David Risley

In the following viewpoint, David Risley contends that mandatory minimum sentences help discourage drug dealers. He argues that federal sentencing guidelines, which determine sentences based on the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s criminal record, should not take the place of mandatory minimums. According to Risley, the federal guidelines are too lenient toward marijuana growers. He asserts that Congress’s mandatory minimum sentences more appropriately punish marijuana possession and use. Risley is an assistant district attorney in Illinois.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to the author, how is the seriousness of a drug case determined?
2. How much marijuana does the typical cultivated marijuana plant produce?
3. As stated by Risley, what is the minimum sentence for producing between $26,400 and $120,000 worth of marijuana"

Drug dealers are risk...