Kirsten wrote on Nov 30, 2005 3:43 PM:FINALLY! after over two years of waiting JUSTICE has won! Now lets do the right thing and execute soon! not in 40 years.

Viola wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:20 PM:People like him don't deserve to live in a civilized society. Show him the same ruthlessness he showed the police officer. Good riddins to another scumbag.

Elizabeth wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:27 PM:I am thankful the right choice was made for the death penalty . The only thing I can say is its to bad that my husband who is peace officer, will have taxes come out of his paycheck, to pay for this murderer to have a meal in his cell, and a roof over his head tonight...We should execute today and save the tax payers some money.

Viola wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:33 PM:To the lawyer: Quit making excuses for the scumbag. Drugs are a choice. His life won't be missed, he never contributed anything worthwhile. We will all be better off without him.

J. wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:34 PM:Amen! I am thrilled that the jury has made the right decision! Congratulations, Jamie- I hope that this can bring you the closure that you have so deserved over the last few years.

Kristie wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:48 PM:thank God. Now this puffed up gang banger will have to suffer isolation instead of being with all his buddies. He'll not have "I killed a cop" bragging rights. It will drive him nuts. Execute now.

Linda wrote on Nov 30, 2005 4:54 PM:How long before he writes books for young gang-bangers and learns to paint and play an instrument, and get religion and lots of women writing to him..... not to mention movie stars.... how many years will we have to hear that name? But, a small price to pay to deliver the message that if you kill a cop, you will get the needle

Julie wrote on Nov 30, 2005 5:15 PM:Finally justice and some closure to you Jamie. I know some weight has been lifted from you. Tony is proud of your courage and strength, God bless you and Jakob.

raul wrote on Nov 30, 2005 5:24 PM:I cannot beleive these idiot attorneys trying to justify the action of these loser gangbangers.A fine,brave member of our society(and his family)have been sacrificed by an animal that needs to be taken out asap.We should make examples of these type cases,our police need our full support.

Ella wrote on Nov 30, 2005 6:04 PM:Execute him quickly! I don't want my taxes paying for him get free room and board for the next several years. Maybe 13 bullet holes in him and a few smacks in the head would be the way for him to die. An eye for an eye......

Larry O wrote on Nov 30, 2005 6:52 PM:I have waited for this conviction for a long time...too bad it will take over 10 years to put Camacho to sleep. He will be a honored guest on death row as a cop killer. I hope Tony is at the pearly gates when Camacho walks up and asks to be let into heaven because he didn't mean to kill, it was the drugs. I want the no death penalty folks to convince me he should get life! My prayers are always with Tony's family. God Bless

Jon B wrote on Nov 30, 2005 7:16 PM:It is really ironic that readers wold have the audacity to quote scripture (eye for an eye) when justifying the death penalty. What would jesus do?? though shall not kill?? It is the height of hypocrisy to use religion this way.

Chuck W. wrote on Nov 30, 2005 7:23 PM:Larry O. said it all. Thanks to the jury for quickly doing the right thing.

Leon wrote on Nov 30, 2005 7:34 PM:If Republican Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham can see the error of his ways and turn from bribery and tax evasion to start serving his fellow man (and woman), who's to say that anyone else, including a cop killer, can't?

Tina wrote on Nov 30, 2005 8:26 PM:I am glad that Justice was done. Now let us see some justice for the victims of the cops that go around killing suspects on the streets. Yes, Jaime has her closure and that is good, but what about closure for the friends, and families of those murdered by the cops. when they are not allowed justice because these cops are protected by the badge and the uniform they wear. Please you can't always believe that the cops are justified in killing anyone? And Justice for all. Oh and about the Pearly gates...what makes Larry O, that Tony will make it there? We must all be judged for those things we did good and bad. Nobody is perfect. Ponder that.

Michael wrote on Nov 30, 2005 9:57 PM:I lived in the neighboorhood where this piece of human trash was hiding out after killing Officer Zeppetella. I will never forget the OPD officers pointing shotguns at the windshield of my car while another officer searched the trunk looking for Camacho. At the time, they weren't certain they had him cornered so they were making sure he wasn't taking hostages and trying to escape. Needless to say, my kids, who were in the back seat were a little freaked out but that's nothing compared to the lifetime of pain and suffering this piece of trash inflicted on the Zeppetella family. Unfortunatley, he'll live another 20 or so years before he's finally put to death. It won't be soon enough.

