State v. Ruffin, 232 N.C. App. 652 (Mar. 4, 2014)

In a rape case, any error made by the trial court regarding the maximum possible sentence did not entitle the defendant to relief. The trial court’s statement was made in connection with noting for the record—on defense counsel’s request—that the defendant had rejected a plea offer by the State. The court rejected the defendant’s argument that the provisions of G.S. 15A-1022 should apply, noting that statute only is applicable when the defendant actually pleads guilty; a trial court is not required to make an inquiry into a defendant’s decision not to plead guilty.