Visages: Illusion, Betrayal and Deception

VISAGES:

ILLUSION, BETRAYAL

And, Deception

By

Mario Mothersil

Copyright © 2024 Mario Mothersil

All rights reserved.

No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form  without written permission from the publisher or author except as permitted by U.S. copyright law.

LCCN

2024925798

PREFACE

The intention of this text is not to incite hostility or aggression towards any particular group mentioned. Instead, it aims to educate and inform readers through insightful personal observations and experiences gained while working as a member of the American workforce.

MY HUMBLE OPINION

Throughout my years of experience in different industries, I have come to understand that the American workforce is not as just and equal as it appears to be. While there are laws and regulations in place to prevent discrimination, harassment, and mistreatment, they are often tricky and rare to enforce. These laws only seem to prioritize certain groups and continue to allow misconduct from many companies and their supposedly competent leaders.

Many companies promote the idea of equal employment opportunity to showcase diversity and fairness. However, these companies often use this concept as a façade to hide their discriminatory practices. Despite hiring a few individuals from diverse backgrounds to meet a particular image, these companies continue to engage in practices such as unequal pay and limited opportunities for growth behind closed doors.

In addition, the many laws put in place to supposedly protect employees often end up limiting their rights and hindering their ability to seek justice when mistreated. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, with its lengthy waiting period requirement, adds another obstacle to an already complex and costly legal system, making it nearly impossible for those without substantial financial means or connections to fight back against injustices in the workplace.

Moreover, numerous businesses have implemented protocols that mandate employees to sign away their rights via forced arbitration agreements or non-disclosure agreements. These policies hinder employees from voicing any misconduct within the company or pursuing legal action in court if they experience discrimination or harassment.

I have seen firsthand how certain companies employ dishonest tactics during the hiring process. They present a rosy image of a welcoming work environment and chances for advancement, yet ultimately fail to follow through on those assurances once an individual is hired. This deceitful behavior not only negatively affects employees, but also erodes trust between employers and potential job seekers.

In my opinion, although some of these laws and policies may have good intentions, they ultimately benefit those in power rather than honestly promoting fairness for everyone.

Having been directly impacted by these deceitful tactics, I can assert that the American workforce is built on a false front of illusions, betrayal, and deceptions.

In the original version of this manuscript, I have used the real names and positions of the individuals involved. These individuals hold potent roles in our government at every level. However, to avoid potential legal consequences, all names have been changed. I firmly believe that as candidates who gain the trust of their constituents through false promises during their campaigns, it should be a legal requirement for their true identities to be disclosed to the public when irrefutable evidence of misconduct is found. As elected officials and public servants, they must serve with integrity and transparency. The contents of this book will reveal that a high percentage of supposed civic-minded public servants engage in corrupt practices and unethical behavior, causing harm to the very people they claim to represent and serve. Instead, they use their positions for self-gratification.

While some may argue that my perspective is biased, I have strived to present an honest account of the challenges I faced. Through documentation, I will show what I endured despite my efforts to be a positive and productive member of society - struggles that were often perceived as unfavorable by those in executive leadership positions.

An in-depth examination of American society can be seen through the lens of various work environments - both government and private - revealing how far we have fallen from higher societal ideals. This includes the toxic workplace culture that exists in both private institutions and government agencies.

The job application process can be brutal for unsuspecting applicants. And even once hired, navigating the workplace can be challenging for individuals who have dedicated their lives to education and excelling in their chosen field. Sadly, unethical behavior and oppression are now standard practices, making success nearly impossible for even the most qualified individuals. Deceit, misconduct, embezzlement, and manipulation have turned workplaces into cutthroat battlegrounds - a reality that is difficult to accept in a country that prides itself on progress and influence.

This true story includes the (changed) names of those responsible for my hardship, when it occurred, and all supporting documents with explanations.

American society today demands a unique set of skills when it comes to job applications, skills that are not widely known or openly discussed. These skills can only be obtained through repeated experiences with job interviews, where the hidden expectations become apparent over time. Unfortunately, this secretive process often results in highly qualified job seekers being overlooked in favor of less qualified candidates who excel at playing the game.

By enduring multiple job interviews, one becomes well-versed in the expected behavioral patterns that may lead to success in landing a job. It is through this persistence that individuals come to realize the mental and psychological challenges required to secure their desired position, regardless of qualifications.

