Zero tolerance for good in Springfield?

(FinalCall.com)---Statements by local police officials following a clash between suspected drug dealers and members of the Nation of Islam mosque in Springfield, Mass., make you wonder if there is zero tolerance for good.

According to Min. Yusuf Muhammad, of Muhammad Mosque No. 13 in Springfield, trouble started when he and another Muslim were attacked by reputed drug dealers July 13. The Muslims say the alleged dealers were trying to distribute their deadly wares on mosque-owned property. Min. Yusuf says he called the police that day, but officers never showed up. He and another Muslim confronted the alleged death merchants, asking them to cease. Two days later, there was another clash between Muslims and alleged drug dealers. In the end, 12 men affiliated with Muhammad Mosque No. 13 were booked on a number of charges, including assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.

Police officials also labeled the incident a melee and an act of vengeance on the part of the Muslims. "It (the clash) appears to be retaliation and vigilantism which cannot be tolerated," Police Chief Paula C. Meara told a local newspaper.

Her statements as an investigation is in progress are troubling. It would be better to withhold comment until the facts are in. We hope investigators will seek the truth and not seek to make the police chief�s statement appear to be on target.

There is also the larger issue of drugs and drug violence that the police chief should be worried about. In Springfield today, there are places where drugs can be purchased easily and openly. Obviously no zero tolerance policy against open death dealing exists when it comes to residents in the Old Hill community.

The Muslims in Springfield and nearby Boston have reputations as community builders�not bullies or violent people. They resurrect troubled areas and better lives of those who live in affected neighborhoods.

The Muslims of Muhammad Mosque No. 13 are not strangers to the Old Hill neighborhood; the mosque is located in the area. In the past, Min. Yusuf has called for greater police protection in the area, including the opening of a precinct.

The Muslims of Muhammad Mosque No. 13 are known for good works. Police officials would do well to work with them, rather than try to taint their reputations.

FinalCall.com