Shevlino, Anthony supporters fight on
By Ron Menchaca , Glenn Smith
Family and friends of two Mount Pleasant teens incarcerated for armed robbery want to change South Carolina's sentencing laws to keep youths who commit serious crimes from being sent to adult prisons.
Supporters of Sean Shevlino and Mike Anthony are mounting petition drives, wearing T-shirts and starting Web sites to draw attention to what they consider an unjust system that sent the two high school students to prison for 10 years.
Some supporters also have set their sights on defeating 9th Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson, who prosecuted the case. Wilson faces a June Republican primary against former Deputy Solicitor Blair Jennings.
Shevlino, 17, and Anthony, 19, were among 10 Wando High students arrested in 2006 in the armed robberies of a Food Lion supermarket and a Subway sandwich shop.
Their attorneys resisted Wilson's offer of 10 years in prison on the crimes, but the teens eventually gave in and pleaded guilty last month after their co- defendants acknowledged guilt and agreed to testify against them.
Before he died of cancer in June, former Solicitor Ralph Hoisington extended the 10-year offer to Shevlino and Anthony. Wilson held firm on the offer when she took over the job.
"I certainly understand the emotional aspects of this case for the guys involved, their families and their friends," Wilson said. "My goal all along was more about being fair than being tough."
Jennings acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but said he didn't know enough details about the case to say what sentence would have been appropriate.
Ted Allen, who dated Anthony's adoptive mother, is a retired Washington police officer. He's seen what can happen to young men in adult prisons. "It's ugly," he said.
Allen said he thinks Anthony and the others should be punished but says the sentences must fit the crime. State law requires the pair to serve 85 percent of their 10-year sentences before they are eligible for release.
"This is young boys playing cops and robbers and finding out it's serious," Allen said. "Eight and half years is going to destroy both of them. They are going
to get out and go right back in, and you've got lifetime cases on your hands."
Allen is organizing a group of Anthony's supporters, and the group has contacted an attorney in Columbia in hopes of mounting a possible appeal.
Anthony's troubled childhood, his learning disability and the fact that he admitted in court to using alcohol shortly before his sentencing are enough justification to revisit his sentence, Allen said.
Allen also formed a political action committee to "Save Mikey." Even if the group can't legally help the boys, it intends to lobby for reform of state sentencing guidelines and rally opposition against Wilson in the upcoming solicitor's race. "We are going to go out of our way to help who she runs against."
Pete Shevlino, Sean's father, also is trying to get people to vote against Wilson. He insists his son has no business in an adult prison. The law needs to take into account that teens' brains operate differently than adults and that they need to be held to different standard for their actions, he said.
Shevlino and his wife, April, are studying a possible appeal of his sentence, and a petition and Web site also are in the works.
South Carolina lawmakers have shown little inclination to tinker with the state's juvenile sentencing laws. The law states that a 16-year-old charged with a crime that would draw a sentence of 15 years or more for adults automatically gets charged in adult court.
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LI58 (anonymous) says...
I read nothing in this article about devoting time, energy or "going out of our way" towards starting any committee, campaign or website originated to advise, inform or warn juveniles or young teenagers to stay away from trouble in the first place.
February 11, 2008 at 2:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
LI58 - Good Point
Quoting Scarlett Wilson -
"I certainly understand the emotional aspects of this case for the guys involved, their families and their friends," - Scarlett Wilson
"Guys" ? Wow! you can tell she's skipping motherhood?
"My goal all along was more about being fair than being tough." - Scarlett Wilson
As my grandmother used to say, she's talking out of both sides of her mouth.
P&C - "and a petition and Web site also are in the works".
Well, the petition is up at:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/sean...
More commentary about Scarlett Wilson can be found at:
http://www.cedarposts.blogspot.com/
February 11, 2008 at 5:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
You can read Pete Shevlino's comment and more links on Scarlett Wilson at:
http://cedarposts.blogspot.com/2008/0...
Yes I so don't like the woman!
February 11, 2008 at 6:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
2dogs1bear (anonymous) says...
As much as the idea of sending juveniles to prison with violent, predatory adults disgusts me, before I jump on the bandwagon and sign a petition I would have to know more about what happens currently in the juvenile system.
Michael Anthony's childhood was horrific and heartrending, but what is done is done. He is now a sexual predator and pedophile himself and we just can't pretty much let him loose to molest other children and perpetuate the cycle.
February 11, 2008 at 6:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bishop037 (anonymous) says...
Don't do the crime if you can't do the time!!
February 11, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Before I have a second cup of coffee.... I think we need to consider that times have changed, but our juvenile system has not. It's a sad fact that kids are confronted with choices and temptations that were unheard of 20 years ago. And don't get me started on this outdated primary election process:. It's going to get real ugly.
February 11, 2008 at 6:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
afternoondelight (anonymous) says...
This news story has nothing to do with Shevlino or Anthony.
It's all about a Post and Courier effort to make solicitor Scarlett Wilson look like some heartless villain devoted to putting "children" in prison. Glenn Smith, who wrote the article is the same reporter who "outed" me for posting what he called inappropriate comments on this web site. Again, his story was not about me but he used that issue to try to make Scarlett Wilson look like she had done something wrong. The telling clue that the Post and Courier and most especially Glenn Smith has an agenda favoring Blair Jennings, is that in his article outing me, he ran to Jennings to get his comments condemning me and the Solicitor's office. Prior to that story revealing my so called "inappropriate" comments, NOT ONE person had ever been called to task about postings on this site. And isn't it strange, not one single person has been criticzed for posting comments on this site since. And some have been far more inapproprirate than anything I ever said. That means I was singled out. Why? for the same reason this story was written. To advance the Post and Courier Agenda. Instead of criticizing Solicitor Wilson people should be praising her for having the courage to apply the law equally.
There's no place in the solicitors office for someone who might allow criminals to continue to walk the streets simply because of the threat of petitions or because a prosecution might be unpopular.
Think long and hard before you consider replacing Scarlett Wilson.
Frank O. Hunt
Retired investigative television journalist and former spokesperson for Solicitors Ralph Hoisington and Scarlett Wilson.
February 11, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
grainofsalt (anonymous) says...
I have to agree. And I think all these attacks against Wilson are just smoke and mirrors to confuse the real issue - the premeditated crimes that were committed. I read the blogs referenced above and don't know what Wilson's impending race with Jennings or her press secretary's online opinions have to do with anything. How those issues are relevant is unclear to me.
And if the Post-Courier story yesterday was supposed to make the public more sympathetic (I assume that was the point - I could be wrong), I have to tell you that it backfired. After reading about what troublemakers these kids had become already, how out of control they had become to their families - I think more than ever prison is likely the best place for them - perhaps the place they were destined for anyway.
If the argument is that these offenders should do 10 years (or 85 percent of it) while incarcerated with others their own age (Juvenile correction?) then I might see the point. Though because of their crime, I'd have them on some probation that threw them in adult prison after the first offense of any kind inside.
If the argument is (as it appears to be) that these poor kids should be given a second chance, that they made a childish mistake, maybe some counseling is in order, etc. I'm sorry, I'm not swayed.
February 11, 2008 at 7:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
5thGenerationLocal (anonymous) says...
This was no childish mistake. This was a well thoughtout plan that was seen through to completion. These kids deserve what they got.
February 11, 2008 at 7:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
disco (anonymous) says...
I wonder if there would be as much of a fight for 2 kids from the projects who commited the same crimes....
February 11, 2008 at 7:22 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
COFC2007 (anonymous) says...
I agree with you on that disco. But i feel they got the time they deserve it sucks, but nobody told them to rob a supermarket. Think about this what if they pull the trigger and shot someone. then you would have a attempted murder or murder charge.
February 11, 2008 at 7:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
crankyyankee (anonymous) says...
These men were treated no differently than others in their situation. Get over it!
February 11, 2008 at 7:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
skeeter (anonymous) says...
Good point Frank. So much for unbiased media. Hearst Newspapers practically started the Spanish American war with their "yellow journalism" on the USS Maine explosion.
February 11, 2008 at 7:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mosinfan (anonymous) says...
I concur completely with Frank O. Hunt.
Mr. Allen says "This is young boys playing cops and robbers and finding out it's serious,". You think so??????
Although I dont think they were playing cops at all, just thugs.
For all the bleeding heart folks I have seen writing on this subject it amazes me. I even saw one post yesterday that suggested that the folks getting robbed should have known that the weapon used in the crime was only a BB gun. What an asinine statement! Your being robbed by a guy holding a gun and your supposed to make a decsion that the gun is not a real firearm??
These two guys are lucky to be alive in my opinion, if the store owner was armed or there happened to be a concealed carry permit holder in the store at the time both of these fine upstanding individuals may have been shot dead.
We have a prosecuter that is doing her job well in getting these thugs off the street.
February 11, 2008 at 8 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
highclass (anonymous) says...
