The recent conscience vote on the issue of hanging in Parliament has predictably created controversy among the various interest groups. Those who have voted against it have done so primarily on the basis that it will not be a deterrent, nor will it solve the spiralling crime problems we have been experiencing, views which I think are factual and well established, but lack balance, in that they fail to highlight the fact that jailing offenders does not reduce crime either.

Correctional services data have confirmed that there are indeed instances where men, and to a lesser extent women, convicted and sentenced for long terms have simply not learnt from their mistakes nor has incarceration deterred them from committing further crimes. It is in light of this, that I would submit that incarcerating convicted murderers, who for some reason might be paroled or released, might not deter them from committing similar acts again.

Crime problem

Within this context also, the proponents who are against hanging, it would seem, are not aware, that recidivism has contributed immensely to our crime problem, and that it has been a major concern to legislators and law enforcers.

The groups and persons who are against hanging, must be realistic in their proposals and suggestions and should accept that we are not living in a utopian society where all human beings have the same propensity for good. The reality is, that there are persons who will never be rehabilitated, and are hell-bent on creating mayhem despite efforts to change their mindset. The law was created to punish appropriately offenders of heinous crimes, and until it has been removed it should indeed take its course.

Fabricating evidence

I am cognisant, though, of the concern raised by human rights groups of the state of our justice system which is lacking and deficient and lends itself to being compromised and manipulated by the very enforcers of the law, which often infringes on the rights of persons charged and placed before the court, a fact which was highlighted recently through the confession of a police officer who admitted fabricating evidence.

Therefore, it would, indeed, be in the best interest of all concerned that these issues be resolved expeditiously by taking every step and utilising resources needed and available to reform our justice system before there is any reintroduction of hanging, in order to ensure that the right man will be caught and fairly dealt with.

I am, etc.,

ERROL McLEISH

ermarlii16@hotmail.com

Daytona, Greater Portmore

St Catherine