For
It gives victims a voice and emotional closure.
Against
Sentences should be based on law, not emotions.
Anonymous excerpts, translated where noted.
“The court and the offender should know how a crime affected the victim.”
“In part, it's to give victims the opportunity to confront the offender and give them a bit of closure.”
“Victim impact statements can have a role, but it should be limited. Sentences should be given based on law, not sympathy.”
“a victim impact statement cannot say what kind of sentence they think the defendant should get.”