Don’t quote out of context please
I mentioned simply that Feds do use history in sentencing particularly since they have draconian guidelines and have in effect since 1987
States use it too but often without sentencing guidelines
This notion someone’s past is on trial same time as the actual charge it not as good an idea as many here wish
And explains why historically we don’t allow it baring exception
Trials would be out of control with blaring innuendo and character assasination
Had Steinle killer been convicted his past too woulda come up The Feds weigh past history at sentencing via guidelines pretty heavy upon conviction or plea
You make a direct connection of the Steinle case to Fed sentencing paractice. The Steinle case wasn't federal.