Two murders in Howard County this week. And both in Columbia.
Despite my typically smart-ass title to this post, this isn't something to make light about. Two people have died.
This isn't something to overreact to, either.
I know there are some out there who think that suddenly, Howard County has become a more dangerous place. That these two incidents suggest that the coming of all the social ills of Baltimore or Washington have come to Howard County.
I think that's an incredible overreaction.
Howard County is just as dangerous- and just as safe-- as it was a week ago. Yes, apparently the week has revealed that there are some bad people who live in Howard County who are capable of doing some bad things. And, guess what? There are a lot more within our borders where they came from.
But also do not forget: we possess fine public safety agencies, a strong educational system and a capable social net to ensure that as few people fall through the cracks-- and are thus more prone to vioment crime as a way of life-- as possible.
The other thing? Random stuff happens. From the details I've seen this early into each case, neither of these murders appears premeditated and cold-blooded. They're not accidents, either. They seem to be outcomes of personal situations that got too far out of hand, too fast.
I am not subscribing to the notion that Howard County needs to beef up its public safety agencies as a response to these murders. Rather, I suggest we stay the course.
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