ROGERS v. STATE (1999)

This is an appeal from a conviction and sentence for attempted first degree murder (Count I) and attempted second degree murder with a firearm (Count II).   Although we find no merit in Rogers' numerous challenges to his conviction, we agree with his assertion that the trial court imposed a departure sentence without written reasons.

 Rogers was sentenced to twenty-five years for Count I and seventeen years for Count II, for a total of forty-two years.   When a defendant is convicted of multiple offenses, a trial court should impose a separate sentence for each offense.   The total sentence, however, cannot exceed the total guideline sentence unless a written reason is given for the departure.   See Fla. R.Crim. P. 3.701(d)(12).   Rogers' guideline sentencing range was seventeen to forty years;  the State concedes that the forty-two year sentence which the trial court imposed amounted to a departure sentence without written reasons and was error.   Accordingly, we vacate the sentence and remand for re-sentencing within the guidelines.

Affirmed in part, reversed in part and remanded.

PER CURIAM.

STONE, C.J., DELL and STEVENSON, JJ., concur.