In sentencing for historical intra-familial sexual abuse offences, mere lapse of time and absence of further convictions do not of themselves constitute significant mitigating factors. A significant sentencing discount for delay requires evidence of real progress towards rehabilitation or other favourable factors positively emerging during the intervening period. The first step towards genuine rehabilitation is acknowledgment of the offending behaviour; contesting the charges and denying the offences is a contraindication of rehabilitation.
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