Discussion

1. There is a lot of debate about sentencing, leniency and judicial discretion. Who should decide sentences? a judge (the way things are generally done now) or should the legislature have control through sentencing guidelines and minimum sentences/mandatory sentences, Etc.? How is Brock Turner’s case relevant to this discussion? Who has the insight and is in a better position to make decisions about sentencing and WHY? What should people consider when deciding on a sentence? What do you think about “mandatory minimum” Sentences and sentencing guidelines? Based upon your readings, explain if you think that they help the system function or slow things down? This is a time to show everyone what you have learned and what you think about the system.

Look at your state’s Sex Offender Registry Board. Can you observe or view registered sex offenders close to your house? If you live on campus, look at your childhood home or an area where you work. Discuss what you find and what YOU think about it. Have you looked at the Registry before this? If so why? if not, why not? And do you feel safer or more secure knowing what you now know about sex offenders in your area. You MUST include your thoughts on the films and how they relate to the chapter and Module. BTW, the films are favorable to Sex Offenders and seem biased. Many sex offenders are very violent and dangerous men who have done horrible things to people. and the only thing keeping them from re-offending is the threat of jail. Many have been convicted of molesting children using force, violence or (more often) manipulation without physical force.  Keep in mind the victims when you consider this topic. Notice the language that the offenders use. I was convicted of or I was sentenced to 5 yrs for. . . They never seem comfortable discussing what they actually did and often spin it to show that something was done to THEM.

Watch both and please use phrases from the list provided and make sure to bold PLEASE FOLLOW DIRECTIONS