Methods of punishment - EduqasOther non-custodial punishments

Alternative types of punishment have been introduced due to the increase in the prison population, high reoffending rates, influence on inmates through contact with other criminals, and the expense of running prisons. These punishments are intended to be harsh enough to deter criminals from reoffending afterwards, but also to offer more rehabilitation. They are based on the idea that if an offender stays part of the wider society, they will be able to remain active citizens and contribute to society.

Probation

• Probation was introduced in 1907.
• People on probation have to follow a set of rules laid down by the court that sentenced them. They have to:
  • live at an approved address
  • meet regularly with a probation officer
  • attend day centres and complete activities

Parole

• Parole was introduced in 1967.
• Prisoners are eligible for parole before the end of their sentence.
• If granted parole, prisoners can temporarily or permanently leave prison.
• Parole helps to keep the prison population down.

Suspended sentences

Since 1967, judges have been able to give suspended sentences. This means that the offender is convicted and sentenced but does not go to prison unless they commit another offence during the period of the suspended sentence.

Deferred sentences are a variation of suspended sentences. This means:

• the offender’s sentencing is formally delayed by up to six months
• the offender must comply with the conditions laid out by the court during this time before they return to court for sentencing

Community service

• Community service orders were introduced in 1972.
• People given a community service order have to complete between 40 and 300 hours of work in the community.
• Examples of work carried out by people undertaking a community service order include: removing graffiti and painting public areas.
• Community service orders are commonly given for crimes such as damaging property or benefit fraud.

Electronic tagging

• Electronic tagging was introduced in the 1990s.
• An offender has to wear an electric tag on their ankle.
• The tag is typically GPS tracked, which allows the police to know the offender’s location.
• People who are tagged are subject to a curfew, meaning they must be at home at certain times of the day and night.
• People who are tagged may have court orders that ban them from going to certain places.