R v Mirzaee [2004] NSWCCA 315

R v Mirzaee [2004] NSWCCA 315

The sentencing judge erred in taking into account the likelihood of deportation in determining the non-parole period, requiring the appellate court to vary the non-parole period. However, the total head sentence of 9 years was not manifestly excessive given the seriousness of the offence and the need for general deterrence.

Jurisdiction
Australia
Judgment Date
17 September 2004
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence
Outcome
Appeal allowed; sentence varied as to non-parole period
Legal Topics
['appeal Against Sentence' 'deportation and Sentencing' 'drug Importation' 'special Circumstances in Sentencing']

Case Brief

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Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence

  1. 1 ['Whether the sentencing judge erred by considering the prospect of deportation in determining the length of the non-parole period' 'Whether the sentence was manifestly excessive']

Ratio Decidendi

The sentencing judge erred in taking into account the likelihood of deportation in determining the non-parole period, requiring the appellate court to vary the non-parole period. However, the total head sentence of 9 years was not manifestly excessive given the seriousness of the offence and the need for general deterrence.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed; sentence varied as to non-parole period

Orders

  • ['Leave to appeal granted' 'Appeal allowed' 'The sentence passed upon the applicant on 27 November 2003 is varied only as to the non-parole period, reducing it to 4.5 years from 27 April 2003 to 26 October 2007, at which time the applicant will be eligible for parole']