Posted by songbird (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 9:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

so sad, people killing each other for no reason. My prayers go out to the Marsh family.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 11:18 p.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by inaword (anonymous) on November 11, 2008 at 11:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, you again.....

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

oh my... inaword... this showdown kid has some mental problems you must excuse him

Posted by inaword (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thats an understatement, shifting. I think its a personality disorder. I gotta look at who is doing the posting before I read the comment. I'm not even wasting my time on him again.

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 1:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I never could understand "murder".

"Self defense" yes...but to just murder someone is beyond comprehension.

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 1:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For "inaword"

He certainly is not worth anyone's time inaword that's for sure.

Posted by stickam (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 6:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO MARSH FAMILY.ALSO WE WILL PRAY FOR "SHOWDOWN2"....

Posted by concernedsober (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 6:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

like bamalady said before, it's best that he stays in jail. For him & his family, friends. He may can get out for just $ 50,000, then he's gone. We are praying for both families, because this tragedy will and has affected more than these two.

Posted by sexybamagirl36081 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 7:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Look I know Brooks Marsh, On of my friends dated him for a long time. I think it is a sad sad story and it breaks my heart and I hope that this murder gets everything he deserves and I say that with a lot of hate in my heart. I send nothing but the best for the Marsh family. May God Bless them

Posted by Linden (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 8:19 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by Linden (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 8:29 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by formertroygirl (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 9:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have known the Black family my entire life and my heart goes out to them all-My prayers are with Gary and Brenda they have not only lost a son but also a son in law during this. Rooster is where he needs to be-hopefully the families will be able to find peace during this.

Posted by chhs1994 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Something has got to be done about the meth problem in this town. If our police force can't put a stop to it, then we need new police officers. PERIOD.

Posted by turtle (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Meth is the problem it is because it is so easy to make and labs are portable. You can shut one down and ten more pop up.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You should try praying to God to stop meth. I mean if he exists and cares he would stops it right?

Posted by nobodyimportant (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

God does exist and God does care. He gave us freewill. He left that choice up to us. This is just a horrible situation. No one will ever no the reason for this except those involved. My prayers go out to the Black and Marsh family as well as Rooster. Clearly theres more to the story. Somethings missing between the trash being taken out and wanting to borrow a cup........This is just a tragic event.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ghost, you should know that being a police officer is not about being commended for protecting the public from itself so cops really don't care if they are hated or blamed. Cops become cops because they want the authority. I mean sometimes I have thought of becoming a cop just to have the chance to taser someone or beat someone with a baton, but I just couldn't wear those hideous uniforms.

Posted by tigerlilly (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

it appears to me from comments within the article that only 1 side of this story is being told, i also am and have been a close friend of Gary and Brenda for 17 years,all i've read from this site and wsfa and wtvy4 dothan is only tellin 1 side of this story, everyone should wait to pass judgements til the whole story comes out....there must be more to this than has come out so far... i mean 2 friends sitting around watching tv and then the suspect offers to take out the trash and after that asks to borrow a cup then shoots the victim???? come on now that makes no sense at all.....hopefully at some point the whole story will come out that will give some closure to all involved....we all should pray for "BOTH" families , for they both are victims of this horrible tradgedy

Posted by Atownpurplecats (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can not believe that anyone would question the existence of God!! This is getting ridiculous!! I do agree with nobodyimportant, He gives us a freewill! The choice is yours!!

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, that is right. He gave us freewill. Now is that because he loves us or is that because of some other reason? I can't ever tell. Also, because we have freewill does that mean God doesn't have plans for us? I mean if God does have a plan and our decision screws up his plan does he create a new plan or does he just wing it? If he does have a plan, we really don't have freewill do we? I really wish I knew what his plan was for me so I don't mess it up. I would really hate to make God draw up a new plan just for me., After all, I am sure he is really busy with these billions of prayer requests for new cars and money he gets every day.

Posted by muledeer (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The real end to the drug problem rest in the hands (or at least the solution) of the District Attorney's office. Plain and simple. NO BARGAINS ! Send these people to the pen for a while. They will get released in a shorter time than sent there for anyway but the visit to the big house might deter their motivation to continue using drugs.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"I can not believe that anyone would question the existence of God!!"

Blame God because had he not given me freewill I would not be questioning him right?

