AIWOHI DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE

My family is saddened by the prosecution of Tayshea Aiwohi for the death of
her newborn baby nearly two years ago ("'Ice' baby's mom pleads not
guilty/The defense says that the Kaneohe woman has overcome drugs since her
child died," Oct. 17).

I am sure that she has been remorseful over this tragedy every day since it
occurred. Since then she has made positive efforts to straighten up her life
by being a teacher's aide and a counselor for drug-rehabilitation programs
to help other addicts, of which our daughter is one.

Why is the legal system trying to punish someone who is obviously making a
positive contribution to her community? What is going to happen to her other
five children? Where is mercy, understanding and compassion in this
situation? Or are we strictly to abide by the letter of the law?

Robert Mandap

Kapaa, Kauai