BANGOR, Maine — The day before his suicide, the Rev. Robert Carlson was told by Penobscot County Sheriff Glenn Ross, a longtime friend, that Carlson was the subject of a state police investigation of child sex abuse allegations, according to a Waldo County Sheriff’s Department report.
Ross said Wednesday that he felt compelled to tell Carlson that he was the focus of the Maine State Police probe because Carlson was on the Penobscot County Jail’s board of visitors and Ross wanted to limit his access to the jail.
Ross, who was Carlson’s co-worker for 33 years, said he spoke with Carlson around noon on Nov. 12. Carlson jumped to his death from the Penobscot Narrows Bridge early the next morning.
“I didn’t feel it was a conflict. I felt it was my responsibility as a sheriff,” Ross said when asked why he informed Carlson of the investigation.
State police detectives never got the opportunity to speak to Carlson, 68, before his death, Stephen McCausland, spokesman for the Maine Department of Public Safety, has said.
The sheriff said he initially felt a certain responsibility for Carlson’s death but since has come to another conclusion.
“If I hadn’t been the one to talk to Bob, Bob would have been dead a week later after talking to state police,” Ross said.
The Waldo County Sheriff’s Department, which investigated Carlson’s death, released its report Wednesday to the Bangor Daily News but blacked out the names of Carlson and several people interviewed, including the Bangor man police believe was the last person to see him alive. Ross’ name was not blacked out.
The state police investigation into the sex abuse allegations, which began on Nov. 10, is continuing and should be completed in the next month, the lead investigator, Sgt. Jeffrey Love of the criminal investigation division in Augusta, said earlier this week.
Ross said he received a copy of the anonymous letter that sparked the child sexual abuse investigation on Nov. 10 and got a call shortly afterward from state police Detective Troy Gardener, who thought Carlson was a county jail employee.
Carlson was the Penobscot County Jail administrator when Ross was hired and later became the jail’s chaplain, a post he held for 38 years. He retired nearly two years ago, Ross said.
“Sheriff Ross explained that [Carlson] had retired …. and told Detective Gardener that he would keep this quiet,” the Waldo County report states.
The unsigned letter, sent to Gov. Paul LePage, local Boy Scout leaders and law enforcement, claims that Carlson “sexually abused a young boy several years ago” while he was pastor at the East Orrington Congregational Church. The letter asked for an investigation into the matter.
The Waldo County report states that Carlson met around 12:30 a.m. Nov. 13 in Bangor with a local man who is the focal point of the state police child sex abuse investigation and was the last person to see him alive.
The man was an 11-year-old boy when he first met Carlson in the early 1970s, and Carlson began sexually abusing him soon after, according to the man’s family. The Bangor Daily News is not identifying the man because of the possibility that he is a victim.
Carlson’s company car was found — running and with the radio on — in the middle of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge by a Bucksport couple around 3:55 a.m., the Waldo County report states.
“Amazing Grace” was playing on the radio, the Bucksport man told Waldo County investigators.
A neatly folded clerical robe was found in the back seat of Carlson’s car, the report says.
Ross and his deputy chief, Troy Morton, went to the Penobscot Narrows Bridge while Waldo County deputies still were searching for Carlson and were at the boat landing on Verona Island when his body was pulled from the Penobscot River.
Waldo County detectives, who learned that Ross had spoken to Carlson on Saturday, interviewed him in the front of his cruiser minutes later. Ross was “very upset at the loss of his friend,” the Waldo County report states.
“Sheriff Ross said the he had called [Carlson] because he was a very good friend and he did not want [Carlson] to be upset thinking that he kept this from him and he also said that he did not want [Carlson] to be blind sided,” the report into Carlson’s death states.
The Waldo County report does not mention that Ross was concerned about Carlson’s access to the jail.
“I gave a more complete statement to state police,” the sheriff said Wednesday.
Ross said that he decided to contact Carlson after thinking over the matter for two days and determining that he was obligated to protect jail inmates.
“Bob could walk into our jail at any time and could go into a cell at any time,” Ross said, noting that Carlson was one of five members of the jail’s board of visitors. “I had to take action. I weighed all these things and stand beside the decision I made.”
The board of visitors is an oversight and advisory committee made up of citizens appointed to represent the interests of people in the jail.
Ross said he gave Carlson no information that would jeopardize the state police investigation.
“I told him that there was a letter that has been sent to everybody and that the letter accuses him of sexual misconduct,” the sheriff said.
“His only comment to me is that police have to take this very seriously because of what is going on with the Sandusky case,” Ross added, referring to the Penn State child sex abuse scandal involving coach Jerry Sandusky that broke around the same time. “He didn’t confirm or deny anything.”
When asked if Ross had violated any laws, Deputy Attorney General William Stokes said Wednesday that police officers tell suspects all the time that they are under investigation or that the department has received a complaint against them.
“I crossed no ethical boundaries,” Ross said. “I had an obligation.”
McCausland wouldn’t speculate on whether state police detectives were upset with Ross’ actions. He said details of the sex abuse investigation will be released when it is complete.
Ross said he is waiting for all of the final police reports before he makes any judgments about his longtime friend.
“I’ve known and respected the man my whole police career,” the sheriff said, saying he was heartbroken. “It’s still a hard pill to swallow.”
To me, though, it still seems that that is something the investigators would have wanted to keep under wraps…what Ross was doing was very wrong.
It put potential witnesses and victims in danger, also.
Wow~ good choice but Ross will will live with that for the rest of his life. No winners here. Godspeed.
The situation these people have been put into was the result of a man’s actions and a community’s silence.
Predators get away with sexual abuse because they appear to be just like the rest of us. And, they usually participate in community activities to get close to children.
That is so true! I wish Sheriff Ross had been able to tell that 11 year old boy that this man was a predator. Then that innocent child would not have been “blind sided”
“I didn’t feel it was a conflict. I felt it was my responsibility as a sheriff,” Ross said when asked why he informed Carlson of the investigation.
It was not Ross’sk Department investigation Carlson, therefore it was not p to him to leak the information. What if Carlson decided he was going to take other’s lives as well as his own. I hope the people of Penobscot County remember this the next time Ross is up for re-election.
He shouldn’t have the chance for re-election, he should be fired immediately. In this one move to protect his buddy, he has destroyed the integrity of the entire Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department. Key limey is right, what if Carlson had decided to take another’s life along with his own, after hearing about the investigation. Desperate people do desperate things. If he is allowed to remain in office, after obstructing this investigation while telling the state police that he would keep it quiet, then it only confirms the existence of that “blue wall”. As Rev. Carlson found out, one bad or unethical decision can negate a lifetime of good. Sheriff Ross, do the right thing for the department and the citizens of this county and resign.
Frankie,
A fan of Tim Richardson, are we?
Huh? Maybe I am too young to remember Tim Richardson. Where are you going with that?
“I crossed no ethical boundaries,” Ross said. “I had an obligation.”
What about your obligation to the people who elected you????
Glenn Ross’s statement that he wanted to limit Carlson’s access to the jail does not pass the straight face test. Are any of the Penobscot Jail’s inmates children? If not then what was it that Ross was worried about? Ross made a promise to Maine State Police Detective Gardener to keep the matter concerning Carlson quiet and then turned right around, broke his promise to Detective Gardener, and told Carlson possibly compromising an investigation. What if Carlson had decided to run instead of jumping off a bridge? By his own admission Glenn Ross put his friendship with a pedophile ahead of his professional obligations. How many other times has Ross compromised investigations to protect his friends? By his actions Ross has brought into question of the integrity of The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department and has most certainly caused a divide between the Department he heads and the Maine State Police. Perhaps it is time for Glenn Ross to turn in his badge and resign .
Is it possible for a Sheriff to commit an obstruction of justice crime? Or interfering with an investigation? This sounds more to me like a guy looking out for his buddy then somebody worried about protecting prison inmates.
Shameless self-promoters gotta stick together.
Hey Bangorian, check out my post, I think you will like.
You are correct 4mer, and what are the consequences. You never, ever compromise your principles or integrity. If you do, then you have to face the fact that you are in a place you ought not to be.
His integrity would have not been compromised, if this came out sooner. His principles are and were up to him. If he had respect for the reverend, then he did not compromise his principle: respect. He would have brought the reverend in and investigated it, as he was taught.
It is what it is right?…… apparently it’s not, because this sheriff decided upon his own that it is what he wants it to be. Time for a new sheriff.
he was NOT a reverend
Agreed, It seems the sherriff was more freaked out than anything.
Carlson was a pig for what he did and some of the comments about Ross are dumb. I do not understand the thinking process of some. If Ross goes then McCausland needs to go. Aleast Ross works. McCausland well I guess I do not understand he’s the spokesmam MSP but it seens everytime he is on the TV the truth never comes out.
does it matter?????? he was a child molester, who cares, what matters is he will not bother another child again….end result, thats good enough for me…..
