R v Black

The appellant, Black, appealed against his conviction for manslaughter, and sought leave to appeal against the sentence imposed. The trial involved evidence that upon the arrival of the police, Black closed the blinds and was found arrested under the bed. The trial judge directed the jury that an inference of consciousness of guilt was available on this evidence. The appellant contended that the trial judge erred by failing to direct the jury that they should not draw such an adverse inference because of its prejudicial effect. The appellant also argued that the sentence of 12 years imprisonment was excessive.

The court considered whether the trial judge erred in giving the directions to the jury regarding the inference of consciousness of guilt. The court found that the trial judge had not erred in directing the jury that an inference of consciousness of guilt was available on the evidence in question. The court held that the trial judge had correctly applied the law and provided adequate directions to the jury. The court further considered the appellant's challenge to the sentence. The court found that the sentence of 12 years imprisonment was not manifestly excessive, as it fell within the appropriate range for the offence of manslaughter. The court held that the sentence was appropriate given the circumstances of the case.

The appeal against the conviction was dismissed. The application for leave to appeal against the sentence was refused.