To the Editor:
Senior Associate Dean of the College Daniel Nelson makes an astute and worthwhile observation in his letter to the Editor of The Dartmouth on May 2, 1995, when he writes that "Difficult matters are often difficult to discuss, but they deserve the benefit of accurate information, integrity and a willingness to learn from one another." However, even the therapeutic disciplinary process [Dean Nelson] describes is a pale imitation of the justice system as it exists outside sheltered campus communities. The recent attention given to the case of Emily Stephens '97 only serves to emphasize the inability and inappropriateness of college disciplinary systems in ethical dilemmas of a nonacademic nature.
Stephens is right to protest that justice has not been done. However, even if she had participated in a COS hearing, that would still be the case. Stephens' case, and all others like it, are simply not within the sphere of the College. They should be handled in the criminal, not the academic, justice system.
While no one can purport that to deal with the criminal system as it presently exists is a pleasant or easy thing, still it is a necessary step if justice is to be served.
