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Domestic killers could face extra 10 years in prison under new plans
Key takeaways
- For murders where a weapon is taken to the scene with intent to kill, the starting point for sentencing is 25 years.
- But in most murders which take place in a home, the weapon - for example, a kitchen knife - is already present, meaning a lower 15-year starting point applies.
- The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said it intends to close the 10-year gap so domestic killers face higher sentences.
Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.
Ian Waldie/Getty Images By Imogen James Published7 minutes ago People who kill a partner or ex-partner at home with a knife or other weapon could face an extra 10 years in prison under plans to strengthen sentencing laws, in a bid to tackle violence against women.
For murders where a weapon is taken to the scene with intent to kill, the starting point for sentencing is 25 years.
But in most murders which take place in a home, the weapon - for example, a kitchen knife - is already present, meaning a lower 15-year starting point applies.
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