Pubdate: Thu, 17 Mar 2005
Source: Dundalk Eagle, The (MD)
Copyright: The Dundalk Eagle 2005
Contact:  http://www.dundalkeagle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1781
Author: George Karatzas
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/raids.htm (Drug Raids)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)

SHOOTING TRAGIC, BUT POLICE OFFICERS CAN'T BE BLAMED

I understand that Ms. Howle lost a friend ("Raid designed to instill fear 
cost friend her life," March 3 By the People). My heart goes out to her.

First, let me remind her that the police were there on a search warrant for 
drugs. The police do not go into a house on a whim. You can rest assured 
that there were many calls to the local precinct about the activities at 
this location. Also, there was probably some sort of undercover work done 
prior to the raid.

Second, the police conducted what's known as a "knock and notice" raid. 
Before any action is taken, the police knock on the door rather loudly and 
holler "Police!" as they enter a residence.

When Ms. Noel came out of the room with a gun by her side, she was probably 
advised by the police several times to drop the weapon. If she did not 
comply, she suffered the consequences of her actions and the actions 
officers had to make to keep them and the community safe.

Third, the officers did in fact find drugs and drug paraphernalia. ... If 
Cheryl Noel did not have any drugs in her house, then the police would not 
have needed to raid her house in the first place. Any way you look at it, 
Ms. Noel's death is her own fault and that of anyone else who lives in the 
house.

I commend the Baltimore County Police Department in keeping our community safe.

George Karatzas

Bayside Drive