Plea deal illustrates what's wrong with Baltimore

A young scientist walking a public street is killed by two of society's non-contributors. As a result of a plea deal, one will likely receive 15 years in prison — less time off for good behavior, of course ("Hearing put off for suspect in killing of JHU scientist," July 7).

That is all this contributing life is worth? Del. Pat McDonough is correct. The courts and judges are, in large part, what is wrong with this dying city.

Finton Cordell, Lutherville