Is this the United States of America? I do believe in the Constitution we have protection from "cruel and unusual punishment". I think this guy should appeal, without a doubt. I'm so sick of dumb laws.
HOWEVER, if this guy did in fact beat his wife I say no jail time for that. Just put him in a room with about 20 cats in heat, tie his hands and legs, and rub catnip on his groin area. After a few hours I think he'd get the message.
OR
put him in a room with about 20 very hungry pitbulls and rotweilers (sp?), and rub some kind of meat sauce on his groin. Let him marinate on that for a few hours. I guarantee he won't EVER beat his wife again.