A lot of people have been talking about the content of managing editor Kevin Green’s column this past Monday. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Among those talking was Rushville Mayor Bob Bridges and Chief of Police Tony Fudge, who met with Green Wednesday.

Bridges and Fudge announced in the Rushville Republican that they were officially looking into the incidents of last Saturday night at the Westside. This was a decision that needed to be made, and the leadership of the City of Rushville deserves credit for making the tough decision.

There are many unanswered questions about this specific incident, and an unbiased look at things is very much in line. In fact, given the rumors swirling around regarding the Rushville Police Department, a full investigation into all facets of the department should be considered.

If the actions of patrolman Reynolds are an isolated event, or if his actions are deemed appropriate, we have faith that internal affairs will report that information. However, if his actions or the actions of other officers have crossed the line then the tax payers of Rushville deserve to hear the full story. More importantly, if the actions of the officers have gone beyond policy then the tax payers of Rushville deserve better.

As a newspaper, we have a duty to our readers and the community we serve to be the watch dog. When appropriate, the Rushville Republican will continue to speak out when we see things that are not right. In this particular case, Green happened to witness an incident first hand. Regardless of the outcome, he should be commended for stepping forward to ask the questions and get the ball rolling.

An investigation should be welcomed by everyone. It shows that the mayor and police chief are true leaders, willing to hold their own administration under the microscope. Finally, an investigation shows that your local newspaper is doing its job, and trying to protect its readers and the community it serves.

— Publisher Pete VanBaalen