...the prosecution completely blew that case...seemed like like they were almost trying to lose on purpose.
Rehabilitation is a goal, sure, as is justice (which I contrast with vengeance). However, depending on one's perspective, there can be several theoretical purposes. To serve as a deterrent to future potential offenders, and to offer protection (or peace of mind) to the innocent populace are two that would be relevant here.
But the question he asked (which I think I answered in my other post, and I'm curious for his response) is: "What is the purpose"? That is, what benefit to society is offered by the punishment being doled out? What are we hoping to accomplish by incarcerating an 81-year-old man? In my mind, showing other men that sexual assault will not be ignored, regardless of age, class, or status, is a worthy goal.
Perhaps. But to whom is this really necessary now? If the dude was 23 then that amount of time would be insufficient. But the reality is the dude probably does not have the time given. Who benefits in reality from this costs?
...I think it would be a slippery slope if we sent a message to criminals that if you commit a crime and can avoid prosecution for that crime until you are elderly you will be given a "get out of jail" card.
...if it somehow keeps even ONE predator from doing the same thing in the future...it's well worth it. ...if Cosby had done this to your daughter/relative I'm sure you'd have a different tone.
Precisely. See the other quoted posts? They all say the same thing, which relates to the portion of my earlier post you didn't address--deterrent to future potential offenders. Not punishing an old guy just because he's old is a bad precedent.
Yes, I agree. But I think it makes sense when the penalty in imposed to shorten their hunting days. Not when they are gone anyway. So I think the age is a useless part of the goal. Perhaps, following the teachings of Jesus would be a better fit with this timing.