Posted by chhs03 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of these comments get so off of the subject. I hate to say it, but Rooster has been locked up before, and he got out and went back to the same thing. I just don't understand what would possess someone to kill another, over drugs. My prayers go out to both families, and especially Nicole.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Or we could always bring back public executions right muledeer? Maybe we could kick it Old Testament and crucify a few drug users or may get the whole family involved and stone them. Oh and they could charge $2 per throw and make a little profit. Personally I think sawings would best convey the message.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

*maybe

Posted by nobodyimportant (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I beg to differ. The drug problem lies in no ones hand but the drug user. The District Attorney nor the law enforcement are to blame nor can they stop it. When one drug epidemic subsides a new one takes its place. A drug user will find another drug to the place of the one that deminishes.

Posted by turnthechannel (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Dont pray for the family of rooster. That kid has been in so much trouble and the family always knows someone or has a way to get him out of trouble. Time for praying was a long time ago for him. They should have let him stay in jail for a while and maybe he would have learned something. For the Meth problem they call it chicken so he must have done a lot of it for a name like rooster. It is a problem but for the dummies stupid enough to say yes i would like to try that. It is their fault not the police or the DA. SO what ever happened to blaming the person who did the drugs or done the crime NO some of you wanna blame the police. The police cant come to your house and make sure you are not doing drugs and make sure you are being a good boy or girl. Grow up and take responsibility for your own actions. If you want the police to do their job and you know of a Meth Lab then do whats right and turn them in, dont blame the cops and think they should know where every meth lab is, help them out let them know.

Posted by OldSchoolPike3Worker (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Why is that guy not wearing at shirt?

Posted by Atownpurplecats (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I see why everyone is sooo upset with you...you must have nothing else to do that to piss people off! You should NEVER question God EVER!! He gives you freewill to make your own decisions... weather you make the wrong decision is up to you. He does not make you do anything!!

Posted by concernedsober (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Addiction is a very powerful disease. Yes, Rooster has been locked up before, and his Daddy has done everything in this world to help him. But we have come to a tragic ending, and now it is time to let Rooster stay in jail.

For a person to stop using, it has to come from their gut. They have to want to stop. Period. If they do not want to stop, nothing or nobody can stop them. Our prayers go out to Gary & Brenda.

Posted by chhs03 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Garry got that nickname long before he got involved in the drugs. And you say that the drug user should be to blame, but then you say don't pray for the family???? yes, they have gotten him out of trouble, but all you can do is pray for ALL of them. Pray to let the family learn to let go and give it to the lord. The family of the drug users do get hurt in all of this too.

Posted by chhs1994 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The police and the prosecutors are too busy making deals with these meth heads and not doing enough of prosecuting and locking up these thugs. NO MORE DEALS for meth crimes. PERIOD. Put these people in prison - do not make deals with them. If the police and the prosecutors in this town don't have the guts to do it, then we need new police officers and new prosecutors.

By the way, why hasn't the Mayor stood up and demanded that these deals stop and that each individual is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law regardless of who their family members may be. Come on, Mayor Lunsford, it is time for you to step up.

Posted by formertroygirl (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

TURNTHECHANNEL-you are a complete *&^ Gary and Brenda need our prayers now more than ever if you even had a freaking clue Gary has tried endlessly to help his son and has failed-Gary Black (the father) is one of the finest people I know and for you to say they don't need our prayers is a complete shock to me. Garry Anthony's decision have always been just that HIS DECISIONS because if left up to his father then he would have turned out great like his half brother and half sister have.

Posted by chhs03 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i could not agree more "formertroygirl"

Posted by chhs1994 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

When are the next Mayoral elections? If Lunsford isn't going to force prosecutors to stop the deals and start throwing these meth heads in prison, I think it is time for his reign to end.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Really though this is not sad because isn't drug users killing other drug users a good thing?

Posted by chhs99 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is insane! Of course God gives us freewill, but He also gives every person the ability to know RIGHT from WRONG! This family needs support right know and the people that were trying to help after the fact and witnessed this tragedy! They will have images in their head they will NEVER be able to forget! I know the victim's wife's family and they are wonderful people who would do anything for anybody! They need our PRAYERS!!!!!

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Since when does Lunsford have anything to do with the District Attorney's office? I am not sure the Troy Municipal Court and the Troy Prosecutor's office handles narcotics possessions. I think they mostly handle middle school playground fights.

Posted by chhs1994 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the Troy Messenger should start acting like journalists and stop acting like PR people for the CITY of Troy. They should call the prosecutor's office, the police, and the mayor and ask why they make deals with meth heads and then do an article.

