As a social worker in Rutland, I could not do my job properly without the Rutland Police Department. As our community is still in shock and starting to grieve, I say if you don’t have anything supportive to say, don’t say anything at all.
The Rutland Police Department has been understaffed, underfunded and under-appreciated far too long. The recent influx of people’s judgment on this tragedy has made me feel hurt for my brothers and sisters in the force. How’s that helping? How is blaming them for that criminal’s terrible choices helping?
Those opinions of what they should have done only matter if those people are willing to help. Writing opinions about gossip won’t change anything. Most people have no idea how their criticism makes others feel unworthy.
Rutland has the highest level of death by suicide in Vermont. Our crime rate and homelessness and addiction issues are rising beyond our worst nightmares. Rutland social workers and nurses need the Rutland Police Department to continue to help them.
I challenge this community not to support critics who have negative impacts on those trying to help. God bless Rutland and all the people trying to make it better.
Jessica Greco
Rutland
