In the wake of yet another police shootout, residents of certain communities within the city are already claiming the incident was brutal and dangerous. Clearly, these people are out of touch with how citizens are supposed to live around one another.
For the most part, ordinary people tend to appreciate a life that consists of hard work, raising a family, respecting others and obeying the laws of the land. Unfortunately, as with most cities, Huntington has its own version of residents who choose to ignore those finer facets of life. These individuals live life by a blood lust. Their mentality is driven by money, greed, hatred of others and violence. Huntington has been plagued by a vicious no-holds-barred drug society that has spread its way like a disease into virtually every neighborhood and community within the city.
Up until last year, Huntington has been fortunate enough, even in the wake of random killings, to not produce any police fatalities. In fact, it has been quite a while since the last cop was killed. However, with the recent shooting of yet another drug dealer, the police are dealing with what is commonly referred to as a drug "vendetta." Several local gangs have vowed some sort of retaliation against the police for the loss of their "beloved brother."
The fact of the matter is no police officer wants to entangle him/herself in a shootout that might lead to a death. If one were to seriously look into any law enforcement manual, they would find that this is the last means necessary. However, it is a necessity if the situation gets out of hand like what happened recently. How are residents supposed to appreciate life when someone is waving a gun in their faces or hanging around in businesses where we tend to shop and eat? These are questions rarely asked that need answered.
Here is my news bulletin to the drug element: Warning, citizens are armed! I for one make no apologies for carrying a firearm within the city. I find it strange that more people don't, considering we have that right and freedom. For years, I have encouraged residents to look into a concealed weapons permit. The argument that the police community looks down on law-abiding citizens arming themselves is merely false. Oh, I'm sure there are a few, but I bet they appreciate the situation a little more, especially given the current state of the city.
The bottom line is the recent shooting was an example that all citizens should take to heart. The police department, contrary to outside opinion, will not tolerate violence from anyone or any organization. Even though the department is continually scrutinized by out-of-touch politicians and so called "neighborhood leaders," the fact remains there are laws we must obey. When these laws are broken, consequences will follow, no matter how big or small.
So instead of pandering to the criminal element and locking our doors, why don't we try a different approach? Let's stand with the police in dealing with the garbage that has laid waste to Huntington for more than half a decade.
Ashley C. Stinnett is state chairman of the West Virginia Young Republicans and a freelance writer from Lavalette. He is a former citizen member of The Herald-Dispatch editorial board.
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