Unusual form of punishment has residents talking in Maries Co.
What if you could choose your own punishment?
Some parents have made their children wear signs and stand on street corners when they’ve done something wrong.
One Mid-Missouri community is giving that option to those who have broken the law.
“Initially, there were some people that were very upset about it and thought it was terrible, and then most the people realize that he, this is not that bad,” said Mayor Stewart Darrah.
“Most of the reactions have been pretty positive for the most part, it has got a lot of reaction, it’s got people talking, asking questions and raising eyebrows,” said Marshal Joe Turnbough of the Belle Police Department.
Judge Richard Skouby said he wants to give those convicted a new option.
“The sign seems to be an effective reminder of, ‘hey, you’re not supposed to do this again,” said Skouby.
City officials said this new self-shaming option is there to help those who can’t pay their fines or for those who don’t show up to court.
The policy requires the person to hold a sign describing their crime for two hours for a specific number of days.
“I’m sure the whole time they’re standing there they are thinking, “I should have done this, I should have come to court, I should have paid my fines, I was given several chances and still didn’t do it,” said Skouby.
