Blackmail, kidnap and false imprisonment consultation

What is the Sentencing Council? The Sentencing Council is the independent body responsible for developing sentencing guidelines which courts in England and Wales must follow when passing a sentence. The Council consults on proposed guidelines before they come into force and makes changes to the guidelines as a result of consultations. Why blackmail, kidnap and false imprisonment offences? There are currently no guidelines for these serious offences and the Council felt that developing guidelines would be of benefit to courts. This consultation paper has been produced in order to seek views from as many people as possible interested in the sentencing of these offences. During the 12 week consultation period, views on the draft guidelines will be explored with sentencers. Following the consultation, all the responses will be considered, and definitive guidelines published. The Council has also produced a resource as