Give me a break. These spoiled brats have had an easy life compared to many others. They had chances I never could imagine at their age. They threw it all away and now they must pay the price. I am glad to see that money could not buy thier way out of the time. I see where the children get it from, their parents, who are acting like spoiled children themselves. Pitching a fit because you didn't get your way is no way to act. These men were strong enough to plan several crimes,stick a loaded weapon in someone's face and attempt to get away. Now lets see if they are men enough to handle the time for thier crimes. Don't drop the soap.
February 11, 2008 at 8:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
Here's a link to view SC's inmates:
https://sword.doc.state.sc.us/incarce...
Shevlino is 5'11" and 200 lbs. If he went to juvenile detention, we would have to send all those "children" home. It would be inhumane for real juveniles to be incarcerated with such a menacing goon, guilty of three serious crimes.
I'm sure the families cooperated with the P&C with the hope of gaining sympathy. I'm just not feeling it. Looks like the only people here defending them were already on their side.
I just hope the other inmates and their friends and families don't read these stories.
February 11, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mosinfan (anonymous) says...
Mr. Allen says..."Anthony's troubled childhood, his learning disability and the fact that he admitted in court to using alcohol shortly before his sentencing are enough justification to revisit his sentence".
What a great message this would be to send, hey! If you want to go out a rob some folks, make sure you have a couple of drinks first so some slick lawyer can use this as justification to ligten your sentence if you get caught.
I for one am sick and tired of loopholes for criminals. I for one will make sure my legislators know that I am not in favor of changing these sentencing laws one bit.
February 11, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Perspective (anonymous) says...
A couple of thoughts:
The sad version of events that we read yesterday is one side of this story. Many criminals and their families put forth very similiar stories about troubled childhoods, substance abuse, and other mitigating reasons they should not be held accountable for their actions.
What about the fact that one of them admitted using alcohol prior to sentencing? So him still breaking the law is some kind of reason his sentence should be revisited. If I were the judge I would revisit the sentence and add at least a year to it. That would maybe make the point. They were given a deal already. Granted 10 years sucks but it is better than the 30+ they would get from a judge and jury.
These kids spent a lot of time hanging out with friends doing nothing. That breeds trouble. Where were all the petition starters, etc then? How much of this is guilt driven behavior?
As for the political issues of the articles: Right now I do not favor Wilson, however Hunt and others make very good points. I thought Wilson was being put to the coals yesterday without reason. Unfortunately for those of us undecided in the election she took the easy way out -passing the buck back to Ralph - honoring his wishes rather than jumping down on one side of the fence. I would have more respect for her if she took the position that she made the decision - period.
But today Jennings is quoted saying he didn't know enough about the case. Huh? He only recently left the solicitors office as one of the top dogs. The average person in the street knows enough about this case to form an opinion. I want a solicitor that picks a side and takes a stand for it. No one wants a solicitor that is wishy washy or blames important decisions on someone else so that no voters will be disinfranchised.
Last of all unrelated to this article: Since when did setting murder cases for trial become some big new program to prosecute criminals? That TV news story recently released by the solicitors office was insulting to my intelligence.
February 11, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
disco (anonymous) says...
I think we need to start a petition to uphold the punishment. I know I don't want those kids running around in a few years in my neighborhood. They're lucky they didn't try to rob my house because they would have had a baseball bat upside their head!
February 11, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
teeitup (anonymous) says...
How many of the family members or friends would consider serving the time in their place?
Ten family members could serve one year each so the young boys could stay home with their mommies.
February 11, 2008 at 8:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
Hey, here's an interesting factoid. One of the enablers had posted that Sean would be the youngest inmate in adult prison.
As of June 30, 2007 there were 120 male 17 year olds in adult SC prisons. There were 743 inmates 19 and younger.
http://www.doc.sc.gov/research/Inmate...
Maybe I should write for the P&C.
February 11, 2008 at 8:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
These kids made mistakes and need to be punished BUT their punishment does not mean they deserve to be sent to a LEVEL 3 facility and be mentored 24 hrs a day by hardened criminals and exposed to the lifestyle a LEVEL 3 entails.
Punishing teens should not be a sentence of 24 hr x 10 yrs exposure to AIDS/HIV/HEP C, gang rape, beatings, and all that occur in these facilities!
Why do so many believe these kids should endure this prison lifestyle and what do you expect them to be in 10 yrs?
Common sense tells you after being locked up like this for 10 yrs will not produce "model citizens" for our community!
Yes, they need to be punished but I know for a fact teen offenders can receive a punishment and move on to be ideal, model citizens in our society.
What do you want for the end goal- kids who are punished in a menas that is just for teens and can move on to become productive citizens or the end result- 26 yr old men who have been locked away for 10 yrs with Level 3 mentors, who one day may be your neighbor?
February 11, 2008 at 8:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
algorelost (anonymous) says...
We need to Vote Ms. Wilson out, simply because she is not applying the law farily. These kids get 10 years, but the 4 kids from gadsen green are going to skate without jail time.
February 11, 2008 at 9:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
And to the families~ I have spread the website, petition around the US and many have sent an e-mail in support of your efforts and agree 10 yrs in a LEVEL 3 is EXCESSIVE for first time youth offenders and many remind me with the same familiar line "Only in SC"~~
February 11, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
whatelseisthere (anonymous) says...
They would have ended up in jail eventually. I agree they should be in one of the country-club jails like Bob Holt got for vehicular manslaughter. But they need to go to jail. Other teens are watching....send them on their way.
February 11, 2008 at 9:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
Scarlett Wilson has limited options to deal with. You can't blame her if SC doesn't have age-related prisons. (Prisons, not "camps for bad boys"). Sadly, there are so many violent, young criminals, maybe SC, and other states, should consider building a maximum-security prison for offenders 15-21, or something along those lines. These "kids" committed violent crimeS (notice the "S"). They needed to go to PRISON. If you don't want these violent kids in with violent adults, and I understand that, push for a "youth prison" (again, no "camps").
February 11, 2008 at 9:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
Allen also formed a political action committee to "Save Mikey." Even if the group can't legally help the boys, it intends to lobby for reform of state sentencing guidelines and rally opposition against Wilson in the upcoming solicitor's race. "We are going to go out of our way to help who she runs against."
As far as Scarlett Wilson's opponent goes, do you really want the endorsement of friends and family of criminals?
February 11, 2008 at 10:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Yes, make a change for Youth offenders in SC
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/sean...
February 11, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
http://www.macfound.org/site/c.lkLXJ8...
February 11, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
5thGenerationLocal (anonymous) says...
Make a change? For youth offenders? That is the dumbest thing I have heard today. These kids make/made adult mistakes and want to hide behind their age. Let me tell you what--you let me get on the bench and I will send them all away. Until the point becomes clear that we have had enough of this BS in our neighborhoods. No race, no gender, no age would be safe. Everyone is equally guilty. But that's just me.
February 11, 2008 at 10:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
Proposed "Sean's Bill"
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/sean...
I disagree with several points. Juveniles get DAILY counseling and/or Education? ALL high school freshman attend a seminar GIVEN BY AN ATTORNEY explaining the Juvenile Justice laws?
WE, THE UNDERSIGNED, DO HEREBY PETITION THE SOUTH CAROLINA LEGISLATURE TO SUPPORT AND PASS INTO LAW:
SEAN'S BILL - THE ETHICAL TREATMENT OF JUVENILES ACT
1. NO CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 18 MAY BE SUBJECTED TO MANDATORY SENTENCING.
2. CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18, WHEN CHARGED WITH A CRIME, SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE POSSIBILITY OF PAROLE OR RELEASE AT THE AGE OF 21.
3. CHILDREN WITHOUT A HISTORY OF PRIOR CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR SHALL NOT BE TRIED IN AN ADULT COURT.
4. REHABILITATION WITHIN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM MUST INCLUDE DAILY COUNSELING AND / OR EDUCATION.
5. CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 MUST HAVE AN ATTORNEY AND A GUARDIAN PRESENT BEFORE THEIR MIRANDA RIGHTS CAN BE READ.
6. CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 MUST NOT BE QUESTIONED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY OR LAWFUL GUARDIAN PRESENT.
7. ALL QUESTIONING OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 BY LAW ENFORCEMENT MUST BE VIDEOTAPED.
8. ANY MENTALLY ILL OR MENTALLY DISADVANTAGED CHILD UNDER THE AGE OF 18 WHO COMMITS A CRIME MUST BE TRIED AS A JUVENILE IN THE JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM.
10. ALL HIGH SCHOOLS SHALL PROVIDE FIRST YEAR STUDENTS (FRESHMAN) WITH A SEMINAR CONDUCTED BY A LAWYER THAT EXPLAINS THE LAW AS IT APPLIES TO JUVENILES.
11. THIS BILL IS RETROACTIVE FOR ALL CASES INVOLVING CHILDREN THAT WERE UNDER THE AGE OF 18 AT THE TIME OF THEIR ARREST AND LATER TRIED AS ADULTS.
