The Amish and Hate Crimes
On February 8th, sixteen members of an Amish sect led by Samuel Mullet Sr. will be sentenced for at least four different hair-cutting attacks on their fellow believers that took place in the fall 2011. They were originally convicted in September of 2012. This sect resides in Bergholz, Ohio, and their punishment will be given by Judge Dan Aaron Polster of the Federal District Court in Cleveland. The severity of their sentences could range from probation to life in prison.
While in and of itself cutting someone’s beard or ponytail may not seem devious enough to warrant such sentences, uncut hair is an important part of Amish identity. It is thought that the perpetrators committed these crimes in order to protest against Amish that were not upholding the moral standards of their religion. The hair cuttings were meant to humiliate those that have not, at least in the opinion of the offenders, kept to the straight and narrow path. Because these acts have been characterized as “hate crimes” and have also involved kidnapping, it is possible that punishments as serious as life in prison are justified. Still, a family member of the guilty party said the following about the victims: “Their hair and beards will grow back….But they don’t want our families to have any lives at all.”
What do you think?
For more information, read the following articles:
Braced for Hardship, an Amish Clan Awaits Sentences in Shearing Attacks
7 in Renegade Amish Group Charged With Assaults
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