DISQUS

OU_Ron · 7 months ago

I haven’t posted but one comment on this thread for fear of saying the wrong thing or getting into a confrontation with someone and I didn’t want that to happen…..with that being said, here is my feelings..

My wife and I were not fortunate enough to have a daughter; we had two sons….I do however have two granddaughters…..I can’t even imagine the thought of someone violating them in such a way as the victim was in this case.

My hats off to you that have found the faith to forgive this young man….I don’t think I ever could….

I don’t care if he was 13 or 30, I would still be looking for both of those guys….and for all of our sakes, it would be best if I didn’t find them.

Now, should he be able to play football for Tenn…I think my answer is obvious..

Zac · 7 months ago

Ron, I'm not certain there are "wrong answers" here, only different ones. Like yourself, I have two sons, but no grandchildren. Like yourself, I hate what happened to the victim. Unlike yourself, I feel that some criminals can be turned around, and that this MAY be one of those cases. To be perfectly honest, I don't know this to be correct; for me, it only feels that way within the limits of what we know. Rightly or wrongly, that's what's going to happen. Again, like yourself, I also admitted in another post I don't know what I'd do, were this to happen to my own. Should the time come, and I hope it never does, I hope to God I'd do the right thing.

Chanaud · 7 months ago

I think the majority on this board had forgotten that he already received his second chance in life. Fortunately for him he was a young minor and received a lessor punishment compared to his cohort.

Personally, I don't think he's that remorseful. Per Chris Low's report, Hood made a public statement that he is sorry that he stood frozen while his cousin was being raped. The court report differs from his public statement. Seems to me he's not owning to his "mistake".

I feel sorry for the victim. Her family including Hood seems selfish. Just because he wants to play at a Division I school, her nightmare has be relived and is plastered all over the news. Shame on Hood. Shame on the family.

Zac · 7 months ago

You do make a very good point there, Chanaud. Publicity like that, which no doubt over-shadows Hood's attending TN, public out-cry, web-sites, and threads like this one, they all serve to do nothing more than to open old wounds. As folks like us debate the subject, she relives the nightmare, over & over & over...

For the sake of his immortal soul, I sincerely hope this kid as truly made a big turn in his life and continues to do so. For the sake of the souls of other members of the family, I sincerely hope they have not coerced her into standing by him; that her endorsement was truly of her own volition. Most importantly, for the sake of the victim, I sincerely hope she finds peace.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

The letter wrote by the victim...

Note that it is handwritten and apparently hastily so...

Also of note is this passage...

We are now working on rebuilding our relationship. Hoping to become family like before.

That statement shows a few things...

a) That the two haven't been in much contact until recently...

b) That she apparently does still harbor trust issues when it comes to Hood given she is working to consider him "family" as she perceived him before this heinous act committed against her by a cousin she considered to be "like a brother" before it happened...

I'm still not convinced she has totally forgiven him nor wasn't coerced into writing it...

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

From the makers of Levitra...

Sorry, but I had to point that out.

AUtigerman · 7 months ago

Everyone in life makes mistakes,Only one was perfect and they nailed him to a cross.

However what kind of message do we send kids that commit henous crimes when we reward them because they play ball well.
I realize that according to some people he has turned his life around and im glad for him.
Prisons are full of people that have now turned there lives around,should we reward them and let them all go? This goes way beyound just being able to forgive someone.
Im actually a bit surprised that there isnt some sort of rule against this.

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Prisons are full of people who are paying their debt to society. I think the question at hand is at what point is a debt paid?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Apparently it's paid rather lightly in the state of Tennesee...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

That's really an issue for the people of Tennessee to decide, is it not?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Oh, it is...

I simply don't agree that a few weeks at a juvenile rehab is paying the debt considering what his cousin will pay for the rest of her life...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

You don't think.....

Remind me again what the cousin thinks???

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Mmmmhmmm...

She supposedly wrote a letter...

And writing a letter assuredly is a sign that the emotional scarring from being restrained by having her eyes, mouth and 68% of the rest her body covered in duct tapein duct tape and a cellophane covered plunger handle inserted into her vagina by her cousin and friend has assuredly been resolved and she'll never, ever have any kind of trust issues with men again...

Meanwhile thanks to her supposed letter Hood will get a free education and possibly a large payday on Sundays eventually despite of his actions to his own family member and child rape victim...

Yeah...

That sounds right...

[rolls eyes]

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

You paint a pretty picture but that's all.

Is she advocating on his behalf yes or no?

That's my point.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

So that she allegedly wrote a letter on his behalf removes the seriousness of the act enough that he should be allowed to simply move on with his life as though he never participated in such an act?

Seems like an odd opinion from a guy that was offended that his son saw "half naked Georgia girls" running around at the Landings...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

I never said that, be careful what assertions you make for people, especially on a topic like this. Don't assume I mean anything but exactly what I post.

I'm just saying your painting a picture on the victim’s behalf without acknowledging the victim themselves. And to add to it you reject she has made any real attempt to advocate for him because it clashes with the state of mind your portraying she's in. You’re speculating.

Do me a favor go on youtube and search the wlocp and then you will understand what I thought was inappropriate public behavior when children are about. Besides that you don't want to get owned on that topic again. You must be some kind of masochist.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

I didn't say you did...

I asked if that was what you were saying...

You do know what a question mark is used for?

I'm advocating for the victim and have aknowledged her trauma throughout...

As Clemson Joe pointed out, victims of sociopaths are known to sympathize with them at times...

And rape victims, especially child rape victims who have been violated by a family memeber or close family friend, commonly have life long emotional issues...

Why would I need to go to youtube to see footage on the WLOCP when I go and have gone practically every year since my first time in like 1976?

Speaking of the WLOCP thread...

I'm not done with you there...

Simply waiting for you to correct your erroneous statements that you couldn't even plagiarize correctly...

If you feel you're all good, then I'll proceed to finish sinking your battleship there tomorrow...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

I know what a question is do you know what an assertion is?

You’re speculating when it comes to her mental status and authenticity of her feelings. That’s a fact.

I don't know maybe you’re too drunk to notice what I did. (That’s an assertion)

And you’re not waiting for me there……. waiting a full week to respond is basically conceding at least in my book and that's the only book that matters.

And it's called paraphrasing not plagiarism I didn't know I had to cite my references…. what format do you prefer I use MLA or APA. But I guess you stumbled across the same report I did when I was looking to vindicate my hunch.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

You’re speculating when it comes to her mental status and authenticity of her feelings. That’s a fact.

And your doing the same by saying that because she allegedly wrote a letter for him that she's not...

Good for the goose; good for the gander...

As far as the rest of that blather goes...

Take it to the WLOCP thread...

So we don't jam up the works here...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

No I never said if she was or was not mental I'm saying you can't simply dismiss the fact she vouched for him based on the speculative condition of her head.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And just because she allegedly vouched for him doesn't mean she's necessarily forgiven him or wasn't coerced to do so by family...

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

The real question is:

Is she advocating on his behalf by her own volition? Does anyone know the answer to this?

At times, victims of sociopaths, kidnappers, and rapists will become sympathetic to their malefactor. They will even side with them and try to help them out. It truly is amazing what the human mind will do when it's been shattered. Just imagine the caliber of such a thing when a loving, trusting relationship existed prior to the misdeed.

I'm not saying I know for a fact that this is the case, but it certainly seems like it to me. Moreover, I don't think anyone here knows for a fact everything that is going on here, but the deed coupled with the lack of convincing regret speaks for itself in my eyes.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Exactly...

AUtigerman · 7 months ago

KEV
I agree but felons arent granted certain priviledges and never will be.
This young man wouldnt even be allowed to serve his country in the military.

