Prisoners offer to share remaining time of sick inmate

Marvic Grech

Dec 29th 2009, 22:45

already dead with a stab on her leg?? come on ta!!

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 29th 2009, 22:41

Marvic Grech, if you can't count why don't you try using your finger and toes which add up to 20.

And another thing Marvic, he was out on bail before being sent to prison so stop trying to get some sympathy for your cause, however unlikely that might be.

I am quite disgusted by this and my sympathy for the prisoner's condition has been eroded. This is Macchiavelli all over again.

Graziella Cassar

Dec 29th 2009, 18:49

@ Marvic Grech The 'every chance' you are referring to was 13 days of total coma. She was already dead on the street before she was even taken to hospital due to the severe stabbing.

Stephen Spiteri

Dec 29th 2009, 15:30

What the relatives of the victim feel is understandable. But just decisions should not be based on the feelings of anyone, victims, criminal and relatives of both included.
Possibly the prisoner might have felt that he should have been released when he received news of his incurable disease. Would it have been a just decision if he was released at that time?
Relatives of the victim feel that he deserved to be put to death. Should we introduce the death penalty because many people, or most people, feel it is just?
Civilised society is striving to create an impartial justice system. So that decisions of this sort are taken for the benefit of all, which includes both parties i.e. the victim and criminal.
In fact I think that the whole debate is taking place in all the wrong places. It should have never been ‘advertised’ like this by the Xarabank team. Some people try to achieve what they aim for, or what makes most news and stories to talk about, through the careful use and diversion of public opinion. Ironically this is the same element which may shackle a just, quick and impartial decision.
NeverMIND the feelings, compassion is ‘heartless’.

tina kok

Dec 29th 2009, 12:38

@ Joseph Vassallo In regards to your question: Could someone tell us if the woman went looking for her killer at the bus-stop or whether he was waiting for her to arrive on the bus? He was following them in his car from my nanna's house and he knew what he was doing because the night before he rang at nanna's house threathening both my mum and her sister! He even rang at nanna's house after he stabbed my mum telling my auntie 'you are next!'

Marvic Grech

Dec 29th 2009, 11:12

@ Joseph Vassallo.

Yes he did 18 years out of 20 and im going to tell you. That he did 4 years arrested with the case so then 4 years out of 20, than a prison year is 8 mnths of 12, because of good behaviour.

Marvic Grech

Dec 29th 2009, 11:08

@ Graziella Cassar,

She died whole days after the accident. she had every chance to say what she wanted.

Graziella Cassar

Dec 29th 2009, 10:51

This is a very sensitive issue and one has to think twice before passing any comments. I really admire what the prisoners offered to do and this should be taken as an example but it is not something to be done with this prisoner. I believe in Christian values but did the prisoner have them at the time he stabbed the victim? Did he give her a chance to die peacefully and with dignity with her family? Did he give her a chance to tell her husband and her children how much she loved them? After my aunty's death everything turned up side down and whatever happened afterwards was due to this fact. There were no more christmas feeling for my uncle and cousins, no more point of reference we used to have, the joy she used to bring ... and a sentence is a sentence meaning the prisoner has to do it until the last day no matter what happens during the course.

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 28th 2009, 23:26

Religion and mercy are a convenient commodity to those who would abuse them. Isn't that hypocrisy?

I was under the impression that this murderer had already served 18 years of a 20 year sentence because that is how this lobby has been projecting its case. You tried to hoodwink us to gain sympathy for your cause. What macchiavellism is this?

I had no knowledge of this case or its protagonists but now, more than before, I am inclined to think that the release of this convicted murderer should not come about.

He should continue to receive treatment for his illness and the rest of the prisoners (now sanctified for their kind offer to serve the balance of his sentence) should intercede prayerfully for a telling miracle.

Denis, you haven't explained the presence of the weapon yet or why the deceased sprayed your relative with pepper. Could someone tell us if the woman went looking for her killer at the bus-stop or whether he was waiting for her to arrive on the bus?

Until convinced otherwise, I will concur with the judge and jury who convicted him and say he belongs in gaol.

janpieterkok

Dec 28th 2009, 20:20

Why show mercy to him? He left me without a mother at the age of 12 and I had to learn to live without mum at a very young age. Although its been 12 years its still very tough for me, my sister and my dad.. He should serve his full sentence, after all he has never shown us any mercy! Can someone bring back my mum no? .He has committed a crime of which he should pay for

tina kok

Dec 28th 2009, 20:10

oh and kurt muscat my father had nothing to do with it as it was my own decision!

tina kok

Dec 28th 2009, 20:08

@ Denis Catania and @ kurt muscat.. First of all I choose to live with him for a few weeks cos I wanted to know how a murderer lives like and if they have and if they any mercy for the hurt they have caused! If I had any care in the world for him I would have done what he asked and begged me to do which is to testify in court against my own mother.. That's how cold he is!! You think you know a lot but do not know a thing

kurt muscat

Dec 28th 2009, 19:58

@ m mercieca ghal informazzjoni tieghek il habs ikollom il mahfriet. u ahna bhala qraba tieghu nafu kem baqalu bhala sentenza kieku ma ahniex nitkelmu u nuru affarijiet li mumiex veru.