This manuscript is written for educated professionals who have completed specialized training or higher education and are seeking well-paying jobs with reputable entities, whether private companies or government agencies, at all levels. Its purpose is to offer insight into what candidates should anticipate during the interview process and emphasize the reality that their success in these positions is often dependent on their behavior, attitude, and willingness to conform, which may not always result in long-term job security and stability.

The author explores the evolving societal values and norms that have taken place over time. He discusses how traditional ethical and moral principles, ingrained in us since childhood, now conflict with current societal expectations. These new values have made our previous moral standards obsolete and even made previously unacceptable behaviors acceptable under the law.

To navigate this changing landscape, the author stresses the importance of understanding these contemporary values. He argues that while we may have been raised to uphold specific ethical and moral ideals, it is essential to recognize that today's American society operates on a different set of cultural norms and beliefs.

Additionally, the writer addresses the impact of these societal changes on personal life, work environments, and interpersonal relationships. He highlights how individuals may struggle to maintain their personal integrity and ethical codes in a world where unethical behavior is often rewarded.

It is crucial for individuals to have a deeper understanding and knowledge of these shifting values in order to make informed decisions. The emphasis is placed on not solely relying on traditional morals, but instead finding ways to adapt and adjust to new cultural norms to thrive in modern society.

To sum up, this text delves into the significant transformations that have occurred in American society regarding values and norms. It serves as a reminder for readers to acknowledge these shifts in order to potentially succeed in today's world.

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From a young age, we are taught the importance of upholding ethical and moral values, following laws, and abiding by societal expectations. However, in modern-day America, these principles that have been passed down to us seem to hold less weight.

The fast-paced nature of our society has rendered traditional ways of living obsolete. As a result, it can be challenging for parents to instill these values in their children. It often feels like we are entering an era where individualism reigns supreme, and survival of the fittest is the only way to thrive.

In today's culture, traditional values are often disregarded and seen as meaningless. For those who have worked diligently to achieve academic success and a comfortable lifestyle, navigating through conflicting values can be daunting. Despite their efforts to maintain integrity and adhere to their beliefs, many well-educated individuals find themselves struggling, while those who lack qualifications or ethical standards seem to flourish. This creates a significant obstacle for those who have dedicated years to meeting societal expectations and obtaining advanced education for stable careers.

Unfortunately, those who refuse to compromise their principles may end up marginalized, while those who are willing to bend the rules rise to positions of power and influence. It's like giving credit to undeserving individuals for the achievements of those who truly deserve recognition. However, it's important to note that a paradigm shift may happen sooner than expected for those struggling to uphold their values and beliefs.

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Table Of Contents

Chapter 1

Promotional Opportunity: The Offer Of

The Entrapment

The Termination:

Chapter 2 The Tribulation

The Prosecutor’s Meetings:

Fighting For The Right:

The Falsification Of The Agreement; I Still Had To

Pay A Price:

A Corrupt Society:

Redefining Goodness:

The Unspoken Rule:

Chapter 3 Paradigm Shift

The Western World:

The Dynamics:

The House Negro Syndrome

Slavery: The Never-Mentioned Reality:

Joining The New Alphabet

The West; Strategic Planning:

Internal Divisions:

The Politics

Addiction To Villainization:

Destructive Criticism:

Diversion:

Auto-Subjugation:

The Walking Of The Talk, Un-Noticed:

Chapter 4 The American Law Enforcement Arena:

Quality:

Indemnification:

Investigation:

Societal Values:

Pleas Bargaining:

Willful Mismanagement:

Confidential Informants

Police Misconduct

Systemic Biases

Media Attention

The Judiciary:

The Courts:

Political Influence:

Mandatory Minimum Sentences:

Indictment Proceeding:

The Police:

Corrections:

The Making Of The Criminal

The Politics Of The Miami-Dade Government:

Qualifications And Hiring Practice:

Chapter 5 Law Enforcement Idiosyncrasies

Chapter 6 Exemplified Experience: The Miami-Dade Corrections Department:

The Food Service Bureau:

The Accidental Witness:

Chapter 7 The House Arrest Unit

A Bad Habit Of Mine:

