[DanBC2]

> It was not at all realistic to think a 35 year sentence would have been handed down for downloading scientific papers, even in America.

It's easier to say this when you're not facing prison and financial ruin.

He wasn't being charged with "downloading papers". He was charged with wire fraud, computer fraud, criminal damage, etc.

(http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2011/jul/21/aaron-swart...)

> US attorney Carmen Ortiz said: "Stealing is stealing, whether you use a computer command or a crowbar, and whether you take documents, data or dollars. It is equally harmful to the victim whether you sell what you have stolen or give it away."

> If convicted Swartz faces maximum jail terms of 35 years and possible fines of up to $1m. Swartz appeared in court on Wednesday and was released on bail of $100,000.

And it'd mind-boggling that we're talking whether 35 years is realistic or not; the fact that prison is considered a suitable punishment for the alleged crime is a disgrace, and something that shames America.