The Superior Court did not err in denying a habeas corpus petition by an individual sentenced to 30 years in prison upon conviction for second degree murder. Since 14 V.I.C. § 923(b) expressly imposes a five-year minimum sentence for second degree murder, that provision prescribes a "different punishment" than the general felony statute codified in § 9(a)(1). Petitioner's 30-year sentence for murder is not greater than the maximum authorized by law, and does not unlawfully imprison him or unlawfully deprive him of liberty. The judgment of the Superior Court denying the writ of habeas corpus is affirmed.
Supreme Court Of The Virgin Islands