To the Editor:

In the May 16 Richmond County Daily Journal article by Olivia Webb, “Bar Owner Levels Charges Against Lawmen,” Mr. Robert McRae gives a passionate testimony about how he feels his business has been unfairly targeted by law enforcement in Richmond County.

Of course, these officers are paid via taxes paid by all citizens, and are accountable to the people that they serve. The Dobbins Heights Town Council is the appropriate forum to air these grievances.

It was with great remorse that I read the comments of Sheriff Furr when he referred to Mr. McRae as an “idiot.”

Is this the appropriate redress of a sheriff who is expected to lead the county with diplomacy and tact?

If he disagreed vehemently with any policies of the Mayor of Hamlet or the Mayor of Rockingham, would he ever stoop so low as to use this phraseology?

He demonstrates the very contempt Mr. McRae is describing by using this disrespectful language.

Mr. McRae has a beautiful wife and family, including a son currently in college. He runs several successful tax paying businesses in Richmond County and is active in civic affairs.

Gloria Mask

Hamlet