Does the Time Fit the Crime? [POLL]

Joyce Mitchell, an instructor in the tailor shop at the Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, NY pleaded guilty today to charges of first-degree promoting prison contraband and fourth-degree criminal facilitation in aiding the escape of two convicted killers on June 6.  Mitchell admitted helping Richard Matt and David Sweat escape by providing them with hacksaw blades, chisels, a punch tool and screwdriver. Police believe she was also going to be their getaway driver but backed out of the deal at the last moment.  Police investigators also allege Mitchell had discussed with the two escapees the killing of her husband in return for her help in breaking out of the facility. Investigators also believe she had a romantic relationship and sexual relations with one or both of the convicts.

Mitchell, age 51, faces a sentence of 2 1/3 to 7 years in prison.  Conservative estimates for the cost to taxpayers of the intensive manhunt is at least 22 million dollars.  Needed repairs to the prison infrastructure are an estimated $300,000.  Thousands of lives were placed in danger with two convicted killers on the loose.  Matt was shot and killed by police while Sweat was wounded and captured alive.  Both had been on the run for three weeks.

Last week New York State Senator Thomas Libous was convicted on one count of lying to the FBI.  That conviction can carry a sentence of up to five years in jail.  There is the chance Mitchell could serve less time in jail than Senator Libous.

In comparison here is a question for you.  Does the time fit the crime?  Under the law what do you feel about the punishment?  Are jail time potentials appropriate?