The government is moving to significantly increase prison sentences for people convicted of murdering a partner or ex-partner within the home, aiming to close a notable sentencing gap. Under current legislation, most domestic murders committed at home, often involving a weapon already present, carry a starting point sentence of 15 years. However, sentences for cases where a weapon is brought to the scene with intent to kill begin at 25 years, creating a 10-year difference.
Government Consultation with Sentencing Council
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said that it is consulting with the Sentencing Council to eliminate this gap, in order to ensure that domestic murders are treated with equivalent severity. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said: "For centuries, the law failed to protect women from violence at the hands of their partner – whether from marital rape or from abuse behind closed doors. Whilst we've made significant progress, we need to continue righting these wrongs. This change closes a long overdue gap and will ensure those who murder their partner face sentences that better reflect the devastating harm they cause."
Domestic Murders Account for Over a Fifth of All Killings
The MoJ said that domestic incidents – where the suspect is a current or former partner – account for over a fifth of all murders, with women disproportionately represented as victims in these cases. According to the College of Policing, about 80 per cent of all female murder victims are killed at home.
Those who murder a partner or ex-partner within the home could soon be facing prison sentences starting at 25 years, up from the current 15-year starting point for most domestic murders. The change aims to reflect the severity of the crime and ensure consistency in sentencing.
Support for Victims
The national domestic abuse helpline offers support for women on 0808 2000 247, or you can visit the Refuge website. There is a dedicated men's advice line on 0808 8010 327. Those in the US can call the domestic violence hotline on 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Other international helplines can be found via www.befrienders.org.
