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Lurkette,
I didn't mean to overreact, but you must admit that this type of crime - where a cop almost pays with his life - is one that stirs the emotions.
What changes would I make? That is a good question. To be honest, I have never thought about that. Now is as good a time as any. I don't know exactly what changes would effect better rehabilitation, but at the same time I'm not so sure that rehabilitation is the answer. Look at this guy - he's been in the slammer and under probation. Apparently rehabilitation didn't work for him. And if recidivism is on the rise, it's not working for a lot of other people, either.
What evidence do I have that the system is about not punishing the criminal? OJ Simpson, for one. OK, that's an extreme example, but what about the countless people who drive drunk, received a slap on the wrist, then do it again and kill someone? What about the ease with which killers claim insanity and get counseling instead of jail time?
Punishment works for me. If I went to jail, that would be all the warning I need not to commit a crime again. So that makes me wonder what's up with the criminals who go back and back again. Can they be rehabilitated, if they don't get the hint from serving time in jail? I guess one of the changes I would make would be to make prisons a lot less comfortable. I know that sounds harsh and antiquated, but I think people would be a lot less willing to commit a crime again if they knew that they had to look forward to gruel twice a day and solitary confinement.
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"I'm disinclined to acquiesce to your request." - Capt. Barbossa
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