Tuesday, March 27, 2007

Jessica's Law? Passed?

As I stated in an earlier post, the bill that passed the House and Senate is NOT Jessica’s Law. This bill is a slap in the face to every kid who has been violated by an adult. This bill will do NOTHING to protect kids. An extra two years in jail? Please, you can serve more time for kicking a dog.

You might read in the paper tomorrow that Jessica’s Law passed and Random Politician #1 will say “It was the right thing to do for the kids” and Random Politician Number #2 will say “I hope our mothers and fathers feel safer.” You know the usual political rhetoric.

Why couldn’t just one elected official have the testicular fortitude to submit a stronger bill? Well, at least the females have an excuse.

Saturday, March 03, 2007

HB 930 + SB 413 = JOKE

Yes, I realize this blog is on life support. I am just too busy right now. Hopefully, I can post a little more.

I am going to cut to the chase. Our brain trusts down in Annapolis are inserting language into Md Code Criminal Law Section 3-304 (2nd Degree Rape). Legal Force 2007 (As I have come to name the 2007 General Assembly) is going to make the mandatory minimum for 2nd Degree Rape non-paroable DURING THE MANDATORY MINIMUM SENTENCE.

Ok, now come my thoughts

A) 2nd Degree Rape includes vaginal intercourse with a minor under 14 by an individual who is 4 years older. Yep, that is your standard child rape.

B) The mandatory MINIMUM sentence is FIVE YEARS. This is not changing.

C) The mandatory MAXIMUM sentence for 2nd degree rape is STILL TWENTY YEARS. This is not changing.

D) The non-paroable provision APPLIES ONLY DURING THE FIRST FIVE YEARS! Yep, you can get out with parole after five years and one day.

E) Certain advocacy groups are pleading for people to attend the hearing on March 13 to support this absolutely pathetic attempt to protect kids. Why? What's the point?

F) So, instead of a person possibly only serving 3 years after parole, they will potentially only serve five with no parole. WHOOP-DE-DOO!

I know some of you think that Republicans need to compromise. For those of you who do, I would love for you to approach a child who has been raped of his or her innocence and explain compromise.

I hate politicians.