In this Working Paper, Roger Grimshaw examines the historical, political, and legal contexts underpinning indefinite sentences in the UK.
Situating the development of indefinite sentences within broader socio-political trends, he highlights how punitive sentencing policies have been shaped by populist and authoritarian influences, rather than by evidence-based criminal justice reforms.
With particular reference to the Imprisonment for Public Protection (IPP) sentence, he argues that the persistence of indefinite detention reflects the failures of risk-based sentencing, in which preventive detention has been prioritised over rehabilitation.
He looks at the consequences of these policies at an individual level and, in particular, the detrimental effect on mental health. He concludes by calling for a fundamental shift in sentencing philosophy — one that can appeal to the public, and therefore have influence on policy-makers.
The Centre for Crime and Justice Studies’ working paper series publishes research and analysis of an exploratory nature. Working papers are not formally peer-reviewed, but are intended to stimulate reflection and discussion on current and relevant areas.
