Heads up downtown

Just last summer, cries of an overly aggressive police presence hung above Coeur d'Alene like a thunderhead over a Fourth of July picnic.

What a difference a few months can make.

Violence downtown, almost all of it involving young males, has erupted this winter, prompting calls from the public for dramatic steps to be taken to protect citizens and visitors critical to the local economy.

Thus far, we appreciate the level-headed approach we've seen from those in law enforcement, city government and downtown businesses, including bar owners. Already, a stronger police presence is assured and additional training for those who serve alcohol is likely. More good ideas are percolating, and we're confident officials are poised to enact the best of them.

But as a community, we must proceed wisely. On a much smaller scale, the stage is set for downtown Coeur d'Alene to resemble our nation in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, when far-reaching, reactive legislation was immediately embraced, doubters were labeled unpatriotic and otherwise sensible citizens began to take the law into their own hands - often with dire consequences for them and for their innocent victims.

Without question, violence downtown is increasing. But to think that it has gone from a safe and sound little business district to Watts during the race riots is inaccurate and unhelpful. Check the records and you will find plenty of other alcohol-related acts of violence before this crazy winter.

The anecdotal evidence - the stories you will hear from patrons who have encountered drunken, violent young men downtown - greatly outpaces the flurry of police reports that have documented violent crime. Acknowledging that if nothing else, the perpetrators are getting either more bold or more stupid - or perhaps both - drunken louts have dissuaded reasonable, responsible fun-seekers from enjoying the nightlife downtown for years.

Greater effort is needed to keep our city safe. But before we make a panic-induced leap to a bonafide police state or vigilante playground, let's address the problems rationally and cooperatively. As we've learned from the young thugs, more good comes from thinking clearly than reacting wildly.