Tantalus punishment should fit the crime
I read with sadness about the recent slayings of three people on Tantalus. But my sadness quickly turned to anger when I read that the maximum penalty Adam Mau-Goffredo can receive, should he be convicted, is life without parole (
Star-Bulletin, July 13). When will the voters of Hawaii force the state government to make punishment fit the crime in cases like this?
The issue here is not one of deterrence but rather justice. If the state cannot mete out appropriate justice, who will?
Wayne Kilthau
San Jose, Calif.
Former Hawaii resident
Why not let Feds take Tantalus case?
I would urge city prosecuting attorney Peter Carlisle to open discussions with Ed Kubo at the U.S. Attorney General's Office about prosecuting any individual suspected of being involved in the
Tantalus killings under the federal "Carjacking Correction Act of 1996," Title 18, section 2119 of the U.S. Public Code. If this not a legal use of the federal statute, I would appreciate a public statement from Carlisle as to why this federal law cannot be used.
I am not an attorney, but a federal prosecution of this crime would reduce the possibility of family connections or family money affecting the outcome of this case. The federal barriers to presenting an insanity defense might be higher than those of a local prosecution.
Also, the death penalty is an option in a federal case.
I am not a vengeful person, but most of what I have heard in the media is about Adam Mau-Goffredo's history of mental illness. I cannot forget the voice of the surviving daughter of the Mr. and Mrs. Takamori saying that she cannot talk to her mother on the phone anymore.
Phil Meyers
Tantalus
Coffee adds strength to Senate race
As a concerned Oahu resident, I was excited to learn retired Navy Capt. Jerry Coffee has entered the Senate race against the victor of the Case/Akaka battle (
Star-Bulletin, July 12). It is important to have viable candidates representing each of the two major parties in all elections. Coffee's entrance into this race has given Republican voters their viable candidate.
In these uncertain times, I feel it is important to support those in the political arena who will be tough on crime and terrorism. Seeing as Coffee spent 28 years in the Navy, and seven of those years as a prisoner of war in Hanoi, I feel that he has the wherewithal to stand up for our country in the face of adversity and terrorism.
It is refreshing and encouraging to see a candidate of such caliber willing to devote himself to the service of the people of Hawaii. I encourage those who value honesty, strong leadership and devotion to support Capt. Jerry Coffee in his bid for the U.S. Senate.
Adam Willoughby
Honolulu
Pro basketball too easy for those tall guys
Television surfing recently, I held to one station for a short viewing of a professional basketball game. Now, folks, this event was comical in most aspects.
Grown men pouting or glaring or otherwise demonstrating antisocial behavior during the game which, in my view, appeared freakish. Giant people loping around a court designed for children's play is not a stage for high-priced talent to pronounce their worth.
Increase the court size and raise the basket so the players can earn their wages.
Joel Whitley
Lahaina, Maui
Hotels blocked views of Waikiki fireworks
I was in Waikiki with family on July 4, winding up five days vacationing in Honolulu (and a week in Maui). I expected to return to Pennsylvania raving about spending July 4 in Waikiki, but we were very disappointed with the
fireworks display.
The location might have been fine for people close to the fireworks, but for many folks the aerial display was blocked by hotels. Furthermore, the grand climax, from our hindered view, was a dud. With so many visitors in the city during that time, one expected better.
Honolulu is a great place to visit, but not a great place if you enjoy fireworks with your Fourth of July celebration.
Lou Prato
Port Matilda, Pa.