Opinion ID: 1854566
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Clarity of the Trial Court's Sentencing Order

Text: Carter next argues that the trial court erred because its sentencing order lacks clarity. Specifically, Carter claims that the court abused its discretion by not expressly considering the jury's recommendation of life for the murder of Smith when sentencing Carter to death for the murders of Pafford and Reed. We disagree. Under section 921.141(3), Florida Statutes (2002), the trial court is required to make independent findings on aggravation, mitigation, and weight, supported by specific written findings of fact. § 921.141(3), Fla. Stat. (2002). Here, there was no abuse of discretion because the trial court thoroughly considered the aggravating and mitigating circumstances at issue and supported each with specific written findings of fact. Dennis v. State, 817 So.2d 741, 763 (Fla.2002). Moreover, the trial court's sentencing order was consistent with the jury's recommendations. See Tedder v. State, 322 So.2d 908, 910 (Fla.1975) (A jury recommendation under our trifurcated death penalty statute should be given great weight.).