CONVICTED OFFICER DESERVES NO SPECIAL TREATMENT

Get Wrongdoers Off Roanoke's Streets

REGARDING "Judge lets convicted police officer out of jail" (July 31
news story):

As a resident of Roanoke, I feel it is a disgrace to release a future
prisoner because our local judge has concerns for the prisoner's
safety.

The definition of safety is being safe, freedom from danger, risk or
injury. Was the convicted officer, Frederick Pledge, providing a safe
environment for the residents of Roanoke? Was the safety of our
community an officer's taking money and drugs from convicted felons
and allowing them go free? Is the safety of our city allowing a
convicted felon to walk our streets until Sept. 10, while he waits to
report to prison?

These questions really should be answered for the residents prior to
releasing yet another criminal. What kind of example is this setting
for our children?

Pledge's acts were not in the best interest for the residents of
Roanoke. They were wrong.

How can residents of Roanoke rid their communities of drugs and
violence when our judges release criminals like this, knowing that
the felons are not innocent?

How can our judges and lawyers sleep at night knowing that local
residents are being disturbed by acts of violence?

Pledge has hurt himself, but for the most part, he has hurt the
entire city of Roanoke. He has hurt and demeaned his fellow police
officers