Letters

Re “Investigation of CIA’s harsh tactics is likely,” Aug. 9

Thank you for covering the possible criminal investigation of CIA interrogations. Many citizens have been working toward bringing any and all war criminals to justice, not only because we are appalled and ashamed by what was done in our names but because we have prisons full of inmates living in inhumane conditions here in the United States who may have done nothing more serious than possessing illegal drugs.

Not for a moment does it escape the notice of the average citizen that if street criminals must be made to answer for their illegal activities, so must those at the highest levels of our government. Otherwise, how do we define justice?

Tobi Dragert

Los Angeles

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Never in my 60 years have I wanted anything more than to see George W. Bush and Dick Cheney brought to justice. Your article offers no such hope and, in fact, never mentions those who gave the orders to torture.

I may be part of a small minority, but I just can’t let this one go. I’ve moved on from Vietnam, watching black people hosed and set upon by growling dogs and countless other shameful moments, but I really believe that we need to fully investigate everyone involved in this nightmare, prosecute anyone who is implicated and punish those who are found guilty.

There was a time when a great speaker like President Obama could inspire and change the direction of America, but I think for most of us, the time for talking is over.

William R. Lawrence

Tustin

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Re “Bush’s terror policies take a beating,” Aug. 7

It is President Bush’s anti-terror policies that are criticized, not his “terror” policies.

White House counter-terrorism advisor John O. Brennan’s views revert to the pre- 9/11 notion that poverty causes terrorism, an incorrect observation given that most of the 9/11 hijackers (as well as many Al Qaeda members) came from wealthy families and were well-educated.

The greatest irony is that Obama has rightfully continued using many of the tough anti-terror policies of the Bush administration.

Richard Friedman

Los Angeles