Court Opinion

ID: 9526091
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-07 03:12:10.104853+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T13:18:22.384491
License: Public Domain

JUSTICE LINN, specially concurring: It is apparent from the record that the experienced and conscientious trial judge sought to impose a sentence commensurate with the nature and circumstances of the offense, and the history and character of the defendants. As noted in People v. Merritt (1977), 53 Ill. App. 3d 929, 931, 369 N.E.2d 113: “We are mindful of the constant and continuing struggle of even the most able and resourceful judge in arriving at a sentence that is just. It is fashionable to blame increased societal violence on sentences believed to be inappropriate whether they be too mild or too severe. Simplistic analysis of the sentencing process leads but to further confusion and ultimate frustration. While recognizing that the circumstances surrounding every crime and criminal differ and compel a distinctive and particular sentencing conclusion, nevertheless there remains a compelling goal of avoiding disparate sentences. Both the criminal and society search for a sentencing result that leaves each as unembittered as is possible and reflects a conclusion that is fair, just and warranted.” I have again reviewed the many decisions relating to the power of this court and the standards considered by it in reducing sentences for various reasons, including disparateness. (87 Ill. 2d R. 615(b)(4); People v. Drew (1975), 82 Ill. App. 3d 682, 336 N.E.2d 281; People v. Reno (1975), 32 Ill. App. 3d 754, 336 N.E.2d 36; People v. Sprinkle (1974), 56 Ill. 2d 257, 307 N.E.2d 161, cert. denied (1974), 417 U.S. 935, 41 L. Ed. 2d 239, 94 S. Ct. 2650; People v. Franklin (1976), 42 Ill. App. 3d 408, 424, 355 N.E.2d 634, 647; People v. Rivera (1984), 126 Ill. App. 3d 197, 466 N.E.2d 1144; People v. Steffens (1985), 131 Ill. App. 3d 141, 475 N.E.2d 606; People v. Paino (1985), 137 Ill. App. 3d 645, 656-59 (Pincham, J., dissenting).) In accordance with the principles enunciated in the cases noted and to avoid the semblance of the sentence in this case being somewhat disparate, I join with my colleagues in the reduction of sentence as set forth.