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I was both saddened and angered by your article on reckless police driving (“To Protect and Swerve,” 6/12), particularly its description of the events surrounding the death of Dyane Edmonds-Anaya. As is too often the case with alleged police misconduct, the Metropolitan Police Department has formed a blue wall of silence around Officer James E. McCoy, the driver of the motorcycle that struck and killed Ms. Edmonds-Anaya. Witnesses allege that Officer McCoy was speeding and ran a red light at the time of the tragedy. The MPD states that Officer McCoy had the right of way and disputes whether he was speeding. Obviously, one side has it wrong; the question is, Which side?
There is one man who can definitely answer this question: James E. McCoy. Officer McCoy, if you are reading this letter, I have no doubt that you feel great remorse over what happened and that you share the grief of Ms. Edmonds-Anaya’s loved ones. As a police officer, you are sworn to protect and serve the public. That is a very noble calling, for which the citizens of this city are grateful. I would ask, then, that you come forward and tell the truth of what happened on April 21, 1998. Were you speeding? Was the light red or green when you approached it? By answering these questions honestly and accepting the consequences, whatever they may be, you will be doing a great service to yourself, the MPD, and the people of this city. Most important, you will give a measure of comfort and justice to the family and friends of Ms. Edmonds-Anaya, while honoring her memory in the most meaningful way.
North Cleveland Park