Dear Editor

We are the victims of the incident west of Battleford in the early morning hours of Feb. 18 where there was a property invasion and a shot fired at the homeowner.

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We were contacted by CBC Saskatoon after a tip had been phoned in to them. We decided to give a statement that was factual rather than a story based on rumour. I specifically asked the reporter to give positive feedback regarding the response of the RCMP. The reporter chose to ignore those comments and proceeded to stoke the fires of fear and mistrust by linking our story to the tragic Gerald Stanley/Boushie story. I call that irresponsible journalism.

We totally understand that many rural areas are far more isolated than we are and that safety is a real concern. I can however only comment on our personal experience.

The RCMP response was rapid and at all times we were treated with respect and kept fully informed with all actions that were being undertaken, they were efficient and thorough. So we would like to publicly express our thanks to lead investigator Cst. Lee Gaetz, Cst. Sowers, Forensic specialist Corp. Jason Lewis, the canine unit and all members of the RCMP that assisted in the investigation.

As citizens we should acknowledge the young people who serve us during difficult and often dangerous situations.

Kathy Smith

North Battleford