Sharon Fitzgerald, Sartell
Dear Ms. Ring,
In your article regarding police targeting blacks, I agree in some cases the police have over-reacted in situations that involve people of color. However, using the Ferguson shooting was not one of these cases. Michael Brown was a thug. Just before the shooting, he had robbed a convenience store and later when officer Wilson stopped and asked what he was doing, Brown reached into the police car, hit Wilson and tried to get his gun. He then attempted to leave, and when officer Wilson told him to stop, he charged the officer. That is why he was shot; it has nothing to do with race.
You did quote some statistics regarding people of color being killed by police, but I question your statement that 63 percent posed no threat. Were you there? There are many ways for people to pose a threat, not only to the police but the public as well.
You state not all police are corrupt. Does that mean you think most of them are? Have you ever met any police? Do you know how hard it is for them and their families when they go to work? Even an innocent police call could get them killed.
The article said you were going to study journalism, and I guess with your attitude about the police you will be first in line to criticize them when they are doing their job. Instead, why don’t you study law for a couple of years and join the police academy; walk awhile in their shoes.
You are young, and I am glad you are involved in the world around you. However, next time you maybe could look at both sides of an issue.