YOUR COMMENTS

First my thoughts go out to the family. I hope the child recovers what what kind of a life will she have after losing her mother in such a horrid way.

Second I have to agree agree with Kris the former CO. There is a new prison being built in the Keene area and it looks nice than most of the rental housing. Sure let build this state of the at establishment, that tax payers get to pay for and allow the prisoners to have a reasonably comfortable life.

I've never been one for the death penalty but you attack a mother and child in their sleep, you deserve to be truly punished!
- Sadie, Keene NH

Pass the Good in life forward & Pass the Bad back!

We are all in this life together, lets make it better.
- Bob Lambert, Goffstown, NH

This happened 5 miles from my house. These poor people were butchered in their sleep. I'm not a huge death penalty advocate, but if there was ever a reason for the death penalty, this is the case. I wouldn't blame video games, TV or anything else. This was caused by one sick teenager who found 3 other followers to do his bidding to fit in.
- Dan, Wilton

As a former CO in the prison to where these 4 will go if convicted, if you have never been to the prison you would be very surprised on how they will spend their days. You might think twice on wanting to send them to the “horrible” prison... 3 meals a day, canteen, tv...magazines, basketball, baseball, weight rooms medical, church so they can “find themselves again”. Oh and lets not forget about the visit room where they will be able to now be able to invite woman who have such low self esteem to want to be with these evil men not only will they be able to send them money but will be able to marry…why make it easy for them??? NH needs the death penalty …great job to law enforcement …my prayers go out to the family
- kris king, portsmouth, nh

If you believe that parents, society, culture, violent movies and video games are the problem then you all need to contact your legislators and have them clean up that despicable place called the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester. Guess what the kids in there get to do? These kids are allowed all kinds of privileges in there: kids that areall under age 17: watch "R" rated movies (constantly), play X-box, WII, watch tv programs aimed at adults (because that's what staff wants to watch), cheek their meds save 'em & trade 'em. The list goes on and on. There is no rehabilitative value to their program. It should be recalled and rehauled. William Fenniman sucks!
And for all you people who keep saying things like they will get raped when they get to prison and how it happen daily to them and they will get what they deserve from the other prisoners are really sick puppies. I mean, if you feel vindicated and gratified knowing a 17 year boy will be raped by a full-grown man, you are very twisted in the head.
- Michelle, Manchester

Fred--
"Anyone can commit a crime like this"??
Are you kidding me? I can tell you unequivocally that I could NEVER commit a crime like this. And I CHOOSE not to take drugs or drink so my mental state never deteriorates enough for me to think about committing a crime like this. Fred, if you think YOU can commit a crime like this, you need to be locked up.
- Tanya, Manchester

We are all shocked and saddened by the horrific tragedy in Mont Vernon. It is unthinkable, unreasonable and unexplainable to us all. As parents of three boys, we often wonder if we're doing enough, doing the right thing, setting the right rules and examples. We do not know the answer.

What we do know is that the Spaders are not bad parents. They were neighbors and close friends for more than 20 years, and they dedicated themselves as parents as much or more than many of us. By example, Chris long ago gave up a professional career to spend more time and to be always available to her son. In recent years they sought help, engaged with professionals and sacrificed themselves. Yet it was not enough.

While we understand and feel the anger and outrage of this senseless act, let's not add more victims. Let's add some humanity and compassion at this time of tragedy and loss.
- Carol & Alan, Townsend, MA

My whole heart goes out to the Cates Family. This is a senseless tragedy.
These young men deserve to be tied up in the town square and stoned.
- Priscilla, Lawrence, Ma

Hang'em high.
- Dan, Bedford

WORDS CANT DESCRIBE MY OUTRAGE at theses punks their hell awaits them inside prison
- paul kolifrath, laconia nh

My most heartfelt thoughts are with Kimberley, her daughter and her husband...very very sad, and I understand how people will quickly lash out and mistakenly call these teens "animals", but think about it, have animals ever created an Auschwitz or a Treblinka, or a Jonestown. No, only the specie that evolved consciousness could create such horrors. These teens are far from animals, never really were, and just became horrific humans.
- Alan Willard, Bradford

This makes me sick. My daughter was a teacher at Amherst Middle School for the past 2years and right next door to the high school where 2 of these boys went to school. That's a little to close to home for me. ALL of them all 4 of them deserve the max in punishment. I can't imagine what the little girl is going to have to go through the rest of her life. My prayers go out to the family here in Tucson and in NH.
A concernd resident of Tucson AZ
- SMP, Tucson AZ

People have the right to be angry and and outraged. Calling what was done to the Cates child an "assault" fails to conjure up the unspeakable image of what really occurred. The rage expressed by some of the posters may be the result of knowing the unpublished details of this crime.
There was a time in history when the public stoned sinners and criminals. Later on, law breakers were publicly shackled and restrained in the center of the village. Social deviants were taunted, humiliated and spat and shat upon.
This blog provides a forum for humans to do what they have always been inclined to do in the case of injustice or criminal acts.
Right or wrong, it is a necessary therapeutic process.
- Kathy, Raymond

I said it before, anyone who kills a mother or a young child(ren) due to a domestic situation, robbery, or whatever other motive for the killing should be charged with capital murder. It's time NH changes the laws relating to violent crimes against women and children.

Those four boys have changed an 11 year old girl life forever. While each of these boys parents proclaim each was good, came from good homes, the physical, emotional and mental scars from that torturous brutal morning will remain with her throughout her life.

Little Jaime and her mother Kimberly were the ones with innocence, not your sons.

With bails posted, I am sure each of the boys parents are trying to find ways to post the bails to get their sons released until trial. Quite frankly, my opinion is they should keep their sons right where they belong; in jail. Control is now back to the parents. It's called 'tough love".
- Terri, Manchester, NH

An honestly appalling series of events. Having said that this must be an eye opener for people, as many previous posts mentioned...people start locking your doors and arming yourself in some way...CRIME HAPPENS just because NH seems to be sheltered from the rest of the world when it comes to awful events like this does not mean they do not go on.
- John, NH

This is not a place or time for a political event. We can debate the death penalty and other situations later. Right now the death penalty is legal in NH and these teenagers fates lie in the privy of the NH court system. I have faith that our NH judges will do their jobs and I will not question their judgment in this matter.

Let these people grieve alone in their own way. The whole story has yet to be told and I think it’s important to reserve judgment until we know all the facts. I’d wager there’s quite a bit more to this story. Do not judge so swiftly.
- Jim, Raymond NH

It has now been over a year since gun owners in Australia were forced by
new law to surrender 640,381 personal firearms to be destroyed by their
own government, a program costing Australia taxpayers more than $500
million dollars. The first year results are now in:
Australia-wide, homicides are up 3.2 percent Australia-wide, assaults
are up 8.6 percent Australia-wide, armed robberies are up 44 percent
(yes, 44 per cent)!
In the state of Victoria alone, homicides with firearms are now up 300
percent. Note that while the law-abiding citizens turned them in, the
criminals did not, and criminals still possess their guns!
It will never happen here? I bet the Aussies said that too!
While figures over the previous 25 years showed a steady decrease in
armed robbery with firearms, this has changed drastically upward in the
past 12 months, since criminals now are guaranteed that their prey is
unarmed.
There has also been a dramatic increase in break-ins and assaults of the
ELDERLY. Australian politicians are at a loss to explain how public
safety has decreased, after such monumental effort and expense was
expended in successfully ridding Australian society of guns. The
Australian experience and the other historical facts above prove it.

