Opinion ID: 1316266
Heading Depth: 5
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Authorized sentences

Text: The maximum sentences for Hodari's crimes are as follows: (1) thirty years for each count of first degree sexual assault, or a total of sixty years; [17] (2) twenty years for one count of first degree robbery; [18] (3) ten years for one count of second degree assault. [19] In sum, the maximum Hodari could have been sentenced to is ninety years. Alaska utilizes presumptive sentencing. [20] The presumptive terms set out in the statute establish the appropriate sentence in most cases. [21] The legislature has said that [a] presumptive sentence is a legislative determination of the term of imprisonment the average defendant convicted of an offense should be sentenced to, absent the presence of legislatively prescribed factors in aggravation or mitigation or extraordinary circumstances. [22] Since Hodari had a prior felony conviction, his presumptive sentence is as follows: (1) fifteen years for the first count of first degree sexual assault, with at least some portion of an additional fifteen-year sentence for the second count to be consecutive; [23] (2) at least some part of ten years for one count of first degree robbery to be consecutive; [24] and (3) at least some part of four years for one count of second degree assault to be consecutive. [25] In sum, under presumptive sentencing, without accounting for aggravating factors, Hodari theoretically could have received a sentence of up to forty-four years. Because Hodari's crimes included first degree sexual assault and first degree robbery, there is a preference for consecutive rather than concurrent sentences. [26]