It was reported on television news that "double dipping" goes on among some of Utah's police chiefs and sheriffs. While Utah has policies that make this possible, and therefore it is perfectly legal, it is still wrong. And although I agree with the commentator who featured this television report when he said, "It would be foolish of these men not to take advantage of the policy." But this is a poor excuse and it is still wrong, especially in a time when men are losing their jobs, services are being cut and lawmakers are creating ways to raise taxes in today's economy that has many families struggling to stay afloat.

I know that double dipping also goes on with some men in our military who retire and then are hired back as private contractors to do the same job they did before they "retired." I am also aware of the argument that this policy of allowing double dipping saves the cost of seeking and hiring replacements. But the cost savings will never off-set the cost incurred by the double paychecks that result. And it is wrong because it denies job opportunities to other candidates, especially in a time when so many are struggling to find honest work.

I don't believe for a minute that my letter will have any effect on this policy, but I also believe strongly that I need to voice my concerns about a policy that comes close to being legalized graft.

•Frank Millward, Pleasant Grove