A total effective sentence of 5 years' imprisonment for a 20-year-old first-time prisoner convicted of armed robbery, attempted armed robbery, burglary and theft was manifestly excessive, notwithstanding the seriousness of the offending (including offences committed on bail and during a community-based order) and the sentencing judge's adverse finding on rehabilitation prospects. The Mills principles require that the benchmark for what justifies adult imprisonment be set higher for youthful offenders, and that shorter sentences be considered for those not previously incarcerated.
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