State of New Jersey, Plaintiff-Appellant v. Cory J. Bieniek, Defendant-Respondent

Summary

The Supreme Court affirmed the trial court’s eighteen‑year sentence for Cory Bieniek, holding that the sentencing court properly exercised its discretion and considered the mitigating factors raised. The Court emphasized deference to trial courts under the Code of Criminal Justice and reversed the Appellate Division’s remand, reinstating the sentence. Justice LONG dissented, arguing that the remand was proper and that certification was improperly granted.