DeeIced on June 10, 2007 at 10:27 pm

I’ll again take your comments out of order, for expediancy sake.
First of all, to LegacyUSCS, try again. LOL
I haven’t held the position of GS for over 8 years, though my time as a Group Supervisor in U.S. Customs was probably the most enjoyable time in my career. I’ve worked in Texas quite a bit, but not for some time now. Sorry dude, but you are wrong. And for the record, if anyone correctly identifies me, I’ll admit it, and continue posting under my true identity. Fair Enough?
I’ll not respond to Deelced/JaxBeachbum as he didn’t really say anything. That guys is having too much fun.
ICEDover,
We may have to agree to disagree sir, but you make a bunch of good points in your post, and it’s clear to me that you put a lot of thought and effort into your responses, and you deserve my best in return.
It’s frankly a lot easier dismissing the bottle throwers, because answering your post takes thought. LOL
You have told me enough in your posts to tell me you work in the NY office. You are in one of the biggest and most important offices, and it’s a goddamn shame that it’s been allowed to tumble like it has.
I have it on real good authority, that Director Forman is not the least bit pleased with the way that office has been run, post merger. While 25 offices around the country are doing everything they can to cross-pollinate groups and offices, NY is still working the way it always has (Customs over here, INS over there). You might say, why didn’t she do anything about it? I don’t have the answer to that question my friend, but I know the incoming SAC will have marching orders to get it done yesterday.
You can probably safely assume that there will be some mass group assignment changes in your immediate future.
You guys are going to have to do what the rest of the country (I believe) accomplished over three years ago. It’s not without pain either my friend, but at the end of the day, it’s what must be done if we are ever to start fighting as one team.
I am going to stay away from Director Marcy Forman’s family member in your office, not because I’m afraid of Marcy, but because I don’t have any of the facts, and it wouldn’t be fair to speculate. I’ve heard some of the scuttlebut, but I’m not going to speak to the rumors I’ve heard, because it’s not the right thing to do.
I do know that Marcy is smart enough to steer clear of any issues relating to her sister, because any influence, good or bad, would be perceived as meddling, and I know Marcy Forman wants to stay above that speculation. Whatever happens, will happen, without Marcy being in it in any way.
Now I know there are those out there that won’t believe me, but I know Marcy well enough to say it. Believe me, or don’t, it won’t change the facts.
I’m with you on the training issue. I was in NY at the SAC Transformation Conference when Mike Garcia said everyone who hadn’t attended CITP would have to attend it. That promise fell on it’s face early on when they realized the scope of that problem, and what it would cost the agency.
I know there is some ENFORCE training going on as we speak, as one of my folks is traveling around the AOR teaching ENFORCE as a mandatory block of training. It’s a start. Nobody in their right mind would believe that two weeks of cross-training would prepare people to do this job.
We are using the OPLA attorneys to do training for us in our AOR, and they are more than happy to do so. We’ve done some training with our leadership cadre with DRO, to better understand the Immigration courts, and their requirements.
We are always looking for training opportunities to get our people better prepared for this job, and all of that training doesn’t come from HQS. We take responsibility for searching it out, paying for it ourselves sometimes.
This is an issue we have to all keep harping on, until someone listens. Please don’t be afraid to bring this up, respectfully of course, at every chance you get, to everyone in upper management.
“Absolutely ridiculous rules and SOPs have to be examined and changed. For example, if an agent is sitting at the duty desk and a member of the public calls with an immigration matter, we are supposed to tell them to write us a letter.”
That’s the goofiest thing I ever heard!! Who dreamed that up? We try to have two duty agents on at any one time, from each side of the house, so these questions can be answered professionally. They take some time, and often are way, way out in left field, but the people deserve an honest/professional response.
“The simplest example I can come up with is that an agent who took the GS 14 test could not get an answer from management when he inquired what the cut-off score was for selection”.
I agree this is a problem. If you are talking about the latest 14 test, the list is Still not out.
We were promised it on the 21st of last month, and still no list. If we are talking about the same list, it’s no wonder your guy didn’t get his score, because Dallas still hasn’t released the damn list. Trust me on this point, you aren’t any more pissed about this than I am.
What’s worse, is until a week ago, Dallas would notify people that were getting selected or promoted before the SAC’s had a chance to notify them. It is broke my friend, BROKE!!
You are going to like your new SAC, and I hope you guys give him a chance to make a difference there.
The truth of the matter is it’s damn hard to get an experienced leader to come to NY, LA, or HQS.
The cost of living alone is enough to keep your better talent’s hats out of the ring. Don’t worry about how you got him, just give him a fair chance, and work with him, and he’ll improve your quality of life there. I really believe this.
“FIRE ALL OF OUR PRESS PEOPLE” Now there’s an idea we might be able to agree on. LOL
You aren’t the only one frustrated with the lack of understanding represented daily on the part of PAO staff.
I don’t think we need to fire them all, but we certainly should look for a way to integrate some experienced OI personnel within their ranks.
My office has a professional, experienced PAO, but his or her work has to feed through HQS, and then it gets dumbed down often times.
This too is broke, but I know they are trying very hard to do a good job. Know anyone that would like to work in HQS with public affairs?
“Our SAC office put out a memo a while back asking which agents wanted to make a swap between nearby SAC offices.” If you are referring to the unfunded transfers, that program will open up again next month I believe, for 30 days. It was suspended temporarily so that everyone could catch their breath.
It’s a good program, allowing people to get home or wherever they’d rather be if they’ve been in an office for over 3 years. It hurts the border offices, as most people don’t want to go there, but they’ll get new hires in those slots.
In my office we’re approving almost all of them. When people want to come and join our team, we accept them, if they have been productive workers, and not retired on duty (see yourself here Deelced?) LOL
“HAVE AN AGENCY WIDE SOP WHEN DEALING WITH DUTY CALLS”
I’m not sure exactly what you are referring to here. Could you expand on this some. I don’t know that what works in Tampa, or LA, would work in NY, but maybe. More information please.
“CBP & ICE SHOULD BE MERGED” I personally would like to see this happen, but I’m not holding my breath. I’m afraid we’d end up as Border Patrol’s bitches now, as they’ve grown so large and powerful under DHS.
I think we’d have better luck with the SOP’s frankly. There is some work going on in HQS on this issue, and you should volunteer to go help, if they ask for volunteers again. It is something that needs some serious attention, no question.
“CONDUCT EXIT INTERVIEWS” Absolutely AGREE.
Hopefully I’ve helped answer your questions, but again, it’s just me, EVS, and I know you really want answers from on high. Let’s keep the conversation alive, and maybe someone will print it out and share. We can hope can’t we?
In closing I’ll say that I was really fucking disappointed in the Soprano’s final episode. Damn, I expected something more…
Work safe my friend,
EVS

EverVigilantSheepdog on June 10, 2007 at 11:23 pm