Mastro sentencing update

[Peter_Spaeth]

Originally Posted by whitehse

As someone who knows zip about the law....how much of an impact will these letters written on behalf of Mastro help his case? I am sure it depends on many factors but in general, do letters like this from either side sway the judge in any way?

The memo addresses this.

Because a defendant’s record of charity and good works may justify a lenient sentence—
indeed, a probationary sentence—it is common enough for white-collar defendants to seek mercy
based on their purported generosity and character. As a result, sentencing courts may be
skeptical, understandably, of white-collar defendants who pursue leniency through “checkbook
philanthropy.” Although that skepticism is warranted in some cases, it simply is not merited
here. The 223 character letters presented to the Court attest to Bill’s uncommon humanity and
commitment to helping others—what the Senior Probation Officer describes as a “genuine sense
of altruism” long predating the “instant criminal investigation.” (S.R. at 2). These letters are
written by men and women who have witnessed and been enriched by Bill’s generosity and
selflessness first-hand—family members and friends, business associates and religious clergy,
fellow addicts in recovery and fellow volunteers. Taken together, the letters demonstrate that
Bill’s extraordinary, decades-long dedication to service exists at the core of who he is. The
letters attest to the quiet way in which Bill serves others—never seeking credit or acclaim—and
to his meaningful and selfless good works. We respectfully submit that the character revealed by
Bill’s charitable acts, as well as the genuine remorse evidenced by his acceptance of
responsibility and substantial cooperation, merit leniency.