Drug addiction may be a relevant mitigating circumstance in sentencing but is not an excuse and does not necessarily call for a lesser sentence; it must be considered in the context of all circumstances including the seriousness of the offending and the need for deterrence. Ineligibility for the Drug Court diversionary program by reason of being charged with major indictable offences is an irrelevant consideration in the sentencing process. When separate sentences are imposed for groups of offences and ordered to be served cumulatively, any reduction for totality should be reflected in adjustments to the individual sentences rather than a reduction of the aggregate. Sentencing judges must deliver sentencing remarks orally to the defendant and should not substitute written reasons for oral remarks.
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