Take note my fellow Americans, before it's too late!
The next time someone talks in favor of gun control, please remind him
of this history lesson.
With Guns....... .. ....We Are 'Citizens'.
Without Them........ We Are 'Subjects'.
- Jeff, Merrimack

There are many victims here: In our rush to judge, let's not forget that there are good parents who raise kids who make poor choices. The one boy known to my family, by all accounts I've heard, comes from a good family which has done its best for the entire family. My heart aches for them as well.
- Karen, Amherst

Lets see who they get for attorneys?
- Jake, Dunbarton

i know the branch of family in AZ, and wow. they are going through a horriable time. i feel so bad for them, and i hope that proper justice is brought to this case. it just makes me so mad that this was at random. i mean, it could have been anybody, and they chose this great person. well i mean, it shouldnt have been anyone in the first place! wow. people make me angry.
- A. N., Tucson, AZ

A question for the "Fry 'em" group: Where do adolescents go when these thoughts cross their minds, when their friend(s) is trying to talk them into it, when this horrible act becomes an option? School? Home? Authorities????

Children are nothing but a mirror of society. Fry 'em if you want, but studying the problem and possible solutions, while still nesuring they are never allowed in general population again, may be a better option.

Sadly, many people that would make this decision are the unattentive parents that are the root of this problem...jus sayin'
- Nicole, Northern NH

Dear Joey G, Manchester... I have spent lots of time with my kids (17, 2yrs and new born). But the 17 yr old is as wild as can be. The STATE doesn't allow parents to parent anymore and there in lies the root of the problem. The schools cry wolf when they ask for active parents. That's why my family moved away from Nashua because the administration plan sucks. I hope for you that your son is a great kid and does great things, but trust me, from experience, all it takes is one moron to spoil the bunch.
- mark, derry nh

Can't resist a plug Barrett, can you?? You disgust me. Let these people grieve without trying to advertise.
- Craig, Manchester, NH

dear cates family, im a houskeeper at st. josephs and formely knew kimberly as a maternety nurse. she was always friendly and made everyone smile. And i too have a daughter so i can just emagine the horror you all are going through. I will pray for you all and ask god to help you all get through this and especially for your young daughter, ill pray for her recovery andask god to give her strength to pull through this and show her, her mother will always be in all of your hearts. god bless you all and you'll all be in my prayers.
- patricia m., nashua, nh

i can speak for the fathers or william and quinn. they are both devoted fathers. i have dealt with them both from a very young age and have seen them struggle through their own problems, but always putting their children first. do not be so quick to judge this situation as a lack of parenting. it was something 4 out of control teenagers did, nothing anyone could've done short of killing them would've stopped it.

this is a tragedy small towns shouldn't see, but do on occasion. Or thoughts should be with the family of the victims and should not be in anger of the perpetrators.
- regardless, Amherst

My friends-

The state will not try these animals for capital murder. Not because they do not want to, but because they can't. See RSA 630:1.
Even after the conviction of Michael Addison, some of our legislated officials sought to overturn the death penalty.
It's no wonder N.H. is in such a sad state. The fourth largest English speaking legislative body in the world and full of kooks.
- Silence Dogood, Berlin, NH

First of all, my family's hearts go out to the Cates family. Stay strong.

Ill bet anyone in here capable of defending themselves wishes those kids had broken into their house instead. Then the headlines would read "teens killed in home intrusion attempt".
It disgusts me that some punk kids could go out and perform such a horrific act of brutality.
It makes me even more disgusted that you people are on here defending the murderers. Its people like you who enable the political figures that defend the rights of criminals.
Shame on us as a society for allowing something like this to take place under our noses.
- Josh, Hooksett

This act is so unspeakably barbaric and defies comprehension. Who would do this to another human being, let alone a child? I hope the Attorney General's Office finds a way to ensure these animals are locked away forever, at a minimum, but it would seem more fitting if this could qualify as "capital" murder thereby carrying the death penalty for all involved. On behalf of the citizens you protect, thank you to the Mont Vernon PD, NH State Police, and the AG's Office. Thank you too to the EMS and medical professionals who saved this little girl's life. Excellent work under horrific circumstances. For every one Spader and Gribble, there are tens of thousands of you. Thank you.
- Jed, Concord

First off, big tip of the cap to the law enforcement officers from the State and local PD for quickly making the arrests AND for NOT releasing too much information too early.
Fred from Nashua: while I do agree that blaming the parents is hurtful and shameless, your belief that anyone could commit this kind of crime is horribly misplaced. Most people would NOT even contemplate this action.
The lesson we should all take from this is that we now need to lock our doors, and be prepared for almost anything, regardless of whether you live in Manchester, or a small town.

My prayers to the family
- Ross, Hillsborough

My thoughts go to the girl and her father and all their family in this tragic time. The police did an excellent job and should be commended for their speedy police work.
- Joanne, Merrimack

I have a 6 year old son who I am with as much as I possibly can be, at every football practice and game. At every baseball practice and game involved in EVERYTHING he does. We fish, camp and hike together and if he was to ever come home with any child or teenager when he is older, that has a swat sticka on his forehead and is carrying a knife my son would not be hanging with him again. Regardless of how nice people seem and how loving they are, there is something there that the PARENTS didn't do. Wheteher it be working all the time and not being involved with there children which isnt the parents fault they just had to work to make money. What people seem to forget is all that work and no family time creates these types of children. You may have to go without so you can be with your children and thats what you should do but we all know most parents wont. I am very sorry for all offended but hey take time off and be with your kids.
- Joey G, Manchester

Did they have to stab the 10 yr old? Really? Who can do that? Stab a screaming child?

What kind of scum of the earth can do that?

I wish she had been armed, and pulled the trigger. Cull the defective and shallow gene pool they crawled out of.
- Nancy, Manchester

I for one am from the town that two of the four boys are from. One of the boys parents is very loving and have put years and years of effort into making this boys life the way his other two siblings have achieved. He was a good boy that was simply put into the wrong crowd, and I for one am really very sorry for everyone involved in this tragic crime. Unwise thinking only gets you into serious consequences. I pray for all the families.
- Seth, Amherst

Fred, No you are dead wrong in your statement that "anyone can potentially commit a crime like this." It is that type of logic injected into our legislative and legal systems that leads us as a society to try to "rehabilitate" animals like these. The more of that we do, the more cases like this we have. Instead of pointing to readers' "vile comments," perhaps you might consider the beyond vile acts of the this trash. Anything less than the death penalty is insufficient!
- John, Deerfield

Kim Cates took care of my 7 month old daughter as she faced a serious, potentially fatal disease. She was the most sincere, kind woman I could have asked for to help me cope with this scary time of my life at St Jospeh's in Nashua, NH.

