Thanks from WEC

Dear Editor,

I would like to personally thank all law enforcement personnel who participated in the search of the two offenders who absconded from the Work Ethic Camp on Feb. 10, 2007. I would especially like to thank Deputy Joe Koetter, who was the first to arrive on the scene after I contacted the two individuals and was unable to convince them that it was in their best interest to turn themselves in.

It is difficult to determine how much effort should be put in to a search, but under these circumstances, particularly in this kind of weather, at night, and the kind of terrain in which these two individuals were hiding. However, we are fortunate that these individuals did not steal a car or break into residence.

We are also fortunate (and we work very hard at this) that there have only been 11 offenders abscond from the WEC in almost six years of operation. We have an excellent relationship with the community, and know that that relationship depends on how well we can provide public safety while promoting accountability in our offenders.

We will review the circumstances of this incident, and I will work with Sheriff Gene Mahon to determine if there are any ways to work more effectively in these situations in the future.

P.S., I can assure you that the two offenders were quite surprised and none too pleased that the first vehicle who pulled over as they were attempting to hitchhike turned out to be me.

Sincerely,

Raleigh Haas,

Warden

Work Ethic Camp