[summer]

Yeah, he was unreal -- but what about that guy with the backpack, who already had served time in prison for manslaughter! Could you imagine being a parent and having your kid let a guy like that into your home when you're away? Good lord!!!!!

[GladesGuru]

In an earlier era, parents watched their offspring lest the boys play cowboys and indians with daddy's hunting bow or his rifle.

After all, the yet to be developed sense of both reality and morality of children is why the parents have to supervise them.

FReepers may find it interesting to note that Mosaic Law considered that the Bar Mitzvah ceremony is primarily the acceptance of responsibility for one's own acts. Prior to celebrating the Bar Mitzvah, one is a child and the parent is responsible. Afterwards, one is responsible to both G*d and man for one's acts.

The prohibition against what the Old Testament called 'adultery' and/or 'fornication' would therefore include sex with those unable to assume responsibility for their sins.

Thus the parents of the child were able to punish the adult sinner because they parent had to account for the sins of their child. And there was also the matter of loss of virginity should the child be female.

All in all, a strong case can be made for allowing the parents of the child to punish the offender. That was once the usual way for "Chester the Molester" to be dealt with.

It worked well, did not require huge swarms of cops, prosecutors, court costs, and enormous costs for long incarceration in prison.

Quick, cheap, effective - sounds better than what we have now. Any FReepers care to comment?