Just say no to political violence

When a copy of House Concurrent Resolution 17 landed on Lee White’s desk Tuesday, he was pleased. 

Approved by the 68th Idaho Legislature, the resolution’s intent is to “denounce acts of political violence and intimidation in the strongest possible terms and commits to fostering a culture of respect, civility, and lawful engagement in the democratic process.” 

White said Coeur d’Alene police “unequivocally condemns acts of political violence. People should feel free to peacefully exercise their rights without fear of violence or retribution. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the Constitutional rights of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.” 

According to the resolution, recent events in North Idaho have involved acts of violence and intimidation, including the disruption of a public meeting by pulling a fire alarm, an assault on a trustee, the arson of a legislator's place of business, threats to burn down a legislator's residence and threats to murder a legislator. 

Several of those cases occurred in Coeur d’Alene. 

“We have conducted investigations impartially and most of the cases referenced by HCR 17 were investigated by our agency,” White said. “We requested charges to be filed in the case regarding the pulling of a fire alarm during a public meeting, we charged the man accused of assaulting a trustee by throwing water on him and we charged the person who threatened a legislator.” 

The resolution was sponsored on the floor by District 3 Rep. Jordan Redman and District 4 Sen. Ben Toews. It states that “political disagreements must be resolved through debate, due process, and democratic means, rather than through threats, destruction, or harm to individuals or property.” 

In a prepared statement, White said the Coeur d’Alene Police Department has a proud history of protecting the rights of citizens and investigating any alleged violation of law without bias or prejudice. 

“We are committed to serving the community while protecting the rights of each and every citizen,” he said.