Study ranks Tri-State among states that issue harshest prison sentences

HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – A new study has ranked the Tri-State among the harshest states when it comes to prison sentences.

Conducted by personal injury law firm John Fitch , the study used data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics on federal court cases tried between 2018 and 2023, comparing the duration of sentences to the national average.

The study ranked Indiana second with an average prison sentence length of 93.6 months (seven years, nine months, two weeks and five days) for each person. This was ranked 88% higher than the national average.

Kentucky was ranked fourth with the average duration of 88.7 months (seven years, four months, two weeks and six days) for each person.

Illinois slotted in seventh with an average time of 79.5 months (six years, seven months and two weeks).

Arizona had the lowest overall sentence duration of 15.8 months (one year, three months, three weeks and five days).

A spokesperson for John Fitch said, “This study provides valuable insights into the states with the most stringent sentencing laws, with Iowa ranking at the top. Each state has unique laws and methods for enforcing them, resulting in variations in the average duration of sentences per individual across states. These variations in sentencing laws and enforcement methods highlight the importance of understanding the legal landscape in each state. By examining the factors that contribute to the differences in sentencing practices, policymakers can work towards creating more equitable and effective criminal justice systems.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).