Qualified immunity

Kudos to Sheriff Jerry McDermott of Norfolk County for his commentary in support of qualified immunity for police officers (“Police input needed as House eyes qualified immunity,” Boston Herald, July 19). He stands correct that our legislators up on Beacon Hill must hear input from all stakeholders on this issue before implementing new legislation.

Much of what appears in this legislation, I can support. This bill however appears to be moving too quickly trying to find a quick fix to a very serious issue.

Apparently in haste, those advocating for an end to qualified immunity for police officers apparently don’t seem to actually understand the concept itself. I know what qualified immunity is because I had that protection in both my six years as a mental health counselor in an acute patient unit and in my 28 years of service as a police officer in the state Department of Mental Health.

I really resent a bunch of politicians grandstanding for their crowd outside the State House.

Qualified immunity does not mean backing bad cops who do bad things on the job. This basic protection is to protect those public employees who act reasonably and in compliance with all rules and regulations. It doesn’t aid someone who commits misconduct on the job.

Before those on Beacon Hill start speaking for us, they need to know what they are talking about.

One final note, there needs to be more discussion between legislators and law enforcement. We are all on the same side in this issue. I thought transparency was the best course of action too.

— Sal Giarratani, Boston