Neely v. State

Cordero Neely appeals his life sentence without parole. We reverse Neely’s non-homicide and first-degree murder sentences and remand for resentencing because a life sentence for juvenile offenders is impermissible without a meaningful opportunity for release as provided for in section 775.082(l)(b)(l), Florida Statutes (2014), and section 921.1402, Florida Statutes (2015). We base our decision on statutory interpretation and juvenile sentencing jurisprudence for which we provide a brief overview.

Our discussion begins with Miller v. Alabama, 567 U.S. 460, 132 S.Ct. 2455, 183 L.Ed.2d 407 (2012)…