Edwardson v R

The six appellants were convicted of multiple charges relating to the manufacture and possession of methamphetamine for the purposes of supply. The police investigation focused upon the suspected manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine by members of a chapter of the Head Hunters Motorcycle Club in the Auckland area. The charges arose from a police operation that led to nine defendants, including the six appellants, facing trial by jury in the High Court at Auckland before Downs J. The appellants appealed against their convictions and/or their sentences. The primary issues before the Court of Appeal were whether there was sufficient evidence to convict the appellants, whether the sentences imposed were appropriate and whether the appellants’ ill health or advanced age warranted a reduction in sentence. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeals against conviction and allowed the appeals against sentence in respect of three of the appellants. The Court of Appeal granted leave to adduce fresh evidence in respect of one appellant.