NYC EMT Controversy: Scott Hinkley

I must agree with the sentiment of the patient's mother in calling the decisions made by Green and Jackson cold and un-feeling. That being said, is is hard for me to feel entirely certain that the EMTs should face jail time for their actions. I certainly think it is within their companys' rights to fire them, citing their choices in this situation as an example of the EMTs' lack of character. But as much as we like to carry the moral obligations we sow in our churches out into our streets, the American justice system is not obligated to follow these moral examples and outrages.

My heart goes out to Ms. Rennix's family, and I can only imaging how painful it must be to think that there were people potentially able to help that passed on the opportunity. I hope that you all can find peace regardless of the consequences dealt to Green and Jackson. To Green and Jackson I say "shame on you" for being paid as life-savers, and then hiding behind protocols. I think it is a sad commentary on the overall deterioration of our communities that we feel the only way to have these EMTs appreciate their poor judgement is to make it a matter of legality rather than one of morality. Everyone is entitled to carry whatever lowly opinion of the EMTs they like, but why should legal consequences be out best hope for preventing similar apathy in the future. All it seems to do is extend the number of chances Green and Jackson will have to achieve vindication for their actions by granting them a chance to defend themselves and appeal any judgements against them. Let's leave crimes to the courts, and moral outrages to the pulpits and community centers.

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