February 11, 2008 at 10:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
Are the parents of these kids THAT clueless? There was no attorney or guardian present when they put a gun in someone's face and caused their life to flash before them.
February 11, 2008 at 10:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
There is a lot of truth in what the "protect us" from the criminals crowd is saying.
I agree we don't want thugs and punks with guns loose on our streets.
However, when the law is applied in such a way as to promote one's political career there is something inherently wrong with that. Scarlett Wilson used her position to promote her hard line stance of crime in preparation for her up coming campaign.
Our legal system was designed to take into account certain circumstances at the judicial level, our legislature has removed a lot of those considerations. The reason judges had discretion at one time was that they were the only person who could look a defendant in the eye and use a little common sense.
This case makes sense it's the punishment that doesn't.
http://cedarposts.blogspot.com
Frank O, I'm glad you posted on this issue. I'm also glad you were outed as it makes for a more "real" perspective.
February 11, 2008 at 10:38 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Cid95 (anonymous) says...
Nothing to see here, just one more of a thousand cracks in America's foundation, another symptom of our decline.
Laws to alleviate one of the unfair burden of personal responsibility for one's actions...?
Pure idiocy. We wonder why this will be the Chinese century? This kind of weakness is as good an answer as any.
February 11, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
KidYendor (anonymous) says...
Where can people contribute to the Scarlett for Solicitor campaign ?
February 11, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Chief_SittingBull (anonymous) says...
If the duo are truly are good kids gone bad, they will have plenty of time to figure out how to get back on track and be "good" again...jail, I would imagine, does not make "bad" people good and it sure will not make "good" people bad.
February 11, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
The crime is done, the punishment in place so in hindsight the choices:
1. Adult Time: In 10 yrs have a kid who is 26 yrs old who has been mentored 24/7 x 10 in a Level 3 facility living in our community as your neighbor.
2. Juvenile Time: In 3 or 5 yrs, after punishment, counseling, rehab have a 21-22 yr old who has a chance of living a productive life in your community.
3. Some vote to put these kids away for life, while others state the death penalty.
Taking into account other violent criminals and murders have been sentenced to lesser time- it's one messed up system, IMO!
February 11, 2008 at 11:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
Did this case have anything to do with Scarlett Wilson's reelection campaign? Of course. But what is confusing some people is that she is campaigning by doing her job, and doing it very well. The lowcountry needs to keep her in office for a long time. If the criminals and their friends don't like her, that says it all.
February 11, 2008 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
ALL high school freshman attend a seminar GIVEN BY AN ATTORNEY explaining the Juvenile Justice laws?
That's where SC is so behind the times~ in some states programs are implemented in 3rd grade with just the basics rgarding crime, drug use, child kidnapping, et. al. and each year through middle school and high school more is added and re-emphasized each and every year~
February 11, 2008 at 11:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Program BasicsWith programs in 28 states and 20 countries throughout the world, Youth Crime Watch demonstrates that young people can make the difference in keeping their schools and communities safe from crime, drugs, and violence.
Youth Crime Watch offers young people an active role in reducing crime in their schools and neighborhoods. They own and run their Watch program, with support from adults. Youth Crime Watch challenges youth to reduce drugs, violence, and crime, and it helps youth and adults recognize that youth can and must be a part of civic problem-solving, community partnership development, and crime prevention.
What makes a Youth Crime Watch program
First and foremost, Youth Crime Watch programs are youth-led. A YCW program's activities will reflect our Watch Out, Help Out crime prevention philosophy and the three goals of YCWA.
Provide crime-free, drug-free environments through a youth-led movement.
Instill positive values, foster good citizenship and build self-confidence in young people
Enable youth to become resources for preventing crime, drug use and violence in their schools and neighborhoods.
Each Youth Crime Watch has a Core Group of youth leaders that assesses problems; decides on a course of action; and promotes and sustains the program.
Each YCW program implements some combination of our nine basic components, tailoring the implementation to fit their own situation.
The bottom line
Even those with limited resources can start a Youth Crime Watch program. You will need materials for the YCW Core Group, the initial assembly, and for communicating with the student body as a whole. YCWA offers a low-cost comprehensive start-up kit that contains operational guidelines and promotional materials to help you begin.
February 11, 2008 at 11:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Kid,
You can send your check to:
Scarlett Wilson
Solicitor, 9th Judicial Circuit
O.T. Wallace County Office Building
101 Meeting Street, 4th Floor
Charleston, SC 29401
February 11, 2008 at 11:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
fragdemon (anonymous) says...
SCgal no one is saying put these kids away for life, nor are they saying give them the death penalty. These "guys" excepted a plea deal. If they(including their lawyers and family) felt that the deal was too much they should have taken their chances with a jury. END OF STORY. Get over it.
February 11, 2008 at 11:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
buttercup (anonymous) says...
For all you bleeding hearts out there you have no clue what these little punks did to these people they robed. They should have gotten more than ten years, for the ones of you who are knotting Scarlett Wilson she did just what Ralph would have done but he died before he could to it. She was not on the wrong side of the fence as someone stated she did her job and did it well. I will contribute to the Scarlett for Solicitor.
February 11, 2008 at 11:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Scarlett Wilson like Mike Nifong was just doing her job, but neither could look past the political aspects.
Not a fun job unless you get a kick out of locking up people and don't mind living with your mistakes. I know plenty of former solicitors who don't sleep well.
Doubt Mike Nifong sleeps are all.
There is now a bill pending the would provide for the death penalty in certian cases of rape. Hard line on crime or just stupid?
Well if your the perp and you're looking at the needle if you get caught might as well go ahead and remove the witness since the punishment is the same and the odds are in your favor.
Just dumb if you ask me.
February 11, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Hey_U_Guys (anonymous) says...
This dumb a$$es commited CRIMES. They were tried as adults. Get over it. That's what happens when you BREAK THE LAW. You commit a big boy crime, you do big boy time.
February 11, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
devster (anonymous) says...
allwoman posted:
"Funny how no one seems to care about the harshness of juvenile sentences until it hits close to (or in this case) in their home."
allwoman: No one truly realizes what its like until it happens to them.
February 11, 2008 at 11:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
fragdemon (anonymous) says...
MotoryachtSoCo - In no way shape or form can you compare Scarlett Wilson to Mike Nifong!!! That is the most asinine comment I have read on here today! If you are going to post that kind of stupidity, please just dont post at all.
February 11, 2008 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CarolinaWren (anonymous) says...
I have been reading all the comments on these young men. It appears half want to slap their hands and the other half want to throw away the key. I believe when anyone, child or adult robs stores, steals cars, shows violet behavior whether it is kicking out screens or putting holes in walls, attempts to rape anyone they have a serious problem and need serious help. It is very hard for a parent to admit when their child is not perfect. We, as parents all too often make excuses for our children's behavior when they are really crying out for help. I believe these young men were crying out for help and there was none available until the behavior escalated and police became involved. Now their parents have lost custody when their children were sentenced by the court. It is a very sad situation but hopefully they will be evaluated by mental health and get the help they have so desperately needed for some time. Their behavior could not continue and 30 days in a work camp is not a solution or a cure.
February 11, 2008 at 11:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
You really can't compare Wilson to Nifong except they have the same job. These boys were guilty. She didn't railroad them, hide evidence, etc. There are juveniles everywhere that are doing adult time. We aren't the only state that does that. Plain and simple, they did an adult crime, they knew it was wrong (no diminished capacity here), and they got sentenced. They accepted a plea deal that was much better than the full sentence they were well aware they could have gotten if they had gone to trial. Everywhere on these boardds we are screaming about being tough on crime, but when it gets done then they scream that they were too tough.
Can't win for losing.
February 11, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Many miss the entire point- it is the lifestyle in prison that many do not believe is in the best interest of these KIDS. Yes, they did the crime, yes they must be punished but to send them to a LEVEL 3 IMO is excessive and extreme~
and in the end will be the biggest mistake, especially when other OPTIONS were available for their sentencing and punishment~
What's the lesser of two evils a person who has been punished in a faciltiy that can be productive or a facility that allows for 24/7 prison abuse?
The kids will be out one day- 10 yr or perhaps earlier and they will be a part of your community, like it or not, so do you want a person who received the guidance and help he needed or a 26 yr old raised by the prison environment?
February 11, 2008 at 12:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
algorelost (anonymous) says...
Forget,
You can make the comparison because she is applying the laws differently between these 2 kids in mt pleasant and the 4 gadsen green kids. Both groups commited similar crimes, however one group is from mt pleasant and the other is from public housing downtown. She without a doubt is playing politics.
February 11, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Please give the info regarding the Gadsen Green kids~ what is that case and what is happening?
February 11, 2008 at 12:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Why should your tax dollars be used to teach my kids something I should teach them at home?
