Average custodial sentence length for adults sentenced for non-domestic burglary
Source: Ministry of Justice (2021) Criminal Justice System Statistics publication: Outcomes by Offence 2010 to 2020: Pivot Table Analytical Tool for England and Wales
Offence Definition: A person is guilty of this offence if they enter any or part of a building (which is not a person’s home – as this would be a domestic burglary) as a trespasser and with intent to commit any offence, or if they steal or attempt to steal anything in the building, or if they inflict or attempt to inflict any grievous bodily harm on any person in the buildings.
Sentencing Guidelines Range: This offence has a sentencing range between a discharge and 5 years’ custody, and a maximum sentence of 10 years’ custody.
Graph Explained: The average custodial sentence length for adults convicted of non-domestic burglary has continued to increase steadily between 2010-2020. Non-domestic burglary refers to burglaries committed in non-residential premises, such as businesses and public buildings, as well as non- attached buildings positioned within the grounds of a dwelling, such as sheds and detached garages.
In contrast, domestic burglary simply refers burglaries committed in residential premises, including their attached buildings such as garages. Initial sentencing guidelines for non-domestic burglary were replaced by updated ones in 2012 and a further updated guideline has been introduced as of May 2022.
Research found that the guidelines from 2012 contributed to an increase in sentencing severity for non-domestic burglary. The most recent guideline introduces a new middle category for both culpability and harm, allowing for increased flexibility when determining the appropriate sentence for the offender.
The extent to which the new guideline will impact the sentencing severity for non-domestic burglary will require further time and research.
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