Fighting a Code-Grabbing Device Accusation in St. Louis County with a Dedicated Defense Attorney
The world has just tilted on its axis. One moment, life in Duluth, or perhaps a quieter town like Two Harbors or Proctor, was predictable. The next, you’re staring down a criminal charge: Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices. The accusation hits like a physical blow, threatening to unravel everything you’ve built. The fear is immediate and visceral. Your mind races, picturing the whispers, the judgmental glances, the doors that might suddenly slam shut. You worry about your job, your standing in the community, the trust of your friends and neighbors. This isn’t just a legal battle; it’s a fight for your reputation, your future, and your very identity in a place where everyone seems to know everyone.
This is not the end of your life; it’s the beginning of a relentless fight. The state, with all its resources, will come at you hard. They will try to define you by a single accusation, to strip away your dignity and your future. But an accusation is just that: an accusation. It is not a conviction. It is the opening salvo in a battle for your freedom, and you need a formidable advocate by your side. You need someone who understands the crushing weight of what you’re facing, someone who will stand between you and the immense power of the state, someone who will aggressively dismantle their case piece by piece. This attorney will not just represent you; this attorney will fight for you as if their own future depended on it, because in this moment, your future does depend on it.
The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs
This accusation of possessing a code-grabbing device isn’t just about a potential fine or a few months of inconvenience. A conviction will unleash a cascade of devastating, long-term consequences that will echo through every aspect of your life. This isn’t just a legal skirmish; it’s a battle for your very future, and the stakes could not be higher.
Your Permanent Criminal Record
A conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices, even if it doesn’t result in significant jail time, will forever brand you with a criminal record. This isn’t something that fades with time or can be easily explained away. It’s a permanent scarlet letter that will appear on background checks for the rest of your life. Imagine applying for a new job in Duluth or trying to secure housing in Bemidji, only to have this conviction surface. Employers are often hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record, even for non-violent offenses. Landlords may view you as a risk, and even volunteer opportunities could become impossible. This record is a persistent shadow, limiting your opportunities and forcing you to live with the stigma of a criminal past, regardless of your future actions.
Loss of Second Amendment Rights
For many individuals in Northern Minnesota, the right to own firearms is not just a constitutional privilege but a deeply ingrained part of their lifestyle and heritage. A conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices, even though not classified as a violent crime, can lead to the permanent forfeiture of your Second Amendment rights. This means you could lose your ability to legally own or possess firearms, impacting hunting, sport shooting, or even self-defense. This isn’t a temporary restriction; it’s a permanent deprivation of a fundamental right, one that can feel particularly severe for those who grew up around firearms in communities like Cloquet or Two Harbors. The court’s decision can strip you of something you may have considered an undeniable right your entire life.
Barriers to Employment and Housing
The collateral consequences of a conviction extend far beyond the courtroom. A criminal record for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices can create significant barriers to both employment and housing. Many companies, especially those that conduct thorough background checks or handle sensitive information, will automatically disqualify applicants with a criminal history. Finding a stable job in the competitive markets of Duluth or St. Louis County becomes an uphill battle. Similarly, landlords are increasingly scrutinizing potential tenants, and a criminal conviction can make it incredibly difficult to secure a lease, leaving you with fewer housing options and potentially forcing you into less desirable living situations. This can lead to a cycle of instability, making it hard to rebuild your life after a conviction.
Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation
If you hold a professional license in fields like healthcare, education, finance, or any other regulated industry, a conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices could jeopardize your livelihood. Licensing boards often view criminal convictions, particularly those involving intent to commit an unlawful act, as grounds for suspension or revocation of your license. Your entire career could be derailed, leaving you without the means to support yourself or your family. Beyond professional repercussions, your personal reputation in a close-knit community like Proctor or Bemidji will suffer immense damage. The trust of your neighbors, colleagues, and even friends could be eroded, leading to social ostracism and a profound sense of isolation.
The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case
Now, let’s confront the legal realities of the accusation against you. Understanding what the state must prove is the first step in formulating a robust defense. The prosecution will try to present a clear-cut case, but their path is not as simple as they would like you to believe.
