Why does a judge go through a trial, convict someone of a crime, and hand out a ridiculous sentence? I read a story where a former klansman got 3 life sentences for killing someone back in 1964. Why not just give the person life without parole or the death penalty? I don't get it. Can someone explain this to me?
2007-08-24 07:49:20 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Some states do not have the option of life without parole. As such, when a judge wants to accomplish that, the judge gives a couple of life sentences. Then after 20 years and the person is eligible for parole they get parole on their first sentence and then then next sentence starts. Then they have to wait another 20 years. With 3 life sentences the judge is ensuring the person will get 60 years (or life if they don't live that long)
2007-08-24 08:00:23 · answer #1 · answered by davidmi711 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because a person with life without parole could get a lawyer after a few years and possibly get it brought down to a certain amount of years. While 3 life sentences to a judge sounds much worse!! The death penalty would be an easy out for the criminal, keeping him in jail makes him think about his actions.
2007-08-24 15:03:50 · answer #2 · answered by Tommygunz 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Did the person get convicted of killing 3 people? That may be why he got the 3 life sentences. In other cases, I think when one sentence expires, the next sentence kicks in, helping to prevent parole or an early release.
2007-08-24 15:00:10 · answer #3 · answered by BethS 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When someone is sentenced for a crime that occurred in 1964 they are subject only to the penalties that were in place for that crime AT THE TIME IT WAS COMMITTED. A judge does not have free rein to impose whatever sentence s/he thinks is "right" for a person. There are rules that must be followed that restrain the options allowed.
2007-08-24 15:13:16 · answer #4 · answered by jurydoc 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if a person gets ONE LIFE SENTENCE, he may be set free after three quarters of the time.
a fair judge has to investigate the whole case, give a sentence for each crime committed in relation to killing the victim, if he finds it nessecary according to law.
this person is now too old to go out of prison even after three quraters of a life sentence. still the judge 's conscience is clear about punishing him for every detail in his crime.
2007-08-24 15:05:24 · answer #5 · answered by Moonrise 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