Closed petition Sign Against Violent Crime

Closed on 27 December 2013

We feel that sentences for violent crimes against the person are disproportionate to crimes concerning property or money, to the seriousness of the crime, and the long-lasting impact it has on victims.
Our Government is responsible for setting the tone of the judges’ guidelines formulated by the Sentencing Council.
We demand a Parliamentary debate on:
▪ Introducing new guidelines that allow more proportionate & balanced sentencing relative to the physical & emotional effects on the victim.
▪ Better and more proactive information for the victim from when the crime is reported, and active participation throughout the charging, court process & sentencing.
▪ The apparent ‘soft touch’ sentences for repeat violent offenders.
▪ Availability of Legal Aid; the mechanism by which the offender makes contribution to compensation to the victim (i.e. via the Compensation Board rather than to/via the court); and whether it should be payable over time (i.e. if the offender is on a low income).