Discuss whether you agree or disagree that looting should be viewed as an aggravating factor or punished more severely than ordinary theft or burglary and why?

Historically, acts of looting in response to a natural disaster or acts of civil unrest have resulted in widespread media coverage.

As these acts have been highly publicized, the government’s response to individuals that engage in this conduct has been the subject of intense political debate. Further, as social commentators and political leaders have noted, states and localities have responded differently across the country to prosecuting these actions.

Discuss whether you agree or disagree that looting should be viewed as an aggravating factor or punished more severely than ordinary theft or burglary and why? If you find that the act of looting should be punished more severely, please identify the justification(s) for punishment and why you find that the punishment should be enhanced. Should all instances of looting be treated the same? Please discuss the factors that should be used to evaluate and grade the severity of act of looting and why you have identified each factor.

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