There is nothing amusing about a traumatized alligator trying to stay alive in a Humboldt Park lagoon. All last week, the hapless creature was in dire straights because of the reckless, careless and negligent humans who got rid of it.

Too many morally challenged people obtain possession of exotic mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish before opting to kill or abandon them. They are animal abusers. The alligator expert and conservationists who tirelessly strived last week to humanely save the alligator merit commendation. Conversely, those who mistreat alligators and other exotic animals deserve full-blown condemnation.

Brien Comerford, Glenview

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Epidemic of violence

So Mayor Lori Lightfoot promised to protect illegal immigrants from ICE raids, ignoring orders of deportation. But she isn’t doing anything to protect Chicagoans from the unending epidemic of violence that plays out every day.

Once again, a Democrat is putting illegals ahead of American citizens. And choosing which laws she wants to enforce or not enforce.

Mike Daly, Grayslake

Didn’t inform plaintiffs

None of the reporters who questioned former Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta at his press conference asked about why he didn’t inform the plaintiffs about the plea deal with Jeffrey Epstein. That he did not was a violation of the law. It should be addressed, and it should invalidate the agreement with Epstein.

Michael Winter, Near North Side