Laguna Niguel Skateboarding Arrests Assailed and Defended

Regarding skateboarding arrests: I am wondering:

* Will kids get run down while they are exercising their right to skateboard on a busy street?

* Will pedestrians get hurt when these kids run them down while exercising their right to jump curbs and skateboard on public sidewalks?

I live a few blocks from where the Laguna Niguel (sheriff’s deputies) tried to do their jobs. I am shocked at the public outrage that is being displayed. Obviously none of the parents pays attention to what and where and how children are skateboarding.

I would love to videotape the behavior I see every week when I try to drive home, shop at the drugstore, go to the grocery store or bank. These young people are showing a total lack of respect for my driving space and walking space. It is scary. I drive very carefully, but I live in fear that I will run over someone who shoots out into traffic trying to outdo his buddies.

I also have been insulted and harassed by the groups of sometimes five or six youngsters who block the public walkways and act as though I am the problem because I am trying to shop.

I don’t know if handcuffing these offenders is right, but I am sure the parents would rather pick them up at the police station than identify them at the morgue.

We need to do something other than blame the police for trying to protect them (skateboarders) and us (drivers, pedestrians).

CARROLL A. BAILEY, Laguna Niguel