Police must be accountable

After reading Patty Ambrosi’s letter of Nov. 10, I was outraged by her comments. Yes, the police do have a tough job that is very dangerous. No question. But in having the ability and permission to use lethal force, they must be held to a higher standard of conduct. If they go beyond the parameters of the law, whether by design or accident, they must be held accountable. If they lie to cover up a mistake, they must be held accountable. Thompson did both, and in spite of the efforts of cop-loving Judge Fred Van Sickle, Thompson was found guilty.

Now, I read Van Sickle has reversed the order to lock Thompson up until sentencing on Jan. 27, allowing him to spend the holidays with his family. How nice. I bet that if Patty Ambrosi had done what Thompson did, she would be cooling her heels in jail this minute. And Patty, perhaps you can tell me how many holidays Otto Zehm will miss spending with his family. He doesn’t have the opportunity any more, because he’s dead. That is the real travesty.

Gerald Barnhart

Spokane