Should Fray go to prison?

Stephen Fray, the 22-year-old man convicted and charged with the  attempted hijacking of a CanJet charter flight at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, on Sunday April 19, was sentenced by High Court Judge Sara Thompson-James to serve 20 years in prison.

The sentence was significant in sending a clear message to potential hijackers that this was unacceptable and criminal offence that attracts harsh penalties.

Fray made international headlines when he walked past security and took over the aircraft with several passengers on board.

Although the judge handed down a sentence of 83 years, Fray will only serve 20 years at hard labour. This is because the sentences will run concurrently.

Nevertheless, concerns have been raised that because of Fray’s mental instability he should not have been given such a harsh sentence. Should Fray’s mental status be a consideration in handing down his sentence? Should he have been sent to a mental institution instead? Was the sentence fair? Have your say…