Because we are investing in our future generation and society as a whole! You teach your kids and that is grand what about the kids who are less fortunate for very legit reasons?
February 11, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
http://www.counton2.com/midatlantic/c...
Solicitor Scarlett Wilson said, "This gun looks real. Those people didn't know when they had this in their face what they were dealing with." Shevlino's father says Shevlino deserved punishment...but not 10 years for his first offense. Peter Shevlino said, "The solicitor had a choice to send him to family court or treat him like an adult. She decided to put him jail for 10 years instead of sending him to family court."
News 2's Jenny Fisher sat down with Solicitor Wilson and talked about the sentence the family called too harsh. Jenny said, "There's times in bond court where rapists are out in under 10 years. Did you feel armed robbery was the charge or could you have lessened it?" Wilson replied, "I certainly have the authority, but what people need to understand is when we negotiate sentence that is less what may be expected, in a rape chage, that's because we have an evidentiary issue...we have a problem proving our case."
February 11, 2008 at 12:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mdtpace (anonymous) says...
MotoryachtSoCo, you are an idiot. How is this similar to Mike Nifong? How are these 2 convicted felons anything similar to the 3 Duke lacrosse players? The Wando students committed a crime, the Duke students didn't. How is this Wilson's fault? She did her job. She didn't commit the crime, she didn't write the SC laws, she didn't take them to trial, which she could have done and they would have been convicted and would have been sentenced to a lot more time than 10 years. Do you and Blair Jennings take long walks on the beach together? Your veiled attempts to make this look politically motivated are pathetic. Are you incapable of logical thought? Wake up.
February 11, 2008 at 12:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
News 2 talked with the two victims of the Subway robbery to hear their reaction on the sentence. Rashed Ali told News 2, "I think its too much. They didn't come in and push anybody around. 10 years is a little too much. I was thinking maybe three years probation and then community service."
February 11, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
highclass (anonymous) says...
So many people are calling these men kids. They are not KIDS. Kids don't point guns at people and steal. Kids are being closey watched by their parents. So if they are kids their parents should be tried for child neglect. Where were they when the kids were out robbing, getting drunk, high and threating to kill? These men will probably see more of their parents now on visit than they did before. Maybe prision can give them the displine they so need. This is not about politics it is about protecting society from offenders.
February 11, 2008 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
algorelost,
You're correct that the Gadsden kids should be treated by the system no differently. The same sentencing guidelines should apply. I lost track of what was being done to those kids. The mothers being evicted overshadowed what was actually going on in those cases.
February 11, 2008 at 12:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Nifong - Wilson is a fair analogy.
Mike Nifong felt he was destined to become state attorney general. Prior to the Duke fiasco he was well thought of, the lacrosse team prosecution was a political move, his big break and his undoing.
Wilson knowing she wasn't the governor's first choice, getting negative press for the firing of her rival and the afternoon delight expose, got a little community spin going with her appearance on the Oprah Winfery show, add a slam dunk high profile case and it's pretty clear she's running for the office.
She elected to play the hand she inherited how much better can it get?
Blame someone who is dead to help wash the blood off your hands, add a little of just doing my job and portray yourself as tough on crime but tell the press you're fair, because your are hard on white kids as well as black.
It's political!
February 11, 2008 at 12:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Is this the correct person for the upcoming election?
February 11, 2008 at 1:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
SCgal yes this is the Blair Jennings site:
February 11, 2008 at 1:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Thanks~ did a little searching and had no idea about the ousting~ but the pluff mud is getting clearer for me now!
February 11, 2008 at 1:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
disco (anonymous) says...
For people who think these "kids" should get probation, why don't they stay at your house and do their probation there. I'm sure you can rehabilitate these "kids" who have no regard/respect for human life and make them useful citizens - not!
February 11, 2008 at 1:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CarolinaWren (anonymous) says...
There are many times when out patient counseling just doesn't work, perhaps it is not intense enough. Being loving parents there are those times when we are blind and miss many warning signs that our children are in trouble. We love our children and we try and want to protect them. Sometimes we tend to protect them too much. We tend to allow the youth to stand on our feet instead of teaching them to stand on their own. The youth curse and disrespect you but when they get in trouble they want Mom and Dad to bail them out. Be there for these boys, they need friends and family but they do not need anyone to fight their battles. They have to learn to fight their own. Now they have to answer and pay for their behavior. What a horrible way to have to learn a lesson.
February 11, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
islandmama (anonymous) says...
These boys committed and grown-up sized crime and deserve a grown-up sized punishment. I agree this is a very sad and difficult time for the families. But isn't it sad that the families are being so active and supportive in the lives of their children now when they obviously were not paying attention for the past few months/years?
Admittedly, I have not followed this story as close as many of you have. But, as for turning them into psychopaths in prison - didn't at least one of them spend a couple of days planning this and buying his weapon(s)? And didn't he then convince some friends to join in on his little crime spree? Sounds like he is already a little on the psycho side. At some point, couldn't a reasonable person have decided this might be a bad idea?
And give me a break with the sob story yesterday about the childhood. This type of crime and punishment happens every month to teens and young adults who live on Rivers Avenue and nobody hears about it or cares about it.
While there is an election coming up and the solicitor may have pushed a little harder than usual, I feel the families are just looking for someone to blame instead of themselves. How hard would these families be working right now if these boys only got a few months probation? I'm certain life would have returned to normal in these homes without a further thought about how these kids are living and what they are up to. Would they be spending the hours with their kids and a therapist that they are spending right now creating petitions? Doubt it.
February 11, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
theronce (anonymous) says...
I suspect that they are already rehabilitated. Unlikely as it is, that they did not know before committing the crime, they must assuredly know by now that you will go to jail if you get caught committing another crime. If they do not know that now, nothing else can be said to them for they are fools. The remainder of this consequence of their actions is simple punishment.
February 11, 2008 at 1:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
georgebushsux (anonymous) says...
Too bad for the parents of these kids but they made a bad choice. They have 8.5 years at least to think about it. I'll sleep better tonight knowing my child, wife and I won't have to run into these two in a parking lot. We need to focus on the other hundreds of other thugs roaming the street in Charleston metro area.
February 11, 2008 at 1:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogdoc1 (anonymous) says...
I will be going out of my way to support Wilson in the upcoming election! If more people were sentenced like this, the world would be such a better place. The only people to blame for what has happened to these boys are thier parents. All the warning signs were their, get off your high horse and help your children realize actions have consequences. For petes sake people this is ridiculous.
February 11, 2008 at 1:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
buttercup (anonymous) says...
archdude Well I am in shock at your comment!!!!! You think that anyone took the time to look at the damn gun they were being robed .Like I said I am in shock at your comment!!!!!!! Scarlett Wilson is not using this to get reelected. She did her job and a damn good job at that. Now everyone is coming down on her. If she had given them a slap on the hand and let them go. When they did the crime again with a real gun and killed someone everyone would be coming down on her for letting them go. She is dammed if she does and dammed if she doesn't. Ms.Wilson you are doing a great job keep up the good work.
February 11, 2008 at 2 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
Sure Ms. Wilson used this case to try to further her career. Every case she tries is to further her career. Everyday I go to work and accomplish a task it is to further my career. Put the blame where blame belongs. I don't like sending young people to those prisons. There's always that chance they'll come out worse than when they went in. It's a shame that we don't have the funds to have rehabilitation/prisons that will make sure these prisoners get HS diplomas and chances at furthering their educations so that when they do get out they stand a chance in society. Not just going out and committing another crime because they can't make a living.
But back to the subject, these "boys" knew what they were doing was wrong, made really bad choices, and unfortunatly
are having to pay for it. Maybe when they get out they can make a career of talking to troubled young people.
February 11, 2008 at 2 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Grown up size punishment? You want these kids raped, beaten, exposed to HIV/AIDS/Hep C, and whatever else comes along with LEVEL 3 prison? Are you all going to be there for them in 10 yrs at their release to take care of their needs after they serve their grown up punishment?
Will the judicial/solicator take care of them once the system scars them forever upon their release?
February 11, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
No, the government won't be taking care of them when they get out. The gov't already takes care of too many others that won't take care of themselves. That is why a person doesn't commit crimes like these. Being exposed to HIV/AIDS, raped, beaten, etc. is a determent to me. I don't know about anyone else. Like I said, I really don't like sending kids this age to those prisons, but... when you do an adult size crime, you do adult size time. There isn't an alternative at this point.
February 11, 2008 at 2:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dogdoc1 (anonymous) says...
If your ever mugged archdude, I want a full report on the weapon used please.
February 11, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
AHLeland (anonymous) says...
Wow. I have seen it all. I don't know who in their right mind can honestly say that these two are children. The only time a criminal should be tried as a juvenile is when they are honestly too young to understand the consequences of their actions. These two definately understood what they were doing and what could happen if they were caught. Did anyone notice that they picked the 16-year-old to be the gun man because they thought he wouldn't get in as much trouble?
February 11, 2008 at 2:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
No, the government won't be taking care of them when they get out.
Of course the tax paying citizen will~ these kids have no chance in society IF they survive the prison system they have been thrown into! 17 yr olds with hardened criminal mentors 24/7 x 10 yrs don't produce self substaining citizens~
February 11, 2008 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Aheland- I saw that as well....and they already figured out what punishment they should get if they got caught....
Smart dumb kids.....
February 11, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
CarolinaWren (anonymous) says...
archdude ....Be real:*LOL* I do not know anyone who has or has ever worked in a retail business that has ever been trained by their employer to be able to distinguish whether a gun is real or not real. What the employees saw, was a person with a mask on pointing a gun in their faces. These were not 5 or 6 year old boys playing cowboy and indians. They were playing grown up cops and robbers. They were the robbers. Not one but 2 different establishments were robbed and they were caught. I do not care if the gun was real or a play gun from Walmart. It was still used as a weapon.
February 11, 2008 at 2:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
Well, one good thing that may come of it is that the next time a group of "kids" decide that knocking off a store or two sounds like a fun night out, they'll rethink that idea. And thinking that the 16 yr. old won't get into as much trouble if he holds the gun? They'll decide to just go to the movies instead!
February 11, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
Happens all time.....someone runs in, puts a gun in someone's face......"excuse, do you mind if I examine the weapon to see if I'm in any real danger"......"hold on, you'll get your money, could you hold that a little closer, maybe under this light here".....
February 11, 2008 at 3:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
buttercup (anonymous) says...
. dogdoc1 Right On. When SCgal is robbed I do hope she gets a
Description of the gun.SCgal seeing that you are so concerned about the well being of these men make sure that you are there in ten years when they get out so you can take them home and take care of them.
February 11, 2008 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
tiffhug (Tiffany Huger) says...
I believe that if a person has the presence of mind to commit and adult crime, then they should be bound by the laws that were established as punishment for that crime. Changing the laws will give these children excuses to committ crimes, knowing that they will get a slap on the wrist and no more. I sympathize with the family, but the child must pay for what he has done. I would feel the same if it were my own son. We must stop making excuse for bad behavior. It is unacceptable as and adult as well as unacceptable as a child.
February 11, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
butter I have said nothing about knowing a description of a gun or not~ come live at my house, heck they might just be your neighbor or mine~
I'd much prefer a 26 yr old who has been in rehab, understands the reality of the issue, and rec'd help vs. a 10 yr Level 3 convict growing up during his developmental years with hardened SC criminals!
Yes, rehab, counseled kid vs. a true psychopath anyday of the week!
February 11, 2008 at 3:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Having been on the wrong end of a weapon more than once, I can tell you I didn't put a lot of thought into what caliber the muzzle was that was pointed in my direction.
On the other hand the way the law reads it doesn't matter if the kid had a big plastic super soaker if Scarlett Wilson wants to call it armed robbery the law does indeed back her up.
February 11, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
2dogs1bear (anonymous) says...
Yeah, the kill rate for robbery involving BB guns is ever so high, I'm tired of reading about it. Guess you hang em high folks are right after all.
February 11, 2008 at 3:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
greyrider (anonymous) says...
archdude, I understand what you are saying the scenario about the kid playing outside with a pellet gun and the cops show up. But that is exactly why I told my sons when they hit about 10 years old, the EXACT scenario you brought up. There are certain times in life where "oops" just doesn't mean much. If you are laying there dead with a "toy gun" in your hand, you're still dead. You're right, that does happen. All the more reason not to "play" with pellet guns. Those kids are lucky to be alive. There are plenty of establishments thoroughout the Lowcountry (or anywhere for that matter) where the owner could've blown them away.......and would not have faced charges I might add.
February 11, 2008 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
How is having a pellet gun considered armed robbery? Isn't armed robbery having a gun with the intent to cause bodily harm? Can a pellet gun cause bodily harm?
February 11, 2008 at 3:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
forget (anonymous) says...
A pellet gun can cause bodily harm.
February 11, 2008 at 3:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
SCgal as odd as it may sound the law says if a person could somehow think it was a real gun or even if the perp just says I have a gun it's armed robbery. It's the fear and not the weapon that makes it armed.
February 11, 2008 at 3:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mommaof2 (anonymous) says...
I'm sorry that these boys made a bad choice. But as a mother of 2 young boys, 2.5 and 12 weeks, we deserve to be able to go to the grocery store and be SAFE. I know many people who if a gun was pointed at them they would shoot back, regardless of it was real or not. So now we are grocery shopping and bullets are flying, how dramtic for my children, what if one of us would have been hurt or killed? They are lucky that jail time is all they are getting, lucky to be alive...It appears that these children in the months prior had no regard for authority..kicking out bedroom windows, staying out late, drinking, etc...many freadoms ect...we try to teach our children even as little as they are that bad choices always hurt...it is ashame that they have to go to jail, but something that must be.. I pray they will find Jesus in jail and turn this whole situation into something postive in the end.
February 11, 2008 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Archdude-
The way they handled it...I think they should go to a prison. They thought it out and pretty much "figured" they should get a slap on the wrist. For that reason they need to be taught a lesson. Now if they stole the car then I would say too harsh but they robbed two establishments and stole a car while the family was still trying to help them (counseling).
Some folks you just can't help until they learn how to help themselves.
Its a lot of 17-19 years old in jail now...they will be around some of their peers.
If not jail...where can they go in this state that will help them?
February 11, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
SCgal- I know someone that lost an eye due to a pellet gun and I know of someone else that died from being shot by one. The person that died did not know they were shot so infection set and it was too late. I've had read news articles where people go to jail just by having a make believe gun in their jacket (the hand looked like a gun.)
People can get hurt with pellet guns.
People also can go to jail just by spitting on someone too. Someone's argument could be I don't know if he had AIDS now I have to get tested....
Toy gun or not these folks used it to rob not to shoot at squirrels from a tree.
February 11, 2008 at 4:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
2dogs1bear (anonymous) says...
That seems an odd law to me that makes no distinction between a finger and a gun.
I've been following the discussion here and
I just see that despite our tough on crime attitude we have a disproportionate amount of violent crime,
it's growing, and we can't afford the jails we need to keep so much of the population locked up.
There's got to be a better way than what we have now.
February 11, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
DixieTiger (anonymous) says...
I sympathize with Mr. Shevlino and Mr. Anthony but these two individuals committed armed robbery. The employees at the Food-Lion and Subway and the gentleman whose car was stolen suffered immensely from the actions of these individuals. Imagine being robbed by an individual who was percieved to have a loaded gun, not a pleasant experience. At the age of 16 an individual is capable of determining right from wrong. Also, at the age of 16 a person is able to anticipate the consequences of their actions. These criminals owe a debt to the citizens of South Carolina. I feel a MINIMUM of 8.5 years is adequate to give these individuals a chance to repay their debt. During their incarceration, these two young men can enroll in distance educaiton if they want to better themselves and become productive members of society. Kudos to Scarlett Wilson for standing firm and putting two dangerous individuals behind bars.
February 11, 2008 at 4:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Archdude- I see what you are saying but how MUCH therapy can you offer/give? You got to want to change from within. The only thing these kids wanted was an apartment so they did not have to follow the rules so they robbed folks.
They went about it the wrong way and now when they got the "oops upside your head" punishment, they understand what they did?? They knew what they were doing because they got the younger one to have the pellet gun so he can just get charge with being a juvey.
Seems like these kids studied the law to figure out what charges they might get but noone had enough guts to say "this is wrong." I will say it again smart dumb kids, they could have done better but they brought this on to themselves.
February 11, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
Does anyone believe that these young men were sentenced based more on their place of residence than on the actual crimes committed?
I don't personally know these boys, but my son graduated with two of the boys' older brothers. Some remarks have been circulating that their sentencing has alot to do with making examples of these young men because of their being from Mt. Pleasant. I don't know that this is factual, but I would not be surprised.
Let's see what the Gadsen Green kids get, considering someone was shot in the hand.
It is not fair to punish anyone more harshly, simply because their lifestyles may differ.
February 11, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Girleygirl (anonymous) says...
Archdude- You are right, but they still have to accept that they did something wrong and they need the therapy, until they figure that part out, therapy IMO still would not help these kids. You can take a horse to water but you can't make him drink it.
They would have to accept something is wrong with them but too many people around them that is pointing out that something is wrong with our judicial system. What do you think these kids are learning from this experience? Do you think they are sorry-sorry are sorry that they got caught and underestimated the punishment?
February 11, 2008 at 5:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
RTC: Their 10 year sentences were the minimum. They were given leniency.
February 11, 2008 at 5:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
COFC2007 (anonymous) says...
I was going to say so more on this issue but so far i am liking everyones responses so i have nothing really to say at all.
