Benson biased

Lee Benson's column regarding the unfortunate Taser death of Brian Cardall will go down as one of the most irresponsible journalistic articles of 2009. It is obvious that Benson's professional and/or personal relationship with the Cardall family colored his judgment. It is amazing how Benson's numerous years of sitting behind a desk and writing columns makes him more qualified than a highly trained police officer to handle a naked, delusional adult male who is running in and out of traffic, repeatedly refusing to obey officers commands and then advancing on them.

The Taser has proven to be a very effective tool in dealing with noncompliant and aggressive individuals. In the minuscule cases where the suspect is injured or dies after being Tasered, there is almost always a pre-existing medical condition that leads to the suspect's death.

Deseret News editors are equally to blame for allowing Benson's "rush to judgment" article to be published.

My condolences to the Cardall family for their loss. Brian Cardall sounded like an extraordinary young man.

Brad Merritt

Los Angeles Police Department (ret.)

Woodland Hills