Cop kills Clinton man
Photo 
Timothy Harrington
Photo
The body of Timothy Harrington is removed from the home at 207 Mill St., Clinton, this morning. Harrington died after apparently being shot by a police officer during a domestic disturbance at the home.
Photo
A Rock County Sheriff's squad sits outside of 207 Mill St. in Clinton on the evening of December 18. Reports from the scene indicated a Clinton police officer was involved in a shooting incident at the home.
CLINTON — A police officer shot and killed a rural Clinton man Tuesday night in a confrontation that apparently escalated from a domestic disturbance.
Timothy E. Harrington, 36, of 11447 Minkey Road, was killed, according to the Rock County Sheriff's Department.
Police say Harrington shot his mother-in-law, Marilyn Smith, 58, of 207 Mill St., Clinton, during the incident, which occurred about 6:50 p.m. at her home. Smith was taken by helicopter to St. Anthony's Hospital in Rockford, Ill. A hospital spokeswoman said Wednesday afternoon that Smith was in critical condition.
The officers involved were Clinton officer Kim Rau and Rock County Sheriff’s Deputy Curt Streuly, said a source close to the investigation, who declined to be named because the case still is being investigated by the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigations.
The officers were not injured. Who shot Harrington was still being investigated this morning.
Unknown was how many shots were fired.
At least two children were in the home at the time of the shooting, the source said.
Rock County Sheriff Bob Spoden scheduled a press conference for 1 p.m. today to give details.
As soon as it was determined that the incident was an officer-involved shooting, sheriff’s deputies taped off the house at 207 Mill St. as a crime scene, Spoden said, and he called the Division of Criminal Investigations to investigate.
"Very preliminary information indicates that the officers’ actions to protect members of the family were appropriate," Spoden said in a press release.
Spoden said he asked Dane County Sheriff Dan Mahoney to coordinate the internal investigation into the shooting. Such an investigation is routine in such shootings, Spoden said.
It is also is routine for police in small municipalities to request backup from the sheriff’s department when called to a potentially violent domestic disturbance, the sheriff said.
August standoff
Harrington was involved in a two-hour standoff with police at his home on Minkey Road on Aug. 21.
Officers were called to the home for a domestic disturbance but learned that Harrington had fled.
A Clinton officer located and attempted to stop Harrington in Clinton, but he did not comply. A chase ensued back to Harrington's home, where he drove his vehicle into a storage garage.
Harrington barricaded himself in the garage with a firearm and refused to comply with officers request to exit. He eventually gave himself up.
On Aug. 24, Timothy Harrington was charged with domestic abuse of a child, two counts of battery, fleeing an officer, failure to comply and dangerous use of a weapon in connection with the standoff.
According to court documents from the Aug. 21 incident, Michelle Harrington told officers she had been in an argument with her husband, Timothy, about registering their children for school.
Timothy put his hands around Michelle’s neck but did not squeeze, she said. Michelle threatened to call police, and Timothy slapped her, she said.
Timothy threatened her before leaving the house.
During the standoff later at the storage garage, Timothy refused to come out and told officers that he wanted to die. He threatened to kill officers.
He told officers over the phone he had a 9 mm pistol and an unloaded shotgun.
Eventually officers talked him out of the building after he had accidentally discharged one of the weapons.
Michelle told police there was an incident about three weeks before the Aug. 21 standoff when she objected to Timothy bringing two men into their home. He began hitting her, and their 14-year-old daughter stood between the two and yelled at Timothy to stop. He hit the girl in the face, according to the criminal complaint.
On Aug. 28, Michelle filed for a temporary restraining order against Timothy and filed for divorce.
According to the divorce petition, the Harringtons have four children—a 14-year-old girl, an 11-year-old girl, a 7-year-old boy and a 5-year-old boy.
The scene in Clinton
Neighbors said they didn’t hear a thing Tuesday night.
They didn’t know anyone was shot until they saw 20 police cars in the street.
John Coleman works at the Clinton Kitchen, 239 Allen St. The restaurant’s back door is straight across the lot from the white, one-story home at 207 Mill.
No one working at the restaurant heard shots Tuesday night, but an employee noticed the ruckus while taking out the trash, Coleman said.
From the alley Tuesday night, the restaurant staff watched a police officer standing at the front door of the house. Two young girls ran from the house, Coleman said. The officer waved at the girls to stay back and seemed to be listening at the door, Coleman said.
When another officer arrived, they both entered the home, he said.
At 8 p.m., an ambulance idled in the nearby village hall parking lot. A police officer carried a stuffed Snoopy toy to a small group huddled in the ambulance.
Police cars and sport utility vehicles with lights flashing were parked up and down Mill and Cross streets. The front yard and the street in front of 207 Mill were blocked off with police tape. A Christmas tree with no lights stood in the home’s front window.
The Harringtons moved into 207 Mill St. two or three weeks ago, said Steve Espinoza, 211 Mill. He has shoveled the family’s sidewalk but never met them, he said.
Espinoza said his brother had seen a Clinton police car in front of the house at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday. Around 5:30, they saw a sheriff’s squad car and later an ambulance, he said.
Talk of the town
This morning, the shooting was all the talk for regulars at the Clinton Kitchen.
“It’s very much the talk of the town,” owner Connie Farrell said while reading the morning newspaper over a cup of coffee.
