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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12011383 [1990]}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  36 FLR }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 242}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 HIGH COURT OF FIJI
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 v}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 THE STATE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 [HIGH COURT, 1991 (Fatiaki J) 14 February]
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Appellate Jurisdiction
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Sentence - causing death by dangerous driving - guidelines - aggravating and mitigating factors - Penal Code (Cap. 17) Section 238.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Crime: procedure - bail pending appeal - when appropriate - Criminal Procedure Code (Cap. 21) Section 315.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
The Appellant who was convicted of causing death by dangerous driving was sentenced to an immediate term of imprisonment but shortly thereafter the sentencer granted him bail pending appeal. Allowing the appeal the High Court discussed the proper
 approach to sentencing for this offence and emphasised its seriousness. The Court also deprecated the practice of granting bail pending appeal save in exceptional circumstances.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Cases cited:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Archaiya v R}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648  [1964]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  10 FLR 117
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Boswell and Ors}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  (1984) 6 Cr. App. R 257
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Guilfoyle}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  (1973) 57 Cr. App. R. 549
\par }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Hayat Mohammed v R}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648  [}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 1963}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648 ]}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  9 FLR 53
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 I. Fa}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  for the Appellant
\par }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 S. Senaratne}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  for the Respondent}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par Appeal against sentence imposed in the Magistrates' Court.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Fatiaki J:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 This is a
n appeal against a sentence of 12 months imprisonment and 2 years disqualification imposed on the appellant after he was found guilty of an offence of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving in the Suva Magistrates' Court on the 15th of June, 1990.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 The Court r
ecord reveals that later that same day sometime after the sentence was passed, the appellant was released on bail by the trial magistrate in the sum of $300 pending the filing of his petition of appeal.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 With respect to the learned trial magistrate his utilisation of Section 315 of the Criminal Procedure Code in these circumstances appears somewhat incongruous.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Section 315 is a provision which ought to be exercised judicially and with care.
\par 
\par It is not any easy way out for a magistrate who imposes a sentence that he later regrets or feels was too severe.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
It must be remembered that when an application for bail pending appeal is being considered the presumption is that when the applicant was convicted, he was properly convicted. That is why, where he is under
going or has been sentenced to serve an immediate custodial sentence, he must demonstrate, if he wishes to anticipate the result of his appeal and secure his liberty forthwith, that there are exceptional or unusual circumstances in the case.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 The discretion given by the section can only be exercised }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
......... if in the circumstances of the case (the court) thinks fit .......... It goes without saying that the occasions must be rare where a court which imposes an immediate custodial sentence after trial cons
iders in the absence of any apparent or recorded reason(s) that the circumstances of the case warranted the pre emptory release of the accused on bail pending the filing of a petition of appeal.
\par 
\par Needless to say the release of an appellant before he has even begun to serve any part of an immediate custodial sentence impose}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648 d on him is likely to engender (}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 not unnaturally I might add}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5799648 )}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
 in such an appellant, the hope or expectation that the custodial sentence will ultimately be altered to one which does not entail any loss of liberty.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Magistrates would also do well to bear in mind the headnote to the case of }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Hayat Mohammed v. R}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  9 FLR 53 and the dictum of Mar-Duff C.J. when he said at p. 54 of the predecessor to Section 315:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 "It is clear from the wording of the 
section that an order that the execution of the sentence or order against which an appeal is pending be suspended has no application in the case of a sentence of a fine or of an order of disqualification under the Traffic Ordinance. The qualification 'if 
such person is not released on bail' restricts the suspension to a sentence or order entailing a person's detention in custody."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Furthermore no time limit was set within which the petition was required to be filed as it should have been and in the result t
he appellant's petition of appeal against sentence on the single ground that it was "...... too harsh and excessive in the circumstances" was not lodged until 2 weeks after his release.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par So much then for Section 315 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
I turn next to deal with the appellant's appeal against sentence. However before doing so it should be noted that this was a contested case in which the appellant was represented throughout by counsel.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 

\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par In sentencing the appellant the learned trial magistrate said}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 :
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
The evidence in the case reveals that a boy aged I1 years was knocked down and subsequently died. The accused by driving his vehicle in a built-up area at a fast speed showed scant regard for the safety of other road users. A young life has bee
n lost as a result. This Court will fail in its duty if it does not impose a custodial sentence to deter others from driving on the public roads at a fast speed and in a dangerous manner."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 It is clear from the Judgment of the learned trial magistrate that
 he found no actual fault in the control by the appellant of the vehicle or in the manner of his driving other than "driving at a fast speed" and whilst that distinction does not undermine in anyway the appellant's conviction (see: }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Archaiya v. R.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14970648 [1963] }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 10 FLR 117), there can be no doubting its relevance to the question of sentence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par It is also clear from the evidence led at the trial that the accident occurred at a junction to a residential area at a time and on a day when the particular stretch of road
 was or might reasonably be expected to be abnormally busy (it being the float procession day of the annual Hibiscus Festival).
