Mandatory sentencing
 

http://www.thestar.com/news/world/ar...ears-in-prison


First conviction for robbery an 18 year old gets 161 years without parole.

Murder convictions are not nearly as severe, 20 years then parole.

Is this country just nuts?

I'm against any and all mandatory sentences as they are nothing other than politicians showing how "tough on crime" they are. It makes the scared, wimpy masses feel better/safer, but does little or nothing to improve the crime rate.

I agree, finnbow. In fact, I don't see much in our criminal justice system that is effective in deterring crime.

True, but it is such a great source of cheap labour . . .:rolleyes:

The concept of "mandatory" doesn't sit well with me except in cases of dire, demonstrable, need when general acceptance exists of its use (i.e., shared responsibility).

This isn't it.