Letter to the Editor: Brink’s action on parole board shows he doesn’t support law enforcement, veterans, judicial system

In my research and review of the Republican candidates for mayor of the city of Quincy, I was surprised to learn that Dan Brink — after serving as a Republican alderman for the city for two terms — was recommended by Michael Madigan to Gov. J.B. Pritzker to be appointed to the statewide parole board/commission. This appointment included an $88,000 annual salary. 

While serving on this parole board, Brink voted to release two cop killers who murdered three police officers. It is important to note that all three officers also were military veterans. I find these actions completely unacceptable. 

Brink says he supports law enforcement, veterans and our judicial system, but then he has paroled these cold-blooded killers of three police officers. These criminals went through the legal process and were found guilty by a jury of their peers. One was sentenced to death, and one was sentenced to 100 to 300 years. This means they were never intended to be released back into society.

While these criminals waited on death row, Illinois Gov. Jim Ryan eliminated the death penalty, so one of the sentences was modified to a life sentence of 100 to 199 years. Brink’s vote to parole these convicted murderers and release them back into society completely disregarded the court’s directive. 

It’s clear Brink does not support law enforcement, veterans or our judicial system. Quincy should not support any candidate for any elected office who does not support law enforcement, public safety, our veterans or our judicial system. I encourage the voters to study the candidates and make the decision that is right for Quincy,

For this reason, I will be voting for Mike Troup for mayor. His record has shown growth in Quincy and new opportunities for Quincy. He also has delivered support to our policemen and firefighters. Taxpayers have benefited from Troup’s leadership, and I believe he will continue working to improve Quincy. 

Let’s vote to re-elect Mayor Mike Troup.

Steve Kennedy
Quincy, Illinois