To say I was disappointed by Sheriff Garrett Wiggins’ take on the current protests in our country and others would be an understatement. 

While I’m sympathetic to Officer Max Brewer — I wish him recovery and a healthy future, the fact that Sheriff Wiggins could see George Floyd carelessly murdered by police officers — in front of a camera — and draw the conclusion that the ensuing anger is “nonsense our country is experiencing (that) has nothing to do with race” is sickening. Tragically, George Floyd has been laid to rest too soon, as only the most recent victim of a system in desperate need of reform. 

It’s possible he’s conflating protesters with criminals taking advantage of a volatile situation, but Sheriff Wiggins’ remarks indicate a level of denial, and/or insensitivity and/or ignorance, that clearly renders him part of the problem these very protests are struggling to address.

I hope the community of Routt County acts to remove Garrett Wiggins at the earliest opportunity. As he pointed out, it is an election year. 

Brett Champlain
Steamboat Springs