The Informer:

Promotion Of The Pompous:

The Domming Incident:

Antagonizing The Antagonist:

Chapter 8 The 4 Collective Mindset In Black

Administration

Chapter 9 From House Arrest To Community Control:

Another Headline News:

Commander’s Replacement:

The Mishaele Affairs:

As Mentioned In Chapter 3,"

A Simple Suggestion-1:

The Unexpected Eviction:

The Relocation:

The Memos: As Shown On These Exhibits:

Chapter 10 Paid Suspension:

Crab In The Basket Syndrome:

The Health And Welfare Bureau:

The Dynamics:

See Documentation Below:

Chapter 11 The Lawsuit:

Willful Violation Of Established Procedures:

The Narcissist Demise:

Part 1

Demise; The Petit-Politics:

The Business Of Corrections

The Overlooked Psychological Factors:

As Mentioned In Chapter 3:

A Prerequisite To The Survival Of Systemic Racism

The Making Of Hardened Criminals:

Chapter 12 Miami Dade Correctional Staffing

The Indifference

The Challenges Of Remaining Objective

The Correctional Counselor, Qualifications And Responsibilities:

The Correctional Technician:

First Assignment:

The First Report:

The Art Of Chaos; The Money Makers

The Illusion Of Punishment

Correcting:

Methodical Fairness:

Chapter 13 Set-Ups: Traps, Allegations &

Falsifications:

The Chief:

The Commander:

The Ralvis Matter:

The Hidris Trap:

The Rapalo Escape, The Savior:

Lizzie Brynett; The Setup:

The Hedrot Matter:

The Captain Atkison Affair:

The Mc. Carr Affair:

Chapter 14 Contributions: Slaughter, Averted:

My Second Suggestion:

The Inmate Law Library:

Updating The Inmate Law Library:

Fulfillment:

Once More, A Suggestion:

Mission Accomplished:

Unplanned Retirement:

Chapter-15 With Brothers Like These, Who Needs

Enemies:

The Collective Myopic Syndrome:

The Pacifiers:

With Brothers Like These, Who Needs Enemies:

The African Diaspora: A Barrier To Progress

My Last Given:

CHAPTER 1

Upon completion of my undergraduate studies in Criminal Justice at CUNY, I secured my first government position with the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs. I was hired as a trainee in consumer protection and given a six-month probationary period. During this time, I worked closely with Laos, a seasoned inspector tasked with mentoring me for the role of a consumer protection agent. Laos, who appeared to be around fifty years old at the time, would ultimately assess my performance and determine if I would be offered a permanent role as an inspector. In our initial orientation, it was made clear by the supervisory staff and the chief inspector, Menelaus, that all new inspectors were expected to follow the guidance of their assigned field trainers. For me, that meant following every instruction provided by Laos. As a trainee, I was not permitted to intervene in any decisions he made while in the field, as it was solely up to his discretion whether or not to issue citations for identified violations.

While I was in training, I noticed that even though we found numerous valid violations during our inspections, citations were seldom issued; instead, most of the time, written warnings were given. After each inspection, Laos and I, both members of the inspection team, were required to sign the warning or citation forms that were issued. As a new member of the team, I couldn't help but notice the fear on the faces of employers and supervisors when we introduced ourselves as consumer affairs inspectors. Store employees seemed to be in a state of panic, while managers appeared nervous and extremely submissive, eager to comply with our every demand. It felt like we were more feared than the devil himself, almost as if we were personified Lucifer. At the end of each inspection, store managers showed extreme anxiety, awaiting our final decision, which ultimately rested with my colleague, Laos. He would often take me aside, out of earshot, and instruct me to continue inspecting while he finalized the outcome with store managers - typically resulting in just warnings being issued. It became clear to me that Laos was on the take, accepting bribes, as most inspections ended with just warnings and the promise of another inspection soon to follow. Later, I discovered that employees and managers were so fearful because issued citations could result in hefty fines and other penalties amounting to thousands of dollars - which explained their behavior whenever we visited their stores.

