Since 9/11 I think the definition of the word terrorist has changed forever. Seems that everyone who doesn't toe the party-line is one or is viewed as a potential one !!.

I have always said "Paranoia with Destroy Ya"

I have to agree with Tedob1 on this one, I have yet to see mandatory sentencing work .... the court system should be seen as an extension of the community and reflect the communities values on various matters - this is where sentencing guidelines come into action, mandatory sentencing tends to reflect the governments vote-gathering slant on these issues, which in most cases is somewhat misguided.

Every case needs to be judged on its merits.

For instance if some spotty-faced script-kiddie was to have their pride-and-joy computer confiscated and "donated" to some community organisation or school that could put it to good use, it would probably have enough impact on their like-minded friends to cease their activities without burdening the tax-payer having to pay for another misguided kid behind bars and benefit the some section of the community against whom they had erred.

For the habitual offenders - well let the community values come to the fore and deal with them.