Officers using phones in court disrespectful

I recently attended a court appearance at the Linn County Courthouse. During the appearance, I observed those around me. A gentleman cracked a joke and laughed with the attorney. The man then sat next to me and started playing games on his cell phone. The magistrate entered the room and we all rose to show respect.

As I sat down, I noticed the man to my left still playing games on his phone. Then I noticed another man seated in front of me, scrolling through e-mails on his phone.

As I sat on the edge of my seat waiting to learn if my friend would be taken from her 3-year-old son, these men continued to play games and read e-mails - unbelievable! When the same two men stood up and handcuffed my friend, I realized their role in the courtroom - they were law officers. I was disgusted by their display of disrespect.

Mobile phones are seen as inappropriate in schools, churches, hospitals and thousands of other places. How can they possibly be condoned during court proceedings? This is not just another day for members of the public who enter their doors. These are people being ripped apart from children, siblings, parents, cousins and friends. The message the officers are sending with their phones and attitude is simple: We don't care.

Tina Engstrom

Waterloo