Ratio Decidendi
When suspending a sentence of imprisonment, the court must consider whether the case meets the custody threshold and then whether there are factors that justify suspension. A suspended sentence is still a sentence of imprisonment and should not be imposed lightly.
Facts
Several appeals were heard concerning the proper approach to suspended sentences, their length, and conditions.
Judgment Summary
The Court of Appeal clarified that a suspended sentence is appropriate only where: (1) the custody threshold is crossed; (2) the sentence can properly be suspended having regard to all the circumstances; and (3) the conditions and operational period are appropriate.
Key Quotes
"A suspended sentence is a sentence of imprisonment. It should not be imposed unless the court has decided that imprisonment is warranted."
— Lord Bingham CJ
Subsequent Treatment
Applied in the Sentencing Council's guidelines on suspended sentences.