MINIMUM SENTENCES WERE SET TOO HIGH

Your Feb. 13 article "Poll Shows Support for Crime Prevention Is Rising as
Tough Approach Loses Favor" shows public sentiment moving against mandatory
minimum sentencing. It is crucial for the public to distinguish between
whether there should be mandatory minimums and how high those should be.
Minimum sentences were instituted because research shows identical
defendants could receive probation or six years in prison depending on the
judge randomly assigned to the case. This is clearly unjust.

Unfortunately, the mandatory minimums were set too high. Clearly, no one
should be given probation for rape, as has happened. Minimum sentences were
instituted to eliminate these injustices. At least low mandatory minimums
are an essential element of justice. They minimize the discrepancies caused
by judicial caprice. Mandatory minimums might need to be reduced, but they
should certainly not be eliminated for heinous crimes.

Thomas O'Brien,

Charlottesville, Va.