A finding of causal connection between Asperger's Syndrome and sexual offending against children requires a proper evidentiary foundation; a sentencing judge's characterisation of the causal connection as the offender 'misreading cues' from a child victim must be supported by the evidence, including expert reports. Even where a causal connection between a mental disorder and offending is established, the nature and gravity of serious sexual offending against children, particularly involving breach of trust, may limit the extent to which the disorder can moderate denunciation and deterrence. The statutory presumption of cumulation for serious sexual offenders must be given real effect and not undermined by compressing the total effective sentence.
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