February 9th, 2008 by Administrator
I’m sure most all of you have heard (thanks to the media) about the horrible accusations that have been made against our family. Todd and I—and our poor children—keep waiting to wake up from what seems like the worst nightmare of our lives. I am writing to you today to let you know how we are doing but also to explain to you some of the actual facts (as opposed to what the media has said) as to how this awful thing has happened to us. I apologize for the length this letter— writing this is, for me, a type of therapy right now and a way for me to cope with a situation that seems so out of my control. So pour yourself a cup of coffee—or in the case of many of my friends—a glass of good red wine and read.
On Tuesday morning (Jan. 29th) 9:15 am Todd went into town to do some errands for me– because I have become so scared of driving since the terrible fatality accident of a family friend by our driveway a few weeks ago. At about 9:25—as I am trying to get kids ready for school—I get a message on our recorder from a neighbor that says “I don’t want to say anything, I just. . . I saw Todd, I saw Todd’s truck. . . I just want you to know that I am praying for your family.”
The kids and I listen to this message and Taylor and Colton are instantly hysterical. Actually, I am too. In my mind, I am seeing him smashed—and laying dead on the cold, snowy highway. The kids and I cry for a few minutes and I then I shakily try to figure out what to do next. I try his cell phone: No answer. I cry more hysterically—he’s only been gone 10 minutes and he always answers his phone. I call my Mom and tell her that I think Todd’s been in an accident. I hang up with her (and I find out later that she has packed a bag and is ready to drive to Spokane) and then I try to figure out what I should do. My kids are still crying hysterically. I try to call the person that left the message but I can’t get an answer on her phone. I put my boots and coat on. . . I decide I will drive the route I know he was taking into town and I will find him. I will help him.
Right before I walk out the door, the phone rings. It is my neighbor again. She tells me Todd was not in an accident, but that she saw him being arrested. I am so relieved that he is alive . . . but confused. My husband arrested? I don’t understand. The only thing that I can imagine is that he was pulled over for a traffic violation and got into a disagreement with the officer (all of you who know Todd well, know that he does have a bit of a temper). I can’t believe this would happen either . . . but why else would he be arrested?
I did not know who to call or what to do next . . . but I am so relieved that he is not hurt. I call my Mom again and she tells me that all I can do is wait by the phone. “He will call,” she tells me.
At 10:30 am I take my kids to school. When I return home, I can’t get all of the way down my driveway because of the 8-10 police vehicles parked in my driveway. They tell me to leave my cell phone and step out of my vehicle. I am numb with confusion. They tell me that my husband has been arrested and that they are serving a search warrant on our home for “computer crimes.” At this point, I actually laugh. “You can’t be serious?” I say “There must be some mistake.” I explain to them that Todd barely knows how to turn our computer on and that I’m so computer illiterate I don’t even know how to download songs to my daughter’s new MP3 player that I got her for Christmas. I tell them to “search our home as much as they want” – we have nothing to hide.
The officers tell me that I may not use my cell phone to call or talk to anyone—that I must wait outside (in the blizzard). I wait for 35-40 minutes until one of the officers feels so badly for me standing out in the cold that he radios inside and asks if I might be able to at least stand in my garage out of the storm. They agree to this. My garage is no warmer, but at least the snow is not falling on me there. I wait another 30 minutes in the garage. They tell me that they have locked Isabella (our Great Dane) in the master bedroom and that they need to move her so that they can search in there. They ask me to walk into my home, under police escort, and go directly to the master bedroom and bring Isabella outside. As I enter our home, I am instantly outraged by the mud and snow covering our hardwood floors and carpet. I am greeted by approximately 20 some officers (mostly men) in full gear—bulletproof vests, guns, etc. They are all wearing big, black work boots covered with snow, mud, and dirt. They are everywhere tromping through our home.
My friends, I cannot even put into words the terror and sense of violation that I felt. I thought these people protected people like me. I get poor Isabella—who is probably almost as scared as I am—and take her to the garage. I wait (supervised again by many police officers) for another 1 ½ hours in the cold garage.
Finally they tell me they would like to interview me and they ask that I walk through my home and into the basement (again under police escort). When I enter my home, I tell them that we have a safe in our bedroom and that I will give them the code. Since then, friends have asked me why I would be so cooperative. It’s easy—we had nothing to hide. My husband and I are law abiding citizens. I kept waiting for them to realize that they had invaded the wrong family.
Once they move me to our basement, they tell me that the “computer crimes” they are talking about are for purchases of child pornography. Obviously, I am in total dismay. They tell me that there were some purchases made on our Bank of America credit card in June listed for “Yahoo.” The charges were for $39.95 each. They ask me how well I look over my credit card statement. I tell them the truth: I really don’t look it over. I just pay it. They ask me how much Todd uses our computer. I tell them the truth: He uses it occasionally, but usually only to perform real estate searches for clients. They ask me why he didn’t catch these charges. Again, I tell them the truth: Todd never even looks at our bills. In our home he makes the money and I am responsible for managing all of the finances. I am the one who pays the bills. He typically has no idea what is even in our bank account. They ask me how much our daughter uses the computer. “A lot,” I say. “Could she possibly have been curious about such things and made these purchases?” They ask. Once again, I am outraged and horrified, “Not in a million years, would my 10 year old daughter have purchased anything without my permission—and she never would have purchased something of that nature.” I tell them. I am so outraged that they would even suggest such a thing.
During the interview, I can hear them opening cupboard doors and going through our things. “What are you looking for?” I ask them. They tell me thumb stick back-up memory devices, back up hard drives, etc. I don’t even know what these things are.
I explain to them that we have had to change our Bank of America credit card number 4 times within the last year due to fraud on our account. Fraud that the credit card company has caught—not me (because I don’t look over the bill). They are surprised at this. I tell them where to find the file in my file cabinet that has this Bank of America information. They go and get it, look at it, and take the fraud letter from the file. They show me on my card statement some of the Yahoo charges that that they are talking about. They tell me that they have them directly linked to our home computer. I point out that during one of the charges, (on Father’s Day) my husband was actually at the fire station on duty. It would have been impossible for him to have been on our home computer and to have done this. They are once again surprised.
At this point I am wondering to myself why they have arrested Todd when they haven’t even looked into such basic information as his work schedule. If they are linking these changes through our Bank of America card, how could they not have done the most basic of research and have known that this card number has had to be changed four times in the last year due to fraud. How could they not have looked into his fire department work schedule and realized he was on duty?
“Why are you not arresting me?” I ask. I secretly wish it had been me instead of Todd. I don’t have a career that will be destroyed. They tell me they are arresting Todd because his name is the one that the credit card bill comes to. I tell them that I have the exact same card and that the only reason his name is on the bill is because when I filled out the credit card application, I put his name down as the primary holder (since he is the income producer in our home). I put my name second on the application because I am a stay at home mom.
At 4:30 (thank God that my children had afterschool activities planned that day), as they finally get ready to leave my home they hand me a print out of what they have taken: Our family pictures, our family home videos, our computer, our camera cards, etc. They also tell me as they are leaving that they are scheduling a press conference for tomorrow. I begin to cry and I try to tell them how devastating this will be to my family—to my children. I ask them why they have to do this? They have no answer.
