REGINA v MICHAEL WATSON

REGINA v MICHAEL WATSON

The sentence imposed was severe but not manifestly excessive given the multiple significant aggravating features and the totality of offending. The judge was entitled to apply a custodial term above the starting point, and there was no merit in the application.

Parties
Prosecution: Regina; Applicant: Michael Watson
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
11 March 2022
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Renewed Application for Leave to Appeal Against Sentence
Outcome
application dismissed
Legal Topics
Sexual Offences, Sentencing, Appeals
Criminal Law Sexual Offences Sentencing Appeals

Case Brief

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Parties

Regina

Prosecution

Michael Watson

Applicant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Renewed Application for Leave to Appeal Against Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the sentence imposed was manifestly excessive
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing judge applied the correct category under the Sentencing Council Guideline for Sexual Offences
  3. 3 Whether aggravating features were double counted

Ratio Decidendi

The sentence imposed was severe but not manifestly excessive given the multiple significant aggravating features and the totality of offending. The judge was entitled to apply a custodial term above the starting point, and there was no merit in the application.

Court Disposition

application dismissed

Orders

  • renewed application for leave to appeal against sentence is dismissed