What Does the State Allege? Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices Explained in Plain English
You’ve been accused of possessing a code-grabbing device. In simple terms, this refers to a piece of technology designed to intercept, record, and then replay the electronic signals used by security systems, car alarms, or other electronic systems. Think of it like a sophisticated digital lock-picker that can “listen” to a garage door opener’s signal, save it, and then “broadcast” it back later to open the garage door. The key to the accusation is not just having the device, but also having the specific intent to use it for an illegal purpose.
The state isn’t just saying you owned a certain piece of equipment. They are asserting that you possessed this device with a clear and active intention to use it to commit a crime – to unlawfully disarm or operate someone else’s electronic system. This intent is a critical component of their case. Without proving that specific criminal intent, their entire accusation falls apart. It’s not enough for them to show you had the device; they must prove what you intended to do with it.
The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.586
Minnesota Statute 609.586 is designed to criminalize the possession of these specific types of devices when they are held with a criminal purpose. The law recognizes the potential for such technology to be used for theft, unauthorized entry, or other unlawful acts, and aims to deter their possession with that illicit intent.
Subdivision 1. Definition. As used in this section, “code-grabbing device” means a device that can receive and record the coded signal sent by the transmitter of a security or other electronic system and can play back the signal to disarm or operate that system.
Subd. 2. Crime. Whoever possesses a code-grabbing device with intent to use the device to commit an unlawful act may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than three years or to payment of a fine of not more than $5,000, or both.
The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices
For the state to secure a conviction against you for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices in a courtroom in Duluth or St. Louis County, they are not merely presenting a story or making an assertion. They must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, every single “element” of the crime as defined by Minnesota Statute 609.586. If the prosecution fails to prove even one of these elements to the satisfaction of a jury or judge, their entire case crumbles, and you cannot be convicted. This is the cornerstone of our justice system, and it is where a powerful defense attorney focuses their efforts, relentlessly testing every assertion made by the state.
- Possession of a Code-Grabbing Device: The prosecution must first demonstrate that you were, in fact, in possession of a device that meets the legal definition of a “code-grabbing device” as outlined in Subdivision 1 of the statute. This isn’t just about physical proximity; it could involve actual physical possession or constructive possession, meaning you had control over the device even if it wasn’t directly on your person. This element requires the state to prove the device’s technical capabilities and your link to it. The state will attempt to show that the device found can both “receive and record the coded signal” and “play back the signal to disarm or operate that system.”
- Intent to Use the Device: This is arguably the most crucial and often the most challenging element for the prosecution to prove. It’s not enough that you simply possessed the device; the state must demonstrate that you harbored a specific “intent to use the device to commit an unlawful act.” This delves into your state of mind at the time of possession. Did you intend to break into a vehicle? To disarm a home security system? The state cannot simply assume your intent; they must present concrete evidence that proves your criminal purpose beyond a reasonable doubt. This is where circumstantial evidence often comes into play, and it’s also where a skilled defense attorney can create significant doubt.
- Unlawful Act: The “intent to use the device to commit an unlawful act” requires the prosecution to specify and prove what that intended unlawful act was. This isn’t a vague notion; they must articulate a specific criminal act, such as theft, burglary, or unauthorized entry, that you intended to facilitate with the code-grabbing device. Without a clearly defined unlawful act, their claim of criminal intent loses its foundation. This element often ties into the previous one, as the intended act provides context for the alleged intent to use the device for that purpose.
The Potential Outcome: Penalties for a Code-Grabbing Device Conviction
A conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices carries serious penalties under Minnesota law, and understanding these potential consequences is vital. This is not a minor infraction; it is a felony-level offense that can dramatically alter the trajectory of your life. The state of Minnesota, through its statutes, outlines the severe punishments that can be imposed, and these are not outcomes to be taken lightly.
Minnesota Statute 609.586, Subdivision 2, specifies the maximum penalties for a conviction of Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices. This is not a crime with varying degrees or levels of severity built into the statute itself; it is a single offense with a defined penalty range.
