Were the 4-year sentences for inciting riots on Facebook appropriate?

Two men in the U.K. have each been sentenced to four years in jail for using Facebook to "organize and orchestrate" disorder.

Jordan Blackshaw, left, and Perry Sutcliffe-Keenan were each sentenced to four years. (Cheshire police) Jordan Blackshaw, 20, created a Facebook event called "massive Northwich lootin'," which included a date, time and location.

Perry Sutcliffe-Keenan, 22, made a page on Facebook called "Warrington Riots," also listing a date and time for people who wanted to get involved in the riot.

However, as The Guardian newspaper reported Wednesday, no looting or rioting resulted from either Facebook post.

"It was something which was started as a joke by Jordan," said Blackshaw's solicitor, Chris Johnson, in a BBC interview.

Defence lawyers and civil rights group say the sentences were not appropriate for these crimes.

"There seems to be a complete lack of proportionality to some of the sentences. These make a mockery of proportionality, which is a key principle of the justice system," Andrew Neilson, of the Howard League for Penal Reform, told the Times.

Neilson said the harsh sentences will likely be appealed, which will further bog down the court system.

British Prime Minister David Cameron defended the tough sentences. "They decided in that court ... to send a tough message and I think it's very good that courts are able to do that," he said.

Do you think the punishment fits the crime in this case? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.



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