Monday, May 17, 2010

Supreme Court wrong on sentencing

Today the Supreme Court limited the option to sentence youth to life without parole in cases where there wasn't a homicide. This is totally wrong.

We are dealing with really dangerous people who are capable of making rational decisions. They can't be released safely into society. Even if this decision doesn't guarantee them release, the message it sends is inappropriate.

As a society we should demand that young people be held accountable for all of their actions. I think that young people should be offered much more freedom in terms of entertainment choices, driving privileges, ability to consent to potentially dangerous activities like sports or bungee jumping, and even drinking alcohol/smoking, etc.

Yet, they must be held 100% responsible for their behavior. Many young people are incredibly strong and smart. In some of the worst occasions they are both.

The Supreme Court shouldn't substitute it's judgement for the legislature in a case like this.

That's true whether I agree with their outcome or not.

No comments: