U.S. Legal System: Worked Until It Didn't

 Aloha Reader,

Despite being the victim of a multi-layer, beyond criminal situation, I do believe our legal system has the potential and bones to work well for America. However, due to corrupt politicians and other so-called 'leaders', it has ultimately failed the people.

In April of 2022, after a two-day interview process, I was selected to be a jury member on a criminal case in San Mateo County, which resulted in one full week on an intense trial. While I respected all of the laws, judge's time and so on, the convicted man known as "Houdini" never received a fair shot in life and got sentenced to 27 years and 8 months to life in prison with the possibility of parole. 

Michael's lack of a healthy foundation and upbringing in this US is no excuse for his crimes committed, but it's an explanation, which many of its citizens can relate. Being born as black man already gave him a huge disadvantage in life. Based on my extra f'd over experienced by the legal system in San Mateo County and an even deeper understanding of everything I've learned about the corruptness of government agencies, gosh, I'd release him instantly today, reversing my vote, overturning the guilty verdict. I also have a feeling my fellow eleven jurors would do the same.

At the time of deliberation, it was hard to believe the case details were true, because I had never been present to learn up close and personal an incredible series of real life crimes. Ultimately, we fairly convicted Michael based on the code of law - he really did break many laws. As a mother, on a personal note, I didn't want him driving all crazy on the same streets that I would drive my young son, Aiden, but that didn't sway my vote - I separated my personal life for impartial and unbiased judgement (basing my votes solely on evidence provided). At the time, I truly believed in the system, however, I also believe in personal transformation and with proper resources (guidance, therapy and legit resources), people can change. Present day, it would be cool if he promised me he would drive safely and get proper help/therapy, but it's not expected or needed at this point. I truly want him to have a happy and free life, with resources, no strings attached. Free love, in a sense :)

During Michael's trial, I sat through hours of heartbreaking testimony observing his broken self and while yes, he committed certain crimes, he wasn't a nasty pedophile or 'hate crimes' man like so many I've known in my life. He was a victim of the system, like many of us. And his time served is done. Without rechecking the news articles (Google search is making it hard to find them this morning, oh the irony!), I'm not sure if his sentence got reduced to date, but yes, immediate dismissal of his charges. As a matter of fact, one idea of mine is to release all prisoners and let's see who survives? Because, something I've learned that is within the prison walls, it's almost universally agreed upon, men and women who commit sex crimes against children and adolescents do not deserve to live. These are crimes of the devil. Plus, many of us, good-souled worldwide citizens, do not believe all crimes are equal. PERIOD. This line of thinking applies to both misdemeanors and felonies.

On the note of good/evil people, I've realized, through my experiences, that for every corrupt cop, there is a good one - one for one. This 1-1 ratio also applies to nearly every position and person in the United States of America right now. Lawyers, accountants, clerks, doctors etc... This can be disheartening to think about and cause me to feel hopeless at times, but I am a woman who not only views the glass as half-full, but is also curious what's in it? :)

Per a quick internet search, it's estimated there are 2 million people in the US, who are incarcerated in county, state and federal prisons. From my month's time served in county jail in Redwood City, I will tell you one thing - the wrong people are often locked up - the actual victims, who are doing everything to survive in this F***in' mess of a country. Both the county jail and prison population includes many moms and dads who deserve custody of their children. Furthermore, many who deserve resources to get back on their feet again - something missing in our superficial 'rehab' programs in America. Admittedly, drug and alcohol addiction runs rampant, so for some who are need of a detox, we'll need to start there, of course. But if someone is in detox, let's truly treat the root of their trauma, not apply temporary bandaids and act surprised when they relapse. (That's a new concept for most of American healthcare facilities, no doubt!)

Why don't we collectively flip the switch today? I think it's about time Felon Musk knows what it's like to wear orange like his nasty politician sidekick: this time for clothing, not a shoddy hair piece. 

Sometimes silence is the best sound for me... as it could mean these guys are finally getting what they deserve. Feels like the real Judgement Day is soon upon us. Please comment with your thoughts below.

With Fire,

Heidi