But that’s like saying there is no difference between an severe assault by an armed robber, which leaves the victim with lasting physical and psychological injuries, and a pickpocket taking someone’s wallet.
Both are crimes, and BMSkipper would not dispute that. But they are crimes of a different type and degree. They have little in common, except that both are theft.
Not a good analogy. Neither your wallet, nor your pocket, are at risk of suffering long term psychological damage like a statutory rape victim might. And disregarding the human damage, what about the long term damage the teacher (rapist) does to his employer (school)? A pickpocket does not equate at all.
Thinking of an actual example: Monica Lewinsky was schtupping her drama teacher under the stage at her high school. Many of her school mates knew about it. We al know what course Monica’s life has taken. What about her classmates who may have made wrong choices as a result of her example? Even her teacher didn’t make great choices after he left the school.
There are many, many ramifications that emanate from a wrong choice that probably looked like fun at the time. The teacher is supposed to know better, even when the student doesn’t.
Exactly.
I can't fathom the thought process of a person who refuses to understand that. Apparently, shoplifting a pack of gum is the same as Bernie Madoff; punching someone in the face it the same as shooting them; and consensual sex with a 17 year old is the same as raping a toddler.
In my world, the 18 year old boy who has sex with my 16 year old daughter should be handled a bit differently than the same boy having sex with my 8 year old neighbor, but hey, maybe that's just me.