Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Sandusky and the Damage Done

Convicted child molester Jerry Sandusky was sentenced yesterday at the Centre County Courthouse in Bellefonte.  He received 30 to 60 years, which effectively puts him in prison for the rest of his life.  Sandusky told the judge he didn't do it.  He rambled on about a conspiracy between lawyers, the investigators, the media, the accusers and even Penn State University.  Not only is Jerry Sandusky a pedophile, he's also a liar.

Above is some of the crush of media that invaded the courthouse yesterday-- the view from the front of the building.

Below, the scene in the back parking lot.  This is the entrance used by the judge, the attorneys and Sandusky.  Even more photographers showed up after I snapped the photo.


As I walked around Bellefonte yesterday morning, I couldn't help but think of all the damage one man inflicted on so many people.

Jerry Sandusky wrecked his own life, and the lives of his victims and their families.  The Sandusky family has to be suffering, as well.

Former Penn State officials Gary Schultz and Tim Curley face criminal charges for allegedly covering up Sandusky's activities.  Sandusky gave them the ammunition to ruin their lives.  Schultz and Curley merely pulled the trigger.

Joe Paterno saw his reputation destroyed in the final months of his life.  It can also be argued that Paterno played a big role in his fate.  I will never forget the image of the Paterno statue being dragged away from the front of Beaver Stadium on a summer Sunday morning.

The reputation of Penn State University took a major hit.  The football program was almost destroyed.  Collateral damage has been inflicted on the players because the people who should have known better, did not.

The Second Mile Charity is gone.

The PSU Board of Trustees is is turmoil.

Civil suits are piling up.  This has already cost the university millions, and it will get a lot more expensive before it's over.

And, there's Mike McQueary, the whistle blower, who did't blow the whistle hard and long enough.

I'm sure there's a lot more damage that I haven't thought of.

Clarence the angel in "It's a Wonderful Life said "Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives."  It's so true.  Except, there's nothing wonderful here.