Why Was the Penalty So Light for a Serious Stabbing Incident?

Dear Attorney,

My brother was stabbed three times by someone. Two of the stab wounds were shallow, but the third was deep enough to cause his intestines to protrude. He was hospitalized for several days, and the incident caused us significant financial strain, physical exhaustion, and emotional stress. My brother lost weight and developed emotional problems as a result. The hearing lasted for four months, but we were dismayed by the outcome. The person who stabbed him was sentenced to only 2–4 months of imprisonment. Despite submitting evidence, we cannot understand why the penalty was so light. Could you explain why the court may have issued such a lenient sentence?

Insights

In the Philippines, sentencing for crimes such as stabbing can vary depending on several factors. To understand why the sentence in your brother’s case was relatively short, we need to look at several legal concepts under the Revised Penal Code (RPC) and applicable laws.

1. Nature of the Crime and Charge Filed
   The key factor in sentencing is the specific criminal charge that was filed against the accused. If the charge was for physical injuries instead of attempted homicide or frustrated homicide, the sentence would likely be lighter. For example, if the court classified the stabbing as resulting in less serious physical injuries, the punishment under Article 265 of the Revised Penal Code may range from arresto mayor (1 month and 1 day to 6 months of imprisonment). The penalty may seem light if the injuries are deemed non-fatal or not permanently debilitating. The court’s evaluation of the medical evidence, such as whether the injuries were life-threatening or caused permanent damage, would heavily influence the charge.

2. Mitigating or Aggravating Circumstances
   Another factor that could affect sentencing is the presence of mitigating or aggravating circumstances. Mitigating circumstances, such as the accused acting out of passion or being intoxicated, can lower the sentence. On the other hand, aggravating factors, like the use of a deadly weapon or premeditation, could increase the penalty. It’s possible that the court found mitigating circumstances in favor of the accused, which reduced the sentence to the minimum within the range of penalties for the crime.

3. Plea Bargaining
   In some cases, the accused may enter into a plea bargaining agreement. This process allows the accused to plead guilty to a lesser offense in exchange for a lighter sentence. While plea bargaining helps expedite the resolution of cases, it can also result in lighter penalties that might feel disproportionate to the gravity of the crime, especially from the perspective of the victim’s family.

4. Medical Findings and Duration of Recovery
   The court often relies on medical findings to determine the gravity of the injuries. If the injuries, although severe, were deemed not to cause permanent disability or long-term medical complications, the court might have considered them as not life-threatening. The number of days the victim was incapacitated due to the injuries plays a critical role in determining whether the crime is categorized as slight, less serious, or serious physical injuries under the law. If the medical certificate indicated a recovery period that fits within the parameters of less serious physical injuries, this could explain the light sentence.

5. Role of the Prosecution
   It is also essential to consider the role of the prosecution in presenting the case. The quality of the evidence submitted and the way the case was argued can influence the judge’s decision. If the prosecution did not successfully prove the intent to kill, the court may have leaned toward a charge of physical injuries rather than homicide.

6. Victim’s Emotional and Financial Distress
   While the emotional and financial toll on the victim and their family is significant, these factors do not directly influence the length of imprisonment in criminal cases. The court is bound by the penal code in determining the appropriate sentence, and emotional or financial harm is often addressed in separate civil claims for damages, rather than in the criminal sentencing itself.

It may be worthwhile to consult with your attorney about the possibility of filing an appeal if there are grounds to challenge the court’s findings or the charge filed. You can also inquire about pursuing a civil case for damages, where you may be able to seek compensation for the financial and emotional distress caused by the crime.