More than 9,000 people given six to 12 months for shoplifting in past two years would now be made to do community service
Shoplifters will benefit most from the government’s plans to impose a moratorium on jail sentences of less than 12 months in England and Wales, figures show.
Despite Rishi Sunak’s attempt to introduce tough sentences for criminals in the run-up to the general election, shoplifters, offenders convicted of battery, and those who have assaulted emergency workers, are the top three groups who will avoid prison under the government’s new measure.
Theft from shops – 3,848 / 5,289
Common assault and battery – 3,153 / 3,071
Assault or assault by beating of an emergency worker – 3,050 / 2,233
Breach of restraining order (Protection from Harassment Act 1997) – 2,221 / 2,477
Having an article with a blade or point in a public place – 2,089 / 2,346
Driving while disqualified from holding or obtaining a licence – 1,817 / 1,817
Burglary with intent in a building other than a dwelling – 1,392 / 1,868
Assaults occasioning actual bodily harm – 1,316 / 1,470
Production, supply and possession with intent to supply a class B drug – 1,249 / 1,330
Aiding, abetting, causing or permitting reckless driving – 1,430 / 1,260
