Introduction

Knife crime remains a significant issue in the UK, with thousands of incidents reported each year. In response, the government has implemented various legislation and policies aimed at reducing knife crime and protecting public safety. This article provides an overview of current legislation and policies related to knife crime. It includes the Offensive Weapons Act 2019. The article discusses recent changes and their impact on reducing knife crime.

Current Legislation and Policies

The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 is a key piece of legislation aimed at tackling knife crime. The Act includes several provisions designed to restrict the possession and sale of offensive weapons, including knives. Some of the key measures introduced by the Act include:

1. Knife Crime Prevention Orders (KCPOs): These orders can be issued to individuals aged 12 and above. They are deemed to be at risk of committing a knife-related offence. KCPOs can impose restrictions on the individual's activities, such as prohibiting them from carrying knives or associating with certain people.
2. Increased Penalties: The Act increases the maximum penalty for possessing a knife in public. The penalty rises from six months to four years imprisonment. It also introduces new offences for selling knives to individuals under 18. Additionally, it prohibits possessing offensive weapons with intent to use unlawful violence.
3. Restrictions on Online Sales: The Act requires online retailers to implement age verification checks for knife purchases. This ensures that only individuals aged 18 and above can buy knives online.

Recent Changes and Their Impact

In recent years, the government has introduced additional measures to strengthen knife crime legislation and further reduce knife crime rates. Some of the recent changes include:

1. Criminal Justice Bill 2023: This bill introduces new powers for the police. These powers allow them to seize, retain, and destroy knives held in private properties. The police take this action when they reasonably suspect the knives will be used unlawfully and violently. The bill also increases the maximum penalty for private possession, importation, and manufacture of prohibited offensive weapons. The maximum penalty also increases for their sale or supply. The penalty changes from six months to two years imprisonment.
2. Consultation on New Knife Legislation: The government has launched a consultation on new knife legislation proposals. These proposals aim to tackle the use of machetes and other bladed articles in crime. The proposals aim to provide the police with more tools to disrupt knife possession and tackle knife crime.
3. Enhanced Online Age Verification: Following the Southport killings, the government has proposed stronger ID checks for online knife purchases. Buyers will need to record a live video. They must submit an identity document, such as a passport, to prove their age.

Impact on Reducing Knife Crime

The recent changes and policies have had a positive impact on reducing knife crime rates. Official figures show a decrease in knife crime incidents in areas where these measures have been implemented. The increased penalties and restrictions on knife possession have acted as a deterrent. Additionally, enhanced online age verification checks have made it more difficult for young people to access knives.

Conclusion

Tackling knife crime requires a multi-faceted approach, including legislation, policies, and community engagement. The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 and recent changes have strengthened the legal framework. They have also provided law enforcement with additional tools to combat knife crime. While progress has been made, continued efforts are needed to ensure public safety and reduce knife crime rates.