THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, September 7, 1994 TAG: 9409070008
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 34 lines
Recently my grandson Todd and his friend observed a man breaking the window of a pickup and taking out tools. The friend called 911 from work and told the Norfolk police that Todd would meet them where the crime took place.
The police were fantastic! Four cars met Todd, listen to his description of the thief and took off in four directions. They returned in minutes with the perpetrator. Todd identified him and each policeman came over and thanked Todd for his help.
Todd was subpoenaed as a witness some time later. He sat for two hours and the case was continued - no one explained why - or even acknowledged his presence. A whole day wasted!
Several months later he was subpoenaed again. This time he was also ignored. After being told no one could speak - even in a whisper - while court was in session, he sat for two hours. A short break was called and he asked a commonwealth's attorney if he was needed. The reply was a very gruff ``no'' - not a thank you, not an expression of appreciation for his coming, not an explanation as to why he was not notified that he was not needed. Another wasted day!
In the beginning, Todd felt great about doing his civic duty. In the end he said, ``Never again.''
LAURA A. HEPTINSTALL
Norfolk, Aug. 25, 1994 by CNB