Punishment For Repeatedly Raping Child Over 4 Years? 60 Days In Prison

Judicial arrogance at its rock-bottom worst:

There was outrage Wednesday when a Vermont judge handed out a 60-day jail sentence to a man who raped a little girl many,many times over a four-year span starting when she was seven.

The judge said he no longer believes in punishment and is more concerned about rehabilitation.

Prosecutors argued that confessed child-rapist Mark Hulett, 34, of Williston deserved at least eight years behind bars for repeatedly raping a littler girl countless times starting when she was seven.

But Judge Edward Cashman disagreed explaining that he no longer believes that punishment works.

Well, dickhead, you may believe that, but the laws in force in the state do not, and you are appointed to enforce the existing laws, not substitute the ones you would prefer.

Anyone ever notice that it's only the liberal judges who arrogate this sort of power to themselves? When's the last time you heard of a law & order type conservative judge giving a man 50 years for jaywalking, just because he thinks "all laws are deserving of tough enforcement"?

Unbelievable.

Thanks to Craig, via Michelle.

It's Not Always Liberal Judges: Even as I wrote that, I knew I shouldn't say "only." Let's just say it's more common. A lot more common.

Geoff corrects--

Well, in fairness, I recall some judges (particularly in Texas) giving huge sentences for marijuana possession to "send a message" to other law-breakers.

I'm against that, of course. This judge, however, is a lot worse, because he's decided, on his own authority, that punishment is no longer an acceptable consideration in sentencing criminals. Even when sentencing child rapists.

posted by Ace at 03:47 PM

| Access Comments