I see your point and absolutely agree with it in reference to drunk driving but in the case of statutory rape I think that the effects of the crime can be mitigated somewhat by the actions and intentions of the adult. For example, there can be a big difference between someone manipulating a child to obtain sex, and someone who finds themselves falling for said child. While you're right that the adult should always draw that line and exercise constraint, the former case has to be seen as being far more damaging to the child and should be punished correspondingly.

by tdurran on 10/31/2009 07:35:24 AM EST

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