EDITOR,

I was relieved to hear that Melissa Huckaby had decided to plead guilty and receive a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Although it will never replace the pain felt by Sandra’s family, it helped knowing that this individual would no longer be able to prey upon any other innocent children.

This feeling was short-lived when I read and heard that members of the media — namely The Associated Press, Stockton Record and Bay Area News Group — and even some people in our community, wanted the gag order lifted from the court documents. The argument presented was “The public has a right to know.” “Knowledge is power.”

Huh? What could the public possibly gain by learning what happened to Sandra? The court documents would not reveal why Ms. Huckaby committed the crime. It would not provide any insight into how to prevent this from happening in the future. All it would do is open wounds that have begun to heal for the family and community of Tracy.

I have a great deal of respect for most of the members of the media. I appreciate them reporting on issues that benefit the citizens. They have provided important information in preventing harm to the community. In fact, my grandfather worked as a correspondent for the Boston Herald and New York Times. He was a professional and always treated people with respect. I know my grandfather would not support any request to remove the gag order.

My hope is that Judge Linda Lofthus will keep the order in place. I am thankful that Archer Bakerink is representing the family. I respect Mr. Bakerink and know he will do his best to prevent them from further harm.