I guess i just feel that it should take more then just playing a game well to receive a scholarship.
I think it might even help deter some young people from commiting crimes if they realized they could lose their scholarship offers. But IMO this sends a bad signal.
Do i think he should not be allowed to play football? no just not recieve a scholarship. Moral character NEEDS to play a part in recruiting and then we might see a few changes for the better.

AUtigerman · 7 months ago

Honestly Kev some debts can never be paid.Although this young lady may forgive she is likely emotionally scarred forever.
Forgiveness can come and i hope it does for the victims. But this has nothing to do with them. Would it make any difference if he wasnt really sorry?
Im sure they wish the best for him now if they have forgiving him.
Somewhere along the line the NCAA needs to get involved and say if a young person is convicted of certain crimes he loses all opportunity to recieve a scholarship.

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

It seems like the majority opinion here is that this guy hasn't been punished to a degree that is satisfactory. And that he doesn't deserve any good fortune that befalls him as a result of his past actions.

That's a fair assessment although I would question one's approach when coming to that conclusion. A few hypothesized how they would feel had their loved one been the victim. That's where any chance of being impartial goes out the window. When we make it personal we make it prejudiced. The opinions of consequences could run the gambit at this point and non would be wrong.

Bottom line.

It's not Kiffins or Tennessee’s job to pass judgment on this guy. The justice system already did that. If people feel there needs to be harsher punishments for people who commit similar acts as adolescents then they need to lobby for such changes. Don't expect the people at universities or future employers to continue and punish those deemed to be rehabilitated. These people are not generally in the business of insuring justice. We have a legal system for that. Besides on whose behalf would they be "punishing" this guy? The victim is on his side.

So again don't fault Kiffin for not judging this guy the way you might.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And as I've already pointed out above the State of Tennessee deemed him to be a rapist kidnapper and sexual exploiter at said age...

Sure sounds like he deserves a free ride to me...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

I'm sorry what part of my post were you responding too???

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

All of it...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

Ok if you’re not going to be specific then don't blame me if I fail trying to interpret your points.

I think you’re saying the state labeled him a sex offender so Tennessee should not afford this guy the benefits of going to college and playing football based on this label.

I'm saying Tennessee isn’t in the business of making sure those with sketchy past don't benefit from there institution. They are not structured or obligated to pass judgment. They would be heading down a slippery slope if they started that. In this case alone the opinions vary other cases could be even more complicated.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

I'm saying Tennessee isn’t in the business of making sure those with sketchy past don't benefit from there institution.

True...

But they are in the business of ensuring that those who are most deserving receive limited number spots in the incoming freshman class each year...

Why should a kid with identical statistics academically,intellectual power and no criminal past be refused admittance for a convicted child rapist displaying the formative tendencies of a sociopath simply because he can play football?

Why should a football player with identical statistics academically, intellectual power and no criminal past or character issues be pushed aside for a convicted child rapist displaying the formative tendencies of a sociopath simply because the rapist is a little faster, stronger and bigger?

They shouldn't...

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

Agreed read my post below

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

Well that’s the start of a whole new argument.

Most juvenile records are sealed so like I said they’re not structured nor do they have the assets to pass moral judgment on incoming convicted criminals. So why start just because this case was publicized?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Well, Bucky, I'm glad you asked rather than just shooting off about that which you know nothing of...

The fact is that in the state of Tennessee and other states (Florida included) violent acts such as child rape are of public record regardless of the age when the act is committed...

And to not divulge that information is another crime in itself...

And it isn't a whole new argument..

It's still the same one...

Should this convicted child rapist been given a scholarship?

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

Well, Hippy

Before you go accusing me of shooting of at the mouth notice I said MOST. But that's ok I'm use to you only picking up on the details that suit you.

I was making the point that it would be difficult for Tennessee as an institution to even determine who has a criminal history let alone pass judgment on them. I was making my point in general not specific to this case. I made this point to bolster my original point that Tennessee isn't in the judicial business (which you agreed to).

And it was a whole new argument in the context of what we were discussing at the time. The question whether he deserved a scholarship over anyone else was never previously discussed by you and I.

So get your sh*t together....... because I'm not going to fall into the usual reiterating and clarifying of points trap that is all so common when we discuss things, it's annoying.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Before you go accusing me of shooting of at the mouth notice I said MOST.

And then stated that it was publicized, not of public record...

Claim you knew that already all you want, but the wording of your initial statement suggests you didn't...

I was making the point that it would be difficult for Tennessee as an institution to even determine who has a criminal history let alone pass judgment on them.

Not really...

There's a spot for filling in any felonies you've been convicted of right on the application...

Unless it's rape, murder, robbery, kidnapping or any aggravated forms there of it can legally be left off...

And it was a whole new argument in the context of what we were discussing at the time. The question whether he deserved a scholarship over anyone else was never previously discussed by you and I.

It's only the topic of the entire thread...

If he doesn't recive the schollie then would 'Janie" Lane just shelved it?

No, it would have at least been handed to a walk-on more than likely...

Probably someone more deserving, IMO...

So get your sh*t together....... because I'm not going to fall into the usual reiterating and clarifying of points trap that is all so common when we discuss things, it's annoying.

Mine is fully together on this topic and I've got plenty of first hand experience with juvenile offenders and their victims as well as abused, neglected and "lost" children as I pointed out to K-Hue above...

I don't go jumping into something I've experienced one time like some people I know...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

lol, I like that last jab. Insider stuff....

So let me get this straight you think convicted felons tell the TRUTH when filling in those boxes on the application. And this would be the sole means by which Tennessee screens and there after passes judgment. Well that would be NIAVE even for you.

That's great you exposed your credentials but you might not be the only one with experience if you know what I’m saying....

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

If they don't they risk being convicted of additional crimes at the most and being booted from school/employment at the least...

Trusting a felon is risky business and assuredly to do so is an admirable thing and often laying trust in them can lead to an undesireable result...

As far as Ut's screening process of criminal background checks, I can't personally speak of their tactics when it comes to screening methods so I couldn't really say regarding them specifically...

However...

I can say from my own college athletics experience that I personally know of two individuals (one was an athlete) that were dismissed two weeks into the sememster for not admitting to felonies they were convicted of as minors...

This was at a small NAIA liberal arts college and believe me when I tell you they had nowhere near a quarter of the financial resources afforded to BCS schools...

So I would say it's naive to think that an institution doesn't run CBCs on incoming freshmen...

At the least on a random basis...

I wouldn't really call my experiences "credentials", dude...

Just what I pointed out above first hand personally...

Mrs. Hippy is the one all doctorated up!

;-]

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

That's where any chance of being impartial goes out the window?
We don't have to be impartial- that was the Jury or Judges job- This guy was convicted- Yes we are prejudiced when it comes to children being violated.
I don't know much about Tennessee Law, but I know that there are more deserving young people out there, that haven't committed horrible acts and that no scholarship should be awarded- Kiffen must really be hard up for players.
I fault Kiffin for even considering this convict- nuff said

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

When Al Davis; of all people; calls Kiffin a "pathological liar" you would think there would be some ears pricked up...

Maybe Rocky Top just has to find out for themselves...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

Go back and put my comment back into the context it was used in and then try to respond.

Yes he was convicted and don't forget SENTENCED. It's not anyone's obligation to continue to pass moral judgment on him. If you wish to that's fine but then again he's not seeking anything from you. So just because you don't have the opportunity to deny him any opportunities in life, don't fault someone who chooses to let him try and prove his worth.

