Newly released figures from the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) scheme annual statistics for 2022 have revealed a significant increase in sentences for child sex offences, rape, and cases involving grievous bodily harm (GBH). The ULS scheme allows anyone to request a review of a Crown Court sentence if they believe it is too lenient.
In 2022, there were 23 sentence increases for child sex offences, followed by 10 for rape offences and 7 for cases involving GBH. The ULS scheme has strict criteria, considering only certain offences, and referrals to the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) must be made within 28 days of the sentence.