Something to Think About
From time to time people express the opinion that
taxpayers' money should not be used to provide the special privileges of
protective custody to inmates guilty of brutal sexual crimes.
Supporters of this position frequently point out that those
contemplating such crimes might think twice if they knew they would be
thrown into jail with other inmates who would likely try to pay them
back for their crimes. What do you think? Should criminals of this sort
be protected from the brutal "justice" often handed out by other
prisoners? Give reasons for your answer.
Suggested Answer: Experience has shown that putting prisoners of this sort into the general prison population is just like signing their death warrants. Since Canada has rejected the death sentence in its criminal justice system, to suggest a step like this seems contradictory. Some people might respond, of course, that we should simply bring back the death penalty - a suggestion that opens up yet another area of controversy. If this issue interests you, you will get a chance to look into it later when dealing with controversial issues.