Opinion ID: 2082188
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: the reasons for sentence and its reduction

Text: In New Jersey a judge imposing sentence must state his reasons therefor on the record. R. 3:21-4(e); R. 7:4-6(c). Similarly, reasons must be stated for a reduction of sentence or denial of a motion therefor under R. 3:21-10. State v. Tumminello, 70 N.J. 187, 194 (1976). As there stated by Justice Clifford: At least some of the underlying policy considerations which favor the furnishing of reasons on sentencing are equally applicable to a change of sentence: to provide an appellate court with the means by which to review a decision on sentencing   . [ Id. ] This salutary goal is not attainable if the reasons stated are routine or boilerplate. See State v. Sanducci, 150 N.J. Super. 400, 403 (App. Div. 1977). In fixing a sentence a judge should consider the gravity of the crime and appropriate punishment therefor, deterrence, protection of the public, rehabilitation and any other factors or circumstances relevant   . State v. Jones, 66 N.J. 563, 568 (1975). It is obviously impossible for appellate review to ascertain with maximum certitude the justification or otherwise for a given sentence, if the purposes of the judge in imposing it (his reasons), and therefore its correctness, are not so illuminated. In this case the trial judge stated at the foot of the judgment record: Reasons for sentence imposed: State recommendation; circumstances surrounding offense; custodial supervision needed; deterrence to others and himself; unable to comport with society; poor rehabilitation risk. These reasons were amplified by an extended statement on the record by the trial judge before imposing sentence. It is convincing to us that he gave most careful and conscientious weight to all of the factors described by Justice Sullivan for this Court in Jones, supra . Inter alia, the trial judge here stated:    [I]n fixing a sentence a judge should consider the gravity of the crime or crimes, and appropriate punishment therefor, deterrence, protection of the public, rehabilitation if any, and any other factors or circumstances relevant   .    [T]he judge must also consider the offender himself, the age, background, social adjustment, his attitude, personality traits, his physical, emotional and mental condition, and his past record. Some crimes call for a minimum period of confinement, as well as a maximum sentence. Not because of a desire to punish the defendant, but the Court should consider what is in the best interests of the defendant and the community. The judge must consider the deterrent effect of a prison sentence, not only on the defendant, but also on other potential offenders. After having reviewed the fact that the presentence report reflected involvements as a juvenile, including offenses of violence, the judge commented: His behavior throughout most of his life from what the Court can gather has been antisocial. He has not been able to adjust while free in the community. And from the Court's observations    his criminality appears to have been escalating at an early age. The offenses here involved were serious and contained clear potential for violence; and in fact, did result in violence after the initial entry into the home was effected. The crime of entering with intent to rob while armed, and rape were committed while the perpetrators had knives. The defendant at this young age  and I find him to be a poor risk. There is nothing in his background that would indicate any chance for improvement   .    [I am] satisfied there has to be a custodial supervision in this case, and a lengthy one. The concept of punishment may be repugnant, but society must be protected from dangerous offenders.    The sentence that the Court is going to impose today is not one of casual consideration. The sentence is to warn others that crimes of this nature will be dealt with severely. The defendant's guilt is manifestly apparent on the record.    [T]his was a situation that developed where three individuals set upon two unwary, unsuspecting people in their own home. This was calculated. This was cold blooded, even at an early age of 19 years old.