Michigan Supreme Court: Commuted Life Sentence Can't Be Altered

LANSING (AP) - The Michigan Supreme Court is reversing one of Governor Jennifer Granholm's last official acts.

Granholm in 2010 commuted the life sentence of Matthew Makowski, making him eligible for parole after more than 20 years in prison. But she did an about-face within 48 hours and her order was destroyed.

The high court says governors cannot reduce a prisoner's sentence and then change their mind.

Lower courts let Granholm's decision stand...but the Supreme Court says she exceeded her authority.

Makowski was convicted of first-degree murder for arranging the robbery of a Dearborn health club co-worker in 1988.

© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.