To the Editor,
During the “No Kings” march on March 28 in Battle Ground, individuals repeatedly drove through the area for approximately two hours while “rolling coal”—a deliberate and illegal act requiring vehicle modification to bypass emissions controls.
What is most concerning is not just the behavior itself, but the lack of response. This activity occurred in plain view of law enforcement. Multiple individuals provided video evidence and license plate numbers to an officer on scene. Despite this, no enforcement action was taken, and the behavior continued.
This is not a minor issue. Prolonged diesel exhaust exposure in a crowded public setting raises legitimate health concerns and has already discouraged some community members from attending future events. When people feel they must choose between participating in civic life and protecting their health, something has gone wrong.
Battle Ground Police Department emphasizes integrity, accountability, and community trust. Those values matter—but they must be reflected in action, especially when violations are occurring openly.
Residents deserve to know: why was this allowed to continue, and what will be done to ensure it does not happen again?
Elizabeth Shaw
Battle Ground
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Letters To The Editor
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