AUGUSTA – Responding to incidents of criminal vandalism in the recent past, along with new events on Monday evening, Governor Baldacci and other Maine leaders jointly issued the following statement.
“Here in Maine, we have a long and proud history of discussing matters in a civil manner. Our traditions are those of feisty yet healthy debates in town meetings, before the Maine Legislature, on the campaign trail, with the press, or simply in conversation. This is true even when people have strong feelings and are passionate about issues.
“Following these strong Maine traditions, together we stand united in opposition to the recent vandalism aimed against the Plum Creek Timber Company. We believe that there is no room, whatsoever, for people to destroy property, damage homes or cause harm as a means to express their views. It is illegal, and it is abhorrent to the Maine way.
“No matter what the subject, the issue or the people or institutions involved, destruction of property is a crime and we urge pursuit and prosecution of the perpetrators.”>/p>
Signed:
Governor John E. Baldacci
Brownie Carson, Natural Resources Council of Maine
Dana Connors, Maine State Chamber of Commerce
Kevin P. Carley, Maine Audubon
Steven Levesque, Economic Development Council of Maine
Walter Graff, Appalachian Mountain Club
Patrick Strauch, Maine Forest Products Council
George Smith, Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine
