John Fassenfelt, vice-chair of the Magistrates’ Association, told CYP Now he believes this may be true for adults but believes minors are not being sentenced more robustly than usual.
"Our response to youngsters hasn’t really changed," he said. "We are very cautious about remanding them in custody but mindful that they shouldn’t commit further offences.
"Magistrates have been sentencing in line with the guidelines unless there are exceptional circumstances to do otherwise.
"I don’t see any evidence of a tougher sentencing environment for children."
Fassenfelt’s view is not shared by Gareth Jones, vice-chair of the Association of Youth Offending Team Managers, who said he believes children are being given tougher sentences as a result of public and political demands.
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