Testimonial - B. Grenert, December 17, 2009
I joined the California Staff Assault Task Force when they first started, and I worked at HDSP. I since transferred to MCSP which is supposed to be the prison where nothing happens. I was assaulted in April of 2009 and ended up getting a bulged disk in my neck as a result of the assault.

After missing several days of work and having to get physical therapy, injections, everything I can to avoid surgery....I contacted CSATF and talked to Bob Maroun. Bob was very sincere and sent a check to help with the few days of work I missed. I told him I wanted to hold this inmate accountable.

It is now November of 2009, and I just went to court over this incident. The judge is currently reviewing the case. Bob drove up to Jackson and met me for lunch before court. He answered any questions I had and helped me through the process. CSATF is a great organization and have gone above and beyond my expectations.

If you have not joined up yet, don't wait any longer. You never know when you are going to need to have somebody on your side to hold an inmate accountable. Thanks Again Bob for all your hard work and your thoughtfulness.

Correctional Officer Brannon J. Grenert

Note: On 12/11/09, Officer Grenert was awarded $5,000.00 plus court costs.

Testimonial - E. Ramierez, December 9, 2009
On December 28, 2008 I was physically assaulted by an inmate. It was very hard to believe that I was targeted and assaulted for doing my job. I really don't like to hear a code 1, or a code 2 on the radio when a correctional officer is being assaulted by several inmates. More and more our Peace Officers are being assaulted because some inmates believe they have nothing to lose and because of politics or simply because of overcrowding. Now is the time to stand up for yourself and do something about it. The inmates do have something to lose and that is money. So that only means that their canteen bags might be a lot less bigger, if you know what I mean. On November 30, 2009 I went to court. The Judge was very professional and polite. I'm not saying it because I won the case and $5,000 but because it was justice. I might never see any money but what I am trying to do is make the inmates aware of their consequences and hold them accountable. I want to thank Scott and Bob, from the Ca.Staff Assault Task Force for helping my family and I in these hard times. I also want to thank the Task Force for being a part of my life.

Thank you.
Eric Ramirez C/O Centinela

Testimonial - C. Reilley, September 30, 2009
My name is Casey Reilley, I am a correctional officer working at Pelican Bay State Prison. I transferred to pelican bay from CRC in Norco Sept. 25th 2006. On Oct 19th 2006 I was ordered over for a partial overtime. My partner and I arrived about the same time and began sorting the mail. At approximately 14:19 the control officer let an inmate out of B section who said he needed to seek medical attention. The inmate went towards the yard door to be released, as he went toward the yard door I went back to sorting mail. The next thing I knew I was being struck in the back of the head. The inmate had a "BIC" style pen with the end wrapped up to make a handle and he struck me twice with the weapon then fled to the yard door. My life was dramatically changed that day, as a single father of 4 small children the hard cold reality of where we choose to work hit me like a ton of bricks.

I had been a member of the Staff Assault Task Force for about 4 years at the time. From the moment they found out about what happened to me that day they have been a big source of support for both me and my family. They do so much more than merely help you prepare the proper documents for court. They are an important part of our correctional officer family that are there to help you get everything you need ready for court. They come all the way up here and spend time with you before you go into court, sit through the court proceedings with you, go over everything that happened and help you prepare for any further court dates if needed.

In my case we are going back yet again for a 5th time. Scott and the rest of the Task Force Team have always been just a phone call away. Since the inmate that stabbed me was transferred to Corcoran, the task force did all the coordinating for me between the courts, Corcoran, me and Pelican Bay when needed. This was a big help to me and a load off my mind. Critical information could be transferred and passed to the right people and I didn't have to worry about it being done.

I am very thankful to the Task Force for all they have done for me. I am thankful to know that they are there for others... I hope you never need them, but know they are there to help when you do.

Sincerely
Casey Reilley
Pelican Bay State Prison

Note: Casey has since won his case!

