As a longtime Baltimore resident, I resent Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake's statement that "we all know Baltimore continues to have a fractured relationship between the police and the community" ("Baltimore mayor seeks federal investigation of police department," May 7). I do not believe that most communities would agree with this remark.
While I appreciate investigation into use excessive force, harassment, false arrests and unlawful searches, our city has bigger issues on the table — namely, getting us back up and running. The past weeks have been traumatic. When I realize the vandalism, looting and arson played was a major story on national and worldwide television, I'm humiliated.
Before the mayor and City Council pillory the police, it's time to examine the causes of the violence. Of course I understand the anger over Freddie Gray's death, but the aftermath was unacceptable. It was shameful (though gratifying) to need the National Guard and State Police to patrol my neighborhood.
The mayor and City Council must understand they represent all of us, not just those with a grievance against the Police Department. When will anyone at City Hall listen to the rest of us?
R. E. Heid, Baltimore