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Sidney Dulei Borja v. Eduardo C. Bitanga;\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid10108795 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid6232267 6}}}{\fs20\insrsid10108795  of 9
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\par John Joseph Gogue v. Eduardo C. Bitanga, 1998 Guam 29, Opinion
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\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 CVA 97-053}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
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\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  SP0051-95
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\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 CVA97-047}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
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\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 CVA97-050}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
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\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 )\tab \tab }{\insrsid2631980  }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 OPINION}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
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\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Filed: December 16, 1998
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Submitted for Review on June 30, 1998
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }{\ul\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Counsel For Petitioner - Sidney Borja:}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab \tab }{\ul\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Counsel for Petitioner - Michael Laguana:}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-5040\li5040\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin5040\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Bill R. Mann, Esq.,\tab \tab  \tab \tab \tab Thomas M. Parker, Esq.
\par Berman, O}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Connor & Mann\tab \tab \tab \tab Zamsky Law Firm
\par Suite 503, Bank of Guam Bldg.\tab \tab \tab Suite 501, Bank of Guam Bldg.
\par 111 Chalan Santo Papa\tab \tab \tab \tab 111 Chalan Santo Papa
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\tab \tab \tab \tab Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\ul\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Counsel For Petitioner - John Gogue:}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab \tab }{\insrsid2631980 \tab }{\ul\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Counsel for Respondent:}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \fi-5040\li5040\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin5040\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Jacque Bronze, Esq.,\tab \tab  \tab \tab \tab Kenneth C. Orcutt, Asst. Attorney General
\par Hogan & Bronze, P.C.\tab \tab \tab \tab Office of the Attorney General - Litigation
\par Suite 105F, Ada}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s Comm. & Prof. Ctr.\tab \tab 2-200E Judicial Ctr.
\par 215 Chalan Santo Papa\tab \tab \tab \tab 120 W O}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Brien Dr.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\tab \tab \tab \tab Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 PETER C. SIGUENZA, Chief Justice; JOSE I. LEON GUERRERO, Associate Justice; ROBERT J. TORRES, Justice Pro Tempore.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 SIGUENZA, C.J.:
\par }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [1]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Petitioners-Appellants Sidney Dulei Borja, Michael C. Laguana, and John Joseph Gogue (collectively }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
) each appealed the Superior Court of Guam}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s denial of Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  respective petitions for Writs of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Petitioners}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  joined in a motion to consolidate their respe
ctive appeals, the Government stipulated to the consolidation and on December 31, 1997 the motions to consolidate were granted. }{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [2]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab This court lacks jurisdiction to consider the Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  appeals from the denial of their petitions for Writs of Habeas Corpus under the court}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s appellate jurisdiction but elects to treat the Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 appeal as original petitions for Writs of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Based upon a review of the record and}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 the following considerations,}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 the petitions for Writs of Habeas Corpus are denied.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 I. BACKGROUND}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [3]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Petitioners were each indicted on May 6, 1993 by the Te
rritorial Grand Jury in criminal case CF0113-93 on six counts of robbery as a second degree felony and one count of kidnapping as a first degree felony with special allegations that}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Petitioners unlawfully used a deadly weapon during the commission of one of the robberies and during the kidnapping.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Petitioner Borja was also indicted in criminal case CF0116-93 for the crimes of burglary, and robbery with a special allegation that Borja used a deadly weapon in the commission of these crimes.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Borja was also indicted}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 for possession of a firearm without an identification card.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [4]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab 
On July 29, 1993 Petitioner Borja entered into a plea agreement whereby he pled guilty to second degree robbery, and second degree kidnapping in criminal case CF0113-93, guilty to se
cond degree robbery in criminal case CF0116-93, and guilty to third degree robbery contained in an information in criminal case CF0209-93.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Petitioner Borja was sentenced to 30 years incarceration at the Department of Corrections with credit for time served.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [5]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab 
On August 4, 1993 Petitioner Gogue pled guilty to second degree robbery and second degree kidnapping in criminal case CF0113-93, and guilty to third degree robbery in criminal case CF0215-93.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
