Tens of thousands of shoplifters, drug dealers and other crooks could avoid jail under new plans to ease prison crisis

• Data shows 29,631 criminals were given jail terms of less than a year in 2022 

Tens of thousands of shoplifters, drug dealers and other criminals may avoid jail under emergency plans to ease the prisons crisis.

One leading retailer last night described Government measures to slash the number of short prison sentences as a ‘dangerous’ move which would embolden thieves.

Justice Secretary Alex Chalk will introduce laws seeking to stop judges and magistrates handing down jail terms of less than a year.

Ministry of Justice data shows 29,631 criminals were given jail terms of less than a year in 2022 – many of whom would avoid prison under Mr Chalk’s measures, which exclude violent, sex or terrorism offences.

One leading retailer last night described Government measures to slash the number of short prison sentences as a ‘dangerous’ move which would embolden thieves (stock photo) 

Analysis of the figures by the Mail reveals 5,000 convicted shoplifters a year could dodge jail, along with 1,800 drug offenders, 400 burglars and hundreds of car thieves.

There will be a ‘presumption against prison sentences of less than 12 months’, with offenders instead handed community sentences. 

The announcement, part of a package to create space in jails amid record numbers of inmates, came despite Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledging to crack down on an ‘unacceptable’ 25 per cent surge in shoplifting.

Retail thefts have become increasingly violent, including attacks on staff. Only three shoplifters were given jail terms above a year in 2022.

Mr Chalk’s measures are expected to be tabled as an amendment to the Victims and Prisoners Bill currently going through Parliament, and may be in force within months.

The prison population stood at 88,126 yesterday, down 99 on last week’s all-time high, but still leaving only 760 spaces (stock picture) 

Paul Gerrard, of the Co-Op, said removing jail terms for retail crime is ‘dangerous’ and puts shopworkers ‘at greater risk because there is no longer a significant deterrent’.

A package of measures will be announced by the Home Office on Monday to improve police responses to shoplifting. 

The prison population stood at 88,126 yesterday, down 99 on last week’s all-time high, but still leaving only 760 spaces.

A Government spokesman said judges will still be able to send shoplifters to jail for less than a year, but that increased tagging and ‘robust community sentences’ was ‘a more effective way’ of reducing crime.

Flying a drone within 400 yards of a prison is to be made illegal from January in a crackdown on accomplices who deliver contraband to inmates. 

Those who break the rules face fines of £2,500, while those found smuggling illicit items will face up to ten years in jail.

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