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July 02, 2004
Commit the crime...let us sort it out.
Being partnered with Michael has opened my eyes regarding the injustice system in this country, and I have come out firmly on the side of a number of different issues:
- Restoration of criminal voting rights. I overheard a lady at our local Pollo Tropical complaining about the fact that she didn't want hardened criminals having a say in the elections. Florida is unique in that convicted felons have to petition the governor to restore their voting rights. They've paid society back. This should be automatic. Besides, anyone still involved in criminal activity is not likely to add their voice to the booth on voting day. Of course, It is no secret that the Governor Jeb Bush of Florida held up a number of petitions for restoration before the 2000 presidential election. Likely reason? Felons tend to vote Democrat.
- End Mandatory Minimums. This is why we have judges. Sometimes the same crime is not the same crime, and doesn't deserve the same time. Judges should be left with the right to impose lesser sentences.
- Abolition of the Death Penalty. Firstly, you can buy a life sentence—hire the right lawyers and you can even get away with murder. The death penalty is overwhelmingly used on the poor, notably those of non-white origin. Secondly, we've seen that mistakes can, and have been made. Thirdly, it's simply wrong. Nobody has the right to take a life; whether it be an individual or society as a whole. The death penalty is simply fodder for a mob mentality.
I'm on the email list for Floridians for Alternative to the Death Penalty. I'm always getting interesting information from them.
Sam Reese Sheppard's father was wrongly convicted for killing his pregnant mother in a famous 1954 case often believed to be the inspiration for "The Fugitive." He is quite active, both in his own father's case and with efforts to end the death penalty. His website is fastinating: Sam Reese Sheppard: Seeking the Truth.
Posted by Bastique at July 2, 2004 02:33 PM