Party Poopers

I had to laugh at the comments of San Diego County Supervisors Susan Golding and Brian Bilbray regarding police response to parties that are considered loud (“Morning-After Blues May Include Big Fine for Noisy Revelers,” May 30). The supervisors say that taxpayers shouldn’t have to pay for a second police response.

How conveniently they dismiss the fact that many party organizers, even if young adults, are taxpayers, and so will now have to pay twice. Further, the up-to $500 they will be required to pay may be for a police response that is not necessary in the first place.

I have witnessed how police departments will respond even when there is not a noise problem, or even when there is not a complaint. It seems that many police just don’t like the idea of people having a good time. Further, quite often the response is one of overkill. As if the whole department would rather break up a party instead of go after real crime or violent criminals. And note: Is a violent criminal ever (fined) if a policeman has to talk to him twice?

It seems to me that our times are becoming dangerously restrictive for regular people. This is just one of the latest examples. Truly the better response might be to also protect the right to party, as well as the right to quiet enjoyment. Find a better balance. People should be allowed to have fun, without being charged outrageously for it.

PATRICK F. FLYNN III

San Diego