I was appalled to see on the front page of the May 18 Kennebec Journal an article, “Dead man had criminal record,” about Robert Rodriques, the man killed in the house collapse in Albion .

Was this necessary? The man did what he did and served his time. He had other pending charges. So what? What could possibly be newsworthy about this information now that he has died? All this accomplishes is more distress and pain for Rodriques’ family and friends.

I am apparently not the only one who objected to this article, considering the number of negative online comments. Those responsible for publishing this article ought to be ashamed.

Chad Thorne

Pittston