Should this womans past matter?

[Minimalist]

Five years for killing three kids.

Should have been life.

Yes, it matters.  Especially if there is current evidence of abuse.

Good thing she didn't do something really  heinous, like be accused of growing medical marijuana. That'll get you 30 years.

So I've heard. 

Having a broken tail light gets you executed by the cops.... and none of this bullshit "trial" stuff, either.