Scottish Government
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Courts sending 'clear message' on knife crime
The 'large increase' in the average sentence handed down to those convicted of handling an offensive weapon sends a clear message that Scotland's courts are treating knife crime with the seriousness such crimes demand, Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said today.
The increase is revealed in Criminal Proceedings In Scottish Courts, 2007-08 published today. The statistics show that the average length of determinate custodial sentences increased by seven per cent in 2007-08 - and that for those convicted of handling an offensive weapon, the average sentence increased by 35 per cent, making the average sentence longer than seven months.
Mr MacAskill said:
"Far too many lives are lost and people injured through acts of mindless violence - often as a result of the blade culture that blights many communities.
"We need to convince people that knives are lethal weapons. That means pursuing a twin approach of education and enforcement.
"These statistics should act as a wake up call for those people - generally young men - who think that carrying a knife brings with it protection. However rather than protection, it is likely to bring a prison sentence - and a lengthy one at that.
"More generally these statistics show that our conviction rates are high. More people are being convicted for serious offences such as homicide and serious and indecent assault.
"And they also show that our courts are making use of the full range of the disposals available to them. That is to be welcomed.
"However, much more is required to deliver a coherent offender management programme. A programme that stops the destructive cycle of offending by offering credible community service alternatives.
"The evidence shows that short sentences simply don't do enough to tackle the revolving door of minor offending. Around three quarters of those jailed for six months or less re-offend within two years while three fifths of those given community orders are not reconvicted within two years.
"We need to tackle the persistent problem of offending and reoffending through immediate and robust community penalties which are a credible alternative to custody and visibly pay back the communities which have suffered."
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