Protective custody is a relevant sentencing factor that a sentencing judge must not wholly discount; the fact that the duration of protective custody is uncertain does not wholly devalue its relevance. Sentencing statistics, while of limited value due to the unique synthesis involved in each sentence, may provide guidance by showing general trends and are useful to both sentencing judges and appellate courts. Counsel should not be discouraged from providing sentencing statistics to assist the sentencing process, particularly where the judge invites such assistance.
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