The sentence is up to the judge, within the limits set by the legislature. The prosecution can push for a plea bargain by quoting scary totals, but the judge decides whether the worst case comes about.
Of course, IANAL/TINLA etc.
Killer band and album names there.
That's not necessarily true, or rather the legislature often sets minimum sentences. If you're brought up on enough charges you can end up in jail for life with no discretion on the part of the judge.
Several families at least had their livelihoods directly undermined.
I can't speak to plea bargaining, it seems to be a largely American feature.
(IANAL, TINLA)
I'm not saying he should go free. But I am saying 18 years is incredibly harsh in light of the crime.
To me, this seems like harassment, worthy of a slap on the wrist. If he does it again, take away his computer privileges or something. But prison time? You have to be kidding me.
He was the author of an email threatening to kill the vice-president -- he is responsible for 'uttering' the words. In many jurisdictions that is the complete crime (strict liability).
Furthermore he aimed to pervert the course of justice by framing someone else.
Both these crimes are considered serious pretty much everywhere. Judges tend to look unflatteringly on perversion in particular.
(IANAL, TINLA).
> The subject line of one e-mail read: “This is a terrorist threat! Take this seriously.” “I swear to God I’m going to kill you!,” part of the message to Biden said.
Not sure why you think he didn't threaten to kill. Seems he was found guilty.
Had his plan succeeded, the victim would be in prison for the rest of his life on the combination of kiddie porn and threatening the vice president. That's way beyond "harassment".