John Curry: An open letter to Dr. Asbury

From John Curry, August 27, 2006

Dear Dr. Asbury:

Thank you for your recent reply considering the payment or intent to issue payment for the personal legal expenses for the 3 STRS associates re. the Hazel Sidaway trial. Based on public information -- Eileen Boles was granted immunity from prosecution in return for her testimony at this trial.

I would appreciate your reasoning for the decision to recommend that her legal expenses be paid by STRS. During my years in education (30) and law enforcement (32 -- had to find some way to supplement my teacher salary and support a family), I am not aware of another incident where a state or local governmental official was subpoenaed to testify, retained a personal legal representative, and the bill was paid by the employer. Those of us who are having a difficulty paying our medical expenses would be most interested how this decision was made and recommended to the STRS board.

Many of us believe that this was an action that was not carefully reviewed prior to the administrative or board action.

Sincerely,
John Curry