LETTERS: COMMUNITY MUST SUPPORT POLICE

To the editor:

I would like to compliment the peace officers of our city for their handling of the riot which occurred June 11. I think most citizens of our community support them regardless of the absurd accusations of racism. The race card is often used by black criminals as there is often no other defense for their behavior. I am confused as to what the black community would like for our officers to do. Do they want the laws enforced or not.

What are the community meetings going to accomplish? Is this really going to appease the thugs who were trying to do bodily harm to the municipal personnel who are simply trying to keep the peace and enforce our laws? It is a shame that we have come to this.

The police officers' lives were in serious and imminent danger, yet they did not retaliate with deadly force. This showed tremendous restraint and is a credit to their training.

I also noticed that at least three of the thugs who were arrested or had warrants for an arrest were under the age of 21. What possible business were these people doing outside of a bar at 1:30 a.m.?I believe anyone can benefit from being educated on cultural diversity. However, it is a two-way street. The enforcement of our laws benefit all of our community, black and white. If a criminal happens to be black, then so be it. I dont want anyone throwing bricks at our police officers, black or white.

When students rioted in Carbondale several years ago during the Halloween street party, those that were caught were punished, black or white. We as a society cannot tolerate anarchy in our city regardless of the reason.

To the police officers of our city, thank you for your dedication and disregard for your own personal safety so that the rest of us can enjoy the security of peace in our homes and community. KEVIN BUTLER

Cape Girardeau