Once they are gone from my home, I try to pick up the mess. I realize—to myself—that the only thing we are guilty of is not checking our credit card statement diligently. Because of our numerous rental properties, on any given month, we run hundreds of charges through our Bank of America card. Most of these charges are in small amounts so it is not unusual for me to have a 3-4 page Bank of America credit card statement. Most of the time, I simply tear off the payment stub, write the check, and stick it in the mail. I always think that I am going to go back and look through each charge . . . but between running kids to school and activities, helping them with homework, taking care of all of our animals, doing yard work, and paying the enormous stack of other bills that we have, this review just doesn’t happen. Honestly, even if I had read down through the bill, it is unlikely that I would have paid much attention to a $39.00 Yahoo charge. I would have thought it was something I had purchased (Books, kids toys, etc.) that went through a yahoo account. It’s not like the charge was listed as “Child Pornography.”
Right before I go to pick up my kids from school (about 5:45 pm), I call my parents and tell them what has happened. They are as dismayed and horrified as I am. They tell me to get an attorney. I tell them that we don’t need an attorney—we have done nothing wrong.
When I pick up my kids at school, I don’t have the heart to tell them the truth. I instead tell them that Daddy is at the fire station. I keep thinking that at any minute, the police are going to realize what a mistake they have made.
About an hour later, Todd calls me—a collect call from the county jail—something that I’ve never had in my life. He is trying so hard not to cry, but can’t really control it. He tells me he has only 5 minutes to talk. “What the hell is going on?” He sobs. I don’t have any answers. I tell him that my parents said to get an attorney. He tells me not to— “We haven’t done anything wrong, Nic” he says. He tells me that they will not let him out of jail until tomorrow (Wednesday). He still can’t believe he is locked up like an animal for a crime he did not commit. He asks me to get his truck from the side of the highway so that it doesn’t get towed and then he asks me to make some real estate calls for him. Even though he is in jail, he is worried more about taking care of his real estate clients than he is himself.
My parents call again that evening. They have talked to their family attorney about what has happened. There attorney tells them to MAKE me get an attorney. They explain to me, “Innocence aside, this is way over your head. We will find you an attorney.” This has turned out to be literally life saving advice.
After a completely sleepless Tuesday night (for both Todd and myself), I meet with our “new” attorney at 1:00 pm Wednesday, approximately ½ hour before Todd’s scheduled arraignment. He has a copy of the charges and he says he simply can’t believe “how thin” they are. He passes the document to me and asks me to read over it. “You aren’t going to believe this.” He tells me.
I read through the two page document. This is the state’s “case” that has destroyed our lives. They have two Yahoo charges made to our credit card (a credit card we shut down due to fraud). For the first purchase the person who commited this crime opened up a Yahoo account with the name Mr. Nicole Chism and then entered in a completely fictitious birth date. He then entered our credit card number to purchase $39.95 worth of downloadable child pornography. The monster that did this didn’t, at this occasion, even have our home address. For the second purchase, the person who did this again had opened up a yahoo account and put in Mr. Nicole Chism but had gotten our home address. They put in another fictitious birth date (different from the first one but still not matching Todd’s or mine). And that’s it. That is the total of their case against my husband.
At this point in time, I have not talked to my poor husband other than the 5-minute call the previous night– and he has no idea he will have an attorney at his arraignment. I cannot even imagine what Todd’s state of mind is after having to spend the night in jail with a bunch of criminals and away from his family. Carl (our attorney) tells me to expect media coverage in the court room. I am so mortified. Even though I know we are innocent, I feel like I am watching everything that we have worked for our entire lives be flushed down the toilet. I tell myself that I cannot cry right now—that I have to be strong for Todd.
At the arraignment (which I watch on close-captioned television) from a court room, Carl points out to the judge the lack of information the police have. The judge—and even the prosecutor—agree they do not have enough evidence to charge my husband with these horrible crimes. The judge says that it is very apparent that this could be the result of identity theft. Because of this, they release him on his own recognizance (something that is almost unheard of in felony crimes).
Although I am so relieved that Todd is out of jail, I know that the damage to our lives is only just beginning. Wednesday night, the media—like vicious sharks–broadcasts his arrest for this most heinous and disgusting crime. The fact that it might be a case of identity theft is barely (if at all) mentioned. This news reaches the entire state of Washington and parts of Idaho. We feel so ashamed and humiliated—and we feel this about something that we didn’t even do. It is, without a doubt the most helpless feeling I have ever felt in my life. Although our good friends know Todd would never do something like this, we feel like our entire community—and everyone else in the state–is looking at us with disgust and suspicion. The brave men and women of the Spokane Fire Department—that so willingly risk their lives to save the lives of others—have once again been slandered in the process.
I don’t think we will ever be able to recover from this nightmare. Today is Saturday and this morning when I got on our scale, I see that I have lost 10 lbs since Monday. Between my weight loss and lack of sleep, I look and feel like skelator. I think I have aged 10 years in a matter of days. My poor husband is in even worse shape. He swings from moods of extreme anger to moments of complete anguish. He is so embarrassed, humiliated, and worst of all, helpless. His life and career will never be the same. We have cried so much. How can we be good parents to our wonderful children when we have been so destroyed? How can I ever again tell them to trust the police when we don’t?
I had to sit down on Thursday morning and explain to my beautiful, innocent daughter what child pornography is. I had to explain to her that her dad (who is the most wonderful, honest, and respectable man I have ever met) has been accused of such a thing. I had to explain to her that she is going to be teased and humiliated at school—but that she will need to hold her chin high. God? How can this happen to us? What have I done to make you so mad at my family?
Yesterday, Taylor’s best friend called to chat. She told Taylor that she had invited another friend over to her house to play but that the friend’s Mom had said only if Taylor was not there. Obviously, Taylor was crushed. The realtor that Todd co-lists with in Suncrest called and suggested that they remove Todd’s name from the signs—just until things “cool down.” I am crying so hard as I type this now, I honestly don’t think that we will ever recover from this. I guess we will just need to take each day as it comes and trust in God to make us stronger.
One of the main reasons I am writing this is to thank so many of you for your phone calls, cards, and prayers. You have truly been our saviors. Todd confided in me that, when he got home from jail Wednesday night, he felt such a sense of helplessness for being accused of something he didn’t do, that he thinks he would literally have killed himself had he not had so many calls from firemen and friends offering their love, prayers, support, and belief in him. For those of you who called and left messages; he cried when he heard your voices. You are what really held him up that night.
Thank you so much to those of you who have offered to take our kids to go do activities and to try to give them some sort of normalcy in a world that has been so turned upside down for them. Thank you for bringing food to our door, stuffed animals to our children, and for your flowers. Thank you for your offers to write to the press, picket the courthouse, and for just “dropping by” to keep us from losing our sanity. I honestly did not know that we had so many friends. I don’t know what we would do without you all—you are truly what has given us the strength to try to get through this. For all of those friends who have called, I am sorry that we have not returned each and every one of your calls. Right now we are just barely clinging on to our life and our days are so filled up just by trying to take care of our kids. We just haven’t had the time to call as many of you as we would like.
Since our computer was taken, I have very few e-mail addresses so please feel free to pass this letter on to all who know us– and even to those who don’t know us that well, but are questioning who we are. We’ve all heard about identity theft, but never could I have imagined something like this happening. Please beware.
*closing for comments, please post comments on most recent thread (above) and thanks for your support - admin
Posted in The Truth |
February 21st, 2008 at 12:33 am
I’m an old acquaintence of Todd & Ron’s (from Everett High School). It’s been many years since I’ve heard news of anyone from those days. My heart is going out to you, Nicole - to your husband and your children. I will pray and send my best wishes for a speedy resolution to this nightmare. Stay strong. Here is a quote that I hope will provide some inspiration… “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” by Lao Tzu… Take care…
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:21 pm
I have a question. Why aren’t The Bank Of America’s feet being held to the fire? They were fully aware there had already been fraudulent charges on Todd Chism’s credit card account and had issued new cards and numbers several times. Why were the new fraudulent charges accepted, especially with history of past fraudulent charges? Why was his account not flagged and furthermore, why would they accept a charge made with a false name and birth date?
