Law and Order
For elected officials, the mantle of “Guardian of Law and Order” is frequently a stepping stone to higher office. Occasionally, however, “Law and Order” is not the cry the crowd wants to hear.
In the case of released rapist Lawrence Singleton, too many California politicians are playing to the crowd, directly contributing to a lynch-mob mentality. They need to be reminded that their sworn duty is to uphold the law, even when the law protects the rights of an unpopular parolee.
Putting Singleton on the grounds of San Quentin is a temporary solution. I hope that the time it allows for thoughtful reflection will produce less public frothing from elected officials, and a greater commitment to true law and order.
RICHARD G. HIRSCH
President
California Attorneys
for Criminal Justice
Los Angeles
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