Then Lunsford should resign as mayor. He has obviously failed to ste up and address this problem (the #1 problem in our community) in any way

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Drugs play a huge part in the crime we see. The Troy we have today is not the Troy we knew not so many years ago. The difference is people want "drugs" and some will do whatever it takes to get their drug of choice.

As mentioned God gave us all free will to make choices...and that is His test for us here on earth.

The police cannot be everywhere at the same time. In the past few months they have broken a few meth labs and put some of the scum out of business. I am certain that they will continue to do so for as long as they need to do that. But it seems that some blame the police for drug problems. They can only do what they can and even before they go to a "drug house" they must obtain search warrants to do so and before that...they must have some proof that the drug house even exists.

They must do things according to the law and more so than none...the law protects those that are breaking it.

Taking drugs is a choice that people make. That at times results in the crimes we see now. We cannot blame the police for what results from people taking those drugs.

Posted by turtle (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Several things to comment on here but I'll try to be brief. While I may not agree with Showdown, if he wishes to question God that's his right. Personally I think he's doing it to get a rise out of most of you and he succeeds. We have to remember just because we live in the Bible belt, not everyone here is a Christian. Personally, the families of both sides are in my thoughts. My family has dealt with similar situations, drug addictions, alcohol addictions, and we've got some in prison as a result of those actions.

Don't always blame the parents. No matter what this is still their child, and you can say what you want but until you are placed in a situation where you have to decide to stand by your child and have hope they can turn their life around, you can't say what you would or wouldn't do or what they should or shouldn't do.

The drug problem. Yes, meth is a serious problem in Pike County, but it is also hitting Crenshaw County, Coffee County and especially Covington County just to name a few. It is the "poor man's drug" because it can be cheaply made and cheaply sold. It is the number one drug of rural areas. They have horrible problems with this in states like Kentucky, Kansas, heartland states if you will, West Virginia, Georgia all states that have large rural populations like Alabama. Again because the ingredients are easily accessible, the crap is made from items in every household for pete's sake! The labs are portable, hot plates and microwaves are all you need. Also it is one of the most addictive drugs there is and people can get off it but the success rate of staying clean is so very low. Sure we can blame the DA's for not prosecuting but rather cutting deals but then people will complain about the cost to taxpayers for prisons because if we put all of them in jail you will have to build twice as many prisons.

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Perhaps some laws need to be changed to take some of the rights away from the drug dealers and give the victims more rights...and what they deserve.

Posted by formertroygirl (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)

amen turtle!

Posted by Atownpurplecats (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at noon (Suggest removal)

Turtle you are sooooo right!!!!!! I could not agree with you more!!!

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

troysupporter,

Since you feel so adamant about imprisoning drug offenders, then I suggest you foot the bill. How many drug users can you imprison @ $40,000/year? Personally I think you can put a value on a life. I can deal with a couple thousand drug related murders a year if it is going to save taxpayers billions of dollars a year.

Posted by RaisedNTroy (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok 1st of all, "Rooster" is a nickname that came along WAY before Garry's drug problem. 2nd of all, just because his family has stood behind him and tried to get him help and failed does not mean they do not need our prayers. Garry has been locked up for drugs before and has been to rehab centers, etc. nothing seems to work. It's very sad for both sides of the story because these families have lost two young men. Nicole has lost her husband and step brother. Big Garry and Brenda have lost a son and a son-in-law, and you people have the nerve to say they don't deserve prayer. Does anybody even have the right to say who does and does not deserve PRAYER? I don't think so! I know Rooster personally and I have seen his struggle with drugs go on and on for years. I have seen him sober and want to stay sober and then an "old drug friend" from his past tries to get him hooked again. Which brings me to my next point, if there were not so many "deals" going on behind the scenes then these "old" friends couldn't find people like Rooster who try to get their life together. Meth in Troy is a HUGE problem and has been for years but there are TOO MANY bargain deals that go on once someone gets arrested. Meth has destroyed the lives of many of my close friends and now it's destroyed another one. Don't get me wrong, I am not blaming anybody by Rooster because he is the one who pulled the trigger, but there is only one side of this story being told. You don't offer to take someone's trash out and then shoot them. Clearly, drugs were going on at the house but nobody wants and probably never will admit to it. I pray for the Marsh family and for the Black family. I also pray for Rooster.

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's not pass judgement guys. I am sure you mean he alledgedly pulled the trigger right? Haha.

