Bunce, R. v [2025] EWCA Crim 1157 (23 July 2025)

Bunce, R. v [2025] EWCA Crim 1157 (23 July 2025)

The sentence of 28 years' imprisonment was not manifestly excessive given the extreme and sustained nature of the abuse, the vulnerability of the victim, and the aggravating factors present. The sentencing judge correctly applied the guidelines and exercised appropriate discretion in assessing totality, harm, and culpability.

Citation
[2025] EWCA Crim 1157
Parties
Prosecution: Rex; Appellant: Keith Bunce
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
23 July 2025
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence
Outcome
appeal dismissed
Legal Topics
Sentencing, Sexual Offences, Appeal Procedure, Totality Principle
Criminal Law Sentencing Sexual Offences Appeal Procedure Totality Principle

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 1 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 8
Sign in to unlock

Parties

Rex

Prosecution

Keith Bunce

Appellant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the sentence of 28 years' imprisonment was manifestly excessive for multiple sexual offences and assaults.
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing judge misapplied the sentencing guidelines regarding harm and culpability.
  3. 3 Whether the appellant's purported support to the victim constituted mitigation.

Ratio Decidendi

The sentence of 28 years' imprisonment was not manifestly excessive given the extreme and sustained nature of the abuse, the vulnerability of the victim, and the aggravating factors present. The sentencing judge correctly applied the guidelines and exercised appropriate discretion in assessing totality, harm, and culpability.

Court Disposition

appeal dismissed

Orders

  • The appeal against sentence is dismissed.