Judge Cassell, of the Federal District Court in Utah, has taken a step that might challenge the mandatory minimum sentences given in Federal Court. The Salt Lake Tribune -- Judge questions mandatory terms The Defendant in this case was convicted of 16 counts involving illegal drug trafficking. During two drug deals, Defendant carried, but did not brandish, a weapon. Also, Defendant possessed a weapon, but again, did not brandish it, at the place where he sold his drugs. The first weapon offense is a mandatory 5 years. The next two offenses add 25 years to his sentence, to be served consecutively. With all of the convictions and enhancements, Defendant faces a minimum 61 1/2 year sentence and a maximum of 105 years. In Utah state court, Defendant would have probably served two to three years and then been paroled.

Granted, Defendant has been convicted and is probably a less than savory figure, but 61 1/2 years for drug trafficking? Will his sentence solve anything? Take out one dealer and another steps in his place. Deterrence, through harsh sentencing doesn't seem to solve a damn thing.