Bailiff: Soft sentences are a result of delays

Evidence which is tested for fingerprints can no longer be analysed in the Island and has to be sent to the UK. This process is causing delays, which Sir Philip Bailhache said was now affecting the length of sentences handed out to offenders. He said drug dealers and other criminals were getting lighter sentences and he questioned why Jersey could no longer analyse fingerprints left on drug parcels, for example. Sir Philip was speaking at the sentencing of Dean Perez, who was convicted of importing more than £5,000 worth of heroin – 21 grams – into Jersey after his fingerprint was found on a package that was sent by mail to the Island.