Reader: Killers like Thomas Silverstein whining about the justice system makes me sick

Alan Prendergast's recent post about convicted murderer Thomas Silverstein and a ruling that thirty years in solitary confinement doesn't constitute cruel and unusual punishment spurred plenty of comments on both sides of the issue. The following take is offered by someone who doesn't view Silverstein sympathetically...

By Michael Roberts

May 28, 2014

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Alan Prendergast's recent post about convicted murderer Thomas Silverstein and a ruling that thirty years in solitary confinement doesn't constitute cruel and unusual punishment spurred plenty of comments on both sides of the issue. The following take is offered by someone who doesn't view Silverstein sympathetically.

Shonna Lynn Perrymond writes:

It makes me sick when a person can commit a crime like murder, then whine because the justice system should be nice to them. Get a grip on your reality. It's jail, not vacation!!!!!

Send your story tips to the author, Michael Roberts.

For more memorable takes, visit our Comment of the Day archive.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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