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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2009
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Madoff Lawyer: 12 Years Is Enough

Sorkin says court must resist 'mob vengeance'

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(Newser) – Bernard Madoff’s lawyer says his client shouldn’t be jailed for life for his $65 billion Ponzi scheme, Reuters reports, urging the sentencing judge in a letter not to heed calls from victims for “mob vengeance.” A 12-year sentence would be enough, though 15-20 years wouldn’t be “disproportionately punishing” his client, writes Ira Sorkin.

“It is the duty of the court to set aside the emotion and hysteria attendant to this case and render a sentence that is just and proportionate,” Sorkin writes. The lawyer points to Madoff’s age, his “voluntary surrender” and “non-violent nature,” CNNMoney adds. Madoff “will speak to the shame he has felt and to the pain he has caused” at his sentencing hearing Monday.

In this artist's sketch, Bernard Madoff, right, speaks to the court during a hearing in federal court, March 12, 2009, in New York. His attorney, Ira Lee Sorkin, stands next to him.
In this artist's sketch, Bernard Madoff, right, speaks to the court during a hearing in federal court, March 12, 2009, in New York. His attorney, Ira Lee Sorkin, stands next to him.   (AP Photo)
In this March 10, 2009, file photo, Bernard Madoff exits Manhattan federal court.
In this March 10, 2009, file photo, Bernard Madoff exits Manhattan federal court.   (AP Photo)
Ira Lee Sorkin, attorney for Bernard Madoff, exits Manhattan federal court, March 10, 2009.
Ira Lee Sorkin, attorney for Bernard Madoff, exits Manhattan federal court, March 10, 2009.   (AP Photo)
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14 comments
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Lula
Jun 23, 09 11:42 AM CDT
Poor Baby, I hope he rots in prison. Reply
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+4
jaguarj
Jun 23, 09 11:47 AM CDT
It's a little late for apologies... Give his f------ lawyer 12 years too!! Reply
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+2
IN RESPONSE:
kokuaguy
Jun 23, 09 1:23 PM CDT
What's the lawyer supposed to be doing-- leading the lynch mob? They didn't put the government through the expense of proving him guilty.
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-2
divetrader
Jun 23, 09 11:58 AM CDT
How much time would he get for robbing millions from a bank??? Reply
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+4
IN RESPONSE:
sysco9
Jun 23, 09 8:11 PM CDT
you mean billions..
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0

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