Posted by tigerlilly (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 12:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Amen to raisedNTroy, i've know Gary and Brenda many years and they both have such big hearts, always willing to help me and others with anything anytime we needed it. They both and Nicole need all the prayers they can get during this horrible tragedy, as do the family of the Marsh's...its a shane that most of the stories about this have been very one sided towards the victim, this is much more to this than what has come to light, must be some reason no "witness" has spoken on the side of the accused yet? i say this to Gary and Brenda we love you both and will always be there if you ever need us!!!!

Posted by chhs99 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with "tigerlilly" & "RaisedNTroy"!! people are turning this into some sort of campaign ordeal of what needs to be done that everyone already knows! Quit talking about what needs to be done and step up and take action, write a letter, start a club, or run for office! This family has been struct with double tragedy!!! Posting your finger pointing opinions on here is not going to get the job done!

Posted by RaisedNTroy (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you Tigerlilly & CHHS99! I am just glad that Garry's family has people like us willing to take up for them. I am not saying that Rooster is innocent or guilty because I don't know all the facts. There is WAY more to this story and I just hope it all comes out.

Posted by elvis2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

After reading the article twice , I saw no mention of drugs of any kind yet now all the comments are going round and round about meth . Why not stick to what is known and has been stated on TV and the newspapers , all these wild rumors are just that, rumors.
As turtle stated the man is someone's son and what parent wouldn't stand behind their child right or wrong .

Posted by plamom02 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow this has really gotten out of control. You can tell which people know what they are talking about on here and which ones just have nothing to do but post insensitive, uniformed comments about people they do not even know. If you don't know these people then stop passing judgement and leaving comments about them. Go search ads in the montgomery advertiser to talk about. Anyway I have know Garry for years and I knew him when he would do anything in the world for anybody. We dont even know the facts here because you sure cannot count on what we are reading or hearing because they cannot even get his age (24 not 26) or his hometown right(Brundidge not Enterprise) This story does not make sense. Who takes the trash out, asks for a cup, and pulls out a gun at the same time? Someone needs to do their homework a little more.

Posted by Linden (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 3:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why does the site staff keep removing my comments? I didn't say anything that is different than what was later posted! I know Rooster, I consider him a friend. I hate that his life has turned out so bad. I wish that he would have listened to his parents and to his friends when we told him to stay out of trouble and away from meth. I honestly had hope that the last time he got out of jail and rehab, that he would realize the severity of his actions. He was a good guy when we were younger. I know he was a little crazy at times, but so are a lot of people I know. The problem was Gary's addictions. I can say that his Dad is a great man. All that he wanted for his son was a good, clean, honest life. I believe that he tried his best to lead his son in the right direction. Actually, I know that he did. My husband had a few conversations with Gary, and Gary was always trying to get his friends to talk to his son. He did everything that a good father can do. Unfortunately, we all determine what we do with our lives, and that goes the same with Rooster. I DO believe that we should pray for Gary's parents, and Gary himself. Everyone needs prayer. I pray for Brooks' parents, and for his wife. I pray that God will heal the hearts of all that are involved.

Posted by elvis2 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

plamom02 , you said it . It has gotten way off line .

Posted by OldSchoolPike3Worker (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So nobody seems to care why that guy is not wearing a shirt in his mugshot?

Posted by Observer22 (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 6:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Drug offenses involving meth are felonies over which the municipal court has no jurisdiction and the mayor has no control. Felonies are crimes against the peace and dignity of the State of Alabama and are prosecuted by the District Attorney in the Circuit Court. The District Attorney is a constitutional officer which means he answers to nobody except the voters unless he is impeached.
The state cannot afford to take every drug dealer or user to court and send them to prison - so they negotiate plea deals to save paying jurors, and appointed defense attorneys - and those deals reduce prison time or by-pass prison completely to save the state the expense of housing and feeding a prisoner.
It is unfortunate that people fail to heed the warnings and get involved in drugs. Very simple mistakes, usually those which result in very short-lived euphoria, have long-term consequences including death. Whether the mistake is trying crystal meth or getting in the car with a friend who is driving and drinking, the consequences do not discriminate between hard-core bad folks or basically good people who make mistakes.
I don't know any of the people involved in this story - they may have been the salt of the earth or anywhere between the angles and the French. But, they sowed the wind when they messed with meth (if indeed they did) and now reap the whirlwind.
If there is to be any good to come of this and similar tragedies reported locally it will be if they serve as lessons to warn others away from the same path.

Posted by WDM (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 7 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I want to thank all you people for not playing showdown,s game.And a special thanks to shifting for showing his maturity.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 7:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

:)

Posted by inaword (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 7:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh. Is Showdown still posting? I hadn't noticed...

