Why was Gu Kailai spared execution?

Gu Kailai, the high-powered wife of politician Bo Xilai, avoided the death sentence following her admission that she murdered a British businessman. CNN examines the political background to the case.

Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2012/08/20/world/asia/gu-kailai-verdict-reaction/index.html?eref=edition

sam bradford sam bradford contract seattle seahawks seahawks indiana unemployment