In New York City, it is common knowledge that government agents are primarily focused on issuing citations. These citations, regardless of whether they are justified or not, automatically equate to a guilty outcome. To contest these citations, one must do so in a timely manner or face additional steep penalties. However, if the accused presents evidence that counters the accusations and it is deemed inacceptable, in most cases, by the deciding authority, harsher penalties may be imposed. Failure to pay these fines can result in arrest warrants being issued and the result and tragic outcomes, as depicted in numerous social media videos, when stopped by the police only to find there is an issued warrant. This system is likened to a well-organized and legalized arm-twisting method for generating revenue, reminiscent of mafia tactics from the past. It is concerning and goes against the learned principles of good governance.

Regular inspections were conducted on all businesses, such as gas stations, supermarkets, department stores, pharmacies, etc. Those in charge of these entities faced immense pressure from their superiors to avoid citations or face the possibility of having to pay the assessed fines themselves or even risk losing their jobs.

To prevent this, most managers and employees would opt for the option of secretly dealing with inspectors, choosing bribes as the best alternative as they were placed in a difficult position. Refusing to offer bribes could lead to the issuance of fines or job loss, while the offer of the same was presented as being the best option. However, it constituted a felonious criminal violation. For these managers, it was always a lose-lose situation, like being stuck between a rock and a hard place. Ultimately, most managers chose to give bribes as it seemed like the best and the lesser of two evils. However, it was nearly impossible for any business to pass an inspection without violating some of the established rules, like trying to keep white gloves spotless after wiping them on a freshly cleaned floor.

PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITY: THE OFFER OF

As my self-assurance grew, I was caught off guard as I entered the office building one early morning during my fourth month of training. As I approached the door, a loud car horn pierced through the quietness of the early hours. To my surprise, it was Commissioner Britner, sitting behind the wheel of his compact purplish-blue Chevy Vega with a Connecticut license plate. He motioned me to enter his vehicle and asked me to join him for coffee at a nearby café. I couldn't believe someone as influential as him would invite me for a casual conversation. I was immediately worried about potential bad news. However, once we were face to face, he seemed friendly and asked about my background. Despite my initial apprehension, I tried to remain composed in case this meeting had anything to do with failing my probationary period.

We entered the café, and he went to order our coffee. My curiosity grew with each passing minute, wondering why he had summoned me so urgently. Finally, I couldn't take it any longer and mustered up the courage to ask:

Me: Sir, Supervisor Sanon always emphasizes punctuality; I don't want to get on his bad side.

The Commissioner: Don't worry about it. As commissioner, the buck stops with me. I make the rules. Your supervisors and even the chief inspector have spoken highly of you, and it seems like you have potential for more important tasks. With your impressive academic background from a top-tier institution and your exceptional performance thus far, all you need is a little push from me to reach your true potential.

His words immediately lifted a weight off my shoulders; this meeting wasn't as intimidating as I had feared. Not only was my job secure, but it seemed like my dream of a successful future was within reach. I couldn't believe Commissioner Britner had taken notice of my hard work and talents even though I hadn't accomplished anything extraordinary yet. I was mystified by this sudden and impromptu meeting.

I couldn't help but wonder how the commissioner knew something about me that I wasn't even aware of. Could Laos have already submitted my evaluation? The commissioner’s words puzzled me; why was he so impressed with mundane tasks like checking for overpriced and double-priced items, expired goods, or short weighted items?

I responded to the commissioner, agreeing with him: My current duties are not particularly challenging, I said. I believe I have the skills to excel in a more demanding role. Any guidance or support from you that leads to a promotion would be greatly appreciated.

Little did I know, this simple statement would set me on a path beyond my expectations. The commissioner then asked about my weekend plans and invited me to a gathering at his residence, in Connecticut, with influential figures, including the city's Mayor.

His invitation caught me off guard. I cautiously agreed and mentioned that I needed to discuss it with my wife first before giving him an answer. I was excited as this encounter felt almost tailored for me; it was as if the department head had been waiting in his car just to have this conversation with me.

As I hurried back into the office building, nearly 45 minutes late, supervisor inspector Sanon was deep in conversation with Laos, both waiting for me. It seemed like they were already aware of my meeting with the commissioner, as there was no mention of my tardiness. Instead, Inspector Sanon made a cryptic comment about a potential promotion for me.

Throughout the day, thoughts of the unexpected meeting kept resurfacing - it felt surreal yet unsettling. Despite the excitement of mingling with the city's elite, something about this sudden turn of events didn't sit right with me. A nagging question lingered in my mind: What was the catch? What else could this all be leading up to?!