- Imprisonment: A conviction can lead to a sentence of imprisonment for not more than three years. This means you could be facing significant time behind bars, separated from your family, your job, and your life in Northern Minnesota. Even if you don’t receive the maximum sentence, any jail or prison time will have a profound and lasting impact on your life and your future.
- Fine: In addition to or in lieu of imprisonment, you could be ordered to pay a fine of not more than $5,000. This substantial financial penalty can create a significant burden, especially when combined with other legal fees, lost income due to incarceration, and the collateral financial damage a criminal record often brings.
- Both Imprisonment and Fine: The court has the discretion to impose both a period of imprisonment and a financial fine, maximizing the punitive impact of a conviction. The combination of these penalties can be financially and personally devastating, marking your life in multiple ways.
The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense
An accusation of possessing a code-grabbing device might feel like a crushing weight, but it is precisely at this moment that your fight truly begins. This is not a time for passive acceptance; it is a call to action. The state has launched its attack, and now, with a dedicated criminal defense attorney by your side, you will launch your strategic counter-offensive.
An Accusation is Not a Conviction: The Fight Starts Now
You are not guilty until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is not a mere legal platitude; it is the fundamental principle that will guide every step of your defense. The state’s case is not an unassailable fortress; it is a structure built upon evidence that must be rigorously examined, meticulously challenged, and, if found wanting, dismantled. From the moment you are accused, the fight starts. This is where a relentless defense attorney begins to expose weaknesses, question assumptions, and compel the state to prove every single element of their charge. They will not be given an easy path to a conviction.
Your defense is not simply about reacting to the prosecution’s moves; it’s about proactively forging a path forward. It’s about aggressively investigating every detail, interviewing every witness, and scrutinizing every piece of evidence. The state will attempt to create a narrative that paints you as guilty, but your defense attorney will work tirelessly to present your true story, to highlight the ambiguities, and to demonstrate where the prosecution’s case falls short. This is a strategic counter-offensive, designed to test the state’s resolve and force them to confront the formidable obstacles that stand between an accusation and a conviction.
How a Code-Grabbing Device Charge Can Be Challenged in Court
A charge of Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices is not an open-and-shut case for the prosecution. There are numerous avenues of defense that can be strategically employed to challenge the state’s allegations and protect your freedom. A skilled defense attorney understands how to leverage these defenses to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Lack of Intent
This is often the most powerful defense in code-grabbing device cases, as intent is a core element of the crime.
- No Criminal Purpose: The prosecution must prove you possessed the device with the intent to use it to commit an unlawful act. This defense argues that while you may have possessed the device, you had absolutely no intention of using it for any illegal purpose. Perhaps you are an electronics enthusiast who collects various devices, or you acquired it out of curiosity without any malicious intent.
- Legitimate Research or Hobby: Your possession of the device may have been for entirely legitimate reasons, such as educational purposes, reverse engineering for security research, or as part of a hobby in electronics. Demonstrating a non-criminal, legitimate reason for possession can directly negate the intent element.
- Lack of Knowledge of Functionality: It’s possible you possessed the device without fully understanding its capabilities or purpose. If you were unaware it was a “code-grabbing device” as defined by the statute, or unaware of its potential for illicit use, it becomes difficult for the state to prove you harbored the specific criminal intent required for conviction.
Unlawful Search and Seizure
If the device was discovered through an illegal search by law enforcement, the evidence may be suppressed.
- Fourth Amendment Violation: The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. If law enforcement obtained the code-grabbing device without a valid search warrant, probable cause, or an exception to the warrant requirement, the evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court.
- Exclusionary Rule: If the search was unlawful, the “exclusionary rule” may apply, meaning any evidence obtained as a result of that illegal search cannot be used against you in court. This can severely cripple the prosecution’s case, as the primary evidence against you might be thrown out.
- No Reasonable Suspicion or Probable Cause: Police must have a lawful basis to stop, detain, or search you or your property. If they lacked reasonable suspicion for a stop or probable cause for a search, any evidence found could be challenged as illegally obtained.
Mistaken Identity or False Accusation
In some cases, you may have been wrongly identified or falsely accused of possessing the device with criminal intent.
- Wrongful Attribution: The device may have belonged to someone else, or you may have been mistakenly linked to it. This defense focuses on demonstrating that you were not the true possessor or that the device was not under your control.
- Planted Evidence: While rare, there are instances where evidence is planted. This defense would involve presenting evidence to suggest that the code-grabbing device was not legitimately found in your possession but was placed there by another party.
- Lack of Connection to Unlawful Act: Even if you were in proximity to a code-grabbing device, the state must connect you to the intent to use it for an unlawful act. If there’s no evidence linking you to any planned or attempted criminal activity involving the device, the prosecution’s case on intent becomes speculative.
Duress or Coercion
This defense argues that you possessed the device not out of your own free will, but under threat or compulsion.
- Threat of Harm: If you were forced to possess the code-grabbing device under the direct threat of physical harm or severe consequences to yourself or a loved one, you may be able to argue duress. This demonstrates that your intent was to avoid harm, not to commit an unlawful act.
- Lack of Free Will: This defense requires proving that your will was overborne by another, leaving you with no reasonable alternative but to comply with their demands. It’s a high bar to meet but can be a powerful defense in certain extreme circumstances.
- Compulsion from Another Party: Evidence that another individual coerced or compelled you to hold or transport the device, without your knowledge of its nature or intent to use it for an unlawful act, could undermine the prosecution’s claim of your criminal intent.
Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota
The principles of defense are not abstract; they are applied in real-world scenarios, leveraging the unique facts of each case. In Northern Minnesota, where communities are close-knit and the landscape is vast, a strategic defense must be tailored to the specific circumstances of the accusation.
Scenario in Bemidji
A resident of Bemidji, known for their work in automotive electronics, is pulled over for a minor traffic infraction. During the stop, the officer notices a “code-grabbing device” on the passenger seat, which the resident openly explains is a component for a client’s custom car alarm system they are repairing. The officer, unfamiliar with the device, arrests the individual for possession of a code-grabbing device.
Here, the defense would strongly focus on Lack of Intent. The attorney would present evidence of the individual’s legitimate profession, their client list, and documentation related to the car alarm repair. Expert testimony could be brought in to explain the device’s specific function within the context of legitimate automotive work. The attorney would argue that while the device was present, there was absolutely no criminal intent; rather, it was a tool being used for a lawful, professional purpose, directly undermining the prosecution’s ability to prove the critical element of intent to commit an unlawful act.
Scenario in Cloquet
A group of teenagers in Cloquet are hanging out in a park after dark. One of them, trying to show off, pulls out a “code-grabbing device” they bought online, claiming it can “open anything.” A concerned citizen observes them and calls the police. When police arrive, they find the device on the ground near the group, and everyone denies ownership. One teenager is eventually charged based on circumstantial evidence.
In this Cloquet scenario, the defense might employ a combination of Lack of Intent and potentially Mistaken Identity/No Actual Possession. The attorney would argue that even if the client was present, there’s no proof they possessed the device with the required intent. The defense would emphasize the lack of evidence connecting the client directly to the device or demonstrating any plan for its illicit use. Furthermore, if other individuals were present and the device was found discarded, the defense could argue that the state cannot definitively prove the client’s actual or constructive possession, let alone their criminal intent, casting doubt on who truly possessed the device with the alleged criminal purpose.
Scenario in Two Harbors
A recreational boater in Two Harbors, who also enjoys tinkering with electronics, orders a device online that they believe is a sophisticated remote control for their boat’s custom-built winch system. Unbeknownst to them, the device also has capabilities that classify it as a “code-grabbing device” under Minnesota law. Law enforcement, acting on a tip about unusual electronic signals in the harbor, executes a search warrant and discovers the device.
For this case in Two Harbors, the defense would heavily lean on Lack of Intent and Lack of Knowledge of Functionality. The attorney would present evidence of the client’s legitimate use for the device – its intended purpose for the boat winch – and demonstrate that the client was unaware of its “code-grabbing” capabilities or any potential for illicit use. The defense would argue that the client had no criminal intent whatsoever, believing the device served a specific, lawful function. The focus would be on demonstrating the client’s good faith belief and their lack of criminal purpose.
