"A life sentence for the offenses against Malheur is too harsh."

Alan:  I've seen nothing in any other news reports about these charges that would indicate that a life sentence is possible.  I believe that this Associates Press news report is thus in error on this point. In fact, other news reports that I have read have indicated that this other charge ( using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence ) has a 5 year mandatory minimum sentence ( much like the Arson charge the Hammonds were convicted of ), and a 10 year maximum. The Justice Department has determined that the seizure of the refuge was legally a violent act, despite the fact that no one was hurt.

I would expect a 5 year sentence on this charge, just like the Hammonds got. That is probably all that they will get.  And no less, due to the mandatory 5 yr sentence requirement.

So don't worry about a life sentence.  That comment was probably just more sensationalism by the press. Or a dumb reporter.

Labels: moderation: toxicity, insult