Randy wrote on Nov 30, 2005 10:09 PM:Time to take out the trash and send Camacho to death row!

LANCE wrote on Dec 1, 2005 1:23 AM:YOU PEOPLE ARE THE STUPID ONES. YOU DONT KNOW WHAT HAPPENED THAT DAY. COPS LIKE TO HARASS EVERYONE. THEY THINK THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO DO WHATEVER THEY WANT. I WAS EXPECTING LIFE IN PRISON FOR THIS VERDICT . HOW ABOUT THE COP WHO KILLED THAT YOUNG MAN IN SANTA ANITA STREET IN CAPISTRANO. WHAT DOES HE EXPECT STEPPING IN FRONT OF A MOVING VEHICLE AND WANTING FOR THE POOR DRIVER TO STOP IN TIME. HE STOPPED BUT IT WAS ALREADY TOO LATE. HE ALREADY HAD THE OFFICER PINNED AGAINST HIS CAR. IF HE REALLY WANTED TO HURT OR KILLED THE OFFICER HE WOULD HAVE RAN RIGHT THROUGH HIM AND NOT STOPPED OR FIRED SOME SHOTS.

DEBBIE wrote on Dec 1, 2005 3:17 AM:DEFENSE; WHY DEFEND A PERSON WHO TOOK A LIFE? THAT OF A PEACE OFFICER? CAMACHO CHOSE TO DO IT. YES, HE HAS A WIFE AND CHILDREN AND SO DID TONY! HE DIDN'T THINK OF HIS OWN WIFE OR CHILDREN SO WHY WOULD HE CARE ABOUT ANYONE ELSES. MY OPINION, THE JURY MADE THE RIGHT DECISION. ADRIAN,WHEN YOU COME UPON THE GATES OF HEAVEN BE READY TO BE THROWN INTO THE PIT OF DARKNESS!!!

Liz wrote on Dec 1, 2005 7:03 AM:To Debbie nice judgement call!! He may repent and get into the pearly gates!! And if you make it there you will see him everyday. Please remember all of you who are judging this mans end. Only God knows that. I do know one thing that I read somewhere. Judge not lest you be judged, for the measure of which you judged, you will be judged. Let those without sin cast the first stone!!!! For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Please this man was condemned to die. You all got your blood vengence so stop already.

John wrote on Dec 1, 2005 7:03 AM:Let's not feed this scum for the next 25 years and then let Hollywood make movies of him. If we really wanted to get these Gang bangers attention we would find the first light pole coming into America from Mexico and hang this guy with a sign around his neck Gang member\Murder. But here in California we shall house this person, feed him, give him health and dental access, he can go to school, writ books, make movies be a regular celebrity. Before long we will forget who he shot and then the Mexican rap stars can write songs of how his trail was so corrupt. Only in California

RAN wrote on Dec 1, 2005 7:14 AM:I AM A POLICE OFFICER. TO THE PERSON TINA, WHO PUT HER PIECE IN THE PAPER, GET SOME MORE KNOWLEDGE. ALL THOSE THAT ARE KILLED ON THE STREET BY A POLICE OFFICER ARE USUALLY DOPERS, OR CRIMINALS OF SOME SORT, OR FAIL TO FOLLOW THE POLICE OFFICERS DIRECTIONS. TO THOSE I SAY TOUGH LUCK. THE COP HAS TO LOOK OUT FOR THE INNOCENT, PUBLIC AND HIMSELF. ADRIAN COMACHO HAD HIS CHANCE TO GET AWAY AFTER THE FIRST TWO SHOTS. THE POLICE OFFICER WAS REALLY NO THREAT AT THAT TIME. IF HE WAS HE WOULD HAVE SHOT AND KILLED CAMACHO. CAMACHO DECIDED AT THAT TIME TO TAKE HIS LIFE. THE SLIT WRISTS ROUTINE WAS FOR ATTENTION IN THE OTHER DIRECTION. HAVE A ROTTON THE REST OF YOUR LIFE CAMACHO, AND DO US ALL A FAVOR, DIE REAL SOON.

alexis wrote on Dec 1, 2005 8:46 AM:We are not here to be jugding people,only God will judge him. May God bless all parties involved.

