Judges to gain powers to restrict offenders who skip sentencing hearings

The Government plans to give judges new powers to impose extra prison restrictions on offenders who refuse to attend their sentencing hearings. The measures are intended to ensure convicted people face consequences for avoiding court and to address the impact on victims and their families.

Under the Victims and Courts Act, the restrictions are due to take effect next year. Adults could be confined to their cells for up to three weeks, lose privileges for up to 12 weeks or have social visits banned for 27 days; children visiting a parent would be exempt. People aged 18 to 20 in young offender institutions face shorter limits. The powers follow high-profile cases including the Southport killer, Jordan McSweeney and Thomas Cashman, after existing fines or extra prison terms were considered a limited deterrent for those already serving long sentences.