AG v Sangster and Sangster [2001] JRC 247A (14 December 2001)

The seriousness of blackmail, especially when aggravated by failure to report sexual abuse and involving a minor, warrants custodial sentences despite mitigation for guilty pleas and family impact.

Citation: [2001] JRC 247A
Parties: Accused: Amanda Sangster; Accused: Jayne Sangster; Victim: Mr. X
Jurisdiction: Jersey
Judgment Date: 14 December 2001
Procedural Posture: Criminal / Sentencing
Outcome: conviction and sentencing
Legal Topics: Blackmail, Sentencing, Mitigation, Child Involvement in Crime, Drug Forfeiture

Criminal Law Blackmail Sentencing Mitigation Child Involvement in Crime Drug Forfeiture

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

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Full judgment text Downloadable case file Legal principles 2 Authorities cited 4 Party arguments 2 Amounts and remedies 4

Parties

Amanda Sangster

Accused

Jayne Sangster

Accused

Mr. X

Victim

Procedural Posture

Criminal / Sentencing

Legal Issues

1 What is the appropriate sentence for blackmail aggravated by failure to report sexual abuse and involvement of a minor?
2 Should the sentence be reduced due to the impact on the accused's children?

Ratio Decidendi

The seriousness of blackmail, especially when aggravated by failure to report sexual abuse and involving a minor, warrants custodial sentences despite mitigation for guilty pleas and family impact.

Court Disposition

conviction and sentencing

Orders

Amanda Sangster fined £200 or two weeks' imprisonment on Count 1
Amanda Sangster sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment, concurrent, on Count 2