The Sheriff is talking out of both sides of his mouth to protect his assets. Does that make you feel safe if/when a Penobscot County Sheriff pulls you over knowing the department head is not truthful? How far down does it filter?
If you do some background checks on our law enforcement in Maine you will find out that you dont have to be an outstanding citizen to be in law enforcement !
That is if you can get the unaltered or mysteriously missing background checks !
Does it matter that the Sheriff of Penobscot County put his friendship with a pedophile above his sworn duty to the Citizens of Penobscot County? You are damned right it does. Glenn Ross is a law enforcement officer with over 30 years of experience. He knows the importance of keeping things “quiet” during an ongoing criminal investigation. In fact he promised to do just that in this case. We do not yet, nor will we probably ever, know the extent of Carlson’s crimes. What would have happened if Carlson instead of jumping off a bridge decided to get rid of the evidence? In this case the evidence was people. It could just as easily been someones child that ended up floating face down in the Penobscot River instead of Carlson. Carlson was a desperate man and desperate people do desperate things. Did Glenn Ross show any concern for Carlson’s victims by tipping off Carlson? No he did not. He, by his actions, placed them at risk. Glenn Ross violated his oath. His first duty as Sheriff of Penobscot county is to protect the citizens of the county. He wasn’t thinking of the citizens of Penobscot County he was thinking about his friend instead. He didn’t want Bob Carlson to be , as he put it “blind sided”. His friend was more important to Glenn Ross then the people who placed their trust in him by electing him to office. His friend was more important to Glenn Ross then the integrity of the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department. Glenn Ross made a decision. He made a decision to put a pedophile above his oath of office. He put a pedophile above the well being of the citizens he swore to protect. He put a pedophile above the integrity of the Department he currently heads. When the top cop in Penobscot County is “dirty” it most certainly matters. Now it is up to the appropriate authorities to do the right thing and to start the wheels in motion to remove this “dirty cop from office. Anything else would be an insult to the victims of Bob Carlson, to the honest men and women of the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department who daily put their lives on the line for all of us and to the Citizens of Penobscot County who’s trust Glenn Ross violated in favor of a pedophile
In addition to compromising this investigation, the law enforcement in this county, or state for that matter is an absolute joke. Ross’s actions only further divided any attempt to salvage relations between the two agencies. Ross should be put on administrative leave until an investigation can be concluded, and guessing the results he should be removed from office and replaced by someone that does not prioritize his friends over the people in the county that elected him to keep us safe. There is absolutely no way Ross will ever convince me that he told Carlson to protect the inmates. Come on…
he was a pervert and a homosexual………there are males in jail.
Pedophilia is NOT THE SAME THING AS BEING A HOMOSEXUAL please TRY and make some attempt to sound educated in what it is you are stating and if you DON’T know something research it……god this gets ridiculously old.
The relationship with this boy continued into adulthood which would make it seem that he was a pedophile as well as a homosexual. If the victim in question is now more than 50 years old and the relationship was still going on, that would make him a homosexual.
This is supposed to be about the brilliant and gifted Sheriff who opted to inform his close and personal pedophile friend of the pending investigation against him…that being said…
So Carlson’s 40+ year marriage with his wife was a sham??? Wow he must have been a good actor. None of us actually KNOW what kind of ‘relationship’ the pedophile and the victim had after the victim reached adulthood (not that it should matter the victim is not at fault here)…none of us know what that ‘relationship’ in reality was. You are making assumptions and we all know what assuming does don’t we? Do some research regarding pedophilia and then do some research on homosexuality and heterosexuality.
That being said there is something WRONG and (duh) illegal with being a pedophile there is nothing WRONG or illegal with being gay. Statistics CLEARLY indicate the ratio between heterosexual and homosexual pedophiles is 11:1. What does THAT mean? For every 1 pedophile that is gay there are 11 HETEROSEXUAL pedophiles running around. Translation for you 96% of pedophiles are STRAIGHT NOT GAY….just ask all the lovely Catholic pedophile Priests who were kind enough to indoctrinate all those catholic children into pedophilia….think the priests were all gay….ummmm I think NOT.
Being gay does not EQUATE to being a pedophile..research it. Pedophiles are attracted to CHILDREN… gay people are NOT attracted to children. Apparently this is like quantum physics for some people to grasp…OY.
I didn’t indicate that just because he was a pedophile, meant that he was also a homosexual. What I am saying, is that by all reports in the news, the relationship continued well into adulthood, which would make him a homosexual. I guess no one knows about his marriage except he and his wife. I would never say that the victim was at fault, obviously he was not, he was a VICTIM.
GuestBDN, ever hear of the Stockholm Syndrome?
From Wikipedia
The Stockholm Syndrome is an apparently paradoxical psychological phenomenon in which hostages express empathy
and have positive feelings towards their captors, sometimes to the
point of defending them. These feelings are generally considered
irrational in light of the danger or risk endured by the victims, who
essentially mistake a lack of abuse from their captors for an act of kindness
I have heard of Stockholm Syndrome and agree that this may be why the victim was still in contact with his abuser, But if the abuser was just a pedophile, why would he continue to have a relationship, sexual or not, with the victim as he got older? Power; possibly. Sexual; possibly. I guess the only ones who really know what happened between them is them!
Oftentimes, the victims don’t know anything different from the abuse, which can carry into adulthood also.
Speaking of “making assumptions”, we don’t know for 100% sure he was a pedophile. The allegations and swan dive would suggest it, but they have only been made by family members of the alleged victim who I believe recently told police he was also addicted to bath salts. Has the “victim” made any public statement to confirm it yet? Nope. They said he has know the victim since age 11 but that doesn’t mean they started a relationship then. I have known my wife since she was 14 but we didn’t start a relationship until she was 19.The swan dive might have been nothing more than an easy out to cover a life full of lies he didn’t want to face but to this date I don’t think any more “victims” have come forward either which makes me suspicious about the accusation from the start.
What does being addicted to bath salts have to do with whether or not he was sexually abused? By the way, lots of people who experience abuse of all forms (sexual, physical, mental, verbal) end up bottling up their emotions and turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to deal with the after effects (depression, psychosis, self-esteem problems, anger management issues, anxiety, inability to hold down a job, change in personality, etc.).
You may be 100% on the mark there JenniferS, “assuming” he was sexually abused, but at this point there is no proof…only accusation. The victim has not publicly stated he was abused. It was his family members who reported he came out to them which is nothing more than “hearsay” at this point. We don’t know if at the time he “supposedly” said it to his family that he wasn’t flying high on whatever his hallucinogenic drug of choice was at the time. I’m sorry, but the credibility of this victim is very questionable given his admitted drug habit period!
I think its safe to say the good Rev. had skeletons in his closet he did not want to face among his family, peers and community in general, but to this point in this “still open” investigation and I haven’t heard anyone else come out and say hey, I was a victim too.
With that being said you seem to assume that there adult relationship did not necessarily include a sexual nature, therefore you either know something we dont or a very naive !
Dear TLMMSW, please read this in the spirit in which it is intended. If I was demanding respect for gay people (or any other group of people) I would not make derogatory statements about a religious doctrine, its clergy, or any other institution of faith. I am a Catholic, Straight, Republican male. I don’t judge gays one way or another. Please don’t disrespect my church. Yes there are some bad priests, mailmen, pharmacists, hairdressers and interior decorators and male nurses and Boy Scout leaders out there. It does mean the entire lot of them are bad. You would do more for your cause by keeping emotional statements at bay and continue with your well informed responses you usually post. I for one learn a great deal from reading your posts and enjoy them. And before you paint me with a homophobic brush, I have very close relatives who are gay and lesbian and I love them very dearly. Any person with any sense knows the difference between child molesters and gay folk. If they don’t, you will never convince them otherwise. Don’t waste your time trying. I love these so called followers of the Holy Book that hate, don’t stoop to that level. I know it is frustrating for you. It is frustrating to me that every time the subject of pedophilia comes up, my religion is dragged into it.The priests I grew up with were loving,supportive, nurturing people. I could have gone down the wrong road of life were it not for the support of my parish priest. The only thing anyone could accuse him of would possibly he drank just a little too much!Thank you and keep up the good work.
Look up the definition of Pedophile.
oops
Your doctor can never be your personal friend. Here key word was my friend. Ross said he is waiting for all of the final police reports before he makes any judgments about his longtime friend. You can’t stay professional when friendships get in the way.
I often work in people’s homes or shelters. Bounderies are extremely important as friendliness is often misinterpreted for friendship. At all times people must be reminded that you have a job to do and your at work, not socializing.
“If I hadn’t been the one to talk to Bob, Bob would have been dead a week later after talking to state police,” Ross said. ummm whatever rationalization you need to come up with to justify your actions and make you feel better Sheriff.
