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A new prosecution policy was launched this week by the Solicitor General, Lesley Thomson QC, to deal with housebreakers.
From Monday 16th December 2013 until Monday 6th January 2014 anyone reported to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal service (COPFS) for being involved in housebreaking will be prosecuted under the new policy.
Housebreaking offences are normally prosecuted on summary complaint or indictment, with summary cases carrying a maximum sentence of one year's imprisonment.
However, over the period of the initiative there will be a presumption that all cases involving a charge of theft by housebreaking, or housebreaking with intent to steal, or attempts to commit either of those offences, will be prosecuted on indictment.
This means that all accused of these crimes could face a higher penalty of up to five years imprisonment.
The initiative will cover offences occurring at residential properties that are occupied, or would normally be occupied.
The COPFS prosecution policy was devised following discussions with Police Scotland about the most effective way to tackle housebreaking.
Police Scotland has also launched a national campaign, named Operation RAC, to tackle housebreaking across a number of areas in Scotland. Assistant Chief Constable Wayne Mawson commented:
"Our focus on tackling housebreaking will go on long after the festive season and we will continue to work alongside our partners at COPFS to bring anyone involved to justice."
If you have been charged with a criminal offence such as theft or robbery, and would like to speak to a criminal defence lawyer, give us a call on 01383 730466 (Dunfermline) or 01592 640680 (Kirkcaldy) or contact us online here.
