Opinion ID: 2390952
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Substitute Sentences

Text: Having determined that the sentences in this case are excessive it is our responsibility to substitute an appropriate sentence pursuant to 15 M.R.S.A. § 2156(1)(A). [13] See St. Pierre, 584 A.2d at 622. In doing so we are guided by the purposes of sentencing set out in 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1151 (1983 & Supp.1990) [14] and are aware of the limits on sentences in section 1252. State v. Lewis, 590 A.2d 149, 150 (Me.1991). Although the gross sexual misconduct offenses committed here do not rank in the upper quadrant of seriousness as compared to other more heinous and violent ways that the crime may be committed, the gravity of the crimes nevertheless warrants imposition of a substantial sentence. See 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1151(8). We conclude that sentences of fifteen years for each conviction to be served concurrently are appropriate. [15] After determining the sentences appropriate to the severity of the offense, we must consider the possible existence of mitigating factors that favor the suspension or partial suspension of the sentences, and the likelihood of successful rehabilitation. State v. Constantine, 588 A.2d 294, 297 (Me.1991). The circumstances of the offender and the protection of the public must be weighed to determine whether and to what extent the sentences otherwise called for by virtue of the nature and seriousness of the crime should be reduced. Hallowell, 577 A.2d at 781-82. see 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1151. There are aggravating circumstances present in this case. Michaud has expressed no remorse. He has two prior convictions for criminal assault and one for criminal threatening, all involving physical violence. Michaud has a mental illness that has been treated successfully while he is hospitalized, but Michaud has not submitted to follow-up treatment and has not taken his medication when released. A psychiatric evaluation performed in connection with the presentence report was inconclusive as to whether psychiatric treatment could serve an effective deterrent purpose. There are also, however, countervailing mitigating circumstances that we must consider in deciding whether to suspend a portion of the sentence and place Michaud on probation. See 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1151(3), (5), (6) & (7). Michaud has no felony criminal record and no prior conviction for sex crimes. The prior offenses for which he was convicted arose out of a single incident in 1984. Michaud, who was raised in a dysfunctional family, [16] has a long history of mental illness and emotional problems. His mental illness is treatable and when he is hospitalized and treated with medication, he becomes compliant and responds well to external controls. Given Michaud's psychological problems, it is in the interest of the public's protection, and in his best interests, that Michaud be subjected to a lengthy probationary period upon his release from prison, during which he can receive treatment appropriate to his condition. Therefore, it is appropriate that all but twelve years of each of Michaud's concurrent fifteen-year sentences be suspended, and that, following his release from prison, he be placed on probation for a period of six years. In addition to the standard conditions of probation, [17] including the prohibition on Michaud's use of alcohol and drugs, Michaud shall be required to undergo psychiatric treatment and participate in psychiatric and sex offender programs as determined by and to the satisfaction of the Division of Probation and Parole. He must follow the regimen of therapy, including medication, prescribed as part of his treatment program. In addition, Michaud is to comply with and submit to any testing, including random drug testing, to insure that he is following said regimen and refraining from the use of unlawful drugs and alcohol. Finally, Michaud is to have no contact with the victims or their families. [18] The entry is: Judgments of conviction affirmed. Sentences for gross sexual misconduct amended by substituting therefor sentences of fifteen years to be served concurrently in the custody of the Department of Corrections, with all but twelve years of those sentences to be suspended, and defendant to be committed to the custody and control of the Division of Probation and Parole for a term of six years upon conditions specified in the opinion herein. Said probation to commence upon release from incarceration. All concurring.