Testimonial - E. Moore, September 25, 2009
I was assaulted in September 2008 and could not return to duty until five months later due to my injuries. The financial blows were lessened because the California Staff Assault Task Force sent me a check every month I was out. Bob Maroun and his team prepared and filed the small claim forms on my behalf against the inmates responsible for my injuries. The court date came and CSATF was right there with me. Bob and Scott briefed me on what to expect during the court proceedings. I won a judgment against each defendant listed in my small claims suit. I am extremely grateful for the support I received from CSATF.

Efrem Moore, Ycc
HGSYCF

Testimonial - A Healy, August 30, 2009
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Bob Maroun and all the staff with the California Staff Assault Task Force. I was assaulted by an inmate (blood) at Corcoran State Prison in early 2008. This inmate punched me in my left eye causing a cut, bruising and swelling. This inmate also kicked my partner in the knee causing swelling and bruising. The CSATF staff sent me a check that was very helpful in allowing me to take my family out on a day together so they didn’t have to think about the situation that happened at work

The CSATF staff also processed all the necessary paperwork with the court and the institution, while keeping me informed the whole time. Once my court day arrived Bob was with me providing me with moral support and valuable insight about the legal process. Well when all is said and done the judge awarded me $5000 dollars due to the inmate’s actions. Once again I want to thank Bob and the CSATF staffs for their support and hard work in empowering me and forcing an inmate to be held accountable for a change and now the inmate owes me.

Adam Healy
Correctional Officer
CSP Corcoran

Testimonial - B. Hernandez, July 10, 2009
In 2008, I was assaulted by an inmate while dealing with an incident at the facility were I work. I was struck several times in the facial region resulting in my absence of work for several days. After doing some research and realizing the high number of staff assaults occurring on correctional employees, I contacted Bob Maroun with the California Staff Assault Task Force.
Mr. Maroun kept in close contact with me over the next few months. He explained to me my civil rights regarding the incident that had occurred and filed all of the necessary paperwork needed to sue the inmate that assaulted me. He was able to answer any questions I had and kept me informed throughout the process of filing a civil suite.

On July 10, 2009, I was able to mediate a settlement through the civil courts for the amount of $3000 with a representative of the inmate that assaulted me. Through his research and expertise in these matters, Bob enabled me to hold the young man accountable and send a message to other inmates that assaulting anyone, especially a correctional peace officer, is unacceptable.

Testimonial - G. Lozano Jr, July 15, 2009
I would just like to thank the California Staff Assault Task Force for all of the work that was put into my case. I would specifically like to thank Bob Maroun for the guidance and help during my civil trial. Although the process was time consuming I was never made to feel like my case was less importance than the next one. With the help of Bob Maroun and the California Staff Assault Task Force I was able to mediate this case to a substantial amount of $3,000.00. Who knows if I will ever see a penny, but it was made clear today that people will be held accountable for what they do while they’re incarcerated. Thank you.

George Lozano, Jr., Youth Correctional Counselor
Ventura Youth Correctional Facility, Camarillo, CA

Testimonial - R. Martinez, May 12, 2009
On May 9th, 2008 I was assaulted by an inmate at Wasco State Prison. I contacted the "California Staff Assault Task Force" and spoke to Bob Maroun and explained what happened.

Within two weeks I received a check for $200. The Task Force then helped to facilitate the filing of court documents necessary for suing the inmate civilly.

On April 28th, 2009 I successfully sued the inmate and received a judgment of $2500. Thanks to the California Staff Assault Task Force the inmate has been made accountable for his actions.

I more than recommend becoming a member of the California Staff Assault Task Force as another way of making violent inmates accountable for their actions.

Sincerely,
Rene Martinez Correctional Officer Wasco State Prison

Testimonial - Lila, March 13, 2009
I've been reading about Mr. Bob Maroun and the CSATF and needed to take a moment to contact you.

