Muggers and thieves who rob elderly people will face stiffer penalties if the proposals in a new consultation paper are adopted.
The Sentencing Advisory Panel has recommended that stealing from an elderly person’s home should lead to a sentence of at least 36 weeks’ imprisonment (maximum 18 months) and that theft with violence or the threat of force should bring a minimum sentence of two years’ imprisonment (maximum five years).
These sentences would apply to a first-time offender who pleads not guilty to the charge. Sentence 'discounts' are given to offenders who plead guilty to crimes, but sentences for repeat offenders are usually more severe.
The consultation on the proposals ended in late January 2007.
