[2009] EWCA Crim 328

In the circumstances, a total sentence of seven years' detention for a young offender who was 17 at the time of his conviction for offences of blackmail and causing explosions in relation to the blackmail threat was manifestly excessive. The purpose of the youth justice system was the prevention of crime and the punitive function of the court did not apply for offenders under the age of 18 on conviction. A total sentence of four years' detention was substituted.

CA (Crim Div) (Blake J, Burnett J)

06/02/2009