Letters: Food for thought on prisoners

Re “How to end the hunger strike,” Opinion, Aug. 16

Tom Hayden fails to mention that the inmates made at least one mistake — and were committed to prison for that mistake.

Just as they knew of the consequences of their choosing to commit a crime, they know that fasting also has fatal consequences — and again of their own choosing.

I admire Hayden’s humanitarian concern for the prisoners, but for perpetrators of criminal behavior to make demands concerning the conditions of their imprisonment seems at least excessive. They may not be enjoying gourmet meals, but I’m sure the food is safe and edible.

To choose not to eat is a decision no different from the decision to commit a crime. One must endure the consequences of one’s decisions.

We must provide the inmates with educational opportunities that will make them productive citizens when they are released and thus reduce the incidence of recidivism.

Sam Armato
Manhattan Beach
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