The court sentenced Petitioner Gogue to 22 years incarceration with credit for time served. }{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [6]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Petitioner Laguana pled guilty to second degree robbery and second degree kidnapping in criminal case CF0113-93.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Laguana further pled guilty to seven counts of third degree robbery}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 contained in an information in criminal case CF0253-93.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 He was given a}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 30 year sentence at the Department of Corrections with credit for time served.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [7]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Subsequently, each petitioner filed a }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 pro se}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus in the Superior Court of Guam}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 and all were}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 appointed counsel.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 After briefing by the parties, the Superior Court, in separately filed decisions in each case}{\cs15\super\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa206\nowidctlpar
\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid10108795 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid10108795 
A Decision and Order does not appear to have been filed in Laguana}{\fs20\insrsid10108795 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f169\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid10108795 s case.  However, a j
udgment was filed indicating a Decision and Order was previously filed and the writ granted.  The judgment likewise withdrew issuance of the writ.    }}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , concluded that the Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  had not been accorded their right to be considered for sentencing under 9 GCA Chapter 83 Guam}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s Youth Correction Act (the }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Act}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 ) and granted the Writs 
of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The Superior Court indicated that the Act}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 had not been repealed and was an exception to the minimum mandatory sentencing laws.}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 While recognizing the Act had never been implemented, the Superior Court agreed that the petitioners qualified under the Act and concluded the Superior Court was bound by the provisions of}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 the Act.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
In the case of both Borja and Gogue, the court ordered Respondent Bitanga to provide additional information and report on the benefits, if any, petitioners could gain from treatment under the Act.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [8]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab After issuing its orders, the Superior Court subsequently vacated each of its prior orders and withdrew issuance of the writs as to all petitioners.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The court stated each petitioner had received the benefit of the respective plea agreements.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
In addition, the trial court stated that a Supreme Court policy determination required reversal and vacation of its prior orders.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 II.}{\b\insrsid2631980  }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 ANALYSIS}{\b\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [9]\tab }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 We must first decide whether this court has jurisdiction to h
ear an appeal denying writ relief in a habeas matter.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The jurisdictional boundaries of the Supreme Court of Guam are set forth as follows:}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 (a) }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Jurisdiction.}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 The Supreme Court shall have authority to review all justiciable controversies and proceedings, regardless of subject matter or amount involved.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 (b) }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Additional authority.}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 Its authority also includes jurisdiction of original proceedings for mandamus, proh
ibition, injunction, and similar remedies to protect its appellate jurisdiction. The Supreme Court shall have jurisdiction of all appeals arising from judgments, final decrees, or final orders of the Superior Court in criminal cases and in civil cases and
 proceedings. The Supreme Court has appellate jurisdiction over attorney disciplinary matters.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 7 GCA }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  3107 (As amended by P.L. 24-139 on February 7, 1998). }{
\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [10]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab The court, therefore, has the power to hear the appeal of any justiciable controversy or proceeding, regardless of subject matter or amount.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The court may also hear appeals arising from a judgment or final order of the Superior Court.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 In the matter currently before the court, judgments were ent
ered and the Petitioners appeal these judgments.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [11]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab 
While the broad language of section 3107 appears to give this court jurisdiction to hear an appeal of an order denying habeas relief, the specific language of the statute reveals a distinction is drawn between the court}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s appellate and original jurisdiction.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Section 3107 provides the Supreme Court of Guam with original jurisdiction over matters generally characterized as writ proceedings, including mandamus, prohibition and injunction.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
While a habeas corpus proceeding is not specifically enumerated, the }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 similar}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  remedies language of section 3107 provides this court with t
he basis to hear habeas proceedings using its original jurisdiction.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [12]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab This distinction between the court}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s appellate and original jurisdiction may be further ascertained from the Guam Legislature}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s adoption of Chapter 135 of Title 8 of the Guam Code Annotated which specifically permits the}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
appeal to the Supreme Court by the Attorney General from a final order of the Superior Court of Guam made upon the return of a writ of habeas corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 8 GCA }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  135.74 (1993).}{\cs15\super\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa200\nowidctlpar
\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid10108795 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid10108795 
The statute reads as follows: 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri1440\sa206\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid10108795 
An appeal may be taken to the Guam Supreme Court by the Attorney General from a final order of the Superior Court ma