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

I read your post-Look if he had committed manslaughter or something that would be different-I could understand that, but I can't understand, letting a molester get a scholarship- sorry I can't see it, especially against a family member. I wont comment any further on this issue, because I guess I'm old fashioned when it comes to protecting the innocent.
To all of yall that believe in giving this guy a second chance- thats okay,you can forgive him, but I can't see rewarding this guy with a State funded education- Maybe he has reformed just like Kenneth McDuff or Henry Lee Lucas both of those guys served their time.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

His sentence was a few weeks in a Juvenile detention center and living in a halfway house while receiving a private school education...

His victim receives a life sentence of having been forcibly subdued and raped and the mental anguish that goes along with living with it...

Not really equal...

Who got the better end of that deal?

Cobia · 7 months ago

What the kid did was atrocious... he should under NO CIRCUMSTANCES be allowed to play college football. Raping kids is the most heinous act someone can commit. I mean have you ever wondered why child molesters in prison have to be isolated from the rest of the inmates? Because the prisoners would kill them... thats why.

And a 13 year old should know better than that. If one of my cousin's was being violated..... or anyone for that matter I (at any age) would take action and try to protect the person. I think that's basic human nature. And the argument that he knew it was wrong and didn't like it, but still didn't do anything doesn't make him the victim but rather a coward.

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

Yes, Heinrich Himmler wasn't a criminal, it was all Hitler's fault!

Right, that makes perfect sense...

Cobia · 7 months ago

Exactly, he was just following orders. It doesn't matter that he killed million, because hitler was the one in charge. The sad thing is that in today's society less and less people take responsibility for their own actions... it's always someone elses fault.

Zac · 7 months ago

CJ, Cobia, apples & oranges? You guys aren't even in the same food group here. What was frightening about Himmler & Hitler was they both believed in what they did. Not only didn't they think they had done any wrong, they thought they were doing the world a favor.

This guy was 13 when he committed this act, and was likely influenced by the 17 year old. Does that make it right? No. BUT, he did the time; he paid his dues; the law has spoken. Even the victim is convinced. He may not be allowed to own a firearm, but he should be allowed to attend college. If he's a free man and allowed to attend college, I say football, or any sport for that matter (save rifle) comes with it.

Besides, if you ask Kiffin, betcha he says Saban put the kid up to it.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Quoted in the case link...

[The defendant] is described by the [DCS’s] Assessment as being a
pseudo-socialized child exploiter, that is that he desired sexual
pleasure through exploitation of his victim. This diagnosis includes
the fact that the offender often rationalizes the offense with little guilt
or remorse. In this case he has placed the blame on the victim and on
the co-defendant, and has consistently minimized his role in the
commission of the offenses.

He wasn't coerced, Zac...

He has an IQ of 119...

He knew exactly what he was doing and then rationalized his behavior and blamed it on somebody else......

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

Himmler was classified as more of a coordinator and an enabler than anything else. I think what this kid did falls right into both of those characterizations.

"Even the victim is convinced."
Are we really sure that she's convinced or are there other pressures, such as the family pushing her to do it for the benefit of the family, and/or the family or others brainwashing her fragile, broken mind going on behind the scenes? Honestly The General's Daughter comes to mind here.

I'm sure he knows that it's wrong, and I'm sure he regrets it. I'm just not convinced that he regrets it for what it caused his cousin, and not what it caused him.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

I'm just not convinced that he regrets it for what it caused his cousin, and not what it caused him.

Yup...

Chanaud · 7 months ago

I wonder how much psychological discussion was done.

A lot of you guys are calling this a "mistake". This is a deviant act. Whether you're a participant or an accessory - when you duct tape 70% of your cousin's body, including her mouth and eyes, and watch her being raped by a plunger, there is something seriously wrong with you. Reading the report made me sick.

But when I read he's considered intelligent now, has a high GPA score, decent SAT score, and is a model student, I started changing my mind. Maybe, just maybe, he's redeemed himself.

Then I remembered. Wasn't Ted Bundy discribed the same?

Zac · 7 months ago

Chanaud, a mistake can be as simple as making a bad decision. I think this more than qualifies.

I agree; sickening. As luck would have it, however, I was spared from actually being there; so were you, for that matter. So, neither of us knows what was going through this kid's head at the time. Was it, "Awe, this is cool!" OR "Jesus, what have I done?" Now, consider this: 13 vs 17, and the 17 year old was willing to do that. Anyone think the 13 year old might have gotten scared, albeit way too late. At one point he may have thought he knew what he was doing, but I'm betting he found out all too soon, he wasn't as smart as he'd originally thought. There's no way, at 13, he considered the consequences of his actions, either to the victim or himself.

The point is, none of us knows. All we know is what we've read. He aided in the commission of a heinous felony, was tried, convicted, and did as he was directed by the courts. Like it or not, he's paid his dues. Time will tell. Till then, ya gotta give him a chance.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

The point is, none of us knows. All we know is what we've read.

True...

Which also brings to point that we don't know necessarily know that Hood didn't use the plunger on his cousin given she was blindfolded and restrained with duct tape over 70% of her body and that the rest of their testimony would have been one's word against the other...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

You keep bringing up the duct tape and it's off topic but you’re making me feel guilty about the time one of my buddies was unfortunate enough to pass out while drinking and then waking up the next day duct taped upside down to a tree.

Looking back I'm sure glad he didn't die by choking on his own vomit or something or I might have a tough time getting a scholarship.................

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Yeah, you would have more than likely been convivcted of manslaughter if it was found by the CSI that his death was directly a result of what you did to him...

And while you had him duct taped to the tree did you guys rape him with a plunger?

There's a difference between duct taping a person to a tree as a gag and forcibly restraining and raping a child...

How is the duct tape off topic?

It was used in the commission of the child rape the kid we're discussing is convicted of...

The fact that she was taped down to a bed with her legs split open doesn't seem to bother you...

In fact, you just compared what this kid did to a prank...

Is that how you view child rape?

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

Nah....

After reading my post again I didn't write it very well.

I was trying to say the following story is off topic not the duct tape.

I wasn't trying to compare the two.

I'm just saying you were painting a good picture of what she went through and when you mentioned the duct tape I got a mental image of my buddy covered in duct tape.

And I felt it had some relevance of how sometimes its only luck that keeps us out of serious trouble. My friends and I could have easily been in a similar situation this guy is in.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Now we're getting somewhere and I think that it does have relevance in a compare and contrast manner in regards to intentional acts and accidents or mistakes...

Your friend dying in that instance would have been a terrible mistake...

His death wouldn't have been deliberate or intentional, just a sad casualty from a prank gone wrong...

The crime committed against this girl was not a 'prank gone wrong" mistake...

It was a deliberate and intentional action of sexual assualt on a child with a foreign object by force and restraint against her will...

This is serious deviant behavior and Hood not only got off lightly but is now being rewarded despite it...

Have you read the appeal report I linked at the top of the page?

If not I encourage you to do so...

It may change your mind on this subject...

thebuckstopshere · 7 months ago

No I didn't notice the report you linked I guess that would be beneficial.......

Intentional or not I'm just saying what we all know and that is it only takes one lapse in judgment to really screw yourself.

I'll check out the report now.....

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

I'll agree on your "lapse of judgement" comment and ask this...

How exactly has Hood "screwed" himself?

He was still awarded TN's Mr. Football...

He still has received a full ride to play football...

In the end he hasn't been screwed at all...

"BC" · 7 months ago

i just read the whole case.

Kiffin is right in giving this kid a second chance.

when you're 13, it's easy to fall victim to peer pressure from a senior in high school, who is in your house.
it seems to me like Hood was pretty much forced to do it, while he seemed to hold a "i dont know about this" kinda attitude throughout the whole thing.
Sanico appears to have developed this whole idea, and told Hood what to do in order to help him.

now, yeah he did nothing to stop Sanico, and it doesn't appear that he so much as discouraged the act, but he wasn't the one that actually DID it. he just got the supplies needed.
he was even asked to participate and he refused.

The whole thing is regrettable to say at the very least, and obviously a huge mistake by Hood, but I bet you'll find that he has a squeaky clean record since that point and will continue to have a clean record for the rest of his life.
that's just what i'd predict if i was putting money on it.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

So if somebody wanted to jam an object in to one of your female family member's sexual organs when you were 13 you would have willingly participated in duct taping her down & procuring the object without a problem while laughing the entire time?

Boy...

You sure are "cool"...

"BC" · 7 months ago

are you serious!?
i dont know what your deal is pal, but you need to take it down a notch. this is just a discussion forum. i can voice my opinion just as you can voice yours.

i believe this kid deserves a second chance.
and i dont believe i should even have to respond to your staggeringly ill-advised back talk.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

i dont know what your deal is pal, but you need to take it down a notch...

My "deal" is that I don't find participating in the rape of a 14 year old girl acceptable...

As a matter of fact, I find the rape of children hideous, repulsive and feel it to be among the most heinous and evil crimes that one can commit...

And I'll stand on a soapbox and denounce anyone who would engage in such an act, aid & abet such an act and anyone that would support or downplay another's involvement & role in such an act...

So I'll keep my level cranked all the way up on this topic...

this is just a discussion forum. i can voice my opinion just as you can voice yours.

Damn right it's a discussion forum...

And I'm voicing my opinion on the discussion topic at hand and will continue to do so, Bammeroid...

i believe this kid deserves a second chance.

And he has gotten one...

It's called "not spending his life in jail"...

Where IMO, he could have stayed for all I care...

Maybe he would have gotten to really see what it's like to have an orifice violated while being restrained and got a little glimpse of what he did to his OWN FLESH & BLOOD...

and i dont believe i should even have to respond to your staggeringly ill-advised back talk.

Then don't...

But not answering the question I proposed leads me to believe you would feel differently would you have been placed in the same situation or if this kid had done it to YOUR daughter...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

If it had been my daughter? It would take a lot of prayer, but I hope that I would find both the strength to forgive and the strength to resist the urge to kill him.

If this family has found forgiveness, it's not my place to judge.

Zac · 7 months ago

Yeah, it is very easy to discuss this as one on the outside looking in. Had it happened to my daughter, being the full blooded Italian I am, I can only hope I would have at least found the strength to pray, let alone forgive. I can't say with honesty what I would have done. Tough call all the way round...

"BC" · 7 months ago

the thing is, i agree with everything that you're saying. but i think you're pinning it on the wrong guy.

if it were my daughter, i would want to beat Sanico senseless.
Sanico was the mastermind. he had the original idea, he knew how he wanted it done, and he was the one that did it.

the act of RAPE is one that has to do with power, not sex. i think you've probably heard that before.
with Sanico, i see an act of power.
with Hood, i see some sort of pubescent sexual fantasy thing with his cousin 1 year his senior. now by that i mean he was probably physically attracted to his cousin, and subconsciously wanted to have sex with her. almost like an oedipal complex sort of thing.
when the idea was first presented to him, he was probably curious. so he decided to look into it a little further.
once he got into it however, i believe he was disgusted, and appalled by what he saw taking place, but obviously didn't want anyone to find out at that point.

put it this way, if Sanico were not there would this have ever taken place? absolutely not.

so, in my mind, Hood was not the rapist, and should not be treated as such.
he is not a "thug" or anything like that, his intelligence level is "high average", and other than this one incident he has a squeaky clean record.

plus the girl that was raped forgives Hood and vouches on his behalf. that says a LOT right there.

in the bible it says "to err is human, to forgive is divine"
i ask the ladies and gentlemen of the jury to....just be god-like in your ruling...


if anyone needs an attorney, just message me on DISQUS

it's the off-season folks
peace

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

The fact that you would attempt to rationalize and downplay Hood's involvement while continuing to throw Sanico under the bus in the same manner Hood's legal representation did says alot about you...

The boy helped restrain his cousin and rape her with a plunger...

There is NOT any evidence to suggest he didn't participate in the act in what I linked as that information came largely from the victim herself WHO WAS BLINDFOLDED BY DUCT TAPE AT THE TIME...

You basically have Sanico's word versus Hood's in which Hood's attorney's got lucky enough to have this kid tried as a juvenile probably in exchange for his testimony against Sanico...

BOTH raped that girl and were willing participants in the act...

You can forgive him all you want but it doesn't change that...

High IQ, huh?

Start putting some of that together with the lack of remorse up until it served a purpose for him; charming personality; disregard for the violation of others' rights; rationalizing the act and down playing his role...

All point to the burgeoning of typical sociopathic behavior...

Gatorader · 7 months ago

Dude, he participated all right. It seems like he plotted with guy, got the supplies, stayed quiet and threw a blanket over her when a parent checked up on them, and then probably got excited while his buddy stuck a plunger in her. That is some crazy stuff.

"BC" · 7 months ago

i dont think he was "excited" at all.
the way i read it, i think he was kind of curiously excited by the idea, but once it came down to doing it, and seeing it, i think he was disgusted by it.
Sanico asked him if he wanted to stick the plunger in her, and he said no. that tells me that he wasnt really enjoying it at all.

im not saying the kid is innocent, im saying that i think he really regrets being involved in the whole act, and im also pretty sure people change A LOT from 13 to 19.

Gatorader · 7 months ago

But he stayed quiet when the parent checked up on them! That tells me that he was enjoying what was happening to his COUSIN. Just because he didn't actually stick the plunger into her vagina, doesn't mean that he didn't set up the whole situation.

I would regret it too. And people change all the time. I'm just glad that he isn't going to be a Gator.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Funny how he didn't have much regret of the act nearly three years after it happened...

Zac · 7 months ago

"i believe this kid deserves a second chance.

And he has gotten one...

It's called "not spending his life in jail"..."

It's hard to look past the act, back when this kid was 13, and I'm not about to justify what he didn't, nor would I consider him a victim. He had plenty of opportunity at the time to make the right decision and failed. Whether it was out of fear, excitement, or idle curiosity, he still stupidly failed to do the right thing. I can't argue that point.

GH, all I can do is point out what he's done since, which is impressive. Not to mention, what he hasn't done. That is (that any of us know), he hasn't committed the same or even similar act. Psychologically speaking, this varies from the norm. It's been 6 years. If he really is a sexual predator, he should have repeated at least once long before now. That does not expunge him for what he did. Given his record over the last 6 years, it is one more point in his favor.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

What he's done since has been under constant supervision, Zac...

And what he's done since is simply what we know publicly...

Zac · 7 months ago

GH, at the risk of partially supporting your argument, I have this respone:

All too often have suicide watch teams had a patient under observation, only for that patient to find a way to commit suicide anyway. If this young man was/is a sexual preditor, under constant observation, he would have still found a way (may actually have - we don't know) to satisfy his urges. The point is, he could have if he really was driven to, so badly needed to. That he hasn't (that we know of) speaks in his favor, IMHO.

TigerEducated · 7 months ago

i dont think he was "excited" at all.
the way i read it, i think he was kind of curiously excited

BC, do you literally make your opinions up as you go along? That makes no sense, on any level, at all.

How is one "not excited at all" and yet, "kind of curiously excited"?

Geezus, you're dumb...

