Goetz Not Guilty

The acquittal of Bernhard Goetz ((NATION, June 29)) carries frightful implications. The jury's decision sends a message to society: a man may shoot four others in self-defense whether or not his well-being is actually threatened. And to those who live in our cities, two messages are evident: first, shoot to kill; second, whites may shoot blacks.

Charlie Slick

Boston

There was no racism involved in the verdict. There was only a notice to people who prey on those of us who appear to be meek that we are sick of being victims. Would Goetz have been less threatened if the toughs who demanded money from him were white? No. The fact is that both blacks and whites who want to feel safe in public areas applaud the verdict.

Alethia N. Williams

Atlanta

The jury's decision indicates that in America, retaliation with a gun is justifiable behavior when you are threatened with a screwdriver.

Jeffrey Jones

North Hollywood, Calif.

One of the central issues in People v. Bernhard Goetz was whether Goetz had reason to believe the four youths intended to rob him. Five dollars is not pocket change; Goetz would have had to open his wallet to get the bill, leaving himself vulnerable by giving Troy Canty a good look at how much money he had.

Sean Benson

Crookston, Minn.

The Goetz decision means that the good guys have finally won one.

Joseph M. Miceli

New York City