The author expresses sympathy for Colton Harris-Moore, also known as the Barefoot Bandit, who was on the run from authorities for two years after committing various crimes. While the author does not condone his illegal acts, they understand that Colton did not have a stable upbringing and was likely not given a fair chance in life due to his dysfunctional family situation. The author believes that if Colton had been raised in a supportive environment, he could have channeled his intelligence and ambition into legal and successful pursuits. They hope that during his incarceration, Colton receives guidance to help him achieve productive goals after his release.

1. Kristi King
Texas Wesleyan University
Intro Criminal Justice Fall 2011
Blog Comment: Barefoot Bandit

2. I was totally rooting for Colton when he was on the run. Not because I wanted him to keep
getting away with his crimes, as I can only imagine the stress he was under for the two years the
authorities pursued him, but instead because, as odd as it sounds, I wanted him to be successful
at something. Colton obviously is intelligent, and he has ambition. The normal chance in life
that most of us take for granted, was never a reality for Colton. At least when he was running, he
was in fact; displaying he was successful at something. It is easy for those who grew up in
“normal” homes to call him emotionally disturbed or crazy, and cast judgment upon him. You
cannot expect for someone who has a drunk for a mother and a nonexistent father to make the
right choices in life. Had Colton been blessed with a chance in life, I can only imagine how
successful he could have been. Colton started stealing food at a very young age because his
mother did not feed him. How freakin’ sad! Smurphy89 is probably right when he/she said
Colton wanted to be caught. Unfortunately, prison is probably the only time he has ever had
three meals a day. This is one of those cases where I think it is safe to say, life is by no means
fair. From what I understand, Colton sold his story, and used the money to pay back his victims.
I am excited to see what will become of him in the future. I pray while incarcerated, he gets the
proper guidance needed to make his hopes and dreams a reality after his release.