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

But if you need a lawyer, TE...

Just give him a call...

LMAO!

"BC" · 7 months ago

you just need to brush up on reading comprehension.
gatorader claimed he was excited by seeing his cousin being raped. i said he wasn't excited by that, he was sort of curiously excited by the idea of the whole thing at first. BEFORE he actually saw it take place, at which point, i think he wanted out but it was too late.

but anyway i think you should refer to my longer post that i actually thought about. (scroll up)

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

but anyway i think you should refer to my longer post that i actually thought about.

At least you admit you weren't thinking...

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

Your adolescent years have a large part in making you who you are.

It seems to me that he only said no to sticking it in her himself because it was his first cousin. After all, he said, "No, man, that's my cousin." So, it was okay that this was happening to his cousin, but just not okay for him to do it.

If he was okay with this happening to his first cousin, right in front of him, and even helping out with it, then there's no telling what else is okay with him.

The_Observer · 7 months ago

Dude, I am fudging sick of people dismissing this guys actions just because he was 13! Yeah, I changed quite a bit from 13 to 19, but not when it came to my opinion and understanding of RAPE!!!

So BC, when you were 13, you thought it would have been ok to rape your classmates? Stupid.

I haven't ever been this upset over a freaking internet article (it's really the reactions of posters), but you are pissing me off BC! If this guy did this to my sister I would futbol kill him. End of story.

Sorry for the f-bombs, but I am going to leave them in. I am not going to post on this subject again.
(f-bombs resolved)--editor

Zac · 7 months ago

It's OK, T_O, it's an emotional post; bombs away.

Likely we've all considered the question, "What if it were my daughter?" The tough question that none of us have asked is, "What if that stupid 13 year old was me?" IF any of you were as severely stupid, and for whatever reason sincerely thought this would be cool, only to eventually realize, "Nope, severely stupid," are any of you going to say you would not have hoped for mercy? Are any of you going to try and tell me you would not have welcomed mercy when it was offered? Now, given she would be every bit the reminder to you as you to her, could any of you done as well?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Actually Zac I asked BC and K-Hue the same thing and neither has answered that...

Zac · 7 months ago

Yes, GH, but did You answer the question? You have eloquently & intelctually (albiet emotionally - so have I - the emotional part anyway) strongly debated and answered every question thrown at you thus far. Why not answer this one too? This is not to say you have to. I'm just curious is all.

For my part, had I been so stupid, would I have prayed for a "forgiving society"? You betcha!!!

gatorhippy · 6 months ago

I would not have been so stupid...

Simple as that...

Zac · 6 months ago

Now, who can argue with that?

AUtigerman · 7 months ago

BC
I sincerely hope that this isnt your real feelings on this matter."he just got the supplies needed."
But no offense to you really, it seems to be the way young people are raised today. And the message sent here will be that you can do whatever you want before your 18.
My understanding is his Dad was in the house so he obviously wanted to do this. He could have just yelled for his Dad.
If my nephew did this to my Daughter he likely would never had been able to play football again.


I hope he does have a clean record forever, However he does not deserve to be giving a scholarship.

Go to college,go in the ministry if he thinks he wants to. But dont reward him by giving him a full ride.
There really should be some sort of NCAA rule against rewarding felony offenders with a scholarship. Maybe some of the thugs playing at high schools now would think before they act.

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

I agree- I don't know much about Tenn Law, but I know one individual who was part of a robbery gone bad. Stupid young guy, he didn't do the actual stabbing, but as an accomplice and was just as guilty- served 8 yrs on a 25yr rap in the TDC. This guy was just along for the ride or got talked into it-whatever he was just as guilty- He didn't violate a child- did 8 long years in one of the worst prison systems. In the this case above- no way does this kid deserves a scholarship- he should be in the Huntsville walls unit- fighting off the ABT and the Mex maf etc etc a heavy dose of real justice.
I can understand giving somebody a second chance on DWI, drug possesion, vandalism or maybe fraud, theft etc etc- but this was an offense that is unforgivable IMO

Ben Prather · 7 months ago

Only time will tell.

Consider all the kids signed to colleges this year. While he certainly has the worst record, does one really think this kid will be the worst apple in the futur? How many kids at 19 still have not learned that actions can have dire consequences?

Regan · 7 months ago

When I saw the title of the article, my first reaction was an overwhelming "No". When I actually see the details of the situation, though, it looks like a big joke.

Making mistakes at age 19 is a totally different bird than making mistakes at 13; especially if the girl in question speaks on the kid's behalf now.

The idea of a "no convicted felons" rule makes a lot of sense, until you realize the things that come with it. This is clearly an exception to the rule...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

I think it needs to be said that the victim is his cousin. Not sure if there is any family pressure for her to endorse him, but.....

Zac · 7 months ago

Forgiveness can be a very powerful tool. Mind you, I doubt she'll ever forget. Who could? But, I can believe she's sincere.

Then again, if you're going to consider an ulterior motive argument, consider this. What if the kid has serious talent, and it's not a matter of if, rather when he's drafted? Provided he stays healthy, stays straight, and proves himself on the field, a large piece of a signing bonus can go a long way toward saying "I'm sorry." (Personally, I think thoughts like this disrespect the victim, and I for one don't believe it, but since we're bantering...)

MSLGWCEO · 7 months ago

He did his time and paid his debt. Give him a chance to redeem himself. For God's sake.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Read this...

STATE OF TENNESSEE v. DANIEL ALLYN HOOD

Now tell me if you would want this kid going to school with your daughter, attending classes with her, wanting her to engage in consuming copious amounts of alcohol around him at bars and parties...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Ugly case - no doubt. The kid says he was wrong. Everyone around him says he grown up and become a good kid. Is that all talk? We'll find out.

While this flies in the face of the top 1% of the top 1%... what's your take on someone giving him a shot at DIA?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Is it not obvious?

I don't have sympathy for anyone who would brutally violate a woman in any form...

Much less a 14 year old girl...

Regardless of the age of the violator...

However, since you seem to now want to drag the Gators in to this (for whatever reason you may have)...

Your feelings that he should get his chance isn't surprising given Bowden's tendency to hand out schollies to convicted felons and support parole for rapists...

Had it been your daughter that had been violated in such a manner, K-Hue...

How would you feel then?

Ben Prather · 7 months ago

I am not K-hue, but I would feel the 17 year old accomplice should die.

Does a 13 year old really think of those things (things I really have not read because the context tells me I don't really want to know) without someone feeding him ideas?

His acts are inexcusable, but he is likely part victim in this.

Though your points on FSU's historical integrity may be valid, I don't see any attempts to lasso UF in this by anyone.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Does a 13 year old really think of those things (things I really have not read because the context tells me I don't really want to know) without someone feeding him ideas?

Yes...

Does a thirteen year old with a 119 IQ know the difference between right and wrong?

Yes...

His acts are inexcusable, but he is likely part victim in this.

Riiiiight...

Poor Daniel...

Take the time to read the linked appeal, Ben...

NOWHERE does it even provide an inkling that Daniel suggests he was coerced, pressured or forced into participation...

Though your points on FSU's historical integrity may be valid, I don't see any attempts to lasso UF in this by anyone.

You don't? I'll place it here for you then...

While this flies in the face of the top 1% of the top 1%...

You're Utah and Meyer man...

Assuredly you've heard that before...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Pretty sure the Marine Corp had that top 1% thing a while before Urbie, but you make a good point. I think he said it in Gainesville once. As a word of caution, I don't think it's a good PR move for any coach to use that phrase - way too much is out of their hands.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

LMAO!

Now you wanna suggest you were referring to the Marine Corps?

