PUNISHMENT OF GIRL MURDERERS

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27446, 4 September 1954, Page 3

PUNISHMENT OF GIRL MURDERERS

Sir, —It was reported in “The Press” that a person in high authority had said that one of the girls convicted of murder “would be given a taste of Mt. Eden.” The actual statement may be distorted, but as reported, it seems to be quite shocking. It suggested a purpose of retaliation. Is this a desirable attitude to persons who are still children, and who, despite all the tragedy, are still to be pited? Is it consistent with a society which regards itself as Christian and civilised? How can a vindictive attitude conceivably reform the girls, or benefit society? No-one with any real understanding of human nature could conceive that it could do either.—Yours, etc., ELLEN M. GREANEY. September 3, 1954.

Sir,—Has human character, temperament or physical make-up altered since the days when the Bible was compiled? In it there are no fewer than 44 references to demons, evil spirits, and the like. Much of the work of Christ and his followers was concerned with the casting out of these entities and the healing of the sufferers. Had they not existed then, would such attention have been given to the obsessed? In the name of Christ and His followers, is any such work attempted in hospitals, churches, or remedial institutions today in cases which give rise to questioning as to causation? Lombroso’s study of genius, insanity and criminality left vast fields for further workers. Were these covered by later scientists? —Yours, etc., MERCY AND JUSTICE UNRESTRAINED. September 3, 1954.

Sir,—Regarding the penalty of the Court imposed on the girls Parker and Hulme, and the deliberations as to how and where they should serve the sentence, we read the following expressions. “Give them a taste of Mount Eden.” and “the greatest penalty which can be inflicted upon them.” Would one of your readers, who has made a study of reforming criminals, suggest that this is the correct approach to the reforming of these two girls, who, in my opinion, are more to be pitied than blrmed. I have had the experience of leading to womanhood a family of girls, and I will say that these girls could have been guided to become respectable citizens of society. If revenge is the answer, might I suggest that it will be displaced if applied to them.—Yours, etc., September 3, 1954.

Sir, —I was amazed at the vindictiveness of the Minister of Justice towards the two girls convicted of murder, in his statements of his intentions about their punishment. It should be taken into account that though a jury of laymen decided that the girls were sane, two qualified psychiatists said they were insane. The legal definition ruled the Court decision; but if these girls are to be regenerated it will be by medical understanding and direction. I think that the advice and help of the psychiatrists for the defence should be included in all that is undertaken regarding these girls in their confinement and treatment. I cannot imagine that the mother of the girl Parker would desire undue harshness towards either girl could her voice be heard at this time.—Yours, etc., x , COMMENTATOR. September 3, 1954.