Serial Killer in Milwaukee

In response to “The Issue in the Horror of Milwaukee,” editorial, July 28:

Perhaps one day conservative, tightfisted voters will open their eyes to the poor return on their prison construction dollars and address the mental health needs of inmates during and after their incarceration. Spending alternative funds on an aggressive parole/probation system that could include free mental health counseling and treatment could pay a far higher return in terms of both public safety and lessening human misery.

Most inmates are not convicted of sex crimes or murder and it would be a pity to allow hysteria to cripple the early release system that allows offenders to pick up their lives as soon as possible. What is needed is a broad program to monitor parolees and attempt to help them adjust to an increasingly difficult social structure for the sake of themselves, their families and the public. Many people can be helped to live a socially acceptable life.

LEN LARSON

Los Angeles