Ada Huizenga

Dec 28th 2009, 19:58

JUSTICE IS JUSTICE!! After reading all the comments my stomack turns. Salvu Gauci killed Anna Kok-Spiteri, my dear friend in 1997. We had to wait for four long years- till july 2001- before he was sent to prison to pay for his crime. Salvu G. has been to prison several times in his life and you call him a familyman? he only loves himself. Nobody has the right to take others life, when you do, you have to pay for it the rest of your life in sickness or health. I ask for justice don't release this man.

kurt muscat

Dec 28th 2009, 19:47

@ peter kok I am salvu gauci's relative I want to respond you and your daughter tina. why have you left your daughter to live with him after what he did ? weren't you responsible enough to do this as her father because this was your responsabiltity? weren't you afraid that as he killed your wife he could do the same to your daughter? and tina why haven't you chosen to stay with him and not with your father? now you're talking against him?

Denis Catania

Dec 28th 2009, 19:47

@Tina Kok: Hi Tina I met you while Salvu was waiting for his trial and or the appeal. First I would like to share my sympathy for your mom's passing. But I'm a little baffled, the day I met you you were under the care of Salvu and you showed nothing but love towards Salvu. You treated him as a father. He took you in, when you were thrown out of your house by your dad (according to you on the day we met ). Which told me you trusted that Salvu was not a violent man. I know you have a big family and you could have chosen other places to live, if you felt that Salvu was a danger to society. For that I ask you to think about the time, you were in need of a roof over your head and a good hearted Salvu took you in. Again my sympathy goes to your family.

Stephen Spiteri

Dec 28th 2009, 18:58

The prisoner should be released. He paid all his dues to society for the harm he committed and he is not a threat. I quote Hillel: What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow; that is the whole Law: all the rest is interpretation. But most probably the prisoner will already be dead and buried until whoever has the power to release him takes the decision.

Denis Catania

Dec 28th 2009, 18:51

@Peter Kok: Now that you came out on this issue, and by the way I will answer your e-mail. I'm waiting to cool downl. I have a few important questions for you Mr.Kok. Why did you let your wife attack Salvu ? Why did your daughter choose to live under Salvu's care while he was waiting for trail instead of living with you ? Why do some of your wife's family visit Salvu on a regular basis and wish him the best ? Why did you and or your in-laws hate Salvu so much when his wife loved him so much ?

E. Sciberras

Dec 28th 2009, 18:26

What about the lockerbie terrorist??? he was released, why not this one!!!! I will agree to release him, as if he was one of my relatives.

D.Micallef

Dec 28th 2009, 17:58

For me 20 years is already not enough!!

tina kok

Dec 28th 2009, 17:54

NO mercy for this man!! He left myself at the time 14 years old and my brother 12 years old without a mother and my father without his loving wife. He tore an unfillable hole in our family!! My fiance never got to meet his mother in law and my kids will never meet their grandmother.

M Mercieca

Dec 28th 2009, 16:50

The accused commited a murder in March 1997 and the sentence was given in June 2001. So he has only served 12 years (from 1997) or 8 years (from 2001). Therefore he still has another 8 / 12 years to serve. Where is the mistake in all this. Can someone enlighten us please!!

Peter Kok

Dec 28th 2009, 13:47

NO mercy for this Men , There was no MERCY for my Wife Anna the day he stab and kill her.

John Caruana

Dec 28th 2009, 13:44

A story coming from behind the prison walls,confirms for us "that not all is lost" after all! Because if from behind the prison walls fundamental gospel values come our way, we should trust that it is still possible in a highly secularised world that these and other gospel values crop up in our yourths,teenagers and children - with patience, time and good example ! The whole story,including the various comments that appeared, coming from behind the prison walls, is perhaps the best christmas homily the maltese have listend to this christmas! Personally, it confrimed me in my faith.

Fr.John Caruana

M. Galea

Dec 28th 2009, 13:43

@ Michael Catania

did his victim die in peace, surrounded by their family?

M. Galea

Dec 28th 2009, 13:31

@ Leo Bartolo

I would not have spoken differently had I been related to him. The law is the law and justice should prevail.

@ Marvic Grech

Most people have good in them, and I am sure that Mr. Gauci had good in him but the reality is that he killed a person, robbing their family of this person's presence.

@ Dennis Catania

Are we now going to blame Ambulance staff for the victim's death? Ma ndahhqux please

michael catania

Dec 28th 2009, 13:25

I have asked myself this question. How is it that a man is given pardon and imunity for a number of alleged criminal offences including attempted murder and here we have a man on deaths bed and the authorities have not seen just to give him a pardon so at least he can die in peace surrounded by his family.

Lorraine Vella

Dec 28th 2009, 12:01

@ leo bartolo ... you say that "Of course Mr Galea does not agree that Salvu, who has terminal cancer should not be released from prison before his 20 years are up. Why? Because he is not his father, brother, grandfather, uncle...... a family member of his, otherwise he would have spoken differently."

well, of course you do agree that Salvu, who has terminal cancer should be released.... because you are NOT the father, brother, grandfather, uncle of the VICTIM!!!

leo bartolo

Dec 28th 2009, 11:45

@ M. Galea. Of course Mr Galea does not agree that Salvu, who has terminal cancer should not be released from prison before his 20 years are up. Why? Because he is not his father, brother, grandfather, uncle...... a family member of his, otherwise he would have spoken differently.

Peter Kok

Dec 28th 2009, 11:28

I do read the Comment ,Some of them are crap, I agree with the one of M.Galea : Has anyone spared a thought for the Victim,s family?

Mario Cucciardi

Dec 28th 2009, 11:06

@Joseph Vassallo

It's a pity that some of us are still stuck to the Old Testament! And I don't blame you. Have a look at the Sermon on the Mount (The Beatitudes) Matthew 5:3-10 and maybe you'll find your answer there. Yes of course Jesus comes into all this. If I am not mistaken oaths are taken on a cross in law courts and truths are confessed in such contexts. Our constitution backs up our Christian values and heritage. Are we forgetting the holistic perspective of human beings? Or are we still considering humans as compartments? Yes, mercy is the focal argument in this particular circumstance.

