This was posted on the groaners listserv.

A young lad is caught stealing from the local soap factory. When the case comes to court the judge decides to make an example of him to discourage other youths from a life of crime.

Judge: “Well, what have you to say in your defense?”

Boy: “Only that I’m sorry your honor.”

Judge: “Humph! I sentence you to 10 years hard labor, starting immediately.”

Boy: “But sir, it was only a few bars of cheap soap!”

Judge: “Consider yourself lucky! It could have been life, boy.”