Why pick on the mentally ill?

On Friday Feb. 28, 2014, the Brandon Sun reported the on the outcomes of two different crimes that resulted in the deaths of the victims.

In one case, the perpetrator is described as not responsible due to mental illness, while in the other the perpetrators had the wherewithal to plan and carry out a premeditated, "callous killing" and attempted to cover it up.

The one not responsible for the act is being allowed limited freedom, but there are shrill cries that he never see the light of day again.

On the other hand, the perpetrators of the "callous killing" may be let out in 25 years. Certainly 25 years is a long time. However, it does mean that at some point in the future they may return to society. There are no loud calls that these two should remain locked up forever and the key thrown away.

There is a much higher statistical risk that these two will re-offend than the one who is being treated for his illness, so why are we not hearing any outrage that the sane competent ones will eventually be released?

Why do we not call for all those individuals who kill another, especially those competent enough to plan their crimes, to be locked up forever? Why do we pick on the mentally ill who are less likely to re-offend? Do we have it backwards?

Beverley Hicks

Brandon