The article regarding this paper’s Our View about installing pepper spray devices on automobiles (“Pepper-spray device poor choice for Maine group’s innovation honor,” May 19) was a typical knee-jerk reaction to a current issue in society today.

The awards are an indication of society’s frustration with the growing radicalism within the woke community, in which individuals feel so entitled that they can accost the general public without responsibility. Past incidents in various parts of the country have shown a need for devices such as this. It is a reasonable non-lethal alternative that would save countless innocent lives.

I do agree, it is regrettable that we have come to this point, but the time has come to protect ourselves from the radical portion of society that has become increasingly uncivil.

Barry Sites

Skowhegan