February 11, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Thanks for the info on the pellet gun/armed robbery- so if one goes into a bank, hands the teller a note, and says nothing about a gun or does not have one then what sentence time would they receive?
February 11, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beemz (anonymous) says...
you know i am just worn out about these 2 criminals.
what do you people want a smack on the wrist?
or maybe someone to really get hurt by these phony lil thugs?
whatever the case may be the point of this charade is "they chose to rob that store with intent and they deserve exactly what they got, time in prison for a crime that they themselves committed.
my goodness do you supporters realize that these 2 criminals broke the LAW?
do the crime and do the time and stop the DAMN whining.
beemz
b=brackish
e=enamored
e=exhausted
m=mitigating gall
z=zealous to a point
February 11, 2008 at 5:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
beemz (anonymous) says...
hi rtc and cvs.
how are you both?
February 11, 2008 at 5:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
I don't know of anyone stating they don't need to be punished- it's the manner/form of punishment!!
Go read http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/sean...
February 11, 2008 at 5:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
afternoondelight (anonymous) says...
MotoryachtSoCo
I'm glad I posted, too.
Why don't you have the guts to post your Scarlett Wilson venom using your real name?
I did. Like you said it makes for a more "real" perspective.
I'm waiting for courage to overtake you.
Frank O. Hunt
unafraid and supporting Scarlett 100%
February 11, 2008 at 5:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LoseMouthoftheSouth (anonymous) says...
The others have not been sentenced as of yet. They also, had no choice. All of these young men were hauled in, interogated and forced to tell all. They have been rail roaded in the worst political posturing I have ever seen. I mean this for all of them. Everyone of you sit down with your 16, 17 year olds, have a long talk with them, and then come back here and tell me that they are an adult. Ms. Wilson should be ashamed of herself. I also, am going to promote Mr. Jennings.
February 11, 2008 at 5:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
RTC (anonymous) says...
I thought 7 yrs. was the max for armed robbery. Isn't that what is posted on bank windows? I can't remember.
February 11, 2008 at 6:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
walleyedwoman1215 (anonymous) says...
2dogs1bear: I understand the confusion w/ the armed robbery charge. As a retired print media crime reporter, I can tell you that 20 years ago, a man put a banana in his coat pocket, walked into a Summerville bank, pointed the banana at a teller and demanded cash. He was caught, charged w/ armed bank robbery by the feds and to my knowledge is still in Leavenworth. Yes, he is known as the Banana Bandit. Point being, for all the teller knew he had a six-shot in his pocket and was ready to use it. If the victim is in reasonable fear from a weapon, whether or not it is displayed, the suspect is charged with armed robbery.
February 11, 2008 at 6:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
News reports have given the required sentence as 10-30 years.
Not sure what the signs at the banks say but remember, bank robbery is a federal crime. Food Lion robbery is not.
February 11, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Well the P&C article is about what the families will do and that is their right~
Best of luck with the petition and giving us all an insight to the judicial system, those who are a part of it, and most importantly your willingness to go for change~
God Bless~
February 11, 2008 at 6:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
anothernobody (anonymous) says...
OK Since I haven't seen it said I'll say it myself ... 10 kids working 3 weeks at 15 hours a week for lets say 6.50 / hr ? Before taxes $2950 ? That would have rented a pretty nice party pad for a month ... and NO time served?
February 11, 2008 at 6:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MotoryachtSoCo (anonymous) says...
Frank O. Hunt
I'm surprised at your tone. Guts? Venom? You should add Bile and ....
I'm sorry I'm not going to stoop to name calling, it's just not in my character.
I do not believe Scarlett Wilson is going to be affected one way or the other by what I say, the facts that I point out, or who I vote for in the primary. The truth is she's playing politics with peoples lives.
As far as my guts, you think I'm crazy? I've got at least 2 dozen parking tickets outstanding.
I'm sure that's at least 10 years of 3 hots and a cot!
February 11, 2008 at 6:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
carolinapanther (anonymous) says...
I am choosing to vote for Scarlett Wilson because I believe she did the right thing. I dont feel sorry for criminals! I really dont care if they sit in prison for 10 years or 100 years. If it had been me working at the Food Lion of Subway they would of been shot and killed and we would not have to worry about how long they would spend in prison.
February 11, 2008 at 6:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mdtpace (anonymous) says...
This quote from Archdude is hilarious
"Let alone, when you watch the tape, he leaves the gun on the floor while essentially jumping in the safe to empty it. Had I been in that room the person would not have been able to leave--set a gun down and put all attention in the safe--open target to have a store employee beat them into submission. What? If two little old ladies can do it all across the country, I would think the Food Lion kid would have been able to instead of cowering in the corner."
Real tough talk from someone who wasn't there. And somehow, you think the perceived ignorance of the Food Lion employees not knowing the gun was a toy somehow lessens what these felons did. You and Motoryachtsoco must be the same person. You want to blame Wilson for these felons going to prison. I pray you don't have kids because if you have no more idea of what accepting responsibility means, you are ill suited to be a parent. Your bias against Wilson is pathetic. This case has ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with the election. They committed a crime and were punished in accordance with the laws set forth by the legislature. You should get someone with an IQ greater than 90 to explain that to you.
February 11, 2008 at 7:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Mon_Kie (anonymous) says...
"faced with the prospect of prison, his biggest concerns seem to be whether he will have a cell mate and how the food will taste"
Well Mikey, the food will taste YUMMY...
and so will your roomie. Have a good time.
February 11, 2008 at 7:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nochasgirl (anonymous) says...
I apologize for repeating myself, but since some sound like a broken record, I just want to make this point. At some point, we have to draw the line. At what age are you an adult? I have a 17 yr-old, and in no way is that child an adult. Physically, yes. Mentally, no. I cannot understand how a 16 yr-old with no prior criminal record is charged as an adult, and then we have a 14 yr-old who is charged with murder, and will be sent through the juvenile system. A couple of weeks ago a 15 yr-old is charged with murder, and again, no name, no face, no neighborhood, no school connected with this crime. There are so many people who feel very strongly about the Wando boys' punishment, and I am completely shocked that they do not have any feelings about 14 & 15 yr-olds KILLING someone, and being charged as juveniles. Do you really feel that something magical happens between the ages of 14 & 15 & 16? The Pittman boy was 12 yrs old, and stood trial and was sentenced as an adult. His crime was HORRIBLE, but he was 12 yrs old, and on anti-depressants that are not for use with children. I am not making excuses for any of these crimes, but all of these boys are children. Children mature at different levels. I just cannot conceive how many people feel so strongly, and you can HONESTLY say that if it were YOUR CHILD, you would want them to serve their sentence in an adult prison. If you feel so strongly about getting criminals off the street, I hope you are as vigilant with all of the other cases of rape, murder, drugs, sexual abuse, child molestation, child abuse, child neglect that are reported here everyday.
February 11, 2008 at 7:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
BillytheKid (anonymous) says...
What do the poor rich kids need, laws just for them. If you don't want your kid to turn out this way get control of what is going on in their life. Don't complain about how the system hurts just them.
February 11, 2008 at 7:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
islandmama (anonymous) says...
BillytheKid-
Amen!
February 11, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Mon_Kie (anonymous) says...
mdtpace ...
Believe me, I'm not trying to start anything, but did you know that the kid with the key at Food Lion was probably the son of Mikey's adopted Mom's boyfriend? Coincidence?....Who knows.
I think that some of the posters were commenting on how calm he appeared, plus how the robber, Sean walked past 2 female cashiers directly to the guy who had a key to the safe...who was Mikey's "step-bro 2 B" then Sean didn't keep track of his gun. The gun was on the floor several feet away from Sean, while Sean stuck his head and half of his body in the safe.
Maybe the cops should take a 2nd look...ya think?
February 11, 2008 at 7:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nochasgirl (anonymous) says...
Oh, I don't think these boys need laws just for them. But how do you explain a 14 & 15 yr-old being charged as juveniles for MURDER? It seems the MtP boys received a sentence that is more harsh than boys who murdered a person??? Is this justice? Do you know where these boys live? No, because their faces weren't on the front page of the paper. The fact that there is no outrage over 14 & 15 yr-old murderers, shows me that the bias is probably because of where the robbers live vs. the murderers.
February 11, 2008 at 7:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
"How would you feel if this were your kid........."
There's a reason that the defendant's friends and family don't sit on their jury or get to decide their sentence.
For the record, my daughters are Honor Roll Nerds. There is NO chance they will stick up a grocery store.
VOTE FOR SCARLETT!
February 11, 2008 at 7:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Mon_Kie (anonymous) says...
nochasgirl..
I for one am more concerned with the criminals on the street who can victimize normal law-abiding citizens.
I have no feelings at all for murders, or armed robbers...lock them up... throw away the damn key.
Let them rot in prison... age 12? age 17? age 19? I don't give a damn, they are a menace to society, lock the thugs up.
February 11, 2008 at 7:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scfirefly (anonymous) says...
