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<p> </p><p> </p><p>The sentencing framework and sentencing guidelines apply equally
to all offenders. Sentencing is entirely a matter for the courts, taking account of
all the circumstances of each case. This will include the seriousness of the offence,
including all aggravating and mitigating factors, and a guilty plea.</p><p> </p><p>Defendants
are now more likely to be convicted for committing crime and sent to prison for longer
than they were a decade ago. In addition criminals convicted since 2010 are more likely
to receive an immediate custodial sentence, both overall and for a first time offence.</p><p>
</p><p>Table 1 shows the number of offenders given an immediate custodial sentence
in the West Yorkshire Police Force Area for their first offence, by offence class
and gender 2008 -2013.</p>
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