Opinion ID: 1461844
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: The Reasonableness of the Sentence Under Section 3553(a)

Text: Because the district judge would apply the same sentence, we now ask only whether it is a reasonable one. When the sentence falls within the Guidelines range, it is presumed reasonable. See United States v. Mykytiuk, 415 F.3d 606, 608 (7th Cir.2005). Ultimately, however, the reasonableness of a sentence is determined in light of the § 3553(a) factors. See Gall, 128 S.Ct. at 596-97. Of course, the judge does not have to write a comprehensive essay applying the full panoply of penological theories and considerations. United States v. Dean, 414 F.3d 725, 729 (7th Cir.2005). We find the sentence in this case to be reasonable. The district court referred to a number of recent public corruption scandals, both in Illinois and elsewhere. See 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(2)(A) (2007). The judge stressed the corrosive effect that corruption has on the public trust and expressed his belief that the scandals will not end unless they are treated appropriately hard. Anderson believes that the judge put too much weight on the public corruption scandals, but the judge was simply emphasizing the seriousness of the nature of the crime and discussing the need for general deterrence. See 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(2)(B) (2007). The district court also believed that Anderson had engaged in bribery before; thus, there was also a need for specific deterrence. See 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(2)(C) (2007). The judge did acknowledge the defendant's advanced age but this factor also may have worked against Anderson. The judge noted that Anderson was well off financially and could have relaxed and enjoyed his golden years. While many criminals commit crimes from lack of opportunity and desperation, Anderson had acted out of greed. Nevertheless, the judge refused to give a sentence in the higher end of the Guidelines range because Anderson is seventy-three years old and suffers from a serious kidney disease. See 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a)(1) (2007). Given this explanation, we believe the sentence is reasonable and we will not disturb it on appeal.