Most ex-cons use excuses such as ‘It’s cold out’, ‘I’m hungry’, and ‘I can’t adjust to society’ to justify their return to prison. (image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 18 (Korea Bizwire) — It was reported on Monday that an ex-convict referred to only as A was arrested once again for dining and dashing.
The individual in question served his time and lived on the street ever since being released. Living homeless for 20 years, he has a lengthy criminal record with most of the offenses related to unpaid restaurant meals.
When he was taken to the police office, he said he’d rather go back to prison. There are similar cases of crimes committed by ex-convicts who would rather return to prison.
Last October, an individual referred to only as B was arrested for assaulting a woman and stealing money and valuables worth 1 million won (US$891).
The individual had just been released from prison, but wanted to return to a place where he wouldn’t have to worry about the necessities of life.
Most ex-cons use excuses such as ‘It’s cold out’, ‘I’m hungry’, and ‘I can’t adjust to society’ to justify their return to prison.
However, experts do not consider these crimes as misdemeanors, which are sometimes seen as crimes committed for livelihood, as there are many people in society who do not cross the line however difficult life becomes.
These types of criminals do not share the same values with others in society and make inappropriate decisions based on their distorted values.
With several visits to jail, they label themselves as socially unfit and no longer take laws seriously.
Since not all ex-convicts commit crimes when they are released, the current social issue is not seen as a problem with the correctional facilities themselves.
Experts emphasize that society should help convicts realize the meaning of life and help them socialize.
Specifically, criminals should be given a job to set new values in their life and support themselves financially so they don’t give up.
D. M. Park (dmpark@koreabizwire.com)