“I crossed no ethical boundaries,” Ross said. “I had an obligation.” Isn’t your ‘obligation’ to protect and serve the greater public Sheriff?? NOT inform a close pedophile friend that the natural consequences of his sick, illegal and disgusting behavior was going come back and bite him in the rear end??….as it should
You’re pathetic Sheriff…..just goes to show that cronyism is a live and well…..pathetic.
The “Good Ole Boy” network at it’s best. Sure sign that changes need to be made.
YUP!
What else has Ross covered up or lied about to the detriment of others? An investigation of Ross is in order.
Ross clearly was not acting in the victim’s best interests. He was giving a head’s up to his buddy. He should immediately be fired.
Ya think!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?
He is in an elected position. He can only be fired when the people of Penobscot county vote him out of office.
My wife was a deputy sheriff in AR for 7 years,there only the coronor could fire the sheriff.I know that every state is different but these two examples are the only way a sheriff can be removed.We been planning on moving back to corinth in March but having second thoughts,not the same state we left 17 years ago may just stay in Maui.
If the sheriff is an elected official, he must be removed by a recall election. If the sheriff is an appointed official, he can be removed by the chief executive of the county
The vote the bum out.
Living in AR and / or Maui … thinking of moving to Corinth ??????? Lived there most of my life … stay in Maui :)
I agree, nothing to come back to here.
Maine, and Bangor in particular, is being overrun by sex offenders, who are sent them by other states because they can get instant free aid (food and housing). We fled Maine for that reason, and because they taxed us right out of the state. I don’t recommend moving there.
My wife was a deputy sheriff in AR for 7 years,there only the coronor could fire the sheriff.I know that every state is different but these two examples are the only way a sheriff can be removed.We been planning on moving back to corinth in March but having second thoughts,not the same state we left 17 years ago may just stay in Maui.
**********************************************************
Should you be interested in giving Waldo County a try, I’d be more than happy to swap houses with you. It IS warm right now in Hawai’i…right? Please…please tell me it is, even if it isn’t. :-)
Well dont what to ruin your day but its in the 80s during the day,and 69 at night.Weve only seen a quarter inch of rain in a year on this side of island (kihei ).Iam in a lease in a condo so i couldnt really do that,only have two months left on it.Have a good day and stay warm Mahalo
Actually the county commissioners can vote to either suspend him or remove him from office. If Ross has violated laws and the people’s trust which he has done. I expect Sheriff Ross will be visiting the County Commissioner’s offices soon, along with getting visits from the State Police, Public Safety Dept. and the AG’s office. The Washington County Sheriff Donnie Smith has called for him to step down from the head of the Maine Sheriff’s Association along as being Sheriff of Penobscot County. Sheriff Smtih has threatened to leave the Sheriff’s association today if Ross doesn’t step down. Mr. Ross cannot continue he is a corrupt man. If he stays he will create more ill will and division amongst people, public officials and Maine law enforcement officials.
Wow Darkcat you and I are in agreement on something. I guess you don’t like “dirty cops” anymore then I do. Good post.
Check your statutes, only the governor of the state can dismiss a sheriff or the people in the next election can vote him out.
Face it Mr. Ross is not going to be Sheriff much longer. A Temporary Sheriff will be coming in soon. The County Commissioners will take emergency action to start the process of suspending him or totally removing him he is no longer qualified and no credibility. They probably if they haven’t already will be meeting with the Maine State Police , the District Attorney and The AG’s office as will Mr. Ross on this issue . This gentleman has interfered with this investigation he will likely be facing prosecution in the future. He already is facing heat from the Washington County Sheriff. Why because Ross is head of the Sheriff’s Association which the Washington County Sheriff says he will leave till Mr. Ross is removed from that organization. He has lost respect from the Law Enforcement Community , Local Officials and the Public over his actions. You can’t have someone representing the public if he is going to help people who he is friends that are being investigated it shows favortism, corruption and just STINKS!!!. I expect it won’t be long before he is gone from office. He is going on the local news Ch. 2 and 5 tonight trying to justify what he did.
He should resign.
You cannot blame Ross…Carlson had most of Bangor buffaloed!
You’re right, he did. But once Ross found out about the investigation he told the state police that he would keep it quiet, and he didn’t. The trust is gone between those two law enforcement entities. Is that good for the safety of the citizens of this state? I think not.
Ross lacked honesty, professional and integrity in his actions regarding Carlson. It was Ross’ job to keep his mouth shut as he promised Detective Gardener. He went behind the back of the Maine State Police which has had a negative impact on the investigation and the two departments relationship.
Yes, we can blame Ross. Instead of following proper protocol, he picked up the phone to tell his buddy he was being investigated. He should immediately be removed from office. He does not deserve to wear that badge.
Perhaps the pedophile brotherhood ?
The fact is that it is truly more widespread than most of us know !
WHY does BDN STILL refer to this cheat as “Reverend?”
And “Bob”, like “Good old BOB” or “What a nice guy that BOB was”.
If some man commits a crime, they are no longer “Mr.”?
“Reverend” means “good” or “honorable.” It is entirely different from “mister.”
He wasn”t even a Reverend. His credentials were made up. He was a pervert and a creepy liar. Ross was wrong in so many ways to alert Carlson of the probe into his activities. The SP might have had enough evidence to arrest Carlson within a week if not for Ross.
The word
“revere”, from which the title reverend comes from means “regard or
treat with deep respect”. Synonyms include: veneration, esteem, honor,
esteem”
Hardly applies to this fraud who called himself “Reverend”!
I see your point. I haven’t met any ministers that I would ‘revere’. They are all people, just like us. Seems like a strange ego trip to be on..”Reverend”. Pretty silly when you think about it.
Sounds like Ross has a plausible reason for his actions, but it still smells a bit. I wonder what the county attorney would have recommended he do…
Ok. I am pro, pro, pro law enforcement but Sheriff…you are wrong, wrong and WRONG. You opening your mouth to Carlson put his victims in potential danger, allowed him the opportunity to run, allowed him the opportunity to fabricate more lies and allowed him the chance to JUMP…for starters. You have known him for 30 plus years. You must have known how he was going to react. You probably knew more about him then anyone including his “behavior”. Every cop I know knows how to read people better then your average citizen. Officers with 30 plus years are almost never wrong about character if they have any . That is scary. I would like to think your heart was in the right place but I am sorry sir, I don’t.
I am not questioning his heart, I’m questioning his judgement. His judgement in making this decision puts into doubt any future decision that he may make, not to mention his priorities. I’ve always thought that he has been a good sheriff, but if things like this have been going on during his tenure, then it is time for him to step down. He put the needs of a friend ahead of the needs and possible safety of the public. That is not what we need in a sheriff. Thank you for your years of service, Mr. Ross, but it is time to go.
“Every cop I know knows how to read people better then your average citizen. Officers with 30 plus years are almost never wrong about character if they have any .”
You go on believing this nonsense. Law enforcement officers are not any more likely to determine lies from truth than someone outside of law enforcement.
Your comment is really too wrong for a response but I can’t resist. They get paid to arrest people, they have training on how to interview criminals, they have training on how to detect lies, they have experience in body language, and they deal with this stuff everyday. As a percentage, police officers are better at spotting pedophiles then your average citizen period.
My point is that Ross must have seen clues that his good friend had issues. It was obvious to many not that close to him so I would think that a good cop would have seen him coming a mile away. AS sheriff with 33 years is an experienced cop. I don’t buy his justification for the tip to Carlson.
You should read the research. Use the ProQuest database and search for academic articles on detecting lies.
One study found that Secret Service agents were accurate 75 percent of the time in detecting whether a suspect was lying. All other studies have found a success rate in the 50s for percentage.
Although the 75 percent sounds great, it’s not. Any research or experiment that would accept a 75 percent probability of being accurate would be laughed out of even an undergraduate research course.
The ONLY thing law enforcement officers are “better” at is being more convinced that their assessment is accurate. That is actually a dangerous thing, as it leaves law enforcement officer more prone to ignore evidence to the contrary and more prone to coerce false confessions.
You keep researching, you need it.
Particularly sheriffs, most of these ELECTED clowns are useless. Eliminate all sheriffs depts and let the state police do their jobs. It’ll save tax payers a bundle of money.
Remember, Ross is 10% cop. And while that still makes him more qualified for the job than than average person who posts here about law enforcement issues, he is still 90% politician. When you elect someone, you give up professionalism and competence for electablility.
There is no question to me that he was giving Carlson the heads up. I’m not particularly surprised and only mildly disappointed.
Carlson knowing that the State police were coming only gave him only a slight advantage. The average person who commits a crime knows that the cops are going to be looking for them. They are working on their alibi’s from the moment it occurred if not before.
I feel confident that Carlson’s actions in this case, took a twisted, egotistical and power hungry man out of the picture.
While I’m sad for Carlson’s family I would argue that his actions in the end were less painful than enduring the spectacle of watching him lawyer up and more than likely beat any charges against him. A lawyer who would take this case wouldn’t care about truth or justice, just making some money and keeping Carlson out of jail.