Seems to me, The Bank Of America has some questions to answer!
Indeed! Where does Todd Chism go to recover his good name with the witch hunt going on?
My hope is that the intense scrutiny of the “honorable” police department will uncover the wretched perpetrator who is responsible for the theft of Todd Chism’s identity.
Meantime, The Bank Of America, as well as the “honorable” police department, will have a tough time recovering from their black eyes.
Sincerely,
Marcia Nichols
February 24th, 2008 at 3:20 am
I have 3 young children, and am very protective. But I would leave them all in the care of the Chisms. I did not believe a word of what I heard on the news about Todds arrest.Gee ,I wonder why Yahoo is selling child porn . Todd Sharp
February 26th, 2008 at 4:19 am
It has now been 4 weeks since Todd was arrested. The police have since learned (why didn’t they already know these things?) about the fraudulent charges on his cards, the way the Yahoo account was created with incorrect name and birthdates, that his work schedule conflicts with when one of the charges was made, and that there was NOTHING relevant on his computer. Yet still they search for something, which they will not find. At what point, and after what cost, will this task force admit their error and that they wrongfully destroyed an entire family’s well-being? I have the privilege of knowing this family, and I know that they are strong and will come back from this, it will only make them stronger. Todd, Nicki, and kids, you are in our thoughts!
February 26th, 2008 at 7:17 pm
I think the reason the “mob squad” is taking an extra long time to admit they were horribly wrong is two fold. They’re hoping the attention to this injustice will deminish, but also are trying to cover their exposed behinds. There’s not enough red tape in all the world to cover their behinds and the attention to this will NOT go away.
Good question Todd Sharp…why IS Yahoo selling porn??
God bless you Todd, Nicki & family!
February 28th, 2008 at 6:38 am
Two Words- Bull Shit. Pardon my French. It blows my mind that these people have nothing, yet they continue to drag this out. They could care less about what they’ve done, or who has been affected. No wonder why some people, including myself, lack faith in our law enforcement. It’s people like this, that taint the good, and put a big black eye on the force. Way to go guys. Oh and another thing, what kind of judge would approve this search warrant? I want what he’s smoking. Their was no evidence whatsoever. Very foolish indeed. In the end, someone needs to be held accountable for this nonsense. They got the media involved, now let’s see how they like the media knocking at their door for a change.
February 29th, 2008 at 12:16 am
This brings to mind the scandal that rocked Spokane years ago that ruined the lives of two innocent people. They had a daycare and were accused of sexually molesting the children in their care. It took years to clear their names but they lost their livelihood, to say nothing of their reputation.
Spokane’s “Finest”?? I don’t think so! I look forward to the day the media turns it’s eagle eye on what Spokane’s boys in blue have done to an innocent man and his family.
There’s a saying, “Something stinks in Denmark”. They have NOTHING on Spokane PD!
February 29th, 2008 at 12:32 am
My problem with all of this is that if this same situation was to happen to some crack head on the streets, the police wouldn’t give to shits about it and the media definietly wouldn’t want to share the story with the public. It wouldn’t be enough drama for society to feed off. The fact is that my brother is a well know role model in the community and because of that, some sick individuals are trying to ruin his reputation. It would be good if the police would actually do there job finding real criminals that are tainting this country instead of wasting all there time on an innocent man. Here we are a month later and they have nothing still. Get to work catching those crack heads, murderers, and real child molesters.
February 29th, 2008 at 1:06 am
Never once did I believe the story as told by the police.
February 29th, 2008 at 5:26 am
We have known Todd Chism his entire life. We KNOW there is absolutely no truth to this. We feel so badly that Todd and Nikki have to go through this. It is a good lesson for all of us. When this is all over I wouldn’t be surprised to see their story on Oprah. They are in our prayers.
March 1st, 2008 at 5:49 pm
This is truly a shame, it kind of scares me to think that we are that close to being a soviet type nation, and that our local government would be a big part in it. I hope that you can hold them accountable, and if you need help i will do whatever possible.As for the media almost everyone knows that the local news isn’t much more than a enquirer type smut magazine, so you dont have to worry about what the puplic thinks of what it reads, TRULY.
March 2nd, 2008 at 2:13 pm
I concur with all that is written above. The WSP had a chance to say WHOOPS! right off the bat and they have let the Chism name be smeared for too long. I can’t imagine having a team of law enforcement going through all my belongings. It’s horrifying. They would find a bottle of moonshine in the bar, some old brass knuckles in my drawer that I bought in Mexico for fun, and a cool handmade pipe I bought off an artist. The WSP could make me out to be an illegal weapons dealer, drug lord and an illegal alcohol traficker. Please tell me that they are going to drop this asap and not go any further! Rachel Gardner and the rest of the WSP investigative team…LEAVE THIS POOR FAMILY ALONE. You’ve already made yourselves look foolish enough and brought untold pain and suffering to innocent parents and children. Stay strong Todd, Nick, and Kids.
March 5th, 2008 at 12:31 am
What makes me just sick is that once this is all over, Todd will need to rebuild his A #1 credit. All of us who know Todd and his family, have no questions about his outstanding reputation and I don’t think that’s going to be the big problem. The damage done by the WSP and the news agencies behind the smear campaign, can and will, be held responsible and I don’t know anyone who’s going to be happier to see that than me.
What concerns me is the damage done to his credit. How do you defend yourself from an illusive entity?
Todd and family, you are in our every prayer. God bless and keep you in His care..
March 5th, 2008 at 12:39 am
This is wrong for many reasons, but here are two critical ones.
ONE: It is obvious that the WSP investigators screwed up because he was released and sent home to his family when a judge took a look at the charges. Judges don’t send child pornographers home to their kids. It takes one day to check for the charges that were supposedly made on the computer…and they’ve let it go on for over a month trying to figure out how to get out of the pickle they have out themselves in. I have talked to people on the inside with the state and the county. It’s a HUGE SCREWUP!
TWO: It’s sad that the WSP doesn’t have the guts to come clean and clear Todd’s name. We all make mistakes. If they would have backed off immediately and corrected their mistake, it would have been the right thing to do. Have they no hearts? What now? Try to slander the family further so some inverstigator can save her/his job? ? ? Let it drag on as long as possible so it wont be as big of a story when they quitely try to retract it? ? ?
This could have been any of us. ANY OF US! One day your going to the store, the next minute your getting aressted, put in jail for 30 hours, officers are going through your house and telling your wife that you she should have her children be seen by professionals etc.
The WSP finally gave them their hard drive back so they can have a professional screen it and go the the media with it and the state put a “Protective Order” on their findings so that they would be in contempt of court if they went to the media! The WSP went to the media without even looking into his computer and plastered his face all over the TV and papers, but he doesn’t get that opporitunity.
Below is some information on who you can contact at the WSP to let them know how you feel about how they have handled the situation and ask to give the Chism family their reputation back. On the Media release from the WSP it says to contact Detective Sergeant John Sager for further information at (360)507-1397 or visit http://www.wsp.wa.gov Fax 360-753-5469
I hope that you drop him and the WSP a line. I will.
Hang in there Todd and family. Somehow you have manged to take the high road. Good for you.
March 5th, 2008 at 3:24 am
I did not know Todd that well, but he was my realtor three years ago when i bought my first home. I had respect for Todd when he told me that he was a firefighter, and a realtor to support his family. My 3 year old daughter was in his truck looking for homes one day, and I would never allow my kid to ride in a vehicle if I didnt trust the person. Its sad that they have to slander an innocent person who is just trying to make a living. The WSP needs to pay for this screwup. We all know you are innocent, just hang in there.
