By David Schoetz

Jun 29, 2009 11:39pm

Closing Arguments: Bernie Behind Bars

As we reported tonight, disgraced financier Bernard Madoff today was sentenced to the maximum of 150 years in prison. U.S. District Court Judge Denny Chin said that considering the enormity of Madoff's crime, he both wanted to punish him and send a message to would-be copycats. Madoff's defense attorney had argued for just a 12-twelve year sentence, urging the court to not get swept up in a mob mentality. The 71-year-old Madoff will almost certainly die in prison. So tonight, we ask you: Was Judge Chin's sentence the right one?  Tell us what you think. You can follow "Nightline" anytime on Twitter: http://twitter.com/Nightline.

User Comments

Yes, it was the right message — unless the sentence imposed provides grounds for an appeal. I’m not sure if a judge is supposed to mete out a “symbolic” sentence.

Posted by: Gary B. | July 8, 2009, 1:27 pm 1:27 pm

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