Opinion ID: 2361208
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Jackson's Sentence

Text: [¶ 10] In sentencing Jackson the court set a basic period of incarceration of 25 years and arrived at a final sentence of 30 years based on the presence of aggravating factors. This basic period of incarceration falls within the extended sentencing range for Class A crimes. In 1987 the Legislature increased the maximum sentence for Class A crimes from 20 to 40 years. P.L.1987, ch. 808 (codified at 17-A M.R.S.A. § 1252(2)(A) (Supp. 1996)). In State v. Lewis, 590 A.2d 149, 151 (Me.1991), we concluded that the change was intended to create a 20- to 40-year sentencing range reserved for only the most heinous and violent crimes committed against a person. [¶ 11] Jackson argues the court erred by selecting a basic period of incarceration within the extended sentencing range. We disagree. In deciding whether a sentence in the extended range is consistent with the principles set forth in Lewis, we look at the entire record. As noted by the trial court, drugs and guns are a lethal combination, and Jackson chose to indulge in both. The evidence also suggests Jackson was motivated, at least in part, by a desire for revenge, and planned to rob Rodriguez, a known cocaine dealer. Although not dispositive, the court may consider that manslaughter, unlike some other Class A crimes, is a crime that results in the death of a human being. In these circumstances, we cannot say the court erred by finding that Jackson's crime was among the most heinous and violent crimes committed against a person.