I remember telling her, "Thank you for being the BEST person to us"... She told me it was her pleasure and she knew how scared I must be for my daughter, because she has a daughter whom she ADORES. We joked: Girls are the best. She spoke of how her and her loving husband lived in Mont Vernon in a quaint home with lots of love. I adored this woman. When her shift ended at the hospital, I truly felt "less comfortable" at the hospital. She had a calming spirit which helped me through.

For the past two days, though I only knew Kim for approximately 24 hours, I have been DISTRAUGHT.

These cowards need to go through the terror Kim went through while lying in her safe bed. No husband. And fearful of losing a daughter. What a way to go. Let's top this with their deaths.
- Allison, Boston

The best reason for some restraint from the UL is the lawyers will argue that the public has been tainted and jury pool corrupted. A lawyer will hold up the paper and argue that his client's right to a fair trial has been compromised... I am not saying it has but that is what will happen. The judge will have to consider precedent, a part of his job and may be forced to rule in a way that dilutes justice. The UL is not a lynch mob and they should not incite or hand the defense lawyers a club.
- ageofreason, manchster

The police should be commended for their quick tackling of this case. What a horrible, terrible crime. Prayers to the Cates family & friends!
- Amy, Merrimack

That disgusts me to read these comments on here. That WAS my sister in law that IS my neice. Those evil, demented animals ARE animals. I may not know what they have gone through, but it sure the hell wasn't kims fault for their "tough times" or my 11 year old neice's problem. They all knew what they were doing they deserve the extreme. YES I do ASK where were the parents on this one? I could care less if one of these monsters would give you the shirt of his back. There is no excuse there is no reason for them to do what they did to my family.
- Angela, Arizona

This is what happens when kids grow up in a culture which tolerates (if not condones) disturbing movies, internet content and television programming in the name of entertainment. If you don't think these things are influences, you don't understand human psychology. As liberalism continues to tear the restraints off human behavior in the entertainment industry, some percentage of the population will be deeply affected and the kind of horrific result we see here will only become more commonplace.
- Jack, Manchester, NH

This is why the death penalty legislation in the state of New Hampshire needs to be expanded. At this time the legislation as it is written would not allow the death penalty to be given in this case. Moreove, there have been attempts to repeal the death penalty entirely. If you are outraged by this crime you need to write to your local town representative and senator and ask them to support death penalty legislation and expansion in the state. The names and address of all the reps are listed at www.gencourt.state.nh.us. Write to them. Do something to make a change.
- Michelle, Hooksett

Remember this case every time a Left-Wing jackass politician or their ilk wants to destroy our gun rights & self-defense.

Death penalty & "stand your ground" law - vote out the Left, they care more about the "rights" of murders and not law-abiding citizens.
- Mac Wade, newmarket

Kellie from Londonderry,

Senseless murder and violence existed long before videogames, TV or movies.
- Jon, Hooksett

Wayne S from Manchester

You are right about the Legislature but wrong about the law. The Castle Doctrine you were referring to that got vetoed was about outside your home anywhere you have a legal right to be.

The current law
RSA 627.4.3. states
(a)
A person is not justified in using deadly force on another to defend himself or a third person from deadly force by the other if he knows that he and the third person can, with complete safety:
Retreat from the encounter, except that he is not required to retreat if he is within his dwelling or its curtilage and was not the initial aggressor;
- Chris, Merrimack

My heart goes out to the entire Cates Family!

Regardless of a poor family upbringing or the most wonderful, I hope death for all involved in this horrendous attack. May God damn your souls forever.
- Dave, NH

DRUGS, DRUGS, DRUGS..............It will all trace back to DRUGS! They will do whatever they have to do to obtain the next "FIX"............rob, steal, and maim and murder, destroy lives and families. There is no way any of them could have been in a correct state of mind to do what they did. What a sad, sad world we live in..........................
- RRRAVEN, Deerfield NH

After seeing earlier pictures of some of these guys, and now seeing their pictures from court today, they all seem to have either very short or recently shaved hair. Wonder if their was any significance to this or just a coincidence.
- Joe, Conway

Watch the state plead this down to a nothing sentence. This is what the death penalty should be used for; regardless the time and money it takes to have them pay the penalty for taking another's one and only life.
- Phil, Concord

Congratulations to the police and the State AG's office on a swift arrest in this horrifying crime. It shows that random acts of violence can happen anywhere.
- skipmrgn, Ossipee

Great job to all law enforcement involved.
- Chris, Laconia

Some of the recent comments show a big reason why I don't support the death penalty. These seem to be semi-normal families in a good old americana town. The kids may have done a horrific thing. If convicted, they will be punished. They will not be punished nearly as severely as they would otherwise be if they didn't come from semi-normal families in a good old americana town. Poor folks and minorities get the death penalty; kids like these do not.
- Steve B, Derry

Great work to the police involved.

Sympathies to the Cates family.

The death penalty should be applied and it should be swift to occur and painful when it does.

...and to all the libs who don't agree with the death penalty - study after study shows that it IS a deterrent. We do not need these idiots to be a cancer on the rest of society.
- Marc, Weare

This is why you need a good solid dog to alert you, an alarm system for backup AND the most important thing--something to defend yourself and your FAMILY with.

And some common sense.

There are so many "kids" who are like this, angry and desperate prducts of (OFTEN, not always) neglectful parenting, even in a place as wonderful as where we live.

I am so sad for the families and for our community.
- Jennifer, Milford

This is just a tragedy from every conceivable angle. My heart goes out to David Cates and his daughter. I also pray for the parents of these teens. It’s inconceivable how many lives will be devastated by this horrific act. May all involved someday, somehow find a way to deal with the pain and suffering.
- Jim, Raymond NH

To Tom Silwell,
This is directed to Mr. Silwell as well as all the other bleeding heart liberals who are of the opinion that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent. While I certain support your right to your own opinion, I must submit to you that your logic and conclusions are flawed and incorrect. It is an undeniable fact that anybody who has received the death penalty and has had it carried out has ever committed another crime of any kind ever. I would dare say that is an extremely effective deterrent in my book. As far as your assertion of the death penalty being unchristian, I submit that many were stoned to death for adultery, as well as for disrespect and disobedience to parents. Read your bible!
- Rob, Manchester

As a parent of a classmate of the two Amherst boys, I am stunned. The parents involved should not yet be judged - what little I know of them, they seem good parents. If indeed, these boys just "snapped" there is still a reason, and I would venture that its centered largely in our media with its Fight Clubs, ridiculous reality shows, and facination with torture and murder.

