Lawrence, R. v [2025] EWCA Crim 181 (26 February 2025)

Lawrence, R. v [2025] EWCA Crim 181 (26 February 2025)

The sentencing judge erred by failing to maintain a clear distinction between the appellant and the co-defendant when aggregating sentences, resulting in a sentence that was wrong in principle and manifestly excessive. A further downward adjustment was required to reflect the appellant's lesser role, youth, and...

Source-derived case information.

Citation
[2025] EWCA Crim 181
Parties
Respondent: R; Appellant: Michael Lawrence
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
26 February 2025
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence
Outcome
Appeal allowed; sentence quashed and substituted
Legal Topics
Sentencing, Conspiracy to Commit Grievous Bodily Harm, Extended Sentences, Totality Principle
Criminal Law Sentencing Conspiracy to Commit Grievous Bodily Harm Extended Sentences Totality Principle

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Summary, issues, holding and outcome

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Parties

R

Respondent

Michael Lawrence

Appellant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Appeal Against Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the sentence imposed on the appellant was wrong in principle and/or manifestly excessive
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing judge failed to maintain a proper distinction between the appellant and the co-defendant when aggregating sentences

Ratio Decidendi

The sentencing judge erred by failing to maintain a clear distinction between the appellant and the co-defendant when aggregating sentences, resulting in a sentence that was wrong in principle and manifestly excessive. A further downward adjustment was required to reflect the appellant's lesser role, youth, and lighter criminal record.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed; sentence quashed and substituted

Orders

  • The sentence of 24 years is quashed.
  • An extended sentence of 22.5 years is imposed, comprising a custodial period of 17.5 years and an extended licence period of 5 years under section 279 of the Sentencing Act 2020.