Can anyone tell me what the typical punishment is for a youth, whether being of school age or just older being found in possession of a knife. I did read the up to but does anyone know the actual.
Bert - it depends on the charges brought against the individual. Some are classed as Summary Offences, others as Either Way Offences.
The independent Sentencing Guidelines Council’s Magistrates Court Sentencing Guidelines for possession of a bladed article (implemented on 4 August 2008) states that if the bladed weapon is not used to threaten or cause fear the recommended starting point is a high level community order.
If there are mitigating or aggravating circumstances, the guideline suggests a range of a Band C fine (125 to 175 per cent. of weekly income) to 12 weeks custody.
Where the weapon was not used to threaten or cause fear but the offence was committed in dangerous circumstances, the suggested starting point is six weeks custody, with a range of a high level community order to referral to the Crown Court.
Where the weapon was used to threaten or cause fear and the offence was committed in dangerous circumstances the guideline states that the case should be allocated to the Crown Court.
It has been specifically agreed between ACPO and the CPS that a more serious response is required for youths aged 16 and 17. The starting point is for the police to charge youths aged 16 and 17 unless there are exceptional circumstances.
A warning remains the normal response for a first offence committed by a youth aged 10 to 15 inclusive. A youth of 15 and under who admits an offence of possession of a bladed article or offensive weapon and has no previous convictions should be considered for diversion in accordance with the criteria set out in:
Section 65 and 66 Crime and Disorder Act 1998;
Home Office/Youth Justice Board Guidance on the Final Warning Scheme (November 2002);
Home Office Circular 14/2006;
ACPO Guidance on the Investigation, Cautioning and Charging of Knife Crime Offences 2008.
If you want in depth details, then try here:
in depth details about bladed weapons and charges etc