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As I later learned, in most workplaces, there is an implicit pressure to accept an offer to join the inner circle or the club. Rejecting such an invitation is frowned upon and could potentially have one labeled as a villain in the eyes of both the person who made the offer of joining the inner circle and the general public, as evidenced later on in this text. Being part of this elite group is often viewed as desirable and prestigious, while declining can result in social consequences and being excluded from famous circles.

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Observing the Connecticut license plate on the commissioner's car, I was sure of his place of residence. The thought of attending an event at a stranger's home in a state I had never visited before and mingling with influential figures whom I did not know, aroused both excitement and caution in me. As a person of color, I knew I would be easily noticeable among a sea of primarily unfamiliar white faces. My conversation with the commissioner left me feeling uneasy; too many unexpected opportunities were presented to me in such a short amount of time. Although they seemed well-intentioned, I couldn't help but feel suspicious. The prospect of a guaranteed promotion and significant salary increase was enticing, but I knew I needed to do my due diligence before committing to anything. Despite considering myself an adventurous and fearless person, I always approached meeting new people and entering uncharted territory with due care and hesitation, and, in this case, their status or influence would not matter.

After finishing my workday, I reached out to a close friend, an ex-classmate from John Jay College, City University of New York, who happened to be a seasoned law enforcement professional who served as a vice-squad detective for the New York City Police Department. I shared with him the events of my day with the commissioner - our unplanned encounter and subsequent conversation. His immediate response was, My man! Congratulations! In jest, he added, You must have really caught your boss’s eyes - handsome, healthy, and strong - now you're being recruited into the ‘fruitcake’ club. There are plenty of people who would sell their souls to trade places with you just to rub shoulders with the bigwigs, especially the mayor himself. Confused by his cryptic lingo and the term fruitcakes, I asked for clarification.

I was shocked to hear from my friend that the mayor had placed numerous questionable and sexually explicit individuals into high-ranking positions in the city’s government. Surprisingly, these individuals shared the same social circles and frequented the same nightclubs and private clubs as the mayor. My friend joked about my potential induction into their exclusive inner circle and upward mobility program, hinting that the commissioner's interest in recruiting me may have been motivated by a desire to involve me in their controversial world.

As I sat there processing this information, everything started to click into place. The sudden interest from the commissioner, the guaranteed promotion offers, and even the invitation to an extravagant retreat – just like the proverbial carrot at the end of the stick were all a ploy to entice me into their corrupt and depraved lifestyle.

I couldn't believe I almost fell into their trap. The mere thought of being involved in such activities made me sick. My integrity and moral code had always been important to me, something instilled for over two decades. I was raised always to do what is right, even if it meant going against the grain of popular opinion.

I knew that I could resist any temptations and stand firm in my values and principles. I would not compromise my beliefs for personal gain just to become another member of their inner circle.

I was grateful for the supposed divine intervention that opened my eyes before it was too late. But at the same time, I couldn't help but feel anger and betrayal towards those in power who used their influence for selfish gain. These were the very individuals who were supposed to uphold justice and protect the people of our city.

The clarity from the explanations subsided my anger while a sense of relief washed over me. I realized that attending that retreat would have been a grave mistake. Thanks to an eye-opening conversation with my former classmate, I was able to see through the commissioner's facade and realize his true intentions. Grateful for his advice, I thanked him sincerely and quickly thought up an excuse for not attending the retreat. This was an excuse told to no one, as I began to keep a safe distance from most of my colleagues.

My feelings were based purely on my intuitions coupled with the received explanations that raised my suspicions. I did not have any facts to support my decision not to attend the retreat—only the conversation I had with a friend made me feel the commissioner’s approach may have some ulterior motive. However, it may have also been well intended.

I felt disappointed about potentially missing out on a promotion. However, I knew in my heart that it was the right decision to make. My integrity and moral compass were not worth sacrificing for any job or position. And as tempting as it may have been to join their exclusive inner circle, I could never live with myself knowing that I had compromised my values.

Despite facing setbacks at work due to rejecting the commissioner's offer, I remained steadfast in staying true to myself and my principles. Ultimately, my character and integrity were more important