Dear Editor:
While Judy Davis has a right to her opinion, she does not have a right to distort facts. Mrs. Davis claims that Clearfield County Republicans “were confused easily too by (my) explanation, as they did not vote for (me).” The truth is my home county voters supported me by a two to one margin over the second place finisher in a nine way contest. Clearfield County voters saw through the political games of the Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office. While there may have been confusion elsewhere, it was certainly not with Clearfield County Republican voters.
I can, however, understand how confusion may still exist with Mrs. Davis and others, and I appreciate the fact that she is willing to share her confusion and help me prove my point. After all, up until recently, voters have heard only District Attorney Bill Shaw’s version of the event, which even my former girlfriend disputes the accuracy of. Some of your readers may recall the statement she issued defending me. Voters in counties like Warren, Tioga, Venango, and Lycoming only read Bill Shaw’s version of events, which was clearly intended to provide a headline to confuse them days before the election.
I understand, Mrs. Davis, that you don’t really care about my love life explanation. The truth is, break ups are difficult, and mine was made an issue because I decided to run for office. Uncomfortable moments are a part of breaking up. What makes one incident a crime, and the other an immature moment? When does the District Attorney’s office decide to pursue action against a defendant against the wishes of an alleged victim, or not pursue charges despite the insistence of a victim. These are important questions that we as voters deserve answers to. After all, I won’t be the last person in Clearfield County to break up a relationship.
The Clearfield County District Attorney’s office now operates under the premise of who you are rather than what you did. As an example, I site the case involving Camille “Bud” George and a Houtzdale Municipal Water Authority Member. According to court documents, police were called to investigate an alleged assault by Camille Bud George in his office on July 13, 2005. Charges were never filed against Mr. George, yet Mr. George paid an out of court settlement to settle a civil lawsuit brought against him for assault. This was a case where the victim wanted criminal charges pressed, however they never were. Had George not been guilty, why did he settle the civil case out of court? This is one of numerous cases that illustrates my point.
As far as nothing like this happening to you or your family Mrs. Davis, don’t be so sure. In Clearfield County, charges can be based on rumors. After all, it’s all about who you know, not necessairly what you did or didn’t do.
Sincerely,
Derek A. Walker
Bigler
