Parents of the children abused at a summer camp think the son of Sen. Ken Bennett (R) of Arizona got reduced charges because he was the son of a powerful politician. Ya think?
Clifton Bennet pleaded guilty to assaulting boys in their cabin by poking a broomstick, a flashlight and cane in their rears. Though they claimed no penetration occurred, the offense was categorized as aggravated assault and because they were held against their will it was also kidnapping. County Attorney Sheila Polk rejected demands from parents that she press sexual assault charges stating there was no sexual intent or penetration.
No sexual intent? Oh but of course people go around poking each other in the butt just for fun. Well in my community they do, but it is definitely done with sexual intent.
When I look at this case closer I have to agree with the judge. I think the assaults were the result of a hazing prank gone too far, however to say there was no sexual intent is erroneous.
Teenagers are always exploring outlets for their sexual urges. Whether they know it or not much of that exploration can take the form of same-sex behavior, and in a repressive society the urge for same-sex contact can become masked in aggression.
I think they deserve punishment, but more importantly they need counseling to find out where all that misplaced aggression came from. Otherwise, they will probably do it again, and maybe next time with disastrous results.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment