What ensures that penalties for crimes are proportionate according to A.R.S. 13-101?

The principle outlined in A.R.S. 13-101 emphasizes the importance of proportionality in sentencing. This statute is specifically designed to ensure that the penalties imposed for crimes correspond appropriately to the seriousness of the offense committed. By linking the severity of the crime to the punishment, it promotes a fair and just system where more serious offenses receive harsher penalties, while less serious crimes are met with lighter consequences. This approach reinforces public confidence in the judicial system by establishing a clear and rational basis for sentencing decisions.

Proportionality also serves to deter crime by making it clear that certain behaviors will result in more severe repercussions. Thus, the focus is on the nature of the crime itself rather than external factors such as the personal circumstances of the offender, community sentiment, or logistical considerations like prison space. This foundational principle helps maintain consistency and fairness in the application of justice.