Case closed: Brown didn't steal or damage signs

Editor:

The well-publicized sign incident of the Columbia County Commission District 1 race has, in the minds of some citizens, left a cloud on the character and reputation of commissioner-elect Steve Brown. The allegations of theft by taking and criminal trespass are not to be taken lightly. On Aug. 15, the Columbia County Sheriffs Office released a report containing the conclusions of its investigation. The 15-page report is now part of public record and available for review. The following are conclusions from the report:

Pages 8, 9 and 10: At the request of the alleged victim, Frank Spears, Investigator Bruce Walker contacted two witnesses to view a photograph lineup that included Brown. When the witnesses saw the photos neither of them picked Mr. Brown as the person they saw The witnesses then viewed a separate photograph of Brown and both were adamant that (Brown) was not one of the men they saw committing the act.

On page 9: Walker contacted Magistrate Connie Holloway: I advised her of the facts of this case and she agreed that there was no criminal action concerning this case.

On page 10: Conclusion of Investigator Walker: This case is closed as unfounded and case is closed pending new leads and information.

Brown did not do it. The allegations are unfounded. Case closed.

Gary Loyd

Martinez