Motorists Who Kill Motorcyclists Should Be Given Serious Punishment

To the Editor:

I  picked up a copy of your paper recently in Charles County when I saw the cover photos regarding the fatal motorcycle accident that happened on Rt. 5 in Charlotte Hall. Yes, the photos are grisly, but I hope they serve two purposes.

First, I hope it shows those who ride in and around Southern Maryland the importance of protective riding gear. Far too many motorcyclists ride without jackets, good helmets, and even boots.

Second, and probably more important in this specific case, is that hopefully the murderer, Gordon Tolson, will see justice. A perusal of various motorcycle-specific publications will show that people who murder motorcyclists are typically let off with a slap on the wrist. These murderers do less time than if their victims were in automobiles. The message being sent is that motorcyclists are second class citizens.

I didn't know Mark Kearns. I don't know if he was a good rider, or a good person. For his character, I'll defer to Catherine Wheatley (who I also don't know) and her recent letter to you. If she's telling the truth, let's hope that Gordon Tolson does just as much time as if he had carelessly shot a child whilst playing with a gun. Being careless with a 4000 pound missile is at least as careless.

My brother and father are both motorcyclists who live in St. Mary's.  For them, for Mark, for Catherine, and for everyone, I hope the State's Attorney prosecutes and the Courts punish Mr. Tolson to the fullest extent of the law.

George Howell