POLICE OVERBOARD

On June 8 you partially reported on our only arrest in 42 years for
allegedly having 13 grams of marijuana. ("Marijuana Smell at Sackets
Hotel(NY) Leads to Charges for Mass. Pair") Your readers should know the
rest of the story.

Our room and car were staked out for over two hours while we enjoyed the
harbor and dined. A search warrant was obtained. A state police dog and
officer were deployed. Our car and room were searched. We were cuffed and
brought to the station to wait for a judge. Paperwork took almost two
hours before we were released.

We estimate that the criminal justice system spent over 12 man-hours
harrassing us for a violation that is equivalent to a speeding ticket: a
$100 maximum fine for a first offense.

You did not report that we were also inappropriately charged with a
misdemeanor for having a small postal scale. I suspect the chief was
diaappointed and vindictive for this waste of resources, or he was simply
ignorant of the law. This charge was dismissed. We shall file a complaint
for this unprofessional behavior. We can now easily relate to those who
complain of police misconduct.

The irony of this is that I can imagine such law emforcement officials
settling into their easy chairs after work with a scotch and cigarette,
happily reflecting on the good they think they are doing for the community.

Henry and Anita Szubzda Billerica, Mass.