Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of Reverend Robert "Bob" Battle to the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission.

Battle, of St. Paul, is the founder and pastor of the Berean Church of God in Christ in St. Paul. He serves as a liaison for the St. Paul mayor's office to the chief of police and previously chaired the St. Paul Human Rights Commission. Battle replaces Lorie Gildea as a public member on the commission to complete a four-year term that expires on January 1, 2007.

The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission develops and maintains rational and consistent sentencing standards which seek to reduce sentencing disparity, increase proportionality in sanctions, and ensure more equitable and uniform sentencing for convicted felons. The commission consists of 11 members, including seven appointed by the Governor.