I am sorry to say that a lot of what I am reading seems to be self-righteous and judgemental. How can any of us really judge this case without being in a jury box and hearing both sides? The media has made a case against Ms. Toogood, irregardless of how the authorities may have acted, which most definitely uses the prejudice card.

From the beginning of these threads I have never read an intention on Larry's part to deny what seems to have happened or to say Ms. Toogood should not be held accountable.

What I have read, through his postings, Aine's, and my own research, is that whether this woman did this or not (I am NOT saying she didn't!) there is no way in hell she would get a fair trial with all of the media BS about her bring a Traveller and the well-documented discrimination which does exist against that community.

The world is not black and white when it comes to parenting. One known incident does not mean that parent makes a habit of hitting their child. Most parents who find themselves doing that or even thinking about it are horrified and usually will seek some way to cope. I've been there, I know.

Aine, thank you for links and the well-written explanation.

kat