I emphatically disagree with Noemie Maxwell’s May 8 Guest Opinion, “Vigilantism is alive and well in Washington’s criminal justice.”

There is a big difference between being a vigilante and a protector of home, property, self, family and the general public.

A vigilante doles out what he considers justice. However, those who act as lawful protectors or defenders of citizens or property are not doing justice, they are just defending and protecting.

It really is a big stretch to equate vigilantism to what Mason County Commissioner Tim Sheldon basically stated, that with the reduction of law

enforcement in Mason County it would behoove citizens to step up and assist law enforcement in protecting and defending themselves and those that need it.

Is this really any different than what should be currently happening?

I don’t believe so.

The community is also an asset to law enforcement and there are many instances of citizens preventing acts of crime due to the unavailability of law enforcement personnel.

I have to wonder if Ms. Maxwell would just stand by and wait for law enforcement to arrive if her life, property or friends lives were in danger.

If she says that she wouldn’t just stand by, then she puts herself in the class which she calls vigilantes.

I believe Ms. Maxwell’s real agenda is relief for criminals, since she further states her opposition to the three strikes law that was approved by the voters.

DAVE DAHLKE

Port Orchard