Brunswick police on the social media bullying bandwagon

I am extremely disappointed in the Brunswick Police Department’s decision to post shoplifters’ photos on Facebook, prior to a legal conviction by a court.

I do not have a Facebook account and I have little sympathy for thieves. I have no problem with public shaming as a deterrent for repeat offenders when it is administered by the courts.

The Brunswick Police Department’s decision is an abuse of power and a failure to recognize the importance of separation of powers in a functioning democracy. The police must not be permitted to act as judge and jury. Citizens should not have to remind them that the police are in the executive branch, not the judicial branch. They enforce laws, they present evidence, and the courts adjudicate. Police should not interfere with the core function of the courts, however tempting it may be.

It does not matter one bit that arrest records are public information and that technically posting photos is “legal.” The Brunswick Police Department has no business jumping on the social media bullying bandwagon. We should expect and demand better from them. They have a tough job which most of us respect and admire. Why insist on defending a decision that diminishes this respect?

They work for us and it is our job to see that public officials do not abuse their power. I respectfully request that the Brunswick Police Department reverse this ill-conceived decision. Leave it to the courts please.

Sally Loving,

Brunswick

A rare chance in to conserve waterfront land in Brunswick

I love maps. Google maps, folding paper maps, charts, globes and most of all, my well-used Delorme.

If you look at a map of Brunswick, it is incredible how much coastline our town has. It is easy to forget Brunswick is a coastal town because so much waterfront is hidden by trees — and private property. I live on the east side of Brunswick near the New Meadows on Woodward Point. I joke that we are close enough for mosquitos, but not close enough for views, much less access. Look at a map and you will see very few access points to the New Meadows.

But now we all have an incredible opportunity to get ourselves more access to our precious shoreline: The Brunswick Topsham Land Trust and Maine Coast Heritage Trust are currently raising money to preserve a large chunk of Woodward Point. If you are a clammer, birder, kayaker, walker, skier, snowshoer, or want a place to jump in the ocean that isn’t where boats are launching or just plain enjoy a stunning view, then you will be awed by Woodward Point.

An incredible 80 acres and 2 miles of shoreline in Brunswick will remain undeveloped and open to public use.  This former cattle farm with rolling fields and woods will have you imitating Julie Andrews.  The hayfields are nesting habitat for many grassland birds that are fast losing places to nest.  The lack of development on Woodward Point also means clean water for clamming, fishing, worming and oysters.

I strongly encourage you to contribute to this project — every amount counts and your donation will be matched!  Please go to BTLT.org or MCHT.org for more information. I also strongly encourage the Town of Brunswick to make a donation to this project from the Public Access Fund.  After the kerfuffle over the Mere Point property, we have an opportunity for a truly spectacular piece of land to be preserved forever.  Our children will thank us.

Mary Fox,

Brunswick