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I was absolutely floored when I read the article about the sentencing of Patrick Geaudreau. Although with today’s courts, this seems to be the norm. Local criminals have learned that they can simply say, “I have a drug problem and I need help.” The problem here is not “drugs,” as argued by the defense and accepted by the judge. The problem is that Geaudreau is a psychopath.

When did drug abuse become an excuse for violent, criminal behavior? Geaudreau’s Alford plea shows that he thinks he did no wrong, and that he refuses to take responsibility for his own actions. How can anyone believe this man can be rehabilitated?

The victim will most likely never recover emotionally, and she will live with the trauma Geaudreau inflicted for the rest of her life. How do you think she feels, knowing that her attacker will most likely be free within six months? Knowing that she would likely be dead if he had retained control of her for just a couple minutes longer? Imagine yourself in her shoes, wondering if “rehabilitated” Patrick is on his way to show his appreciation of being reported to law enforcement.

Residents are always asking why local crime is on the rise. Well, here you go.

WILLIAM McCLELLAND

Bonners Ferry