Oh yeah, its just "entertainment". We are a technologically advanced society that uses its technology for the stupidest reasons - and impressionable, maybe lost minds, eat it up - and then they "snap". We only get what we give.

May God bring peace to the Cates family, and may our court system see that these boys get what they deserve. For my tax dollars - the death penalty for the four of them would be fitting. I hate to think my tax dollars would be going to pay for life in prison for this kind of scum.
- Bruce, Brookline

Fred, anyone can commit a crime like this? WRONG.

This is pure evil. Randomly invading a house at night and killing anyone inside? Give me a break.

Cowards.
- John, Dover

This is definitely a capital murder case! How could anyone do something like this. If they are found guilty, they need to be put to death.
- Gary Palys, Allenstown

What a senseless and horrific crime. This is what the death penalty is for.
- Spencer, New Boston

I hope this little girl recovers and buries everyone one of these animals in court. Great job to all the cops!!!!
- Stacy, Farmington

First off, Most people that have commented are very ignorant. You know neither the people involved nor their backgrounds.
I personally have known Chris and his family for years. This whole event has come as a shock to me, day-to-day he was the type to give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.
Simply put something snapped mentally. You don't know his past history nor anything else.
What he did is still wrong and what happens to him is just. But for you all to sit back here and point fingers at the parents and call him evil, thats not right. Take a good look in the mirror because anyone can potentially commit a crime like this.
And please before making some of these downright disgusting and vile comments, think about what you are typing because you don't know what his parents or his life have been like.
- Fred, Nashua

Don't immediately jump to blaming the parents. I know one of these boys and his family extremely well, and I have never met more loving and caring people. They've had a hard life and did an excellent job raising two boys. The third, evidently, has a serious problem. What these boys did was terrible, but that does not mean their parents are bad people, or did not try to raise them right.

Prayers go out to everyone involved.
- Resident, Mont Vernon

Neighbors must feel shaken and disturbed that this was a random strike. It could have been any of them. In fact one of my past clients lives next door. Equally disturbing to me are the ages of the offenders. Intervention and pervention can make a difference. Anger, rage, hatred and no regard for human life including their own, these traits you are not born with you acquire through the influences you have in life. We all can make a difference by giving just 1 hour of mentorism/volunteerism per week.
- Greg Barrett, Manchester

Please enough of the comments about the bad parenting. Very few people have any clue about these kids or their families. Just when you think how great a parent you might be and how your little precious ones would never get into any kind of trouble things can quickly go off the rails. This was a horrible crime and my heart goes out to the victims and their family. If the kids are proven guilty they should be prosecuted to the maximum extent of the law. Unless you have first hand information about the parents of these accused teenagers and factual proof of their deficiencies , please refrain from convicting them in an open forum. They are dealing with an unimaginable situation that is beyond any parents worst nightmare.
- john, Bedford

This is a senseless tragedy and my heart goes out to the Husband and Daughter in hopes they will recover.
But I'd like to put something in perspective - especially for you folks who are distraught that these children's photos are on the front page of the UL. These photos were taken from a PUBLIC INTERNET SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE. Anybody with a password can join and "google" anyone's name and find people anywhere in the world. They can also find the "friends" of these people and read narratives that are being swapped among these persons and their friends. All with a couple of quick and easy clicks of the mouse. The UL was only doing their jobs and investigating. It wasn't hard, it's all out there int eh public for everyone in the world to see. PARENTS - have you done any investigating lately?
- Sandy, Thornton

All four should be charged with 1st Degree Murder. They were all there, and all in on it....charge them all with it. Pure evil, just pure evil.
My prayers are with the Cates family.
- Corrine, Epsom, NH

I am by far no apologist for the law enforcement community, and often I am their biggest critic, but I read a lot of criticism in the comments section of this website giving them grief over the lack of information that flowed out in the immediate wake of this crime. I hope now some people feel pretty foolish for writing those things. It is apparent that the police had good reason for not releasing information, and now within 72 hours of the attack, they have four suspects in custody. I think that is a job well done. I'm not sure what more we could expect.
- Mike, Allenstown

Peter From Bedford, Pete from manchester and Joey G. from Manchester, do any of you have kids? Stop blaming the parents. Most parents do their best... I am a firm believer that part of the problem here is that everyone tends to put the blame on the parents, when these 4 young men, should be held accountable PERIOD. Not the Parent's, Not the Victims, Not Society, THE KIDS. sooner or later young adults have to realize there are consiquences for making the wrong descision. The only ones to blame are the ones who made the choice to kill.
- John, Bedford

The people who did this, and the people who are all excited about a death penalty, are just two sides of the same social coin. It's the blind criticizing the blind. Utter foolishness.

In reality this is what we get with crap parenting. What sort of parent tolerates kids roaming around at 4am? Don't tell me they can't be controlled, that's not the point and too little too late anyway.

They needed to be brought up to begin with. All kids go wild when you let them, some go really wild. Fine parents with out of control kids. They only seem to wake up when you take their, "gun and ammo hoarding" money.
- Blake, Barrington

The Union Leader should be ashamed of them selves for posting the disgusting photos of the suspects in the Mont Vernon killing in the manor in which they are posted. Take them down!!!!! You prop them up like they are heros which they are not!!! They are animals!!!!!! Our prayers for the family and our law enforcement!!!!!! Stop the Violence!!!!!!!!
- Dan, Haverhill NH

To the people who want the pictures of these psychopaths removed because "they scare you"..you should remember...it's not about you, and your poor little feelings. This is real, this is what really happened, and those really are the people who did it. Get your heads out of the sand and deal with it. You want news? Well, there it is. The Cates family had to deal with them in person. Imagine if you can, how scared THEY felt. And unfortunately they aren't going to be done dealing with this human garbage for a long, long time. Think about that!
- Dave D., Manchester

To all of those that BASHED the police about NOT releasing enough information on Sunday and Monday about the suspects... you owe them a HUGE apology! Man up and print it.
- lisa, chester, nh

My heart goes out to the little girl and the rest of the family members, his is so sad. I know friends who work with the Dad. and our Church family is praying for all of them. I also know the Captain of Milford police department, and Freddy will not stop until he finds the answers to why this was done. To all the police departments involved in this investigation. WELL DONE my friends!!!
I will continue to keep this Family in my daily prayers. so so sad and senseless.:(
I wish the little girl God speed. God will take care of the rest.. if you believe. John 3:1-3

Kim RIP sweet lady. and thank you for all the ursing you did for us. A JOB WELL DONE AND APPRECIATED.