de upon the return of a writ of habeas corpus discharging a defendant after his conviction, in all criminal cases prosecuted in a court of record. If an appeal is taken, the defendant shall not be discharged from custody pending a final decision upon the 
appeal and he shall be retaken into custody if he has been discharged, provided, however, that the Guam Supreme Court may order his release pursuant to Chapter 40 (commencing with }{\fs20\insrsid10108795 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f169\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid10108795  40.10).}}}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 This appeal may be taken only when a writ is granted discharging a defendant after conviction.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{\i\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Noticeably absent from the statute}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s language is authority permitting an unsuccessful petitioner from utilizing the same review process.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Accordingly, we hold that}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Petitioners do not have the right to appeal the denial of their petitions for habeas corpus,}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 the right to appeal being granted by statute only to the government.}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 See People v. Taimanglo,}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  1991 WL 257358, Civil Case No. CV91-0017A (D. Guam App. Div.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
November 18, 1991)(holding petitioner had no right to appeal an adverse decision and requiring the submission of a new writ of habeas corpus).}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [13]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Since there is no right to appeal a denial of a w
rit of habeas corpus, a petitioner must file a new petition with this court after exhausting his remedies at the trial court level.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Procedurally, the Supreme Court then may either: (i) issue a new writ and direct an answer or, (ii) deny the petition outright.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 If the matter should be heard on the merits, our}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 assessment, consistent with this body}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
s appellate nature, will be conducted in a manner similar to other writ matters that have come before us.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Thus, the 
court will act as a reviewing body relying upon the evidentiary record generated by the lower court.}{\insrsid2631980  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [14]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab The Petitioners did not file a new petition for a writ of habeas corpus with this court.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
However, we have the ability to elect to treat their appeals as original petitions for writs of habeas corpus filed with the court.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 See People v. Ojeda}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
, 186 Cal. App.3d 302, 230 Cal. Rptr. 609 (1986).}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The right to appeal is limited and not available to a defendant denied habeas relief.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  at 304, 230 Cal. Rptr. at 610.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Moreover, an appeal of this nature must be dismissed unless a court elects to treat the defendant}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s appeal as a new petition for habeas corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  at 304-305, 230 Cal.Rptr. 610.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Ojeda}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  court elected}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 not to treat the appeal as a habeas petition and remanded the matter to the trial court.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
The filing of a future habeas petition was not, however, foreclosed to the defendant.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  }{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [15]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Using our discretion, we elect to treat Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  appeals as original petitions for writs of habeas corpus.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Likewise, we treat the government}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s brief as the appropriate response to such petition.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 We will now address the merits of the petitions.}{
\insrsid2631980  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [16]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Petitioners argue they have a right to be sentenced pursuant to the Act.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Petitioners essentially contend they should be considered under the Act although rules necessary to carry out the intent of the Act and to enable the Territorial Parole Board to exercise powers and duties under the Act were never adopted.}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 See }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 9 GCA }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 83.30 (1994).}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Additionally, no Director of the Department of Corrections has ever certified that proper and adequate treatment, facilities and personnel have been provided under the Act.}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 9 GCA }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  83.45 (1994).}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Petitioners ask for relief although there are District Court Appellate Division decisions holding to the contrary.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 See People v. Chargualaf}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , 1989 WL 265040, Crim No. 88-00068A (D. Guam App. Div. September 26, 1989) }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 aff }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 d after remand }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 1990 WL 320350, Crim No. 88-00068A (D. Guam App. Div. October 18, 1990); }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 People v. Ibanez}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , 1990 WL 320354, Crim. No. CR90-00062A (D. Guam App. Div.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 June 23, 1990)(relying upon }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 People v. Chargualaf}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 ).}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Petitioners argue that the }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  and }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Ibanez}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  decisions are erroneous and should be explicitly overruled.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Although Petitioners admit the }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  court was correct in finding the executive branch has failed to implement the Act, they argue the District Court Appellate Division erred in concluding this meant a youthful offender could not be sentenced under the Act.}
