Don’t restrict police officers

Regarding the Courant article on Aug. 12 “Task force: Prohibit some stops by police.” These recommendations to prohibit Connecticut officers from stopping drivers for minor violations is one of the most ridiculous things that I have ever heard. I made hundreds of these stops over a 26-year career and never had problems. If larger cities have these problems, then they need to train, supervise and discipline their officers. Why would we want to punish/restrict our suburban police officers and state troopers who professionally handle these situations all the time?

Milford Police Chief Keith

Mello was correct when he said “Any time you reduce contact between the police and the public, there will be an impact in terms of crimes that are solved, crimes are prevented.” These recommendations sound like a fifth grade teacher who withholds recess from the entire class because one student misbehaved. Most of Connecticut’s police officers are professional in trying to do a difficult job. We should not restrict them this way.

Ronald Doughty, Coventry The writer is a retired lieutenant from the Coventry Police Department.