Top criminal law professor to speak at Northumbria Law School, defending civil preventative orders

A leading criminal law specialist says civil preventative orders (CPOs) are working despite criticism in some circles – but believes a more joined-up approach is needed if they are to be successful.

Renowned expert Professor Stephen Shute will outline his views later this month during a seminar at Northumbria University’s Law School on January 29 where he will address academics and practitioners from the criminal justice sector.

The Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Planning and Resources) at Sussex University admits CPOs are ‘not perfect’ but says more care and attention from all agencies involved the process would make a huge difference.

He said: “Contrary to the views of many, I believe the scheme is working and is much more widely used, and indeed more targeted, than many people appreciate.

“But it is fair to say they are not perfect – I believe greater care needs to be taken by those who draft the orders, and judges need to play a bigger role when approving the orders.

“Furthermore the police also need to play their part by ensuring they are effectively enforced, meanwhile the probation service and social services could provide better support. It simply cannot be a command and control strategy.”

Professor Shute’s lecture will critically analyse the development and use of CPOs, which include Sexual Offences Prevention Orders, Foreign Travel Orders, Risk of Sexual Harm Orders, Financial Reporting Orders, Serious Crime Prevention Orders, and Violent Offender Orders.

His lecture will cover the ways in they have been used to better protect the public.

Using Sexual Offences Prevention Orders (SOPOs) as an example, he said: “Since 2006/2007, more than 17,000 SOPOs have been imposed on high-risk sex offenders in England and Wales by the courts.

“My lecture will look back over this period and seek answers to some of the fundamental questions concerning the use of SOPOs, such as how often they have been used and by whom, and how effectively they are being used.

“I also look forward to discussing the changes that will be made through the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 which will be brought into force later this year.”

Professor Shute’s academic work has been referred to in a range of books and articles and has been considered during numerous debates and reviews in Parliament. He has also spoken at lectures and seminars across the globe.

Michael Stockdale, Director of the Centre for Evidence and Criminal Justice Studies at Northumbria Law School said: “We are thrilled to be hosting a seminar with Professor Stephen Shute. He is eminent in his field and given his vast knowledge and experience,  delegates are in for a fascinating and thought-provoking lecture.

“We look forward to hearing more about Professor Shute’s research views on this complex area of law.” 

The seminar, entitled 'Criminal Justice Inspection: A Critical Review' will be held in the Corporate Hub and Harvard lecture theatre from 5pm-7pm.

For further information or to book a place, please email m.w.stockdale@northumbria.ac.uk