{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [17]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab On previous occasions, we made clear that Appellate Division cases neither control nor bind our interpretation of law.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
People v. Quenga}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , 1997 Guam 6, }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  13, n.4.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 While }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 we will not disturb precedent that is }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 well supported in law and well reasoned,}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  we clearly are within our authority to modify those interpretations previously addressed by federal courts.}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Sumitomo Construction v. Zhong Ye, Inc., }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 1997 Guam 8, }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  6. (citations omitted)}{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 .}{\i\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 When choosing to make such changes, we will use our own independent and reasoned analysis of the issues before us. }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [18]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab We believe that }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 supra }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 is well reasoned precedent and we decline Petitioner}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
s invitation to overrule its holding.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 In }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
, the Appellate Division recognized the Act, although passed into law by the Guam Legislature, was never implemented.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  court thus found the sentencing of a defendant under the Act to be impossible and, therefore, his appeal had no merit as to this issue. }{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [19]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab As in }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Chargualaf,}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  the sentencing of the Petitioners under the Act is impossible.}{\insrsid2631980  }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The conditions existing at that time have not changed and the Act has still not been implemented}{\cs15\super\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s17\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar
\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f63\fs20\super\insrsid10108795 \chftn }{\f63\fs20\insrsid10108795 
Interestingly, Petitioners have not sought a Writ of Mandamus for implementation of the Act.}}}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [20]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab We also find no merit in Petitioners}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  argument that trial courts must consider and utilize the sentencing aspects of the Act although the other provisions of the Act are inoperable.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
We view the Act as legislation that must be looked at in a comprehensive manner and not legislation that can be used in a piecemeal fashion.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
The United States Supreme Court, in discussing the Federal Youth Corrections Act}{\cs15\super\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s17\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sl480\slmult1\nowidctlpar
\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tx8640\tx9360\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\f63\fs20\super\insrsid10108795 \chftn }{\f63\fs20\insrsid10108795 Guam}{
\f63\fs20\insrsid10108795 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f169\fs20}}}{\f63\fs20\insrsid10108795 s Youth Correction Act was modeled after the Federal Youth Corrections Act.}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
 specifically described said act }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
as the most comprehensive federal statute concerned with sentencing.}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Dorszynski v. United States}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 , 418 U.S. 424, 432, 94 S.Ct. 3042, 3047 (1974).}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 The
 federal act was designed to provide a better method for treating young offenders convicted in federal courts in that vulnerable age bracket, to rehabilitate them and restore normal behavior patterns. }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id. }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 at 433, 94 S.Ct. at 3048.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Federal judges were thus
 given two new alternative sentencing options providing either a system of treatment for the rehabilitation of qualified offenders, or probation.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\i\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Id.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [21]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Like the federal act, Guam}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 s Act was designed to provide rehabilitative treatment consisting of corrective and preventive guidance as well as training to youthful offenders.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 9 GCA }{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f169\fs24}}}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  83.15(f)(1994).}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
The legislation is a comprehensive scheme to permit trial courts, when sentencing youthful offenders, to consider the benefits of treatment programs established under the Act.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
However, unlike the federal act, the rehabilitation goals of the Act cannot be accomplished at this time because the Act has never been implemented.}{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Sentencing under the Act is an impossibility.}{
\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 
Consequently, the sentencing judge is not required to utilize the Act when treatment programs are nonexistent and the judge, in determining an appropriate sentence, is unable to properly consider the benefits of any treatment programs.}{\insrsid2631980 

\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 III. CONCLUSION}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 [22]}{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 \tab Accordingly, the court hereby }{\b\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 DENIES}{
\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980  the petitions for Writs of Habeas Corpus.}{\insrsid2631980 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 JOSE I. LEON GUERRERO\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 ROBERT J. TORRES, JR.
\par Associate Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid2631980  }{\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 Associate Justice}{\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid2631980 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2631980 {\insrsid10108795\charrsid2631980 PETER C. SIGUENZA
\par Chief Justice
\par }}