MARK 11:25 -26 IT HAS TO START THERE.
- Debi, Manchester NH

To recognize that all of us and our families are at risk no matter where we choose to live is to recognize that we need to help ourselves, not leave protection to the police or the courts. If there are any professionals that know the answer as to why there are such dangerous people, then tell everyone. The fact is that no one has any answers. Big school districts, impersonal neighborhoods, split families, peer pressure, sick influences; they may all be part of the problem. But there are many kids that grow up and don't commit horrific killings that are raised in bad environments. Why?
- LynnG, Dover

My heart and prayers are for these poor people and anyone that was effected by this hidious crime .... that being said, I would like my believe known that if it were made into law that every household in New Hampshire was required to have a .45cal automatic pistol, this type of crime would never happen because the cowards that commit them would be afraid someone might shoot back!
- John, Manchester

I just don't understand how someone can take a human life.
- DM, Hampton

The murder(s) of Kimberly Cates is/are certainly monsters deserving of execution.

But everyone needs to remember something. Steven Spader, Christopher Gribble, William Marks, and Quinn Glover are all innocent until proven guilty. At the moment, they are no more monsters than your kids or mine. Until proven guilty without a shadow of doubt, they are not deserving of ANY punishment what-so-ever.

If found guilty, I'll support life in prison without parole. Had they been caught in the act of murder, I'd be the first person to step up to volunteer to put a bullet in his/their head(s), or throw the switch, or pull the lever, or turn the IV on. But I will not judicially murder someone without absolute proof they committed the crime.
- Michael D. Houst, Barrington, NH

Now THIS is what I call 'Our tax dollars hard at work.' Great, fast job by authorities. Now, bring a charge that will stick!
- Chris, Brookline

In NH, "the best interests of the child" is placing children in on average very high risk parenting environments on behalf of what is fraudulently referred to as justice. 79% of NH juvenile detention inmates as of 2008 came from father absent homes, homes that the State of NH and its citizens created primarily through so-called 'no-fault' divorce. We also have over 14 times as many people in prison in NH as compared to 1960.
- Mike, Hampton

Although they deserve it, none of the accused will face the death penalty as the crime does not fit under the criteria for capital punishment, which is the only crime in NH that can be punishable by death.
- Phil, Laconia

Our society glorifies violence too much and it results in this kind of behavior. Please note that I in no way think this should be an acceptable excuse and everyone should have the right to arm themselves. Video games are full of violence, the most popular movies for people in this age range celebrate violence, particularly the slasher flicks that are so popular now. Even the TV show mentioned by one of the kids, Dexter. We glorify and celebrate violence; most people accept it as entertainment but there are those very few who want to live the life themselves. Dartmouth, now this
- Kellie, Londonderry, NH

Alan M. - Merrimack. Of course I have sympathy for the Cates family. To make it through this tragedy they will need support from all their friends and family. Since I do not know the Cates family, I'm counting on you to offer support and pass along my condolences. As far as our differences relative to the death penalty; I am sure my politics protect you and yours much more than your politics protect me an mine.
- Jim C., Manchester

Kudos to the commentors who are considering what is best for their personal protection - especially in rural locations. Don't forget to put a dog on your list - it will hear/smell the intruders long before you do. I pray that the remnants of this family can re-build some kind of life.
- Terry, Exeter

Here we go again with the “…he was the sweetest boy…” nonsense. Anyone who’s posting that drivel should have the courage of their statements to go meet the widowed husband at his daughter’s Intensive Care Unit bedside at Children’s and tell him firsthand about your observations. Have the papers and WMUR film that meeting.

So none of these parents care to look at their own kid’s Facebook postings (i.e. fascination with knives), and not ONE of their (hopefully more normal) schoolmates, teachers, or friends noticed anything ‘odd’ to provoke someone in the family/school /community to try and intervene? Teenagers know full well about Columbine and all too many similar ‘spree killings’. Weren’t the recent brushes by these four with the police and the courts enough to warrant SOMEONE to look a little deeper?

I hope everyone that had tacit complicity in this tragedy by ignoring all the huge warning signs never has another good night’s sleep. Ever.

I’d also like to better understand why the two that weren’t charged with first degree murder are ‘only’ charged with much lesser crimes. I suppose it’s because they ratted out the other two, but shouldn’t they be charged with one or more serious crimes that together add up to at least life with chance of parole? Once the prosecutors sort out the who-can-lie-better contest we all see dramatized in TV shows, can the charges against these other two be upgraded to get what they really deserve?
- A, Mont Vernon

Sounds very similar to the Zantop's murder up at Dartmouth several years ago. Very scary to think that even living in the beautiful country, every home needs a security system and needs to be on while sleeping!
- Karen, Manchester

i know the glover family personally and this is not how thery raised any of their kids. So don't blame the parents.
- anna, amherst

For those who are talking about arming themselves and fighting back, remember this: New Hampshire has NO "castle doctrine". If you take out a piece of human debris like this, you will be in court defending yourself and explaining why you didn't jump out a window. When the castle doctrine came up for a vote last year we were treated to the legislature talking about "shootouts in the streets", etc. Our spineless legislature feels you should be running from your house instead of standing your ground.

Personally, I would rather be tried by twelve than carried by six. But of course you then have Mr. Thirtythree Percent, Esq. looking to get his hands into your pockets on behalf of the family of the poor misguided soul who broke into your house at 4:00 in the morning.
- Wayne S, Manchester

It is for this reason that we have the death penalty.
- FB, Portsmouth

Bad parenting produces bad kids. Look at the Myspace and Facebook "friends" of these losers and you'll see an even wider circle of trash within our community. How can a casual visitor to these dorks' pages see no good will come of any of the hiphop gangsta garbage congregated there, yet the parents didn't see anything coming? You reap what you sew.
- Pete, Manchester

Dear god... I *KNOW* one of those kids - he was a very close friend of my younger daughter for years! I never would have believed it if this was a couple of years ago but I've heard disturbing stories over the last year or so about one of the ones charged with murder.
- David, Hudson

UL, PLEASE get that picture of that evil creature off the front page, it's sickening! I don't want to see that face unless it's in a morgue after execution!
- David Goss, Manchester

I was horrified reading this today. I just watched some of the arraignments and I have to say that if the statements are true, I cannot imagine the horror of that night. It said that Spader hit the little girl with a machete, that Kimberly was killed in her bed and they entered the house with the intention of killing the occupants. Not just that they got caught trying to burglarize the house but entered with the intention of killing her. What kind of kids do this?? I am so appalled at the whole thing and have to say that this kind of thing really scares me. I hope the little girl recovers physically as well as mentally and her father can also recover.

As someone else mentioned, I would also not think that much about a teenager walking around at night but that changes today. As a woman who lives alone I have always had a firearm in the house and have trained with it. However, it was always just there, just in case. I now may start making use of that permit I have and do a better job at protecting myself and my home. This case will bother me for a long time.
- Stephanie, Salem

I would expect this kind of breathless sensationalism from The Boston Herald not The Union Leader.

A woman has been brutally murdered and her child is lying in a hospital in Boston. A man's life has been turned upside down in ways we may never be able to comprehend.

