It seems harsh to give them a record
Dear Sir,
I would like to comment on the first part of the editorial in the 14th April issue of your paper where you discuss the punishment of certain acts.
While not condoning those who commit anti-social behaviour, it seems harsh to give them a record unless it is a continuing event or significantly harms others.
It is sufficient that they be named, shamed and fined as appropriate with occasional community punishments.
As you state, people change and there can be few of us who do not regret certain acts in our life.
By all means do whatever is necessary to prevent future similar deeds or deter similar crimes.
However, do not punish people for a lifetime for undertakings that are only of significant consequence in the now.
Yours sincerely,
Dr Peter Hirst
Middlewich