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

Shine a light on crime

Sat., June 29, 2013

In “A Handle on Property Crime” (June 23) Jonathan Brunt states that the drastic rise in property crimes is largely due to not enough police. However, I can think of at least two other reasons: poor lighting and failure to secure property.

In a public meeting with Mayor David Condon and police Chief Frank Straub earlier this year, I mentioned this to them. Condon made a joke about lighting up for St. Patrick’s Day, and Straub thought it wouldn’t make any difference; he wants more officers, of course.

As a former police officer and security chief, I can safely say that a better-lit city is one of the most important keys to crime reduction. Only the conceited or overconfident would deny this.

Victor Buksbazen

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