by Warrior Woman

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: April 11, 2009

The ban to Nick D'Arcy is more than fair - he's lucky he didn't go, as the average Joe Blow would have, to prison for what he did. The case was dismissed and he got off on a simple technicality, as so many criminals unfortunately do. It does not mean that he was found innocent. That's the (un)justice system for you. And he has not been given a life sentence. If he doesn't swim again, then it is his choice to end his career. He has only been banned from competing in the up-coming Olympics, and there is no reason he can't try for future events. If he's that passionate about a career in swimming then it's only his own guilt that is stopping him pursue it.

People are so selfish, shallow and narrow-minded to believe it is more important that he be allowed to increase Australias chances of a gold medal at the Olympics, than to be punished for the crime he committed. These are obviously people who have not had to endure the trauma and pysical pain that can, and often does, last a lifetime, from being assaulted, despite the strength of mind they may possess.

What's more, Nick D'Arcy had the audacity to boast that he did the damage inflicted with one punch, and threatened to do the same to someone else. And what about the victim - his jaw was smashed, his cheek bone shattered, and he was an absolute mess. What about an apology at the very least Nick D'Arcy? Or are you not man enough to do that? If this is his attitude, a warning would have no effect what-so-ever.

He should have considered the repercussions and consequences of his actions, drunk or not, before he chose to grievously assault another human being. He is a public figure and role model. Is it right that children grow up believing it is acceptable behaviour to beat up other people, because their sporting hero got away with it? Does it not make the behaviour acceptable if he is not punished for his deplorable behaviour? Assault is a criminal offense!

Violent crime is becoming more and more prevalent in our society, and yes, the days of just getting a warning are over, Thank God! People who just get a rap over the knuckles are given the message that society condones their actions and the justice system will not punish them for it - it is a fact that these are people who go on to become re-offenders, subsequently committing more violent crimes, including murder. Even people who are punished and receive prison sentences go on to re-offend. Is that the sort of world you want to live in? Karma did her job - what goes around, comes around!

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