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Domestic abuse: Guidelines recommend tougher sentences

People convicted of domestic abuse offences in England and Wales will be more likely to go to prison in future, under new sentencing guidelines.

For the first time, the guidance will say domestic offences should be treated more seriously than similar crimes not involving partners or family members.

The Sentencing Council says domestic offences should be treated more seriously because they represent a "violation of trust and security" normally associated with intimate or family relationships. There is also the potential for victims of domestic abuse and their children to suffer "lasting trauma", and for the perpetrators to present a "continuing threat to the victims' safety".

Domestic abuse: Guidelines recommend tougher sentences BBC News


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