F-2018-596

  • Post author:
  • Post category:F

This document is a summary opinion from the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals related to the case of Worth Lerance Martin. The appellant, Martin, was convicted of two offenses in the District Court of Stephens County: Feloniously Pointing a Firearm and Possession of a Firearm After Conviction of a Felony. Following a bench trial, he was sentenced to twenty-five years in prison and a $1,500 fine for each count, with sentences to run concurrently. In his appeal, Martin argued that the twenty-five-year sentences were shockingly excessive. However, the Court reviewed the circumstances of the case, including Martin's violent behavior of pointing a pistol at another individual and using threatening language, which occurred without provocation. The Court noted that Martin presented no counter-evidence to challenge the victim's testimony or the State's evidence and did not dispute his criminal history, which was a factor in determining his sentence. Ultimately, the Court found that the imposed sentences were not shocking to the conscience, especially when considering the nature of the offenses and the fact that they were less severe than what the prosecutor requested. Consequently, the Court affirmed the judgment and sentence from the lower court. The decision signifies the Court's discretion in sentencing and highlights the weight of prior criminal history and the nature of the crimes committed when determining appropriate punishment. In conclusion, the judgment and sentence of the District Court of Stephens County is affirmed, and the Court ordered that the mandate be issued upon filing this decision.

Continue ReadingF-2018-596