Letter: CR shooting raises concerns

I have concerns relating to The Gazette's reporting of the Jerime Mitchell shooting incident by Cedar Rapids Police Officer Lucas Jones.

The incident as reported was tragic, but I have to question why there was little or no emphasis on the fact that Mitchell was resisting arrest, apparently engaged in some form of drug dealing, based on the pound of marijuana, scales and cash found in his truck, and the texts on his phone and the fact that he placed Officer Jones in a potentially life-threatening position when he attempted to drive off with the officer entangled with his vehicle.

I understand the sensitivity within our community relating to police use of violence, but I have to question the lack of respect for the position Officer Jones was placed in when confronted with this situation. Furthermore, I also see this same incident shown on the ABC network news with no mention of the drug involvement. Similarly, I see where Linn County Attorney Jerry Vander Sanden will not pursue charges against Mitchell in light of his present condition. I hope this is under the condition that he cooperates with an investigation into his drug dealings and supply chains.

It would appear that there is little more to be learned without the audio that was missing from the police recording, but I would have to agree with the decision not to indict Officer Jones and I would like Mitchell to offer some explanation/apology for his actions leading to the unfortunate incident.

Gordon Taylor

Anamosa