Quote:
Originally Posted by C.Evans
Hi Michelle, I think your idea is a grand idea but, I think that those who vandalize, will not learn their lesson if that is all they have to do. In order to make them learn, unfortunately, these kids will have to pay fines, but spent time in jail and also be made to clean up other vandalized buildings and such.
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I agree, that they should have to clean the mess they make. And they should have to do volunteer work until they have made restitution for the cost of the damage. I just think they need to experience the human factor, as well. The process needs to teach them the respect for other people and for other's belongings - be it personal or public property - that they obviously lack.
I do work in the criminal justice system. I am pretty much middle of the road - neither of the extremes which can exist in the system. What I've been learning from evidence and statistics here is that the sooner the intervention and re-education (ahh sounds so Orwellian) of those who haven't learned basic values begins, the less likelihood they will end up in the system later. It's always a balance between what freedoms and restrictions we place on each other as a society. No one who vandalizes, especially something like a Veterans memorial, should get off without punishment; but the systems have to function these days as though they are the parent who is trying to not only punish, but also teach better behaviour and why. Jail time really can't be something done casually as a catch-all punishment, believe me there are horror stories and sometimes a kid's life is ruined by much more than a record when they are incarcerated. Now a monitoring bracelet/anklet and house arrest, outside of court directed activities - that I would definitely back! For a teenager losing your freedom while being able to see others have it would be instructive.
People with sound values don't turn into people who descrate (particularly as a peace protest!) or don't value other peoples lives, liberty, and property. Sometimes we need to help those without values to learn them.