The agency said that the department disregarded the woman's specific description of her assailant, instead, photographing deputies of different sizes, weights, ages and complexions, some of whom were not assigned to the shift or floor where the alleged incident occurred. Findings of the investigation also contradict the department's contention that the woman's description of her assailant was vague.
This reminds BoyCaught of the time he was standing outside a bar with friends in Palo Alto one night, not fifty yards across the street from the police station.
All of a sudden, two police cars pull up and one of the cops approach BoyCaught and ask, "Excuse sir, can we talk to you?"
"About what?"
"There's been reports of a purse snatching downtown."
BoyCaught turns to his friend and shrugs.
"So?"
"You fit the description."
"What desription would that be, officer?"
"A black man wearing a baseball hat."
(Loudly) "What!
You've got to be kidding!"
The other three cops step closer.
Meanwhile a scene is being created in front of this very busy bar ... call it 'The Blue Chalk Cafe.'
"Well, that's not a very conclusive description, officer.
You don't have a description of height, weight, age, or other things?
Just any black man in a baseball cap will do?
This is a joke.
What are you a rookie?
If I was stealing purses would I be standing across the street from the police station?"
No answer.
Pause.
"I'll need to see some ID."
"Why?
Am I being charged with something?"
"Procedure."
BoyCaught reaches for his wallet, noting the other cops. "I am getting my wallet ... okay?"
"Thank you."
BoyCaught hands over the California's drivers license.
The officer starts writing something on the pad.
"I'll also have to take a Polaroid!"
Livid: "This is ridiculous, officer.
What's your badge number?"
Long story short: BoyCaught was photographed that night ... and he rarely wears a baseball cap anymore.