The lesson is that "justice delayed is justice denied".

[CrispyQ]

12. We used to hold those at the top to a higher standard.

Not in every case. We weren't perfect. But SOP was that people who lead the community, the nation, law enforcement, justices, heads of companies, even department heads, were held to a higher standard of conduct. Somehow that's flipped & those at the top are now cut the most slack. When the folks at the bottom see the folks at the top breaking laws & norms & flaunting it, that creates resentment & a "if they can do it, so can I" attitude.

No one has respect for the system anymore.