Two cases have come to light this week, showing just how ridiculous American justice can be.

A 40-year-old Florida man has to move his family and his home because he lives within 2,500 feet of a child-care facility. The reason? Twenty-one years ago he was cited and convicted for public urination in Massachusetts. This conviction qualifies him as a sex offender, so move he must. A Florida official said, “This is not a case we feel good about having to prosecute.” They shouldn’t. It’s silly, a waste of time and money and trivializes something that should not be trivialized.

At the same time, an Illinois judge is allowing an accused sex offender to vacation. Destination? Florida and Disney World! Prosecutor Lise Lombardo said, “We would have objected further had we known that was where we was going.” Here’s a little tip for the judge and prosecutor – ask!

I am not a fan of mandatory sentencing (see first story), but when we have people as incompetent as those in the second story, maybe I should reconsider.