Prison Sites in L.A. County

I take issue with the article (Editorial Pages, Nov. 17) written by William Kahrl. I quote: “It is certainly cheaper, arguably safer and simply smarter to locate new prisons instead in the remote areas that really want them.”

Rubbish! Remote areas that have indicated a desire to have a prison in their community are very few indeed. For years, the state has been trying to plant a prison somewhere here in the Antelope Valley, and adjoining areas. Those of us living here left the city to get away from urban crime and criminals, and to live in a country atmosphere with some degree of safety. I have yet to meet one person hereabouts who wants (another) such a facility here.

This would mean transporting prisoners great distances back and forth for court, difficulties for families who wish to visit, and fear in the hearts of residents when prisoners escape. Many of my neighbors are older, retired people.

I live about 9 miles from Camp Fenner Probation Camp, from whence prisoners escape every few weeks. I have been threatened at gunpoint (a stolen gun) by one such escapee, at 3 a.m.

Spare us, and put the prisons in the city. You can keep the toxic and other waste there too.

BARBARA FRAZIER

Valyermo