With details about the shooting lacking, customers were left to speculate.
Farrell heard lots of sirens and a helicopter fly overhead while at home Tuesday night.
“We just were curious,” she said.
The only information people had was from television reports and hearsay, but many of the stories were “pretty inaccurate,” Farrell said. Many customers were eagerly awaiting more information to be released at the 1 p.m. news conference
Nick Nielson heard of the shooting on the news Tuesday night and met this morning with his friends at the diner like he does everyday.
“All we know is what was on TV. It’s all roped off,” he said of the crime scene.
Shortly after the diner opened at 5 a.m., an officer came in to buy two dozen doughnuts and other food for authorities who had been working over night, Farrell said.
Reporters Marcia Nelesen, Jim Leute and Gina Duwe contributed to this story.
Jan 26, 2008 at 1:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
The woman wounded is doing well. She has a few more operations ahead of her to regain movement of her shoulder. Best possible outcome, considering.
To the person who was wonding if this situation was handled in the best way possible. I say it was. When a man enters a house with a shot gun and shoots someone, you dont stop and think whether or not to use mace, or a taser. Its unfortunate that this family lost a father, but this man entered the house with the intention of killing everyone inside. Its a blessing that only one life was lost.
Jan 7, 2008 at 2 p.m.
Suggest removal
Dear GOD...bless the Harrington family.
Does anyone know the latest condition of the wounded mother in law? My thoughts and prayers go out to her as well.
Jan 4, 2008 at 5:23 p.m.
Suggest removal
I can't understand what you are talking about.
Jan 4, 2008 at 3:47 p.m.
Suggest removal
WOW these posts really got off topic. By reading just the posts, I couldn't even tell ya what the origional article was about. Nice job people!
Jan 4, 2008 at 12:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
Schmeb, It always kind of amuses me when people comment on a story that hasn’t been commented on in (in this case) 2 days and 5 hours, asking why people are still (in this case) badmouthing this guy. Don’t you know (or do you?) it puts the story in a higher position on the list?
If 10, 15, 20 or more people comment on a post, all saying, “Yeah, you’re right, I agree with the previous 25 posters.”, who would read and comment on the posts, or, if so, why? What more would there be to add? It would just die a natural, peaceful death. Don’t most of us post on a story to get our own view point across? “Debate”, more than agreement, probably keeps most posts going-and let’s face it-might be a bit more “interesting”, if it’s reasonable and not posted just to inflame.
Adding agreement is nice, and friendly, but perhaps, after awhile, unnecessary. New, reliable details are also very good. Adding argument is probably most common. What were YOU looking for, Shmeb?
Jan 4, 2008 at 10:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
I am sorry that you have so much anger in you and that you are so annoyed by other people. If you are not interested in what other people are thinking, maybe posted comments are not right for you. If you could only let go of your anger and listen to other people, you might learn a lot. It may not be what you thought you set out to learn and it may not be something that you agree with, but in time you will learn to tolerate other people's views and opinions without being threatened by them.
Jan 4, 2008 at 8:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
SCHMEB,
Apparently you havn't read mine. You are incorrect. Not everybody in here is casting stones as you say.
Jan 4, 2008 at 7:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
You all that wish to spar via the "Janesville Gazette" blog should go get a private room. We are sick and tired of hearing your petty arguments. Just post a comment, and leave it at that. For Christ's sake.....gazzeteer1
I so agree with you to this statement you posted!!! I come on to read the stories and then read peoples views on the subject and it is just people argueing and calling each other names and talking about things that dont even pertain to the story....the gazette needs to enforce their posting rules!!!
Jan 2, 2008 at 2:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
gazzeteer1...lol.....all i can say is what do u expect read the articles.....and the way things were portrayed...........garyprimer.........reading the article(s) not knowing the family it is easy to draw some nasty conclusions.....hopefully no hard feelings ........i am only speaking for a friend who can not for himself(i prefer he still could, but choices he made led to his own demise....i am thankful everyday he did/does not take anyone with him.......and hope i have not caused any hard feelings......happy new year!!!!....hopin all have a great new year.... :)
Jan 2, 2008 at 12:40 p.m.
Suggest removal
garyprimer..
I admire you for saying that. It says alot about you. I'll let you in on something.....
Two years ago, I was a very bitter, judgemental, selfish person. (We all can be!)
I had a monumental wake up call in Feb. '06 that's totally changed the way I look at things. I used to just say what was on my mind regardless of the consequences of whom it may hurt or affect. I'm nobody special, believe me! I've just simply stopped thinking of me all the time because I've realized that there's other people in this world besides me.
It's not just about me. I've simply made the choice to not be influenced by the negative media out there that's hurting so many people and eroding our society as a whole. I'm taking in the best possible media there is which is leading me to give out positive to others rather than the negative garbage they don't need. I wish I could hug everyone and lead them to the same thing I've been blessed with but I know it doesn't work that way! So, I've made the choice to be the best father, husband and friend I can possibly be on a daily basis and hope that I can pass that feeling onto someone else so they might do the same. That's all. No ego's, no agenda, I just want to help make a difference. That's it. God Bless
Jan 2, 2008 at 10:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
I choose to apologize for hurting anyone's feelings. I did not know this man and I am sure that he had many fine qualities as a human being and many flaws as we all have. I write what I think at the time. You should be aware that there is a chance that others are thinking the same thing but do not take the time or opportunity to write it. This is called a reaction to story or comment. It is not an edict from the supreme court. It is not a plan to save the world. I probably have no idea what I am talking about and need to be set straight. Thank you for taking the time to do so.
