In response to the ruling that the shooting of Kevin Peterson Jr. was justified (“Review: Cops’ deadly force justified,” The Columbian, Aug. 17): So, now we are executing people, without benefit of trial, for trying to run away after making a drug sale? This was not self-defense. Apparently Officer Anderson told investigators he felt he had given Peterson enough commands and had decided “If he takes another step, I’m gonna shoot him.” Which he and other officers did. In the back — endangering the public with their 34 shots while they were at it.
The officers had the goods on Peterson. They could have arrested him later. They did nothing to end the sale of illegal drugs. They simply ended a life.
