CPS statement following sentences for disorder in London

24/08/2011

Following the sentencing at Wood Green Crown Court today (Wednesday, August 24) in relation to the London disorder, David Robinson, London Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor, said: "Today, two of those responsible for the public disturbances in the capital earlier this month became the first to be sentenced in the Crown Court for their actions. These swift and robust prosecutions should serve as a strong reminder that CPS London will not hesitate to prosecute this sort of criminal behaviour which affects the whole community.

"Across London, opportunists committed very serious acts: looting, robbing and causing significant criminal damage, mostly at night when communities feel at their most vulnerable. At the hearings today we were able to tell the court exactly how these crimes have affected those communities and give an indication of the losses suffered by businesses which were looted.

"CPS London is determined to play its part in ensuring the safety of our communities, and over the coming months we will prosecute many more people in relation to the public disturbances. We will do this as swiftly and effectively as possible and, as is our duty under the Code for Crown Prosecutors, ensure each individual case is dealt with fairly and consistently.

"Prosecutors have worked tirelessly alongside the police to charge those responsible and to bring them before the courts. Those involved in the disorder and crime earlier this month should be in no doubt that we will continue to bring them before the courts where they will answer for their actions."

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