APATHY IS THE ENEMY

Regarding "Key To Fighting Neighborhood Crime" (Our Opinion, Feb. 3):

South St. Petersburg can deal with brazen drug dealers and criminals, but
to do so, resident apathy and an anti-police bias must cease. White
communities nationwide have drug busts. When is the last time a white mob
formed to taunt and throw explosives at police trying to do their jobs in
arresting a drug dealer?

Yes, anti-police bias has resulted in some communities being transformed
into veritable war zones. It's almost impossible for honest and dedicated
police officers not to suffer frustration and low morale because they are
attacked for doing their jobs.

Black communities must become more responsible and accountable for
criminals in their midst. Anti-crime campaigns by local residents should
take center stage. Leadership and guidance are imperative, and south side
church pulpits should galvanize residents to take a stand against drug
dealers and preach that police are protectors, not enemies. To allow crime
to proliferate without challenge is a true tragedy that has no excuses.

Robert B, Fleming, St. Petersburg