Jonathan Kite’s arrest and resignation from his positions is a tragedy, not only for Jon but also for the students of NIU. Jonathan was a true leader and pillar of the Huskie community, but because he some pot he has had to resign amid scandal. It’s a sad day when such a strong student leader is brought down by such a petty charge, and it highlights the negative impact the War on Drugs has on our society. Consider this: What would’ve happened if Jon had not been caught? What if he had just gotten high that night and gone to work the next day? What victim would justice not have served?

It’s interesting to note the headline announcing Jon’s fall received top billing, and was written in all capital letters, while another article, “Student robbed at gunpoint near Russell and Greenbrier” appeared below in smaller font. In the aftermath of the Toni Keller incident, one would think the Police would concentrate on preventing violent crime, rather than targeting victimless crime. Every minute wasted fighting the War on Drugs is a minute not spent fighting violent crime. The police didn’t have the armed robber in custody, but they sure nailed Jon to a wall.

To be fair, the Police are only doing their job. They enforce the laws that elected officials create. Perhaps it’s time that We the People re-evaluate our priorities.

-Brian Troutman

SA Senator & SSDP Member           

Freshman Political Science Major

(630) 525-0240