I read, with a mixture of amusement and disgust, the Tuesday “Valley Viewpoint” by Michael Spreadbury.

from "William Reed" - Sula
http://ravallirepublic.com/articles/2009/08/20/letters/35letters.txt
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"Michael Spreadbury

I read, with a mixture of amusement and disgust, the Tuesday “Valley Viewpoint” by Michael Spreadbury.

It appears Michael Spreadbury is a candidate for the Hamilton Mayor’s position. I can only hope voters remember his letter when they vote. Aside from combining several topics that have nothing to do with the title of his letter, he jumps to conclusions that are not only false, but are obviously designed to create panic and distrust in the populace.

He states the driver of a vehicle was tasered by a deputy, but this “fact’ has yet to be investigated. How does Michael Spreadbury “know” this happened? He asks why officers carry less-lethal weapons, when lethal situations are not around every corner?

Perhaps he could ride with the officers, and point out “which” corners are lethal. A quick internet search will show that injuries to officers drop 80 percent when less lethal options are available. Deaths involving officer-citizen contacts show a corresponding drop. Less than lethal options, including the Taser, simply work.

Any weapon, including a fist, can be lethal if used improperly. Extensive training is involved before a Taser is issued to any officer. It appears Mr. Spreadbury’s campaign is going to be based in half-truths and fear mongering. Pointing out mistakes is easy.

Coming up with real solutions is a lot more difficult. Just ask our current President.

William Reed

Sula "
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Posted by Crystal L. Cox
" Giving Voice to
the People of Montana "
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