The Sun Journal editorial of Aug. 18 on Riddle’s Drug Store in Rangeley culminates a poor job of reporting of state drug control and of Rangeley police work.

I’ve lived in Rangeley for 85 years. In that time, we have had three druggists: Harry Riddle, Joe McLafferty and Joe McLafferty Jr. I do not know of one mistake made by the druggists.

In all of that time, Riddle’s has served the community well, not only as a drugstore but also as a social center and supporter of town activities.

The fact that some teenage employees stole and distributed some drugs is certainly a mark on them and the town. The fact that the Rangeley police reported it to the drug enforcement office rather than to give a warning and help correct the faults is sad. The fact that the Board of Pharmacy, after years of faultless reports, closed Riddle’s without warning is a misuse of its power. The fact that the Sun Journal reported a number of times without doing any in-depth analysis is a example of poor journalism.

Maine may have a drug problem. Franklin County may have a drug problem. Rangeley may have a drug problem. But chastising an outstanding citizen and the whole community he serves is not in the interest of any of them. Nor is it going to take any drugs off the street. The Sun Journal deserves the heavy hand it would mete out to Riddle’s and Rangeley.

Bill Ellis, Rangeley