IF that had been the case, Carlson would have either had the charges dropped or he would have been found not guilty which would have meant that all the jobs and positions that he held in the community would have had to keep him. Allowing a dark cloud to hang over him and the community.
You make some points I think we all understand but I think you bring way too much speculation into what probably would happen which you describe as best case scenario for the pervert. I wont argue that it wouldn’t have unfolded exactly as you describe but I sure would like to have seen justice done and this pig sitting in jail. That’s just me.
Oh yes, don’t get me wrong. That portion of the comment is pure speculation and opinion based on my experiences. I certainly don’t think I’m a fortune teller.
My purpose of sharing my thoughts on this case was to drive home the fact that I didn’t think Ross telling Carlson of the investigation was meaningful in any serious way. While I think Ross should have kept his mouth shut, I think it served a more useful purpose in the long run.
Nothing will come of this. The Blue Code of Silence trumps all.
If THIS is swept under the “cruiser”, then we know that the Blue Code of Silence does exist. I don’t think that this will just go away. This is not something that the public will look too kindly upon, nor will the public be quiet about it. If you lose faith in the integrity of those entrusted to enforce the law, then the whole justice system becomes a joke. He must be held accountable in order for the Sheriff’s department to maintain any credibility with the courts, the state police, and the citizenry. I doubt that the vast majority of police officers in this state would have made the same decision that Ross made, at least I hope not.
I believe that Ross has been a good sheriff and had a significant lapse in judgment when he told his good buddy that he was being investigated. That lapse, however, was a very serious one and he needs to be held accountable for what he did.
Don’t be so sure about that. I would imagine that many people, including many policemen, saw through Carlson’s facade of good works and recognized him for the arrogant man that he was. It still amazes me that so many people were taken in by his “good works,” not seeing that he was self-serving. This sociopathic man had such an enormous sense of entitlement that he was outraged when anyone called him on it, as people generally cowtowed to his “majesty.”
A friend and I were having dinner at the Governor’s Restaurant one evening a number of years ago. Bob and a friend were sitting several tables away from us, and Bob made a call on his cell phone. He talked so loudly that everyone in the place could hear his conversation. He had a big smile on his face as he talked, his expression saying, “Look at me, everyone, see how important I am…” I was so disgusted with his behavior, which was intrusive to others, ill-mannered and that of an exhibitionist. How could anyone who had ever seen/heard him do this think that he was such a wonderful person?
Good story, I agree …. Anyone with any sense should have seen right through this guy. It only proves what a loser the sheriff is.
and I am sure he left the server a big tip…. $1 and a prayer card.
Seems that your “Blue Code of Silence” hasn’t worked all that well so far.
There is no Blue Wall here, Ross is not a COP.. He is an Elected Official…. He is a Politician, plain and simple! Carlson was one of his campaign people and for some reason Ross felt like he owed Carlson. There is probably more to what Ross knows than he claims.
Wow. Just wow.
BDN stop calling him a Rev. Just call him a phony, or a coward.
Penn Statie
Glenn Ross?
sound like the sheriff was trying to protect the Rev and give him a heads up about what was going to happen. nothing like The Good Old Boys Club sticking up for one another
Another BDN infomercial for law enforcement.
LOL I love how they co-enable each other.
I hope this story provides you with the incentive to create a volunteer civilian review police board
I suppose tomorrow’s paper will have another horror story.
Don’t expect the moonbats over at the County Commissioners Office
to do anything. The Augusta AG’s office , well just the image
says it all.
Glenn Ross committed at least one crime.
1.
His actions caused Carlson to commit suicide.
Example Indiana Code 35-42-1-2 (http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar42/ch1.html#IC35-42-1-2)
IC 35-42-1-2
Causing suicide
Sec. 2. A person who intentionally causes another human being, by
force, duress, or deception, to commit suicide commits causing suicide, a
Class B felony.
2.
Boston FBI agent John Connolly was sentenced to prison when he informed
Whitey Bulger he was under investigation and might be arrested.
see
http://bostonherald.com/news/columnists/view/2011_0327g-men_following_zip_code_old_agents_rally_round_corrupt_murderous_ex-colleague_connolly
3.
Both Ross and Carlson knew if Carlson was convicted of pedophilia
it would be a death sentence.
A cop in prison serving a sentence for pedophilia?
4.
Other Bangor police may have been involved with the pedophilia
including Ross. Did Ross try to destroy criminal evidence by causing Carlson to commit suicide?
5. just scratching this BDN scratch and sniff story
6. read the Franklin Coverup by attorney John DeCamp to view how law enforcement covers up pedophilia committed by law enforcement.
http://educate-yourself.org/cn/franklincoverupexcerpt.shtml
Don’t leave out obstruction of justice.
In response to your comment #3: Carlson was NEVER a member of the police force, so he was not a cop. He just did what he always did – pretended to be something that he wasn’t and always got away with it. If anyone doubts that this guy was not an egomaniac, just remember he always sought publicity for what he did and always tried to get into every photo that he could. There were times when he, acting without permission, put even the police in jeopardy.
” Deputy Attorney General William Stokes said Wednesday that police
officers tell suspects all the time that they are under investigation or
that the department has received a complaint against them.”
Glenn Ross was honest when he disclosed that information. If he was breaking the law or thought he was transgressing any ethical lines, he never would have said anything about it, and no-one would ever had known.
Many of the inmates at the PCJ are MI or MR, and can easily be exploited, so Ross did the right thing by not allowing him access. If he hadn’t, people would be screaming about how he let a suspected pedophile have access to them, because they were friends.
Once again, Ross was in a “damned if you do and damned if you don’t” situation. Either way I’m betting he won’t run for reelection again. It’s a thankless job. And watch how his ‘controllers’ in the Penobscot County offices and Bangor City Hall distance themselves from him now. Small town politics as usual.
Ross is a good sheriff..what he did was not out of the ordinary. He just gave a heads up to a person he had faith in. So did 90% of Bangor have the same faith and some still do not believe it and its right out there. It just goes to show how one very deceitful man was able to pull the wool over many peoples eyes. Ross does not stand alone~
I have been largely supportive of Sheriff Ross over the years. But his actions in this situation are very disturbing. If he truly wanted to protect the adults in his jail, all he had to do was tell Carlson that he (Ross) was aware of some complaints about Carlson’s behavior and until such time that the complaints were investigated, Carlson would not be able to visit at the jail. End of story. Giving Carlson more information than necessary could have led to something more tragic than Carlson’s death. How would Ross have felt if Carlson had taken out someone with him like the victim or the victim’s family?
The best example of ‘walking the line’ I’ve seen here to date. Adam is 100 % correct in this example of Ross telling Carlson that were allegations and then just leaving it there. This one is a no-brainer and Ross should have figured it out long before it got to this point. I know a lot of Federal Official’s that suffer from the same lapse’s of judgement, and that’s about as polite as you can call it, that have led to the same outome or worse. What’s worse from a professional standpoint is that this is going to lead to any number of investigation’s now being compromised in court and victim’s be victimized all over again. Thanks Ross. You just made the entire law enforcement community’s job almost impossible. Courtesy of your giant lapse in judgement, no victim is ever going to be able to trust the PBSO for the foreseeable future. And given that victim’s lump all cop’s into the same catagory, that means every Sheriff’s Office, every State Police Barracks, every city and town’s police dept. is now going to have to work that much harder to get the victim’s to talk to us. Do us all a favor and just resign now, quietly. Oh, and as an aside, where was the Chief Deputy in all of this ?
Agreed. Lapses of judgement are usually short periods of time, sometimes even hurried actions before all facts can be assembled and proper due diligence done before making decisions. A 33 lapse of judgement isn’t a lapse of judgement. There are many other names for it. Pick one.
The chief deputy is appointed by the sheriff. So if there is a coverup in any investigation Morton is most likely aware of it. Looks like we need to clean house.
I don’t know if you know Morton but he is a man of integrity. I wouldn’t throw him under the bus. We have no evidence he did anything unethical. Troy is a good cop that has been working for a bad boss.
NOVEMBER 12th at NOON was the day he talked to Mr Carlson as stated above. WELL, he was NOT the last person to see Bob alive… he officiated a wedding that day at 5:00 in Hermon. I was there and even spoke to Mr. Carlson a couple of times. The wedding party, family & friends all saw him before he went off and selfishly killed himself…not even thinking how he might have hurt the bride & groom with having them associate his suicide with what was supposed to be the best day of their lives!!
The paper is referring to the man Carlson is accused of abusing when the man was a child. Carlson met with him after midnight the morning Carlson killed himself.
Sorry that the bride and groom will have this to remember their wedding day by. Hope they have a long and happy marriage in spite of this mess. Good luck to them.
