greg,I am not referring to the 2 cases in question, but we...

greg,
I am not referring to the 2 cases in question, but we cannot afford to lock up all criminals for life. The burden on taxpayers would be astronomical. Therefore, if they're to be eventually released into the community, they require rehabilitation - which deprivation does not provide.

I am no expert in the matter, but the old maxim "what goes round comes round" is worth keeping in mind.

Trying to think of a parallel to which we can relate. Corporal punishment in schools was banned - and why? It didn't serve the purpose intended. Just created more rebellion.