The backlash against actors Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis has sparked a debate in Australia over the use of character references for people convicted of sex crimes.
You've probably heard the topic of "character references" mentioned in the news this week, after Hollywood actors Ashton Kutcher and Mila KunisThese letters are a controversial element used in court systems across Australia, and some survivors of sexual violence and abuse are now campaigning to get rid of a perpetrator's ability to use them.A character reference is a letter written by someone who can speak to the conduct and abilities of another person.
The statement has to include confirmation that the person knows about the charges, how and how long they've known the defendant, opinion of their character, and anything that might help the court concerning the charges.sentenced to 30 years to lifeHis former co-stars Kutcher and Kunis were among 50 of his family, friends and colleagues who wrote character references about Masterson for the judge before the verdict was handed down.
Kutcher said the letters "were intended for the judge to read and not to undermine the testimony of the victims or re-traumatise them in any way".Calls to limit character references in Australia Mr James said perpetrators of child sexual abuse often hide behind a facade of good character, and that they have to hide in plain sight to be a successful predator.
The law in NSW prohibits priests, teachers, scout leaders and other community leaders from using references on their "good character" during sentencing. It also prohibits them from having the chance to have a lack of criminal record considered, but this does not apply to other offenders.Mr James said the Kunis and Kutcher apology is an opportunity to take a good look in the mirror here in Australia.
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