Reader: Why Don't Cops Investigate When Drunk Teens Do Something Stupid?

As we've reported, nineteen-year-old Austin Essig recently suffered serious injuries after jumping out a third-floor window. Police believe he may have done so under the influence of marijuana edibles, and an investigation is currently underway, with a release about the situation prompted by inquiries from two Denver television stations. Many...

By Michael Roberts

April 22, 2015

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As we've reported, nineteen-year-old Austin Essig recently suffered serious injuries after jumping out a third-floor window.

Police believe he may have done so under the influence of marijuana edibles, and an investigation is currently underway, with a release about the situation prompted by inquiries from two Denver television stations.

Many of our readers reacted to the story with frustration, seeing a double-standard in the way marijuana-related incidents are covered, particularly in comparison with alcohol.

Here's an example that's simple and straight to the point.

Aaron Patterson writes:

Would this be a story if a drunk teen did a stupid thing and got hurt?

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts. For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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