Scarlett Smith.

Thank you, and good afternoon, Chief Justice and Justices.

It is established that denunciation and deterrence are paramount considerations in sentencing gun crime.

This does not mean that other considerations are unimportant, including restraint and rehabilitation, and it does not mean that denunciation and deterrence cannot be fulfilled through a conditional sentence order.

CLASP wishes to reorient the conversation back to the fundamental purpose of sentencing, to protect society, contribute to respect for the law, and maintain a just, peaceful, and safe society as long-term sustainable goals.

All sentencing objectives are to be applied in the overarching service of these goals.

Sentencing must always remain individualized and contextual, focused on what an effective outcome is in the specific circumstances.