Letter to the Editor: Resident Sticks Up for the Chief

To the Editor: 

The June 14 monthly board meeting of the Abington Township Commissioners ended in a less than peaceful mode thanks to the extreme efforts of one township resident by the name of Lora Lehmann. After the course of business on the agenda was handled, Mrs. Lehmann arose and verbally attacked Chief of Police William J. Kelly. She berated the Chief and asked for an immediate apology based on an event that allegedly occurred when Chief Kelly rightfully defended the Abington Police Department for their actions regarding an event with which Mrs. Lehmann disagreed. 

There was absolutely no merit for her to demand for an apology and for her to demand that the chief should immediately resign. She also went through the same rant during a committee meeting earlier in the week. Chief Kelly did address her demand and explained that there had been no wrongdoing and no apology was forthcoming. This did not satisfy Mrs. Lehmann who again attempted to rise to speak and was declined as she had already spoken and utilized her maximum time at the microphone.

Every comment made by other citizens, as well as those made by the commissioners, only praised Chief Kelly for everything he has done for Abington Township. I also arose and spoke and thanked him for everything that he has done for Abington Township as well as the Abington Police Department. It was not at all surprising that no one supported Mrs. Lehmann’s contention that the "sky is always falling" over Abington. It certainly appears that Mrs. Lehmann needs a very serious reality check regarding her constant accusations. One Commissioner in particular summed it up best by addressing Mrs. Lehmann: "If you really are so unhappy here in Abington, perhaps you should consider moving." The following day. a fellow resident of Abington told me after the incident that we should adopt a new slogan: "Abington, Love it or leave it". Approximately 56,000 people love living in Abington. We have devoted people working and living here that make it such pleasure to be here.

Mrs. Lehmann, enough is enough. Just deal with the actual facts and not imaginary tales of woe.

I know of no person in our township who is more dedicated to his job than Chief Bill Kelly. Bill is known and respected not only locally, regionally but nationally as well. Our Chief is highly professional, honest and devoted. The next time you see the Chief, please thank him and all of the officers of the Abington Police Department for all that they do for all of us 24/7. A simple "Thank you" really does go a long way!

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Victor B. Krievins

Abington