State v. Clinton

Joel Lee Clinton appeals his sentence for a conviction on three counts of first degree rape and three counts of first degree burglary. He contends that he was denied the effective assistance of counsel and that his exceptional sentences are unsupported by the record, clearly excessive, and, in light of a codefendant's sentences within the standard range, violative of equal protection.

I

On May 25, 1985, Joel Clinton, Leroy Jones, and Alvin Hicks forced their way into the home of 67-year-old L.H. L.H. was pushed to the floor and taken to the bedroom where Hicks removed her underwear and forced a…