Anyone who’s seen me post on here know’s I’m pro law enforcement but when stories like this come out it affects how all law enforcement officials are looked at through the public’s eyes and justifiably so!! Right or wrong in the eyes of our justice system, what he did was morally wrong in my estimation. Because he’s the Sheriff, why did he not contact the investigators or the AG’s office to ask what his moral and legal obligations were in regards to the inmates? As far as I’m concerned he put his relationship with the suspect ahead of his duties as an official for the county and I’ve lost all respect for the man. This situation, thankfully, only resulted in the loss of life of one person but because of the Sheriffs actions the (alleged) victim will get no closure and the citizens at large were put at risk. Unacceptable.
Carlson jumped……Ross stumbled, lied, then fell. Ross interfered in an ongoing investigation…the article does not mention a simple timeline of what happened after Ross told Carson….wasn’t Carson’ s next move to go see the victim? Ross’s decision was wrong. His rationalization is weaker than the strong currents of the Penobscot river.
who told ross and why?? the sheriff should not have known seems State Police compromised the investigation as well
There needs to be a full investigation into the Sheriff’s Department. Bob was there for a LONG time. I find it very difficult to believe that someone who knew Bob for this long did not have some inkling as to his lifestyle. Also, obviously the Sherriff’s department did not check Bob’s references prior to his employment. I guess the collar was all he needed. Bob also had the blue lights in the grill of his vehicle, which were used often, and often times not for law enforcement purposes.
he had blue lights? really? CREEPY
pss poor judgment
pss worse than that.
Who really cares? The Sheriff saved the state a lot of money and the people he abused a lot of grief, they should have closure now. Thanks Sheriff.
The point is Carlson should have paid for what he did. Throw him in jail with those he probably sent there with his holier than thou smirk on his face. They were entitled to see justice too. So was his Victim. He was instead given a chance to do things his own way once again.
….
Ross. Here is where your justification is morally wrong. If I am a cop and another cop basically tells me my friend is being investigated for child sex abuse guess what…our friendship is on hold and that “friend” would never get a call. If the investigation proves he is innocent and I believe that to be true our friendship might survive. You crossed the line pal and you should be ashamed. We are a nation of forgiveness but not until one admits their fault.
Some friendly advice, get a good lawyer you might need it.
But does your friend have 24/7 access to your house without permission from anyone?
Some do, I trust my friends and have for over 40 years and have never been burned by a friend. One even has a key to check on things when I am away on business which is often but that access would be pulled the day I learn she is being investigated for a felony.
I do feel bad for all of Ross officers. I am sure they are disgusted as the rest of the public.
Hang in there guys, it only gets better from here.
When I was active duty military many moons ago, one of the guys in our unit, a friend, committed a gross sexual act and we didn’t try to tip him off. We made sure he paid and he did, legally.
When an ethical dilemma arises, most professionals I know no matter what profession they are involved in discuss decisions that may be questionable with a peer prior to taking action. When one becomes their own “gatekeeper” where ethical concerns are involved, the wrong decision is usually made. This however is not only an ethical issue. A criminal investigation was compromised. Sheriff Ross should be placed on administrative leave and any case he has been involved in should be reviewed. He has violated the public trust by placing himself and Carlson above the law.
“Amazing Grace” was playing on the radio, the Bucksport man told Waldo County investigators.
A neatly folded clerical robe was found in the back seat of Carlson’s car, the report says. How touching! A charlatan to the end.
Our government is CORRUPT!
Ross is WRONG. Not because he made a mistake, but because he is trying to justify his mistake. All he had to do is tell the pedophile there is an investigation going on and I can not allow you into the jail until it is over. He did not have to give him any reason. How many times do we hear from law inforcement that no information can be shared until the investigation is over.
If I am a family member of Carlson then I would consider a wrongful death suit because the actions of Ross, which were totally unnecessary(to tell him the specifics of the investigation) contributed to Carlson’s death.
If the State’s investigation had been allowed to play out, perhaps they arrest the pervert and he is unable to jump before he receives help from those that care about him. For Ross to say he would have died anyway is an excuse by a weak man that should not be in the position he is in.
Carlsen could have taken the information that Ross gave him and retaliated against the victim and the victim’s family, then jumped off the bridge. He also could have taken the information, realized he is about to be arrested and abused another child. We can play the guessing game all day long. Bottom line is he never should have known about the investigation until the State police wanted him to know about it.
I’m not defending Ross at all, but the thought that Carlson actually might be guilty probably never even crossed his mind. They were co-workers and friends for 33 years. Gaining people’s implicit trust is what con men do.
It doesn’t matter, this was not Ross’s Department’s investigation. Carlson was under investigation by the State Police. Guilt or Innocence doesn’t matter, it is the VOW Ross took when elected as Sheriff to uphold the law and protect the citizens of Hancock County. The State Police were being courteous by sharing the information with Ross, and thanks to him they may not be as courteous to other agencies when conducting investigations.
Sheriff of Hancock County???
I’m pretty sure it’s Penobscot. If fact, I saw him outside the BangorPost Office inthe patrol car just this AM.
** Penobscot County… sorry
wonder what caused ross to disclose this now.
resignation soon to follow?
It says in the article. He didn’t disclose it now…the BDN got a copy of the Waldo County Sheriff’s report.
Ross covered up his roll in this. BDN disclosed this and finally did their job. Should be more to follow.
The BDN has done an outstanding job covering this story. The court of public opinion is how this pig is going to have to be tried and the BDN has really been huge advocates.
There have been times in the past when cases like this were swept under the rug. Cases where some were tipped off giving them enough time to off themselves before their families and those close to them were burdened with shame. Any reporter that has covered stories in the BDN for more than 20 years about prominant Bangor businessmen or civic leaders that committed suicide know who I mean. Right?
I am very pleased to see the reporters following through on this. Really BDN, you have done a great job. Now keep digging.
Please state your name for the court. Do you swear to tell the truth, and nothing but the truth so help you god?
“Amazing Grace” was playing on the radio, the Bucksport man told Waldo County investigators.
“Highway to Hell” would have been more appropriate
roflmbo
I like your sense of humor!
does the sherriff show such courtesy to all alledged pedophiles?
This should be looked into…don’t ya think????
The worst case of cop misjudgement ever witnessed by myself. For Ross this was typical, some other decisions he has made over the years were totally questionable, but less important than this one. If you are a friend of ross then you get to get a pass, if an ordinary citizen then you get voted out on any decision. carlson was a creep, that was known for years. ross’s chief deputy is right in there with him believe me. Other tip offs?? Check for the sheriff of Waldo County as another person who would have conducted himself questionably, but in order to get ross and it was he who was in charge of the investigation at the drowning, no one will ever convince me that waldo county sheriff would stay out of that one, too much good media.
There have been many cases brought in front of the criminal justice board of directors that have resulted in loss of credentials that are of lesser importance than the one against ross, lets see how this all comes out Politically!
Whitey Bulger’s FBI handler tipped him off that an arrest warrant had been issued, sending him into hiding for 16 years. To me, similar stories and in both cases it was wrong to tip them off.
Maybe instead of the bath salt commercials the penobscot sherriff office can do some with the themes:
” Pedophiles are our friends”
” We take care of our friends”
BDN: Will you PLEASE STOP calling this man ‘Reverend’. The word “revere”, from which the title reverend comes from means “regard or treat with deep respect”. Synonyms include: veneration, esteem, honor “.
Hardly applies to this fraud who called himself “Reverend”!
People are surprised by what ross did? People are surprised by what carlson the creep did?
Has anyone looked at the waldo county sheriff, he was the one who was in charge of the drowning suicide (too good media to pass that one up) not as is being stated that waldo county detectives are in charge! Many lesser things have occurred to have police credentials pulled than what ross and his chief deputy pulled. Let us wait and see what political shenanigans are used to get ross and company out of this one!
Isn’t it nice when law enforcement officials tip off their friends about pending investigations so that said friends will have time to go home and destroy evidence? I think any officer of the law who does this should be charged with interfering in an investigation.
Phew, what anger, cynicalness in these comments. Is this what we have become? :) Has no one any sympathy for Sheriff Ross, his other friends, family and those whom were helped over the years? Hopefully this investigation will be finished soon and the FULL results published. My condolences to all who have been effected by this situation.
Once again, prior behavior is no defense. Ross, unfortunately, is a classic example of the web perpetrators spin to cover their acts, and how he was so caught up in the entrapment part of the web that was craftily spun for many years by Carlson. He, too, was a victim of abuse of power…to the extent Ross felt some sort of ‘obligation’ to this ‘friend’ to the extent he, too, may have crossed some ethical professional boundaries/rules. Tragic for him. Carlson’s ‘befriending’ was a subtle and insidious maneuver that many fell for because his ulterior motive was not to be a friend, but to satisfy a need to power-over in a most egregious and destructive way.
Jezz as it turns out nothing about this guy was true. His entire life turned out to be a fabrication, making him a lair, pedophile and in the end a coward. A tragic example of cause and effect. Truly sad for those who believed in him.
