Lau Yuen-ping v. The Queen

CACC000669/1975

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF HONG KONG

(APPELLATE JURISDICTION)

CRIMINAL APPEAL NO. 669 OF 1975

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Coram: Cons, J.

Date of Judgment: 29 August 1975

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JUDGMENT

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1. The appellant in this case appeals against a total sentence of two years upon a series of charges of blackmail and theft. He had obtained sums of $10 or $30 from an old lady with whom he had some acquaintance. When she refused to pay on his demand he would shake the iron grille of her doorway or ring the door bell continuously until she gave in. His visits and her payments continued for several months until he made the mistake of going twice the same day. It was only then that she raised any form of complaint.

2. Such conduct is not to be excused or encouraged but it is not of the vicious nature that usually attracts sentences of this length in this class of case. I order therefore that the sentences be varied so that all run concurrently, that is the appellant will serve a total of one year instead of two.

Representation:

Appellant in person.

Polson, Crown Counsel, for Crown/Respondent.