Lock Him Up And Throw Away The Key

Offenders That Should Be Locked Up and Thrown Away the Key

A Deeper Look into Why Some Offenders Should Be Incarcerated Forever

What it Means to Lock Someone Up and Throw Away the Key

To "lock someone up and throw away the key" is a phrase that refers to the indefinite imprisonment of a person, especially a dangerous or violent criminal. It implies that the offender will never be released from prison due to the severity of their crime.

Reasons for Indefinite Imprisonment

There are several situations where locking someone up and throwing away the key may be considered justified:

• Heinous Crimes: Individuals who have committed atrocious or heinous crimes, such as murder, rape, or child molestation, may warrant permanent incarceration to protect society from their future actions.
• Repeat Offenders: Habitual criminals who have repeatedly demonstrated a lack of remorse or rehabilitation may be deemed too dangerous to be allowed back into society and require permanent removal.
• Mental Illness: In some cases, offenders with severe mental illnesses that render them unable to control their dangerous behavior may be indefinitely committed to mental institutions to ensure public safety.

Arguments for and Against Indefinite Imprisonment

Arguments for:

• Protection of the Public: Indefinite imprisonment can protect society from dangerous criminals who pose a significant threat to their well-being.
• Deterrence: The possibility of permanent imprisonment can serve as a deterrent against future crimes, particularly among those who have no desire for rehabilitation.

Arguments Against:

• Cruel and Unusual Punishment: Indefinite imprisonment can be considered cruel and unusual punishment for those who are deemed irredeemable.
• Cost to Society: Long-term imprisonment is extremely expensive and can divert resources away from other societal needs.
• Possibility of Rehabilitation: Some argue that even the most dangerous criminals can be rehabilitated and should not be permanently removed from society.

Conclusion

The decision of whether or not to lock someone up and throw away the key is a complex one that requires careful consideration of the offender's circumstances, the severity of their crime, and potential risks to the public. While indefinite imprisonment may be justified in certain cases, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks before such a severe sentence is imposed.