Knife crime sentencing

Before the pandemic there was talk of a “knife crime epidemic” and suggestions courts are too soft. In fact, our research shows sentences for possessing a knife have got tougher over the past decade with average custodial sentence length rising by more than 50%.

Additionally, a decade ago the most common sentence was community service, now the most common sentence is immediate custody. Do these sentences go far enough? Or are they now too tough?

Knife crime is understandably a subject that causes great concern to the public. Epidemic proportions of knife crime have been reported in the mainstream media in recent years, and commentators frequently claim that sentences are too soft. Data from the Ministry of Justice shows that the sentencing for possession of a knife has, in fact, got tougher since 2009. 

Community service sentences were the most common outcome of a knife possession conviction in 2009, accounting for 47% of all sentences. By 2019, community service was the outcome in just 24% of sentences. 

Custodial sentences, meanwhile, have increased from 22% to 38% of all sentences over the past decade to become the most common sentence given for possession of a knife. 

Not only are more custodial sentences being given, but the length of these sentences has increased. Fewer short sentences of three months or less are now delivered, and there has been a substantial increase in the proportion of longer custodial sentences. The average custodial sentence for possessing a knife has increased from just under five months to just over seven months during the past decade.