Lawrence Ripple, 70, pleaded guilty trying to rob a bank but seemed a bit to eager. He entered the bank and handed over a note saying that he was armed and wanted money. However, he did not flee with the money but instead sat down and waited for police.
After being arrested, Ripple explained that he had told his wife that he would rather be in jail than married another day to her. Now he faces 20 years in federal prison.
What should a judge do with a bank robber who never intended to actually rob the bank? Jail is not generally viewed as a marriage retreat or sanctuary for the poorly wedded.
What would you give Ripple?