The story of a suspect in the media back in January, 2014, (“Deputies who returned fire and shot man have encountered armed suspects before” Bremerton Patriot goo.gl/PjzMns) who was involved in a police shooting in Port Orchard is being falsely accused of firing multiple shots at police officers.

Neighbors remember hearing and seeing a barrage of gunfire coming from officers that day. The suspect was shot multiple times and excessive force was not warranted here as the subject was already disabled before he fell to the ground. Officers are unwilling to disclose all the information about that day. There were no bullets fired at them from the suspect, plain and simple.

Suspect James Mathes wanted them to kill him, raising his arms with a revolver with the intent for them to react. He has battled mental disabilities most of his life. With many mentally ill people, addiction will prevail. There is a bill in congress addressing “mental health reform” in the U.S. today. It’s about time! It has so affected the many who suffer with mental disorders as well as their families.

The suspect in this unjust travesty was the only one who sustained life-threatening injuries. No one else was hurt.

Unnecessary shots were fired into James’ car, bullet holes were found in stumps, fences and even in the housing complex behind the subject. Officers shot recklessly and excessively.

We understand police officers are trained to do their duty with utmost dignity, diligence and at times risk their lives. James had no intent to hurt or kill anyone that day with those officers or anyone else.

James has been clean and sober for nearly 10 years before this incident. He acted as chairperson for an AA fellowship at a local church for most of that time, opening the doors for those who sought sobriety, support and inspiration. James is well-liked and respected within the community.

Valerie Mathes

(James Mathes’ mother).