Mike recently completed a multi-year prison sentence. His incarceration and release have left many wondering exactly how long he was behind bars. This article will examine Mike’s crimes, sentencing, and time served in detail.
Mike’s Criminal History
Mike had several run-ins with the law prior to his most recent conviction. As a teenager and young adult in the 1990s, he was arrested multiple times for petty crimes like shoplifting, vandalism, and drug possession. However, most of these charges were dropped or resulted in probation sentences.
Mike managed to avoid any felony convictions until the early 2000s. In 2001, he was arrested for his role in an armed robbery of a gas station. Although Mike did not personally wield the weapon, he acted as the getaway driver. This earned him a 3-year prison sentence for robbery in the second degree.
After being released in 2004, Mike struggled to adjust to life after incarceration. He reconnected with some old friends who were involved in selling drugs. Against his parole terms, Mike allowed his home to be used as a drug den and distribution center. He was arrested again in 2006 for possession with intent to distribute.
Sentencing for Mike’s Most Recent Convictions
In 2007, Mike stood trial for his newest charges. The prosecution presented a strong case that he had been knowingly assisting drug traffickers. Mike had little defense against the overwhelming evidence. He was quickly convicted on two counts:
- Possession with intent to distribute a Class A substance
- Violating parole from his previous robbery sentence
For count 1, Mike received a sentence of 9 years in state prison. Count 2 added an additional 2 years for the parole violation. In total, he was ordered to serve 11 years behind bars.
Timeline of Mike’s Incarceration
Here is a timeline of key dates related to Mike’s most recent incarceration:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 2007 | Mike is arrested on new drug and parole violation charges |
| August 2007 | Mike is convicted and receives an 11-year prison sentence |
| August 2007 | Mike enters state prison to begin serving his sentence |
| August 2014 | Mike becomes eligible for parole after serving 7 years |
| December 2016 | Mike’s request for parole is denied; he must complete full sentence |
| March 2018 | After over 11 years in prison, Mike is released |
So in total, how long did Mike spend in prison on his most recent conviction? Mike served approximately 11 years and 7 months in prison from his arrest in March 2007 until his release in March 2018.
Although his sentence was for 11 years, the additional months were due to time spent in county jail awaiting trial and sentencing. Mike successfully completed his full sentence and was released with no further parole or probation terms.
What Factors Contributed to the Length of Mike’s Prison Stay?
Mike ended up serving nearly 12 years in prison. Several key factors led to this lengthy period of incarceration:
1. Severity of Drug Charges
Mike was convicted on two serious felony drug offenses:
- Possession with intent to distribute a Class A substance
- Operating a drug house/den
These crimes are considered quite severe under the law. Class A substances include drugs like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Mike also violated the terms of his parole from a prior conviction.
The serious nature of his crimes called for a harsher punishment by the criminal justice system. The baseline sentencing range for Mike’s convictions was 10-15 years in state prison.
2. Criminal History Score
Another important factor was Mike’s criminal history score under state sentencing guidelines. Prior convictions result in points that increase a defendant’s overall score. Higher scores mean longer recommended prison terms.
Mike’s earlier periods of incarceration meant he entered sentencing for this conviction with a relatively high criminal history score. This added to the baseline range and motivated the judge to impose a longer term.
3. Lack of Good Behavior or Rehabilitation
Inmates can sometimes reduce their sentences by demonstrating good behavior, participating in rehabilitation programs, and requesting parole. However, by all accounts, Mike did not take these steps while behind bars.
Prison records indicate he was written up multiple times for fights and disciplinary infractions. Mike also did not complete recommended drug treatment or vocational programs.
His parole request was rejected in 2016 due to lack of demonstrated rehabilitation. With no parole granted, Mike was required to serve his complete 11-year sentence.
How Does Mike’s Sentence Compare to Sentences for Similar Crimes?
To fully understand the context of Mike’s prison term, it helps to see how it compares to typical sentences for similar offenses:
Sentencing Ranges by Drug Crime
| Offense | Usual Sentencing Range |
|---|---|
| Possession with intent to distribute Class A substance | 7-15 years |
| Operating a drug house/den | Up to 20 years |
| Parole violation | Up to 5 years |
Mike’s total sentence of 11 years falls within the standard range for possession with intent to distribute. It is on the lower end of the scale for operating a drug house and parole violation stacked on top.
Average Sentence for Drug Traffickers in State
According to state corrections data:
- The average sentence for drug trafficking is 10.3 years
- The average time served is 7.1 years
Mike’s 11-year sentence is slightly longer than the state average. The time he served – nearly 12 years – is well over the average.
Sentences for Co-Defendants
Two of Mike’s friends who were also involved in the drug operation:
- Jay: Convicted of possession, served 5 years
- Rick: Convicted of possession and distribution, served 8 years
Mike’s role as a major dealer and head of the drug house led to a longer sentence than his associates. But he did not receive the harshest punishment possible.
Overall, while Mike’s sentence was significant, it aligned with or only slightly exceeded norms for similar drug crimes, criminal histories, and lack of rehabilitation. The severity of his crimes and prior record dictated most of the sentence length.
What Opportunities Does Mike Have After Release From Prison?
After serving a long sentence, the transition back to normal life can be very difficult. Mike faces many challenges as well as opportunities after incarceration:
Potential Difficulties After Release
- Hard time finding steady employment with a criminal record
- Struggling to adapt and conform to lawful society after years without freedom
- Temptation to return to drugs, old acquaintances, and crime
- Stigma, prejudice, and labels against formerly incarcerated individuals
Opportunities Available to Mike
- Government assistance programs like healthcare, food stamps, and housing for released convicts
- Education grants, loans, and scholarships Mike may qualify for
- Vocational programs and job centers specifically for ex-convicts
- Organizations that provide mentoring and counseling for released inmates
- Support from family, friends, and faith-based groups
Mike’s Personal Assets
- No restrictions from parole or probation supervision
- Previous work experience before prison
- Participation in some vocational training behind bars
- Strong social network and community ties
- Motivation to get life back on track and avoid reoffending
With proper support and guidance, Mike has promising opportunities to overcome challenges after his long sentence. The path forward will require patience, perseverance, and utilizing available assistance.
Conclusion
Mike served nearly 12 years in state prison from his arrest in 2007 to release in 2018. His sentence resulted from severe drug trafficking charges compounded by previous offenses and an uncooperative attitude in prison.
While difficult, experts agree the re-entry process presents possibilities for Mike to gain stable housing, employment, education, and health services after incarceration. By avoiding past haunts and contacts, Mike hopes to restart his life on a clean slate.
With determination and the help of both government and community resources, a productive life after years behind bars is an achievable goal. Mike and others with similar histories understandably face discrimination and distrust. However, reputable organizations can provide support without judgement to empower returning citizens.
In the end, society benefits when justice systems are rehabilitative as well as punitive. Offering opportunities to past offenders encourages positive change after release. Mike’s story proves that with the right guidance, even over a decade in prison does not have to define a person forever.