Ross told Carlson he was under investigation, since Carlson went to see the accuser, did Ross tell him who the accuser was, which could be a problem, or did Carlson already know who the accuser was because he was guilty? If Ross told him who the accuser was then he put the accuser in potential danger.
Good point!
Excellent point!! That is a question that needs to be answered by Ross.
Try this:
Had Carlson gone on the lam after being tipped off by his ‘friend’, instead of doing the dutch, what then would we say of Ross’ actions?
Timeline: Ross tells Carlson. Carlson meets with (alleged) victim. Carlson commits suicide.
But for Ross’ actions, Carlson would not have known about the investigation and thus not jumped from a bridge. Perhaps he might have sometime in the future, but that’s utterly irrelevant. Indeed, the “Duress,” mentioned in the ‘murder by suicide’ statute points straight at Ross.
I understand the mens rea argument — that Ross did not intend for his actions to cause Carlson’s suicide — so he’ll get to skate on that, but he absolutely needs to be brought up short for it.
You have completely misconstrued another state’s suicide statute. “Duress” means that the accused has engaged in conduct that drives a person to commit suicide. That would be bullying and other such behaviors.
What’s your angle here?
Thanks Ryan. A review of the comments section indicates that you fancy yourself as learned in the law. That can be good and bad.
I’m quite familiar with Maine’s murder statute. Indeed, I have more than a passing knowledge of the 3 cases of murder by suicide cases in the history of Maine jurisprudence: The so-called, “Cheat the Hangman,” case from 1823-ish, and more recently, State v. Roger Smith/Randy Tenggren..
The fellow in the hangman case — a very interesting story — was apparently executed. The record’s unclear. Roger was sentenced to 80 years and Randy received what they used to call a directed verdict of acquittal.
Tom Connolly’s close in the Tenggren trial was Darrow-esque..
There may have been others since Smith/Tenggren, but I haven’t paid attention
I don’t believe I was unclear when I stated that the genesis of the duress Carlson might have felt can be directly attributed to Ross’ interference.. I did not say he should be charged with murder..
One more thing Ryan: The example commonly held forth re: duress, when it comes to murder by suicide is not, “Bullying.” That’s much too subjective. What professionals use is the scenario of a parent given the choice of killing themselves or having their child murdered in front of them.
I’m surprised you don’t know that..
If you or I were privy to an investigation,and were told by any police agency NOT to say anything,and you did,you and I would most definately be charge with a crime,hindering an investigation.As much as I want to respect police for all they do,this is just the latest example of two sets of laws and rights,with cops having their own and above ours!
No, you wouldn’t be charged with a crime. See MRSA Title 17-A, Sect. 753.
….. Carlson was suspected withing inner law enforcement circles of being a pedophile for decades, so then it is with a high degree of certainty that his “very good friend” Ross knew this many years ago and probably has been running cover for Carlson for a long time…what if Carlson had decided to employ his law enforcement contacts and techniques to find and kill the witness…..or just freak out on some totally innocent and unconnected persons….or jumped to some leap of logic and decide to eliminate anyone who he assumed could implicate him…..this sheriff is more than a joke…..he is dangerous….
Mr. Ross, I have been asked why the victim didn’t come forward as he got older. Why didn’t family members say anything? There was not time or place this man was not around. There was no getting away. Family gatherings, holidays, birthdays, funerals, church and believe me it was not his all-encompassing compassion why he was there. He never ever let up on the leash. The influence this man had in the community, in so many circles. His funeral was once again going to be how wonderful he was.
So Mr. Ross, it was noble of you to let your friend know what was going on. It was so good of you to let people believe the victim notified your friend Bob of the investigation. You keep believing how wonderful he was and you keep protecting your friends and family. My question is what about my family. This man destroyed a life, he may have taken his own life, but the victim was never allowed to live his life. They say healing is process. I am angry right now, at myself for being afraid, for not being able to protect someone I love. And you Mr. Ross, you keep your opinion of how wonderful he was until the investigation is over. As if, someone is going to come forward after years of abuse, exploitation, and indoctrination by this man. But thank you Mr. Ross for showing me once again how it works, if you have position, power and influence.
With an action such as this by the Sheriff, it’s no wonder victims are afraid to come forward. Ross showed that justice is not blind. If you have friends in high places you get special treatment. Isn’t that great!!
I dont know why he didnt come forward. He did become a drug addict and I have to assume he carried terrible guilt.
To those who excuse Sheriff Ross’s actions on the grounds that Rev. Carlson’s suicide renders things moot: would you be saying the same thing if, rather than turning his actions upon himself, Rev. Carlson had directed his aggression toward the man who came forward with the accusations? After all, it is well documented within the pages of this newspaper that the two met the night before Rev. Carlson took his own life. If events at this meeting take a drastically different turn, does Sheriff Ross’s admitted leaking of an ongoing police investigation not amount to something very serious? I should think a civilian who did something along these lines would have much explaining to do- why should it be different for an officer of the law?
Very well said. Now let’s see if the the powers that be can use the same thought process. You make a very good point.
I don’t recall any report saying who came forward and reported the allegations?
From the BDN:
“Maine State Police investigators began their investigation on Nov.
10, just three days before Carlson’s death, after receiving an anonymous
letter that said he “sexually abused a young boy several years ago”
while he was pastor at East Orrington Congregational Church. Carlson
came to the church in 1979 and served there for 23 years, according to
the church’s website.
Carlson met with the Bangor man at his residence early on Nov. 13, according to Waldo County Chief Deputy Jeff Trafton.”
The quibble point with my statement would of course relate to who authored the note. Fine- we are likely never to know that in full. My point remains this: if Carlson shows up at this meeting armed with the knowledge that he is being investigated for sexual abuse of a young boy several years ago and then beats this man to death, is there not a massive problem?
….
…..the two conditions are known as psychosis and psychopathy…..
….
Hey, BDN, how about reaction from state police?
This is nothing more or less than an absolute breach of ethics. The sheriff deserves to be fired for compromising an investigation. There is no excuse for this.
Ross is very lucky this didn’t end with the death of the victim as well. We know Carlson saw the victim before he killed himself. What if he had killed the victim to keep him from talking? Children are still being sexually abused every day and it needs to stop and we adults are responsible for protecting children!
Someday maybe the victim will tell us what happened. He probably should have been able to do it through the legal process, depositions, interrogatories, etc..
Has the press released his name yet even though we all know who he is? Very sad for him. This pig destroyed this mans life. I am very sorry for your pain DB.
Sheriff Ross is a good man who did the wrong thing for somewhat the right reasons. I’d say he was one of many who had fallen under the Carlson spell. It sounds like some level of reprimand is called for, unfortunately.
Glen Ross tells the investigator that he will keep quite and then turns around and meets with the suspect and tells him of the investigsation. That sounds like hindering a police investigation to me. And now the victim and his family have no closure because the police could not question the suspect because of Glen Ross. Where is the integrity from our elected official in any of this?? I wonder what would happen if one of his officers told a suspect of an ongoing investigation and then that suspect alluded questioning what would happen to that officer. I think the sheriff should step down before he discredits his position anymore. But then what happens? Troy Morton? He is the sheriffs prodigy. Talk about a coverup for messing up an ongoing police investigation. Flush the toilet and start over.
See MRSA Title 17-A, Sect. 753 and Sect. 754.
The point is that Ross potentially breaking the law and tipping pervert off could have unfolded an entirely destructive different outcome. I agree this outcome doesn’t hurt many feelings but this sin’t the way a law enforcement professional should act.
Did Ross do anything wrong? Lets assume that Carlson gets tipped off by Ross which he did, then instead of jumping off a bridge he goes out and takes out all those on his “list” before he jumps. C’mon, we have all read it or seen it happen. Would we find Ross accountable then? Think about it. Would we?
Ross actions were the same in both scenarios but the perp would have choose a different path, that’s all. This is the type of domestic nightmare we read about too often because people do stupid stuff. Ross, this was stupid.
Hmmmmm…Gotta wonder who else Ross shares investigative information with. I can remember at least one drug bust (that made the paper) where the cops showed up only to find all the evidence destroyed in a still smoldering bonfire in the perp’s back yard.
Any wonder why the drug trade seems to flourish in the area?
Coverup and corruption – pick a badge number.
Glenn Ross lied to Detective Gardener that he would keep the investigation “quiet” and turned around and told Carlson. Now, he is lying about why he told Carlson; look at his contradictions in his comments in this article. How could his department be allowed to investigate Carlson’s death with his hands on the report? Conflict of interest. I suggest another department conduct a new investigation into his death for accuracy with all the facts. What a farce.
The Penobscot County Sheriff’s Department is not involved in any investigation regarding Carlson.