Yet the editors of The Union Leader consider it appropriate to run, on the front page mind you, a LARGE picture taken off of Facebook that show the one of the accused with a knife. Two days after the murder/attempted murder. I think a bit of respect is in order. For the victims, their families, neighbors and friends. It's a tasteless exhibition of tabloid journalism. Take the photo down or reduce its size.
Peace
- Joel, Nashua

Some of you matter-of-factly dismiss the death penalty as NOT being a crime deterrent. Here are some FACTS for you, as reported by the Associated Press: 1. There are several academic studies in the past six years that settle the once hotly debated argument concerning the death penalty as a deterrent. 2. The scientists say each execution prevents between three and 18 homicides. 3. The studies also show, the longer an execution is delayed, the less deterrent it becomes. 4. Each execution deters an average of 18 murders, according to a 2003 nationwide study at Emory University. 5. Other studies have estimated the deterred murders per execution at three, five and 14. 6. The Illinois moratorium on executions in 2000 led to 150 additional homicides over four years, according to a 2006 study at the University of Houston. 7. For every 2.75 years cut from time spent on death row, one murder would be prevented, according to a 2004 study by Emory University. 8. A University of Colorado at Denver study found that each execution results in five fewer homicides, and commuting a death sentence equals five more homicides.
The bottom line is that death penalty opponents just do not want to accept that executions save more lives than they take. As for playing the "blame game" with the parents of these murdering thugs, does anybody have any FACTS as to what kind of parents these bottom feeders have? Blaming the parents, or holding them culpable, for the actions of their ADULT children is shortsighted, and obviously an emotionally charged response to a horrific tragedy for the family and friends of the Cates.
- Steve, Weare

Someone who can commit such a horrid and disgusting crime against another is not considered a human in my eyes and therefor deserves death in return.
- Becky, Manchester

A quick Google search show that two of these men (and I use that word loosely)were active members of Boy Scout Troop 260 in Brookline and one enjoyed paintball.
- joe, derry

To Tom Silwell

"Because the death penalty doesn't work as a deterrent"

Please name one executed murder, who was able to do it again. If you can, then I'll agree with you!
- Steve, Raymond

Congratulations to the Mont Vernon Police Department and the NH State Police on a job well done. It would be nice to see the people of the State of NH get some backbone and use the death penalty. It's cases like this that cry-out for it.
- Don Murphy, Mont Vernon

My prayers go out to this family. I am sitting here reading his story and it takes me back to 3 years ago when my father was murdered in Manchester. I wish I could put my arms around this little angel and make all her pain and heartbreak away. The things that everyone else are thinking are all true. How does such a horrific thing happen to innocent people. The injuries this little girl has been dealt are nothing like the mental anguish she will face. She was home alone with her mom when these animals came into their home and attacked them. Did she see her mom being attacked? Did she see their faces while they were attacking her? No amounts of I am sorry and no amount of answers will make this pain go away. Dave and Jamie God is with you, your are on a long road of recovery with no end. Your friends and family will be there for you. Remember your Mom and wife loved you more than anything. I will pray for you.
- stacey, londonderry nn

"Care to join us, Jim C? Our friends the Cates could use your support.
- Alan Mintaka, Merrimack NH"

Capital punishment being irrevocable, will spare the family the anguish of not having to worry about some activist(s) springing the convicts because they behaved well in prison. This type of support outlasts all sympathy. Decades from now, when the Cates have tried to get on with their lives, they will appreciate not having to dedicate their time and energy to keeping their monsters locked up.
- Brian, Brookline

Quote from Chris Gribbles Facebook page"I like swords, knifes, daggers. Anything sharp really, but I love swords and knives"
- Sean, milford

No, none of the pictures should be taken down. People need to see the faces and expressions of these fiends. Burying your head in the sand and pretending life is a bowl of cherries doesn't make the crime go away. Face reality, folks. These types of people are out there in society among us. Turning off the news so you don't see them or hear what they did doesn't make them or the crime they committed non-existent. If you try to hide from this type of thing, all you're doing is kidding yourself.
- Brian, Farmington

If it turns out that the 4 teens go to trial expect to hear about how good they are and how they will be hurt for the rest of their life if they go to prison. The mercy plea always works. Next any forensics will be questioned and lastly questions will be brought up about them ever getting a fair trial in this state so a change of venue will be demanded.

Now as for the complaints about their pictures being posted they were obtained from the internet and anyone can "Google" their names and get the same info. Remember once you put it on the internet it stays out there for forever and anyone else can find it just by looking for it.

As for them going to prison , as soon as they get there and the other prisoners find out about the injuries inflicted upon the child the other prisoners will take care of them. In prison it is survival of the fittest but there are their own rules rules they abide by and if any prisoner has done anything to a child they are singled out for "special" treatment by the other prisoners. All of those rules have nothing to do with the actual state prison rules.
- Don Armstrong, Henniker

Huh! it amazes me how SOME readers say they don't want the UL to publish things of this nature, ie, names of the individuals involved, but at the same time these people are the first to read/post comments ...I myself as a reader want to know who these murderers are and their names ...it's readers like you! who turn a blinds eye on crime and wish to slip under the rug to protect Who??? these creeps deserve to be plastered all over the media, they committed a serious crime. Yes these things can happen in our quaint NH towns....I say UL publish whatever information you have because some of us readers want to know who these creeps are.....
- AM, Manchester

I know it's premature, but the similarities to the Dartmouth College murders a few years ago are eerie. Kids murdering an innocent mother and daughter who live in a rural town. Posting their love of weapons online. it's obvious their brains were wired wrong. Sad anyway you look at it.
- Paul, Merrimack

A true sincere condolences goes out to Jaime, David and Cates family. As no one is proven guilty, this just is not the correct place and time to inject conjecture about the current laws in this forum.
- Joel, New Boston

Jim C,

"anyone who tries to argue against the death penalty, in a case like this, is part of our problem."

That's nice. A horrific murder, and you're already using it as a reason to condemn other people whose politics you don't like. They're "part of the problem". It's their fault, right?

Right. This is a horrific murder, the tragic death of a young woman, the severe physical and psychological injuries of her young daughter, and the emotional trauma of the husband and father. And all you can think about is hurrying up to blame other people with the wrong politics.

To the Cates family - your friends and neighbors express our sincere condolences; you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Care to join us, Jim C? Our friends the Cates could use your support.
- Alan Mintaka, Merrimack NH

WOW these kids have really great parents, they where brought up so well.

I think the parents of these rejects should be held accountable also.
- Joey G, Manchester

As disturbing as that photograph was, people need to see the face of Christopher Gribble, the face of evil.
- Nick, Manchester

Congratulations to the Mont Vernon, Amherst, Milford Police and to the NH State Police. Good job, well done.

To Mr. Cates, my condolences, sir. I pray for your daughter and her speedy recovery. For your lovely wife I pray she will rest in peace and that her spirit will abide with you and your daughter forever.

