Medical Samples

I read [“Boys Get Into Lab Samples Behind Clinic,” Feb. 18] with some disbelief. Where was the discussion of the illegality of the boys’ behavior, and the criminal and financial liabilities of such behavior?

There was mention of one of the parents contacting the police. I commend that parent, and assume that action was to help the son understand the gravity of his actions and help him rectify the wrong. I’m sure the costs, in terms of time (to retake all of the destroyed samples), money (charges the individuals or clinic will incur to retake the samples), and worry (ill patients anxiously awaiting sample results), are large.

Yes, discussion of the safety or practice of leaving unlocked containers is warranted, but half the news story was left out, including the discussion of how wrong it is for anyone (child or adult) to take liberties with possessions that do not belong to them.

ELAINE LITSTER, North Hills