 |
| The Defendant: Keith Lamont Parker |
Judge Kathleen L. Beckstead sentenced Parker on January 28, 2013 to 25 years for the murder charge and 20 years (to be served concurrently) for the drug charge. In addition, due to a violation of probation in a 2006 case, he will be serving an additional eight years (to be served consecutively).
When looking at previous "Recent Usage" posts, this is the first case in which the defendant will receive a sentence with any real weight. Also, Parker's use of the Alford Plea did not allow him to drop any charges against him. However, there is no doubt that the Alford Plea allowed Parker to get a shorter sentence than he would have otherwise. For instance, his drug and murder sentences are to be served concurrently, whereas, without the Alford Plea, he would be serving 45 years (plus the additional 8 for violating his probation) instead of 25.
Parker's case may seem like the "best" way to use the Alford Plea, however we need to realize that even this case is not so cut-and-dry. Elmer Charles Duffy III, the son of the murder victim, was present through all of Parker's hearings. His main question was, and still will be, "Why?". Duffy was quoted saying "That's something that every man needs--his father. Eventually, one day, you'll get out of prison. My father doesn't have that chance."
Should judges take into account the family of the victim when deciding whether or not to accept the Alford Plea in a particular case? Thoughts welcome!
Information From:
DelmarvaNOW
I found your post as I was searching for articles about my father......I honestly believe My fathers murderer got off...and we the family were lied to about how strong of a case the state had against Mr. Parker. 2 days before the trial was to begin, we got a phone call telling us that basically, a plea deal was going to be offered because they didnt feel confident it was a winable case, and they wanted to insure he got put away. Mind you this wasnt what we were told throughtout this entire process. I spoke to Mr. Parker and he was unremorsful...a product of crime....He showed no emotion...Cold....I told him that eventually he would get out, and regain his life....My father doesnt have that chance.....and that he basically is helping the cycle of men not having fathers in thier lives do to crime. ( Parker has 2 sons) To answer your question, yes.....judges should take into account the families of victims when deciding to accept the Alford plea..... the State should also be forthcoming with imformation so that families are well informed about the status of cases......
ReplyDelete