The absence of aggravating features such as weapons, company, or presence of children does not preclude characterisation of an aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm as a serious example of its kind where the victim was defenceless and the blow was forceful to a vulnerable part of the body. Sentences imposed in single judge appeals from magistrates are insufficient to provide a meaningful sentencing range for District Court matters, and there is no tariff for aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm. A total effective sentence of 3 years 8 months' imprisonment was upheld for sustained domestic violence offending involving assault, burglary, property damage, and repeated breaches of protective orders.
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