Terrorist and paramilitary-related offences added to the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme
People found guilty of crimes linked to terrorism, paramilitarism and organised crime groups could see their sentences reconsidered under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.
From 1 August, almost 100 additional offences linked to terrorism, organised crime and paramilitarism will be included in the scheme.
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The changes follow a review and public consultation on the law on Unduly Lenient Sentences, which was commissioned by former Justice Minister Claire Sugden, in response to a recommendation contained in the Fresh Start Panel Report.
Peter May, Permanent Secretary for the Department of Justice, said, “The addition of these offences to the Unduly Lenient Scheme contributes to our commitment within the Executive Action Plan to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime and seeks to build confidence in the justice system.
“People convicted for these offences could see their sentences reconsidered by the Court of Appeal if the Director of Public Prosecutions thinks they are unduly lenient,” he added.
Under the ULS scheme, the Director of Public Prosecutions can, if they consider that a sentence passed in the Crown Court is unduly lenient, refer the case to the Court of Appeal for reconsideration.
Anyone can ask the DPP to consider a sentence handed down in the Crown Court.
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