Am I defending what these students did? Certainly not. I would not attempt to make the claim that throwing a commercial grade firework in somebody’s lawn is something the police should let happen.

The key word in that sentence, though, is firework.

I have been following this story through both television news and the newspaper, and have to wonder why each time the incident is explained the devices are described as commercial grade fireworks, yet the students are being charged with possession of bombs with unlawful intent.

Furthermore, East Lansing police Chief Tom Wibert was quoted as saying the bombs caused no damage, but the students are being charged with placing explosives and causing property damage. This statement clearly shows that the police departments in East Lansing are exaggerating this case to garner media attention and to show the community that they can do more then just arrest underage drinkers and drunken drivers.

I was pretty appalled today when I read the Detroit News and saw that the case had now received attention outside the local community.

I would like to reiterate my point that I am not saying that these students are innocent. However, perhaps a more suitable punishment in this case would be to levy a fine and perhaps make the students do community service.

Charging them with felonies certainly could alter their career opportunities in the future, and I for one think it would be tragic if this happened because of a “commercial grade” firework.

The MSU police, the East Lansing Police Department and the local news media should be embarrassed at the way this case has been handled and portrayed. To me this is certainly an instance in which the punishment does not fit the crime.

John Galligan
finance senior