Dear Editor,

The Aug. 8 article about the jail population decreasing brought into focus the action being done by the total community to reduce overcrowding. I interrupted my gym discipline to write this letter.

For the last 17 years I have been a volunteer in what is now “SUD” (substance use disorder). I have seen a lot of changes in public stigma, legislative, community and families. We have made improvements but still have a long way to go.

The article gave credit to prosecuting attorneys, District Judge Dotson and numerous others. They did not give as much credit to Judge Peckler, circuit court and Judge Petrie family court, with whom I work with diverted jail clients every day of the week.

I have different status with the five surrounding circuit, district and family courts and my factual observation of each is different.

When I write a letter of reference for a person, it is perception because if writing from my observation of that individual at various support meetings, etc., I am not aware of specifics. When I write a letter as a friend of the court or certified expert witness, I deal with facts.

Public defenders are massively overloaded, along with probation and parole officers after cancellation of KAP. Some prosecutors think they are law enforcement, judge, jury and executioner. Some state drug court administrators think they are the judge.

Thank you Boyle ASAP Inc. for the comprehensive handling of all associated groups with SUD.

H.M. “Rat” Durham

Parksville