Judges in England and Wales will gain new powers to compel criminals to attend their sentencing hearings under legislation dubbed 'Olivia's Law', named after nine-year-old murder victim Olivia Pratt-Korbel. The Ministry of Justice announced that the law will explicitly permit custody officers to use reasonable force to ensure offenders appear in court, with those who refuse facing an additional two years in prison.
The move follows a series of high-profile cases where killers refused to attend sentencing, including Lucy Letby and Thomas Cashman, Olivia's murderer. Currently, judges can order attendance under the Contempt of Court Act, but such orders are rarely enforced. The new law applies to cases with maximum life sentences, such as murder, rape, and grievous bodily harm with intent, though judges retain discretion to avoid forcing attendance if it risks distressing victims or families.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: 'Like many, I was appalled that people who have committed awful crimes somehow are able to take the coward's way out and not appear in court for their sentencing.' He added that the change ensures criminals 'face up to the consequences of their actions'. Olivia's mother, Cheryl Korbel, who campaigned for the reform, expressed hope that her daughter would be 'proud' of the new law.
Sabina Nessa's sister, Jebina Yasmin Islam, welcomed the announcement, saying she was 'delighted' to see victims and their families 'put first'. Labour's shadow justice secretary Steve Reed backed the plans but criticised the government for 'dragging its feet', noting Labour had called for similar measures in April 2023. The government has not set a precise date for implementation but aims to introduce the law in autumn.
