State of Wisconsin, Plaintiff-Respondent v. Curtis E. Gallion, Defendant-Appellant-Petitioner

Summary

The Wisconsin Supreme Court reaffirmed that sentencing courts must place on the record a rational and explainable basis for the sentence, including the sentencing objectives, relevant facts and factors, and the relationship between the sentence components and those objectives. It held that the circuit court adequately explained Gallion's sentence, properly considered the victim's character and the impact of the crime, and imposed a sentence that was not harsh or excessive under the law applicable to his offense. Justice Wilcox, concurring, agreed with affirmance but cautioned that the decision should not invite heightened appellate interference with fully explained and reasonable sentences.