CRIME: Compare and contrast

The Saturday and Sunday editions of The Press present contrasts in the way our society treats criminals.

Saturday, Ralph Bartholdt reported on the continuing trial for the alleged killer of Sgt. Moore. With justice dragging on for more than two years, taxpayers continue to pour money into Renfro’s elaborate defense, as well as housing and feeding him in comfort.

Contrast that to Syd Albright’s story on Sunday about George Parrott, who took part in the killing of a deputy sheriff and a railroad detective. One of Parrott’s gang was grabbed by local citizens, marched to town and promptly hung in public view. After being on the run, Parrott was arrested, convicted, and hung in what some might say was an inhumane fashion — all in a few months. Not to wish for the “Good Ol’ Days,” but can’t we find some middle ground in our justice system?

MIKE KINCAID

Hayden Lake