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

Why no Taser?

Sat., Sept. 22, 2012

I am writing in regards to the shooting of Edward Gover in the Spokane Valley on Skipworth Court and how brutally the situation was handled.

As it was proven, he had no weapon on him and, therefore, was unarmed. Why wasn’t he Tasered? This would have enabled him to be subdued instead of mercilessly being shot multiple times by one officer, then again by the other officer. (Since there were no witnesses to what occurred, only the hearsay of the deputies.)

So what the man did and was doing wrong, but this was such a painful way of snubbing out his life.

I think the whole situation could have been handled in a more humane way, and a life could have been saved.

Dorothy Payne

Spokane Valley

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