Sentencing Class @ OSU Moritz College of Law

Snow day readings on revising the MPC sentencing provisions

I briefly mentioned at the end of class this past week that the American Law Institute is in the midst of revising the Model Penal Code's sentencing provisions, and that I have been critical of some of the structural changes that the MPC revision is advocating.  If you want to do some snow day reading of my writings on these matters, check out this piece from the September 2009 issue of the Florida Law Review, which is titled "The Enduring (and Again Timely) Wisdom of the Original MPC Sentencing Provisions."

In addition, you can find other terrific (and relatively short) readings on the Model Penal Code's new sentencing proposals in this issue of the Florida Law Review.  As always, comments are welcome and encouraged on these topics.

Did you notice what theory of punishment is being pursued by USA Swimming...

in its punishment of Michael Phelps?  Here is the organization's official statement:

USA Swimming has reprimanded Michael Phelps under its Code of Conduct by withdrawing financial support and the eligibility to compete for a period of three months effective today, Feb. 5, 2009.

This is not a situation where any anti-doping rule was violated, but we decided to send a strong message to Michael because he disappointed so many people, particularly the hundreds of thousands of USA Swimming member kids who look up to him as a role model and a hero.

Michael has voluntarily accepted this reprimand and has committed to earn back our trust.

Some related posts from my other blog:

• Is golden boy Michael Phelps going to be charged with a state drug crime?
• "Michael Phelps, Hypocrisy, and American Drug Policy"
• Should those seeking drug policy reform hope that Micahel Phelps get prosecuted?
• Michael Phelps punished by USA Swimming with suspension