After reading Steve Pokin's Jan. 4 column concerning the lawsuit filed against (St. Charles County elections director) Rich Chrismer, I felt strongly that something further had to be said in support of Mr. Chrismer. There also needs to be some further questions raised about the reasons for this suit.

I have known Rich since he first ran for the Missouri House of Representatives. He has always had a passion for honesty and never hesitated to tell the truth. Rich has always espoused the greatness of family values, the sanctity of his marriage vows, an unwavering pro-life position and the fervent belief in all of Christ's teachings.

If Rich affirms these allegations are false, then I firmly believe him, and the plaintiff has made a serious mistake with her irresponsible charges and caused extreme pain and suffering to Rich and his family.

Mr. Pokin's article indicated this suit contains the phrase "if this matter goes to trial." This should raise a red flag to everybody concerned. I'm not a lawyer, but it doesn't seem normal to file a lawsuit with the phrase "if the matter goes to trial." This phrase appears to be out of place. It almost seems the plaintiff is suggesting they don't want to go to trial where witnesses are under oath, subject to perjury. Maybe they don't think they have a case that will stand the scrutiny. Or, could this be a subliminal suggestion for some other solution, like a settlement?

Am I writing this because I'm a friend of Rich and believe he is innocent of these charges? Absolutely. I also believe it is high time to stop these spurious lawsuits with meaningful tort reform containing heavy penalties for the lawyers and plaintiffs who initiate such actions.

I hope Rich and the county hang in there and don't succumb to a 'settlement" as being the politically expedient thing to do.

Dale Dickmann, St. Charles