Why Do Criminals Get Incredibly Long Sentences Like 250 Years?
The practice of sentencing individuals to extraordinarily long prison terms, such as 250 years, is a multifaceted legal and psychological phenomenon. This article explores the reasons behind such harsh sentences, their intended benefits, and the implications for the criminal justice system.
Symbolic Justice
Long sentences can serve as a powerful symbolic gesture, reflecting society's strong condemnation of particularly serious crimes. These long-term sentences are designed to demonstrate that certain actions are unacceptable and that such behavior will not be tolerated. The severity of the sentence is meant to send a message to the criminal and the public, emphasizing the enormity of the offense.
Cumulative Sentencing
In cases where multiple crimes are committed, judges often impose consecutive sentences. This means that the sentences for different offenses are added together. For instance, if a defendant is convicted of multiple counts of a crime, the judge might give a lengthy sentence for each count. The total sentence can easily exceed a human lifespan. This cumulative approach is designed to hold the offender accountable for each individual act of wrongdoing.
Deterrence
Long sentences can also act as a powerful deterrent. The idea is that such harsh penalties may dissuade others from committing similar crimes. Knowing the potential for a very long prison term can make potential criminals reconsider their actions, thereby reducing the likelihood of future crimes.
Legal and Legislative Framework
Some jurisdictions have laws that require minimum sentences for specific crimes, particularly violent or sexual offenses. The judiciary's discretion in applying these laws is often limited, leading to long sentences. These minimum sentences ensure that certain crimes are met with appropriate punishment, regardless of individual circumstances.
Strategic Legal Move
Specifying a long sentence can also be a strategic legal tactic. If a defendant appeals their conviction or is eligible for parole, having a longer sentence can ensure that they serve a significant portion of their time before any potential release. This strategy can provide added legal leverage and help secure a conviction.
Public Perception
Long sentences can significantly influence public perception of justice. Victims and their loved ones may feel a sense of closure and justice knowing that the offender received a lengthy sentence, even if it is largely symbolic. This sense of closure can play a crucial role in the healing process and public satisfaction with the justice system.
However, some crimes do not have life sentences as a legal possibility, yet they are heinous enough that a judge may want to ensure the convict never gets released. Since most jurisdictions have laws allowing parole after a certain percentage of a sentence has been served, 200-year sentences serve as a way to guarantee that the convict won't be alive to reach the eligibility for parole. This ensures that the criminal remains in prison for the duration of their natural life, effectively achieving the same outcome as a life sentence.