As Slater would say...

Okaaay...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Actually I didn't make any suggestion, simply stating that I think I heard this expression used long before I knew who Urban Meyer was. I don't understand why you insist on judging.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Well...

The kid isn't joining the Marines, Kev...

So why would you be making a reference to that?

It's not a big deal as far as that is concerned...

You just lobbed a softball...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

For the record, I don't subscribe to any coach's views. I keep my own counsel on morality, forgiveness and the like.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And we see it involves supporting convicted rapists by handing them free educations...

Nice!

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

I think that's a gross mischaracterization of what I have said. Perhaps you have misunderstood me, so -- just in case -- allow me to help you.

I believe in forgiveness. I believe in second chances for those who have tried in earnest to be worthy of the opportunity. He appears remorseful. His victim has forgiven him. Who am I to judge this kid? Who am I to judge the victim?

I don't know what answer you want from me. You have suggested that endorse rape and/or rapists as some core tenant of my values. That's a disgusting suggestion and I find it very offensive personally.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

So noted...

And I don't feel that you necessarily would endorse that as you do seem like a genuinely good person...

Which is why I don't understand why you or anyone else could possibly feel that it's okay to look past something as this when judging anyone's character...

I've built my opinions and beliefs on the foundation of discussions of Mrs. Hippy's experience as a mental health professional in the field of psychiatry and my experiences in working as a guardian ad litem that has involved us both deeply in the lives of at-risk, abused, abondoned and "lost" children and seen in those experiences many cases that practically are identical to this kid in the description of what ocurred and how he felt about it shown in the limited information contained in that appeals report...

I apologize for any personal offense you may have took...

But this is not a light issue to me and to simply say:

'Well, he was 13 when he did it and it looks like he learned his lesson"

Downplays the magnitude of the act...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Thanks for most of that. I hope that everyone can learn compassion and love from outreach with those in need.

Just so we're crystal, I'm sick by what these kids did to this poor girl. I don't really care to debate the state of mind arguments, this was a sick crime and they deserved to be punished.

I'm trying to keep in perspective that someone in Tennessee sat with this kid for years to try to help him conquer whatever demons led up to & followed this act. Their love & compassion seems to have helped this kid. That combined with the attitudes of those who presumably know him best have swayed me to believe that he is remorseful and - yes - deserving of a second chance.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

I have compassion and outreach for those in need...

I don't have compassion or outreach for child rapists...

And once again, K-Hue...

Three short years ago it was noted he showed no remorse and rationalized his behavior...

His remorse surfaced only after his scholarship offers began to be rescinded...

As did the letter from his victim...

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And to build more so on your thought of him being deserving of his second chance (which he has already received by just being free to roam outisde of state custody)...

Would you have wanted him picked up by FSU?

Gatorader · 7 months ago

OMG! That is horrendous. He duct taped his cousin to the bed and let his friend stick a toilet plunger into her vagina? His own cousin? His own blood? That is some nasty stuff. I'll take a pot-smoking, statutory raping, shoplifting wanna-be thug anyday over THAT guy.

That's your COUSIN dude! Seriously. Retch...

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

I agree- horrible criminal behavior
this aint no minor mistake, but a serious violent crime- they even urinated on her and claimed it was koolaid-sick
This boy ought to be thankful he is lucky to be alive
The fathers that I know would probably take action outside the court system
no football for kidnappers & rapist

Tyler_Tech · 7 months ago

"A time to Kill" comes to mind.

OU_Ron · 7 months ago

Good movie....I was thinking the same thing.

1Tomcat · 7 months ago

I agree- great movie- I like all of the Grisom books & movies

Clemson_Joe · 7 months ago

Given Kiffin's Raider background, this makes sense to me. I expect to see things along these lines for years to come at Tennessee. That is, if the University doesn't step up itself and put a stop to things like this.

If I had a daughter planning to go to Tennessee, I would move her to a different university. Ultimately the University itself will have to sign off on this, and any University that signs off on a kid with that on his record is not an institution I would trust taking care of any women/girls that I remotely care for.

OU_Ron · 7 months ago

Different views and reactions from many Internet Blogs.

WarEagleFan · 7 months ago

Are you F&@KING kidding me what the Hell is Kiffen thinking? I just wonder what other schools have yet to retract their scholarships. This kid is dangerous to whatever population he is around. Send him to the Middle East and see what they do to perverts like him...

TigerEducated · 7 months ago

Is there any doubt that BC is not a parent, and has absolutely ZERO sense of right & wrong in this world?

Something tells me a completely coddled existence, coupled with a complete detatchment from the reality we live in is fueling his incoherent ramblings on this subject.

At one point, the guy's saying he would call the guy "excited", and then in the next sentence, he says the guy was "curiously excited". I mean, the only way one can describe his responses at times are Clintonian in their context and meaning.

BC, I know there's a history of you coming off like a dumbarse around here, but seriously...Please don't bother responding anymore in this thread. You've erased whatever measure of credibility you had, along with any real thought that you have a sense of justice.

Grow up, kid.

The_Observer · 7 months ago

I have to agree. Until this thread, I always laughed off BC as sorta playing devil's advocate.

After today, I no longer have any respect for you BC. Your opinion on this subject truly highlights your ignorance.

"BC" · 7 months ago

haha. i really couldn't care less whether or not you respect me.
but i think you might wanna go ahead and add Ben Prather, Zac, Kevin Donahue, and Regan to your list.
they all seem to share the same opinion i have on the matter.

The_Observer · 7 months ago

BC, you have made it very clear that you don't care about being respected.

And so we are clear, I will lose respect for anyone that dismisses the actions of a rapist.

By the way, Ben, Zac, K-Hue and Reagan have established themselves as reasonable, intelligent, respectful people on this site. I won't be lumping them in with you quite yet.

Have fun living that life of yours. HaHa!

Zac · 7 months ago

Aye-yup. Got you fooled, aye-yup (he said while picking his nose).

Just josh'n T_O, thanks for the props. Though, I should warn ya, my wife may not agree with ya.

TigerEducated · 7 months ago

The classic case of youth-driven egomaniacism...

"I can't take being wrong, so I make my point, and when I realize its chock full of holes that'd make a Swiss Cheesemaker misty-eyed, I express an attitude of nonchalant detatchment."

Easy way to never have to admit you're wrong.

But, its okay, BC, we're here to pound it into that thick cranium of yours...

You're wrong. In the words of George Clooney as Michael Clayton in Michael Clayton, "You're way the f*ck wrong."

Go live your life in the real world...Think about someone other than yourself...Then reassess...

Till then, push away from the keyboard for now...

AUtigerman · 7 months ago

My Nephew was denided the right to join the military for something far far less serious then this.
Some mistakes just have more consequence to go along with them. This is one of those mistakes. IMO Kiffin is making a huge mistake.
I think he should not be awarded a scholarship to any school. Compete as a walk on maybe but not full ride.

Regan · 7 months ago

I can't help but notice a sharp contrast in opinion between us Fanbloggers on this one. I'd ask that we not judge each other based on how we see this and not make personal judgments or attacks out of it.

This is a complicated issue; I expect us all to have differing views on it. If I do not subscribe to the same view as anyone else...well, sorry, but I'm not going to be lectured on it. Just sayin'...

My view is that a 13 year old influenced by a 17 year old to do something horrendous with him to a 14 year old is a far different matter than this kid doing it to someone while at college at age 19.

While I agree that this was more than a 'simple mistake', I can't understand why the kid should have to pay for that his whole life after doing his time.

As far as 'not wanting a daughter to attend UT' because of this, I would ask which college you could send her to to ensure that nothing could happen to her at the hands of idiot college guys.

