GILMER PROSECUTOR UNHAPPY OVER STATE POLICE CONDUCT - "No Shows, Holding Back Key Facts And Delaying Investigations"

(11/11/2001)
State Police problems have surfaced in Gilmer County. Gilmer Prosecutor Gerry Hough has asked the "state's highest officer who handles (State Police) complaints to look into an incident where a local officer intimidated an area person during a traffic stop.

Two Gilmer residents reported problems to the Gilmer County Commission, according to the Glenville Democrat.

"They've got an attitude in our office cases as to no shows for court hearings, holding back key facts in cases and delaying investigations," he is quoted in The Democrat.

Hough was reported to have said the local State Police have poked fun at him. Additionally "His (State Policeman) actions were provoking a fight, he used foul language, and the Sheriff (Gary Rose) had to step in and break up a situation in Magistrate Court." Hough is quoted saying such behavior is not appropriate in a court of law.

Prosecutor Hough spoke to the Gilmer County Commission, stating he dislikes bringing such problems to the Commissions attention, but he felt it is his duty to do so. "This is a public forum," he said.

Calhoun County Prosecutor Tony Morgan will be making a decision in a few days whether to continue an investigation regarding alleged improper testimony given in a Calhoun Circuit Court by Trooper Doug Starcher. Morgan stated he will have to excuse himself and ask an outside prosecutor to investigate the situation, which the complainant contends is a criminal matter.