To the editor:

In “Rapist receives jail term after parole violations,” Eric Weslander starts off his lead with, “She didn’t give him another chance.” I have to disagree with this statement because she did give him another chance when she originally sentenced him and decided to let him go free while sending the message: You’ve done nothing wrong, so you therefore do not deserve punishment. The fact that the rapist violated his probation proves this is the exact attitude he received and has.

A few months ago, Judge Martin sentenced another rapist to 21 years in prison. Why the sudden change of heart? Because her friends weren’t defending him? Because she wanted to play a role in vindicating the victimized? Because she wanted to do what’s right?

I do not credit her with finally sending the appropriate message in that this behavior will not be tolerated and justice will be served when one rapes or sexually abuses, violates, molests and assaults another. I credit those who spoke out against Judge Martin and her abuse of power. The group’s lasting effects are obvious and innumerable. Because of their efforts, maybe now victims will be the ones given another chance.

Becky Bridson,

Lawrence