Justice
The recent Supreme Court decision upholding the federal sentencing guidelines (“Justices Uphold Sentencing Rules,” Part I, Jan. 19) ushers in a sad new chapter in American justice. The laudable underlying concept, equivalent punishment for equivalent crime, is lost in the cumbersome implementation which sends more people to prison for longer periods of time. Taxpayers will pay the astronomical monetary costs, our already overcrowded prisons will pay through violence, and we will all suffer as offenders return to the community embittered and enraged following this dehumanizing experience.
Offenders must be held accountable for their actions and some should be imprisoned. But let us search for alternatives that enable criminals to restore victims, the community and themselves. The Foundation for People has successfully implemented alternative sentences, including substantial community service contributions with remarkable success. True justice must be built on restoration--of victim, community and offender. In the long run this serves us all.
ELIZABETH NEPSTAD
Executive Director
Foundation for People Inc.
Los Angeles
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