hi, we watched with horror the channel 4 documentary in the uk and can not stop thinking about Paul and his family and the effect it must be having on all.
I've told everyone I can about the case and fail to see how a nation that feels its children does not have the mental capacity to vote, drink, smoke, vote or indeed take up arms for war has the ability to stand up to an older stronger boy. The difference ,as one journalist for The Independent wrote, between 12 and 15 is enourmous. indeed a study published today by our government education department is arguing that 9 months within a school year deserves additional weighting by the education/teaching system. That kids with a summer birthday as opposed to September have a disproportionate starting point.
12 years old, no prior and a good family - for heavens sake!
We have had a few 'sensational' murder cases by children on in fact other children - their sentances have been mere walks in the park compared to the ridiculous weight of misplaced 'righteousness' being heaped on this young boy. We can only assume this a corrupt politisied justice system which does not play well to an international audience. Indeed we have been hearing about a judge in pensvaynia (I believe) who has been jailed for 20 years for taking bribes from prisons to keep juveniles locked up! Our government is currently and quietly allowing US prisons to bid for UK institutions. I don't fancy the idea of my kids being locked up on the whim of idiots looking for political column inches on the backs of children.
I know you probably have all been through this anger and we are a long way from the US but my family, friends and I send you our support. if there is anything we can do for Paul and his family please let us know......