Posted by florida (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

With regards to

Posted by turnthechannel (anonymous) on November 12, 2008 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Dont pray for the family of rooster. That kid has been in so much trouble and the family always knows someone or has a way to get him out of trouble. Time for praying was a long time ago for him. They should have let him stay in jail for a while and maybe he would have learned something. For the Meth problem they call it chicken so he must have done a lot of it for a name like rooster. It is a problem but for the dummies stupid enough to say yes i would like to try that. It is their fault not the police or the DA. SO what ever happened to blaming the person who did the drugs or done the crime NO some of you wanna blame the police. The police cant come to your house and make sure you are not doing drugs and make sure you are being a good boy or girl. Grow up and take responsibility for your own actions. If you want the police to do their job and you know of a Meth Lab then do whats right and turn them in, dont blame the cops and think they should know where every meth lab is, help them out let them know.

First, no one in the family condones the actions of Gary Jr. The usage of drugs, especially meth has risen dramatically in the last few years. The community as a whole should take a look at why this is happening and do their best to educate and protect their children and community members. Gary received the name of Rooster at a young age given to him by his father, prior to any drug usage. Your opinion is simply that and with out merit. Gary has been in trouble in the past and family let him stay in jail for the term imposed to him by a judge of standing in Troy. Prior to this shooting, Gary Sr. his father, had him put in jail for his drug use and assisted the local authorities in doing so. If you have children you must acknowledge that if your child comes out of jail you do what ever is in your power to help straighten them out. Unfortunately drug users, especially meth users, continue upon a broken path despite the assistance of their family. It appears Gary Jr. shot his half brother in law and to not pray for the family excludes the family of the deceased. Gary Jr. should stand trial for his actions and be sentenced to the standards as viewed by the Judge whom sits on the bench during his trial, but to not have empathy and to not pray for the family, which is everyone involved, is not Christian, and borderline ignorant. Uneducated people with little knowledge, and I do mean little, typically express poor opinions. He deserves what he gets and the entire family morns their losses.

Posted by blissfullygreen (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 8:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Observer22, you are exactly right except for the fact that defense attorney's are appointed and are usually the ones who help secure the deals to keep the drug criminal out of prison. However, if you have a previous conviction, especially a drug felony, you aren't going to walk. You will spend a good amount of time in prison. If the message from the constituents here is to imprison more drug offenders, then they need to elect people who will vote for new prisons to be built. As it is today, there is NO ROOM AT THE INN. OUR PRISONS ARE FULL!! If you don't believe it, just take a tour of our local pokey, the Pike County Jail, for a glimpse of what its like in the system. Our Drug Task Force is wrapped up in investigations! They don't have to man-power to babysit all the POS (this is an abbreviation, think hard.) drug users/manufacturers. They do an excellent job of trying to clean up this county, but they are not the community babysitters! Drug users/manufacturers have FREE WILL to do as they choose. They don't know how to and don't want to make the RIGHT CHOICE. Blame the parents, blame the criminal. Don't blame the police. Only ignorant people believe its the fault of the police.

For a drug criminal to get clean and stay clean, they have to want it for themselves. No amount of time in prison or rehab will keep someone clean unless they WANT TO BE CLEAN. They have to ditch their old friends and find people to associate with who aren't using and who will help them stay on track. The Drug Task Force can only do so much. They can't keep people straight. They can't keep them from re-offending. That is up to the person who is the addict.

I really have no sympathy for a drug addict/user/manufacturer. That person made the choice to use drugs. I also have no sympathy for a murderer. Drug use isn't an excuse for murder. Honestly, like wild animals, this is the "natural selection" of the drug community. I do not apologize for my opinion nor do I care what anyone thinks of it.

And yes, OSPW3, I wondered the same thing about the shirt. I am guessing the shirt was bagged as evidence--maybe has blood or gunshot residue on it. Or, maybe he just likes to go shirtless in 50 degree weather. I also noticed how his head was cocked up like he was attempting to say something like, "WHAZZUP??" to all the people who would see the picture.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

thats cuz he was trying to say that... he thinks its a game

Posted by allmy5rugrats (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Ok..we all got the point here that a man lost his life over a "supposed" drug deal, that of course is still the GOSSIP and RUMORS that are going around that we all are hearing. Was any of us there when this happened to know the true facts in this case?? Nobody will truly know until this man goes to trial. Everyone is pointing the fingers, blaming the Mayor, blaming the TPD, and the DA's office. None of them are the ones that pulled the trigger and killed that man. And they most certainly didn't tell "Rooster" to go do it either. I've seen much higher crime rates in much LARGER cities then Troy and nobody places the blame on the Police Departments or the higher officials there, the one that commits the crime is the guilty one. Just because Troy is a smaller town does not justify putting the blame where it shouldn't be placed.

