For immediate release: 15 August 2013

Crown should appeal Parkers ‘Non-Sentence’ Minimum

The Sensible Sentencing Trust has today expressed its sadness and disbelief that James Parker was only sentenced to a minimum non-parole period of 7 years jail after admitting 74 charges of sexual violation and abuse.

Parker groomed his victims with “calculated methodology” and tore apart a community by preying on young boys; all of whom will be young teens or young adults in 7 years’ time. They will only just be entering into adulthood with all its challenges - along with the emotional aftermath of his crime to contend with.

Sensible Sentencing spokesperson, Ruth Money today said: “Justice Heath had the opportunity to impose a sentence that reflected the public’s outrage and opinion today. 7 years falls painfully short of this. No wonder this country has a child abuse problem when sentences do nothing to deter this depraved behaviour”.

“This is an unprecedented case that called for an unprecedented sentence. Just over 1 month per charge is ridiculous and offensive for all of Parkers victims and society as a whole”

“We would have expected 15-20 years as a reasonable minimum non-parole period – not a 7 year slap on the wrist”

We would encourage the crown to appeal this incredibly lenient non-parole period to ensure that Justice is seen to be served.

ends

© Scoop Media