Rocky wrote on Dec 1, 2005 9:06 AM:If any cop killer, including Camacho, turns from cop killing and depends on the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness of his sins, his heart will be washed clean. When he is executed, angels will escort his soul into eternal bliss.

Tina wrote on Dec 1, 2005 9:12 AM:TO POLICE OFFICER RAN. I HOPE YOU DON'T MIND IF I USE CAPITOL LETTERS TO MAKE MY POINT SHOUT OUT, AS YOU DID, SIR. MY OBSERVATION AND COMMENT WAS BASED ON INCIDENTS THAT I AM PRIVILEDGED TO HAVE FIRST HAND INFORMATION. COPS DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO KILL ANYONE. WHEN DID WE BEGIN TO LIVE IN THIS MILITANT STATE. UNDER THE CONSTITUTION WE ARE GIVEN RIGHTS ONE OF THOSE RIGHTS IS DUE PROCESS, WHEN THE OFFICER DECIDES TO KILL A SUSPECT. YOUR MINDSET IS MORE DANGEROUS TO THE PUBLIC, THEN THE "DOPERS,CRIMINALS, OR THAT SORT" THAT YOU WROTE ABOUT. I TOO LIVE IN THE AREA WHERE ADRIAN CAMACHO WAS HIDING THE DAY HE KILLED THE OFFICER. THE OFFICERS TREATING EVERYONE AS A SUSPECT WITH THEIR GUNS DRAW AND PRETTY TRIGGER HAPPY. I WAS SURPRISED INNOCENT CITIZENS WERE NOT KILLED BY THESE EMOTIONAL OFFICERS. THE HUMAN RIGHTS, AND CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS, AND EVEN, YES THE INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS MUST NOT BE VIOLATED ESPECIALLY NOT BY THOSE HIRED TO PROTECT AND TO SERVE. OH, RAN YOU MAY NOT LIKE MY OPINION BUT THANKS TO THE 1ST AMENDMENT I HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE ONE.

Todd wrote on Dec 1, 2005 9:35 AM:Lance, buddy, you missed a few items when you claim harassment. Actually I do know what I am talking about; I was the jury foreperson. Camacho was speeding and driving with an illegally loud muffler down College Blvd. This caught officer Zeppetella's attention, so he followed Camacho. Does that sound like harassment or good police work? When he realized he was being followed, Camacho evasively maneuvered and tried to hide in the credit union parking lot. Do you speed up and evade whenever a police car is behind you? Officer Zeppetella pulled in behind him and asked for the usual license, registration, insurance. Nobody was yelling, everything was calm. Camacho didn't have any ID or license and, although he did have drug paraphernalia on the front passenger seat, he didn't have anything that tied him to the car. What he did have was a gun, which he then emptied into officer Zeppetella, carefully aiming around the bulletproof vest and pausing only briefly to beat the officer on the head. Maybe by harassment you meant when officer Zeppetella, in agony and mortally wounded on the ground, returned fire and hit Camacho once in the knee. Perhaps the officer should have just laid there and let the shooting continue. Certainly officer Zeppetalla crawling away was disrespectful to Camacho in your view; I suppose Camacho was justified in getting out of his car, following the officer and continuing to fire as Zeppetella crawled away. Although officer Zeppetella was obviously helpless and no longer a threat, Camacho paused to get the mortally wounded officer's gun and empty that gun into the totally incapacitated officer. Maybe by harassment you meant when OPD surrounded the house where Camacho was hiding and, knowing he had murdered one of their own and had weapons with him, talked him into surrendering and then gave him medical attention? Camacho had an outstanding defense team, but they could only work with what they had. The aggravating evidence of the crime was substantial and staggeringly brutal. The mitigating evidence was scant. Camacho earned the death penalty through nobody's actions but his own.

DW wrote on Dec 1, 2005 9:37 AM: Keep the appeals to a minimum, save tax dollars. John has the right idea. Lance you just don't get it!

G-DOGG wrote on Dec 1, 2005 9:55 AM:Its like this, that was a good decision. A routine traffic stop, turned into a fatality. In any other country he would of never made it to trial. Its a shame that we have to lose a man who's here to protect the well being of the public, to keep of us safe from all the trouble that surrounds us. Love and Respect to all the officers and soilders out there. You will be missed

Teresa wrote on Dec 1, 2005 10:32 AM:Thank you Jesus for prayers answered.

