Editor:
Having attended the Candidates Forum on Monday, May 21, I was struck by the differences in the candidates running for district attorney. It is apparent that our current district attorney, Russell Wasley, has an overwhelming amount of experience compared to his young challenger, Will Furse. In answering a question, Mr. Furse indicated that he has done only one felony jury trial and that as a defense attorney. Mr. Wasley, on the other hand, has done at least five murder trials and numerous other felony jury trials, all as a prosecutor. Mr. Wasley spoke about his most recent conviction, in the past two weeks, of defendant Sullivan who was convicted of attempted murder, first degree assault, and menacing with a deadly weapon. This is a huge difference in experience and one this district should not take lightly.
I also noticed a theme that Mr. Furse pushed, that of the need for a new strategy to combat the drug problem in our community. However, at no time did he elaborate on that strategy or give us any indication of what it might be. What we do know, however, is this: in a recent sentencing hearing involving a drug dealer, represented by Mr. Furse, who had pleaded guilty to selling methamphetamine, Mr. Furse repeatedly indicated that his client and others like him, who sell a small amount of methamphetamine, should not be tainted with a felony conviction on their record. If this is what Mr. Furse means by his new drug strategy, District 22 should have no part of it. They should let Mr. Furse remain a defense attorney, forever.
I am convinced that Russell Wasley is deserving of our vote. He should be re-elected as our district attorney .
Patti French
Cortez
Via email