The shooting of a youth by Wetaskiwin RCMP has raised concern from many quarters for the young man and his grieving family and friends. I share that concern. However, nowhere have I seen concern for the officers involved. Obviously, they believed their own lives were at risk and now will undoubtedly suffer psychological trauma and will have to endure a rigorous assessment of their actions.
There are many troubled and dangerous youth in this area, street drugs are readily available, and weapons are plentiful. I have served as an Edmonton Police Commissioner and know something of the demands on police officers, and this area appears to be even more difficult and dangerous than most. These men and women also deserve our support.
Ron Lajeunesse, Westerose
