After an individual is found guilty of a crime, a judge imposes a sentence which may include fines, probation, jail, or prison. The prosecutor and defense attorney on the case provide recommendations to the judge, who decides on the ultimate sentence. The prosecutor’s sentencing recommendation is, in most cases, a function of plea negotiation. Plea negotiations always focus on public safety, the gravity and nature of the offense, and the defendant’s character and rehabilitative needs, as well as input from the victim.

This section presents information on sentencing by the most severe sentence imposed on the case.The page currently shows only the number of cases sentenced and the percent receiving a sentence of incarceration in either jail or prison. Future anlayses will present information on the lengths of sentences imposed across cases.

Why is this important? It is important to ensure sentences minimize unnecessary punitiveness while appropriately addressing serious crime. In addition, we want to treat all individuals fairly and equitably.