To Brett Tolman, US Attorney:

 

Today's Salt Lake Tribune piece on the Tim DeChristopher case by Rebecca Walsh reminds us that civil disobedience was practiced by your Mormon ancestors in the state of Utah.  It was also practiced by my ancestors in India, specifically Mahatma Gandhi and his famous Salt March protesting British occupation.  In fact, our country was founded on revolution and civil disobedience against the British here on American shores. 

 

Mr. Tolman, I must tell you that in my opinion, you are making a judgement error prosecuting Tim DeChristopher in the name of upholding the law.  In this political atmosphere of corporate greed and corruption; of the ongoing "conflicts of interest" and lack of political will to make headway on ethics reform in the Utah Legislature---I think going after an articulate young man like DeChristopher is misplaced.

 

Accusations of your political "aspirations" aside, it is beyond my comprehension how the State of Utah can pursue a case against an articulate, intelligent and passionate citizen who cares about the future of the earth, and who practices civil disobedience; reminding us that elected officials work for us!  I call Tim brave and being a good American! 

 

You talk about upholding the "Law"---well then go after the real criminals up on the Hill who continue to make back room deals for political gain and the CEO's of companies in Utah who knowingly pollute the air, rivers and streams.  Please prosecute those who circumvent the law through loop-holes and sell off Utah land to make a buck without regard for future generations. 

 

Tim DeChristopher ignites and galvanizes a spirit of real Americans who stand up against self-interest and those people who undermine the ideals of our founding fathers.  When so many young people only care about the next party or American Idol TV program or drug connection---we need to reward the smart ones who are engaged in their world---not find ways to put them in prison!    

 

We all need to rally ourselves from apathy and resignation and follow Tim DeChristopher's example.  Maybe a "Sit-in" under Brett Tolman's window!

 

Respectfully submitted,