Are mandatory minimum sentences effective? Or unfair?

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Mandatory minimum sentences are a major plank in the federal government’s crime-fighting agenda. While some argue they send a powerful message to would-be offenders, others contend that relatively harmless offenders can end up with an overly severe penalty.

And this week, the Ontario Court of Appeal is probing accusations that mandatory minimums perpetuate racism by unfairly targeting black males.

Do mandatory minimums belong in our justice system? Or should sentences be left up to judges? Tell us what you think and it may be included in an upcoming feature.

What do you think about mandatory minimum sentences? *

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I support them. They are an effective deterrent to would-be offenders

I don't support them. They are unfair

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