Monday, May 02, 2005

Cold Feet Can Be Expensive

The strange events of Jennifer Wilbanks' disappearance does create many questions. However, there are some questions which are not being asked. For instance, why are we so eager to have her reimburse the city/county/state for costs they incurred to search for her?

Let's take it a step further. Why are we not demanding the same from the criminals? Remember Brian Nichols? There has been no public debate about him reimbursing the city/county/state/federal governments for their expenses. Or those long and dangerous police chases, do those apprehended pay for the damage they cause?

Restitution must be a part of any reform. Requiring restitution by criminals will drive the point of personal responsibility home.

While irresponsible adult behavior can be forgiven, it does not mean that the consequences of those actions are dismissed. Jennifer may have great difficulty paying the $100,000 some have estimated, but it would be reasonable for her to receive an invoice for services rendered.

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