Justice Miscarried

Barry Siegel’s “Rough Justice” (Dec. 18) is a remarkable piece of writing. I wish that all those connected with the case were required to read the article, because although the case was unique in its details, the outcome was not. Maybe then the judge, defense attorney and jury would find it somewhat more difficult to glibly acquit themselves in the name of simply having done their legal duty. I’ve heard that line, spoken in the interest of salving a sore conscience, too often to trust it.

Fred Scifers

Downey

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I chose the law as a profession because I wanted a career in a field where the search for truth was considered a noble endeavor. I also believed in the death penalty, thinking that truth-seeking attorneys could prevent an occurrence such as the framing of Joe Burrows--or any other individual. Sadly, I face disappointment daily.

Siegel’s article has caused me to rethink my position on the death penalty, not because I consider it a cruel and unusual punishment but because it is too risky having a human life depend on people motivated by greed, laziness, power and other flaws. I fear a society where those assigned to protect and defend are no better, and perhaps worse, than the criminals.

I weep more for such an easily corruptible system than I do for Joe Burrows.

Donna Bader

Tustin