The High Court has firmly shut down a legal bid by a convicted killer who sought to challenge his sentence for the brutal manslaughter of a man in Epping Forest.
Ben Oliver, now 25, was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 10 years and 10 months in March 2022 for killing 34-year-old David Oliver, his own grandfather, in a "sustained and violent" attack in Chadwell Heath, January 2021.
Despite admitting to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility, Oliver took his case to the High Court, arguing his sentence was overly harsh. His legal team contended that the sentencing judge gave too much weight to the horrific nature of the crime and not enough to his young age and significant mental health issues at the time.
Judges Uphold 'Just' Sentence
However, Lord Justice William Davis and Mr. Justice Nicholas Hilliard were unequivocal in their dismissal. They found the original sentence to be not only justified but also merciful, considering the gravity of the offence.
The court heard chilling details of the crime, where Oliver inflicted 21 sharp force injuries on his grandfather before calmly informing other family members of what he had done.
A Complex Case of Mental Health and Violence
While psychiatric reports confirmed Oliver was suffering from a severe mental health condition that substantially impaired his responsibility, the judges agreed that the sentencing judge had correctly balanced this against the extreme violence and danger he posed.
This ruling underscores the court's stance that even with mitigating factors like age and mental health, particularly heinous acts of violence will be met with stern punishment. Oliver will remain behind bars until the Parole Board deems him no longer a threat to the public.
