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Supreme Court Rejects Inmate's Appeal on Life Sentence

4/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Supreme Court declined to hear the appeal of Delmart Edward Vreeland, a Colorado inmate, challenging his 336-year-to-life sentence.
Vreeland argues the Sixth Amendment was violated because a judge, not a jury, found facts increasing his sentence.
Justice Neil Gorsuch recused himself after previously ruling against Vreeland on the Tenth Circuit.
The Court faces criticism for lack of transparency regarding recusals despite recent efforts to improve conflict-of-interest management.

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Story summary

The Supreme Court declined to hear the appeal of Delmart Edward Vreeland, a Colorado inmate, challenging his 336-year-to-life sentence.
Vreeland argues the Sixth Amendment was violated because a judge, not a jury, found facts increasing his sentence.
Justice Neil Gorsuch recused himself after previously ruling against Vreeland on the Tenth Circuit.
The Court faces criticism for lack of transparency regarding recusals despite recent efforts to improve conflict-of-interest management.