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Causing Death by Dangerous Driving is an offence for which the legislature has provided a maximum penalty of imprisonment for 5
 years and although there are reported decisions of the Courts in this country where sentences of imprisonment have been upheld on drivers found guilty of the offence (see: }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10774020 [1967] }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 13 FLR 174; }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10774020 [1970] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 16 FLR 1, }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10774020 [1972] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 18 FLR 167; }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10774020 [1973] }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 19 FLR 1 and }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10774020 [1974] }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 20 FLR 350), experience and statisti
cs indicate that a custodial sentence is the exception rather than the rule.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 If I may say so there appears to be a serious misconception amongst drivers perhaps reinforced by sentences passed by the Courts, that persons convicted of traffic offences are n
ot really a danger to society or "criminals" in the popular sense of the word. Last year alone there were as many as 86 deaths on our roads and if the existing trend continues unabated this year the road death toll will exceed 100. No other area of human 
activity has given rise to such appalling fatality figures, human suffering and disability yet the attitude continues.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 It is trite to say that a motor vehicle is a potentially lethal instrument and any driver who fails to realise that what he is doing at t
he wheel does create a risk when such a risk would be obvious to any ordinary bystander and kills in the process, is }{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid10774020 prima facie}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  deserving of severe punishment involving in many cases an immediate loss of liberty.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 It is clearly time that our Courts treate
d such offences and offenders with the seriousness that the legislature intended them to be regarded and also to reflect the concern of the general public about these matters.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Having said that, what then are the factors that should guide a court in arrivi
ng at an appropriate sentence for an offence of causing Death by Dangerous Driving? The English Court of Criminal Appeal has attempted to lay down sentencing}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 gu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 idelines in 2 notable decisions}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 : }{
\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Guilfoyle}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 (}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8917551 1973) 57 Cr. App. R. 549}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  and }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Boswell and Others}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  (1984) 6 Cr. App. R. (Sentencing Series) 257.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par In }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Guilfoyle}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  Lawton L.J. in delivering the judgment of the Court said at pp. 551 and 552:}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid8917551 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8917551 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
The experience of this Court has been that there have been many variations in penalties. Some variations are inevitable be
cause no two road accidents are alike, but there are limits to permissible variations and it may be helpful if this Court indicates what they are.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
Cases of this kind fall into two broad categories; first, those in which the accident has arisen through mo
mentary inattention or misjudgment, and secondly, those in which the accused has driven in a manner which has shown a selfish disregard for the safety of other road users or of his passengers, or with a degree of recklessness. A sub-division of this categ
ory is provided by the cases in which an accident has been caused or contributed to by the accused's consumption of alcohol or drugs.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Offenders, too,
 can be put into categories. A substantial number have good driving records, a fair number have driving records which reveal a propensity to disregard speed restrictions, road signs or to drive carelessly, and a few have records which show that they have 
no regard whatsoever for either the traffic law or the lives and safety of other road users.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
In the judgment of this Court an offender who has been convicted because of momentary inattention or misjudgment and who has a good driving record should normally 
be fined and disqualified from driving or obtaining a driving licence for the minimum statutory period or a period not greatly exceeding it, unless, of course, there are special reasons for not disqualifying. If his driving record is indifferent, the peri
od of disqualification should be longer, say two to four years, and, if it is bad, he should be put off the road for a long time.
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
For those who have caused a fatal accident through a selfish disregard for the safety of other road users or their passengers 
or who have driven recklessly, a custodial sentence with a long period of disqualification may well be appropriate, and, if this kind of driving is coupled with a bad driving record, the period of disqualification should be such as will relieve the public
 of a potential danger for a very long time indeed."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Then in }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Boswell}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
 the learned Chief Justice Lord Lane identified the following 9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 aggravating and 5 mitigating factors in cases of}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 causing death by reckless driving.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid8917551 Aggravating factors were:
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (1) The cons
umption of alcohol or drugs. This may range from a couple of drinks to a 'motorised pub-crawl';
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
(2) A driver who races; competitive driving against another vehicle; grossly excessive speed; showing off;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (3) The driver who disregar}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
ds warnings from his passengers;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (4) A prolonged, persistent and deliberate course of very bad}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 driving;}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
(5) Other related offences committed at the same time, i.e. driving without ever having held a licence, driving whilst disqualified, driving while a learner while unsupervised and so on;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
(6) Previous motoring convictions. particularly offences involving bad driving or excessive consumption of alcohol, i.e. a man who shows that he is determined to continue to drive badly despite past experience;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (7) Where several people have been killed as a result of the offence;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (8) Bad behaviour at the time of the offence, e}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 g}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 .}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
 failing to stop, or worse, trying to throw the victim from his car bonnet in order to escape; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (9) Causing death in the course of reckless driving in an attempt
 to avoid detection or apprehension;"
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par The factors that mitigate the sentence were:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 "(a) a 'one of}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 f'}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232  piece of reckless driving momentary reckless error of judgment, briefly dozing at the wheel or failing to notice a pedestrian at a crossing;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (b) a good driving record;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (c) good character generally;
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (d) a plea of guilty would be taken into account in favour of the defendant; and
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
(e) the effect of the offence on the defendant, shocked or generally remorseful, particularly where the victim or a close friend or relation and the consequent emotional shock was likely to}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232  }{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 have been great."
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2234232 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Applying those f
actors to the present case under appeal and conscious that the single aggravating feature in the case was the dangerous speed at which the appellant had driven his vehicle on a busy public road, a short custodial sentence would have been entirely appropri
ate.
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
However in the unusual circumstances of this case, notably caused by factors beyond the appellant's control, this Court is constrained to order that the sentence of 12 months imprisonment be suspended for a period of 2 years with effect from the 15th 
of June 1990. The order and length of disqualification however is entirely appropriate in the circumstances and is accordingly upheld.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par The appellant is warned that if he is convicted of an imprisonable offence during the operational period of his suspended sentence he may be required to serve this sentence of 12 months imprisonment along with any other sentence that might be}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15231683  imposed for his re-offending. I}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
n addition, if he has not already surrendered his Drivers Licence to the authorities, the same is hereby ordered to be delivered to the Court within 7 days}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 .}{
\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232 
\par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 (}{\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 Appeal allowed; sentence varied.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2234232\charrsid2234232 )
\par }}