Opinion ID: 1759329
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 6

Heading: The State has detrimentally relied on Lanier's representations in the WAIVER OF PAROLE, therefore, Lanier should be estopped from refusing to perform his obligations.

Text: The sentence of the lower court and the punishment underlying the plea bargain agreement contained within the WAIVER OF PAROLE RIGHTS are separate. The State of Mississippi has detrimentally relied upon that plea bargain agreement and the representations of Lanier by refraining from the exercise of its right to seek the death penalty. Consequently, Lanier benefitted from the State's action. Yet, this Court appears willing to allow Lanier to keep the benefit of his bargain, his life, while simultaneously requiring the State of Mississippi to stand silent as Lanier repudiates his contract by obtaining parole eligibility. That action would deprive the State of Mississippi of the benefit of its bargain  assurance that this convicted murderer, who stated under oath that he would not be able to fulfill [his] obligations as a law-abiding citizen, will not be a threat to its residents.