Posted by jaxon8 (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Having known Gary all my life and Tina, as well as Brenda and having had a child fall victim to drugs and get in trouble, I can only say that my heart goes out to them. I will pray for them all as well as Rooster. No matter how hard a parent tries, sometimes young people make bad choices and wind up paying dearly for them.
Do I think the police are to blame? NO!! Do I think enough is being done to combat drugs in our county? NO!!
Some posters on here are obviously extremely ignorant and some are just plain cruel. The old saying "Walk a mile in my shoes" seems to come to mind. I hope and pray that when you are down nobody kicks you the way you have.
This is a trajedy and nobody wins here. God Bless!!

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 9:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"However, if you have a previous conviction, especially a drug felony, you aren't going to walk."

This may be true in some cases...but not all. I've seen where there have been drug busts and the dealers have been released more than once. Normally, it's the small time dealers and they want to use them to get the bigger ones.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 10:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)

just because alot of people do it doesnt mean we cant step up in war on drugs.

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 10:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Drug dealers will "deal" as long as there's users. Focus should be on helping those who want to get help.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 10:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)

virtuous, you are saying we shouldnt do anything to try and prevent as much of it from happening before it happens? you are smart kiddo. :)

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

@shiftingshadows
You are constantly trying to start with me. What is your problem? That is not what I meant. I'm not saying we shouldn't prevent it from happening. I'm saying that just as most of the post here are reflecting that we all know someone, directly or indirectly, who uses drugs. Why not offer help and make it available to them? Is that not something we can do?

Do you not understand that when a drug dealer gets caught, and go to prison, they only get more educated on how to continue the lifestyle when they get out. Just like everything else, drug dealers are no different...they learn from their mistakes. And nine times out of ten they come back to our streets with more tricks up their sleeves.

@troysupporter
You're right. Drugs just don't magically appear. Just because someone offers you drugs, doesn't mean you have to accept. But those who have and want out of it, should have the opportunity to do so. I think that saying dealers hunt for people to get addicted to it is a little far-fetched. But maybe you know someone that this has happened to. If you ask most users, they will say it either started as recreation or they just wanted to try it one time to see what it was like. Sadly to say, most drugs have you hooked after the first try.

Posted by xmontgomerian (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ya know Drugs are a bad thing to have to deal with but tempers along with the drug thing are not a good mix. Maybe some anger managment classes would help those kinda people too, while they are being held in jail. Gosh it is not just here the drug problems are...they are everywhere and some just don't advertise the problems like it is being done here. Heck I came from Montgomery ( murder city) and it was just as bad there as it is here and worse. What choices your kids and other family members make are just that... THEIR choices. So don't fault the parents and remember when you point a finger at someone 4 more are pointing back at you.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 12:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

virtuous im rest assure i am not trying to "start" with you, just responding too your comment... sounded like too me you were saying we should stop worrying about trying to prevent it and just focus on helping the ones that are already in it... lol sorreh buddeh!

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

@shiftingshadows
Focusing on only those who want help is not excluding those who want prior help. If someone comes to you and tell you they need help with drug addiction verses someone coming to you for help before they start work together, I would think. Just because they haven't started, doesn't mean a person won't come before hand. Prevention is not soley geared towards those who are already drug users.

Plus, who better to help those who need help (before hand) than the ones who have already "been there...done that" and can reach those who are or about to go down the same path? They are the ones who can relate.

Posted by missro007 (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

My! This discussion has certainly gotten heated! We need to concentrate our prayers to BOTH fanilies and stop passi ng judement because we're living in the last days and the devil is alive and well! We all need to try to educate and protect our children from these situations...that's where the first steps should be made. The schools have the dare programs and some churches offer help, but we all need to keep praying and doing our part in the community to help make the drug problem less available...TURN IN KNOWN DEALERS & USERS!!!

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

um.. you lost me virtuous, stop trying to make this an argument... how about Drug EDUCATION in schools... let the kids know how bad it is, let them hear what happens if they take this or that and the risk... (it worked on me)

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 2:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How did you get and argument out of my post? Unbelievable...

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

the same way you got "start with me" out of my post... astounding

Posted by Showdown2 (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"My! This discussion has certainly gotten heated! We need to concentrate our prayers to BOTH fanilies and stop passi ng judement because we're living in the last days and the devil is alive and well!"

