Lib Dems propose community say in punishments
The local community should get a say in the punishment of low-level and anti-social offenders, according to the Liberal Democrats.
Mark Oaten, who shadows the Home Secretary, has announced proposals for “community justice panels” which would be staffed by volunteers.
Under the scheme offenders would be given the choice to go to court in the normal way, or face a panel of local people. If they chose the second option, they would be expected to apologise and agree a programme of work or reparation.
If the agreement was not followed, or no agreement was possible, the case would go to court.
The panels would be specifically targeted at crimes like graffiti, vandalism or being drunk and disorderly.
Rejecting suggestions that the plans indicate the Lib Dems are soft on crime, Mr Oaten told a question and answer session that: “Compared to sitting comfortably in court and receiving a fine, going before one of these panels will be a very uncomfortable experience. I want offenders to see the anger and hurt they cause to those living in their streets and their communities.
“But this is not just about punishment – it offers the offender something that a court appearance cannot – a chance to earn back the respect of the community and demonstrate that he can act responsibly.
“By challenging offenders in this way, we can reduce crime and make our communities safer and better places to live in.”
He also argued that the proposals should be seen alongside plans to scrap ID cards and instead recruit 10,000 more police officers and 20,000 more Community Support Officers.
The proposals take as their inspiration an existing panel that is being established in Somerset in the Lib Dem controlled council of Chard.
The Liberal Democrats believe that no additional legislation would be necessary to set up the panels nationwide as the Criminal Justice Act 2003 already allows the police to attach conditions to a caution, and this contention could be attendance at a community panel.