Marvic Grech

Dec 28th 2009, 11:02

I Just read the news paper and the firstt words that caught my eyes were '' of course I don't agree with his release, I would have given him another 20 years on top of what he was given'' brother's victim.. I am Salvu Gauci's relative ( his sister ) and I Just wanted to say, that Salvu helped the Victim's family alot, he helped the wife of Alfred Spiteri ( the one who said this words ) who had died in cancer several years ago, Guza Spiteri, that when she died Salvu took care of her child (rabbiha hu ), And lydia Spiteri was operated in England in her head and after, when she came back Salvu Gauci took care of her in his home. So no one of her family should say nothing bcause he helped all of them. something I must say is that Doris another relative of the Victim, goes to visit Salvu in prison every week and even some nephews of the victims. with this information I want to say that what ever had happened always Salvu took care of them, and we know it all. I hope you understand the story.

M. Galea

Dec 28th 2009, 09:54

What these prison inmates did, is commendable! There is good in a lot of people!

having said that I do not agree that Mr. Gauci should be released from jail just because he is terminally ill.

He has committed a crime of which he should pay for. Has anyone spared a thought for the victim's family?

Rose Agius

Dec 28th 2009, 07:33

Asee it the family of the victim has nothing to do with it. The sentence was given by the court and it is th Court that should decide whether to let the man die in diginity with his family. Where is the sense of Christianity we all claim for? Jesus died for us on the Cross and He will die over and over again for us. He forgives us our sins for 1000 times over...so if this man has servced 18 out of 20 years and is dying in any case...he is not going to be celebrating and running around in our streets, ebjoying his freedom once again...he could be placed at Mater Dei and spend his last days there. We of all people in the world where we pride ourselves to be almost 100% Catholics should be the first to give the example..set him free...what is 2 years in 20 years...he has paid enough for his deed. The govt. gives so many amnesties for tax defaulters..most probably it is the same people who benefit over and over again as employees can never avoid or evade any tax!

V.Aquilina

Dec 28th 2009, 07:09

Could this person be transferred to a hospital facility or house arrest on the grounds of his terminal illness?

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 28th 2009, 02:21

/continued

I also disagree that it should be left to the family of the victim; this is just as wrong as a system that asks a victim if s/he forgives his/her assailant at a trial. Nobody wants to seem heartless.

Laws are there to be enforced not to be bent. Jail is the ultimate deterrent now that corporal and capital punishment have been abolished. The bible may have been right when it said " a tooth for a tooth".

Think about 3yr-old Jamie Bulger and his murderers Jon Venables and Rob Thompson who, only this week, were given a new identity and a new life, having served only half their sentence. Was the UK system right to release the murderers after the torture, mutilation and consequent death of this infant? They even tried to make it look like an accident by leaving the infant's body on a railway line.

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 28th 2009, 02:00

Denis's and Aida's concerns for their relative have my sympathy. But this has become a concerted lobby for the release of this prisoner.

Are the opinions here well-enough informed? If Denis's claim is true, why weren't 18 years enough to bring about a re-trial? How did Salvu happen to have a weapon if he had no intent? It is not easy to find a weapon with pepper in your eyes. At this stage, I still don't see how the trial went wrong. I understand that an appeal was lodged because during the trial reference was made to previous criminal history. That appeal was also turned down.

I reiterate that 18 or 20 years is purely academic; it would be wrong for the authorities to act on the strength of this lobby rather than on established facts.

Please, remember the second commandment and don't bring Jesus into this; nor religion and humanity for that matter; prison exists to deter not to display compassion. Thou shalt not obtain an early release from purgatory or hell just because you get blisters while you are there. Continued...

Anthony Grech

Dec 28th 2009, 00:43

jien nahseb li hu gest nobbli tal pruginieri li ghamlu fuq salvu gauci nabseb li hemm bzonn li din issejha ghandna ssirr b`qasir zmien possibli halli igawwdux fl-zien il-familja tieghu il-bniedem hu sugget ta l-izball mela ejja naghmlulu hajja li sfortunatament qasira ahjar

Cristian Darmanin

Dec 28th 2009, 00:13

I agree that Salvu Gauci has been released. I am also really impressed for the noble gesture of the prisoners. They must have guts to increase their jail term.

However, I feel disgusted for the fact that the authorities let the prisoners share the 2year burden. Why should the prisoners have an additional jail term for nothing? Why can't the authority just forget those 2years and thank God that they are still healthy and able to enjoy their lives?

Marton Saliba

Dec 27th 2009, 21:31

He either does 20 years or die doing them...

Mario Cucciardi

Dec 27th 2009, 20:06

@T. Gauci Just try to discover the mercy Jesus can bring and then you'd probably change your heart and mind. No one said that one shouldn't repent. I guess that should be understood by all. However, good job inmates! Something within you has driven you to show compassion to your fellow inmate! Keep it up!

T.gauci

Dec 27th 2009, 19:02

@Mario Cucciardi Jesus also said that if you don't repent you'll go to hell. don't let pity emotions from distracting you.

Miriam Ellul

Dec 27th 2009, 18:37

Irrelevant of what he has done ... he is dying and every individual has the right to die with dignity, no matter what he has done! On the other hand, if I were an authority I will not add his time to the prisoners as an appreciation for this generous offer!

Joseph Schembri

Dec 27th 2009, 18:13

@Marianna Galea Xuereb: may you never have a loved one in prison dying alone. Tell me then if someone else offers to serve time for him would you not call that someone a saint? If there is some sort of justice after life it surely has nothing to do with that that we call 'justice' here.

