NCJ Number
100784
Date Published
1985
Length
213 pages
Annotation
Factors associated with sentence severity were examined in a study of 816 break, enter, and steal cases heard before the New South Wales (Australia) criminal courts in 1982.
Abstract
The 1982 pattern of sentences also was compared for 3,290 cases heard between 1978 and 1981. Data show that 42 percent of the 1982 cases were given bonds or probation with or without a fine, 2 percent received periodic detention, and 32 percent received community service orders. Further, 26 percent of sentenced offenders received nonparole periods of less than a year, 42 percent of less than 2 years, and 5.2 percent of more than 2 years. Of the 52 percent given prison sentences, less than 10 percent received sentences of 4 years or more. Comparison with 1978-1981 statistics indicates a similar pattern of sentencing. An analysis of circumstances surrounding the offenses indicates that longer sentences often were associated with (1) multiple offenses; (2) longer criminal history; (3) the professionalism of the offense; (4) large sums of money; (5) a long record of similar offenses and/or breach of bond, probation, or bail conditions; and (6) accompanying sexual assault or violence, particularly when the offense resulted in serious physical injury to innocent victims. Appendixes set out the complete range of sentencing decisions of the cases studied in annotated form. Index.