So we let them determine our standard of behavior? Unacceptable.
We are responsible for our own behavior. Are we better than they are or not?
If we act like them, in a childish pantomime of justice, we are no better than they. We may be worse, because we know better and nevertheless would let them set the standard.
It's easy to administer justice and bestow mercy on our friends and our dependents. Anyone can do that. Only the great can do so with their enemies as well.
I should hope this nation has not decided that criminal mediocrity is that to which we aspire.