Arson charges for $100,000 in property damages
Slades & Parsons solicitor Mr Louis Dean represented a person charged with arson. Police charged our client after they caused over $100,000 of damage. Our client had set fire to a house where they were the tenant. The matter proceeded in the County Court of Victoria. Our client pleaded guilty to the charge.
Client mental health history
We gave careful consideration to the prosecution evidence and our client’s instructions. It became apparent that our client committed the offence in very unusual circumstances. The house was in disrepair. Our client had made multiple applications to VCAT for repairs that the landlord had not actioned. The client had told police that they were in despair when they committed the offence, and did it out of frustration and revenge. Our office subpoenaed hospital materials on the client’s behalf. Mr Dean identified that our client had a history of treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, and that no-one was treating it at the time of the offence.
Sentencing: Two-year community corrections order
These subpoenaed materials, in combination with an investigation report prepared by the landlord’s insurance company, demonstrated that our client was severely emotionally stressed when they offended. The prosecution called for imprisonment. However, the sentencing judge thought that our client’s case was different to other arson cases. Even though imprisonment is the most common outcome for serious arson charges, the Judge sentenced the client to a two-year Community Corrections Order. The Order has special conditions about engaging in mental health treatment and performing unpaid community work
Slades & Parsons promises results through attention to detail
This case demonstrates the importance of thoroughly assessing the prosecution evidence and carefully considering our clients’ personal circumstances. Careful preparation and well thought-out submissions are essential to obtaining the best outcome. Slades & Parsons Solicitors are focused on providing you with clear careful analysis and advice on all serious indictable matters and obtaining the best possible outcome at court.
Slades & Parsons lawyers are highly qualified to discuss any matters with you regarding arson charges and related matters.