The Victim’s Wishes Shouldn’t Stop Trial

Re “Teens’ Rape Case Defense Gets Boost,” Jan. 22:

For the sake of all our daughters, and young women everywhere, this case must be prosecuted. Regardless of why the victim is now requesting that prosecutors not go forward with the case, it is imperative that Gregory Haidl, Kyle Nachreiner and Keith Spann face the consequences of their actions. They are accused of drugging and raping a 16-year-old girl, then violating her with various objects while she was unconscious. They videotaped their actions and boasted about it by circulating the tape among their friends.

Instead of being incarcerated while awaiting trial, these boys were released and have been free on bail for months. After the case came to light, the victim was followed and photographed and fliers were posted asking for information about her and her family. If this case does not go forward to trial, there will be a message to other men and boys: This type of behavior is tolerated. Women need to know that they are protected by our justice system, and a trial date must be established.

Janet Walker

Laguna Niguel