Opinion articles provide independent perspectives on key community issues, separate from our newsroom reporting.

Letters to the Editor

Taylor shooting; candidate nonsense

Taylor shooting

Recent events in Ferguson, Mo., Arlington and other places have resulted in police officers being catergorized in the media as villains and murderers.

Where is the respect for police officers?

All of the so-called victims were obviously in a position of doing something wrong. Some were even caught on camera breaking laws.

If we, as citizens, would respect the authority of police officers and not argue, confront or otherwise disrespect them, no deaths would occur.

Even if the police officers are, in your opinion, not in the right, there are nonviolent ways to refute the charges.

That is what our justice system is for.

Even our newspapers give front-page tribute to criminals, saying how wonderful they are without pointing out that they were breaking the law and were caught.

Regardless of race, religious affiliation or sex, obey the law and you will live.

— Linda Bridwell, Fort Worth

With your continuous coverage of the shooting of Christian Taylor, I’m not sure if you’re trying to stir up protests, riots or strife, or if you’re trying to bring attention to youths with issues.

Whatever it might be, surely there is other news that is front-page worthy. Sunday’s headline describing Taylor as a “young lion” for God” was almost blasphemous. That is what his misled pastor said. Therefore it should have been kept private.

No true Christian would dare to bring attention to himself by lawless means. Taylor was obviously out to gain attention through lawlessness.

Actions have consequences. He was no more a Christian than Judas was a genuine disciple of Christ.

Glamorizing lawless people will only promote more lawlessness. Start printing real news, please.

— Elizabeth Powell, Keller

It’s very unfortunate for Christian Taylor’s family and the city of Arlington that Taylor lost his life during a police action.

It’s impossible not to compare this situation to similar events across the county — a white police officer shooting and killing a black person under questionable circumstances

However, then the comparisons fail. Arlington Police Chief Will Johnson has demonstrated courage, honesty and openness in seeking the truth of this situation.

Also, Taylor’s family has been and continues to be an inspiration to all of us by also seeking the truth.

The police do have a hard job, but they need to be held accountable for their actions.

Too many times they have been let of the hook by a canned response of “I was afraid for my life.”

However, through the capable and courageous leadership that Chief Johnson has demonstrated, I have faith in the integrity and honesty of the Arlington police.

— John Nolan, Arlington

Candidate nonsense

Listening to all the nonsense emanating from the mouths of the presidential candidates reminds me of the classic musical comedy The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.

When the governor of Texas, as played by Charles Durning, is questioned by reporters about his views on a particular issue, he dances around by singing, “Ooh, I love to do the little side step.”

— Paul Gabel, Fort Worth

Letters

Letters should be no longer than 200 words and must have a full name, home street address, city of residence and both a home and daytime telephone number for verification.

E-mail (preferred): letters@star-telegram.com; Fax: 817-390-7688

Regular mail: Letters to the Editor, Box 1870, Fort Worth TX 76101

This story was originally published August 20, 2015 at 5:57 PM with the headline "Taylor shooting; candidate nonsense."

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