Fawthrop, R v [2017] EWCA Crim 1500 (9 June 2017)

Fawthrop, R v [2017] EWCA Crim 1500 (9 June 2017)

Although the sentence was unduly lenient, the court declined to interfere due to the unusual circumstances, including improper judicial indication, mitigation, and the offender's personal circumstances.

Citation
[2017] EWCA Crim 1500
Parties
Applicant: Attorney General; Respondent/offender: Gemma Fawthrop
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
09 June 2017
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal (reference by Attorney General) / Appeal Against Sentence Under S.36 Criminal Justice Act 1988
Outcome
Reference allowed but sentence not increased; original sentence stands.
Legal Topics
Racially Aggravated Harassment, Sentencing, Unduly Lenient Sentences, Judicial Procedure

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Parties

Attorney General

Applicant

Gemma Fawthrop

Respondent/offender

Procedural Posture

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

  1. 1 Whether the sentence imposed was unduly lenient for racially aggravated harassment under s.32(1)(b) Crime and Disorder Act 1998
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing process was procedurally correct given the judge's unsolicited indication of leniency

Ratio Decidendi

Although the sentence was unduly lenient, the court declined to interfere due to the unusual circumstances, including improper judicial indication, mitigation, and the offender's personal circumstances.

Court Disposition

Reference allowed but sentence not increased; original sentence stands.

Orders

  • Leave to refer granted.
  • Sentence of 12 month community order with 15 day rehabilitation requirement to remain.