Rocky wrote on Dec 1, 2005 10:48 AM:If I had been present that day, I would have blown Camacho away with both barrels of my sawed-off shotgun mounted in my pickup. Why should we squander our scarce public resources on both a jury trial as well as decades of appeals for this cop killer?

Sonia wrote on Dec 1, 2005 10:51 AM:you know some people don't realize that no one wins this situation both families have lost. Whether or not we agree on the verdict we should not bad talk anyone, or wish death on someone.

Faith wrote on Dec 1, 2005 11:24 AM:"Finally! Jamie and her family can move on. After all of this crap with the horiable stuff Tony may finally rest in peace. Camacho got what he deserved. Jamie we all love you and hope that you recover in time. Me and my family prey everyday for you and Jacob. Tony was a wonderful officer. JUSTICE ALWAYS WINS....

RAYMUNDO wrote on Dec 1, 2005 11:29 AM:I FEEL SORRY FOR THE SON OF THE OFFICER. HE WILL NOW HAVE TO GROW UP WITH OUT A FATHER. AND I FEEL SORRY FOR HIS WIFE. SHE TO WILL NOT HAVE THE CHANCE TO GROW OLD WITH HER HUSBAND. AND HAVE THE CHANCE TO HAVE ALL THE MEMORIES OF HER LIFE WITH HER HUSBAND. BUT I ALSO FEEL SORRY FOR THE CHILDREN OF ADRIAN CAMACHO. THEY TOO WILL HAVE TO LIVE THEIR LIVES WITH THE SHADOW OF THE STUPID MISTAKE THEIR FATHER MADE. THEY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO HAVE A NORMAL LIFE. THEY WILL ALWAYS BE LOOKED AT AS THE CHILDREN OF ADRIAN CAMACO. I CAN'T BELEAVE ADRIAN I KNEW HIM FROM SCHOOL AND FEEL HE DID NOTHING WITH HIS LIFE AND NOW GAVE ALL OF US MEXICAN AMERICANS A BAD NAME. I DO FEEL BAD FOR HIM, BUT I DON'T FEEL SORRY FOR HIM SEEING AS HOW HE TOOK HIS FUTURE BY PULLING THE TRIGGER AND FIRING THAT FIRST SHOT INSTED OF JUST GETTING THAT TICKET OR MAYBE LESS. MAY GOD HAVE MERCY ON HIM. AND MAY TONY ZEPPETELLA REST IN PEACE. AND TO HIS SON AND WIFE GOD IS WITH YOU.

clare wrote on Dec 1, 2005 12:08 PM:just for the general info, the death penalty is about three times as expensive as life imprisonment, so please stop whining about your tax dollars going to keep this man alive.

Robert wrote on Dec 1, 2005 12:12 PM:When a person joins a gang they choose to live outside of civilized society. They make a decision to turn thier back on the law that the rest of us live under. In making the decision to go with a life of crime, they should also forfiet all of thier civil rights. After all, if they choose to ignore the law, why should they enjoy the protection of the law? Scum like Camacho (multiple felony convitions, sworn gang member and illegal alien) should be dealt with like a rabid dog - shot on sight. The sooner they put the needle in his arm the better.

Alex wrote on Dec 1, 2005 12:26 PM:God be with them all!Lets not make it another race issue. You love to point the finger!

Esther wrote on Dec 1, 2005 12:39 PM:clare, you wrote the death penalty is three times as expensive as life imprisonment. Would you mind if I asked for the source of your statement? After the execution, there are no further costs. Life imprisonment costs about $30,000 a year. Execution seems a lot less expensive than life imprisonment to me.

Chris wrote on Dec 1, 2005 2:57 PM: To Tina, Are you suggesting that officers not be allowed to carry and use guns, only these criminals? What a scarry thought that is.

U.S.PARATROOPER wrote on Dec 1, 2005 3:19 PM:This is to john.Who on Dec.01.05 sugested in his coments that we hang a sighn on the first light pole coming from mexico.First off who is we? and do you really think all and i qoute gangmember/murders come from mexico.

