In April 2011, Antonino Bucca and Drew H. Patenaude were arrested on charges of identity fraud, forgery and telecommunications fraud because of their fake ID operation. Recently, Bucca and Patenaude were given a $3,000 fine and probation for their felonious activities.

Normally for this crime, a person would receive at least three years in prison. We’re talking about a serious crime here. Bucca and Patenaude should not receive a simple slap on the wrist.

It’s simply the principle of the matter. It’s the legal system that we use to govern ourselves and protect our society. If those who don’t abide by the rules can pay their way out of it instead of serving time where they lose all of their freedoms, how do they learn from their mistakes? More importantly, what is possibly convincing them from not doing the same thing again?

If the rest of us have to abide by the law, so do you, and you shouldn’t be let off for a felony just for kicks and giggles. Go directly to jail. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200 — or pay your way out of it.

The above editorial is the consensus opinion of the Daily Kent Stater editorial board whose names are listed above.