THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Saturday, May 18, 1996 TAG: 9605170035
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
I dropped my son and two of his friends off at a local flea market to purchase a shirt. The boys, ages 13, 14 and 18, were dressed typically of today's youth - baggy pants, t-shirts, and two of the boys wore hats.
Immediately upon entering the building, the boys were detained and questioned by an off-duty police officer. They were told to lean against the wall and were searched. After finding only a camera on one of the boys, they were then told to leave the building.
When I questioned the officer, I was informed that the reason for the initial search was due to the boys' ``gang-related'' clothing, and that one of the boys had his hands in his pocket in a ``gun-grabbing position.'' He stated that the boys were then evicted for ``giving him an attitude.''
I have to wonder if this officer would not also have ``given an attitude'' to someone had he been treated in such a negative and humiliating manner. These children are well-behaved, good students, athletes and an asset to their families as well as their community. This treatment was degrading and embarrassing as well as unnecessary.
I am aware that the statistics for crimes involving juveniles are astronomical. But I also feel strongly that if you treat a child like a criminal often enough, he is likely to behave like one.
DIANE DAVIS
Virginia Beach, May 1, 1996 by CNB