Sexual Predators

“Slamming Door on Predators” (May 2) examines the problem of releasing sexual predators, child molesters and rapists from prison when they finish their sentences. No institution and no open society wants them because the risk of re-offense is so high.

There is a good solution. Why not use one of the largely uninhabited Channel Islands as a permanent residence for these dregs of humanity? At comparatively little cost, an island could be made habitable, and the wide Pacific moat would ensure security. It could be a pleasant, bucolic Eden where the deviants could wander freely over miles of landscape. They could cultivate farms for food, desalinate water and generate power, making this a cageless jail that would almost be self-sustaining.

Naysayers may protest, but I believe that society’s right to protect itself transcends the purported constitutional liberties of those who clearly don’t deserve them.

LOUIS M. NEUMARK

Tarzana

* I was appalled to read Rep. James Rogan’s (R-Glendale) comments. As a deputy public defender I have represented clients charged under the Sexually Violent Predator Act since 1996. But I speak for myself and not the public defender’s office when I ask if Rogan has given any thought to the circumstances which cause men to commit sex offenses. Many of my clients were severely abused (physically and sexually) and neglected as children.

If Rogan were more interested in preventing sex offenses than in grandstanding, he would sponsor legislation aimed at early childhood intervention instead of calling for executions.

NANCY RAMSEYER

Los Angeles