16/12/2013
Police Scotland To Target Housebreakers Over Festive Period
A new prosecution policy is to be introduced over the festive period in Scotland that could see housebreakers face up to five years in jail.
The news comes as Police Scotland announced a 4% increase in burglaries since April.
Alongside increased jail terms, new police teams are to be established in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, described as problem areas.
Specialist police teams have previously been established to target violent crimes and sexual and domestic abuse, Police Scotland have said.
Under the new prosecution policy, housebreaking, which is usually prosecuted on summary complaint in front of a sheriff and carries a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment, will instead be tried on indicted before a sheriff and jury with a possible sentence of up to five years.
Previously only the most serious cases of housebreaking were prosecuted on indictment.
(MH/IT)
The news comes as Police Scotland announced a 4% increase in burglaries since April.
Alongside increased jail terms, new police teams are to be established in Edinburgh and Aberdeen, described as problem areas.
Specialist police teams have previously been established to target violent crimes and sexual and domestic abuse, Police Scotland have said.
Under the new prosecution policy, housebreaking, which is usually prosecuted on summary complaint in front of a sheriff and carries a maximum sentence of one year imprisonment, will instead be tried on indicted before a sheriff and jury with a possible sentence of up to five years.
Previously only the most serious cases of housebreaking were prosecuted on indictment.
(MH/IT)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.