Statement from Joy Allen, Police and Crime Commissioner for County Durham and Darlington
“I am deeply concerned that drivers convicted of causing death are not exempt from the prisoner early release scheme.
“I recognise that the Government has inherited significant pressures across the prison system following years of underinvestment and a lack of capacity. Decisions on sentencing and prison places are not easy, and the challenges should not be overlooked.
“But we must not lose sight of the victims and families whose lives have been changed forever by dangerous driving.
“As joint national lead for road safety on behalf of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners, I regularly meet families who have lost loved ones in circumstances that were entirely avoidable. Their grief is lifelong, and many will understandably struggle to accept that those responsible could be released earlier than expected.
“Where lives have been lost, particularly in cases involving drink or drug driving, we need to consider whether current penalties are sufficient. Anyone who knowingly gets behind the wheel while impaired is making a conscious decision that puts other road users, passengers and pedestrians at risk. When that decision results in a death, the consequences are devastating.
“Yes, we have to be realistic about current pressures on the justice system, but we also need a robust debate about whether the most serious driving offences should attract much tougher sentences. There is a strong argument that in the most serious cases, particularly where a driver has deliberately chosen to drive under the influence of drink or drugs and someone has died as a result, the offence should be treated more akin to manslaughter.
“Victims and their families deserve confidence that the justice system recognises the gravity of these crimes. Alongside stronger sentences, I believe we should look at tougher and longer-lasting driving licence sanctions for those convicted of the most serious offences.
“Road safety must remain a national priority, and we owe it to victims to ensure the law reflects the consequences of these reckless decisions.”
