Judge Smith's Setence

According to Washington Post the Judge sentenced both Guangyu and Baichuan to 20 years in prison but suspended 16 and 15 1/2 years, respectively, without stating any reason for the difference.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/06/AR2008060603850.html

旧的不去新的不来

Judge Stitt passed away
Judge Stitt presided the abductor's court hearing.

Source:

1. Washington Post obituary page for Mr. Stitt: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/12/AR2008051202743.html
2. Washington Post article regarding abductor's hearing: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/02/AR2008040203207.html
   

First post

Why is this blog?
Two 19-year old teenagers, the abductors from hereon, abducted a 20-year old, the victim. Is money the only motive behind the abductor's actions? If not, why else?

Assuming you already know the story so far, otherwise check out the links sections.

Links:

1. Washington post articles covering the story form the beginning: http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/NewsSearch?sb=-1&st=baichuan&