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Madoff Lawyer: 12 Years Is Enough

Sorkin says court must resist 'mob vengeance'

By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 23, 2009 11:02 AM CDT

(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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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 9 comments
oldgoat
Jun 24, 2009 8:20 AM CDT
When all the people and pension funds have their money returned then I would agree to Madoff getting out of prison. Until then he should stay. He made the choice to rip people off so he and anybody else envolved should pay the price.
sysco9
Jun 24, 2009 1:11 AM CDT
you mean billions..
kokuaguy
Jun 23, 2009 6:23 AM 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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