Jan 1, 2008 at 11:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
garyprimer........hidin' behind the keyboard I see. Stay bitter and be part of the problem. Your choice.
Jan 1, 2008 at 4:19 p.m.
Suggest removal
Looks like somebody just read a book from Oprah's list and now has a major in philosophy.
Jan 1, 2008 at 9:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
Everyone adding comments in this site or any site for that matter (including me) have the power within them to go out in this world and make a positive difference. It's real easy to hide behind a keyboard and spew negative towards one another in this cybernistic society we're cursed with. Here's the thing, it doesn't have to be that way! We have too many people on this planet pointing fingers at everyone else and pointing out their "shortcomings", when they should be looking at themselves. You can't make a difference in others unless you work on yourself first. It starts at home. God has a purpose for each and every one of us while we're here on this Earth and I can assure you, God doesn't make "junk". Therefore, if we, as individuals (including me!) aren't working at finding that purpose and fulfilling it, we're not honoring our creator with our whole heart. Whether you have a spiritual side or not doesn't even matter. If we all just make an effort to respect others and just make an effort on a daily basis to do the right things, tragedies like this will happen less and less in our communities. We have the power make it happen, the question is, are you going to sit behind the keyboard of your computer, the TV, the local watering holes.....or are you going to step up and do something about it???!!!! It's called "get bitter or get better"
God bless everyone!
Jan 1, 2008 at 8:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
You all that wish to spar via the "Janesville Gazette" blog should go get a private room. We are sick and tired of hearing your petty arguments. Just post a comment, and leave it at that. For Christ's sake.....
Dec 31, 2007 at 2:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
agreed.......well said ihavealife................i had the pleasure of spending some time with tim and michelle's children.......they are 4 beautiful,well mannered children .......i only hope this tragedy or any of the aftermath doesn't do irrepairable damage...............hopefully as friends and family we can help and stop this from destroying any more lives
Dec 31, 2007 at 2:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
garyprimer
maybe the clinton community rests a bit easier knowing that u wouldn't travel thru their community or better yet u don't live there............as we know all opinions /comments have 2 sides.......as i have said before my FRIEND tim made some poor decisions that were out of character.....but yes i agree we all should take responsibilty for ours actions........i never would participate or condone his actions.....nor would i abandon my friends alive or even after u judge him and his situation when he isn't here to defend himself........when all that is left is his family and friends to make sure he is remember for how he lived not how he died.............i too am glad the police nuetralized the situation before it degraded i am well aware and fear how bad it would have been had they not been present......but a tragedy none the less......we should all hope that this experience can be prevented....with
some wisdom gained from this
Dec 31, 2007 at 10:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
ihavealife,
lets all have more forgivness in our hearts... very well said, don't you think!
Dec 30, 2007 at 12:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
garyprimer-i didn't know this man,but what i do know is he was a father,son ,husband,and sounds to me a friend to many!if you have never had a tragedy in your life or family count yourself very lucky !!remember he has children old enough to read would you feel good about yourself if your comments found their way back to them ??? i hope and pray this family has more happy memories than sad and tragic.lets all have more forgivness in our hearts and say a prayer for this family and town in need !!
Dec 30, 2007 at 11:58 a.m.
Suggest removal
I hope that everyone who thinks this is a swell guy who just had some problems lives in Clinton. Do me a favor and don't move anytime soon and I will be sure to drive around and not through town if I need to pass that way. Good luck to all of you.
Dec 29, 2007 at 11:36 p.m.
Suggest removal
Honeybee,
Thank you for taking the time to read my comments. I sincerely pray that what I say can make a difference in someone's life. As to wondering if I live by the words I write, like I said in my last passage: I've decided to live by the golden rule: "DO ONTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE DONE ONTO YOURSELF"
I truly feel I'm a person of high character and integrity and if I weren't, I wouldn't have said what I said. It goes back to holding myself accountable for my actions. My actions in life get me the results I get in life. If I don't like my results, I change my actions. My actions are modeled after 10 golden rules that GOD makes clear in a very special book that I'm sure we've all heard of!
I have found that if I just live right and make it a point to serve others, great things come back to you in return. It's a win-win!
The great part is, it's available for anyone who has the desire to change and you don't have to have to be any certain religion to just simply live your life in accordance to them. If we all just did that, religious or not, the world would be such a greater place to live in for all of us. I personally, choose to be a leader. A leader isn't a boss or an authority or better than anyone else, a leader just simply leads by example. I so pray that I can make a difference that way. '
Again, God bless everyone!
Dec 29, 2007 at 1:32 p.m.
Suggest removal
I didn't know Mr. Harrington. I'm sure he was loved by family and friends. That said, all I know are the facts... he had been arrested for abusing his spouse....he shot an innocent person....he threatened to harm law enforcement. Fact is, he was a dangerous person.
Obviously he had some mental issues, but how much of this was set off from the loss of his business and/or $600,000 home? It seems he was very materialistic and wanted to prove his worth by flaunting wealth by living above his means. When this was taken away from him he like another poster said, "threw a tantrum". A shame for sure. Would this have happened if he hadn't lost his home and other "toys"? No one can say for sure, but probably not.
