McKechnie v R

Craig McKechnie appealed against his sentence of two years and one month imprisonment, imposed by Judge Hollister-Jones in the Rotorua District Court. McKechnie pleaded guilty to seven charges including possession of methamphetamine for supply, possession of utensils, theft of a log splitter, driving while suspended, and breaching sentences of community work and supervision. The High Court was asked to determine whether the sentence was manifestly excessive. The appeal hinged on whether the District Court Judge properly applied the sentencing principles and discounts for McKechnie's remorse, forfeited cash, and guilty pleas. The High Court found that the starting point of three years imprisonment for the methamphetamine charges was within range. While some of the uplifts and discounts applied may have been too high or low, the overall sentence was not manifestly excessive. The appeal against sentence was dismissed.