Letter to the Editor; Grant County campaign generates more controversy

To the Editor:

Not too often do we feel compelled to write a “Letter to the Editor” but we felt the need to respond to the recent full page ad placed by Mr. Angus Lee in the Columbia Basin Herald.

We have known Garth Dana, both personally and professionally, for approximately 7 years. I am glad that Mr. Dana has maintained his dignity as this campaign approaches the primary and general elections. I believe that this is due, in part, because of the integrity of the man and the respect he holds for the office he seeks.

If you visit Mr. Dana’s web page, you will see he is endorsed by hundreds of people as well as many retired judges. This says it all.

Mr. Lee attempts to characterize/criticize Mr. Dana as only supporting “Quick Plea Bargains”. Mr. Lee knows, unfortunately, plea bargaining is a necessary part of our criminal justice system. Mr. Lee knows this is due to the large number of criminal cases pending and the lack of courtroom time available. Obviously, Mr. Lee’s office plea bargains cases all the time. The suggestion that Mr. Dana is going to enter into “quick plea deals” is unfair, dishonest and flat wrong. We know that Mr. Dana will engage in thoughtful and fair resolutions of some cases and try the more serious cases.

Garth Dana has a passion for the law and the justice system; not in politics, and Mr. Dana has a passion for the people and county he serves – not a personal agenda. We know Garth Dana to be honest, caring, tough and fair. This County deserves a Prosecutor that will do the job he is elected to do. Please consider Garth Dana as you cast your ballots.

Scott and Shannon Rock

Moses Lake