Fighting for stiffer penalties against violent criminals

I was very frustrated that a mistrial was declared this summer in the case against the accused killer of Weymouth Police Sgt. Michael Chesna and resident Vera Adams. I find it inconceivable that their accused killer — who does not dispute his actions – could some day walk free by reason of an insanity defense. I wrote a letter to our Judiciary Committee demanding that action be taken on implementing a new so-called “guilty, but insane” verdict in Massachusetts. Under this rule, future juries potentially could find certain mentally-impaired defendants guilty, after which they would be committed to institutional treatment instead of prison. Bills of this nature have been pending for a long time and I believe the time to act is now. While I whole-heartedly acknowledge the reality and importance of mental health issues in our society, I find it unacceptable that a person could kill someone and escape consequences for their actions entirely. The families of these victims deserve justice for crimes committed against their loved ones.