Heck, keep an eye on the kid - that makes sense! But we really need to back off the judgmental train a bit on this one.

All IMHO...

TigerEducated · 7 months ago

Well, here's a hint...

If she gets a postcard sent to her dorm saying, "Hi, my name is ____ and I'm a convicted sex offender. I am required by law to tell you that my address is____, and I have been arrested for_____," you may want to have her transfer.

I'd take my chances WITHOUT the convicted ones...

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

Standing O! Couldn't agree more.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

It's not really that much of a contrast...

Only a small handful of people seem to think that a juvenile rapist should be afforded a free education because he's a good football player...

It's not really that complicated, Reagan...

At the age of thirteen the kid willingly took part in the rape of another juvenile...

As I pointed out to Ben above, there isn't one inkiling that sweet Daniel was coerced, pressured or forced into the act he took part in...

As a matter of fact as quoted in the link...

[The defendant] is described by the [DCS’s] Assessment as being a
pseudo-socialized child exploiter, that is that he desired sexual
pleasure through exploitation of his victim. This diagnosis includes
the fact that the offender often rationalizes the offense with little guilt
or remorse. In this case he has placed the blame on the victim and on
the co-defendant, and has consistently minimized his role in the
commission of the offenses.

Again, just to help it sink in...

[The defendant] is described by the [DCS’s] Assessment as being a
pseudo-socialized child exploiter, that is that he desired sexual
pleasure through exploitation of his victim.

Do you get that now?

He wanted it to happen and admitted it to the Childrens' Services Assessor assigned to his case...

Nobody forced him into anything...

Not only was it more than a simple mistake, he actually feels that he did NOTHING WRONG...

At least until he figured out he might not get a free ride...

The kid has a freakin' IQ of 119...

That just doesn't show up over night, buddy...

A thirteeen year old with an intelligence level that high KNOWS the difference between right and wrong...

This kid simply didn't care and derived pleasure from the act...

And exactly what time did he do?

A few weeks to months in a rehab prgram at a Juvie hall and then lived at a halfway house?

And this makes up for RAPING his cousin; who at the trial stated "He was like a brother to me"; and the LIFETIME of mental anguish, trust issues and therapy she assuredly has to deal with?

I'm not sayin' I wouldn't want my daughter to attend UT because of this...

I'm sayin' I wouldn't want UT to allow him on campus much less let him play football where he'll be in even more of a position to engage in his exploitation of power over young women who may become impressed with him and fall to his sociopathic fronts...

Finally, Hood has already had judgement passed upon him by the state of Tennesee who deemed him a rapist, kidnapper and sexual deviant...

So I don't need to...

I'll ask you in closing as I've asked the rest here that seem to think this is a good idea?

How would feel about this kid if he had duct taped your 14 year old daughter to a bed and raped her with a plunger?

Kevin @ Fanblogs · 7 months ago

thebuckstopshere makes an outstanding point below.

A few hypothesized how they would feel had their loved one been the victim. That's where any chance of being impartial goes out the window. When we make it personal we make it prejudiced. The opinions of consequences could run the gambit at this point and non would be wrong.

So, rather than a hypothetical about how each of us would feel... let's agree that every person would be severely & deeply impacted and move on to the second phase of the conversation:

If society deems that he has paid the price for his crime (and society has decided thusly, whether I agree or not) then should a man who has paid the "price" be allowed to compete?

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

Ok..

I'm "society" or at least a part of it in general and I don't deem that ANY child rapist can ever fully pay their price...

Nor any rapist actually...

Nor does it look like the majority here in our little "society" of Fanbloggers does either...

And since we're considering the price that society hung on the head of Hood's actions...

A few months in a juvenile rehab program then a halfway house and private school education?

Compared to the mental and physical trauma he took part in inflicting on his own family member whom "trusted him like a brother"?

Yeah...who got the worse end of that deal?

Pun intended...

And as I just pointed out above...

I don't need to pass judgement on him...

Tennessee DCS already labeled and judged him with the formative tenedencies of a sociopath...

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And as far as Buck's point goes...

Let's switch gears then...

What would have 13 year old K-Hue done in the situation?

Participated in or acted against?

I'm pretty sure I already know the answer to that...

Zac · 7 months ago

GH, I can't imagine anyone of us on here having participated in such a thing when we were 13. I can imagine most of us having gotten beaten up by the 17 year old, had we attempted to stop him, were we to have found him in the act. I don't think that's BuckStop's point.

I understand his point to mean as a society, with regards to due process, it has been determined by those in charge, that this is OK. He did the crime, did the time, and now he's free. I don't know how other states would have handled this. Though, as you framed it, "I'm "society" or at least a part of it in general and I don't deem that ANY child rapist can ever fully pay their price... Nor any rapist actually... Nor does it look like the majority here in our little "society" of Fanbloggers does either..." Well, rightly or wrongly, what you deem in this matter doesn't apply. Only the law applies, and the law has spoken.

I'll give you a lousy example: Some years back as a resident of Connecticut, the guy I didn't vote for was elected governor. Within three months he was strong-arming bills through the state senate; one was a state income tax (CT never had one before.), another was a fire-arms restriction law (was in vogue politically at the time). The state senate wound up tied on both issues. The Lieutenant Governor, a non-elected official appointed by the governor, held the tie-breaker and voted in favor both times. I didn't even get to vote for or against this guy (gal actually); yet, she got the swing vote enacting two of the lousiest laws ever put on the books in CT. That income tax set me back financially a good 3 years. But, I had no complaint, because due process was served.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

You're right, Zac..

That's not only a lousy example, but it doesn't even really apply to this situation in any shape or form...

Regan · 7 months ago

GH, the first part of my post was a request that we Fanbloggers, when discussing an issue like this, agree with each other that we can disagree. I have no intention of telling anyone "they're wrong", since we are talking opinions.

I'm also not interested in hearing that "I'm wrong", especially since (TBH), I see where you're coming from 100%.

This IS a complex situation. Had the action taken place when Hood was 19, it would be simple - case closed. But he wasn't. He's the same age I was when I was playing with Legos, and was hanging out with a 17 year old whom he looked up to.

Would I have known better? Definately - I lucked out and got two wonderful parents who loved me and taught me right from wrong at an early age. I don't know what he got dealt, so I have to have an open mind about it.

Was what Hood did wrong? YES.

Was it worthy of more than a few months at Juvie Hall? YES.

Was it worth now having a debate as to whether he should play at UT? YES.

If admitted, should he be watched like a hawk and monitored for the first sign of trouble? YES. (IMHO)

Should his life be destroyed and any chances for redemption gone because of something he did before he could even pay taxes? I don't think so. That's just my opinion, but I'd ask that it be respected.

I know exactly where you're coming from; but I (generally) believe in giving people a second chance, so long as it is done safely for others. I say watch this guy like a hawk, make certain that he knows the deal, and the second it even looks like trouble, boot him.

Put an ankle bracelet on him if you need to, but don't destroy his life when there's a chance he could end up turning it around; that's all I'm saying.

However - I fully understand if you don't agree, bud...

Zac · 7 months ago

"Only a small handful of people seem to think that a juvenile rapist should be afforded a free education because he's a good football player..."

GH, I have no issue what-so-ever with you're disagreement with any of my opinions on this thread or others. You have that right. My late father, among many others, fought that we could maintain that right.

That said, consider this quote from the article above:

"...model student on and off the field," with high grades and higher test scores."

I'm glad he's a good football player, but I'm in favor of his getting a free education, because it looks to me as if he earned it, at least in part, in the class room. The good "football player" for TN is mearly an ancilary benefit.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

And as I pointed out below, Zac...