Tom wrote on Dec 1, 2005 3:44 PM:I agree Ran! It is sad that members of our society, like Tina, believe Police Officers are getting away with murder. Every officer involved death is scrutinized and investigated to insure the law was followed. I wish Tina really knew what was going on in the streets. Then maybe she would realize that the Officers on the street represent the thin blue line that keeps our society civil. Without them, the gangbangers, dopers, and other criminals would have free roam with nothing to get in their way. Imagine that Tina, who are you going to call when someone breaks in your house and you can't defend yourself. Adrian Camacho got what he deserves. Years in a 7'x7' cell waiting to die is exactly what he needs.

Faith wrote on Dec 1, 2005 3:53 PM:To Ran i know what tina wrote now i didn't see it earlier sorry i think i got my point accross. Tina no Police officers don't have the right to shoot people but if the dumb idiots (criminals) shoot and do something first then they get what they deserve.....

Elizabeth wrote on Dec 1, 2005 3:58 PM:this is for tina...What do you know about cops???? I can tell you what I know, they risk there lifes everyday they put on that uniform, they hold a dying person in the last few minutes on earth, they have families, they have children who call them mom or dad, they are the first ones you call when you need help but the last ones to hear a thank you, they have hobbies and memories, they make a difference in the lives of those who come in contact with them...oh by the way how many people have you helped today? Thats what I thought...Oh and I agree the death penalty does cost more unless we kill camacho today and save the appeal..Good day

M. wrote on Dec 1, 2005 5:15 PM:I second the comment Alexis made. May God bless everyone involved in this tragedy. How unfortunate that some are using this as an opportunity to argue and judge each others oppinions. Hasn't there already been enough pain and animosity surrounding this situation? Let's love and support each other. Unless I missed something, I don't beleive anyone is suggesting that police officers should have the right to kill innocent people. Maybe there are police officers who do bad things, but how small minded it is to sterotype here. The only police officer this is about is Tony, and he never ever harmed anyone and only had to best of intentions to protect his community. I'm glad justice had been served. Let's all move on and keep the victims of this tragedy in our thoughts and prayers.

James wrote on Dec 1, 2005 5:27 PM:I don't believe for one second that death penalty costs more than life in prison. Don't we take the lowest bidder?

Larry O wrote on Dec 1, 2005 6:48 PM:Tina...yes I am not sure Tony is at the pearly gates but I do know he has a better shot at it than Camacho. About your comments about the cop shootings I see you have made judgements based on your obvious dislike for cops. I will hold my judgement on the court system which of course you don't believe in so why am I trying to convince you. Your bias is showing Tina, but you have the right to feel that way because cops protect that right.

Tina wrote on Dec 2, 2005 7:33 AM:I am sure that this will not be posted but to Larry O. You are completely wrong about me I do not have a bias against the cops whose mindset is to protect and serve the citizens. My problem is the majority of cops that have the street justice mentality. All persons are guaranteed due process, and when they are killed on the street without the opportunity for due process that is when I form my opinion about the cops. Our rights are not given to us by the police nor are they protected by the police. Those were established long ago by some real smart men the founders of this great country. So please save the reoteric, because some of the police, notice I said some have a vigilante mind set. I can't stand the "he tried to run, he tried to pull a weapon" He scared me. Boo Hoo, excuses the police use when they try to justify murdering a citizen on the street. Again, we are all guaranteed due process. I do believe in the justice system, but please let the SUSPECTS have their day in court. Adrian Camacho did and he will pay the price, that is the criminal justice system at work. I just think that the cops should not be using thugs and criminal behavior!! Please if you think I am suggesting that the officers stop carrying guns now that is just stupid, but I think they need to think before they go around using it. There were 5 citizens killed by the Vista Sheriff this year, not one of the suspects had a gun. But they are dead and the cops got away with it. The very tools they have to protect and to serve, gives them a license to kill. They are and always will be protected by their uniform, badge and lets not forget their gun and free license to use it. INJUSTICE WILL RULE UNTIL THE MINDSET OF THE PEOPLE WHO POLICE THIS NATION CHANGES. Let the constitution and those right we are guaranteed not be abused. Those rights are protected by our Military. My brother is a decorated war veteran, he protected my rights. By the way lets end that war in Iraq and bring the heroes home.

Robert wrote on Dec 2, 2005 9:50 AM:Oh Tina, you poor misinformed liberal. Do better research before you make these claims. Find out more about the "unarmed" gangbangers shot in Vista. The outrage around those shootings was pathetic. Where was the outrage over the gangbanger who stabbed a woman 70 times for a Playstation. Tina, until you know what you're talking about its probably better to remain silent. Keep learning about the real world around you, go beyond the nonsense the mainstream liberal media spews, seek the truth.

