Opinion ID: 2525171
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: Length of Sentences

Text: [¶ 32] Warner was sentenced to terms of incarceration of not less than four nor more than six years for each of two convictions for second degree sexual assault. He was also sentenced to terms of not less than three years nor more than six years for each of the two counts of immoral acts with a minor. All terms of confinement are to be served consecutively to each other. Warner challenges this lengthy sentence. When a criminal sentence is within the limits set by statute, the sentence will not be overturned absent an abuse of discretion. Smith v. State, 922 P.2d 846, 848 (Wyo.1996). We review a legally prescribed sentence; however, the defendant has the high burden of showing an abuse of discretion, procedural conduct which is prejudicial to him, and circumstances which manifest inherent unfairness and injustice, or conduct offending the public sense of fair play. Id. We do not engage in lengthy analyses of comparable sentences for similar offenses except in cases where the mode of punishment is unreasonable, or where the relative length of sentence is extreme when compared to the gravity of the offense. Id. at 849. [¶ 33] Warner contends that the district court abused its discretion in ignoring the unusual circumstance that he had committed these crimes many years ago while a troubled teenager. The record shows that the trial court discussed the length of time since the abuse, Warner's behavior in his contemporary life, and whether the maximum sentence of sixty years was appropriate on these particular facts. The court concluded that the maximum sentence was not justified in this case, but that a substantial sentence was required. [¶ 34] The ultimate issue is whether or not the court could have reasonably concluded as it did. Suval v. State, 6 P.3d 1272, 1274 (Wyo.2000). In evaluating the reasonableness of a criminal sentence, we give consideration to the crime and its circumstances along with the character of the defendant. Id. The trial court discussed the unique facts of this case and imposed a sentence after deliberate consideration of them. We find no abuse of discretion. [¶ 35] The order of judgment and sentence is affirmed.