Today's Post Of Stupidity(r)!

[kandrathe]

Then let them ride and let them die.

That works. You should have the right to be stupid, but then the roller coaster is the park's property.

Other than semantics, what's the difference between "fines based on ability to pay" and "uniform fines, plus (I presume mandatory) restitution based on ability to pay"?

To me, it seems the "Fine" is the punishment, in lieu of say a jail sentence. But, restitution is arbitrary, and determined by a judge. Many times I've noticed around my area that those with the means to pay more, are levied the maximum fine, and also asked to pay large amounts in "restitution". They also tend to be sentenced more often to many hours of community service, and "the work house". The work house is a detention program which allows the convicted to leave the minimum security jail to go to work only. The poor criminals seemed to be judged as able to contribute less to society and so get prison terms.

I, for one, want both a reduction in unnecessary and intrusive restrictions and much increased punishment for violation of those things which indeed should be crimes. Maximum freedom coupled with maximum responsibility. In this, at least, I am no moderate.

I'm with you. I'm ready for the pendulum to swing back to normality. I'm in favor of a system that treats violent crimes like rape, armed robbery, and murder as the most serious crimes.

Ever hear the phrase... ...At best, that person is only a nuisance (but even a buzzing fly gets swatted).

I think a judge and jury should be able to consider the nature of prior similiar convictions, but to a limit. If you are busted for some youthful mistake, how long should that crime haunt one, once the justice is satisfied. There have been many cases publicized lately where youthful indiscretions are factored into felony convictions 10 - 20 years later.

Here are some examples; Families to Amend California's Three-Strikes (FACTS)