It was certainly an attention-getting 1/4 front page Jeff Lagasse picture and story in your Feb. 20 edition of the Kennebunk Police lieutenant engaged in full assault “active shooter” mode, but you certainly weren’t alone.

The story was in at least four or five other newspapers, and videos on all three major Portland network TV news shows, so I’m guessing this story was a well-planned and orchestrated show for the general public.

All that was missing was the popcorn.

Law enforcement has been training since the job began for all kinds of scenarios, the difference being that up until now it wasn’t a vehicle for public relations.Their specialty training is far more extensive than the general public knows ”“ or should know, for that matter.The more the bad guys know about police training, the more they can prepare to effectively counter it.

Needless to say, our entire nation shared the same broken heart after Sandy Hook, and I’m sure every law enforcement agency everywhere has long since reassessed their response procedures.

My problem with this is it creates, promotes and permeates our national environment of fear, and while it’s good to be on our guard, too often this fear snowballs in the minds of a few, and before you know it, people are getting shot for loud music or texting in movie theaters.

I have no problem with the training, but I don’t think the fear parade was necessary, and ultimately does more harm than good.

-Bill Thomas, Sanford

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