The UK Government has announced plans to make assaulting a retail worker a stand alone criminal offence.
Retailer Co-op has welcomed the decision as member-owners joined communities and shop workers, calling for urgent changes after seeing unprecedented levels of attacks and assaults against retail workers.
Violators could face up to six months in prison, an unlimited fine, and a ban from re-entering the shop where the crime occurred, with Criminal Behaviour Orders barring them visiting specific premises.
There is a five-year maximum prison sentence for breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order.
For severe assault cases such as intentional grievous bodily harm, offenders could face a life sentence.
"It sends a strong and clear message to shopworkers that they have been listened to, and a warning to criminals that their unacceptable behaviour will no longer be tolerated," said Shirine Khoury-Haq, chief executive of the Co-op.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel