Latitude needed in prison marriages

In response to the Nov. 16 article, “Who would marry a killer?” I couldn't help but think about the struggles that these wives take upon themselves, knowing that it may be a long time for them to actually hug their imprisoned husbands again.

I couldn't be more happy for those who are happy, except for the fact that their loved ones are in prison. But I do have to disagree with the marriage arrangements that take place for the couple. In the article it stated that only clerks or the prison chaplain can perform the ceremony, along with not allowing anyone but the soon-to-be husband or wife into a secluded room to tie the knot.

Though these people are in prison for various reasons, can't they at least get some privileges when it comes to marriage whether that means having a special room for marriages, or even allowing the couple to choose who is reading their vows and leading the ceremony.

The inmates of the prison go through enough as it is with having a lot of restrictions, but the least the prison can do is give the inmate more leniency when it comes to wanting to share that special moment with a husband or wife.

Giving so many restrictions to someone who has already commited a crime is one thing, but when it comes to them having that secure feeling about wanting to spend the rest of there life with someone, it should be less of a hassle.

Shanice Hayes

Glendale Heights