Do more to accommodate inmates’ kids

I am writing in response to the letter on Oct. 30 titled “Jail should meet children’s needs.” I completely agree with Mr. Cantu. Children are the responsibility of the parent when in the visiting area.

I have been to the county jail many times, as a visitor, not an inmate, and have seen parents sit and do absolutely nothing as their children scream, run from one side of the room to the other while running into people, and hit windows and doors. I also have seen parents control their children by reading or playing a game until it is time for the visit.

It is boring waiting for your turn, and it is not the children’s fault they are bored. One bad child should not ruin visits for the many well-behaved children.

People make mistakes, and they pay for their mistakes. It is not fair to force a child to not see his or her parent because of the mistake of the adult. Abandonment will become an issue for children who cannot deal with the absence of their parents. There has to be some type of compromise that can be made to accommodate inmates with children. Maybe a play area should be created for people who need to bring a child to the jail.

For those who feel it is the inmate’s fault, it is – but the entire family should not have to be punished, especially the children. Everyone makes mistakes, and if you think you are perfect, you’d better do a reality check, because you are not.