'Intimidating': The people of Birmingham speak out about knife crime as repeat offenders are spared jail

New figures show a third of repeat knife crime offenders across Birmingham and the West Midlands were spared an immediate jail sentence last year, facing either caution or given a community or a suspended sentence instead, according to the Ben Kinsella Trust. We asked people in Birmingham whether jail sentences should be mandatory for repeat offenders.

Chris says: "Knife crime is a serious phenomenon. Young people lack adequate support to avoid such behaviour. While punishment is critical to maintain public safety, it's equally crucial to invest structurally in youth to protect them from this type of activity and potential loss of a promising future. Knife crime is connected to our current societal issues."

Taylor says: "Knowing that multiple offenders roam the streets with no or very minimal consequences, possibly only a suspended sentence, is indeed intimidating for the public. There should be a three-strike rule for more stringent enforcement and accountability. The involved parties, including the judges and those being sentenced, must reflect on their actions and comply with societal norms."

Ruth says: "As a woman walking alone, there is inherent worry about safety. I want to feel secure while walking around, without feeling the need to be on the phone or walking overly quickly. Knowing about these safety risks only heightens the fear." 

Fiona says: "Knife crime is extremely up close and personal. It holds the potential to cause death or lifelong disability. The issue deserves urgent attention. Possibly, suspended sentences and similar lenient measures rather embolden perpetrators, making them think they can get away with repeated offences. This is concerning."

The Ben Kinsella Trust, an anti-knife crime charity, stated that victims often feel that they haven't received the justice they deserve. Meanwhile, a government spokesperson pointed out that recent statistics show more knife-carrying criminals are being incarcerated, and for longer durations than ten years ago.