Jargon buster

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Electronic tag

People released from prison into the community during their sentence can be fitted with an electronic tag to let police know where they are. They must usually stay at an agreed address for about 12 hours every night. Other conditions can be set for each person depending on their offence. Any offender who breaks the curfew can be taken back to prison. Certain violent or sexual offenders are not eligible for tagging. For more information see 'Home Detention Curfew' on our prison sentences page.

Evidence

Evidence includes what a witness says to the court from the witness box as well as documents, photographs or clothes that are relevant to the case.

Extended Sentence

The purpose of an extended sentence is to protect the public. It combines a period in prison or detention (the custodial term) with a further set time of supervision in the community (the extension period). The extension period of the sentence in the community can be up to five years for sheriff court cases and up to 10 years for High Court cases. An extended sentence can be used for offenders who have committed a sexual or violent crime; or abduction when prosecuted on indictment (this is at a more serious level). For a violent crime or abduction, the custodial term of the sentence must be four years or more. Offenders who commit an offence while under supervision can be returned to prison.