Originally Posted by danielf

I concede that Charlie's behaviour throughout the day suggests there was more than a moment of insanity (I think he had a scarf not a mask btw), but I still think that the public isn't safer with him behind bars. As such, I seriously wonder what (apart from setting an example) purpose there is to putting him behind bars. I'm not saying he shouldn't be punished. It's just that I think there are more appropriate sentences.

Either way, there is also the case of Francis Fernie I linked to earlier. Twelve months for throwing two sticks at the police, with no evidence of intentionally setting out to cause mayhem. I feel to see the point of him going to prison. It's not going to make him a better man. Community service might.