Superior Court judge strikes down mandatory minimum sentence for sexually exploiting a child

A Superior Court judge struck down the mandatory minimum sentence — one year in prison — for sexually exploiting a child as unconstitutional.

Justice Faye McWatt ruled that the mandatory minimum amounts to cruel and unusual punishment during a recent sentencing hearing for Jordan Cristoferi-Paolucci, who was convicted of sexual exploitation and making and possessing child pornography last March.

But the judge said the former basketball coach and law school graduate could still face a one-year prison term for his crime when his sentencing hearing resumes on Sept. 11.

“It cannot be said that a one-year sentence ... would constitute a grossly disproportionate sentence (in this case),” said McWatt.

Court heard Cristoferi-Paolucci, 27, had underage males expose themselves, take videos of their genitals and send them to him in 2012 and 2013.  (more...)

:

Superior Court judge strikes down mandatory minimum sentence for sexually exploiting a child

Background:

Basketball coach had teen send him sex act videos, trial told

Related:

Alabama judge rules teachers can have sex with their students

Another taboo tumbles.