What is one of the purposes of sentencing?

One of the fundamental purposes of sentencing is to deter future crimes, which underscores the notion of maintaining social order and promoting public safety. Deterrence operates on the principle that imposing penalties for criminal behavior discourages not only the individual offender from committing further crimes but also serves as a warning to others in society who might contemplate similar actions. The idea is that the fear of facing similar consequences will lead both the offender and potential offenders to reconsider their choices, thereby reducing the overall rate of crime.

Effective deterrence relies on the visibility of consequences, making it essential that sentences are severe enough to discourage criminal behavior while also being fair and just. This purpose aligns with the goals of criminal justice in preventing crime, rehabilitating offenders, and ultimately fostering a safer community. In contrast to the other options, which might focus on negative aspects of the justice system or the treatment of victims and offenders, deterrence emphasizes a proactive approach in preventing future offenses and promoting societal well-being.