UK Sentencing Law Targets Absent Offenders

The UK government is introducing the Victims and Courts Bill, which will allow judges in England and Wales to impose up to two additional years in prison on criminals who refuse to attend their sentencing hearings. The reforms follow public outrage after offenders including the killers of Olivia Pratt-Korbel, Sabina Nessa, and Zara Aleena refused to face victims' families in court. For those already serving whole life orders, judges may impose harsher prison conditions, such as increased cell confinement or loss of privileges. The bill also applies to offenders removed from court for disruptive behavior. Both current and previous UK prime ministers have supported the reforms, which have been welcomed by victims' families and advocacy groups. The legislation still requires passage through Parliament before becoming law.