No Middle Ground 

Editor:

Now there's a lead article that's truly worthy of the Journal's place in the community ("Free and Afraid," Aug. 20). Well written, well researched, revealing and critical (in both senses of the word). Thank you.

Mr. Stonebarger seems quite cognizant of his own fragile mental health — and the possible consequences for himself and others. So many like him are bouncing between the firm grasp of the criminal justice system and the complete neglect of life on the street. On every level, the cost to society ends up to be much greater than an effective program of support and surveillance.

Alan Sanborn, Arcata