April 23, 2007 — I went to a rally today. It was an assembly against a particular judge. Most of the people strongly felt that the judge has ignored the rights of victims of crime and he should be impeached. These people took time from their daily lives to express outrage. (See "'Silent' Protest Against Judge Kendall Draws Diverse Crowd, Approving Honks.")
In my work, I appeared before that judge nearly every week for about a year. No one can look into another man's heart, but I honestly believe that this judge feels that he did right thing with the information that he had at the time, and that he cannot predict tragic consequences.
I remember this judge’s deep concern to save people who had fallen on hard times. This was especially apparent with young people. I saw him as a man who strongly believes in the ability of people to attain inner strength and natural integrity of the human spirit. I believe that the judge feels that most people can do miracles with their lives, given the opportunity.
“Most people.” And therein lies the dilemma.
The judge and I grew up in a different generation. We had positive role models who made a difference in our lives. I had a Mr. Quinlan who opened my world to the humor of Robert Benchley. Some had a Ms. Thomas or Mr. Petersen. Most people had a chance to learn. Most people have loving families. But all people do not.
I came into my job believing that all human beings share a common sense of self worth attained by introspection. I came into this job believing that all people question their actions, seek out from others and alter their lives for the better as they get older. I am not so certain anymore.
Shortly after Sherett James’ murder, a victim told me that she was threatened to obey or she would "end up like that girl the cop killed." I remember the chill I felt at that moment. I realized that some people view horrific incidents as a course of action, not something ugly, heinous and repulsive.
Dear reader, do you think it possible that someone, in the past two weeks, in the Virgin Islands, has told a child to do something, or "you'll end up like that little girl?" A year ago, I would say, “No, never.” Now I am not so sure.
Beware of the loner. Beware of the person who is always right. Beware of the person who is not likely to read a newspaper. Applaud persons who are socially involved. Applaud those who work together for positive change. Applaud those who convey positive messages to other cultures.
Given the immense body of concern in our Legislature, is it possible to pass emergency legislation that will dictate social policy on bail issues that works in conjunction with federal guidelines and (further) defines what a judge must consider when granting bail? Is it possible to make victims’ needs a cornerstone of our new constitution? We have the power to do this.
Pass emergency legislation. Address awful acts by creating a legacy for protection of all victims of crime. Our problem is at home. It is our obligation to solve this problem through the law-making process at home.
Editors note:We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
Editor's note:Robert Kunkel is a domestic violence attorney working with Legal Services of the Virgin Islands.
