For me, it is not the time for accusations without facts. I am concerned about how rumors drive some of the narratives on what is being reported to and by the press without having the full facts. There is a need for an in-depth analysis of our yellow flag law and how it has been implemented. Maine’s statutes regarding involuntary commitment must be explained. The gathering of facts and actions will take time and will be painfully slow.

Gov. Mills establishing a commission to investigate all aspects of the horrendous crime goes without question as being critical. The victims’ families deserve nothing but the complete truth and our full support in the suffering they are facing. All of us in Maine warrant nothing less than all the facts. My heart is broken for the victims and their families. This never should have happened.

This is the time to recognize the four off-duty officers who ran into the bowling alley without regard for their safety within 90 seconds of hearing gunshots. Those officers were followed by officers responding to the 911 notifications. Compare that to the 356 Texas enforcement officers who stood outside Robb Elementary School for over an hour while an 18-year-old kid kept pulling the trigger.

That comparison shows Maine law enforcement officers’ dedication to trying to protect us and how they responded to the most horrendous crime in our state. They put us above their safety; what more can anyone ask of them?

So, as we slowly learn about the facts of this spree shooting, always remember those who ran to the sound of shots being fired. For those officers, and countless others in our state, you have my gratitude and deepest respect for all you do for me and my family.

 

Mike Grove

Belgrade Lakes

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