Dear Editor:
Definition of Treason:
"The betrayal of allegiance toward one's own country, especially by committing hostile acts against it or aiding its enemies to committing such acts." (Fifth Edition American Heritage Dictionary)
Terrorism:
"The use of violence or the threat of violence, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political goals." (The word terrorism is sometimes shortened to terror, especially in phrases like the war on terror) (Fifth Addition American Heritage Dictionary)
18 US Code 2381 - Treason
Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
(Wikipedia)
There is a definite distinction between terrorism and treason, as treason refers basically to acts against a country, but if you consider the definition of terrorism, it speaks to the use of violence against order, or political, or religious to attain goals.
Over 300 individuals are due to be released this year from prison for committing terrorism in our country. What will they do when released? How much different is treason from terrorism when you look at what these people have done?
I am not a legal scholar, by any means, but rather a person who was taught to live by the rules and be respectful of not only our country, but also our country's legal citizens. How safe are we, as a citizenry, as law-abiding people, when these people are turned loose into our population once again. Do you think that prison has been a good factor and changed their lives for the better?
Admittedly, I do not have the answer to what should be done with them. My question is simply, if these individuals have committed a crime against our citizens, is that not the same as committing a crime against our country, and therefore should carry a more realistic punishment?
I like the New Testament about turning my cheek, but on the other hand?
Is it time for us to start considering how our country is going to be by 2040 at the rate we are going?