Court Opinion

ID: 9688788
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-24 18:05:25.979987+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T12:06:45.930145
License: Public Domain

Taylor, J.
(dissenting in part). I agree with the majority that the sentencing judge applied the *536wrong standard in determining what factors constitute substantial and compelling reasons for departure. I disagree, however, with the majority’s conclusion that the articulated reasons given by the judge with respect to why he wanted to depart downward, while incorrectly believing he could not depart downward, should be deemed on appellate review to require a downward departure. Rather, I would vacate the sentence imposed because an erroneous standard was used, and remand for resentencing. This would give the sentencing judge the opportunity to consider, under the proper standard, the factors advanced in favor of a downward departure.