LAPD Whistle-Blower Served the Greater Good

“Overreaction to News Leak” (editorial, Oct. 19), on the planned incarceration of whistle-blower Robert Mullally, was absolutely correct in reminding readers that the greater good that came out of Mullally’s action necessitated some leniency in terms of how he should be treated for violating U.S. District Judge William D. Keller’s court order.

Mullally’s actions in exposing how the Los Angeles Police Department treats domestic violence in its ranks were heroic and provided a tremendous public service to those who are protected, served and policed by officers in this department, including those who may have committed acts of domestic violence, sexual assault or child abuse against their own family members.

Because of Mullally’s actions, the LAPD was forced to crack down on officers who committed these crimes, which led to the arrests of at least half a dozen of them after Mullally’s revelations became public.

Ironically, he may serve more time in prison than any one of these officers who committed a violent act, and that is a travesty of justice -- and a reminder that when it comes to those in law enforcement, too often it seems that they remain above the laws, and that when any misconduct among them is exposed, the judicial system continues to respond by trying to kill the messenger.

Mary Shelton

Riverside

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Speaking as a “right coast” person, I want to let you know that the LAPD’s reputation in this part of the country is much like Hollywood’s. Is this stuff for real?

Your editorial properly suggests that jail time is not appropriate for someone who unmasked the rampant cover-ups of police domestic violence in the LAPD.

But the question remains: Who at central casting picked that lulu federal judge who thinks a court order is more important than justice?

Joseph M. Finnin

Chester, N.J.