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Commish calls KHJ report “irresponsible and very damaging”

Commissioner of Public Safety Lei Sonny Thompson. [SN file photo]
Source: talanei.com

Commissioner of Public Safety Lei Sonny Thompson is taking issue with KHJ’s story about Judge Fiti Sunia ordering a gun carrying police officer to remove himself and his weapon from court.

KHJ News asked Commissioner Le’i for his reaction to what happened in District Court with several questions regarding the arming of police officers.

Le’i’s response was that KHJ’s reporting of the incident was “irresponsible and very damaging to the police force, especially the untruth of exactly what happened.”

He said one of their attorneys in the AG’s Office was present and informed him during a meeting.

According to the commissioner, he also spoke personally with the officer about what happened. Le’i commented, “It is very troubling to me and the way you reported the event.”

He went on to say that he treasures the Constitution and individual rights, including freedom of speech and freedom of the press.

Referring directly to News Director Monica Miller the commissioner stated that he has always respected Miller and the profession but “for some reason it seems to me that we at DPS, my family are being attacked and more unfortunate (from) unfounded and incorrect information from your news.”

He stated that the general public deserves the truth and nothing but.

Le’i said that he considers Miller as a person of conviction and an ally against crimes and lawlessness and added, “I am sure you are aware of the consequences of false news and the impact on DPS but most importantly the people we are sworn to serve and protect.”

In the KHJ story, they say they are able to confirm that the officer entered the court house with the gun and the judge who was at the window saw this, and said no one is allowed to bring a gun into his court room.

As of press time, Le’i had not answered KHJ’s questions about the incident.

Read more at Talanei