The theory of correcting a prisoner is a myth here, shear fear of being thrown in the brig prevents reoccurances except for only the very stupid and fool hardy. Time will tell, but as of the last editing of this page, March 2000 no changes have been made. Stiff punishment for narco trafficing exists in the justice system of Ecuador. We like that. 14 years for first offense no matter how much quantity of contraband one possesses or is said to have trafficed.
Money laundering is considered the same as narcotrafficing.
In Ecuador's justice system, corrupt officials in the system take bribes in some cases for release from jail or reduced sentences. A hidden camera exposed one such fellow accepting bribes for releasing inmates from jail. Jail is so bad here that anyone who is anyone would do anything to get out.