K. wrote on Dec 2, 2005 9:52 AM:Yes, it is horrible and wrong that some cops abuse their power, but this is about Tony Zeppetella, an excellent person who did not pose a threat to any other human being and never did anything wrong. Can venting and arguing about the bad cops be done elsewhere? How disrespectful.

Roy wrote on Dec 2, 2005 11:00 AM:We have all been waiting for this day for some time and all I read on these comments is how ignorant some people can be. Camacho will be put to death, end of story. It is bitter sweet and some of us will take longer to heal than others. In reference to Tina's comments, I will remember "due process" the next time a gang member points a gun at me, takes a swing at me with a knife, or tries to run over a group of people with their car. You talk as if the Officer has time to “contemplate” various alternatives. Well yes he does but the process takes fractions of a second and you have to REACT based on your training. Sometimes the outcome can be fatal for both the officer and the suspect. The decision is made based on the suspect’s behavior. Normal law abiding citizens do not have to worry about this. Think about it Tina when was the last time you were stopped by police, was it for speeding, running that stop sign, or shooting up dope and drinking alcohol with your homies in that dark alley? It is simple, if you are law-abiding citizen your chances of having police contact are slim. If you violate laws eventually you will be stopped and contacted. How dare you state that Officer’s are MURDERING people on the street. Why don’t you read the criminal elements for Murder then get back to us. My suggestion to you is go on a ride along with whatever agency patrols your neighborhood then see with your own eyes what they have to put up with. Take a poll and see how many gun “tote-in” vigilantes you see on patrol. I guarantee that all you will see are Deputies or Officers that are trying to make a difference for the people they protect on their beat, such as Tony did. Although you state that not all Officers are this way, you are not heeding your own words such as “due process”. Give those Officer’s or Deputies the respect they deserve because they also protect your right to post your comments on this page. If you believe injustice rules heavy handedly in your neighborhood why don’t you go live in Mexico, Central America, South Africa then get a taste of what crime and heavy handed judgment is all about.

Tatiana wrote on Dec 2, 2005 11:15 AM:No need to call Tina "poor and misinformed" My mom has the right to speak her mind, so don't tell her to be "silent" or do not imply that she is ignorant. If anyone knows the cruelties of the "real world" it is her. You know nothing about her. If you want to make a point go ahead and do so, but why must you attack her point of view. So stop the name calling and respect the opinion of others, because I will let you all know right now that my Mom, will respect yours. And as for the suggestion that she seek the truth. She always does just that!!!!! Peace and Love

O. wrote on Dec 2, 2005 2:10 PM:Yes, let's all show some peace and love to make up for the horrible cruelty that took place on June 13, 2003. You can rant all you want about the cops who abuse their power and committ injustices, but this particular story is about a fallen officer who did no such thing. Show some respect.

Eric wrote on Dec 2, 2005 3:26 PM:To O. Horrible cruelties happen everyday. And this story is about a person who received the death penalty for killing a person. This happens everyday and it is tragic. The writers in these comments are are calling for blood. Kill Him, Kill Him, they say, so really they are not concerned about the killing part they are only concerned about who gets killed. It is strange to me. Oh well, I guess I will never understand that nor do I want too. But yes, please let peace and love reign.

Ricardo wrote on Dec 2, 2005 4:00 PM:The court had its day and a decision was made. Further loss of life is never something to gloat, or druel at the mouth over. What it is interesting to note is how bloodthirsty people are to see further bloodshed. Reading people's comments sounds like a modern day lynching with everyone at the ready to cut off a finger of the person lynched for a souvenir to take home. Why doesn't someone cut off his head as well and put it on display at the local Avo Theater, the way they used to do it in small towns across America 100 years ago. The same inhumane savageness is still there in all your comments. Now I believe Tina is correct in pointing out how some of you can be quick to cheer for the death verdict for one murderer, but turn around and defend another murderer simply because they carry a badge. Murder is murder regardless of who is behind the trigger. The hypocracy in some of your positions is pathetic. And in case some of you who live in a sheltered little gated community who do not know what it is like to live in a community where the cops themselves act like a roving gang and take advantage of their power, I got some news for you. There are many cops who abuse their authority and from having grown up in a Latino community, I have had the misfortune of continously running into these particular type of officers, even though I am not a gang-member. It's true, I am sure there are some good cops out there, and maybe Tony was one of them, but the fact of the matter is that cops in our community act more like overseers than persons who make careful decisions about how to enforce the law. I know of cops in my community who terrorize, literally terrorize our community. They chase after young men like slave-catchers, they disrespect their parents, and they encourage Latino youth to fight other gang members. Some of these acts, I've witnessed myself, so it is not just hearsay. Policing in our communities needs some serious overhaul other-wise tensions and violence is going to continue. And I say this with all sincerity, I fear the police in my community more than I fear another gang-member. A gang-member steal from me, or may cause me some temporary harm, could even take my life, but I know that a court will try to resolve that. On the other hand a police officer could do the very same, yet he has the power of his word against mine, and he or she will continue to roam the streets or at the worst receive a paid vacation (they call it paid leave) for murdering me. This is the reality we are dealing with.

