Story reopens a family's wounds, creates a backlash

To the editor:

In regard to the article "Former Cape Girardeau reserve police officer serving 15 months for wire fraud":

Reading this article today is no less hurtful than when my mom and I first learned of my father's wrongdoings. I understand that it is a matter of public record to report such incidents. However, the fact that one of your reporters was assigned the task of writing a full article on it is appalling.

Did you even think about how it would affect his family? This is by no means a small town, but small enough for the majority of the citizens of Cape Girardeau to know and recognize who my father is.

Let me assure you that this is a one-sided story. Although it is in no way any justification for what my father did, before his crime he was very caring and devoted to his victim, attending to all of his demanding needs.

There is no rhyme or reason for why people do the things they do, but I do believe that in life sometimes people get lost along the way and stray from the good path they were on. I'm not sure exactly why my dad made such poor decisions, but I know he has a good heart and is deeply sorry for what he has done.

Not only has this article reinforced our suffering, but it has and will create a backlash upon my father's return, especially to those he's built relationships with over the years. I am embarrassed and ashamed to call the Southeast Missourian my hometown newspaper.

MICHELLE STARK, Cape Girardeau