I was amazed that our judicial system found Officer Karl F. Thompson Jr. guilty. But, like the community at large, I believe he got what he deserved, and my sympathy is for the Zehm family and the community of Spokane.

Thompson was probably a very good officer that for whatever reason overreacted and then lied about his actions. Then Rocky Treppiedi got together with him, and the leadership of the city tried to cover it all up rather than doing the right thing.

How anybody viewing the Zip Trip video could come to the conclusion that Thompson acted appropriately is beyond me. Poor Zehm was totally oblivious to Thompson’s approach and had no chance whatsoever. Thompson rushed him from behind and commenced to beat him down. And the city leaders had his back. Unbelievable.

I was horrified when police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick was interviewed by KREM and got choked up stating that she really liked Thompson. So is it any wonder that 50 or so officers pulled that disgusting protest by standing at attention and saluting Thompson when he was being taken into custody?

Just imagine how you would feel if you were a member of the Zehm family.

Joseph J. Ford

Spokane