Together we are strong

Considering the lack of coverage of Israel’s genocidal policies, I was blown away to read (“Now more than ever, Jews and Muslims must stand united,” Dec. 26, 2024.) I thank Sabeeha Rehman and Walter Ruby for their profound understanding for what is needed in these very dark times.

Lay low for the Trumpists who will take charge? The authors respond: “… we cannot afford to do that. Once fundamental rights are taken away, getting them back is difficult.”

The authors also tell us we must stand against Trump’s monstrous plan to detain millions of immigrants. Stand up for free speech. Against hatred and bigotry. And finally, I do so agree that a “totalitarian

whirlwind is bearing down upon all of us.”

— Max Obuszewski, Baltimore

Response to commentary “What to do about the juvenile crime epidemic plaguing Baltimore”

Since BPD is down 500 or so officers, I think it is incumbent upon DJS to pick up the pace. I would love to see an enterprising Baltimore Sun reporter ride along with police or DJS rep when miscreants are taken back home after committing a crime. Does the police person or DJS rep talk to the parent(s), look at the refrigerator to see if food available, ask what space the child has to do homework, and sleeping area? Is there a report files. … and followed up on.

By the way, has Gov. Moore told Vincent Schiraldi to inform schools about incoming ankle bracelet wearers yet? … or is some dopey committee still checking into the efficacy of that common-sense direction.

— Lyle Rescott, Marriottsville

Stemming juvenile crime most effectively

In response to the article on juvenile crime, the report included many worthwhile ideas. Here are three more to consider. First, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges reported that one-third of juveniles arrested have a learning disability. However, once they receive appropriate care, the rates of recidivism drop significantly. For example, a juvenile with an Auditory Processing Deficit (ADP) may hear but not process what was said effectively. Therefore, that juvenile may respond to questions inappropriately and possibly become confrontational, e.g., saying, “… but that is what you said.” That juvenile should receive a referral to a qualified audiologist for testing and treatment recommendations. Next, the juvenile’s school should receive notification of that diagnosis and provide special education accommodations, e.g., seating close to the teacher, as well as offering special education classroom assistance or placement in special education classes.

Second, parental responsibility requires evaluation on a case-by-case basis, for instance, parents who fail to lock up their guns in a safe location should be held accountable. Additionally, doctors say that some learning disabilities such as ADP are inherited, and the parents may benefit from evaluation and any required treatment as well. Many times, there are no easy answers involving parents, including those in denial, addicted, mentally ill, or too lenient. They may benefit from counseling, if they are ready for it. Third, there are fine police officers in the Baltimore City Police Department. Major Dwayne Swinton said that juveniles account for 50% of the crimes committed and 40% of the arrests. However, some judges are overly generous in implementing their personal policy of “catch and release” multiple times for the same juvenile. The sooner they are held accountable, the less crimes they likely will commit.

— Hilda Coyne, Baltimore

The author is a learning (disabilities) specialist.