Hardy, R. v [2010] EWHC 1064 (QB) (14 May 2010)

Hardy, R. v [2010] EWHC 1064 (QB) (14 May 2010)

Given the gravity of the offences, involving multiple murders with sexual and sadistic conduct, and the lack of sufficient mitigating factors, a whole life order is necessary to meet the requirements of retribution and deterrence. Hardy should never be released from prison.

Citation
[2010] EWHC 1064 (QB)
Parties
Prosecution: The Queen; Defendant: Anthony John Hardy
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
14 May 2010
Procedural Posture
Criminal / Sentencing and Minimum Term Determination
Outcome
Whole life order imposed; no minimum term set; Hardy will never be released from prison.
Legal Topics
Murder, Sentencing, Whole Life Order, Minimum Term, Parole Eligibility
Criminal Law Murder Sentencing Whole Life Order Minimum Term Parole Eligibility

Case Brief

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Parties

The Queen

Prosecution

Anthony John Hardy

Defendant

Procedural Posture

Criminal / Sentencing and Minimum Term Determination

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether a minimum term should be set for the defendant's life sentence or a whole life order imposed
  2. 2 Appropriate application of retribution and deterrence in sentencing for multiple murders involving sexual or sadistic conduct

Ratio Decidendi

Given the gravity of the offences, involving multiple murders with sexual and sadistic conduct, and the lack of sufficient mitigating factors, a whole life order is necessary to meet the requirements of retribution and deterrence. Hardy should never be released from prison.

Court Disposition

Whole life order imposed; no minimum term set; Hardy will never be released from prison.

Orders

  • Whole life order made under sections 269(2) and 269(4) of the Criminal Justice Act 2003.