Ulster Unionist Party Justice spokesperson, Tom Elliott MLA has responded to David Ford’s announcement that he intends to legislate for community sentences.
The Fermanagh & South Tyrone MLA said:
“There are potential benefits in legislating for community sentences. These sentences are put to good use in the case of offenders who do not pose a risk to the public. Enabling the offender to repay their debt to society, rather than receiving a short term sentence, has been proven to lower the chances of them reoffending.’
“However, I would like to see more focus from the Justice Minister on deterrent sentencing, especially given the serious public disorder we again witness in July. Rioting and serious public disorder cannot be tolerated and it is vital that appropriate deterrents are in place within the sentencing framework.’