Should laws be enforced despite a victim's wishes?

[Johnny Cupcakes]

(09-15-2015, 06:13 PM)CKwi88 Wrote: It should depend entirely on the crime.

Crimes of violence and repeat offenders should always be enforced in my mind.

For first-time offenders of lesser crimes I can see it as a possibility.

First time offenders are usually offered a much lighter sentence.  I'm all for second chances, and giving someone charged with assault a lowered sentence on their first offense is a good way to show mercy and promote the idea of second chances.  Give them a disorderly conduct, 180 days of probation and some community service and hope it works for them.  I'm not so much for 3rd and 4th chances though......