One of the cornerstones of our justice system has been that those who have done their time in jail - however heinous the crime - should have the opportunity to re-enter society. Everyone should be entitled to the chance of rehabilitation.
We hold this dear as a civilised community - and such principles are there to be followed, not flippantly discarded.
That said, it is hard to see how the public interest would be served by allowing the killers of six-year-old John Ashfield to see the light of day anytime soon.
The boy's mother, who cannot be identified, and her partner, Austin Allan Hughes, were sentenced to 21 years' jail for the 1993 murder. Their sentences were reduced to 19 years but having served 16 years they are eligible to apply for parole.
John's mother was refused parole earlier this year but the State Parole Authority is considering releasing Hughes.
We know nothing of Hughes' remorse but given the animalistic treatment he dished out to this small child it is incomprehensible to think he deserves to return to society so soon.
Every day we seem to be reporting on another sickening case of child abuse.
What message would be given to those who would strike the most vulnerable, our children, if this monster was set free to get on with his life while John lies in a plot in Kanahooka?
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