The Sun Journal editorial Aug. 18 critical of Rangeley pharmacist Joey McLafferty and the state’s Board of Pharmacy ruling setting requirements for restoration of his license is wasted ink.

You opine McLafferty failed “to keep his stock of medicine secure and to prevent mistakes.” But how does a druggist prevent trusted employees from removing portions of completed prescriptions, when done in his absence? McLafferty gave three teens jobs in his store, believing they could be trusted. That’s his mistake. He got ripped off, as well as his customers.

You complain McLafferty had an occasional beer with lunch. Compare that to this: As a young lawyer, I tried cases before a Maine Superior Court judge who, on his doctor’s advice, had wine with lunch, to aid in digesting his food, following surgical removal of part of his jaw and saliva glands. Never once did I see him perform judicial duties less than admirably. I worshipped the man for his demeanor. The same goes for McLafferty.

Respectfully, your ink would be better spent being critical of specific judges and the secretary of state who, although possessing authority, can’t be bothered to keep repeat lawless drivers off our roads. To date, your editorials have failed to point fingers.

Joey McLafferty has been our family pharmacist for 30 years. During that time, he’s filled our prescriptions flawlessly. I bet you can’t say that for your druggist.

Your editorial claims, “He broke trust with his patients.” Name one, or has your pen gone dry?

John W. Benoit, Rangeley

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