We in Island County have had a horrendously tragic fatality in our county jail. It should not have happened. By current accounts, Keaton Ferris behaved like an animal, was treated like an animal, and died like one. But was he one?
There will be a public forum about “Policing in the 21st Century” at 7 p.m., July 30, at Oak Harbor’s Public Library located at Skagit Community College. It is sponsored by the Sno-Isle Libraries and League of Women Voters. It is an opportunity for citizens to discuss policing problems with our officials and leaders, for us to learn what goes on behind the scenes, and for them to learn what we want done. It will be moderated by retired physician and active citizen Marshall Goldberg.
Back in the 1990s, Island County leaders put a law and justice plan into print. It is a good read, and I’m sure prosecutor Greg Banks would provide a copy to anyone wanting one. It does a good job of describing the problems and issues of that day and continuing.
Two sentences stand out for emphasis: “It is important that the mental health agencies, treatment agencies and other agents in our society, including the community at large, take responsibility for problems of crime and delinquency, rather than leaving them solely to law enforcement and the judicial system. By adapting this holistic approach and by mobilizing the entire community and expanding early intervention efforts, the chances of successfully reducing crime and delinquency will be greatly enhanced.”
As a volunteer mentor for our drug courts, I can attest that this approach works. Our judges and most officials will attest to it too. America has come a long way since rule violators were trussed up in stocks in the public square for adults, children and animals to torment.
While questioning our leadership, keep in mind that this is a responsibility we all bear. One big question is “What are my friends, family, and myself doing to make this situation better?”
The meeting needs to be well attended, so be there.
Al Williams
Former citizen member Island County Law &Justice Council
Oak Harbor
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