Callto jailstalke rs who ignore banning orde rs
RESPLENDENT in yellow hat and flowery dress, the Queen soaks up the sights on racing’s big day at Epsom. Wings of Eagles, a 40-1 outsider, won the Investec Derby amid unprecedented security following the Manchester bombing. SPORT: P66-67
She said: “To ensure victim safety, the violation of a nonharassment order should automatically mean a jail sentence otherwise there is a danger we will be seen to be colluding with the stalker with complete disregard for the victim and their safety.”
Non-harassment orders can be granted by sheriff courts after an abuser has been convicted of harassing someone.
They prohibit behaviour which may be viewed as a repeat of the abuse and can range from phoning or texting repeatedly to shouting abuse.
The number of NHOs issued has risen from 101 in 2011/12 to 938 issued in 2015/16.
Those found guilty of breaching an order can be jailed for up to six months, or receive a fine, or both.
If convicted by a judge or sheriff sitting with a jury, they could be imprisoned for up to five years, or receive a fine, or both.
Ann Moulds suggested Scotland should follow the US state of Florida by making it a stalking offence to breach a non-harassment order.
She said: “Maybe it is time we followed Florida’s lead and include a provision to our stalking legislation that defines more than one violation of a protection to constitute the crime of stalking”
Dr Marsha Scott, from ScottishWomen’s Aid, said: “It is worrying that breaches clearly have not gone up proportionately, as we know failure of police and courts to treat breaches appropriately has long been a problem.
“The recent addition of making breaches a criminal offence has been a good thing, but unless the system responds robustly, women can be put in significant danger.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said sentencing decisions are based on the circumstances of each case.
They added:“It is important to note the increase in the number of breaches is likely to be a result of the fact the number of NHOs issued has risen significantly in the same period.”