Although I am an inmate's relative, I needed to write and tell you that I'm really pleased this task force exists to help the employees.

When hearing anything about an assault on staff I've never understood the Warden or ANYONE NOT being supportive of legal, proper consequences for any inmate that assaults any employee of the CDCR. I'm really pleased to see that you're there to assist the employees and I fully support a lawsuit for damages against any inmate involved in any type of assault.

Please keep up the good work and if you can use this letter as support to have Judge Christopher Longaker removed from his position, please do so.

Respectfully sent,
Lila

Testimonial - M. Diaz, November 4, 2008
I am a Correctional Peace Officer at Wasco State Prison and I was assaulted by an inmate on April 29, 2008. My name is M. Diaz and I am a member of the California Staff Assault Task Force (CSATF).

When I informed CSATF of my assault they immediately sent me $500.00 to help with expenses while on disability from work. I talked to Mr. Bob Maroun, Coordinator from the CSATF over the phone about suing the inmate who assaulted me. On October 21, 2008 I met Bob in person at the Shafter Court House to have my civil lawsuit heard by a court judge.

Bob helped me answer all the Judge's questions about my lawsuit and with that, I won a civil lawsuit case for $5,000.00 from the inmate who assaulted me. I want to thank CSATF and Bob for all the support they gave me and my family.

M. Diaz

Testimonial - C/O M. Bonilla, July 9, 2008

Recently I had an appearance at the courthouse, I filed suit with the help of CSATF against an inmate who assaulted me by ʽgassingʼ. Scott Whaley was an asset in helping me understand how the court proceedings were structured and what the judge would want to know about the incident.

We won the case, though of course, this was all symbolic since the money is really not the issue in these cases. It was very satisfying sending the message that it isnʼt our job to be a target by criminals who continue to refuse to follow the law much less follow common behaviors of decency. The goal is to provide a safe environment for all, not continued attacks and predatory acts.

I appreciated the supportive conversation during our lunch. Thank you for putting this organization together and for caring about your fellow officers.
 
C/O M Bonilla
CCWF

Testimonial - C/O M. Mohr, March 7, 2008

Earlier today I went to small claims court in Sacramento where I sued an inmate for gassing me. I won $1,500, but this isn’t the whole story. I have to say that I’m still shocked by the demeanor of Judge Christopher Longaker towards me and every officer, not just correctional officers.

I presented my case well, many thanks to the California Staff Assault Task Force. The judge asked why I was suing the inmate when I hadn’t received any physical injuries. I told the judge that I’m suing for mental anguish and to make a point to inmates that officers are off limits to being assaulted because there will be more consequences than what inmates are used to, monetary damages. I also said that I’m in court for all my fellow officers and that if word spreads that there are other consequences to assaulting officers, it will help prevent more assaults. I explained that it was my duty to take the inmate to court and ask for monetary damages.

The judge got very out of line with me and forcefully told me that “it’s in your job description that you’ll be assaulted or slapped around ... and if you don’t like that, go get another job!” Judge Christopher Longaker went on to tell me that it was “laughable” to come into his court and say that I was there for my fellow officers, and that I was wasting the court’s time. Still he made a judgment for $1,500; I had asked for $5,000.

So I doubt the inmate has any money, but that’s not the point. And what if he does? Great!!! I’ll take his lunch money, you know, so he can’t get his quarterly packages as easily now, or his canteen.

I have to say that if it was not for the California Staff Assault Task Force, and Bob Maroun, who went through all the effort to help me with this case, I would not have gotten a favorable judgment. I wouldn’t have even taken the matter to court. Bob coached me on what to say, given various possible things the judge might say based on his extensive experience with these assault cases. After the judge ridiculed me publicly, there were several plaintiffs and defendants for other cases in the court room, I felt very small. I probably would have thought twice about ever doing what I believe is my duty to take an inmate to court again.

