Wow! The article in the paper on Friday the 13th regarding Trooper Smith was hands down the most despicable example of journalism I have ever had the misfortune of reading! Talk about one sided! I do feel sorry for Maureen Simmons. It never feels good to make a mistake, but instead of accepting responsibility for the mistake, she is trying to make excuses and shift the blame. And, worst of all, you printed it!
How much investigation and research was put into this article? How much time? The whole article read as though it were based on an interview with Mrs. Simmons. Any information that was printed about Trooper Smith was assumption and speculation! There is an accident reconstruction and investigation that was done! Though you did mention it at the end of the story, you put more emphasis on Mrs Simmons feelings. I would like to know how she can definitely know he was speeding. Unless she has a radar gun in her head, she is speculating. Journalism deals in facts not hearsay and assumption. It is also unbiased.
How dare you play up how she is “hobbling around like an 80 year old woman” when he is in a wheelchair. Did you even think about the feelings of this family and how it will affect them?!
I can’t even begin to express my feelings in this letter. I have lost respect for this woman who can’t accept responsibility for a mistake, and I have lost respect for this paper. For a “sensational” front page story, you have sacrificed credibility and customers.
You owe Trooper Smith and his family an apology.
Laurie Green
Casco
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