ACS

Government figures indicate that 33% of those people issued a Penalty Notice for Disorder (PND) are reoffending.

The figure was revealed in response to Parliamentary Questions asked by Anne McIntosh MP to the Justice Secretary Jack Straw.

Mr Straw said: “A study of criminal histories and reoffending rates of PND recipients is under way and we aim to publish the findings in late 2009. Provisional, unpublished results from this study show that of a sample of 13,800 juvenile and adult offenders given a penalty notice for disorder (PND) for theft during 2005, 33% reoffended within 12 months of receiving the PND. This study used data recorded on the police national computer and counted as a “reoffence” any offence committed during the 12-month period that resulted in a conviction or caution.

“We are also reviewing the use of PNDs for theft and will report our conclusions to the House soon.”

The Justice Secretary also said that following representations from Anne McIntosh and from retail organisations, the guidance covering shoplifting is being strengthened so as to make clear that no offender should receive more than one PND.

The new guidance will be issued shortly.

Anne McIntosh is responsible for a Ten Minute Rule Bill on shoplifting which will have its Second Reading in the House of Commons on 17th June.

Retailers, have your say...shop theft is one of the issues you can vote for in the Heart of the Community Vote...click here to vote for your top three issues now.