Fifteen-year-old robs Norfolk, Va. house party at gunpoint. His two (adult) confederates plead guilty, get 10- and 13-year sentences. The teen goes to trial, gets 118 years plus six life sentences (with the remote possibility of geriatric release at age 60). He files a habeas petition arguing his sentence is too long, violates the Eighth Amendment. In the meantime, then-Gov. Bob McDonnell reduces his sentence to 40 years. Is the habeas petition moot? Fourth Circuit: Yes.