Last days huh? Yeah, people have been saying that for the last few thousand years. As for the devil being alive and well; first off, you're stupid for even believing, secondly, the world is no more violent now than it was 50, 500, or 5000 years ago.

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 3:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Anyway..."virtuous, you are saying we shouldnt do anything to try and prevent as much of it from happening before it happens? you are smart kiddo. :)"...is sarcastic. That's how I got "start with me" from your post. Doesn't matter though...I'll just leave it alone from now on.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

showdown was living 5,000 years ago and knows whats hes talking about we should all take classes from the mentally challenged like he does...

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 4:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

probably does... i mean this is the history buff of the troy messenger blogs ya know... he has to know what hes talking about (sarcasm incase anyone missed it)

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 4:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

See what I mean...

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 4:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

virtuous, did i even comment too you? i let it die... your trying to argue me... thats obvious... if you'd read, you'd know that no one is attacking your buddy showdown... :)

-"Personally I think you can put a value on a life. I can deal with a couple thousand drug related murders a year if it is going to save taxpayers billions of dollars a year."

-"You should try praying to God to stop meth. I mean if he exists and cares he would stops it right?"

-"Blame God because had he not given me freewill I would not be questioning him right?"

-"Really though this is not sad because isn't drug users killing other drug users a good thing?"

-"Let's not pass judgement guys. I am sure you mean he alledgedly pulled the trigger right? Haha."

-"you should know that being a police officer is not about being commended for protecting the public from itself so cops really don't care if they are hated or blamed. Cops become cops because they want the authority. I mean sometimes I have thought of becoming a cop just to have the chance to taser someone or beat someone with a baton, but I just couldn't wear those hideous uniforms."

and last but not least... my favorite quote by showdown
-"(This comment was removed by the site staff.)" ...

ENOUGH SAID...

now virtuous, you have once again come on here with no facts and just randomly started posting as you did in the other without reading the post to know who is saying what... next time read! and maybe i wont have to show you everything this kid has said.

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"(sarcasm incase anyone missed it)"...this was directed at me. Who said anything about attacking showdown? I know what he's said...AND? That has nothing to do with me or my comments...now you read.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

maybe you should read BEFORE that "sarcasm incase anyone missed it" I wasnt even talking too you, nor about you... what are you talking about... you have no kind of problem with thinking i would care enough to talk about you after you said you were dropping it? get off your high horse, everyone isnt talking about you.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

if i was talking about you, why would i inform you it was sarcasm? you took the hint on the other post i made that was sarcasm... i didnt know i had to inform you of any sarcasm i used... i ASSUMED you were smart enough to realize when i directed something at you... i usually say virtuous.

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wonder if "he" has the reports and documents to back up his claims.....cut and pasted from "his" post....

As for the devil being alive and well; first off, you're stupid for even believing, secondly, the world is no more violent now than it was 50, 500, or 5000 years ago.

HE always seems to demand proof from others...so let's see what this "wannabe Einstein" shows us.

We all know he is immature and living in his own little dream world and I emphasize "dream world".

Posted by turnthechannel (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

there are way too many people saying pray for roosters family i assume you all know him and his family. But where the prayers really need to go is to the Marsh family they have lost a son. Some of you may say well roosters family lost a son too. The way i look at it is they can go see rooster when ever they want but can the marsh family do the same. NO so pray for the right people and stop taking up for the wrong person. I say No dont pray for the Black family but that is my opinion for the time has passed. Where were all you at when they really needed praying for the first 12 times rooster went to court because he did something stupid. And yes i agree no more deals for drug dealers but blame the system not the police officer. They say i will let you go if you turn in a dealer so they do and go free but when does the dealer get arrested, never i think. I do think prayer works but some of you are putting rooster and his family first why. Pray for him what would you say God please forgive him but that is something that he needs to ask god not u. Pray for his family i know they need it to help them through the process all i said is the time for prayer was a long time ago with the problems leading up to this. But know our prayers need to go to the family of the deceased first they are the ones who have really lost someone. If you ask me i think they lost rooster a long time ago. Pray for everyone but some of u are really defending rooster and made me think he is the only one some of you are praying for. Pray for everyone it can only help

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

yes bama he always wants our proof but he has none for his outstanding facts he keeps spouting...

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

turn, i like that post

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 5:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

if only we could ID the smartest man on the Troy Messenger blogs... i could pull my media strings and get this covered nationwide! smartest guy on troy messenger blogs all over Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC

Posted by plamom02 (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i think you all need to find a chat room or a job perhaps......get a life and quit chatting on here!!!!