Mon_Kie:
In Sunday's story we are told that the Food Lion victim IS the son of Beth Anthony's fiancee. Joel Pilling has apparently posted here.
http://www.charleston.net/users/phoen...
There is no evidence that he aided the robbers. He's been through enough. Leave him alone.
February 11, 2008 at 7:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
2dogs1bear (anonymous) says...
archdude, SCgal, Girleygirl, MotorYacht and others who had something constructive to say - thank you.
Mon_Kie - your post is disgusting.
The board's been hijacked by morons and flamers so I'm calling it a night.
February 11, 2008 at 8:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
LoseMouthoftheSouth (anonymous) says...
While I intend to leave this particuliar site, I do not want to go without suggesting that there ARE kids that read these posts (probably one of yours Mouth or Mon-Kie), and it is repulsive to suggest of the things you do. Mon-Kie, your post about the food tasting yummy? When your child comes up to you and asks what the following sentence means, just what are you going to tell him/her? Oh, wait, there is no such thing as a child. I dang near forgot. Again, there is a block feature on here and a feature to "REQUEST REMOVAL", and all the ugliness of jail needs not be posted on here for shock value. GROW UP.
February 11, 2008 at 8:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Mon_Kie (anonymous) says...
Glub glub glub...mmmm yummy.. you beeze da best-est cell mate dat I has gots since I beeze here in prison.
luv Mikey
February 11, 2008 at 8:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Mon_Kie (anonymous) says...
I beez dreamin bouts my step mommy an how we beez havin sex.
When I get out of Leeber I gonna show her sum real fun timez. Yeah mommie, yeah mommie...feel dat? Das gud, eah?
luv Mikey
February 11, 2008 at 8:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I'm supporting Scarlett Wilson in the primary because she is a smart, hard working solicitor and she deserves to be elected to the job she inherited from Ralph Hoisington. She is doing a wonderful job in the solicitor's office and needs the chance to fully implement changes she has made.
As for those who say she was tough on these guys to win political points-that is ridiculous.
What Republican in their right mind wants to alienate the voters of Mount Pleasant - a Republican stronghold?
If she had wanted to be political, she would have given them a lighter sentence to please the Mt Pleasant constituents or delayed the case past the election.
After reading Sunday's article, I have no doubt that Ralph and she were correct in giving these guys a tough sentence. These were not first time offendors; they committed 3 separate crimes (and those are the ones we know about!)
I was especially disgusted to learn that Mike Anthony is a sexual predator and his actions have been swept under the rug by persons within the I'On neighborhood, including the parents of the children that he touched inappropriately. He should have been detained before these crimes were ever committed!
For those of you who would like to know more about Scarlett or help her campaign, go to www.wilsonforsolictor.com. I am proudly bearing a bumper sticker on my car right now!
February 11, 2008 at 9:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Cid95 (anonymous) says...
1. Poster immediately above, Mon_Kie - very low end. You're showing a lack of proper upbringing.
2. Bore diameter of a BB pistol is 4.5mm. Bore diameter of a .22 caliber pistol (a "real gun") is 5.5mm. I can hear it now "Is it 4.5mm or 5.5mm punk? Well? Are you feeling lucky?".
3. For $6/hour or whatever Subway or Food Lion pays, I wouldn't expect anyone to risk their life.
4. These premeditaded criminals got what they deserved. Justice was done.
February 11, 2008 at 9:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mosinfan (anonymous) says...
Cid95, Well said!
Archdude, no...I dont think you are stupid for thinking people should be aware and then defend thier property. I concur completely. Problem is most of the "sheeple" dont think that way.
What I was pointing out is that not everyone has basic knowledge of firearms to be able to tell whether or not the gun is legit. In a tense situation, a frightened employee probably will not be aware of the obvious and thus able to defend themselves and their property.
February 11, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
just1reader (anonymous) says...
READ THE LAW!!!!! www.sc.gov, follow the link to SC Code, go to Title 16 and Crimes against the person, find armed robbery. It's that simple.
February 11, 2008 at 10:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
algorelost (anonymous) says...
Cnstreet
Scarlet Wilson is playing politics. The 4 kids from gadsen green, commited two armed robberies with a pellet gun. They are in family court...Why, because Scarlet wouldn't get relected if she put 4 kids from the projects downtown in jail for 10 years...Wendal Gaillard wouldn't like it.
February 11, 2008 at 10:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
GG (anonymous) says...
I would rather have a sexual predator like Anthony in the BIG HOUSE rather than being housed with younger thugs in any juvie center.
February 11, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
marwi8 (anonymous) says...
SOME OF THESE YOUNG KIDS DON'T HAVE FATHER OR FATHER FIGURES IN THEIR LIVES AND WON'T LISTEN TO THEIR MOTHERS SO YES THEY NEED TO BE TREATED AS ANADULT.SEEMLY VERY FITTING.SINCE THEY WANTS TO DO ADULTS CRIMES.
February 11, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sherlock (anonymous) says...
these kids were actually missing something in their lives that made them feel that they had to "go bad". kids now-a-days dont take life seriously. i bet these two do now.
February 11, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
GG (anonymous) says...
Archduke-
You are so sure people would know the difference between a real gun and a pellet gun in this situation.
You need to speak with the officers in MP who have the gun used. I have and they will tell you that it would be very difficult to determine the difference with the particular one they recovered. They pointed out to me also that it would be very hard to distinguish anything when you are facing a masked thug waving a weapon in your face and demanding money.
February 11, 2008 at 11:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I hate to break it to you, but wendal gaillard has little effect on the republican primary. That is the election she is facing right now in June.
Even if she gets the nomination, people downtown vote overwhelmingly democrat. Why would she suck up to them? That's the point - if she is so politically motivated, why is she willing to piss off a large republican voting block in mount pleasant.
February 11, 2008 at 11:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I think it is just wishful thinking on behalf of the Shevlino/Anthony supporters that they can draw exact parallels to the Gadsden Green boys.
Two different cases. The ages of the boys are 13-16, and the crimes are really not that similar.
February 11, 2008 at 11:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rollo (anonymous) says...
What a bunch of nitwits!
Don't any of these people realize that these boys could have gotten themselves as well as innocent bystanders killed??!!!!
Pointing a gun at someone is not a prank. Not even a BB-gun!
February 11, 2008 at 11:21 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I totally agree, Rollo. As someone who carries a concealed weapon (with permit), I can't say I would take the time to figure out the size of the bore in the guys' guns if they were trying to rob me. I would protect myself!
February 11, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
the crimes are really not that similar.
?? Crime is crime~ remember!
So these other 4 kids are getting a different treatment/route than the Mt P kids?
February 11, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
The 4 kids from gadsen green, commited two armed robberies with a pellet gun. They are in family court...Why
Is this information confirmed and accurate?
February 11, 2008 at 11:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I'm saying they are two different cases. I don't know what the status of the Gadsden green case is, but if it is in family court (I base that only on what an earlier poster said) it is probably because those kids are 13-16 (all underage).
In the Mt. P case the only one who was underage at the time of the crime was Shevlino and he was committed the worst parts of the crimes.
February 11, 2008 at 11:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nochasgirl (anonymous) says...
What are the details of the Gadsden Green robbers? Armed robbery? 16 yr-old? Different?
February 11, 2008 at 11:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
If someone accurately knows what is the status of Gadsden green that would be helpful.
BUT, please do not confuse the criminal case against the boys with the eviction case against the mothers.
February 11, 2008 at 11:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
But two robberies with a pellet gun correct?
February 11, 2008 at 11:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Underage is 18- go back and check the ages on the Wando kids in 2006~
February 11, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
If I'm not mistaken, the Gadsden green kids did not commit a robbery. They acted "confrontational" while carrying pellet guns.
February 11, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
Actually 17 is the age of adulthood in SC.
February 11, 2008 at 11:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Carrying a pellet gun/weapon in public?
February 11, 2008 at 11:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
Mike Anthony was 18 anyway. The other kids parents aren't complaining. They got a much better deal.
February 11, 2008 at 11:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
And one article in the paper stated another kid stole the BMW and not Shevlino- did he or didn't he?
February 11, 2008 at 11:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Sean Deaton, accused of stealing a BMW, is not a part of the plea negotiations. A tip about the vehicle theft led to the arrests of the other students.
http://www.charleston.net/news/2007/d...
February 11, 2008 at 11:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nochasgirl (anonymous) says...
My point exactly! How does everyone know every detail of the MtP crimes, but no details on the Gadsden Green crimes?
February 11, 2008 at 11:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I can only find articles about the eviction case against the mothers. The articles I found all say they are charged with armed robbery, but that it has not gone to trial. Whoever said the case had been referred to family court, please confirm that info.
February 11, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Perez, 17, a one-time Wando defensive lineman, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit armed robbery and accessory after the fact of armed robbery in connection with an Aug. 26, 2006, incident at the Food Lion on South Morgan's Point Road.
