Dear Editor, We live across the road from the Boys
’ Ranch here in Morgan Hill. I read your story in the Jan. 22
edition of neighbor concerns with a great deal of interest.
Dear Editor,
We live across the road from the Boys’ Ranch here in Morgan Hill. I read your story in the Jan. 22 edition of neighbor concerns with a great deal of interest. I hope these worried neighbors will take some comfort in the fact that I have been in this neighborhood for nine years and have experienced absolutely no trouble with escapees. I have been aware of the boys coming by from time to time, but they don’t stop. They are focused on getting out of the neighborhood as quickly as possible – before they can be caught. The recent event was the first time I’ve ever seen police and helicopter respond to the Ranch.
I agree that officials need to be open with neighbors about what kinds of offenders are housed at the Ranch. I would be shocked to learn that “murderers and rapists” are actually being sent to an unlocked facility.
Clearly, officials need to explain security procedures, and they should be prepared to answer neighbors’ questions. Meanwhile, I would point to the fact that out of 139 escapes last year (per a quote in your article) there was not even one instance of a local resident being threatened or molested by escapees. We should remember that rehabilitating these boys will make our communities more safe; not less so. The Ranch is a valuable and worthwhile program, and it deserves our support.
Diana Hall, Morgan Hill