Ricardo wrote on Dec 2, 2005 4:31 PM:The court had its day and a decision was made. Further loss of life is never something to gloat, or druel at the mouth over. What it is interesting to note is how bloodthirsty people are to see further bloodshed. Reading people's comments sounds like a modern day lynching with everyone at the ready to cut off a finger of the person lynched for a souvenir to take home. Why doesn't someone cut off his head as well and put it on display at the local Avo Theater, the way they used to do it in small towns across America 100 years ago. The same inhumane savageness is still there in all your comments. Now I believe Tina is correct in pointing out how some of you can be quick to cheer for the death verdict for one murderer, but turn around and defend another murderer simply because they carry a badge. Murder is murder regardless of who is behind the trigger. The hypocracy in some of your positions is pathetic. And in case some of you who live in a sheltered little gated community who do not know what it is like to live in a community where the cops themselves act like a roving gang and take advantage of their power, I got some news for you. There are many cops who abuse their authority and from having grown up in a Latino community, I have had the misfortune of continously running into these particular type of officers, even though I am not a gang-member. It's true, I am sure there are some good cops out there, and maybe Tony was one of them, but the fact of the matter is that cops in our community act more like overseers than persons who make careful decisions about how to enforce the law. I know of cops in my community who terrorize, literally terrorize our community. They chase after young men like slave-catchers, they disrespect their parents, and they encourage Latino youth to fight other gang members. Some of these acts, I've witnessed myself, so it is not just hearsay. Policing in our communities needs some serious overhaul other-wise tensions and violence is going to continue. And I say this with all sincerity, I fear the police in my community more than I fear another gang-member. A gang-member may steal from me, or may cause me some temporary harm, or could even take my life, but I know that a court will try to resolve that. On the other hand a police officer could do the very same, yet he has the power of his word against mine, and he or she will continue to roam the streets or even receive a paid vacation (they call it paid leave) for murdering me. This is the reality we are dealing with.

Lorena wrote on Dec 2, 2005 4:55 PM:To Ricardo that was well said. As Latinos we do get harassed more by the police, because we look like or fit the description of a person they are looking for! I was raised to respect policemen. I was taught that they are here to help. I never met Tony Zepetella but I am sure he was a good man doing a dangerous job. The police accept these jobs and they go to work knowing the dangers. I frankly agree with Ricardo, I am more afraid of the police than I am of "gangbanger". I know that my family, like Jaime Zepetella will get justice, if I were killed by a "thug or gangbanger" but closure will not come if I am killed by a police officer. They are protected by their job. That my friends is a reality to me and other Latinos. So, unfortunately this has turned into a US against THEM police system, which scares me. It will only get worse until as you all say "make an example out of one of there officers who kill a suspect" and prosecute them instead of protecting them.

O. (A Friend of Tony's) wrote on Dec 2, 2005 5:03 PM:To Eric: Hello. I agree with you actually. I am certainly not calling for blood or cheering over the fact that another man is going to lose his life. I do not believe in the death penalty, personally. All I'm saying is the cop involved in this particular situation was not a bad one. His murder is no less tragic because there are cops like the one's Ricardo and Tina are describing...and I do agree that is is tragic and unfortunate and unjust that there are such cops. I am not disagreeing with anybody. I don't think the people who are attacking each other here are going to resolve or accomplish anything, but the opinions expressed are interesting. Peace.