I know that now…..having another law enforcement agency such as the Maine State Police investigate would be more objective. Let’s get to the bottom of how our law enforcement works. People are fed up this bull on all levels….all the way to Washington D. C..
Course Not! The last investigation they were supposed to do on him was a background check. They sure screwed that one up didn’t they!!
because of sheriff Ross’s action he gave bob Carlson the ability to tamper with the victim and allowed Mr Carlson to take his life before arrest and conviction.In doing so robbed other victims of Mr Carlson their ability for compensation. Mr Carlson is now innocent of any and all charges that may have been levied on him as he cannot now face his accusers in a court of law and prove his innocence. sheriff ross should be thrown out of office on his ear for this highly unethical and selfish act
One has to wonder how Carlson would have reacted had it been the state police and not his friend Ross who told him about the investigation. He may or may not have taken his own life but now we’ll never know. It’s a shame that he never had to answer for what he did.
I think there is a strong possibility that Carlson already knew he was being investigated. Ross had to suspend his jail access privileges. Doing that without an explanation would probably have led to the same outcome.
oh please……
The state police would not ask Ross to forego taking such action unless they thought it would help them make a case. That would require careful surveillance and monitoring of Carlson. It’s not that type of case. Ross would be in more trouble if he had done nothing and let Carlson continue to have full access to the jail.Anyway, I don’t see how he could tell Carlson his privileges are revoked without tipping him off that he’s the focus of an investigation. I don’t think it would have taken Carlson long to confirm it. Apparently the victim already knew that state police investigators were contacting family members.
Sheriff Ross has shown compassion for his friend Carlson, he put his job on the line by telling his friend of the investigation, he knew what he was doing. He has been in this business long enough, maybe he has done this before? The victum of the sexual abuse has reportedly struggled with illicit drug addiction and may still have a problem. If the sheriff catches this victum with illicit drugs he would no doubt arrest him as he has shown himself to be a drug warrior of the Drug War. How many victums has be put in jail on drug charges without compassion for how the people got there. Cast bread upon the waters, you get what you give. Being discompassionate for thousands of people and then showing such compassion and brotherhood with Carlson makes me suspect of you Mister Ross. I think your arse is in a sling. I will pray for you because you are most in need of Thy mercy.
I believe it is a class b felony ,to let someone know they are being investigated and if they commit suicide , Time for Ross to be investigated and charged………..
Why don’t you cite the law rather than guess?
Are you a lawyer? Are you Glenn’s good friend…..if so lucky for you!?
I think this is a disgrace and ross has let down not only those who elected him but also all of those in law enforcement. And to think that ross is also the President of the Maine Sheriff Association. What a shame. http://www.mainesheriffs.org
Wow, I guess if you are a big part of the community you get away with child molestation….because if I was a victim now I would sure as hell think twice about the cops I turn to. If you have a friend in the right place you could even get a heads up so you can plan ahead about what you are going to do…maybe even harm your accuser or make a threat to back down. This is the wrong that was done here…way to go Glen Ross, hope you never investigate any claim that someone I care about might make.
Now that I think about it, you never know, maybe Carlson did have other victims come forward over the years. With friends like this you can have free rein on making sure nothing ever gets to light.
He should not have spoken with Carlson – he would not have given me a heads up or anyone else for that matter.
Obviously, Carlson must have been very distraught after talking to Ross for Ross to say Carlson would have died after talking to state police in a week? It sounds to me that Ross might have known that Carlson could be suicidal. If they were such good friends,then maybe Ross should have done more to help his friend. And really??? How often did Carlson go to the jail and is it really possible to commit acts against inmates? Ross is definitely trying to cover his butt saying he did nothing wrong. Time to step down.
I believe it is a felony to let some one know they are being investigated and if they kill them self.so Glen Ross should be charged with interfering with a investigation…..
ross should be charged for his role in keepin it quit seems he did not do that
Charged with what?
How about lying when he took an oath to protect the people? He really didn’t even protect ol’Bob now did he!?
Ross was made aware of an active investigation on one of his friends. He then met with his friend to tell him of the investigation. How many other victims are out there that Carlson may have abused and the victims reported it to the sheriff office for help and Ross covered it up to help his friend?
If you know a cop, you have a chance of getting away with anything.
Apparently there are cops in Maine who cover up for the molesters as best they can.
Ross should resign! Would he show you or I such favor?
….
Many people in law enforcment truly believe that they have the right to do anything they wish. He is guilty (at the very least) of hindering enforcement. He could also be charged with assisting flight from apprehension.
Hindering “enforcement” isn’t a crime. Hindering “apprehension or prosecution” is. But the statute doesn’t apply.
A person is guilty of hindering apprehension or prosecution if the person conceals or harbors the suspect (not applicable), provides a weapon, “transportation, disguise or other means of avoiding discovery or apprehension” (not applicable), “conceals, alters or destroys any physical evidence that might aid in the
discovery, apprehension or conviction of the other person” (not applicable), “Warns the other person of impending discovery or apprehension, except that this
paragraph does not apply to a warning given in connection with an effort to
bring another person into compliance with the law” (not applicable, as Ross was not aware of any pending arrest or discovery), “obstructs by force, intimidation or deception anyone from performing an act that
might aid in the discovery, apprehension, prosecution or conviction of the other
person” (not applicable), or “aids the other person to safeguard the proceeds of or to profit from such crime” (not applicable).
That’s from MRSA Title 17-A, Sect. 753.
Ryan, please see my post, one of the elements of the crime is that Ross knew that it was likely Carlson would be charged with a crime. I believe Gardner gave Ross enough confidential information on the case for Ross, as a lifelong cop, to realize that Carlson was “libel” for some type of sexual abuse charge. Thank you for at least referring to the law, many others do not. Though the charges would be tough to successfully prosecute an indictment for the charge would be a “no brainer”. Trust me, if this were just a standard issue deputy and not the Sheriff, they would be in hot water.
“One of the elements of the crime is that Ross knew that it was likely Carlson would be charged with a crime.”
That is not one of the elements. Besides, Ross had no idea what the investigation would uncover.
Either way Ryan we will never know what Ross knew or didn’t knew at that time or otherwise. It appears Ross has revised his statement once again in the most recent article about the Maine Sheriff’s Association examination of the matter. Regardless there was and still is enough information to pursue a criminal investigation into the matter. I would ask, would you be so quick to defend a deputy who committed the same act???? I doubt it. People in Maine seem to be consumed by titles and perceived community stature, such as Sheriff Ross, or Rev. Carlson. That is the very same human flaw that Carlson used for years to run his sham. Easy to see how Carlson was successfull, people just aren’t that bright. At the very least Ross should be investigated, even if no charges are filed.
If this happened to anyone outside of LE , that person would be charged with interference of an Investagation.
Nope. See the law.
Sheriff did nothing wrong, period! his good friend is dead only hours after he gave him the bad news, the Sheriff made a comment at the scene, it was a cursory discussion which was added to the case. it is obvious this was not an investigation as it was on the bridge when they gathered around the cars, if this was actually an interview, it would have been at the station.
and lets not forget, the Sheriff also got a letter and there is no law or obligation for citizens to “shut up” so Sheriff Ross could say whatever he felt was important for his County, employees, citizens, he is not subject to State Police authority.
You people forget, he is the Sheriff, he received a letter, he spoke with State Police as the Head of his agency, he can than chose to do what he wants, he could conduct his own investigation but probably because of his policy he asked State Police to do it.
Telling someone they are being investigated is done all the time, if they want to run, fine, its an investigation, not a conviction.
After reading this steaming cauldron of acidity toward Sheriff Ross, I expect to get scalded for what I’m about to say.
Learning that your best buddy of 35 years is being investigated on alleged charges of sexual abuse of a minor, must have been a complete shock for Sheriff Ross. So what would anyone do? Should Sheriff Ross have pretended he knew nothing and permit Rev. Carlson to continue freely enter the jail? Would anyone, other than the sheriff, allow a friend of 35 years to be kept in the dark without telling him that police were investigating him?
What would have been the outcry, if he had permitted this, and Rev. Carlson was later arrested and the public learned that although Sheriff Ross knew of the current investigation, he had still allowed Rev. Carlson to enter the jail.
When the sheriff blocked entry, he had to explain why. Here’s a friend suddenly blocking your entry onto county property to which you’ve always had free access. Rev Carlson must have wanted an explanation.
It is easy to condemn Sheriff Ross for his actions. It is hard to decide what you would do if you found yourself in the same position as the sheriff.
Everyone finds themselves in a back against the wall situation in life. How you handle it requires quick thinking. As a public servant, should friendship overrule cold decisions of the office you hold?
This is what Sheriff Ross had to decide. He chose to honor the bond of friendship. It was gutsy move. But true friendship is not easily shoved aside one day, because one friend is in trouble. Sheriff Ross knew that by putting friendship first he would be censured unmercifully and that the stigma of public judgement would ultimately affect the rest of his life. Nonetheless, he did what he did not thinking of his own future.
