Dear Editor:
I love it here. That is, in Montezuma County. Although only a recent transplant, and only part time at that, I thoroughly enjoy the vibrant discourse the Cortez Journal prints from the local residents. One of the foundations of a free republic is the free and open discussion and debate among the people.
The new sheriff is criticized for threatening to arrest feds who may violate state law. Others applaud him for the very same conduct. Is it inciting violence or simply threatening to enforce the law, the sworn duty of the sheriff?
The district attorney has the difficult job deciding when evidence is enough to prosecute. It can be a lose-lose decision. In the recent case involving alleged inappropriate touching of a minor, the DA is faced with a tough choice. Evidence is usually weak in such cases, but the issue is of such importance to the public safety, that a DA often feels such a case must be presented to a jury. I feel for the accused, having been found not guilty, for going through such an ordeal. But I also feel for the DA who is faced with extremely difficult decisions every day as he does his best to protect the public interest.
The Cortez City Council is under assault from the recall faction, and their supporters are attacking the recallers.
I could go on and on. Forget Libya, Japan, meltdowns, earthquakes, Yemen. We got it all right here in Montezuma County.
Torin K. Andrews
Mancos
Via e-mail