When a disaster strikes, I’m always amazed at the caring attitude of the vast majority of people. Donations, volunteers, and supplies will pour in to help victims get back on their feet and seeing such altruism is always heartening.

But I also find it odd how some people prey upon the misfortunes of others. After the tornadoes ravaged my home state of Sweet Home Alabama, hearing about looters sneaking in and rummaging through the scattered belongings of storm victims turned my stomach, especially hearing that people were driving in from other states to do so. It’s the kind of thing that makes me want to go Neanderthal on someone, or at least 15th Century (lock them in stockades in the public square for several weeks). I’m not sure there’s a punishment that’s truly appropriate given the emotions that come out of people when they hear about storm victims being victimized yet again. Grrr.

Back in 1996 I was in Wilmington, North Carolina right after Hurricane Fran had slammed into that beautiful city. I saw some wonderful acts of kindness but I also saw some despicable acts of selfishness. Somehow disasters, natural and otherwise, bring out the best in some (most) people and the worst in others. Here is my list of the 6 most disgusting people who swoop in after a disaster:

^[2] 1. The Looters

This one goes without saying … almost. Could anything be more disgusting than some low-life gathering up the mementos, jewelry, guns, and other valuables that were low hanging burglary fruit because no one was there to prevent it? Not only do these vermin steal items, they also steal dignity because they don’t care how injured, sick, or weakened their victims may be. Shooting them on site may be too good for them.