Last winter I was living in Istanbul when I learned about the devastating events at the courthouse—multiple shootings, County Attorney Tim Scannell in critical condition, and Dan Schlienz in jail. I couldn’t believe it. I know it rocked the community, and Dan’s untimely death added to the pain. Thankfully, both shooting victims survived, but Scannell has been haunted by the events ever since. Phil Kruse, retired police detective from Chicago, explained that abdominal gunshots are the most difficult to recover from, both physically and emotionally.
It’s not surprising, then, that Tim has faced severe depression, been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and has had to pursue an intensive PTSD treatment program. He’s had a very rough year.
It saddens me that our community has forgotten all this as they attack Tim regarding his misguided affections for a 17-year-old girl who was kind and supportive to him. If Tim hadn’t been depressed, he would not have reached out to her. If he hadn’t been the focus of national news a year ago, his relationship with this girl would never have made the news. If the media hadn’t blown the situation out of proportion, it would have been resolved quietly without so much harm to the girl, Tim, and their families.
I’m disappointed to see members of our community lashing out at Tim. He’s clearly apologetic for his actions, none of which were illegal. In fact, the entire situation has been exaggerated and distorted to such a point that it has come to resemble a witch hunt.
It’s time we in Cook County check out the facts, put things into perspective, and leave the past behind. We elected Tim Scannell as our county attorney because of his brilliance, his dedication, and his competence. Instead of kicking him, let’s offer him the support he deserves.
Ann Mershon
Grand Marais
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