Universities are in the business of ensuring that those who are most deserving receive the limited number spots in the incoming freshman class each year...

Why should a kid with identical statistics academically,intellectual power and no criminal past be refused admittance to make space for a convicted child rapist displaying the formative tendencies of a sociopath simply because said rapist can play football well?

Why should a football player with identical statistics academically, intellectual power and no criminal past or character issues be pushed aside for a convicted child rapist displaying the formative tendencies of a sociopath simply because said rapist is a little faster, stronger and bigger?

There are PLENTY of other kids who would have loved to receive this schollie that will/have wound up playing at a lower level of football or will remain a walk-on at UT for the time being simply because Kiffin thinks a child rapist can help him win football games...

That shouldn't happen...

Gatorader · 7 months ago

Okay. so to change the subject a little bit, WHY do you think Lane Kiffin decided to let this guy on the team? Maybe because the main-stream media hasn't mentioned UT in about three weeks...

We all know the saying "Any publicity is good publicity..."

otowngators · 7 months ago

I read, well maybe skimmed, over the court papers that were posted by Gatorhippy. Am I correct that I read Hood, prior to the age of 13, had already had sexual relations with both boys and girls?? Which 10-12 year old boys have consentual sex with other BOYS?? This clearly leads me to believe that 13 year old Hood was RAPED himself.....which would explain his lack of putting a stop to his cousin's rape. He found some kind of satisfaction in watching this pain and suffering occur to someone other than himself this time. Which would not make him an "innocent" bystander that followed the 17-year old's direction. Does this make sense to anyone??

jake · 7 months ago

@ GatorHippy:

You are clearly on a mission to abate redemption of criminals. If you haven't noticed yet, you are clearly in the minority position on this blog. Your dissent has been heard loud and clear, but fortunately, your moral principles are not followed. This situation was reviewed by judges of law, whose moral vision dwarfs your own, and therefore, this young man received a deserving punishment. Subsequent to his punishment, society expects remorse for his actions, and like any other American, he deserves a second chance.

Evidently, Kiffin is putting his own reputation, and the reputation of UT Athletics, on the line for this athlete. While I have criticized some of Kiffin's prior decisions, I admire his courage in standing up for this young man.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

You are clearly on a mission to abate redemption of criminals.

No...

I believe in the rehabilitation of criminals across the board and feel it can work...

However, I am not for rewarding child rapists with free educations because they play football well...

Huge difference...

If you haven't noticed yet, you are clearly in the minority position on this blog...

Ummm...no...I actually see more folks against this kid getting a schollie than for it, bub...

Your dissent has been heard loud and clear, but fortunately, your moral principles are not followed.

Dman right, it's been heard and will contiue to be until the thread is either shut down or others stop commenting on it...

And yes, my moral principles do not follow the course of thought of rewarding child raping sociopaths with free educations simply because they're good at football...

This situation was reviewed by judges of law, whose moral vision dwarfs your own...

News flash, chief...

Judges are elected by popular vote and while certain qualifications are due to be in place their "moral vision" is often aligned upon certain tendencies and personal opinions...

In the impartiality it would take to be a fair judge to deem themselves a moral giant above and beyond that of the average citizen would place an undue amount of bias and opinionated decision making in the judicial process...

...and therefore, this young man received a deserving punishment.

Did he really though?

Or was he not tried as an adult and received an extremely light sentence due to a great lawyer and his testimony against the older child rapist?

Subsequent to his punishment, society expects remorse for his actions

Which as noted in the appeals report, he showed none of...

[The defendant] is described by the [DCS’s] Assessment as being a
pseudo-socialized child exploiter, that is that he desired sexual
pleasure through exploitation of his victim. This diagnosis includes
the fact that the offender often rationalizes the offense with little guilt
or remorse. In this case he has placed the blame on the victim and on
the co-defendant, and has consistently minimized his role in the
commission of the offenses.

Just in case you were to lazy to actually become informed and read it...

Along with the fact, he only showed any type of remorse only because it looke like nobody was willing to hand him a free lunch because he's a child rapist...

and like any other American, he deserves a second chance.

Which he has received by not continuing to be remanded to state custody past age 19 or spending his life in jail...

Zac · 7 months ago

Ya know, guys. While this thread may lend a whole new meaning to "Butt Buddies", as emotional as it's been, I'd welcome one of those articles right about now.

gatorhippy · 7 months ago

You know, Zac...

I agree that this is an extremely heavy topic...

However, I appreciate a controversial and strong flavored discussion with polarizing viewpoints which this has certainly provided...

And it's been awhile since we really had one here that got people really fired up...

USC1801 · 7 months ago

I have read most of what is in this thread, and two points seem to jump out at me:

First, it is our responsibility to forgive - not with strings attached nor with menacing motives hidden beneath the surface. Even if the act was done to our loved ones or ourself.

Secondly, there is a difference between forgiveness and accountability. Often we neglect one or the other in our determinations. Those who lean towards mercy are sometime apt to lump "recompense" in with what they consider an "unforgiving" attitude, and those who favor punishment often forget that forgiveness is essential to relationships and growth, even within the greater context of society.

We all agree that payment for grievous actions are determined by society, but in my opinion there has not been enough time nor occasion for the convicted to demonstrate he has changed.

As has been mentioned, I would prefer the props be taken away and for a lengthy amount of time be given before a priviledge of this magnatude be administered. It affects us all in the long run as the morals of a society are altered one decision at a time.

TampaGator · 6 months ago

I know for a fact that I would NOT offer this kid a scholly; but no one asked me.

The actual question posed here, isn't "does he deserve a scholly to play fb?"

It's: does his background warrant a complete prohibition against it?

...and as far as I've read, no one has indentified any kind of authority whatsoever to support such a proposition. None at all; just emotional feelings to support his exclusion.

Bottom line: it's Tennessee's scholly, and therefore Tennessee's call.

End of discussion.

Now, that doesn't mean we can't print up copies of that appelate opinion Gatorhippy linked, and circulate it around oppenents' locker rooms prior to game day against the Vols...

...and it doesn't mean we can't circulate it among potential TN recruits ("you wanna' shower with this fella'? Don't drop the soap...")...

...nor does it mean that we can't bring toilet plungers to the stadium when Tennesse is playing (think Game Day)...

Just means the "Boy Wonder" once again, exercised piss-poor judgment.

...ahhh the Boy Wonder....we couldn't have chosen a better coach for Tennessee if we were allowed to make the selection ourselves.


GO GATORS!!

bronco1 · 6 months ago

It was his cousin for crying out loud. I read up in the blog he was only 13. How big was this kid and how strong. He is now 6' 5"! A man will make mistakes in life, but God never said that he would make the things you do wrong better. He forgives for the past and lets you have the opportunity after salvation to lead as a better example. With this being said, The man should still have to pay for what he has done and not be rewarded by any amount.

TO ALL THE TENNESSEE RESIDENTS WITH YOUNG CHILDREN: DO YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE SENDING YOUR CHILDREN OFF TO COLLEGE WITH STRANGERS AND THEN HOW DOES IT FEEL TO SEND THEM OFF WITH KNOWN RAPIST?

i FEEL THE SPOT LIGHT WILL BE ON THIS MAN AND HE WILL STAY DIRECTED IN THE PATH THAT IS EXPECTED, BUT THERE ARE ALOT OF ATHLETES DESERVING OF THIS SCHOLARSHIP AND MOSTLY THE EDUCATION THAT HAVE BEEN GREAT TO SOCIETY THUS FAR.