Conrad Murray Faces Probation To Four Years
LOS ANGELES -- If convicted, Dr. Conrad Murray faces a sentence ranging from probation to four years in prison in the death of Michael Jackson. Some of the factors related to sentencing:
_ Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor would have complete discretion to decide the sentence. He would receive a probation department report on Murray recommending a sentence. Both prosecution and defense attorneys also would file recommendations. But the decision would be his and his alone.
_ The judge could consider that Murray is a defendant with no prior criminal record, a circumstance that might mitigate in favor of probation.
_ Because of AB109, a recent California prison realignment bill, Murray probably would not go to state prison. If given a prison sentence, he would most likely serve it in the county jail because of prison overcrowding. There has been speculation that he would be allowed to serve a term of house arrest.
_ The penal code calls for a convicted defendant to be sentenced in 20 days, but he could waive that time while his attorneys prepare a motion for new trial and an appeal. He could remain free on bail during that period.
_ Murray would lose his medical license.
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11/ 7/11 02:43 PM ET Associated Press