Custodial sentences at lowest level for decade

The numbers show that fewer criminals are being dealt with by the justice system that at any time since records began. During the period between July 2018 and June 2019 1.58 million went through the system in England and Wales compared to 1.86 million in 1970.

 

Chairman of the Police Federation of England and Wales said "Often we have repeat violent offenders who are not seeing the inside of a prison cell. While I am a supporter of rehabilitation and accept that not everyone needs to go to prison, there are some people out there who need to be locked up".

 

He further commented, "The system needs to listen to society and society is saying that we want to see offenders pay for their crimes. Without suitable and appropriate prison sentences, there is simply no deterrent for repeat offenders. My colleagues are incredibly frustrated at the way victims are constantly being let down.

 

Richard Atkins QC, chairman of the Bar Council suggested that only a considerable investment in the justice system would reverse the damage and restore public confidence, while Chairwoman, Caroline Goodwin QC of the Criminal Bar Association, said that protecting the public from any harm is the core duty of any government and that the public expect that duty to be fulfilled.

 

The Johnson Partnership

Doncaster Crime Solicitors