NCJ Number
110360
Date Published
1988
Length
98 pages
Annotation
This report illustrates selected sentencing characteristics under California's Determinate Sentencing Law (DSL) and describes the sentence review process mandated under the State Penal Code.
Abstract
During July 1, 1985-June 30, 1986, the Board of Prison Terms reviewed and analyzed the records of 20,505 men and women received in State prisons with determinate sentences. This report charts the length of their sentences, including the application of enhancements. The people studied in this report are a mix of those received in prison for offenses committed under the original provisions of the DSL and those sentenced for offenses committed following the adoption of the various statutory changes to the original DSL. Sentencing data for sex offenses are presented for 312 persons sentenced under legislation effective January 1, 1980. Charts show mean sentence for first and second degree burglary by county and robbery by county. The sentencing practices presented in this report are almost exclusively concerned with charging, pleading, and sentencing decisions. The report intends to improve the sentencing process by demonstrating to sentencing judges statewide sentencing practices for similar offenses committed under similar circumstances. 9 charts, 11 tables.