Denis Catania

Dec 27th 2009, 16:32

@Marvic Grech: My e-mail is deniscatania@yahoo.com please e-mail me.

Marvic Grech

Dec 27th 2009, 16:11

@ Denis catania

please contact us please, and thanks for the help!

Your Cousin Aida.

Johnny Xerri

Dec 27th 2009, 15:51

@ F Farrugia

Ma jien inhalat xejn ma xejn.

Jew int bniedem li timxi fuq l emozjioni jew bniedem li timxi fuq il logica, ma tistax tbidel kif jaqbilek skond l argument

Ma tistax timxi fuq l emozjioni fejn jithlu animali u timxi fuq il logica fejn jithlu in nies.

Il punt hu li jekk ghasfur ma tridux jinqabad mhux ghax meded ima x titharsu, kif tista twebes qalbek ma bniedem??

Mela hekk sew al principju thali lil Salvu ibati hemm maluq gol habs. Ima ghasfur ghal emozjioni tieghek u ghal ebda raguni scientifca tiprotegih

Denis Catania

Dec 27th 2009, 15:11

@Jim Vassallo: You claim I over-simplified the case because I cannot imagine any judge handing down such a severe sentence to someone reacting in self defense.

Salvu was charged with the wrong charge. He did not go out on that day to commit a murder, robbery or rape. He was attacked by a family member and things went wrong and if the ambulance would have got there 10 minutes after Salvu called for help, the woman would have survived. Instead it took the ambulance almost an hour. SALVU DID NOT RUN AWAY AND LET HER DIE, HE REACHED OUT TO GET HELP FOR THE WOMAN.

Mario Cucciardi

Dec 27th 2009, 14:26

The only time that Jesus promised immediate entrance to heaven was when he was crucified. He promised it to the prisoner on his right. No other place in the scriptures do we find mentioned such a privilege. Not even were his closest disciples promised heaven in this way. Prisoners do have their good side after all. This case proves this. Although you have been condemned by society for your wrong doings, there are still a good number of persons who really appreciate your kind and noble gesture for your fellow inmate! I also support your good cause!

joe portelli

Dec 27th 2009, 13:33

It is time the authorities listen - this patient should be allowed a few days before he dies, out of prison.

Legal obligation by the authorities has been satisfied - he has served enough time and nothing else would be achieved if he died of the diagnosed terminal cancer in Prison.

Moral Obligation is however not satisfied - this too is a duty on the authroities and they have the moral obligation to do the best for the Prisoners, their families and the victim's family, in this case outweardly supporting forgiveness.

The reality, as we have read, the powers to be cannot take a decision as usual, they refer you to someone else (has the papers). Weak heartless authorities who dwell in publicity hiding behind good causes , but when it comes to action, they put their hand up and claim IMPOTENT.

It would be on their concience if they have one.

If the Prisoner was not Maltese they would extradite him at the request of his country , because that would be good publicity , but not here.

Franco Farrugia

Dec 27th 2009, 13:25

@ Johnny Xerri - Imma intom kemm ghandkom komma twila, ghid? U kemm ghandkom habta thalltu l-laring mal-banana!

Michael Andrews

Dec 27th 2009, 13:19

I was the thinking the same as most of the other readers in saying that he should be allowed out to serve his remaining days with his family,until, i knew why he was there in the first place.
The family of the victim should be the ones who decide and we should all respect their decision seeing as it was them who went through the heartbreak of losing a family member.
If it was me, i would let him out,seeing as he has served most of his time already and he is terminally ill.
It's a tough decision and i hope the right one is made for all concerned.

Johnny Xerri

Dec 27th 2009, 13:14

This is the same Franco Farrugia who so strongly opposes trapping and hunting, for sake of freedom.

"Justice has nothing to do with emotions, as most of you are thinking.
No Presidential pardon can be given without the Government's consent.
As I see it, a life is owing. He killed."

Hasn't Salvu been trapped for long enough. If the victim really used pepper spray and Salvu defended himself he should not even have been locked up.

What harm can this sick inmate do to society?
Of course one might say that the victim 'served' her time because she never got a second chance to life, for her mistake in attacking Salvu.

Will she get the second chance if Salvu stays another few days.

Some people get all emotional when campaigning for wildlife, then get all mathematical and obscured when speaking about humans.
Let the him out, he will still not serve the 20 years

Stephanie Said

Dec 27th 2009, 13:07

Very nice gesture from the inmates!! well done to those who from their heart offered to share 2 years of Mr Grech's sentence. A nobel gesture indeed even if this means that each prisoner will share 2 days between them! An extra 2 days may be seen as an extra month for them.

G. Mangion

Dec 27th 2009, 11:54

Oht Salvu, ghanda ragun biex tbih !! Sa nibqaw f' kazi bhal dawn ( naharbu, u min ghabd Qajfas nibatu ghand Pilatu ) ahna ikuntatjajna lil Kulhadd, anke lil President, u lil Prim Ministru, izda dawn jghidulna li il karti qedin and xi ministru, ( quote ) Ghaliex ma nistax nifem, ejjew nuru li ahna VERA ghandna qalb ta deheb Il - Maltin ! ma konniex barbbari imal- Barranin sa nkunu ma Salvu ?
Il- President sissa rajna kemm hu hanin u b' Umilta Kbira nejdlu Jikosidra dan il - kas ta Salvu,
Gesu Hafrilna min fuq is - Salib, u ahna le ?? Specjalment f'dan il - kas zvinturat ghal Salvu u il - Familja tieghu, Min hawn insellem lil Familja tal vittma, Naf li dawn sofrew hafna, Naf ukoll li Jafu, Jahfru Ukoll,
Grazzi.

Noel Scerri

Dec 27th 2009, 10:24

I agree that the family of the victim should decide, as these are the ones that are suffering the loss. Imagine if the prisoner is someone who did harm to your family? Would you pardon him?

Marvic Grech

Dec 27th 2009, 10:07

@ Fred Micallef
Just imagine this story is about your father or your brother or even you, t that are dying in corradion with a cancer will you say ' let him burn in hell ' because things happens in a split of a second, although salvu phoned the police and the ambulance himself, the victim, did't die in the place, but she died in 29 days.

Aida Grech
Salvu Gaui's Sister

Marvic Grech

Dec 27th 2009, 09:57

even the victim's sister said greatfull things about salvu in coart.

Marvic Grech

Dec 27th 2009, 09:56

@ Joseph Vassallo

Denis Catania, knows the story well because he is related to the Family of Salvu Gauci, we all know that the sentence that was given wasn't right because it was self Defence

Pule Carmel

Dec 27th 2009, 09:52

Just let him go. I know of a local politician who had terminal cancer and he was pardoned for his wrongdoings.
Even members of the judicary system were given special treatment under the circumstances.
Society being what it is , HUMAN, iI must say that I tend to agree with such kindness.

Joseph Attard

Dec 27th 2009, 08:55

Let Salvu Gauci go........and do not even add the remaining two years to the others .......its a part of giving in life.

Criss Camilleri

Dec 27th 2009, 07:35

This is very commandable indeed. But, as someone said it will 'open' ways for others. However it can be solved by moving this person to a more confortable location, say Mater Dei.
After all, healthy prisoners were placed in a confortable location, and not kept in Corradino.

Joe Portelli

Dec 27th 2009, 07:04

@ Marianna Galea Xuereb

Of course we should not emulate or copy others, but when its right , why not?

Letting this person out just before he knowingly faces death, may let him feel the love of God through this sinple action. Whatever his crime, he is days from facing his own final days and this gesture will be good for his state of mind, and for the people of Malta, on both sides of the prison wall. The family of the victims, must be respected and this gesture would be a good thing in the long term for this unfortunate family too. Frogiveness is the greates Power we can be endowed with and we should use it.

Lístrina Charity should not be about money, it should include acts of inspiration, which is what the Maltese love and respect and can be adapted to very easily. Mr President , make the First Move and create a good atmosphere and show the humane side of the Maltese character amongst the many other characters !

E. Vassallo

Dec 27th 2009, 06:44

His victim had never the chance for her last rites, never the chance to be granted a pardon for humantarian reasons, never given the possibility for another chance to live.

Godfrey Farrugia

Dec 27th 2009, 06:15

If we cannot even condone the prisoner's release when he's undergoing these final torments in his life, then I really wonder whether we have understood the meaning and significance of forgiveness. All those opposing his release should take a good look at themselves, try to imagine themselves in his current situation and then decide accordingly.

Pierre Attard

Dec 27th 2009, 02:19

Tony Bonello...
for your info.......
Il-Hafi was not pardoned a prison sentence but was asked to testify against a prominent drug baron.
Queroz was pardoned on the advice of eminent Medical Specialists...perhaps mistakenly.
But...don't confuse matters. Get your facts right.

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 27th 2009, 01:48

Whether he discharges 18 or 20 years is purely academic since prisoners regularly benefit from amnesties and time-off for good behaviour. Moreover, prisoners die in prison all the time and no one normally speaks of restoring their dignity by releasing them before time.

I suspect that Denis Catania may have seriously over-simplified the case because I cannot imagine any judge handing down such a severe sentence to someone reacting in self-defence.

If the prison authorities haven't seen fit to reduce his sentence for good behaviour, there must be reason/s.

Considering the brutality so often perpetrated against innocent victims, I would happily bring back the birch and capital punishment back into the system. After all, life is dirt-cheap to a murderer. "Render unto Caesar..." and all that.

Marvic Grech

Dec 27th 2009, 01:04

L-ewwel net grazzi tas-sapport,
jiena Aida Grech oht salvu gauci, nixtieq nghid li qrajt il kummenti li intabu. ahna ikuntatjajna lil Kulhadd, anke lil President, u lil Prim Ministru, izda dawn jghidulna li il karti qedin and xi ministru, Ma naqbilx ma Mr Micallef, li qal.. ' let him burn in hell! ' nixtieq nghidlu il qabel ma jitkelem jaraf il fatti, aliex li amel Salvu kien kas ta self difence bhal ma qal Denis Catania. Dan ir ragel qas jiflah jimxi, zgur mhux ha joqod jigerra barra. li irridu ahna, Familtu ilu alinqas f dawn il jum tal festi ikun maghna, halli ingawduh. mhux maqful hemm gew bejn 4 hitan li jekk jajat ajma ma jisighu hadt, izda it talba taghna mi tinstema minghand hadd.
min hawn hekk nixtieq nirringrazzja lil prigunieri, lil gwardjani, u lil dawk kollha li qed jghinu lil hija u li qed jghinu l-ilna nohorguh min hemm gew, Grazzi lil kulhadd.

