In multi-count sexual offence trials with a single complainant, mixed verdicts of conviction and acquittal are not inconsistent where there are discernible differences in the quality, detail, or character of the complainant's evidence across counts. The burden is on the appellant to demonstrate that differing verdicts are actually irrational or repugnant, not merely that they might be. A sentencing judge's failure to expressly use the term 'exceptional circumstances' does not constitute inadequate reasons where the issue was the subject of detailed submissions and was obviously addressed. Whether exceptional circumstances exist to justify a non-custodial sentence for sexual offences against children is a discretionary judgment that will not be disturbed absent House v The King error.
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