R v AMETOVIC

The Crown appealed against the sentence imposed on the respondent, AMETOVIC, by the sentencing judge. The appeal concerned the adequacy of the sentence for property offences, specifically robbery. The matter was heard by S Doyle, Bleby and B Doyle JJ.

The central legal issue before the Full Court was whether the original sentence was manifestly inadequate, particularly the non-parole period, given the respondent's history of offending. The Court was required to determine if interference with the sentencing judge's discretion was warranted.

The Court acknowledged the respondent's concerning history of offending, which limited the scope for leniency. However, it also took into account the respondent's relatively young age and the sentencing judge's assessment of his prospects for rehabilitation. Applying these considerations, the Court allowed the Crown's appeal, set aside the original sentence, and imposed a new sentence of imprisonment for 5 years, 7 months, 1 week, and 5 days. A non-parole period of 3 years and 6 months was fixed, and the sentence was backdated to commence from 6 September 2023.