Romain Smith, a 32-year-old from Walsall, was visibly emotional during a recent court hearing where she faced sentencing for multiple offences. Appearing by video link from HMP Foston Hall, she repeatedly insisted, “I’m not dangerous” and tearfully claimed, “I don’t deserve that long,” as the court considered a lengthy custodial sentence.
Smith pleaded guilty to robbery, possession of a sharply pointed article in a public place, and criminal damage, all committed on December 28 last year. These charges come against a backdrop of previous convictions, including a robbery conviction from 2009 and eight prior convictions for carrying a knife in public.
Recorder Rachel Cooper at Wolverhampton Crown Court described Smith as posing a “very high risk of serious harm” to the public. She highlighted that Smith’s serious violence reduction order had expired just weeks before the latest offences. Given Smith’s history, the court was considering whether an extended sentence was appropriate. Such sentences include a custodial term followed by an extended licence period to enhance public safety.
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During the hearing, Smith expressed her eagerness to have the case resolved, stating, “I’m ready to deal with it today. I just want it to be over and done with.” However, after a brief adjournment to allow her legal team to prepare, the sentencing was postponed. Smith’s lawyer requested a two-week adjournment to prepare opposition to the potential extended sentence, with the earliest available date for sentencing set for July 15.
Throughout the proceedings, Smith’s distress was evident. She sobbed as she protested against a lengthy sentence, saying, “F*** that. F*** the judge. I don’t deserve that much.” Despite her emotional pleas, the court emphasized the need to balance the defendant’s rights with the protection of the public.
Extended sentences, as outlined by the Sentencing Council, are imposed when an offender is deemed dangerous and require a period of supervised release following imprisonment. The custodial term and licence period cannot exceed the maximum sentence for the original offence. Parole eligibility typically begins after two-thirds of the custodial term, though release is not guaranteed.
Ultimately, the defendant was remanded in custody as the court prepared to determine the appropriate sentence. Smith’s case underscores the challenges courts face in addressing repeat offenders posing serious risks while navigating the legal process and sentencing guidelines.