CRITICISM OF POLICE IN RECENT DRUG RAID DOESN'T SQUARE WITH THE FACTS

This is in response to the recent newspaper articles in the Times
Leader SAYSO column dated 12/08/02. To the callers who paid us and the
KTPD compliments, thank you, it is greatly appreciated. To those
callers who made the derogatory comments I must respond and defend
this department and support each and every member of it.

First, I would hope that before you or anyone make any comments that
you would check your facts before making such ridiculous remarks, but
it's apparent that you did not check your facts. The recent drug raid
was a team effort between two departments that are usually short-
handed on manpower and finances, but with polling resources we were
able to work as one to accomplish the objective.

Second, to make everyone aware the MPD also took part in assisting in
obtaining the necessary surveillance, supplied informants, and
information and then, at the end, manpower for the sweep. Also of the
24 drug warrants that were served on the nine defendants and two
juveniles - 10 warrants were served on defendants for drug violation
in the borough of McAdoo. Some of the information came from drug
arrests that the McAdoo Police made previous to this sweep.

I must also state that even with the manpower shortage that each
department experiences at some time, our arrest and conviction rates
are above the national average. You can check that with the previous
mayor for the years of 1997, to and including 2001. We always try and
work as a team within our department or with any other department at
all times. Also with the current seven-man force there is a total of
96 years of experience with extensive training. Do we resolve or solve
every problem that comes along? No, but what department does?

We put forth a best-efforts policy at all times. Each and every member
of this department does what he can when called upon to do so. I would
appreciate it in the future that when anyone is ready to make
disrespectful remarks, before you do - check your facts!

Joseph Litchko

Chief of Police

McAdoo