Vinter, R v [2009] EWCA Crim 1399 (25 June 2009)

Vinter, R v [2009] EWCA Crim 1399 (25 June 2009)

Given the appellant's previous murder conviction, the premeditated and aggravated nature of the second murder, and the absence of mitigating factors sufficient to depart from the statutory starting point, a whole life term is appropriate for punishment and deterrence.

Source-derived case information.

Citation
[2009] EWCA Crim 1399
Parties
Respondent: Regina; Appellant: Douglas Gary Vinter
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
25 June 2009
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence
Outcome
appeal dismissed
Legal Topics
Murder, Sentencing, Whole Life Order, Dangerousness, Repeat Offender
Criminal Law Murder Sentencing Whole Life Order Dangerousness Repeat Offender

Source-derived case record

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

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Parties

Regina

Respondent

Douglas Gary Vinter

Appellant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the imposition of a whole life term for a second murder conviction was appropriate
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing judge erred by focusing on future dangerousness rather than the seriousness of the offence

Ratio Decidendi

Given the appellant's previous murder conviction, the premeditated and aggravated nature of the second murder, and the absence of mitigating factors sufficient to depart from the statutory starting point, a whole life term is appropriate for punishment and deterrence.

Court Disposition

appeal dismissed

Orders

  • The whole life term sentence is upheld.