Stephen Harper's American style justice not needed in Canada

by Tom Brewer, Saskatchewan Independent Editorialist

As we head to election day on 14 October 2008, we have to consider what Stephen Harper will do to our criminal justice system, if he should be re-elected. In my opinion he wants it to be more like the American version: Minimum sentences and no probability of parole.

To make matters worse, he too will likely tie the hands of judges meaning no hope for an accused. Yes we have problems, but do we need to emulate our U.S. neighbours on the belief they are right?

This is, and has been, the American way for years. However, many Americans have found out this method is not working. The present method used is very costly and given the economy they realize the method used, is not performing as they had hoped.

Oh, it seems Harper is intent to effect change in Canada too. I dare suggest he has not looked into the pitfalls of our American neighbour's approaches to "fighting crime".

"America the beautiful", eh? Yet, things are far from what they should be in America! How about a young American serving 100 months in prison for a crime he did not commit? Is that justice?

Yes, a young American in an Oregon prison yet the evidence solely the young girl who was known to extol “do me or I scream rape…” to others. How about a DA who provided immunity to other young men for doing this horrible act as long as they would not testify on behalf of young Colton Calhoun.

No provisions for DNA or medical/hospital reports either. A young mans life is in ruins based solely on her words. Colton told the girl months prior he did not want to be associated with her.

In Oregon, it seems as if one can lie and ruin others lives doing so. One only has to look at the number of men some of them pretty young to realize the law is being abused.

We certainly do not need American justice like this but if we elect Harper that is how it will be. We have seen the way he operates too many times.

The ABC (Anything But Conservative) does have merit, and I would ask all to seriously rethink their plans to vote for Stephen Harper.

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