From the Wall Street Journal: "Registries have proliferated rapidly in the U.S., experts say. While some lists restrict access to law-enforcement agencies or fire officials, others can be viewed online by anyone, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. In addition to the 50 states that publicly track sex offenders, five states including California require registration for arson. Minnesota, Illinois and six others maintain lists of methamphetamine producers. In Indiana, a public website lets visitors use Google Maps to find the location of homes that have been used as meth laboratories. Tennessee requires registration for animal abuse— something nine other state legislatures are debating. Florida law requires registration by anyone convicted of a felony of any kind for up to five years after completing the sentence."
When stern justice has been served, and a felon serves his time,
then it's only fair that he can move past his woeful crime.
Anonymity assures that mistakes stay in the past,
so the guy or gal is free from all bigotry or caste.
But the zealous Pharisee, the unbending martinet
wants to make a little list that all ex-cons will regret.
Not allowed a second chance, with his mug shot so displayed,
the former inmate finds himself in shackles still arrayed.
May all unforgiving men, who want vengeance measured out
with a steam shovel become of themselves a thing of doubt!
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