The landmark court case involving a young Plainsboro resident has resulted in a sentence of 30 days in jail, 300 hours of community service, three years probation, a $10,000 fine and counseling. Dharun Ravi, the 2010 High School North graduate convicted on 15 counts of invasion of privacy and bias intimidation in the Rutgers webcam spying case, was sentenced on Monday, May 21, in New Brunswick at Middlesex County Superior Court.
At the sentencing, Judge Glenn Berman made a point of clarifying that Ravi was convicted of a bias crime, not a hate crime.
“The word ‘hate’ never crossed my lips or (Prosecutor Julia McClure’s). This individual was not invited of a hate crime. He was convicted of a bias crime and there is a difference,” the judge said.
Rather than hate or homphobia, Berman referenced “colossal insensitivity” as a basis for Ravi’s actions in the dorms and through the Internet in September 2010, days ahead of Tyler Clementi’s suicide. However, at the sentencing Berman said he was displeased by what he felt was a lack of remorse.
“I heard this jury say guilty 288 times and I haven’t heard you apologize once,” Berman told Ravi.
The $10,000 fine must be paid to a state-sanctioned organization that assists victims of bias crimes. Ravi was also ordered to attend counseling programs that address cyber bullying and alternative lifestyles.
Ravi would face state prison time if he violates the terms of his probation. However Berman said the three-year probation term may be shortened if Ravi completes the other terms of his sentence and maintains status as a full-time college student.
Berman also told the courtroom that he will recommend that Ravi not face deportation, however the judge is not the final authority on that decision.
