CJI Forum Police are expected to bring charges against the owner of a pet python that strangled a 2-year-old Florida girl in her crib, killing her.
According to police, the snake’s cage was not locked as mandated by Florida law, and the owner did not have a required permit to own the snake. You be the judge: Has this family been punished enough, or should criminal charges be filed? And if so, what sentence would you pass?
Sentence will be passed down today on Bernie Madoff for his multi-billion-dollar Ponzi scheme, which defrauded thousands of investors of their savings. The Madoff scandal has been called the largest investment fraud ever carried out by a single person.
The defense in the case is arguing that 12 years in prison is enough punishment for the 71-year-old Madoff, while the prosecution is aiming for a 150-year sentence that would guarantee he stays in prison for the rest of his life.
You be the judge: Are either of these sentences appropriate? What sentence would you pass? Should old age be a factor in deciding the length of a prison sentence?
