Excessive Sentence News Today

When he was 15 years old, Travion Blount was given six life sentences plus 118 years for a non-deadly armed robbery where he stole $65, two cell phones, and a marijuana joint.

Mandatory minimums were adopted decades ago as a part of the “tough on crime” movement. They are predetermined prison sentences for certain crimes in Virginia – outlined by the General Assembly – including crimes like DUIs, drug distribution and using a firearm in the commission of a felony.