March 5th, 2008 at 6:44 am
The first quiestion I have to ask myself is- Does W.S.P.oficers Lt.Rachel Gardner, Cris Gundermann, Sgt John Sager, and the rest of this gestopo task force truly have shit for brains. I fear that the answer is an unequivocally yes. Thier display of ineptness and disregard for the law, and justice, confirms the answer. The second question I have to ask is- Were any of these individuals interviewed during a promotinal exam prior to thier appointment in the task force to see if they can do anything more than write their own names using there own feces. Again the answer to that question is very clear. I hope that in the future the W.S.P. actually takes the time to do the the most minimilistic promotional evaluation prior to placing prior “ticket writers” into such a group of complete idiots. Then again it appears that the competency and moral requierments must be completely set aside.It is obviuos that the individuals now involved will more than likely be flipping burgers in the near future. but wait, how nieve I must be, Even that demands some form of brian matter function.– Oh one last thought. The boat is sinking on you RATS, And no matter how much garbage you try and stuff in the hole in the bottom of your sinking ship, you varmits are going to have to start saying to yourselves, it’s every man, (or women) for thenselves. Any of you with an ounce of smarts (and I know I’m being generous) had better jump ship!!!
March 5th, 2008 at 7:39 pm
My brother whet to firefighting school with Todd and I have met him and his fellow firefighters at our local grocery store. My 2 year old daughter was with us and I would introduce my daughter to him again in a heartbeat. For someone to accuse him of such a disgusting crime is a disgrace. I have no doubt he will be cleared of all charges and hope he sues the pants off the state for putting him and his family through this.
March 5th, 2008 at 10:57 pm
I have only known Todd, Nicole, and their two children for 2 1/2 years and can honestly admit that I consider them as part of my own. Their two children are very lucky to have such wonderful, caring individuals that seek to fulfill their dreams. Angie and I have spent quite a few evenings with the Chisms, our two daughters have spent the night at their home, we have hosted their two children, and much much more. We have ALWAYS felt their home to be a warm, welcoming place for our family. These charges WILL be dropped in a matter of time and they will have to continue to ride this windy storm. It’s unfortunate that two wonderful human beings, people who work to provide for their family first, have to be the victims of such ridiculous accusations. Everyone that has been acquainted with Todd and Nicole know that this stuff is false and truly far-fetched. Let’s all put our hands together and support this family through these challenging times. They need us for a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen, and mostly a caring place for them and their children. We all support you, Todd, Nicole, and family. We love and care for you in an infinite amount.
March 6th, 2008 at 12:01 am
This poor family. I said many prayers and have shed a lot of tears for what they are going through. How sad to be the victim of a crime and then be treated like you’re the criminal. It is terrifiying to me that an organization that has so much policing power– the power to strip an innocent person (and his family) of their entire life– can use that power so recklessly. How ashamed these detectives must be of their lack of investigation. The idea that they arrested this man (and then did a press release) without having FIRST looked at the documented fraud on their credit card account is complete negligence. I hope the detectives are held accountable for what they have done– maybe on their next case they’ll actually take the time to do some homework before they shatter someone’s life. Until they are held accountalbe, I can not sleep at night. What if they’re busting down my door next? Like most americans I have a credit card and I own a computer. These are the only two things necessary to end up in the exact same situation as the Chism’s have. Who will be next if this Gestapo like police action is not stopped?
March 6th, 2008 at 4:05 am
We are in full support of you Todd. Not a moment of doubt. You are all in our prayers.
March 6th, 2008 at 9:21 am
I don’t even know the Chism family, but I have lived in Spokane for over 30 years and know that our Police Department does NOT have the smartest people there. I am also surprised that a world bank like Bank of America has enabled this farce to continue. My advice, SUE, SUE, SUE….Unfortunately, the only way change comes about in this city is when the F-up’s are forced to Pay up. I’d hire an investigator to find out just what role the Bank of America had, and REALLY hold them accountable. So so sorry that you were the recipients of yet another Spokane Police Dept screw up. It is embarrassing to live in a city with such stupid, inept, public servants.
March 6th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Bruno-
Hi Bruno. thank you so much for your post. I just wanted to let you know that this “screw-up” was caused by the Washington State Patrol and not the Spokane Police. I will take your advice to heart, though, and really appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts. If you have any interest in making comments directly to the task force responsible, you can read post #14 above. Their contact information is listed there. Again, Thanks a lot Bruno! –Todd
March 6th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
I wonder if any of you have read the on-line news from KXLY.com from yesterday? It was their lead story and I can feel the tide turning in Todd’s favor.
First of all, thank God for a news agency that is going after the truth by going to the court to gain more information as to why Thurston County Judge Anne Hirsch has ordered the warrant that was used to search Todd and Nicole’s home was sealed INDEFINITELY. Really!?? I’m not only shocked, but horrified that this is happening in the USA and not some third world country!
I’ve known for quite some time that the government we think we have is a sham but I never thought they’d sink this low or hit so close to home.
Chris, thank you very much for the contact info. I know the WSP is frantically trying to cover their behinds. This time they chose the wrong person to falsely accuse. God help those who don’t have family and friends to rise up against them.
God bless you Todd and family!
Much Love,
Marcia
March 6th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
I have never been so ashamed of our police force!!! I have dealt with Todd and Nicole on several occasions at work and I could not think of two more beautiful people. My prayers and thoughts are with them and their children. God bless you Todd and hopefully when all of the smoke clears the WSP and all of the people involved in creating this nightmare for you and your family will issue as public of an apology as they did the horrible accusations.
God bess you all!!
Shelley
March 6th, 2008 at 6:58 pm
Todd and Nicole:
Thank your openness and transparency. This can happen to any of us. I agree with Marcia, the tide will be turning for you and your family.
The pathetic aspect of this story is the WSP is going to run and stick their heads in the sand (again) instead of admitting they conducted a knee jerk reactive search on limited information - and leave you holding the bag to restore your reputation.
On that same point everyone has been swift to blame the WSP investigators for sloppy investigation, without holding the judge who signed this search warrant culpable as well. Was Judge Hirsh the individual who signed initial search warrant?? It sounds like she is trying to cover her backside by ordering your records sealed.
I imagine the “facts” the judge required in order to issue the search warrant and the “facts” listed in the in the probable cause affidavit are virtually the same. You can’t just issue a search warrant based on limited information (i.e. an obtained bank card number which lead to Todd Chism’s bank account.) and I can’t believe something like this passed by the judge and she signed the warrant.
Why didn’t judge who signed the search warrant voice concerns regarding the particulars such as the judge did who was on the bench for Todd’s arraignment since those “facts” would virtually be the same.
It appears to me the state is more anxious to “nab” a child predator than they are concerned with avoiding railroading an innocent man.
Keep up the good fight Todd and Nicole. When all this is over hopefully you can take your experiences and educate others and show them how they can protect themselves from identity theft.
March 6th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
In response to Marcia’s comment “I wonder if any of you have read the on-line news from KXLY.com from yesterday? It was their lead story and I can feel the tide turning in Todd’s favor.”
I have created a new page with NEWS REPORTS and added the link to that article for anyone who is interested in reading it. Thanks Marcia.
March 6th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
“Honorable” Judge Anne Hirsch is the fine upholder of justice that has put her name on the legal papers that have allowed this in the first oplace and it’s ongoing legal web. You can contact her by phone, fax or e-mail at http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/superior. She also has an interesting biography for you to enjoy as well. It says she’s an active volunteer at her children’s elementary school. Maybe she has some insight on the proper way to explain to your youngsters what child porn is, so they can understand better when the WSP takes their parent away for no reason. I wonder how well she would handle herself if the WSP told her that she should take her kids to a professional to see if her husband Tom has been molesting them? Oh, I’m sure she wouldn’t mind waiting a few months to have her family’s name cleared for some silly credit card mix-up.