Bob Maroun from the California Staff Assault Task Force made me feel whole again after we left the court room. We even went out to lunch, and he paid for it. Oh, I also received $200 before the hearing which was given to me by the California Staff Assault Task Force.

All in all I highly recommend the California Staff Assault Task Force. Bob told me today that on average 9.8 staff are assaulted at our 33 California state prisons everyday. My assault was minor compared to many. When word spreads that officers are suing inmates for being assaulted, maybe that will actually cut down on the assaults…and maybe save some lives.

Sincerely,

C/O M. Mohr
CSP

Testimonial - October 22, 2007

California Staff Assault Task Force
P.O. Box 3351
Quartz Hill, CA 93586

On May 7, 2007, at the Heman G. Stark Youth Correctional Facility, I was brutally attacked by 9 Wards of the Division of Juvenile Justice (C.Y.A.) My injuries were so severe, that paramedics were called, and I was taken to the hospital via ambulance. I remained in the hospital for the next 4 days before being released. Almost six months later, I still remain off work, attending physical therapy several days a week. I hope to return to work within the next several months.
Many thanks go out to CSTAF for helping out. I never called them, my friends at work did. I received a call from Bob Maroun shortly after being released from the hospital. Bob handled my situation with kid gloves. After all the questions were answered, he said he would call in a few days to see how I was doing. Before he even called back, a check came in the mail. The financial help couldn’t have come at a better time! I had some rather large bills coming up, and this relieved a lot of stress on the financial end. Nobody EVER plans on something horrific like this to happening. Let me say that it does happen! If and when it does happen to you, CSTAF is there for you!

Small Claims Court paperwork has been filed against several of the Wards, with a court date set for November 30, 2007. This will hopefully go well, as the criminal case against them wasn’t satisfactory in my humble opinion. Four plea-bargained, one received credit for time served in County Lock-Up, and four were never even charged. They were all smiles in court, as they knew they were once again getting over on the system. This is the last chance to actually hold them accountable for their actions.

Again, special thanks to Bob! It’s refreshing to actually have someone live up to his word when going through this.

Regards,

Patrick Brass, Youth Correctional Counselor
H.G.S.Y.C.F.

Testimonial - C/O J. Ramsey 08/20/07

On 11/26/06 I was gassed by an inmate at High Desert State Prison in the Administrative Segregation Unit. At the time, I had only 3 months in the department and was at a loss as to how to proceed after the assault. At the Academy I had signed up with the California Staff Assault Task Force hoping I would never have to use their services, but more as a show of support to other officers who have or would be assaulted. I contacted Mr. Bob Maroun through the CSATF website and he informed me of what I needed to do to get the ball rolling. One day, after the assault, I was lucky enough to be assigned with a HDSP C/O Weeks that I noticed had a CSATF t-shirt on. C/O Weeks was able to obtain the necessary copies of the 837 and other pertinent paperwork that I was unable to get myself. I am happy to report that I won my case against the inmate and have the distinction of being the first such case heard in Lassen County. I probably never would've sought a civil case against the inmate, would've never even known it was a possible, if it weren't for the CSATF. I know I will probably never see a dime from the inmate, but I am glad to know I have made him monetarily accountable for his actions.

I would like to thank Mr. Bob Maroun and Mr. Scott Whaley for all their help and support with this matter. I've been spreading the word to my fellow officers here at HDSP about the CSATF and I am very interested in being an advocate at HDSP for the CSATF.

C/O J. Ramsey
High Desert State Prison
Susanville, CA

Testimonial - Deborah McCollum, Y.C.O. 07/13/07

Working as a Youth Correctional Officer, I was gassed by a ward in a juvenile facility. Through a plea agreement with the county she did not have consequences for gassing me. CSATF took my information and guided me through the process of Civil Court. The outcome of the City Court case was successful in attaining a decision against the ward.

