To the editor:

During a recent press conference (as reported in the Oct. 17 Journal-World), attorney general candidate Paul Morrison was accused of mishandling the David Harmon murder trial so he could spend more time on his campaign. Let’s get the facts straight. I was in charge of that investigation and have been closely associated with the case for 24 years. Shortly after the homicide, we had a closing window of opportunity to make an arrest. Paul Morrison, who was relatively new with the Johnson County D.A.’s Office, supported the arrest, but was overridden by several senior prosecutors.

This homicide was brought to a successful conclusion because of two exceptional cold case detectives and the courage, talent and drive of Paul Morrison. Both suspects were convicted and are currently serving time. Would the officers and victim’s relatives have preferred a longer prison term? Certainly. Let’s not blame Paul Morrison for the mandated sentence length these criminals received. That’s out of his control.

Paul Morrison is, and has been, an excellent public servant and I certainly support his decisions and handling of this murder case after 24 years. This is certainly a proper outcome in an extremely difficult prosecution.

Chief Jeffrey Hermann,

retired,

Ottawa