The maximum penalty for each offense is five years and 15 years, respectively.
Perez originally had been charged with conspiracy and armed robbery - which by itself can draw 30 years in state prison.
It is doubtful Perez will receive the statutory maximums. His sentencing was put off indefinitely until a report on his background and post-arrest conduct is done for the sentencing judge.
His sentencing was put off indefinitely
?? So what happens here- some get EXCESSIVE jail time and others what?
February 11, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coccougs (anonymous) says...
The Gadsen Green incident has not been prosecuted yet. I think comparisons are extremely premature at this point.
SCGAL - just curious about your position on this one . . . assuming the evidence of guilt is as strong as it was against the Wando armed robbers, what should happen here:
http://www.charleston.net/news/2008/f...
Probation? 6 months at a juvenile summer camp so the killer can talk about his feelings and work everything out? How are those proposed law changes looking now? (or did I overlook your proposed clause where SCgal is granted the authority to pick who her new law applies to and who it doesn't)
February 11, 2008 at 11:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
nochasgirl (anonymous) says...
So they were charged with armed robbery, not confrontational gun carrying? OK, so 16 yr-old armed robber from MtP vs 16 yr-old robber from Charleston? And the difference is? Why isn't his picture in the paper? Why don't we know his name? Where does he go to school?
February 11, 2008 at 11:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
"Posted by nochasgirl (anonymous) on February 11, 2008 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My point exactly! How does everyone know every detail of the MtP crimes, but no details on the Gadsden Green crimes?"
Because the Post and Courier has only really reported details on the eviction issue. Perhaps their reporter should do a follow up.
February 12, 2008 at midnight ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
"So they were charged with armed robbery, not confrontational gun carrying? OK, so 16 yr-old armed robber from MtP vs 16 yr-old robber from Charleston? And the difference is? Why isn't his picture in the paper? Why don't we know his name? Where does he go to school?"
For one, we don't even know the status of this case, so everybody is all up in arms about something they don't know. But the reason you don't know what they look like or his name is that the Post and Courier only focused on the eviction of the mothers for the story. And, if you read the stories, the mother's don't seem to care what is happening to the sons. They are mostly concerned with not getting evicted.
February 12, 2008 at 12:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
A new state prison to house young felons of any type with seperate facilites for more violent, less violent, and those in need of serious counseling.
Keep the juvenile delinquents separated from the small percentage of teenagers who commit violent crimes, so that rehabilitation occurs.
A prison that can seperate youths from the influences of mature, hardened inmates housed in regular prisons and not dump them into the adult population once they hit a specified age.
February 12, 2008 at 12:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
Here is a question for someone who may have the legal knowledge to answer. When there are multiple defendents, do they all have to be tried as juveniles or all as adults?
If so, I'm guessing that the Gadsden Green boys will be tried as juveniles since the range is all under juvenile age.
February 12, 2008 at 12:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
I actually saw Scarlett Wilson a few weeks ago speaking at a luncheon. She expressed that it would be nice if there were facilities more specifically able to handle these types of younger convicts. But, we don't. We have juvenile facilities that are a joke; we have juvenile facilities that are just as bad as some adult prisons, and we have adult prisons. Unfortunately, it is not under the solicitors scope to run the facilities. They have to work with what they have.
February 12, 2008 at 12:13 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
cnstreet (anonymous) says...
from: http://www.charleston.net/news/2007/d...
About the Gadsden Green kids:
"The sole reason why they are being evicted is due to the fact that they have the apparent misfortune of being related by blood to teenage boys accused of committing a crime," Martin said in a statement given to the hearing officer.
Martin also pointed out that the youths have not been convicted of the charges.
And the threat to the community has been mitigated already, Martin said, because the mothers have made other living arrangements for the youths, including staying with relatives away from Gadsden Green. "
With any luck, they have sent them off to live family members in Mt. Pleasant.
February 12, 2008 at 12:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
rollo (anonymous) says...
What a bunch of nitwits!
Don't any of these people realize that these boys could have gotten themselves as well as innocent bystanders killed??!!!!
Pointing a gun at someone is not a prank. Not even a BB-gun!
February 12, 2008 at 12:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hc5 (anonymous) says...
Let's ask the middle school teachers to cover this story in class....what a great lesson, all around.
February 12, 2008 at 7:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Unfortunately, it is not under the solicitors scope to run the facilities. They have to work with what they have.
Amd so they opt to send KIDS to ADULT prisons for a 10 yr 24/7 mentoring of adult criminals vs. taking ALL FACTS into consideration and trying to give some of these kids a chance in life!!!
IMO, that is a pathetic!!
February 12, 2008 at 7:51 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/sean...
February 12, 2008 at 7:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
coccougs (anonymous) says...
SCGal -
I actually agree with you in your opinion that the prison system should be more specifically structured. But your spin on this attacking Sol. Wilson is off base to the point of being a little crazy. "take ALL the facts into consideration"? Like the fact that it was an armed robbery? premeditated? repeated? like the fact that Anthony shows all the red flags of being a sexual predator?
The robbers' age WAS taken into account - what is it, exactly, that you don't understand about the words "MINIMUM SENTENCE." If you were presented the same choice of Sol. Wilson - 10 years to 30 years - what would you have chosen? From your compassionate comments, I'm guessing you would have chosen . . . 10 years. So why the attacks on a hard working prosecutor? Focus your criticisms where they belong - on the legislature and the prison structure.
To the view put forward by you and others (MotorYacht, to name one) that this prosecution was somehow politically motivated - I really don't know how put this a other way than you are very ignorant and really don't think things through at all. This case was a prosecutorial nightmare from the beginning. Anything the prosecutor did would result in outrage from a large portion of the communtity - a true "damned if you do, damned if you don't" scenario. So what's the "smart political move"? . . .
Postpone the case untill after the election, drag your feet and keep it out of the papers, don't express any opinion and don't act on anything until the public eye is focused elsewhere.
That's what a politician would do, but it is not the ethical way a prosecutor with any integrity (as opposed to a politician) would handle it. Despite full knowledge of the repercussions - Sol. Wilson made the tough call, which while not perfect - was fair, and moved the case in a deliberate manner. That's what we should expect from our prosecutors - just, fair, and ethical.
Now as to the challenging Mr. Blair. Which does he seem to be . . . a prosecutor or a politician? I'll leave it up to the readers:
"Jennings acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but said he didn't know enough details about the case to say what sentence would have been appropriate."
. . . spoken like a true politician.
February 12, 2008 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
I actually agree with you in your opinion that the prison system should be more specifically structured. But your spin on this attacking Sol. Wilson is off base to the point of being a little crazy.........
There was never a spin in attacking anyone! It is what it is!!
I have never once stated anything about the Sol. one way or another~
February 12, 2008 at 7:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
And I never spoke of any political motivation either!
But she herself did quote she had the authority and yes, everyone knows these kids could have been tried as juveniles!
So who makes that detemination for these kids lives?
February 12, 2008 at 7:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
"Jennings acknowledged the seriousness of the charges but said he didn't know enough details about the case to say what sentence would have been appropriate."
. . . spoken like a true politician or someone who can step back and take it all into account instead of accepted what was just passed to them~
February 12, 2008 at 7:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
Woe is those who send children to adult prisons & we all prayer nothing bad happens to these kids!
February 13, 2008 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
MOS I could care less whant you think of my grammar, furthermore, how does anyone know who is behind the keyboard?
Botom line, prayer nothing happens to these TEENS- no beatings, no rape, no HIV/AIDS, no sexual acts against them, no death, and no deep, emotional psychologial lifelong scars due to the decisions to try them as adults and send them to a LEVEL 3 adult population...............
February 14, 2008 at 7:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
phoenixdown (anonymous) says...
Mon_kie, they picked that Food Lion because one of the co-conspiritors worked there and was good friends with Beth's fiance's sons, therefore he knew inside information.
archdude, I looked right down the barrel and thought "Oh crap tonight I am going to die, my life is going to end here." I did not look at the gun again after that. When it dropped I had the fleeting through of doing something, but then I thought, "Maybe he has another gun? Maybe hes got something else in that duffle bag? Why else would he feel safe without it in his hand." I can only hope that you are never in that posotion, because 1.77calibur and .22rimfire is SUCH a big difference to someone who does not know jack about handguns such as myself at the time. Its a huge slap in the face knowing I have huge anxiety issues now, knowing that I will never forget that night, and finding it hard to go anywhere alone, look anyone in the eye, trust anyone I don't know completely, and then to see so many rally up for these kids who never even apologized to me. Thanks, Its great to be a victim of a crime when everyone favors the assailant.
February 17, 2008 at 3:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
SCgal (anonymous) says...
All of the victims have forgiven except one~
May 31, 2008 at 5:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
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- Off campus
- Historic manor house used by Girl Scouts is among buildings that might be torn down to make way for future
- Biting research
