17-A §1151. Purposes - Maine Statutes

Title 17-A: MAINE CRIMINAL CODE

Part 3:

Chapter 47: GENERAL SENTENCING PROVISIONS

§1151. Purposes

The general purposes of the provisions of this part are: [1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW).]

1. To prevent crime through the deterrent effect of sentences, the rehabilitation of convicted persons, and the restraint of convicted persons when required in the interest of public safety;

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

2. To encourage restitution in all cases in which the victim can be compensated and other purposes of sentencing can be appropriately served.

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

3. To minimize correctional experiences which serve to promote further criminality;

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

4. To give fair warning of the nature of the sentences that may be imposed on the conviction of a crime;

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

5. To eliminate inequalities in sentences that are unrelated to legitimate criminological goals;

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

6. To encourage differentiation among offenders with a view to a just individualization of sentences;

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

7. To promote the development of correctional programs which elicit the cooperation of convicted persons; and

[ 1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW) .]

8. To permit sentences that do not diminish the gravity of offenses, with reference to the factors, among others, of:

A. The age of the victim; and [1995, c. 149, §1 (NEW).]

B. The selection by the defendant of the person against whom the crime was committed or of the property that was damaged or otherwise affected by the crime because of the race, color, religion, sex, ancestry, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or homelessness of that person or of the owner or occupant of that property. [2005, c. 551, §1 (AMD).]

[ 2005, c. 551, §1 (AMD) .]

SECTION HISTORY

1975, c. 499, §1 (NEW). 1983, c. 152, (AMD). 1983, c. 480, §B24 (AMD). 1995, c. 149, §1 (AMD). 2005, c. 551, §1 (AMD).