Quote Originally Posted by SuperChuck
This is two misdemeaner offenses. From this you make the assumption that they are not only evil people for smoking marijuana and trespassing (neither of which is terribly harmful to anyone but themselves), but that they are obviously planning to commit a felony.

I choose to treat each person with respect and dignity, in spite of whatever prejudices I may have against them for where they live, their race, their creed, their social upbringing, etc. I realize this makes me sound like a naive, stupid kid. I realize that I could very easily say "these kids are a scourge on society and are obviously bad people" and be liked by everyone. However, to me, saying "these kids are obviously evil because they smoke marijuana" is no different than saying they're evil because they are black or white or hispanic or muslim or jewish. It's making a pre-judgement based on very little solid information.

OK Chuck here is a little solid info for you. About 90% of people in jail are there due to some substance abuse. A vast majority of them steal, rob and burglarize to support their lifestyle. They also commit acts of domestic violence, abuse and neglect their offspring.

People that hang in vacant buildings also steal from those buildings. Have you ever talked to a property owner that has had his pipes and wiring stolen by unlawful inhabitants. Have you ever talked to property owners that have been vandalized by the same folks. I have. Trespassing on the surface may not look that bad...But it is.

Believe it or not drug use is a factor in violent crime and property crime. I do have solid information based on my experences. People that use illegal drugs open themselves to be judged. They choose to participate in illegal activites. I really have no problem with someone smoking a joint at their home. When they bring it into the street or neglect themselves or family or commit crimes against you it becomes everyones problem.

The totality of the circumstances in these two men's unfortunate demise speak for themselves. There is no way to justify their actions.

I make my living my making judgement calls on people. I stay alive by making judgement calls on the same. I feel I am qualifed to make a call on this based on the totality of the circumstances DESCRIBED in this incident. If you have more info please post it.

By the way...I treat people with respect and dignity when dealing with them. Usually I do not get the same respect back when dealing with a drug infulenced criminal.

To reiterate...Smoking pot is a crime as well as trespassing. That makes you a criminal if you choose engage in that sort of behavior. Murdering you fellow man is a crime. That makes you a criminal if you engage in that kind of behavior.

If you are so sure people that hang out in vacant buildings and smoke dope are OK...I suggest you go hang with em. You might get a little surprise.