To incentivize leads, the NYPD is offering a $10,000 cash reward for an anonymous tip leading to the killer’s arrest. Yet, the amount feels almost inadequate given the gravity of the crime and the high-profile nature of victim, whose publicly disclosed company stock was valued at over $47 million. One might expect the reward to reflect the magnitude of the case.
I watched a brief press release last night and read some online comments afterwards. Some pointed out that since New York is a high-tax state, the reward amount, once taxed, would leave little incentive for tipsters. While the tone of these remarks was often cynical, they carried a kernel of truth and thought provoking. It reminded me of something I wrote recently: in America, the language most people understand best is money.
The public's reactions to this tragedy has been shocking for the most part and startlingly cold and detached on the other, with callous remarks highlighting a deeper societal issue. These comments mirrored the market's response yesterday, UnitedHealthcare’s stock barely flinched after news of the CEO’s death. That was very unusual and needed to be talked about but I didn't see anyone talking about it.
This detachment compelled me to reflect deeply. I am more into this case because of my professional background and I guess that is my true motive in covering this so much.
We live in a time when people in America are hurting, perhaps not only in America but around the world. But I can only speak to what I know up close. There’s a pervasive sense of disconnection, particularly among the professional-managerial class, what Karl Marx called the “petite bourgeoisie.” Many in positions of influence appear insulated from the struggles of everyday people.
Exactly a month ago, a major election delivered a profound upset, and many are still analyzing the results. While we may never know the killer’s exact motives, speculation abounds. Some believe the act could stem from a denied insurance claim, possibly one that led to devastating consequences for the perpetrator or a loved one.
This theory, while speculative, points to a larger issue: a healthcare system that often places profits over people. This profit-driven mindset isn’t confined to healthcare alone; it permeates other industries, particularly for-profit healthcare companies. Decisions that should prioritize humanity and human suffering frequently hinges on financial considerations. Ill-health, whether personal or one experienced by a loved one, cannot be compared to anything. To lack that emotional empathy is to be inhumane.
As someone who earns a livelihood caring for others, I see these burdens firsthand. Healthcare costs are astronomical, and the toll on families is often unbearable. It’s no surprise that healthcare expenses remain the leading cause of bankruptcy in America, a sobering reality.
During my time working in a medical practice, about 70% of my job involved appealing denied claims on any given day. Imagine spending hours on the phone pleading with insurance companies for approvals that could mean life or death for patients. Massive frustration, I must confess. Many insurers even have entire departments dedicated solely to denying claims with minor justification. A quick search on YouTube reveals countless heartbreaking stories of families navigating this labyrinth of health bureaucracy.
Justice must prevail in this case. As a society governed by the rule of law, we cannot condone vigilante justice. Prosecutors, judges, and juries exist in our civilization for a reason. No individual has the right to act as judge, jury, and executioner.
To those who feel hopeless and cynical here at home: change is coming. A new government or system may offer the relief and humanity we all so desperately need. In the meantime, we must remember that grievances should never lead to actions that harm others. As a healthcare professional, I believe, truly, that life must always come first.
May God bless us all,
I remain your pal,
Ronnie Law
Contact: lawronald05@aol.com
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