An offender's significant chronic health conditions (severe dermatitis, multiple allergies, mental health issues) may justify a reduction in the length of a sentence of imprisonment but do not necessarily warrant suspension of the sentence where the offending is serious and general deterrence is the dominant sentencing consideration. In arson cases, general deterrence remains the dominant sentencing consideration and the objective features of the offence may outweigh personal circumstances including poor health. There is no tariff for arson due to the almost limitless variation in circumstances.
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