Overview

This bill amends the Criminal Justice Act 2003 to increase sentences for crimes motivated by hostility towards members of the armed forces. It classifies crimes against service personnel as aggravated offences, leading to harsher penalties for perpetrators.

Description

The bill modifies the Criminal Justice Act 2003 by adding "or being a service person" to the list of aggravating factors for increased sentencing. This means that crimes targeting service personnel will be considered aggravated offences. The definition of "service person" aligns with the Armed Forces Act 2006, encompassing a broader definition of family members. The changes apply to England and Wales and will come into force two months after Royal Assent. The specific changes to the Criminal Justice Act 2003 include expanding the definition of aggravating factors to include hostility towards service people. The new section also specifies the meaning of "service person" to include any relative.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The impact will be indirect, potentially leading to increased costs associated with longer prison sentences for those convicted of aggravated offences against service personnel.

Groups Affected

• Members of the Armed Forces: The bill directly benefits them by providing increased legal protection against crimes motivated by hostility towards their service.
• Individuals convicted of crimes against service personnel: These individuals face increased sentences under this bill.
• The Judiciary: Judges will need to apply the amended legislation when sentencing offenders.
• The Criminal Justice System: The system will experience increased workload due to potentially more prosecutions under the aggravated offence provisions.

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