16/01/2009

Tough Stance On Burglaries By Top Judge

The head of the judiciary in England and Wales has urged courts to hand down stiffer sentences to domestic burglars.

The Lord Chief Justice, Igor Judge, sent out a firm message to criminals today, in a strongly-worded judgment.

Lord Judge rejected calls from six convicted burglars to have their jail terms reduced.

The seriousness of domestic break-ins must be recognised, he said.

Lord Judge said this should be reflected in the prison sentences issued to burglars.

Today's decision now means sentences should consider both the trauma and a victim's loss of sentimental items.

Lord Judge succeeded Lord Phillips to become Lord Chief Justice and Head of Criminal Justice in October 2008.

Prior to his appointment Lord Judge was President of The Queen’s Bench Division.

Earlier this month, Lord Judge suggested young lawyers in the UK are put off becoming High Court judges because of the old-fashioned and 'fustian' view of the role.

(PR/JM)

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