State v. Proctor
227 W. Va. 352
| W. Va. | 2011Background
- Proctor pleaded guilty to two offenses: first degree sexual abuse and sexual abuse by a parent, guardian or custodian, with consecutive sentencing of 5–25 years and 10–20 years respectively.
- The circuit court imposed the sentences consecutively after a sentencing hearing and a forensic psychological evaluation.
- Proctor moved to reduce the sentence under Rule 35(b); the circuit court denied the motion.
- Proctor argues on appeal that misstatements in the sheriff’s report, presentence report, and psychological evaluation, and the victim’s forensic interview, affected sentencing.
- He also contends the dual convictions for related offenses violate double jeopardy.
- The WV Supreme Court of Appeals affirms the circuit court’s denial of the Rule 35(b) motion and finds no reversible error.
Issues
| Issue | Plaintiff's Argument | Defendant's Argument | Held |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whether misstatements in reports required reconsideration of sentence | Proctor waives error by not objecting at sentencing | Proctor did not timely object; waiver applies | No reversible error; waiver due to silence at sentencing |
| Whether double jeopardy bars consecutive convictions | Gill requires concern over multiple punishments for same conduct | Statutory language creates separate offenses; plea waived challenge | No double jeopardy violation; convictions upheld; waiver |
Key Cases Cited
- State v. Gill, 187 W. Va. 136, 416 S.E.2d 253 (1992) (establishes double jeopardy framework for separate offenses; legislative intent governs punishment)
- State v. Craft, 200 W. Va. 496, 490 S.E.2d 315 (1997) (failure to address misstatements at sentencing under Rule 32 constitutes error unless waived)
- State v. LaRock, 196 W. Va. 294, 470 S.E.2d 613 (1996) (contemporaneous objection rule; raise/waive principle in WV appellate practice)
- Mabry v. Johnson, 467 U.S. 504, 104 S. Ct. 2543 (1984) (voluntary guilty plea generally forecloses collateral attack on conviction)
