Why is remorse considered during sentencing in criminal trials? Shouldn't sentencing be based on evidence rather than a judge's subjective evaluation of how the defendant feels?

Depravity, or the absence thereof, is a proper factor to consider in sentencing. A convicted armed robber who was trying to get medicine for a sick child wouldn't be viewed as harshly as one who needed money to feed his meth habit or pay his bookie. Similarly, a convicted defendant who expresses remorse and the desire to make amends to his victim is probably more deserving of mercy than this cupcake:

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Tim Dees on Quora:

• Do judges take into account the negative publicity a convict has received when determining a prison sentence?
• Is it possible to outthink law enforcement?
• Do police officers tamper with evidence or falsify claims/accusations on rare occasions, in order to frame/scare suspects?

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