R v Deluney - [2025] NZHC 2644

Julia Deluney found guilty of murder, following a jury trial (Crimes Act 1961, s 167(a)).

Sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum period of imprisonment of 18 years

Held: There are no circumstances that would make life imprisonment manifestly unjust. A 17-year minimum period of imprisonment applies under s 104 of the Sentencing Act 2002. There was a high level of brutality, cruelty, and callousness (s 104(1)(e) of the Sentencing Act) and the victim was particularly vulnerable due to her age, health and living circumstances (s 104(1)(g) of the Sentencing Act). An increase beyond a 17-year minimum period of imprisonment is justified. There are no mitigating factors related to the offending. Aggravating factors of the offending included the brutality of the attack, the victim's vulnerability, the defendant's attempt to conceal the crime, the significant breach of trust and the lack of remorse. Good character (s 9(2)(g) of the Sentencing Act) and age (s 9(2)(a) of the Sentencing Act) rejected as personal mitigating factors which would make a minimum period of imprisonment of 18 years manifestly unjust.