JUDGE JUST WANTED TO HEAR 'I'M SORRY'

Filmmakers once told us that love means you never have to say you're sorry.

In the world of law and order, forget it.

A Jackson youth recently pleaded guilty to burglary and stealing. He broke into the Oak Ridge School and took more than $6,000 worth of video and computer equipment.

The boy showed no remorse for the crime, which disturbed Cape Girardeau County Circuit Judge William Syler.

Despite urgings from his attorney, the 17-year-old refused to apologize for the crime. The judge gave him three opportunities. At one point, the boy spent more than an hour sitting next to other prisoners awaiting their turn in court.

His stubbornness and lack of regret will likely earn him time in prison -- to up 14 years. The sad part is the prosecuting attorney's office was ready to recommend 120 days of shock incarceration and community service.

Ironically, the young man began the crime on the night before his 17th birthday. He entered the school a juvenile and exited an adult in the eyes of the law. His accomplice was cited into juvenile court.

A simple "I'm sorry" won't change the facts of the burglary. But Judge Syler's insistence is admirable.

This young man's fate should provide a telling lesson to other youthful offenders. Owning up to a crime and regretting is an important step on the road to genuine rehabilitation.