Violence, media coverage

THE EDITOR, Madam:

WAKE UP Jamaicans! Why are we pandering to the criminal element in our society? We seem to be more concerned about law-breakers injured or killed in violent confrontations with security forces whose duty is to maintain law and order. At scenes of disturbances, the media appear to seek out the most vociferous individuals among the rabble-rousers to interview; invariably, obtaining a distorted view to present to listeners, readers and/or viewers.

I have witnessed raucous scenes created by those who were apprehended by security personnel for public offences. Those held ranted and raved and violently resisted arrest. If one were not close by to witness at firsthand what precipitated the police action, one could conclude that the shouts and screams resulted from one being unmercifully beaten by the arresting officer(s).

What was even more appalling and disgusting was to hear the abuses and threats hurled at the arresting officer(s) carrying out a rightful function.

Such behaviour on the part of citizens is the seed of anarchy. Law and order are being replaced with tolerance and forbearance for the criminal element that seems bent on destroying the checks and balances in place for an ordered society.

When we ignore the rules of law and order and openly resent and reject our security forces in the exercise of their duty; and when we choose the side of those who are bent on breaking those established rules, we do so at our peril.

I am, etc.,

CLINTON A. LEWIS, P.O. Box 73, Ocho Rios

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