Compulsory attendance at sentencing

The British govt intends making it mandatory for convicted criminals to attend their sentencing. Do you think there's any point to this? It's proposed after a nurse who killed babies did not attend her sentencing (life in prison).

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OldBrit · 61-69, M Best Comment

Remember what happened at the Lee Rigby trial. It'll just encourage more defendants to kick off during the sentancing proceedings. Whilst I'm angry she didn't attend I think some misplaced legislation on it may severely backfire in the future.

Really · 80-89, M

@OldBrit I don't know about the Lee Rigby trial. What was there about it that's relevant? I'll 'look it up' but what's your take on it?

OldBrit · 61-69, M

@Really The judge in his sentencing statement said the killers had "betrayed Islam". That led to them shouting back from the dock, refusing to be silent there was a fight with the custody personnel before they were removed from the dock.

It highlights how at a moment when focus should be on justice for the victim the perpetrators turned it back to about them and their agenda.

Really · 80-89, M

@OldBrit @OldBrit - Thanks for that. I could support an argument that judges should stick to administering the law and save their rhetoric for around the kitchen table - but that's another subject.