In the end, this is a very sad story, that has damaged many lives. It is a shame that Mr. Harrington had to lose his life, but ultimately he chose to go down this path.
Dec 29, 2007 at 11:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
kleej, Thank you I wish that more people shared your views and I hope you live by them as well.
Dec 29, 2007 at 1:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
We have a problem in society and it's called lack of accountability. This whole story is a major tragedy. It's a product of the culture which we are stuck with because so many people are into finger pointing and blaming others for the problems in their lives and not taking the personal responsibility to do something about it. As adults, we need to be the example to the upcoming generations, not part of the problem.. Too many people whining about how life has treated them and not willing to confront reality and do something about it. It's your life! You have the power to change it! I'm living proof that it can be done. We need more leaders and less followers in our communities! We need to be lifting others up instead of kicking them when they're down. If we, as a country, don't wake up to what's happening out there, we are going to see more tragedy's like this one on a continually growing basis. Not just in Clinton, but, EVERYWHERE!!!! Me personally, I've made the decision to take a stand and hold myself accountable for how I live my life! I've decided to live by the golden rule: "DO ONTO OTHERS AS YOU WOULD HAVE DONE ONTO YOURSELF" ..........I beg people, just try on a daily basis to be positive and be an uplifter to people you meet everyday. You'll be pleasantly surprised as to how good it makes you feel, while at the same time, helping someone else. Whether we like it or not, we're all in this together. WE NEED TO BE THE EXAMPLE AND GO OUT AND MAKE THIS COUNTRY GREAT AGAIN. Anyone up for that???!!!! God bless all of you!
Dec 28, 2007 at 11:06 a.m.
Suggest removal
I would much rather see "Cop Kills Clinton Man" than "Clinton Man Kills Cop" and I realize the need for alliteration to turn out snappy headlines, but I feel it would be more responsible to use the term "police officer" or "deputy" when referring to the same. This is a classic suicide by police and the victim who suffers the most in these cases is the officer who is manipulated into using deadly force.
Dec 28, 2007 at 9 a.m.
Suggest removal
Tim you crazy sob! Too soon for the wrong reasons rest in peace my friend!!! Your blaze of glory is written here below by people who did not know you well or at all. I only wish you could have learned to live more and realise what you had.
Michelle I am so very sorry!
For you, the kids! The many long days ahead, and if you ever read this then you will know me, who I am.
I've been gone for some time.
Tim and I spent many hours together for a lot of years.
I knew him well, and sadly enough knew this day would come. He called me and told me the things he'd done. I had no words for him, there was nothing anyone could have said to him to make things different. An unchanging direction of mind. Strong willed to the point of absurd. The making and ultimate demise of a man I knew well. Again rest in peace my FRIEND! I pray you find your way.
Dec 27, 2007 at 11:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
I have emailed the Gazette Staff to have Evansvillehousewife banned from any further posts on the Gazette website. She is totally abusing her privilages. She is clearly using this site to vent her anger and frustrations.
Dec 27, 2007 at 6:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
Finally people with sense... All of us should be grateful something like this has never darkened our doorstep...we never know what the future holds.... So lets all pray for the Harrington Family....
Dec 27, 2007 at 4:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
Thanks Toots, I am tired of hearing everyones negative thoughts of Tim, he was a great guy and a family friend of ours. We will miss you Timmy, RIP!
Dec 27, 2007 at 4:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
I knew Tim. Of course what happened was awful, but to derive a psychological diagnosis out of an article in the paper is impossible. All these shrink-wannabe's should just hope a tragedy like this doesn't visit your family.
Dec 27, 2007 at 3:04 p.m.
Suggest removal
Starboy,
What irritates me is people who read the newspaper, because they think if it was in the paper, it HAS to be true! COME ON people. If you didn't know Tim, you don't have a right to call him such rude and cruel names. Do you know the Tim that went and had his picture taken with his kids to give to his wife as a suprise? Do you know the Tim that would be at the hockey rink watching his kid during practice and come to every game, EVEN UP UNTIL THIS HAPPENED WHILE PEOPLE CONTINUED TO JUDGE HIM AND TALK ABOUT HIM BEHIND HIS BACK? Do you know the Tim that was always around his kids and was a dedicated family man? Look, I am not saying that all was perfect, far from it, but, he is also NOT the monster that he is being portrayed to be. One little incident, ONE THING, and ANY OF YOU that are talking so badly about him, could be in his situation. I feel so much remorse for Tim and what happened, BUT, I DO KNOW that he would have never done this intentionally if he was in his right frame of mind.
I think the world would be a better place if people like Starboy mentioned would just shut their mouths. If you have nothing nice to say, and you don't know the person affected, why don't you just mind your business and stay out of it? Read your article and go about your day. Every time you say something mean and cruel, know that one of us who REALLY KNEW Tim and Michelle and their family will be on here telling you to shut up because YOU don't know them and have NO RIGHT to judge.
Dec 27, 2007 at 12:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
Exactly, Starboy.
Let's hope none of the people judging him ever are judged for the things they do. Nobody is perfect.
