general guideline - Offence involved use or threat of use of a weapon

Draft guideline for consultation only. Draft guidelines should not be taken into account when sentencing.

A ‘weapon’ can take many forms and may include a shod foot

The use or production of a weapon has relevance

  • to the culpability of the offender where it indicates planning or intention to cause harm; and
  • to the harm caused (both physical or psychological) or the potential for harm.

Relevant considerations will include:

  • the dangerousness of the weapon;
  • whether the offender brought the weapon to the scene, or just used what was available on impulse;
  • the context in which the weapon was threatened, used or produced.