A story was released this morning about a family on trial for accidentally killing a relative during an exorcism. It turns out none of the family will get any jail time. What I found interesting in the report was the judge's reasoning for his decision:
Janet Moses, a 22-year-old mother of two, died from drowning in October 2007 after members of her extended family forced water down her throat during a ceremony to lift a curse known as a makutu.
The High Court in Wellington imposed a curfew order and work sentences on the five, ranging in age from 36 to 52, although prosecutors had sought prison sentences of up to five years.
Justice Simon France said Moses' death did not occur because of a recognised ritual or "fanatical beliefs".
"Makutu did not kill her. She drowned," he said.
"It is undoubted that, at some stage, hysteria entered the room."
"The accused did what they genuinely thought was right. I have no doubt they believed that she was possessed by makutu and were trying to help."
So then, two questions: 1. Do you think someone in this situation should get prison time if something like this happens (for example let's say someone dies during a Christian exorcism)? 2. Whether you agree with his decision to let the family go or not, do you agree with the Judge's reasoning?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment