VIDEO: Proof of police 'overkill'

I was very saddened, but not surprised, to see the outcome of the investigation into Eric Johnston’s death. Watching Officer Mortensen’s video, I saw no attempt to talk to Eric, only threatening him with a gun. I know that Eric was probably still somewhat drunk and very, very scared. Officer Mortensen certainly helped him out, if he did have a death wish.

Eric was not threatening the officer, yet he shot Eric, not once, not twice, but five times! A little “overkill?” What happened to using tasers? I also wonder about the State Police investigation of this matter. While I have a lot of respect for the State Police, it is rather like asking the wolf to investigate the fox about the dead chicken!

As I said, I am sad and very disappointed. Eric was a sweet, shy man, loved by his family and many friends, and he didn’t deserve to die like this. It seems that once again, the Coeur d’Alene Police Department has not been held accountable; it seems they rarely are.

DAPHNE GOODSON

Coeur d’Alene