Pubdate: Fri, 01 May 1998
Source: The Daily Times (Salisbury MD)
Contact:   : Kenneth M. Nobbs

WHAT EXACTLY HAS HALL PROVEN?

In the last month or so, I have avidly read your paper an attempt to
evaluate both candidates for mayor, given the limited explanation and
elaboration of their respective platforms by both Carolyn Hall and Barrie
Tilghman.

While I have found some articles and letters insightful, I am disappointed
the paper, and the citizens who actively write to this column, have yet to
raise the hushed-up issue of Hall's "proven leadership" in the war on crime.

I am referring to the man who is, to the best of my knowledge, in jail
without a set trial date, for attempting to sell Hall crack cocaine. This
story was published in the Salisbury News and Advertiser.

As I understand it, when Hall called the police to report the incident, it
wasn't just a normal patrol officer that responded, but instead was Chief
Coulbourne Dykes, accompanied by another high-ranking officer. Was this a
publicity stunt to boost her campaign?

If true, it seems strange the highest-ranking officers in the department
have the time in their busy schedules to go bust a guy on the street.  And
what about the man in jail who was caught with a few pieces of soap he
supposedly claims he retrieved from a child?  The Sixth Amendment of the
Constitution guarantees the accused in a criminal proceeding "the right to
a speedy and public trial."

He's in jail and has yet to receive a trial date.  From what I understand,
Hall hasn't even identified him.  Is this man a political stepping stone?

I have known Chief Dykes for my entire life, and I am not questioning his
character or ethical standards.

He has always, to the best of my knowledge, lived up to the highest
standards and expects nothing less of the men and women in our police
department.  I am, however, questioning whether or not our police
department is being used as a political vehicle for Hall's campaign.

This issue, along with the others, which have been published in your paper,
have weighed into my decision, and I have come to the conclusion Carolyn
Hall is unworthy of holding the office of mayor.

My vote will reflect this opinion, and I urge the rest of the voters to
seriously consider their choices. Granted, Barrie Tilghman doesn't have the
experience in politics Carolyn Hall has, but she is intelligent and can
learn.  Hall on the other hand, has "proven" enough.

Kenneth M Nobbs, Salisbury