March 6th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Me again. At http://www.governor.wa.gov/contact Governor Christine Gregoire in vites you to “contact her by phone, e-mail or fax if you have a question, comment or an opinion you’d like to share.” At the moment I myself can’t think of any area of Washington’s Government that I’m dissapointed with or needs some attention….but I just thought I’d throw the link out as a good contact for anyone that might want it. I wonder how well her and Mike would handle this situation? They have two kids too. Oh, I’m sure they would just grin and bear it for a few months and allow the WSP’s (supposedly) four computer experts continue to “speed up” the investigation. I wonder how well Mike would handle 30 hours in the Spokane County Jail and the humiliating publicity publicity? Oh, I’m sure they dont even use credit cards. Then they are safe. Silly me.
March 7th, 2008 at 1:23 am
Washington’s Shittiest Personal disgusts me. Time is LONG OVER DUE. Sack up WSP and admit fault in this HORRIFIC “screw up” so the Chism family can do their best to undo the nightmare YOU have caused them. I support Todd Chism.
March 7th, 2008 at 4:52 am
Todd and Nicole:
Thankx Chris for all the contact info. I urge everyone to write, call, email folks who are responsible for this. I myself contacted Christine Gregoire. I feel her office should know what “her” Washington State Patrol have done to such a wonderful family on her watch.
Todd and Nicole hang in there. Count me in as another Hoch who believes and supports you.
March 7th, 2008 at 6:02 am
Two words…God Bless.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:46 am
Todd, Just found out about this. How horrific for you and your family. You’re a great guy—one of the best men I’ve ever known. And I’m so proud of Nichole, her courage to write during such a difficult time. Indeed an innocent man has been accused. Your character and integrity, love of your family and support of your true friends who know you will get you through. You’re not alone, bud. Not at all.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:49 am
*nicole
March 7th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
I truly fear that when this all goes to court to sue the WSP, the WSP will settle out of court, admitting no wrong. That’s their favorite MO. We need to hold their feet to the fire and write/call as many representives as we can, as often as we can.
They say they’ve hired extra personnel to get this taken care of. I know exactly what the extra personnel were hired for. It’s damage control and nothing more.
The only thing more pathetic than their hirelings is their belief that we’re all that ignorant.
Chris, thank you again for all the links!
March 7th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Thank you Todd for the correction…my bad. However I did read the SR article in this mornings paper where Gunderson states that even if evidence is not found on the computer, that doesn’t mean “he’s innocent”. What a crock…I thought in this country you didn’t have to prove your innocence, rather they had to prove your guilt. One would think that the WSP would have had all the accurate information before obtaining any kind of warrant. Ruining a man’s life with inaccurate information. It is even more serious that it IS the WSP, because they are a STATE organization and should have had more resources than the SPD. They have even less of an excuse for stupidity. I still say SUE!!!
March 7th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Todd and Nicole,
It is with the deepest regrets that I send this email to you. I’m so very sorry for what has happened to your family, my wife and children hold you in our thoughts and prayers. Todd I’ve known you professionally for years (17), your character and integrity have always been and I believe always will be above reproach. My fellow brothers of IAFF Local 2916 are behind you should you need anything at all..
March 7th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Nicole - as the proud owner of a new home recently built by Jim Mahar, I was LIVID to read of the cop’s utter disregard for your beautiful home’s flooring!
I would have kicked some #$$ over that!Seriously, my heart is breaking for you & your family. This is a ridiculous case of unacceptable, unfounded borderline harassment by law enforcement. I am proud of you for fighting hard to clear your name. My husband also fought a huge battle to clear his good name that nearly broke our family apart … and he came out the victor. The truth and your good character will be revealed in the end. God Bless You. -Kris Clifford
“It is with trifles, and when he is off guard, that a man best reveals his character.”
— Arthur Schopenhauer
March 7th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Todd, I’ve known you personally for 21 years and have to say that the WSP investgation is nothing short of a witch hunt! I thought in this nation we are all persumed innocent, that is until this “task force” did a Stalinist type raid on your life. Now I’ve found out the judge that issued the search warrant in Thurston County as permamently sealed the warrant, talk about trying to cover up a major mistake. Personally, Todd from the start Linda and I have always known your totally innocent and that you will have your day and repair the damage caused to you and your family. Maybe it’s time to bring out the big guns, the national media. CNN, MSNBC, Fox, would love to run your story. Nothing like getting an entire nation behind you and your family, regardless of what the WSP says, personally I’ve lost a tremedous amount of respect for this agency. If there is anything Linda or I can do for you and Nicole please lets us know.
Bill Dean
March 7th, 2008 at 6:30 pm
Nicole, I tried to send you this in reply to your “truth” that had been forwarded to me, but don’t know if you received ti, so I will paste it here…Dear Nicole,
You don’t know me, but we have mutual friends/family firefighters, and I just read your letter. My heart is breaking for you and your family. I want you to know that not everyone believes everything the Review writes, and can often see what they “forget” to write. After reading the article about the fraud, I myself couldn’t believe that they had arrested Todd without first looking into the very obvious fraud charges. I don’t check my credit card charges thoroughly either (but I will now!), and see how this could easily happen to anyone.
Please know that while it’s hard to see through the hell you are going through now, it will end. You will be vindicated, as you said the evidence is not only “thin”, it is pointing (very clearly) at someone else!
I’ll keep you and your family in my prayers. Little children should not have to deal with things like this, but your actions will show them how your family will stick together to fight this, and hold your heads up high. Your family and your marriage will be stronger for this.
I’ll leave you with this…Justice will prevail when the evidence is shown, and a quote from John Wayne…written to a friend being crucified by the media…”Don’t let the ba**ards get you down”. Remember this…you might have to repeat it 20 times a day for a few weeks
Please share my thoughts with Todd, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I will await good news…:)
Janine Fraser
March 7th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
I have known Nikki for years, as she and my sister have been very close friends since high school. I was furious when this came out, I immediately asked Brandi what the deal was, there was NO way any of this was anywhere close to the truth!
I better double-check my own now 
Todd and Nikki, I have been praying for you and telling anyone that would give me a moment (from day one) that this was a witch hunt and to please know that Todd would be proven innocent. We, as the public, need to practice “innocent until proven guilty” since the people in the positions we voted them into cannot seem to grasp this.
I read (with disgust) the comment in today’s article that Bruno Evans quoted, that just because nothing was found on the home computer… blah blah… The WSP is really grasping at straws! I also have a hard time with the reporting done by the Spokesman Review, I find them to be very biased. (not to mention grammatically incorrect and horrible spellers)
You are both in my prayers, along with your children. If I can do anything to help, do not hesitate to ask.
God bless you both, just feel strong in knowing you will be fully vindicated and it will feel SO NICE to shove this down the throats of any doubters!!
