The Sentencing Council has launched a 12-week public consultation on draft guidelines for bladed article and offensive weapon etc. offences. The consultation will close on 6 January 2027.
The consultation seeks views on three revised guidelines and three new guidelines:
- Having a bladed article, offensive weapon or corrosive substance in a public place;
- Threatening with a bladed article or offensive weapon in a public place;
- Bladed article and offensive weapon etc. offences – children and young people;
- Possession of a prohibited offensive weapon in private/ Possession of dangerous knives;
- Threatening with an offensive weapon, bladed article, or corrosive substance in a private place; and
- Possessing an article with a blade or point or an offensive weapon with intent to use unlawful violence etc.
The consultation is open to everyone; including members of the public, members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, individuals who work or have an interest in criminal justice.
As with all guidelines which the Council develops and revises, your views are important in shaping these guidelines.
You can respond to the consultation here and please do share with anyone else who may be interested
The consultation will close on 6 January 2027.