Letters: Verdict for Rutgers roommate
Dharun Ravi leaves Middlesex Superior Court in New Brunswick, N.J. (March 16, 2012) Credit: AP
I don't know whether former Rutgers University student Dharun Ravi or his attorneys were responsible for rejecting the plea bargain that could have spared him prison time before they rolled the dice and went to trial ["It was a hate crime," News, March 17]. However, knowing that Ravi was not going to take the witness stand, the refusal of the plea deal seems like taking an unnecessary and incredible risk.
When many of the facts of the case were not in dispute and all the questions about motive rested with the defendant, his refusal to take the stand was an extremely risky strategy. The judge can instruct the jury regarding the defendant's constitutional right not to testify, but the need for answers can cause some jurors to fail to appreciate those warnings. This is especially true when the jurors' emotions are certain to be affected by a vulnerable victim, Tyler Clementi, who committed suicide.
Michael J. Gorman, Whitestone
Editor's note: The writer is a lawyer and administrative law judge.
The verdict sends a resounding message to all of us: Cyberbullying is not acceptable, will not be tolerated and can, in fact, be criminal. Invasion of privacy and bias intimidation are not child's play. The argument that "boys will be boys" does not apply here, and youth does not confer immunity from prosecution and conviction.
This case is a sobering reminder that we are all accountable for our actions, whether in the real world or in the virtual world. When you use the Internet as a weapon, the unintended consequences can be deadly, and you will be punished.
In July, the New York Dignity for All Students Act becomes effective. It requires public schools to establish policies and procedures so that no student shall be subjected to harassment, discrimination, or bullying by employees or students.
We all can learn a lot from this case. Let's start with working with our young as early as possible, teaching them the importance of respecting themselves, respecting each other, and the virtues of tolerance and diversity -- both offline and online -- so that Tyler Clementi's legacy will be one of working toward a community free of discrimination and hate.
Alane Fagin, Roslyn
Editor's note: The writer is the executive director of Child Abuse Prevention Services, a nonprofit advocate for prevention of bullying, child abuse and neglect.
