• BEAM ME UP SCOTTY!

      A three-judge panel in the Ninth Circus vacated a sentence imposed for knowingly aiming the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft. In calculating the base offense level, the district court enhanced that level, pursuant to USSG § 2A5.2(a)(2)(A), after finding the conduct rose to the level of “reckless endangerment.” The panel noted […]

  • Symbol of Justice

    DOJ Opposed to Fraud Sentencing Reform

    Earlier this spring, the Sentencing Commission conducted hearings on the propriety of reducing the guidelines for fraud cases and generally reevaluating the impact that “loss” should play in setting the base offense level. In response, the U.S. Justice Department has come out broadly against a series of proposals that would cut prison time for white-collar […]

  • Church And State Separation?

    I hate the phrase “think outside the box” but am enamored with judges who are open to considering sentencing alternatives. I’m struggling to accept a Mississippi judge’s approach to fashioning a sentencing alternative in underage drinking cases. Part of me wants to applaud the guy while part of me wants to scream about the separation […]

  • Push To Explore Alternatives to Incarceration

    The criminal justice system’s overreliance on incarceration is now recognized as having life-long effects on the overall economy, those sentenced to prison, and the prisoner’s children as well. Former Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin wrote a piece for the Wall Street Journal in which he argued that in an increasingly competitive global economy, equipping Americans for […]

  • Domestic Violence Sentencing Considerations

    Understanding Domestic Violence Sentencing Considerations

    Under Ohio law, an individual can be charged with domestic violence for allegedly threatening violence or committing violence against a member of the household, such as a roommate or spouse. While this definition may seem relatively simple, domestic violence cases are often highly complex. If you have been charged, you should consult a domestic violence […]

  • THIS STORY IS NO BULL!

    Alright, I’ve read some dark stuff over the years and I often wonder if there’s a floor below which humanity will not sink. This story clinches it for me—there is no floor. James Bull of Daytona Beach is obviously disturbed to the point that he thought that having sex with a dog was a good […]