Consider, for example, the case of Javaris Milton of Minneapolis. Milton, whose criminal record includes two previous convictions on weapons charges, was ordered to spend 90 days in jail. But the judge ruled he need only be jailed 10 days providing he stay out of further trouble. Victims often do not want to testify or are unwilling to wait months for the case to go to trial, she said. That means prosecutors must be willing to accept plea bargains, which can be quicker, less stressful and easier for the victims, as well as the courts.
Judges also defend their sentencing practices in domestic violence cases.
While suspended sentences may appear lenient, judges say they actually can be an effective deterrent to future crimes. Mott explained, adding that it serves as an incentive for those convicted to get counseling and stay out of trouble. It also lets the court monitor the suspects and their relationships for several years, he said. But advocates for domestic violence victims see it differently. She said court officials are often too reluctant to revoke the sentencing stays, which makes ongoing monitoring pointless.