Coulthard, R v

Despite the appellant's serious record and the aggravating circumstances of targeting churches, a total sentence of nine years was excessive; a sentence of six years was appropriate.

Parties: Prosecutor: Regina; Appellant: Christopher Coulthard
Jurisdiction: England and Wales
Judgment Date: 09 December 2011
Procedural Posture: Criminal Appeal / Sentence Appeal
Outcome: appeal allowed in part; sentence reduced
Legal Topics: Burglary, Sentencing, Going Equipped for Burglary

Criminal Law Burglary Sentencing Going Equipped for Burglary

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

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Parties

Regina

Prosecutor

Christopher Coulthard

Appellant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Sentence Appeal

Legal Issues

1 Whether the sentence of nine years' imprisonment for three burglaries and going equipped for burglary was manifestly excessive given the appellant's record and the circumstances of the offences.

Ratio Decidendi

Despite the appellant's serious record and the aggravating circumstances of targeting churches, a total sentence of nine years was excessive; a sentence of six years was appropriate.

Court Disposition

appeal allowed in part; sentence reduced

Orders

Nine year sentence quashed and substituted with a total sentence of six years' imprisonment.