Terrorists could face more jail time under new sentencing rules

HATE preachers and terrorists could get more jail time under tough new guidelines for judges, it was announced today (22).

Those found guilty of encouraging terrorism would see their minimum time behind bars increasing from five to 10 years.

While a conviction for "collection of terrorist information" will see the starting point increase from seven to 10 years’ imprisonment, the starting point for "failure to disclose information about acts of terrorism," will rise from four to seven years. The upper end of the sentencing range will be nine years instead of four and a half years.

According to the Sentencing Council, the revised guidelines could be introduced in early 2020 and it would apply to offenders aged 18 and above.

The move follows increase in maximum sentences for some crimes under the new Counter Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019.

Council member Mr Justice Julian Goose said the revised guidelines will ensure consistency and transparency.

"Terrorism offences are extremely serious and can cover a wide range of factual circumstances, making them difficult and sensitive offences to sentence," he was quoted as saying.

He said: "For this reason, the council is keen to ensure that the guidelines are kept up to date and fit for purpose.

"These revised guidelines will ensure consistency and transparency in the sentencing of these offences."

The consultation is open until December and is seeking responses from judges, magistrates and others working in the criminal justice system.

Justice minister Chris Philp was quoted as saying: "Terrorism has a devastating impact on society and it is vital punishments properly fit the crime and we protect the public.

"These guidelines will give judges clear and consistent guidance when sentencing offenders so we keep pace with the changing nature of these crimes."