As I resign myself to the idea that politics is at least somewhat in control of the progress of #JusticeForEthan, I'm curious about what those who support our efforts are really saying to Governor O'Malley. Both Heather Mizeur, (D) currently serving in the MD House of Delegates for Montgomery County and candidate for Mayor, and Brian Frosh (D) Maryland State Senator for Montgomery County and candidate for MD Attorney General, have written letters that appeared in segments produced by Debra Alfarone on WUSA9.
Heather Mizeur's letter talks about launching an investigation by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Her focus seems to be on disability policies, awareness and training. I believe it was her letter that sparked new interest as far as publicity goes.
Brian Frosh's letter is a one page call for accountability and ownership. It was mentioned in last night's segment on WUSA9 but I couldn't find a link to the actual document. I've transcribed the body of it from screenshots:
Brian Frosh's letter is a one page call for accountability and ownership. It was mentioned in last night's segment on WUSA9 but I couldn't find a link to the actual document. I've transcribed the body of it from screenshots:
As you know, the life of Robert Ethan Saylor ended tragically this past January while he was being detained by off-duty Frederick County deputies. I am very concerned about the way this incident was handled, and about the investigation conducted by the Frederick County sheriff’s office. This investigation yielded no criminal indictment, disciplinary measures, or revisions to police procedures, despite the Chief Medical Examiner ruling Mr. Saylor’s death to be a homicide by asphyxiation.
The issues raised by this incident have been deemed serious enough to warrant an investigation by the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. We should also take ownership of the issue here in Maryland. At the very least, I respectfully ask you to conduct a statewide review of police training procedures regarding the disabled.
Ethan Saylor’s death was unnecessary and avoidable. Please do what you can to prevent such a tragedy from reoccurring.
Strong words from someone who wants to be Maryland's Attorney General.
What strikes me after reviewing the letters is that both candidates acknowledge the fact that Ethan should not have died that night, calling his death "unnecessary and avoidable," and "entirely preventable."
I realize that we are in the midst of political campaigning, trying to get government officials to take a stand. I'm grateful that there are some who feel justice is important enough to risk political capital on.
Thank you Heather Mizeur and Brian Frosh for speaking out - even if it is to get votes!
I hope Governor O'Malley is listening to somebody!
What strikes me after reviewing the letters is that both candidates acknowledge the fact that Ethan should not have died that night, calling his death "unnecessary and avoidable," and "entirely preventable."
I realize that we are in the midst of political campaigning, trying to get government officials to take a stand. I'm grateful that there are some who feel justice is important enough to risk political capital on.
Thank you Heather Mizeur and Brian Frosh for speaking out - even if it is to get votes!
I hope Governor O'Malley is listening to somebody!