R v Kieran Mullen

R v Kieran Mullen

The original sentences on counts 2, 3, and 4 were unduly lenient as they fell below the guideline range for the offences and the reductions for totality, youth, and delay were excessive. The just and proportionate sentence, reflecting the gravity and multiplicity of the offences, is 13 years' imprisonment, achieved by increasing counts 2 and 3 to 6 years each (concurrent) and count 4 to 7 years (consecutive).

Parties
Respondent/offender: Kieran Mullen; Prosecution: Rex (The Crown); Applicant/referrer: Attorney General
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
19 February 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal (reference by Attorney General) / Appeal Against Sentence Under S.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988
Outcome
Appeal allowed; sentences on counts 2, 3, and 4 quashed and substituted; total sentence increased.
Legal Topics
Sentencing, Rape, Sexual Offences, Unduly Lenient Sentences, Appeal Procedure
Criminal Law Sentencing Rape Sexual Offences Unduly Lenient Sentences Appeal Procedure

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

More case intelligence is available

Unlock the full research layer for this judgment.

Full judgment text Downloadable case file Legal principles 3 Authorities cited 4 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 6
Sign in to unlock

Parties

Kieran Mullen

Respondent/offender

Rex (The Crown)

Prosecution

Attorney General

Applicant/referrer

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal (reference by Attorney General) / Appeal Against Sentence Under S.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the original sentences for rape and sexual assault were unduly lenient
  2. 2 Proper application of Sentencing Council Definitive Guideline for rape
  3. 3 Appropriate adjustment for totality and mitigating factors

Ratio Decidendi

The original sentences on counts 2, 3, and 4 were unduly lenient as they fell below the guideline range for the offences and the reductions for totality, youth, and delay were excessive. The just and proportionate sentence, reflecting the gravity and multiplicity of the offences, is 13 years' imprisonment, achieved by increasing counts 2 and 3 to 6 years each (concurrent) and count 4 to 7 years (consecutive).

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed; sentences on counts 2, 3, and 4 quashed and substituted; total sentence increased.

Orders

  • Solicitor General granted leave to refer under s.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988
  • Sentences on counts 2 and 3 increased to 6 years each, concurrent