Letters: Williams systematically killed hawks

Charles Williams deserved everything he got and more for trapping and executing red tail hawks (“Hawk-killing USC trustee says he got bad deal from ‘bird lover’ judge,” Aug. 10). He did not shoot one hawk in a fit of anger; he systematically trapped and killed 30 magnificent birds simply because they were interfering with his quail-hunting operation.

The judge's affinity for birds and wildlife in general should not be an issue. She gave him a break by not levying the maximum fine allowed by law.

These birds are federally protected for a reason, and the penalties are specified accordingly. I think Williams should have received the maximum fine plus some mandatory jail time — 30 days or more. Maybe that would have gotten his attention.

In addition, he should be discharged as unfit to be a trustee of the University of South Carolina.