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Church official should not be assaulted by lies from all sides

Re: Deputies: Worker asked boy for sex, story, Sept. 22, and Church hired man before seeing record, story, Sept. 27.

I am disgusted that a reporter would write an article full of inaccuracy and innuendo and I am more disgusted that this newspaper would print it. The charges against William Forte could possibly ruin his life and you are wording your article to make him look guilty.

I have known this man for more than eight years and have worked for him myself. I have seen him supervise adults and youth and I am positive these charges are lies.

William Forte was hired by Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Dunedin because he is a professional, classy man who is more than qualified for his position . He loves his job and would do nothing to risk it nor would he risk embarrassing Father Tom Madden or his church.

If the reporter and detective spoke accurately, they would tell the public that the charges in Polk County in 1992 were dropped. The charges he pleaded guilty to were misdemeanors and had no sexual context, nor have any additional victims come forward.

As for the accuser, he lacks credibility. He has already been in trouble, which is why he was at the church performing community service. There are dozens of youth that will tell you Mr. Forte is a professional man and is a mentor to them. If you want a true picture of Mr. Forte, talk to some of them.

As for the parishioners who are quick to believe the worst about a man who has worked hard for this church, shame on you. Is that what your church has taught you? I hope not.

Judiciary fails to protect our children from danger

Re: Deputies: Worker asked boy for sex, story, Sept. 22, and Church hired man before seeing record, story, Sept. 27.

When we fail to punish, it's the same as giving permission to do the same thing again. When will the judicial system wake up and save our children from such trauma in their young lives?

Safety more important as Dunedin continues to grow

Re: Intruder rapes, robs Dunedin woman, 87, story, Sept. 21.

She left her garage door open. I had a similar experience when I also left my garage door open. I spotted a young man racing down the street ridingmy new bike.

My dear people of Dunedin, we are now living in a town of nearly 50,000 people. Those carefree days of not having to be wary and running our lives the way we did 25 years ago are gone.

Keep the garage door closed when you are outside. Not doing so may result in a tragic ending.

[Last modified September 29, 2005, 01:19:16]