David Dixon v R
[2023] EWCA Crim 280
R v Stephen Blackmore
19 July 2024
[2024] EWCA Crim 993
Court of Appeal
A man was sentenced to 6 years and 9 months in prison for attacking someone with a glass, causing serious injuries. He appealed, arguing the sentence was too long. The appeal court decided the sentence was fair considering the severity of the attack and his past offences. The appeal was rejected.
Key Facts
- •Stephen Blackmore convicted of wounding with intent (s.18 Offences against the Person Act 1861).
- •Attacked Harry Crawford with a glass, causing severe injuries (severed artery, facial paralysis, migraines).
- •Assault occurred after a noise complaint, while Blackmore was intoxicated.
- •Blackmore had prior convictions for violence and public order offences.
- •Blackmore maintained his defence that Crawford started the violence, which the jury rejected.
- •Sentenced to 81 months' imprisonment (6 years, 9 months).
Legal Principles
Sentencing guidelines for wounding with intent.
Sentencing Guidelines
Considerations for determining culpability and harm in sentencing.
Sentencing Guidelines
Assessment of aggravating and mitigating factors in sentencing.
Sentencing Guidelines
Standard of review for appeals against sentence – whether manifestly excessive.
Court of Appeal Criminal Division precedent
Outcomes
Appeal dismissed.
The Court of Appeal found the sentence of 6 years and 9 months was not manifestly excessive, considering the seriousness of the offence, the severity of the injuries, the lack of remorse, and the appellant's prior convictions.