Arsonists could face tougher sentences

ARSONISTS MAY face tougher punishments if their crimes result in damage to listed buildings or a major emergency response under new sentencing plans.

Proposed guidelines spell out how courts should take account of the economic or social impact inflicted by perpetrators who deliberately start fires.

The draft guidance, which also covers criminal damage, sets out a number of possible “aggravating” factors which can lead to a more severe penalty.

They include cases where there is a “significant impact” on emergency services to reflect the gravity of offences which require large numbers of police and fire vehicles – meaning fewer resources are available for any other incidents.

The proposed guidelines, published on Tuesday by the Sentencing Council, also cite “damage caused to heritage assets” such as listed buildings or historic objects as a possible aggravating feature.

This factor is included to ensure the damage to parts of the country’s heritage and history is considered when deciding on sentences. Arson can range from a small fire in a street litter bin to a carefully planned attack intended to endanger lives or destroy a building, the Sentencing Council said. Justice Minister Rory Stewart, said: “These crimes can not only destroy property, but also cause misery to victims. These proposed guidelines will ensure the courts have clarity in sentencing.”