I recently read in your newspaper the case of two parents who had what must have been a violent argument in their home in front of their 16-year-old daughter. At that age she is apparently considered as a child, and her parents were charged with "endangering the welfare of a minor," in addition to other disturbing the peace charges. So far, so good.

However, just a couple of months earlier, a young female just two hours away form her 16th birthday was allegedly involved in an armed robbery, along with three adult men. This child is scheduled to be tried in our county court as an adult.

This makes it seem the issue of adulthood or minority is at the discretion of our district attorney. It further seems that this decision is made on the basis of whether or not a successful prosecution can be mounted, thereby adding another notch to the re-election gun belt. I hope that others have noticed this disparity, and I would appreciate their thoughts on this matter in future editions of your newspaper.

Neil E. Stuart

Dexter