I don’t think the debate here is that it’s purely being soft on pedos.
The whole point was the dichotomy of “These kids aren’t much younger than him” despite one of them being 8. Ironically that was completely glossed over by Ray in his litany of left wing talking points regarding Hawkins.
No one is saying lock the dude up for life but let’s at least be honest about what was done and what was said and how it was justified. 8 years old is not

How many photos and videos? About 35? How many distinct images? More than 50? Most were 11-12. One was 8.
FWIG, Age differential is one factor in sentencing. We don't know where he got the porn. It was 10 years ago. The internet was rife with that garbage. We can guess he downloaded it from a porn site. It seems obvious he did not produce it. He was looking for the 11-12 age group, not 8.
I mentioned multiple times that older men with more porn and greater age difference have received lesser sentences or probation.
Another big factor in sentencing: The psychological profile said he was not a pedophile and not a threat to children.
Anothet factor: He admitted guilt, expressed remorse, worked with law enforcement.
But let's focus on one image of one 8 yr old. Get the word out.
The people with a homosexual agenda are coming for your children. Are you old enough to remember that?