2007-12-07

Free Richard Latimer

Richard Latimer was ridiculously denied parole by a three-member parole board for not showing "proper insight" for killing (in the name of mercy) his 12-year old disabled daughter. What the heck does that mean? He needs more counseling? Please.

I think he and his family suffered enough. We're acting as if he is a cold blooded murderer. He's not.

Yet, Karla Homolka - an unrepentant murderess - roams our streets freely as a result of a "deal" to nab Paul Bernardo.

Something is wrong with this picture. Latimer poses no threat to society.

Free him.

6 comments:

  1. Latimer refused to express remorse and he refused categorically to promise he would not kill again if similar circumstances occurred.
    What alternative did the parole board have than to return him to the slammer for another two years?

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  2. Yes, Neil good point. In a strict legal way, the parole board had little choice; though I think we could have been a little more progressive here.

    What if he still believes in his heart this is what was best for his daughter? Don't get me wrong, I'm still undecided on the issue but I think he paid his debt and many would probably agree. Realistically speaking, in terms of remorse, they want him to do so under the premise that it was murder as we define it. Of course, this is the crux of the debate here right?

    Promise what exactly? He doesn't have any other disabled children and for us to be concerned it would entail he being a threat to society at large; which I don't believe (but I can be wrong) he is.

    Your angle gets to the heart of this interesting debate: traditional law versus the theory of mercy killing.

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  3. Anonymous12/07/2007

    Commentator:

    I think you have framed the issue very well indeed: legalism vs. humaneness. I think I come down on the side of the latter and I certainly don't think he is a risk to kill again.
    Would it be possible for you to call me sometime at 514 - 486 - 8466?
    Neil

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  4. Will endeavour to do so shortly.

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  5. I come down on the side of Latimer. I think the Commentator makes his case.

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  6. It's a tough one no doubt.

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Mysterious and anonymous comments as well as those laced with cyanide and ad hominen attacks will be deleted. Thank you for your attention, chumps.