“Section 103 of the Sentencing Act allows the worst offenders to be given a true life sentence. Once again, the Judiciary has failed to impose a sentence that the New Zealand public expects and that the law already allows for.” Ruth Money, Sensible Sentencing Trust
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For immediate Release

Sensible Sentencing Trust: Is 19 years all that a toddler’s life is worth?

The Sensible Sentencing Trust has today acknowledged that although the 19 year non-parole sentence given to the killer of 2 year old JJ Lawrence is a significant improvement on recent sentences (and the 10 year minimum that could have been applied), it is still a long way short of what could and should have been applied.

The Sensible Sentencing Trust has today condemned the 19 year non-parole sentence given to the killer of 2 year old JJ Lawrence, as sadly inadequate. Just because it is better than what we have had before does not mean it is adequate or justice.

Sensible Sentencing spokesperson, Ruth Money, today said: “Joel Loffley, the partner of JJ Lawrence’s mother, brutally tortured and killed the helpless toddler over months. He continued to lie about his offending and still has not admitted his hideous crimes.

“The 19 year minimum non-parole period is sadly still a light sentence for such premeditated and repeated brutality. Loffley is a monster and should never walk free again.

“Section 103 of the Sentencing Act allows the worst offenders to be given a true life sentence. Once again, the Judiciary has failed to impose a sentence that the New Zealand public expects and that the law already allows for.”

ENDS

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Metservice: Where Will Snow Fall And What To Look Out For

The deep Antarctic air that is expected to sweep across the country this week is bringing very significant weather to many provinces.Here's the official MetService view of the key weather concerns for the country.

MetService Media and Communications Meteorologist Dan Corbett commented,"While snow will be a major issue for those in the South Island, wind and hail will affect many North Island districts."

Snow is expected to fall to sea level, or very near it, from Southland to South Canterbury from late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday. The snow level is expected to rise to 200m from about Christchurch northwards... More>>