Copeland, R. v

Copeland, R. v

The minimum term of 50 years was justified given the gravity, premeditation, and motivation of the offences, and no sufficient mitigation was found in the appellant's mental disorder, youth, or lack of violent convictions. The appeal was dismissed.

Parties
Appellant: David James Copeland; Respondent: Regina
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
28 June 2011
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Judgment on Appeal Against Minimum Term Order
Outcome
appeal dismissed
Legal Topics
Murder, Sentencing, Minimum Term, Life Imprisonment, Explosions, Diminished Responsibility
Criminal Law Murder Sentencing Minimum Term Life Imprisonment Explosions Diminished Responsibility

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 3 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 2
Sign in to unlock

Parties

David James Copeland

Appellant

Regina

Respondent

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Judgment on Appeal Against Minimum Term Order

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the minimum term of 50 years imposed for murder and causing explosions likely to endanger life was appropriate
  2. 2 Whether sufficient allowance was made for appellant's mental disorder, youth, and lack of convictions for violence

Ratio Decidendi

The minimum term of 50 years was justified given the gravity, premeditation, and motivation of the offences, and no sufficient mitigation was found in the appellant's mental disorder, youth, or lack of violent convictions. The appeal was dismissed.

Court Disposition

appeal dismissed

Orders

  • Minimum term of 50 years for life imprisonment upheld