Comment by badlibrarian
7 hours ago
Evidence degrades, memories fade, witnesses die. Generally the worse the crime, the longer the statute of limitations. Murder in most places has no limit.
Also, if someone hasn't committed a crime in, say, 20 years, there's questionable need to lock them up for three years to deter the behavior. Goal is to optimize the overall system even if some people slip through the cracks.
>Evidence degrades
Maybe in the past, but with modern technology that isn't always true. Statue of limitations comes from a time before even cameras existed.
The purpose of the law isn't revenge.
Also, I see many other people in this thread confusing criminal law and civil law, which is a bit sad to see on a place like HN.
It absolutely is, if you arent going to punish someone who hurt my child then I will do it myself.