Since 2019 the landscape of law enforcement has seen a notable shift in how justice is administered at ground level.
Resolutions issued at the discretion of individual officers – non-court alternatives like cautions, warnings, and community resolutions – have surged by 40% since 2019.
With 102,574 resolutions recorded in that year alone, the trend shows a significant movement away from traditional criminal charges.
These resolutions are now nearly twice as likely to be used as a response to criminal behaviour compared to formal charges.
On one hand, resolutions provide an efficient means of dealing with minor offenses, conserving resources and reducing the strain on the court system.
On the other hand, the shift away from criminal charges can create challenges in ensuring that justice is both served and seen to be served.
The significant rise in resolutions has had a direct impact on the frequency of criminal charges.
With resolutions now nearly twice as likely as charges, there is a clear shift in how certain crimes are addressed.
The increase in discretion resolutions raises important questions about the implications for justice, public safety, and the broader criminal justice system.
For many, this is a positive development, offering a more compassionate and pragmatic approach to justice.
For others, it raises concerns about accountability and the potential for offenders to avoid meaningful consequences.
Could the rise in discretionary resolutions lead to a rise in re-offending or a perception that the justice is being lenient on crime?
I welcome your thoughts?
To learn more - www.nvcawareness.co.uk/contact-us/
Comments