My repetitive mantra on the Cameron Douglas case has been "Treatment instead of Incarceration." Douglas plead guilty to charges of dealing methamphetamine and faces a sentence of 10 years in prison when he is sentenced. Since I have been through what Cameron is set to experience (hard time) I know that a lengthy sentence is not appropriate. In fact his lawyers have filed a 119 page sentencing memorandum that contains letters from family and friends asking for leniency.
Sentencing was scheduled on April 14 but postponed until April 20, which by the way is National Marijuana Day. Cameron's team of attorneys now have asked Federal District Court Judge Richard Berman to prohibit the media from being present while Cameron Douglas is being sentenced.
Traditionally in a court of law the sentencing process is open to the general public, including media folks. A letter written to Judge Berman from Cameron's lawyer reads, "We expect that the sentencing before Your Honor will again be widely covered by the press. All the press coverage thus far has been purely sensational. His crime is not sensational or even noteworthy."
This could or could not be a valid argument depending on how you look at this issue. Critics were quick to say that such a request was based on privilege, power and money. And what does this have to do with Cameron's sentencing?
Judge Berman has given Douglas' legal team until Friday April 16 to argue their case.
Should the media be banned from Cameron's sentencing hearing? What do you think?
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Douglas' addiction is quite powerful. He needs intensive treatment. He needs a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, group therapy along with a mandated schedule for an elongated period of time. Court ordered service, thrice a week drug testing, therapy, sober living and a half way house and a building of good, healthy support system.
It's unfair in many cases that addict's are subject to harsh prison time but it is the law. I don't buy the 10 year sentence but Douglas made a concerted choice to deal with large quantities of drugs.
Are we to excuse the addict that committed a murder while completely on drugs? No.
I do not think the press should be allowed in the courtroom.
Among the many things occurring in United States, we need to take a look at the system when it comes to an addict. I do not want to excuse their behavior but make a true attempt to help them on a journey of discovery. Many addict's have personality/mood disorders which are not taken into account by the system.
I do condone marijuana legalization. It helped me with two separate rounds of chemo.
I'm empathic but feel torn.
And to the court having an open sentencing. If the court is usually open for these prorcedures, it should remain open.