Sentencing Policy 2021-03-16
2021-03-16
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Inquires about the fairness and effectiveness of sentencing policies in light of a Nottinghamshire man convicted for possessing extreme child pornography, receiving an unusually lenient sentence.
What steps he is taking to ensure the (a) fairness and (b) effectiveness of sentencing policy. This month, a Nottingham removal man was convicted of possessing 8,000 indecent images and videos of children ranging from 15 to just one year old, with many classed as category A or extreme child pornography. He received a two-year suspended sentence unlikely ever to see the inside of a prison cell. Will my hon Friend look again at guidance that says that a suspended sentence is the same as a custodial one?
Individual sentencing decisions are for judges based on case facts. We take seriously cases like described, noting maximum penalty for indecent images is 10 years' imprisonment. If anyone feels sentence is too light, I strongly urge them to apply under the unduly lenient sentence scheme within 28 days.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific request regarding revising sentencing guidance was not directly addressed with a concrete commitment.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Refers to the case of an individual convicted for possession of extreme child pornography and highlights inconsistency with proposed tougher sentencing measures.
This month, a Nottinghamshire removal man was convicted of possessing 8,000 indecent images and videos of children ranging from 15 to just one year old, with many classed as category A or extreme child pornography. This man received a two-year suspended sentence unlikely ever to see the inside of a prison cell. Will my hon Friend look again at guidance that says that a suspended sentence is the same as a custodial one?
Individual sentencing decisions are obviously for the judge, but we take seriously cases like described. The maximum penalty is 10 years' imprisonment. Anyone feeling sentence too light can apply under the unduly lenient sentence scheme within 28 days.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific request regarding revising sentencing guidance was not directly addressed with a concrete commitment.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Refers to Scotland's success in reducing reoffending rates through community-based rehabilitation programs, contrasting it with the UK's harsher sentencing policies.
Reconviction rates in Scotland are at a 21-year low. That is because of the community justice approach of the SNP Government for less serious crimes. Even the Minister has admitted that harsher sentencing has limited or no general deterrent effect. If he truly aspires to reduce reoffending, will he consider a community justice approach?
We accept that for less serious offences, community sentences have a role to play. We are keen to roll out community sentence treatment requirements to treat mental health, drug addiction or alcohol problems as health issues.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific question about adopting Scotland's approach was not directly addressed with a concrete commitment.
Response accuracy