Bandleader Woody Herman

The manner of Woody Herman’s death is a reminder that in the Land of the Free, citizens still lack freedom from persecution by the Internal Revenue Service. While Herman may well have died of heart failure, it may be equally true to say that the IRS broke his heart. It seems this arm of government has more latitude in its operations and means at its disposal than do most law-enforcement and public agencies.

I have lived and dealt with tax-collection agencies on three continents. The zeal, even viciousness, with which the IRS pursues its business is not matched anywhere in the free world. I submit this overkill is indecent and counterproductive.

JAMES DAGAN

Pacific Palisades