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Restorative justice must be proactive and not allow justice to fall
victim to emotions, especially in a high profile case such as the Beltway
sniper. We are not going to transform justice without a strong
commitment from the community. As I'm sure you're aware some of the
victims in this case came from Virginia. The good news is there is a very
dedicated restorative justice advocate looking at running for Attorney
General in the Commonwealth. The bad news is the election is a couple of
years away. Hopefully there will be proactive work toward justice in the
meantime.
You are correct that many (not all) restorative justice practitioners
do not support trying juveniles as adults. One of the truths of
restorative justice is that there can sometimes be jail time for the
offenders. I would certainly support going through a process of family
group conferencing with the juvenile. As for whether or not he deserves a
time in jail--the effected community should be the voice that is heard. A
lot of healing needs to be done in this matter and proactive steps need to
be taken to work to ensure that other youths never fall into such a
violent life.
Community ownership of restorative justice addresses the question of
creating vibrant communities where children have safe places to play and
go to school. Members of the community now each other and do not depend on
outside parties such as the police to resolve conflicts. At the same time
people know and care about each other.
Restorative justice is not a quick fix. It is a paradigm of looking
at justice as in which we work to prevent acts of violence.
-------Original Message-------
From: thansen@moscow.com
Date: Thursday, October
24, 2002 14:58:59
Subject: Re: What RJ
Might Look Like I learned from CNN this morning that one of the arrested alleged snipers in Maryland is a minor (17 years old). Realizing that restorative justice does not support trying minors as adults, how would you suggest that the court system handle this individual? And how would you justify your decision to family and loved ones of the victims? I realize that parents must assume responsiblity for raising their children and not simply blame the "system" when little Johnny or Mary end up in jail. I was born and raised in Los Angeles. How would you suggest handling inner-city youth that (in so many cases) have no other option (due to lack of any other support mechanism), but to join gangs (Crips and Bloods) and commit violent crimes? Patiently awaiting your response. Just another Angelino who attended public schools, Tom Hansen --------------------------------------------- This message was sent by First Step Internet. http://www.fsr.net/ . |
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