The case confirms that the absence of premeditation does not preclude classification of a murder as falling within the worst category justifying a life sentence. Drug consumption does not mitigate moral culpability absent evidence that the offender had no forewarning of its effects. Where a guilty plea is entered without remorse, the discount for utilitarian value is necessarily reduced and may not preclude the imposition of a life sentence.
The full text is available to signed-in members, including the 9 later cases that cite this judgment.
2 of the 9 citing cases carry a classified treatment. How each court treated it is available to signed-in members.