Sunday, January 27, 2008

In more cases, combat trauma takes the stand

The New York Times has a very harrowing article on Iraq veterans who suffer from PTSD and commit murder. It is crucial to note that simply having served in combat does not mean that one becomes a time bomb. However, some people are seriously affected. Some commit murder. Punishing those who commit murder is necessary but it doesn't solve anything.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California has signed a bill passing a jail diversion program, which attempts to divert veterans with PTSD out of the criminal justice system. It is important to do this, but jail diversion programs do not deal with serious felonies.

Pray for the troops. On both sides.

No comments: