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I dont get it. almost anyone who commits a grievous crime, get sentenced and appeals - gets their sentence reduced. Lots of cases in last couple of months - murderers to abusers as below....what the heck. this sends out the wrong signal

Child abuse terms reduced on appeal
http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090603/NATIONAL/706029831/1010

Last Updated: June 02. 2009 11:09PM UAE / June 2. 2009 7:09PM GMT A couple who severely abused their nine-year-old daughter had their sentences reduced by three years yesterday by the Abu Dhabi Court of Appeal.

The case of the Emirati girl was highlighted by authorities in a move to raise awareness of child abuse.

Her father and stepmother were originally sentenced to 10 years in prison on April 26 by the Criminal Court of First Instance and fined a total of Dh160,000 (US$43,570).

The public prosecution appealed, demanding the maximum penalty of 15 years. The parents also appealed in hopes of reducing the sentence.

The Appeal Court hearing was closed to the public at the request of the father. The father, dressed in blue prison overalls, walked up to the judge as the verdict was delivered. With no expression on his face, he returned to his seat. His wife, who is believed to be pregnant, was not present. Despite the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s renewed call for transparency, the judge declined to give any reason for reducing the sentence.