R v Dickason - [2024] NZHC 1704
Date of Judgment
26 June 2024
Decision
Summary
Sentencing. Defendant with a history of a depressive disorder was found guilty by a jury of murdering her three young daughters.
Result: Held manifestly unjust to impose 17-year minimum period of imprisonment or a sentence of life imprisonment. Sentence of 18 years imprisonment imposed with no minimum period of imprisonment. Order made pursuant to s 34(1)(a)(i) of the Criminal Procedure (Mentally Impaired Persons) Act that the defendant be detained in a hospital as a special patient under the Mental Health
(Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 until the relevant medical authorities determine she is fit to be transferred to prison
Result: Held manifestly unjust to impose 17-year minimum period of imprisonment or a sentence of life imprisonment. Sentence of 18 years imprisonment imposed with no minimum period of imprisonment. Order made pursuant to s 34(1)(a)(i) of the Criminal Procedure (Mentally Impaired Persons) Act that the defendant be detained in a hospital as a special patient under the Mental Health
(Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 until the relevant medical authorities determine she is fit to be transferred to prison