Subject: No need for overreaction regarding Lt. Cook.
Sheriff Alderden,
I read with some dismay the news reports of Lt. Robert Cook having a
negligent discharge of his weapon in the locker room of the Miramont
health club last week.
I recognize that people can and do have negligent discharges, and
there is no need for overreaction on the part of the Larimer County
Sheriff's Department or the DA's office.
I also recognize that I am not privy to the internal operations of the
Sheriff's Department, so I do not know what actions may have been
taken internally. Therefore, my suggestions below are made in ignorance of
these internal actions, so I apologize in advance.
1. The lockers at Miramont (I am a member) are not sufficient to
secure a sidearm. They can be opened with a screwdriver or a swift kick.
2. It might be useful to know that there exists a holster that will
carry a compact .45 under gym shorts while working out - it's called a
SmartCarry and more information can be found at
www.smartcarry.com.
3. I am thankful that no one was hurt, but am aware that a 14 year
old girl was nearly hit with the errant round. I hope that this is
emphasized in future firearms training in your department.
4. While I do not think there is a need to suspend Lt. Cook out of
hand for this, I do hope that you and he have time to sit down and talk
about what corrective actions he has implemented so that he is not negligent
in the future.
Thank you for your time.
******
