It would seem that the tragic events in Lakewood have caused many disparaging articles and comments regarding those who are in trouble and those who have been in trouble. We seem to be painting them all with the same brush. All incarcerated people are not brutal, wild-eyed, seething murderers and rapists. In fact, most of them are not.

Without a doubt, the murder of four police officers was an indescribable disaster and of course, our reactions are intensely emotional. However, this was one isolated incident perpetrated by one individual who definitely had serious mental problems. Maurice Clemmons should not have been walking the street.

There are those sitting in prison who have already been approved for clemency and should be released. There are those who definitely should be approved for clemency and could be released. We have sentencing laws that should disappear to help reform our criminal justice system, save us money, and still leave our communities safe. Hopefully, this sad tragedy will not cause bad news for so many others who are separate from it and do not deserve to be maligned.

Shirley White

Port Townsend