Scenario in Proctor
A landlord in Proctor discovers a code-grabbing device in an apartment recently vacated by a tenant. The landlord reports it to the police, who then track down the former tenant and charge them. The former tenant claims they were forced by a former roommate, who had a criminal background and used the device for illicit activities, to store the device and had no personal intent to use it.
In this Proctor scenario, the defense would pivot to Duress or Coercion. The attorney would work to establish a history of coercion from the former roommate, presenting any available evidence of threats, intimidation, or the roommate’s criminal past. The defense would argue that the client’s possession of the device was not voluntary and was driven by fear, not by a criminal intent to use the device. The focus would be on demonstrating that the client’s will was overborne, thus negating the essential element of criminal intent.
The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential
When your freedom, your reputation, and your future are on the line, you cannot afford to face the formidable power of the state alone. A charge of Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices is not a minor legal hurdle; it is a life-altering event. You need more than just a lawyer; you need a dedicated, relentless criminal defense attorney who will stand as your shield and your sword in the courtroom, fighting tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome.
Countering the Resources of the State
The State of Minnesota, particularly in a large county like St. Louis County, has virtually unlimited resources at its disposal. Prosecutors have access to forensic experts, state-of-the-art technology, and a team of investigators. They are well-funded and well-staffed, and their primary objective is to secure convictions. Facing this immense machinery alone is akin to bringing a knife to a gunfight. A dedicated Duluth defense attorney brings their own formidable resources to bear on your behalf. This includes private investigators, forensic experts who can challenge the state’s technical claims, and a deep understanding of how to level the playing field against a powerful adversary. They understand the tactics the state will employ and are prepared to counter them at every turn, ensuring that the sheer volume of state resources doesn’t simply overwhelm your rights.
Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts
Navigating the complex and often intimidating landscape of the St. Louis County court system requires more than just a basic understanding of the law. It demands strategic command, an intimate knowledge of local procedures, and established relationships within the legal community. A dedicated defense attorney practicing in Duluth knows the unwritten rules, the specific preferences of judges, and the tendencies of local prosecutors. They understand how to effectively present your case in this particular jurisdiction, when to push for a trial, and when to negotiate for the most favorable plea bargain. This localized knowledge and strategic insight are invaluable, as they can significantly impact the trajectory and outcome of your case, ensuring your defense is not just legally sound, but strategically superior within the specific context of the St. Louis County legal environment.
Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report
The police report, often the foundation of the state’s case, is just one version of events—and it’s rarely your full story. It’s written from the perspective of law enforcement, often with an emphasis on justifying the arrest. A dedicated defense attorney understands that your case is about more than just the cold facts presented in a police report. It’s about your life, your circumstances, and the nuances that can completely change the interpretation of events. This attorney will relentlessly dig deeper, uncover the full truth, and fight to ensure that your side of the story is heard, understood, and given the weight it deserves. They will challenge the police’s narrative, expose inconsistencies, and present a compelling counter-narrative that reflects your reality, not just the state’s accusation.
An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result
When your future hangs in the balance, you need an attorney whose commitment to your case is absolute. A dedicated defense attorney is not just going through the motions; they are singularly focused on achieving the best possible outcome for you. This means meticulously preparing every aspect of your defense, tirelessly negotiating with prosecutors, and fearlessly advocating for you in court. Their commitment is unwavering, driven by a profound understanding of the stakes and a relentless determination to protect your freedom. They will explore every legal avenue, challenge every piece of evidence, and relentlessly pursue a winning result, whether that means a complete dismissal of charges, an acquittal at trial, or a significantly reduced sentence that minimizes the impact on your life.
Your Questions Answered
When facing a charge of Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices, questions can swirl in your mind, adding to the stress and uncertainty. Here are some common questions and direct answers to provide clarity in this challenging time.
What is a “code-grabbing device”?
A “code-grabbing device” is legally defined as a device capable of receiving and recording the coded signals from security or electronic systems, and then replaying those signals to disarm or operate the system. It’s essentially a tool that can “learn” and then “repeat” electronic commands.
