Mathematical models won't cool all protests. Some require hands-on treatment. | Letters

Letters to the Editor
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While reading columnists David White and Chad M. Topaz’s article, I had flashbacks reading their reference to the 1968 Chicago riots during the Democratic convention (“Milwaukee’s tactics could make RNC protests more violent,” July 14).

Their basic claim is that Milwaukee’s tactics could make the convention protests more violent. I must commend them for a well written article, but allow me to add another perspective.

I was a Chicago police officer during the 1968 riots, and it was more than protesting. All vacations and leaves of absences were canceled. Overtime was mandatory because everybody was required to attend riot training in Chicago Bear’s parking lot. Riot gear was issued just before the convention.

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The rioters were so organized that we were able to obtain Molotov cocktails, jars of urine and feces that were scheduled to be used against police. There were protesters who informed the police of the outsiders and planners involved.

Historically, there has always been outsiders working with hidden agendas. Law enforcement does not have the luxuries of mathematical models and computer simulations. One reality that we are keenly aware is that there has always been a tiny percentage of protesters who require hands-on treatment in the absence of negotiating.

Henry Pettigrew, Glendale

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Negotiations won't work to cool violence with some political protestors