Denis Catania

Dec 26th 2009, 22:50

The daughter of the victim forgave Salvu and she also testified on his behalf at trial and or his appeal. This was a domestic dispute that went to far. Salvu was harassed day in and day out. This was a tragedy for two families, that should not have happened. I also stress that Salvu called the police to help the woman. This was not a robbery that went bad or a crime with multiple stabbings or an attempt of rape. This was in-laws fighting. This was a case where Salvu swung a knife so he can stop and or scare his attacker. Which turned into a tragedy. Salvu did not mean to kill this woman. The last time Salvu was in trouble with the law before this case was about 20 years before, for petty theft. Salvu was never a violent person. I also believe Salvu was scared for his life and carried a knife to scare of any attacks, not to hurt anyone.

Joe Xuereb

Dec 26th 2009, 22:06

It is situations like this thwhil at put the Maltese character to the test. Enough, it seems, are prepared to practise compassion while a disappointing number demonstrate a hard-line far-right fascistic and punitive attitude. One commentator states that Mr. Gauci's crime was his first, while another claimed he had spent most of his life in prison (he is 63 years of age and therefore implying that he had a long criminal record. Also, he had a weapon at the bus-stop: was he anticipating being physically attacked I wonder?
The comparison with the Lockerbie case and its political mileage is apt and should not be dismissed.
Mr. Gauci's fellow inmates' generous gesture needs to be acknowledged too but not necessarily acted upon. I say free Mr. Gauci. It is not like he has eleven or twelve years to serve. It is only two years. The expression of some compassion in these difficult times would not be out of place. And anyone who disagrees with Salvu's release can use the opportunity to review their human values, or lack of them.

D.Galea

Dec 26th 2009, 21:03

I wonder when valid arguments start being turned into excuses & this is one case in point. Have you considered the challenge this particular situation brings on our society? What kind of mentality is promoted when sentences are seemingly being pounded to punish & payback spitefully rather then reforming the convicted party? I even got the feeling some were indirectly saying "oh why don't you put an end to his misery" instead...Yes I do get disgusted at such behavior & this without falling any short of my sympathy for the victim & the pain of her family, I know they have a heart beating within their chests. So now what the next excuse!? When he's out he might kill somebody else!? Makes you feel good feeling tougher then the "criminal" rather then face the pages of the our Holy Bible with a clear conscience!

Franco Farrugia

Dec 26th 2009, 20:51

Justice has nothing to do with emotions, as most of you are thinking.
No Presidential pardon can be given without the Government's consent.
As I see it, a life is owing. He killed.

Marianna Galea Xuereb

Dec 26th 2009, 20:29

@Joseph Schembri

To compare Saint Massimiliano Kolbe with any inmate at Korradino is an insult to Kolbe as well as to general common sense.

I totally agree that “fil-habs hemm nies li jmissom qeghdin barra waqt li barra hemm nies li jmisshom qeghdin gewwa.” because I actually know some of the latter who currently hold prestigious positions in local public corporations and/or did until they retired at 61. But this does not justify urging the president to impart certain pardons.

@ Denis Catania

“Salvu was waiting on a bus stop when his ex-sister ….. Salvu does a lot of outside duties for the prison.” If this is true than the president ought to consider conceding house arrest rather than the remaining two years in prison - so long as this does not lead to dangerous precedents.

@Robert Callus and @ Joe Portelli

We should not blindly emulate whatever other countries do or how the British authorities handled the Lockerbie Bomber. Nor should we repeat pardoning prisoners who did not really deserve a pardon just because such things were carried out in Malta in the past.

M A Scolaro

Dec 26th 2009, 19:43

Can someone bring back the victim to life again, or was it ruined FOREVER together with the lives of the families and close ones. So I say NO.... to let the person who did this, get out of jail before his time.

Simon Law

Dec 26th 2009, 18:24

The president should spend time studying this case, and not dedicate his time to l-Istrina exclusively. Answering phone calls on TV is good but there are also other things that the President should focus on.

Joe Portelli

Dec 26th 2009, 17:49

Even the Lockerbie Bomber was allowed out - whatever this man did, he could never have done worse than blowing a plane up with hundreds of innocents.

Let Him Go - that would be the right thing and it would be Charity .

Tony Bonello

Dec 26th 2009, 17:38

@ Fred Micallef, I can't understand this reasoning. He who has no sin cast the first stone. Queroz and il-Hafi where give presidential pardon for nothing. On a humanitarian way this man is sick and dying he deserves dignity. Please free this man

alfred agius

Dec 26th 2009, 17:32

What if Salvu Gauci is allowed to die in dignity in a hospital bed. Judge Arrigo is after all receiving treatment in hospital instead of serving his sentence behind bars.

Salvu does not need to be free. His days are counted The victim/s of the crime he committed . He does not need nor deserve, probably to be free but, for heaven`s sake, let us be good samaritans with the weak in body and in spirit.

Joseph Cachia

Dec 26th 2009, 17:30

Hon. PRESIDENT, MALTA is celebrating Christmas and New Year with you and your family.
Let the man go celebrate with his family too, this Xmas and New Year and we pray GOD to give him more years to celebrate and live in PEACE

malcolm seychell

Dec 26th 2009, 17:25

Jaraw il vittmi, u mhux xarabank.

I Abela

Dec 26th 2009, 17:18

I say let him out. when he serves his sentence. He got 20 years not 18 so he should serve 20 not 18. If he dies before, bad luck. And btw, since when did prisoners become noble? Don't make us laugh. We already have a lenient justice system as it is. Don't make it worse.

Denis Catania

Dec 26th 2009, 17:13

@Joseph Vassallo: Salvu was waiting on a bus stop when his ex-sister in law and her husband pulled up to the bus stop, the ex-sister in law started to attack him with pepper spray, in self defense Salvu slashed her with a knife. Salvu is the one who called for help, the ambulance took almost an hour to get there. The ex-sister in law died about a month later. Before this incident Salvu never hurt anyone. The time he was given did not fit the crime. Salvu never got in trouble in prison, he is loved by all inmates and guards. As mentioned earlier in someones comment, Salvu does a lot of outside duties for the prison.

