Counting the Cost

On the front page of this morning's Statesman Journal was a picture of Kevin Mannix and Lane Shetterly debating the merits of Measure 73 which would impose longer prison sentences on sex offenders and other convicted criminals. I know Shetterly and he is a nice guy, but his argument that Measure 73 will cost too much is specious. Why? An editor with a sense of humor gave the answer when he/she ran a lead story at the top of the second section entitled: " Public Warned About Sex Offender."

It seems that although this sterling example of rehabilitated humanity is presently out of the joint, the authorities think the chance of him re-offending with little girls ages 8-14 is about 100% and imminent. When he does, how much do you think it will cost in wrecked lives, counseling costs, police investigative costs, prosecution costs, and another round at the joint? I'd rather just avoid all the costs to little girls, their families, and the law enforcement system and pay for an extended stay at the joint. I realize this cuts into the funds that politicians have to fund their pet projects, but oh well; I always thought that one of the paramount obligations of government was to protect its citizens. So sorry Lane and up with Measure 73!