R v Washer

Matthew William Washer has been convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault against a girl, T, who was aged between nine and fourteen years old at the time of the offenses. The New Zealand High Court, sitting in the New Plymouth Registry, heard Washer's case, and he pleaded guilty to charges including sexual conduct with a girl under 12, sexual conduct with a young person under 16, and sexual violation by rape and unlawful sexual connection. The primary issue before the court was whether Washer should be sentenced to preventive detention or a finite term of imprisonment, and if so, the length of the minimum term. The court considered various factors, including the nature and pattern of the offenses, the harm caused to the community and T, and the risk of future offending. The court found that Washer's offenses constituted a pattern of serious offending, with a high likelihood of reoffending if not treated. However, the availability of treatment in prison, potential application of an Extended Supervision Order, and registration under the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Act 2016 were seen as mitigating factors. The court decided on a lengthy, finite term of imprisonment, with a starting point of 19 years, reduced to 14 years, and a minimum term of eight years, to account for the totality of the offending, the harm caused, and the mitigating factors.

In conclusion, the court sentenced Matthew William Washer to 14 years' imprisonment with a minimum term of eight years, with all sentences to run concurrently. Washer will also be subject to the Child Sex Offender Register for the remainder of his life, with ongoing reporting obligations.