Dec 27, 2007 at 11:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
kleej ......... wish everyone felt the same as you .... good job
Dec 27, 2007 at 11:05 a.m.
Suggest removal
starboy..... well said i think your comments are the best of all. to bad we have such selfish people in the world and closed minded people..
Dec 27, 2007 at 10:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
Our society is filled with negativity. It amazes me the amount of people who just love to fill these blog sites with "negative" info.
Here's a challenge for everyone (including myself) the past "is what it is" we can't change that. Go out in your communities on a daily basis and find one person everyday and find something nice to say about them and let them hear it. Those that know the Harrington's and were friends with the deceased, this is your chance to turn a huge negative into a huge positive from this day forward! I would venture to bet that had Timothy been encouraged with positive words from his outside world on a daily basis, this tragedy would've never taken place. Is it anyone's fault??? Of course not! It's OUR fault as a society. I take my share of the blame for this and I never even knew the family. Our society is too involved at pointing fingers and focusing on the negative's of the past. Don't live in the past, learn from it. Can't we all swallow our pride and go out in this world on a daily basis and do something positive for someone else? Our world would become a much more positive environment for all of us....especially our children, the next generation of people who will be duplicating the examples we set. Let's not let Timothy Harrington's tragic death be in vein. Be a part of the cure and not the disease! I respect all of you and your comments and I would hope you would do the same for me. Remember, "ONE OF US IS NOT AS GOOD AS ALL OF US"....We can all make a difference, TOGETHER if we choose to change and make it happen.
Dec 26, 2007 at 10:11 p.m.
Suggest removal
i apoligize for the negativity .....but i will not stand by and let my friend,tim harrington,be insulted by those who don't know him and do not have the right to judge him.......with that being said "toots" and "RR815" thank you and good for you .......i believe we should all defend and stand up for our friends .........share with them in their lives....triumph with them in their good days....help them thru their bad days......as tru friends should..........tim left behind family and friends that love him and will miss him......a part of us will always be with him as a part of him will always be with us.......god bless all of us left to carry on with out our loved ones
Dec 26, 2007 at 10:02 p.m.
Suggest removal
"gazettefan".....do u work for the paper already...or brown nosing for a job???...i may be wrong but i suspect few agree with u
Dec 26, 2007 at 10 p.m.
Suggest removal
now on to those who would judge my friend and call him names by the actions of the past 6 mos of his life...........let me ask him u ..did u know him ???.. did u know his family???.....what qualifies u or gives u the right to judge.............but please let me be more specific to those who judge.........."zach" u refered to my friend as a psychotic killer apparently u have a degree??....in what i wonder ,last i checked the only death in this sad story was tim's and he didn't kill himself...3 words dee dee dee :)............"nutty"if u are in a bad situation one day hopefully u will be shown the same compassion u show to others.........."majormojo"..u refer to my friend as dangerous killer again let me point out who died here u also must have a degree, because u were aware he was beyond rehabilitation.and my fav u say according the article,now i wasn't there so i don't know,but were u? do u believe everything u read?? all i can say is the world needs sheep too good luck............"dub190"...u refer to tim as a sicko...similiar questions for u. u knew tim,u where there,ur degree(similiar place as the previous i suspect) ............"gazetteer1"..again i hope some day u are shown the compassion u deserve when u are in need..........and the grand daddy..."fldpan"....u refer to my friend as a crazy murderer...a dirtbag..and then make reference to the MEN on the clinton police force ,as i recall the clinton officer's name was kim...a man..maybe...maybe not.....obviously u didn't know tim...or much of anything ur narrow minded ,pea brained comments speak for themselves
Dec 26, 2007 at 9:28 p.m.
Suggest removal
now on to the reporting ..........omg......could u be a litle less heartless....his/her children and family...and lets not forget the officers involved and their families will read what u write .........shame on u to blame deadlines and lack of time......in the real world if do our jobs that well we get fired!!!......i understand the deal is to sell papers...but at what price??
Dec 26, 2007 at 9:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
and yes please don't forget the officers involved........i cannot imagine what they went thru....and how hard the decision must have been to take tim's life .....they did what they felt they had to do to save the family from harm as michelle's mother did.....they are all heroes and deserve our support and love........do i also wish that this could have been resolved without the use of lethal force.....yes ......for all the obvious reasons......but i also know tim was aware of the consequence of his actions....i don't pretend to know what his thoughts were....but stress and/or divorce can change a person and affect the decisions we make
Dec 26, 2007 at 9:13 p.m.
Suggest removal
i read so many of these comments and i can't believe what i am reading..........tim is my friend and will always be.....i grew up with his family .....he was a father,a husband,a brother,a son and a friend.......did he make some poor choices...yes..do i condone the choices...no...... but he is and will always be my friend..........i want to express my deepest condolences to his wife,his family and his friends......we all love him and wish things were not as they are now
Dec 26, 2007 at 6:16 p.m.
Suggest removal
very well put sandman
Dec 25, 2007 at 11:09 p.m.
Suggest removal
Understand..... this maniac was aiming his shotgun at his wife! His mother in-law jumped in front of the daughter and took a bullet to the shoulder. Saved her daughters life! Harrington was intending to kill his wife and kids! The cops did what was necessary in this case. You can't take the chance of this guy firing on someone else. If he'll kill any of his family members without hesitation, everyone is fair game in his eyes. He had a death wish and was selfishly looking to take his family down that dark road with him. The police averted what could have been a major tragedy. Put it this way, if someone had to die in this case, the right person did......god rest his soul. Let's pray for the wife and children and the mother in-law that is fighting for her life in the hospital as well.