Brooke
March 7th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Todd,
Hang tough! If you or your family need anything just ask. It is nice to see that WSP seems to use the same hand book as the Nazi SS. Unfortunatly, Lt. Gundermann missed the part about “innocent until proven guilty” in school when he is quoted in the Spokesman-Review as saying “even if they’ve found his home computers are clear, it doesn’t mean he’s innocent.” As a person who went to school to become a cop before getting smart and becoming a fireman, I find the lack of investigation into the history of the bank card to be completely unprofessional and completely lacking in attention to detail. WSP Should be held accountable for its lack of professionalism. Take care and stay strong
March 7th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
I read what Mr. Gundermann said, “Even if we found nothing on his home computers, it doesn’t mean he’s innocent.” Wow!!! These people are on the ropes big time, putting all their heads together, to figure out what they can do to save there own asses. I hope everyone of these morons loses their jobs. This guy Gundermann, is suppose to protect children, yet he has no idea how much damage he, and the other idiots have caused Taylor, and Colton(Todd’s kids). This judge, Ann Hirsch should be, at the very least disbarred. She’s obviously not qualified for a position of that magnitude. Even the judge that released Todd said the evidence was too slim. They don’t let real predators out like that. At election time I will do everything in my power to make sure she (Hirsch) is not re-ellected. We don’t need this kind of stuff happening to someone else. In the end, I believe this will make Todd and his family even stronger, and his reputation even better. Todd hang in there. Darren
March 7th, 2008 at 11:51 pm
One more thing. I wouldn’t put it past these crooks to try to fabricate evidence. It won’t work. We all know the truth.
March 8th, 2008 at 1:26 am
Todd; you might not remember me, but I’ve enjoyed meeting you a few times when I came in to bum a cup of coffee with my old buddies at SFD. You came on the job at about the time I retired 20 years ago.
I learned of the terrifying experience you are going through while in Hawaii. That’s how far and fast bad news flies these days! We can’t even imagine what you and your family are going through; but I just want you to know you’re in our thoughts and prayers.
It’s pretty obvious the WSP and the media really blew it this time! We admire your strength and I hope your SFD brothers are standing behind you all the way.
If I left any legacy behind in my SFD career, it was probably in my “poison pen” letters to the Chief (his words), to represent what I believed, or didn’t believe in. It’s where I got the name “Griz”. Now you know, don’t you. Count on me if I can help. God bless!
March 8th, 2008 at 2:25 am
Todd, Nicki, & kids,
I am a distant relative of Nicki’s & I have been following this since day one, as many of your friends & family have. I haven’t been able to keep in touch with you over the years, but I just want you to know that there are a lot people out there (not just friends/family) who know that this is bullshit…and have known since day one. Anyone with any common sense who saw the first initial media reports, could tell that something wasn’t right. At my work, it was a big topic of conversation the very next day. People who had no idea who you were, even were questioning the whole thing. Once I told them about my connection to you (which I proudly did), they, of course, were even more outraged. From the get-go, it looked sketchy. What I can’t understand, is how in the hell law enforcement couldn’t have figured it out before they acted so recklessly? Who are these idiots? I can’t imagine what you guys have been through. I just want to let you know my wife and I (and our family) support you 100 percent. And we aren’t the only ones. Hang in there & keep fighting.
Jesse & Tammy Freels
March 8th, 2008 at 2:40 am
Mr and Mrs Chism;
I could not begin to imagine what you are going through right now.
For what its worth, not everyone in the law enforcement community believe a search warrant should have even seen the light of day little lone charges in the first place.
March 8th, 2008 at 2:52 am
Everyone that knows Todd and Nicole, knows that these charges just aren’t possible. I could not believe Todd was arrested on the flimsy charge the WSP (Lt chris g.) trumped up….and was really pissed when that moron (Lt chris gunderbutt) stated .. that just because nothing was found on Todd’s computer doesn’t mean he is innocent! ARE YOU KIDDING ME!???? Why does this bitch still have a job? She has not only alienated and almost destroyed an innocent man and his family… she has destroyed the credibility of the WSP! And also tipped off the real disgusting bad guy who perpetrated this crime. To Lt gunderbuss’ s boss…. Why don’t you get rid of this lying , worthless bitch, admit your mistakes, pay damages and try to restore a little bit of the respect and credibility the WSP used to have?
March 8th, 2008 at 3:42 am
This raid was the fine work of the task force on missing and exploited children. They are under the direction of the chief of the state patrol. The chief reports annually to the state legislature on the objectives and “accomplishments” of the task force. Should you be so inclined to tell your districts legislator’s how you feel about the task force’s accomplishments…they can be found at http://www.apps.leg.wa.gov. Then click on “find your legislator” to get the one you want. Mr. McCaslin in District 4 might not be a bad one. He happens to be the minority ranking member on the judiciary committee and he’s from “this side of the mountains”.
March 8th, 2008 at 3:47 am
Sorry…the legislature address that WORKS is http://www.leg.wa.gov. Have a nice day and use cash for all your purchases from now on.
March 8th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
I’D LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE SO VERY MUCH FOR THEIR SUPPORT , GREAT COMMENTS , & WEB INFO. ! FOR WEB SIGHTS TO LEAVE COMMENTS TO THE APPROPRIATE AGENCIES OF MY BOTHER & SISTER IN LAWS HORRIBLE NIGHTMERE PLEASE BE SURE TO SEE # 14 ,27 , 28 , & 49 FOR THE LINKS . I’D ALSO LIKE TO THANK TODD & NIKS ‘ ATTORNEY CARL ORESKOVICH FOR HIS OUTSTANDING DEFENSE & ALSO GLOBAL COMPUSEARCH BY MARCUS LAWSON FOR HIS IMPECCABLE TALENT OF EXPEDITING THE SEARCH OF CLEARING TODD & NIKS’ HARD DRIVES . THE REPUTATATION OF THE WSP HAS BEEN TARNISHED BY LEAD DETECTIVE RACHEL GARDNER , & YES , WHY DOES SHE STILL HAVE ANY PART OF THIS INVESTIGATION LET ALONE HER JOB !! AS WELL AS HER SUPERVISOR , LT. GUNDERMANN & ALSO THE JUDGE , ANNE HIRSCH WHO GRANTED THE SEARCH WARRENT OF TODD & NIKS’ HOME !! I HOPE ANYONE INVOLED W/ THE ARREST OF MY BROTHER , SEARCH OF THEIR HOME , THE WAY MY SISTER IN LAW WAS TREATED , CAN SLEEP AT NIGHT !!!! SERVE & PROTECT , HA ! EGG ON ALL YOUR FACES ! HOPEFULLY NONE OF YOU HAVE FAMILIES THAT MAY GO THRU THIS TYPE OF NIGHTMERE OF HAVING LIVES TURNED INSIDE OUT , RIPPED APART , REPUTATIONS & DIGNITY DESTROYED . EXPLOITING CHILDREN , WELL RACHEL HAS DONE OF FINE JOB OF THAT TOO . I HOPE SHE CAN LIVE WITH WHAT MY POOR NIECE & NEPHEW HAVE BEEN THRU ! THEIR DADDY TRYING TO EXPLAIN WHY HE WAS ARRESTED , EXPLAINING MOMMY & DADDYS TEARS , WHY DADDY CAN’T GO BACK TO WORK AT THE FIRE STATION JUST YET & WHY MOMMYS’ HEALTH HAS BEEN COMPROMISED ~ GUT RENCHING ISN’T IT !!!
