A Nation's Shame

Few things are taken more seriously in Canada than the game of hockey, including it seems punishing convicted child molesters. Graham James, the hockey coach convicted years ago of sexually molesting Sheldon Kennedy,  was recently sentenced two two years in prison for sexually abusing former NHL superstar Theo Fleury and his cousin Todd Holt. This sentence was LESS than the one he received for abusing Kennedy. One would think the punishment would be more severe for a repeat offender who has abused who knows how many others, a monster who took advantage of innocent people using a position of authority to serve his own twisted means. These were children, young men who turned to him to help them make their NHL dreams come true, and he abused that trust. He stole their youth and damaged them irreparably. His actions were the lowest form of humanity and there is no justifying how such a sentence could be warranted in an civilized society. Call it a joke, a farce, a travesty, an insult, any synonym you want, it is a failure not only to the victims but to those who continue to suffer in silence. It sets a terrible president and lessens the victims suffering to almost meaningless significance. We are supposed to protect those who cannot necessarily protect themselves, and this is no way to do that. It is embarrassing and as a country we should be outraged, shamed and shocked at such a terrible miscarriage of justice. In many countries Graham James may have been received at least life in prison if not a death sentence or castration. I'm not suggesting he be killed, but to say he will only serve two years, likely less, then be free again to life his life and possibly re-offend is simply appalling. How the judge will sleep at night is beyond me. I can only hope that our government will see fit to change the legislation and not let this kind of terrible mistake happen again.