The applicant was a 41 year old when sentenced with a number of previous convictions for serious offences. Some of them extended back for quite a period. Starting in 1970, he was convicted of rape, with three years imprisonment then being ordered. The record of convictions actually starts in 1969 but the first serious one is the matter of rape to which I have referred.

[2]

Selecting from a fairly long criminal history, it can be recorded that in 1976 he was convicted of armed robbery in company and sentenced to 10 years imprisonment. In 1987 he was convicted of receiving and sentenced to a term of five years imprisonment with three years non parole period ordered and some compensation. By way of summary it can be added that he had repeated convictions for dishonesty including some nine break and entering offences and some drug offences as well.

[3]

R v Coleman [1995] QCA 549 - QCA 1995 case summary — Zoe

The sort of behaviour with which we are concerned is extremely serious and furthermore it is behaviour where adequate deterrent has a special importance. It is extremely important from society's point of view that extortion of this kind be seen to be very appropriately dealt with by a proper sentence which would have the effect of discouraging others who might be similarly inclined.

[4]

Everything considered, including the previous record of this applicant, but most importantly the conduct in question and the terms of the threats, it cannot be said in my view that the sentence imposed below was manifestly excessive and I would refuse the application.

[5]

THE PRESIDENT: I agree. I think that extortion is an offence which the Courts should be careful to ensure does not gain a foothold in the community. I agree with the order proposed.

[6]

MACKENZIE J: I agree with both the Chief Justice and the President.

[7]

THE CHIEF JUSTICE: The order of the Court then is that the application is refused.

Parties

Applicant/Plaintiff:

# R

Respondent/Defendant:

Coleman \[1995\] QCA 549

Cases Cited (1)

[1995] QCA 549