The U.S. Sentencing Reform Act of 1984: Twenty-Five Years Later
Author: Larry M. Fehr.
Source: Volume 18, Number 04, Summer 2009 , pp.7-10(4)
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Abstract:
The federal guidelines have reduced unwarranted sentencing disparity (a primary goal of the legislation) while increasing rationality, certainty, predictability, and transparency. At the same time, mandatory minimum sentences should be repealed or modified to allow for safety valves, and prosecutorial discretion should be reviewed and better structured.Keywords: Mandatory minimum sentences; Federal sentencing; crack cocaine;
Affiliations:
1: Pioneer Human Services.