Guarding Our Innocence: Three Stories of Childhood and Crime
Throughout life, we may find ourselves as victims or witnesses to criminal acts that can leave a lasting impact. Two personal scenarios serve as poignant examples of such experiences. Whether it is the inappropriate actions of a dentist or the theft of essential items, these encounters remind us of the importance of justice and the resilience of the human spirit.
Childhood Exploitation: A Dentist's Inappropriateness
When I was 15, I faced a terrifying dental appointment. The summer heat was intense, and I was wearing shorts and a simple shirt. The dentist, an adult unfamiliar with my age, inadvertently exhibited inappropriate behavior during the procedure. He administered a shot to numb my mouth and administered gas, leaving me in a state that resembled cartoon characters due to the effects of the anesthesia. After he left, his hand inexplicably wandered into my shorts, touching an area I would not have noticed without looking in the mirror. The discretion of keeping this experience quiet was critical for protecting my safety and preventing a family tragedy.
A cowardly decision, I never told my parents. The fear of the repercussions, especially from my father, who may have faced legal ramifications for administering the anesthesia, kept silent until I reached the right detective. It later became clear that the dentist had a history of such misconduct, as others had shared similar experiences. To protect my father, I agreed to be a backup witness, which proved unnecessary as sufficient evidence already existed.
Serial Crime and Escalation: A New Job in New Orleans
Shortly after relocating to New Orleans, Louisiana, for a new job, I found myself entangled in a strange and illegal situation. I was living in an apartment without laundry facilities, so I had to take my dirty clothes to work with me, cluttering the back of my car. My past career involved gear storage, as I used to work as a Federal Firefighter, Paramedic, and Rescue Technician. These supplies were inside the car with me when an incident unfolded. A warehouse where I was making saw blades was interrupted by two suspects attempting to break into a car. My boss called the police, and the suspects were apprehended about 30 minutes later.
The thieves left behind a significant amount of rescue gear, including my Paramedic Drug Box, which was prominently labeled. The only real damage was a broken car window, which my employer restored before the shift ended. In a gesture of discretion, I offered to drop the charges against the suspects if they repaid the company for the window. The prosecutors accepted the offer.
Lessons from these Incidents: The Role of the Criminal Justice System
Both cases serve as a reminder of the pervasive nature of crime and the importance of a fair and responsive justice system. In the first case, the willingness of the criminal justice system to investigate and prosecute the dentist reflects a commitment to addressing sexual misconduct. It highlights the significant consequences of such acts on victims and the broader community.
The second incident underscores the complexities of a criminal justice system that may need to balance the needs of a victim with the practicalities of legal processes. Cases involving minor theft (in certain jurisdictions) can be resolved more informally, such as through restitution, rather than full criminal prosecution.
These events, though uncomfortable, have also provided valuable insights into the human capacity to overcome adversity. They serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. They also remind us of the critical importance of speaking out against injustice and the role of the justice system in protecting our safety and well-being.