R v Snounou (No 3) [2024] NSWDC 636

R v Snounou (No 3) [2024] NSWDC 636

Given the extremely high level of objective seriousness involving massive quantities of precursor chemicals capable of producing methylamphetamine on an industrial scale for financial gain, general and specific deterrence required a substantial term of imprisonment. Allowing for discounts for the utilitarian value of guilty pleas, delay, remorse, time spent on bail and in custody, an aggregate sentence of 10 years with a non-parole period of 7 years and 6 months was appropriate.

Parties
Crown: Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions; Offender: Michael Snounou
Jurisdiction
Australia
Judgment Date
12 July 2024
Procedural Posture
Criminal / Sentence
Outcome
Convicted—Aggregate sentence of imprisonment imposed
Legal Topics
Drug Offences, Possession of Precursor, Sentencing, Deterrence
Criminal Law Drug Offences Possession of Precursor Sentencing Deterrence

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Parties

Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions

Crown

Michael Snounou

Offender

Procedural Posture

Criminal / Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Appropriate sentence for possession of precursor (iodine) with intent to manufacture prohibited drug (methylamphetamine) under s 24A(1)(a) Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 (NSW)
  2. 2 Consideration of objective seriousness and relevant mitigating/aggravating factors in sentencing

Ratio Decidendi

Given the extremely high level of objective seriousness involving massive quantities of precursor chemicals capable of producing methylamphetamine on an industrial scale for financial gain, general and specific deterrence required a substantial term of imprisonment. Allowing for discounts for the utilitarian value of guilty pleas, delay, remorse, time spent on bail and in custody, an aggregate sentence of 10 years with a non-parole period of 7 years and 6 months was appropriate.

Court Disposition

Convicted—Aggregate sentence of imprisonment imposed

Orders

  • Aggregate sentence of 10 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of 7 years and 6 months, commencing 22 August 2021 (backdated for pre-sentence custody and conditional bail).
  • The non-parole period expires 21 February 2029; balance term expires 21 August 2031.