I probably should have expanded by saying that there's certainly those with connections to never be caught in the first place. From time to time the big wheels will have to offer up some small game for a whipping, so it's not really effective if illegal activity continues.
BUT....yes it's hard to feel bad for someone who takes the risk knowing full well what punishment may await. BUT...it's still barbaric punishment and nothing to celebrate. Grafitti never scarred any of its "victims" for life or even a week.
I discredit all references to Judeo-Christian mores by default as the Bible thumpers would cheer for all of us on this board to be caned for what we consider fun. They're the bad guys ultimately and there is no God just wishful thinking.
