This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Recklessness deserves penalties

Sun., June 7, 2009

The Spokesman-Review

Once again Spokane County, to its credit, has put the Spokane River off limits due to flood-stage water levels, dangerous currents, undertows and other dangers. Yet, as usual, someone has to “challenge the elements.”

We need tougher laws. Not only should the idiots who go into the river anyway be made to reimburse the county for the cost of rescuing them, they should be charged with reckless endangerment for unnecessarily jeopardizing the lives of our fire, police and other emergency personnel.

Maybe a year in jail and a $10,000 fine, along with reimbursement to the county would make these brain-dead people obey the law, because someone may die due to their ignorance!

William A. Hall

Spokane

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

No more than 250 words
We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form: Submit your letter here
Mail: Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Email: letters@spokesman.com
Fax: (509) 459-5098
Phone: (509) 459-5403