Student's 'whining' supporters should 'be quiet and move on'

Editor:

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I typically keep my opinions to myself, but the Wes Ivie incident has compelled me to come forth.

A child transported a firearm to school for five days. That is a felony upon conviction, punishable by a $10,000 fine and/or two to 10 years in jail.

He said nothing for four days, but on the fifth day when there just so happened to be a search by police, he came forward to admit his crime.

If on day one when there was no search he came forward and spoke, then perhaps we can reasonably discuss a mild punishment; it could be reasonably labeled a simple error, but a serious offense nonetheless. However, he either did what he wanted to do, or, lost accountability for a week of a firearm entrusted to him.

The way I see it, he is adult enough to legally be in custody of a gun and to drive a vehicle to school. But when it comes time to face the music for his actions, his supporters want him to be babied. Which is it, people? Now is the time to decide - is he "Wes" or "Mr. Ivie"?

He received far more than a gift; he could have been arrested and charged with a felony, which he is guilty of under Georgia Code 16-11-127.1, but he was not. Try stapling that to every college admission application, to every resume, and to the introduction to a young lady's parents.

Boo hoo; the Board of Education acted and addressed the matter, and to be honest, in-school suspension and a few weeks at the alternative school is nothing, a pittance, compared to what could have been. As an educator in a Georgia public school, and the parent of a child who attends a Columbia County public school, I believe he was handed more than a gift.

If "Wes' Whiners" wish to continue their arrogant march toward less leniency than has already been given, I request that District Attorney Ashley Wright, in accordance with her job description and Georgia law, file felony charges and this can forevermore be known as People vs. Ivie. At the trial and sentencing we can discuss leniency. Otherwise, count your blessings, be quiet and move on. We do not need further evidence of the Oprahfication that is plaguing this nation.

Lee Benedict

Martinez