ITS TIME FOR A PERSONEL & PUBLIC APOLOGY & CONFESSION OF GUILT & WRONG DOING IN ALL ASPECTS OF THE HORRIBLE MISTAKES MADE BY RACHEL GARDNER , ALL THE ARRESTING OFFICERS , OFFICERS WHO SEARCH THE HOME , AND JUDGE ANNE HIRSH . HOPEFULLY THEY WON’T LET THEIR POMPOUS , OVERZELOUS ,
BUREAUCRATIC , CONCEITED BEHAVIOR GET IN THEIR WAY OF DOING SO . THIS IS GOING ON WEEK 6 , FOR WHAT ? THINKING THAT IF ENOUGH TIME PASSES WE WILL FORGET , HARDLY !!! TRUST ME, THIS WILL NOT BE LONG FORGOTTON OR SWEPT UNDER THE RUG !!!! WE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR THE RIGHTS OF TODD & NIKKI !!! I THINK ITS TIME FOR 20/20 , DATELINE , OPRAH & DR. PHIL TO GET AHOLD OF THIS STORY !!!!! PLEASE KEEP MY BROTHER & SISTER IN LAW IN YOUR PRAYERS & GET THEIR STORY OUT TO ANYONE & EVERYONE YOU CAN POSSIBLY THINK OF . WE ALL NEED TO STICK TO TOGETHER SO THIS DOESN’T HAPPEN TO SOMEONE WE KNOW & LOVE . TODD , NIK , TAYLOR & COLTON WE LOVE YOU ! KEEP THE FAITH ~
March 9th, 2008 at 1:38 am
Dear Todd and Nicole,
We are all patiently waiting for the go ahead from you to go to the national news with ALL that’s happened. We don’t want to compromise your position for seeking full recompense for what you’ve gone through and while the waiting is hard, our patience is very, very long.
We know the time for full exposure hasn’t come and also that it’s your call to make. We just want you to know we are all standing by you, with you and for you.
We are all so proud of both of you for how you’ve conducted yourselves and I’d like to think I’d have the same strength of character you’ve shown. I have serious doubts I could pass this test.
Waiting Patiently,
Auntie Marcia
March 9th, 2008 at 4:08 am
I just had to take a moment to express my feelings. I met Todd(Rockey)several years ago when he worked @ station 3, and I @ Albertsons in the Meat dpt. I got pretty close to all the guys @ 3’s, including Todd. I often took my young children to the station(two 4 year olds, and one 2 year old) All the guys were so good to them. my kids were especially fond of Todd, because he would sit them in the truck, sound the siren, and talk to them. Todd also sold our house, and helped us purchase a new one.
I left Albertsons in 2001, and unfortantly lost touch with the guys. Here not to long ago, I ran into Rockey and his son(they were getting hair cuts, as was my son) after big hugs, and the usal how is everybodys, I asked Todd to see a picture of his little girl, to his embarassment, he didnt have one.(some things never change!!) Todd just simply told me how beautiful she is, followed by, well just look @ my wife! Taylor is as beautiful as she is. My heart melted! To see the pride in his eyes for his family, is what I beleive, keeps us sane!
So, for anybody that has any dought about this man, I am here to ask you, does this man sound like a child porn -uck up?
HELL NO! My heart, my husbands heart, and my childrens go out to you, Nicole, and those beautiful kids. To you Nicole, you are not only beautyful on the outside, but also on the inside! Way to stand by your man! If at all I can help, please let me know. God bless you all
Peggy Egan
March 9th, 2008 at 10:24 am
Hey bud. It was nice talking to you tonight. I’m soooo sorry for what you are going through. These F**cking yellow bastards are not going to get away with this bullshit. I know it’s very difficult for you, Nik, and the kids right now, but don’t let these clowns bring you and your family down. They aren’t worth it. They are some sick, twisted, individuals with very low IQ’s obviously. How they have these kinds of jobs is beyond me. What were they thinking? Everytime they open their mouths, they shoot themeselves in the foot also. Let them talk. They are idiots. They can’t hold a candle to you. Remember that. Patience bro. I love you Todd and I’m sorry I haven’t shown it enough. When this is all over soon, we’ll spend some time together. It’s long over due. I’m here for you. Whatever you need. Hang Tough. Darren
March 9th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Todd,Nicole and Family,
Even though we have never met you we have heard what a wonderful family you are. We don’t understand how such a terrible thing could happen to you.We know this will come out positive for you and you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Patrick and Esther Hayes
March 9th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
Just want to say this is a familiar story in some ways what happened to our family but we also couldn’t believe the support from friends, the community and and the media on how something can get so blown out or misconstrued. It never went anywhere, but it was a waste of the taxpayer’s money and certain parties involved reputation and credibility!
Keep the faith.
March 10th, 2008 at 12:29 am
Hang in there Todd, Many including myself of course are praying for you! Many have been victims of Fraud.
I know the God of everything has you and your family in His mighty hands. And even though this is incredabley difficult to go though, He is there with you and the family.
Just a few of his promices he has for his beleivers:
No weapon forged against you will prosper …Isaiah 54:17
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3
March 10th, 2008 at 12:36 am
I have long held that it is easier to convict cops of crimes they didn’t commit than to convict drug dealers and thugs. This is same song, different verse. A fire fighter makes as good a target as a cop.
While it seems that this has been publicized absolutely everywhere, it really hasn’t. I’m geographically in Virginia, and the piece in International Fire Fighting News on March 7th was the first I heard of it. I have added the FFN article at Truth in Justice, linked from the Wrongfully Convicted Cops section (http://truthinjustice.org/cops.htm). Our website, which deals with wrongful conviction and the factors that lead to it, gets approximately 6,000 unique visitors per week. Let’s hold up the WSP to the ridicule they deserve, on a scale far wider than the state of Washington.
When you have been cleared, Chris, I hope you will consider a lawsuit for malicious prosecution (or whatever term it’s known by in your state).
March 10th, 2008 at 12:38 am
I have long held that it is easier to convict cops of crimes they didn’t commit than to convict drug dealers and thugs. This is same song, different verse. A fire fighter makes as good a target as a cop.
While it seems that this has been publicized absolutely everywhere, it really hasn’t. I’m geographically in Virginia, and the piece in International Fire Fighting News on March 7th was the first I heard of it. I have added the FFN article at Truth in Justice, linked from the Wrongfully Convicted Cops section (http://truthinjustice.org/cops.htm). Our website, which deals with wrongful conviction and the factors that lead to it, gets approximately 6,000 unique visitors per week. Let’s hold up the WSP to the ridicule they deserve, on a scale far wider than the state of Washington.
When you have been cleared, Todd, I hope you will consider a lawsuit for malicious prosecution (or whatever term it’s known by in your state).
March 10th, 2008 at 5:54 am
You are all in my families prayers. This kind of injustice needs to be addressed and that time is coming. I have forwarded this website to everyone in my address book - your story will not go untold.
Just keep the faith.
“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] John 16:33.
March 10th, 2008 at 6:04 am
You will always have your extended family’s support!! You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hey, you guys can watch my kids anytime you want. Keep your head up. Paybacks a bitch!!!
March 10th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Todd & Nikki,
I want you to know that Mendi and I are behind you guys 100%. You guys were great neighbors way back when and have continued to be good friends. When Mendi and I saw the news on TV, the first thing I said was “there was no way that it was true, what a bunch of crap!” I was shocked and outraged that our news channels would even break the story without any evidence whatsoever. As usual they want to rip any public servant anytime they can. As somebody else wrote on here, they are nothing better than the National Enquirer. They should be ashamed of themselves for not getting all the facts right before breaking the news. How would they feel if we aired all there dirty laundry on the primetime news. I think all of us in the fire service have seen some of our fine outstanding newcasters do things they aren’t proud of. As for the idiots running the investigation-WHAT A FRICKIN’ JOKE. Do they have a clue? Since when in the United States of America does the law read guilty until proven innocent? The judge, the wsp, the investigators, and the team that raided,yes raided, your home should be ashamed of themselves as well. Did they find their tactics from “How to be just like the Gestappo, written by Hitler”? The way they treated Nikki at the house was a bunch of BS. They don’t treat common criminals that bad, and Todd and Nikki you guys are fine outstanding citizens that have given back to a lot to the community. Todd and Nikki, Stay strong and know that Mendi and I are behind you 100%. As Todd Lobdell said, the guys in Local 2916 that know you are also behind you. I have let all the guys in our local that have asked how I feel about the whole thing. Take care guys and God Bless.
