But being caught three times…
And while it seems disproportionate, it might motivate others to not risk 25 years in prison for a $100 online order…
That gut feeling resonates with so many that few care to question it. It just feels right. Problem is, it feels right to the kind of person that habitually weighs the benefits and drawbacks of their actions, is able to reason about consequences and has a good grip on their impulses. Those people would be unlikely to steal Amazon packages even if the sentence was a fine and 30 days of social work because they are usually in a different place in society anyway. (Don't get hung up on exceptions)
Those that decide to steal anyway are often those that think they won't get caught. It doesn't matter if they don't sit in prison for 2 years or for 25. I'm sure there are other dynamics at play as well. Unfortunately I can't cite research to support my claims but then neither can you. So I just invite you to consider them.