PPS to challenge 'unduly lenient' sentence for human trafficking

The PPS is challenging the "unduly lenient" sentence imposed on a man convicted of human trafficking.

Oliver James MacCormack, 71, was given a seven-year sentence in April, with half to be spent in jail and half on licence. He has already spent almost three years in jail and is due to be released on licence by November.

The defendant, whose address was given as HMP Maghaberry, was convicted on 40 counts with dates spanning seven years from 2015 to 2022.

The charges included multiple counts of human trafficking, supplying Class A drugs, controlling prostitution for gain, intimidation and perverting the course of justice.

A PPS spokesperson said: "While sentencing is a matter for the independent judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions does have the power to refer particular sentences to the court of appeal on the grounds that they may be unduly lenient."

The spokesperson said an unduly lenient sentence is one that falls outside the range of sentences that a judge, taking into consideration all relevant factors and having regard to sentencing guidance, could reasonably impose.

"We have determined that there is a sufficient legal basis to refer the sentence to the Court of Appeal," they added.

"We have taken steps to inform the victims and the next of kin of the deceased victim of the decision to refer the sentence. We will keep them informed of the outcome of the Court of Appeal's consideration."

MacCormack was one of four men, who all preyed on vulnerable women who were addicted to drugs.

Kenneth David Harvey, aged 74; Derek Brown, aged 71; and 77-year-old Robert Albert Rogers - were previously sentenced, with Harvey and Brown jailed.

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