Law Enforcement Priorities

To the Editor:

I read with amusement and anger the headline “Police Plan Enforcement Crackdown On ATVs.” I have one simple question for the public. Which is more of a threat to our safety, illegal use of an ATV or illegals?

Why are the limited resources of the police department spent on operations such as these, when we have an estimated 12 million illegals in the US? The system is set up to punish legal citizens while giving the illegals a pass. Two examples illustrate my point. A friend of mine was issued a $100 fine for talking on his cell phone while driving. He’s a hard working American who cannot afford such a penalty. The phone conversation was work related. Yesterday on my drive to work I saw two speed traps (police cars hidden in the bushes) which are set up to catch American citizens (mostly) on their way to work. One explanation of this situation is to ask the question how much money does the government make on each activity? Let’s see, cell phone violation — $100. Speeding tickets — $50-$350 illegal. Alien arrest — $0. My guess that’s the answer.

Ronald Polard

5 Point O’ Rocks Road, Newtown                                                             April 4, 2006