Arroyo’s sentence reduction request denied

Adan Arroyo, who was sentenced to 25 years to life in the January 2013 death of Kristy Aschliman in Bonneville County, asked for a sentence reduction to 15 years to life in court Wednesday. His request was denied.

Arroyo’s basis in asking for the reduction was that District Judge Jon Shindurling knew Aschliman personally.

Shindurling had sentenced Arroyo, 23, of Blackfoot, in June. On Wednesday, Shindurling said the only knowledge he had of the victim was information provided within the hearing case files. He said he had dealt with cases like Aschliman’s in the past and thought she had the opportunity to turn her life around.

“The primary issue here is that this is a cold-blooded execution by someone who had no regard for human life. I think to sentence was appropriate, so the motion is denied,” said Shindurling.

Arroyo avoided the death penalty in the death of Aschliman, 21, who was shot in the head, as part of a plea deal.

Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney Bruce Pickett said his office pushed for 27 years to life. He said the court already showed leniency with a 25-years-to-life sentencing.

“They (the family) are definitely in a situation where even 25 to 30 years from now, they will never have their sister or daughter back,” said Pickett. “We argued that the court had already shown leniency to Mr. Arroyo, even though he didn’t show any to his victim.”

Shindurling said Arroyo’s lawyer could appeal his decision, but there was no indication whether there are plans to do so.