The Rittenhouse verdict

Some of you may think the jury in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial reached the wrong verdict. That Mr. Rittenhouse came looking for a fight.

Well, yes he did not expect to protect people’s lives and property with a skateboard. He brought the proper tool for the job. I have been an armed security guard for 15 years and have worked many posts. Being licensed to carry a gun requires a lot of training by the state of California. No amount of training can prepare you for the news that the courier who was supposed to bring a large amount of money to my post was shot in the face by a 44 mag as he walked into the bank with an empty bag. No delivery that day.

To take on the responsibility of protector, you have to have the tools to achieve the desired result. Our Constitution guarantees the right of the people to keep and bear arms. That is so we the people have the right to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our property. I feel very good about guarding people and money.

I ask you what were those guys doing that night to get themselves shot? They were not there to help anyone. We have to be able to make the right decision in a time of crisis.

And now in this time of crisis here in Vallejo, we must use every tool to protect ourselves. I hate to admit that here in Vallejo there is a crime wave happening by people who drive into our parking lot and break a car window to steal nothing. I have experienced seven break-ins to my truck in the last 10 years, costing me hundreds of dollars and hours of aggravation replacing the window and the ignition system and boxes of tools.

The security of the waterfront for automobiles is dismal and getting worse. I have tried to take proactive measures by erecting barriers and fencing but it is incomplete and ineffective. The thieves take note when a security guard comes and when he goes so the crooks are gone in no time at all. I am not talking about myself only, but scores of other folks who have had the misfortune to have their car or truck broken into.

It is up to the city to ensure that we the people can safely use the gem we call the waterfront. I need to ask the city for their help to erect barriers that have a mechanical gate that limits access with a key fob of some sort. That will require plans and estimates and city council approval. Give me the tools and I will finish the job. All the boaters need an added layer of protection that the city could easily provide with their approval.

— Joseph H. Balocca/Vallejo