There is an epidemic of child abuse in this country. Every day there is a report of a child gone missing or worse. This is not acceptable. Every year, 1,600 or more children go missing. Our children have to be better protected.

Why is it that Martha Stewart has to wear an ankle restraint after being released from prison, and these horrible men can wander at will and set up housekeeping next to schools or next door to people with children?

Martha Stewart lied. These predators rape, murder and destroy the lives of children.

What colossal irony; what a colossal sin, turning those who prey on children loose on the streets. Those responsible should also be punished when the offender repeats his crime after being released. After all, they are just as guilty for putting our children in harm’s way.

Legal-system officials are giving these predators license to murder.

I believe that criminals have no rights. The children they destroy had rights, and that is the only thing that should be considered when one of these worst of criminals is brought before a court. We must make sure those who prey on children can never harm another child.

Mary Ellis, Lewiston

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