8/14/08

Letter to the Editor

Joe Wilson for judge

Editor,

After reading the glowing editorial endorsement for George Appel for Superior Court Judge in the Everett Herald and speaking to a close friend who was recently on a jury with Mr Appel as the prosecutor, I wonder if these are two different people. The defendant was charged with attempted first degree murder. The jury acquitted him because they believed there was no evidence to support the charge. They believed the charge should have been assault. I wonder how many other defendants have been over charged when the evidence does not support the allegation. Not only did the defendant spend 7 months in jail at taxpayers' expense because he could not post bail, but the taxpayers also paid for a public defender along with the costs for the prosecutor and the costs for the trial. Perhaps the editorial board of the Herald should consider interviewing members of jury panels where Mr. Appel has been the prosecutor to get the “rest of the story.”

On July 16 At the Washington Women’s Lawyer Candidate Forum, Mr Appel stated that he was a skeptic about Drug Court. What does that mean? Do others share his opinion? And, what do the statistics say?  What is his alternative? Put them in jail with hardened criminals at more cost to the system.

Joe Wilson is clearly the best candidate for judge. As the Herald acknowledged, he is highly respected and a talented, passionate advocate who has handled a variety of cases at all levels of Washington’s court system. He has volunteered his time for low income clients through Snohomish County Legal Services and is a long-time board member for the battered woman’s shelter. He also currently serves on the Dawson Place Feasibility Committee to provide comprehensive services to abused children. 

Nancy S. Campbell

Mill Creek