Short sentences still dominate UK courts

In the latest Criminal Justice Statistics for June 2026, a concerning trend persists within the UK's criminal justice system. A significant 57% of all custodial sentences were for less than 12 months, illustrating the ongoing reliance on short prison sentences. The report reflects a shift in sentencing patterns following increased magistrates’ sentencing powers which were extended in November 2024. At magistrates' courts, sentences exceeding six months have risen markedly from 2,000 to 3,500.

Antonia May Cross, Revolving Doors Director of Communications and Campaigns shared her thoughts on the figures, stating “This gives us no reason to be optimistic that the presumption against short sentences is working. We’re frustrated to see such a high use of short prison sentences despite decades of evidence that they remain ineffective and perpetuate harm.” This perspective highlights the urgency for reform in sentencing practices, particularly in relation to the effectiveness of short custodial terms.

On a more positive note, the statistics also reveal an upward trend in out of court resolutions (OOCRs). In the year ending June 2026, the number of OOCRs issued increased by 5%, reaching 230,700. This rise was largely attributed to a 9% increase in community resolutions which now account for 82% of all OOCRs. Antonia May Cross remarked on this development, saying “We’re encouraged to see that the use of OOCR’s are increasing, and hope this is indicative of improved police confidence in diversion for repeat lower-level offending.”

However, she called for more transparency, stating “what we really need now is more data on who is receiving these and in what circumstances.” The data from the Crown Court, however, diverges from this positive trend—indicating a 12% decrease in custodial sentences of over six months while those exceeding 12 months increased by 4%. This juxtaposition within the statistics raises questions about the overarching approach to sentencing and diversion within the UK's criminal justice framework.

The persistent high rates of short sentences juxtaposed with the increase in OOCRs indicates a complex landscape for reform and improvement. As society seeks more effective methods to reduce reoffending, the need for a critical examination of both sentencing policies and the conditions under which OOCRs are assigned remains paramount.