Hang innocents as deterrent
published: Thursday | February 21, 2008
The Editor, Sir:
'Hang even the innocent' was the front page headline of The Sunday Gleaner (February 17). The article stated that as a result of a recent poll conducted among 1,008 respondents in 84 communities across the island, people are supporting the reinstating or resumption of hanging. It further stated that their decision to support the death penalty was based on a high level of frustration and perhaps, not a true reflection of belief or choice.
This being due to the fact that they were seeing no other alternative to the dilemma that the cold-blooded murders permeating the country brought on. Their view is that it really does not matter if a few innocent persons get hanged, if this will stop the foolishness that pervades.
As callous and cold as this statement may sound, it might truly be a deterrent. You see sir, no one wants to die even if the 'given' is old age or illness, much more to die for no reason. Therefore, the deterrent in hanging is the fact that someone could be innocent and still get hanged. This alone should evoke fright and jolt prospective murderers back to reality.
Up in arms
The report also attested to the fact that human rights lobby groups are still 'up in arms' against the resumption of hanging. What other suitable or effective alternative have they provided? Perhaps, just talk about 'rights' and 'laws'. Will this, in any way, stop the callous, cold-blooded murders? I don't think so. The chairperson of one such group expressed sadness about the poll result, but said that she was not surprised considering the willingness of some Jamaicans to participate in vigilante justice. I do not believe that most Jamaicans enjoy the vigilante act, but rather it is the result of having enough of what they cannot savour.
It is indeed sad that human beings have to resort to such extremes to be heard, but it is the reality of life. Losing a few innocents to save many innocents will certainly hurt, but it may not be a bad idea. It would realise the adage, "hunger mek puss naam parch corn".
