Re: Politicians, activists call for action on gun violence following Tanger shooting, Dec. 28.
With the 47th shooting at Bank and Slater streets early Monday morning, there seems little chance of gang gun violence in Ottawa ending anytime soon.
The huge profits to be made in the illicit drug trade is no doubt fuelling these shootings, with gangs trying to stake out their turf. The Ottawa police service has done an admirable job, considering it’s dealing with uncooperative gang member shooting victims and often very frightened witnesses.
The police will never solve this escalating problem on their own. Our catch-and-release justice system is exacerbating the problem. Our court system must stop releasing those using guns committing crimes so quickly. Penalties for the convicted must be the toughest possible to send a strong deterrent message to others.
Larry Comeau, Ottawa, a retired RCMP superintendent
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