Stop Milken Bashing, At Least Until a Verdict of Guilt or Innocence Has Been Determined

I note a recent letter to the editor concerning Michael Milken, which stated that his 1987 compensation of $550 million “doesn’t sound like he made it the old fashioned way.”

What is that supposed to mean? Have we gotten to the point where we now presume someone is a crook if they’re successful?

I do not have access to all of the facts and evidence concerning the Milken case. Neither does the letter writer. I don’t know whether Milken is guilty. Neither does the letter writer.

I do, however, presume his innocence. And I am extremely offended by someone who, based solely on what they understand to be Milken’s compensation, implies that he is rich, so he must be guilty.

RANDY YOUNG

Santa Ana