In a case of first impression, a state appeals court has upheld the constitutionality of life prison sentences for nonviolent offenders in the case of a man convicted on three different felony drug charges. “We acknowledge that a sentence of mandatory life without parole for a nonviolent offender with only three felony drug charges is an extremely harsh punishment,” the 1st District Appellate Court ruling says. “After careful consideration, however, we are compelled to uphold defendant’s …