Madoff Lawyer: 12 Years Is Enough

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.