Dec 25, 2007 at 6:24 p.m.
Suggest removal
sandman, that is probably the best post ive read on here. i agree with you 100%.
Dec 25, 2007 at 5:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
Tim Harrington was ultimately the author of his own fate, period, and he paid the price for his out-of-control actions. While I'm sure that those who knew him well could point to the many good qualities he might have displayed (as we all likely have) over his lifetime, his track of late was obviously a widening gyre that set him on a collision course for personal and family disaster. Unfortunately, the long-term effects of the choices that HE MADE will be felt by all involved, and that is the real tragedy of this event. "The System" cannot, will not, and should not be expected to identify and "fix" every flawed individual, nor will it ultimately save most of us from ourselves. All it can do is provide opportunities for structure, assistance and personal change. It's up to the individual to put forth the effort -- in many cases considerable effort -- and to not lapse into lashing out with pathetic, self-centered and maladaptive "coping" mechanisms. The police regularly use an extreme amount of patience, tolerance, and restraint in dealing with such individuals and circumstances -- more than most of these immature, selfish individuals deserve. My hat is off to all officers during this unnecessarily difficult holiday season, but especially to the officers who were involved in this pointless incident and who were forced to make a difficult and instantaneous decision that very likely resulted in several other lives being spared.
Dec 25, 2007 at 1:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
VEGASGIRL, maybe you should GET some glasses. where did i ever say the system was a good one? i simply stated that it is pathetic that people like you blame EVERYTHING on the "system" like YOU told mojormojo that he isnt god, neither is the system. it isnt perfect but its not to blame for this. grown men should take responsibility for their actions, and if they need help go get it. help doesnt have to come looking for them.
Dec 24, 2007 at 10:49 p.m.
Suggest removal
dub190 this is an extreme case, This is a wake up call for the court systems to NOT ALLOW WOMEN to continue to use there kids as PAWNS!!! The courts need to step in and say enuff is enuff! Im not saying this is what had happened in this case, but I know what I have heard from close family members.
Dec 24, 2007 at 3:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
I hear you tbach, far too many women use their children as weapons against their ex. But what this sicko did is a couple steps further than that. He tried to kill someone, and for that, he died.
Dec 24, 2007 at 9:40 a.m.
Suggest removal
majomojo, i never sed Timmy wasn't to blame I just sed he needed help and the system failed him. Who are you to say he couldn't be rehabilitated. Your not GOD! I understand he shot an innocent woman in the process and it was wrong, but do any one of us really know what happened... and what led up to this horrific instance? no we don't...
Dec 24, 2007 at 9:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
It is to bad the the system here has alot of flaws. I agree everyone should take responsibility for their actions however, sometimes we all need a little help, kindness and understanding and then maybe all of this could have been avoided. mymaro to bad you feel the system is a good one take off your rose colored glasses because it's not i know how the system works and as long as a conviction is made and the state gets it's money thats the end of it.
Dec 23, 2007 at 11:14 p.m.
Suggest removal
WOW!!! Most of what I just read had nothing to do with this story just childish bickering can't we all just get along everyone is entitled to their opinions we really don't have to take it personal. My interest in the story is the family and the police officers. I have a cousin (deputy) who just reciently shot a man (he survived) who was threatening to take his own life when the police arived to try and talk this man out of commiting suicide he turned the gun on the police they had no choice to defend themselves. It is a very hard thing to have to deal with most people would have a hard time taking someone's life a officer is no different. These children may be reading these comments the man no matter what he has done was their father so we should all be careful of what we say for their sakes.
Happy Holdiays
Dec 23, 2007 at 1:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
I know how the system works (courts, human services, etc) and it's unfortunate what happened to this family. While people need to be accountable for themselves, the system does make it hard for accountability to occur. There's obviously a lot more going on than meets the eye. We're seeing first hand reports of people who knew the family and by most accounts, they seem to be a great family. Officers are trained to shoot to kill and they can't afford to second guess. That is scarey, considering when some of them face some one they don't know too much about, for example what if the person is mentally challenged or deaf. Sad tragedy.
Dec 23, 2007 at 7:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
I have known TJ for about 7 years, I never thought this would be the end of the story! There is always 2 sides to a story. I know from personal experiance that the system isn't always fair. I've heard some of the situations that arouse before the out come of this tragic situation. Its like this in the court systems there more for the women then the men! As a father of 2 and having custody of one of the children, it kills me when my Ex-wife tries to distant my children from me , wont let me have them on my weekend or holiday, because she knows it will take months to drag her back into court for contempt, calls me a loser in front of them and amoung other things. Theres actaully a medical term for what she does (PAS) Parental Alienation Syndrome, but the court system does not recognize it till its to late! Its always a fight with her. From what I have heard, kinda the same situation with TJ! Women cry out Domestic abuse but its Ok to verbal abuse someone till they cant take it no more, Hit people over the head with a frying pan so bad you cant use it no more! Im not saying that what TJ did was ok by any means! But if you know someone has problems which TJ did and was getting the help he needed. You dont push and push till the endding outcome is this! It dosen't suprise me at all that theres outcomes like this when women push men to there breaking point, because they know they got the Family Court commisioner to back them! I can relate to TJ. but also I would have done the same as the officers in the situation, you cant expect any differant outcome when you put them in that situation. As for the comments about he should have been put in a phyc ward after the August stand off, He was and he was there for sometime, and he was getting the treatment he needed but obviously not enuff. I'm not here to feel sorry for TJ or try to alter everyones thoughts on him, He knew what was going to happen if he went in that house with a gun, and Im not trying to make Michelle the bad one! RIP TJ,
Dec 22, 2007 at 6:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
To go back to the start of the thread for a moment, there is nothing wrong with the term Cop or using it in a news story. It is not a derogatory term. It originates from years back when police constables patrolled city and village streets. Cop was simply short for "constable on patrol" later it was shortened to "Cop" and is still in use today.
