People v. Taylor

Defendant was convicted of possession of heroin with intent to deliver. Prosecutor stated that Defendant had previously rejected reduced charge which was no longer available; and argued eligibility for mandatory Class X sentencing, which is 6-30 year range. Defendant argued, pro se at sentencing hearing, that he had no idea what he had been facing; and was then sentenced to 7 years. Defendant argued that his pro se statement was an implicit claim of ineffective assistance of counsel because his attorney did not advise him of possible penalties if offer was rejected. Statement was insufficient to require trial court inquiry, because Defendant did not mention his attorney or ineffectiveness during his statement at sentencing hearing.