+xThis is from gov.uk. The Criminal Justice Act 2003 defines serious harm as: ‘death or serious personal injury, whether physical or psychological’. OASys defines serious harm as ‘an event which is life threatening and/or traumatic and from which recovery, whether physical or psychological, can be expected to be difficult or impossible’.
Most people's understanding of what is a serious offence is determined by the harm caused, but it can also include designated offences, like those under the Serious Crimes Act. For example, possession of a firearm causes no harm to anyone, but is still included in the list of offences designated by UK law as serious crimes.
It's one of those words which is bandied about by politicians, without any clear understanding of what it actually means.
But one of the reasons why the govt chose to set the limit for a two thirds early release at 7 years was the impact on prison numbers. It was originally going to be 4 years, but they consulted and were told that putting it at 4 years would mean thousands more prisoners locked up for longer. They changed it to 7 years so it would affect fewer prisoners. So their understanding of what serious means, in that context, is serious enough to justify keeping those people in prison.
Hi Interesting words so thanks for your research. At the time of my arrest and using your words, I would have raised the point that my offence was basically prostitution and consensual as she had approached me, so how did I cause the form of harm you mention to her? Obviously I know I was being selfish as I never considered why she would choose this occupation; no matter her age.
Society suggests I must let go of all my expectations but I disagree, as whilst I have a voice, I have hope.
Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope is for tomorrow else what is left if you remove a mans hope.
------------------------------
This forum supports these words, thank you Unlock and your contributors.
|