Relton, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 328 (24 February 2026)

Relton, R. v [2026] EWCA Crim 328 (24 February 2026)

There was no evidence of incorrect legal advice or judicial pressure; the applicant's guilty plea was voluntary and informed. The sentencing judge correctly categorised the offences and imposed sentences within the guideline ranges, taking into account aggravating and mitigating factors. The restraining order was proportionate. The extension of time was not justified. All applications were without merit and refused.

Citation
[2026] EWCA Crim 328
Parties
Prosecution: Rex; Applicant/defendant: Paul Relton
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
24 February 2026
Procedural Posture
Criminal Appeal / Renewed Application for Permission to Appeal Conviction and Sentence; Application for Extension of Time
Outcome
applications refused
Legal Topics
Stalking, Harassment, Appeal Against Conviction, Appeal Against Sentence, Extension of Time, Guilty Plea Validity, Sentencing Guidelines, Restraining Orders
Criminal Law Stalking Harassment Appeal Against Conviction Appeal Against Sentence Extension of Time Guilty Plea Validity Sentencing Guidelines +1 more

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Parties

Rex

Prosecution

Paul Relton

Applicant/defendant

Procedural Posture

Criminal Appeal / Renewed Application for Permission to Appeal Conviction and Sentence; Application for Extension of Time

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the applicant's guilty plea was unsafe due to alleged incorrect legal advice or judicial pressure
  2. 2 Whether the sentencing judge erred in categorising the seriousness of the offences and in the length of the restraining order
  3. 3 Whether there was sufficient mitigation to warrant a lesser sentence

Ratio Decidendi

There was no evidence of incorrect legal advice or judicial pressure; the applicant's guilty plea was voluntary and informed. The sentencing judge correctly categorised the offences and imposed sentences within the guideline ranges, taking into account aggravating and mitigating factors. The restraining order was proportionate. The extension of time was not justified. All applications were without merit and refused.

Court Disposition

applications refused

Orders

  • Renewed application for permission to appeal conviction refused
  • Application for extension of time refused