I want to thank CSATF and Bob Maroun, for assistance in this matter. The organization is very caring of members. Shortly after I sent information regarding my case to you (to my surprise) I received a check for $200.00 to show support and help me with expenses I might have incurred. The informed and responsive help I received from this organization and my contact person, Bob Maroun, was excellent. I recommend CSATF to all corrections officers. Bob was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the process.

If our efforts to grow and change in the correctional setting to keep up with the ever changing atmosphere of custodial work; we must remember not to accept abuse from the incarcerated without holding them just as accountable as you would in any setting. It is not our job to be abused.

Thank you again, for your assistance. I am very pleased with this organization.

Lifetime Member
Deborah McCollum, Y.C.O.

Testimonial - C/O J. Corbin from Corcoran writes;

Thanks for the money; it really came in handy during these times. I had to take my wife to a Specialist in Beverly Hills to see a Specialist for her hands and we are using the money you sent to do this.

Most importantly are thanks for being there for us that have been assaulted. You, CSATF have been there for support and have checked up on us from time to time. Thank you for being there.
J. Corbin

Corbin and his partner Padilla were assaulted on 10/05/06 by four inmates, Zaragosa, Pacheco, Duran and Ahern (we are suing them all) Corbin and Padilla are OK and doing fine.

- CSATF Staff

Testimonial - SGT. S. Vasquez from RJD writes;

On October 13 2005, I was assaulted by an inmate at RJDCF in San Diego. To this day, 12/30/05 I have not returned to work due to injuries sustained in the assault. I contacted CSATF, and after speaking to Lt. Charles Hughes, I was comfortable in knowing that someone out there really cared about my horrible ordeal. With all the assistance I received, my children were able to enjoy Christmas even more. Thanks Charles and every one at CSATF. Keep up the good work. Sgt. S. Vasquez

We then received this from Sgt. Vasquez on 01/05/07;

Thanks for all you’ve done since my injury last year. The Task Force and I recently won our case against the inmate who assaulted me. Now I can’t wait to collect money from this Scum-Bag. Sgt. S. Vasquez

Sgt. Vasquez is doing great, back to work and has even volunteered to help the TASK FORCE at RJD. He is doing a wonderful job recruiting new members and assisting staff that has been assaulted. - CSATF Staff

Testimonial - Sgt. T. Brooks

Sgt. T. Brooks from RJD, (now an Instructor the ACADEMY) writes…..

Being a female working in a men’s prison is challenging, however when violence erupts it’s not about male or female, it’s about survival. It’s about doing what needs to be done and going home alive. On January 17, 2006 that is exactly what was on my mind. During evening chow release a melee broke out in front of the dining hall. When I attempted to subdue the aggressor he punched me in the face. I was able to stop the attack and restrain the inmate, although I was not aware of a group of inmates who were attempting to come up behind me. Fortunately responding staff was able to control the situation without further injuries.

With the dust settled, I expected the wheels of justice to start to grind. While I was at home one of my partners called and asked me if I had notified the California Staff Assault Task Force (CSATF) about the attack. I hadn’t and so I did so immediately. You guys asked me all of the pertinent questions and within a few days I actually received a check in the mail. I was both relieved and surprised. As I waited for the results of the D.A. Referral I was informed that the CDC 115 Rules Violation was lost due to expired time constraints. Therefore, the inmate would not receive internal disciplinary for his actions. A few months later I found out that the inmate paroled. I couldn’t believe it! Here is this 2-strike convicted felon who, some 3-4 months prior committed battery on a peace officer and we just let him walk out of prison! Where’s the sense in that? Is he suddenly reformed? I doubt it! I inquired about the D.A. Referral and was told that my injuries were not serious enough to warrant felony prosecution! I was so angry, I felt like a victim all over again! What kind of message are we sending? It’s okay to attack custody staff, you get a free pass!

