To the editor:

Ignoring the truth can be foolish as in the story of the “Emperor’s New Clothes” when a child was the only one not deceived by words. Ignoring the truth can also be dangerous when it undermines a sense of physical well-being and the honor of a justice system.

The words, “with liberty and justice for all” are only words if they are not applied. Sentenced to life in prison for taking the lives of two men in an act of self-defense would be unjust, but ignoring the truth that a 17 year old illegally armed himself with an assault weapon before having to defend him-self is equally unjust and damaging.

Allowing the truth to be dismissed, tarnishes our justice system and causes doubts and fear about the real integrity of our country and what it means to live in America.

If the person who supplied the weapon is convicted to six years in prison, I hope the now 18 year old who used the weapon offers to serve the time, too.

Trudy Madetzke

Marshall