The assumption here, as I understand it, is that the law that was broken is from an agreement that everyone has with their local governments--their State and US constitutions. These laws have previously established limits on fines and punishments. These maxed-out probationary periods coupled with substantial monthly fees are nothing more than money-grabs with no interest of protecting individual rights. 

 

Using the person listed in the article, he did the crime so he should do the time. If he can't afford to pay the fine, then he should have spent a couple days in jail. Every judge I've ever known would have given him time-served and released him after a couple days... week at the most unless he had a history of doing the same. 

 

The law maxes out a fine for the similar offense at $1,000. If I read it right, the fees exceeded $4,800. Assuming the article gives us all pertinent information, the theft of a $2 beer shouldn't ever result in such a ridiculous punishment. I'm surprised someone like you, Eric, would be for this type of behavior. Especially since the agreement for following these laws is between government and person, not business and person. Your agreement was never with an outside entity.

 

Maybe all of this has been mentioned. Meh.

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