God Bless You.
- Bang Gunley, Mont Vernon, NH

Tom Silwell,

I can think of many better ways to have my tax dollars spent over keeping these criminals clothed/fed in prision for the next 60 years. Morals dont apply in this horrible crime. Its and eye for an eye.
- J, New Boston

Folks.... Its Mont Vernon, not Mount Vernon....
- Peter, Amherst

I agree that the picture should be taken down.
- M@, Bow, NH

Our prayers:
- For Jaime Cates quick recovery from her wounds
- For Daviid Cates. Hopefully, someday, he'll be able to heal from this tremendous loss. Thankfully he at least has his daughter's recovery to focus on. Maybe, it will help him as well.

Our thanks:
- To NH law enforcement for their commitment to bringing justice to whoever committed this unimaginable act

To all, please allow our justice system to take it's course and remember, these young men have been accused, not convicted.
We'll all be watching this trial closely. Whoever did this deserves worse than we can ever sentence them to.
- Bill and Lorrie, Amherst

I agree with Claire, we do not want to see any photos of the suspects! Great job to the NH law enforcement agencies who quickly found the current suspects.
- Joel, New Boston

Death Penalty is NOT the answer! Although, these rotten people deserve pure hell, it's hard to punish murderers by murdering. Put people to death because we believe they deserve it for something they've done? Then of course, if someone went out and killed someone for killing a family member etc etc, they'd go to jail. Who exactly is it that gets to play god? Also, do you have any idea how many people have been found guilty in a court of law and put to death only to be found innocent 20 or 30 years later? Not to mention people who've been in prison for that long, to be proven innocent and freed. Who decides who gets to murder?
- Jane, Manchester

I am so sad for this family, such an unnecessary tragedy. I hope those four young men get what is coming to them, either on this earth or after. I hope the young girl recovers from her injuries, I feel so bad for her and her father. May God Bless them both
- Karen, Harrisville

Ok, the authorities will not release the victim's name because she is a minor, but the UL does in the next paragraph?!? I am seriously considering canceling my subscription! DESPICABLE!!!!!
- Jim Dalton, Hillsboro

Christopher Gribble made a post to his (public, BTW) Facebook page on Sunday, saying that he had an "awesome" time and referencing "Dexter". As in, the TV show about a serial killer?

Why??? What makes that kind of evil?
- Melissa, Milford

With all the drugs the kids are doing these days I bet any money they where so high they would commit any crime. Gangs also...
Even so, there is really no excuse for any human being to commit a crime on suck a sweet and innocent family. My heart goes out to the Cates family. They live around the corner from my mother....
- KC, Lyndeborough

"Christopher A Gribble had an awesome time with steve and autumn! dexter is such a funny show!"

(Facebook entry Sunday)
- Marge Hallyburton, Lyndeborough

Very sad -
I hope they do not give one of the kids a break (immunity) for testifying about the others (seems to happen a lot). I hope they are able to charge all four with her murder and they all see the strongest punishment we can give. All are responsible for her death and the suffering of the family and everyone that knew the family.
Why - why - why
- M, Mason

I agree with Claire.. Please UL take down that picture of the thug with his knife..It is disgusting. Baed on the AG's report it very possibly is the murder weapon..
- Jim, Bedford

You know when I first heard of this murder on the news my thoughts were that is was a burglary/robbery gone bad and done by dirt bag punk teenagers from the area. It's time for the laws to be changed so death is the mandatory punishment with no plea deals allowed that avoid the death penalty. I would also like to see the law changed to allow public justice like the old colonial days where they are shackled to the town square so the public can give out the justice they deserve. They all deserve the eye for eye justice.
- Brian, Franklin

A true sincere condolences goes out to the Cates family. As no one is proven guilty, this just is not the correct place and time to inject conjecture about the current laws in this forum IMHO.
- Joel, New Boston

And to say these 4 came from outstanding communities of Amherst & Brookline. I'm also shocked at their ages.

My sincere thoughts are with the Cates family.
- Polly Wendover, Manchester

For those who have convicted the four men and are now on to the penalty phase here are some things that should be considered. First of all, life without parole is always that -- life without parole. A first degree murder conviction carries a mandatory sentence of life without parole.

Second, life in prison is not the easy way out. As the sentence stretches out family and friends adjust to life and move on. Visits, letters, etc. get few and far between. You are living in a 6x9 with your freedom severely restricted, your days are all the same with not much hope of change. Life as you know is over but you still have to wake up and face the day, your crime, and the result of that crime.

The death penalty is the easy way out. Life is over for you for real. It's a premature release from the hell that is life in prison.
- Rosanne, Manchester

Now they're coming four at once to kill for a thrill? Is this reality, or "A Clockwork Orange"?

A handgun isn't enough to defend my family anymore. I'm going to go buy that Saiga 12 shotgun I'd been putting off.
- Mike R., Bedford

I'd like to see Ayotte come back on to prosecute this case... just for old time's sake. This is intolerable, complete evil.
- Chris, Bow

There was a murder committed during an armed robbery so why are only two being charged with murder?

I thought that if you were present during a murder everyone involved was charged with murder. Maybe not first degree but not burglary and armed robbery.

Todd
- Todd, Francestown

Of course these four men are innocent until proven guilty but if they are found to have committed these horrible and tragic crimes, I hope they go straight to hell where they belong.
- HKelley, Hooskett

Remember, in NH the death penalty statute is limited to capital murder cases: murder for hire, murder of a police officer. It won't apply here. Those of you who think NH should impose the death penalty in cases like this shouldn't blame the prosecutors or the courts. They have to apply the existing statutes. Contact your legislator.
- Jay, Manchester

Fantastic parenting, Mr. and Mrs. Spader and Gribble. How do you not see this coming?
- Peter, Bedford

Horrible tragedy. Unthinkable. The horror those two went through that night. Maximum punishment for all involved! I will never second guess a home owner defending him/herself.
Great work Law Enforcement, thank you for such swift action.
- Dave, E. Kingston

To all those who think life in Prison is the solution rather than the death penalty consider this. Life doesn't always mean life with organizations like Lynch's "Sentencing Reduction Board". One who is executed cannot get furloughed or paroled.
- Chris, Merrimack

JUNE 7

ARRESTS

SUMMONSES

Steven Spader, 17, 7 Wallace Brook Road, Brookline, interference with custody of a child, criminal threatening.
- Marge Hallyburton, Lyndeborough

The only thing I can say is UL, please take that picture down. It is very disturbing.
- Claire, Hooksett

"...the good news is that we can go beyond the pettiness of looking for the revenge that never satisfies and seek instead the ability to forgive..."

