Prisoner Attacks Officer, Gets Nothing More than a Slap on the Wrist
Minimal Sentence Sparks Outrage
A prisoner who physically assaulted a serving Prison Officer, causing actual bodily harm and leaving a permanent injury, appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates Court this week. Shockingly, the court handed down a mere 18-week detention sentence—already deemed served due to time spent in custody. In other words, the prisoner walks free.
Ridiculously Light Fine Angers Staff and Public
On top of this, the culprit was ordered to pay just a £115 victim surcharge. This paltry sum has left many questioning the message being sent to offenders nationwide.
A Licence to Attack?
This tiny punishment risks giving prisoners across the UK a green light to assault staff, safe in the knowledge they will face minimal or no consequences. The safety of Prison Officers hangs in the balance as tolerance for violence appears to be evaporating behind bars.
