That is very distressing. We have, for the most part, only poked fun at the nonsense on DD but some of the nonsense has left me very concerned, let me explain.

I have said before, that I believe most of the posters at DD are harmless, annoying, mean, and rude, but harmless. However, the key word is most. I have been concerned that the level of vitriol and hatred spewed by that website could, and I stress could, encourage someone who is a little “touched” to take it to the next level. It wouldn’t be the first time something like that has happened.

This group has encouraged people to “find dirt” on certain people, have suggested they search certain peoples garbage, that certain people are being “watched”. They use phrases like, “taking someone down” “getting them back” and “making them pay”.  These are very inflammatory phrases and could lead someone who has poor judgment in the wrong direction.

I have also been concerned about how the families, of the public officials being relentless abused, are feeling.  How long can they take this abuse, of someone they love, without becoming angry themselves?  Might it not be possible that an otherwise perfectly reasonable person could be pushed to do something stupid, as a result of this constant harassment? I think yes.

Please don’t misunderstand me. I am not saying that citizens do not have the right to criticize public officials, they most certainly do. In fact, I believe we have a moral obligation as a citizen, to point out governmental wrong doing when it exists. There is, however, a correct way and an incorrect way to criticize.  I submit the tact that DD has taken is the incorrect way.  The scorched earth, rabid wolf-pack mentality that they have demonstrated can only lead to a negative outcome, I am afraid

We live in a civilized society, and as such we are called upon to be civilized in our public discourse, if we have any expectations of a positive outcome.