Norh Korea’s prison sentences–and Don Siegelman’s

From Barry Sussman:

Mark:

I wonder if the media outlets reporting the 12 year sentences recently imposed on two US journalists are aware of how things work in America’s prison system. The North Korean sentences are being reported as if they are horrific penalties which no civilized nation would impose.

The truth is that America is guilty of worse. There is a seemingly endless list of people here serving lengthy sentences for relatively benign offenses. For example, those prosecuting Don Siegelman have made clear their intent to have him sentenced to 20 years. How does this compare with the actions of North Korea?
Obviously, North Korea’s actions are wrong, but America has become a rather poor benchmark by which to measure systems of justice. Those reporters criticizing how justice is dispensed in other nations would serve their audience well by first looking at what passes for justice in America.

Barry

Originally posted:
Norh Korea’s prison sentences–and Don Siegelman’s

Syndicated from: markcrispinmiller.com