The Illustrated Guide to Criminal Law
Chapter 5: The Three “R”s
Page 3: Removal

NARRATOR

Once again, however, we have the problem of specific sentences for a given crime.

Average Joe as a butterfly

If rehabilitation is the purpose, then the sentence should be as long as it takes for the offender to transform into a law-abiding citizen.

Joe pondering scales of justice, weighing jail against cash

If deterrence is the purpose, then the length of the sentence is hardly relevant, compared to the mere threat of SOME penalty.

Joe being released from jail, guard waving him farewell

Likewise, if REMOVAL is the purpose, then why release a known danger back into society, just because he’s served his time?