Conspiring to commit armed robbery is a grave crime with significant personal consequences for both perpetrators and victims, and this is just one reason the offence is taken so seriously by the UK courts. Obtaining accurate legal advice is crucial if you or someone you care about is accused of – or is already on trial for – conspiracy to commit armed robbery. This article defines conspiracy to commit armed robbery, provides examples, and details the punishments for this offence. It also explains whether first-time offenders are likely to be imprisoned for armed robbery.
The offence of assisting illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK is defined in Section 25 of the Immigration Act 1971. It is a crime to knowingly:
To be guilty of this offence, a person must know or have reasonable cause to believe that the person they are assisting or harbouring is an illegal entrant.
Regarding knowledge, the prosecution must prove that the accused knew that the person they were assisting or harbouring was an illegal entrant. This can be direct knowledge, such as if the accused was told by the person that they were an illegal entrant. It can also be indirect knowledge, such as if the accused knew that the person had no valid immigration status or that they had entered the UK illegally.
Examples of evidence that the prosecution may rely on to prove these elements include:
If the prosecution can prove these elements beyond a reasonable doubt, the accused will be convicted of assisting illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK.
Here are some examples of conduct that could amount to illegal entry or harbouring persons offences:
Examples of assisting illegal entry include:
Examples of harbouring an illegal entrant include:
If you are suspected of committing illegal entry or harbouring persons offences in the UK, you can expect a legal process to be initiated. Here’s a general overview of what might happen in such cases:
Illegal Entry:
Harbouring Persons:
If you are facing charges related to illegal entry or harbouring persons offences in the UK, know that immigration and border control regulations are complex and subject to change. This is why it is imperative that you get the advice of a qualified and experienced solicitor as soon as possible.
The sentence for an offence involving illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK under the Immigration Act 1971 is punishable on summary conviction by a fine of up to £400 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. On conviction on indictment, the maximum penalty is a fine or imprisonment for up to seven years, or both.
The court will consider a number of factors when sentencing an offender for this offence, including:
In some cases, the court may also order the offender to pay a confiscation order, which is a financial penalty designed to deprive the offender of the benefits of their crime. Remember, the sentence imposed will vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case and the best way to judge potential sentences is to ask the advice of an experienced solicitor.
It is possible for someone to go to prison for a first time offence of assisting illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK, but it is not inevitable. The court will consider a number of factors when sentencing an offender, including the seriousness of the offence, the offender’s motivation, and the offender’s previous criminal record.
For a first time offence, the court is more likely to impose a non-custodial sentence, such as a fine or a community order. However, the court may impose a prison sentence if the offence is particularly serious, such as if it involves a large number of people or if it is motivated by financial gain.
Here are some examples of non-custodial sentences that could be imposed for first time offences of assisting illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK:
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to impose a prison sentence for a first time offence of assisting illegal entry or harbouring persons in the UK is a matter for the court to decide based on all the factors of the case and the strength of the prosecution and defence.
Any immigration offence is incredibly serious and that goes even for relatively minor involvements. If you or someone you care about is facing charges for these types of offences, getting in touch with an experienced criminal defence solicitor is a wise first step. For a free consultation about your options, contact the team at Stuart Miller Solicitors today.
Responsive
A legal expert will consult you within 24 hours of making an enquiry.
Empathetic
We will always treat you with trust, understanding and respect.
Specialised
Your case will be handled by an expert who specialises in your type of offence.
Proactive
We will take early action to end proceedings as soon as it is practically and legally possible to do so.
Engaged
You will be kept updated on your case at all times. We will provide a named contact available to answer your questions.
Caring
We understand this is a difficult and stressful time for you and your family. Our team will support you every step of the way.
Tenacious
We will never give up on your case. We fight tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome.