The aggravating factor in s 21A(2)(n) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act cannot be found present unless the degree of planning exceeds what would ordinarily be expected for an offence of that kind. Where a sentencing judge erroneously finds the factor present but qualifies the finding to acknowledge the planning was no greater than ordinarily expected, the error may have no material impact on the sentence, particularly where other aggravating factors adequately explain the sentence level.
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