Yes, we can forgive them - after we send them on their way to the Creator. I don't want to be on the same planet as these animals.
- Tom, Campton

"....to forgive divine". as a mere mortal i find it impossible to forgive the unforgivable. do you forgive hitler?
when does a life sentence really mean it?? what will you say when these guys are back out on the street?
my heart and prayers go out to the family of the victims.
- mary, windham

Today's world .. murder in Mont Vernon, soldiers die in Afganistan. The soldiers were doing their duty, young men left in a forgotten part of the world by our president as he talks about the olympics.. meanwhile, these kids go and kill someone.. what the heck is going on? I want to scream!
- tom, manchester,nh

Too bad she wasn't armed, maybe these pukes would get what they deserved.
- Tim Wilson, Milford

Lock your door and keep your shotguns handy folks. There are going to be a LOT of spoiled, desperate teens out there that have been raised on video games... where killing is routine and has no consequences. With no jobs to fund their 'lifestyles', the next easiest thing to do is take from those that have. Pitty the fools that try breaking into MY house! No need for an expensive trial.
- Dan M, Dublin

Death penalty. No question. I don't care if you are against it, it is appropriate here.
- Dan, Epping

This absolutely disgusts me... As a father of a newborn, I sincerely hope anyone even remotely responsible for destroying a family in such a tragic matter receives a drawn out and torturous death.

My sincere condolences to the Cates family.
- Paul, Bedford

Marty - anyone who tries to argue against the death penalty, in a case like this, is part of our problem.
- Jim C, Manchester

Truly tragic. Folks, lock your doors and seriously consider having and learning to use a defensive firearm in your home.
- Carl, Raymond

My condolences to David Cates and his family and hope for quick recovery for Jaime. How about saving the death penalty chatter for the trial and thinking about the family for now?
- Tom, Dover-Foxcroft, Me.

These young men disgust me. My prayers go out to the family.
- Krystal, Nashua

Lets see the next headlines will comment on how, according to their defense attorney's, these young people grew up without PS2 and X-Box game systems and as a result, suffer from ADD, ADHD, PSTD and every other excuse made up to justidy actions like this.

It will be interesting to see what these defense attorney's come up with as an excuse for this tradegy..
- George, Nashua

What a horrific incident for this family. It is unfathomable what pain they have endured and are yet to endure. Prayers for all their suffering and to help them heal both physically and mentally.
Hopefully the perpetrator's are caught and spend the rest of their lives in remorse. I think an "eye for an eye" belittles the values that we as a community should strive to attain. While they should spend the rest of their lives behind bars, the good news is that we can go beyond the pettiness of looking for the revenge that never satisfies and seek instead the ability to forgive.
- Christian, Nashua

Truly a frightening revelation that teens apparently perpetrated this horrrific crime. The facebook picture in the Union-Leader of one with his "Favorite" knife would appear to indicate precursor issues were ignored. We here in Wolfeboro are now left to wonder if the Burn's murder was similar, perpetrated by young person(s) who are still walking the streets of our town. It is fortunate for Mount Vernon that justice worked swiftly, we are not so lucky here. I expect with all that has gone on in our state this year a large spike in handgun sales and permit to carry applications.
- John Linville, Wolfeboro

This will be a great comparison case if they are found guilty. Let's see the outcome compared to Stix Addison.
- Steve B, Derry

Wow what a shocking story. You read about these types of crimes and you let your mind wander that it was a domestic related issue or that the people who were attacked knew the attackers.

This, at least right now, seems so random is scares the heck out of me.

And the ages of the boys that are accused. Just kids..Where and why do they learn or think they can get away with violence of this type.

What a shame for the family of the victims. Horrible.

These boys will see justice I hope and it will not be pretty. although far better than they deserve and not nearly as horrifying as they are accused of committing.

Another sad sad day for those of us who once knew what New Hampshire culture was and as it disappears just a little more from our view.
- Jim, Bedford

I don't know how to handle this. I know two of these guys. I'm cannot believe this. Please, lock these guys up and never let them out. Ever, ever ever. These people have been in my home. They have been around my family. Never let them out.
- S, Brookline

Can anyone tell me why these punks don't deserve the death penalty if found guilty of this murder!
- Marty, Londonderry

No, Marty I can't think of one
- Maria, Manchester, NH

Very good work by our law enforcement officers, thank you!
- Marge Hallyburton, Lyndeborough, NH

Marty,
The way things are today they will try to blame someone else. Like the way they were raised, Or they we picked on in school. We as a society need to have some other reason then them just being sick murders who should be put to death if found guilty.
- Steve, Manchester

Marty,

Because the death penalty doesn't work as a deterrent and if you're looking to punish someone, making them spend the next 60 years in prison is a whole lot more painful than giving them a shot and letting them fall asleep, never to wake up. Not to mention the major moral hypocrisy of killing someone in response to a murder. Oh, also, it's not Christian and as the commenters love to point out, this is a Christian nation.
- Tom Silwell, Manchester, NH

A big Thank You to the the members of law enforcement involved for their swift action.
- Navyvet, Milford

The pain for the family of the victims of this must be unbearable. Without knowing all the particulars here, one thing is certain, we have very nearly caught up with our border State to the south in terms of violence and unfathomable brutality. For a few weeks and as long as this case stays on the front pages, we citizens will demand justice for the victims and seek retribution of the actors. As the anger wanes, our liberal legislature will once again call for the repeal of the death penalty and march out all the tired, retreaded arguments. A mother was slaughtered, her 11 year old daughter subjected to unforgivable brutality, a family is forever stained by a blanket of grief. As we continue on in time, an already violent society will only worsen. I for one have not become immune to the horror we witness everyday, -on our televisions, in our newspapers and in our communities. As our prisons start the release of violent offenders to assist with budget constraints, as our courts continue to slow to a near stop, and as the prevelance of drugs continues in our culture, it is only a matter of time that events like the one in Mont Vernon will become commonplace here in NH. Justice has become negotiable, and in some cases, dispensible.
- ross, northwood

They absolutely deserve the death penalty if found guilty. I can not understand how as a society we allow these sort of crimes to be tolerated. People who commit these atrocities should be made to suffer for what they have done. There should be no humanity for the inhumane.
- TJ, Bedford

This one scares me.
- Mike, Whitefield

And what's more shocking is are you aware there are groups trying to get the legal adult age back to eighteen? It's currently now at seventeen where you're an adult when you commit a crime.

These people knew what they were doing & never made an effort on changing their minds. The other two should also be charged with murder & attempted murder as they are just as liable, because they didn't make an effort to stop the acts.

I hope they never see daylight again....
- Dave, Manchester

Just shocking and terribly saddening for the Cates family, the family of the accused, neighbors of the Cates and residents of Mont Vernon and New Hampshire in general. It is unimaginable how anything like this can happen anywhere?
- Saddened, Derry

Can anyone tell me why these punks don't deserve the death penalty if found guilty of this murder!
- Marty, Londonderry

Thank goodness the police have made arrests in this case. It is absolutely shocking and I am even more shocked by the ages of the people arrested. It is almost too difficult to process.
- Debbie, Goffstown

Eye for an eye, but with a lot more pain.
- John Croteau, Candia