Letter to the editor: Policing rooted in racism; Middlebury isn’t exempt

The history of the police may seem like it was a long time ago, and it is tempting to think that we should focus only on the present. However, the history of police is not only a relic. Even the star shape of the police badge, which originated from the first slave patrol badge, upholds that system that was created not so long ago. Another example is the use of dogs to enforce terror during slave catching, during civil rights protests, and today — it has even occurred in town against a Black Middlebury resid … (read more)

Letter to the editor: Middlebury PD can serve as a model for policing

Some weeks ago I wrote a letter supporting our Middlebury Police Department and suggesting that defunded police could invite militia completely beyond public control to take over our streets. Subsequent letters by others to the Addison Independent documen … (read more)

Letter to the editor: Middlebury police chief weighs in on Floyd case

George Floyd died after being taken into custody by officers of the Minneapolis Police Department. My initial familiarity with this case began with media images and reports. I see Mr. Floyd, handcuffed behind his back, face down on the pavement, next to a … (read more)

Sex assualt investigator back on job

MIDDLEBURY — An Addison County investigator of sex crimes against children is now back at work after a two-week hiatus, which began late last month after Addison County Sheriff Peter Newton decided to drop the state-funded post from his department due to … (read more)

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