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 6:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

funny since you are on here too, pot calling the kettle black?

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 13, 2008 at 7:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

^5 for ghost and shifting....the guy feels he is a gift to all areas of expertise.

Well I want proof...even though he is probably only about 14.

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 8:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)

@shiftingshadows
High horse? You should be the last to say someone is on a high horse, Mr./Ms./Miss/Mrs. innocent, sinless, perfect who throws stones but is so high on your own ego of throwing those stones that you don't see, or even feel for that matter, the bricks thrown at you that are tearing your hide off. You always want to say something about not knowing facts. When clearly, your posts are not factual on the articles you're the main one posting in.

You feed off the comments of others, and like a cow, regurgetate off of them. From reading your post you know nothing about street life. And please, please don't say you have family and friends who is and have told you about it because there is no comparison. YOU are only TOLD what YOU can handle which doesn't even scratch the surface. You have your opinions about things just as well as I do but you have a problem when that opinion doesn't line up with yours. You have to be right about everything.

You have your thoughts about the street life and the game played in it and you're still wet behind the ears about it. When you're in the game...anything goes. Guess what? THERE ARE NO RULES! It doesn't start when someone is a victim, it starts the moment you step on the field.

So you get your facts straight. You should probably do that later because you are the star of a new TV sitcom you have to work on. Can you say CLUELESS?

When you ASSUME, you make an.......well you know the rest.

Posted by chhs03 (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 8:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"turnthechannel"- Do you know anything about this family? Actually they are all related, and i think our comments were to pray for BOTH families, i do believe you were the one saying NOT to pray for the Black family to begin with.

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Virtuous, it seems to me that your own description of me would be the same exact way i would describe you... thus making us 2 peas in a pod! :)

Posted by Virtuous (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I can agree with that. You know they always say two people who are the same, more often times than not, can't get along at times. Is your Zodiac sign Taurus? :)

Posted by shiftingshadows (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)

nope missed being a Taurus by 1 day, im the great Aries :D

Posted by 4TheLoveofTroy (anonymous) on November 14, 2008 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is a tragedy and it breaks my heart. I pray for everyone involved..... I pray that this may show the ones involved a way to a better life and maybe this could be the beginning of something good, rather than a tragic ending. I pray and hope for Nicole that she is able to deal with her loss and use this as a wake up call and make all the necessary changes in her life to make her daddy proud. She is going thru a terrible loss and in a terrible time of year, everyone needs to pray that someone can be saved from this horrible situation and all involved can find peace. Troy needs to band together....include all the nearby communities.... stand up to this terrible drug that is claiming the future of the community and stop it!!!

Posted by inaword (anonymous) on November 15, 2008 at 7:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Just a thought, but do you suppose that people who try this poison think..." I'll just try it once. Nothing will happen...I'm strong enough to resist it". And then; well we all know the rest of the story.

Posted by Bamabunny (anonymous) on November 15, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

For "inaword"

I think that some do exactly that.......try drugs "cause nothing will happen". Others try it because friends coax them into trying it...then they're hooked.

I cannot imagine having your entire body and life and everything you do dictated by illegal drugs...and wondering where the money is coming from next to pay for it. Then we have the crime to get the money to pay for it....then innocent people can be victims and the cycle starts all over again.

Posted by wareaglealways (anonymous) on November 22, 2008 at 2:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

OH my, I see my buddy shiftingshadows has posted here to, and of coarse our pain in the butt Virtuous, which I am assuming does not know the families involved here either, just has to make her statement. AND Yes I am A Taurus!! Knowing both families for over 25 years, I do pray for both famalies. Being part of the community and knowing Drugs play a Major Part in what happened here and sad to say I have friends that are Teachers, Nurses, Lawyers, Judges,Doctors, and ECT... Who have fallen to the power of Meth, and other drugs: It's everywhere "Not in just Poor Communties". Thankfully for the love of Jesus Christ that I have had all my life, My family has never had to endure the drug seen. Having friends and even strangers fall victim to this addiction, I Pray for our community, our family, our friends, and our nation, that we can come together as one, and love, and help each other. Being a supporter and sponsor of the D.A.R.E. Program "DRUG ABUSE RESISTANCE EDUCATION", We as a community need to make sure this program is not only implemented in our schools, but also in our homes, and our jobs. God bless our teachers, and we as parents do the best we can, and pray God will take care of the rest.