More than 150 of the people arrested in connection with this month’s violent disorder have already faced their day in court, the Ministry of Justice revealed in a statement today.
‘The rapid action taken across the justice system by police, prosecutors and those working in courts has led to 118 of those individuals being remanded into custody in a collective effort to keep communities safe and free from further violence,’ the MoJ said.
It revealed that more than 500 prison places are being activated to boost capacity over the coming weeks and ensure cells are ready to receive all those sent to custody.
The data released today shows that as of 8 August:
- 176 defendants had a first hearing scheduled in the magistrates’ court and 154 have already taken place
- 6 were sentenced in the magistrates’ court
- 50 have been sent to Crown court for sentencing
- 72 have been sent to Crown court for trial
- 26 cases will have another hearing in the magistrates’ court
Shabana Mahmood, lord chancellor and justice secretary, said: ‘The mindless minority who caused and took part in the disgraceful scenes we witnessed were warned they would soon feel the full force of the law. This data shows that many have already seen the inside of a courtroom and will see a stint behind bars too. Where they have gone, more will follow.
‘I would like to pay tribute to the thousands of dedicated professionals across the criminal justice system who have worked tirelessly so such swift action could be taken.
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