Children 'not facing harsh riot sentences'
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By Neil Puffett
Children are not being sentenced more harshly for crimes associated with riots across cities in England earlier this month, the vice-chair of the Magistrates’ Association has said.
Since people began appearing in court facing charges for public offences and theft in relation to the riots, there has been concern that children have been getting tougher sentences than they would have received for the same crimes in different circumstances.
John Fassenfelt, vice-chair of the Magistrates’ Association, told CYP Now he believes this may be true for adults but believes minors are not being sentenced more robustly than usual.
‘Our response to youngsters hasn’t really changed,’ he said. ‘We are very cautious about remanding them in custody but mindful that they shouldn’t commit further offences.
‘Magistrates have been sentencing in line with the guidelines unless there are exceptional circumstances to do oth
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