Madoff ruling

[deborahjross]

Two thoughts:

I wonder if the investors will see any of that $170 million. We know an elderly couple who lost almost all of their savings; he went back to work at age 91. He works as a greeter at the local independent supermarket, surrounded by friends and well-wishers. My kung fu teacher used to say, "You can take my life, but not my confidence." In this case, "You can take my money, but not my spirit."

Is there any point in sending Madoff to prison for 150 years, thereby forcing the very people he bilked to provide housing, food, and medical care for him? Since his assets cannot possibly recompense all the losses, would it not be more fitting to have him spend the rest of his life in pro bono community work? Even if he cannot be trusted to handle or advise on money matters, he must have some skills to contribute, even if it's picking up trash or scrubbing off graffiti.

Comments

[sartorias.livejournal.com]

That;s what I wish would happen, that these transgressors would be put to work doing some good in the community, to aid those very same people they trespassed against.

[deborahjross.livejournal.com]

I think it's an excellent idea to keep violent criminals off the streets, but I don't get the point with someone like Madoff. Incarceration clearly wasn't a deterrent, and he never had to face the suffering he caused. He can't make complete restitution, but he can pay back a little and maybe gain a little compassion in the process.