Backers of Deputy’s View of Gays, Columnist’s View of Deputy

Dana Parsons’ Jan. 8 column addressed an editorial written by Agustin Alvarez that appeared in the Deputy Sheriffs Assn. magazine. In his editorial, Alvarez commented on his view of the homosexual lifestyle. Mr. Parsons viewed Alvarez’s comments as “appalling.” It is altogether fitting and proper that Mr. Parsons state his views.

Mr. Parsons, however, is not willing to grant the same rights to Mr. Alvarez. Parsons and the public, according to Parsons, “don’t harbor such thoughts, and don’t want their law enforcement people to do so.” It would appear that Parsons feels police officers should be allowed either no opinion or his opinion in matters of controversy.

Parsons goes far beyond merely denying Alvarez the right to a differing opinion. He goes on to insinuate that Alvarez would not be unbiased in the performance of his duties as a peace officer and should resign his position as “someone supposedly protecting the safety and rights of all the citizens of Orange County.”

Unlike Mr. Parsons, I know Alvarez. And I state without hesitation that if I, a member of my family or a loved one of any race, religion, color, sex, age or sexual preference was in danger, I would be comforted to know Alvarez was the officer coming to their assistance. Alvarez, and thousands of other police officers, perform their dangerous duties in an unbiased manner every day, no matter their personal views.

ROBERT J. MacLEOD, General Manager, Assn. of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs