Thursday, May 08, 2008
Negative deterrence
A few days ago, in the context of a discussion about capital punishment at NRO, Andy McCarthy gave an excellent account of the ways criminals can pursue their careers while still in jail. I'd seen this happen during my long-ago sojourn within the walls, but didn't realize how easy it is nowadays!
Spokane's main post office was evacuated today when white powder spilled out of a letter, along with a note saying "Take a deep breath!" Luckily the white powder was nothing more than crushed Rolaids, but it still scared people and wasted police time and resources.
Turns out the sender is currently incarcerated in Florida for committing exactly the same crime. So jail is performing negative deterrence, giving this fellow the time and facilities to continue his vocation. ¶ 8:11 PM
Spokane's main post office was evacuated today when white powder spilled out of a letter, along with a note saying "Take a deep breath!" Luckily the white powder was nothing more than crushed Rolaids, but it still scared people and wasted police time and resources.
Turns out the sender is currently incarcerated in Florida for committing exactly the same crime. So jail is performing negative deterrence, giving this fellow the time and facilities to continue his vocation. ¶ 8:11 PM
