State of New Jersey, Plaintiff-Appellant v. Karlton L. Blackmon, Defendant-Respondent

Summary

The Supreme Court of New Jersey affirmed the Appellate Division’s decision but modified its remedy, holding that the appellate panel erred by ordering a new sentencing hearing and creating a right for the defendant’s step‑father to speak. The Court clarified that while sentencing courts have discretion to allow others to speak, any refusal must be accompanied by a reasoned explanation to permit effective appellate review. Accordingly, the case is remanded for the trial court to provide such reasons rather than to conduct a new sentencing hearing. Justice ALBIN and Justice WALLACE, dissenting, would have dismissed the appeal, while Justice LONG, concurring, agrees with the remand but emphasizes the defendant’s right to present relevant family testimony.