Originally published Thursday, January 8, 2009 at 3:52 PM
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Editorial
An odious assault on Seattle gay bar patrons
The anonymous threats to poison patrons of 11 Seattle gay bars is a particular cold calculation intended to intimidate. Seattle police and other law-enforcement agencies are right to vigorously pursue the culprit.
Seattle Times editorial
USING the word terrorism is wholly appropriate to describe the anonymous letters sent to 11 Seattle gay bars threatening to poison at least five customers in each establishment.
The author's cold calculation of mass murder is intended to intimidate for some addled, unknown purpose. The writer's loathing is transformed into a monstrous desire to rob people of their personal security and peace of mind.
The Seattle Police Department is pursuing this criminal act, "actively investigating and coordinating with the FBI and other federal partners."
Employ all the resources available, because this intolerable and carefully premeditated assault is no prank.
A drink or a bite to eat with friends now includes a measure of vigilance and caution. A pleasant time tainted with a self-conscious tending of one's beverage. A reaction to a threat that cannot be ignored.
Copyright © 2009 The Seattle Times Company
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