Salvu hang in there we love you. Heavens gates will open for you. I love you.
Love,
Denis.

Frank Zammit

Dec 26th 2009, 16:58

L-akbar reat li qatt sehh fl-istorja tal-umanita, jigifieri l-qtil ta' Gesu Kristu gie mahfur mill-istess msallab qabel ma ntemmitlu hajtu.

Jien ma nhobbx niggudika u nahseb li anke ghal dak li gara fl-Iskozja dwar il-kaz tal-prigunier ta' Lockerbie xhur ilu, l-gvern ghandu juri kumpassjoni dwar dan il-kaz u jaghti l-grazzja lil dan ir-ragel.

I Vella

Dec 26th 2009, 16:52

I should let the family of his victim decide.

Alfred Bugeja

Dec 26th 2009, 16:33

@ Erin Ciantar

Thank you. I'll do my best not to stab anyone to death.

Robert Callus

Dec 26th 2009, 16:31

@Alfred Bugeja
The law is there and should be enforced. However this does not mean throwing humanity out of the window. There have been ridiculous Presidential pardons (the zeppi l-hafi saga). Definitely granting amnesty to an old man who nearly served all his term on basis of severe health problems is NOT a ridiculous pardon. Its just humane

Fred Micallef

Dec 26th 2009, 16:27

If he is in prison for murder, I say let him burn in hell!
He deserves what he has coming to him.
Some crimes do NOT deserve any sympathy towards the person who committed the crime.

Fred Micallef

N Zammit Alamango

Dec 26th 2009, 16:23

The prisoners themselves have more sense then most of the authorities in this country! Well done !

We should be ashamed not to let his sick man out, to pass the final days of his life together with his family. When up to a couple of months ago we witnessed the release Al Megrahi who killed over 270 people. Not to mention worser cases were even past presidential pardons were given.

This country should start acting what it preaches - Christianity ! It is useless to boast of our believe in God if our actions portray the opposite of forgiveness, love, understanding and most of all respect towards humanity.

I would also like to appeal to the heads of the church to interfere in this situation and not let the death of this man stain their conscience.

S. Zahra

Dec 26th 2009, 16:18

I agree with the release of this person from prison but only if the family of the persons involved in his crime give also their pardon.

Joseph Vassallo

Dec 26th 2009, 16:07

What was this man's crime that he should be sentenced to 20 years in jail?

Are we to believe that there is any sincerity (or logic even) in re-ordering as heroic and noble because of this so-called humane gesture, those who are murderers, thieves, drug-pushers, child-abusers, and whatever else people get sent to prison for?

And why didn't this sick prisoner get time-off for good behaviour? I'm asking questions before I agree or disagree.

Erin Ciantar

Dec 26th 2009, 15:50

@Alfred Bugeja

I hope that if you ever need something, people will come through for you and not be as cynical as you.

Claire Busuttil

Dec 26th 2009, 15:48

Jista forsi dal bniedem jitpogga taht house arrest??? xejn xejn ikun jista igawdi lil tal familja!

Alexander Pace Gouder.

Dec 26th 2009, 15:37

A nobel Gesture by all inmates. Lets hope that he will be released from prison to spend the few week left with his family. May THE LORD give him the necessary strength to face these very difficult days ahead.

Alfred Bugeja

Dec 26th 2009, 15:37

I am sorry for Salvu Gauci, but I do not agree with him being granted a Presidential pardon (which is the only way a person can be released from prison before his term). This man was sentenced to 20 years for stabbing a woman to death. He took the life of a woman in her prime and is behind the prison walls because of his actions, and nothing else. It is very unfortunate for him to get sick towards the end of his sentence, but President Abela should not set such a dangerous precedent.

A.D'Amico

Dec 26th 2009, 15:27

Vera xi haga ezemplari :)
proset hafna

personalemnt nahsebli persuna ta 63 sena li ga amel 18-il sena habs ...patta ta lizbal tijaw...
u cert li jekk johorg biex igwadi lil familja tijaw fin naqra zmien li fadalu :)

proset hafna ghanda biex inkunu kburin ahna il maltin

Joe Grima

Dec 26th 2009, 14:54

First real test for President Abela. Let's watch and see what gives.

Joseph Zahra

Dec 26th 2009, 14:50

Salvu Gauci has spent most of his life in prison, as he only knew prison life. he was a trusty in prison and used to help who ever in need. so trusted that at most times he used to go out shopping with prison personnel and do out side duties.
he had become institutionalised as his only home was the prison. every now and then he would be released only to commit other crimes to be back in.
he loved the world outside but he never new how to use his freedom.
give him this one at least!

Jesmond Micallef

Dec 26th 2009, 14:44

This is an act of human solidarity and I do very justly commend it. This should serve as an example to us, the free public in society.

As an after-thought, inmates do form thier own "social networks" within the life they share behind bars while serving long sentences, away from the free public life, we enjoy.

These people, also feel a sense of belonging, and this JESTURE PROVES EXACTLY THAT POINT. May this be viewed as such, from us, the free public at large.

So, let us respect these people who have served time, when they come out of prison.They need to re-integrate and assimilate in society. It is not easy for them, they might face prejudice, they may need accomodation, work etc.

LET US ALSO SHOW SOLIDARITY WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE SERVED TIME AFTER BEING JUDGED BY OUR VERY OWN COLLECTIVE.

Wirh my best wishes.

