Opinion ID: 1229218
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Sentence Structure

Text: The State also argues the PCR judge erred in ordering that respondent's sentence be served in a particular sequence. We disagree. The PCR judge found the sentencing judge did not order that the prison terms of life, eighteen years, and five years be served in that sequence, only that they be served consecutively. The PCR judge ordered respondent's sentence be served in a way that corrects the Parole Board's interpretation of his sentence. Pursuant to the change, respondent serves his sentence as follows: (1) five (5) years for possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, then he shall serve (2) eighteen (18) years for first degree criminal sexual conduct, then he shall serve (3) life for kidnapping. By setting out the sequence by which respondent will serve his prison terms, respondent may become eligible for parole in the future. Such a correction is merely a matter of placement and does not disregard the original sentence that the terms be served consecutively. S.C.Code Ann. § 17-27-80 (1976 & Supp.1997) provides that if the PCR judge finds in favor of the applicant, the PCR judge shall enter an appropriate order with respect to the conviction or sentence in the former proceedings and any supplementary orders as to correction of sentence. The PCR judge found that the Parole Board has interpreted respondent's sentence to imprison him for life with no chance for parole, even though the sentencing judge merely ordered the sentences be served consecutively. The Parole Board's interpretation contravenes the intent of the sentencing judge because it appears the sentencing judge did not intend for respondent's prison terms to be without parole. We agree with the PCR judge's finding that the trial judge did not intend respondent's sentences to be served in the order the Parole Board has established. The PCR judge correctly established the sequence in which respondent's sentences would be served, so that respondent may be parole eligible sometime in the future. See § 17-27-80. AFFIRMED. BURNETT, J., not participating.