Ann wrote on Dec 3, 2005 8:56 PM:A friend of Tony's. I am so sick of people defending Camacho, you know what about Jamie and Jakob he has no father but Camacho's kids do he gets to have every holiday with his kids even though he is behind bars. He should get death that is what he gets for doing something so tragic. It was real sad when i heard that Camacho was lost in the paper work and he was able to do this. Tony will be missed dearly from family and friends. I hope Jakob follows in his daddy's foot steps. I am sure he will be just like his dad and mom both. Jamie and Jakob we all love you lots and our preyers are with you.

Elaine wrote on Dec 4, 2005 10:28 AM:Isn't this comment arena for comments on the news story, not each other? I am in total agreement with the jury. They were privy to all the evidence.

O. wrote on Dec 4, 2005 11:02 AM:Ann. Please know that I am not defending Camacho by any means. I am only defending Tony. So many people are caught up here talking about police officers who stereotype and abuse their power and terroize their communities. I understand all that does happen, and people are clearly angry about it, but it should be noted that those descriptions have nothing to do with Tony Zeppetella. I just felt that needed to be pointed out. His death means that there is one less kind-hearted officer on the streets. Furthermore, Ricardo makes a good point by saying "Further loss of life is never something to gloat, or druel at the mouth over" Everyone has the right to their own opinion about the death penalty, but my choice not to gloat and druel should not be interpreted to mean I don't share in so many people's sadness over Tony's death or that I am defending Camacho. I am not defending Camacho. My thoughts and prayers will always be with Tony and his family and everyone who has suffered because of this tragedy.

ann wrote on Dec 5, 2005 8:01 AM:"O" please i don't think your defending Camacho, i plan on becoming a police officer myself as soon as my kids are older. I love the work you all do and i commend you for putting your life on the line. I was working security at the time and ileft for work late that day i something wish i could have left early maybe i could have helped. "o" I am glad that there are police officers like Tony and i am glad that there are police officers period. I have no judgement against police officers, if they do something wrong then the only person they will answer to in GOD. Like Paster Shawn says Everyone will meet their maker and have to answer alot of questions. To all the Police officers. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, IF IT WASN'T FOR POLICE OFFICERS IT WOULD PROBABLY BE WORSE THAN IT IS NOW......

John wrote on Dec 5, 2005 10:23 AM:For you whom find the Police coming down with a heavy hand should take your neighborhoods back and get the MS13 out. If I were an Oceanside policeman I would be very afraid of this group of people. When any Law Enforcement person operates in this type of environment good things are not going to happen. I agree if you find your neighborhood is patrolled by the Oceanside Police and you feel threatened, I suggest you help get what ever the police are looking for out of your neighborhood. Joint Press Conference on Community Shield Chief Jerry Lance is with the Oceanside Police Department “Community Shield and other joint efforts with ICE have resulted in 76 gang members and 80 additional gang associates arrested in Oceanside. The arrest of these gang members and their removal from Oceanside has helped created a safer community. These gang members do not care about human life. They do not care about their communities. They only care about the gangs. They only care about the violence that they create in these communities -- in fact, the violence that they wear as a badge of honor. Many of you report on that; look at what you report on and who they kill, who are the innocent victims.” In California, in fact in the City of Oceanside, officers arrested a gang members whose criminal history includes lewd acts with a child less than four years of age, inflicting bodily harm.

NAHU & ALEX wrote on Dec 13, 2005 9:21 AM:MAY GOD BLESS THE WORLD AND R.I.P FOR TONY, AND LET THE LORD MAKE JUSTICE FOR CAMACHO AND DO WHAT YOU GOT TO DO, BUT JUST REMEMBER THERE IS A GOD UP THERE AND HE IS WATCHING EVERY SINGLE THING WE DO IN THIS WORLD... =)

J wrote on Dec 4, 2007 8:47 PM:I am completely for the original theory of punishment, swift and proportionate to the crime. I do believe either way, society is punished financially for life imprisonment or the death penalty. I believe the expense argument for the death penalty is the acutal cost for all the appeals that are available to death row inmates. The death penalty, in order to be truly effective, must be delivered swiftly and justly. Having an inmate on death row for 20 years is ridiculous. Having an inmate on death row in a state that has overturned the death penalty is also ridiculous. Commute Camacho's sentence to Texas or Florida or another death penalty state where it will be carried out, swiftly.