Quote:
Originally Posted by MAXUM
This is amazing.
Let's just for a minute subtract the entire case here for a minute and think about this in a more technical manner versus an emotional one. The very foundation of this country was that we as people can and should be free to do as we wish. In order to maintain a civilized society it's also necessary to put reasonable barriers or laws in place for the overall good of the citizens. These laws exist to protect our way of life and maintain a safe and orderly society. In order for things to function correctly these laws must be followed and if broken then with due process those violators will either be punished or exonerated. Now what good is it to have these laws if they are either not enforced or selectively enforced? What does that set as an example for everyone else as observers? What some are allowed to break the law and get away with no punishment but others may not? Sorry that's neither fair nor a precedent that should be set, or followed for that matter. As sad as this story may be, the facts of the case stand on themselves and there is just cause for punishment, and whatever personal suffering that may also be caused does not count in my opinion. Although there was no intention to cause harm, that doesn't mean a get out of jail free card. The fact there was alcohol involved lessens my sympathy. Either way harm was done, although not pre-meditated, it comes with consequences. As this circles back to where I started, we are given the right to choose what we do with our freedoms, but must also take responsibility for those choices. Anything less is a slap in the face to all of us law abiding citizens.
|
Have you ever gone through a stop sign or a red light and only realized after it was too late that you needed to stop? What if your actions resulted in an accident that killed someone because you were negligent? So should you lose your freedom because you committed a negligent act and enforcing the laws on the books is important?
What I can't stand through all of this had been the stance of some people who act as if they have never made a single bad decision or action in their life. I'll even wager that some on this board have driven while over the limit and may simply have never been caught.
The problem with her going to jail and anyone who may drive drunk is the punishment is reactionary. A mandatory jail sentence for first-time OUI would be more appropriate to be a deterrent BEFORE an accident happens.
Also, it appears that during the trial nobody on our expert law forum brought up the x-factor that if her face was maimed that it would lead to sympathetic jurors.
In the end, this will be about money. I suspect that Blizzard will or already has been sued in civil court.