If I punch someone in the face for texting my mother inappropriately does that make me a bad guy?
This is my idea of what happened from what very very little I have gathered.
Yes, solving issues by punching someone in the face typically makes you a less than desirable individual in my book.
That's my book too. But having known many people who've engaged in violence, they (and circumstances) are not all the same. Some have character flaws, some are impulsive but learning, some make mistakes which sometimes are promoted through different culture/values than my own. I definitely don't like the decision he made, but I can't say that I now know enough yet to judge his character.
I pretty much agree with all you said. But, if it turns out he is guilty and convicted then are we happy with this trade? Maybe Roy can tell us if a conviction would mean jail time or maybe just probation? I have no idea.
There are a lot of ways sentencing could be handled in that instance:
* It could be dropped down to a misdemeanor via plea, resulting in a likely fine (and perhaps a financial settlement in the pending civil suit);
* Morris could be sentenced to probation, with jail time "suspended" if he complies with his probation conditions;
* He could be sent to jail or prison, ranging from days to years;
* He could enter into a deferment, under which charges (and potential sentences) would be dropped or reduced if he meets certain conditions.