Scenario Part 5
Suspect Hopkins is now being sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the robbery. The State’s Attorney has taken into consideration Keith Hopkins’ cooperation in the investigation, as well as his remorse for the victims.
In the adversarial system, both sides (prosecution and defense) represent their party’s positions before an impartial body who will attempt to determine the truth. The adversarial system also allows both parties to determine the appropriate sentencing once an individual charged with a crime is convicted.
Take the role of either the state’s attorney or the defense attorney. Make an argument of whether a life sentence is appropriate (or not) in this scenario.
• Assume the role of state’s attorney or defense attorney.
• Give ample support for your argument from the assumed perspective.
• What are some of the other alternatives to a life sentence in prison? Are they appropriate given the violent nature of this crime?
