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Letters to the Editor

Dallas police violated shooter’s civil rights by using an explosive

This undated photo posted on Facebook on April 30, 2016, shows Micah Johnson, who was a suspect in the sniper slayings of five law enforcement officers in Dallas on July 7, 2016, during a protest over two recent fatal police shootings of black men.
This undated photo posted on Facebook on April 30, 2016, shows Micah Johnson, who was a suspect in the sniper slayings of five law enforcement officers in Dallas on July 7, 2016, during a protest over two recent fatal police shootings of black men. Facebook via AP

I abhor the killing and wounding of police and security personnel in Dallas alleged to have been carried out by Micah Johnson.

However, I am horrified by the callous disregard for the law in the aftermath that saw the Dallas police murder the alleged murderer.

By sending a robot with an improvised explosive device that neutralized (killed) Johnson, the Dallas police violated at least three laws: the obstruction of justice, the violation of Johnson’s civil rights and the unauthorized use of a deadly explosive device.

I hope the chief of police in Dallas is held accountable for his lawless activity.

How in the world can you have law and order when the police are recklessly violating the law?

Robert Matano, Cayucos

This story was originally published July 12, 2016 at 8:51 PM with the headline "Dallas police violated shooter’s civil rights by using an explosive."

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