Problem
Criminal Justice Case Studies
The Case of Jimmy
Jimmy M. is a 21-year-old male who has just been arrested for stealing a car, driving while under the influence of drugs, and fleeing the scene of a deadly accident. Last night, Jimmy and a friend stole a luxury car parked in a neighborhood parking lot. Shortly after stealing the car, Jimmy and his friend smoked Fentanyl-laced cocaine and quickly became inebriated. Jimmy lost control of the car, crossed the median and hit an oncoming car head on, killing the two elderly passengers instantly. Jimmy and his friend sustained minor injuries and fled the scene. Thanks to eyewitness accounts, Jimmy and his friend were found and arrested shortly thereafter. Jimmy lives in a poverty-stricken and high crime area of town. He currently lives with his father and has no knowledge of his mother's whereabouts. Jimmy's father has mentally and physically abused him since he was a child, and regularly abuses drugs. Since childhood, Jimmy has suffered from a number of psychological issues and was recently diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder and bipolar disorder. Jimmy was kicked out of several public schools for fighting and has been arrested twice for assault and battery and once for intent to distribute heroin.
Task
1. What is the sentencing structure for drug offenses in the state of Massachusetts?
2. What types of sanctions are used for drug convictions in the state of Massachusetts?
3. Are the sentencing structure and sanctions proportionate to the crime? Why or why not?
4. What factors might contribute to sentencing disparity among drug offenders in the state of Massachusetts?