Opinion articles provide independent perspectives on key community issues, separate from our newsroom reporting.

Letters to the Editor

Letters: Obama shows how not to quell a riot

President Barack Obama
President Barack Obama AP

President Obama has started recalling from local law enforcement agencies valuable vehicles and equipment that the military had provided to them to quell riots and disturbances in our communities. Numerous police agencies say this will put more officers at risk of harm or even death. Not to mention harm to the public.

Obama’s concern is that police “militarization” may fuel a heavy-handed response and that such gear can make people feel like there’s an occupying force.

Well, in case of riots, it’s time we bring out the forces. I am tired of seeing riots “run their course” and neighborhoods burn. Our police are ordered to stand down while receiving taunts and bricks. I’m reminded of the saying, never bring a knife to a gun fight.

Larry Sandifer

Chapin

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