Sheriff's comments were irresponsible

I’ve followed with interest the firestorm that erupted online over controversial comments by Bonner County Sheriff Daryl Wheeler.

Hundreds of comments were posted in the wake of his declaration that he wanted the residents to quote “push back” against our president’s recommendations to try and reduce the incidence of mass gun violence. I’m not sure the sheriff understood the impact of his speaking out on such a hot button issue.

According to the posts, there are many gun advocates in this county who fear that the federal government’s recommendations are the first step in the abolition of the Second Amendment. Being the chief law enforcement officer in the county, the chief has an obligation not to feed this fear.

In the wake of his comments, gun enthusiasts have gone out and bought more guns and more ammo. They feel the need to gather together in public, with their weapons strapped to their sides, declaring that when the government shows up, they’ll be ready for a fight. During this gathering, the organizers read Wheeler’s letter to the crowd to much applause.

This feeding of the fear by our sheriff is very irresponsible. The net result of his comments is more of the us-versus-them mentality that benefits no one. Everyone is entitled to their First Amendment right to free speech and their Second Amendment right bear arms, But please, sheriff, consider the impact and consequences of adding more fear to the already high levels here. Giving kudos to this doesn’t help.

DAN MIMMACK

Sandpoint