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  2. Sentencing guidelines - Life Sentences – Mandatory
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  4. 2024

Sentencing guidelines - Life Sentences – Mandatory

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21 October 2024

The King v John Paul Whitla

In this judgment the Court of Appeal refreshes the categories in respect of sentencing for murder as previously outlined in R v McCandless [2004] NICA 1 to reflect the complexion of cases which have come before the courts in NI over the last 20 years (see paras [40] – [45]).

DPP reference - murder - false imprisonment - common assault - trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence - multiple stabbings - whether sentence unduly lenient - whether starting point for minimum tariff too low - whether judge wrong not to find pre-planning or premeditation - flaws in prosecution approach not arguing pre-planning element with necessary vigour led judge into error – multiple stabbing case such as this required an uplift on the starting point selected - sentence unduly lenient - leave granted – reference allowed - sentence quashed and replaced with revised minimum tariff of 19 years

[2024] NICA 65 Keegan LCJ

03 May 2024

The King v Stephen McKinney

This judgment provides guidance to sentencers dealing with murder cases in a domestic context where coercive and controlling behaviour is established. (See in particular paragraphs [2], [34], [52] and [66]).

Application for leave to appeal a mandatory life sentence with a minimum tariff of 20 years – murder of appellant’s wife – whether tariff manifestly excessive – court reiterated the position that pre-existing coercive and controlling behaviour is an aggravating factor that will result in higher sentences when domestic murders of this kind occur - sentences of 20 years and possibly more will be upheld – appeal dismissed

[2024] NICA 35 Keegan LCJ
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