Is merely owning a code-grabbing device illegal?
No, simply owning a device that could be classified as a code-grabbing device is not illegal under Minnesota Statute 609.586. The crucial element the state must prove is that you possessed it with the intent to use it to commit an unlawful act.
What kind of “unlawful act” does the statute refer to?
The “unlawful act” can be a variety of criminal offenses, such as burglary, theft, unauthorized entry into a vehicle, or any other crime that would be facilitated by disarming or operating a security or electronic system. The prosecution must specify what unlawful act they believe you intended.
What are the maximum penalties for this crime?
Under Minnesota Statute 609.586, the maximum penalties are imprisonment for not more than three years, a fine of not more than $5,000, or both. The specific sentence will depend on the facts of your case and your criminal history.
Will I definitely go to jail if convicted?
Not necessarily. While imprisonment is a potential penalty, a conviction doesn’t automatically mean jail time. Factors like your prior criminal record, the specifics of the alleged intent, and the judge’s discretion will influence the sentence. However, it is a serious felony offense.
How does intent get proven in court?
Intent is often proven through circumstantial evidence. This can include statements you made, other items found in your possession, your actions leading up to the arrest, or testimony from witnesses. Proving intent is often a major battleground in these cases.
Can I argue that I didn’t know what the device was?
Yes, arguing that you lacked knowledge of the device’s true nature or its “code-grabbing” capabilities can be a viable defense, especially if it undermines the prosecution’s ability to prove you had the specific intent to use it for an unlawful act.
What if the device wasn’t actually used in a crime?
Whether the device was actually used in a crime is not an element of the offense. The crime is about possession with intent to use for an unlawful act. However, the lack of actual use could be used as evidence to argue against the intent element.
What if the device belonged to someone else?
If the device belonged to another person and you did not have actual or constructive possession of it with the required criminal intent, then you cannot be convicted. Your defense attorney would work to demonstrate this lack of possession or intent.
How quickly should I contact an attorney?
Immediately. The sooner you engage a dedicated criminal defense attorney, the more effectively they can intervene, gather evidence, and protect your rights. Crucial evidence can be lost and opportunities missed if you delay.
Can this charge affect my job or professional license?
Absolutely. A felony conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices can have severe negative impacts on your current employment, future job prospects, and any professional licenses you may hold, as it often suggests a lack of trustworthiness or a propensity for criminal activity.
What if I was falsely accused?
If you were falsely accused, your attorney will work tirelessly to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and present a compelling case that disproves the allegations and demonstrates your innocence. This is a primary focus of a strong defense.
What is the difference between “possession” and “intent”?
“Possession” refers to having control over the device, whether physically or constructively. “Intent” refers to your state of mind – specifically, your purpose for having the device, which must be to commit an unlawful act. Both must be proven.
Will this crime appear on my criminal record?
Yes, if you are convicted, this felony offense will appear on your permanent criminal record, visible during background checks for employment, housing, and other opportunities.
What if I was forced to hold the device for someone else?
If you were forced under duress or coercion to possess the device, and your will was overborne, this could serve as a defense. Your attorney would investigate the circumstances to establish the elements of duress.
Can I get this charge expunged later?
Expungement laws in Minnesota are complex and vary depending on the type of conviction. While some records can be expunged, a felony conviction for Possession of Code-Grabbing Devices may have limitations. Your attorney can advise on potential future expungement eligibility.
What should I do if police want to question me?
Do not speak to the police without an attorney present. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can and will be used against you. Politely state that you wish to speak with your attorney before answering any questions.
How important is local knowledge for my attorney?
Extremely important. An attorney with deep local knowledge of the courts, prosecutors, and judges in St. Louis County, Duluth, or surrounding areas like Two Harbors or Cloquet, can leverage those relationships and insights to your strategic advantage.
Is it possible to avoid jail time?
Yes, depending on the specifics of your case, the strength of the evidence against you, your criminal history, and the skill of your defense attorney, it may be possible to avoid jail time through a strong defense, plea negotiations, or alternative sentencing options.