Restorative justice isn’t just being “nicer”.

Encounter is the starting point, a facilitated meeting that brings together people most impacted by crime to determine how to repair harm. Encounters start with an invitation, and all parties participate voluntarily. There are three keys to effective encounters.

Before offenders can participate, they must take responsibility for their wrong and want to make amends.

All stakeholders impacted by the wrongdoing—victims, offenders, and community members—have a voice in the justice process.

Meetings that are encounters occur in safe spaces, foster vulnerability, and include free sharing without judgment.

Maybe you victim blamers can learn a little bit about restorative justice and what Platner should’ve done if he actually wanted to repent.