Rakso Selvatico

Dec 26th 2009, 14:43

"I've heard of a man whose friend had been imprisoned and who slept on the floor of his room every night in order not to enjoy a comfort of which his friend had been deprived. Who, my friend, will sleep on the floor for us?" The Fall - Albert Camus

Charles Caruana

Dec 26th 2009, 14:39

Prosit ghal din l-inizzjattiva u ghal dawk kollha li offrew li jippartecipaw. J'Alla il-Mulej izomm idejh fuqkom.

jbusuttil

Dec 26th 2009, 14:36

If not mistaken ( correct me if I am wrong ) it's up to the AG and the President to pardon if so go ahead with it today before tomorrow.

J.Tonna

Dec 26th 2009, 14:30

I appeal to H E the president to Pardon him on compassionate grounds. He should announce this from Istrina hangar. What a better 'present' than to allow him to die surrounded by his family?

A Grech

Dec 26th 2009, 14:30

Come on Mr President show compassion on this unfortunate human being

c.caruana

Dec 26th 2009, 14:28

great people =]

Michelle Wood

Dec 26th 2009, 14:28

let him out...

Manuel Micallef

Dec 26th 2009, 14:27

Prisoners should not be allowed to share time, he hsould just simply be given the right to spend the last days with his family. It is Christmas period. Can the president not interviene? I am sure he could help, and consult with PM to give him a presidential pardon based on health.

Joseph Curmi

Dec 26th 2009, 14:23

If such an alleged mass murderer as the Libyan Megrahi was released because of his terminal cancer, why cannot we as a Christian nation release Salvu Gauci who has already been given we understand the Last Rites! It is reported that he has already served 18 of his 20 year sentence, have any years for 'good behaviour' been taken into account?????

Is he not being released because there is no political gain to come out of this? same as in Scotland or the UK!!!!!!

John Pisani

Dec 26th 2009, 14:22

Il-gest tal-prigunieri huwa nobbli hafna u ta min ifahhru. Huwa veru li bniedem li jkun wasal fl-ahhar ta' hajtu ghandha tintwera certa hniena mieghu. Imma minkejja dan, is-sentenza li nghata s-Sur Salvu Gauci tafu ghalfejn u x'ghamel? Il-vittma se tgawdi l-hajja mal-qraba taghha, dawn se jinghataw l-opportunità li jergghu jarawha? U dan qed nghidu b'kull rispett lejn is-Sur Gauci u l-familja tieghu.

t. borg

Dec 26th 2009, 14:18

@t. pulis. prosit kliem sabih. fil-habs hemm nies li jmissom qeghdin barra waqt li barra hemm nies li jmisshom qeghdin gewwa. naf x'jiena nghid.

JC Mifsud

Dec 26th 2009, 14:12

Apart from that if this man is really sick let him walk away as he already served most of his time in prison.

But to tell you the truth it's not a big sign of solidarity from the prisoners as 2 years divided by the amount of prisoners means 2 days extra for each prisoner.

Antonio Persiano

Dec 26th 2009, 14:07

Wow...well done to the prisoners - what a nice thing to do for their fellow brother! Prosit!

Lillian Sciberras

Dec 26th 2009, 14:06

It is selfishness that imprisons our spirit, and these people are in a way "freeing" themselves by their generosity and compassion. Bless them.

D. Xerri

Dec 26th 2009, 14:02

To the authorities concerned Please do let the mentioned prisoner out before its too late - Very much appreciate the solidarity of all the prisoners - a noble gesture that gives example to everyone IN and OUT of prison!

A. Grech

Dec 26th 2009, 13:57

Please free the man Salvu and yes share the 2 years between the inmates by shortening their sentence accordingly for their gesture. It is only a little Christmas gift which will cost nothing to the tax payer but which means a lot to those prisinors with a heart of gold..

Josepm Schembri

Dec 26th 2009, 13:56

Reminds one of Saint Massimiliano Kolbe. For once we have a positive article about prisoners. These are the truths about the human beings suffering there and not the sensationalist stories that we read.

I would have also been happy to see the name of the reporter or journalist who penned this story.

John Mangion

Dec 26th 2009, 13:55

Zgur li dan il-bniedem haqqu johrog liberat ghax hallas bizzejjed..... u vera prosit lil shabu li lest jaqsmu bejniethom dak li fadallu!! Nappella ghal ftit sens komun!!!

Robert Callus

Dec 26th 2009, 13:52

Beautiful gesture from part of the prisoners.

However what justice is this when you leave a terminally ill person who already served 18 out of 20 years in prison while someone who already got it lightly is treated at Mt Carmel for mental health problems?

joe sammut

Dec 26th 2009, 13:52

Most inhumane. And very sad.
Where are our Christian values?
Who is responsible for this!!!
As usual.........nobody.
Get the man out of there.

A Cardona

Dec 26th 2009, 13:49

free the man

Adrian Borg

Dec 26th 2009, 13:48

Dan vera gest denju tal-Milied! Igiblek id-dmugh f'ghajnejk!

Mark Dalli

Dec 26th 2009, 13:44

impressed

Joseph Borg

Dec 26th 2009, 13:43

This guy is still around alhough with a terminal cancer!! (see http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/7728434.stm)

Miguel Micallef

Dec 26th 2009, 13:37

Let the man walk out for heaven's sake.

t puli

Dec 26th 2009, 13:26

Ghalhekk QATT m'ghandna niggudikaw lil hadd (mhux f'sens ta' qorti qieghed nghid) ghax f'kull bniedem hemm it-tajjeb u f'kull bniedem hemm il-hazin.

M.Brincat

Dec 26th 2009, 13:23

What a nice gesture