Thank God for the CSATF, you were my last hope. I had to find a way to let this guy know that his actions had consequences, that he couldn’t just do this sort of thing and walk away clean. On January 18, 2007 I was awarded a judgment in the amount of $5000.00 against the inmate who attacked me. Thank you CSATF, this guy would have been completely unaccountable for his actions were not for you guys! Keep up the good work and call me anytime you need me!

Signed,
Sgt. T. Brooks

Testimonial - R. Linder

On Monday, April 30th, 2007, I was in Superior Court in Delano, CA. with one of your representatives. I was physically assaulted on March 20, 2006, by Inmate Gonzales, and faced a near death experience. I have severe PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), permanent neurological damage in my brain, and my eye site is damaged which may be irreversible. I remain proud to have worked ‘The toughest beat in California", and would do it all over again! I'll just add that someone needs to help make that beat safer, and I think we all know who that is, The Staff Assault Task Force!

My primary purpose for writing you is to acknowledge Bob Maroun, who prepared and made me very comfortable going in to explain my assault to the Judge. Bob respectfully and very tactfully stood by what he knew to be correct, as the judge considered sending my case to Crescent City (Pelican Bay) to sue this inmate instead of hearing the case here, based on what he incorrectly believed to be a jurisdictional matter.

Bob assisted the Judge in finding the section that gives the judge the option to hear the case here or “Change Venue” to Pelican Bay, Del Norte County, which would have been very expensive and time consuming for me and the Task Force to pursue.

With Bob’s help, the Judge found the rule allowing the case to be heard in the County where the assault took place even though the inmate had been moved and my case was heard then and there. Bob encouraged me not to get to caught up in the moment and remain calm, but with my PTSD, I stood on the edge of an emotional breakdown. I recounted the assault on my partner and I, and the Judge ruled in my favor! Later, Bob said I did an outstanding job, and asked me if we were in a court room full Of people, would I still have done the same thing, and I said "hell
Yes", that inmate retired me effective JUL, 1st. 2007, and I have to go on with my life with my injuries always reminded that an Inmate retired me! Without Bob's assistance, I would be in Crescent City, without a doubt.

Major Thanks to Bob, Arcadia, LT Hughes and all the “CSATF” Staff.

Most sincerely,
Robert Linder

Testimonial - R. Romo

Dear CATF,

I would like to thank you for all the help CATF provide me. It came at a time when I was very angry and did not know what legal rights I had against my attacker. I was attacked at my facility, H.G. Stark, on 3/10/07 and sustained numerous injuries. I did not know what to do and I was confused about the situation. When I contacted Bob Maroon he gave me some good advice and was very concerned about me. He would contact me from time to time to see if I needed anything and it really helped knowing someone was in my corner. When it came to my legal case, he sent out my paper work very fast and made it simple and easy for me. Also the financial help was also greatly appreciated by me and my family. You have some great people working there. I am doing better and I hope to be back to work soon. If you ever need help or a volunteer let me know. Once again, thank you.

Sincerely, Robert R Romo

Testimonial - S. Kuhn
On Saturday, December 6, 2003, I was involved in restraining a combative Inmate. As we were attempting to take the Inmate to the ground, the Inmate and assisting staff fell on my right ankle. This resulted in a triple break to my lower leg. As if this wasn't bad enough, my wife, a fellow Correctional Officer, was eight and a half months pregnant at the time. Because of my injury, I was unable to take care of her and she was forced to take care of our three year old son and myself as well as preparing for the arrival of our new son. Luckily, I had signed up for the California Staff Assault Task Force prior to receiving my injury. Lt. Charlie Hughes called me up and asked if there was anything that he could do to help out. I told him about my wife's sister in Salt Lake City who had volunteered to come help out around the house. Charlie immediately approved the purchase of the round trip air fare to fly her out. Thanks to Lt. Hughes and the California Staff Assault Task Force, my wife got the rest she needed and the help to put the house in order prior to the arrival of our son.

S. Kuhn
Correctional Sergeant
CSP/LAC Lancaster