According to The Sentencing Amendment Act 2010 and the Sentencing Further Amendment Act 2011, suspended sentences have been abolished for a range of serious crimes when prosecuted in the higher courts, including recklessly causing serious injury, aggravated burglary and arson, and there is a move to achieve the complete abolition of suspended sentences for all offences in all courts by 2012.
An alternative sentencing option will include a single flexible community corrections order that will replace existing community based sentencing orders increasing the powers to impose conditions that reflect the particular circumstances of the matter.
The abolition of suspended sentences is a welcomed initiative for victims who have suffered from serious crimes and who have often feel let down by the judicial system imposition of suspended sentences.
If you have been the victim of a serious crime in Victoria and have reported it to the police contact Victims of Crime Counselling & Compensation Services on Freecall 1800 000 055 for assistance.
About the author