March 10th, 2008 at 5:42 pm
Todd & Family, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this insane display of our Justice System, which was designed to protect us.
Stay strong, I know deep down you both realize your names will be cleared.
Take care of you….
Gary
March 11th, 2008 at 1:02 am
Hi Todd & Nik. I know I haven’t been able to talk with you both yet, but I just want you guys to know I’m always thinking of you. I’m sorry this mess is going on, but I know in time justice will prevail. These people that have caused so much hurt and pain in your lives will pay for what they have done. Please send my love to my niece and nephew. Like Darren said, spending some time together is long overdue. I look forward to when I can see you all again. oxoxo, Andrea
March 11th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
March 11th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
I don’t know Todd and NIcole Chism, but I know his sister Andrea very well. This is an unbelievable story. I have never heard of something so ridiculously fabricated. I am ashamed of the WSP and I must admit, it makes me a little weary of asking for help. I support your family and if you ask me, you should sue the hell out of them. Raise hell! You have my support.
Take care and keep your heads held high.
March 12th, 2008 at 1:36 am
Todd and family, I feel real bad for you folks, I do not even know you but felt compelled to wish you the best and if this is fraud I hope the WSP and others will have to compensate you in some way. The worst part is that no amount of money can repair your family name. I have had to twice go through a bunch of crap because the lazy collections agencys and others threw a dart at the board and attach bad checks and ripoffs to my clean name and credit. It took me 2 months each time to just prove I was not the idiot they were looking for. I really hope you come out stronger after all this, thanks for hearing me out.
Michael in West Spokane.
March 12th, 2008 at 1:49 am
Wow….the media actually spilled the beans tonight and you are on your way to conquering the evident. I like how the head honcho has been trasferred to a new unit already and the case has been taken on by someone else within the WPD. Todd and Nicole, you are in total control now and the truth can be exposed locally as well as nationally. This act of irrationable behavior cannot be supported by anyone throughout our country. Patience, even though it’s been a long haul, will be the determining factor in the outcome of your f^cked up arrest. I never questioned this day and am so happy to see the local news coming through on your side. Congratulations on holding your tongue and standing true to your honor. This is exactly why you are well respected not only by my family but also the other firemen throughout. Courage is something that only people who save others’ lifes can and will ever undertand. I’m proud of both of you for being able to stand strong through all of this. Even when times seemed to be negatively neverending, you’ve both been outstandind citizens in our community. Continue to fight the fight until all of this is resolved down to their last breath. You two are admirable people that deserve nothing short of your names holding the strong compassion that you both own.
March 12th, 2008 at 2:04 am
The administrater needs to change the contact information for the WSP. Apparntly Seargent John Sager “voluntarily” found a new job. As a long time government employee…I know what that means. Good luck in your new position John.
I’m wary that the WSP has one last smear up their sleeve. They have a “classy track record” so far.
March 12th, 2008 at 4:39 am
Patricia has kept me informed of how things have been going for you. Stay strong, make sure you take care of yourselves and health before all esle and know that many people shake their heads in sadness for what you have been subjected to. Try to be patient as the wheels of injustice sort out what their next step will be. Tonight’s news was a wonderful breath of fresh air…savor it and sleep well tonight.
March 12th, 2008 at 5:18 am
Todd and family, I heard the good news tonight. I’m so happy for you guys. They are licking their wounds. It’s just a matter of time now. Whatever they try to pull next, will only make them look more foolish than they already do. They can’t figure that out though……….Clowns. Get some rest.
March 12th, 2008 at 5:43 am
Dearest Brother & Nik ,Taylor , Colton ~ I couldn’t get you off my mind tonight , couldn’t sleep , remember I said ” Your pain is my pain” , so I thought I’d look to at your blog again to see any new comments & saw the GREAT news !!! Then I went to kxly news & cried tears of joy !!! Justice finally going your way ! Sager out ! Next to follow should be Rachel Gardner & Judge Hirsch !!! I can’t wait to come see you all for the celebration & give you the BIGGEST HUG EVER ! There are no words to express my happiness for you all . The future is brighter brother !! We’re so very proud of all your strength & courage . All of our prayers are being answered ! Sweet dreams . We love you ~ your sister Michelle , Dick , Joshus , & Jessica
March 12th, 2008 at 7:53 am
I would love to see you get on National TV - contact the Today show - you deserve justice and a widespread media tool to let people know just how this crazy identity theft can affect all of the hard working, honest, law abiding citizens. I am floored - this is outrageous! I wish you the best of luck in getting your life back on track - please get your story out there - it needs to be told across the country!
March 12th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Dear Todd, Nicole and Family,
I’m almost at a loss for words! Todd, your mom left me a msg on my answering machine at 7 AM today and before I listened to it, I thought something horrible must have happened as she’s never, EVER up that early. I listened to the msg and felt the world fall off my shoulders!!! I’m sitting here trying to type through tears and just want to tell you how much we love and care for you, Nicole and the kids. We are SO proud of the way you both have conducted yourselves during the worst time you’ll ever experience.
Like your sister, it’s tears of joy I’m crying and for right now, it is enough to know the truth is out. I know in a few hours the anger will take hold for what they did to you. That’s then, this is now and I’m the happiest Aunt in the world!
Love & Hugs,
Auntie Marcia
March 12th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Ok, so now I’m angry. There’s the governer of New York who’s ADMITTED guilt of enormous crimes. He’s just now “decided” to leave office but I wonder, was the governer’s mansion trampled through in utter and total disrespect? Did his wife have to stand out in the cold for HOURS while the governer’s mansion was plundered? Was Spitzer hauled off to jail and made a mockery of? Have they filed charges against this admitted criminal?
NO! And I’m furious. I’m not going to make this about Spitzer but when I look at what happened to my nephew and his family compared to what DIDN’T happen to Spitzer, I can’t help the fury that rises up in my throat. Perhaps his next job will be with the WSP…he’d certainly fit right in!
Sorry, just had to vent!
Marcia
March 12th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Todd, we are so sorry to hear about the mess you are in. Life can be unfair sometimes. Trust the LORD to turn this around for a big blessing in your lives. We are praying for you and your family.
Love you!
Sue Ann and Paul Roberts
March 13th, 2008 at 1:05 am
wow, witch hunt called off???
hmmm, hey todd, ya think ya might have been telling the truth? who woulda guessed? as an lt. it the dept. i figured you got that position by not not telling the truth, yeah right. as a fellow fire fighter that remembers what truth and honor stands for, as you do as i have seen in these posts. great support network. you know all that see this outrage has comments…..how come we dont see a comment bad of you or your family? why? why?why?
maybe because you do your job(s)
you as a fighterfighter/ for all the years you have put in at sfd…dont make crap?that is wrong…..to me it sounded like a railroading that got stopped by evidence…wtg…you are a decent respectable family man?
yeah there are some left, you are it. i feel sorry for you and your family to go thru this todd. i hope you sue the spokane co. on this…….in all damages i agree with you.
i hate sueing, but in this case, i will welcome paying for it if it get you and your family peace from the hate mongers.
give them an inch….they take a mile….get ready for a marathon dude!!!!!
too bad you are half way there…
peace to you and your family
my players are there for ya.
peace
mav
March 13th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Todd,
I heard your story on the news last night and had to get up to look online to learn more. I am so sorry for you and your family. What a horror this must be for all of you. Take some comfort in the fact that good will prevail. Please know that you’re old friends on this side of the mountain have your in our thoughts and prayers.
Take good care of each other!
Molly (Graham) Smith