Pubdate: Fri, 19 Apr 2002
Source: Daily Reflector (NC)
Copyright: 2002 Daily Reflector
Contact:  http://www.reflector.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1456
Author: Scott Pearce

SYSTEM SHOULD PUSH DEALERS OFF THE STREETS

I am glad to see that The Daily Reflector plans to provide its readers with 
regular updates on dispositions from the Pitt County Superior Court's 
Criminal Division.

I found the first installment from the week of April 1 to be a real 
eye-opener. Of the 38 cases mentioned, almost half were for possession of 
cocaine with intent to distribute. Fifteen received suspended sentences and 
probation. Included in this bunch was a man charged with assault on a 
government official.

There's something very wrong going on here, and obviously, the fault is not 
with the police, who risk life and limb every day to bring these criminals 
in to face a judge.

The problem seems to be that once these walking pustules actually do see 
the judge, all they get in the way of punishment is a light tap on the wrist.

In my mind's eye, I can see Mr. Pusher Man after his sentence is suspended. 
He's smirking, sauntering out of the courtroom, gold chains flapping, his 
designer pants hanging down past his waist, his cap turned around backward.

He's checking his beeper as he swaggers arrogantly across the courthouse 
parking lot. He slides nonchalantly into an expensive automobile, complete 
with dark tinted windows and an obnoxiously loud stereo system. Within the 
hour, he's back dealing to one of his regular customers. Maybe it's a kid 
who's supposed to be in school. Or a haggard young girl who sells herself 
to get money to buy more of the little white rocks.

Doesn't matter to Mr. Pusher Man. But it does matter to me and a whole lot 
of other people in this county.

Thank you, Daily Reflector, for letting your readers know just how the 
system is not working in Pitt County. My only suggestion would be to 
include the presiding judge's name in your next report. Keep up the good work.

Scott Pearce, Winterville
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MAP posted-by: Ariel