Do crimes committed in front of kids deserve harsher sentences?

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — A state board that sets sentencing guidelines is studying how often crimes occur in front of children to determine whether those crimes should be punished more harshly.

Some judges tack on additional prison time when a crime is committed before a child even though there’s nothing in sentencing guidelines that requires it.

The Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission is asking commonwealth’s attorneys to supply data on crimes with children witnesses so it can study the issue in anticipation of possible legislation requiring additional time for such crimes.

So far only 11 jurisdictions have reported cases, but commission director Rick Kern says the study is still in its infancy.

The commission is expected to discuss its findings at its Sept. 21 meeting.