Ross is an extremely good man! his integrity is solid.
ok keep deluding yourself
Ross is retiring anyway, so if you are just trying to gun for his resignation, give it a rest, he is only serving because he is trying to do good things for the area. If you knew Ross you would be very proud on his position on issues and how he stands up for less fortunate people and respects the individual peoples constitutional rights.
Not soon enough. An investigation was hampered and a man dead.
WOW….
Maybe a better headline would be Penobscot County Sheriff Glenn ROSS lies to State Police Detective over life long friend.
I think Sheriff Ross should resign. Sure he can’t be fired which he should be if he could be as it is an elected position but hopefully the voters will remember this.
Ross…if one of your employees had been the one to let a “friend” know that the cops were investigating them for pedophelia would you just let it go?
Does anyone know if he was actually in the Air Force?
Does anyone know if he really was ever in the Air Force?
For all of you reading this article please refer to Title 17-A S 735, Hindering Apprehension, I’ve cut and pasted the portion that is relevant.
“1-B. A person is guilty of hindering apprehension or
prosecution if, with the intent to hinder, prevent or delay the discovery,
apprehension, prosecution, conviction or punishment of another person for the
commission of a crime, the person:
D. Warns the other
person of impending discovery or apprehension, except that this paragraph does
not apply to a warning given in connection with an effort to bring another
person into compliance with the law, and:
(1) The actor knew of
the conduct of the other person that has in fact resulted in the charge of
murder or a Class A crime or that has in fact rendered the other person liable
to such a charge. Violation of this subparagraph is a Class B crime”
Ross knew the State
Police were looking into allegations of a serious crime, one that would in all
likelihood lead to a charge of Gross Sexual Assault, Class A. Contrary to
Stokes response; it is true that cops notify suspects they are under
investigation, when they are interviewing the suspect!!!!!!! It is not proper
police procedure to give a “buddy” a heads up; doing so could place
the victim at risk and compromise the case. I’m not sure Stokes would be as
“understanding” if this were a homicide and a police officer
contacted his “buddy” to give him a heads up the police were looking
at him as a suspect.
They will never
charge Ross but the Maine Criminal Justice Academy could easily revoke his law
enforcement certificate for the conduct. They do not need a criminal charge to
do so but I think all of us realize they will take no action because Ross is
the Sheriff. If it were one of his deputies who did the same thing Ross himself
would ask that the Maine Criminal Justice Academy take action and revoke that deputy’s
certification.
Finally, would all of
you, including the BDN, stop referring to Bob Carlson as Rev. Carlson? It is
obvious he was a fraud and lied about his credentials from the very beginning
as evidenced by the reporting of the BDN.
Do not continue to
tarnish those in the ministry who truly believe in what they are doing and
don’t commit crimes on children.
There are two things which have a bearing on this
1) Bob Carlson was a member of the Jail’s “Board of Visitors” and basically had 24/7 access to the jail. According to the article, Ross wanted to limit his access to the jail. So how does one do that?
2) I believe (and I am not 100% positive of this) a previous article made reference to a 15 year statue of limitation that was in place in the 1970’s on cases like this. If that is the case, the ability to file charges and prosecute the case expired in 1994 (using 1979 as the last possible year in the ’70’s). Now do not interprete this as a defense of Bob Carlson because it isn’t. What he is alleged to have done is the heinous crimes knows to man.
jd2008jd, you bring up some valid points,
1) You are right; Carlson was a member of the Jail’s “Board of Visitors”. Ross as Sheriff could have suspended Carlson’s access without notifying Carlson as to the specifics. Ross’ attempt to use the “jail issue” came long after the death of Carlson. He never mentioned this as his rationale that night on the bridge. He made it clear to the deputies on the bridge he called Carlson to give him a “heads up”. The “jail” rationale came after Ross realized he had placed himself in legal jeopardy. Bottom line, he could have restricted Carlson’s access without giving him a heads up on a criminal investigation. If restricting access was the issue Ross could have provided Carlson an official notice in writing but he didn’t do that and we all know why; Ross knew what he was doing was wrong at the time and didn’t want a written record of it. Ross got caught up with his emotions and did what was political expedient and by doing so jeopardized the investigation and more importantly the safety of the victim.
2) You are correct in that the statute of limitations would have been in play in the initial accusation of gross sexual assault. But as we all know, the investigators were also concerned there may have been other victims. It is very rare that those who abuse young children limit their behavior to one victim and that premise is without question. In fact Carlson did contact the victim upon hearing from Ross that he was under investigation. That is exactly what you don’t want to happen when starting an investigation like this. The investigators wanted to interview the victim first then the suspect. Had the State Police been allowed to interview Carlson they could have advised him he wasn’t to have contact with any alleged victims so as to not intimidate them into changing their statements.
Carlson ended up taking his own life so the issue of other victims appears to be moot. He received a sentence, caused by his own hand that he never would have received had he been found guilty of sexual abuse in the State of Maine. The point I’m making is that had Carlson wanted to inflict harm to the victims he certainly had the opportunity to do so because of Ross advance warning. Thank goodness Carlson realized what he did was wrong and didn’t cause harm to anyone else when he found out his charade was coming to an abrupt end. For that we have to at least give Carlson some credit.
Does anyone know if he was ever actually in the Air Force?
BDN and some readers do not like the truth.
The investigators might ask Ross about an investigation back in the 80’s when the patrol unit was going to pull a search warrant on the (Ross) house in Bradford, don’t beleive of any relationship but very close freinds. Anyway they were tipped off, the call came from the office and was traced there by then Sheriff Richardson, after an internal investigation and Ross asked to take a lie detector and refused. He was not told by any other patrol units of any on going investigation. this is a fact because I was one of the patril units . He has been bad for along time and alot has never come out. But as always you give someone enough rope they will hang themselves..
Otis Labree must be turning in his grave. Tim get ready to run and clean up the mess.
Maybe it is time to rethink who has access to the jail and the inmates……..Hmmmmmmm? Also since when does someone get told they are being investigated, a heads up if you will?????? This whole story makes people look bad for a reason. They are all members of the “we can do no wrong” “good ole boys” club. And yes there is something fishy or slimy about this whole story.
People want and deserve better.
Sounds like Glenn Ross to me.
He has been “asked to resign.” We know how that goes. Full pension and retirement benefits, and all the townspeople continuing to regard him as a “pillar of the community” for the rest of his life. Nice work if you can get it.
Ross was protecting and watching out for his friend and not the victims that his friend abused.
You know….the most poignant posting that stands out since this all started to me is……
“how could you?”…..that’s all it said and not a regular poster on here…..that’s a question
that keeps resonating with this whole tragedy.
The opportunity was presented to Mr. Carlson to take a victim with him. This never should have happened. The sheriff should resign and hope that no charges are brought against him.
Gotta say BALONEY, Ross! Sheriff Ross, if he was truly concerned with the safety of the inmates, should have just issued a directive immediately after being informed by the State Police of the investigation, that said “Per Order of Sheriff Ross, Robert Carlson is hereby restricted from entry into the institution and from any and all direct contact with staff and inmates.”
“Reverend Bob” will continue to be remembered for the many good things he did for so many people. These are the same people who painfully wince when this tawdry incident in his background shattered to some degree their beliefs in him. They’re left with having to swallow the bad with the good. And, the good appears to eclipse the bad for some..
Naturally, not all who came into contact with “Rev Bob” share those feelings. And, certainly not those who have suffered and continue to suffer from what is emerging during the ongoing investigation.
The BDN has now uncovered much of the bogus background of this man. His resume is cluttered with false claims of degrees and attachments to various colleges, even claiming a
fellowship with one organization.
His story is similar in some degree, to that of another man who came to Maine toting a bag of bogus credentials. The same references which had endeared him and earned the trust of many people and organizations across the country, and even Canada.
Although Ferdinand Demara was never charged with illegal sexual activity, when arrested in 1957 on North Haven, he was acting out one his many roles as a teacher. Although he had successfully deceived just anyone into believing who he was, national publicity which proclaimed his success was his doom. Playing teacher was one of the many roles he played during his lifetime which earned him the title of the “Great Imposter.
Demara ignited his colorful career through the creation of legal documents from various respected institutions attesting to his abilities. He had no medical experience. Other than what he read in books, Demara pulled off one of his most notable feats of deception,
when he enlisted and served heroically with the Royal Canadian Navy as a doctor. Capable of absorbing fantastic amounts of knowledge from books, he performed amputations and chest surgery.
In between many of his pursuits he also became “Brother John” at a catholic monastery in Maine. However, his amazing career of deception ended after working as a doctor at a Texas prison. A former prisoner recognized Demera’s cover photo on LIFE magazine. And that brought the curtain down on this man’s remarkable career of deception.
Its pathetic he is trying to blame another Sheriff seeking “publicity”.
Ross, you are a shame to those who serve