Dear Editor,

I agree with the proposed mandatory minimum for murder convicts.

I think when the judiciary exercises its discretion and gives what the public perceives as light sentences they do not seem to reflect the gravity of a life lost.

When sentences are shorter than 30 years for murder it gives the society the message that the lost life does not matter but what matters are “mitigating factors” and “unfortunate antecedents” in the life of the murderers.

I have, to my horror, read of 15-year sentences for murder and even a 17-year sentence for a double murder. The judiciary must understand that such sentences do not reflect the gravity of a life lost. Such sentences send a message that life is not valuable because a mere 15-year incarceration will do.

A lost life has value — it cannot be replaced. Families suffer, lose breadwinners, and look forward to a life of heartache.

Sentences must reflect the sanctity of life and those who want only to take life ought to spend a minimum of 30 years in prison.

Martha Brae

martha.brae@yahoo.com