Dec 22, 2007 at 2:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
DoubleK, I retract the statement about him being deranged. I realize that everyone has problems in life and stability problems, but according to the article, he shot an innocent woman in the back. My heart goes out to all of the family members that were involved and my prayers are with them. However, I do not have any sympathy that he was shot while in the process of committing a crime. He knew what he was doing.
Dec 22, 2007 at 12:05 p.m.
Suggest removal
MajorMojo, can you embellish your qualifications to make that determination never knowing Tim Harrington?
Dec 22, 2007 at 9:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
Vegasgirl, that is really a pathetic stance on the issue. Blame everything on the system that failed little Timmy. He was a deranged killer who shot a woman in the back. This is not the case of someone who was able to be rehabilitated.
Dec 22, 2007 at 1 a.m.
Suggest removal
"Awe, so your trying to get your life together"
Well then do it. Pull yourselves together and put your lives back on track. Quit feeling sorry for yourselves and start making a differance.
Dec 22, 2007 at 12:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
Tim Harrington shot a woman in the back. No sympathy for him. A coward died a cowards death, and good ridance to it. And let it be a lesson to us all. I am not going to fall to my knee's and mourn over Tim Harrington's demise. HE SHOT A WOMAN IN THE BACK! WHAT WERE THEY SUPPOSED TO DO?
Dec 22, 2007 at 12:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
I went to high school with Tim.
I laughed with Tim.
I shared some of Tim's frustrations in life.
I would have shot him also.
Sad it came to that, we need real mental health services NOW!
I am human. Some of you obviously are not. May god have mercy on our souls.
I read and comment on a lot of national news and am pretty impressed with the overall warmth and compassion expressed here. Makes me proud to call Southern Wisconsin my home.
Dec 21, 2007 at 11:24 p.m.
Suggest removal
Part of the problem, I think, is that Sheriff Spoden is to preoccupied with his own public image. Almost every time we check the publicly available Court records on these murderers/thieves/child molesters, we find they more often than not have a lengthly criminal record. Many times right out of Rock County itself.
And yet these same people "slip through the cracks" with a signature bond and a promise to behave. Meanwhile that jail fills up with non-violent offenders that pose no risk to the public in general.
How well does it serve our community to concentrate on speeding/parking/truancy/underage smoking violations? Is it okay, as long as we get a conviction? Is their a scoreboard on a wall at the Sheriffs Department with a gold star next to the name of the officer that ticketed the most drivers going 5 miles over the speed limit? Do we only convict the clear cut criminal cases, and wait for the worse case scenario to play out in all others? As in wait untill someone dies untill we prosecute? What's more important here? The guy that holds an armed stand-off? Or the kid that will never wrap his car around a telephone poll after "one to many cigarettes". You decide.
Dec 21, 2007 at 9:08 p.m.
Suggest removal
again sad story. but its also sad that people like VEGASGIRL always find a way to blame "the system" do you realize how many people are in this country? cant help everyone if they dont ask for it. this is no ones fault but mr. harrington. it is terribly tragic for his family. especially those poor children. but why is it every story has someone blaming the system instead of the person/persons involved.
Dec 21, 2007 at 4:56 p.m.
Suggest removal
Shame on everyone who thinks this is a joke by bickering like little kids. I've know the Harringtons for many years and his family as well as Timmy are wonderful people. If any one should be blamed lets blame the authorities it is obvious Timmy had some issues going on and instead of kicking him aside why didn't our wonderful professionals pick up on the warning signs and offer support and get him the help he needed after the first or second incident? Clearly there was a problem. HMMMMM .... My heart goes out to the Harringtons .... I will keep all of you in my prayers.
Dec 21, 2007 at 1:57 p.m.
Suggest removal
Thank you for calling me an idiot, MajorMomo, and Merry Christmas to you. I can assure you that I got a lot more out of the story than doughnuts.
I was a journalism major at the UW, and had I ended a story about a cop killing a suspect with a line about doughnuts, I would have had my grade reduced.
Dec 21, 2007 at 12:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
Sorry, I didn't know I was 'arguing'. I was defending myself regarding a personal attack, which seems to be a common occurance.
I have absolutely no interest to personally correspond with the particular person who chastised me for asking a TOPIC RELATED question.
Merry Christmas to you, too.
Dec 21, 2007 at 12:02 p.m.
