Opinion ID: 2633789
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Issue 3: Length of Departure

Text: Finally, Blackmon contends that the extent of the downward durational departure sentence was not disproportionate and the sentencing court did not abuse its discretion. This issue is not yet ripe for review. The problem with Blackmon bringing this issue before this court is twofold. First, there must exist at least one substantial and compelling reason, stated by the sentencing court, justifying a downward durational departure. Then, the extent of the departure can be analyzed. Because the sentencing court's comments need more clarity in order to examine whether the departure was based on substantial and compelling reasons, an analysis of the extent of the departure is premature. Second, the Court of Appeals panel never addressed the issue of whether the extent of the downward durational departure was an abuse of the sentencing court's discretion. The judgment of the Court of Appeals is affirmed in part and reversed in part. The sentence is vacated, and the case is remanded to the district court with directions for resentencing.