What’s wrong with this picture?
I could not believe the contradictory messages expressed through two articles on the Tribune’s front page on May 12: “City paramedic found drunk may not lose job” and “Zero tolerance strikes again in Richmond.”
Perhaps the higher institutions are attempting to make examples of either or both of the individuals involved. But I think we are sending mixed messages. Our goals should be to reduce alcohol-related accidents and encourage children to stay in school. By punishing the paramedic through paid suspension and the child through possible jail time and expulsion from school, we are losing sight of our priorities.
If anyone deserves a second chance, it is the 17-year-old student. Let the “zero tolerance” fall on the adult professional.