Suggest removal
If you want to argue with one another, instead of posting on here, why don't you click on their name and you can personally email them. Save your bickering and fights for those emails. Leave the comment board to "comments" of the article at hand, not personal bashing!
Merry Christmas.
Dec 21, 2007 at 8:09 a.m.
Dec 21, 2007 at 8:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
justinswife.sorry that your opinion is based differently other than mine. but i think if you were to read the article it says that the man didnt want to be named.but even before it says that
the officers name is stated.read a little more carefully next time
peace
Dec 21, 2007 at 7:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
Stupid is as stupid does-December 19, 3:52 Sangus (Scott Angus) post, this thread.
Dec 21, 2007 at 7:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
mymaro, I agree with you. People are idiots that read an article like this and all they get out of it is some comment about doughnuts. GROW UP PEOPLE !!
Dec 21, 2007 at 6:42 a.m.
Suggest removal
Could someone please tell me where the editor tryed to explain this headline. I can't find it.
Dec 21, 2007 at 5:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
There's nothing wrong with using the word "cop." There's everything wrong with putting an unnecessary paragraph about cops eating doughnuts at the end of a serious, tragic story. Trying to defend that line as "a bit of color" is like Andy Pettitte's BS semi-excuse for using HGH. How could anyone write (or read) a line like that and NOT think about the old "cop-doughnut" stereotype? Scott, you should have just admitted it was a dumb thing that slipped by the editors instead of trying to defend it.
Dec 20, 2007 at 11:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
some people are pathetic. you have nothing else to do with your life but whine and cry about the use of the word cop? that is what they are COPS. if you dont like it read another paper. like the beloit daily news. because then youll be over there whining instead of on here. GROW UP!!!!!!!!
on a more somber note. my heart goes out to the family. especially those poor children.
Dec 20, 2007 at 7:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
It is my understanding that the dirtbag came in the back while the "cops" were there. He tried to shoot his wife, and her mother jumped in front of her. I'm not sure if it's the truth, but you know how fast news spreads in a little town.
Sorry if I offended anyone with my use of the horrible word "cop".
Dec 20, 2007 at 4:52 p.m.
Suggest removal
xnfrcr, right on. This is tragic to all involved. My prayers are with the family and both officers.
Dec 20, 2007 at 4:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
Sorry, Mr. Angus. I don't buy your explanation of the headline. You say the incident is "unusual" and "unfortunate," and I agree. But as to making it fit in a small space, how about being more accurate and saying Cop kills armed man. What was unusual about the man? That he was from Clinton or that he was armed. If that's the best you can do under deadline, then maybe the editors need better training. Your bias is showing.
Dec 20, 2007 at 3:25 p.m.
Dec 20, 2007 at 2:58 p.m.
Suggest removal
What hockey team were the kids on?
Dec 20, 2007 at 2:38 p.m.
Suggest removal
I certainly feel for this family but my compassion also goes out to the officers who were forced to kill another human being. Police officers are people and they have feelings like everyone else. I seriously doubt any of them ever go into the profession hoping they will get the opportunity to kill another human being. Incidents like this are traumatic to them too.
Dec 20, 2007 at 1:33 p.m.
Suggest removal
I wish people who are not trained in Law Enforcement would not judge police officer's actions, before they know all the facts. Officers have very intense and thorough training on the use of force. No officer wants to take another life. They do what must be done to get control of a bad situation and protect the lives of everyone involved. How many citizens realize how many officer's are shot and killed every month, while repsonding to domestic situations? Check out the Law Enforcement Memorial website and get an eye opener!
http://www.xnfrcr.com/offcrmem.htm
As for the family, my deepest sympathies are with you and to the officer and deputy involved also! This will be a bad Xmas for all involved! Thank you for reading.
Dec 20, 2007 at 1 p.m.
Suggest removal
DIDNT THE PREVIOUS INCIDENT IN AUGUST AS STATED SHOW THIS YOUNG MAN NEEDED HELP!! OR IS IT JUST EASIER TO GIVE A SIGNATURE BOND AND RELEASE. THEN SHOOT THE ONES NEEDING HELP THEN TO TREAT THEM. APPARTENTLY HE DIDNT HAVE INSURANCE!!!!
Dec 20, 2007 at 9:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
My dearest sympthy goes to the Harrington Family and police officers involved! This is no doubt Tragic!
Dec 20, 2007 at 9:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
simondavid, maybe if you would have read the article better you would have remembered that it was not an officer or department giving that information out, they were named by someone other than law inforcement. called a source. Just because they refuse to be named doesnt mean crap. They need to have a complete investigation before, any names should be released. How would you feel if this happened to you would you want your name in thae paper?
Dec 20, 2007 at 9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
Tragic anyway you want to put it, The police officers did what they had to, to difuse a situtation! End of story! Hats off to them. Who Cares what the headline Reads!!! No one is being racist. Lets look at the BIG picture, What is wrong with the editor at the Janesville Gazette, Are you Nuts? Why would you put a picture of the Father, son and husband being put into the corners Van? Are you stupid? These kids that have been affected by this TRAGIC situation are going to see this! Use some taste!
Dec 20, 2007 at 9:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
The officers did a wonderful job, they are HEROS. Their quick action prevented the death of another or more. Their job isnt easy, if it were, more people would be interested in it. It takes special people to make a split second decision, so others can debate it for days. I wish the Officers involved well, and thank you.