Cumulative Disadvantage in Mandatory Minimum Life Sentences in U.S. District Courts

• In Event: Sentencing Outcomes: Cumulative Disadvantage and Punishment

Abstract

This paper builds on and extends recent research (Hamilton, 2016; Johnson, Spohn, & Kimchi, 2021) examining the life sentencing process in U.S. District Courts. Here the focus is on the factors, including race and ethnicity, that predict whether offenders are convicted of offenses triggering mandatory minimum LWOP sentences and, among these offenders, the factors that affect whether a life sentence is imposed. We also examine the effect of race and ethnicity on downward departures for providing substantial assistance and explore the ways in which these departures enable judges to circumvent mandatory minimum LWOP sentences.

Author

• Cassia Spohn, Arizona State University