Terrorist Offences | Sentencing | Kangs Criminal Solicitors
On 28th March 2018 new sentencing guidelines (‘the new guidelines’) were published for terrorist offences which come into force on 27th April 2018.
The new guide lines will apply to any terrorist cases sentenced on or after that date.
The Reasons For New Guidelines | Kangs Criminal Advisory Solicitors
Until the issue of the new guidelines, Courts have had to rely on examining previously sentenced similar cases which frequently presented difficulty in identifying comparable cases.
The manner in which terrorist attacks are conducted has expanded by the use of vehicles, knives and the new and sophisticated way in which the dark web/new technology are involved.
Offences To Which The New Guidelines Will Be Applied | Kangs Serious Crime Team
Offences include:
- Acts in the preparation of terrorism.
- With the intent of endangering life and property, causing/attempting to cause explosions, making or keeping explosives.
- Encouragement of terrorism.
- Membership/support of a proscribed organisation.
- Collection, use and dissemination of terrorist publications/information.
- Fundraising, funding arrangements and money laundering in connection with acts of terrorism.
Impact of the New Guidelines | Kangs Criminal Advisory Team
There will be an increase in the length of sentences in respect of offences previously regarded at the lower level such as:
- preparing acts of terrorism or building explosive devices, where preparations is not so well developed or
- the offender is offering a small amount of assistance.
This is to reflect the comparatively new implementation of recent modes of terrorist attack such as using a vehicle as a weapon which requires only a short period of preparatory time to prepare using something that is readily available.
In the current climate these lower level types of offence are now regarded to be more serious.
How We Can Assist | Kangs Criminal Defence Solicitors
The offences that can be charged in relation to terrorism are numerous and it is important to be able to identify the appropriate legislation.
Also, if arrested for a terrorist offence, the investigating authorities have greater powers and it is essential to have a representative at the police station with requisite knowledge of these powers.
If we can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact any of the following:
Suki Randhawa
srandhawa@kangssolicitors.co.uk
0121 449 9888 | 020 7936 6396 | 07989 521210 (24 Hour Emergency Number)
John Veale
jveale@kangssolicitors.co.uk
07779 055907 | 0121 449 9888 | 020 7936 6396
Amandeep Murria
amurria@kangssolicitors.co.uk
020 7936 6396 | 0121 449 9888 | 07989 521210 (24 Hour Emergency Number)
