After reading the article “Man guilty of making 12-year-old a stripper” in the March 16 newspaper, I have mixed thoughts. I don’t understand why a man would force a young girl to put herself in this situation for his own benefit.

I believe that Cory Davis, the person accused, should be punished more for his actions. Imagine what these girls went through, and he isn’t being held accountable for what he did.

Secondly, these girls should receive some type of counseling, at no expense to the family. These poor girls are only 12 years old, and what they experienced will most likely haunt them for the rest of their lives.

One thing that could have possibly helped these girls is more parental guidance. If parents always know where their children are, many such horrible incidents could be avoided.

Twenty-three years in jail is a long time, but I don’t believe it will help the poor girls who were forced into working. Most parents do pay close attention and know where their children are, but that one moment that they turn their heads, something bad could happen.

If everyone were more careful, then most such situations would be avoided.

Emily Rioux