re: The Auburn 4- Why did Goodwin get 15 years?

Actually, it makes perfect sense. Yours doesn't make sense though. How can a system be stacked against you end up being beneficial?

"gee whiz, we know that you're innocent but your court appointed attorney only gave a thirty second opening argument so you're going to prison. But don't worry, take this plea deal and you only have to serve ten years. You are really going to save the DA a lot of time and energy!"