Letter to the Editor

LETTERS: VICTIMS HAVE RIGHTS TOO

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To the editor:

On Dec. 29 I watched a television program about victims' rights. I think the public needs to be taught about victims' rights.

My firstborn son was murdered at work 13 1/2 years ago. His murderer has come up for parole twice. I went to Frankfort, Ky., to protest his release.

This year he received a "serve out," which means he must serve his entire life sentence. However, there is a possibility that there may be a request to reconsider this decision. If there is another hearing, I or my family will be notified.

The medical staff could request to reconsider, due to serious health problems. This usually happens when an inmate becomes so ill that death is almost certain within months or when the inmate has become ill to the point that he will have to go to a nursing home if he is paroled.

I don't think many people know this. I also don't know if Missouri has the same law or information service. I believe states should give victims their rights and information.

BETTY MEEHAN

Jackson