Serious Criminals Receiving Benefits Despite Reforms

Recent revelations by The Telegraph uncover a disturbing reality: up to 2,700 individuals convicted of serious crimes, including murder, sexual offenses, and other violent acts, are currently receiving benefits. These offenders, classified as potentially dangerous, have been directed by courts to undergo treatment in secure psychiatric hospitals under "restricted" conditions, rather than being incarcerated in prison.

 

Ministry of Justice (MoJ) data reveals that these offenders, residing in secure hospitals, are accessing state benefits, with amounts reaching up to £80 per week. This issue has raised significant concerns, especially in light of recent cases like that of triple killer Valdo Calocane, who is slated to receive thousands of pounds in benefits annually after being placed in Ashworth high-security hospital in Merseyside instead of being imprisoned.

 

In response to these revelations, the Prime Minister's spokesman expressed deep concern, announcing that Mel Stride, the Work and Pensions Secretary, will review the entitlements of Calocane and other offenders. Opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer's spokesman also condemned the loophole, emphasizing the urgent need for action to address the issue.

 

Calocane, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, had his charges downgraded to manslaughter due to diminished responsibility. Consequently, he, along with other dangerous offenders, can claim state benefits as they are detained in high-security hospitals under sections 37 and 41 of the Mental Health Act. However, offenders subjected to section 45 or 47 orders, effectively categorized as prisoners, are not entitled to these benefits.

 

Further scrutiny reveals that out of 184 patients detained under high-security conditions at Ashworth hospital, a significant number were receiving benefits, prompting calls for a review of the law by victims' families.

 

As authorities consider potential increases in sentences and review benefit entitlements, the gravity of this issue underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure that justice is served and public safety is prioritized.