Recently, federal press-releases have begun using the term, "first responders," to refer to our local authorities. Thus, federal law enforcement plans to be second, and final. I scarcely doubt that the FBI will cooperate with local agencies.

Effective 9/11, journalism has exposed the federal government's strategy. Condoleezza Rice would have us believe that a central law enforcement agency would have been needed to stop the hijackers. After all, was it not "Nobody" that was in charge when hijackers walked past county law enforcement authorities to board the planes? Rice's testimony was flawed by the sickening revelation that federal authorities had known of al-Qaida's plans to use airplanes as missiles. Its intentions were in legislation for the Department of Homeland Security, which had been drafted two years in advance. One can only imagine the 9/11 outcome if the Justice Department had shared its secret knowledge with Boston, Newark and Dulles airport authorities.

The federal government's strategy can be compared with Adolf Hitler and his Gustapo. The Reich building was attacked. Russian terrorists were blamed, although there was some evidence of Hitler's involvement. Adolf Hitler usurped the powers of Parliament so that he could better combat terrorism. The German people were willing to exchange freedom for security. Hitler formed the Gustapo.

I am not convinced that terrorists were in Lodi. Homeland Security only needs an allegation to justify its presence.

Support our local law enforcement.

Daniel Hutchins

Stockton