On July 5th, 2023, at approximately 11:25 am, Michael Howard Dales life changed in an instant. The son of a 25-year Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Seargent was put in a situation that would destroy his life. Michael had just bought Chick-Fil-A , and was returning to his gated apartment complex located in the 200 block of North Pines Montgomery County, Texas, when a vehicle attempted to follow him into the community in an attempt to bypass the gate. The vehicle then drove past Michael and parked directly next to his assigned parking spot. Michael advised the female driver where guest parking was located, and when she became belligerent, Michael left her with a few expletives. Michael began to eat his meal in his apartment when there was an unexpected knock on the door. As Michaels peep hole was covered in paint, and he had just had a confrontation, he retrieved his firearm and held it behind his back as he answered the door. Upon opening the door Michael was met by Officer Sam Cleveland of the Houston Police Department. Cleveland asked Michael if he had a confrontation with the woman, and Michael told the Officer “Yes,” and explained how she wasn’t a resident, and attempted to bypass security. The Officer asked if Michael had spit on the female, and Michael denied the false allegation made by the woman. Cleveland then demanded Michael “driver’s license,” and Michael asked why, and for what charges. Cleveland told Michael he was under investigation of “disturbing the peace.” Michael declined and began to close his door. Cleveland launched himself into Michael’s apartment tackling him near his kitchen. Cleveland began to draw his pistol to shoot Michael. During the struggle Michaels firearm discharged, and struck Cleveland twice in the vest, and once in the arm. Michael dropped his pistol and was placed in custody by the second officer.

Officer Cleveland was investigating a misdemeanor not committed in his presence, which means Officers cannot effect an arrest, only a citizen’s arrest can be performed. The woman, who alleged the complaint was never asked if she wished to press charges, and no physical evidence was present to corroborate the allegation. Cleveland entered Michael’s residence without a search warrant, and without an exception to the search warrant clause. As a result of these actions, he violated Michael’s 4th, and 5th amendment rights. Officer Cleveland admitted during court testimony that he had no legal authority to enter the home. “Section 242 of Title 18 makes it a crime for a person acting under color of law to willfully deprive a person of a right or privilege protected by the constitution or law of the United States.” It is a Felony if the person uses his weapon while depriving the victim of their rights. Because Michael’s suspect is a police officer, he cannot find attorneys, civil rights activist, or judges who are willing to assist him in getting a fair trial, and see Officer Cleveland punished for his crimes.

My name is Todd Conn. I am the author of this go-fund me, and a retired police officer of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Michael was raised by Law Enforcement. He is an Army Veteran. An Eagle Scout. A son, a brother, a grandson, a friend. Until July 5th Michael had never even had a traffic infraction.

The Houston Police Department refuses to release body worn camera footage to conceal Officer Cleveland’s actions. I have watched all the footage as court evidence and can attest to the truthfulness of my statements.

On October 30, 2023, Michael was sentenced to the maximum of 25 years by Judge Phil Grant. Michael was never going to be given a fair trial. His own attorneys refused to ask officers questions in regard to unlawful arrest, detention, and entry.

It is because of the actions that we seek to get Michael a retrial with competent representation. Please donate to help seek justice for Michael, and Justice for Seargeant Sam Cleveland