Minter, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 359 (03 March 2026)

Minter, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 359 (03 March 2026)

The original sentences on counts 4 and 6 were too high due to incorrect categorisation and insufficient weight to mitigation; the offences, though serious, warranted a total sentence of 21 months, which should be suspended for 2 years due to strong personal mitigation, realistic prospect of rehabilitation, and the severe impact on the appellant's dependent children.

Citation
[2026] EWCA Crim 359
Parties
Prosecution: Rex; Appellant: Sam Minter
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
03 March 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Court of Appeal Judgment on Sentence
Outcome
Appeal allowed; sentence reduced and suspended
Legal Topics
Sentencing, Affray, Threats to Kill, Non Fatal Strangulation, Appeal Against Sentence, Suspended Sentence, Totality Principle
Criminal Law Sentencing Affray Threats to Kill Non Fatal Strangulation Appeal Against Sentence Suspended Sentence Totality Principle

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Parties

Rex

Prosecution

Sam Minter

Appellant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Court of Appeal Judgment on Sentence

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the total sentence imposed was manifestly excessive or wrong in principle
  2. 2 Whether sentences should have been concurrent or consecutive
  3. 3 Whether the categorisation of offences for sentencing was correct

Ratio Decidendi

The original sentences on counts 4 and 6 were too high due to incorrect categorisation and insufficient weight to mitigation; the offences, though serious, warranted a total sentence of 21 months, which should be suspended for 2 years due to strong personal mitigation, realistic prospect of rehabilitation, and the severe impact on the appellant's dependent children.

Court Disposition

Appeal allowed; sentence reduced and suspended

Orders

  • Sentence on count 1 (affray): 3 months' imprisonment
  • Sentence on count 4 (threat to kill): 5 months' imprisonment