Criminal Justice System Needs Healing

In response to the letter (“Sentencing in Mob Attack Was Justified,” April 23) regarding the sentencing of two violent young men, (Russell Takeo) Scarce and (Derek Thomas) Jones: Pam Brande is almost right.

First, we all have the right to a vigorous and intelligent defense, so kudos to attorney Kathy Jensen for trying her best.

Second, there is an obvious answer to (Brande’s) question “Am I missing something?” Both men had prior assault records. Here is where the question and the answer carry the same energy.

We all must wake up to the fact that our justice system is breaking down. More prisons are not the answer. Rehabilitation, corrections and treatment can work for all but a small percentage of criminals and are cheaper, more humane and more effective than warehousing. Our system no longer offers healing because we have been blinded by our anger.

I hope we will begin to think with our hearts. Love, compassion and forgiveness can heal all wounds. Scarce and Jones were wounded long before they attacked Rueben Charles Vaughn. Punishment is in order, but there is more.

DANNY O’CONNOR

Director, Visions for Prisons

Costa Mesa