Trendell, Gavin

On 6 July 2018, Gavin Trendell pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent and false imprisonment. On 12 October 2018 Mr Trendell was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 8 years. The minimum term was later reduced to 6 years on appeal.

The CCRC received an application for review of Mr Trendell’s sentence in February 2020.

In cases, such as Mr Trendell’s, where an indeterminate sentence is imposed, the minimum term must be adjusted by the judge to take into account any time spent on remand in custody, in accordance with section 82A(3)(b) of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000.

Mr Trendell spent 203 days on remand, however this was not addressed at either the sentencing hearing or, later, on appeal.

The CCRC concluded there was a real possibility the Court of Appeal would correct the legal error and deduct 203 days from Mr Trendell’s minimum term.

The CCRC referred the sentence in September 2021.

The Court of Appeal reduced Mr Trendell’s sentence in February 2022.